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Saturday, January 22, 2022

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YOUNGKIN TAKES FIRST-DAY ACTION

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Petersburg

Prince George

Hopewell

Colonial Heights

Higher 2022 Tax Bills

New 98-Home Neighborhood

Free Broadband for Public Housing Long-Awaited Communities? Restaurant Opens

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Saturday, January 22, 2022

Higher Tax Bills Likely to Impact Many Already Struggling Petersburg Real Estate Assessments Increase

PETERSBURG BY CAROLYN DAY PRUETT LNNUSA.com

PETERSBURG- According to the City of Petersburg, 2021 was a “robust year” for the Petersburg real estate market. The metrics used to qualify that description include a 28% increase in real estate transactions within the city, a nearly one-third drop in foreclosures, and an increase in the median home value of 6%. The City reports a current overall land book value of $2.5 billion dollars. Property owners will see a real property tax increase corresponding to the new assessment numbers. City calculations suggest that 74% of property owners in the city will receive a higher tax bill on their real estate in 2022. Those owners impacted by the assessment changes will be mailed a notice on Friday, January 28th, and the first real estate tax payments will be due in July 2022. What remains unclear is how the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have impacted the real estate assessments. While city staff cite a significant decrease in foreclosures in 2021, no reference is made to the moratorium

on foreclosures for federal loans that was in effect until September 30, 2021. The number of private loan foreclosures that were delayed in 2021 due to individual policies or negotiations between those lenders and borrowers is difficult to assess. The price and value of houses has also increased during the pandemic. According to Don Layton of the Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University, this unprecedented- and unexpected- jump in house prices is likely due to very low interest rates, a lag in the number of new homes

being built, and fewer homes for sale, among several other factors. The incredibly hot housing market throughout the pandemic has inflated the value of homes and thus has impacted- at least for now- the assessment rates. Higher tax bills come at a time when many cannot afford to pay higher rates. Inflation is the highest the country has seen since the early 1980s, and consumers are paying much more for key essentials such as food and energy. Many households simply have less money to go around as so many daily necessities leap in cost. There are options for those

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who may struggle to afford the tax increase on Petersburg real estate. Assessments may be appealed through the City Assessor’s Office at www.peterburg-va. org/148/City-Assessor or by phone at (804) 733-2336. Appeals must be received by March 1, 2022. The City of Petersburg also offers tax relief to some homeowners who are 65 years of age or older, permanently and totally disabled, and meet certain income and net worth requirements. More information can be found by contacting the Commissioner of the Revenue at (804) 733-2315.

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Saturday, January 22, 2022

Chappell Creek on the James Under Development 98 New Homes Planned for Site PRINCE GEORGE BY ADRIENNE WALLACE FOR LNNUSA.com

PRINCE GEORGE – Prince George County will soon be welcoming a new subdivision with nearly 100 proposed homes. The site for Chappell Creek on the James is currently under construction off of Beaver Castle Road, just outside of the entrance to Beechwood Manor, the oldest such development in Prince George. Boyd Homes is the developer and has plans for 98 homes. According to Tim Graves, a planner with the county’s Community Development & Code Compliance Department, the minimum lot size in R-1 zoning is 15,000 square feet and all lots must front public roads. He said Chappell Creek will be tied into the county water and sewer system, and therefore, there will not be any wells necessary to serve the residences. There was no rezoning required for the request. The land was already zoned R-1 prior to the development process, Graves noted. However Boyd Homes requested a special exception to construct a water tower on the two-parcels, totaling 85.10 acres, which the Planning Commission

recommended for approval in a 7-0 vote. That request has yet to be approved or denied, and will be discussed in an upcoming board meeting. The board is looking at providing a water tower off Ruffin Road with grant

for existing customers by decommissioning an existing aquifer well system. “It is my honor to fight for our district in Congress, and I am proud to have secured much-needed funding for these three jurisdictions to meet signif-

funding recommended by Congressman Donald McEachin, D-4th District. He secured inclusion of a total of $8,432,000 for three local transportation projects in a 2022 bill in the House Appropriations Subcommittee of the Interior, Environment and Related Agencies. That included $3,200,000 for Prince George County’s Extension of the Central Water System to the Route 10 Corridor to provide a reliable surface water source

icant water-related needs. Access to safe and healthy drinking water is a necessity. No one should worry that the water coming from their tap is contaminated or dangerous,” McEachin commented. “To ensure reliable access to clean water, we must modernize our infrastructure. These are long overdue health and safety needs for my constituents that are finally receiving these crucial funds. I will continue to advocate for our district to ensure we

receive the necessary resources to make our community stronger.” “The funding will make a critical difference in the lives of people in Virginia’s Fourth Congressional District. All three of these projects address pressing needs in these localities, ensuring potable drinking water and safe and secure handling of wastewater,” he added. With Prince George’s economic goals of increasing the number of people who both live and work in the county, Chappell Creek will benefit taxpayers into the future. Vice Chairman Donald Hunter said the development should help bring in new residents which could offer a chance for future retail development in that corridor. “If we can get more business with the new people in that area, it won’t just increase commercial sites, it can also be a benefit to those who currently live in that area,” Hunter said. “Right now, other than Circle D where residents can get some needed groceries like milk and bread, but for now those in River’s Edge and Beechwood Manor, they either have to go to either Hopewell or further into the county.”

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Saturday, January 22, 2022

Free Broadband Considered for Low-Income Residents HOPEWELL BY CHAI GALLAHUN LNNUSA.com

HOPEWELL—At its most recent meeting on Tuesday, January 11th, the Hopewell city council received a presentation from Dr. Concetta Manker updating them on the status of public broadband access. Manker told council members, “As you know, the previous attorney developed a ‘broadband authority’, and the purpose for that is to ensure that we met the FCC requirements, regulations making sure that we are not competing with any cable providers in our community.” She continued, explaining that the city has $3.9 million in grant funding received in October 2020, and that part of the stipulation of the use of that money was that it be used to close the digital divide for underserved communities in regard to broadband access. The public broadband initiative in Hopewell is aimed “to provide communities with reliable, safe, and secure internet service to bridge the digital divide

gap within our communities.” Public housing is the current primary focus of this initiative, including the following communities: Freedman Point, Kippax Place Apartments, Davisville Bland Court, Thomas Rolfe Court, Summit Apartments

and Piper Square Apartments. “Because we did not have a lot of time to think about those underserved communities, we thought it would be best to start with public housing,” said Manker, adding that areas of public

housing are not the only underserved communities in Hopewell. The grant-funded free broadband initiative is not the first to be considered or undertaken in Hopewell. The city already established Broadband Downtown with the cooperation of the businesses in the downtown area. “For all of our businesses,” said Manker. “And, those businesses received free Wi-Fi as a result of participating in allowing us to come into their businesses and actually go in and install equipment, use their power sources and everything. Everybody has been wonderful with participating and very excited to see this coming to the city.” She added that about 2,000 people use free downtown broadband per day. While the public housing broadband would be funded initially with the $3.9 million in grant monies, it is unclear if or how the project would be funded once that grant money runs dry. Hopewell city council will vote on the allocation of the funding at a future meeting.

PUBLIC NOTICE The Disciplinary Committee of the Board of the Petersburg City Public Schools will hold special meetings on Tuesday, January 25, 2022, and Thursday, January 27, 2022, at 5:30 p.m., in the school division’s administration building at 255 South

Boulevard East to convene closed sessions pursuant to Section 2.2-3711 (A)(2) of the Code of Virginia to address student disciplinary matters.

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Saturday, January 22, 2022

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H/PG Chamber Announces 2022 Board HOPEWELL STAFF REPORT LNNUSA.com

HOPEWELL- On January 11th, the Hopewell/Prince George Chamber of Commerce announced its new members and a new president for 2022. Colin Romanick, Director of Marketing and Development at Pamplin Historical Park, has taken on the role of president of the Chamber. Romanick has served on the chamber board for the past two years and was the Executive Secretary for the 2021 board. Three directors join Romanick on the chamber board. Nicole Fernandez is a business banker with Touchstone Bank and has over twenty years of experience in the banking industry. Along with professional pursuits, she has a passion for helping others, reflected in her service to her communi-

Romanick

ty. She served on the board for the Downtown Business Association of Charlottesville, The Economic Development Authority, and the Wells Fargo Greater Charlottesville Contributions Council. She has also served as program manager for the Wells Fargo Holiday Parade and multiple Habitat for Humanity builds. Patrick Marek is Chief Financial Officer for John Randolph Medical Center and joined the board last fall. He began his career in accounting before transitioning to the world of healthcare finance leadership. Prior to assuming the role of CFO

Fernandez

Marek

at John Randolph, Marek served as Associate Chief Financial Officer for HCA Healthcare – Reston Hospital Center. Patrick Weller is an entrepreneur and business-owner; most recently, he reopened and revitalized Indian Fields Tavern in Charles City. Weller has over thirty years of experience in entrepreneurship and has built and sold four businesses. He has a diverse business background, with endeavors ranging from operating a cranberry farm to running a commercial salmon fishing boat in Alaska. With the pressures of the

current economy as well as the lingering impacts of the pandemic, small businesses face another tough year ahead. The Hopewell/Prince George Chamber wants to make that easier for business owners and entrepreneurs in the area. “We have a wonderfully diverse and talented board going into 2022 and we look forward to serving our stakeholders as we advance out of the pandemic and towards prosperity,” said Romanick. The Hopewell/Prince George Chamber is now in its 102nd year of operation.

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Saturday, January 22, 2022

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Colonial Heights Welcomes New Restaurant COLONIAL HEIGHTS STAFF REPORT LNNUSA.com

COLONIAL HEIGHTSAfter a long wait, Colonial Heights is finally celebrating the opening of its new Mission BBQ. The iconic Mission BBQ truck has displayed a “hiring” sign in front of the new location on Temple Avenue for weeks, but as of Tuesday, January 18th, it reads “now open”. Crowds swarmed into the restaurant Tuesday evening to enjoy the chain’s famous barbeque, brisket, and all the fixins. Mission BBQ first opened on September 11th, 2011, with two missions: great

barbecue and to recognize the heroes who make the United States great. The business honors servicemen and women, fire fighters, police officers, and first

responders in everything from its decor to its daily traditions. Each restaurant pauses at noon each day to salute the American flag while the National Anthem

plays. The new Mission BBQ is located at 1020 Temple Avenue, across from Southpark Mall.

January 2022 Locality Calendar 5:30 PM

Virtual and Human Services Building

6:30 PM

Administration Building

City Council Meeting/Public Hearing for Ward Maps

TBA

City Council Regular Meeting

7:30 PM

Municipal Building

Board of Zoning Appeals Meeting

2:00 PM

Petersburg Public Library

6:30 PM

Administration Building

01/24 Prince George Senior Task Force Meeting Board of Zoning Appeals Organizational Prince George Meeting

01/25 Petersburg Hopewell

01/27 Petersburg

Planning Commission Organizational Prince George Meeting

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Saturday, January 22, 2022

2022 Tri-Cities Home & Garden Show

COLONIAL HEIGHTS STAFF REPORT LNNUSA.com

COLONIAL HEIGHTS- The 2022 Tri-Cities Home and Garden Show will take place Friday, March 25th through Sunday March 27th. This year, the show will be held at the Keystone Tractor Museum in Colonial Heights. Whether you are buying or selling a home, renovating or decorating, or even landscaping, you’ll find an expert who can help at the spring show. Attendees can hire contractors and landscapers on the spot, as well as shop and save on products, services, and decor. Last year’s

event drew in 1500 visitors. Sponsorships and vendor applications are currently available, and exhibitors who register by January 31st will receive an early-bird discount. The Tri-Cities Home and Garden Show will run Friday, March 25th from noon to 6pm, Saturday, March 26th from 10am to 6pm, and Sunday, March 27th from 1pm to 4pm. Tickets to attend the show are free if you register online at tricitieshomeandgardenshow.com.

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Saturday, January 22, 2022

PAAL Features Native Petersburg Artist

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PETERSBURG- The Petersburg Area Art League is currently highlighting a Petersburg native as its main gallery artist.

Christopher C. Alexander, IV has dabbled in a variety of creative endeavors since participating in art programs while a student in

Petersburg City Schools. He attended John Tyler Community College and Virginia State University, studying the visual arts. Alexander has been a stuntman and an actor, appearing in various shows and movies filmed in the region. In addition to his art, he is currently an aspiring screenwriter. Alexander works primarily in acrylics and oils, and the show features portraits of famous people and landscapes from the local area.

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Saturday, January 22, 2022

Electric Chair Used in 267 State Executions Transferred to Museum

RICHMOND STAFF REPORT LNNUSA.com

RICHMOND- The Virginia Museum of History and Culture recently received an unusual donation. Just before closing out his

term in office, former Governor Ralph Northam announced that the 114-year old oak electric chair used for 267 executions by the Commonwealth has been transferred to the Museum for proper preservation and interpretation. “The Commonwealth’s history of using capital punishment is an important part of history, and the Museum is focused on telling Virginia’s full and true story for future generations,” stated Northam. Throughout its history, Virginia has performed more than 1,300 executions, but the era of capital punishment in the Commonwealth has drawn to a close. In March 2021, Northam signed legislation to end the death penalty in Virginia. Two people were on death

row when Virginia officially abolished the death penalty. Thomas Porter and Anthony Juniper both had their sentences commuted to life in prison by Northam, but per the terms of the agreement, they will not be eligible for parole or conditional release. The electric chair was first installed in the Virginia State Penitentiary in 1908, but was later moved to Greensville Correctional Center. The chair and forty other related capital

punishment artifacts were removed from the execution chamber at Greensville and

transported to the Museum of History and Culture early last week.

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Saturday, January 22, 2022

Youngkin Takes First-Day Action VIRGINIA STAFF REPORT LNNUSA.com

VIRGINIA- Inauguration Day in Virginia was Saturday, January 15th, and new Governor Glenn Youngkin took time out amid the festivities to sign eleven executive actions addressing the Day One priorities he outlined during his campaign. His first executive order ends the use of “divisive concepts” including Critical Race Theory, in public education, in an effort to “restore excellence in education”. His second executive action, which has received significant pushback from some politicians and media members, grants parents the right to opt out of masking their children in school districts with mask requirements for students. In addition to these two school-related measures,

Governor Youngkin also directed that the Loudoun County School Board be investigated in relation to its handling of a sexual assault reported in Spring of 2021. The Attorney General’s office will handle that investigation, along with another investigation ordered by the Governor, this one into

the recent actions of the Virginia Parole Board. His executive order terminated the sitting members of the Parole Board and appointed five new members. An executive directive from Governor Youngkin rescinded the COVID-19 vaccine mandate for state employees.

Other items addressed in the list of Governor Youngkin’s actions include declaring Virginia open for business, establishing a commission on antisemitism, and withdrawing the Commonwealth from the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative.

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Saturday, January 22, 2022

Governor Youngkin Announces COVID Action Plan VIRGINIA MEDIA RELEASE OFFICE OF GOVERNOR GLENN YOUNGKIN

RICHMOND- Governor Glenn Youngkin today announced his COVID Action Plan concurrent with Executive Order Number Eleven to provide hospitals, health systems, nursing facilities, and other healthcare providers the tools necessary to combat COVID-19. The plan also includes issuing clear testing guidelines to prioritize the use of COVID rapid tests and marshalling further resources to encourage Virginians to get the vaccine. “While many families have experienced tragedy over the last two years, Virginians have truly embodied the spirit of Virginia as they came together to fight a common enemy— COVID-19,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “Today’s announcements are designed to give Virginians the tools and resources needed to make the best decisions for their families, strengthen our hospital systems, and ensure a strong recovery as we encounter new challenges associated with the pandemic that has become part of our everyday life.”

COVID-19 Vaccine Marshall Plan for Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin will devote additional resources and efforts to encouraging the nearly 1.6 million Virginians who are still unvaccinated to get the COVID-19 vaccine. Data shows that people vaccinated from COVID-19 are 4 times less likely to be hospitalized than those who are not. Governor Youngkin’s actions include: • Directing the Secretary of Health to re-prioritize resources toward vaccine education and outreach, including expanded efforts in disproportionately unvaccinated communities. • Plan to host and attend COVID-19 vaccine events across the Commonwealth. • Working with Governors across the country to learn best practices on vaccine education. • Empowering Virginia with choices, not mandates. Expanded Healthcare Flexibility & Support Governor Glenn Youngkin signed Executive Order #11 to give healthcare providers flexibility and support to battle staffing shortages caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and unconstitutional federal mandates on healthcare workers. Virginia’s hospitals and healthcare facilities are in crisis. Governor Youngkin’s actions include: • Allowing hospitals and nursing homes to rapidly expand bed capacity by waiving regulations. • Providing flexibility for qualified outof-state nurses and healthcare professionals to practice in Virginia. • Creating appropriate exemptions to

scope of practice requirements to allow healthcare providers to care for patients in this difficult time. • Expanding the number of providers available to offer the Covid-19 vaccine. • Expanding flexibility, overtime hours and availability for personal care workers. Prioritized Testing Guidelines Governor Glenn Youngkin will prioritize testing guidelines to mitigate supply-chain shortages for COVID-19 tests. The Governor will discourage mass testing for the purposes of pre-screening, discourage asymptomatic individuals from testing, and urge healthy individuals with mild symptoms to stay home and use discretion on testing. Governor Youngkin’s actions include: • Expedite pending orders of rapid tests. • Redeploy unused tests at state agencies and other non-essential facilities to schools, hospitals, and nursing facilities. • Directing the State Health Commissioner to issue new guidelines that prioritize the use of rapid tests for key categories including • Students potentially exposed to COVID-19 who need to test to remain in school. • Essential healthcare professionals and other essential workers who need to be tested to return to work. • Vulnerable citizens including those in nursing facilities and over the age of 65. • Those with serious medical conditions and their caregivers. • Those who need to be tested after consultation with a healthcare provider.

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Saturday, January 22, 2022

Crime

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H O P E W E L L P O L I C E AC T I V I T Y R E P O RT ON 01/13/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 2100 BLK OF HAZELWOOD AVE FOR REPORTED SHOTS FIRED. OFFENDER FIRED SHOTS, DAMAGING RESIDENCE AND VEHICLE. NO INJURIES REPORTED. ON 01/13/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 200 BLK OF S 12TH AVE FOR A REPORTED BURGLARY. UNKNOWN OFFENDER ENTERED RESIDENCE VIA WINDOW AND STOLE TOOLS. ON 01/13/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 200 BLK OF S 12TH AVE FOR A REPORTED BURGLARY. UNKNOWN OFFENDER ENTERED RESIDENCE AND STOLE GAME SYSTEM AND ACCESSORIES. ON 01/11/2022, POLICE CONDUCTED A TRAFFIC STOP AT S 23RD AVE AND CITY POINT RD. DRIVER WAS FOUND TO BE WANTED AND IN POSSESSION OF NARCOTICS AND WAS ARRESTED. ON 01/15/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 1700 BLK OF SIBYL ST FOR A REPORTED DISTURBANCE. KNOWN OFFENDERS ASSAULTED VICTIMS BY PUNCHING, BITING AND PULLING HAIR. AN OFFENDER ALSO BRANDISHED A FIREARM AND ANOTHER STOLE A DRIVER’S LICENSE. WARRANTS OBTAINED. ON 01/16/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 300 BLK OF E BROADWAY FOR A REPORTED LARCENY. UNKNOWN OFFENDER STOLE ITEMS FROM BUSINESS AND FLED ON FOOT.

Saturday, January 22, 2022

HOPEWELL POLICE DEPARTMENT CRIME SUMMARY

ON 01/12/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 100 BLK OF MEMORIAL ST FOR A REPORTED LARCENY. OFFENDERS BROKE RESIDENTIAL WINDOW AND STOLE HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCES. ON 01/14/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 2500 BLK OF WESTERN ST FOR A REPORTED LARCENY. UNKNOWN OFFENDER ENTERED CONSTRUCTION SITE AND STOLE HEATERS, STEREO AND VINYL SHEETING. ON 01/14/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO HEADQUARTERS FOR A REPORTED LARCENY THAT OCCURRED AT THE 5200 BLK OF PLAZA DR. UNKNOWN OFFENDER STOLE VEHICLE LEFT IN PARKING LOT. ON 01/13/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 1000 BLK OF E BROADWAY FOR A REPORTED VANDALISM. UNKNOWN OFFENDER FIRED SHOTS, DAMAGING VEHICLE. NO INJURIES REPORTED. ON 01/11/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 4900 BLK OF OAKLAWN BLVD FOR A WARRANT SERVICE. KNOWN OFFENDER WAS CONFIRMED TO BE WANTED AND WAS FOUND TO BE IN POSSESSION OF ILLEGAL FIREARMS AND WAS ARRESTED. ON 01/13/2022, POLICE CONDUCTED A TRAFFIC STOP IN THE 200 BLK OF S 7TH AVE. DRIVER WAS FOUND TO BE IN POSSESSION OF AN ILLEGAL STOLEN FIREARM AND WAS ARRESTED.

ARRESTS

2022000098 CALVIN ROLLINS (44) of HOPEWELL REVOKED OR SUSPENDED LICENSE,M FALSELY IDENTIFY SELF TO LAW ENFORCEMENT,M

202200011 XAVIER PATE (25) of PRINCE GERGE EXCEEDING SPEED LIMIT/RECKLESS DRIVING,M POSSESS, TRANSPORT FIREARMS BY CONVICTED FELONS,F

2022000009 JESSE BENNETT (27) of PETERSBURG ABDUCTION & KIDNAPPING,F GRAND LARCENY,F CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT,F UNLAWFUL USE OR INJURY TO TELEPHONE LINES,M FIREARM VIOLATION -SUBJECT TO PROTECTIVE ORDER,M VIOLATE PROTECTIVE ORDERS,M ASSAULT & BATTERY -FAMILY MEMBER,M VIOLATE PROTECTIVE ORDERS,M VIOLATE PROTECTIVE ORDERS,M BREAKING & ENTER W/INT TO COMMIT FELONY,F PETIT LARCENY,M VIOLATE PROTECTIVE ORDERS,M VIOLATE PROTECTIVE ORDERS,M

2022000097 KAREN COLLIER (42) of HOPEWELL POSSESSION OF SCHEDULE I,II CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE,F POSSESSION OF SCHEDULE I,II CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE,F 2022000096 DARIUS COLE (22) of VICTORIA TRESPASSING,M

Crime

LNNUSA.com

Saturday, January 22, 2022

DINWIDDIE ARREST REPORT James A. Pegram, 55 years old of the 1600 block of West Washington Street, Petersburg, Virginia was arrested on January 7, 2022 for contempt by failing to appear in court.

Isaiah Gopaulsingh, 20 years old of the 1200 block of Ralph Avenue, Brooklyn, New York was arrested on January 8, 2022 for reckless driving and passing two vehicles abreast.

King Demetrius Lamar Floyd, 27 years old of the 4 block of Salem Court, Petersburg, Virginia was arrested on January 10, 2022 for contempt by failing to appear in court.

Christopher Octavian Parham, 45 years old of the 4600 block of Hickory Road, Chesterfield, Virginia was arrested on January 11, 2022 for contempt by failing to appear in court.

Colin Miquel Coleman, 28 years old of the 400 block of West Market Street, Hertford, North Carolina was arrested on January 11, 2022 for entering dwelling house, etc., with intent to commit larceny, assault and battery or other felony, strangulation, domestic assault and trespassing.

Stysyn Termaine Wilks, 25 years old of the 26000 block of West Washington Street, Petersburg, Virginia was arrested on January 11, 2022 for assault and batter and failure to appear in court.

Devon Keith Simmons, 25 years old of the 23000 block of Timpam Lane, North Dinwiddie, Virginia was arrested on January 12, 2022 for contempt by failing to appear in court.

Jason Louis Rayner, 40 years old of the 4100 block of Henshaw Drive, North Dinwiddie, Virginia was arrested on January 9, 2022 for contempt by failing to appear in court.

Keith Floyd Goad, 28 years old of the 5800 block of Boydton Plank Road, North Dinwiddie, Virginia was arrested on January 11, 2022 for contempt by failing to appear in court.

Julian Allenroy Cochran, 35 years old of the 9 block of Jake Road, Ithaca, New York was arrested on January 12, 2022 for failure to appear in court and two counts of probation violation.

Crime LNNUSA.com

P E T E R S B U RG C R I M E R E P O RT

Saturday, January 22, 2022

Crime

LNNUSA.com

Saturday, January 22, 2022

P R I N C E G E O RG E C O U N T Y I N C I D E N T R E P O RT S 202201030008 Assault-Simple ON 01/03/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 4800 BLK OF BAILEYS RIDGE DRIVE FOR A DOMESTIC ASSAULT. 202201030012 Assault & Battery Family Member ON 01/03/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO UNION BRANCH ROAD AND MORNING DRIVE IN REFERENCE TO A SUSPICIOUS INCIDENT. 202201040006 Threats Of Death Or Bodily Injury By Letter, Profane, Threatening Threats Of Death or Bodily Injury Language Over Public Airway ON 01/04/2022, POLICE RECEIVED A REPORT OF THREATENING PHONE CALLS AND TEXT MESSAGES IN THE 300 BLK OF MALLARD STREET. KNOWN OFFENDER THREATENED THE VICTIM BY PHONE. 202201040008 Larceny-Theft from Motor Vehicle, Burglary/ breaking And Entering ON 01/04/2022, OFFICERS RESPONDED TO THE 4400 BLK OF RIVES ROAD FORA REPORTED LARCENY. UNKNOWN OFFENDER ENTERED VICTIM’S VEHICLE AND GARAGE TAKING MAIL, CHANGE, AND A FLASHLIGHT. 202201050004 Fraud-False Pretenses, Fraud-identity Theft ON 01/05/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 4100 BLK OF COURTHOUSE ROAD FOR A REPORTED IDENTITY THEFT. UNKNOWN OFFENDER OPENED A BANKING ACCOUNT IN THE VICTIM’S NAME IN RICHARDSON, TEXAS ON 12/20/2021 AND DEPOSITED A FAKE CHECK. THE FUNDS WERE WITHDRAWN IMMEDIATELY PRIOR TO THE CHECK BEING RETURNED FOR INSUFFICENT FUNDS.

REPORTED LARCENY. UNKNOWN OFFENDER ENTERED THE PROPERTY AND TOOK TWO TREESTANDS. 202201060005 Forgery, Fraud-Wire Fraud ON 01/06/2022, POLICE RECEIVED A REPORT FOR FRAUD IN THE 5100 BLK OF OAKLAWN BLVD ON 11/17/2021. KNOWN OFFENDER DEPOSITED FORGED CHECKS FROM THE VICTIM’S BANK ACCOUNT VIA MOBILE DEPOSIT. 202201060007 Larceny-Shoplifting ON 01/06/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 8100 BLK OF WAGNER WAY FORA SHOPLIFTING. UNKNOWN OFFENDER TOOK TWO CHAIN SAWS AND FLED THE SCENE. 202201070002 Larceny-Shoplifting ON 01/07/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 5200 BLK OF OAKLAWN BLVD FORA REPORT OF A SHOPLIFTING. OFFENDER WAS LOCATED AND IDENTIFIED WITH MERCHANDISE IN HAND. ITEMS RETURNED AND SUMMONS ISSUED FOR LARCENY. 202201070005 Fraud-Welfare Fraud, Fraud-Identity Theft ON 01/07/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 3700 BLK OF RIVES ROAD IN REFERENCE A FRAUD. UNKNOWN OFFENDER STOLE VICTIM’S IDENTITY TO OPEN AN ACCOUNT FOR WELFARE BENEFITS AND RECEIVED MONEY FRAUDULENTLY THROUGH THE VIRGINIA EMPLOYMENT COMMISSION. 202201070006 Assault-Simple ON 01/07/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 4500 BLK OF BAILEYS RIDGE LANE IN REFERENCE TO AN ASSAULT.

202201050005 Larceny ON 01/05/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 14000 BLK OF ARWOOD ROAD FOR A LARCENY OF A PACKAGE. ITEM WAS LATER RECOVERED IN THE DITCHLINE AND RETURNED TO OWNER.

202201080001 Assault & Battery - Family Member, ON 01/07/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 400 BLK OF FAIRWAY DRIVE IN REFERENCE TO AN ASSAULT. KNOWN OFFENDER ASSAULTED VICTIM. ARREST MADE.

202201050006 Larceny ON 01/05/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 2600 BLK OF FOUNTAIN RIDGE ROAD FOR A

202201080003 Drug/Narcotic Violations ON 01/08/2022, POLICE CONDUCTED A TRAFFIC STOP AT TEMPLE AVENUE

AND OAKLAWN BLVD FOR EXPIRED REGISTRATION. DRIVER WAS FOUND TO BE IN POSSESSION OF ILLEGAL NARCOTICS. ARREST MADE. 202201080006 Larceny-Theft from Building ON 01/08/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 4400 BLK OF JEFFERSON POINTE LANE FOR A LARCENY. UNKNOWN OFFENDER STOLE A FIREARM FROM THE VICTIM’S RESIDENCE. 202201080007 Motor Vehicle Theft ON 01/08/2022, OFFICERS RESPONDED TO THE 10000 BLK OF POLE RUN ROAD FORA REPORTED MOTOR VEHICLE THEFT. KNOWN OFFENDER STOLE VICTIM’S VEHICLE. WARRANTS OBTAINED. 202201080008 Larceny-Theft from Building ON 01/08/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 12200 BLK OF SOUTH CRATER ROAD IN REFERENCE TO A LARCENY. KNOWN OFFENDER TOOK ELECTRONICS AND MONEY. 202201090003 Burglary/Breaking and Entering ON 01/09/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 11000 BLK OF HALIFAX ROAD FORA BURGLARY. UNKNOWN OFFENDER FORCED ENTRY INTO A BUSINESS, DAMAGING PROPERTY AND TAKING MONEY. 202201090004 Burglary/Breaking and Entering, Trespass of Real Property ON 01/09/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 4500 BLK OF FLOWERDEW HUNDRED ROAD FOR A REPORT OF BREAKING AND ENTERING. UNKNOWN OFFENDER ENTERED A RESIDENCE AND STOLE A FIREARM. 202201090006 Possession of Stolen Vehicle, Driving After Forfeiture of License, Possession of Possess, Distribute Controlled Paraphernalia ON 01/09/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 5300 BLK OF OAKLAWN BLVD IN REFERENCE TO A TRAFFIC STOP. STOLEN VEHICLE WAS RECOVERED AND RETURNED TO OWNER. TAKIERA JONES AGE 31 202201030009

PRINCE GEORGE, VA VIOLATE PROTECTIVE ORDERS CARMEN WHEELER AGE 55 202111110001 SOUTH PRINCE GEORGE, VA GRAND LARCENY PETIT LARCENY ROBERT VLISSIDES AGE 21 202112310003 CLIFTON, VA FELONIOUS ASSAULT ASSAULT & BATTERY DISARM OFFICER OF FIREARM OR STUN GUN KEVIN HAWK AGE 62 202201070001 NORTH PRINCE GEORGE, VA FUGITIVE FROM JUSTICE KENNY EDWARDS AGE 45 202201070002 PETERSBURG, VA PETIT LARCENY DOUGLAS MELVIN AGE 52 202201070003 HOPEWELL, VA EXPIRATION AND RENEWAL OF REGISTRATION EXCEEDING SPEED LIMIT ELUDING POLICE OBSTRUCT JUSTICE/RESIST ARREST DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE KALIQ SMITH AGE 21 202201070007 MANAKIN SABOT, VA DRIVING AFTER FORFEITURE OF LICENSE SERENA PENNINGTON AGE 49 202201080003 PRINCE GEORGE, VA POSSESSION OF SCHEDULE I,II CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE ROBERT FLETCHER AGE 42 202201080001 SOUTH PRINCE GEORGE, VA ASSAULT & BATTERY -FAMILY MEMBER



Crime

Saturday, January 22, 2022

LNNUSA.com

PRINCE GEORGE COUNTY POLICE DEPARTMENT PRINCE GEORGE COUNTY POLICE DEPARTMENT WEEKLY HIGHLIGHTS WEEKLY HIGHLIGHTS January 3, 2022 – January 9, 2022 January 3, 2022 – January 9, 2022 For the period January 3, 2022 – January 9, 2022  For the period January 3, 2022 – January 9, 2022 o 331 criminal and other types of calls for service were o 331 criminal and other types of calls forassigned service were assigned o Total callsofor Total service: 567 calls for service: 567

Police

Accident Property Damage Accident Property Damage Hit & Run Property Hit & Damage Run Property Damage MVA with Hazards/No MVA withInjuries Hazards/No Injuries MVA with Entrapment MVA with Entrapment MVA with Possible MVA Injuries with Possible Injuries Traffic Stop Traffic Stop Total Total

16 1 2 6 14 176 215

2 9 1 5 1 2 1 21

Animal Services Animal Services Animal Aggressive Animal Aggressive Animal at Large Animal at Large Animal Bite/Exposure Animal Bite/Exposure Animal Call Animal Call Animal Neglect/Cruelty Animal Neglect/Cruelty Animal Sick/Injured Animal Sick/Injured Animal – Check Welfare Animal – Check Welfare Total Total

Crime

Saturday, January 22, 2022

LNNUSA.com

Shooting: 1959 January 17, 2022

This week, the Chesterfield County/Colonial Heights Crime Solvers program needs your help to solve a shooting that occurred in Chesterfield County. On Dec. 31, 2021, at about 4:27 p.m., the victim was traveling west in the 10800 block of Midlothian Turnpike when a silver vehicle pulled up alongside his vehicle and fired a shot at the passenger-side door. The bullet struck the victim, causing life-threatening injuries. The driver of the silver vehicle, which appears to be a 2019 Honda Civic with black rims, was described as a Black male. The silver vehicle was last seen traveling west on Midlothian Turnpike toward Chesterfield Towne Center. Crime Solvers has released photos related to this incident. To see them, visit our

Facebook page or our website at crimesolvers.net and look for “This Week in Crime Solvers” on the homepage. If you can help solve this crime, call Crime Solvers at 804-748-0660 or use the P3Tips mobile app or website. We guarantee you will remain anonymous and could receive a cash reward up to $5,000. I am Police Specialist Ron Coombs with the Chesterfield County/Colonial Heights Crime Solvers program and this is your crime of the week. “Take the Time to Solve the Crime.”

Fugitives of the Week: 1959 January 17, 2022

This week, Chesterfield County/Colonial Heights Crime Solvers needs your help with locating the following two fugitives:

For more fugitives, visit our new website crimesolvers.net and hit the most wanted tab. If you have seen one of these most wanted fugitives, call Crime Solvers (804) 748-0660, or use the p3Tips mobile app. We guarantee you will remain anonymous and could receive a cash reward up to $5,000. Rigoberto Jop Sosa is wanted for sex offense. Sosa, 38, is a 5-foot 5-inch-tall Hispanic male who weighs 125 lbs. Sosa has brown eyes and black hair.

Jamar Nathaniel Wilson is wanted for felony eluding and manufacture, sale, possession of controlled substance. Wilson, 35, is a 5-foot 9-inch-tall black male who weighs 160 lbs. Wilson has brown eyes and black hair.

You can like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter @CrimesolversCCH and subscribe to our YouTube Channel. I am Det. Baldwin with the Chesterfield County/Colonial Heights Crime Solvers and these are your Fugitives of the Week.

Crime

LNNUSA.com

Saturday, January 22, 2022

POLICE SEEK ROBBERY SUSPECTS CHESTERFIELD MEDIA RELEASE CHESTERFIELD COUNTY POLICE DEPARTMENT

CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, VA – Police are searching for two suspects who were involved in a robbery at the Walmart, located at 900 Walmart Way at about 9:30 p.m. on January 17, 2022. Police said that two suspects attempted to leave Walmart without paying for items. One of the suspects got into an altercation with an associate, displayed a bladed object, and then exited the store. The second suspect exited the store with

the unpaid items. Walmart employees followed the suspects into the parking lot, where a second altercation took place, before the suspects left the area. A Walmart employee was injured during the incident and was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The first suspect is described as a heavy-set black male wearing a black jacket, jeans, a black beanie, and a mask. The second suspect is described as a light-skinned black female wearing a “BWA” sweatshirt, camouflage pants, and a black mask. Both suspects left in

an older model green Honda Odyssey. Anyone with information should contact the Chesterfield County Police Department at 804-748-1251 or

Crime Solvers at 804-7480660 or through the P3 app. Authorized by: Lieutenant Kevin Lee, Chesterfield County Police Uniform Operations Bureau.

POLICE RELEASE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION IN FATAL SHOOTING CHESTERFIELD MEDIA RELEASE CHESTERFIELD COUNTY POLICE DEPARTMENT

CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, VA – Police have released additional information about a fatal shooting that occurred in the parking lot of the Appomattox Police Station at 2920 W. Hundred Road. At about 6:28 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 16, two parties met to complete a child custody exchange in the parking lot at Appomattox Police Station. At the time of the exchange, an on-duty officer was working in his patrol vehicle in the station parking lot; the officer was facing away from where the custody exchange was occurring. The officer heard a gunshot and immediately exit-

ed his vehicle. He secured the scene and located one victim, identified as Stuart D. Jeffries, 33, of the 3500 block of Maryland Avenue in Richmond, suffering from a gunshot wound. Additional officers responded and several provided first aid to Jeffries, but he was pronounced deceased at the scene. Police located the suspect, who was identified as Corey D. Goodson Sr., 44, and took him into custody at the scene. Goodson, of the 6100 block of Varina Point Lane of Richmond, was arrested and charged with second-degree murder and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony in relation to the shooting. He is currently being held at the Chesterfield County Jail without bond.

At this point, the investigation indicates Jeffries and an adult female had met at the station to exchange custody of a child. After the exchange, Goodson, who was with the adult female, and Jeffries were involved in a very brief altercation; the shooting occurred during that altercation. The child and the adult female were not injured. “This shooting unfolded rapidly and Officer Dean - at great personal risk - didn’t hesitate to demonstrate a sufficient command bearing and verbal de-escalation techniques to bring a chaotic situation to order without any use of physical force,” said Col. Jeffrey S. Katz, chief of police. “Officer Dean’s courageous and decisive

actions prevented further violence, protected bystanders, and eliminated any ongoing threat to our community. While saddened by this tragic loss of life, I am very proud of him.” The investigation is ongoing and additional charges are pending. Police continue to investigate whether Goodson was permitted to possess the firearm used in the shooting and, if not, how that firearm came to be in his possession. Anyone with information about this incident should contact Chesterfield County Police at 804-748-1251 or Crime Solvers at 804-7480660 or through the P3 app. Authorized by: Media and Messaging Manager Elizabeth Caroon, Office of the Chief.

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Saturday, January 22, 2022

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Opinion LNNUSA.com

Saturday, January 22, 2022

A New Beginning SENATOR FRANK RUFF

15TH SENATE DISTRICT

Saturday, Virginia inaugurated our 74th Governor. This began the four-year term of Glenn Youngkin. As he passionately pointed out in the lead up to and in his speech following taking the oath of office, this election and this term of office was not about him - the individual- but rather a vision of a brighter future for Virginia. The Vision That vision is centered on the belief that citizens of Virginia should be responsible for the decisions they make for their families and for themselves. That includes the education of their children. For those who operate businesses, it means that they will decide how they face their challenges. The vision is that all Virginians should have equal opportunities to receive the best education possible and, likewise, have every opportunity to succeed in life. Governor Youngkin laid out his vision of what he

hopes can be accomplished during his term. Most importantly, he understands that his responsibility is to serve all Virginians, with no regards as to political party. He believes that for Virginia to move forward, all must be involved, working together. We must encourage and enhance opportunities for those who want to start businesses. We need to remove any unnecessary regulations that make it more difficult for businesses to start, succeed, or expand to Virginia. Governor Youngkin reaffirmed his commitment to education. He committed to returning to higher standards that we held a decade ago that attracts businesses to Virginia. He committed to greater investment in good teachers. Likewise, he committed to more competition for parents to choose from by extending charter school opportunities in our public schools. Greater than the pomp and circumstance of the inauguration was a prayer breakfast. At that breakfast was a coming together of the faiths of Virginia. The prayers and music were great, but even

greater was hearing from witnesses of the Youngkin family’s faith. From a friendship that began almost two decades ago, we heard of regular meetings of corporate leaders around the country that always included prayers. We learned that Glenn Youngkin’s faith led him a decade ago to believe that he should create a church. We learned that it was his faith that guided him away from his successful business career to run and serve as Governor. Not to be lost in the process, the events of Saturday also included the swearing in of the most diverse statewide elected officials in the history of Virginia. The Lt. Governor will, for the first time, be a woman. Jamaican-born Winsome Sears will make headlines, not because of her race, but rather because she is able to see beyond race. Jason Miyares was sworn in as the first Attorney General of Hispanic heritage. He will return the office of the Attorney General to its more important role of upholding the constitution and laws of Virginia. A responsibility that his predecessor often chose to ignore.

The Opening Days of the Session Last Wednesday, the 2022 Session began. It always begins prior to the inauguration of governors because, in our representative government, it confirms that the General Assembly is the primary voice of the people. The first days were focused on meeting deadlines. Much legislation was offered the first day, but all proposals had to be sent to the General Assembly staff by Friday, January 14th in order for it to be properly before the public by Friday, January 21st. This allows those interested to weigh in on issues as they go through the legislative process. Governor Northam offered his final budget before Christmas. Each legislator can offer amendments to that budget. The deadline for those amendments was also Friday, January 14th. Governor Youngkin will have a few days additionally to offer changes he would like to make. We love to hear from you! You can reach us at Sen. Ruff@verizon.net, 804

Opinion

Saturday, January 22, 2022

LNNUSA.com

EDITORIAL

A New Day for VA? On November 2, 2021, the people of Virginia decided that they wanted a new direction for the Commonwealth, their choices at the polls sparking a red wave across the state. Democrats had held the top three positions in the state for the better part of a decade, and the majority in both the House of Delegates and the State Senate for the previous two years. A Republican had not won statewide office in Virginia since Bob McDonnell was elected governor in 2009, making Virginia’s message to its elected leaders even stronger: we want something different. On Saturday, January 15, 2022, the Republicans elected to top office in Virginia in November were

CEO: Craig Richards CEO@LNNUSA.com

sworn into those offices. Glenn Youngkin became the 74th Governor of the Commonwealth. Winsome Sears, a Marine Corps veteran, became the first female- and first black female- Lieutenant Governor of Virginia. Jason Miyares, the son of a Cuban immigrant who fled Communist Cuba, took the oath to become the first Hispanic-American Attorney General of the Commonwealth. A few days prior, the newly-elected members of the House of Delegates began their legislative work; seven of them were Republicans, and their victories handed majority control of that chamber to the House Republican Caucus. This shift away from Democrat control of the state

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administration and House of Delegates is no accident. There were no federal-level elections at the top of the ballot in 2021 on which to blame the state-level races. The people of Virginia simply said, “Enough.” Virginia, weary of the policies and priorities of Democrat leaders, has called for a fresh start. A fresh start for business and the state’s economy. A fresh start for education and schools. A fresh start for employment and jobs. The people want to see a new direction for social policies, particularly as they relate to public safety as well as the safety of their children at school. The mandate from the people is clear. What remains to be seen is how the Youngkin adminis-

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tration and Republicans will respond. Youngkin’s first-day executive actions indicate that he and his administration have heard the directive of the citizens. Now, he, Sears, and Miyares must walk a fine line as they guide a state that has trended so strongly Democratic that in recent years the once-red Commonwealth has been reclassified as reliably blue. Without a doubt, their efforts to do so will receive both criticism and praise from various corners of the Commonwealth. In the meantime, Virginia holds its collective breath, waiting to see if choosing someone different at the polls has the desired effect.

Business Manager: Tammy Richards Business@LNNUSA.com written copyright permission. This newspaper is a copyrighted publication. No photographs, advertisements, news features, or stories may be reproduced in whole or in part without the expressed written consent of the LNN Tri-City News management. All material contained herein is the property of the LNN Tri-City News.

Opinion LNNUSA.com

Saturday, January 22, 2022

Money LNNUSA.com

Saturday, January 22, 2022

The Dollar’s Decline May Be About to Accelerate STEFAN GLEASON MONEY METALS NEWS SERVICE

Over the past year, the Federal Reserve Note “dollar” has been losing value at an alarming pace as reflected by broad price level increases. Last week’s Consumer Price Index and Producer Price Index reports put those measures of inflation at 7.0% and 9.7%, respectively. Manufacturers had to bear the brunt of the inflation surge in 2021. The worst may be yet to come for consumers as producers pass on their costs to wholesalers and retailers. Some politicians, such as Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and others whose policy preferences are largely responsible for the inflation problem, have now taken to inflation demagoguery – crusading against producers for raising prices while peddling conspiracy theories about “price gouging” and collusion. Other supporters of President Joe Biden, concerned about his plummeting job approval numbers, are trying to downplay inflation. Republicans, of course, are trying to exploit “Bidenflation” as a winning political issue heading into this fall’s election. They note that American families will have

to pay an additional $3,500 on average just to maintain their standard of living in 2022. Hardly anyone in Washington wants to talk about the real elephant in the room, though. The Federal Reserve’s easy money policies combined with massive handouts and fiscal spending – the primary drivers of inflation – have been championed by both Republicans and Democrats. Fed Chairman Jerome Powell was appointed and confirmed by Republicans. He has now been reappointed by a Democrat. He will soon probably be confirmed

for another term with bipartisan support in the Senate. Consumers and investors should therefore expect more of the same. Although the Fed intends to push up interest rates, likely beginning in March with a quarter-point baby step, it is way behind the curve. The central bank would have to impose a massive series of hikes starting immediately in order to have any hope of getting out in front of rising

price levels this year. That isn’t going to happen. The powers that be in Washington and on Wall Street wouldn’t stand for it. The currency will continue to lose value. The only question is how rapidly. America’s fiat currency lost purchasing power last year at its steepest pace in 40 years. Yet over that same period, the U.S. Dollar Index, which measures the currency against a basket of foreign currencies, actually gained value. This anomalous dollar “strength” was caused by competitors such as the euro losing value even more rapidly. Although gold is not a component of the Dollar Index, it does often behave as a currency. It is, after all, sound money – sought by individuals for wealth protection and even central banks as backing in reserves. In the paper markets, traders may hastily hit the “sell” button on gold and silver when they see the U.S. Dollar Index strengthening. That’s one big reason why precious metals underperformed last year. For the same reason, though, gold and silver could get a boost in 2022 if the Dollar Index begins to

trend lower along with the value of the currency itself. The Dollar Index dropped last week. More significantly, it appears to have breached an uptrend line that had been in force since last June. Dollar bears will be looking for confirmation of a breakdown in this week’s trading with any additional move lower. It could just be the catalyst gold and silver markets need to break out to the upside. About the Author: Stefan Gleason is President of Money Metals Exchange, the company recently named “Best Overall Online Precious Metals Dealer” by Investopedia. A graduate of the University of Florida, Gleason is a seasoned business leader, investor, political strategist, and grassroots activist. Gleason has frequently appeared on national television networks such as CNN, FoxNews, and CNBC and in hundreds of publications such as the Wall Street Journal, TheStreet, and Seeking Alpha.

Ticket

LNNUSA.com

Saturday, January 22, 2022

Friday, January 28th 8pm

Fri, January 28th & Sat, January 29th - 8pm

Omega Bar & Grill Hopewell

(premiere weekend) Swift Creek Mill Theatre Colonial Heights

Saturday, January 29th 7pm

Saturday, January 29th 8pm

Sunday, January 30th 12pm

Sunday, January 30th 2pm

Old Towne’s Alibi Petersburg

I Don’t Know Sports Grille Chester

Cul’s Courthouse Grille Charles City

Holy Mackerel Prince George

Wed, January 26th 6:30pm

The Gilmour Project The Beacon Theatre Hopewell

Buddy Lee

What’s Our Age Again?

Nobody’s Poet

Murder for Two

The Blue Guitar

Saturday, January 29th 6:30pm

On the Border: The Ultimate Eagles Tribute The Beacon Theatre Hopewell

Pat O’Brien

Got a Hot Ticket? Send your band, picture, event location & date to newsroom@LNNUSA.com to be considered for our Tri-City Hot Ticket of the Week

Dish

Saturday, January 22, 2022

LNNUSA.com

Take a Bite of a Better-for-You Energy Booster Family Features

Whether you’re a runner, a workout warrior, or simply looking for a quick pick-meup before heading to the office, grab-and-go foods can supply the energy you need for an active day. Skipping salty snacks and opting for nutritious options can put you ahead of the game. Due to their high carbohydrate content, sweetpotatoes provide a sustaining option both before and after exercise sessions. Plus,

with antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and aid in the muscle repair process, they help both your endurance and recovery. According to the American Diabetes Association, sweetpotatoes are a “diabetes superfood” because they are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber, all of which are good for overall health and may help prevent disease. Additionally, they offer a “sweet” flavor with-

out the added sugar. Another fun fact: the oneword spelling of “sweetpotato” was adopted by the National Sweetpotato Collaborators in 1989 in an effort to avoid confusion with the potato and yam among shippers, distributors, warehouse workers, and consumers. As a versatile veggie that’s easy to add to a multitude of recipes for flavor enhancement and nutritional

content, they are a key ingredient in these No-Bake Sweetpotato Coconut Ginger Energy Bites from the North Carolina SweetPotato Commission. It takes just 45 minutes to turn cooked sweetpotatoes into tasty treats for much-needed fuel for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Find more nutritious recipe ideas at ncsweetpotatoes. com.

No-Bake Sweetpotato Coconut Ginger Energy Bites Recipe courtesy of Sarah Schlichter, MPH, RDN, on behalf of the North Carolina SweetPotato Commission Total time: 45 minutes Yield: 14 bites (1 bite per serving)

Ingredients: • 1 cup cooked sweetpotato • 3/4 cup rolled oats • 1/2 cup peanut butter (or desired nut butter) • 3 tablespoons honey • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon • 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut

INSTRUCTIONS 1. In large bowl, combine sweetpotato, oats, peanut butter, honey, ginger and cinnamon; stir until well combined. 2. Refrigerate bowl about 20 minutes to firm. 3. Line baking sheet with parchment paper. 4. Remove dough and portion into snack-sized bites. Gently roll bites in shredded coconut and refrigerate 15-20 minutes or freeze 10 minutes.

5. Remove from refrigerator or freezer and serve.

Nutritional information per serving: 115 calories; 7 g fat (11% daily value); 3 g saturated fat (19% daily value); 1 g polysaturated fat; 2 g monosaturated fat; 49 mg sodium (2% daily value); 129 mg potassium (4% daily value); 11 g carbohydrates (4% daily value); 2 g fiber (8% daily value); 5 g sugar (6% daily value); 3 g protein (6% daily value); 1,348 IU vitamin A (27% daily value); 1 mg vitamin C (1% daily value); 11 mg calcium (1% daily value); 1 mg iron (6% daily value); 9 g net carbohydrates.

Amusement LNNUSA.com

Saturday, January 22, 2022

Universal Crossword Edited by David Steinberg January 22, 2022

ACROSS 1 Common clickbait article format 5 Sheep sound 8 Praline ingredient 13 On the matter of 14 Programmer’s output 16 Ooze 17 Natural colors 18 Drink that sounds like its first letter 19 Enjoys some 18-Across 20 Suitable 21 Cocktail made with lime juice and gin 23 Slanted, in Sussex 25 If all goes well 26 Apple drink 28 Minor roadblock 29 Con artist, e.g. 31 Common bridal attire 34 ___ sticker (certain dumpling) 35 “Lights out!” 37 Writing tip? 39 Cry on a slide 41 Word that sounds like its first and last vowels 42 “Noble Blood” host Schwartz 43 Puerto ___ 45 Cultivated crops 47 Sign for most of September 49 “Strange ...” 50 Bud 51 Provide care to 55 Scratch up 56 Extra pieces 58 Trait carrier 59 One of 100 in the United States 60 Ancient Peruvian 61 Part of LGBTQ+ 62 “That’s amusing” 63 A rose’s is thorny DOWN 1 Desperate final attempt 2 “Took me a minute to find that”

3 Spa offering with ancient Roman origins 4 Burned layer of creme brulee 5 Feathery scarves 6 Ambience 7 Crafts’ partner 8 Personal annoyance 9 Prefix with “friendly” or “tourism” 10 “___ O’Brien Needs a Friend” (weekly podcast) 11 Skilled 12 What a crane constructs 14 Home of the Space Needle 15 Kid 19 “___ So Shy” (hit for The Pointer Sisters) 22 Segment of a trip 24 “Where ___ we?” 26 Game with a hexagonal board 27 Pupil controller 30 Concept 32 Soon 33 Sequence of synchronized steps 35 Deep-fried pastries popular in New Orleans 36 Impatient kid’s request 38 Nightmare 40 Take a wrong turn, say 42 Many AMA members 44 Two-door car 46 Consumed 47 E-cig user 48 Glazer of “Broad City” 50 (Over here!) 52 Not well thought out 53 Oak or elm 54 Zion National Park’s home 57 Sprinted 58 USO show attendees

Universal Freestyle 4 by Hannah Slovut

PUZZLE ANSWER

Amusement LNNUSA.com

Saturday, January 22, 2022

DILBERT BY SCOTT ADAMS

GARFIELD BY JIM DAVIS

SUDOKU MONSTER ANSWER

Classified

Saturday, January 22, 2022

LNNUSA.com

810 Mansion Drive Hopewell

4 Beds • 2 Baths • 2,616 Sq. Ft.

$514,000

www.hourglassrealtygroup.com Keith Wagner and Mandi Williams (804) 712-0188 (804) 715-0343 (804) 729-5188

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2788 Great Oak Road Warfield

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10395 Eagle Court North Prince George 4 Bed • 2 Full Baths 1 Half Bath

www.hourglassrealtygroup.com Keith Wagner and Mandi Williams (804) 712-0188 (804) 715-0343

Ingram & Associates (804) 748-0177

3 Beds • 2 Baths 2,404 Sq. Ft.

(804) 729-5188

$489,500

Mary Ann White

400 N. 10th Ave Hopewell

10249 Centralia Station Road

$459,950

$155,000

3 Beds • 2/1 Baths 2,025 Sq. Ft.

www.hourglassrealtygroup.com Keith Wagner and Mandi Williams (804) 712-0188 (804) 715-0343

5 Beds • 4 Baths 4,250 Sq. Ft.

(804) 729-5188

3 Bed • 2 baths 4,204 Sq. Ft.

(804) 729-5188

REALTOR®, CRS, MRP Cell: (804) 731-1152

Chesterfield

$419,000

804-524-9001

Mary Ann White

804-731-1152

Tri-Cities 20 Dunlop Village Circle Colonial Heights, VA 23834

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Saturday, January 22, 2022

FEATURE YOUR BUSINESS FOR ONLY $25

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Oriental Cuisine Fused with Cajun Influences

KONRAN Lunch & Dinner

16 Old Street Petersburg

Mon-Thurs Noon to 9 pm Fri-Sat Noon to 10 pm | Closed Sunday

302 N. Sycamore St Old Towne Petersburg

11am - 8pm Mon - Wed | 11am - 1am Thur - Sat Closed Sunday

An escape room is an adventure game in which players are locked in a room and have to use elements of the room to solve a series of puzzles and escape. 104 North Sycamore St – Petersburg www.EscapeOldTowne.com

804-203-5434

From fresh brewed coffee to famous fried chicken

The region’s best convenience stores!

Oaklawn Boulevard – Hopewell Cousins Ave – Hopewell James River Drive – Hopewell www.breezinlc.com/pages/breez-in-conv

Tri-Cities award winning Vape Shop 116 W Bank Street

Old Towne Petersburg

414 N Sycamore Street – Old Towne Petersburg Open Everyday Noon to 7 PM

Classic Breakfast and Lunch Diner Dishes 113 Hopewell Street, Hopewell Virginia Thurs – Fri 5:30 am to 2 pm Sat 7 am to 2 pm • CLOSED Sun-Wed

Come in for some awesome Beaunuts, dogs and brews! 404 N Sycamore St | Old Towne Petersburg

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Obituaries

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Saturday, January 22, 2022

America Allen Hunter

David Michael Edwards

Horace Raymond Lipford, Jr.

America Allen Hunter, 90, of Hopewell, VA passed away on Wednesday, January 19, 2022. She was preceded in death by her parents, William Howard Johnson and Virginia Johnson; her loving husband of more than 48 years, Howard Clyde Hunter; brothers, Worth and Randell Johnson; sisters, Lovell St. John and Ruth Cobb. She is survived by her son, Donald C. Hunter and wife, Judy; son, Dale Hunter and wife, Kim; grandchildren, Damien Hunter, Adam Hunter and wife, Heather; Adrianne Seitz and husband, Tim; Ryan Hunter and wife, Lisa; Marshal Hunter and wife, Apollonia; Haley Tilstra and husband, Aaron; and sixteen great-grandchildren, as well as numerous extended family and friends. Nana loved children, God and her family. She was a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.

David Michael Edwards, 77 of Colonial Heights, passed away on Wednesday, January 19, 2022. He was born in Riverside, California to the late David Lee Edwards and Rena Mae Hedgepeth Edwards. He was also preceded in death by his wife Sarah Louise Edwards. Michael is survived by a sister and caregiver, Edith Dawson; a niece Betsy Lynn Harrison (Rex); two great-nephews, Christopher Carr and Alexander Carr; two great-great-nephews, Darrell Carr and Aaron Carr; a great-greatniece, Everly Carr; and special caregivers, Doris Eanes and Tabitha Holmes. Michael served in the United States Air Force, where he was a veteran of the Vietnam War. He belonged to the third order of the eagles and the American Legion Post 284. He worked for many years as a security guard at Honeywell. Michael also worked for many years at Little’s convenient stores.

Horace Raymond Lipford, Jr., 64, of Hopewell, VA passed away on Tuesday, January 18, 2022. He was preceded in death by his father, Horace R. Lipford, Sr.; his loving wife of over 48 years, Dorothy E. Lipford; and a grandson, David Ryan Lipford. He is survived by his daughter, Lisa Marie Sebera and husband, Philip; son, Christopher Raymond Lipford; son, Everette Raymond Lipford; grandchildren, Kayla D. Lipford, Halie Rae Lipford, Nathaniel E. Lipford, Kristina M. Sebera, Madalynn R. Sebera, Joseph A. Sebera, Kristen Lipford; great grandchildren, Ava Lipford and Isabella Lipford; his mother, Sheila Crocker; sister, Elaina Williams and husband, Ken; sister, Earlene Moore and husband, Win; brother, Earle Rines, Jr. and wife, Nichole; as well as numerous extended family and friends.

Carroll A. Briggs

Mrs. Ruth Virginia Reed

Mr. Earl Johnson

April 30, 1931 - January 19, 2022

October 3, 1956 - January 18, 2022 Mr. Carroll A. Briggs of Chester, departed this life on Tuesday, January 18, 2022 at Bon Secours Southside Regional Medical Center.

Mr. Phil J. Clayborne

June 29, 1925 - January 18, 2022 Mr. Phil J. Clayborne, of Hopewell, VA, passed away on Tuesday, January 18, 2022 at his residence.

1944 - January 19, 2022

July 21, 1936 - January 18, 2022

June 30, 1957 - January 18, 2022

December 3, 1971 - January 18, 2022

Mrs. Ruth V. Reed, 85, of Richmond, VA entered into eternal rest on January 18, 2022 at VCU/MCV Medical Center, Richmond, VA.

Mrs. Mary Lou Hill

June 6, 1935 - January 18, 2022 Mrs. Mary Lou Hill, 86, passed away Tuesday, January 18, 2022 at John Randolph Medical Center, Hopewell, Virginia.

Mr. Earl Johnson, passed away on Tuesday, January 18, 2022 in Hopewell, VA.

Titus L. Vines

January 6, 1957 - January 17, 2022 Mr. Titus L. Vines of Petersburg, departed this life on Monday, January 17, 2022 at his residence.

Obituaries

LNNUSA.com

Saturday, January 22, 2022

Damon Lee Friedline

Minnie Sizemore Sheppard

Homer Gray Garr, Sr.

Damon Lee Friedline, 66, of Chesterfield, VA passed away on Monday, January 17, 2022. Born in Richmond, VA, he was the son of the late Eugene Henry Friedline. Damon will be remembered by his family as a loving and devoted father and grandfather. He is survived by three sons, Anthony Laughlin, Brandon Friedline and wife, Stephanie and Colby Friedline; one granddaughter, Madison Friedline; his mother, Gene Friedline; three brothers, Dwaine Friedline and wife, Linda, Darrell Friedline and Derrick Friedline; one sister, Danielle Curtis and husband, Lee; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Minnie “Mickey” Sizemore Sheppard, 85, of Petersburg, passed away on Monday, January 17, 2022. Born in Fleming, KY, she was the daughter of the late A.D. Sizemore and Emma Stallard Sizemore. She was also preceded in death by her beloved husband of 61 years, Floyd Sheppard; and siblings, Charles Sizemore and Rita Riddle. Mickey graduated in 1987 from Richard Bland College with an AA in English literature. In her early years, Minnie was employed with Brown & Williamson Tobacco Co. She enjoyed being active in her children’s and grandchildren’s life, serving as a leader in their 4-H Club and always attending their sports and after school activities. She volunteered with the Literacy Guild Project Plus, teaching adults to read. She also volunteered her time at Southside Regional Medical Center. She was a member of the United Daughters of the Confederacy Chapter 851. She had a strong passion for reading and especially loved Shakespeare. Most of all, she loved her family and will be dearly missed.

Homer Gray Garr, Sr., 89, of Prince George VA, died January 16, 2022. Born September 11, 1932 in Culpeper, VA he was the son of the late John Henry and Mary May Garr. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and coach to many. After graduating high school, he served in the United States Army during the Korean War while concurrently playing in the All Europe Baseball League. He received a BA in Education from Fairmont State University in 1957, and a Master of Education from Middle Tennessee State in 1969. He was a career educator and mentor to many students and athletes. He coached basketball at both the high school and collegiate levels, most notably Manchester High School and Vanderbilt University. After his coaching career, he served as an administrator in several Chesterfield County Schools. He retired as an administrator from Matoaca High School in 1998. Coaching was his passion both professionally and in retirement. His influence on his players reached well beyond the court and playing field. He was a member of Sycamore United Methodist Church in Prince George, VA.

September 29, 1955 - January 17, 2022 July 2, 1936 - January 17, 2022

Sandra Gail Hall

January 6, 1961 - January 16, 2022 No obituary listed for Sandra Gail Hall.

September 11, 1932 - January 16, 2022

Barbara Jean Catlett

August 11, 1940 - January 16, 2022

Richard J. Giles

Barbara Jean March 29, 1950 - January 16, 2022 Catlett, 81, of Jun 7, 1940 - January 16, 2022 Hopewell, passed Mr. Richard J. away on Sunday, Roberto “Bobby” Giles of Colonial January 16, 2022. Causapin Dizon, Heights departed She was preceded 81, of Prince this life on Sunday, in death by her George, passed January 16, 2022, parents, Samuel away on Sunday, at Colonial Heights and Mary Hasty; January 16, 2022. her loving husband of over 59 years, James Healthcare Center, Born in La Union, R. Catlett, Sr.; son, James R. Catlett, Jr.; Colonial Heights. Philippines he was grandchildren, April Lamkin and Jerry the son of the late Shackelford; and her sister, Peggy Davis. Andres C. Dizon and Engracia Causapin She is survived by her daughter, Shirley Dizon. He was also preceded in death by his Shackelford and husband, Richard; daughsiblings, Natividad Quintos, Modesto Dizon, ter, Brenda Catlett; son, John Catlett and Avelino Dizon, Alfredo Dizon, Virginia Diwife, Joanne; son, Phillip Catlett and wife, zon, and Rosaria Camarador. Jennifer; grandchildren, Andy Shackelford Roberto Dizon was a proud U.S. Navy Veter- and wife, Samantha; Lori Henshaw and husan having served his country for 30 years, band, Otis; Jowanna Medina and husband, retiring as Master Chief. He was a devoted Eddie; Virginia and Hope Catlett; Aaron, husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He Bradley, and Kendall Catlett; and 13 great is loved and will be dearly missed by all who grandchildren. knew him.

Roberto Causapin Dizon

Obituaries

DaVon A. Hansard

August 12, 1984 - January 16, 2022 Our hearts were saddened by the sudden passing of our son, brother, uncle and friend, Mr. DaVon A. Hansard. He was born August 12, 1984 to Paula Hansard Jones and Darrell A. Hall. Mr. Hansard was raised in the Blandford Community (BSU), and loved by many. He attended Petersburg Public Schools and was employed at several companies in the Tri-Cities Area. He also was employed in food service as well as lawn service.

LNNUSA.com

Carol S. Jones-Hardy

February 14, 1944 - January 16, 2022

Irene Mason

January 16, 2022

Services will be held 3:00 P.M., Tuesday, January 25, 2022 at the Chapel of J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA. The interment will be private.

Services will be held 3:00 P.M., Wednesday, January 26, 2022 at the Chapel of J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA.

Arthur Everett Davis

January 1, 1929 - January 15, 2022

Arthur Everett Davis, 93, of Chester, passed away on Douglas C. “Bootney” Johnson, Sr. Saturday, JanuSeptember 10, 1945 - January 15, 2022 ary 15, 2022. He was preceded in Services will be death by his wife, held 3:00 P.M., Catherine Davis; Wednesday, Janand son, Eric uary 26, 2022 at Davis. Arthur was a 20 year veteran of the the Chapel of J. M. US Army, having served in both the infantry Wilkerson Funeral and airborne. He earned a combat infantry Establishment, badge during the Korean War. After retiring Inc., 102 South from the military, he was a sales associate with JC Penney in Petersburg for 20 years. Avenue, Petersburg, VA. Following retirement, he and his wife enjoyed their lives together, traveling the world. Arthur is survived by his two children, Shawn Davis and Annette Davis Cull; Alice Faye Stoneman along with his grandchildren, Chelsea and Feb 27, 1949 - January 15, 2022 Sydney Woods. Alice Faye Stoneman, 72, of Chester, passed away on January 15, 2022. She was there in Heaven to greet her nephew, Travis when he arrived later the same day. Alice was preceded in death by her parents, Orville and Minnie Perkins and her six siblings, Elmer, Lillian, Pearl, Junior, William, and Raymond. She was a very strong woman with a good sense of humor who loved and cared about others. Alice is survived by her two daughters, Angela Melnyk and Lana Stoneman-Washington (Bruce); grandchildren, Brianna, Jessica, Doug (Christy), Michael, and Alek; great-grandchildren, Ava, Mia, and Kaiden; sister, Christine; and a host of nieces and nephews.

Saturday, January 22, 2022

Robert Lawrence Fedon

Carol Jeanne Burnette

April 20, 1940 - January 15, 2022 Carol Jeanne Burnette, 81, of Chester, passed away on Saturday, January 15, 2022. She was preceded in death by her parents, Mathias and Irene Bott; her husband, Ed Burnette; sisters, Mary Jane Watson and Bernie Kelly; brothers, Jerry, Tom, and Dave Bott. She is survived by her son, Scott Miller and wife, Kriss; daughter, Linda Stancill and husband, Dail; grandchildren, Morgan Miller, Cassie Nosser, Mallory, Elliott, Tyler, and Keenan Stancill; brother, Richard Bott and wife, Lynn; as well numerous nieces and nephews. Carol was a Registered Nurse and retired from McGuire Veterans Hospital with 30 years of service. She was a devout Christian and member of Enon Baptist Church, Carol enjoyed fellowship while attending Kingsland Baptist Church as well.

August 6, 1936 - January 15, 2022 Robert L. Fedon was called by the Wayne Sadler Lord yesterday, July 8, 1943 - January 15, 2022 January 15, 2022. He was born in Mr. Wayne Sadler Easton, PA in departed this 1936. He received life on Saturday, a B.A. from RutJanuary 15, 2022, gers and a B.S. at Heritage Hall from VCU. He served as an officer in the Blackstone, BlackU.S. Navy for three years and attained the stone. rank of LTJG. He was employed as a cost analyzer for Firestone Fibers & Textiles Co. in Hopewell, VA for 33 years. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Haney S. Milhoan. He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth A. Fleming.

Obituaries

LNNUSA.com

Ms. Angelica Maria Davila April 28, 1983 - January 17, 2022

Angelica Maria Davila, 38, lived in Newport News VA. Angelica passed on January 17, 2022 at 3:40 am peacefully at Lake Tyler Transitional Hospital in Norfolk VA. Angelica was born in St. Thomas USVI on April 28th, 1983, to Yvonne Gonzalez and Juan Davila Jr. In 1993, with her mother and sister, moved to Bronx NY, and then in 1998 moved to Newport News VA.

She attended Enterprise Academy. Angelica lived her life with purpose, love, and joy. She was a loving daughter, sister, and most of all a loving mother to her children. She always looked to the best of everything and any situation. She was always a jokester, making everyone laugh about everything and anything. She was a fashionista who always stayed up with the latest fashion and even creating her own looks. Angelica loved to sing and had a voice of an angel. When you heard her sing is like hearing the angel from above. She was always a movie critic. She enjoyed staying home with her children and family, having moving nights, and enjoying the simple things in life. Angelica leaves behind her five children, Adrianna

Saturday, January 22, 2022

Cruz, Kiona Allen, Kalil Camron Davila, Justin Williams, Gabriela Cecilia Davila. Her mother Yvonne Gonzalez, her 4 sister’s Aida Davila, Alba Davila, Ada Cyril, Kristen Davila. Her 3 brothers are Angel Davila, Shawn Thompson, Eric Thompson. Her 5 nephews Anthony Cranston, Joshua Cranston, Mathew Cranston, Luke Cranston, Keondre LeBeauf.one great-nephew Mehccai Cranston. 4 nieces Anastasia Davila, Octavia LeBeauf, Lizzinna Cranston, Ariel Pittman, one great-niece Kiyomi Lebeauf. Aunts, Uncles, cousins many to name.

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National

LNNUSA.com

Saturday, January 22, 2022

N ATI O N A L N EWS courtesy of TH E E PO CH TI M E S

Unbuilt Border Wall Worth Millions Could Now Be Sold for ‘A Penny on the Dollar’ as Scrap Metal CHARLOTTE CUTHBERTSON/THE EPOCH TIMES

CHARLOTTE CUTHBERTSON

COCHISE COUNTY, Ariz.— Millions of dollars of unfinished border wall materials have lain in the deserts of Arizona since January 2021, after President Joe Biden halted all construction on the wall on the day he took office. “It shall be the policy of my administration that no more American taxpayer dollars be diverted to construct a border wall,” Biden’s Jan. 20, 2021, executive order reads. “I am also directing a careful review of all resources appropriated or redirected to construct a southern border wall.” Construction companies downed tools and left job sites the next day, and stacks of materials have languished since. Now, they’re looking to sell it all for scrap, according to the Cochise County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO). “They’re probably going to get a penny on the dollar for it,” CCSO Sgt. Tim Williams said. The steel bollards on fence panels are filled with concrete. Concrete culverts are sitting abandoned, filling with mud, instead of being used for the floodprone portions of the roadway next to the fence. But the unfinished lighting, ground sensors, and cameras are one of the biggest issues, according to Williams. “Without the fiber optics and the lighting system, they’ll just climb the fence and get over. It was supposed to be a four-tier approach,” he said. Border Patrol agents could be nearby, but without the cameras and sensors, they won’t know that a breach is occurring. Under the cover of night, people on the Mexican side of the fence take to cutting a footer out, just wide enough for people to squeeze through. Each day, agents patch the holes and replace the concrete. But with lighting and sensors it wouldn’t happen, according to Williams. “The big problem is that the fiber optics are in the ground already, and if they don’t turn it on in the next two months, the fiber optics will go dormant and we won’t get them back,”

Border wall panels sit untouched in Cochise County, Ariz., on Dec. 6, 2021, after President Joe Biden halted all border wall construction in January 2021. CHARLOTTE CUTHBERTSON/THE EPOCH TIMES

Trump allocated roughly $16.4 billion to border wall construction and maintenance, with $10 billion coming from the Pentagon.

‘It’s Embarrassing’

Detective Jake Kartchner stands at the U.S.–Mexico border fence in Cochise County, Ariz., on Dec. 6, 2021. he said. “So all those billions of dollars of fiber optics in the ground because there was only 24 months shelf life they can be dormant and we’re at 22 months right now—we’re talking about losing billions of dollars because they didn’t turn the system on.” A Customs and Border Protection official told The Epoch Times that he expects it to “take a while” to resolve what will happen with the unused border materials. On Dec. 4, 2021, the agency put out a request for comment “on proposed border barrier construction remediation actions,” which expires on Feb. 3. A report by Senate Republicans issued in July 2021 states that the

construction stoppage is costing taxpayers $3 million per day. The senators who produced the report estimated that the administration has spent between $618 million and $708 million to contractors between Jan. 20, 2021, and July 15, 2021, and will ultimately spend up to $1.2 billion more to exit the border wall projects. Former President Donald Trump’s administration prioritized border wall construction, building 453 miles of fencing along the U.S.–Mexico border. Approximately 211 miles of fencing were under construction as of Jan. 8, 2021, just before Biden took office.

Most of the 83-mile border that Cochise County shares with Mexico has some type of fencing, but the sections that were left unbuilt are vehicle barriers or barbed wire fencing, which is easy to cross. “It’s embarrassing,” CCSO Detective Jake Kartchner said, referring to the waist-high barrier on Coronado Peak that was meant to be 30-foot tall steel fencing with all the accouterments of roading, lighting, cameras, and sensors. The illegal aliens coming into Cochise County aren’t turning themselves in to Border Patrol and seeking asylum. They’re young, single males dressed head-to-toe in camouflage clothing and doing everything possible to avoid law enforcement. They’re mostly from Mexico or one of the Central American countries of Guatemala, Honduras, or El Salvador, according to Cochise County Sheriff Mark Dannels. “The federal government isn’t doing anything. So we’re watch-

ERIC BARADAT/AFP VIA GETTY IMAGES

ing people commit crimes in our communities every day,” Dannels said. “Two weeks ago, on just one night, there were 50 of these people running around the neighborhoods. I mean, we’re out there all night chasing them. That’s all you can do. Next morning, they’re still out there chasing them. It’s a bad deal. They’re all camouflaged up.” Between Border Patrol and the sheriff’s office, about 16,000 illegal aliens are detected in the county each month right now, a huge upswing that started in early 2021. Once across the border, illegal aliens coordinate with the cartel to be picked up by a smuggler and transported to Phoenix, according to Dannels. “It’s like the cartel Uber. And there’s no other way to put it. They just stage in public places all along the roadways waiting to get called up to go pick them up. It’s crazy,” he said. Dannels said 80 to 90 percent of the drivers are armed, “which is totally new to us.” Border Patrol agents apprehended 353,000 illegal aliens coming into the state of Arizona in the first 11 months of 2021—a jump of 350 percent over the same period in 2020.

Legal Action

Arizona Attorney General Mark Brnovich filed an injunction in July 2021 in an attempt to void Biden’s halt to border wall construction. In April 2021, Brnovich filed a lawsuit against Department of Homeland Security (DHS) officials, alleging that the halt of border wall construction violated the National Environmental Policy Act, which requires federal agencies such as DHS to weigh environmental considerations before taking any significant federal action. The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality “estimates that each border-crosser leaves an average of six to eight pounds of trash behind,” according to the complaint. Zachary Stieber and Harry Lee contributed to this article.

footer out, just wide enough for people to squeeze through. Each day, agents patch the holes and replace the concrete. 36 But with lighting and sensors it wouldn’t happen, according to Williams. “The big problem is that the fiber optics are in the ground already, and if they don’t turn it on in the next two months, the fiber optics will go dormant and we won’t get them back,”

they didn’t turn the system on.” A Customs and Border Protection official told The Epoch Times that he expects it to “take a while” to resolve what will happen with the unused border materials. On Dec. 4, 2021, the agency put out a request for comment “on proposed border barrier construction remediation actions,” which expires on Feb. 3. A report by Senate Republicans issued in July 2021 N states ATIthat O Nthe AL

2021, and July 15, 2021, and will and seeking asylum. They’re ultimately spend up to $1.2 bil- young, single males dressed lion more to exit the border wall head-to-toe in camouflage clothprojects. ing and doing everything posFormer President Donald sible to avoid law enforcement. Trump’s administration prioriThey’re mostly from Mexico LNNUSA.com tized border wall construction, or one of the Central American building 453 miles of fencing countries of Guatemala, Honalong the U.S.–Mexico border. duras, or El Salvador, according Approximately 211 miles of fenc- to Cochise County Sheriff Mark ing were under construction as Dannels. of Jan. 8, 2021, just before Biden “The federal government isn’t doing office. Ntook EWS courtesy of TH E E PO CH anything. TI M E S So we’re watch-

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al agencies such as DHS to weigh environmental considerations before taking any significant federal action. The Arizona Department of Saturday, January 22, 2022 Environmental Quality “estimates that each border-crosser leaves an average of six to eight pounds of trash behind,” according to the complaint. Zachary Stieber and Harry Lee contributed to this article.

Unbuilt Border Wall Worth Millions Could Now Be Federal Government Soldonfor ‘A Penny on the Dollar’ as Scrap Metal Mum Non-COVID ERIC BARADAT/AFP VIA GETTY IMAGES

Mortality Spike in Americans Aged 18 to 49 CHARLOTTE CUTHBERTSON

CHARLOTTE CUTHBERTSON/THE EPOCH TIMES

COCHISE COUNTY, Ariz.— Millions of dollars of unfinished border wall materials have lain in the deserts of Arizona since PETR SVAB 2021, after President Joe The Epoch Times repeatedly January Biden halted all construction on inquired with both the White Federal authorities have the wall on the day he tookyet office. House and the CDC about any The Emergency Operations Center at the Centers for Disease “It shall be Epoch the policy of my steps they’re taking to examto respond to an Times Control and Prevention in Atlanta on March 19, 2021. administration no more ine the issue. They have yet to analysis that shows athat dramatic American taxpayer increase in deaths of dollars 18- to be respond. diverted toin construct a border Meanwhile, public health au49-year-olds the United “When the 2021 data is final- thetic opioids such as fentanyl wall,” Biden’s Jan. 20, States in the past year. The2021, ma- ex- thorities in several states that ized in the fall of 2022, we will that are often smuggled to the ecutive order reads.weren’t “I am also recorded particularly sharp jority of those deaths have a better understanding of United States from China via directing a careful review of all increases have told The Epoch associated with the COVID-19 the data and a more detailed Mexico. resources appropriated or rediTimes that they’re looking into analysis,” Sarah Tanksley, The mortality surge apdisease. rected to construct a southern peared to be milder in the the matter. Deaths in this age group rose communications director for border wall.” more than 40 percent in the 12 The highest increases oc- the Tennessee Department of northeast. New Hampshire saw Construction companies months ending 2021 Health, said via email. no increase, Massachusetts had downed toolsOctober and left job sites curred in Nevada (up 65 percompared theand same period “However, we do know that a 13 percent spike (24 percent the nexttoday, stacks of mate- cent, of which 36 percent was in 2018–2019, before the COfatal drug overdoses continue of it attributed to COVID-19), rials have languished since. Now, attributed to COVID), Texas VID-19 pandemic, to for (up 61 percent, 58 percent at- to increase. For example, fatal and New York was up 29 perthey’re lookingaccording to sell it all the analysis of deathto certificate COVID-19), Arizooverdoses in 2020 were around cent6,(30 percent attributed scrap, according the Cochise tributed Bordertowall panels sit untouched in Cochise County, Ariz., on Dec. 2021, after Presidentto halted37 allpercent border wall construction in January 2021. COVID-19). Countythe Sheriff’s Office data from Centers for(CCSO). Dis- na Joe (up Biden 57 percent, 3,000 compared to approxi“They’reand probably going to COVID-19), Tennessee (up 57 The CDC’s detailed cause of ease Control Prevention mately 2,000 in 2019. EPOCH We also CHARLOTTE CUTHBERTSON/THE TIMES get a penny on the dollar for it,” percent, 33 percent COVID-19), Trump roughly know that the suicide rate has death (CDC). data allocated isn’t yet available for CCSO Timof Williams said. and California (up 55 percent, $16.4 aside billion to border wall About 42 Sgt. percent the excess 2021, from those involvremained relatively stable.” bollards on fence 42 percent COVID-19). construction and maintenance, Drug overdoses could likely ing deathsThe hadsteel COVID-19 marked COVID-19, pneumonia, and panels arecertificate filled with as concrete. with $10 billion fromto on the death the Texas, Florida, and Nevada explain at least a part of the influenza. Therecoming were close Concrete culverts are sitting the Pentagon. cause or a contributing factor, indicated that they’re taking surge, as they increased to 6,000 excess pneumonia deaths abandoned, filling with mud, inthe data showed. The agency some steps to evaluate the is- more than 101,000 in the 12 that didn’t involve COVID-19 stead of being used for the flood‘It’s Embarrassing’ doesn’t yetportions have full 2021roadway fig- sue. months ending June 2021 from in theof18-to-49 age group prone of the Most the 83-mile border thatin ures,next as death certificate data 12 months ending October Officials in Arizona and Ten- about 72,000 in 2019, the CDC the to the fence. Cochise County shares with has a But lag of to eight weeks estimated. About two-thirds 2021. intheupunfinished lighting, nessee said they don’t yet have MexicoInfluenza has some was type only of fencor more. of those deaths involved syn- volved 50sections deaths in this age ing, butinthe that were ground sensors, and cameras their data finalized. are one of the biggest issues, acleft unbuilt are vehicle barriers or barbed wire fencing, which is cording to Williams. easy to cross. “Without the fiber optics and the lighting system, they’ll just “It’s embarrassing,” CCSO Detective Jake Kartchner stands at the U.S.–Mexico border climb the fence and get over. It Detective Jake Kartchner said, was supposed to be a four-tier fence in Cochise County, Ariz., on Dec. 6, 2021. referring to the waist-high barapproach,” he said. rier on Coronado Peak that was Border Patrol agents could be he said. “So all those billions construction stoppage is costing meant to be 30-foot tall steel nearby, but without the cam- of dollars of fiber optics in the taxpayers $3 million per day. fencing with all the accoutereras and sensors, they won’t ground because there was only The senators who produced ments of roading, lighting, camknow that a breach is occur- 24 months shelf life they can be the report estimated that the ad- eras, and sensors. ring. Under the cover of night, dormant and we’re at 22 months ministration has spent between The illegal aliens coming into people on the Mexican side right now—we’re talking about $618 million and $708 million Cochise County aren’t turning of the fence take to cutting a losing billions of dollars because to contractors between Jan. 20, themselves in to Border Patrol footer out, just wide enough they didn’t turn the system on.” 2021, and July 15, 2021, and will and seeking asylum. They’re for people to squeeze through. A Customs and Border Pro- ultimately spend up to $1.2 bil- young, single males dressed Each day, agents patch the holes tection official told The Epoch lion more to exit the border wall head-to-toe in camouflage clothand replace the concrete. Times that he expects it to “take projects. ing and doing everything posBut with lighting and sensors a while” to resolve what will Former President Donald sible to avoid law enforcement. it wouldn’t happen, according to happen with the unused border Trump’s administration prioriThey’re mostly from Mexico Williams. materials. On Dec. 4, 2021, the tized border wall construction, or one of the Central American “The big problem is that the agency put out a request for com- building 453 miles of fencing countries of Guatemala, Honfiber optics are in the ground ment “on proposed border bar- along the U.S.–Mexico border. duras, or El Salvador, according already, and if they don’t turn rier construction remediation Approximately 211 miles of fenc- to Cochise County Sheriff Mark it on in the next two months, actions,” which expires on Feb. 3. ing were under construction as Dannels. the fiber optics will go dormant A report by Senate Republicans of Jan. 8, 2021, just before Biden “The federal government isn’t and we won’t get them back,” issued in July 2021 states that the took office. doing anything. So we’re watch-

group, down from 550 in the same period pre-pandemic. The flu death count didn’t exclude those that also involved COVID-19 or pneumonia, the CDC noted. For those aged 50 to 84, moring people commit crimes in tality increased more than 27 our communities every day,” percent, with about 77 percent Dannels said. “Two weeks ago, ofjust theone deaths involving COon night, there were VID-19. 50 of these people running For those 85 or older, mortalaround the neighborhoods. I ity increased mean, we’re outabout there12 allpercent, night with more thanThat’s 100,000 chasing them. all excess you deaths. There were more than can do. Next morning, they’re still out there chasing them. 130,000 COVID-related deaths It’s badgroup, deal. They’re all camin athis indicating these ouflaged seniors up.” were less likely to die Between Border Patrol and of a non-COVID-related cause the sheriff’s office, about from November 2020 16,000 to Octoillegal aliens are detected in the ber 2021 than during the same county month right now, periodeach of 2018–2019. a huge upswing that started in Comparing 2020 to 2019, early 2021. mortality Once acrossincreased the border,some illegal24 percent for those 18 to aliens coordinate withaged the car49, with lessupthan a third of tel to be picked by a smuggler those excess deaths involving and transported to Phoenix, acCOVID-19. In the 50-to-84 cording to Dannels. age increased “It’sgroup, like themortality cartel Uber. And less than 20 percent, there’s no other way towith put over it. They just stageofinthat publicinvolving places 70 percent all along the roadways COVID-19. In those waiting older yet, tomortality get called up to go pickabout them 16 increased up. It’s crazy,” said.90 percent percent, withhe nearly Dannels said 80 to 90 perof it involving COVID-19. cent of those the drivers For underare 18,armed, mortal“which is totally new to us.” ity decreased about 0.4 percent Border Patrol agents apprein 2020 compared to 2019. In hended 353,000 illegal aliens the 12 months October coming into theending state of Ari2021,initthe fellfirst some 3.3 percent zona 11 months of compared to of the350 same period 2021—a jump percent in 2018–2019. over the same period in 2020.

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Click the Subscribe button at the top of the page Zachary Stieber and Harry Lee contributed to this article.

National

Saturday, January 22, 2022

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NATIONAL NEWS courtesy of THE E POCH TIME S

Pentagon Misses Deadline to Produce Report on Billions in Weapons Left Behind in Afghanistan DREW ANGERER/GETTY IMAGES

KEN SILVA

The Department of Defense (DOD) has missed a deadline to produce a report on the estimated $85 billion in U.S. weaponry left in Afghanistan, prompting a letter from 27 House Republicans demanding answers. Congress approved legislation in September that required DOD officials to report on the property, equipment, and supplies that were destroyed, taken out of Afghanistan, or that remain in Afghanistan in connection with the August U.S. military withdrawal from the country. The DOD had 90 days to submit that report to Congress. After the Dec. 29, 2021, deadline came and went with no word from the Pentagon, Rep. Andy Barr (R-Ky.) and 26 other Republicans demanded answers from Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin. “The DOD is over [two weeks] late on its reporting deadline, totally disregarding Congressional accounting of taxpayer funded equipment abandoned by this Administration and left in possession of the Taliban,” the Jan. 14 letter reads. “This lack of information prevents Congress from being able to accurately and effectively conduct oversight over the tens of billions of dollars of equipment invested in Afghanistan over the past 20 years and creates vulnerabilities in our national security.” The lawmakers cited concerns from Gen. Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, who told Congress on Sept. 29, 2021, that the conditions in Afghanistan could yield the reemergence of alQaeda or ISIS in the region in 36 months or less. The lawmakers said it’s of the “gravest concern” that they don’t have a full account of the weapons

A general view of Taliban military parade in Kabul, Afghanistan, on Nov, 14, 2021. CHIP SOMODEVILLA/GETTY IMAGES

House Financial Services Committee member Rep. Andy Barr (R-KY) in the Rayburn House Office Building on Capitol Hill in Washington on July 20, 2021. available in a potential hotbed for terrorism. According to a Jan. 13 report from Radio Liberty affiliate Radio Mashaal in Pakistan, at least some of the arms are winding up in the hands of the Pakistani Taliban, Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan (TTP). Citing an unnamed source with knowledge of TTP affairs, Radio Mashaal said Pakistani Taliban fighters

have obtained U.S.-made M16 machine guns and M4 assault rifles fitted with night vision. According to the report, the influx of arms has coincided with an increase in attacks by the TTP on Pakistani government forces. “Observers say the weapons are likely from the stockpiles amassed by the Afghan Taliban, which seized millions

of dollars in American-made weapons and equipment from Afghan security forces,” the report stated. Along with posing a risk to U.S. national security and regional stability in Central Asia, the abandoned U.S. military equipment in Afghanistan may also threaten the safety of America’s Afghan allies. That’s because the equipment left behind included U.S. surveillance tools that observers say could be used to track down those who worked with the United States during its 20-year occupation of the country. New York-based group Human Rights First announced on Aug. 16 that Taliban fighters had captured devices known as Handheld Interagency Identity Detection Equipment, which were used by soldiers to scan the biometrics of Afghans to match fingerprints on improvised explosive devices, as well as for other such forensic investigations. “We understand that the Tal-

iban is now likely to have access to various biometric databases and equipment in Afghanistan, including some left behind by coalition military forces,” the human rights group said in a statement. “This technology is likely to include access to a database with fingerprints and iris scans, and include facial recognition technology.” Former U.S. Army prosecutor John Maher told The Epoch Times in August that the Taliban probably doesn’t have the technical skills to utilize those devices, but said they could be aided by more sophisticated governments, such as China or Iran. The 2022 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), signed into law in December 2021, also calls for Pentagon audits on the equipment and weapons left in Afghanistan, including abandoned or destroyed biometric equipment or tools. The NDAA also calls for an assessment of whether the Taliban breached the DOD’s Automatic Biometric Identification System (ABIS)—the central database that stores the biometrics that soldiers capture in the field— as well as an explanation of the current efforts to ensure the security of all of DOD biometric databases. The DOD has until March to complete these reports, but the Republican lawmakers said in their letter that they shouldn’t have to wait until then. “That is why Congress required your Department to comply by December 29, 2021,” they wrote to Austin. “We urge that you work with your Service Secretaries and General [Frank] McKenzie to produce the required information for Congress immediately.” The Pentagon didn’t respond to email queries about the matter by press time.

Noncitizen Voting Push Is Part of Agenda to Rid America of Citizenship: Election Expert

The lawmakers cited concerns from Gen. Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, who told Congress on 38 Sept. 29, 2021, that the conditions in Afghanistan could yield the reemergence of alQaeda or ISIS in the region in 36 months or less. The lawmakers said it’s of the “gravest concern” that they don’t have a full account of the weapons

available in a potential hotbed have obtained U.S.-made M16 man Rights First announced on for terrorism. machine guns and M4 assault Aug. 16 that Taliban fighters According to a Jan. 13 report rifles fitted with night vision. had captured devices known as from Radio Liberty affiliate RaAccording to the report, the Handheld Interagency Identity dio Mashaal in Pakistan, at least influx of arms has coincided Detection Equipment, which some of the arms are winding withLNNUSA.com an increase in attacks by were used by soldiers to scan up in the hands of the Paki- the TTP on Pakistani govern- the biometrics of Afghans to stani Taliban, Tehrik-e Taliban ment forces. match fingerprints on impro“Observers say the weapons vised explosive devices, as well Pakistan (TTP). Citing an unnamed source with knowledge are likely from the stockpiles as for other such forensic invesof TTP affairs, NATIONAL Radio Mashaal NEWS amassed by the Afghan Tali-E POCH tigations. courtesy of THE TIME S said Pakistani Taliban fighters ban, which seized millions “We understand that the Tal-

National

“That is why Congress required your Department to comply by December 29, 2021,” they wrote to Austin. “We urge Saturday, January that you work with your 22, Ser-2022 vice Secretaries and General [Frank] McKenzie to produce the required information for Congress immediately.” The Pentagon didn’t respond to email queries about the matter by press time.

Pentagon Misses Deadline to Produce Report on Billions Noncitizen Voting Push Is Part of Agendainto Afghanistan Rid America of Citizenship: Election Expert in Weapons Left Behind KEN SILVA CUTHBERTSON CHARLOTTE

The recent Department of Defense The New York City law (DOD) has missed a deadline to allow at least 800,000 nonto produce a report on the citizens to $85 votebillion in municipal estimated in U.S. elections unconstitutional weaponry is left in Afghanistan, and likely toa letter be overturned prompting from 27 House Republicans in court, said Hans demandvon Spaing answers. kovsky, manager of the HeriCongress approved legislatage Foundation’s election law tion in September that required reform initiative and former DOD officials to report on the member the Federaland Election property,ofequipment, supCommission. plies that were destroyed, taken “It’s prettyorclear out of actually Afghanistan, thatthat remain in Afghanistan in State conit violates the New York nection with the has August U.S. Constitution—it a provimilitary withdrawal from the sion that specifically says that country. you have to be a citizen to vote The DOD had 90 days to subin elections the stateAfof mitall that report toinCongress. New York, and that includes loter the Dec. 29, 2021, deadline cal elections,” told came and wentSpakovsky with no word fromEpoch the Pentagon, The Times onRep. Jan.Andy 19. Barr (R-Ky.) other Re-a “I also thinkand it is26bad from publicans answers policy pointdemanded of view, because it from Secretary of Defense basically cheapens and diminLloyd Austin. ishes theDOD concept of [two citizenship. “The is over weeks] “Iton ought to be something late its reporting deadline,that tomakes American Congressional citizens mad, tally disregarding accounting of taxpayer funded particularly because of the poequipment abandoned this tential number of aliensbythat’s Administration and left in posinvolved.” session of the Taliban,” the Jan. New York City Mayor Eric 14 letter reads. “This lack of inAdams allowed the measure to formation prevents Congress become law on Jan. 9, which infrom being able to accurately cludes the provision that voting and effectively conduct oversight over themust tensbe of in billions of noncitizens the city dollars of equipment invested for 30 days or more and have in Afghanistan over the past 20 years and creates vulnerabilities in our national security.” The lawmakers cited concerns from Gen. Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, who told Congress on Sept. 29, 2021, that the conditions in Afghanistan could yield the reemergence of alQaeda or ISIS in the region in 36 months or less. The lawmakers said it’s of the “gravest concern” that they don’t have a full account of the weapons

DREW ANGERER/GETTY SERGIO FLORES/GETTY IMAGES

authorization to work. “I believe that New Yorkers should have a say in their government, which is why I have and will continue to support this important legislation,” Adams said in a statement. “I believe allowing the legislation to be enacted is by far the best choice, and look forward to bringing millions more into the democratic process.” The following day, the Republican National Committee filed a suit in the New York Supreme Court along with City Council Minority Leader Joseph Bor- Poll workers help voters inside a polling location in Austin, relli, Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (R- Texas, Oct. 13, 2020. N.Y.), and other Republicans. The law applies to legal aliens, but Spakovsky said New York the progressive left to change pay taxes and live and work in A general view ofpolicies Talibanthat military in Kabul, Afghanistan, on city. Nov, 14, 2021. City’s sanctuary theparade concept or definition of the shield illegal aliens would open “citizen.” “They want to be citizens, CHIP SOMODEVILLA/GETTY IMAGES dollars in be American-made the floodgates. “The whole point of the open of they want to able to vote for weapons and equipment from the president, but at least we “Does anybody really believe borders crowd is to do two Afghan security forces,” the that the election department is things: one, extinguish the line report have the opportunity to allow stated. going to investigate the lawful between legal and illegal aliens them to vote the elected Along withforposing a riskoffito status of any alien who registers in this country. And second, to U.S. cials that are representing them national security and restability Central Asia, to vote?” he said. frankly, get rid of the whole gional in the city,” saidinChin. abandoned U.S. military “And so that means, of course, concept of citizenship,” he said. the However, Spakovsky said payin make Afghanistan that lots and lots of illegal aliens New York City Councilwom- equipment ing tax doesn’t someone may also threaten the safety of will also get registered to vote.” an Margaret Chin, a Democrat, America’s a citizen. Afghan allies. That’s Although he doesn’t think any told colleagues before the re- because “My response to thatleft is that the equipment bestates will try to change their cent vote that many noncitizens hind first of all, the vast majority of included U.S. surveillance illegalthat aliens do not pay election laws to include voting struggle to become citizens but tools observers say taxes. could usedthey to track down rights noncitizens, Spakshould member still be able toAndy vote in be In fact, get free ridesthose from Housefor Financial Services Committee Rep. who worked with the ovsky(R-KY) said there’s push fromHouse theOffice meanwhile because they many jurisdictions,” heUnited said. Barr in thea Rayburn Building on Capitol Hill in Washington on July 20, 2021.

“I PASS ON YOUR ARTICLES TO ENLIGHTEN SOME OF THE UNENLIGHTENED.” —Phlip Lewis available in a potential hotbed for terrorism. According to a Jan. 13 report from Radio Liberty affiliate Radio Mashaal in Pakistan, at least some of the arms are winding up in the hands of the Pakistani Taliban, Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan (TTP). Citing an unnamed source with knowledge of TTP affairs, Radio Mashaal said Pakistani Taliban fighters

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States during its 20-year occupation of the country. New York-based group Human Rights First announced on Aug. 16 that Taliban fighters had captured devices known as Handheld Interagency Identity Detection Equipment, which were used by soldiers to scan the biometrics of Afghans to match fingerprints on improvised explosive devices, as well as for other such forensic investigations. “We understand that the Tal-

iban is now likelypushed to have access “This is being by the to various biometric progressive left todaydatabases because and theyequipment believe thatin Afghanistan, aliens will vote including some left behind by for them … and keep them in coalition military forces,” the power.” rights group said in a human Spakovsky saidtechnology the inability statement. “This is for thetoTrump likely includeadministration access to a database with fingerprints to get a question placed onand the iris andabout include facial 2020scans, Census citizenrecognition ship status technology.” was a major win Former U.S. Army prosecufor the progressive left to blur tor John Maher told The Epthe lines between citizen och Times in August that and the noncitizen. Taliban probably doesn’t have “One of theskills maintoreasons the technical utilize those devices,that butdone said isthey they wanted for could be aided bypurposes, more sophisapportionment they ticated such as did notgovernments, want congressional China or Iran. seats apportioned based on The 2022 National Defense citizen population—if they did, Authorization Act (NDAA), places like California would signed into law in December lose congressional he 2021, also calls for seats,” Pentagon audits said. on the equipment and weapons in Afghanistan, “That’sleftwhy California including abandoned deprobably has four or fiveormore stroyed biometric equipment congressional seats than they or tools. The NDAA also calls should have, because of the for an assessment of whethhuge of illegal er the population Taliban breached the aliens inAutomatic the state.” BiometDOD’s ricTheIdentification System Biden administration (ABIS)—the supports the central creationdatabase of a citithat stores the biometrics that zenship pathway for millions soldiers capture in the field— of illegal immigrants in the as well as an explanation of the United States. A decade-old current efforts to ensure the estimate puts the number of security of all of DOD biometillegal aliens at 11 million, and ric databases. Thethen, DODmillions has untilmore March to since have complete these reports, but the crossed the southern border. Republican lawmakers said in their letter that they shouldn’t have to wait until then. “That is why Congress required your Department to comply by December 29, 2021,” they wrote to Austin. “We urge that you work with your Service Secretaries and General [Frank] McKenzie to produce theTRUTH required information for and TRADITION Congress immediately.” The Pentagon didn’t respond to email queries about the matter by press time.

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