LNN Tri-City News - March 12th, 2022

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Saturday, March 12, 2022

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HOPEWELL HOLDS PUBLIC HEARING on

MARINA PLAN

COUNCIL INVOKES CONDEMNATION FOR BOULEVARD PROJECT page

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COUNCIL APPROVES $3.6 MILLION FOR STORMWATER IMPROVEMENTS page

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RETURN OF THE OLD DOMINION BARN DANCE page

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CAVE SPRING UPENDS PETERSBURG page

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HOPEWELL HOLDS PUBLIC HEARING ON MARINA PLAN HOPEWELL STAFF REPORT LNNUSA.com

HOPEWELL- On Monday, March 7th, citizens packed the Hopewell City council chambers to voice their support or opposition to the city’s planned repurposing of the marina.

Supporters of the plan cited multiple reasons they thought the repurposing was a good move for the city, including making the area more accessible to non-boat owners, creating another draw for the city, and bringing in more people from the region to visit.

The majority of the hearing attendees were boat-owners who expressed dissatisfaction with the current management, conditions, and business model of the marina. They said that the city could be making dramatically more money from

the marina than it is currently making if those three conditions were improved.

Attendees also questioned why the plan was being pushed through so quickly.

Hopewell’s Recreation and

parks director Aaron Reidmiller reassured concerned citizens that the proposed plan was not necessarily the path that the city would take with the marina. Reidmiller presented the matter

to Hopewell city council the following evening, Tuesday, March 8th. LNN will provide detailed coverage of the developing story in next week’s issue.

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Council Invokes Condemnation for Boulevard Project Colonial Heights to Acquire Private Property on a 6-1 Vote

COLONIAL HEIGHTS

BY CRAIG RICHARDS LNNUSA.com

COLONIAL HEIGHTS – In order to advance plans for modernization of a Boulevard intersection, the city council passed Resolution number 22-7 on Tuesday,

March 8th during its regular public meeting. The resolution gives the city legal authority to acquire, by condemnation if necessary, property deemed necessary to advance the project at the intersection of Westover and Boulevard.

However, the resolution

was to claim just six to seven feet of the properties in question. Still, at least one property owner and one councilor disagree with the resolution. During the council meeting, Todd Flippen, Director of Public Works, informed council that one property owner

was unwilling to negotiate with the city.

In addition, Councilor John E. Piotrowski was the only opposing vote. In an interview after the meeting, he stated that the move severely impedes parking associated with the properCONTINUED ON PAGE 4

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CH COUNCIL FROM PAGE 3 ties, including the elimination of street parking. “It’s not fair to these folks that we’re taking yards and not giving them more places to park. They say they’re going to give a little bit more in a driveway – that’s hard for me to believe with the size of the lots,” Councilor Petroski said.

Generally, acquisition of property by the condemning authority encompasses the entire parcel of land that belongs to the property owner – providing the city pays market value of the parcel under its highest and best use. But this resolution is for what is referred to as “partial taking”.

According to the Biersdorf & Associates website, a law firm specializing in eminent domain, the government can invoke partial taking in cases such as this. The amount of compensation for a partial taking is expected to have two components. One is the direct damages, which is the value of the land and improvements that are actually acquired. The other component is indirect damages, or severance damages, which represent the loss in value to the property retained by the owner, which is caused by the taking.

Flippen reported that originally the project affected eight properties. The city was able to settle with the owners of five of them.

One of the remaining three disputed parcels named in the resolution is currently

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Saturday, March 12, 2022

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expected to be settled, but city staff was unable to get the agreement signed prior to the meeting and therefore needed to include that parcel in the resolution.

The city has deemed it necessary to install a dedicated right turn lane at the intersection of Westover and Boulevard. Flippen said that the direction given on this project and any project the city works with is to minimize the effect on private property. “We want to try to do everything we can to where we do not need to acquire property if it’s not needed,” Flippen said.

The entire intersection project is slated to cost roughly $1,000,000, with construction costs accounting for 70% of the total project. Flippen also reported that the entire project is funded by federal dollars.

With the turn lanes needing to be 10-12 feet wide, the plan is to take 6 feet of the properties in question, maximizing the use of the city’s right of way and minimizing the effects on personal property. Flippen added that while the resolution was necessary to keep the project moving forward, it does not necessarily mean the city will end up in court as they continue to attempt to negotiate with the remaining property owners.

Regardless of the opposition of Councilor Piotrowski and the lone property owner, the 6-1 vote by council secures the city’s legal authority to move the project forward.

PUBLIC NOTICE The Disciplinary Committee of the Board of the Petersburg City Public Schools will hold a special meeting on March 15, 2022, at 5:30 p.m., in the school division’s administration building at 255 South Boulevard East to convene a closed session pursuant to Section 2.2-3711 (A) (2) of the Code of Virginia to address student disciplinary matters.

The Board of the Petersburg City Public Schools will hold a Regular School Board Meeting on Wednesday, March 16, at 6:00 p.m., in the Petersburg High School cafeteria, 3101 Johnson Road, Petersburg, VA. A closed session will be convened at 4:30 p.m., pursuant to Section 2.2-3711 (A) (1) of the Code of Virginia related to personnel matters.

Anyone wishing to speak at the Regular Board Meeting may complete an online public comment form available on the School Board page of the Petersburg City Public Schools website at www.petersburg.k12.va.us or contact the school board clerk at (804) 5186459 or email her at jeberrios@petersburg.k12.va.us, by 4:00 p.m. the day of the meeting, and your name will be placed on the list to speak during the public comment period.

A ZOOM webinar link to the Regular School Board Meeting will be made available on the Petersburg City Public Schools website at www.petersburg.k12.va.us.

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Saturday, March 12, 2022

Council Approves $3.6 Million for Stormwater Improvements HOPEWELL

BY CHAI GALLAHUN LNNUSA.com

HOPEWELL—City council recently approved a transfer of funds in the amount of $3.6 million to support several stormwater projects.

Vice-Mayor Johnny Partin explained that these projects include: Cattail Creek Channel Improvement at Norfolk Southern Railroad; Cattail Creek Channel Reach 4 Bank Stabilization; and improvement projects at Hill Ave and Hooker Streets, and Wagner Ave and Hooker Streets.

Partin further explained that more Category 2 Stormwater Improvement Projects across the city as a whole include improvements in other key areas: Hanks Pond/ Dam at Peterson Mill Rd; Mansion Drive Drainage;

E. Randolph Rd Drainage; Burnside St and Riverview Ave; 2900 Block Western St Improvements; and 3300 Block Hampton Ave. “Overall, with state funds that are coming in along with federal dollars, it amounts to about $3.6 million in improvements and drainage infrastructure for the entire City of Hopewell,” stated the Vice-Mayor.

Partin continued, saying, “It’s probably the single largest investment we’ve had in stormwater infrastructure for the city, and it’s definitely overdue.”

The improvements for the Wagner Avenue location alone amount to about $452,000, explained Partin, adding that all of the projects are not just for stormwater benefit.

“They are also improve-

ments for our wastewater infrastructure,” said Partin.

“We’re reducing the amount of stormwater that’s getting into our wastewater system.”

That benefits the wastewater plant by reducing the amount of stress and wearand-tear on its equipment.

“We’re not only improving on neighborhood drainage, but we’re also improving

our sanitary infrastructure,” Partin said, emphasizing that it’s about efficiency at the plant.

“The goal is to have a very aggressive campaign plan to address inflow and infiltration issues,” Partin stated, explaining that this plan would help to keep sewer rate impacts minimal and stable.

Petersburg Government Offices Reopening to the Public PETERSBURG MEDIA RELEASE CITY OF PETERSBURG

PETERSBURG- City of Petersburg government offices and facilities will reopen to the public on Monday, March 14th. Visitors and city employees will be asked to wear masks and social distance in spaces that may become crowded and at all

public meetings.

City offices are open from 8:30am to 5:00pm, Monday through Friday. Petersburg Public Library hours of operation are 10:00am to 8:00pm, Monday through Thursday, and 10:00am to 5:30pm, Friday and Saturday. The library is closed on Sundays.

The Petersburg Area Transit Station will be open

from 5:15am to 5:15pm, Monday through Friday and from 7:15am to 6:15pm on Saturdays. All buses will operate on the regular schedule. Passengers will be required to wear masks and social distance. Petersburg Area Transit will continue to provide fare free service until further notice. This includes all fixed route and paratransit services.

Petersburg City Council meetings will be held at the Petersburg Public Library.

All Council meetings will continue to be streamed live at: www.petersburgva. gov/1177/Live-Meetings.

City officials encourage all who have not been vaccinated or need booster shots to consider scheduling an appointment with the Crater Health District.

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Council Honors 100-Year-Old Organization COLONIAL HEIGHTS

BY CRAIG RICHARDS LNNUSA.com

COLONIAL HEIGHTS – The Colonial Heights City Council honored a 100-year-old organization at the Tuesday, March 9th council meeting. The proclamation designated March 20-26, 2022, as “DeMolay Week”.

DeMolay is part of the “family” of the Masonic Lodge and was created in

Kansas City, Missouri in 1919 and instituted in the Commonwealth of Virginia in March of 1922. The organization was named after Jacques de Molay, the last Grand Master of the Knights Templar.

According to DeMolay, it’s purpose is geared towards young men ages twelve to twenty-one, teaching them leadership skills and instilling values such as love of God, country, and family.

Mayor Gregory Kochuba and Councilor Dr. Laura Poe present proclamation to members of the DeMolay

The local branch works in the area on projects to raise money for such causes as food pantries, autism, and veteran services.

Mayor Gregory Kochuba said the organization “gives young men a sense of direc-

tion,” adding, “It’s an awesome organization.” There are currently twenty-seven members in the Tri-Cities area chapter including thirteen young men from Colonial Heights.

pothole blitz. If you see a pothole in need of repair, make a note of the location, including street name and any nearby landmarks, and report it by calling 804-733-

2415 or by clicking on the “Report a Concern” button on the city’s website, www. petersburgva.gov.

Petersburg Pothole Blitz PETERSBURG STAFF REPORT LNNUSA.com

PETERSBURG- The Petersburg Department of Public Works will be running its annual pothole blitz beginning Monday, March 14th. The blitz will run for one month from mid-March to mid-April as the weather permits.

Repairs will be made in all seven wards of the city

along the following schedule: Ward 5: March 14th through March 18th Ward 6: March 21st through March 25th Ward 4: March 28th through April 1st Wards 7 and 2: April 4th through April 8th Wards 1 and 3: April 11th through April 15th Public Works is asking for citizens’ help with the

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Return of the Old Dominion Barn Dance HOPEWELL

BY CHAI GALLAHUN LNNUSA.com

HOPEWELL—The pandemic affected many local restaurants and venues, including a wholesome family entertainment show that was forced to cancel its last three shows of its 2021 season.

However, with the turn of the year and the blossoms of spring, the Old Dominion Barn Dance (ODBD) is returning to the Beacon Theatre in the Wonder City.

“It is 2022, spring, and we’re ready!” said ODBD Manager Lynne Colacone.

The official history of the ODBD describes its heyday; it was wildly popular, featuring local performers as well as the biggest stars in country music. The legendary show, running consecutively from 1946-1957, was held in Richmond every Saturday night and featured a regular cast of local talent, as well as national acts like Andy Griffith, Chet Atkins, Earl Scruggs, Reno & Smiley,

Jean Shepard, Hawkshaw Hawkins, The Carter Family, Mac Wiseman, Grandpa Jones & Ramona, Jimmy Dean, and Joe and Rose Lee Maphis. The Barn Dance served as a stepping stone in their careers and treated audiences to good, wholesome country music entertainment.

The ODBD, originally held at the Lyric Theater at 9th and Broad Streets, was broadcasted on WRVA Radio, a 50,000-watt station reaching 38 states and Canada. The show put Richmond on the map as a country music mecca, and grew to be nationally renowned.

Since its revival, instituted by entertainer Donna

Meade in 2015, the home of the ODBD has been the historic Beacon Theatre in Hopewell.

“We’re having two shows this weekend, on Saturday, March 12th,” said Colacone.

“And, it’s very exciting,” she added, saying, “because of our special guest stars Mickey Gilley and Johnny Lee.” Other artists performing include Tony Jackson (from the local area), Brad Spivey, and the Mullins Sisters.

“It’s going to be a packed house for both shows,” said Colacone. “We’re really excited to get back to doing what we do best, and that is performing.”

She doubly emphasized the performers’ eagerness to return to the stage. “We’re

ready to get back together, to entertain, and get back to some normalcy.”

Fans should be on the lookout as there will also be some surprises in the 2022 shows. “We have a little bit of a new show this year.

You’ll see a few new things going on.”

Colacone also explained that the ODBD is currently conducting a talent search for performers of all ages and invited would-be entertainers to visit their official website.

You can catch this first 2022 show this Saturday, March 12th: Early show: doors at 1:15pm, show at 2pm Late show: doors at 7pm, show at 7:30pm

INDEPENDENT LOCAL NEWS YOU CAN TRUST

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CHAI GALLAHUN

LNN Bureau Chief

CAROLYN DAY PRUETT LNN News Director

CRAIG RICHARDS LNN CEO

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Chesterfield Groups Team Up for Diaper Drive CHESTERFIELD STAFF REPORT LNNUSA.com

CHESTERFIELD- Two Chesterfield organizations are holding their 9th annual diaper drive in March. Chesterfield-Colonial Heights Families First and the Infant and Toddler Connection of Chesterfield are asking the county’s youth as well as local organizations and businesses for their

help collecting diaper donations throughout the month of March.

Residents are encouraged to donate new, unopened packages of diapers and baby wipes. The groups are accepting diapers in sizes newborn through six, as well as pullups and baby wipes. Last year, the drive brought in nearly 47,000 diapers and 512 packages of wipes; this year, the goal is to break that record.

Families First is a nationally accredited program that provides family support services to first-time parents to help ensure healthy, well-adjusted children. The Infant and Toddler Connection provides support services to infants and toddlers who have delayed development. For more information on the drive and the host organizations, visit www.chesterfield.gov.

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Colonial Heights Seeking History Buffs COLONIAL HEIGHTS STAFF REPORT LNNUSA.com

COLONIAL HEIGHTS- The Colonial Heights Historical Commission is seeking new members. From the Old Brick House in Conjurer’s Neck to 200-year-old Violet Bank, Colonial Heights is a small town but holds a lot of history within its borders. If you are interested in uncovering and preserving the rich history of the city, you are invited to apply for commission membership.

You can complete the application in the Clerk of Council’s Office in City Hall. To qualify, applicants must live in Colonial Heights, own or operate a business in the city, or have historical knowledge of the city that council believes would benefit the Historical Commission. Members are appointed by the city council for three year terms. City Hall is located at 201 James Avenue, Colonial Heights, VA 23834.

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Colonial Heights Regular City Council Meeting

7:00 PM

City Hall Council Chambers

Hopewell

7:30 PM

Via Zoom

Regular City Council Meeting

Saturday, March 12, 2022

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03/09 Petersburg

03/10 Hopewell

Architectural Review Board

6:00 PM

Via Zoom

March 2022 Locality Calendar School Board Meeting

5:30 PM

103 N. 12th Avenue, Hopewell

9:00 AM

Technical Center

Community Emergency Response Team Meeting

7:00 PM

Central Wellness Center

Industrial Development Authority Board Meeting

12:00 PM Human Services Building

Prince George

Board of Supervisors Budget Work Session

5:00 PM

Administration Building

Petersburg

School Board Meeting

6:00 PM

255 South Boulevard East

ARWA & SCWWA Board of Directors Meeting

2:00 PM

21300 Chesdin Rd, S. Chesterfield

Economic Development Authority Meeting

5:00 PM

Via Zoom

03/18 Regional

Petersburg Area Regional Tourism Board Meeting

11:00 AM 1964 Wakefield Street

03/21 Prince George

Planning Commission Work Session

5:30 PM

Administration Building

03/22 Prince George

Board of Supervisors Closed Session

5:00 PM

Administration Building

Colonial Heights School Board Closed Session

5:30 PM

Technical Center

Prince George

6:00 PM

Administration Building

6:30 PM

Technical Center

03/14 Colonial Heights School Board Budget Work Session Prince George 03/16 Prince George

03/17 Regional Petersburg

Board of Supervisors Work Session

Colonial Heights School Board Regular Meeting Prince George

Board of Supervisors Regular Meeting 7:00 PM

Administration Building

Hopewell

Regular City Council Meeting

7:30 PM

Via Zoom

Board of Zoning Appeals Meeting

2:00 PM

Via Zoom

Planning Commission Meeting

6:30 PM

Administration Building

Board of Supervisors Budget Work Session

5:00 PM

Administration Building

03/24 Petersburg Prince George

03/29 Prince George

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Saturday, March 12, 2022

Mentoring Group Hosts Trivia Night Fundraiser

GLEN ALLEN STAFF REPORT LNNUSA.com

GLEN ALLEN- Boys to Men Mentoring of Virginia will host a Trivia Night on Saturday, March 19th.

The event kicks off at 7pm at Saint Michael Catholic Church in Glen Allen. Grab seven of your closest- or smartest- friends, brainstorm a great team name, and sign up for a table!

Boys to Men Mentoring Network of Virginia (BTMVA) offers young men a safe place where they can talk about what is really going on in their lives, as well as a community of mentors and peers who listen, believe in them, and help them make better choices.

You can support this effort and have a fun evening of trivia by registering for the event: Individual seat- $25 Table (8 people)- $175 Sponsor Level I- $500 Sponsor Level II- $1,000 Saint Michael Catholic Church is located at 4491 Springfield Rd, Glen Allen, VA 23060. For more information about the program and event, visit www.btmva. org.

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Tri-Cities 40 Under 40 Nominations Open

Drop Off or In Home Repair Authorized Dealer For REGION STAFF REPORT LNNUSA.com

REGION- Do you know an impressive individual under the age of forty? You can nominate them now for the Tri-Cities top 40 Under 40 awards. This year’s awards are being conducted as a joint effort between the Colonial Heights-Petersburg Chamber of Commerce and the Hopewell-Prince George Chamber of Commerce, in

partnership with LNN. This is your chance to nominate the biggest movers and shakers under forty, individuals in the community that you feel are the best in their roles, their fields, or their communities. Accepted nominations will be placed on the official ballot, and voting will open to the public for their input on the top forty. To get started, go to LNNUSA.com and click on “40 Under 40”.

REMINDER!

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Road To The State Championship Hopewell Stays Alive with Fourth Quarter Rally to Win 57-48 over Skyline High School Victory Earns Return Matchup with Petersburg Monday 3/7 FRONT ROYAL

BY JEFF BUTLER For LNNUSA.com

FRONT ROYAL- After Hopewell’s 41-40 Tuesday loss to Petersburg in the Class 3 Region A Finals at the Norfolk Scope, hope still remained as they moved into the Loser’s Bracket for a Friday game and the chance to rebound with a win. The loser’s bracket meant hitting the road though and playing two-and-a-half hours away in Front Royal, Virginia.

Skyline High School, a Region B school, hosted them by virtue of their Tuesday night win over William Monroe. Monroe then entered the losers bracket and traveled to Petersburg for their Friday night game.

Hopewell still remained the favored team as they traveled north.

They entered the game ranked #7 in the State Class 3 division while Skyline entered

ranked 10th. While the Blue Devils earned two 1-point leads in the first quarter, for most of the first three quarters they played from behind as the sold out post-pandemic crowd became almost a sixth player on the court for the Hawks.

With the raucous crowd support, Skyline held two or three point leads at the end of the first three quarters. The Blue Devil guards kept Hopewell competitive as senior Tyheim Love had tallied 16 points approaching the fourth quarter, sophomore Cameron Mise contributed 11, including 7-8 from the foul line, and senior Samauri Tinch chipped in with 6, plus another superb floor game. It was as if Tinch was not prepared for this to be his last high school game. He was regularly seen giving pep talks in the huddle and individually on the court.

While the Hawks played tena-

cious defense that limited the effectiveness of the Hopewell bigger men, the fourth quarter was another story. Junior center Sincere James scored 6 of his 8 points down the stretch and helped key a great comeback for the Blue Devils. He hit four crucial foul shots, and the team went 12-14 from the line in the fourth quarter.

However, the biggest turn of events occurred after the Hawks took a time-out leading 48-43. The first play out of the time-out, they were hit with a technical foul for having six players on the court.

Love converted both of the technical foul shots, and the Hawks lost their possession of the ball. Coach Harold Chunn took full responsibility after the game for the miscue, and the fortunate thing for Hopewell was how the momentum completely turned in their favor.

The Blue Devils would score the last 16 points of the game to win 57-48. While Love and Mise finished with 20 and 19 points respectively, Tinch not only added 11 points, but his overall hustle and encouragement of his teammates led him to be named the Hopewell Downtown Partnership’s Player of the Game.

Hopewell, led by Head Coach Elvin Edmonds, now prepares to play Monday night March 7th, back in Petersburg, who won their game over William Monroe 61-34. Petersburg (22-3) has now won 16 games in a row, not having lost since December 29th. Hopewell returns to Petersburg where they hope to upset the Crimson Wave for the first time this year and earn a crack at a second consecutive Class 3 State Title that will be played Thursday night, March 10th at 8 PM at VCU’s Siegle Center.

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Road To The State Championship Virginia High School League Class Three Semi-Finals Storied History of Petersburg- Hopewell Basketball Continues The Crimson Wave Head to Finals with Exciting 62-57 Win over the Blue Devils PETERSBURG

BY JEFF BUTLER For LNNUSA.com

PETERSBURG- How can a team beat an arch rival four times in the course of a year?

The Petersburg Varsity Boys Basketball program did just that Monday, March 7th. In front of a capacity crowd in Petersburg, the Crimson Wave won their 18th game in a row, and earned the right to compete for a state championship this Thursday at VCU’s Siegle Center against Cave Spring of Roanoke at 8 PM. The last time Petersburg played for a state championship was the 2011-12 season when star guard Frank Mason led the team to a 29-2 record before losing to Hampton in the finals. However, this year’s 23-3 team, coached by Ryan Massenberg, has an excellent chance to take it all the way.

For Petersburg to get to this state final, they had to beat a very good Hopewell team that had graduated seven seniors from their state championship team last year. The Blue Devils (16-9), coached by Elvin Edmonds, had played Petersburg very close in each of the three previous games. In game one, they led most of the first half; in game two, they forced an overtime; and last week in game three, they lost by a point as Petersburg senior guard Clarence Claiborne nailed a foul shot with 0.6 seconds left. Monday night’s game certainly didn’t disappoint either.

The Wave led 12-7 after one quarter, and part of their success occurred when Hopewell’s playmaking point guard Samauri Tinch committed two fouls halfway into the quarter. With Tinch not re-

turning until the second half, the tenacious Wave defense, led by the play of Claiborne, and fellow seniors Kaymeign Lundy, Tylik Lawrence, and juniors Jamari Garnett and George Wilson, often created havoc for the Hopewell players. The Blue Devils’ Cameron Mise did enjoy some success, penetrating into the lane for passes or short range shots, and sophomore Christian Johnson looked especially strong in the second quarter with six points off the bench.

Down by only 4 points, they had the chance to play for the last shot of the half, but with over 20 seconds left, they decided on a quick shot that missed, and Petersburg capitalized with 4 points in the final 15 seconds to take a 2820 lead into the half.

Any opportunity for a Hopewell comeback in the

second half was squelched by the inspired play of junior forward Chris Fields. With only 4 points at the half, Fields busted out with 17 second half points, a bushel of rebounds, and several steals. Petersburg, which in an earlier game against Hopewell made just 6 of 19 foul shots, made 9 out of 10 through three quarters.

Even though their fourth quarter free throw shooting dipped (7-15), Hopewell still had no answer for the superior play of Fields.

Then there was Lundy and senior Bernard Fuller chipping in with 14 points apiece. In the end, Petersburg just had too many horses for Hopewell to manage. The Blue Devils were led by sophomore Mise’s 24 points, which included spectacular driving layups, and senior Tyheim Love’s 13 second-half points.

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Road To The State Championship Cave Spring Upends Petersburg RICHMOND

BY JEFF BUTLER For LNNUSA.com

RICHMOND- Cave Spring High School (Roanoke) survived a stirring comeback by Petersburg last night to win a thriller 76-75 at VCU’s Siegle Center in the State Finals of the Boys Class 3 Virginia High School League.

Something had to give as Petersburg (22-4) rode an 18game winning streak against Cave Spring’s 23 consecutive wins ( 29-1). Petersburg had gallantly fought back from a 9-point deficit at the start of the fourth quarter. With 2:20 left, two free throws of junior Chris Fields followed later by a basket by senior Bernard Fuller moved Petersburg ahead, 7573. After a Cave Spring bucket by their leading scorer Owyn Dowyot (29 points) tied the game at 75, Petersburg elected to milk about a minute off the clock from the 1:20 mark. As

they began their penetration though, Dowyot stole the ball, was fouled, and made the second of two fouls shots for the one-point win. Ironically, in the Regional Finals against Hopewell, Petersburg had prevailed in fairly similar fashion, as senior Clarence Claiborne was fouled with 0.6 seconds and made the second of two foul shots for the 41-40 victory.

The game see-sawed back and forth in the first quarter with both teams taking turns leading. The Crimson Wave’s Fields was more active in the first half than in the semi-final game against Hopewell when he only scored 4 of his 21 points in the first half.

Last night, he had 12 of his 25 at the break. Coach Ryan Massenberg helped fine-tune the defense on Dowyot in the second half. The turn to Claiborne defending him in the second quarter continued

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to pay dividends as he limited the Cave Spring star to just 7 second-half points.

The team decided to pull up for short jumpers as well, as there were about 6 charging calls made against them in the first half. The second half was also sparked by the three point shooting of senior guard Tylik Lawrence (four 3-pointers), plus the much-improved free throw shooting (12-15) than in most of the season.

“A job well done by these guys,” said Coach Massenberg after the game. “They’ve worked so hard to try and make the city proud. We get so much negativity coming from Petersburg, and this helps bring the city together.

I’m so proud of these guys, the support we have from their families, and the fans in Petersburg.”

It was a game for firsts - the first time three women officials called a VHSL basketball

76-75 game. It was a game of repeats as well. Petersburg continues to be one of the dominant class three teams in the state.

Having won back-to-back titles in 1973 and ’74 during the Moses Malone era, in the two seasons of 2008-09 and 2009-10, Petersburg enjoyed 30-1 seasons and reached the state finals both years. Then in 2011-12, sparked by Frank Mason, they compiled a 29-2 record with another trip to the state finals.

While Coach Massenberg has to say goodbye to standout seniors like Claiborne, Lawrence, Jameigh Lundy, and Bernard Fuller, they will return Fields for his senior season along with other underclassmen that provided such excellence for this Petersburg squad. “They are the most athletic team we faced all year,” declared Cave Spring Coach Jacob Gruse.

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Saturday, March 12, 2022

ECBL Division Leaders Clash in Petersburg PETERSBURG

BY CHAI GALLAHUN & CRAIG RICHARDS LNNUSA.com

PETERSBURG—The East Coast Basketball League MidSouth Conference division leaders went head-to-head on Saturday, March 5th as the North-East Division-leading Fayetteville Panthers traveled north to take on the Northwest Division-leading Petersburg Cavaliers.

Through a quarter and a half, the two teams fought for every basket, staying within a score of one another. The Cavs held a slim lead at the end of the first, 28-26. Mid-way through the second, Petersburg’s Ta’Shaun Taylor snagged a rebound then raced coast to coast for a lay-up – capping a late first-half run that gave the Cavs a nine-point lead.

The Cavs dominated the boards in the first half, out-rebounding the Panthers 36 to 25. That, coupled with a move to pressure the ball on defense with four minutes in the half, helped the Cavs build a twenty-point lead at the half, 55-35.

The game slowed down in the third as the two teams stretched out their offense possessions. This resulted in the Panthers cutting the lead by three points by the end of the 3rd, 78-61.

Deep into the fourth, the Panthers began clawing back into the game. With a late 7-0 run, the Panthers had shifted the momentum and were within striking distance. Then Cavs coach Kyle Dixon called a crucial time out, ultimately settling his squad and ending the Panthers’ late game push.

For the second week in a row, the Cavs dropped triple digits on their opponent, this time finishing the game 100-84.

Petersburg’s Elijah Moore led all scorers, putting up 33 points on the night. Moore also snagged a double double, adding 11 rebounds. Two other Cavaliers made it a trifecta of double doubles, Tavon Mealy with 10 points and 13 rebounds and Walter Williams adding 11 points and 11 rebounds.

John Bowen led the Panthers with his own double double with 18 points and 14 rebounds. After their first loss of the season, the Panthers fell into a tie for first place with the Hickory Hoyas in the North-East Division. With the night’s win the Cavaliers held on to first place in the NorthWest Division.

A 124-111 win over the North Carolina Capitals on Sunday, March 6th gave the Cavaliers sole possession of first place in the North-West Division.

PHOTO BY CRAIG RICHARDS/LNNUSA.com

Crime

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LNNUSA.com

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 02/28/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 300 BLK OF MEMORIAL AVE FOR AN ATTEMPTED BURGLARY. UNKNOWN OFFENDER ENTERED RESIDENCE AND FLED WHEN RESIDENT FIRED SHOT. ON 03/01/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 2400 BLK OF BERRY ST FOR A REPORTED ASSAULT. KNOWN OFFENDER ASSAULTED VICTIM, WAS FOUND TO BE IN POSSESSION OF NARCOTICS EQUIPMENT & WAS ARRESTED. ON 02/28/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 400 BLK OF WESTHILL RD FOR REPORTED FOUND PROPERTY. NARCOTICS WERE SEIZED FOR DESTRUCTION. ON 02/24/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO POCAHONTAS LN AND NORTH AVE FOR REPORTED THREATS. KNOWN OFFENDER WAS FOUND TO BE IN POSSESSION OF NARCOTICS AND WAS ARRESTED. ON 03/01/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 4900 BLK OF OAKLAWN BVLD FOR A CHECK WELFARE. KNOWN OFFENDER WAS FOUND TO BE IN POSSESSION OF AN ILLEGAL NARCOTIC AND WAS ARRESTED. ON 03/03/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 4900 BLK OF OAKLAWN BVLD FOR NARCOTIC ACTIVITY. KNOWN OFFENDER WAS FOUND TO BE IN POSSESSION OF AN ILLEGAL NARCOTIC AND WAS ARRESTED. ON 03/01/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 200 BLK OF E BROADWAY FOR A REPORTED LARCENY. UNKNOWN OFFENDER STOLE VEHICLE PLATES.

Saturday, March 12, 2022

HOPEWELL POLICE DEPARTMENT CRIME SUMMARY

ON 02/28/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO HEADQUARTERS FOR A REPORTED LARCENY THAT OCCURRED IN THE 300 BLK OF E CAWSON ST. UNKNOWN OFFENDER STOLE FIREARM FROM VEHICLE OR RESIDENCE. ON 03/05/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 2300 BLK OF DANVILLE ST FOR A REPORTED LARCENY. UNKNOWN OFFENDER STOLE VEHICLE THAT WAS WARMING UP BY BREAKING GLASS. VEHICLE RECOVERED IN CHESTERFIELD. ON 03/01/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 1700 BLK OF TABB AVE FOR A REPORTED VANDALISM. UNKNOWN OFFENDER DAMAGED VEHICLE DOOR. NO ENTRY MADE. ON 03/04/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 1500 BLK OF SUNNYSIDE AVE FOR REPORTED SHOTS FIRED. OFFENDERS FIRED SHOTS, DAMAGING RESIDENCES BUT CAUSING NO REPORTED INJURIES. ON 03/04/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 2700 BLK OF BOSTON ST FOR REPORTED SHOTS FIRED. OFFENDER FIRED SHOTS, DAMAGING VEHICLE BUT CAUSING NO REPORTED INJURIES. 2022000520 JAHQUES WALKER (25) of HOPEWELL DISCHARGE OF FIREARM IN OCCUPIED BUILDING,F ASSAULT & BATTERY -FAMILY MEMBER,M 2022000448 JOSHUA WAMSLEY (23) of PRINCE GEORGE ROBBERY,F

2022000104 REYNARD MOORE (34) of HOPEWELL CRUELTY TO ANIMALS,M CRUELTY TO ANIMALS,M 2022000561 WHITNEY CRAIGHEAD (58) of HOPEWELL ASSAULT & BATTERY,M 2022000466 RAYMOND LOVE (47) of HOPEWELL CREDIT CARD THEFT,F UNAUTHORIZED USE OF VEHICLE,F PETIT LARCENY,M GRAND LARCENY,F 2022000593 TANISHA FARRIOR (48) of HOPEWELL\ POSSESSION OF SCHEDULE I,II CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE,F 2021002328 RAEKWON ANDERSON (24) of RICHMOND DISCHARGE OF FIREARM IN OCCUPIED BUILDING,F POSSESS, TRANSPORT FIREARMS BY CONVICTED FELONS,F POSSESS, TRANSPORT FIREARMS BY CONVICTED FELONS,F RECKLESS HANDLING OF FIREARM,M

2022000534 BRITTANY MEJIA (28) of HOPEWELL BREAKING & ENTER W/INT TO COMMIT FELONY,F ASSAULT & BATTERY,M DESTRUCTION OF PROPERTY, MONUMENTS -VALUE <$1000,M 2022000517 JESSICA ROBINSON (32) of DINWIDDIE UNSAFE LANE CHANGE,I DRIVING WITHOUT LICENSE PROHIBITED; PENALTIES,M 2022000576 ASHLEY BAILEY (28) of MIDLOTHIAN POSSESSION OF SCHEDULE I,II CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE,F 2022000609 FREDERICK SKINNER (23) of HOPEWELL DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE,M ELUDING POLICE RESULTING IN SERIOUS INJURY,F DRIVING WITHOUT LICENSE PROHIBITED; PENALTIES,M OBSTRUCTION OF JUSTICE,M

Crime

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LNNUSA.com

Saturday, March 12, 2022

DINWIDDIE ARREST REPORT Gene Otis Tolbert, 32 years old of the 26000 block of West Washington Street, Petersburg, Virginia was arrested on February 24, 2022 for assault and battery.

Thomas Edward Kennedy, 42 years old of the 25000 block of Simmons Avenue, North Dinwiddie, Virginia was arrested on February 24, 2022 for contempt by failing to appear in court.

Seth Jaden Branch, 18 years old of the 15000 block of Chesdin Landing Place, Chesterfield, Virginia was arrested on February 24, 2022 for possession of controlled substance.

Donte Yates, 28 years old of the 25000 block of Troublefield Road, Dinwiddie, Virginia was arrested on February 25, 2022 for two counts of entering dwelling house, etc., with intent to commit larceny, assault and battery or other felony.

Donald Eugene Sutton, Sr., 49 years old of the 7100 block of Quincy Avenue, Falls Church, Virginia was arrested on February 26, 2022 for failure to comply with support obligation; payroll deduction; commitment.

Austin Coleman Boze, 25 years old of the 7000 block of Cox Road, Ford, Virginia was arrested on February 26, 2022 for contempt by failing to appear in court.

Darius Javonte Holmes, 29 years old of the 500 block of West Washington Street, Petersburg, Virginia was arrested on February 28, 2022 for murder.

John Curtis Edwards, 37 years old of the 25000 block of Cox Road, North Dinwiddie, Virginia was arrested on March 1, 2022 for destruction of property.

Mataysha Linn Townsend, 31 years old of the 5300 block of Sterling Road, Petersburg, Virginia was arrested on March 1, 2022 for contempt by failing to appear in court.

William Bailey Wallace, 25 years old of the 4000 block of White Oak Road, Blackstone, Virginia was arrested on March 1, 2022 for probation violation, two counts of larceny and giving false identity to lawenforcement officer.

Nyzia Martrell Baskerville, 28 years old of the 26000 block of West Washington Street, Petersburg, Virginia was arrested on March 1, 2022 for assault and battery.

John Keck Anello, 28 years old of the 11000 block of Sapony Church Road, McKenney, Virginia was arrested on March 1, 2022 for contempt by failing to appear in court.

Dayso Satmucs Johnson, 39 years old of the 23000 block of Dabney Mill Road, North Dinwiddie, Virginia was arrested on March 2, 2022 for receiving, etc., stolen goods.

Michael Junior Green, 50 years old of the 11000 block of Quaker Road, Dinwiddie, Virginia was arrested on March 4, 2022 for contempt by failing to appear in court.

William Wilkins, Jr., 48 years old of the 4200 block of Anne Terrace, Prince George, Virginia was arrested on March 4, 2022 for larceny and destruction of property.

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Crime LNNUSA.com

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

Saturday, March 12, 2022

Crime

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Saturday, March 12, 2022

LNNUSA.com

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 202202280007 Motor Vehicle Theft ON 02/28/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 5400 BLK OF OAKLAWN BOULEVARD FOR A REPORT OF A MOTOR VEHICLE THEFT. KNOWN OFFENDER RENTED A VEHICLE AND DID NOT RETURN IT IN THE TIME ALLOTTED. 202203040002 Larceny ON 03/04/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 15550 BLK OF COVEY RISE LANE FOR AN ATTEMPTED LARCENY. UNKNOWN OFFENDER OPENED THE VICTIM’S MAILBOX AND ATTEMPTED TO STEAL THE MAIL. 202203040005 Larceny-Shoplifting ON 03/05/2022, OFFICERS RESPONDED TO THE 1900 BLK OF COLONIAL CROSSINGS DRIVE FOR A SHOPLIFTING. KNOWN OFFENDER ATTEMPTED TO STEAL FOOD. WHEN CONFRONTED BY A STORE EMPLOYEE, OFFENDER RETURNED THE ITEMS. SUMMONS ISSUED. 202203040006 Larceny-Shoplifting ON 03/04/2022, OFFICERS RESPONDED TO THE 1900 BLK OF COLONIAL CROSSINGS DRIVE FOR A REPORTED SHOPLIFTING. KNOWN OFFENDER WAS IDENTIFIED AND CONTACT WAS MADE. OFFENDER RETURNED TO PAY FOR THE ITEMS. SUMMONS ISSUED. 202203040008 Drug/Narcotic Violations ON 03/04/2022, POLICE INITIATED A TRAFFIC STOP IN THE 5900 BLK OF OAKLAWN BLVD FOR AN EXPIRED REGISTRATION. KNOWN OFFENDER WAS IDENTIFIED AND ILLEGAL NARCOTICS WERE DISCOVERED IN THE VEHICLE. SUMMONS ISSUED.

202203060001 Assault-Aggravated, Weapon Law Violations, Stolen Property Offenses, Drunkenness (dip) ON 03/06/2022, OFFICERS RESPONDED TO THE 200 BLK OF SULGRAVE AVENUE FOR A REPORTED DOMESTIC DISTURBANCE. ONCE ON SCENE, KNOWN OFFENDER WAS IDENTIFIED AS BRANDISHING A STOLEN FIREARM. ARREST MADE. BRIAN LOPEZ CHESTERFIELD, VA AGE 22 202203030003 DRIVING AFTER FORFEITURE OF LICENSE JA`QUAN DEMBO HOPEWELL, VA AGE 21 202203040008 POSSESS MARIJUANA IN EXCESS OF AMOUNTS SET DANNY MYLER PRINCE GEORGE, VA AGE 64 202203040006 PETIT LARCENY DALEMON SMITH EMPORIA, VA AGE 20 202203010007 REVOKED OR SUSPENDED LICENSE EXCEEDING SPEED LIMIT KENNY PRINCE S PRINCE GEORGE, VA AGE 33 202203060001 PUBLIC INTOXICATION THEFT OR RECEIPT OF STOLEN FIREARM BRANDISHING FIREARM POSSESS, TRANSPORT FIREARMS BY CONVICTED FELONS

Fugitives of the Week: 1966 March 7, 2022

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

Thomas C. O’Brien is wanted for credit card theft and grand larceny. O’Brien, 49, is a 5-foot 11-inch-tall white male who weighs 160 lbs. O’Brien has green eyes and brown hair.

Rachel Lynn Vannoy is wanted for probation violation on drug charge.

Vannoy, 37, is a 5-foot 3-inch-tall white female who weighs 145 lbs. Vannoy has hazel eyes and brown hair.

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) 7480660, or use the p3Tips mobile app. We guarantee you will remain anonymous and could receive a cash reward up to $5,000.

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.

“Take the Time to Solve the Crime.”

Crime

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Saturday, March 12, 2022

LNNUSA.com

PRINCE GEORGE COUNTY POLICE DEPARTMENT PRINCE GEORGE COUNTY POLICE DEPARTMENT WEEKLY HIGHLIGHTS WEEKLY HIGHLIGHTS PRINCE GEORGE COUNTY POLICE DEPARTMENT WEEKLY HIGHLIGHTS February 28, 2022 – March 6, 2022

February 28, 2022 – March 6, 2022 February 28, 2022 – March 6, 2022

For the period February 27, 2022 – March 6, 2022 o 429 criminal other types of calls for service were assigned For the period February 27, 2022and – March 6, 2022 Total calls for of service: 662service were assigned o 429 criminalo and other types calls for 

For the period February 27, 2022 – March 6, 2022 oo Total calls forand service: 662 of calls for service were assigned 429 criminal other types o Total calls for service: 662 Police

ce Accident Property Damage ce Hit & Run Property Damage Accident Property Damage MVA with Hazards – No Injuries Hit & RunProperty Property Damage MVADamage with Possible Injuries Accident Traffic Stop MVA Hazards –Damage No Injuries Hit &with Run Property TotalInjuries MVA with Possible Hazards – No Injuries Traffic StopPossible Injuries MVA with Total Traffic Stop Animal Services Total

Animal Aggressive mal Services Animal at Large mal Services Animal Call Animal Carcass Animal Aggressive Animal at LargeAnimal Sick/Injured Aggressive Animal Trap Animal Call at LargeAnimal – Check Welfare Animal Carcass Call Animal Wildlife Animal Sick/Injured CarcassTotal

Animal Trap Sick/Injured

15 3 15 13 41 185 4 208 185 208

4 54 5 15 31 43

15 3 1 4 185 208

4 5 5 1 3 4 2 1 25

Crime

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LNNUSA.com

Saturday, March 12, 2022

Burglary: 1966 | March 7, 2022 This week, the Chesterfield County/Colonial Heights Crime Solvers program needs your help to solve a burglary that occurred in Colonial Heights.

On Feb. 18, 2022, at about 2 a.m., an unknown suspect broke into the Discount Cigarettes located in the Dunlop Village Shopping Center in Colonial Heights. The suspect gained entry by backing his vehicle through the front of the business. He then exited his vehicle, entered the store, and stole numerous cartons of cigarettes. The suspect is described as a black male dressed in dark clothing driving a red, twodoor Jeep.

Crime Solvers has released photos of the suspect and the suspect vehicle in 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 or have information about any unsolved crime or wanted person in Chesterfield County or Colonial Heights, call Crime Solvers at 804-748-0660 or use the P3-Tips 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.”

POLICE IDENTIFY MAN FOUND IN SWIFT CREEK RESERVOIR CHESTERFIELD COUNTY POLICE DEPARTMENT PRESS RELEASE

CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, VA – Chesterfield County Police have identified a man whose body was discovered in the Swift Creek Reservoir on Wednesday, March 2. The

man has been identified as Andrew L. Zilius, 19, of the 100 block of Water Pointe Court.

At about 2 p.m. on Wednesday, Chesterfield Police were called to the 14700 block of Village Square Place after a body was discovered in

the reservoir. The body was recovered with the assistance of Chesterfield County Fire & EMS. The body was transported to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.

Police continue their investigation, but at this point foul play is not suspected.

Anyone with any information should contact the Chesterfield County Police Department at 804-7481251 or Crime Solvers at 804-748-0660.

Authorized by: Sgt. Rod Brown, Criminal Investigations Division.

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Saturday, March 12, 2022

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Opinion

24

Saturday, March 12, 2022

LNNUSA.com

PUBLIC SAFETY FIRST SENATOR FRANK RUFF

15TH SENATE DISTRICT Last week, I wrote about a horrible needless death on our roads. There was one bill that was still before the Senate that could have corrected the problem created two years ago. Last Monday, I joined the sponsor of that House bill and Delegate Tommy Wright in an effort to clarify how important it is to maintain safe roads for our loved ones. I provided the details of the wreck and pictures of what is called “Carolina Squat”. It made little impact. On a party line vote, the bill was killed. Despite support of sheriffs and state troopers, the majority thought the issue was more important than life itself. The Democrats were focused on tinted windshields and the percentage of drivers being stopped by category.

After the meeting, with the help of two senators - Mark Peake and Bill Stanley, they were able to convince enough Democrats, seeing the details of the wreck, to support a new bill that deals only with the “Carolina Squat”. For this year, this is the only issue that will be corrected. We expect it will

make it through the legislative process in this last week of the session.

We will have to wait another year, and maybe other deaths, to reverse the ridiculous decision to make many offenses secondary offenses.

This effectively handcuffs law enforcement.

This was not the only questionable action taken by the so-called Judiciary Committee. One observer recapped the issue this way. “The Senate Judiciary Committee handles legislation related to law enforcement. That means everything from the structure of the courts, to the penalties for crimes, to matters dealing with our police and sheriffs’ deputies is considered by the Committee. With an outsized majority on the Committee of nine Democrats and six Republicans, the rest of the Democrats can talk about being tough on crime knowing the Committee will not.

This week, the consequences were on full display.”

He continued, “Monday, the Judiciary Committee torpedoed over a dozen bills that would have strengthened law enforcement and improved public safety. Legislation that would have ensured child pornographers served their sentences, toughened penalties for illegally distributing fentanyl and distributors, and made it easier to

prosecute cases involving the sexual assault of a child.

All went down in defeat.

Every Republican voted to enact these common sense changes that would have made it easier for our law enforcement and Commonwealth Attorneys to do their jobs and keep Virginians safe. Unfortunately, Democrats stood firm against these measures and the bills were all defeated.”

Coming to an End

The 2022 Session is scheduled to end on Saturday.

However, because of major differences in the House and Senate budget, that might not happen. The difference in the two budgets is about $3 billion dollars! To work out the differences in just a few days appears to be unlikely. The House budget wants to cut taxes while the Senate wants to spend more and hold more in reserve.

The fourteen conferees negotiating the differences between them may well take extra time. Those of us that are not in that group will probably be sent home and called back when an agreement is reached. Having served on the Conference Committee for four years, I assure you that every member must work long, hard hours to meet the timeframe.

I regret that the deadline

might not be made, but a compromise will be reached.

Other Issues

Judges must still be elected. Meanwhile, most legislation has been dealt with by both bodies. Differences in wording and the extent of legislative changes on some bills must still be worked out this week. Most of those differences will be worked out, some will not. If conclusions are not reached by Saturday, the bills die.

I only have one left to be worked through. That is my legislation that deals with catalytic converters. One version focuses on making salvage yards keep better records, making those stolen harder to sell and easier to track. The other version also makes it a felony to be part of the process of either stealing them or taking part in the process. Many are now sold on the internet instead of to salvage yards. My research on the internet for “used catalytic converters” found almost 10,000. This is big business for criminal enterprises!

We love to hear from you!

You can reach us at Sen. Ruff@verizon.net, 434374-5129, or P.O. Box 332, Clarksville, VA 23927.

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Opinion LNNUSA.com

Saturday, March 12, 2022

EDITORIAL

Peaceful Protesters and Profound Pretenders

Freedom of Speech Must Allow for Idiots, Ideologists, & Intelligencia Recently a self-proclaimed satirist, employed as a columnist for the USA Today network, opted to use his public platform- over 1,000 words- to berate the “People’s Convoy”, the mobile trucker protest that has traveled across the nation.

In the face of a polarizing President (perhaps even more so than the previous one); in the face of looming war; in the face of a national energy independence crisis; in the face of a border crisis conveniently swept under the rug; in the face of an unemployment crisis; in the face of, well, a nation coming apart at the seams, this individual deems the legal and peaceful protest of thousands of Americans seeking to speak out against these calamities as the single most important issue he could attack.

Is this the pressing, world-changing reporting that a journalist should apply such intense and enthusiastic focus on? Of course, our assumption is a bit misleading as this individual is not a journalist, simply a columnist. The difference?

A journalist reports the facts– a columnist is merely a professional opinion jockey seeking to persuade his audience into believing his take and, therefore, his worth to society.

And as the adage goes, “Opinions are like ***holes, everybody’s got one.”

Now how can it be determined that this individual is not a journalist? By simply applying a journalistic tool – investigative, balanced reporting of facts.

In his column, he conveniently cites another media’s reporting to make his main point. This

practice is often employed by inexperienced or lazy journalists, and in this case, “columnist”, in an effort to support a slanted piece for the sake of satire.

In expounding his belief that the truckers have no purpose and are merely burning up gas, he cites an interview conducted on a podcast called the “War Room”. And true to incompetent and incomplete journalistic methods, it is a partial segment of the show, using just enough content to prove his point of view. Dangerous methodology indeed. In the clip, the interviewer discusses the convoy with a member of the group not exactly fluent in the goals and objectives of the protest.

A journalist bent on rooting into the depths of the story and into the organization’s purpose could have done the very, very least of investigation and navigated to the organization’s website – a method even the most inexperienced first-year journalism student could have mastered.

There this “columnist” would have found the following: The People’s Convoy – Media Statement February 26, 2022 The People’s Convoy continues to grow in numbers and support as we peacefully cross the country in unity. The People’s Convoy has been diligent in our message and purpose.

Although we support any peaceful movements in spirit, we are not affiliated with any other groups.

The People’s Convoy has created an infrastructure with a third-party accounting firm, legal teams, security, and

journalists documenting each mile. We encourage truckers and supporters to officially join The People’s Convoy along our route.The People’s Convoy would like to reiterate: • We are traveling across the US in PEACE and UNITY • We are 100% LAW-ABIDING citizenry and convoy • Our core principals of FREEDOM and LIBERTY give rise to the convoy’s request to end the State of Emergency that led to overreaching mandates • We demand government ACCOUNTABILITY through full and transparent congressional hearings • We are NOT going into DC proper, and we will NOT be there for the State of the Union • We are NOT associated with Bob Bolus or other convoys who are planning to go into DC • The People’s Convoy is a peaceful and unified transcontinental movement • This freedom-loving movement is about the journey, not the destination • Our website and social media platforms are the ONLY official locations with details on how to donate, routes and stopping points where people can come support • We are actively accepting donations through our secure site to support the truckers with fuel and supplies during the convoy The official website is: ThePeoplesConvoy.org But he could not be troubled with such time-consuming investigation as that. (It takes less than a minute to Google the site.) That would not have allowed this columnist to bring

across his witty and well-written propaganda piece turning a lawful exercise of America’s constitutional freedoms into a major media indoctrination opportunity.

This misappropriation of the audience’s trust is one of the greatest threats to our American way of life. The sad part is that it’s not just columnists employing this method – its individuals posing as journalists.

They’ve got the press passes, the degrees, and even the positions with big names like USA Today, FOX, CNN, and more.

They just don’t have the crucial element necessary to embody the essence of a journalist – the ability to report objectively.

Bottom line? “Don’t judge a book by its cover.” And while that generally applies to underestimating individuals, it is also a crucial key to not overestimating individuals. The title, the position, and the degree mean nothing without good character, effort, morality, and truthfulness in the individual possessing them.

What are the truckers protesting? They are protesting the trampling of the rights of individuals such as the “columnist”- who is using those very rights to compose what is little more than self-serving, egotistical cannon fodder.

Why are the truckers protesting? Because they know that true freedom must allow space for both those determined to protect it and those who only pay it lip service.

26

Money LNNUSA.com

Saturday, March 12, 2022

Are We Nearing the Final Days of the Dollar?

CLINT SIEGNER MONEY METALS NEWS SERVICE

The dishonest fiat Federal Reserve Note “dollar” is slowly dying and will eventually need to be replaced with something more trustworthy.

Perhaps it will be presented to Americans as a series of dramatic monetary reforms. Maybe people will be using something else entirely as money.

Either way, the destruction of the U.S. dollar as the world’s reserve currency promises to be a defining moment in the nation’s history and this moment may be growing nigh.

Should historians write a timeline of the dollar’s decline and fall, certain events must be included.

These include Nixon closing the “gold window,” the inflationary crisis of the 1970’s, the beginning of the secular bull market in gold around the turn of the century, the 2008 financial crisis and the advent of unhinged central bank policy.

There is no telling for sure what the last entries on this timeline will be.

The latest events in Ukraine and the unprecedented economic sanctions that have followed are driving a new wave of investors into gold and silver bullion.

Right now, we are seeing

the largest wave of retail buyers ever. It is safe to say something extraordinary is happening.

It began two years ago with a sort of perfect storm.

America suffered the advent of COVID with its attendant panic and lockdowns, a fiscal and monetary policy response which included trillions of dollars being printed and dropped from figurative helicopters, and then a disputed presidential election.

Now gold and silver buying activity is accelerating again. This new rush can be attributed, at least in part, to inflation breaking into Americans’ collective consciousness.

Canadian Truckers may earn a spot on the dollar-demise timeline. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s response to the trucker protest introduced a terrifying new concept to much of the world; the electronic financial system can be used as a weapon against the public on a whim.

Thousands of Freedom Convoy truckers and their supporters in Ottawa probably considered the possibility of being arrested and paying some fines. They probably weren’t expecting their government would attempt to cancel their ability to function in modern society.

Trudeau declared an emergency and ordered Canadian banks to freeze accounts.

Without trial or due process, protestors and those who supported them with donations faced the prospect of being unable to purchase anything, including basic necessities.

The move appears to have backfired. Revealing to people worldwide that their bank accounts can be frozen instantly, based upon nothing more than the whims of politicians, wasn’t a move to inspire confidence in banks or the wider financial system.

Following news that bank accounts would be frozen, the five largest Canadian banks went offline for several hours. Many suspect Canadians were rushing to withdraw funds, though the official story is the outage was related to “technical” issues.

The Emergency order was quickly lifted, and Canadian banks have been working to reassure clients about the safety of their deposits.

Perhaps Trudeau and the other Canadian leadership recognized that destroying confidence in banks wasn’t such a great idea.

That lesson appears to have been lost on leadership elsewhere.

PayPal recently shut down its service in Russia. Visa, MasterCard and American

Express followed suit. Now millions of Russians are discovering the cards in their wallets can be switched off, without warning or recourse.

Millions more outside of Russia and Canada recognize they could be next. All it takes is an affiliation with the political opposition or citizenship in the wrong country and they can end your ability to function financially.

Lots of nervous people are searching for alternatives.

Physical gold and silver are among the first assets to come up. Precious metals have been used as money for thousands of years and, in a pinch, could be again.

And coins, rounds, and bars are non-cancelable.

Time will tell if the weaponization of the financial system is what finally destroys the confidence underpinning the Federal Reserve Note and other fiat currencies. Unprecedented, record-breaking demand for physical metal is one indicator people are wising up to the risks.

About the Author: Clint Siegner is a Director at Money Metals Exchange, a precious metals dealer recently named “Best in the USA” by an independent global ratings group. A graduate of Linfield College in Oregon, Siegner puts his experience in business management along with his passion for personal liberty, limited government, and honest money into the development of Money Metals’ brand and reach. This includes writing extensively on the bullion markets and their intersection with policy and world affairs.

Ticket

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LNNUSA.com

Saturday, March 12, 2022

Wed, March 16th - 6pm

Paint & Sip

Old Towne’s Alibi Petersburg

Thurs, March 17th - 6:30pm

The Weight Band The Beacon Theatre Hopewell

Thurs, March 17th - 6:30pm

St. Paddy’s Day Shenanigans Omega Bar & Grill Hopewell

Thurs, March 17th - 8pm

Greater Tuna

Swift Creek Mill Theatre Colonial Heights

Fri, March 18th - 6pm

Fri, March 18th - 6pm

Fri, March 18th - 6:30pm

Cul’s Courthouse Grille Charles City

The Reserve at the Highlands Chesterfield

Maria’s Old Towne 21 Petersburg

Brand Franklin

Bethany Gates

Serenata

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

Ticket

28

LNNUSA.com

Fri, March 18th - 6:30pm

Bruce in the USA (Tribute Band) The Beacon Theatre Hopewell

Saturday, March 12, 2022

Fri, March 18th - 8pm

LadySmyth

Omega Bar & Grill Hopewell

Fri, March 18th - 8pm

Sat, March 19th - 12pm

Sat, March 19th - 5pm

Paddy’s Sports Bar & Grill Chester

Cul’s Courthouse Grille Charles City

Puerto Rican Bakery & Cafe Colonial Heights

Sat, March 19th - 6:30pm

Sat, March 19th - 7pm

Sat, March 19th - 8pm

Smoke & Wine Band

FireHouse

The Beacon Theatre Hopewell

Chip Hale

East of Blue Ridge

Cul’s Courthouse Grille Charles City

Serenata

Hold the Line RVA

Paddy’s Sports Bar & Grill Chester

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

29

LNNUSA.com

Saturday, March 12, 2022

Make Your

St. Patrick’s Day Spread Green with Envy CULINARY.NET

Freshen up your St. Patrick’s Day menu with easy, light sandwiches inspired by the traditional color of the festivities. These open-faced noshes can be perfect for lunch, snack time or even as an appetizer for get-togethers with friends and family.

Layered with a smooth cream cheese and mozzarella mixture then topped with crisp cucumber and a stem of green bell pepper, these St. Patrick’s Day Sandwiches are easy and cute, which makes them a fan favorite at nearly any green gathering. They’re also sprinkled with lemon juice to add a

little acidity and create a nice, light bite.

Plus, this recipe is quick to make. When you’re in a rush to get everything on the table for the party, it’s easy to throw together and get on the platter in next to no time.

The sandwiches pop off the plate with their bright,

seasonal garnishes. While sure to attract attention and have your loved ones asking “Where did you get this idea?” they’re also an easy way to sneak a few vegetables into your kids’ diets.

For more festive recipes and ideas at Culinary.net.

St. Patrick’s Day Sandwiches YIELD: 8 SANDWICHES

Ingredients • 8 ounces plain cream cheese spread, softened • 4 English muffins • fresh cilantro leaves • 1 cup finely shredded mozzarella cheese • 24 slices cucumber • lemon juice • salt • 8 thin slices green pepper • lemon slices, for garnish (optional) INSTRUCTIONS 4. Place three cucumbers on each “shamrock,” one on 1. In bowl, mix cream cheese spread, mozzarella cheese each “leaf.” Use green pepper slice as stem. Place cilantro and salt well. leaf on top of each sandwich.

2. Split English muffins in half. Cut each muffin half into 5. Sprinkle sandwiches with lemon juice and add lemon shamrock shape. slices, for garnish, if desired.

3. Spread cheese mixture over each muffin half.

Amusement

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Name: _____________________________________ CROSSWORD

Date: _______

Saturday, March 12, 2022

Period: _______

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Down 1. the methods used to show the personalities of the characters in a literary work 2. the use of symbols (word, object, or action) to represent an abstract idea 3. an expression that says one thing but means something else 5. the central idea, message, or meaning of a literary work 6. a statement that is deliberately exaggerated for effect 8. using figurative language and description to convey mental images that appeal to our senses

9. the character or force against which the main character struggles in a literary work 10. the series of events that happen in a literary work 12. the arrangement of words in sentences 13. the repetition of a consonant sound at the beginning of a series of words 14. comparing two things by using the words "like" or "as" 15. the attitude of a writer toward the subject of a composition 18. the atmosphere or feeling created by a work of literature

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WORD SEARCH

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Classified

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Saturday, March 12, 2022

LNNUSA.com

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Obituaries

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Roberta D. Maclin

December 6, 1939 - March 10, 2022 Mrs. Roberta D. Maclin of Hopewell departed this life on March 10, 2022 at Riverview on the Appomattox Health & Rehab.

Center, Hopewell, VA.

Sharon Marie Amos

March 7, 1960 - March 8, 2022

Saturday, March 12, 2022

Ilse Babette Jones

Richard “Rick” McCormack Sr.

July 3, 1932 - March 9, 2022 (age 89)

August 14, 1927 - March 8, 2022 (age 94)

Ilse Babette Jones, 89, of Prince George County, Virginia, went to her Heavenly Home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, March 9, 2022. Born on July 3, 1932, in Regensburg, Germany, she was the daughter of the late Jacob and Maria Watter Lehmeier. She is also preceded in death by her husband, Clarence G. Jones, and her brothers, Kurt Lehmeier and Fred Lehmeier.

For 15 years, Ilse was employed at Kenner Army Hospital as a Medical Records Clerk.

She was a member of the German Damen Club, and enjoyed going to the beach, dancing, and spending time with her loving family.

She is survived by her children, Ilse Schmeilzl and husband, Franz, Silvia Vaughan and husband, Robert, Clarence Jones and wife, Vicki, and Denise Kirk and husband, Conrad; six grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, and other extended family members.

Richard “Rick” McCormack Sr., 94, of Colonial Heights passed away Tuesday, March 8, 2022. He was born in Pennsylvania on August 14, 1927 to the late Peter and Katherine McCormack.

He was a member of Faith Baptist Church and the owner and operator of McCormack Gifts and Collectibles. He retired as SFC from the United States Army where he served as a parachute rigger and inspector in Japan, Korea, and France and was a former member of Petersburg Kiwanis and the 82nd Airborne Association of Richmond.

Mr. McCormack was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Virginia Willis McCormack; daughters, Mary Angela McCormack and Debra Bumgardner; and stepson, Stephen Sturgill. He is survived by his sons, Richard Gregory McCormack Jr. and William Gregory McCormack; stepson, James Sturgill; numerous grandchildren, nieces, and nephews; special niece, Chrissy Adkins; and special family friend, Neala Mortimer.

Sharon Marie Amos, 62, of Hopewell, passed away on Tuesday, March 8, 2022.

Born in Petersburg, VA, she was the daughter of the late Robert Matthews and Marjorie Grissom Matthews. She was also preceded in death by her beloved husband, Kenneth Dean Mr. Andrew Diggs Amos; and siblings, Kenneth Mathews, Den- March 8, 1944 - March 8, 2022 Chun Cha Damron nis Matthews, and Sherry Matthews.

August 23, 1942 - March 7, 2022 Sharon enjoyed supporting youth athletMr. Andrew Diggs, (age 79) ics. She and her husband ran the Hopewell 78, peacefully Quarterback League for many years togethdeparted this Chun Cha Damron, er. Most of all, her greatest passion was life on Tuesday, 79, of Colonial her family. Her children and grandchildren March 8th, 2022 Heights, passed were her number one priority, and she loved in Newport News, away Monday, them dearly.

Virginia.

March 7, 2022.

She is survived by her children, Kenneth She was born on Dean Amos, Jr. (Kathy), Jason Earl Amos August 23, 1942 in (Courtney), Travis Wayne Amos (Dana), Korea. She is preand Kimberly Dawn Amos; grandchildren, ceded in death by her parents who parished Kayli Marie Amos, Alexis Marie Amos, Ryan due to the Korean War. Amos, Alison Rae Amos, and Karter Dean Mr Mark Henderson Jones Chun was a faithful Army wife, mother, and Amos; great-grandchildren, Marianna Amos grandmother. She loved gardening and won November 12, 1955 March 8, 2022 and K’ahri Amos; sister, Debbie Hale; and awards many times for how beautiful her added family, Jerry Studer, Skyler Stewart yard was. Chun also enjoyed playing bingo, Mr. Mark Jones, and Troy Vohun. sewing, and especially spending time with 66, peacefully her beloved family. departed this She is survived by her loving husband of life on Tuesday, March 8th, 2022 in 59 years, James R. Damron; son, Jimmy Fayetteville, North Damron; daughter, Sandy Kibler; and two beautiful grandchildren, Taylor Dugan and Carolina.

Riley Dugan. Chun will be missed by her family.

Obituaries

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Saturday, March 12, 2022

Beverly A. George

Joyce Pulley Holzner

Patricia B. Morris

Beverly A. George, 69 of Hartford, Connecticut, was quietly called by the angels on the morning of Tuesday March 8, 2022.

Beverly was born in Jamaica and moved to Hartford in 1967.

She worked for Travelers Insurance for over 20 years. She loved traveling and being near the ocean. Her vibrant and fun-loving spirit was displayed in her fondness of music and dancing. She was very spiritual and loved Christian music. Beverly is predeceased by her mother, Levena C. Smith. She is survived by her devoted and loving husband of more than 50 years, Joseph George, and their only child and Loving daughter, Sherry A. George. She leaves behind her cousins Jennifer, Albert, and Jeffrey. Her cousin Hopeton, along with her sister in-laws Brenda George and Patricia George, and nieces Sherronda Davis and Shayla Williams, were very instrumental in the days leading to her transition. She is also survived by a host of extended family members in Jamaica, Connecticut, Philadelphia, Alabama, and Florida.

Joyce Pulley Holzner, 94, of Colonial Heights passed away Monday, March 7, 2022. She was born in Chesterfield on October 3, 1927 to the late Selma and John Pulley. She was preceded in death by her husband of 53 years, David Leo Holzner; mother and father-in-law, Hattie and Leo Holzner; sisters, Maxine King and Joan Wilkinson; sistersin-law, Alice Clarke, Marguerite Emory and Dorothy Bryant; sister-in-law, Connie Holzner; brother-in-law, Robert Holzner; and son-in-law, Edwin V. Sutton. Mrs. Holzner was a longtime member of Mount Pleasant Baptist Church and served as an Officer of Elections in Colonial Heights for many years. She enjoyed cooking and sewing and was a member of the Chat Sews and the Colonial Heights Woman’s Club.

She is survived by her children, Patricia H. Sutton and Susan P. Holzner (N. Bane Daniel); grandchildren, SanDee Moore (Mark), Vicki Pope (Jerry) and DusDee Robertson; great-grandchildren, Kayleigh, Seth and Sydney Moore and Reese and Evan Pope; brothers-in-law, O.C. King and W.B. Wilkinson; numerous nieces and nephews and; devoted caregiver, Suzette Washington.

Patricia B. Morris, 68, of Prince George passed away on Monday, March 7, 2022.

Born August 15, 1953, she was the daughter of the late Charles L. Brummitt Sr. and Annie Tackett Brummitt. She was also preceded in death by her loving husband, Linwood Lewis Morris. She retired after many years of service from The Appomattox Regional Library. Patricia was a member of St. Ann Catholic Church and the Women of the Moose Hopewell Lodge. She is survived by two sons, Scott Morris (Lisa) and Michael Morris (Claire); grandchildren, Vincent Cardieri, Nicholas Morris, Emma Morris, Lindsay Morris and Cormac Morris; one brother, Charles L. Brummitt Jr.; a sister, Marcy Elliott and numerous nieces and nephews.

December 20, 1952 - March 8, 2022 (age 69)

Ms. Susan Elizabeth Reichenberg August 9, 1970 - March 7, 2022

Ms. Susan E. Reichenberg, 51, of Hopewell, VA, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 7, 2022 at her residence.

Delano E. Gibbs

October 29, 1967 - March 7, 2022 Mr. Delano E. Gibbs departed this life on March 7, 2022 at Chippenham Medical Center, Richmond.

October 3, 1927 - March 7, 2022 (age 94)

August 15, 1953 - March 7, 2022 (age 68)

John Archer Cairns, Jr. April 3, 1967 - March 6, 2022

John Archer Cairns, Jr., 54, of Dinwiddie County, passed away on March 6, 2022. He was preceded in death by his mother, Doris F. Cairns.

John worked at Delores Epps Jim’s Body Shop and was also a truck driver.

August 4, 1933 - March 6, 2022 He was known for his truck and the cooler he kept in the bed of his truck with coca-coServices will be las.

He enjoyed playing the lottery, cruising held 1:00 P.M., Friday, March 18, through the country making daily stops at 2022 at the Chapel Food Barn, Salem & Sons, and Food Lion, of J. M. Wilkerson and he loved to be outdoors. He was a devotFuneral Establish- ed husband, father, and grandfather. John is survived by his wife of 31 years, Tammy ment, Inc., 102 A. Cairns; children, Chaily N. Cairns (Billy), David T. Cairns (Tamara), and Colton C. Cairns; grandchildren, Brent T. Cairns, South Avenue, Petersburg, Laci B. Cairns, Easton D. Cairns, Bristal L. VA. Cairns, and Berkli M. Cairns; father, John A. Cairns, Sr.; siblings, Kim C. Payne (Jeff) and Lisa C. Woodard (Eddie); and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews.

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Shemar Howlett

Mabel Terrell Melnyk

Paul Edward Stables, Sr.

MELNYK, Mabel Elizabeth Terrell, 98, of Chester, departed this life on Sunday, March 6, 2022. She was the second of 8 children born to Moncrieff and Meta Terrell. She was a lifelong resident of Chester, and graduated from Chester High School. She was predeceased by her husband of 64 years, Michael “Mickey” (2007); son, “Mickey, Jr.” (2012); greatgreat-grandson, Nathan (2011); brothers, Moncrieff, Jr., Alan, Charles; sisters, Juanita and Jacquelin. She is survived by her daughters, Mary Beth Radford (John), Cathy Kirkland (John); daughter-in-law, Judy Melnyk; 8 grandchildren, Melissa (fiancé Jon), Michael III (Lorraine), Michele (Dean), Mindy, Brian, Sara (Taylor), Jonathan (fiancée Morgan), Amy; 14 great-grandchildren, Jarrod (Rachel), Kaitlyn, Michael IV, Mykayla, David (Ashley), Joshua, Jacob, Megan, Peyton, Sophie, Ella, Caden, Ethan, Logan; and a great-great-granddaughter, Savannah.

Also surviving is her brother, Joe; sister, Doris; and a host of extended relatives.

Mabel enjoyed being a homemaker, trips to the mountains of Virginia with Mickey, Outer Banks vacations, bird watching, and Sunday night family dinners. Her yard was a Certified Wildlife Habitat.

Paul Edward Stables, Sr., 86 of Colonial Heights, VA, died March 5, 2022. Born and raised in Narrows, VA, he was the son of the late Amos and Edith Stables.

He was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather, devoted to his family and friends. He graduated from Narrows High School and obtained his Accounting Certificate from La Salle University.

Paul retired as Manager of Accounting for Stone Container Paper Mill after 40 years of Service, while serving as Manager and Treasurer of the Kraftsman Federal Credit Union. He enjoyed boating and fishing with the grandkids, watching old movies and the Nationals baseball team. In addition to his parents, Paul was preceded in death by his sisters, Wilma Stables and May Powell and brothers Kenneth, Amos, Otis, and Bill Stables. He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Kathryn “Kitty” Slusser Stables; daughter, Diane Lanier; sons, Eddie and Scott Stables; brother, Cecil Stables; seven grandchildren; and eight great grandchildren.

December 13, 1923 - March 6, 2022

March 6, 2022

Mr. Shemar Howlett of North Chesterfield departed this life on March 6, 2022.

Ruby Patterson Weber

November 2, 1927 - March 5, 2022 Ruby Patterson Weber, 94, of Chester VA, died March 5, 2022.

Born in Lewiston, NC and raised in McKenney, VA, she was the daughter of the late William Henry and Murt Heartwell Patterson; and was also preceded in death by her husband of 54 years, Nelson Ellsworth Weber; and a brother, Joe Patterson. She is survived by her children, Frank (Amy), Thomas (Donna), Scott and Susan (Joel); 14 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; her brother, Billy Patterson; and a niece and two nephews. Ruby graduated from the University of Richmond with a Bachelors of Science and Virginia Commonwealth University with a Masters in Library Science. Afterward, she was the librarian at Harrowgate Elementary School for over twenty years. She loved and was loved by many.

Saturday, March 12, 2022

July 8, 1935 - March 5, 2022

Lawrence Pretopapa

September 8, 1950 - March 5, 2022

JaKwon M. Hawkins

August 7, 1989 - March 5, 2022 Mr. JaKwon M. Hawkins departed this life on March 5, 2022 in Raleigh, NC.

Mr. Lawrence Pretopapa departed this life Saturday, March 5, 2022 at Envoy of Lawrenceville.

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Saturday, March 12, 2022

Delores M. Clarke Wilson

Carlene Bumbrey Wooden

Mrs. Delores Maxine Clarke Wilson, affectionally known as “Dee”, departed this life on Saturday, March 5, 2022. She was 87 years old.

Delores was predeceased by her husband of 48 years, Oneil Howard Wilson; her parents, Cecil Burke Clarke and Ella Hamlin Clarke; brothers, Otis Clarke and Jerome Clarke; sister, Cecil Clarke Armstrong; a great granddaughter, Shania Wilson; and dear friends, Marian T. Robertson and Grace O’Neal.

Delores graduated from Peabody High School in 1952. Delores leaves to cherish her memory: six children, Treska Wilson-Smith (Larry), Pansy Wilson Lewis (Harold), Joy Wilson Charles (Roosevelt), Oneil Wilson (Barbara), Miguel Wilson (Janice deceased) and Jeri Wilson Stith (Glenn); a niece, Sybil Armstrong Finklea, and a nephew, Ronnie Clarke. Delores also leaves eleven grandchildren, Jasmine McCoy (Steve), Sgt. Jon Smith (Jamie), Kendall Smith (Chel), Jessica Barlow (devoted), Robert Barlow (LaQuita), Lorenzo Barlow (Jackie), Misha Charles (Njabulo Mgune), Jeffrey Charles (Tanika), Thomas Charles (DaShondra), Danielle Wilson (Kevin) and Blake Wilson; thirty-two great-grandchildren and eight great-great-grandchildren; and close friends, Bertina Taylor, Vashti Richardson and Bonnie Mae Simmons.

Called from our midst, much to our sorrow, our dear mother, sister, mentor and friend, Carlene Wooden has answered the call of the master. What else would an upright woman do, when summoned by the grand master and celestial architect of the universe. It was he whom has written our entire story, before we were a mere thought in the mind of a man. Indeed, our Carlene was an upright woman. God called and she answered, She now rests with the King of Kings.

Carlene Bumbrey Wooden was born the only child to the late Robert H. and Carrie Bumbrey of Fredericksburg, Virginia. She accepted Christ as her personal Savior, at an early age. She embarked upon a life of service. Carlene received her primary education from the Fredericksburg Virginia Public School System. She graduated from Walker Grant High School, in 1945. Carlene continued her education at the then Hampton Institute in Hampton, Virginia graduating in 1949 with a Bachelors Degree in Home Economics, specializing in Fashion Design and Retail Arts. She would later earn her Master’s of Administration Degree from Virginia Commonwealth University. Carlene was passionate about education. It was a lifelong love that she would share whenever possible.

In the Spring of 1954, Carlene met the love of her life. She and the late Solon E. Wooden would marry on December 26, 1954. For the next fifty plus years, Carlene and Solon would build a wonderful life together, in Surry Virginia. Their union blessed them with a daughter, Denise, who cherishes their memory. Carlene was very active in the Civil Rights movement. She had the honor of knowing the late Chief Justice Thurgood Marshall, The Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Roy Wilkins and other leaders of the movement. She was in attendance at the March on Washington. She was Blessed to know Civil Rights icon Dorothy Height. She was honored to be considered a good friend to Mary McLeod Bethune. During the “Massive Resistance” campaign, Vivian Carter Mason, of Norfolk Virginia and Carlene were tasked with setting up training centers in Prince Edward County, Virginia for disenfranchised teachers and students. A total of ten training centers were opened throughout the county. It was hard work. Students, teachers and parents worked tirelessly to make it a reality. Carlene and Solon were founding organizers and life members of the Surry County Chapter of the NAACP. Carlene was also a loyal member of the Order of Eastern Star, Prince Hall Affiliation. She was honored to serve as the Grand Worthy Matron, for the State of Virginia from 1990 until 1992. During her tenure, statewide membership exceeded 10,000.

Carlene was also a career woman. She served as an educator in the Spotsylvania County and Surry Public School Systems. Carlene also served as an Assistant Principal in Surry County for two terms. She also served as the coordinator for the Federal Title I, II and III programs. Title III was the Music and Arts program for the Surry County Elementary Schools. She was instrumental in securing the talents of Mr. George Fauntleroy and Ms. Addie Dobie in the Music and Arts fields for the county schools. Carlene served on the faculty of Norfolk State and Virginia State Universities. In 1993, Carlene retired from Virginia State University as a Counselor.

In her spare time, Carlene enjoyed travel and the arts. She planned, coordinated, and directed weddings locally and across the country. Her fellow Hampton classmates, “The 49ers”, would get together annually for retreats all around the country. Carlene was blessed to visit nearly every state in the union. She also traveled internationally, visiting Europe, Mexico and South America. Carlene would also crochet and make floral arrangements for family and friends.

Carlene’s most cherished possession was her personal relationship with God. Keeping her hand, heart and faith in God, our Father, knowing he will lead her all the way.

Predeceased by her beloved granddaughter, Monique Smith. Carlene leaves to celebrate her memory: one daughter, Denise W. Jackson of Prince George, VA; grandson, Rashad Smith; great grandsons, Nasir Banks, Kymani Blackwell and Tyshad Smith; devoted great nephew, David Harrison of Midlothian, VA; two devoted great nieces, Megan Harrison of Durham, NC and Tonya Harrison, Petersburg, VA; devoted cousin, Betty Scranage of Prince George, VA; special cousin, William Brooks of Houston TX; special niece, Judith Ward of Stafford, VA; devoted friend, Bernice McDaniel; devoted caregivers, Kinika Jones, Maya Lyons, Sage Jones, Gail Johnson and Joyce Blanding; and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.

January 5, 1935 - March 5, 2022

Remembering Our Loved Ones

May 16, 1928 - March 5, 2022

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Saturday, March 12, 2022

LNNUSA.com

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

United Airlines to Let Workers Who Didn’t Get COVID-19 Vaccine Return to Work ZACHARY STIEBER

United Airlines plans to let workers who declined to get a COVID-19 vaccine return to work, according to a missive obtained by The Epoch Times.

Unvaccinated employees can return to their positions on March 28, according to the memorandum, which was sent to workers on Thursday morning.

Kirk Limacher, vice president of human resources at United, said the change was due to the plunge in COVID-19 cases and COVID19-related hospitalizations across the country in recent weeks. Many states and cities are lifting COVID-19 restrictions, and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention dramatically eased its masking guidance, he noted.

“These changes suggest that the pandemic is beginning to meaningfully recede. As a result, we’re confident we can safely begin the process of returning our RAP employees to their jobs,” Limacher wrote.

United imposed a COVID-19 vaccine mandate for all of its 67,000 U.S. employees in the fall of 2021. It was the first U.S. airline to impose a company-wide mandate.

Workers could apply for a religious or medical exemp-

BRENDAN MCDERMID/REUTERS

tion, but if such an exemption request was deemed reasonable—known as RAP in company parlance—the worker was placed on unpaid leave indefinitely instead of being allowed to continue in their job. The company later let some of these workers switch jobs instead of going on unpaid leave.

These changes suggest that the pandemic is beginning to meaningfully recede.

Kirk Limacher, vice president of human resources, United Airlines United CEO Scott Kirby also told workers “to be very careful about” requesting accommodations and said workers were putting their jobs on the line if they did.

The policy triggered a lawsuit, which is ongoing. In a ruling in February, a federal court said United’s mandate was “actively coercing employees to abandon their convictions.”

United ended up firing more than 200 workers for not getting a vaccine.

United declined to say

whether the workers who were fired will be offered their jobs back.

John Sullivan, an attorney representing the plaintiffs in the case, told The Epoch Times in an email: “We are gratified to see United returning employees to work since they should have never been put on unpaid leave for their faith or health. Hopefully people are beginning to see that individual rights should not be swept aside even during a pandemic.”

Limacher said workers with an approved exemption re-

Senators Say People’s Convoy ‘Fighting for Freedom’ After Meeting on Capitol Hill Convoy traveled to Washington, DC, area from California TERRI WU & ZACHARY STIEBER

United Airlines planes are parked at O’Hare International Airport in Chicago on Nov. 20, 2021.

are heroes who kept the U.S. economy going early in the COVID-19 pandemic, Johnson said. Unfortunately, they weren’t a part of the workforce that could work on virtual platforms and be immune from lockdowns and mandates, he said, lamenting

If you choose to get the COVID vaccine, God bless you.

That’s your choice, you can make that choice. I’m glad that

quest would get an email on Thursday with instructions on how to return to “active status” or how they would be transitioned from their role if they were allowed to work in a position that does not deal with customers.

“Of course, if another variant emerges or the COVID trends suddenly reverse course, we will reevaluate the appropriate safety protocols at that time,” he said.

The United official also alleged the vaccination policy was successful at preventing COVID-19 infections and se-

vere cases of the disease.

“Our vaccinated employees have been significantly less likely to lose their lives to COVID,” he said, adding that vaccines continue to provide “high protection.”

Limacher did not mention how all three of the vaccines that received regulatory clearance in the United States have performed much worse against virus infection and worse against severe COVID-19 since the Omicron variant of the virus became dominant in the country in late 2021.

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Click the Subscribe Participants in the People’s Convoy button atto protest theCOVID-19 top mandates, in Golden Valley, Ariz., on Feb. 24, 2022.

INDEPENDENT LOCAL NEWS YOU CAN TRUST of the page WASHINGTON—Sens. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) and Ted Cruz (R-Texas) on March 8 praised The People’s Convoy for “fighting for freedom” and “awakening Americans” during their meeting with leaders

have said the convoy hasn’t

without strong Democratic

their jobs,” Limacher wrote.

United imposed a COVID-19 vaccine mandate for all of its 67,000 U.S. employees in the fall of 2021. It was the first 40 U.S. airline to impose a company-wide mandate.

Workers could apply for a religious or medical exemp-

ruling in February, a federal court said United’s mandate was “actively coercing employees to abandon their convictions.”

United ended up firing more than 200 workers for not getting a vaccine.

United declined to say NATIONAL

they should have never been variant emerges or the COput on unpaid leave for their VID trends suddenly reverse faith or health. Hopefully course, we will reevaluate the people are beginning to see appropriate safety protocols that individual rights should at that time,” he said.

The United official also alnot be swept aside even durleged the vaccination policy ingLNNUSA.com a pandemic.”

Limacher said workers with was successful at preventing an approved exemption re- COVID-19 infections and seNEWS courtesy of THE E PO CH TIME S

National

CDC Under Fire for ‘Fighting Not Publishing All Senators Say People’ s Convoy for Freedom’ After Meeting Capitol Hill COVID-19 Data ItonCollects Convoy traveled to Washington, DC, area from California ZACHARY STIEBER & PETR SVAB ford University, said the CDC A top U.S. agency is under fire for withholding some of the TERRI WU & ZACHARY STIEBER COVID-19 data it collects.

The Centers for Disease WASHINGTON—Sens.

Ron Control(R-Wis.) and Prevention Johnson and Ted (CDC) confirmed The EpCruz (R-Texas) on to March 8 och Times that it hasn’t pubpraised The People’s Convoy someforoffreedom” the data and it has forlished “fighting collected on COVID-19durrein“awakening Americans” fections. ing their meeting with leaders of the group, which traveled across the country from California.

[The CDC should] Johnson said the truckers help Americans are taking “extraordinary measures” to “get thethe unbiunderstand aseddata newsin out.”

To him,and what context the convoy is trying to convey guidance is to provide “lay out the damage beimprove lives ingto done by these the emergency orders all these manof[and] all Americans. dates,” he told The Epoch Times.Dr. Jay Bhattacharya, Doctors, professor nurses, truck drivers, and grocery clerks The spokesperson said the JOE RAEDLE/GETTY IMAGES agency dropped plans for publishing a paper based on the data “given other response priorities” and because part of the same data was already presented in a published manuscript. An agency representative told The New York Times that it has also withheld other information, including details on how COVID-19 vaccine booster doses have affected young people.

The data hasn’t been reSen. Ted or Cruz (R-Texas) leased has been released slowlythe because it takes time to during Conservative make sure thatConference “it’s accurate Political Action and actionable,” the represen(CPAC) at The Rosen tative Creek, said, noting that there Shingle in Orlando on are24, fears that the information Feb. 2022. might be misinterpreted.

Multiple experts say the CDC should make all data available.

Dr. Robert Malone, who helped create the messenger RNA technology used in some of the vaccines, said the CDC’s actions are a type of fraud.

TRUTH and TRADITION “Withholding data, key data, is scientific fraud,” Malone told The Epoch Times.

Dr. Jay Bhattacharya, a pro-

shouldn’t “withhold information in order to manipulate behavior.” are heroes who kept the U.S. The agency should economy going early in “help the Americans understand the COVID-19 pandemic, Johndatasaid. in context and provide son Unfortunately, guidance to improve thethe lives they weren’t a part of of all Americans,” he wrote workforce that could workon onTwitter. virtual platforms and be Paul Mango, a former official immune from lockdowns and at the Department of Health mandates, he said, lamenting and Human Services, said the that these workers were being CDC’s role should be collectfired from their jobs because ing and disseminating data, they chose not to comply with not analyzing it itself.

COVID-19 vaccine mandates.

“The CDC just doesn’t have The lefttofrom South-rethe convoy capacity conduct ern California on Feb. 23 and search as quickly as the panarrived the Washington demic isinmoving,” Mango told area MarchTimes.

4.

TheonEpoch The group is protesting As one example, the Cleveagainst vaccine mandates, land Clinic has been publishPresident Joesince Biden’s contin-on ing papers mid-2021 uation of the COVID-19 the natural immunity nathat manyemergency, of its employees enjoy tional and other after recovering from COVissues.

ID-19.

The CDCvehicles didn’t publish At least 1,000 are a major study theofsubject estimated to beon part the until January. convoy, which circled the Mango, whose on his Capital Beltway forbook the third time with Operation day as its leaders met withWarp the Speed will be published soon, senators. said the federal Cruz said the government group is would have done things dif“standing up for freedom, ferently if the role of natural standing up for a very basic immunity was better known and simple principle: that it in the wake of the COVID-19 ought to be your decision how vaccines being authorized. toInstead, live yourthe life,government it ought to beled your decision how tointreat efforts that resulted many your bodywho andhad what to do with people immunity getyour health.” tingown some of the early doses, “If youofchoose get the ahead peopletowho were COVID God bless more atvaccine, risk. you.The That’s your choice, CDC has beenyou collecting data on so-called can make that choice.

I’m glad breakthrough infections— that choice is available to you.

COVID-19 cases the But if you choose notamong to, that’s vaccinated—a your choice also,”spokesperson he said. told the NY Times, but the agency hasn’t published the figures because people may interpret them as the vaccines not performing effectively— the same reason given by Scottish health officials recently in halting the publication of some data.

On April 30, 2021, the CDC published data on breakthrough infections for the last time. The data show

If you choose to get the COVID vaccine, God bless you.

That’s your choice, you can make that choice. I’m glad that choice is available to you. But if you choose not to, that’s your choice also.

cines that received regulatory clearance in the United States have performed much worse against virus infection and worse against severe Saturday, March 12, 2022 COVID-19 since the Omicron variant of the virus became dominant in the country in late 2021.

MARIO TAMA/GETTY IMAGES

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention headquarters in Atlanta on Sept. 30, 2014.

TAMI CHAPPELL/REUTERS

Participants in the People’s Convoy to protest COVID-19 mandates, in Golden Valley, Ariz., on Feb. 24, 2022.

have said the convoy hasn’t without strong Democratic disrupted Beltway traf- support, Congress doesn’t fic. Washington Police Chief have enough votes to overRobert Contee told reporters ride a veto. on March 7 that the departDemocrats have largely ment is keeping close tabs on expressed opposition to the convoy and others like it, inthe convoy.

Sen. Ted Cruz “People can peacefully ex- cluding similar groups that press their First Amendment protested earlier this year in freedoms in the District of Co- Canada.

A statement from Johnson’s lumbia, but there are certain Ron Coleman, another memThe Centers for Disease Control andthat Prevention headquarters in Atlanta onconvoy Sept. 30, office announcing the event of the U.S. delegathings we’re not going to ber 2014. said the senators would be tolerate,” he said. tion, shared touching notes he Dr. Paul Alexander, part of received along the way. He remeeting with convoy orgaZHEN WANG/THE EPOCH TIMES More Nuanced nizers “to discuss the harm- the convoy delegation, told called how a little girl hugged The provide a ful effects of President Biden’s The Epoch Times that the him andCDC gave didn’t him a handwritresponse to the vaccine mandates.” meeting with the senators ten crayon note thatcriticism said, “Weby press but some experts you,time, truckers.

Thank you Brian Brase, a co-organizer was excellent and went well. love the agency is working who drives trucks in Ohio, He expressed hope that the forsay fighting for our futures.” under constraints told reporters after the meet- two senators would spark a A mother of three and was has saidalpublished“Dear a lot truckof data. ing that “we’re not going any- discussion in Congress for toready have written: factyour is that the and CDC where.” rolling back the emergency ers, “The I admire courage website and publications “We’re going to keep loop- declaration and the man- your determination in doing have extensive information, ing the Beltway until we’re dates. this.

I will support you and and many of the limitations heard,” he said, referring to The Senate has recently ap- pray for the you.reality Thankofyou for reflect working the 64-mile road that encircles proved legislation to block en- fighting for all of us.” in the U.S. health care and Washington and primarily forcement of Biden’s mandate Coleman said he was deterpublic health systems,” Dr. runs through Maryland and for health care workers—one mined take people’s Tom to Frieden, a formermesCDC Virginia. of the few not blocked by sages, tears, hearts, love, director who’s nowand president Organizers later met with courts—and declare an end and “let them be heard.” and CEO of Resolve to Save Dr. Robert Malone in Washington on June 29, 2021.

Reps. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) and to the emergency, but the Dr. Pierre a member Lives, told Kory, The Epoch Times Marjorie Taylor Greene (R- Democrat-controlled House of ofin the anconvoy, email. told The Epoch Ga.), hope to hold more Representatives isn’t more expected “We are calling attenhadand suffered breakthrough dictions reported than Times: Dr. Roger Klein, a health polinfections andmembers that 132 ofof the to30,200 icyto expert who ill hasinadvised the meetings with take uphospitalizations the measures. and tion a critical society” patientsashad moreWhite thanHouse 10,800 CDC federaldeclahealth Congress welldied. as the White The saiddeaths the and saidand theother emergency Those numbers were report- latter among vaccinated. agencies, said transparency House. billthe would be vetoed if ration “is propagating policies is ed byenforcement 46 U.S. statesofficials and terri- the Breakthrough infections and which a good idea, but information Law House does approve it, and have hurt America.” tories but were described as a reinfections are important to conveyed by agencies needs likely undercount because the check because they’re barom- to be accurate and put into reporting system is passive eters of how strong immu- proper context. and doesn’t require reporting, nity is against the CCP (ChiHolding back incomplete dain addition to the jurisdictions nese Communist Party) virus, tasets is appropriate, accordthat didn’t report any data. which causes COVID-19. ing to Peter Pitts, a former The CDC kept reporting A CDC spokesperson told Food and Drug Administrahospitalizations and deaths The Epoch Times that it’s tion associate commissioner. among the vaccinated, but it holding unpublished data Mango believes the CDC transitioned from LEARN publishing MORE on reinfections AT that it re- should move to release the raw numbers in the fall of 2021 ceived from the Emerging data while emphasizing which to reporting rates of cases, Infections Network, a group numbers agency experts feel hospitalizations, and deaths. made up of roughly 3,000 comfortable with and which

“THE EPOCH TIMES IS A BEACON OF LIGHT IN THE ‘NEWS’ DARKNESS THAT PRETTY MUCH COVERS THE COUNTRY.” —Jonne Rosenau TheEpochTimes.com

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