LNN Tri-City News - Dec. 18, 2021

WEEKEND |

Saturday, December 18, 2021

LNNUSA.com

A Division of LNN USA

Merry Christmas from

LNN USA!

page 2

page 3

page 4

page 14

CH Council

LNN USA

Hopewell Residency

Petersburg Approves

Fills Vacant Council Seat

Launches New Show GoodDayVA!

Requirement in Question

2022 Legislative Agenda

Local

2

LNNUSA.com

Saturday, December 18, 2021

Colonial Heights Council Fills Vacant Seat COLONIAL HEIGHTS

BY CRAIG RICHARDS LNNUSA.com

COLONIAL HEIGHTSThe Tuesday, December 14th Colonial Heights City Council meeting was the last for Councilor Mike Cherry. The member-elect of the Virginia House of Delegates has begun the transition from the council chamber to the house chamber.

Cherry, who is taking over the 66th House of Delegate’s seat from former Speaker of the House Kirk Cox, said about his opportunity to continue to serve the community, “One of the great things about taking the new delegate office that I’m taking is I’m really not losing the opportunity to serve the citizens of Colonial Heights, I’m

adding parts of Chesterfield County to what I’m already doing, so I’m trying to make the best legislative decisions we can to support the citizens in Colonial Heights and again, now Chesterfield, so really they’re not losing me necessarily, I’m just taking on a bit bigger role.”

The council selected former councilor Kenneth B. Frenier to fill the va-

cancy created by Cherry’s departure. Frenier explained how he became aware of being considered for the position. “The council contacted me and said that they were putting together a list of previous members and would I be interested in serving for a short period of time.”

He ultimately agreed to take on the role again.

“I served on the council for 12 years, and my term had run out, and I de-

cided not to run,” he said.

“I miss it and it was an opportunity to come back and continue to serve the citizens.”

City Manager Doug Smith explained the process that will be implemented for the voters of Colonial Heights to choose a replacement to the seat.

“There will be an election held in November, upcoming November 2022, and that will be an election to fill the remaining time period of Mr. Cherry’s term.”

Frenier’s first official meeting will be the second Tuesday of January 2022.

Local

3

LNNUSA.com

Saturday, December 18, 2021

LNN USA Launches GoodDayVA! VIRGINIA STAFF REPORT LNNUSA.com

VIRGINIA- Our online newscast viewers may have noticed a teaser ad in last week’s broadcast, but LNN USA is excited to announce a new show coming to our lineup in the new year.

Good Day VA! will be a weekly show featuring a variety of segments and guests each week. Local businessman Sam Pugh and LNN News Director Carolyn Day Pruett will be hosting GoodDay VA! and diving

deeper into issues that are impacting the community.

The show lineup includes weather reports and onthe-road coverage by LNN

USA’s Chai Gallahun, “Chai the Weather Guy”; the latest in home trends and design from interior designer Michael Maszaros; and

for the foodies out there, Ella Dickinson and Andrew Cushen will explore the best restaurants, dishes, and recipes in Dishing It Up. Other features on the show will include Hiking the Hill, a behind-the-scenes look at the inner workings of the General Assembly; and specials on health, outdoor adventures, beauty, and travel. GoodDayVA! will premiere in January of 2022, so keep an eye out for more information right here in the Tri-City News and at LNNUSA.com.

Local icon Boppers Malt Shop opened a new location on Fort Lee last week The 50s-style ice cream parlor is located in the Pxtra.

Local

4

LNNUSA.com

Saturday, December 18, 2021

Hopewell Residency Requirement in Question HOPEWELL

BY CHAI GALLAHUN LNNUSA.com

HOPEWELL— Under unfinished business during their Tuesday, December 14th meeting, the Hopewell city council discussed residency requirements for key city personnel and department leaders.

Councilor Debbie Randolph (Ward 1) opened the discussion by stating that any residency requirement should apply to all department heads or none. “I don’t think we should cherry-pick, or even pick, who lives in the city and who doesn’t in that capacity,” said Randolph. “We have to be fair and equitable in how we’re choosing.”

Currently, according to council, the residency requirement policy states that if a department head resides outside of the city and decides to move from their current home, then they must move to Hopewell.

However, controversy over the requirement arose when the current residency status of some department heads was called into question. The city can waive the requirement on a case-by-case basis with a council vote.

Mayor Patience Bennett (Ward 7) spoke during the meeting about consistency when directors seek a policy waiver so they can move from one non-Hopewell locale to another non-Hopewell locale.

“They come to us and they ask us for a waiver,” said Bennett. “One day we’re feeling good and, hey, guess what?

Move to Chester. Next person comes down, and, hmmm, you know what? We’re having

a bad day. You’re not moving.

How fair is that?”

She continued, asking, “How fair is that to families? It’s not fair at all.”

Councilor Jasmine E. Gore (Ward 4) said that she had heard rumors of several people violating the ordinance.

“Quite frankly,” said Gore, “I’m really tired of hearing about our policies and procedures with there being no repercussions to it.”

Gore continued, stating, “I would like to move that council investigate the staff that we are aware of potentially violating the policy, right now...

To identify the primary place of their residency.”

“We’re not stupid,” said Gore. “People rent places, and just say, ‘I live here,’ right?

They don’t really live there...

I want to see utility bills. I want to see proof that you live there.” For those who cannot prove that they actually live at their given address, Gore stated they would be in violation of the policy. She explained that as it currently stands, if someone is in violation of the policy there are no repercussions, suggesting that council should delineate and vote for repercussions.

“I would think automatical-

ly,” said Gore, “if you willingly violate this policy, and some of the people that I’m hearing have violated on more than one occasion should be terminated because they are in leadership positions, and there should be accountability.”

“I would like to see an investigation, and have information brought to council in a timely fashion...” said Gore, adding that it should be accomplished in two weeks, in writing, and with accompanying documentation for the city attorney to regard and compile.

In response, Councilor Randolph said, “If the current policy has no repercussions, we can’t terminate people that are found to be violating it, if there were no repercussions [already] written into it, unfortunately. It’s not that I don’t feel that we nee—” Breaking into Randolph’s comments with a “point of information”, Gore said, “This is for the record, I didn’t say ‘terminate violations,’ I said to identify repercussions to put into the policy. I didn’t say to take action.”

Finishing her comments, Randolph said that she would prefer to investigate what is

being done and how council is doing it to better set up a policy. “I’m not going to headhunt at this point,” Randolph stated.

City council’s legal consultant Peter Eliades said that he had spent the last few weeks reading over opinions by the state attorney general in regard to employment. “I think before you start any investigation into any city employees, the threshold question is whether you have any sayso at all,” remarked Eliades.

“And my reading of those opinions is that you don’t.”

He continued, explaining that council essentially has say over three city employees: the city manager, city attorney, and city clerk. “That’s it.”

Eliades continued, explaining that the state AG’s opinions included definitions of an employer-employee relationship, including hiring and firing.

“I think that the first task should be to determine whether or not city council can say anything about the residency requirements of city employees [other than the three previously mentioned],” said Eliades. He also stated that an investigation would use city resources and also be potentially subjective in nature.

In the end, Gore made a motion for the city legal counsel to look into the Human Resources manual, council’s authority over the policy and the city manager, and to render an opinion addressing the residency requirement.

The motion passed 4-1 with Randolph dissenting.

Local

5

LNNUSA.com

Saturday, December 18, 2021

No Soldier Left Behind TRI-CITIES STAFF REPORT LNNUSA.com

TRI-CITIES- The Colonial Heights-Petersburg Chamber of Commerce is coordinating No Soldier Left Behind this Christmas season. Four hundred bags will be packed to bring smiles to the Fort Lee men and women who are not able to go home for Christmas. There is still plenty of time to give and plenty of room for donations!

Donations can be dropped off through Friday, December 17th at the following locations:

Daffodil Boutique 2306 Boulevard, Suite D Colonial Heights, VA 23834

Boppers Malt Shop 414 N. Sycamore Street Petersburg, VA 23803

The Award and Frame Shop 2019 Boulevard Colonial Heights, VA 23834

CMA’s Colonial Chevrolet 12420 Jefferson Davis Highway Chester, VA 23831

Stone Goddess 206 Chesterfield Avenue Colonial Heights, VA 23834

Side Street Gallery 135 Pickwick Avenue Colonial Heights, VA 23834

BMUU 119 Boulevard Colonial Heights, VA 23834

Off Duty Graphix 8820 Community Lane, #101 Petersburg, VA 23805

Old Towne’s Alibi 305 N. Sycamore Street Petersburg, VA 23803

Beauti Curve Boutique 3411 Boulevard Colonial Heights, VA 23834

Your ticket to stunning, gorgeous hair for a night on the town or a quiet night in Signature one-on-one consultations to bring out your own unique style www.apothiccompany.com | 804-431-2114 16 West Bank Street, Old Towne Petersburg

Tues 9am - 5pm | Wed & Thur 9am - 7pm | Fri 9am - 5pm | Sat 8am - 3pm | CLOSED Sun & Mon

Local

6

LNNUSA.com

Saturday, December 18, 2021

CH Approves Grant for Police Funding COLONIAL HEIGHTS

BY CRAIG RICHARDS LNNUSA.com

COLONIAL HEIGHTSMembers of the Colonial Heights City Council voted 6-0 to approve grant monies that will be used to award bonuses inside the police department at their Tuesday, December 14th meeting.

Police Chief Jeff Faries explained the importance of

this and similar actions to strengthen the police department in Colonial Heights.

“Any time you can give money to your officers, especially in this day and time with everybody competing against each other, that’s a plus.”

Colonial Heights has already implemented programs and plans to entice police officers to choose the city as their place of work and to remain working for the city, and the department and city council continue to consider options that would improve recruitment and retention of officers. “They [council] are going to be looking at a step plan that other localities have already went to. And what that is

is potential officers or the officers that are working can see exactly where they fall in the step plan, where they can see their future,” described Faries.

Education and development opportunities are another draw for officers looking to expand and grow while working. “I think council’s going to entertain continuing with our career development program, as a funding for officers that aren’t in the supervisory track…that will retain our officers as well as help with recruiting future officers,” said Faries. “One of the good things that we offer here in the City of Colonial Heights is that we have a tuition reimbursement

program. Not many localities have that in their police department and that has been a plus here [for] officers that want to formalize their higher education.”

The council’s motion secured the funding that will give a $500 bonus to each full-time sworn employee in the Police Department, as well as award to certain police officers signing bonuses of $1,500 and referral bonuses of $1,000 in an effort to improve staffing and retention in the department.

All councilors supported the grant approval; Councilor Laura Poe abstained from the vote as she has a family member in the department.

Police Release Identities of Shooting Victim, Suspect CHESTERFIELD MEDIA RELEASE CHESTERFIELD POLICE DEPARTMENT

CHESTERFIELD– Police continue to investigate a domestic-related fatal shooting that occurred in the 7400 block of Barkbridge Road.

At about 2:06 a.m., police responded to a report of a shooting on Barkbridge Road.

Upon their arrival, police found an adult male victim in the front yard of a residence suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. When police entered the residence, two additional victims were located.

The victim who was found outside was transported to an area hospital with nonlife threatening injuries.

South Chesterfield: 16429 Jefferson Davis Hwy Mon - Fri 7:30am to 6:00pm | 804-524-9115

The two victims who were found in the house, identified as Makiba A. Hall, 47, and Christopher B. Evans, 51, were pronounced deceased at the scene.

Hall, Evans and the third shooting victim, who is Hall’s son, all lived in the residence; Hall and Evans were in a long-term domestic relationship. At this point, the

investigation indicates Evans shot Hall and the third victim before shooting himself.

Police are not looking for any additional suspects at this time, but anyone with information about this incident should contact the Chesterfield County Police Department at 804-748-1251 or Crime Solvers at 804-7480660 or through the P3 app.

Local

7

LNNUSA.com

Saturday, December 18, 2021

One on One with Jeff Stokes PRINCE GEORGE

BY ADRIENNE WALLACE FOR LNNUSA.com

JEFF STOKES PRINCE GEORGE INTERIM COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR

PRINCE GEORGE — The Prince George County Board of Supervisors has chosen deputy county administrator Jeffrey Stoke to serve as the interim county administrator as the search to replace Percy Ashcraft begins. On December 3rd, Ashcraft stepped down as Prince George County Administrator, four months shy of 11 years in the position.

LNN had the chance to catch up with Stokes for a brief Q&A. LNN USA: How did you feel about the Board’s decision to appoint you as interim county administrator?

STOKES: I appreciate the trust and support of the Prince George County Board of Supervisors during this transition. Under the current County Board and Mr. Ashcraft’s leadership, the County was making great strides in several areas. As a result of strong fiscal management, the Prince George County FY21 audit will show a clean report and positive

financial position. I am honored to temporarily hold the chief administrative official position and continue assisting with the Board-driven success and growth in our community.

LNN USA: Do you have any specific goals while serving in this role?

STOKES: The main goal that I will be focused on is the FY23 County budget development. By working with the Board of Supervisors early on in the process, staff can present a fair and balanced budget that will address the community needs and be mindful to the

taxpayers which we serve.

From there, staff will work with the County Board to finalize their objectives in the final budget. Each year is a new opportunity to re-evaluate our budget needs and reposition priorities that are significant to the community.

LNN USA: Why do you feel you’re up for the task?

STOKES: With over 10 years as Deputy County Administrator, I hope to provide a steady hand at the direction of the County Board of Supervisors to keep daily operations running smoothly and align the County goals with the budget process.

Virginia Cooperative Extension

Small Farm Outreach Program Announced 2021 Award Winners

ROANOKE

MEDIA RELEASE VIRGINIA STATE UNIVERSITY

ROANOKE– The Virginia Cooperative Extension Small Farm Outreach Program (SFOP) at Virginia State University concluded the annual Small Farm Outreach Conference at the Hotel Roanoke Conference Center in Roanoke, Virginia on Saturday, November 20, 2021, by announcing the winners of this year’s SFOP awards.

Mark and Lona Chandler were the recipients of the Andy Hankins Small Farmer of the Year Award. They operate Chandler’s Gar-

dens and Greenhouses in Scottsburg, VA, where they produce crops including cabbage, broccoli, collards, and chard, as well as an abundance of flower species.

Mr. William Crutchfield, Director of the Small Farm Outreach Program at Virginia State University, says “the Chandlers are the epitome of successful small farmers in Halifax County who are eager to learn, and willing to share their knowledge with other small farmers.”

Dennis and Sarah Williams were named the Volunteers of the Year. They run Bees Knees Farm and Creamery

in West Point, VA. Their passion is using regenerative and compassionate farming practices for their land, and the meat and cheese products they produce. Says Mr. Crutchfield, “the SFOP could not succeed without individuals like the Williams. We are very thankful for their assistance with workshops and field days.”

Roland Terrell was named Regional Program Assistant of the Year. He serves farmers in Albemarle, Nelson, Greene, Orange, Spotsylvania, Louisa, Fluvanna, and Goochland counties. “Roland’s work ethic has always

been excellent,” says Mr. Crutchfield. “His outstanding service to small farmers and ranchers shows that farming has always been in his blood. He’s very dedicated to giving farmers the tools and resources they need to succeed.”

Virginia State University congratulates 2021’s award winners!

Last year’s winners were announced virtually, due to COVID-19. The Small Farm Outreach Program is pleased to have hosted the annual conference in person again this year.

Local

8

LNNUSA.com

Saturday, December 18, 2021

COVID-19 Procedures Remain Unclear COLONIAL HEIGHTS

BY CRAIG RICHARDS LNNUSA.com

COLONIAL HEIGHTSCity Councilors spent over an hour of Colonial Heights’ Tuesday, December 14th meeting discussing the city administration’s current procedure for dealing with potential risks due to Covid-infected employees’ exposure to other staff in the workplace.

Councilor Laura Poe addressed council, providing data she had compiled since becoming aware of the city’s current collection of employee’s health information. Her concern was the city’s liability associated with its lack of formalized policy in the situation and the process in which the city is collecting individual staff vaccine information.

State Senator Amanda Chase, who represents Colonial Heights in the Virginia Senate, addressed council during this part of the meeting, encouraging the council to watch the upcoming General Assembly session as well as the incoming administration for cues about the direction of Covid-related and health data collection rules in the Commonwealth. “[I]f you remember correctly, if you saw in the media, there was some confusion because the press reported that we were going to give localities the option. So I directly reached out to the Governor-elect and asked him specifically if he could

clarify that position. To which he reported ‘Absolutely no mandates’. Between his intent, the intent

vaccinated- then in a lot of cases, that would be opportunity to continue working, although that can be adjust-

of our Lieutenant Governor, our Attorney General… the legislation that I will be introducing, I would just encourage you at the very least to see what the General Assembly does with this legislation.”

Ultimately the council voted 4-3 to continue in the methods established by City Manager Doug Smith to address the issues of Covid exposure. Councilors Cherry, Wood, and Poe voted to immediately stop the practice of collection of vaccination status from city employees until the matter was more fully discussed.

City Manager Doug Smith explained the importance of the city’s actions in COVID-related incidents regarding exposure. “We need to know when an employee has [been exposed] for a lot of our departments, that appropriate quarantine procedure- should they be sitting out for a certain period of time if they’re not vaccinated versus if they are

ed on an as-needed basis, particularly if somebody were to get symptoms then they would obviously need to quarantine.”

Some councilors, including Poe, still remain unclear of the exact specifics of the current procedure. “Well actually there’s not an existing policy in the City of Colonial Heights, and that’s the problem, that’s what I was actually trying to raise to council tonight. The reason council’s getting the information tonight was because I have literally spent the last few days gathering information myself. The news that we had a department polling employees for vaccination status was a rather new event, and I wanted to make sure that I had the opportunity to do my research as well and then provide that to council.”

About city employee’s privacy, Poe said, “There are some who don’t want to provide that information and that certainly is their right

not to provide that information to the city. It wasn’t necessarily mandated, it was just requested. I believe that the employees and the city may have a reason to feel that they’re being discriminated against because any time you’re collecting information like that and you don’t have a policy in place, it’s somewhat subjective in how you’re using that, which leads to employees maybe perhaps feeling that something is being instituted fairly or unfairly.”

Council intends to take a deeper look at this procedure as the pandemic has forced municipalities across the Commonwealth to review similar policies and procedures.

Senator Chase also described legislation that she plans to introduce in the coming General Assembly session to address Covid-related workplace issues. “There will be a bill that states that you cannot discriminate against employees who choose not to get a vaccine, that you cannot deny entry into a building, to a residence, you cannot deny services to people who choose not to get the vaccine. There’s also a bill in there that gives doctors the ability to prescribe whatever therapeutics they deem are appropriate for their patient without further interference…” Chase stated. “This one-size-fits-all approach to dealing with a public safety issue is very one-sided.”

Local

9

Saturday, December 18, 2021

LNNUSA.com

Local Groups Provide Christmas Cheer to Families in Need TRI-CITIES

their families.

Overwhelmed with emotion, Robin Barnhart said, “I’m crying.Thank you so much.”

Two families at a time and across three different communities, RBAV and Denny’s are helping spread Christmas cheer to brighten up that special day.

BY CHAI GALLAHUN LNNUSA.com

TRI-CITIES— This holiday season, three organizations teamed up to improve the lives of several families- and it all happened at Denny’s.

The pro-second amendment organization Right to Bear Arms Virginia (RBAV) teamed up with three area Denny’s restaurants to give away Christmas dinners to two families in each community of Hopewell, Colonial Heights, and Richmond.

Brandon Howard of RBAV asked Annette Bennett of Joy Fellowship Worship Center in Hopewell to identify two families who could use a helping hand this Christmas season.

Hopewell Denny’s manager Arlisa Jones said, “We do something every year for the community. We usually do toys, but we wanted to do a little bit more this year because it’s been such a long, hard year.” She continued, saying that they decided to donate food to families that really needed it.

“Thanks to Joy Fellowship for their efforts in selecting two deserving families,” said RBAV’s Brandon Howard.

Amy Walker and Jeff and Robin Barnhart received the gifts of a large Butterball turkey, dinner fixings, and a pre-lit Christmas tree for

PHOTO BY CHAI GALLAHUN

L to R Robin Walker, Annette Bennett, and Jeff and Robin Barnhart

Local

10

Saturday, December 18, 2021

LNNUSA.com

Downtown Master Plan

“In the Works”

PETERSBURG

BY CAROLYN DAY PRUETT LNNUSA.com

PETERSBURG- Petersburg City Manager Stuart Turille gave an update on the creation of a Downtown Development Master Plan to City Council during the Tuesday, December 14th council meeting. The master plan was promised at the time of the city manager’s removal of Old Towne Square and would address

issues in downtown Petersburg such as parking, traffic flow, aesthetics, and an open community space.

During a July 2021 interview with LNN, Turille said, “I’ve got a grant working with the Main Street that will go in July 30th, what is that, four days, to the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development. I’m in touch with them to get this grant to begin this design work soon. I see the benefit, I

was down there, I saw the wonder of everyone from all walks of life coming down there. It’s the vibrancy we need to be successful.”

During the meeting, Ward 1 council woman Treska Wilson Smith asked the city manager where the city was in the process for a study for improvement of downtown Petersburg, to which Turille replied that the master plan was “in the works” and that a Request for Quote would be sent out

soon, likely within the next week. “I would personally like to see the downtown become the center of, the hub of vitality that then ripples out throughout the city,” he explained.

Turille reported that the city did not receive state grant monies for the project but that that setback would not stop the project as funds from the American Rescue Plan Act would be used to develop the plan.

Local

11

LNNUSA.com

Saturday, December 18, 2021

ARLS Partners with the VDH to Distribute Free COVID-19 Antigen At-Home Test Kits HOPEWELL MEDIA RELEASE APPOMATTOX REGIONAL LIBRARY SYSTEM

HOPEWELL- The Appomattox Regional Library System has partnered with the Virginia Department of Health to distribute free COVID-19 antigen at-home test kits. Individuals can pick up a virtually guided at-home test kit at any ARLS location through our curbside service, use it in the privacy of their home, and receive digital test results within 15 minutes.

Rapid test distribution is available through curbside service only. Please do not enter the building to request your kit. Call the curbside service number posted at each location and a kit will be delivered to the curbside pickup table at that location.

Testing may not be done inside the library. Tests are available for those with an immediate need or who will soon need a test result. The tests have expiration dates and are not meant to be stored for future use.

Users will need an internet connection, an internet-enabled device

(computer, mobile phone, or tablet) with a webcam or front-facing camera, microphone, and speaker for the testing session, and a valid photo ID. An

eMed assistant will guide users through the testing process.

Library staff are not able to answer questions about the test or the results. For

more information about the project, visit the VDH website www.vdh.virginia. gov/covid19testing or call 1-877-829-4682.

Local

12

LNNUSA.com

Saturday, December 18, 2021

Sheriff Vanessa R. Crawford Completes Inaugural Session of National Sheriffs’ Institute-II Jail Administration PETERSBURG MEDIA RELEASE PETERSBURG SHERIFF’S OFFICE

PETERSBURG- Sheriff Vanessa R. Crawford of the Petersburg Sheriff ’s Office completed participation in the inaugural session of the National Sheriffs’ Institute-II Jail Administration (NSI-II) held in Chelmsford, Massachusetts, October 18-22, 2021. This no-cost program is provided by the National Institute of Corrections (NIC), U.S. Department of Justice, in collaboration with the Major County Sheriffs of America (MCSA) and the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP).

Sheriff Crawford was nominated to join 11 other sheriffs from across the country for training on contemporary challenges around correctional facility operations including the sheriff’s role with the community, legal implications of operating a jail, the sheriff as leader in the jail, critical aspects of jail operations, assessing the jail operation, and jail improvement planning.

Attendees were nominated by the Major County Sheriffs of America, Inc., Small and Rural Law Enforcement Executives Association, Committee of State Sheriffs’ Associations, and the International Association of Chiefs of Police.

The NSI is the only executive leadership training program designed specifically for sheriffs to prepare them for all matters that impact the Office of Sheriff. The NSI was first developed and presented in the early 1970s in response to a need by sheriffs to meet the evolving demands of the office.

The NSI has gone through many iterations throughout its history. Since 1993, the NSI has been housed in the NIC Jails Division.

The NSI now has two courses of study—the NSI-I Leadership Development which prepares first-term sheriffs for success in office and strengthens the leadership skills of elected sheriffs; and the newly developed NSI-II Jail Administration which enhances the sheriffs’ knowledge of their responsibilities in leading the operations of a correctional facility.

Drop Off or In Home Repair Authorized Dealer For

Delivery & Installation

New, Used, & Open Box Appliance Sales

“If it’s broke or lost reliance, g us a call at Harrison Applianceive !”

Family Owned and Operated fo

r 33 Years

804-469-7511

Local

13

Saturday, December 18, 2021

LNNUSA.com

Director of Neighborhood Services Named in Petersburg PETERSBURG MEDIA RELEASE CITY OF PETERSBURG

PETERSBURG- Petersburg Deputy City Manager Tangela Innis has promoted Nikesha Williams to the position of Director of Neighborhood Services. Ms. Williams has served as the City of Petersburg Plans Reviewer in the Neighborhood Services Department for the past 2.5 years.

“Ms. Williams brings over 18 years of experience in the construction and building compliance industry to Petersburg,” explained

Tangela Innis, Deputy City Manager. “She has served as a valuable leader and member of the Neighborhood Services team and is committed to partner better with the community to preserve, improve and connect with the needs of our neighborhoods. Williams was chosen from a large pool of candidates based on her experience, professionalism and leadership skills.”

Ms. Williams was born in Petersburg. She has an extensive career in naval nuclear design and inspec-

tion, quality assurance and contract oversight. Williams earned a degree in Computer Aided Drafting and Design (CADD) and several certifications in logistics.

She is a certified residential plans examiner.

“I am pleased to be able to serve Petersburg residents in this role,” said Williams.

“Neighborhood Services has an amazing team of dedicated employees, and I look forward to continuing the Department’s mission of protecting the fabric and engaging the residents of

our communities.”

The Department of Neighborhood Services has 15 employees with an annual budget of $828,000.

INDEPENDENT LOCAL NEWS

YOU CAN TRUST LNNUSA.COM

CHAI GALLAHUN

LNN Bureau Chief

CAROLYN DAY PRUETT LNN News Director

KALI RIGGLEMAN Marketing Specialist

CRAIG RICHARDS LNN CEO

Local

14

Saturday, December 18, 2021

LNNUSA.com

Petersburg Approves 2022 Legislative Agenda PETERSBURG

BY CAROLYN DAY PRUETT LNNUSA.com

PETERSBURG- The Petersburg City Council voted to approve the city’s legislative agenda for the 2022 General Assembly session during its Tuesday, December 14th city council meeting. City of Petersburg Communica-

tions, Marketing, and Government Relations Director JoAnne Williams spoke on the agenda before council. The legislative agenda document was not included in the agenda packet for the meeting, but Williams stated that she had emailed the document to council

members over the weekend prior to the meeting. Even though the agenda was not made available to the public prior to the meeting and the priorities included on the agenda were not discussed during the meeting, Ward 5 Councilman Howard Myers moved to approve the

list of legislative priorities and new Ward 7 council member Arnold Westbrook seconded the motion. All council members voted to approve the legislative agenda except for Ward 2 councilor Darrin Hill who had stepped away from the dais at the time of the vote.

The Legislative Agenda Is Included On The Following Pages

Local

15

LNNUSA.com

Saturday, December 18, 2021

City of Petersburg Government Relations

135 N. Union Street Petersburg, Virginia 23803 (804) 347-3321

LEGISLATIVE AGENDA 2022 - December 14, 2021 CITY OF PETERSBURG OVERVIEW Petersburg is located approximately 23 miles south of Richmond and is part of the RichmondPetersburg Metropolitan Statistical Area. It is situated at the fall line of the Appomattox River and at the juncture of two major north-south interstate highways. 1-95 passes through the City.

1-85 branches off 1-95 within the City and provides additional access to the southeastern portions of the country. Petersburg is the main gateway for travelers entering Virginia from the south.

Formally incorporated in 1748, Petersburg is rich in history and character. The City was once in the forefront of industry and commercial opportunity and the second largest city in Virginia.

The Civil War essentially ended in Petersburg following a 9 ½ month siege, the longest on American soil, leading to the fall of Richmond. Petersburg was home to the largest free AfricanAmerican population during the 1800’s. Much of the fine architecture of past centuries remain.

Petersburg faces both challenges and significant opportunities. From a financial perspective the City has recovered from a near financial collapse in 2015 and today holds an A+ bond rating. While recovery continues, revenues are not adequate to meet the needs of the city's population (high poverty, poor health, K-12 challenges, and high unemployment), and an aging infrastructure. Petersburg has the opportunity now to enhance its tax base through economic development. A large pharmaceutical complex has located in Petersburg that will bring high-paying jobs and long-term growth. There is interest from the casino industry that would provide needed funds for new schools, health care programs, lower real property taxes, capital improvements, increased tourism, and the reduction of poverty.

Petersburg’s legislative agenda and project list reflect the needs for opportunity to advance.

Local

16

Saturday, December 18, 2021

LNNUSA.com

City of Petersburg Government Relations

135 N. Union Street Petersburg, Virginia 23803 (804) 347-3321

Petersburg Pharmaceutical Park/ Poor Creek Sewer Service Area Infrastructure Upgrades (Phlow/Ampac/Civica Cluster/Emergency Backup) Background Major economic development projects in the Poor Creek service area, Phlow Corp., AMPAC Fine Chemicals, and Civica Inc. are dependent on the upgrades, and future success of the Petersburg Pharmaceutical cluster. The growth of this world-class cluster of domestic, U.S. pharmaceutical advanced manufacturing of generic drugs, many of which are critical to addressing public health crises like COVID-19, will be stopped without the Poor Creek upgrades. Failure to address these infrastructure needs not only threatens the public health of the community, but also impacts the ability of an economically distressed City to bring in other developments. Failure to make these upgrades will impact an additional $458 million in U.S. HHS funding for Phlow, Ampac and Civica to expand.

The Poor Creek pump station and force main were constructed in the mid-1970’s. A 2006 drainage study identified that nearly 100% of the infrastructure was at hydraulic capacity. Lack of capacity results in decreased water pressure, which impacts customer water service, and immediately threatens Bon Secours Southside Medical Center, which is a public health crisis.

Low pressure also creates problems with firefighting. The force main currently runs through Petersburg National Battlefield, which makes access for maintenance, repair, or replacement nearly impossible. Removing the force main from the Battlefield would allow access for increased size, capacity, and maintenance of the system.

Wastewater ...........................................................

Water ...........................................................

Water Supply supporting Poor Creek ...................................

$ $ $

16,760,000 11,820,000 1,600,000

Emergency Water Line to Regional Hospital ........................

$

250,000

(Mt. Vernon & Halifax Water Towers)

Local

17

Saturday, December 18, 2021

LNNUSA.com

City of Petersburg Government Relations

135 N. Union Street Petersburg, Virginia 23803 (804) 347-3321

5% Increase in cost of materials/construction ..................... (above upgrade costs were priced in 2019)

$

1,521,500

_________________________ $

31,951,500

Federal Grant Slated for Petersburg .................................... - $ 20% Match required from City for Federal Grant ................ $ GA Bill Order – Item 112#1c HB1800 ................................... - $

3,000,000 600,000 10,00000

Direct Cost to City

_________________________ Balance Remaining:

$

19,551,500

1. REQUEST: Addition of funds to Budget Amendment approved in 2021 to cover the Water Tower Upgrades, Emergency Water Line and Increase for Cost of Materials (HB1800, Item 122#1c) ......................................................... $ 3,371,500 2021 Special Session I Budget Amendments - HB1800 (Conference Report) Bill Order » Item 112 #1c Infrastructure Upgrades for Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Economic Development The City has applied for a $17 million dollar loan from DEQ as required by the legislation.

The DEQ loan is in process.

2. REQUEST: Additional Budget Amendment Requested for Poor Creek Upgrades if DEQ grant money is not received or if $3M plus is not added to HB1800, Item 122 #1c ........................................................... $ 19,551,500 There is a grant opportunity with DEQ (grant application slated for release in January, 2022) for the remaining funding needed to complete upgrades to Poor Creek and the South Central Wastewater Treatment Plant. If the grant monies are not received from DEQ, Petersburg will need the additional $19.5M requested.

DEQ Recovery Funding The funding is from General Assembly monies allocated in August. This funding can only be used for wastewater upgrades. $100,000,000 to the Department of Environmental Quality (440) to reimburse eligible entities as provided for in the Enhanced Nutrient Removal Certainty (ENRC) Program established in §62.144.19:14, Code of Virginia, for capital costs incurred for the design and installation of nutrient removal technology, and to reimburse the Town of Pound and the City of Petersburg for capital costs incurred for infrastructure improvements that are eligible for reimbursement under the Virginia Water Facilities Revolving Fund established in §§62.1-225, Code of Virginia. Such reimbursements shall be in accordance with eligibility determinations made by the Department of Environmental Quality.

18

Local

Saturday, December 18, 2021

LNNUSA.com

City of Petersburg Government Relations

135 N. Union Street Petersburg, Virginia 23803 (804) 347-3321

3. REQUEST: South Central Wastewater Treatment Plant .

(Infrastructure Mandatory Upgrades)

$

14,000,000

The current estimated project cost for the Nutrient Project upgrades that are mandatory is $122,584,540. Petersburg owns 52.5% of the plant capacity, so the upgrade cost responsibility for the City is approximately $59,106,833. SCWT was successful in receiving grant from WQIF for the upgrades. Petersburg is responsible for 5% of the $59M. The wastewater from the Poor Creek Station feeds into the South Central Wastewater Treatment plant.

4. REQUEST: Approval from the General Assembly to include Petersburg as an eligible host city for the location of a casino gaming establishment and to hold a referendum in 2022 on the question of whether to allow casino gaming in the City. If the referendum for a casino to locate in the City is approved, Petersburg requests that a license be issued to the casino selected by Petersburg as soon as licensure requirements are met.

5. REQUEST: Petersburg will lose approximately $850,000 per year from the elimination of the grocery tax. The City requests that all lost revenue from the elimination of this tax be returned to Petersburg each year via state funding.

6. REQUEST: Petersburg supports the elimination of the ban imposed in 2021 on the operation of Skilled Game machines. The City supports a direct stream of tax revenue to each locality from Skilled Game operations.

7. REQUEST: Airbnb and all other accommodation intermediaries shall remit occupancy/lodging taxes on the room charge directly to the locality with supporting documentation as requested by the locality. The documentation shall include the address of the accommodation, the identity of the accommodation provider, and the gross receipts on which the remitted tax was derived. § 58.1-3826. Scope of transient occupancy tax.

7. REQUEST: Increase VDOT funding for the repair of bridges within the City.

19

Local

Saturday, December 18, 2021

LNNUSA.com

City of Petersburg Government Relations

135 N. Union Street Petersburg, Virginia 23803 (804) 347-3321

PETERSBURG PROJECT LIST FOR RECOVERY FUNDING AND/OR BUDGET AMENDMENTS 1. Demolition/Recovery of Old Ramada Inn ...............

(3 parcels/demo of hotel) (Tourism Recovery) Petersburg is the gateway to Virginia from the South via I-95 and I-85. The recovery, demolition, and revitalization of this site is vital to Tourism Recovery in Virginia, the City of Petersburg & Petersburg Region. Recovery from COVID is critical to tourism, a major economic driver for Petersburg, region, and Virginia.

$

2,600,000

2. Emergency Public Safety Radio System .................. $ 3,260,300 (Public Safety) The last update to the City’s Public Safety Mission Critical Communication system was in 2013. Support for these systems has ended, and many critical system replacement parts are only available on E-Bay. As a result, the ability to keep the system operational is at a heightened level of risk. The City is one storm away from a catastrophic system failure that could render the system inoperable for days or weeks preventing dispatch and communication with Public Safety first-responders A detailed report is available upon request.

20

Local LNNUSA.com

Saturday, December 18, 2021

City of Petersburg Government Relations

135 N. Union Street Petersburg, Virginia 23803 (804) 347-3321

3. Gun Violence Prevention ......................................... $ 1,000,000 a. Staff (3 FTE – Police Department social workers) b. Program Development & Implementation (Public Safety) Petersburg had the highest number of murders per 100,000 residents in 2019 and 2020 in Virginia. Twenty-four (24) murders was a record number, with a population of approximately 33,000. In 2019 Petersburg Police confiscated 325 illegally owned firearms, but illegal weapons are still in the hands of minors and people with felonies. The Police Department has developed a plan (pending funding) to hire social workers who will engage with city youth and adults on conflict resolution, as well as providing programs and guidance on life choices, including education & recreation. The program will be in collaboration with schools and Parks & Rec. 4. South Side Depot ..................................................... $ 3,500,000 (Tourism Recovery) South Side Depot, the South Side Railroad line, and three other rail lines in the vicinity were considered vitally important to the survival of the Confederate capital in Richmond, VA and to the entire Confederacy. In the final year of the war, these key rail links became the target of Union Army forces under General Grant who sought to cut-off supplies and communication to Lee’s army. The resulting 9.5 month-long campaign and siege of Petersburg involved the most important political and military leaders of the Civil War. The last rail line controlled by the Confederate troops was the South Side Railroad, which was served in Petersburg by the South Side Depot. When Union troops gained control of the South Side Railroad in April 1865, it effectively ended the Civil War.

21

Local LNNUSA.com

Saturday, December 18, 2021

City of Petersburg Government Relations

135 N. Union Street Petersburg, Virginia 23803 (804) 347-3321

The National Park Service boundary adjustment study has been completed. It was determined that the South Side Depot should be preserved as a public/private partnership (NPS/Petersburg). To move forward with the partnership, the City of Petersburg must restore South Side Depot. This would establish a Visitor Contact station with the NPS. It is estimated that over 40,000 additional visitors would come into the Old Towne area of Petersburg each year.

5. Petersburg Library Education Center ...................... $ 500,000 (COVID Recovery) The Petersburg Public Library Educational Center is a 3,800 square foot space that will seat 375 people auditorium style and 200 people banquet style (less pending social distancing). Based on a recent survey, more than 10,000 people will use the facility annually.

This Center is a cornerstone for learning, information, and resources the community needs now. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many people were experiencing systemic barriers, having little to no savings, being underinsured or uninsured, and having fewer benefits/skills to weather the economic and health effects of COVID. Recovery for many people will include a place with programs to rebuild their lives that includes job training/choices, healthcare clinics & education, early and adult literacy, STEM activities, computer training, access to computers with internet service (many Petersburg residents have no access to the internet) and reading/math tutors.

This large space helps ensure health and safety during activities.

22

Local LNNUSA.com

Saturday, December 18, 2021

City of Petersburg Government Relations

135 N. Union Street Petersburg, Virginia 23803 (804) 347-3321

6. Technology Park ...................................................... $ 5,000,000 A. Site Preparation B. Broadband C. Ingress-Egress (Economic Recovery) This is the former 15-acre hospital site located on Sycamore Street.

It is currently rated at tier 2 but needs to be upgraded to tier 4 with improvements. This area is critical to filling an economic void in the center of Petersburg. The site is now surrounded by many vacant office spaces that were once used as physician offices. This prime location for Petersburg’s technology park will bring hightech/high paying jobs and workforce training to an economically distressed community.

7. EDA Revolving Loan Fund ....................................... $ 5,000,000 (Tourism Recovery) Petersburg’s Economic Development Authority has established a revolving loan fund that will be used to assist the tourism/hospitality business recover in the City. The fund will provide gap financing.

23

Local LNNUSA.com

Saturday, December 18, 2021

City of Petersburg Government Relations

135 N. Union Street Petersburg, Virginia 23803 (804) 347-3321

8. Black History Interpretation & Museum ................. $ 1,000,000 A. Site Stabilization B. Program Development/Content Creation (Tourism Recovery) On February 27, 1960, the Civil Rights movement in Petersburg moved forward with an attempt to end segregation in the Petersburg Public Library.

Under the leadership of Reverend Wyatt Tee Walker, pastor of Gillfield Baptist Church, approximately 140 African American students from Peabody and Virginia State College walked in the main entrance and took all the available seats inside. Library access for African Americans at that time was through a side entrance that led only to the colored branch in the basement. The library was closed for the next four days, and the city council passed a tougher ordinance to deter trespassing and refused to integrate the library.

On March 7, 1960, 15 African Americans walked through the front door of the library and took seats inside reserved for whites. Eleven were arrested and under the new city ordinance, each faced up to a year in jail and a fine of up to $1,000.

Petersburg is rich in African American history that remains untold. Pocahontas Island in Petersburg was home to the largest number of free blacks during the Civil War. First Baptist Church is the oldest African American Baptist church in the U.S., and the first school for black children was established at First Baptist. The opening of a black history museum and interpretive center in the former Library building is much needed to broaden tourism in Petersburg, the region and Virginia.

24

Local LNNUSA.com

Saturday, December 18, 2021

City of Petersburg Government Relations

135 N. Union Street Petersburg, Virginia 23803 (804) 347-3321

9. Freedom Support Center ......................................... $ 400,000 (COVID Recovery) The Petersburg Freedom Support Center (PFSC) is a community-based initiative focused on bridging gaps and improving service delivery for veterans, service members and their families. It opened in November 2013 and has provided a full range of services for veterans and their families including housing, workforce training & jobs, along with benefit support. COVID forced the closure of the Freedom Support Center.

While closed the Center lost major funding from a local foundation. The Center has reopened but is struggling. The request for $400,000 is for the City to support this Center over the next four (4) years.

Services offered include: • AMVETS -Benefits & Claim Filing • Association for Wounded Veterans Changing Lifestyles - Benefits & Claim Filing • Disabled American Veterans Chapter 47Transportation • Virginia Employment Commission - Jobs & Resume Building • Virginia Supportive Housing - Housing & Homeless Prevention • Wounded Warrior Program - Counseling, Mental Health Services, Benefits & Claim Filing • Credit Rebuilding, Financial Counseling, New Bank Accounts & VA Home Loans • Wheelchair - Transportation & Assistive Devices

25

Local LNNUSA.com

Saturday, December 18, 2021

City of Petersburg Government Relations

135 N. Union Street Petersburg, Virginia 23803 (804) 347-3321

10. Historic Blighted Property Recovery ....................... $ 3,000,000 (COVID Recovery) Many people in Petersburg are unable to pay and/or maintain properties (mostly historic). These properties are in a state of disrepair. The City of Petersburg wants to encourage people to remain or move back to their homes. Some residents will not return, so there must be incentives to recover and improve these properties. This is a fund for residents who are not able to afford or navigate other tax opportunities, i.e. historic tax credits. This would be a revolving loan fund that would help those who are economically disadvantaged live and maintain properties that are part of the Petersburg’s historic fabric.

Crime

26

LNNUSA.com

Saturday, December 18, 2021

DINWIDDIE ARREST REPORT Kevin Legonald Lewis, 58 years old of the 3700 block of Chesdin Boulevard, Sutherland, Virginia was arrested on December 2, 2021 for driving while intoxicated and driving without an operator’s license.

Wayne William Gregory, 47 years old of the 1700 block of Berkeley Avenue, Petersburg, Virginia was arrested on December 3, 2021 for driving while intoxicated, driving on revoked license, drinking while operating a motor vehicle; possession of open container while operating a motor vehicle and presumption and possession of controlled substance.

Sergio Gabrie ParraZamarripa, 46 years old of the 1200 block of Elmwood Drive, Colonial Heights, Virginia was arrested on December 3, 2021 for contempt, by failing to appear in court.

Ryan Quinn Turner, Jr., 22 years old of the 4200 block of McIlwaine Drive, North Dinwiddie, Virginia was arrested on December 5, 2021 for trespassing, larceny and causing or encouraging acts rendering children delinquent.

Tyler Matthew Woodruff, 20 years old of the 5800 block of Hair Road, Disputanta, Virginia was arrested on December 5, 2021 for trespassing, larceny and causing or encouraging acts rendering children delinquent.

Damion D. Johnson, 29 years old of the 2300 block of Rosedale Road, Snellville, Georgia was arrested on December 6, 2021 for failure to appear in court.

Daniel Wesley Cisneros, 23 years old of the 8300 block of Audley Lane, Richmond, Virginia was arrested on December 7, 2021 for contempt by failing to appear in court.

Candace Jones Rose, 35 years old of the 24000 block of Jones Road, Stony Creek, Virginia was arrested on December 6, 2021 for destruction of property, assault and battery on law-enforcement officer, obstructing justice and appearing intoxicated in public.

Shawn William Hilton, 29 years old of the 5900 block of Boydton Plank Road, Petersburg, Virginia was arrested on December 7, 2021 for two counts of probation violation.

Toloria Lacole Starke, 38 years old of the 200 block of North Carolina Avenue, Petersburg, Virginia was arrested on December 8, 2021 for speeding, driving on revoked license and driving while intoxicated.

Phillip William Hunnel, 20 years old of the 24000 block of Cox Road, Petersburg, Virginia was arrested on December 8, 2021 for contempt by failing to appear in court.

Ronnie Anthony Hall, 41 years old of the 3100 block of Pinetree Drive, Petersburg, Virginia was arrested on December 9, 2021 for contempt by failing to appear in court.

Shamika Monee Evans, 33 years old of the 19000 block of Turkey Egg Road, Dinwiddie, Virginia was arrested on December 8, 2021 for contempt by failing to obey court order.

POLICE INVESTIGATE FATAL CRASH CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, VA – Chesterfield County Police are investigating a fatal crash that occurred in the 1800 block of Northcreek Drive at about 7:15 p.m. on Saturday, December 11, 2021.

Police said the driver of a 2007 Chevy Silverado was traveling on Northland Drive when he appeared to have suffered a medical emergency and crashed into an unoccupied vehicle in the 1800 block of Northcreek Drive. The driver was transported to an area hospital, where he was pro-

nounced dead. The victim’s name is being withheld at this time pending notification of next of kin.

Police continue to investigate this incident. Anyone with information should contact the Chesterfield County Police Department at 804748-1251 or Crime Solvers at 804748-0660 or through the P3 app.

Authorized by: Lieutenant F. Kevin Lee, Uniform Operations Bureau.

Crime

27

Saturday, December 18, 2021

LNNUSA.com

HOPEWELL P O L I C E AC T I V I T Y R E P O RT ON 12/12/2021, POLICE RESPONDED TO BASSETT ST AND STEWART AVE FOR A REPORTED SHOOTING. OFFENDER FIRED SHOTS, STRIKING VEHICLE AND PASSENGER, CAUSING SERIOUS INJURY. ON 12/09/2021, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 300 BLK OF RED OAK DR FOR A REPORTED BRANDISHING. KNOWN OFFENDER POINTED FIREARM AT VICTIM AND WAS LATER ARRESTED. NO INJURIES. ON 12/06/2021, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 2400 BLK OF WAKEFIELD ST FOR A REPORTED BURGLARY. UNKNOWN OFFENDER ENTERED RESIDENCE BY BREAKING REAR WINDOWS AND STOLE FIREARM. ON 12/07/2021, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 400 BLK OF S 21ST AVE FOR A REPORTED BURGLARY. UNKNOWN OFFENDER ENTERED RESIDENCE AND STOLE TV, LAPTOPS AND SHOES. ON 12/08/2021, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 400 BLK OF W RANDOLPH RD FOR A REPORTED DRUG OFFENSE. KNOWN OFFENDER WAS FOUND TO BE IN POSSESSION OF NARCOTICS, WHICH WERE SEIZED FOR DESTRUCTION. ON 12/08/2021, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 400 BLK OF W RANDOLPH RD FOR A REPORTED DRUG VIOLATION. KNOWN OFFENDER WAS FOUND TO BE WANTED AND IN POSSESSION OR NARCOTICS AND WAS ARRESTED. ON 12/12/2021, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 100 BLK OF S 16TH AVE FOR A REPORTED DRUG VIOLATION. KNOWN OFFENDER WAS FOUND TO BE WANTED AND IN POSSESSION OF NARCOTICS AND WAS ARRESTED. ON 12/10/2021, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 1800 BLK OF DINWIDDIE AVE FOR A REPORTED LARCENY. UNKNOWN ON 12/12/2021, POLICE RESPONDED TO BASSETT ST AND STEWART AVE FOR A REPORTED SHOOTING. OFFENDER FIRED SHOTS, STRIKING VEHICLE AND PASSENGER, CAUSING SERIOUS INJURY. ON 12/09/2021, POLICE RESPONDED

HOPEWELL POLICE DEPARTMENT CRIME SUMMARY

TO THE 300 BLK OF RED OAK DR FOR A REPORTED BRANDISHING. KNOWN OFFENDER POINTED FIREARM AT VICTIM AND WAS LATER ARRESTED. NO INJURIES. ON 12/06/2021, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 2400 BLK OF WAKEFIELD ST FOR A REPORTED BURGLARY. UNKNOWN OFFENDER ENTERED RESIDENCE BY BREAKING REAR WINDOWS AND STOLE FIREARM. ON 12/07/2021, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 400 BLK OF S 21ST AVE FOR A REPORTED BURGLARY. UNKNOWN OFFENDER ENTERED RESIDENCE AND STOLE TV, LAPTOPS AND SHOES. ON 12/08/2021, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 400 BLK OF W RANDOLPH RD FOR A REPORTED DRUG OFFENSE. KNOWN OFFENDER WAS FOUND TO BE IN POSSESSION OF NARCOTICS, WHICH WERE SEIZED FOR DESTRUCTION. ON 12/08/2021, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 400 BLK OF W RANDOLPH RD FOR A REPORTED DRUG VIOLATION. KNOWN OFFENDER WAS FOUND TO BE WANTED AND IN POSSESSION OR NARCOTICS AND WAS ARRESTED. ON 12/12/2021, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 100 BLK OF S 16TH AVE FOR A REPORTED DRUG VIOLATION. KNOWN OFFENDER WAS FOUND TO BE WANTED AND IN POSSESSION OF NARCOTICS AND WAS ARRESTED. ON 12/10/2021, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 1800 BLK OF DINWIDDIE AVE FOR A REPORTED LARCENY. UNKNOWN

POLICE RELEASE ADDITIONAL PHOTOS RELATED TO ROBBERY

CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, VA – Police continue to investigate a robbery that occurred at the 7-Eleven at 9700 Jefferson Davis Highway at about 1:23 a.m. on Sunday, Dec. 5. No one was injured in the incident.

Police said a male suspect, who was armed with a firearm, entered the business and demanded money.

The suspect took an undisclosed amount of cash and fled.

Surveillance cameras in the area captured the suspect getting into the driver’s side of a tractor trailer and

driving away. Police are asking for the public’s help to identify the suspect and the truck.

The suspect is described as a Black male with a goatee, approximately 50-55 years of age and about 6 feet tall with a medium build. He was wearing a gray hoodie, black sunglasses and blue jeans.

Police continue their investigation into this incident. Anyone with information should contact the Chesterfield County Police Department at 804-7481251 or Crime Solvers at 804-748-0660 or

through the P3 app.

Authorized by: Lieutenant Justin Aronson, Criminal Investigations Division. For additional information, contact Sgt. Michael Agnew at 804661-5127.

28

Crime LNNUSA.com

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

Saturday, December 18, 2021

Crime

29

Saturday, December 18, 2021

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 202111290003 Larceny-shoplifting ON 11/29/2021, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 16700 BLK OF S CRATER ROAD FOR A REPORTED SHOPLIFTING. INVESTIGATION DETERMINED KNOWN OFFENDER ATTEMPTED TO STEAL ANTIFREEZE. WHEN CONFRONTED THE ITEM WAS RETURNED. 202111290005 Assault-Simple, Kidnapping/Abduction ON 11/29/2021, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 15000 BLK OF WOODCLIFF LANE IN REFERENCE TO A DOMESTIC ASSAULT THAT HAD OCCURRED ON 11/21/2021. KNOWN OFFENDER IDENTIFIED. 202111290007 Fraud-Wire Fraud ON 11/29/2021, POLICE RECEIVED A REPORT OF FRAUD IN THE 10600 BLK OF WALTON LAKE ROAD. UNKNOWN OFFENDER GAINED ENTRY INTO A SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNT AND SCAMMED THE VICTIM FOR MONEY. 202111300002 Fraud-Identity Theft ON 11/30/2021, POLICE RECEIVED A REPORT OF FRAUD IN THE 11300 BLK OF CEDAR RUN ROAD. UNKNOWN OFFENDER OPENED A BANK ACCOUNT USING THE VICTIM’S INFORMATION. 202112010001 Burglary/Breaking and Entering ON 12/01/2021, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 4900 BLK OF COURTLAND ROAD FOR A BURGLARY. UNKNOWN OFFENDER USED TO A CHAIR TO GAIN ENTRY INTO A WINDOW. NO ITEMS WERE NOTED AS BEING TAKEN. 202112010003 Larceny-Shoplifting ON 12/01/2021, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 2000 BLK OF WATERSIDE ROAD FOR REPORTS OF A LARCENY. KNOWN OFFENDER PRESENTED A FORGED RECEIPT STATING ITEMS WERE PURCHASED AND WAS PICKING THEM UP. AFTER LEAVING WITH MULTIPLE LOADS OF COPPER, IT WAS DETERMINED THAT THE RECEIPT WAS FRAUDULENT. 202112010004 Fraud-Impersonation ON 12/01/2021, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 4600 BLK OF COUNTY DRIVE FORA REPORT OF FRAUD. UNKNOWN OFFENDER REPRESENTED THEMSELVES AS PAYPAL AND SCAMMED THE VICTIM OUT OF MONEY. 202112010005 Larceny-Theft of Motor Vehicle Parts ON 12/01/2021, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 5200 BLK OF OAKLAWN BLVD FORA REPORT

OF A VANDALISM. UNKNOWN OFFENDER STOLE CATALYTIC CONVERTERS OFF OF PARKED VEHICLES.

PRINCE GEORGE COUNTY POLICE DEPARTMENT WEEKLY HIGHLIGHTS November 29, 2021 – December 5, 2021

202112020001 Larceny-Theft of Motor Vehicle Parts ON 12/02/2021, OFFICERS RESPONDED TO 4500 BLK OF CROSSINGS BLVD FOR STOLEN PROPERTY. UNKNOWN OFFENDER STOLE LICENSE PLATES AFFIXED TO A VEHICLE. 202112020004 Fraud-Identity Theft ON 12/02/2021, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 6600 BLK OF PRINCE GEORGE DRIVE FOR A REPORT OF A FRAUD. UPON THE INVESTIGATION, IT WAS DETERMINED THAT AN UNKNOWN OFFENDER HAD STOLEN PERSONAL IDENTIFICATION FROM A CITIZEN AND ATTEMPTED TO OPEN SEVERAL CREDIT CARDS. NO MONEY WAS OBTAINED OR LOST. 202112020005 DUI, Drug/Narcotic Violations ON 12/02/2021, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE INTERSECTION OF QUALITY DRIVE AND CHUDOBA PKWY TO INVESTIGATE A MOTOR VEHICLE ACCIDENT WITH ENTRAPMENT. THE INVESTIGATION IT WAS DETERMINED THAT THE DRIVER WAS UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF NARCOTICS. ADDITIONAL INVESTIGATION REVEALED NARCOTIC EQUIPMENT RECOVERED FROM THE VEHICLE. 202112030003 Burglary/Breaking and Entering ON 12/03/2021, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 11200 BLK OF MERCHANTS HOPE ROAD IN REFERENCE TO A BURGLARY. UNKNOWN OFFENDER ENTERED THE VICTIM’S GARAGE AND STOLE THE VICTIM’S DIRT BIKE. 202112050001 Tampering With Vehicle ON 12/05/2021, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 12000 BLK OF SOUTH CRATER ROAD FOR A SUSPICIOUS PERSON ATTEMPTING TO ENTRY INTO VEHICLES. OFFENDER WAS IDENTIFIED AND WAS ARRESTED FOR SAME. 202112050002 Assault-Simple ON 12/05/2021, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 3400 BLK OF ONTARIO DRIVE IN REFERENCE TO DOMESTIC ASSAULT. KNOWN OFFENDER WAS IDENTIFIED. ARREST MADE.



For the period November 29, 2021 – December 5, 2021 o 313 criminal and other types of calls for service were assigned o Total calls for service: 489

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

13 3 3 2 6 128 155

Animal Services Animal at Large Animal Bite/Exposure Animal Call Animal Livestock/Horse Call Animal Neglect/Cruelty Animal Sick/Injured Animal Wildlife Total

8 2 2 3 1 3 2 21

JUMAL WILLIAMS AGE 33 202111290002 PETERSBURG, VA DRIVING AFTER FORFEITURE OF LICENSE

BRANDY BRINKLEY AGE 35 202111270007 PRINCE GEORGE, VA ASSAULT & BATTERY -FAMILY MEMBER

BRYAN LOIZIDES AGE 41 202111290006 DISPUTANTA, VA TRESPASSING

ISAAC SEYMORE AGE 50 202112050001 CUMBERLAND, VA PUBLIC INTOXICATION

PATRICK MOORE JR AGE 24 202112010002 PRINCE GEORGE, VA RECKLESS DRIVING SHAMAURIE WILLIAMS AGE 29 202112020007 PETERSBURG, VA DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE

ELIZABETH SOTO AGE 28 202112050002 SAUGUS, CA ASSAULT & BATTERY -FAMILY MEMBER

Crime

30

LNNUSA.com

Saturday, December 18, 2021

Burglary: 1954 December 13, 2021 This week, the Chesterfield County/Colonial Heights Crime Solvers program needs your help to solve a burglary that occurred in Chesterfield County.

On Dec. 6, 2021, at 1:45 a.m., three armed intruders broke into a home in the Fairpines subdivision in Chesterfield County; fortunately, no one was home at the time. Once inside, the suspects stole a large amount of jewelry, watches and cash and fled the area.

Several of the items taken during this theft were unique. The Chesterfield County/Colonial Heights program has released photos of some of the jewelry that was stolen. 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 any information about any unsolved crime and 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.”

Fugitives of the Week: 1954 December 13, 2021

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

For more fugitives, visit our new website crimesolvers.net and hit the most wanted tab.

If you have seen one of these most wanted fugitives, call Crime Solvers (804) 748-0660, or use the p3Tips mobile app. We guarantee you will remain anonymous and could receive a cash reward up to $5,000.

Adrian Gordon is wanted for robbery and breaking and entering. Gordon, 34, is a 5-foot 7-inch-tall black male who weighs 170 lbs. Gordon has brown eyes and black hair.

Joshua Matthew Clayton is wanted for possession of controlled substances.

Clayton, 34, is a 6-foot 1-inch-tall white male who weighs 250 lbs. Clayton has green eyes and black hair.

You can like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter @CrimesolversCCH and subscribe to our YouTube Channel.

I am Det. Baldwin with the Chesterfield County/Colonial Heights Crime Solvers and these are your Fugitives of the Week.

“Take the Time to Solve the Crime.”

Weather

31

Saturday, December 18, 2021

LNNUSA.com

LOCAL

5 DAY

FORECAST

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

0%

30%

0%

0%

0%

MOSTLY CLOUDY

CHANCE OF RAIN

SUNNY

PARTLY SUNNY

PARTLY SUNNY

71°

41°

51°

Your Local Newscast With

CAROLYN DAY PRUETT Thursday Evenings

News By The People, For The People

LNNUSA.COM

29°

49°

30°

51

31°

51°

Opinion

32

LNNUSA.com

Saturday, December 18, 2021

“YES, VIRGINIA, THERE IS A SANTA CLAUS” In September of 1897, then eight-year-old Virginia O’Hanlon wrote a letter to the editor of the New York Sun. Her question and the Sun’s Francis Pharcellus Church’s legendary editorial have never been more pertinent to our nation, our state, and our community as it is today.

May the Spirit of Christmas consume us year-round.

Merry Christmas from our LNN USA family to yours…

THE EDITORIAL DEAR EDITOR: I am 8 years old.

Some of my little friends say there is no Santa Claus.

Papa says, ‘If you see it in THE SUN it’s so.’

Please tell me the truth; is there a Santa Claus?

VIRGINIA O’HANLON. 115 WEST NINETY-FIFTH STREET. VIRGINIA, your little friends are wrong. They have been affected by the skepticism of a skeptical age. They do not believe except they see. They think that nothing can be which is not comprehensible by their little minds.

All minds, Virginia, whether they be men’s or children’s, are little. In this great universe of ours man is a mere

insect, an ant, in his intellect, as compared with the boundless world about him, as measured by the intelligence capable of grasping the whole of truth and knowledge.

Yes, VIRGINIA, there is a Santa Claus. He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to your life its highest beauty and joy. Alas! how dreary would be the world if there were no Santa Claus. It would be as dreary as if there were no VIRGINIAS. There would be no childlike faith then, no poetry, no romance to make tolerable this existence. We should have no enjoyment, except in sense and sight. The eternal light with which childhood fills

the world would be extinguished.

Not believe in Santa Claus!

You might as well not believe in fairies! You might get your papa to hire men to watch in all the chimneys on Christmas Eve to catch Santa Claus, but even if they did not see Santa Claus coming down, what would that prove? Nobody sees Santa Claus, but that is no sign that there is no Santa Claus. The most real things in the world are those that neither children nor men can see. Did you ever see fairies dancing on the lawn? Of course not, but that’s no proof that they are not there. Nobody can conceive or imagine all the wonders there are unseen and unseeable in the world.

You may tear apart the baby’s rattle and see what makes the noise inside, but there is a veil covering the unseen world which not the strongest man, nor even the united strength of all the strongest men that ever lived, could tear apart. Only faith, fancy, poetry, love, romance, can push aside that curtain and view and picture the supernal beauty and glory beyond. Is it all real? Ah, VIRGINIA, in all this world there is nothing else real and abiding.

No Santa Claus! Thank God! he lives, and he lives forever.

A thousand years from now, Virginia, nay, ten times ten thousand years from now, he will continue to make glad the heart of childhood.

33

Opinion LNNUSA.com

Saturday, December 18, 2021

Money

34

LNNUSA.com

Saturday, December 18, 2021

­Lies, Damn Lies, and Government Inflation Statistics CLINT SIEGNER MONEY METALS EXCHANGE

More and more Americans aren’t buying the Wall Street fairy tale, no matter how heavily it is promoted.

Consumer prices are rising at the fastest pace in 40 years. The official report for November showed an increase of 0.8% versus October (9.6% annualized) and 6.8% over the past twelve months.

What’s more, the monthover-month increases show inflation accelerating.

Worst of all for the politicians and bureaucrats currently running the nation is that Americans are taking notice and assigning blame.

The Federal Reserve spent the past dozen years creating massive inflation via an endless series of “extraordinary measures,” including zero interest rates and debt monetization.

COVID lockdowns, vaccine mandates, and lavish unemployment benefits sponsored by state and federal governments all contributed to labor shortages which pushed wages and

prices higher and reduced the supply of goods and services.

The Biden administration canceled the Keystone oil pipeline and is considering shuttering another, contributing to higher oil prices.

Their fingerprints are all over the rising inflation now leaking out of Wall Street and the housing market and into the rest of the economy.

The ongoing inflation is not just a political liability.

It is also an embarrassment to officials like Jerome Powell who has stood out front for most of the year making his truly ridiculous claim that inflation is “transitory.”

It was

brazen for Powell to make such a claim, especially as he heads the central banking cartel directly responsible for the 108-year, nearly uninterrupted, decline of our currency’s purchasing power.

The coming year brings the midterm elections. The popularity of the White

House resident is in steady decline. If Democrats get blamed for a faltering economy and dramatically higher living expenses, even wide scale election rigging would be unlikely to avert a bloodbath at the polls.

The administration doesn’t want Americans talking about rising prices or voting their displeasure.

Last week, Bureau of Labor Statistics officials trotted out a new inflation-reporting gim-

mick. They will adjust the formula for measuring CPI. The two-sentence announcement simply states the index will use consumer expenditure data from 2019-2020. There isn’t enough detail to know exactly what this means, but it looks like an effort to raise the baseline numbers and thereby moderate reported price increases.

Americans will know for sure the fix is in when the headline CPI numbers begin to decline, and the financial press starts cheering Biden and the Fed for conquering the inflation dragon.

It is just the solution Americans should expect given the times.

Bureaucrats will do nothing to actually shore up the Federal Reserve Note “dollar.” They will rely instead on phony sta-

tistics and a coordinated PR campaign.

To be fair, this certainly won’t be the first time CPI calculations have been altered to disguise rising prices. Many skeptics anticipated this move.

We doubt the maneuver fools enough voters to matter. What people experience at the grocery store should outweigh any fake news on inflation.

Money

35

LNNUSA.com

Saturday, December 18, 2021

Biden’s IRS Is Mining for Gold STEFAN GLEASON MONEY METALS EXCHANGE

The Biden administration is moving aggressively to raise revenues by any means necessary – including going after precious metals held in so-called “home storage” or “checkbook” retirement accounts.

The IRS recently nailed a couple with a $300,000 tax bill for holding gold coins designated as Individual Retirement Account (IRA) assets – but stored in their home safe rather than at a depository.

The couple had unfortunately relied on marketing material from a promoter who claimed that setting up a limited liability company owned by their self-directed IRA would allow them to store their coins at home instead of through a third-party custodian.

In McNulty v. Commissioner, the Tax Court ruled against the couple and in favor of the IRS. The Court held that when individuals take direct possession of IRA assets, they have effectively taken IRA distributions which may be subject to taxes and penalties.

The good news for those who hold physical precious metals within an IRA is that the Tax Court affirmed the legality of Self-Directed

IRAs. It remains perfectly legal to hold most gold, silver, platinum, and palladium bullion products inside a tax-advantaged account – provided the assets are held by a trustee that meets IRS requirements for custodial arrangements.

Over the years, Money Metals Exchange has helped thousands of clients set up IRS-approved precious metals IRAs. We have also warned against schemes that supposedly take advantage of loopholes that allow home storage of IRA assets.

If this was once a “gray” area of the law, it’s now black and white. The IRS can and will go after you if you fail to set up your IRA through a legitimate account custodian and store the metals at a depository.

Of course, there are good reasons why you may wish to hold physical precious metals at home in a safe or in a secret location not accessible by any third parties.

But if you attempt to claim your personally held bullion as IRA assets, you’re inviting tax trouble.

As time goes on, U.S. taxpayers will find themselves under increasing pressure to make sure every single line on their return can withstand an IRS audit.

In testimony before Congress last week, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen admitted that ramped-up IRS enforcement will serve as a revenue-raising tool for the Biden administration.

Yellen had faced grilling

by Republican lawmakers over her claims that the Biden’s “Build Back Better” programs are “paid for” – meaning they won’t add to the budget deficit. But the Congressional Budget Office’s own scoring shows those claims to be false.

Yellen’s response? The CBO failed to account for the expected revenue increases that will flow into Treasury coffers thanks to an expanded and emboldened IRS. The Biden administration plans to hire tens of thousands of new IRS agents with a mandate to squeeze taxpayers for more dollars.

Especially vulnerable are small business owners and independent contractors, cryptocurrency holders, and those with sizeable retirement account assets.

The Tax Code is extraordinarily complex. The wealthy and large corporations can afford to hire accountants and lawyers to keep them out of trouble. The typical middle class taxpayer is at the mercy of the IRS. Nevermind that IRS agents often misapply or misrepresent the law – either because they don’t understand it or they believe generating revenue is more important than enforcing income tax provisions fairly. The message being sent loudly and clearly by the Treasury Secretary is that IRS agents exist to bring home the cash.

Many taxpayers actually

end up paying more in taxes than they legally owe because they are afraid of the IRS and fail to take legitimate deductions. Or they don’t know they are eligible for them in the first place.

As long as you are operating within the letter of the law – and ideally have your tax returns prepared and signed by an accountant or lawyer – there’s no good reason not to pursue every single dime of tax savings to which you are entitled.

But with audit risk on the rise, keeping records and receipts as proof of every tax move you make is essential.

One move still well worth considering is putting new or existing IRA assets into physical precious metals. It’s a straightforward process to convert an IRA from a brokerage account containing financial instruments into an IRS-approved Self-Directed IRA containing physical bullion. (Here’s a step-bystep guide on how to get started.)

A precious metals IRA protects your wealth against the twin threats of taxation and inflation. Right now, unfortunately, both of these threats are on the rise.

Ticket

36

LNNUSA.com

Omega Christmas Party December 19th - 2pm

December 19th - 7pm

Gladys Knight The Altria Theatre Richmond

Skating in a Winter Wonderland Christmas Party Chester Skate Center Chester

December 31st - 8pm

December 31st - 8pm

December 31st - 8:30pm

December 31st - 9pm

I Don’t Know Sports Grille Chester

Dinwiddie Moose Lodge Dinwiddie

Guncotton Coffee Hopewell

Omega Bar & Grill Hopewell

The Donnie Barber Project

Hopewell American Legion Hopewell

NYE with 4Play

December 20th - 6:30pm

Saturday, December 18, 2021

Way Down South

December 26th - 7:30pm

Fighting Gravity The National Richmond

New Years Gala

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

Behind The

37

LNNUSA.com

Saturday, December 18, 2021

3 H LIDAY HOSTING HACKS

Despite a busy holiday schedule, you can take the stress out of entertaining and cooking by planning ahead and simplifying your menu.

Consider these tips from the entertaining experts at Sunkist and food blogger, podcaster and TV host Brandi Milloy for a fresh spin on your festivities.

Family Features

Start with Showstopping Recipes

When hosting for the holidays, visual dishes that look as good as they taste lend themselves toward seasonal celebrations. Try shareable creations like this Baked Camembert Wreath with Navel Orange and Cranberry for a fun way to beautify your table.

Or give an edible gift like Chocolate Dipped Candied Orange Peels – just place in a clear glass jar adorned with seasonal ribbon.

Serve Seasonal Ingredients

For added flavor in favorite dishes, look for easyto-find, in-season ingredients like Sunkist Navel

oranges, which are at their peak and deliciously sweet. Perfect for snacking or adding to recipes from cocktails to desserts, they support your immune system by offering 90% of your daily vitamin C.

Wind Down with Movie Night

A final touch of family festivity can be found in an evening spent watching a holiday classic like Elf. Gather loved ones, lay out favorite snacks and treats then look to the big screen for a fun way to relax and take in the joy of the season.

Dish

Behind The

38

LNNUSA.com

Saturday, December 18, 2021

Baked Camembert Wreath with Navel Orange and Cranberry PREP TIME: 2 HOURS | COOK TIME: 15 MINUTES | SERVINGS: 6 Recipe courtesy of Brandi Milloy on behalf of Sunkist

Ingredients: • 1 Sunkist Navel orange • 1 can (8 ounces) jellied cranberry sauce • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes • 1 camembert cheese wheel

• 1 bag (25 ounces) frozen Parker House style rolls, thawed • sprigs rosemary, for garnish • sprigs thyme, for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS 1. In bowl, add zest and juice from orange.

2. Add jellied cranberry sauce and red pepper flakes; mix.

Store in airtight container in refrigerator until ready to use.

3. Cover baking sheet or round pizza stone with parchment paper.

4. Using cheese wheel as guide in center, arrange rolls around cheese leaving about 1/4-inch space between rolls.

5. Create two concentric circles of rolls around cheese then place cheese back in refrigerator and let dough rise 2 hours.

6. Heat oven to 325 F.

7. Remove top of rind from cheese wheel and place in center of dough. Bake 7-8 minutes.

8. Remove from oven and add orange cranberry sauce. Bake 7-8 minutes until bread is golden and cheese is melted and bubbly.

9. Garnish with sprigs of rosemary and thyme.

Chocolate Dipped Candied Orange Peels

PREP TIME: 5 MINUTES | COOK TIME: 1 HOUR | SERVINGS: 4

Recipe courtesy of Brandi Milloy on behalf of Sunkist

Ingredients: • 4 Sunkist Navel oranges • 3 cups water • 1 1/2 cups sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste • 1 cup dark chocolate, melted

INSTRUCTIONS 1. Rinse and dry oranges. Slice both ends off each orange.

2. Using paring knife, carefully score each orange in quarters then remove peel from each section, trying not to get too much pith.

3. Slice peels into 1/4-inch strips. Add to pot and cover with water and sugar; stir. Bring to boil.

4. Turn heat to medium-low until water reaches soft simmer.

Simmer 45 minutes. Add vanilla before turning off heat and stirring.

5. Remove peels from syrup and cool on wire rack. Roll in

sugar to coat.

6. Serve immediately or dry at least 4 hours, or overnight.

7. Dip candied orange peels one at a time in dark chocolate.

8. Place on parchment paper to set up and harden. Store in airtight container.

39

Amusement LNNUSA.com

Universal Crossword Edited by David Steinberg December 18, 2021 ACROSS 1 Mix with a spoon 5 Flower’s deer friend, in a Disney film 10 Support for a crow’s nest 14 Actress Anderson 15 Out of bed 16 Big name in beauty stores 17 All excited 18 Barely defeated 19 Cash advance 20 Course to follow 22 Some siblings 24 Tik___ 25 King of France?

26 Olympian who might weave through gates 31 Channel that shows college games 34 Name for an unknown commenter 35 Medical research agcy.

36 : : : 38 Brat 39 Say hello to 41 Longtime columnist Bombeck 42 Beach headwear

44 Website info section 45 Marvel Comics group 46 Bloodsucker 47 Curtail 49 Nickname that rhymes with “Clay” 50 Relative of -esque 51 Trust in 55 Shoes named for a British university 59 Tel ___ 60 Whiz at setting up office PCs 62 Chain that sells links?

63 Fodder holder 64 Addition symbol?

65 Wrestler/actor John 66 Coin opening 67 “Family Ties” mom 68 3:00, on a compass DOWN 1 Hit, as a handball 2 Ancient Roman’s attire 3 When a tense NBA situation may occur 4 *Exactly atop a golf course clump? (Note each starred clue’s number) 5 *Quitting a bad habit?

6 Bryant of “SNL” 7 Flavor enhancer: Abbr.

8 Some visit violets 9 *Man of

La Mancha, when beating around the bush?

10 *Decision about which manyscreened theater to patronize?

11 Succulent whose gel is mostly water 12 Asterisk 13 Shades around sunglasses?

21 Misery 23 Meh 26 Elliot of the Mamas and the Papas 27 Invalidate 28 Everybody’s opposite 29 “Dear” one 30 Larceny or piracy 32 Representative Torres

33 Not fulfilled 37 Showing sound judgment 40 Organ with a canal 43 Lot or plot measure 48 Nonmedical research agcy.

51 Low-pitched voice 52 Bad to the bone 53 “___ & Stitch” 54 And others, for short 55 Assayers’ rocks 56 Name hidden in “clearheaded” 57 Gets dressed in 58 Couple’s clash 61 Ask intrusive questions

PUZZLE ANSWER

© 2021 Andrews McMeel Universal www.upuzzles.com

Adding Roman Numerals by Paul Coulter

Saturday, December 18, 2021

40

Amusement LNNUSA.com

Saturday, December 18, 2021

SUDOKU MONSTER ANSWER

41

GARFIELD BY JIM DAVIS

DILBERT BY SCOTT ADAMS

PEANUTS BY CHARLES SCHULZ

PEARLS BEFORE SWINE BY STEPHAN PASTIS

Comics LNNUSA.com

Saturday, December 18, 2021

42

GARFIELD BY JIM DAVIS

DILBERT BY SCOTT ADAMS

PEANUTS BY CHARLES SCHULZ

PEARLS BEFORE SWINE BY STEPHAN PASTIS

Comics LNNUSA.com

Saturday, December 18, 2021

43

GARFIELD BY JIM DAVIS

DILBERT BY SCOTT ADAMS

PEANUTS BY CHARLES SCHULZ

PEARLS BEFORE SWINE BY STEPHAN PASTIS

Comics LNNUSA.com

Saturday, December 18, 2021

Classified

44

Saturday, December 18, 2021

LNNUSA.com

810 Mansion Drive Hopewell

4 Beds • 2 Baths • 2,616 Sq. Ft.

$330,000

3 Beds • 2 Baths 2,404 Sq. Ft.

$425,000

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

3301 E Princeton Road Petersburg 5 Beds • 4 Baths 4,250 Sq. Ft.

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

6153 Middle Road Prince George 3 BR 3.5 Bath

$499,950

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

Ingram & Associates (804) 748-0177

Mary Ann White

1200 Woodland Road Petersburg

10249 Centralia Station Road

$525,000

3 Beds • 2/1 Baths 2,025 Sq. Ft.

4 Beds • 5 Baths 4,204 Sq. Ft.

$459,950

(804) 729-5188

2788 Great Oak Road Warfield

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

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

Chesterfield

$419,000

804-524-9001

804-524-9001

Mary Ann White

804-731-1152

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

INDEPENDENT LOCAL NEWS YOU CAN TRUST

LNNUSA.COM

CHAI GALLAHUN

LNN Bureau Chief

CAROLYN DAY PRUETT LNN News Director

KALI RIGGLEMAN Marketing Specialist

CRAIG RICHARDS LNN CEO

Classified

45

Saturday, December 18, 2021

LNNUSA.com

SHOP LOCAL DIRECTORY

FEATURE YOUR BUSINESS FOR ONLY $25

EMAIL CEO@LNNUSA.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION

Oriental Cuisine Fused with Cajun Influences

KONRAN Lunch & Dinner

16 Old Street Petersburg

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

302 N. Sycamore St Old Towne Petersburg

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

An escape room is an adventure game in which players are locked in a room and have to use elements of the room to solve a series of puzzles and escape.

104 North Sycamore St – Petersburg www.EscapeOldTowne.com

804-203-5434

From fresh brewed coffee to famous fried chicken

The region’s best convenience stores!

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

Tri-Cities award winning Vape Shop 116 W Bank Street

Old Towne Petersburg

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

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

Come in for some awesome Beaunuts, dogs and brews!

404 N Sycamore St | Old Towne Petersburg

SUBSCRIBE ONLINE

www.LNNUSA.com

INDEPENDENT LOCAL NEWS YOU CAN TRUST

Click the Subscribe button at the top of the page

46

Obituaries LNNUSA.com

Saturday, December 18, 2021

Willard Barner Poarch

Bonnie Mountfort Cloud

Betty Thomas Kahn

Willard Barner Poarch, 88, of Colonial Heights passed away on Wednesday, December 15, 2021.

Born February 24, 1933, he was the son of the late James Wharton and Clara May Poarch, and was also preceded in death by his wife, Lorraine Williams Poarch; and siblings, Hattie Duncan, Christine Hoell, James Poarch, John Poarch, and William Poarch.

He as a longtime member of Ivey Memorial United Methodist Church and retired from Hercules Chemical Company at the age of 62 after many years of service.

He is survived by his sister, Gladys Lesley (Willard); daughters, Janet Arrington, Margaret Poarch, Lisa Arrington (Curtis); grandchildren, Christy Toombs (Kenneth), Todd Arrington (Toni), Ryan Arrington, Emily Arrington; great-grandchildren, Austin Toombs, Noah Toombs, Brayson Arrington, Brennan Arrington, Baylor Arrington; beloved friends, Pete McCaffity, Johnny Hendrick; and several nieces, nephews and other extended family members.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 22, 2021 at the Colonial Heights Chapel of E. Alvin Small Funeral Homes and Crematory, 2033 Boulevard.

Interment will follow in Southlawn Memorial Park. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday. Condolences may be registered at www.ealvinsmall.com.

Bonnie Mountfort Cloud, 63, of Chester VA, passed away on Wednesday December 15, 2021. She was the daughter of the late Joseph Mountfort and Margaret Lowery. She was also preceded in death by her brothers, Richard Mountfort and Bruce Mountfort. Bonnie retired after more than 30 years of service from the Chester Post Office. She was a member of St. John’s Epsicopal Church in Chester and a loving and devoted wife, mother, sister, grandmother, aunt and friend. She was survived by her loving husband of over 42 years, Bill Cloud; sons, Robert “Rob” Cloud (Judy) and Joel Cloud (Erin); grandchildren, Olivia Cloud, Stella Cloud, Dylan Cloud and Gavin Cloud; sisters, Jody Mountfort and Kitty Wells, as well as numerous extended family and friends. The family will receive friends for visitation from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Monday, December 20, 2021 at the Chester Chapel of J.T. Morriss & Son Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, December 21, 2021 at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Chester. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation in Bonnie’s memory to St. John’s Episcopal Church. Condolences may be registered at www.jtmorriss. com.

Betty Thomas Kahn, 80, of Midlothian VA, went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, December 15, 2021. She was the daughter of the late Andrew Jackson Thomas and Hilma Creggar Thomas. She was also preceded in death by her sister, Carol Ann Overbey. Betty graduated from Thomas Dale High School in 1962. She was a worshipper at Grace Gospel Chapel for many years. She was also a loving and devoted wife, mother, sister, grandmother and great grandmother who will be greatly missed by her family and friends. She is survived by her loving husband of 58 years, David Kahn; sons, Todd (Carla), Davy (Carolyn) and Tim (Martha); grandchildren, Brandon (Amanda), Bailey, Alex, Avery, Emily and Andrew; great-grandchildren, Natalie and Ashlynn; brother, Andrew “Jack” Thomas (Donnie); sister, Sarah Paulette (David) and numerous extended family and friends.

Betty is in God’s presence through her faith in Jesus Christ. Come celebrate her life and her faith in Christ with us. The family will receive friends for visitation between 2:00 and 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 19, 2021 at the Chester Chapel of J.T. Morriss & Son Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held at the funeral home, at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, December 20, 2021 with interment to follow at Sunset Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Betty’s memory to the Bible Broadcasting Network, P.O. Box 7300, Charlotte, NC, 28241. Condolences may be registered at www.jtmorriss.com.

1933 - 2021

May 18, 1958 - December 15, 2021

Joseph Hill

December 14, 1950 - December 15, 2021

William Blakes

December 22, 1958 - December 15, 2021 Mr. William Blakes of Petersburg, departed this life on Wednesday, December 15, 2021 at Chippenham Hospital, Richmond, VA. J.M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com.

July 25, 1941 - December 15, 2021

Mr. Joseph Hill of Petersburg, departed this life on Tuesday, DeDebra Lynn Edwards cember 15, 2021 December 31, 1955 - December 14, 2021 at Waverly Health & Rehabilitation obituary forthcomCenter, Waverly, ing VA. J.M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, www. jmwilkersonsince1874.com.

47

Obituaries

Saturday, December 18, 2021

LNNUSA.com

Barbara Ellen Brown

Melloney A. Bynum

Ronald John Roller

Barbara Ellen Brown, 80 of Petersburg, passed away Tuesday, December 14, 2021.

Funeral services will be announced by the Crater Road Chapel of E. Alvin Small Funeral Homes and Crematory 3935 S. Crater Road Petersburg, Virginia 23805.

Ms. Melloney A. Bynum departed this life on Tuesday, December 14, 2021 at Parham Health Care and Rehab Center, Richmond. J.M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com..

Ronald John Roller, 85, of Petersburg, passed away on December 13, 2021. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Christine Roller and his wife, Mildred Page Roller. Ronald was a retired 1st class Master Sergeant who served over 20 years in the United States Army. He was active in the community, assisting various business with setting up websites, especially the Mad Italian restaurant. He will be remembered as being generous, kind, and helpful to everyone he came into contact with. Ronald is survived by his daughter, Rhonda P. Roller; stepdaughter, Cindy P. Counter; grandchildren, Susan Wolfe-Powell (Adam) and Jeffrey Savoy; great-grandchildren, Zoe Powell and Chynna Savoy; brother, Fred Roller; sister, Darlene “Cookie” Hein (John); youngest sister, Debbie Salem; long time partner and special friend, Doris F. Gilliland; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. The family will receive friends at J.T. Morriss & Son Funeral Home – Petersburg, 103 S. Adams Street, on Monday, December 20, 2021 from 6-8 PM. A funeral service will be held in the chapel the following day at 1 PM, with interment to follow at Blandford Cemetery. Condolences may be registered to the family at www.jtmorriss. com.

December 23, 1940 - December 14, 2021

Faye Marie Gaither

November 18, 1946 - December 13, 2021 Faye Marie Gaither, 75, a resident of Chester, VA, passed away on Monday, December 13, 2021. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ellis Allison and Helen Richards Allison; daughter, Candy Gaither; brother, Samuel Allison. She is survived by her loving husband, Hugh E. Gaither; son, Bobby Almany (Patsy); son, Tim Almany (Donna); daughter, Sandra Almany; grandchildren, Tucker Almany, Griffin Almany, Brittany Mitchell (Daniel), Alexis Almany (Alex), Tiffany DiMatteo (David), Kristin Tush (Andrew); great grandchildren, Kolten, RaeLynn, Brysen, Wrenleigh, Emory, Gauge, Jaxon; sister, Pat Phillips (Don); nephews, Skip Phillips, Daryl Phillips, Rusty Phillips, David Phillips, and Michael Phillips; sister in law, Peggy; as well as numerous extended family and friends. The family will hold a Memorial Service in January 2022. Definitive dates and times will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in honor of Faye can be made to the Ronald McDonald House of Richmond 2330 Monument Ave, Richmond, VA 23220. Condolences may be registered online at www.jtmorriss.com.

March 28, 1966 - December 14, 2021

Kelvin L. Noel

October 30, 1966 - December 13, 2021 Services will be held 1:00 P.M., Tuesday, December 21, 2021 at the Chapel of J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, Pastor Michael Wyche, eulogist. The interment to follow at Dinwiddie Memorial Park.

J.M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, watch the funeral services live online at www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com.

January 24, 1936 - December 13, 2021

Flossie Porter

December 12, 2021

Ray A. Lee, Sr.

July 8, 1966 - December 12, 2021 Mr. Ray A. Lee, Sr. departed this life Sunday, December 12, 20201 at the Battlefield Park Health Care Center, Petersburg.

Funeral arrangements entrusted to the staff of the J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com.

Services for Mrs. Flossie Porter who departed this life Sunday, December 12, 2021 at the Battlefield Park Healthcare Center will be announced by the family at a later date. Funeral arrangements entrusted to the staff of the J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911,

Obituaries

48

Lenard Mabrey Moore-Tucker

Saturday, December 18, 2021

LNNUSA.com

December 12, 1924 - December 13, 2021

Mrs. Lenard Mabrey Moore-Tucker went home to be with the Lord God surrounded by her daughter and grandson at her home on Monday December 13, after celebrating her 97th birthday the day before.

She was born to the late Anna and Harvey Mabrey of Emporia, VA. She is succeeded in death by her 1st late husband Douglas Eugene Moore of Stoney Creek, VA, then her 2nd late husband Rev. McKinley Tucker, Sr. of Emporia, VA, and her sister, Virginia Gunnell of Richmond, VA. Lenard, graduate from Greensville High School and went on to attend St. Paul’s College and graduated with a B.S. degree in Home Economics. In 1974 she graduated from Virginia State College with her master’s degree in early childhood education. She loved education and retired from the Hopewell Public School System in 1985 after 38 years of teaching in the public schools. Lenard taught the gifted classes

Spencer J. Harper, Jr.

December 15, 1958 - December 12, 2021 Mr. Spencer Harper, Jr. better known as “Junie” departed this life, took his journey to heaven on Sunday, December 12, 2021, due to lingering condition, then heart failure. Junie was a character by right, voiced his opinion no matter what, who or where! He loved his family and often spoke about how family is important, and no one was any better than the other.

Spencer was baptized at an early age the Old Gravel Run Baptist Church, in the creek, by the late Reverend Curly. He regularly attended the Saint Paul Baptist Church Elm Street Campus, Petersburg.

Which he expressed his love for the Saints that welcomed and treated him with love.

Spencer attended the old Dinwiddie High School, but later received his GED. Junie loved drawing; he was an artist by heart.

But his passion and his trade was hauling junk. Junie was always riding around ready

plus 1st and 2nd graders during her tenure. She was honored by the Hopewell City School Board in 2006 during the African American History Month with a Distinguished Service Award.

Lenard was baptized at Clairsville Baptist Church in Emporia VA at a youthful age.

She continued to be a servant in the ministry at First Baptist Church of City Point in Hopewell, Virginia. L You could find her reading her bible and studying her Sunday School lessons weekly. She devoted herself to teaching Sunday School and Vacation Bible School classes. She was active at First Baptist Church of City Point for over 50 plus years as a member of the Missionary Board and Deaconess Board where she was the Chairperson for many years until her health declined.

Lenard loved being around people and was a woman of major influence wherever she went. She joined the Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. at the age of 70. She had a passion for entertaining others at her home. You would find her playing Bridge or Pinocle and serving lunches to the card members during the summer. She enjoyed cooking, fishing, sewing, traveling, and shopping.

Lenard was the matriarch of the family and believed in traditional family gatherings.

She had set values of importance God, family, community, and her church. She loved to laugh, cook, play games and visit with

friends. She was a founder of the Trojan Woods Association in Chesterfield County where she lived and a member of several birthday and social clubs. For over 25 years she was a member of the Eastern Star.

Lenard was very sociable out going, funny and strong willed.

She leaves behinds one daughter, Yolanda M. McDonald of Virginia Beach, VA; one grandson Montrel D. McDonald of Virginia Beach, VA; a stepson, McKinley Tucker Jr, of Glen Allen, VA; two step-granddaughters, Euridyce Ramsey and Ashley Tucker both of Richmond, VA; a beloved niece and goddaughter, Soraya A. Gunnell of Ashburn, VA; a nephew, James B. Gunnell of Richmond, VA; a cousin, Catherine Barnes of Branchville VA; nieces, Connie Pinnock of Michigan, Diane Moore of Richmond, VA, and Debra Patrick of Virginia Beach, VA; and a host of beloved relatives.

Services will be held 11:00 A.M., Monday, December 20, 2021 at the Chapel of J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA. The interment to follow at Dinwiddie Memorial Park.

J.M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911,

to pick to make that “Money” Spencer was born on December 15, 1958, and preceded in death by his parents, Spencer Harper, Sr. and Estelle E. Noggin Harper; paternal, William and Nolie Reed Harper; and maternal grandparents, John and Viney Noggin; his youngest brother, Aldus Harper, which he often talked about, and several aunts and uncles.

Spencer is survived to cherish his memories: by his two devoted and caring sisters, Deaconess Frances Clarke (Deacon William Clarke) and Veronica “Maureen” Harper (Robert); second mother to many aunts, Lillie and Gracie Harper; two uncles, Roger Noggin (Lucille) and John Noggin (Teresa); two nieces, Tameca and Shaquale; three nephews, Anthonio “Tony” Harper (Horacio), Damon Harper (Shuntae), and Kaderro Doby; several great nieces and nephews; numerous cousins and one that he particularly talked about Tomia “Lil Mia” Creighton; we would like to recognize his former wife, Mary Bailey Harper; a long-time devoted friend, Thomasina Mason.

Junie is gone but never forgotten.

Services will be held 1:00 P.M., Saturday, December 18, 2021 at Gravel Run Baptist Church, 12512 Duncan Road, North Dinwiddie, VA, the Rev. Dr. Larry D. Brown,

Sr., Pastor, eulogist. The interment to follow at the Jones Family Cemetery.

J.M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com. Watch the funeral services live online on our J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc. Facebook page.

JaKari L. Shaw December 13, 2021

Mr. JaKari L. Shaw of Petersburg, departed this life on Monday, December 13, 2021. J.M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com.

49

Obituaries

Michael Paul Dender

November 13, 1976 - December 12, 2021 Michael “Mike” Paul Dender, beloved father and husband, 45 of Prince George, VA, passed from this earthly world December 12, 2021, with his wife Andria W. Dender and daughter Lillian “Lily” D. Dender by his side. The family is deeply saddened by the loss of this exceptional man.

I want to share Mike’s story, as many weren’t even aware of the struggle he was facing on a daily basis.

Mike met his wife in 1998 and knew right away he had found his soul mate, and his equal in this world. In 2001 Mike proposed and by 2003 his love story was just beginning, when he married the love of his life whom he loved and adored until his very last breath.

In 2005 Mike and Andria decided to start extending their family, and within days had a child on the way. Days after deciding to start a family he was having numbness on the right side of his face, ignoring it all day, until his wife speaking with him after work, noticed a change in his speech and insisted he go the ER, where he was diagnosed with a brain tumor and immediately took action, as he was a man of action. Mike’s journey began with an awake craniotomy where a large portion of his tumor was able to be removed. He fought diligently to regain his speech, and motor functions of the right side to learn to speak, walk and use his hand and arm again. Within 2 months Mike came back to us 100%, and was the same wonderful man with the same optimism and refusal to be beaten. Soon after surgery Mike was given a prognosis of 4 years of quality life expectancy. Mike was the most determined individual, he never saw any obstacle he could not overcome. When Mike was given this prognosis he said no, I will show you year after year that I will not be defeated in 4 years, I will not allow it, I will be here to see my child grow and mature, I will live this life. Mike welcomed his beautiful daughter Lily into this world in 2006, and found his heart bursting with love for this new life he had part in creating. Mike quit his job the week after his daughter was born, deciding he would not spend his life being stuck at a job that couldn’t provide an ounce of sat-

LNNUSA.com

isfaction that his daughter could. He had plans and dreams for her and would ensure that he showed her every single day what she meant to him, and put her first in his determination to live. Mike threw elaborate birthday parties for his little goose, and wanted to give her the world, and did give her so many amazing experiences. He then decided to start his own company, consulting other companies in successful business practices.

Mike being the competent and savvy business person that he was, he was needed for more than consulting, and when asked to come work with Bloom Brothers Furniture, decided he would go to work with a man that he came to admire and eventually love, the late Lawrence Bloom.

Mike was saddened when in 2008 the company he had grown to love was closing, and he needed to find something else to do. Mike had met this man who was here from Canada on a work visa while at Bloom Brothers Furniture that impressed him very much and seemed to have so many complimenting attributes to Mike’s own, his business colleague at the time to later become one of his very best friends and business partner Travis Hamilton. Mike and Travis created an upholstery and fabric store, U-fab opening in Cary Town in late 2008.

Too soon things started to change for Mike during his semi annual scans, now 2008 comes and he needs to take action again, the doctors are telling him 9 months is their prognosis, saying he should stop and smell the roses. He didn’t immediately listen to the doctors treatment advice, as chances of this treatment working weren’t high, he was determined not to poison his body without exhausting all other avenues. Mike, using his intelligent mind, had been researching his disease all this time, and had decided he would first go the homeopathic route. Mike started multiple treatments, traveling to where he needed to go to get what he wanted, he wasn’t able to stop the growth, though it seemed to be slowing down. Eventually the beginning of 2009 showed it was time to take some different actions, so chemotherapy was his next option. Mike started chemotherapy, which he took himself at home every day for 18 months, this was a very difficult time, as you can imagine poisoning yourself on a daily basis would be. During this time of treatments, he never missed a day of work at his new and rapidly growing successful business U-fab. Mike knew this therapy was a long shot and wouldn’t be enough to save his life, so true to form

Saturday, December 18, 2021

he searched and tried many other homeopathic treatments, he was determined to cure his cancer. Scans throughout this time where showing chemotherapy was not working, the next step was radiation, which Mike was determined he would not do. You see, radiation does not cure cancer, in fact it creates cancer, this Mike knew was a band-aid to give him months, he was not accepting months, his daughter was 3 years old and he was not finished with his journey.

He didn’t want a few more years, he wanted a lifetime. Mike had never stopped searching for his cure and he threw himself into stopping this cancer from growing, we had many appointments that weren’t showing the progress he and his family were expecting. He was told during the end of the 18 months that his next appointment would be to discuss starting radiation, and Mike spent that time throwing everything at this disease, determination and his wife remembers him saying everyday without a doubt in his mind, I got this, I will not need to do radiation babe, you’ll see. Mike had a way of making you believe in him and his limitless accomplishments as he had never been beaten yet.

Mike and his wife arrived for the appointment to discuss radiation, and Dr. Asadullah Khan walked in with a huge smile on his face, and said, “What are you doing”.

They knew right then that we had this thing, Mike was right, as always and we got this. The tumor had not only stopped growing but had shrunk. His wife was once again amazed by this man, he was a marvel.

Life returned to a more normal pace where Mike made experiences for him and his family the goal. Mike and Travis decided in 2012 that Mike had completed his contribution to U-fab, it was time for him to move on and do something more. Mike opened his consulting business again and began to consult for Ashley Furniture, he made a huge impact on all the people he ever met, and this was no different, in his consulting he was able to help others become successful.

Around 2016 his time ended with the local Ashley Furniture and he started traveling all over the country to help others become successful, having a huge impact on everyone that he encountered.

Mike soon realized that he needed his wife by his side, he could not be away for more than 3 days at a time before he was racing home. He decided he would still consult as his help was needed by so many, but he would also start a new company with his wife to attempt to stay home and be more

50

Obituaries

locally based.

Mike and his wife started Furniture House Calls with all the optimism they had done everything else in life. They traveled and traveled some more all around the country, loving each other every single day and loving the chance at life they were given. Mike continued to focus on his own treatment and was showing that he had stabilized the tumor growth. During this time I stopped Mike from nothing he wanted, I put all my trust in him and he thrived in the faith I had in him.

His loving oncologist Dr. Asadullah Khan left the Richmond area around 2015 and headed for Milwaukee, WI. Mike did not like the new oncologist that took over so he stopped going for check ins and just kept doing what had been working.

Around 2016 his wife started to see some changes, but as often Mike’s optimism rubbed off on her so she just chalked it up and left it to his deference. Come the end of that year she couldn’t ignore the signs any longer, she said we are going to Milwaukee, we are going back to our doctor. You see this is the only man Mike would trust to care for him. This took some time to coordinate, but come 2017 they drove 930 miles to see the man Mike wanted in charge of his care.

Scans were showing some growth, it was time to take action again.

Mike again was not ready for that dreaded standard of care that doesn’t cure cancer.

He threw himself into finding another answer, he’d done it once before so this time would be no different. Never having any doubt in his ability, he researched and read all while running 2 companies, building a home HIMSELF for his family, with thousands of obstacles. As ever, he never stopped living life, never was down, com-

Terry Grammer Bell

April 19, 1953 - December 12, 2021 Terry Grammer Bell, 68, of Colonial Heights passed away on Sunday, December 12, 2021, at her home. Born April 19, 1953, she was the daughter of the late George Edwards and Irmalee Grammer and was also preceded in death by her brother, Rusty Grammer.

She was a lifelong member of Ivey Memori-

LNNUSA.com

plaining, or wondering why me. He knew he was the one to have this disease and he would be the one to win this fight. Time went on and life was lived with experiences that Lily and Andria will never forget. They did some things most thought were crazy, and outrageous such as taking their 13 year old on a birthday trip that spanned multiple states including White water rafting the New & Gauley River in Lansing WV. Mike continued to focus on the many things he had going on, as well as his health, but at this time things were getting heavy and keeping up with everything was becoming impossible. Mike and Andria had to sell their home and all of their possessions, but still they stayed positive. Mike and Andria turned every situation into a character building exercise and just kept things going as well as possible. Mike was building the subflooring of his home on the hottest August Day in 2018 all alone and exhausted himself so much, the next morning he had his very first seizure which was a grand mal seizure. His wife woke up to find him this way and this was a huge blow to their positive attitude and took them some a ton of effort to get through with their current situation weighing heavily things got very scary very quickly.

In September 2018 Mike and his wife drove that 930 miles again and this time for another awake craniotomy so he could get the gene information for treatment. Mike showed up for surgery expecting the world renowned surgeon Dr. Amin Kassam, only to find he was not listed as the surgeon and with 40 people scrubbed in and ready to go, Mike walked out and said no, I cannot go into this surgery without my mind at ease, I do not know this other surgeon, I have not researched him and I cannot do it. He was so upset to cause such a scene of refusing this major surgery, but felt that al United Methodist Church. A loving and devoted mother, her greatest accomplishment in life were her two sons, who she cherished dearly. She loved attending their various sporting events as kids and was their biggest cheerleader. An avid gardener, Terry had a green thumb and enjoyed working in her garden.

She leaves to cherish her memory her two beloved sons, Chad Custalow and James “J.C.” Bell; two sisters, Connie Barfell and Peggy Hedblom; two nieces, Christine Hedblom (Francis) and Kaitlin Hedblom (Guillermo); best friend, Melva Armstrong (Bunn) and other extended family members.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m.

Saturday, December 18, 2021

was what he had to do. Mike and Andria left the hospital that day and his wife took him across the country to make more memories through experiences and a week later they returned for this surgery.

After surgery he had the gene information we now knew what he and his family were fighting, and felt this would give him a leg up to know how to fight. He still refused radiation all the way and never received radiation and though the same chemotherapy was recommended he refused.

He fought this fight his way and made his own decisions, and was able to make it 16 years with this terrible disease that was supposed to take him in 4. He was able to watch his daughter grow and mature and know that she would be okay as she is an exceptional human just as he was.

Mike had just begun a new promising therapy on December 8, 2021 began this therapy that he and his wife were so very hopeful would be their answer, Mike just could not hold out any longer waiting for a cure.

His brain tumor grew to the point of leaving no more room for growth and ultimately took his life on December 12, 2021.

Everyone that knew Mike will know how fortunate they were to know him and be influenced by such an optimistic person.

Michael is survived by his Wife Andria W. Dender, their Daughter Lillian “Lily” D. Dender. His Father Francis W. Dender, and Mother Karin K. Newton, Step-Father Dennis Newton. Brother Frank Dender and Wife Christine, Brother Joe Mulholland and Wife Lisa, Sister Karyn Orth and Husband Jeff, and numerous nieces and nephews, uncles and aunts, and cousins.

on Monday, December 20, 2021, at the Colonial Heights Chapel of E. Alvin Small Funeral Homes, 2033 Boulevard. Interment will follow in Sunset Memorial Park.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the funeral service on Monday from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Labre Indian School, 112 St. Labre Campus Drive Ashland, MT 59003, or to Ivey Memorial United Methodist Church, 17120 Jefferson Davis Hwy, South Chesterfield, VA 23834. Condolences may be registered at www.ealvinsmall.com.

51

Obituaries

Steven Elliot Brunow

December 25, 1954 -December 12, 2021 December 25, 1954 - December 12, 2021, Steven Elliot Brunow, 66, of Dinwiddie passed away with his wife by his side on Sunday, December 12, 2021, after losing his battle with cancer. He grew up in Biloxi, Mississippi and graduated from Mississippi State University. Steve was loved and highly respected by his family and friends and will be sadly missed by all. He is preceded in death by his mother, Lillian M. Elliot Brunow; his grandparents, Lyle Elliot, Alice Jones Elliot Davidson, Charles Davidson, Jules H. Brunow Sr., and Harriet V. Brunow; his aunt, Evelyn Peschko; uncle, Bruce Elliot and aunt, Cathryn Elliot.

Survivors include his wife of 23 years, Ellen F. Brunow; his father, MSGT Thomas A.

Laverne Parham

December 27, 1958 - December 10, 2021 Ms. Laverne Parham, 62, departed to her heavenly home on Friday, December 10, 2021. Laverne was born December 27, 1958, to the late Josephine Miller Parham and Lewis Edward Parham in Richmond, Virginia. In addition to her mother and father, she was preceded in death by her brothers, Lewis Parham, Jr. and Sylvester Parham.

Laverne had a love for old school music and enjoyed scenic car rides with her loved ones. Laverne’s memory will always be cherished by her siblings, Wilbur Miller, Lillie Ann Crawley, Marjorie Wilson and Shirley Lewis; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.

Graveside service will be held 11:00 A.M., Wednesday, December 15, 2021 at Maury Cemetery, 2700 Maury Street, Richmond, VA.

LNNUSA.com

Brunow; step-daughter, Kimberlie A. (Todd) Pace; grandson, Mason M. Pace; sister, Tracy (Daniel) Finerman; brother, Thomas H. (Sandy) Brunow; niece, Lisa Baker Holmes; nephew, Sean Baker; and aunts, Cathy Cade and Chris (Art) Chickneas.

Steven was proud to be an American and was honored to have served in the US Army for 14 years. For 16 months he assisted Haiti as a Property Disposal Officer and he retired as a Major.

He retired after serving 36 years of faithful and devoted Federal Service with the Defense Commissary Agency at Ft. Lee, VA. In lieu of flowers the family prefers donations to The American Cancer Society https://www.cancer.org A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Thursday, December 16, 2021, at the Colonial Heights Chapel of the E. Alvin Small Funeral Homes & Crematory, 2033 Boulevard, Colonial Heights, Virginia 23834. Condolences may be registered at www.ealvinsmall.com.

Saturday, December 18, 2021

Joseph Bruce Elko, Jr.

March 13, 1979 - December 11, 2021

We are saddened and broken hearted that our beloved son, Joseph Bruce Elko, Jr. “JB” died suddenly on Saturday, December 11, 2021.

JB was born in Richmond on March 13, 1979. He attended Matoaca schools in Chesterfield, graduated from St. Vincent de Paul High School in Petersburg and Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, VA with a BFA in Interior Design. JB worked at notable woodworking and design firms in Richmond.

Most recently at Island Architects where he helped create beautiful homes on Kiawah Island. Earlier he worked at Glave & Holmes where he left his mark on many new buildings at Christopher Newport University and others.

JB was a kind and generous man with a creative mind. He was always willing to help solve design or architectural problems, help James Nelson Hixson a friend, or sit on the floor and play with May 21, 1949 - December 11, 2021 children. He loved boating on the Chesapeake Bay and fishing.

James N. Hixson, JB is survived by his parents, Joe and Betty 72, of Hopewell, Elko of South Chesterfield; his favorite passed away on brother and sister-in-law, Jacob and Cricket Saturday, DecemPerkinson Elko, of Dinwiddie; his beloved ber 11, 2021. He partner, Dana Johnson and her children, was preceded in Reid and Charlotte, whom JB loved as his death by his parown; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and ents, Nelson and many friends.

Mary Hixson; his The funeral will be held at St. Joseph Cathson, James Hixson; and his brothers, Donolic Church in Petersburg on Saturday, Deald Hixson and John Hixson. James was cember 18, 2021 at 2:00pm with visitation born in Trenton, New Jersey on May 21, one hour prior to the service. Burial will 1949 and spent 20 years as an over the road be at St. Joseph Cemetery with a reception truck driver. He also spent time during his following at the church parish hall. career as a mechanic and as a mill textile Flowers are welcome or donations can be worker. James served his country honormade to St. Joseph Catholic Church, PO Box ably, serving three tours in Vietnam. He was 2006 Petersburg, VA 23803 a member of the American Legion in LamJB was greatly loved and will be terribly bertville, NJ. James was a loving husband missed by all who knew him. and father, and will be dearly missed by his family. James is survived by his wife of 50 years, Linda Hixson; sons, William Hixson (Mary Beth) and Scott Hixson; grandchildren, Cody Radar, Scott David Hixson, and Isabella Hixson; sister, Mary Ann Appenzeller (David); brother, Anthony Hixson; two nephews; and numerous cousins. Services will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Hopewell Rescue Squad. Online condolences may be registered to the family at www.jtmorriss. com.

52

Obituaries

Leonard Scott, Jr.

July 30, 1958 - December 12, 2021 Mr. Leonard Scott, Jr. affectionately known as “Gramps and Papa”, entered into eternal rest on Sunday, December 12, 2021 at home surrounded by family. On July 30, 1958, Leonard was born to Agnes Shine Johnson and Leonard Scott, Sr. in Byron, GA. Leonard was a mechanic from the beginning to the end. He dearly loved his boat and his weathered hands worked hard to repair, restoring the boat which his children, family and friends enjoyed riding on.

He was happiest on the boat rides or behind the wheel of a truck with JuJu Bean, “hollering high-way papa high-way” and the great outdoors was his heaven on earth.

He was educated at Piper High School and later joined the United States Army from June 1976 to June 1996. He traveled the world with tours in Germany, Honduras, Iraq, and Korea.

Anyone who knew Leonard was touched by his kindness, humor and mild temperament. He was truly a peacemaker and he always was a source of positivity. We were blessed to learn many valuable lessons from Leonard during his 63 years. Valuable lessons learned: family a little bit of crazy, a little bit of loud and a whole lot of love; and family is where life begins and love never ends.

Veronica Brown December 11, 2021

Mrs. Veronica Brown departed this life Saturday, December 11, 2021 at her residence.

Funeral arrangements entrusted to the staff of the J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, www. jmwilkersonsince1874.com.

Saturday, December 18, 2021

LNNUSA.com

Leonard was preceded in death by his parents, Agnes Shine Johnson and Lenard Scott, Sr.; his loving daughter, Elisa Scott; brother, Alphonzo Shine; uncle, Earl Shine; and his nephews, D’wight Johnson and Crenshawn Caldwell. He leaves to cherish his memory: a devoted wife, Inger Eser-Scott; his devoted children, Katherina Warren (Patrick) and Darrell Johnson; grandchildren, Tatyana Williams, Shalijah Harrington, Katja Williams, Isaiah Harrington, Christiana Warren, and Josiah Allen; great grandchildren, Jayceon Williams and Anneliese Williams; devoted siblings, Kenneth Shine, Anthony Scott, Shirley Scott, Patricia Caldwell, Sheila Caldwell, and Demetrick Caldwell; niece, D’juan Johnson, Jasmin Coley, Dominique Prescott, and Alicia Caldwell; nephews, Dwayne Brown and Demario Johnson; and a host of cousins, other relatives and friends.

Services will be held 11:00 A.M., Saturday, December 18, 2021 at the Chapel of J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, Pastor Danny Patterson, eulogist and Mrs. Gayle Bowman, officiating. The interment to follow at Mt. Sinai Memorial Park.

A wake will be held from 5:30 P.M. to 6:30 P.M., Friday, December 17, 2021 at the funeral establishment.

J.M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, watch the funeral services live online at www.jmwilkersonsince1874. com.

David F. Martin, Jr.

July 15, 1963 - December 9, 2021 On December 9, 2021, David Franklin Martin Jr. completed his mission on Earth and graduated into the arms of the Almighty God, having done well as a good and faithful servant. Dave is survived by his family, including his wife, Kim; son, Trey (Summer Seay); and his parents, David and Mildred Martin. He is also survived by his beloved brothers, Mike and wife, Rebecca, and Matthew Martin.

He leaves behind so many people that love him; but, perhaps, none more than his nieces and nephews this includes: Mikey and Karla Martin, Miranda and husband Michael Navroski and children, Avery and Weston; nephew, Chasten Martin, as well as

Shirley T. Cooke 1944 – 2021

Shirley T. Cooke, 77, of Colonial Heights passed away on Saturday, December 11, 2021, at Lucy Corr Nursing Home.

Born in Richmond, Virginia on June 14, 1944, Shirley was the daughter of the late Alfred L. Bryant & Dorothy Holzner and was preceded in death by grandparents, Hattie & Leo Holzner.

She is survived by daughters, Angelia Mosconi Higgins of Chester and Shelia Boykins of Colonial Heights; grandchildren, Chloe Keeton, Crystal Boyce, Ashlyn Boyce and Willie Boyce; four great-grandchildren; loving aunt, Brenda Holzner of Petersburg and a dear devoted family friend, Christine Mosconi.

A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m.

Thursday, December 16, 2021 in Blandford Cemetery, 319 S. Crater Road, Petersburg, Virginia 23803 with Dr. Michael Moore officiating of Beacon Hill Church, Hopewell, Virginia. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 4600 Cox Road, Suite 130, Glen Allen, Virginia 23060. Arrangements by the Colonial Heights Chapel of the E. Alvin Small Funeral Homes & Crematory, 2033 Boulevard, Colonial Heights, Virginia 23834. Condolences may be registered at www.ealvinsmall.com.

his nieces and nephews by marriage; this would include: David, Aaron, Stella; his godson, Alex, Anna, and little Maddie,who loved to take a nap on Uncle Dave’s broad shoulders.He is also survived by numerous cousins. Finally, he is survived by his beloved cat, Pepper.

Dave is remembered by all for his love towards everyone, his easygoing demeanor, his undefeatable attitude, his awesome, quick smile, his handsome face, and such a kind heart that even the animals were drawn to him.

Dave had numerous certificates, as well as a BA in Christian Counseling from Concordia College, but he most enjoyed sharing life with family and friends, chatting with neighbors and a good fishing trip if one was to be had. He will be greatly missed, gone, but never gone from our hearts, until we meet him again in heaven.

Services will be announced by the family.

53

Obituaries LNNUSA.com

David Paul Sizemore

Patricia Ann “Pat” Mitchell

David Paul Sizemore, 59, of Enon, VA, passed away on Friday, December 10, 2021. Born in Hopewell, VA, he was the son of the late Elwood Lee and Ruth Alice Fridley Sizemore. David was a graduate of Thomas Dale High School and then went on to receive his Bachelor of Science Degree in Electrical Engineering from Virginia State University. He was a United States Army veteran having faithfully served his county from 1981 to 1984. He was currently the proud Vice President of Esitech, Inc., an engineered systems security group, where he gathered alongside his partners and company family for over twenty years. David loved playing golf every Sunday with wonderful friends at the Fort Lee Cardinal Club where he was a member. He also adored fishing, watching old movies, aviation, history, traveling and spending time with family and friends. He will be remembered by his family as a loving and devoted husband, father and brother. Mr. Sizemore is survived by his loving wife of 38 years, Carrie Renee Sizemore; two sons, Zachary Sizemore and Bryce Sizemore; a sister, Carol Kissinger; a brother, Dale Sizemore; his mother and father-in-law, Raynell and Gerald Holman; the entirety of the Partin, DeVillier, and Holman families; and numerous friends and colleagues. The family will receive all guests at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 15, 2021 at the Chester Chapel of J.T. Morriss & Son Funeral Home for visitation.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Entombment will follow at Bermuda Memorial Park, Chester, VA. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Multiple Myeloma Foundation or to the Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS) Foundation, in memory of David Paul Sizemore.

Condolences may be registered at www. jtmorriss.com.

Ms. Patricia Ann Mitchell affectionately known as “Pat”, 74, of Petersburg, VA, gained her glorious set of wings on December 10, 2021 at Bon Secour-Southside Regional Medical Center in Petersburg, VA. Patricia was born on November 23, 1947 in Dinwiddie, VA, to Mary Frances Mitchell and the late Albert Mitchell.

Patricia was a loving and devoted mother, grandmother, daughter, sister and friend.

She will be remembered by her genuine spirit and straight forward personality.

She accepted Christ as her Lord and personal savior. She served at Greater Refuge Apostolic Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ in Petersburg, VA, where Elder Donald Mitchell is the pastor.

Pat touched the lives of many with her outspoken spirit. She showed lots of love to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She loved to cook! Pat’s specialty items where strawberry rolls, minced barbeque, fried fish and chicken.

She was preceded in death by her father, Albert Mitchell; brother, Thomas Mitchell; sister, Betty Mitchell; several aunts and uncles; and two loving and devoted best

September 25, 1962 - December 10, 2021

November 23, 1947 - December 10, 2021

Saturday, December 18, 2021

friends, Mary Toran and Eula Tyce.

Pat leaves a family that will forever be changed but has many-many memories to hold on to: her loving and devoted daughters, Gloria Hanks (Lamont) and Kim Jackson (Marvin); her only baby boy, Chuckey Mitchell; three grandchildren that she loved and adored, Kiasha Mitchell (Ishmael), Lavon Mitchell (Justice) and LaKayla Mitchell; three great-grandchildren, Tremaya, Terrance and I’Shani; one sister, Tracy Downey (Patrick); four brothers, Clifton Harris, Lamonda Mitchell, Elder Donald Mitchell and Joshua Mitchell; three nieces, Michelle Clark (Corey), Amanda Blount (Jermon) and Kathy Smith; four nephews, Timothy Mitchell (Ebony), Reginald Harris (Telisha), Shan Harris, Justin Allen and Tyras Downey; god-children, Keonya Toran, Princess Williams and Jammie Smith; loving and devoted friend, James Scott; friends, Ruth Taylor, Yvonne Short, the Batts Family, Harris Family, Jones Family, Moore Family, Toran Family, Walker Family, and Brown Family.

Service will be held 2:00 P.M., Monday, December 20, 2021 at Mt. Olivet Baptist Church, 800 Augusta Avenue, Petersburg, VA, the Rev. Dr. Wesley K. McLaughlin, Pastor. The interment to follow at Wilkerson Memorial Cemetery.

J.M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, watch the funeral services live online at www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com.

Trudy Mae Hack

December 14, 1944 - December 11, 2021 Trudy M. Hack, 76, of Chesterfield, December 10, 2021 VA passed away on Saturday, DeServices for Mr. cember 11, 2021.

Danny Poitras Trudy will be rewho departed this membered by her life Friday, Decfamily as a loving meber 10, 2021 and devoted wife, at his residence mother and mimi. She is survived by her will be announced loving husband of 59 years, Josiah Hack; by the family at a three children, Joey Hack, Carrie Faris and later date. Funeral Jennifer Heath; six grandchildren, Chrisarrangements entrusted to the staff of the J. topher, Alex, Jared, Ethan, Isabella and RobM. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., by; her sister, Jean Worch; a cousin, Barbara 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) Gowen; and her best friend of 70 years, Lera 732-8911, www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com. Smith. Plans for a memorial service will be announced at a later date. The family is being served by the Chester Chapel of J.T. Morriss & Son Funeral Home. Condolences may be registered at www.jtmorriss.com

Danny Poitras

54

Obituaries

Randy Stephenson, Sr.

September 27, 1961 - December 10, 2021 Mr. Randy Stephenson, Sr. was born to Esther Stephenson and the late Otis Stephenson Sr. in Conway, North Carolina on September 27, 1961.

As a small child the family later moved to New York (Bronx) where he spent many years. In 2014, Randy and his wife Frances Stephenson moved to Hopewell, Virginia. On December 10, 2021 Randy departed this life at Southside Regional Medical Center in Petersburg, Virginia. Randy was surrounded by his loved ones.

Over the years Randy played many roles in his life but one thing for sure he was a loving husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, and nephew. Randy became a father of two early on in life to Charisse Allen and Charelle Griffin (Rhonda Griffin).

In 1981, he met Frances and they were joined in Holy Matrimony in 1993 and of that union a total of four children Randy Jr., Wesley (New York) Danielle and Frances Stephenson (Virginia) with sixteen grandchildren and 40 years of loving memories were made. As an occupation he was a Professional Mover and a Truck Driver, and he loved it. Randy loved his family uncon-

Paul Vincent Pope

March 05, 1979 - December 09, 2021 Our beloved, Paul Vincent Pope, affectionately and infamously known as V-Luv, departed this life on Thursday, December 9, 2021. He was born to Paul Pope and Joyce Pope on March 5, 1979, in Petersburg, Virginia. Paul was raised in and remained a resident of the City of Hopewell.

As a child Paul was baptized and attended New Covenant Apostolic Church in Richmond, Virginia.

Paul attended Hopewell Public Schools.

He graduated from Hopewell High School in 1997. He went on to pursue a degree in accounting at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia. He was the first in his

LNNUSA.com

Saturday, December 18, 2021

ditionally. Randy was the person everyone Giomari M. Fleming wanted around, and he was either going to October 27, 2021 - December 11, 2021 make you laugh or make you laugh until you cry. Throughout the years he traveled, Services for Infant and it always to be with his family. Randy Giomari M. Flemwas the person that, to many in his family ing of Petersburg, was the helping hand in any situation big who departed this or small. His memories will forever be cherlife on Saturday, ished by every person in his life.

December 11, 2021 He is survived by his wife, Frances Stephenat his residence son (Virginia); six children, Charisse Allen will be announced (New York), Charelle Griffin (North Caroby the family at a lina), Randy Stephenson, Jr., (New York), later time. J.M. Wilkerson Funeral EstabWesley Stephenson (New York), Danielle lishment, Inc., 102 South Stephenson (Virginia), Frances Stephenson Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) (Virginia) with a total of sixteen grand732-8911, www.jmwilkersonchildren; his mother, Esther Stephenson, since1874.com (Virginia); brothers, Elvis Stephenson (Cassie) (New York) and Otis Stephenson, Jr. (Georgia); sister, Bonnie Ingram and Steven E. Cochran brother-in-law Ronnie Ingram (Virginia); and many aunts, uncles, nieces and nephDecember 11, 2021 ews as well as many friends.

Service will be held 1:00 P.M., Saturday, Services for Mr. December 18, 2021 at the Chapel of J. M. Steven E. Cochran Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., who departed this 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, the Rev. life Saturday, DeHerbert Holly II, eulogist. The interment to cember 11, 2021 at follow at Mt. Sinai Memorial Park. his residence, will J.M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, be announced by Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, the family at a later (804) 732-8911, watch the funeral services date. live online at www.jmwilkersonsince1874.

Funeral arrangements entrusted to the com. staff of the J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com. family to pursue a degree in higher education.

Paul had a witty and timely sense of humor.

He was kind and loved people and was very sensitive to others. He was very observant, quiet and loved to clean. He was entrepreneurial minded and was known for his lawn care and handyman business. Whatever job V-Luv had, he worked hard at it. V-Luv is remembered to be a loyal and committed friend, often putting others before himself.

He was a deep thinker and he loved music; it was his therapy and relaxation.

Paul was preceded in death by grandparents, Paul Pope, Sr. and Lurietha Epps Pope; John and Leugenia McKenzie; niece, Simyrah Charles; uncle, Samuel Pope; aunt, Geraldine Pope.

He leaves to cherish his memory his parents, Paul and Joyce Pope of Hopewell; brothers, Lafayette D. Pope of Charlotte, NC; Michael A. Pope (Shannon) of Hopewell; sister, LaSandra D. Charles (Lambert) of Hopewell; nephew, Lambert,

Jr. (LJ); Godmother, Agnes Avery; and many loving and devoted aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

V-Luv will be greatly missed by many friends, family, acquaintances, and coworkers.

Homegoing service will be held 1 P.M, Wednesday, December 15, 2021 at the Chapel of Bland Funeral Homes, 137 Harrison St., Petersburg, VA, 23803, Rev. Calvin Lewis, Sr., eulogist. Interment will follow at Mt. Sinai Community Cemetery, Prince George, VA. The funeral arrangements for Mr. Pope have been entrusted to the professional staff of Bland Funeral Homes, 137 Harrison St., Petersburg, VA, 23803 (804) 7327841. www.blandfuneralhomes.com.

Obituaries

55

LNNUSA.com

Mrs. Allene Jackson

July 12, 1929 - December 08, 2021 Mrs. Allene B. Jackson, of Hopewell, departed this life Wednesday, December 8, 2021 at the Riverview on the Appomattox Health and Rehabilitation Center. She was born July 12, 1929 in Duplin County, NC, to her parents, the late James Ballard and Willie Florence Pearsall and stepfather, James Roberts.

Allene was employed with the Chesterfield Hotel Restaurant and Fort Lee (food service) for thirty-six years. Her hobbies included cooking, baking, singing and dancing. She was always very fashionable.

In her past time, she would watch baseball, wrestling and loved her soap operas. She attended Church of Christ. Mom enjoyed going to Texas Roadhouse and Golden Corral for birthday parties and family gatherings. She enjoyed spiritual music and going to church She was preceded in death by: husband,

Robert W. Fitzgerald

December 02, 1938 - December 06, 2021 Robert Weaver Fitzgerald (affectionately known as Big Fitz) of 2248 Dellrose Dr. Hopewell, passed away peacefully, Monday, December 6, 2021 at his

residence.

He was born December 2, 1938, confessed Christ at an early age. Robert graduated from Peabody High School, Class of 1966.

Robert retired from Richmond De’Couler International Paper after 30 years of faithful service.

Robert was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Betty Mae Claiborne Fitzgerald; his son, Robert Weaver Fitzgerald Jr; his father, Robert Weaver; his aunt Madeline Birchett; his nieces, Louise F. Scott and Melvina F. Leech; and his parents James

Saturday, December 18, 2021

Jeremiah “Cigar” Jackson; son, Sidney Lee Jackson; daughter, Joanne Jackson-Richardson; sisters, Estelle Wilkins and Francis Jamison; daughter-in-law, Inez Jackson and sons-in-law, George Faison and Marino Blocker.

Allene is survived by: children, Lavern Jackson (Herbert West), Helen Allene Thompson (Robert), Cynthia Faison, Jeremiah Jackson, Jr (Orine), Loretta Blocker, and Anthony Jackson; sibling, Evelyn Oliver (deceased, Clarence Oliver); brothers, Ernest Roberts of Hopewell, Linwood Roberts of Alexandria, James Roberts of Petersburg, and Thomas Roberts of Lawton, OK; In laws, Moses Jackson (Louise), Garfield Jackson, (deceased), (Elizabeth deceased), Joseph Jackson (Katherine), Rudolph Jackson (deceased), Mildred (deceased) and, Sidney Jackson (Eleanor); fifteen grandchildren, Tyetta Moore, (Mike), Ulric Jackson, Tyeasha Thompson, Tara Thompson, Tashanda Ratliff (Dion), Tavares Thompson, Sydney Richardson, Emanuel Richardson, Jr, (Juli), Darnell Jackson, Sidney Jackson, Michelle, Melanie, Toni Jackson, and Tonia Ann Jackson; thirty-one great grandchildren, and seven great great grandchildren; and a host

of nieces, nephews, cousins and devoted friends.

Special thanks to: Care Advantage and her nurse Linda Bolling and others, River View, and Amedisys Hospice of Blackstone and her nurse Rasheda Ruffin and others for taking care of our mother. Thank you for your dedication and devotion to her daughters, Lavern Jackson and Helen Thompson.

Also, thank you to her sister, Evelyn Oliver (Clarence Deceased) and her niece, Germaine Oliver and nephew, Alonzo Oliver, cousin, Annie Mae Wyche and family friend Herbert West and Deborah Eppes. Thanks to Erica Campbell for the pictures.

Funeral service will be held 11 A.M. Saturday, December 18, 2021 at the chapel of Bland Funeral Home, 137 Harrison St., Petersburg, VA, 23803, Pastor, Dominic Holloway, eulogy. Interment will follow at Mt. Minnis Cemetery.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the professional staff of Bland Funeral Homes, 137 Harrison St., Petersburg, VA., 804.732.7841. www.blandfuneralhomes.com

Henry and Effie Fitzgerald.

Robert will be sadly missed by his devoted daughters Seritha Brown (Cornelius) of Chesterfield, VA; Lacretia Fitzgerald (Eric) of Hopewell, VA; and Nancy Brown (John) of Varina, VA; one devoted sister, Dorothy F. Leech of Petersburg, VA; nine grandchildren, Shekera Brown, Shaterra Brown, Shakeal Hayes, Shakell Brown, Shamya Brown, Wilson “Nuk” Fitzgerald, Quaron Fitzgerald, Lorenzo Holloway Jr., and Kyllie Fitzgerald, three great-grandchildren, Cameron Brown, Carter Brown, and Adrianna Fitzgerald; devoted brother-in-law, Richard Claiborne Jr (Janet) of Hopewell; brother- in-law, Willie S. Claiborne (Tara) of Chesterfield, VA; three sisters- in-law, LaFrance Cook (Mickey), Vanessa Patrick and Mildred Johnson “Mattie” Johnson (Ronald) of Hopewell, VA; devoted niece, Clothilda (Jeffery) Hill of Petersburg, VA; and two devoted nephews, Alvin Taylor and Joseph Giles (Karen) of Hopewell, VA; host of nieces and nephews, cousins and friends; among them devoted, Linda Delane of

Richmond, VA, Ted Moore, Bonnie Roach, Mickey Cook, James Holloway and Deralla Brown all of Hopewell, VA and Bishop R.H. Cross Sr. and family.

Celebration of life service for Mr. Robert Fitzgerald will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 18, 2021 at the Chapel of Bland Funeral Homes, 137 Harrison St. Petersburg, VA 23803 with Dr. Gregory L. Williams, Eulogy.

The family asked relatives and friends to assemble at 2248 Dellrose Dr. Hopewell, VA at 12:00 noon day of the service.

In lieu of flowers the family is asking that donations be made to the charity of your choice.

The funeral arrangements for Mr. Fitzgerald have been entrusted to the professional staff of Bland Funeral Homes, 137 Harrison St., Petersburg, VA, 23803 (804) 7327841. www.blandfuneralhomes.com.

National

56

LNNUSA.com

Saturday, December 18, 2021

N ATION A L NEWS courtesy of THE E PO CH TIME S

From Coffee to Gasoline, Inflation Surges Everywhere in 2021 GEORGE FREY/AFP VIA GETTY IMAGES

ANDREW MORAN

The U.S. annual inflation rate has surged to its highest level since 1982, coming in at 6.8 percent in November.

The main expenditure categories highlighted notable yearover-year growth across the board. The food index climbed 6.1 percent, and the energy index soared 33.3 percent. The indexes for shelter rose 3.8 percent, while apparel advanced 5 percent. New vehicles and used cars and trucks increased 11.1 percent and 31.4 percent, respectively.

Items within these indexes suggest that shoppers are facing an inflation tax for just about everything they buy.

At the dinner table, U.S. households are grappling with increasing costs for meat, vegetables, and fruit.

Fresh biscuits, rolls, and muffins jumped 6.6 percent in the 12 months ending November.

Flour and prepared flour mixes rose 6.2 percent. Breakfast cereal increased 5.7 percent.

But the proteins may be hitting consumers’ wallets most.

The broad meats, poultry, fish, and eggs category surged 12.8 percent. Each meat product cost significantly more compared to the same time last year.

Beef and veal spiked 20.9 percent, pork 16.8 percent, ham 10.7 percent, chicken 9.2 percent, and fish and seafood 8 percent.

A dozen eggs rose 8 percent.

Fruits and vegetables climbed 4 percent in November. This includes increases of 7.4 percent for apples, 3.7 percent for bananas, 3.2 percent for lettuce, and 3 percent for tomatoes.

Individuals who need a cup of java in the morning should expect to pay more, with coffee prices surging 7.5 percent.

Roasted coffee increased by 7.6 percent, while instant coffee went up 6.8 percent.

Oil tankers drop off crude oil to be refined into gas at the Marathon Oil Refinery in Salt Lake City on Oct. 29, 2021.

Ingredients necessary to cook dinner and bake desserts were more expensive last month.

Butter added 2.4 percent, spices and seasonings rose 5.9 percent, and sauces and gravies edged up 3.3 percent.

A new vehicle cost motorists 10.9 percent more in November than the same period in 2020, while tires rose 11.1 percent. In addition, motor vehicle maintenance and repair added 4.9 percent, car insurance 5.7 percent, and parking fees and tolls increased 4 percent.

Not only are automobiles pricier, but it’s also costlier to power them. Last month, fuel oil skyrocketed 48.3 percent, gasoline 58 percent, and electricity 6.5 percent.

In the broader marketplace, shoppers paid more for a wide variety of goods and services.

Window coverings rose 10.7 percent, men’s suits increased 14.1 percent, tools and hardware jumped 6 percent, and televisions gained 7.9 percent. The only noticeable declines in pric-

es were for dishes and flatware (-3.9 percent), audio equipment (-5 percent), sewing machines (-4.8 percent), and airline fares (-3.7 percent).

Is This the ‘Peak’ of Inflation?

Following the release of the Bureau of Labor Statistics data, President Joe Biden said he thinks the United States has reached “peak” inflation, citing his administration’s multitrillion-dollar Build Back Better agenda.

“I think it’s the peak of the crisis,” Biden told reporters on Dec. 10. “It’s a real bump in the road. It does affect families when you walk into a grocery store and you’re paying more for whatever you’re purchasing—it matters. It matters to people when you’re paying more for gas, although in some states, we’ve got the price down below three bucks a gallon. But the point is, it’s not gone down quickly enough. But I think it will.”

In a separate statement, the White House said inflation figures “show that price and cost increases are slowing, although not as quickly as we’d like.”

The White House has been adamant about employing a positive public relations campaign on the president’s handling of the economy amid weakening poll numbers.

National Economic Council Director Brian Deese presented charts during a White House press briefing in an attempt to show that prices are coming down. White House chief of staff Ron Klain released a video last week that claimed to spotlight “an economy that’s humming.”

An ABC News-Ipsos survey published on Dec. 12 found that 69 percent of Americans disapprove of how Biden has managed inflation.

According to the poll, 57 percent disapprove of the president’s performance in overall economic recovery.

So, are consumer prices be-

Indoor Illegal Marijuana Grows in Oregon Tied to

ginning to come down on a month-over-month basis?

Some food products are easing, while others are continuing to rise each month. For example, rice prices increased 0.5 percent in September, remained unchanged in October, and rose 1.5 percent in November.

In another instance, the price for oranges jumped 1.2 percent in September, fell 1.3 percent in October, and climbed 2.4 percent in November.

Meanwhile, gasoline of all types also has failed to come down. Gas prices ticked up 1.2 percent in September, 6.1 percent in October, and another 6.1 percent in November.

“In summary, the fact that the U.S. CPI figure didn’t exceed the 7 percent mark has been good news,” Ipek Ozkardeskaya, senior analyst at Swissquote, wrote in a note. “Less encouraging was the rise in rents and healthcare costs, which came as a confirmation that inflation is no longer seen as ‘transitory’ in the U.S.” Many market analysts anticipate one of the most important Federal Open Market Committee policy meetings this week as the Federal Reserve deliberates its move on interest rates to fight inflation.

According to the CME Group FedWatch Tool, it’s widely expected that the central bank will leave the current target rate unchanged.

Allianz Chief Economic Advisor Mohamed El-Erian said in an interview with CBS on Dec. 12 that the Fed describing inflation as transitory was “the worst inflation call in the history” of the century-old institution. This, he noted, resulted “in a high probability of a policy mistake.”

“So, the Fed must quickly, starting this week, regain control of the inflation narrative and regain its own credibility,” he said.

The facility used generators, air filtration devices, and electronically controlled temperature and

57

nanas, 3.2 percent for lettuce, and 3 percent for tomatoes.

Individuals who need a cup of java in the morning should expect to pay more, with coffee prices surging 7.5 percent.

Roasted coffee increased by 7.6 percent, while instant coffee went up 6.8 percent.

In the broader marketplace, shoppers paid more for a wide variety of goods and services.

Window coverings rose 10.7 percent, men’s suits increased 14.1 percent, tools and hardware jumped 6 percent, and televisions gained 7.9 percent. The only noticeable declines in pric-

for whatever you’re purchasing—it matters. It matters to people when you’re paying more for gas, although in some states, we’ve got the price down LNNUSA.com below three bucks a gallon. But the point is, it’s not gone down quickly enough. But I think it will.”

published on Dec. 12 found that 69 percent of Americans disapprove of how Biden has managed inflation.

According to the poll, 57 percent disapprove of the president’s performance in overall economic recovery.

So, are consumer prices be-

National

Indoor Illegal Marijuana Grows in Oregon Tied to Chinese Organized Crime SCOTTIE BARNES

A Nov. 29 search warrant in the small town of Philomath, Oregon, led to the discovery of 4,000 marijuana plants growing in a warehouse and the arrest of five suspects allegedly connected with a Chinese organized crime group headquartered in New York, according to Philomath Chief of Police Ken Rueben.

During the raid, police arrested Jianhua Chen, Yushen Chen, Shuiqing Hu, Zining Huang, and Weiming Wu at the site. All face felony charges related to possession, delivery, and unlawful manufacturing of marijuana.

Police in Oregon are prohibited by law from asking about nationality or immigration status.

The suspects communicated through an interpreter.

“This is the second major operation we’ve been a part of that involved Chinese operators,” Albany Police Capt. Brad Liles told The Epoch Times. The earlier operation resulted in 12 ar-

rests, with charges that included racketeering, money laundering, criminal conspiracy, unlawful manufacturing of marijuana, and identity theft.

Both investigations involved officers from multiple police departments, two county sheriff’s offices, Oregon State Police, the FBI, members of the special Linn Interagency Narcotics Enforcement team, and more.

Illegal marijuana operations have overwhelmed law enforcement officers as well as county and state officials.

“Drug traffickers have flocked here from every state in the nation and nearly a dozen countries,” including China, Russia, Bulgaria, and Argentina, Josephine County Sheriff Dave Daniel told The Epoch Times.

“In the past year and a half, we’ve made the largest marijuana seizures we’ve ever been involved with,” he said. “We’re seeing operations with as many as 10,000 plants. And the amount of money is just ridiculous.”

ANDREW KELLY/REUTERS

Signage outside the Food and Drug Administration headquarters in White Oak, Md., on Aug. 29, 2020.

His department recently participated in the seizure of 1,400 pounds from one U-Haul truck traveling south on Interstate 5.

In southern Oregon, most growing takes place outdoors because of the mild climate. Liles described the sophisticated indoor growing operations recently associated with Chinese operators farther north.

“Growers convert a house, barn, or large outbuilding and

retrofit it with lighting, ballasts, and hydroponics that operate on timers,” he said. Automation means these operations require less manpower during cultivation.

The Philomath operation was in a two-story warehouse structure with 11 rooms and 5,000 square feet, Chief Rueben said.

It contained plants in varying stages—from “starts” to fullygrown plants ready to harvest.

tory” of the century-old institution. This, he noted, resulted “in a high probability of a policy mistake.”

“So, the FedDecember must quickly, Saturday, 18, 2021 starting this week, regain control of the inflation narrative and regain its own credibility,” he said.

The facility used generators, air filtration devices, and electronically controlled temperature and humidity based on the age of the plants.

Rueben said a high electricity bill and a vehicle registration led to the Philomath search warrant. Law enforcement tracked a vehicle that had been making drug deliveries in Portland back to the property. A check of the power bill showed that consumption at the site was unusually high.

“An indoor grow house typically uses as much energy as 10 homes,” Rick Fromme of Apex Data Consulting told The Epoch Times. “Where a typical house may have a bill of less than $200, a grow house will be in the thousands.”

While indoor operations differ from the outdoor growing that’s typical of southern Oregon, they share the common trait of hiding in plain sight, Liles said.

Growers use legal hemp farming operations as cover for illegal marijuana operations. Registered farms aren’t required to allow inspectors in.

“When an operation is surrounded by four walls and a roof, it’s even more difficult to know if they’re really growing hemp,” Liles said.

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

LEARN MORE AT

TheEpochTimes.com

INDEPENDENT LOCAL NEWS YOU CAN TRUST LNNUSA.COM

Chai Gallahun

LNN Bureau Chief

Carolyn Day Pruett LNN News Director

Kali Riggleman

Marketing Specialist

Craig Richards LNN CEO

The Fastest Growing Digital News Network in the Region