SERVING THE COMMUNITIES OF CHESTERFIELD COUNTY
03.14.13
INSIDE SPORTS Clover Hill Elementary raises tech funds with 5K Run. Page 6
BON AIR || BRANDERMILL || GENITO || MIDLOTHIAN || ROBIOUS || SALISBURY || WOODLAKE
Manchester Middle students shine in egg-drop competition rial, while another simply wrapped the egg in thick foam. Still others hen Manchester created parachutes for eggs carefully Middle School prinentombed in small baskets. cipal Sarah Fraher A total of 11 seventh and eighth promised to make grade classes were in the running, egg casserole for students who won a along with one individual sixth special contest, she had no idea she’d grader. After a drop from the top of end up cooking for 100 kids. a stairwell, then a plummet from the But in Fraher’s defense, she had school’s roof, seven eggs remained no way of knowing her seventh and unbroken – two from the eighth eighth grade students would do so grade, four from the seventh grade well at protecting eggs from a 93-foot and one created by a single sixth impact. grader. Groups of Manchester students “We had so few break, I decided worked together as part of a teamto invite our neighbors,” Fraher said, building activity in recent weeks referring to the Chesterfield County to come up with creative ways to Fire and EMS station located just up cushion raw eggs from the blow bethe street. ing dropped. One group opted for a EGG page 3 shoebox filled with packing mateBY JODI DEAL
Regional Reporter
W
PHOTO BY JODI DEAL
Principal Sarah Fraher, left, holds up her iPad to snap photos of a fireman high above the school’s parking lot. Students followed suit with their cell phones.
Empathy earns students honor CONTRIBUTED REPORT
PHOTO BY STEPHANIE GARR ADAMS
Local Brotherhood-Sisterhood award winners include, rear, left to right, Laura West, Esther Paek and Joshua Patterson, and front, left to right, Caleb Lankford, Ummama Bashir and Jasmin Cruz.
Clover Hill history teacher wins state DAR honor Marriott. His state level win puts him in the running for the Clover Hill teacher DAR’s national outstanding hiswho set up and tory teacher award. maintains a museum Cox noted that Triesler’s in his school has been nomination was supported by named the statewide 2012-2013 Outstanding Teacher of American History by the Virginia Daughters of the American Revolution. James Triesler was nominated for the honor by the Bermuda Hundred chapter of DAR. Jane Cox, historian of the Bermuda Hundred chapter, said the competition was stiff for the accolade. “For him to get this award is just huge,” Cox said. “You would James Triesler not believe the caliber of the applications they had.” letters from colleagues at Clover Triesler will be honored Hill High School, along with his during a youth luncheon at current and former students. the 117th annual state DAR “All agree that Mr. Triesler conference on Saturday, March demonstrates a deep devotion 16, at the downtown Richmond to the preservation of American BY JODI DEAL
Regional Reporter
A
history and a unique ability to promote student enthusiasm and patriotism through projects in research and other enriched learning experiences,” Cox wrote in an announcement about Triesler’s award. An unnamed student described Triesler’s efforts in a letter of support as follows: “Mr. Triesler equips his students with the tools and resources to be successful historians. Each student works on an individual family genealogy project and also contributes to a class project called ‘It Took a War’ in which students transcribe a collection of WWII [World War II] correspondence and interviews to be digitally archived for public use on the class website, www.ittookawar. com. Mr. Triesler has amassed such an impressive collection of artifacts including uniforms,
There are plenty of student awards for academics, but not many focus on empathy, kindness and the ability to get along despite differences. It was those qualities that earned 53 Richmond area students recognition at the Interfaith Council of Greater Richmond’s 46th Annual Brotherhood Sisterhood Youth Awards, held Feb. 28 at River Road Baptist Church in Henrico. Juniors and seniors from the parochial, private and public schools in the Richmond area were eligible for the awards. According to the Interfaith Council, nominees were picked based on the following qualities: Ability to relate to others of different gender, race or religion; Ability to act as a voice of reason in potentially confrontational situations; Ampathy with, and understanding of those with limited physical and/or
emotional capabilities; and Participation in activities that improve human relationships and inter-group understanding –reaches out to others both within the school or the greater community.
Local honorees Chesterfield County students who earned Brotherhood Sisterhood Youth Awards include: Esther Paek, who attends the Chesterfield Mathematics and Science High School at Clover Hill, is the daughter of Seonja Paek of North Chesterfield. Paek has been on class council for both Clover Hill and the Math Science Center for several years, has served as a freshman mentor for two years, is a musician and an athlete and has received many academic accolades. She has acted as an enthusiastic CARING page 3
Miller represents Chesterfield County at regional spelling bee Midlothian Middle School student Charles Miller III, shown here with Principal Pat Stanfield, faced off against top spellers from 30 Virginia school divisions Saturday, March 9 at the Richmond Times-Dispatch Regional Spelling Bee. The spelling bee, held at the Library of Virginia, was a qualifier for the Scripps National Spelling Bee. Miller, who is in seventh grade, represented Chesterfield County. PHOTO PROVIDED BY CHESTERFIELD COUNTY SCHOOLS
DAR page 2
St. Patrick’s Day Impaired Driving Awareness effort aims to keep Chesterfield roads safe As part of the initiative, law enforcement will use sobriety ou might notice an checkpoints and patrols to ensure intensified police presthat drunk and reckless drivers ence on local roads this will not pose danger to their fellow weekend. That’s because motorists before, during or after members of the Chesterfield the St. Patrick’s Day holiday on County Police Department will Sunday, March 17. Sgt. Rod Brown, be out in full force during the traffic supervisor for the ChesterCheckpoint Strikeforce St. Patrick’s field County Police Department, Day Impaired Driving Awareness explained the campaign’s goals. Campaign that will happen from “The aim is to make everybody Friday, March 15 through Monday, aware that they need to drive soMarch 18. ber,” Brown said. “In other words, BY KOREY HUGHES Special Correspondent
Y
the initiative is all about getting everybody home safely during that weekend and letting them know that we’re not going to allow people to drive drunk or recklessly.” As Brown explained, Checkpoint Strikeforce is a national effort that aims to curb drunk driving during all holidays where alcohol consumption increases, not just during St. Patrick’s Day. “It’s an ongoing initiative that we do for major holidays where crashes and DUI arrests increase,” Brown said.
In addition to drunk and erratic driving and speeding, law enforcement will also look for improper passenger restraint. Brown said that means that not only will officers check to see that adults are wearing their seat belts, but also that they will make sure that babies and young children are also properly restrained in car seats. “We definitely look at children in booster seats and at infants in car seats to make sure they’re facing properly in the rear (of the
vehicle),” Brown said. “It’s our responsibility to make sure that they’re properly restrained, and if they’re not properly secured and we pull the adult driver over for something else, they’re going to be issued a summons for not having those youngsters secured properly.” According to Brown, the Chesterfield County Police Department will dedicate a substantial amount DRIVING page 5
EXPLORE
2 || MARCH 14, 2013
STUFF TO DO E-mail your event to editor@midlothianexchange.com Subject line: EVENT carolercrist@gmail.com.
SATURDAY, MARCH 16 Midlothian Masonic Lodge No. 211 will sponsor a charity breakfast 8 to 10 a.m. at the lodge at 13510 Westfield Road in Midlothian. The breakfast is a combined charity event for the Masonic Home of Virginia by Midlothian Lodge 211 and Black Heath Lodge No. 1982. For $5, attendees will get all-you-can-eat pancakes, coffee, bacon and sausage.
Manakin Episcopal Church’s Lenten Program will be held at 985 Huguenot Trail in Midlothian. Eucharist begins at 6 p.m., light supper and the program from 7:15 to 8:45 p.m. If unable to attend the worship and/or the supper come at 7:15 p.m. for the program, “Faith in the Context of the City and its Environs in the Twenty-First Century,” by Rev. Ben Campbell, director of Richmond Hill. For more information, call 804-794-6401 or the rector, Rev. Michael Stone, at 804317-5083.
Bobcat Blast 5K and Fun from 9 a.m. to noon at 15100 Millwood School Lane in Midlothian. Pre-registration will cost $15 for the Fun Run and $25 for the 5K. Race day registration will be 8 to 9 a.m. Register online and find more information at www.millwoodschool.org/bobcatblast. Bon Air Baptist Church dodgeball tournament is 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the church’s gym at 2531 Buford Road in Richmond. Brackets are open to players middle school age up to senior adults. The price to play is $10 per player per bracket, and teams will consist of six players with an allowance of up to four subs. Proceeds will benefit the Bon Air Baptist Church’s student ministry, which is trying to raise money to serve in both Malaysia and Singapore. For more information, call Karyn Buckley at 804-310-2747.
Care, Feeding and Communication with Houseplants seminar begins at 6 p.m. at the LaPrade Library. Bring ailing or unidentified houseplants. The class will include a repotting demo, and participants will get a snippet of a house plant to pot and take home. The program is presented for free by the Chesterfield County Cooperative Extension and the Chesterfield County Master Gardeners.
Library in running for national medal al libraries, children’s museums, an art The Chesterfield County Public museum, science centers, and more, Library is in the running for one of the hailing from across the country. country’s highest honors for libraries Finalists are chosen because of their and museums, the National Medal for significant and exceptional contribuMuseum and Library Service. tions to their communities. IMLS is Awarded by the Institute of Museencouraging community members um and Library Services, the national who have visited the finalist institumedal celebrates institutions that make tions to share their story on the IMLS a difference for individuals, families Facebook page. National Medal for and communities. Museum and Library Service winners Other Virginia facilities selected as will be announced this spring. finalists include Amazement Square of To share your story, visit www. Lynchburg, Virginia Aquarium & Ma- facebook.com/USIMLS. To learn more rine Science Center of Virginia Beach, about all of the the 2013 National and Williamsburg Regional Library of Medal finalists, visit www.imls.gov/ Williamsburg. medals. Medal finalists are selected from The Institute of Museum and nationwide nominations of instituLibrary Services is the primary source tions that demonstrate innovative ap- of federal support for the nation’s proaches to public service, exceeding 123,000 libraries and 17,500 museums. the expected levels of community out- Its mission is to inspire libraries and reach. This year’s finalists also include museums to advance innovation, lifea conservatory and botanical gardens, long learning, and cultural and civic other county library systems, individu- engagement. CONTRIBUTED REPORT
Henricus Historical Park will commemorate the anniversary of the 1622 Virginia Indian offensive starting at 9 a.m. at 251 Henricus Park Road, Chester. A short ceremony will commemorate the offensive. Admission is free for Henricus Foundation Patrons, $8 for adults and $6 for children aged 3 to 12. Light refreshments will be available during the day in the Patrons’ Tavern for members of the Henricus Foundation. For more information visit www.henricus.org. The Riparian Stewardship Program Native Tree Giveaway is from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Chesterfield County Department of Environmental Engineering and the James River Soil and Water Conservation District plan to give away 800 native trees, including green ash, river birch, Washington hawthorn, red maple, willow oak, redbud and sycamore. Chesterfield County riparian landowners who want to receive trees must make appointments to pick them up. For an appointment, contact Lorne Field at 804-748-1920 or fieldl@ chesterfield.gov.
MONDAY, MARCH 18
SATURDAY, MARCH 23
Flowers for Three Seasons seminar begins at 6 p.m. at the Bon Air Library. This class on easy perennials and shrubs for a colorful landscape will be presented for free by the Chesterfield County Cooperative Extension and the Chesterfield County Master Gardeners.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 20 The Chesterfield Women’s League meeting is from 9:30 a.m. to noon at the Villages of Charter Colony Clubhouse’s Charter House, located at 1101 Charter Club Way in Midlothian. Heirloom Herbs are the topic up for discussion with Pat Roble, a Chesterfield County Master Gardner. For information call Carole at 804-405-7809 or
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Senior programs at Bon Air Baptist CONTRIBUTED REPORT
The Chesterfield County Department of Parks and Recreation is offering several free programs for adults 50 and older this month at Bon Air Baptist Church, 2531 Buford Road. Call 804-751-4135 for more information. A full list of programs can be found in the current Program Guide, available online at chesterfield. gov. Register at least one week ahead by calling 804-748-1623. Baby Boomer and Grandparent, set for 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, March 20, will be an interactive presentation focusing on the unique planning needs for baby boomers who also are grandparents. Learn how to prepare for retirement while providing support to grandchildren. This program, which is course number 26784, is provided by Claris Financials. Changes to Medicare, which will be held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, March 27, will help seniors learn what to expect from Medicare in light of new health care changes. The course number is 26786.
STUDENT NEWS
FRIDAY, MARCH 22,
Falling Creek Ironworks Park, site of the first iron furnace in the New World, will hold its annual Falling Creek Ironworks Day from noon to 4 p.m. Learn more about the 1619-22 ironworks with activities for the whole family, including period demonstrations, exhibits, costumed interpretations, Native American dancing and children’s activities. Guides will lead tours of the archaeological ruins on the site, and a ground-breaking ceremony for park improvements will be held at noon. Admission is free. For more information, call 804-751-4946, or visit fallingcreekironworks.org. Falling Creek Ironworks Park is located at 6908 Jefferson Davis Highway.
JobSeekers meets at 10 a.m. each Monday to provide those unemployed or underemployed with resources for landing a job and emotional and spiritual support while they’re looking. The meeting is held in Pinder Hall at Episcopal Church of Redeemer in Midlothian, located at the corner of Winterfield and Salisbury roads. Get help with resumes; assessing skills and strengths; preparing for interviews, correspondence, and networking tips. All help is provided free of charge. For info, contact Rev. Dr. Nancy E. Meck at redeemerassociate@gmail.com, or Teddy Cogbill by e-mailing interviewwell22@gmail.com or calling 804-379-8899.
YOUR WORLD || TRAVEL
The Chesterfield County Department of Parks and Recreation guided hike along the North Valley Trail is from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Trek through the Prince William Forest National Park on a 6.5-mile loop that includes floodplains, upland forest, Quantico Creek and old farm roads. The 15,000-acre national park has an intriguing history, including an abandoned pyrite mine and a camp area once used for training spies. The $32 fee includes round-trip transportation from Rockwood Nature Center and an interpretive guide. For more information, call 804-318-8735. To register, call 804-748-1623. The Riparian Stewardship Program Native Tree Giveaway is from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Chesterfield County Department of Environmental Engineering and the James River Soil and Water Conservation District plan to give away 800 native trees, including green ash, river birch, Washington hawthorn, red maple, willow oak, redbud and sycamore. Chesterfield County riparian landowners who want to receive trees must make appointments to pick up the trees. For an appointment, contact Lorne Field at 804-748-1920 or fieldl@chesterfield.gov.
Mending Little Hearts
Local students graduate CONTRIBUTED REPORTS
When the time came at the end of the Fall 2012 semester for mid-year college graduations, several local natives were among those who crossed the stage and got diplomas.
James Madison University
PHOTO SUBMITTED BY SWIFT CREEK MIDDLE SCHOOL
The Interact Club at Swift Creek Middle School spent several weeks working on a project that will benefit children who were born with heart defects or suffer from heart disease. Leading up to Valentine’s Day week, the students collected donated toiletries, toys, books, candy and stationery from local businesses. On Tuesday, Feb. 12, students sorted the donations and packed them into hand-decorated tote bags. As a result of their efforts, 40 tote bags were filled to the brim and were to be delivered to Mended Little Hearts for distribution to families of children with heart troubles. Learn more about Mended Little Hearts at http://mendedlittlehearts.org.
Chesterfield schools get state nod for AP success CONTRIBUTED REPORT
C
hesterfield County Public Schools was one of 12 Virginia school divisions recognized by the College Board for simultaneously increasing access to Advanced Placement courses and raising achievement on the examinations. The overall percentage of Virginia high school seniors taking AP courses and qualifying for college credit on AP examinations continues to increase, according to a report issued Feb. 20 by the College Board, which oversees the AP program. The College Board, in its 2013 AP Report to the Nation, said that 27.2 percent of 2012 Virginia graduates earned a score of three or higher on at least one AP examination, compared with 25.6 percent of 2011 graduates. Despite the increase in participation and performance, Virginia students
now rank fifth in the nation in achievement on AP tests after five consecutive years at number three. Massachusetts is now third with 27.9 percent of its 2012 graduates earning qualifying scores and Florida is fourth with 27.3 percent. Both states use state funds to promote AP participation by covering fees for students and providing incentives for teachers and schools. Maryland leads the nation in AP achievement with 29.6 percent of its 2012 graduates earning qualifying scores, followed by New York at 28 percent. Nationwide, 19.5 percent of 2012 graduates earned a qualifying score on at least one AP test. Virginia students may substitute AP examinations for end-of-course Standards of Learning tests in the same subject areas. Enrollment in AP courses is among the criteria for recognition under the Virginia Index of Performance awards
program created by the Board of Education to encourage advanced learning and achievement. Virginia also promotes AP participation through the Early College Scholars initiative and the Virtual Virginia online-learning program, and uses federal grant money to subsidize test fees for lowincome students. According to the College Board, students who score a three or higher on AP exams typically have greater academic success in college and are more likely to graduate on time with a degree than comparable non-AP peers. The most popular AP course among Virginia’s 2012 graduating seniors was U.S. Government and Politics, followed by U.S. History, English Language and Composition, English Literature and Composition, Psychology, Calculus AB, World History, Statistics, Biology and Environmental Science.
Local students who earned degrees from James Madison University Dec. 15 include: • Thomas Walsh, Midlothian, master of business administration degree. • Anne Curtis Croxton, Midlothian, bachelor of social work degree. • Donovan Seow, Midlothian, bachelor of science degree in health sciences. • Kelly Fraser, Midlothian, bachelor of science degree in kinesiology. • Joshua Lewis, Chesterfield, bachelor of science degree in kinesiology. • Courtney Tubbs, Midlothian, bachelor of science degree in nursing. • Sarah Lukhard, Midlothian, bachelor of science degree in nursing. • Julie Ange, Chester, bachelor of science degree in psychology. • Maegan Mayo, Midlothian, bachelor of science degree in writing, rhetoric and technical communication. • Robert Oldham, magna cum laude, bachelor of science degree in kinesiology.
Eastern Kentucky University • Griffin Drake of Midlothian was among the 1,068 students graduated with a bachelor of science degree in fire and safety engineering.
St. Joesph's College • Linda Thomas of North Chesterfield, graduated in December from Saint Joseph’s College of Maine with a Master of Science in Nursing.
Emory University • Nicole Ando of Chesterfield received a Master of Science degree from the Laney Graduate School of Emory University in Atlanta, Ga., on Dec. 22.
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DAR from page 1 photographs, diaries, and newspapers that he and his students have curated a museum at the high school to preserve and honor the stories of our nation’s servicemen and women.” Triesler’s efforts earned the attention of U.S. Rep. Eric Cantor, R-Va., Cox added, prompting the congressman to relocate an annual Veterans Day ceremony to Clover Hill last November. The Virginia Daughters of the American Revolution, with nearly 9,000 members across the state, have a long history of preserving historic artifacts and buildings, supporting schools and literacy programs, providing scholarships and awards, supporting active duty and veteran military members and their families, providing good citizenship programs and awards for youth and commemorating historic events in American history. For more information on the DAR, visit www.vadar.org or www.dar.org.
Also up for honors during Saturday’s Virginia Daughters of the American Revolution luncheon are several students. Those include:
ementary, third grade, for a second place win in a stamp contest; • Morgan Poff, Woolridge Elementary, fifth grade, for a first place win in a poetry contest; • Jasmine Williams, • Annie Nash, Bettie WeavWoolridge Elementary, er Elementary, fourth fifth grade, for a first grade, for a first place win STUDENT place win in a photo in a photo essay contest; essay contest; HONORS • Baisey Peace, Katelyn • Trevor Killorn, Bettie O’Donnell and Sacide Weaver Elementary, Peace, Woolridge Elemenfourth grade, for a first tary, fifth grade, for a first place win in a short place win in a banner story contest; contest; • Reed Letterman, Bettie • Tushar Gayali, Woolridge Weaver Elementary, fourth grade, Elementary, fifth grade, for a first place win in a poetry for a first place win in a contest; poster contest; • Patrick Fleming, Woolridge El• Ainsley Bryant, Woolridge Elemenementary, fifth grade, for a second tary, fourth grade, for a first place place win in a stamp contest; win in a poster contest. • Mackenzie Wagner, Woolridge El-
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EXPLAIN
MARCH 14, 2013 || 3
NEWS || FEATURES
CARING from page 1
Open government laws largely unchanged in General Assembly its website, VCOG notes that some exemptions for disclosing records can irginia has plenty of laws only be invoked by certain agencies, in place to keep public while others are more general. information readily availCommon exemptions include able to citizens, and – with personnel records; scholastic records one notable change – those remained that identify specific students; health, relatively intact during the 2013 session medical and social services records; and of the Virginia General Assembly. records that are part of investigations; According to the Virginia Coalition and records that could harm security. for Open Government, a nonprofit As for criminal records, incident group that aims to help keep informa- reports, including the general location, tion public and the public informed on date and description of felonies – not how to obtain it, Virginians’ access to misdemeanors – are available, while resome public information was tightened cords that could hamper investigations this year. or identify informants are not. Restrictions were passed that will If you want a record, all you have to limit access to some legislative aides’ do is ask, and that includes e-mail, accorrespondence, hospital evacuation cording to VCOG. You don’t even have plans, certain flight plans at regional to cite FOIA when you ask, nor do you government airports and bank selfhave to do so in writing or say why you assessments. Concealed gun permits want the information. Requests should won’t be available to the public anybe very specific and putting them in more either. A new entity, the Nuclear writing may help. Energy Consortium, won’t be held to Virginia’s Freedom of Information Act. Bills were passed that will require college boards of visitors to undergo FOIA training, and all bills that would have taken away the requirement for public notices to be run in newspapers were struck down. This week, March 10-16, is Sunshine Week across the United States. Once a government body gets a Launched in 2002 by Florida journalrequest, under FOIA, it has five days to ists in response to legislators’ attempts respond. That can mean giving you the to tighten the reins on public inforinformation, withholding part or all mation, the movement has expanded of it, or letting you know more time is into a nationwide effort to promote needed. discussion about open government and If you are refused a piece of inforaccess to information. mation, the government body in question must cite specific law to tell you why, unless the record or information Get public information simply does not exist. What are your rights and what do Depending on how much informayou need to know to protect them? tion you ask for and the manpower it Virginia’s Freedom of Information takes to gather it, you might get a bill Act is readily accessible online, as are for the cost of locating and copying resources to help you find and ask for what you’ve requested. You can ask the the information you want. The Virginia government to give you an itemized Coalition for Open Government has estimate of what your request will cost not only the law itself, but citizens’ before it is prepared. guides and resources to help you put the legal language into practice. Laws keep meetings public Most government records are available to the public, except certain tidbits Matters discussed at meetings of specifically exempt from the law. In a government bodies are governed by citizens’ handbook for FOIA laws on Virginia’s Freedom of Information Act. BY JODI DEAL
Regional Reporter
V
You are, according to the law, supposed to know when, where and why meetings will take place. Government bodies are required, except in the case of an emergency, to give the public three working days’ notice of public meetings. “Notice� means posting the information in a local newspaper, on the government’s website and/or posting in at least two prominent locations where public notices are kept. If there is an agenda, it must be made public when board or council members get it. As a citizen, you can request that you be notified of every meeting of a public body. You are allowed to record meetings, as long as you’re unobtrusive. The government also is required to take minutes, which are considered public record. All votes must be public, but some discussions can be held behind closed doors, as long as the board, council or other government body votes to go into a closed meeting citing a specific section of the law and why they are invoking it. Very few subjects can be taken into closed meeting. Some allowed topics include personnel matters involving specific employees, consultation with lawyers about suits that may be or have already been brought and discussions that might hurt a body’s negotiating strategy, like the purchase of land. After a closed meeting, a vote must be taken to certify that was what discussed was appropriate.
Get more information Every word of Virginia’s Freedom of Information Act is available electronically, notably at VCOG’s website, www. opengovva.org. At that website, you also can find forms to help you create requests for information, updates about changes in Virginia’s open government laws and a link to ask the Freedom of Information Advisory Council for an oral or written opinion – all for free. You also can find information on federal FOIA rules. You can reach the VCOG offices, located in Williamsburg, by calling 540-353-8264.
athletics, Patterson serves as a mentor to students in the SUCCESS Program, an at-risk intervention class and ninth grade transition program. He is adept in handling resistance and hostility, helping these students make better choices socially, behaviorally and academically. He is very active in his church and in the community, serving as a student youth leader and volunteering CARITAS and the Richmond Outreach Center feeding needy families. He has played Junior Varsity Basketball and Varsity Football. ‹ Laura West of Midlothian High School is the daughter of Pam West. In addition to various academic and extracurricular activities, West has worked in the High Intensity Autism classroom for two years. She is able to focus on each student’s personality and assist them with their social, vocational and educational daily tasks. She also made a slide show to show the students’ achievements during Inclusion Week. ‹ Caleb Austin Lankford attends Monacan High School and is the son of Caleb Lankford. Lankford is an active student, serving as a freshmen mentor, a conflict mediator and a council member, among other activities. He has gone on mission trips for his church, building ramps for the handicapped, as well as an after school volunteer at the church.
freshman mentor for two years. Outside of school, Paek is an active volunteer at Johnson Willis Hospital and at her church. She has been on many mission trips domestically and to Costa Rica and the Dominican Republic. ‹ Virginia Grace DeSantis of Clover Hill High School, the daughter of Camillo DeSantis, has a busy list of academic, athletic and musical accomplishments at her school, where she has served as a mentor to freshmen. In addition, she has worked with “What’s Worth remembering�, a world outreach project to raise awareness and money for Ugandan genocide and has helped raise money for the Invisible Children Charity, a group dedicated to protect and heal child soldiers in Uganda and to help rebuild war-torn Uganda. ‹ Jasmin Yoselyn Cruz, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Luis Cruz, attends Cosby High School, where she has received a variety of academic awards, along with recognitions for citizenship. She has also served as a mentor to both her classmates and at Winterpock Elementary School. Cruz has been able to diffuse confrontational situations at school, and through her volunteering with special needs children, she has discovered a new perspective on life. She has also volunteered at Children’s Hospital of Richmond, and is a leader of Youth Groups and music programs at her Church. ‹ Ummama Fatima Bashir of James River High, is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Naim Bashir. A highly active and accomplished student, Bashir is a mentor and tutor to her fellow students, helping and accepting all who need assistance. She also volunteers at a local retirement home. Last year, Bashir befriended and tutored a student in need of additional academic support as she noticed the student regularly seeking support from the teacher in study hall. ‹ Joshua Patterson of Manchester High is the son of Mr. and Mrs. John Patterson. In addition to participating in
Monsignor Hugh McMenamin of Denver first suggested Brotherhood/Sisterhood week in 1934. He proposed that a special time be set aside for the people of all faiths to be invited to consider together the need for and the implications of brotherhood and sisterhood. Since 1968, The Interfaith Council of Greater Richmond (ICGR) has given the Brotherhood/Sisterhood Youth Award to students who have exhibited the attributes of Brotherhood and Sisterhood. For more information about the Brotherhood-Sisterhood Youth Awards or the Interfaith Council of Greater Richmond, contact Sharon Clayton, 804-5985952 or sclayton@cbsva.com.
PHOTOS BY JODI DEAL
Left: Assistant Principal Denise Ross, left, and Administrative Assistant Stephanie Hoppin announce another egg’s survival after being dropped from 93 feet in the air. Right: A Chesterfield County fireman drops students’ egg protection project from his truck’s bucket, which was fully extended 93 feet in the air.
EGG from page 1 Firemen came on Feb. 28 with a full-size bucket truck to truly put the egg casings to the test. Students crowded the school’s front lawn and peeped from windows as a fireman loaded the egg projects into the ladder truck’s bucket.
More than 100 students and several teachers squinted into the sky as, one after another, the eggs came down. Assistant principal Denise Doss would scurry to the egg’s landing zone after impact, remove the wrapping and hold its contents high for the students to see, getting big cheers.
Students chattered excitedly, joking with each other and teachers. “I’ve got $20 riding on that egg!� one student shouted to Fraher as the first egg was unwrapped. Students and teachers alike held cell phones and iPads aloft to get photos of the spectacle.
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Every single egg managed to survive the fall. Fraher chuckled once all the students had returned to class at the cooking ahead of her. Luckily, students agreed to help out in the kitchen. According to Fraher, scaling
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4 || MARCH 14, 2013
NEWS || FEATURES
GUEST COLUMNIST
CRIME REPORT
Mitchell’s Journey BY JIM RIDOLPHI Special Correspondent
I
was only one of the thousands of people who followed the journey of Mitchell Jones on Facebook. As the 10-year-old’s health declined, it seems his spirit became empowered and his struggle inspired millions. His parents began a Facebook page called Mitchell’s Journey that chronicled their son’s declining health, his incredible will to live and a message of love that touched me to the core. Mitchell Jones lost his battle to Duchene’s Muscular Dystrophy last week. The crippling disease attacked his heart, and Mitchell’s death affected thousands of others. Chris Jones tucked his son in his bed for the last time shortly before Mitchell passed. He posted the words from that final goodbye on his Facebook page. “Mitchie, this is Dad. I am tucking you in, just as you like it. Remember what we talked about . . . don’t be afraid, everything is okay. I love you, son. So very much.” Natalie and Chris Jones are amazing parents, tested to the limits by the cruelty of an unapologetic disease that ignores dignity, compassion, and, in the
end, life itself. Thousands posted their condolences on Facebook after Mitchell’s death last weekend. Contributors spoke of how Mitchell’s Journey had transformed theirs, and many said their lives are forever changed by Mitchell’s fight. And for an unfortunate select few, the story hit way too close to home. As a parent of a Duchene’s affected son, Mitchell’s passing hit especially hard. It awakened rude realities that are never far from my thoughts. But, for me to wallow in those thoughts would not do justice to the true meaning of Mitchell’s Journey. Mitchell’s plight was our plight, and the lessons learned from a little boy whose broken heart affected millions inspires hope for my son’s future. The story also evokes incredible fear to the parent of a 9year-old inflicted with the same disease. That’s a reality I can’t escape. Most importantly, Mitchell’s Journey reminds all of us to spend every moment possible with your children, and make those memories special. I now realize that a lifetime is sometimes not measured in years, but months and minutes,
MIDLOTHIANEXCHANGE.COM
and Mitchell tells us to make the most of each of them. I also know that one little boy can make a difference. Finally, Mitchell’s Journey raises a myriad of questions in my mind. It escapes me how a government that can waste money seemingly at will cannot heal its sick children. Research dollars in this country are at all-time lows, and cures for childhood diseases like Muscular Dystrophy are long overdue. The only thing that will change outcomes like Mitchell’s are dollars. Finally, I hope that Chris and Natalie Jones realize that Mitchell’s Journey was our journey, and his life will inspire and motivate others to seek answers to the puzzles of complicated diseases. Chris’ father posted this message shortly after Mitchie passed: “We want to thank all of you who reached out to our boy to offer love and support. Your packages and letters of encouragement made him feel special. Your notes on this Facebook page were read to him daily and it made him feel that he wasn’t alone. From the bottom of our hearts we thank you.” No, Mr. and Mrs. Jones, we thank you, and Mitchie.
All data are based on the publicly available Chesterfield County Police Department daily arrest and crime releases and are reported according to Federal Incident Based Reporting rules.
23112
and stole items.
March 5
23235
2100 block of Courthouse Road A subject in possession of marijuana was reported at a roadway.
23114 March 5 7800 block of Midlothian Turnpike A subject was reported as leaving the scene of an accident at roadway.
23224 March 1 6300 block of Pewter Avenue Unknown suspect/s stole miscellaneous items from a vehicle parked outside of a residence.
March 5 27100 block of Linwood Avenue An incident of cruelty to an animal was reported at a residence.
23225
SUBMITTED PHOTO
Westchester 5K and 1K Fun Run aim to fight childhood obesity participants in both races. Those prizes will be used toward the hildhood obesity is a purchase of fitness equipment for national concern, and those schools. at 9 a.m. on Saturday, NBC-12 reporter Sarah Bloom March 16, local resiwill serve as the master of cerdents will have a chance to combat emonies during Saturday’s event. the condition during the 2nd Savannah Lane, a Midlothian High annual Westchester Shamrock 5K School senior who was Miss Blue and 1K Kids Fun Run. Ridge Outstanding Teen 2012 and The festivities will be based at Miss Chesterfield County Fair Westchester Commons Shop2011, will sing the National Anping Center and the Shoppes them, and live musical entertainat Westchester located at Route ment will also have a large presence 288 and Midlothian Turnpike in during this year’s festivities. Midlothian, and race activities will Julie Gordon of Westchester happen on Main Street. Commons Shopping Center said Proceeds from the event will 0that Westhampton Citybillies will support Movin’ Mania, which is perform near the Chick-Fil-A lomedical provider Bon Secours’ cation at the two-mile mark while fitness education initiative that acts such as the Diggity Dudes, encourages children to be more Heart of Ireland Dance School, St. physically active. Bon Secours St. Andrew’s Legion Pipes and Drums Francis Watkins Centre is the title and the Young Midlothian Singers sponsor, and The Rebkee Comwill wow the crowd after the race. pany is the presenting sponsor. In addition, inflatables courtesy of Other sponsors include Gregg & Bounce 2 the Moon and a variety Bailey, CPA, Lexus of Richmond of food vendors are among other and Village Bank. features that will give the runners Cash prizes will be given to a reason to stick around. the first, second and third place “We’re trying to make it more winners in the men’s and women’s festive, and we want people to divisions and to the first, second stay around after the race is over,” and third place winners in the Gordon said. costume contest that will happen Gordon extended a personal during the race. Participants and invitation to spectators, because, spectators alike are encouraged to as she explained, the runners will dress in green. need an enthusiastic crowd to Additionally, a School Chalcheer on their efforts. lenge will award a $500 prize “We’ll have just a huge crowd to the local elementary, middle that day, people will be really and high schools with the most energetic, and I want to encourage
BY KOREY HUGHES Special Correspondent
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people to come out and watch,” Gordon said. “We’re so excited about supporting the Midlothian community, so if people can come out and cheer on the runners with homemade posters, I would love to see that.” Participants who registered before Wednesday, March 13 can pick up their race packets at Bon Secours St. Francis Watkins Centre at 601 Watkins Centre Parkway in Midlothian from 4 to 8 p.m. today, Thursday, March 14 and from 12 to 8 p.m. on Friday, March 15. But, if you haven’t registered yet, don’t fret - you can still sign up on the day of the race. Race fees are $30 for adults and $12 for children. In-person registration will happen from 7 to 8:45 a.m. before the race starts, and a photo i.d. is required. According to Gordon, more than 1,200 people participated in last year’s race. The goal for 2013 is 1,500 runners, and as of this writing, over 750 competitors have already registered. Gordon said adjustments will be made to accommodate additional attendees if registration surpasses 1,500 sprinters. “We don’t have a cap right now,” Gordon said. “We just need to see if it exceeds 2,000 people, and if it does, we would look at how it would need to be restructured.” For more information about the Westchester 5K and 1K Kids Fun Run, visit www.westchestershamrock.com.
23237 March 5 7300 block of Taw Street Identity fraud was reported at a hotel.
23803 March 5 20300 block of Woodpecker Road Marijuana possession was reported at a roadway. 4600 block of River Road Marijuana possession was reported at a roadway.
23831 March 1
12800 Ben Fry Drive 1000 block of Boulders Parkway Possession of marijuana was reported A small pile of burning leaves and trash were discovered in the woods at a roadway. behind the apartment complex.
23234 March 2 7000 block of Hull Street Road Unknown suspect/s cut the lock from the rear of a storage unit at a commercial property and stole items.
March 5 3200 block of Meadowdale Boulevard Unknown suspect/s entered a residence with no signs of forced entry
11700 block of Perdue Terrace Unknown suspect/s pried open the rear sliding window of a truck parked at a residence and rummaged through the interior. Nothing reported stolen.
March 4 12100 block of Bermuda Crossroad Land Unknown suspect/s entered an unsecured vehicle at a parking lot/garage and items were reported stolen.
Bobcat Blast 5K and Fun Run set CONTRIBUTED REPORT
Runners at the 2012 Westchester 5K line up for the race. This year's event will be held at 9 a.m. on Saturday, March 16.
7000 block of Tim Price Way Larceny from a grocery store was reported.
Spend a fun and healthy morning supporting Millwood School Saturday, March 16, at the Bobcat Blast 5K and Fun Run. Set for 9 a.m.to noon, the event, which will be held at the school, won’t just include a race. Spectators are welcome to cheer on the runners and enjoy vendors and entertainment. The school, located at 15100 Millwood School Lane in Midlothian, is convenient to the Woodlake, Brandermill, Magnolia Green, Ashcroft, Foxcroft and Deer Run communities. Festivities kick off with the Beat the Bobcat Challenge at 9 a.m., fol-
lowed by the Fun Run for children up to fourth grade at 9:15. Next up will be the chip-timed 5K at 9:45 a.m. Trophies will be awarded for the top three male and female 5K racers, while age group winners will get ribbons. Pre-registration will cost $15 for the Fun Run and $25 for the 5K. Registration prices will rise to $20 for the Fun Run and $30 for the 5K for those who register the day of the race. Race day registration will be 8 to 9 a.m. Childcare will not be provided. Register online and find more information at www.millwoodschool.org/bobcatblast.
Carena’s Jamaican Grille has returned CONTRIBUTED REPORT
After a six-month hiatus, Carena’s Jamaican Grille has come back to Midlothian Turnpike in a new building. Carena Ives is proud to announce the reopening of her restaurant, Carena’s Jamaican Grille, after a six month hiatus. Following a soft opening, the popular local Jamaican restaurant reopened Monday, March 11. Ives took a gamble on renovating her restaurant, which included razing her former building, becoming a key player in a larger renaissance taking place along the Midlothian Turnpike corridor. “I’ve always believed in this area, and I’m excited to be a part of the rebirth that’s taking place all around us,” Ives said. “There’s so much energy right now, and I know it’s only going to continue to grow.” Carena’s has drawn visitors from all over Metro Richmond since its grand opening in 2007. Ives’ authentic Jamaican cuisine, featuring savory menu items such as jerk prime rib, conch fritters and ox tail, helped the restaurant develop a cult-like following in the years that followed. During the hiatus, Ives invested in a food truck to continue
offering her cuisine to Richmonders, both at the site of her restaurant and at popular events around town. The new 2,800-square-foot building is bright, open, and colorful, and will feature murals from local painter Happy the Artist. In the warmer months, guests can dine al fresco on a large new patio. In addition to the fresh new look and the dishes diners have grown to love, Chef Patrick is pleased to offer delicious new menu items such as a jerk angus burger, Appleton Rum-glazed baby back ribs, and grilled salmon in a creamy coconut sauce. “I’m so grateful for all the support we’ve received from our loyal fans and customers during our down time. We can’t wait to reopen and see our old friends, not to mention make new ones!” Carena’s Jamaican Grille is located at 7102 Midlothian Turnpike in the Spring Rock Green Shopping Center. The restaurant is open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday. For more information, call 804-422-5375 or visit www.422jerk.com. Join Carena’s on Facebook at www.facebook. com/carenas.grille.
N 3229 Anderson Highway
Powhatan, Va 23114 Office: (804) 379-6451 Fax: (804) 379-6215 COM Mail: PO Box 10 Powhatan, VA 23139
EXCHANGE EX Publisher Production Manager Market Manager Managing Editor Sports Editor Regional Reporter Classifieds
Joy Monopoli Brian French Birgit Weeks Melody Kinser Bruce Wells Jodi Deal Cindy Grant
jmonopoli@worldmediaenterprise.com bfrench@powhatantoday.com bweeks@powhatantoday.com editor@midlothianexchange.com bwells@midlothianexchange.com jdeal@mechlocal.com cgrant@mechlocal.com
(804) 746-1235 x 14 (804) 598-4305 x 16 (804) 598-4305 x 14 (804) 746-1235 x 22 (804) 598-4305 x 17 (804) 746-1235 x 29 (804) 746-1235 x 16
Vol. VII, 6th edition © 2013 by Richmond Suburban News. All advertising and editorial matter is fully protected and may not be reproduced without the permission of the publisher.
PUBLISHED EVERY THURSDAY || ONLINE EVERY DAY
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MIDLOTHIANEXCHANGE.COM
EXPLORE
Big birthday, big honor Centenarian Club announces first member CONTRIBUTED REPORT
F
eb. 14 was a big birthday for Millard F. Robinson of Chesterfield County. Not only did Robinson turn 102, a big accomplishment in itself, he also got a special honor when he became the first member of Chesterfield County’s new Centenarian Club. On his big day, Robinson got a package of presents from the Chesterfield County Senior Advocate, including a birthday card, a framed certificate, a Chesterfield County insulated tumbler filled with candy and a notebook with letters from County Administrator James J.L. Stegmaier, Gov. Bob McDonnell, Rep. Eric Cantor, state Sen. John Watkins, Delegate R. Lee Ware Jr. and Lynn Peters Adler, founder of the National Centenarian Awareness Project. Adler also sent a certificate. The youngest of five, Robinson was born on Feb. 14, 1911, near Hagerstown, Pa. He enlisted in the Navy at 17 and served honorably until 1962, when he retired as a chief warrant officer. He was recalled for service for two more years. From 1950 to 1955, he served at the White House during the Truman and Eisenhower administrations as assistant to the Secretary
of the Navy. Robinson also performed research and development of amphibious vehicles and took delight in driving one during its experimental stages from Newport News to Maryland on I-95. Robinson married Vivian Cardosa, an executive assistant, in 1938. After retiring,
102 Millard F. Robinson
....A lot of my family have lived long lives.
PHOTOS PROVIDED BY CHESTERFIELD COUNTY
they settled in Seal Beach, Calif. Although they never had children, the couple enjoyed traveling and visiting extended family for weeks at a time. After Vivian’s death in 1998, Robinson remained active and lived on his own. In Sept. 2011, at 100, he moved to Chesterfield County to be closer to his nephew, Douglas Robinson, who manages his affairs. The elder Robinson is still mobile, articulate and personable. He especially enjoys dining out. When asked the secret to his longevity, Robinson simply said, “I don’t know.
Millard F. Robinson celebrates his 102nd birthday with his great-nephew, Douglas Robinson, and his great-great-niece, Rachel Robinson.
A lot of my family have lived long lives.” Senior Advocate Debbie Leidheiser says she got the idea for the club from a conference. “It’s a way of letting them know we value them for what they’ve done in life,” Leidheiser said. “Not very many people live to be that age. Most of them who do have great stories to tell about what they went through growing up and all the changes that have gone
MARCH 14, 2013 || 5
YOUR WORLD || TRAVEL
on since they were born.” For more information about the Centenarian Club, or to request an application, email Leidheiserd@chesterfield.gov or call 804-768-7878. Information provided by Michelle Burchett.
PHOTOS PROVIDED BY CHESTERFIELD COUNTY
Millard F. Robinson recently celebrated his 102nd birthday. Shown left to right are Robinson at his Feb. 14 birthday party; Robinson in his dress uniform in 1943, at age 32; in his sailor uniform in 1928, at age 17; and in 1921, at age 10.
DRIVING from page 1 of manpower to the effort. “Not only does the traffic unit participate, but uniformed officers and their platoons will also be doing checkpoints,” Brown said. Brown mentioned that specific heavy traffic areas will be heavily monitored by law enforcement during the Checkpoint Strikeforce St. Patrick’s Day Impaired Driving Campaign. “Roads such as Midlothian Turnpike and Hull Street have high volumes of traffic,” Brown said. “We’re going to hit those areas and the secondary roads near those primary roads, but those are definitely areas where people should not drive drunk.” Although Virginia State Police will be primarily patrolling area highways, Brown said that Chesterfield County Police will assist state law enforcement personnel if necessary. “The state handles interstates (such as) I-288, I-295 and I-195, but if they call us, we will handle it together,” Brown said. “In other words, we work hand-in-hand with the state when it comes to the checkpoints.” Because St. Patrick’s Day is a time for revelry, Brown said the Chesterfield County Police Department does not want to deter drivers from enjoying their holiday plans. Instead, it wants to make sure that they celebrate responsibly and refrain from hurting themselves or others. “We’re not telling people that they shouldn’t enjoy themselves, but we want them to be responsible,” Brown said. “Have a ride home, have someone pick you up, or call a cab, because if you take that chance and drive drunk, you’re endangering yourself, another driver or a pedestrian.”
Pick up a Midlothian Exchange at any of these locations: - 23112 -
Clover Hill Library
6701 Deer Run Drive
Goodwill – Hull Street 11749 Hull Street Road - 23113 -
Angelo’s Italian Restaurant
11643-B Midlothian Turnpike
The Book Exchange
13198 Midlothian Turnpike
Chick-Fil-A–Westchester Commons 132 Schofield Drive
de Rochonnet Delights
13228 Midlothian Turnpike
Goodwill –Alverser Drive 1211 Alverser Drive
Kroger – Ivymont Square
14101 Midlothian Turnpike
Midlothian Apothecary
13502 Midlothian Turnpike
Starbucks - Bellgrade 11307-F Polo Place - 23114 -
YMCA
737 Coalfield Road - 23235 -
Chesterfield Towne Center
11500 Midlothian Turnpike
Goodwill – N. Chesterfield
FOR YOUR ENTERTAINMENT
8535 Midlothian Turnpike
Monkey Joe’s
11304 Midlothian Turnpike - 23236 -
La Prade Library
9000 Hull Street Road
Shoney’s
9963 Hull Street Road - 23832 -
Central Library 9501 Lori Road
Goodwill – Woodlake 14740 Hull Street Road
03/13-03/14
CRAFTY WORD SEARCH
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
HOROSCOPES
CLUES ACROSS 1. Something curved in shape 4. Tattoo (slang) 7. Therapeutic resort 10. His ark 12. Organized crime heads 14. Actor Connery 15. Free from danger 16. Honey badger 17. Part of a deck 18. Cause to run off the tracks 20. Classical music form 22. Defensive nuclear weapon 23. Volt-ampere 24. “Socrate” composer Erik 26. Keep up 29. Foot raced 30. The 44th President 35. Aboriginal (abbr.) 36. Wedding vow 37. 21st Hebrew letter 38. “Little Man Tate” director 44. Teletype (Computers) 45. Discovered alternating current 46. Tears down (alt. sp.) 48. Resinlike substance in shellac 49. Military mailbox
50. Smoothed wood 53. Old Testament book 56. Japanese lake with marimo 57. Card, dining or coffee 59. Checks 61. Telephone exchange (abbr.) 62. Greek covered walks or colonnades 63. Pigmented eye membrane 64. No. French river 65. Airborne (abbr.) 66. Shock therapy CLUES DOWN 1. Autonomic nervous system 2. Highway 3. Eating house 4. Afrikaans 5. Likely 6. Foot digits 7. Place to sit 8. For in Spanish 9. Also or including 11. N W Afghan city 12. Black Sea peninsula 13. Language of Slovakia 14. Divine Egyptian beetle 19. What a baby wears to eat
21. River of NE Ecuador & N Peru 24. European wooden shoe 25. Positive pole 27. Hereditary social class (Hindu) 28. Utters 29. British rule over India 31. ___ de Janeiro 32. Promotional materials 33. Narrow collapsible bed 34. Whatsoever 39. Land surrounded by water 40. Ardor 41. Aspects 42. Removes writing 43. __ Nui, Easter Island 47. Conductor Sir Georg 50. Landscaped road (abbr.) 51. Research workplaces 52. Organized factual information 53. A scheme or program 54. Female horse or zebra 55. Invests in little enterprises 56. Signing 58. Robert’s nickname 60. Very fast airplane
TAURUS - Apr 21/May 21 Taurus, a few complications could arise this week and how you react to them will be telling of how the rest of the month may proceed. Think about this before you act. GEMINI - May 22/Jun 21 Gemini, this week is likely to be a wash because there is something that came up that has the potential to dominate all of your time for the next several days.
CANCER - Jun 22/Jul 22 Cancer, though you may be anxious to help a friend out, you need to seriously consider whether you have the time to spare at this point in time. Putting yourself first is priority. LEO - Jul 23/Aug 23 Leo, someone is going to open up to you emotionally and you may get caught off guard by the level of intimacy. This could turn out to be the start of a long-lasting friendship. VIRGO - Aug 24/Sept 22 Virgo, let a particular situation cool down instead of adding extra fuel to the fire. Step away from a heated discussion if you feel like things may get out of control.
LIBRA - Sept 23/Oct 23 Libra, your heart may beat a little faster this week because of the excitement involved in meeting someone that has been on your mind. Be patient. SCORPIO - Oct 24/Nov 22 Scorpio, continue to discuss a financial situation with your significant other. Even if the discussion grows tiresome, talking it out is the best way to resolve the issue. SAGITTARIUS - Nov 23/Dec 21 Sagittarius, you have an uncanny way of turning something that would normally be disastrous into enjoyable chaos. Think about a side career in party planning.
CAPRICORN - Dec 22/Jan 20 Capricorn, big changes are in store for your family and there are nerves to accompany these changes. Set aside a day this week where you can have peace, quiet and time to reflect. AQUARIUS - Jan 21/Feb 18 Aquarius, your words are being heard but their meaning is simply not sinking in. Try rephrasing or approach the situation from another direction. PISCES - Feb 19/Mar 20 Pisces, your social schedule is jampacked and you wouldn’t have it any other way. There may be a pocket of time for more fun.
THIS WEEK’S ANSWERS
ARIES - Mar 21/Apr 20 Sorting through feelings may not come easy to you, Aries. At some point it becomes necessary to voice your opinions and you may need to show a vulnerable side.
6 || MARCH 14, 2013
EXERCISE
SPORTS || FITNESS
MIDLOTHIANEXCHANGE.COM
DAVID IS GOLIATH proudly. A little background . . . is name is David but, conThe son of Thelma Durbin (5-footsidering his “oh, my gosh” 9) and Ricky Ragland (5-11) grew up stature, Goliath might be in western Henrico and is a graduate of more fitting. Hermitage High School. David Ragland is the free-spirited, At the time of Ragland’s arrival at fun-loving giant of the Chesterfield Red Hermitage, Joe Coulter was varsity Heat, a special needs basketball squad basketball coach. affiliated with Special Olympics of “I’ll never forget it,” Coulter said. Virginia. “Another teacher knocked on my door Since Chesterfield County has no and said ‘There’s a kid down in guidance mountains, Mt. Ragland will have to do. taller than anyone you’ve ever seen!’ I The 25-year-old stands 7-foot-4, don’t think I ever ran so fast going to the weighs about 320, has a 42-inch inseam office to take a look.” and wears anywhere from a size 18 to 20 Ragland never played for Coulter. sneaker. Instead, he suited up for the school’s No wonder “Big Foot” is among his Medford League (special needs) squad. numerous nicknames. A sister, Casey Ragland, was a Ragland can nearly touch a 10straight-A student at Hermitage and is foot rim on his tiptoes but, given his now a pharmaceutical technician. druthers, would rare launch half-court Nowadays, David Ragland resides shots than point-blank lay-ins. with other adult males in a Diversity “I made three in a row (from midgroup home off Turner Road. court) once at Hermitage,” he said Aside from participation in SpeBY FRED JETER Special Correspondent
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cial Olympics, he is a member of Mt. Gilead Baptist Church, where he was recently baptized, volunteers for Meals on Wheels, and works part-time for an electrical/construction firm. One thing is certain: If the electrician ever needs an overhead light bulb replaced, Ragland will get the call. Mother Thelma Durbin, who works in hospital records, concedes it hasn’t always been the smoothest of rides for her towering and often stared-at son. “David’s been through a lot,” she said. “He’s had anger issues, some brushes with the law . . . he’s hit walls, damaged property . . . lack of impulse control.” Some of the behaviors, she suggested, stem from the death of his grandmother, with whom he was extremely close. On the other hand, he can be friendly to a fault, hugging anyone and everyone. Ragland said he doesn’t take basketball seriously. He said he’d rather draw a DAVID page 7
PHOTO BY FRED JETER
Thelma Durbin, who is 5-foot-9, is shown with her 25-yearold son David Ragland, who stands 7-foot-4 and towers above his competition in the Special Olympics of Virginia.
Swift Creek and Gordon
Champion Game STAFF REPORT
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hampion Swift Creek and runner-up Gordon American conferece minor "B" bracket teams didn't have what could be called an easy season. Losing its first six games, Swift Creek had a rough start. A determined group of boys learned the meaning of teamwork, coming together and winning as the season neared its end. Gordon had a season plagued by injuries, prompting the team to play most of its games with the bare minimum. While the Gordon squad did not have enough players to substitute, those who were able to compete did so for all four quarters. For Swift Creek and Gordon, they did come back late in the season. Team leaders attributed determination and the will to succeed took them to the championship game.
PHOTOS BY JIM HASKINS
Left: Gordon’s Quint Dingledine drives to the basket Saturday, March 9, in the Chesterfield Basketball League’s Minor “B” American Conference championship. Swift Creek goes on to win 27-14. Center: Gordon’s Cameron Goode (3) takes a shot wile guarded by Swift Creek’s Matthew Natale (1). Right: Gordon’s Charles Haskins (left) gets around Swift Creek’s Bryson Miller for the score.
American Conference Champions
PHOTOS BY BRUCE WELLS
Left: Monacan’s Makenzie Struder winds up for the pitch at Powhatan High School on Tuesday, March 5, in the first scrimmage of the season. Center: Monacan’s Jordan Ellis makes the play at second base on Tuesday, March 5, as the Chiefs scrimmage at Powhatan High School. Right: Hana Lee, an exchange student from Tokyo, plays shortstop for Monacan High School. Monacan traveled to Powhatan High School on Tuesday, March 5, for its first scrimmage of 2013.
Monacan High School opens spring with first scrimmage STAFF REPORT
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onacan High School kicked off the spring sports season with the first official scrimmage for softball on Tuesday, March 5, at Powhatan High School. The Chiefs were unable to play a scheduled second scrimmage at Atlee on Saturday, March 9, because of poor field conditions, which were brought about by the surprise
snowstorm that blanketed the area on Wednesday, March 6. The Monacan softball team will open up the home schedule of their 2013 season at 4:30 p.m. today against Clover Hill High School. Meanwhile, the Chiefs baseball squad is set to open its 2013 home schedule against the Clover Hill boys today at David R. George Field. First pitch is scheduled for 4:30 p.m.
SUBMITTED PHOTO
Evergreen Eagles Division B boys recently captured the championship in the Chesterfield Basketball League's 2013 American Conference. Members are, top to bottom, from left, Ryan Monahan, Trenton Wood, Brandon Pearson and Thomas Pizzini, and, right, Nolan Williamson, Jaeden Alverez, James DeRidder, Blake Albright and Ethan Smith.
Lucky Clover 5K kicks off for first time STAFF REPORT
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ichard Engel and Julie Schrall came in first in the 1st Lucky Clover 5K Run and Kids Fun on Saturday at Clover Hill Elementary Schools. Engel crossed the finish line first with a time of 19:45, while Schrall was the first female to complete the run with a time of 22:38. Clover Hill Elementary organized the run in an attempt to increase community involvement and help fund the school's technology program. Sponsor donations and entry the surrounding trails in Woodlake, were collected. attracted more than 300 school The event, which started on the grounds of the school and included supporters, including families and
More than 300 friends of Clover Hill Elementary School turned out Saturday morning for the 1st annual Lucky Clover 5K Run and Kids Fun Run to help fund the school's technology program. Left: Alida Jones shares her excitement as she crosses the finish line. PHOTOS BY JIM HASKINS
friends. Their cheers rallied those making the run. All profits will go toward buying technology equipment. In addition to a good turnout of participants and supporters, the weather was ideal for those running for the cause.
MIDLOTHIANEXCHANGE.COM
EXERCISE
DAVID from 6
’Tis the season for Jig-and-Pig Sports Editor
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f there is one bait in bass fishing that is considered the universal big bass bait it is the jig and pig. Frogs, buzzbaits, zara spooks, crankbaits, jerkbaits and spinnerbaits all catch big fish when the conditions are right, but a jig and pig catches more big bass in more conditions than any other bass lure. Rain or shine, hot or cold, deep or shallow, a jig and pig is the best and most consistent big bass producer. In fact, when the weather is cold, bumping the bottom with these lures is a great way to connect with a lunker bass. In chilly water, bass typically move to the drop-offs. Clinging closely to the drop-off wall, bass hover in slightly deeper water. As the sun warms the water by afternoon, they venture into shallows to hunt. In cold water, lethargic bass probably won’t chase fastmoving baits very far, but they might slurp tempting targets passing enticingly close. During the late winter and early spring, pitch a jig around tree trunks and stumps in 8 to 15 feet of water. You can work the outside edges of feeder creeks that are going back into major coves. You can pitch the jig several times at each target because the big females are very finicky at this time. As cold fronts move in and out, and the water temperature goes up and down, the big females will do the same. During January through March, try to fish with a halfounce jig with a pork frog. The winter months are prime times to use pork over plastic trailers. Because the water is cold the plastic has less movement than pork. Also, finicky bass may hold onto a real pork chunk longer than a piece of plastic. In late winter or early
spring, few morsels tempt bass more than a protein-rich crawfish. When crawfish emerge from the mud, bass pounce on them. Anglers fishing with lures that resemble crawfish scurrying along the bottom might attract considerable attention. While nothing can duplicate the real thing, a rattling jig sweetened with a craw trailer comes close to the original. While weather and water conditions constantly change during late winter/early spring season, former BASS-master Classic champion Denny Brauer’s approach to catching bass rarely wavers. Whether the skies are sunny or cloudy or the water is clear or muddy, one thing is certain: Brauer will have a jig tied to at least one of his rods. “It is probably the most versatile bait in fishing,” Brauer said of his confidence lure. “I use a jig in the colder months until the bass go to the spawning beds. One of the main reasons I use it is because I like to catch big fish. I don’t know of any other bait out there that appeals more to quality fish than a jig does.” Brauer said jigs allow him to penetrate heavy cover more easily than other lures. “They also hook and hold a higher percentage of fish,” he said. He said he opts for a slow-falling jig and snail-pace retrieve during the pre-spawn season when bass are still sluggish from cold water. He creates the slow fall by matching a 1/4- or 3/8-ounce Strike King Pro Model jig with a pork trailer. Since he said he wants his lure to emulate a crawfish, Brauer prefers jig-and-pork color combinations of chameleon craw and brown for clear water, black and blue in stained water, and black and chartreuse in muddy conditions. Once his jig hits bottom,
round of laughter than make a shot. A coach told David to “stand tall” under the basket, with arms up “like a tree.” David’s response: “I’m not a tree. I don’t have roots.” Another time, he was told he should be the leading scorer every game. His response: “Then where’s my Lamborghini?!” “I think if David had his way, he’d be a stand-up comic,” said his mom. Ragland was at his playing and playful best on Feb. 16 at a Special Olympics tournament at Powhatan High School. With his doting mother in attendance, it could be said that he ran roughshod over Powhatan. Playing half-court games, Ragland – wearing a specially-acquired 4X t-shirt – spurred Red Heat to two easy victories and was named Most Valuable Player. And that was just for starters. Between games, he flirted outrageously in the Commons Area. During the day, he hugged virtually all the women, half the men . . . and
PHOTO BY BRUCE WELLS
This largemouth couldn’t resist a Jig-and-Pig combo skipped into heavy cover.
Brauer said he crawls the lure by moving his rod tip in a motion similar to the standard plastic worm retrieve. He moves the lure 4 to 6 inches at a time while making sure the jig stays in contact with the bottom “Obviously, the less you move your rod tip the less you are going to move your bait,” Brauer said. “You have to be careful and just kind of quiver your rod tip. The colder the water, the slower you should move the bait and the longer you want it to stay in the strike zone. The warmer the water, the more you should experiment with hopping it off the bottom and moving it a little faster.” Cold water also prompts Brauer to take a slow approach when fishing a jig in cover. Sometimes the tournament veteran pitches his jig into a bush, lets it sit and then shakes it in one place. “There are times when I actually dead-stick it,” he said. “I pitch it in there and don’t move it. I just wait and all of a sudden there it will go. That happens a lot with dock fishing.” Old-timers used to say,
“Drop the jig between the bark and the trunk” on any tree or stump in the water. In the winter, bass often hold tight to fallen trees, rocks, and trunks or stumps because these objects absorb heat from the sun and may actually radiate that energy into the adjacent water column. Sometimes, just a one- or two-degree temperature change can make a difference between a bite and nothing. Before you hit the water, take a couple of magazines and lay them out in the yard about 10 to 12mfeet from you and practice pitching around the sides of the books. You also can practice pitching on top of the books; this will help you when pitching the openings in the grass and in the timber. The thing to remember about jig ‘n pig fishing is that you may fish all day for a dozen or so bites, but the bites that you will get are generally good heavy fish. Just don’t give up of the tactic – you can fish it anywhere, anytime, hot or cold – it will catch fish. One of those bites may come from the lunker of a lifetime.
even one attractive female referee who called him for traveling. He does have a favorite girl – “I know her number by heart,” he said. But, on this particular day, he was everyone’s boyfriend or best friend. People lined up to have their photos taken with him; jaws dropped as he passed; to earn favor, others offered to give him additional food tickets. A thousand times, it seemed, people said “Watch your head!” as he ducked through doors. There was another basketball event to be held the next day at Randolph-Macon College. Before leaving Powhatan, he announced to everyone, “I’m not playing tomorrow.” He just shrugged his huge shoulders and gave no particular reason for his surprising decision. True to his word, he was a no-show at R-MC. So, if Powhatan was to be his seasonal farewell, it should be noted that Mr. Big went out with a bang . . . and a whole lot of hugging. (Editor’s note: Fred Jeter served as a volunteer coach this season for the Red Heat.)
Seahorse Scuba The Village Marketplace 13214 Midlothian Turnpike Midlothian, VA 23113
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BY BRUCE WELLS
MARCH 14, 2013 || 7
SPORTS || FITNESS
Come experience our chocolate passion for Easter crawdad scooting across the bottom and try to mimic that motion. Step 4 : Work the pig and The phrase “jig and pig” tain feel and movement that is fish finder coupled with maps jig slowly along the bottom. refers to a jig that has a pork very similar to a worm, yet is or local information to find The weight of the jig will let rind chunk attached to the very different as far as feel and these areas. you walk it up and over any hook. Combined together, presentation. Step 2: Tie on a relatively structure you might find. this lure resembles a crawdad Jig and Pig fishing is difheavy pig and jig. Jigs in the With experience, an angler as it scoots backward along ferent than any other kind of 1/2- to 1-ounce range work will be able to get a good idea the bottom. Because of the bass fishing. It takes awhile to well for this deep-water of what the bottom looks like upturned hook and the weed- develop a feel for the bait and habitat. Use colors with more from using the pig and jig. less whiskers on the jig, this it takes a long time to discover red, orange, brown or green Step 5: Be alert for strikes combo can be cast just about all of the situations and scetints. In murky water, try at all times. Although some anywhere without getting narios that you can find to use black neon, purple, black or fish might strike the pig and snagged. a jig and pig. red shad. jig aggressively, many fish will A jig is one of the harder HERE ARE SOME TIPS Step 3: Cast and let the pig not. Monitor your line conlures to fish. You can’t just cast Step 1: Locate deep-waand jig sink to the bottom. stantly for any movement that out and wind back a jig and ter channels, rock ledges or When you feel the jig hit the might indicate a fish has taken pig like a you would a rattle stumps. Any habitat where bottom, twitch the rod tip and your lure. Set the hook if you trap or a spinner bait. bait congregates or has good let the pig and jig hop up and feel a weight on your line or A jig and pig requires a cer- cover will attract bass. Use a sink back down. Imagine a detect movement.
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