12/29/2011
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Midlothian Exchange – 12/29/2011 © 2011 by Richmond Suburban Newspapers. All advertising and editorial matter is fully protected and may not be reproduced in any manner without the permission of the publisher.TRANSCRIPT
PUBLISHED EVERY THURSDAY || ONLINE EVERY DAY
SERVING THE COMMUNITIES OF CHESTERFIELD COUNTY 12.29.11
BON AIR || BRANDERMILL || GENITO || MIDLOTHIAN || ROBIOUS || SALISBURY || WOODLAKE
Trinity senior brings Ryder Cup to Midlothian Page 5
INSIDE SPORTS
Company to invest$85 million to establishfulfillment center inChesterfield County
Amazon.comkydc LLC, a Delaware limitedliability company and affiliate of Amazon.com Inc., will be investing $135 million toestablish two fulfillment centers in Virginia.
According to announcement made byGov. Bob McDonnell on Thursday, Dec. 22,the company will invest $85 million andcreate 1,000 jobs in Chesterfield County,and invest $50 million in Dinwiddie County,creating 350 new jobs.
“This project that includes a $135 millioninvestment and more than 1,350 new jobs isa tremendous win for the greater Richmondregion. Amazon is a billion dollar companythat is known all over the world, and thenew centers in Chesterfield and Dinwiddiecounties will fulfill orders from placement todelivery within their target customer range injust one to two days,” the governor said.
“Amazon operates data centers in threeother locations in Virginia, and the establish-ment of these new operations is testament tothe positive business climate and success thecompany has experienced in the Common-wealth,” McDonnell added.
“We are so pleased that international In-ternet giant Amazon has selected ChesterfieldCounty for its new one million square footfulfillment center,” said Art Warren, chairmanof the Chesterfield County Board of Super-visors. “It is exciting that this outstandingannouncement coincides with the openingof the new Meadowville interchange whichwill benefit everyone, present and future.And, the infrastructure surrounding thisannouncement further positions the Mead-owville Technology Park as a key destinationfor business. Welcome Amazon as the newestmember of our corporate family!”
“We look forward to opening two newAmazon facilities in the Richmond area nextyear, bringing tens of millions of dollarsand hundreds of new jobs to the state,” saidDave Clark, vice president, Amazon NorthAmerican Operations. “We’re grateful to Gov.McDonnell and other state, county and localofficials for their commitment to our invest-ment in Virginia.”
As a new member of the Chesterfield andDinwiddie County communities, Amazon
Amazon.comto create1,000 newjobs inChesterfield
AMAZON page 3
ROBINETTE WRIGHTSpecial Correspondent
David Witt holds the rank ofsecond degree black belt inkarate. Two nights a week hecan be found at Dong’s karate
practicing breaking boards, doing kicks orpunches and learning the discipline that isinvolved with martial arts.
Soon he will be doing the physicallychallenging tests to advance to a thirddegree black belt.
It’s not a small feat for anyone – and,for David, who has Down syndrome, whatcould be an extra challenge doesn’t dull hisdesire and determination.
“I like karate,” David said in his softvoice while demonstrating some shortpunches in the air. “It makes me strong! Ifeel good when I wear the uniform.”
David is proud to say that he is, “26½years old.”
And, according to his family and friends,this feisty young man is a hard worker.
He works two jobs, his mother, CarolWilliams, said. He works at a Salvage Storeon Mondays and on Thursdays he works ata Martin’s Food Markets.
David diligently attends Swift CreekBaptist Church, is involved with the youthgroup, and plays the hand bells with mem-
bers of his congregation.I say prayers for all my friends,” David
said.That’s quite a schedule for anyone to
keep up with, but there is more.David has been involved with Special
Olympics since he was 8 years old and tostay in shape he works out three days aweek. He can be seen bench pressing or onthe treadmill. He plays basketball, softball,bowling and golf. And then there’s thespeed skating.
David and a team of 16 others fromSpecial Olympics first flew to Disneylandfor fun, and then headed to Ireland tocompete. Two medals for speed skatinghad David’s name on them and he caughtmedia attention.
“His picture was in the Belfast newspa-per,” Carol said, beaming with pride.
That Ireland trip made for some greatadventures and memories.
“I had my own room!” an excited Davidsaid. “I won medals!”
When David isn’t spending time withhis activities, or receiving media attention,he can be found doing everyday chores.
“I take out the trash and recycle, dolaundry, empty the dishwasher and putaway [the dishes],” he said.
According to Special Olympics, the or-
ganization is always looking for volunteers.They need coaches, donors and sponsors.
The National Down’s Syndrome Societyoffers these facts:
• Down syndrome occurs when someor all of a person’s cells have an extrafull or partial copy of chromosome21. This additional genetic materialalters the course of development andcauses the characteristics associatedwith Down syndrome.
• Down syndrome is the most common-ly occurring chromosomal condition.One in every 691 babies is born withDown syndrome.
• There are more than 400,000 peopleliving with Down syndrome in theUnited States.
• Down syndrome occurs in people of allraces and economic levels.
• The incidence of births of childrenwith Down syndrome increaseswith the age of the mother. But dueto higher fertility rates in youngerwomen, 80 percent of children withDown syndrome are born to womenunder 35 years of age.
• People with Down syndrome have an
Young man with Down’sSyndrome shows true grit
CONTRIBUTED PHOTODavid Witt and Dawn Cains, one of his best friends.
Start off the new yearright at the First Day Hike
HIKE page 3
GRIT page 3
A new life for “Miss Piggles” page 4
KOREY HUGHESSpecial Correspondent
Often, New Year’s resolutions areignored as quickly as they areadopted, but the First Day Hike atPocahontas State Park on Sunday,
Jan. 1, will give its visitors the chance to workon a healthier lifestyle right away.
Park ranger Perry Demay said he is excitedto be the guide to good health for participantswho take part in the trek.
“Well, we’ve got a really good trail,”Demaysaid.“And it’ll be a great opportunity to enjoy thewildlife, the view and the history at Pocahontas.”
The hike is part of a statewide wellnessinitiative that Virginia State Parks will kick offin 2012.
And, according to Demay, the state parksystem has already begun other improve-ments, including using new methods tointeract with the public.
For instance, Demay has been using socialmedia to drum up interest in the park’s pro-grams since last October. More specifically,he has used the facility’s Facebook page andhis own Twitter account to update followersabout his in-park adventures.
“Well, I’m still relatively new to Twitter,and I’m an old guy,” Demay said. “But VirginiaState Parks are embracing the technology,so we hope to get more interest in our parkbecause of social networking.”
Little-known secrets about the park’sgrounds will be revealed during the outing.For instance, the legend of Fannie Julia Gill
is a tale that is synonymous with the park’sland since the previously mentioned historicalfigure is buried there.
“Before President Theodore Rooseveltstarted the state parks, people lived in the areathat’s currently occupied by Pocahontas StatePark,” Demay said. “The Gills are a familyfrom Chesterfield County that lived there, andshe passed away in childbirth.”
The path that Sunday’s hike will follow isabout 2.5 miles long. For that reason, Demaywarns that the walkabout isn’t recommendedfor youngsters under 8 years old.
“One reason that the age limit exists isbecause the history that we talk about might notcaptivate children’s interests,” Demay said.“Atthe same time, if you have little ones, you will betoting them around, so it’s a hike that’s probablybetter for older children and teenagers.”
“But we don’t want to turn anyone away, ei-ther, because the trail is wide with maybe onewet area and a few rocks. In fact, it’s a lot likewalking down your own street, because thereare ways to get off the trail.”
Even though it’s possible for hikers to takea detour during Sunday’s excursion, Demaywants to make sure that participants realizetheir health-focused New Year’s resolutions.
“Everybody makes New Year’s resolutionslike getting a gym membership that they don’tfollow through with,” Demay said. “But, if youcome to a state park, you’ll be hiking trailsoutdoors, and that will help you get acclimated
2 || DECEMBER 29, 2011 MIDLOTHIANEXCHANGE.COMEXPLAIN NEWS || FEATURES
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Dec. 1413600 block of LuckyDebonair LaneVictim stated unknownsuspect/s attempted to gainentry to her residence througha locked side door. Entry wasnot gained and at this timenothing was reported stolen.
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3000 block of Polo ParkwayUnknown suspect/s slashedthe victim’s convertible top toher vehicle and stole items.
23114Dec. 15800 block of Charter ColonyParkwayRear plate taken from victim’svehicle.
23235Dec. 148200 block of Hull Street Rd.Police responded to an alarm,discovered the glass frontdoor shattered at the locationand that property was stolen.
23236Dec. 1410700 block of Academy Dr.Complainant reported
unknown suspect/s threw acinderblock through a sidewindow in an attempt to gainentry to the location. Sus-pect/s also threw an unknownobject through the glass ofthe front door. Entry was notgained and at this time nothinghas been reported stolen.
23832Dec. 1114500 block of HancockVillage StreetRear license plate was re-ported stolen from victim’s car.
Dec. 137000 block of Silliman Dr.Suspect/s gained entry to theresidence by breaking the win-dow on the rear door and onceinside, ransacked two upstairsbedrooms. At this time nothinghas been reported stolen.
Dec. 146900 block of CommonsPlazaSuspect/s broke the frontglass window and gainedentry to the location. Propertywas stolen from the location.
5400 block of Qualla Rd.Item was taken from victim’sunlocked vehicle.
Dec. 155200 block of Oakforest Dr.Unknown suspect/s en-tered the house through theunlocked front door. Nothingwas taken at this time.
All data are based on the publicly available Chesterfield County Police Department daily arrest andcrime releases and are reported according to Federal Incident Based Reporting rules.
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John Tyler Community College (JTCC)honored more than 70 spring nursing gradu-ate candidates on Dec. 13 during a pinningceremony held at the Holiday Inn KogerCenter in Chesterfield.
JTCC associate professor of nursing LindaFreeman, R.N., B.S.N., M.N., who is retiringfrom her teaching post, delivered the keynoteaddress.
The nursing graduate candidates are asfollows :
Aimee Lindsay Allgood, Stacy HallAnderson, Monique Delphine Ashburne,Virginia Payne Austin, Kimberly ElizabethAutry, Ashley P, Batten, Susanna Bedser,Tammie L. Bloxton, Emily Jane Bradley, Eri-ca Dawn Brewer, Jason Blair Buck, CourtneyE. Burkholder, Heather Calhoun, SandraCortes Clayton, Laurie Jeanne Closter, JamieL. Colucci, Keri Deborba, Kimberly Dib-erto, Sahara P. Dominguez, Krystin Dowdy,Patricia W. Drummond, Shannel TitaniaDurant, Amy Sue Evans, Ladonna Marie Ev-ans, Michael Felkner, Kelly Ray Gibbs, JohnDouglas Gold, Shana Michelle Goldberger,Ayesha Goraya,Laura Weatherly Graham,Steven E. Haley, Blythe Lauren Hall, PamelaGlenn Heird, Juma Abasia Henson, Leigh E.Hite, Lin Lin Htike, Britnie Jarratt, AshleyDian Johnson, Penny C. Johnson, SharneseKatisha Johnson-Reeves, Tanya Jones, Lesley
L. Kracke, Neki H. Long, Adrienne WoolardMarsili, Stacey Ann McCall, Charles GregoryMckenzie, Dana Marie Mckenzie, CourtneyB. Mohr, Jennifer J. Moogalian, ChelseyAnne Morris, Shana M. Morris, Heather K.Nichols, Pamela Annette Oglesby, LawrenceRay Palmiter Jr., Letitia Parson, ChristinaPettis, Stacie Marie Pintavalle, DarlenaPrince, Beverly A. Rainey, Jean E. Reding,Rhonda S. Reed, Nicole Lee Ridgway, DawnSorensen, David Richard Stoval, Sarah RuthStruzzieri, Jennifer Surles, Susan D. Totty,Ruth Klare Cox Vanderpool, Rhonda LouWard, Michael Curtis Webb, Carmen White,Katie Will, Travis Womble, Michelle LynnWoodring, Teresa L. Workman and AmberDawn Yancoskie.
Pinning dates back to the 1880s.The pin, given to graduate candidates,
symbolizes the school of nursing where thestudents earned their clinical experience,achieved academic credentials and begantheir socialization into the profession.
The ceremony marks the completion ofthat rigorous training and is often viewedwith the same importance as commencement.
John Tyler Community College, a two-year, public institution of higher education,has campuses in Chester and Midlothian andoff-campus classrooms throughout the area.
Contributed report
JTCC honors its nursinggraduate candidates
CONTRIBUTED PHOTOJohn Tyler Community College honored more than 70 spring nursing graduate candidatesduring a pinning ceremony on Dec. 13.
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Vol. V, 47th edition
© 2011 by Richmond SuburbanNews, a Media General Company.All advertising and editorialmatter is fully protected and maynot be reproduced without thepermission of the publisher.
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
BY JIM RIDOLPHISpecial Correspondent
New Year’s resolutions are kind of likeopinions — everyone has one. Thatdoesn’t stop most of us from makingpromises to ourselves each year to
improve or enhance our lives, or, better yet, thelives of the people closest to us.
It doesn’t matter that most of these revela-tions never come to pass, and, once New Year’sDay passes, so does the commitment to change.
Taking stock of our shortcomings is animportant exercise in self-examination, and asdifficult as it is to adhere to some of these self-made promises, it’s important to make the efforteach year to do better.
While many of us make resolutions, few fol-low through. Sometimes, just identifying andacknowledging the problem seems sufficient.But, it’s the follow up that’s important, so it’simperative to set realistic goals with availableresources so your resolutions have a reasonablechance of succeeding.
For example, millions pledge to exercise andeat healthy each year after a holiday season filledwith over indulgence. Sadly, few actually take thesteps to accomplish this.
If you are serious about an exercise resolu-tion, contact one of the many gyms in our area.Some feature trial memberships or special dis-counts for first-timers, but you have to take thefirst step and actually act on your resolution.
Millions pledge each year to be better citizensin their community. Often, that involves volun-teering for various agencies that focus on the lessfortunate. A simple call to county Social Services
can point you in the right direction and exposeyou to hundreds of volunteer opportunities.
Perhaps the mother of all resolutions is thedesire to quit smoking. It won’t happen withoutsome effort, and there are several programs andagencies that will assist with this difficult task.
Kicking the habit is a noble goal, but, again, itrequires you to take the first step and enroll in aprogram to quit. Make the resolution, then makethe call.
We’d all like to be more organized, and it’sa common theme among New Year’s resolu-tions. While it’s not reasonable to assume sloppypeople can immediately become neatniks, smallorganizational tools can improve one’s life.
Whether it’s a simple file folder for bills andtax receipts, or a class on self-organization,putting life in a more simple, reliable form iscertainly attainable.
I think most parents always take New Year’s asan opportunity to renew commitments to theirchildren. It’s a lesson better learned every dayof the year, but the beginning of a year offers aspecial opportunity to reaffirm a desire to alwaysbecome better parents, to listen more closely toour kids, and take more time with family. Nowthat’s a resolution we can all keep and whatcould be more important than our children.
Maybe the people who don’t make New Year’sresolutions are the real winners when 2012 ringsin. They have either given up on change anddecided to live their lives as they are, or they seekto change and improve every day. Either way,resolutions aren’t their cup of tea.
Remember, don’t expect miracles. Sometimes,the first small step can lead to a long journey.
New hope, new promises
WASABI THE SUDOKU GAME WITH A KICK!
also announced that it is donat-ing $10,000 to the Federation ofVirginia Food Banks, which willbe allocated to food banks in thesecounties.
“Chesterfield and Dinwid-die counties were chosen for thissignificant project due to the easeand speed with which the facilitiescan be built and become opera-tional,” said Jim Cheng, VirginiaSecretary of Commerce and Trade.“In addition, the skill and availabil-ity of the region’s workforce werekey factors. We are thrilled thatAmazon recognized the assets andsolid infrastructure in place in thegreater Richmond region and willmake a great investment to estab-lish its newest fulfillment centers inVirginia.”
“We are extremely proud tohave Amazon locate in Ches-terfield County. Their name iscertainly known worldwide andwe are pleased to be a part of theirdynamic growth. We are very fortu-nate that a strong cooperative spirit,even in tight economic times, hasgenerated positive results,” said JayStegmaier, county administrator forChesterfield County.
Both the Chesterfield Chamberof Commerce and the Chester-field Business Council expressedtheir excitement and support forAmazon’s announcement.
“This major economic devel-opment announcement furtheridentifies Chesterfield County hasa premier location for business anda place to live, work, and play. Con-gratulations Amazon and welcometo the community,” said BrennanKeene, chairman of the ChesterfieldChamber of Commerce.
Mary Ellin Arch, chair of theChesterfield Business Council, said,“On behalf of the Chesterfield Busi-ness Council, we welcome Amazon
to the region and especially toChesterfield County. We look for-ward to working with you.”
In addition to ChesterfieldEconomic Development, Amazonwas assisted in their site selectionprocess by the Virginia EconomicDevelopment Partnership, theGreater Richmond Partnership, andVirginia’s Gateway Region.
Gov. McDonnell approved$3.5 million in grants from theGovernor’s Opportunity Fund toassist both Chesterfield County andDinwiddie County with the project.
The company is eligible toreceive benefits from the VirginiaEnterprise Zone Program, adminis-tered by the Virginia Department ofHousing and Community Develop-ment.
Through its Virginia JobsInvestment Program, the VirginiaDepartment of Business Assistancewill provide funding and services tosupport the company’s recruitmentand training activities.
“The location decision byAmazon, the world’s largest onlineretailer is a true testimony of thetremendous business climate com-panies enjoy in our region,” saidRenee Chapline, Virginia’s GatewayRegion executive cirector.
“The news that Amazon hasmade two significant investmentsin our metropolitan area reinforcesour strategy of targeting logisticscompanies to Greater Richmond.Chesterfield County’s Meadowvillesite with its newly opened inter-change at I-295 is well positionedto be very attractive to othercompanies in this industry clusterwell into the future,” said GregoryH. Wingfield, president, GreaterRichmond Partnership Inc.
Amazon.com Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) is a Fortune 500 companybased in Seattle.
Chesterfield Economic Development
AMAZON from page 1
KOREY HUGHESSpecial Correspondent
The new year is an opportu-nity for families to learn effectivechild-rearing techniques, and, forfirst-time parents, it’s even moreimportant that they learn the skillsto properly care for their infants. Forthat reason, they might want to par-ticipate in the two-part Baby Basicsclass at Johnston Willis Hospital.
Lara Ratliff is the course’spresenter and a perinatal clinicalnurse educator at Johnston WillisHospital.
She has taught the Baby Basicsclass since 2007, so she under-stands how important it is fornew mothers and fathers to learnsuitable care practices to protecttheir infants.
“Well, I think that parents getmore comfortable with their roleswhen they learn the proper tech-niques,” Ratliff said. “And we letthem know what to expect duringthe class, including things like theirnewborns’ appearances.”
Infants’ curious appearancescan often perplex new parents.
According to Ratliff, the reason isthat newborns hardly ever resemblethe babies who appear in popularmedia.
“I always say that when peoplethink about newborns, they imme-diately think of the Gerber baby,”Ratliff said. “But, in most cases,they don’t look that way at all whenthey’re first born.”
“Often, their babies’ headsbecome molded so they can fitthrough the birth canal or theyhave dry skin or rashes after they’reborn. So, parents can become con-cerned about their babies’ appear-ances for those reasons.”
The first class will cover properdiapering, feeding and swaddlingtechniques.
And, at the second class, a guestpediatrician will lecture about top-ics such as selecting a pediatrician,infant development during the firstsix weeks and immunizations.
Ratliff also said that her teach-ings are meant to help moms anddads learn to do things that don’tnecessarily come naturally to everynew parent.
“Well, it’s important to learn
not to overfeed a baby and to learnhow to change diapers,” Ratliffsaid. “I mean, not everyone comesinto parenthood knowing what theproper technique is for formulafeeding, so we discuss that in theclass.”
Being a new parent can benerve-wracking, but Ratliff said shebelieves that first-timers can feelbetter about their new positions ifthey take the time to learn.
“I believe that knowledgeempowers you,” Ratliff said. “Andwith new parents, there’s always alittle bit of anxiety, so it’s im-portant that they increase theirknowledge.”
The two-part Baby Basics classwill be presented at Johnston WillisHospital in Chesterfield from 7 to 9p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 3, and from 7to 9 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 10.
A condensed version of thecourse also is scheduled from 9a.m. to noon on Saturday, Jan. 21.
To register for the programs, orto find out about other educationalhealth opportunities, go to John-ston Willis Hospital’s website or call320-DOCS.
Become a better new parentwith Baby Basics class
GRIT from page 1increased risk for certain medicalconditions such as congenital heartdefects, respiratory and hearingproblems, Alzheimer’s disease,childhood leukemia, and thyroidconditions. Many of these condi-tions are now treatable, so mostpeople with Down syndrome leadhealthy lives.
• A few of the common physicaltraits of Down syndrome are low
muscle tone, small stature, an up-ward slant to the eyes, and a singledeep crease across the center of thepalm. Every person with Down syn-drome is a unique individual andmay possess these characteristics todifferent degrees or not at all.
For more information onthe Special Olympics visitwww.specialolympicsva.org
For more information on Down’sSyndrome visit www.ndss.org
to a healthier lifestyle faster.”The First Day Hike will take
place from noon to 2 p.m. onSunday, Jan. 1, at PocahontasState Park in Chesterfield.
The hike is free, but partici-pants must purchase a parkingpass.
For more information, checkout the park’s website or call796-4255.
HIKE from page 1
On Jan. 28, 2012 dancers fromacross Virginia will take to thestage for the 13th Annual VirginiaDance Festival to benefit Children’sHospital Foundation of Richmond.
The festival will be held at JamesRiver High School in Midlothian,with two shows, 3 and 7 p.m.
The event features more than 400dancers performing traditional andcultural dances as well as a silentauction.
Virginia Dance Festival is direct-ed by Jessica Morgan, the founder.
Morgan coordinates the eventeach year by gathering dancetroupes throughout Virginia toshowcase their cultural and diversi-fied dance styles and talents tobenefit the Foundation.
“We are very excited that this isour 13th Virginia Dance Festival,”said Morgan “Each year the festivalgets bigger and better with a varietyof traditional and cultural dances.It is extremely rewarding to see somany troupes come together, givingfreely of their time and talents tohelp Children’s Hospital Founda-tion with the proceeds from thefestival.”
Since the event began 13 yearsago, it has generated more than$143,000 for Children’s HospitalFoundation through performances,
ticket sales, generous sponsors andsilent auction donations.
The performances consist ofTap, Hip-Hop, Jazz, Ballet, Classi-cal Indian, Irish, Ballroom, MusicalTheater, Modern, Lyrical, Chinese,Colonial dances and more.
More than 40 dance organiza-tions and will be performing in thisyear’s Virginia Dance Festival.
The festival holds two shows. Thefirst show is at 3 p.m. and the sec-ond show begins at 7 p.m. at JamesRiver High School in Midlothian.
Tickets are $12 for adults (ages12 and up) and $10 for children(ages 3-11).
For those interested in attend-ing both shows, the price will bediscounted to $18 for adults and$15 for children.
These tickets can only be pur-chased at the door, and all proceedswill go to Children’s HospitalFoundation.
In addition, there will be a si-lent auction in the lobby of JamesRiver High School during bothshows.
For information about the event,becoming a sponsor or donatingitems, call Jessica Morgan at 804-739-7600.
Contributed report
Virginia Dance Festivalwill showcase local talentfor Children’s Hospital
4 || DECEMBER 29, 2011 MIDLOTHIANEXCHANGE.COMEXPLAIN NEWS || FEATURES
BECKY ROBINETTEWRIGHTSpecial Correspondent
The chestnut brown dogsnuggled in the warm andwelcoming lap of KarenTaylor.
Affectionally dubbed“Miss Piggles,” or “Pig” forshort, the gentle brown eyesseemed almost to speak asthey looked at the faces ofpassersby.
Never making a sound,content to just be held, shewaited, hoping perhaps thattoday she would get a foreverhome and that the horror ofher past would one day beforgotten.
Miss Piggles is a pit bulland one of a seemingly end-less stream of dogs that aretrapped in the dark world ofdog fighting.
Miss Piggles’ role wasto bring puppies into theworld, to make money forher master, and to have herbabies taken away and soldinto a nightmarish, brutalworld.
One day all that wouldchange for Miss Piggles, butnot before a great tragedy.
From a side view, thequiet dog seems normal, but– when she turns and looksstraight at someone – notonly her longing eyes comeinto view, but a scar and de-formation from her past lifethat will shock at first glance.
“She [Miss Piggles] wason a chain and was pulledthrough a fence by anotherdog,”said Karen Taylor ofRing Dog Rescue. “Her facewas torn so badly she caughtsevere infections, which herowner wouldn’t treat. Finallyshe was rescued and nowwe have her. She has hadmultiple surgeries. She caneat OK, now it’s just her ap-pearance.”
Miss Piggles just quietlysighed and snuggled deeperinto Taylor’s lap.
Ring Dog Rescue is a501(c)3 nonprofit thatdepends on donations andmerchandise sales to operate.Proceeds from the sales go di-rectly to the care of the dogs.
The organization not onlyrescues and provides adop-tions of the “Bully” breeds,but is striving to educatedogs’ owners and the generalpublic.
Ring Dog Rescue said
that “Bully” breeds areAmerican Pit Bulls, Ameri-can Staffordshire’s, Ameri-can Bulldogs, Boxers, andMastiffs. All of these breeds,and then some, as well aspredominant breed mixes,are known as bully breeds.They are strong, stubbornand wonderful, according tothe organization. They comein all colors and sizes. And,when treated right withthe proper training, theyare fabulous companionanimals. Most only want thelove and attention of theirhuman friend.
Also offered by Ring DogRescue is the Canine GoodCitizen (CGC) Program.
Started in 1989, the CGCProgram is designed toreward dogs that have goodmanners at home and in thecommunity.
The Canine GoodCitizen Program is a two-part program that stressesresponsible pet ownershipfor owners and basic goodmanners for dogs.
All dogs who pass the 10-step CGC test may receive acertificate from the Ameri-can Kennel Club.
Many other countries– including England,
Australia, Japan, Hungary,Denmark, Sweden, Canadaand Finland – have developedCGC programs based on theAKC’s CGC Program.
A CGC NeighborhoodModel has been established,police and animal controlagencies use CGC for deal-ing with dog problems incommunities, some therapydog groups use the CGC asa partial screening tool, andsome 4-H groups aroundthe country have been usingthe CGC as a beginningdog training program forchildren.
Ring Dog suggests “Thingsto think about before adopt-ing a pet:”
• Providing for your pets’physical needs and caring forthem with love and commit-ment are the first require-ments of responsible pet
owners. But these are not theonly requirements. Beforeyou decide to adopt a pet, askyourself the following ques-tions: Why do I want a pet?Do I have the time for a pet?Can I afford a pet? Am I pre-pared to deal with the specialproblems a pet can cause? Isit a good time to adopt a pet?Do I know who will care foryour pet while I’m away onvacation, etc?
• Can I have a pet whereI live? One of the mainresponsibilities of owninga pet is making sure it has alifelong home. However, “I’mmoving” and “landlord won’tallow” are among the topreasons given by pet ownersfor relinquishing their petsto animal shelters. Adoptinga pet is a big decision andshouldn’t be done on a whimor without planning.
• Another thing toconsider is if your living ar-rangements are suitable forthe animal you have in mind?Remember that small-breedpuppies are usually not avail-able for adoption, so yourpuppy will likely to grow intoa bigger dog.
• Pups have accidents andneed a controlled regimenof outdoor potty-stops. Badweather, class schedules,work, social life, family, andmuch more keeps you busy,but they are not good excusesfor not caring for the dog.
• Puppies cry at night andwhen lonely.
• The average cost of carefor a puppy runs to hundredsof dollars, if it is healthy.
• For more informationto see dogs that available foradoption, visit RingDogRes-cue.org.
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This document was prepared under a grant from FEMA's Grant Programs Directorate, U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Points of view or opinions expressed in this document are those ofthe authors and do not necessarily represent the official position or policies of FEMA's Grant Programs Directorate or the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
‘Miss Piggles’ gets a new life
CONTRIBUTED PHOTOKaren Taylor snuggles with “Miss Piggles”, a pit bull rescued from a life of abuse and neglect. Miss Piggles is nowawaiting a forever home with loving owners.
The Winter/Spring 2012Parks and Recreation ProgramGuide is now available.
The guide has been sent toChesterfield County’s mailinglist and can be found in countylibraries and county officebuildings. Parks and recreationprograms in the guide also canbe seen online at http://www.chesterfield.gov/parks.Registra-tion for winter/spring pro-grams begins Tuesday, Jan. 3.
Upcoming events:Banff Mountain Film Fes-
tival World Tour – 6:30 to 9:30p.m. on Friday, March 9, andSaturday, March 10, at JamesRiver High School, 3700 JamesRiver Road. The Film Festivalwill exhilarate and inspire asyou journey to exotic locations,paddle the wildest waters, andclimb the highest peaks. Dif-ferent films each night. Ages 4and under are free. Admissionis $5 per adult or $2 for 18 andunder. The fee is $8 per adultor $3 for 18 and under for bothnights. For more information,contact [email protected]. For tickets, call 748-1623.
Falling Creek IronworksAnnual Event – noon to 4p.m. on Saturday, March 17, atFalling Creek Ironworks Park,6908 Jeff Davis Highway. Tourthrough the archaeological ru-ins of both the 1619 ironworksand Cary’s Colonial grist mill.Other activities include exhib-its, costumed interpretation,living history, period dem-onstrations, Native Americandancing and children’s activi-ties. Free of charge. For moreinformation, contact BryanTruzzie at 751-4946 or www.fallingcreekironworks.org.
Kite Day – 1 to 4 p.m. onSunday, March 25, at CloverHill Athletic Complex, 17701Genito Road (fields 7 and 8).Kite flying fun for the family.Enjoy a moonwalk, clown andother children’s activities. Freeof charge. Co-sponsored byAIM. The rain date is Sunday,April 1. For more information,call Mark Pinney at 748-1992.
Chesterfield County Parks &Rec welcomes input and feed-back from residents. [email protected].
The website, www.chesterfield.gov/parks, hasbeen updated.
Contributed report
Parks andRecreationguide nowavailable
Anonprofit organization was foundedin January to remember the life ofChantel Wells, who died on Sept. 26,2010, after a life-long battle with cystic
fibrosis. She was 26.Chantel’s House of Hope was formed to help
Chantel’s family with expenses incurred duringher treatment.
In the first eight months of treatment, herfamily, the Hills, exhausted the $60,000 they wererequired to raise and could no longer afford theextensive costs.
Recognizing a desperate need, her family cre-ated Chantel’s House of Hope, an organizationthat would build a home away from home for
the families of patients with cystic fibrosis.Over the past year, the organization had
raised $28,000 through various fundraisers andevents.
This year, Cosby High School’s DECA Club issponsoring Chantel’s House of Hope, with a goalof raising at least $3,000 by May 1, 2012.
Cosby DECA has offered a variety of fund-raisers to its members this year in order to reachthe goal.
If anyone is interested in donating, make yourcheck payable to Cosby High School and mail to:CHS, 14300 Fox Club Parkway, Midlothian, VA23112, Attn: DECA – Chantel’s House of Hope.
Contributed report
‘Chantel’s House of Hope’ founded to helpfamilies of patients with cystic fibrosis
DECEMBER 29, 2011 || 5MIDLOTHIANEXCHANGE.COM SPORTS || FITNESSEXERCISE
BY FRED JETERSpecial Correspondent
At the top of Chris Kapsak’sChristmas wish list was agolf tournament to call tohis own.
Thanks to some of his bestfriends, he got it.
The Trinity Episcopal Schoolsenior went nontraditional thisYuletide season.
Instead of staying comfy-cozy bythe fire, sipping eggnog, he lined upa 24-player, two-day golfing eventDec. 18-19, defying Mother Nature.
“The last two years, there wassnow on the ground this same week-end,” Kapsak said with a laugh.
The 17-year-old entrepreneurnamed his inaugural event the Vir-ginia Ryder Cup, but the Cold Bowlmight be more appropriate.
The mercury had an uphill battletrying to get out of the 30’s by teetime, and an ill-tempered Grinchof a wind reminded everyone thewinter equinox was near.
The days started with drivers chis-eling ice off their windshield – notyour typical golfing first step – andfiring up the heater.
“There was a lot of complainingabout the cold and wind and wet …but it turned out to be a success, andit’s something I plan continuing,”said Kapsak.
Ranging in age from high-schoolfreshmen to college seniors, two doz-en golfers played a best-ball formatDec. 18 at Stonehenge; it switched tomatch (1-on-1) competition Dec. 19at Independence.
It was a strictly team affair, withthe Old Dominion squad prevailing
11.5 - 6.5.Kapsak, on the Old Dominion
side, chose the toughest of all match-ups for himself the second day.
Going head-to-head with AuburnUniversity player Jake Mondy,Kapsak was 1-up at the turn but lost2-up.
“Honestly, Jake is the best playerhere,” said Kapsak.
Mondy was the State Group AAchampion from Blacksburg Hightwo years ago.
Kapsak is a three-time All-PrepLeague performer who will attendJames Madison University on golfscholarship next school year.
Several current JMU players werein the field, including Connor Wal-ters, Garret Whitmore, Sam Williamsand Will MacIlwaine.
The event was made affordableby Stonehenge (where Kapsak is amember) and Independence (wherehe has a part-time job).
The out-of-town golfers stayed inthe homes of the locals.
Kapsak had Ryder Cup T-shirtsmade for participants and his sister,photographer Becca Kapsak, award-ed each player with portrait photo.
“Basically, this is the same groupof guys that have played against eachother for years on the tour,” saidKapsak.
“This tournament was just achance to get us all back together.”
RYDER CUPPLAYERS(with current school affiliation)
OLD DOMINION: Alex Lloyd(Kellam High); Connor Walters(Northcross High); Jeremy Wells(William & Mary); Griffin Clark(Thomas Dale High); GarretWhitmore (JMU); Sam Williams(JMU); Brian Critzer (GreensboroCollege); Ryan Pratt (MonacanHigh); Trevor Times (East Carolina);Harrison Vance (Presbyterian); Will
MacIlwaine (JMU); Chris Kapsak(Trinity).
COMMONWEALTH: Jake Mondy(Auburn); Ryan Mondy (BlacksburgHigh); Maclain Huge (NotreDame Academy); Mark LawrenceJr. (Godwin High); John DavidSanderson (Summit Christian);Andrew Butts (Salem High); ConnorHill (St. Joseph’s College); JeremyCarrell (Erskine University); SamStilwell (Dominion High); DrewNoble (Hampden-Sydney College);Brian Hill (Godwin High); JohnoBurke (Trinity).
BY FRED JETERSpecial Correspondent
Raven Williams isMonacan High’sbasketball versionof the Queen on
the chessboard.She moves places others
can’t go; does things otherscan’t do.
You name it,Williams doesit – always witha twinkle in herdark eyes - forveteran coachLarry’s Starr’squick and tal-ented but verti-cally challengedChiefs.
“Raven is a coach’sdream,” says Starr.
At 5-foot-7, and slender,Williams is a natural pointguard or wing who is askedto bump in the paint, fromnecessity.
“I’ll play anywhere,” saysthe third-year starter.
Starr adds: “And never aword of complaint.”
The “v” in her name,Raven, ought to stand for“versatile.”
In basketball lingo, she’sa “forcenguard” – someonecomfortable at forward,center and guard.
As a junior Jackie of alltrades, Williams led theChiefs in scoring (15.2),rebounds (6.8) and steals(2.0) and was second in as-sists (2.6).
She’s a threat from dis-tance, on deft, springy postmoves, and racing the courton transition.
The all-over play earnedher first-team All-Domin-ion District, second-teamAll-Metro and honorablemention All-Central Regionhonors.
She popped the cork onthis season with a 22-point,10-rebound, 3-steal, 3-assistexplosion in a rout overManchester, despite a slightleg injury.
Williams lines up atpower forward in arguablythe Central Region’s tiniestlineup.
“I can’t complain,”she said. “Our center (5-7Shonda Edmendson) is notaller than me.”
Monacan may be thearea’s only school where theaverage height of the hoopssquad is about that of thelibrary aids.
The Shorties … err,Chiefs’ tallest player, 5-10,Rebecca Deichman, suffereda knee injury during field-hockey and is likely lost for
the duration.“Rebecca says she’s com-
ing back and that’s whatwe’re hoping,” said Williams.
“She is so strong; I don’tthink I could have gonethrough what she’s beenthrough and remain so posi-tive.”
Williams, whohas five brothers,has known adver-sity, too.
Her father,Walter Williams,died when shewas 11.
She alsomourns the deathof Portia Smith,
her former coachin the Hening Association.
“I think about themwhen they play the NationalAnthem before games,” saidWilliams. “They believed inme and I’m keeping it goingfor them.”
Her mother, Alvina Jones,named her after entertainerRaven-Symone, adorableOlivia on The Cosby Show.
The “Raven Show” drawsrave reviews, too, despiteplaying out of naturalhabitat.
“Raven will play Divi-sion I (college) basketball,”assured Starr. “Playing insideso much for us may havehurt her … she’ll likely be acollege point guard.”
The under-sized Chiefsface an uphill battle thisseason against Dominionjuggernauts L.C. Bird andCosby.
“We can’t match themwith height, so we’ll try andbeat them with speed,” saidWilliams. “All I can say isthat we’ll fight to the finalhorn.”
Monacan has a proudtradition under formercoaches Rosalie Ashcraft andNatalie White and now Starr.MHS won Central Regioncrowns in 1994, 2004 and’05, and was second in ’06.
Few schools boast agalaxy of ex-stars brighterthan Monacan. In a mythicalshowdown of all-time teams,Monacan would cower tonone.
Glistening alumni in-clude Tifffanie Bower, KimCorrada, Kelsie Bradberry,Megan Dickerson, MeredithStarr, Jasmine Young, JamieMcAllister, Rachel Robinsonand Candace Silas – amongthe region’s all-time, all-tim-ers.
Now add Williams to thelist – game over.
In chess, that’s calledCheckmate.
BY FRED JETERSpecial Correspondent
Midlothian Highsenior OmarHoward excelsat touchdowns
and takedowns.The All-Dominion Dis-
trict football tight end hasmade a seamless transitionfrom snaring passes to toss-ing wrestling foes head overheels.
Howard is using hisswift, calculating moves andmeat-hook hands to chasemat belts, and also his olderbrother, Mark, in the Trojans’record book.
The buff senior rarelyreturns minus his prey.
“Omar is a great ath-lete and a great person,’says Midlo wrestling coachJimmy Cox.
“He should be a contend-er for all honors this season.”
Having graduated fromthe 171 to 195-pound class,Howard popped the cork onhis fourth season of Trojans’wrestling by capturing theHopewell Invitational with a5-0 record.
The season-openingshowcase featured 16 schoolsfrom all over Virginia.
Howard is coming offa stellar football season inwhich he was first-teamall-district on offense (28catches, 480 yards, 5 touch-
downs) and second-teamlinebacker.
A quick learner, it was justhis first season of playingdefense.
“Going both ways andbasically being on the fieldthe whole game really helpedme,” he said. “In the past Iwasn’t really in cardio shapewhen football ended.
“This year I am.”As a versatile football
player, the 6-foot-1 Howardis being recruited by suchschools as “Elon, Richmondand others,” he says.
Also an above-averagestudent, he figures to playfootball for a high-end FCSschool, or perhaps a mid-tierBCS program, “like WakeForest,” he said.
If this is to be his finalseason on the mats, he plansto maximize.
Howard was 40-5 last year,with 29 pins and a whopping77 takedowns, while takingsecond in the Dominion andthird at regionals.
The “TDs” – wrestlinglingo for takedowns – ups hiscareer total to 157 and putshim on pace to pass CharlesKrug (204) as MHS careerleader in that category.
He’s also in feverishpursuit of his brother on theTrojans’ all-time charts.
In four bruising seasons,Mark Howard posted a 101-
20 record with 64 pins.The elder Howard, fol-
lowing a prep year at MarionMilitary Institute, Ala., isnow wrestling at 197 poundsat the U.S. Coast GuardAcademy in New London,Conn.
“We called Mark ‘ThePanda,’” said Cox. “He wasslower and more methodicalthan Omar … Omar is themore aggressive … he reallygets excited.”
Mark’s “lil’ brother”entered his senior season at77-31 with 51 pins.
Even the Midlo careerwins record (111 by Tony
TROJANEXPLOSIONCoach Jimmy Cox’s Trojans,Dominion runners-up a yearago, return a strong cast.Here are returnees with 2011records:
Matt Molloy (28-12)Austin Ingram (27-12)William Ronnau (24-8)Jerry Ronnau (34-11)Trey Reynolds (13-11)Omar Howard (40-5)Austen Owens (15-21)
Also, heavyweight PaulGerard (10-10 in 2010)returns from injury.
Williams does itall for Monacan
Howard’s ‘little brother’ has eye on big prize
WILLIAMS
PHOTO BY JIM MCCONNELLMidlothian senior Omar Howard (left) worked out with his older brother Mark, a collegewrestler, during a recent practice.
Campbell) is attainable.Mark Howard’s 101 victoriesare second all-time.
Omar Howard credits hisbrother (21/2 years older)with priming him for thehigh school mats.
“Mark kind of bulliedme, but in a brotherly way,”Omar recalled. “He whippedmy butt about every day …but it toughened me up.”
By seventh grade, Omarwas working out with theTrojans varsity in the MHSwrestling room.
Omar was 7-15 as a fresh-man (145 and 152 pounds),30-11 as a sophomore (at171) and then 40-5 last sea-son at 171.
He’s an easy fit into thebeefier 195 division. Whilehis teammates try and meltpounds and shy from carbs,Omar is more apt to be pop-ping a protein shake.
“I don’t have to worry atall about cutting weight,” hesaid with a smile.
Omar and Mark are sonsof Tyrone and Michaele
Howard. Tyrone, standing 6-7, played football at OregonState (1979-81) and wentto Dallas Cowboys trainingcamp; he now resides inSacramento, Calif.
It helps that MichaeleHoward’s father was a wres-tling coach.
The Howards lived inOregon, New York and Texasbefore settling in Midlothian.
“I’m glad they wound uphere,” said Cox. “They’veserved us well.”
Trinity seniorbrings Ryder Cupto Midlothian
PHOTOS BY PATRICK DOBBSAbove: Tournament organizer Chris Kapsak; Below: Will MacIlwaine is in the season as he departs the first tee;Bottom: 24 golfers participated in the two-day tournament.
6 || DECEMBER 29, 2011 MIDLOTHIANEXCHANGE.COMEXPLORE YOUR WORLD || TRAVEL
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which began on Dec. 24, is recom-mended. Register online at library.chesterfield.gov, or by calling 751-CCPL. Event will be held from 10:30to noon.
WEDNESDAY, JAN. 11The New Virginians, a club forwomen new to the Richmond areain the last two years, will have itsmonthly luncheon at 11:30 a.m. atRichmond Country Club, 12950 Pat-terson Ave., Richmond. The guestspeaker will be Elizabeth ThalhimerSmartt, who will be speaking on thestory of the Thalhimer family and itsfounding of the Thalhimer’s depart-ment store in Richmond. The costfor the luncheon is $25. Prospectivemembers are welcome. Reserva-tions for the luncheon are requestedby noon on Jan. 4, 2012. ContactLinda Eggleston at 744-2025 formore information.
WEDNESDAY, JAN. 18The Salisbury Garden Club meetsthe third Wednesday of each monthat the Church of the Redeemer at9:30 a.m. This month, the club willspotlight Sue Becker presentation,“Veggie Tales -- An Introduction toBeginning Vegetable Gardening.” Ifyou have any questions regardingthe Salisbury Garden Club, contactthe president, Doris Morris, [email protected].
WEEKLY ON TUESDAYSOvereaters Anonymous Group#51606 meets each Tuesday at 2
TUESDAY, JAN. 3The monthly meeting of TheMidlothian Garden Club will beginat 10:30 a.m. at Bethel BaptistChurch, 1100 Huguenot SpringsRoad. Refreshments will be servedat noon. The program will be “Mak-ing the Most of your Fresh-CutFlowers.” Come and learn the stepsof harvesting and conditioningflowers and also how to use variousarranging tools and accessories.Lisa Ziegler, a cut-flower growerfrom Newport News, will be thespeaker. She will have samples ofher mechanics and catalogs thatcan be ordered. The meeting isopen to the public and guests arealways welcome. For more informa-tion, contact Sandy at 379-4515 orDolores at 794-3002.
FRIDAY, JAN. 6The Bon Air Artists Association’smonthly meeting will be held at9:30 a.m. at the Congregation orAmi, located at 9400 Huguenot Rd.,Richmond. January’s speaker, MaryJo Beswick, will do a painting dem-onstration. For questions, contactNell Chesley at 217-8950.
SATURDAY, JAN. 7Teen Studio-Watercolor TissuePaper Collage Painting at Bon Airlibrary. Create collage paintings us-ing colored tissue paper. IllustratorJamie Ross will guide students inthis unusual medium. This programis recommended for students 12years old and older. Registration,
p.m. at Central Baptist Church,located at 1510 Courthouse Rd.,Richmond (Misson House in rear ofchurch). For more information, callPeg at 379-9558.
The Bethia United Methodist ChurchMothers of Preschoolers (MOPS)program is accepting registrationsand new members for the 2011-2012year. Bethia MOPS meets from 9:30a.m. to noon on the first, third andfifth Tuesdays from Sept. 20 throughMay 15. For more information,contact Kara Harris at 763-6067or [email protected]. BethiaUnited Methodist Church is locatedat 10700 Winterpock Road, Chester-field.
WEEKLY ON THURSDAYSMoms of Tots to Teens (MOTTS)meet from 9:45 a.m. to noon everyfirst and third Thursday of themonth, Sept. 17 through May 17,at Bon Air Baptist Church, 2531Buford Road. Dates are: Sept. 15,Oct. 6, Oct. 20, Nov. 3, Nov. 17,Dec. 1, Dec. 15, Jan. 5, Jan. 19,Feb. 2, Feb. 16, March 1, March 15,April 5, April 19, May 3 and May17. Preschool childcare is avail-able. Contact Loretta Sherwoodat [email protected] or go to www.bonairbaptist.org/motts for moreinformation.
The Al-Anon meeting Awaken toHope is held at 7:30 p.m. eachThursday at St. John NeumannCatholic Church located at 2480Batterson Rd. in Powhatan.
KOREY HUGHESSpecial Correspondent
If you need inspiration, spiritualsounds are on the way courtesy ofthe Andy Needham Band.
The group of Massachusetts-basedmusicians will perform its brand ofcontemporary Christian tunes atGrace Bible Church in Midlothian.
Needham began playing guitar atage 15, and he started writing songsshortly thereafter.
Before his band began touring,he served as the director of studentministries and worship leader atChapel of the Cross, a church inWestborough, Mass.
So, it was a natural transitionfor Needham to become the frontman and lead vocalist for the band.And, along with guitarist JoelRousseau, bass player JonathanMason and drummer AndrewPicha, the ensemble has gainedfame in the New England region,but the group is ready to expand itsfan base.
The Andy Needham Band’slocal performance is a stop on thecombo’s “Simply Jesus” Tour thatbegan in the New England area andmight end in Atlanta, Ga.
Needham isn’t sure when thetour will conclude – even after thegroup reaches the Deep South. “It’sa never-ending tour,” he said.
The band is doing show dates onits way to Nashville, Tenn., to recordwith Grammy-winning producerMitch Dean, who earned the afore-mentioned award for his work withfamed Christian band Jars of Clay.
Although an assortment of theAndy Needham Band’s songs isavailable on iTunes, Needham saidhe hopes that the production workit will do with Dean in January willlead to an album release.
The group plans to debut somenew songs at Grace Bible Churchand perform others, such as “Awak-ened Me” and Needham’s personalfavorite, “Lifted High,” that have
become popular with its fans.If you’re unfamiliar with the
group’s repertoire, don’t worry – thegroup also will sing a selection ofsaintly standards.
“When we do our worshipnights, we do a mix of corporatesongs that people already knowand modern arrangements ofhymns along with our own songs,”Needham said. “But a couple of oursongs have already traveled all overthe country, mainly because collegestudents have taken the songs withthem during their travels.”
And songwriting is important toNeedham, who looks at his creativeprocess as an opportunity to com-mune with a higher power.
“It’s an ongoing conversationwith God,” Needham said. “And,for me, it’s about who He is andhow He wants us to live.”
“But when it comes to workingwith the band on songs, I’m theidea guy. I’ll bring a melody and astructure to the band, and then weall collaborate with each other tofinish a song.”
Needham said he doesn’t knowwhat the future holds for hisensemble, but he’s certain that itsmembers’ convictions will sustainthe group as they work to sharetheir message with others.
“We just want to write songsand lead as many people as we can,”Needham said. “And we’re workingon our big focus, which is to get arecording that represents us well,but, at the same time, we’re not go-ing to be complacent in our faith,”Needham said.
The Andy Needham Band willperform at 6:30 p.m. on Saturday,Jan. 7, at the Grace Bible Churchas 1200 Coalfield Mountain Rd. inMidlothian.
The performance is free, al-though donations are encouraged.
For more information, go toGrace Bible Church’s website,http://www.gracebiblerichmond.
Andy Needham Bandbrings inspiration toGrace Bible Church
Upcoming events at the Up-town Gallery in Richmond havebeen announced.
The exhibit “In Over OurHeads?” runs Jan. 3 through Feb.25.
The All-Member show exploresthe beauty and wonder of a planetthat is three-fourths water.
As the world reaches the limitsof Earth’s natural replenishmentof fresh water, our use and man-agement of water determines theplanet’s future survival.
Uptown artists are using theirart to increase awareness of theeffects of our actions and ournational policies.
By offering a fresh look at ourblue planet and the ways waterenriches our lives, the artists hopeto encourage viewers to work withnature rather than against it.
Featured works include water-colors, oils, acrylics, pastels, collage,graphite, colored pencil and mixedmedia.
The opening reception is sched-uled to be held from 5 to 9 p.m. onFriday, Jan. 6.
“From the James to OuterSpace” by Emma Lou Martin openson Jan. 3 and runs through Feb. 25in the Frable Gallery.
The exhibit includes watercolorsand collages depicting two of Mar-tin’s passions: scenes and creaturesfrom our local waterways and themagic moments of the space race.
The exhibit accents the theme ofthe All-Member show by depictingour water resources and also outerspace. It was our forays into outerspace that first made us so aware of
the uniqueness of our “blue planet”and its water features.
Martin’s work is in numerouscorporate and private collectionsand she also is known for herleadership in the Richmond artcommunity.
“Variations on a Theme:Three Chairs,” by members of theMetropolitan Richmond ArtistsAssociation, who present theirinterpretations of a Thoreau quotein response to the group’s latestpainting challenge.
The exhibit includes a varietyof media, as well as works on othersubject matter.
It runs through Jan. 28 in theEmma Lou Martin Loft Gallery.
The Uptown Gallery, located at1305 West Main St., is open from11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday throughFriday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. onSaturday.
For more information, call 353-8343.
Contributed report
Uptown Gallery’s upcomingexhibits, events announced
“Dependency” by S. White is one ofthe pieces that will be on display atUptown Gallery in 2012.
PHOTOS SUBMITTED BY BETSY LATHAMMillwood School’s upper school students gathered with families, teachers and friends on the evening of Dec.7 to celebrate the unveiling of an art project, “The Mural, Eleven Personalities.” The mural, which depictedsymbolic images of the upper school students against realistic looking brick walls, entirely changed thefeeling of the upper school lounge. The students described the work they had done and the imagery they hadchosen to represent their lives. This project had evolved as a result of the study of local and internationalmuralists with Chris Palmer, their art teacher.
Art project transforms student lounge
LATIKA LEESpecial Correspondent
The Elegba Folklore Society,Richmond’s Cultural Ambassador,will present the 2011 Capital CityKwanzaa Festival from 1 to 9 p.m.on Saturday, Dec. 31, at The Show-place Exhibition Center located at3000 Mechanicsville Turnpike inRichmond.
The family-friendly, intergenera-tional festival is one of the largestcultural events celebrating the spiritof the Kwanzaa holiday on the EastCoast.
“Everyone is invited to this verysignificant event,” said Janine Bell,Capital City Kwanzaa Festival coor-dinator, “It does not take the place ofother religious holidays, but ratherit’s an extension of our cultural andcreative expression.”
Created in 1966 by Dr. MaulanaKarenga, the Kwanzaa holiday isobserved from Dec. 26 through Jan.1 each year. Its origins are in the firstharvest celebrations of Africa fromwhich it takes its name.
The name Kwanzaa is derivedfrom the phrase “matunda yakwanza,” which means “first fruits”in Swahili, a Pan-African languagethat is the most widely spoken Afri-can language.
“Not only is it African American,but it’s also a Pan-African holiday
celebrated by millions throughoutthe world African community,” Bellsaid, “Kwanzaa brings a culturalmessage that speaks to the best ofwhat it means to be African and hu-man in the fullest sense.”
Oscar-nominated actress RubyDee will be the featured guest at thecelebration. The legendary actressand humanitarian is a cultural iconwith a career that has spanned morethan seven decades.
She was born in Cleveland, Ohio,but grew up in Harlem, N.Y., whichformed the foundation of her actingcareer. She is a trailblazer and has setthe path for African Americans intheatre, film and television.
From stage to screen to studio, themulti-dimensional entertainer hasreceived credits as a producer as well asa writer. Her creativity has been recog-nized both on screen and behind thescenes with Emmys and Grammys.
This theme of this year’s event is“The Gift of Kuumba.”
Kuumba is one of the SevenPrinciples of Kwanzaa, known as“The Nguzo Saba,” and stands at theheart of the origin and meaning ofKwanzaa. The seven basic values ofAfrican culture contribute to build-ing and reinforcing family, commu-nity and culture among the AfricanDiaspora.
“Participants can realize the
power of their own creativitythrough the theme,” said Bell, “Itoffers a path, through their intent,to empowerment for self, family andcommunity.”
Attendees will be able to experi-ence music, dance and spoken wordon the festival’s main stage, which isdesigned to strengthen families andgalvanize the community.
Workshops will be presented thatoffer lifestyle tips, empowermenttools, take home craft making andchildren’s activities.
If you go:1 p.m. The African Market opens2 p.m. Drum Call & Processional
with Kwanzaa Candle LightingCeremony
4 p.m. Sharon Rae North (Jazz)5:30 p.m. Legendary actress and
humanitarian Ruby Dee6:45 p.m. Jah-I-Witness – (so-
cially conscious solo artist)8 p.m. Truth and Rights Reggae
Band9 p.m. Festival ClosesAdvance tickets for the 2011
Capital City Kwanzaa Festival are $6,general admission, $5 for students,12 through 18 and $5 for seniors, 65-plus. Admission is free for childrenunder 12.
More information is availableonline at www.efsinc.org or by call-ing 644-3900.
Capital City Kwanzaa Festival to hostOscar-nominated actress Ruby Dee