Tuesday, April 30, 2024

Chesterfield Community Champions Award Recipients Recognized by Board of Supervisors

Six different individuals and groups were recognized last Wednesday by the Board of Supervisors as recipients of 2024 Chesterfield Community Champions awards.

The program, which is managed by the Department of Community Engagement and Resources, was created in 2020 to honor residents who volunteer their time and resources to effect positive change in their communities. 

These awards recognize the impact of volunteer service in the community and celebrate the outstanding residents who are making a difference. 

This year's winners are:

• Youth – Mila Marrero
• Teen – Jonathan Dandridge
• Adult – Nury Mojica
• Senior – Julie Grimes
• Group – Caring Canines
• Organization – Launch for Life

Learn more about the 2024 honorees by visiting the county website.

2024 Triad Senior Day Scheduled for Wednesday

Chesterfield Triad's annual Senior Day event takes place Wednesday, May 1 from 9 a.m. to noon at Southside Church, 6851 Courthouse Road.

Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares will be the keynote speaker for this year's festivities, which are free and open to the public. More than 50 vendors geared toward older adult services will be on hand as you enjoy food, entertainment, raffle prizes and more. Please bring any old medications for the Medication Takeback. No sharps please.

Chesterfield Triad -- a collaboration between Aging and Disability Services, Parks and Recreation, Fire and EMS, the Chesterfield County Police Department and the Chesterfield County Sheriff’s Office -- strives to educate seniors and caregivers about programs, services, techniques, and systems that help prevent crime against seniors and improve their quality of life.

For more information, visit the Aging and Disability Services webpage.

Starting Friday, Early Voting is Being Relocated

from the Registrar's Office to Central Library

The Chesterfield Board of Supervisors recently voted to move early voting from the Registrar’s Office (9848 Lori Road) to Central Library (7051 Lucy Corr Blvd.) effective this Friday, May 3.

Relocating to Central Library allows for a larger voting area and more parking. These changes will expedite the voting process and enhance the experience for Chesterfield voters beginning with the June 18 primary election.

The Republican primary is for U.S. Senate and ballots will be available countywide. The Democratic primary is for U.S. House District 1 and only county residents who reside in that district will be able to cast a ballot. Voters will be asked to state which party ballot they wish to vote. This selection does not create any affiliation with that party.

For June's primary election, early voting hours at Central Library are as follows:

• May 3-June 14: Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Saturday, June 8 and Saturday, June 15: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Central Library voters are encouraged to park near the Cooperative Extension office and enter through its main door. Signs will be posted directing voters to the large meeting room across from the Cooperative Extension office.

Curbside voting for those with a disability or age 65 and older is available during early voting at the Cooperative Extension office entrance. 

To find more information about the June primary in Chesterfield, including sample ballots and candidate information, visit www.promotethevotecfield.org.  

Don't Miss the Spring Festival

Saturday at Historic Eppington

Travel through time and unveil the past during the annual Spring Festival this weekend at Historic Eppington.

The free event takes place this Saturday, May 4 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 14602 Eppes Falls Road.

Hosted by Chesterfield Parks and Recreation, the Eppington Foundation and Henricus Historical Park, the Spring Festival will be fun for the whole family.

Enjoy a variety of colonial activities, carriage rides, craft beer from Dancing Kilt Brewery, period music, storytelling, tours, and living history.

For more information, visit chesterfield.gov/Parks.

Come Out to Ettrick Park Saturday for

Echoes of Joy Community Day Event

Join Chesterfield for a day of caring, sharing and fun at Echoes of Joy. Connect with your neighbors, learn about vital community resources and have a blast in the process!

The free community event takes place this Saturday, May 4, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Ettrick Park.

Entertainment includes a bounce house, face painting, balloon creations, a gaming truck and more.

There will be free food for the first 500 attendees: McDonald's hamburgers, cheeseburgers and ice cream for the kids, and Chick Fil A for the adults.

Learn more about the event by visiting the Parks and Recreation web page.

May the 4th Be with You Saturday

at North Courthouse Library

May the 4th be with you!

Calling all Jedi, Padawans, and Rebels. Come celebrate Star Wars Day with a galactic extravaganza this Saturday, May 4th at 10 a.m. at North Courthouse Road Library.

Get ready to strike a pose with stormtroopers, show off your best costume and compete to win epic prizes, and craft your own Star Wars masterpiece.

Fuel up with delicious food trucks, score free comics and explore the Library of Virginia's Bookmobile that will be on site.

Representatives from the Chesterfield Police Activities League (PAL) will also be on hand to read Star Wars books with kids, as well a giveaways, raffles and a silent auction for some rare Star Wars memorabilia. All proceeds benefit PAL and its programs for the youth of Chesterfield County.

Don't miss this epic event!

Join Chesterfield Master Gardeners

for First Saturdays in the Garden

At First Saturdays in the Garden, join Chesterfield Master Gardeners to learn about sound gardening practices that you can use in your own landscapes and gardens. A different topic will be discussed each month and questions are welcome as we tour the gardens for some real-time demonstrations of these gardening practices.

The third installment of the 2024 First Saturdays in the Garden schedule takes place this Saturday, May 4 at 10 a.m. at the Extension Demonstration Garden, 9501 Lori Road.

The event is free and open to people of all ages. To register, visit www.chesterfield.gov/extension.

Watch This Week In Chesterfield

Chesterfield's 2024 Farmers Market

Season Opens Next Wednesday

It's finally here! Chesterfield's 2024 farmers market season opens next Wednesday, May 8 at 6701 Mimms Loop.

Market hours are 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. As always, there will be many local vendors selling a variety of products, as well as food trucks on site if you'd like to buy lunch.

You can contact our market manager by email at FarmersMarket@chesterfield.gov.

Celebrate County's 275th Anniversary on May 25

Chesterfield reaches a significant milestone this month as we celebrate our 275th anniversary over Memorial Day weekend. 

Officially chartered on May 25, 1749, the county is looking forward to celebrating its rich history and its residents. As part of this year-long recognition, there are a number of events being held throughout Chesterfield to give residents an opportunity to join in on the celebration and learn more about this community over the years.

Chief among them is the signature event, which is scheduled to take place on Saturday, May 25 at the Chesterfield County Fairgrounds. Gates will open at 6 p.m. and those in attendance will be able to participate in a bevy of activities for the entire family.

There will be plenty of things for the kids, from balloon twisting to juggling, as well as living history with Lord Chesterfield and Thomas Jefferson, among others, African-American storytelling, entertainment from the Virginia State marching band and the Chesterfield Concert Band and others, food vendors, and Chesterfield’s signature ice cream flavor available to sample (and purchase) from Gelati Celesti, all culminating in a grand fireworks display at 9:30 p.m.

Participants should plan to enter the Fairgrounds at Gate 2 and Gate 3, with Gelati Celesti expected to be on site at approximately 7 p.m.

For more information about these planned events and potential additions, head over to the official 275th Anniversary Celebration webpage for all of the latest information.

Chesterfield Behind the Mic is an audio and video podcast focusing on the people, stories and happenings of #Cfield. You can watch and listen to all of the episodes at

http://www.Chesterfield.gov/Podcast.

On the latest episode of Chesterfield Behind the Mic, which drops tomorrow, we talk to Liz Hart of the county’s Sports, Visitation, and Entertainment Department about not only the group’s mission but also the launch of its new website, ExperienceChesterfield.com, and what it seeks to in the county.

Memorial Day Ceremony Scheduled for May 26

Chesterfield invites residents to attend the annual Memorial Day Ceremony, which will take place this year on Sunday, May 26 at 2 p.m. inside the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Building at the Chesterfield County Fairgrounds (10300 Courthouse Road).

In addition to comments from Board of Supervisors Chair Jim Holland (Dale District), those in attendance will hear from keynote speaker Richard Wise as he focuses on this year’s theme: The Purple Heart.

There will also be patriotic musical selections from the BoneFire Trumpet Ensemble during the ceremony as well as a bagpiper playing Amazing Grace. The event will pay tribute to those from Chesterfield who have given their lives in service of our country, culminating with a live rendition of Taps.

In a new article posted to the Chesterfield On Point blog, you can learn about the grand opening of the county's reimagined Harrowgate Park.

Opened in 1976 as one of Chesterfield’s four original community parks, Harrowgate Park holds a special place in the hearts of many county residents who fondly remember playing there as children.

So when county and school leaders decided in 2018 to use part of the park for construction of the new Harrowgate Elementary School, citizens wanted assurance there was a plan to restore what had been lost.

“Sorry it took a little longer than we had hoped,” said Bermuda District Supervisor Jim Ingle during last Wednesday’s ribbon-cutting for Phase III of the park project, “but as you can see it’s going to be well worth it. It’s such a unique park and I’m so thankful for everything we have here.”

Victim/Witness Assistance Program

Aids Victims of Crime in Chesterfield

Last week was Victims Rights Week, but the Chesterfield Commonwealth's Attorney's Office and its Victim/Witness Assistance Program are there to help year-round if you become a victim of a crime.

The Victim/Witness Assistance Program, in coordination with other services such as the Domestic and Sexual Violence Resource Center, helps survivors of all types of violent crimes.

To learn more about the program, visit the county website.

New Latino Farmers Market Now Open

Saturday Mornings at Rockwood Park

A new Latino Farmers Market is now open at Rockwood Park.

From the freshest produce to delicious homemade treats, the market brings the community together for a celebration of food, family and heritage. Get ready to embark on a flavorful journey through the heart of Latino culture.

The farmers market continues every Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon through Nov. 2.

Visit Experience Chesterfield Website

for Things to See and Do Across the County

Chesterfield's Sports, Visitation and Entertainment Department recently launched the new Experience Chesterfield website, promoting and celebrating all the things to see, do and experience within Chesterfield. Visit www.experiencechesterfield.com to learn more and be sure to follow along on Facebook and Instagram.

GRTC's On-Demand Microtransit Service

Now Operating Along Hull Street Road

Welcome, Chesterfield riders!

LINK, the on-demand microtransit service from GRTC, is now available in the Clover Dale Zone. LINK runs Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., connecting you anywhere in your community. Simply download the GRTC on the Go app and select your pick-up and drop-off locations anywhere within our service area, and we’ll be there within 20 minutes to get you where you need to go.

The Clover Dale Zone provides quick and convenient service along Hull Street Road from Chippenham Mall to Harbourside Centre, with direct connection to downtown Richmond via GRTC’s Route 1C and 82x. LINK vehicles are fully ADA accessible, and feature on-board WIFI and USB charging ports – and right now, LINK is entirely fare-free!  

For rmore information, visit ridegrtc.com/link or call (804) 358-4792.

Residents Encouraged to Provide

Feedback On ZOMod Draft 2

In fall 2019, Chesterfield County issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) seeking the services of qualified professionals to assist the county in a comprehensive re-write of its Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 19.1 (PDF) of the Chesterfield County Code. The Zoning Ordinance serves as the primary tool to implement the Comprehensive Plan.

While the Comprehensive Plan itself has changed over time to reflect the growth and development vision for county, much of the core content of the current Zoning Ordinance remains unchanged since the 1970s. A comprehensive re-write of the Zoning Ordinance is necessary to fully implement the future vision. 

Chesterfield County’s Planning Department has released draft 2 of the zoning ordinance for public review online. A downloadable version of draft 2 (PDF), a redline version (PDF) (showing changes from draft 1 to draft 2) and public comments related to draft 1 (PDF) are available. Paper copies of the draft 2 are available upon request for $30 at the Community Development Building.

Planning welcomes feedback, comments and questions regarding the current ZOMod draft 2, which can be provided online, by emailing ZOMod or by calling 804-748-1050.

Don't Be an Accidental Drug Dealer;

 Properly Dispose of All Medications

Did you know medication abuse is a national epidemic? In fact, 61% of kids age 12 and older who misuse prescription pain relievers get them from a friend or family member.

Chesterfield residents can pick up free medication disposal pouches and locking bags on a first-come, first-served basis (while supplies last) at Chesterfield County Public Library locations.

Learn more about safe medication disposal and storage here.

Hi, my name is Jordan!

I'm an adorable 2-year-old female Shepherd Mix weighing around 71 lbs. who would love to find my forever home!

I've been at the shelter for a while now because it turns out I was pregnant when I arrived. But now I'm finally free from my puppies and looking for my own family.

The staff at the shelter all say I'm such a sweetheart who is so friendly with people and dogs. I'm very playful too, so I'd love to have some toys of my own to play with! I really am just the best girl, so please call today to come meet me.



If you are interested in meeting this pet, please contact Chesterfield County Animal Services at 804-748-1683, option "2," to schedule an appointment. Office staff are available by phone 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday, and 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays. Our shelter is located at 9300 Public Works Road.

Virginia Has Resources for

Aspiring Childcare Providers

Did you know that the state has resources available for becoming a childcare provider?

The Virginia Department of Education offers the following tools for those looking to become a childcare provider and existing providers:

• Standards for licensed child day centers
• Emergency preparedness
• Low-interest loan programs
• Family and community engagement information
• Trauma toolkits
• Family childcare tool kits and much more

Find more information, visit the state's website.

Searching for some independence? Find yourself having to call on family or friends to get you where you need to be?

Access on Demand is a same day, door-to-door, point-to-point service for citizens registered for mobility services. Destinations must be located within Chesterfield County, unless for work or medical appointments.

Each one-way trip is $6 and will be charged to your debit or credit card at the time of pick-up. Ride reservations must be made at least two hours in advance by calling an authorized provider for same-day service.

Register online, see if you qualify, and learn more about this service.

In Case of Emergency, Get Accurate and

Up-to-Date Information from Chesterfield Alert

Now is the time for residents to familiarize themselves with all of the different ways that Chesterfield County puts out emergency information.

One of those is Chesterfield Alert, an opt-in system that sends messages directly to you in the event of an emergency. This system can send out alerts via text, email, and phone call depending on how the subscriber chooses to receive the messages. Sign up today!

Click here to learn more about how you can get accurate, up-to-date information from Chesterfield in the event of an emergency.

Did you know your group or organization can request a speaker from the #Cfield Speakers Bureau? The Speakers Bureau features a variety of topics on current and timely subjects from county leaders who are eager to talk to your group or organization.

Our subject-matter experts want to be your best resource for getting answers to important questions about Chesterfield. Topics include:

✅ District update – Request your board member to speak

✅ Preparing for an emergency - Emergency Management

✅ Senior resources in Chesterfield - Office of Aging and Disability Services

✅ Chesterfield Cooperative Extension - Master Gardeners

✅ So much more.

Prom closet seeks community donations

This video shows how Monacan High is helping trim the cost of prom by offering free dresses, suits and accessories for students.

As a service learning project, students run the Chiefs Closet like a boutique — complete with attractive displays, business communications and social media promotions.

Community donations to the prom closet are welcome and can be left in the front office of Monacan High (11501 Smoketree Drive). This year’s prom is May 11. If you have questions, please email teacher meredith_shuman@ccpsnet.net.

Virginia’s top literacy teacher

Lisa Signorelli, reading specialist at Falling Creek Middle, is Virginia’s top literacy teacher. The Virginia State Literacy Association selected her as the 2024 Ofie T. Rubin Reading Teacher of the Year.

Believing that every student can thrive with reading in a supportive environment, Signorelli launched a family book club at Falling Creek Middle and co-created a free bookmobile that connects with neighborhoods near Falling Creek Middle and Meadowbrook High.

Top principal in Virginia

It was smiles and rainbows all around when Gates Elementary Principal Nina Brink (holding flowers) learned she is the 2024 National Distinguished Principal for Virginia.

Representatives of the Virginia Association of Elementary School Principals joined CCPS leaders to surprise Brink with the good news.

She is the third Chesterfield County Public Schools principal to receive the award: Linda Wood of Harrowgate Elementary won in 2011, and Pamela Johnson of Falling Creek Elementary won in 2015.

National Board Certified Teachers

Congratulations to the new and renewing National Board Certified Teachers in Chesterfield County Public Schools. The school system now has 98 educators who have achieved this credential. 

New National Board Certified Teachers are:

• Elizabeth Clark of Manchester Middle
• Martha Kay Covington of Bird High
• Leslie Brooke Haces of Tomahawk Creek Middle
• Rhonda Hawks of Chalkley Elementary
• Haley Hendershot of James River High

National Board Certified Teachers who renewed this year are:

• Alicia Broughton of Old Hundred Elementary
• Michael “Keenan” Entsminger of James River High
• Margaret Hughes of Crestwood Elementary
• Karis Hunt of James River High
• McKendry Marano of James River High
• Kelly Plumb of Crenshaw Elementary
• Christina Sienkiewicz of Thomas Dale High
• Emily Stains of Curriculum Development and Support Department
• Jennifer Stillman of Tomahawk Creek Middle
• Tyler Wachur of Bettie Weaver Elementary