V IRGINIA

QUARTERLY MAGAZINE

Leading the Cheer INSIDE Rita McClenny, Legislative Staff—page 9 President and CEO First to Welcome—page 20 Be Our Guest—page 24 of VirginiaTourism page 4 Winter 2013

V IRGINIA

Leading the Cheer Q UARTERLY MAGAZINE 4 Winter 2013 Issue Leading the Cheer: Rita McClenny, President and CEO of Virginia Tourism . . . . . 4

Meet the Capitol Police K-9 Unit ...... 6 200 Years Let’s Celebrate 200 Years of Virginia Tradition! ...... 7 Being a Good Neighbor Can Be Very Rewarding ...... 8 7 Legislative Staff: Assistants, Chiefs of Staff, Policy Directors & Counsel . . . . 9

What is an LA? ...... 9

Legislative LA Reflections ...... 18 Staff Kanawha Valley Arena: Dugspur • Virginia ...... 19

VITAL 9 First to Welcome, Last to be Recognized ...... 20

Visions of the Commonwealth: The Photography of Wanda Judd ...... 21

Stuart Blackwell, Kanawha Capitol Square’s “Unsung Hero” for Almost Fifty Years . . . . 22 Valley Be Our Guest —for This Week in Richmond ...... 24 19 Arts & Culture Essential for Great Communities ...... 26

Visions of the Commonwealth: The Photography of Wanda Judd ...... 28

In Memoriam ...... 29 Last to be Senator Hopkins Recognized John W. Russell: State Senator and City of Fairfax Mayor Tribute To Delegate Joseph William “Billy” O’Brien

20 On The Web www.vccqm.org Volume 19 Number 1 Issue Editor–Brennan Long • Editor–Kristen Bailey-Hardy Feature Writer–Lydia Freeman • Intern–Lauren Fells Publisher–David Bailey • Art Director–John Sours Be Our School Distribution–Kristen Bailey-Hardy Advertising–[email protected] • Printer– Clinch Valley Printing Guest Virginia Capitol Connections Quarterly Magazine (ISSN 1076-4577) is published by: Virginia Capitol Connections • 1001 East Broad Street • Suite 215 24 Richmond, Virginia 23219 • (804) 643-5554 Copyright 2013,Virginia Capitol Connections, Inc. All rights reserved. The views expressed in the articles of Virginia Capitol Connections Quarterly Magazine, a non-partisan publication, are not necessarily those of the editors or publisher.

Virginia Capitol Connections, Winter 2013 3 Leading the Cheer Rita McClenny, President and CEO of Virginia Tourism

“Curiosity is something that can push and excite someone to try The cheer begins: new things,” McClenny said. “I think in Virginia we have so many new things to offer. People can have a diverse and varied experience.” From the mountains in the west to the beaches in the east, L-O-V-E: Virginia is for lovers from historical sites to shopping, from the arts to Busch Gardens, In Virginia, it is already cold. People are huddled together, hands Virginia has a variety of experiences for everyone to try. Beyond that, clutching thermoses of hot chocolate and coffee, as they sit in the McClenny shared the importance of making the state known for its stands watching the football game. Below them, cheerleaders stand in specialties, like Virginia oysters on the east coast. line, leading the crowd in cheers for the team. They smile and tumble, “We want Virginia oysters to be the best oysters on the east dance and fly, gathering support for the team on the field. coast,” McClenny said. “We want Virginia to be known for oysters.” Rita McClenny, the newly appointed President and CEO Creating a reputation sparks curiosity, and curiosity has a drawing of Virginia Tourism, was once one of those girls. At that time, appeal that will cause people to desire the experience. cheerleading taught her how to impart her passion and build support for a team; now this same lesson from cheerleading has allowed her to impart her passion and build support for the state of Virginia. F-I-L-M: Virginia is for film McClenny was born in Southampton County in eastern Virginia. In August of 1987, a classic film was released: “Dirty Dancing.” As a life-long Virginian, she was raised with a dedication and love for The story featured a girl falling in love with the dance instructor of the state, making it easy for her to fall into her new role. a summer resort. For Virginia, the importance of that resort is that it “My love and dedication to Virginia makes this the ideal job,” exists within the state. People today can still visit Mountain Lake and said McClenny. “I love having an opportunity to promote Virginia to relive the setting of the familiar film. the world because Virginia is for lovers.” But for Virginia, the film industry did not stop with dancing. That brand, “Virginia is for Lovers,” has been in existence for 43 Steven Spielberg’s historical film, “Lincoln,” was brought to years. It has become a cheer for the state because, as McClenny said, theaters at the end of 2012, and rather than being filmed in Hollywood, the brand has awareness worldwide. it was filmed in the capital of Virginia: Richmond. “Virginia is for lovers,” said McClenny. “We are using love at the “The Capitol grounds were the back lot of much of the filming,” heart of every Virginia vacation.” McClenny said. When it was decided that “Lincoln” would be filmed in Virginia, McClenny was the director of the film office. C-U-R-I-O-S-I-T-Y: “Recruiting a film is competitive,” she said. “The decision to Virginia is for curiosity film in Virginia was nine years in the making. We had to present it While attending Fisk University, McClenny said that she learned to DreamWorks, Spielberg’s company, and to Kathleen Kennedy. We valuable lessons like perseverance and the importance of learning. had to present to them that Virginia had history and authenticity, as But she also found a zest for life and a desire for new experiences. well as a deep wealth of talent. We had to show them that all those She found what she calls the “appeal of curiosity.” assets were right here in Virginia. We had to show them that Virginia McClenny herself enjoys a variety of activities, such as playing was the perfect location. That was the story we built to convince them polo and tennis, and shooting sporting clays. All her interests and her that Virginia was the place to tell Lincoln’s story.” desire to try new things taught her about this appeal. McClenny said that Virginia is an appealing location for filmmakers. The diverse typography, four centuries of history, and locations that can

Virginia Capitol Connections, Winter 2013 4 By Lydia Freeman match the time frame of any setting work together for filmmakers to “have it all.” “With Spielberg being such a renowned and highly regarded filmmaker, people will trust his For 20 years, Rita’s passion and dedication decisions,” McClenny said. “They will see the film and say, ‘Wow, this is what you can find in as Director of the Virginia Film Office Virginia.’” brought a such works as John Adams, McClenny also mentioned that “Unanswered Prayers,” a film The New World, Cold Mountain, and based on the Garth Brooks song, was also filmed in Virginia. That “ film, in contrast with “Lincoln,” showed a more contemporary Lincoln to Virginia, adding billions to our version of the state. economy. I know she will bring the same “It opens the door for locations all across the Commonwealth,” McClenny said. tireless energy to the Virginia Tourism And while McClenny couldn’t share names, she did admit to Corporation and its growing industry. some “hot prospects for films in the next few years.” Delegate Jennifer McClellan S-P-O-R-T-S: Virginia is for sports Rita is a champion of the tourism industry. Rumors of drawing a major sports franchise to the state have been circulating. McClenny said the state is interested in the sports With her can-do spirit and proven record entertainment industry. of success in the Film Office, she has “We are involved in many facets of promoting sporting already made great contributions to our opportunities as entertainment in Virginia,” McClenny said. “Professional teams bring that excitement and a real draw for people Commonwealth. It will be no surprise to to come for sporting events and extend their stay awhile in state. me that she will continue to find new “Part of our attractiveness to sporting teams is our location; we have a proximity to dense areas of population, and that is important achievements in her role at VTC. when franchises are looking at any location. They want to be close Delegate Chris Peace to large numbers of people who could become fans. They want easy access through transportation system via highways, trains, air, cars, I have truly enjoyed working with Rita etc. All modes of transportation are important to a national sporting franchise. And it is important for Virginia to have vast transportation McClenny since my first days in the modes of moving people quickly to their desired destination.” legislature when she met with me as the director of the Virginia Film Office. Rita V-I-S-I-O-N: Virginia is for vision helped me understand how Virginia’s Martin Briley, President and CEO of the Virginia Economic Development Partnership, has know McClenny for 25 years, and he tourism industry generates over $20 billion believes having her in this position can only benefit the state. in revenue, supports over 207,000 jobs and “Ms. McClenny’s appointment of Virginia tourism is applauded provides $1.32 billion in state and local by all of us in the Virginia Economic Development Partnership,” Briley said. “I’ve known Rita for 25 years and have seen nothing taxes. Rita has dedicated much of her except stellar performance on a weekly basis. She has displayed true professional career to the Commonwealth, leadership and is taking us to next generation in the film industry. I fully expect her to continue that in the tourism division as well.” and I can’t imagine a better suited person McClenny’s vision for Virginia tourism is a guiding force to lead this important initiative for our forward, giving her a goal to work toward. She sees Virginia as a Commonwealth, and I look forward to hospitable, welcoming place where people make memories that they can share with their friends and families for a lifetime. continuing our partnership. “My vision is to have tourism as a welcoming open door for adventure,” McClenny said. “And with that sense of adventure, our Delegate compelling marketing and advertising, and really knowing Virginia products, we are making Virginia very inviting. We take our spirit of teamwork and customer service, and we spread that wherever we go. We think this is not only good for tourists, but for businesses looking to move here and people who want to move here. This can impact the David L. Bailey state as a whole.” [email protected] With this kind of vision, McClenny is leading the state towards 804.643.5554 her vision. She wants Virginia to be a place that is known. She is ” Cell 804.405.8108 lifting up her voice and leading Virginians, tourists, and the people in WWW.DAVIDBAILEY ASSOCIATES.COM the stands in the familiar cheer: 1001 EAST BROAD STREET “Virginia is for lovers.” SUITE 215 INTEGRITY…EXPERIENCE… RICHMOND, VIRGINIA 23219 RELATIONSHIPS The cheer is echoing. 804.643.5554 Lydia Freeman is a student at Bluefield College who interned DAVID B AILEY ASSOCIATESCapitol Square Group during the summer of 2011.V

Virginia Capitol Connections, Winter 2013 5 Meet the Capitol Police K-9 Unit By Security Officer Jane Sparks Employees and visitors to Capitol Square will likely see the uniformed officers of the Division of Capitol Police — whether on duty in state buildings or patrolling the Capitol grounds and other properties for which they are responsible. Another group of four- legged individuals is also vital to Colonel Anthony S. Pike stands on the Capitol steps with Atos, the success of maintaining a safe a Brindle German Shepherd from and secure environment for those Marburg, Germany. who work in and visit the Capitol District — the Division of Capitol Police K-9 Unit. The Capitol Police canines are always on call. The Division’s K-9 Unit was formed in December 2000 and currently consists of three police dogs and two canine handlers. These dogs are specially trained to detect various types of explosives, and each dog is certified through the Virginia Police Work Dog Association. Along with their handlers, they provide an added level of security from threats that are becoming more prevalent in today’s world. A typical K-9 workday begins early with the dog’s handler conducting security sweeps of state buildings and grounds. The K-9 officers also conduct maintenance training where the dogs are allowed to ‘find’ a hidden target. When the dog sniffs the explosive odor, he sits. He is then rewarded by being allowed to play with his favorite toy. Though the dog treats each search as a game, it is a serious and necessary job. Officer Sean Chaulklin’s partner is K-9 Cheno, a 10-year- old Belgian Shepherd. Cheno was donated to the Division in 2008 and was previously assigned to U.S. Customs. Cheno will be retiring from active service in a just a few months. Fifteen-month-old Gunner, another Belgian Shepherd, was also donated to the Capitol Police and is being trained by Officer Chaulklin to take over Cheno’s duties. Gunner will carry on the tradition, as his family has a history of working as police dogs. Atos is a three-year-old Brindle German Shepherd from Marburg, Germany. He is also certified under the U.S. Police Canine Association in explosives/firearm detection. His handler is Officer Brian Alexander, who gives Atos his basic commands in German. Officer Alexander said that Atos is the best working dog he has ever had. In 2011, the Division’s K-9 Unit conducted 557 utilizations, including 8 bomb threats and 35 assists to other police agencies. In addition to their daily duties, the DCP K-9 Unit has performed numerous demonstrations for schools (a favorite) and at special events. At the seat of state government, the Division’s K-9 Unit plays a critical role in fulfilling the Division’s mission of providing progressive law enforcement and security services to Virginia’s government officials, employees, citizens of the Commonwealth and its visitors.V

Virginia Capitol Connections, Winter 2013 6 By Sarah Scarbrough

For two centuries 54 governors have embraced Virginia’s The documentary, First House, is a companion piece to the Executive Mansion as a home for their families. This year marks Mansion’s official book of the bicentennial, First House: Two the bicentennial anniversary of the Governor’s Mansion and this is Centuries with Virginia’s First Families, written by Mary Theobald undoubtedly a cause for commemorative festivities! An atmosphere and with an introduction by David Baldacci. It reveals a behind the of celebration will abound in 2013 as Governor and Mrs. McDonnell scenes, “if the walls could talk” look at what goes on inside the spread the excitement of this historic milestone across the state of Executive Mansion. The exciting film also features interviews with Virginia. This year will include a birthday bash in Capitol Square, governors, first ladies, employees, and children of past and present a stunning full-length documentary, premier parties around the governors — each has a unique story to tell about their time spent in state, and the Governor and First Lady invite you to join them. The this historic house. Mansion’s website will be updated with dates, times, and details The Executive Mansion is the only historic home that belongs (www.executivemansion.virginia.gov). to the citizens of Virginia and it is the only historic home that has When Governor Barbour moved into the Mansion in 1813, his been the center of state entertaining for 200 years. The Executive office was located on the first floor, when the house was open for Mansion is the people’s house and the doors are open to you, so guests to just walk in and have a seat in the hall while they waited to come for a visit, enjoy the documentary and help us celebrate 200 meet with the Governor. Often, members of the General Assembly years of Virginia tradition!V and Virginia citizens would walk in and make themselves at home. Whether they had official business with the Governor or just wanted to help themselves to gin punch that was always available in a punch bowl. In the tradition and spirit of the early governors, Governor and Mrs. McDonnell will welcome all citizens of the Commonwealth to a 200th birthday party for the Mansion in Capitol Square on March 16, 2013. While there will be no gin punch in the punch bowl like Governor Barbour served, there will be plenty of opportunities for celebration with games, military bands, and more. Following the party will be a movie on the lawn, featuring the full-length Mansion documentary, First House, produced in partnership with Blue Ridge PBS and Appeal Production.

Virginia Capitol Connections, Winter 2013 7 Being a Good Neighbor Can Be Very Rewarding By Joe Elton, State Parks Director and Chip Kramer, Parks Maintenance Manager Hurricane Sandy became the largest Atlantic hurricane on record with winds spanning 1,100 miles. Its damage has been estimated at more than $70 billion with more than 250 lives lost and we have now developed a profound respect for Atlantic hurricanes. While Hurricane Isabel in 2003 represents our literal and figurative high water mark with a big storm, we have learned that much smaller storms can have a tremendous impact. Our storm related preparations have become institutionalized in our General Orders and participation in the state Incident Command System. We have become practiced in responding to natural disasters and we benefit from a well coordinated statewide effort. We know that hurricane impacts to state parks often require teams from around the state to pitch in to help with clean up and recovery. As you might expect, the paper work alone related to any Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) claim is exacting and time consuming. Virginia was braced and ready for Sandy and we were blessed this time to have less than $200,000 in damages to state parks. On the other hand, it was clear that Maryland, New York and New Jersey would not be so fortunate. When the threat to Virginia had passed, several staff posed the question “would it be possible for us to send response teams out-of-state?” We got a green light up line and when we contacted New Jersey State Parks, they were ecstatic to accept our help. We had teams of certified sawyers and skid steer operators ready to go. Virginia’s team, consisting of nine individuals was deployed to Stokes State Forest on Sunday, November 11th. When our team arrived, the New Jersey State Parks staff appeared to be exhausted and dejected. We were driven around the park and shown the damage and where we would begin our work. As the week progressed, the emotional tide began to turn. By Thursday afternoon it was visible on the faces of the NJ park staff that they now believed that they would recover. Witnessing this shift in confidence was easily one of the most rewarding experiences. A common trait that runs deep through the Virginia State Park family is the desire to serve. In this case we were helping our northern neighbors get a campground open, a place where people go to find that special therapeutic tonic for the mind, body and spirit in the great outdoors.V

Virginia park rangers join New Jersey hurricane Sandy recovery effort.

Virginia Capitol Connections, Winter 2013 8 Legislative Staff

Assistants, Chiefs of Staff, Policy Directors & Counsel

What is an LA? By Brennan Long When constituents call the offices of busy “When I arrived at the General Assembly, all correspondence delegates and senators, they are often greeted by was conducted via letter: drafting requests, budget amendments, legislative aides, the legislators’ knowledgeable everything,” said Allison Baird, legislative aide to Senator John right-hand men and women. These aides are Edwards. “Fax machines were a game-changer — I remember how not just responsible for answering the phones excited I was to be able to fax in drafting requests!” The legislature or responding to emails, they are at times an has come a long way from the days of paper filing and this year the extension of the legislators themselves, acting legislative drafting system will allow legislators and aides to file as an extra set of hands to get the job done legislation with the Clerk’s office online for the first time. for the state of Virginia. This could mean Before the dawn of email and the Internet, mail was delivered researching legislative issues, filing requests, to the General Assembly Building three times a day. Today stacks of tracking legislation and at times attending events with or in place of hundreds of letters and postcards have transformed into digital inboxes the legislator. full of emails. “Emails can be a blessing and a curse. When a topic As legislators are notoriously busy running from committee heats up it is overwhelming to open your email box to find up to 1,000 meetings to session at the Capitol to This Week in Richmond tapings emails a day. And with only the delegate and legislative aide to answer, at the General Assembly Building, the legislative aide must keep that process can be mind boggling,” said Judy Wyatt, aide to Delegate commitments on the calendars organized. . “With so many deadlines, people and procedures you do your best Despite the changes in technology, the legislative aides continue to to help your boss look good, stay on schedule, and connect all the dots,” work hard to help their legislators and they are not afraid to reach across said Holly Herman legislative aide to Senator Emmett Hanger since party lines to get the job done. “Two things have not changed over my 1997. “It takes about three Sessions to just realize what all you have years at the General Assembly: the willingness of Senate legislative missed while you were thinking you were on top of all your tasks.” aides — whether Republican or Democrat — to help each other, and the Legislative aides are not only required to have the organizational dedication the Senate Clerk’s Office and Legislative Services have to skills of the very best assistant, but they also must handle the legislator’s making our offices run smoothly,” Baird said. “Paper — or electronic- public relations. Aides write press releases to send to local newspapers age, this is a team that never loses focus on the important service we and newsletters to send to the legislators’ districts back home. In render to our great Commonwealth.” addition, today’s technology savvy aides must monitor the legislator’s Brennan Long is a junior at the University of Richmond. Twitter and Facebook accounts as well as websites. She is majoring in Journalism and minoring in French Some legislative aides that have been working at the General at the university.V Assembly for many years have had the opportunity to see the position change as technology evolves.

Virginia Capitol Connections, Winter 2013 9 Legislative Staff

Farah Ahmad Allison Baeuchler Debra Belcher House House House Jackson Miller Michael Watson Brenda Pogge

Carrie Ann Alford Alison Baird Michael Belefski Senate Senate House Toddy Puller John Edwards Thomas Rust

Brittany Anderson Karen Barrett Yovonda Bellamy Senate House Senate Mark Herring Kenneth Alexander

Sally Antonelli Gayle Barts Pat Bennett Senate House House John Watkins Donald Merricks Riley Ingram

Trent Armitage Eric Bateman Carmen Bingham House House House David Toscano

Jameson Babb Carter Batey Pat Blaszak House Senate House Peter Farrell George Barker

Virginia Capitol Connections, Winter 2013 10 Assistants, Chiefs of Staff, Policy Directors & Counsel

Tempestt Boone Aurelian Braun Susan Clark House House House Mamye BaCote Joseph Yost Chris Jones

Sam Bosch Kristin Brawley Fred Clarke Senate House House Adam Ebbin Rick Morris

Jessica Bowman Cindy Bridgman Julie Coggsdale House House House Lynwood Lewis J. Randall Minchew Chris Peace

Jennifer Boyd David Brown Adrienne Cole Senate House House Phillip P. Puckett David Toscano Rosalyn R. Dance

Shelia Bradley Ashley Chiera Christie New Craig House House House James Edmunds Gordon Helsel John Cosgrove

Valerie Andrew C. Clark Patti Dempsey Braxton-Williams House Senate Senate Steve Newman Henry Marsh

Virginia Capitol Connections, Winter 2013 11 Legislative Staff

Jordan Dix Bill Flanagan Chad Funkhouser House House House Rob Bell Kirk Cox

Mary P. Dooley Jay Ford Savanna Funkhouser House Senate House Ralph Northam Richard Bell

Nancy Duke Ryan Galloway House House House Joe May John Cox Rich Anderson

Antonio Elias Mary Franklin Claire Gardner House House House Betsy Carr Bob Marshall

Tracy Eppard Gary R. Frink Jessica Goodman Senate House House Creigh Deeds Barbara Comstock

Ann Fitzgibbon Jeanne Frink Dean Goodson House House House Todd Gilbert Tim Hugo

Virginia Capitol Connections, Winter 2013 12 Assistants, Chiefs of Staff, Policy Directors & Counsel

George Goodwin Dale Hendon Cindy Hosmer Senate House Senate Thomas Garrett Mark Dudenhefer Frank Ruff

Meg Graham Joel Hensley Megan Howard House House House Jimmie Massie Scott Surovell

Jill Greenberg Holly Herman Vickie Hull House Senate House Bob Purkey Emmett Hanger Tim Hugo

Marty Hall Stuart Higley Cori Inman House Senate House Bill Carrico

Mike Hazlewood Carrie Hoffmann Shawneequa James House House House

L. Gail Henderson Jacob Holmes Eric Johnson Senate House House Louise Lucas Israel O’Quinn David Ramadan

Virginia Capitol Connections, Winter 2013 13 Legislative Staff

Elizabeth Jones Chris Lore Archer McGiffin House Senate House Robert K. Krupicka Jr. Richard Black John O’Bannon

Jediah Jones Tristan MacDonald Garrett McGuire Senate House House Donald McEachin Onzlee Ware Eileen Filler-Corn

Julia Kim Nicole Manley Brent McKenzie House House Senate Mark Keam Ben Cline Dave Marsden

Stefanie Kitchen David Mattera Marti Meersman House House House Peter Farrell Betsy Carr Jim LeMunyon

Betty Lou Layne John Matthews Gerald T. Miller House House House Lacey Putney Anne Crockett-Stark

Patricia Lewis Emily Mazich Sheryl Moody Senate Senate Reddington Richard Stuart John Miller House Johnny Joannou

Virginia Capitol Connections, Winter 2013 14 Assistants, Chiefs of Staff, Policy Directors & Counsel

Carolyn Morris Brian O’Connor Al Pianalto Senate Senate House Ryan McDougle Bill Stanley Kirk Cox

Janet Muldoon Sarah Owen Kevin Poindexter Senate House House Richard Saslaw Scott Garrett

Kathy Neilson Jean Payne Memory Porter Senate House House Chap Petersen Edward Scott Joe May

Phil Newell Christie “CJ” Pegram Kristy Pullen House House House Bob Tata Ken Plum

Carter Nichols Eric Philipkosky Cindy Rhodes House House House Joe Morrissey Christopher Stolle

Ashley Nixon Abbey Philips Sandy Richards Senate House House Bryce Reeves Jennifer McClellan Barry Knight

Virginia Capitol Connections, Winter 2013 15 Legislative Staff

Sherry Richardson Susan Johnston Deborah Sherman House Rowland House House Lionell Spruill

Zachary Rickard Carol Sinclair House David Russell House Senate Thomas Rust Mamie Locke

Erik Rison Susanne Saddington Nancy Snead House House Senate Tommy Wright John Watkins

Kathy Roberts Katherine Schoonover Kalia Sokos House House Senate Bill Howell Sal Iaquinto Thomas K. Norment

Brittney Robinson Lisa Scott Arlene Spinelli Senate House Senate Thomas Garrett Edward Scott Barbara Favola

Kim Rollins Samantha Sedivy Tricia Stiles House Senate Senate Matthew James Thomas K. Norment Jill Vogel

Virginia Capitol Connections, Winter 2013 16 Assistants, Chiefs of Staff, Policy Directors & Counsel

Karol Straub Alex Thorup Jordyn Web Senate House Senate Janet Howell Bill Stanley

Karen Stuber Aaron Tilton Scott Weldon House House House David Yancey

Dave Suetterlein Kelly Tsiptsis Brittany West Senate House House Ralph Smith Kirk Cox Joseph Yost

Cheryl Swartz Becky Van Brackle Keith Westbrook House House House Beverly Sherwood Joseph Johnson Delores McQuinn

Dylan Sweeney Jared Walczak Lana Westfall House Senate House Charniele Herring Mark Obenshain Tag Greason

Andrea Tetreault Mary Beth Washington Vicki Wilson House House Senate Jim Scott Frank Wagner

Virginia Capitol Connections, Winter 2013 17 Legislative Staff Assistants, Chiefs of Staff, Policy Directors & Counsel Not Pictured

Mike Benefiel Renee Hudson Jason Stanford House House House Sarah Ashley Wright David Ramadan Alfonso Lopez Senate Karla Williams Boughey Joan Hyde Karen Papasodora-Cochrane Stephen Martin Senate House Senate Walter Stosch Bob Brink Harry Blevins David A. Bovenizer Kate Kurk Camm Tyler House House House Bill Howell Kirk Cox Abbi Easter Severin Odic Peggy Tyree-Wells Senate House Senate Donald McEachin Bob Brink Charles Colgan Judy Wyatt Christen Smith Faatz Pat Powell Rama Van Pelt House Senate House House Steve Landes Jeff McWaters John Cox Stacie Gordon B.J. Robertson Aileen C. Whitfill House House House Bob Tata Robert BrinkV Linda Gross Cheryl Simmons House Senate Manoli Loupassi Jeff McWaters

LA Reflections Allison Baird Emails can be a blessing and a curse. Agency heads may now communicate quickly with legislators and aides to help resolve Legislative Aide to Senator John Edwards constituent concerns instead of going through a minimum of 30 The most dramatic change in the legislative aide’s job in recent days to turn around snail mail. Of course, when a topic heats up it years has been the rapid transition to electronic correspondence. is overwhelming to open your email box to find up to 1000 emails a In the mid-1990s, the General Assembly was still paper-driven. day! And with only the delegate and legislative aide to answer, that Mail arrived three times every day, with hundreds of letters in each process can be mind boggling! delivery. Today, letters are rare, but our Senate Office receives as The other huge change is the amount of online petitions. The many as 1,000 emails per day. constituent signs up to send a form blanket letter to the delegate When I arrived at the General Assembly, all correspondence saying I signed this petition. All the letters look exactly alike with was conducted via letter: drafting requests, budget amendments, no personal input from the person. That method of lobbying is everything. We submitted legislation re-draft requests and not effective as emailing or calling your delegate to convey your amendments as paper printout, sometimes even typed on a personal concerns. typewriter! Fax machines were a game-changer — I remember how excited I was to be able to fax in drafting requests! Email requests streamlined our processes again, and this year our legislative Holly Wyatt Herman drafting system will allow us to file legislation with the Clerk’s Legislative Aide to Senator Emmett W. Hanger, Jr. office online for the first time. My first legislative session was January 1997, I had already The Senate pages used to spend hours each day updating the worked half a year for the Senator but nothing prepares you for the bill books that lined the top of the credenza in every aide’s office. rush of Session! It takes about three Sessions to just realize what Though manual updating was a grind, we got to know the pages all you have missed while you were thinking you were on top of better then than we do today. To look up legislation, we had to pull all your tasks! With so many deadlines, people, and procedures you the paper bill from the correct bill book. do your best to help your boss look good, stay on schedule, and Two things have not changed over my years at the General connect all the dots. Assembly: the willingness of Senate legislative aides — whether This will be my 17th Session and it is truly addictive but Republican or Democrat — to help each other, and the dedication exhausting! Stacks of postcards from constituent groups piled waist the Senate Clerk’s Office and Legislative Services have to making high have been replaced by emails. Emails were brand new then so our offices run smoothly. Paper — or electronic-age, this is a team they were manageable and now we can get thousands a week from that never loses focus on the important service we render to our all over the world. Fax machines were the ultimate high-tech gadget great Commonwealth. then, now my prized “assistant” is an iPad. As a former reporter, I still like carrying a couple pens and a notebook everywhere Judith W. (Judy) Wyatt and nothing beats a good, old-fashion conversation and looking someone in the eyes! Legislative Aide to Delegate R. Steven Landes We worked on about the same amount of legislation but now the Since coming to work for Delegate Steve Landes in 2001, the filing, tracking, amending and even voting processes have changed biggest change has come about with the way constituents contact to be more expedited, transparent, and trackable. And with our us. People used to call or write letters, but with the popularity of website posting every move, constituents and lobbyists can move as email that now seems to be the preferred source of communication. fast as we can to see the results of all our efforts!V

Virginia Capitol Connections, Winter 2013 18 By Brooke Brown

Dugspur • Virginia

As an entrepreneur from the big city of back to his community. As a Shriner and Charlotte, North Carolina, Tommy Brown Mason, he donates a part of his proceeds dreamed to have a vacation home in the from every event. In addition to St. Jude’s mountains. In the Spring of 1991 he came Children’s Hospital, he has helped many across a run-down home nestled in the other charities as well as people that are hills of Virginia, but he saw much more in need. than a neglected, shabby home. He saw Just in the last few years Mr. Brown has a project. After years of remodeling, the built the Carriage House Saloon and the Bank. home has become a growing investment He continues to think of new ideas of how he property called The Stillhouse Manor. can improve the Kanawha Valley Arena and Once Stillhouse had been completed and expand his “Cowboy Town.” As long as there turned into a rental home, Mr. Brown began are people who are intrigued and interested in pursuing a new dream. what KVA has to offer and what it can do for In 1998 he purchased Kanawha Valley, its local community then it will continue to which is located in the small town of grow bigger and better each year. Dugspur, Virginia. The property was nothing Please visit our websites for more information: more than a barn and land. As he began to www.virginiarodeo.com think about what he really wanted to do with www.visitstillhouse.com V this new property, he had an idea. He could create his own “Cowboy Town.” He started to repair and remodel the barn, by adding an addition with multiple stalls. Next, he had the Carriage House built. It holds carriages such as the Cinderella Carriage, Hearse Carriage and the most popular the Wells Fargo Stage Coach along with many others. The name Kanawha Valley began to spread throughout Dugspur, Hillsville and Galax. People came to see Mr. Brown’s carriages. They began to call, asking if they could come and camp, bring their horses and ride the trails for the weekend. Being a fellow horse enthusiast, Mr. Brown had no problem with people coming, but he had a vision of a way at that he could use his property to bring revenue to Dugspur and the surrounding towns and maybe help other local organizations. He quickly added full hookup sites to the back part of the property, built a rodeo arena with full blown bucking shoots and to top it off, one of the nicest concession/food areas around FutureLaw, L.L.C. with bathrooms and showers also located on the property. Shortly after this vision the first Wagon John G. “Chip” Dicks Train event was formed with all proceeds Martin K. Johnson going to the St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. More events were scheduled such as the VA Sarah D. Dicks High School Rodeo Finals, Diesel Truck Timothy S. Reiniger Pulls, Mud Bogs, and ATV Rodeos. Mr. Brown also hosted educational events like Roger G. Bowers a Civil War Re-Enactment and he invited 1802 Bayberry Court • Suite 403 • Richmond, Virginia 23226 many of the surrounding schools to attend. Phone: 804-836-1980 • 888-252-6299 • Fax: 804-225-5508 As Kanwaha Valley’s has grown in the Website: www.futurelaw.net • E-mail: [email protected] past few years, Mr. Brown has tried to give

Virginia Capitol Connections, Winter 2013 19 VITAL First to Welcome, Delegate Chris Peace By William H. Leighty Chief Ken Adams, Last to be Recognized Upper Mattaponi It would be ridiculous to argue that the original Virginia colonists Tribe did not encounter native people: American Indians. But did you know that none of the Virginia tribes have been recognized by the United States? It is as if the federal government of the United States decided that maybe those native people weren’t really here first after all, but they were here. A lack of “official” recognition doesn’t change the centuries of history these tribes have in our state, nor the many contributions these tribes have made to the history of Virginia and this Nation. You may know these people as members of your local church, your co-workers or your friends. They are members of the Chickahominy, Eastern Chickahominy, Monacan, Nansemond, Rappahannock and Upper Mattaponi tribes. And all they want is to finally be recognized Senator Jim Webb & by the federal government. Chief Ken Adams Have you heard about this issue before? Are you wondering why it’s still even an issue? Well, it’s a complicated history but a simple answer: they lack the proper documentation to be recognized as official American Indians. That is ironic. The US government is asking the tribes that were here when the Europeans arrived to document their existence! It should be enough that these tribes lived in Virginia for over 12,000 years before the first colonists arrived. But it’s not. That is because the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) requires a certain amount The tribes were punished again in the 20th century, for simply of documents before official acknowledgement can be granted. The existing. Their culture, history and pride were insulted completely when tribe members don’t have that documentation, and it’s not because they the Virginia Racial Integrity Act was passed in 1924 upon the urging of weren’t Virginia natives. Walter Plecker, the first Registrar of Virginia’s Bureau of Vital Statistics In 1677 the six tribes ceased hostilities with the Virginia colonists and founder of the Anlgo Saxon Club of America. Plecker instituted the and signed the “Treaty of Middle Plantation,” a treaty between the “one drop rule.” The official policy of Virginia stated that residents could leaders of the Virginia tribes and England. Because these tribes were only be one of two races: white or colored. And a single drop of non-white non-hostile and had signed treaties, it meant that the existence of the blood meant you were “colored.” All other races, including American tribes went undetected when the United States became a nation in Indian, were declared to be non-existent. For the five decades that the 1776. Since the treaties were signed with England, and not the United Racial Integrity Act was in place the tribal members were not permitted States, the new federal government did not recognize the treaty as to put the race of American Indian on birth and marriage certificates. official. Unlike the many other tribes to sign treaties subsequent to the Several Virginia Indians were jailed when drafted during World War I formation of the United States, the Virginia tribes were not recognized and World War II for insisting that they were American Indian. Other by treaty as their counterparts in the western states were. Virginia Indians reported to military entrance stations outside of Virginia These tribes, from the beginning, were the first to welcome the so they could have “American Indian” on their dog tags. colonists, but are among the last in line to receive any recognition. In the five decades of these policies, the history of Virginia’s first Unfortunately, the tribes’ willingness to live peacefully with Virginia’s residents, who agreed to peacefully share the state with the colonists, colonists is exactly why they have been unrecognized since the nation’s was wiped out. Under the Racial Integrity Act American Indian tribes birth. But despite this unfair situation, the few records of the American in Virginia weren’t just unrecognized, every attempt was made to Indians in Virginia did exist, and were housed in eight courthouses ensure their existence was completely obliterated. Some call this type throughout the Commonwealth. of action “paper genocide.” The tribe members may have been allowed These records might have helped to provide enough documentation to live, but on paper their entire culture was officially wiped out. for official recognition by the BIA but the complete destruction of six The Virginia Racial Integrity Act had other consequence to the of the eight courthouses during the Civil War also destroyed much of Tribes as well. Their children were taken from them and sent to schools the tribes’ official documentation. away from their families so that they could not learn the “Indian” ways. After grade eight, they were denied formal education and those who wished to go further in education had to travel outside of Virginia or be educated at schools run by the tribes themselves, often with the assistance of friendly churches. College? Out of the question. Many Virginia tribal members have in their possession letters from some of Virginia’s most revered higher education instructions that explicitly Donald L. Ratliff state, “because of your race, we cannot admit you.” Many of today’s VP–Virginia Government and External Affairs Virginia tribal leaders were educated at Bacone College, a traditional Alpha Natural Resources Indian College located on Muskogee, Oklahoma. One Alpha Place • Bristol, VA 24202 But that was not all. Virginia also set out an aggressive plan to P.O. Box 16429 • Bristol, VA 24209 sterilize the women of the Virginia tribes to prevent the birth of 276.619.4479 (office) • 276.623.2891 (fax) additional children. This practice was most prevalent with the Monacan 276.275.1423 (cell) • [email protected] www.alphanr.com Tribe located in Amherst County, Virginia. See VITAL, continued on page 22

Virginia Capitol Connections, Winter 2013 20 Visions of the Commonwealth www.wandajudd.com The photography of Wanda Judd Call to Order, by the Honorable Charles Judd, Chair State Board of Elections

Donald Palmer, State Board of Elections Secretary; Robin Lind, representing local Electoral Boards; and Charles Judd, Chair State Board of Elections

Senator Mark Warner addressing the College

Honorable William Mims, Virginia Supreme Court Justice, who administered the Oath to the Electors, and Neil A. Judd 2012 Page from Jefferson Forest High School, Lynchburg Virginia

The official Electoral College ballot, signed by the Electors, and sent to Virginia’s 2012 Electors—the people who actually cast the votes—nominated by the the President of the U.S. Senate candidate’s political party. The electoral college dates back to 1787.

Virginia Capitol Connections, Winter 2013 21 Stuart Blackwell, Capitol Square’s

“Unsung Hero” for Almost Fifty Years By Susan Pollard was eager to put his knowledge of agriculture to use. He went to the Commonwealth of Virginia’s employment office looking for work. He was hired immediately and started work the same day as a wage employee for Virginia’s Department of General Services making $1.25 an hour. The next year he was hired as a full-time classified employee. Maintaining 13 acres in the City of Richmond, especially if it is Capitol Square, is no easy feat. Responsible for the landscaping of the Capitol Square complex, Blackwell has worked in all weather conditions, making sure every blade of grass is mowed, every sidewalk is edged, every flowerbed is tended to, and every leaf is gathered up. From cutting and fertilizing the lawn to regularly pruning trees and shrubs and changing the plantings in the Square. From making sure his crew completes their tasks to installing and ensuring the hardscape (brick walkways) is maintained and repaired. Blackwell enjoys his work as a Grounds Supervisor. What started as a job developed into Left to right: Joseph F. Damico, Deputy Director, Department of General Services; Stuart Blackwell, Grounds Supervisor, “Unsung Heroes” Award Recipient; Niraj a lifelong career at the Department of General Services, Bureau Verma, Director and Professor, L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and of Facilities Management. With an eye for detail, knowledge of Public Affairs, Virginia Commonwealth University; Governor L. Douglas Wilder horticulture, and dedication to Capitol Square; Blackwell arrives for work everyday at 7:00 a.m., 45 minutes before his shift starts. He has Virginia’s Capitol Square, a state and national treasure, is been known to work on landscape projects on his own time. renowned for its history and splendor. Throughout the years millions The maintenance and upkeep of Capitol Square isn’t necessary of visitors, state employees and elected officials have admired its just during the warm part of the year, but also in the very cold months. beauty. The Square has changed over time. People have come and gone Making sure the pedestrian walkways are treated before the bad and buildings have been vacated, renovated and reoccupied, but there weather begins and keeping walkways clear during storms are more has been at least one constant working on the grounds making sure of Blackwell’s responsibilities. He takes these responsibilities very everything is properly maintained. As a member of a hard working and seriously, which helps keep workers and visitors safe. “When it snows dedicated grounds and maintenance team, Stuart Blackwell has been a and nobody in Richmond can get anywhere, he gets here and helps get steady force working in the Square and tending to its needs for almost the snow moved,” said Tony Griffin, Deputy Chief of Maintenance five decades. and Operations for the Department of General Services. “He is as In December 2012, Stuart Blackwell’s dedication and commitment dependable as the sun coming up every morning.” to Virginia’s Capitol Square was recognized by Virginia Commonwealth Blackwell lives with his wife Isabelle in Richmond and turned 69 University’s L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public in November. He says he has no plans to retire. Blackwell has a passion Affairs. Nominated by the Department of General Services, Blackwell for what he does and he has been a staple of Capitol square life. When was presented the Unsung Heroes Award at the Excellence in Virginia he reflected on his career in Capitol Square, he noted how the tools Government Awards luncheon held at the Marriott on Broad Street. had changed. Blackwell said, with a smile and a laugh, he no longer With a large crowd in attendance, Blackwell addressed the audience uses grass clippers to remove weeds between the bricks, he now just thanking everyone who had helped him. He stated he did not know sprays them. how much grass he had mowed or how much snow he had shoveled or So, the next time it’s rainy and cold and you see the sidewalks leaves he had blown, but he knew one thing — he had enjoyed every being treated and cleaned or it is 100 degrees and you are admiring bit of it. Blackwell received a standing ovation for his speech. the beautiful roses encircling the fountains and the perfectly clean and It was April 16, 1963 and Stuart Blackwell, 20, was looking for trimmed walkways; think about Mr. Blackwell. He might even be out a job. Having grown up on a farm in Buckingham County, Blackwell there working hard as Capitol Square’s unsung hero.V

VITAL from page 20 Thankfully, the Racial Integrity Act is no longer in place today, Some residents worry the tribal members would open casinos or and Virginia Indian Tribe members are free to embrace their heritage other gaming facilities. This is not true. The legislation that would and tell the world about their ancestors’ history as they did in great provide official recognition says that even if gaming were legalized numbers during the Queen’s visit in 2007. The Commonwealth of for all citizens in Virginia it would still be illegal for the Virginia Virginia finally gave the tribes official recognition, but not until 1983. Indian tribes. But federal recognition is still only a dream. Today, there are only several thousand tribal members in the Why do they need federal recognition? First and foremost it is state. That number may be small compared to the millions of Virginia a matter of pride and dignity. Secondly it would make their children residents, but they deserve a voice. They deserve to share their story and eligible for federal Indian educational benefits. Their children are not fight for recognition. These tribal members are just like us, working in currently eligible for federal scholarships set aside for American Indians. our neighborhoods, taking their children to local schools and trying to They also would be eligible for federal health funding. Additionally, make a life for their families. there are over 1,500 Virginia Native American remains being held by Want to help? Visit www.vitalva.org for more information. the Smithsonian Institution that cannot be brought back to Virginia for Together, we can help right the wrongs that have been done to these proper burial unless claimed by a “federally recognized tribe.” people. Official recognition for Virginia Indian tribes won’t create extra William H. Leighty is the former chief of staff to Governors Warner federal spending. These benefits would be paid out of pre-existing and Kaine and serves as the Senior Advisor to the Virginia Indian federal appropriations; additional federal spending is not necessary. Tribal Alliance for Life (VITAL).V

Virginia Capitol Connections, Winter 2013 22 D AVIDB AILEYA SSOCIATES. COM

hen it comes to events no one PUBLICATIONS throws a party like David Napier. Virginia Capitol Connections Quarterly Magazine Known throughout Central Virginia for his Statewide issues from the inside. wonderful food and hospitality, David is delighted to have opened his catering facility in the heart of Shockoe Bottom. No event is too small or large. Delicious Box Lunches delivered.

O ne of Richmond’s most elegant dining rooms is now exclusively available for your At Virginia Capitol Connections Virginia’s Directory of Candidates for Public Office we publish a variety of items private parties and special events. Our award 2010 from our magazine Virginia Capitol Connections winning chefs produce an array of dishes from Quarterly Magazine to Legislative Guides steaks and seafood to vegetarian and in red and blue.

201 Call us at 804.643.5554 3 international masterpieces that will satisfy the or use PayPal on the web at www.dbava.com/pubs.html. most discriminating palate. The Old City Bar If you need information on discounts for bulk orders Value Bundle is the perfect place to celebrate. Subscribe to our value or have questions concerning bundle and receive any of our publications, these three publications give us a call. (4 issues of the magazine and 2 handbooks) For information about Parking available adjacent to building for the next 12 months. Adopting A School contact All of these for the [email protected] Phone 804-644-1702 low price of only $25.00 FAX: 804-644-1703 E-Mail: [email protected] 1001 East Broad Street Web Site: www.whitehousecatering.org Suite 215 • Richmond, VA 23219 • 804.643.5554

Virginia Capitol Connections, Winter 2013 23 Be Our Guest —for This Week in Richmond

In today’s fast-paced, high-tech world, since 1935. And one of the most heartwarming shows featured a we’re constantly bombarded with media group of state employees who volunteered their time to help restore messages everywhere we go. But what ends a state park. up passing for news these days is often This Week in Richmond also recently featured a couple of just a bunch of repetitious soundbites and especially interesting guests — long-time Capitol news veterans Bob exaggerated headlines. Lewis from the Associated Press and Jeff Shapiro from the Richmond Flashy graphics, flying boxes and Times-Dispatch — who discussed what it’s been like to cover the scrolling headlines fill the television Capitol and its newsmakers first hand over the years. screen during any given news program, For its guests, the show is an increasingly rare opportunity to accompanied by a cacophony of whooshing expound on the issues that matter to them the most in an easy going sound effects, multiple talking heads and and relaxed atmosphere. opinionated talk show hosts. Interviews are For viewers, it’s an equally rare opportunity to get a glimpse of conducted in a rush to capture those few little soundbites that will be the people and personalities behind the positions through complete repeated over and over in a seemingly endless loop. and unedited conversations. More often than not, the result is that the newsmakers themselves As one viewer said, “The main thing I like about the show is that don’t actually get to be heard, and the viewers are left with a lot of the host doesn’t constantly interrupt the guest or interject his own supposed style but very little substance. ideas about the subject. He lets his guests talk.” That’s why, when you’re looking for a simple, straightforward, While there have been last minute changes due to ever-evolving and detailed report about what’s going on in Virginia‘s Capitol, the schedules and even a mild case of stage fright or two, guests of the perfect antidote to all the cable news network noise is This Week in show say that they feel like they get a real chance to discuss the issues Richmond. that are important to them and their constituents. And viewers say This Week in Richmond is a public television program that captures that they always learn something new. first-hand perspectives of state legislators and other decision-makers When asked which shows he thought stood out over the years, from around the Capitol. It is hosted by state capitol veteran David host David Bailey replied, “It’s not the show, but the personality that Bailey, produced by Blue Ridge PBS, and recorded live to tape in stands out.” While he hesitated to single out any one person or show, Commonwealth Public Broadcasting Corporation‘s Capitol Studio in it was obvious who one of Bailey‘s all-time favorite guests has been. the General Assembly Building. “Senator Yvonne Miller was absolutely delightful,” he said with a With This Week in Richmond, viewers get a non-partisan, in- big smile. depth look at current events, developments and decisions coming out The one guest that Bailey would NOT like to have again? of the Capitol each week through complete, unedited interviews with Himself. Due to various scheduling difficulties and a last minute the people who are making Virginia‘s government work every day. cancellation or two, the show was once left with a deadline to meet From budget cuts to regulatory affairs, the program spotlights and no guest to interview. But, as they say, “The show must go on.” the latest happenings at the General Assembly while it is in session. So the show’s host found himself in the position of having to fill During the rest of the year, it provides timely insights and behind-the- 26 minutes of airtime with his own perspective about what goes on headlines analysis about taxes, education and other matters that are behind the scenes. critical to people across the Commonwealth. As with other PBS productions, This Week in Richmond depends Originally airing weekly on Blue Ridge PBS during sessions on the generous support of its underwriters to help produce, direct, and then once a month the rest of the year, the half hour program tape and distribute the program throughout the year. People and started out focusing on issues of greatest importance to the southwest organizations who believe in the importance of transparency in state region of Virginia. It quickly expanded to cover issues that affect all government, as well as having week to week coverage of what goes Virginians, and it now airs weekly throughout the year on various on at the Capitol, provide the funding needed to make each show PBS stations and other outlets around the state. possible. This Week in Richmond thanks them — and the show Since its inception, This Week in Richmond has hosted a participants — for all that they do. veritable who’s who of movers and shakers connected with Virginia If you want to stay informed about the most current issues government — each with their own unique perspective on what‘s facing our Commonwealth — from the point of view of those who happening at any point in time. are making government work here in Virginia — this is the show you From the leadership in both chambers and the executive branch, need to watch. to agency heads and cabinet members, to the clerks of both the Senate If you want to get your message out to your constituents — and and the House of Delegates, to current and former governors and first all Virginians — to keep them informed about the issues that are most ladies, to Virginia members of Congress, the show has given viewers important to them, this is the show you need to be on. a chance to hear directly from a wide range of the most influential Check your local listings for dates and times for the show on people behind the scenes. stations across the state. You can also check out past programs that Some of the shows feature a unique mix of perspectives and others are available on demand at www.blueridgepbs.org. revolve around a common theme. For instance, one show featured Whether you’re a participant or a viewer, you can cut through all the three colonels — from three different branches of service — who the other media noise out there and stay informed each week with a serve in the House of Delegates. Both the viewers and participants straightforward, detailed report about what’s going on here and now enjoyed the experience so much that there have even been requests in Virginia’s Capitol. Simply put, you are cordially invited to relax, for an encore. pull up a chair, and be our guest — for This Week in Richmond. As to the age old question, is there a doctor in the House? Why Sarah Alderson is an award-winning freelance writer who also yes, there are three. And they were all featured on another one of the works in the Senate broadcast control room during sessions and most popular shows, bringing an interesting combination of medical the Capitol Studio throughout the year. She can be reached at perspectives to the legislative issues at hand. [email protected] and her new blog launches in One of the most unique and fun shows was taped at the Old March at thesarahfiles.wordpress.com.V Fiddlers‘ Convention in Galax, a southwestern Virginia tradition

Virginia Capitol Connections, Winter 2013 24 Providing compelling public service media for Central and Southwest Virginia

Tune in for the latest Richmond News from host David Bailey and Virginia Elected of cials.

Thanks to Alpha Natural Resources, the Virginia Chamber of Commerce, Kanawha Valley Arena, Intelligent Illuminations and our other underwriters, This Week in Richmond is virtually statewide and may be seen weekly. Programs are available on demand at www.blueridgepbs.org/index.php/videos/ local-productions/this-week-in-richmond.

Funding for This Week in Richmond is provided by: Additional support is provided by: M. E. Marty Hall, Jr. Elizabeth F. Newton Sandra C. Davis AARP Virginia Danny's Pawn & Auto Loans, Christiansburg www.vachamber.com First Sentinel Bank Nuckolls Drug, Hillsville Race-In, Hillsville Roanoke Gas Virginia Capitol Connections, Inc. Virginia State Firefighters Association Wordsprint, Inc. The Members of Blue Ridge PBS

Virginia Capitol Connections, Winter 2013 Visit BlueRidgePBS.org for broadcast schedules and more information.25 For the image, CultureWorks selected the world’s oldest known tattoo, an inch-long group of three parallel lines that predates the Egyptian mummies and was found in 1991 on a man frozen in ice. Richmond’s largest tattoo company, River City Tattoo, agreed to provide the company’s services pro bono. CultureWorks launched the tattoo initiative at a press conference that featured 12 newly-inked confirmed tattoo virgins — each with a level of prominence in region. They included such persons as Paul DiPasquale, sculptor of the Arthur Ashe and Neptune statues; Jerry Williams, former television personality and owner of a video production company; Jim Thomasson, recently retired Chief Engineer for the Norfolk District Corps of Engineers; Maggi Beckstoffer, Essential for President of MBM Marketing; and Brooks Smith, law partner at Hunton & Williams and then President of the Richmond Business Great CommunitiesBy John Bryan Council. Smith got his tattoo as the press conference cameras If you are a lifelong, confirmed, tattoo virgin, what could convince rolled: “I got inked because I believe in the enduring qualities of you to get a tattoo? These days there are people in Virginia’s capital city art, because it makes me happy, and perhaps also to save my soul.” who are answering that question. What is the background of this organization that can transform a Jim Rothrock — a 62-year-old, confirmed, tattoo virgin — got a person’s tattoo disdain into tattoo pride? CultureWorks resulted from tattoo. Tattoo-free Maggi Beckstoffer got the same tattoo and so did an 18-month community process that produced the 110-page Richmond Brooks Smith. And so have dozens of others. Region Cultural Action Plan on March 16, 2009. The process included The pied piper is CultureWorks, a nonprofit organization formed direct involvement of more than 3,000 residents of the region and was in 2009 to provide service and leadership for arts and culture in the steered by a 27-person task force that included not only individual Richmond region. CultureWorks gives grants, conducts advocacy, practitioners of arts and culture but also executives of the region’s provides a wide range of services and is a catalyst and convener largest companies, leaders of the region’s major arts and culture “As the recession blossomed we watched funders decrease their organizations, administrators from the region’s municipal governments, funding for arts and culture while they increased funding for things and representatives from foundations and community groups. they considered ‘essential,’” explained John Bryan, president of The Plan’s fundamental recommendation was the creation of CultureWorks. “I thought it was time to make a bold statement that a nonprofit organization that would provide service and leadership confirms our belief that strong arts and culture are absolutely essential to make the region’s arts and culture ever stronger. CultureWorks for great communities. A meal can sustain someone for a couple of is privately funded, has a self-appointed board of directors, and in days; a song in someone’s heart can last a lifetime.” its first three years has established a get-things-done track record of CultureWorks decided to make its bold statement by embracing the accomplishments and a brand of integrity, expertise, and fairness. most personally permanent and enduring art form: the tattoo. The idea A few examples of CultureWorks’ accomplishments to date was to offer a real tattoo as an optional benefit to donors of $150 and include administering more than $1.4 million in arts and culture grants; more. The tattoo would confirm a person’s belief that arts and culture helping establish Richmond’s downtown arts district; providing direct need to be considered permanent, enduring, essential elements of great services to dozens of nonprofit, for-profit, government, and community communities. organizations; and having a helpful role in regional initiatives such as “We talked with donors and community members,” said Bryan. the Capital Region Collaborative and the Amazing Raise. “We realized that this could be a controversial initiative, and we were CultureWorks has also established a significant national prominence not going to do it if there was pushback.” But there was no pushback. for Richmond’s arts and culture community including CultureWorks’ “Once folks understood that our motive was sincere and for a heartfelt president’s election to chair the national Private Sector Council that cause, they embraced it.” includes representatives of 22 cities including Charlotte, Cincinnati,

Tattoo club member Jim Rothrock, Commissioner, Virginia Department Brooks Smith, founding of Aging and chair of CultureWorks Rehabilitative Board of Directors, and Services. member of the tattoo club.

Brooks Smith’s tattoo.

Virginia Capitol Connections, Winter 2013 26 26 Indianapolis, Miami, New York City, and Detroit; receiving the nation’s recently retired longtime executive director, is now the volunteer most prestigious award for arts administration (Selena Roberts Ottum “Senior Policy Advisor” for CultureWorks. Award); and being one of 12 invitees for the annual Local Arts Agency CultureWorks’ board of directors, chaired by David A. Christian, Leadership Forum hosted by Robert Redford at the Sundance Resort. CEO of Dominion Generation, includes executives from such CultureWorks has attracted the unprecedented attention of The corporations as Altria, Wells Fargo, and Hunton & Williams, principals Conference Board to Richmond as the launch site for its new research. of the University of Richmond’s Modlin Center, the Richmond Folk On November 27, 2012 Jonathan Spector, president and CEO of Festival, and the Greater Richmond Chamber, and other community The Conference Board, spent the day in Richmond convening an leaders who are committed to the importance of ever stronger arts and 8-hour gathering of 16 senior business executives and 16 artists — a culture for the region. “Creative Conversation” to examine the nexus of business and the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts director Alex Nyerges and arts and explore new opportunities for beneficial relationships. The CultureWorks president John Bryan were co-presenters for a recent Conference Board believes that business executives can strengthen gathering of the 2012 Class of Lead Virginia, and both lauded Richmond their companies by embracing artists and thereby accessing new ways as the best city in the nation, due in large part to its vibrant arts and of thinking. Richmond was the first of three Creative Conversation culture. Bryan’s comments referenced the tattoo along with the fact that sites — the other two are San Diego and Philadelphia — and The Suzanne Hall, communications director for the VMFA, is one of the Conference Board will publish the results among business, education, newly inked former tattoo virgins. According to Hall, “CultureWorks and arts communities. not only deftly promotes and supports the rich variety of performance, CultureWorks provides leadership for a metropolitan area whose visual arts and events in RVA, but it also represents Richmond’s nonprofit arts and culture organizations have an annual economic creativity. Who else invites residents of the 3rd most tattooed city in the impact of over $300 million according to a study by WolfBrown. country to get the oldest tattoo in human history? Thanks for being such CultureWorks has become the region’s go-to organization for a great catalyst!” information, relationships, service, and strategies, and has partnered John Bryan, (804) 356-9552, [email protected] with such organizations as the Greater Richmond Chamber and the Greater Richmond Partnership. CultureWorks also has a variety of connections with Virginia government. For example, the Commissioner for the Virginia PARHAM CHAPEL Department of Aging and Rehabilitative Services, James A. Rothrock, 1771 Parham Road is a member of the CultureWorks board of directors and is in line to be (804) 288-3013 its next chair. About his tattoo, Rothrock says, “CultureWorks has been HUGUENOT CHAPEL so successful in getting our community to think out of the box so it 1020 Huguenot Road (804) 794-1000 was quite natural for me to consider the most out of the box thing I’ve RICHMOND, VIRGINIA ever done and at the ripe old age of 62 with grandchildren watching, ATLEE CHAPEL get the CW tat.” Another example is CultureWorks’ consultative role BERNIE HENDERSON 9271 Shady Grove Road for the Governor’s Virginia Indian Commemorative Commission. Director for Family and (804) 730-0035 Community Relations And CultureWorks is also an ongoing advocate for increased funding [email protected] for the Virginia Commission for the Arts. Peggy Baggett, the VCA’s At Alpha, it’s not about pats on the back. It’s about watching each other’s back.

At Alpha Natural Resources, we call it “Running Right.” It means watching out for each other and speaking openly about safety issues. When you have each other’s back, the rest is simple. www.alphanr.com

We power the world through the energy of our people.

Virginia Capitol Connections, Winter 2013 27 Visions of the Commonwealth www.wandajudd.com The photography of Wanda Judd Some History St. Mary’s traces its origins to 1865. The beginnings of St. Mary’s can be traced to the Reconstruction period following the Civil War, and originally served the coal mining families who lived in this rather poor part of Goochland County at the time.

Church Doors (New Fellowship Hall)

“Little St. Mary’s” (original Sanctuary circa 1865)

Cross in “Little St. Mary’s” Sanctuary

Kneeling Bench (The handwork by the ladies of the Church)

All Wooden Structure in the new main sanctuary

“New” St. Mary’s (Main Sanctuary)

Virginia Capitol Connections, Winter 2013 28 In Memoriam Senator Hopkins Tribute To Delegate Joseph By Chip Woodrum I cannot express my sense of loss. Bill William “Billy” O’Brien Hopkins was a man who believed in giving By Bernie Henderson of himself to his community, his state and The overwhelming majority of those his nation. He fought in two wars, had an who serve in the General Assembly serve outstanding legal career, served his state and conscientiously, diligently and even Roanoke as a State Senator for 20 years and sacrificially. The harsh reality is that the when that service ended, moved seamlessly service of very few of them is remembered into service to his community. When you HOPKINS beyond the time of their contemporaries. pass Carilion Hospital, remember that In a few rare cases, their names might be it was he who forged its original links with UVA Hospital. When given to a bridge or building or park, but you see a revitalized downtown, remember he was one of those who even then the reason for such a distinction got Center in the Square off the ground. He authored two books (on becomes obscured by time. While it takes a O’BRIEN Korea and on WWII). Bill Hopkins was a true renaissance man. His bit of an ego to run for public office, a quest presence made us better, his loss diminishes us. Well done, Bill. God for immortality might be better pursued in ways other than serving in Bless you.V the Virginia General Assembly. Rather than immortality, the greatest accomplishment to be achieved through serving in the General Assembly is to lead the cause for something that will substantially benefit the Commonwealth long after your final term and your name John W. Russell recognition has expired. Delegate and Coach Joseph William “Billy” O’Brien scored on that play. State Senator and Some wise person observed that the most significant change always is born in a minority report. In other words, great ideas usually are not City of Fairfax Mayor By Michael E. Belefski immediately accepted by the majority — they take time to be accepted. Former State Senator John W. Russell of Billy obviously realized that, because he was the first legislator in the City of Fairfax, passed away at his home modern times to propose and tenaciously advocate for a lottery for years surrounded by his family on December 24, until it was implemented. When he proposed it, first came laughter, 2012. He was 89. then derision, then pontification, but ultimately it was enacted. He John had retired from the Department of assiduously made his case, year after year, patiently inviting and always Defense where he worked as an Intelligence welcoming the skeptical, the timid, the self-righteous and even perhaps Officer. He had also served his community one or two hypocrites onto the pro-lottery team he was so adroitly as Fairfax City Councilman and Fairfax City coaching. He saw his idea as being good at the time and patiently waited Mayor. for it to be seen as good for the future, no matter how long it would take. Fairfax Mayor Scott Silverthorne noted There are very few legislators, even among those who served for many decades, who can be recognized as the prime persistent promoter of a that John Russell has the unique distinction RUSSELL of serving two separate times in two major successful program like the Virginia lottery. separate decades as mayor of the City. But Billy wasn’t just about the lottery. He brought with him to the “John Russell defeated my father for his third term as mayor in General Assembly the perspective of a talented (meaning compassionate 1982 by 148 votes. Later in their lives, both men put their partisan and resourceful) coach. It is no accident that high school athletes have a political differences aside and became friends. Mayor Russell was lifetime love for a good coach. A coach cannot be successful unless he politically shrewd and had a wicked sense of humor, which my father is willing and able to reach deeply and meaningfully into every aspect seemed to appreciate when they were no longer rivals on the ballot. of the life of each member of his team. If there is anything bothering What people may not know about Mayor Russell is that he loved the a player, the good coach will not stop until he identifies it and then arts and helped create the Fairfax Art League. I recall seeing many of effectively addresses it — no wonder so many high school athletes hold his paintings prominently displayed in Fairfax’s Old Town Hall over their coach in such high esteem. It’s the same as the parable of the the years. The City mourns the loss of one of our senior statesmen” shepherd who responsibly watches all the sheep but will rescue and Mayor Silverthorne said. care for each one individually when that is needed. That’s how Billy As John’s pollster during his campaign for the State Senate in served his constituents; he was attuned to their needs and never quit 1983, I remember our campaign as being neck and neck in the last trying to do everything within his ability to address them. His service week of the campaign. We were behind registered voters who were as a representative defined the word “tenacity.” over 55+ years old and decided to send them a special election-day Billy was one of the kindest and friendliest persons who ever held mailing which won the election with 50.62% of the vote. elective office. No matter what or when, he offered a sincere smile, a John was also appointed to the state education board by former warm pat on the back, a compassionate hand on your shoulder and a governor George Allen and held terms on the Fairfax City school kind word to everyone he met. board and council. He was a long standing member of the Fairfax Virginia can never have enough public servants like Billy O’Brien United Methodist Church, a Mason, a member of the Optimist Club and even those who never knew him will be benefitting from his service and the American Legion. long after his time in the Capitol and in our world has ended.V Former State Senator Jane Woods commented on John Russell’s his position and that it was about the topic, not the person. While passing: “It seems that an era of ‘no nonsense, straight talking’ sometimes a tad intimidating, John Russell used plain talk as he leaders is closing. John had the gift of sprinkling humor in his walked the walk leading our community and his constituents. I know pithy comments while ensuring that his listener understood well he rests in peace.”V

Virginia Capitol Connections, Winter 2013 29 Associations Hotels/Resorts–Virginia AARP Virginia David DeBiasi, Associate State Director-Advocacy–(804) 344-3059 Sheraton Roanoke Hotel & Conference Center (Per diem rates offered, restrictions apply) ACE (Alliance for Construction Excellence) (540) 563-9300 • 2801 Hershberger Road, Roanoke Andy Porter, Chairman–(703) 658-4383 American Cancer Society: Cancer Action Network Keenan Caldwell, Dir. Government Relations–(804) 527-3726 Hotels/Resorts–Richmond Ann Vaughan, Grassroots Manager–(804) 527-3714 www.acscan.org/virginia Berkeley Hotel (Per diem rates offered, restrictions apply) (804) 780-1300 • 1200 East Cary Street, Richmond Bon Secours Health System (Virginia) James W. Dunn–(804) 281-8235 Candlewood Suites Richmond Airport (Rates below per diem) (804) 652-1888 • 5400 Audubon Drive, Richmond Fraternal Order of Police, Virginia State Lodge Marty Williams, President–(800) 367-0317 Commonwealth Park Suites Hotel at Capitol Square Inova Health System–(703) 289-2037 • (804) 644-8807 during GA (804) 343-7300 • 901 Bank Street, Richmond Donald L. Harris, Vice President, Government Relations Crowne Plaza Richmond Downtown (Rates lower than per diem—Session, Outdoor Advertising Association of Virginia restrictions apply) (804) 788-0900 • 555 East Canal Street, Richmond Stephen W. Hughes–(804) 784-0501 DoubleTree Hotel Richmond Downtown (Special Session rates available) Plumbing and Mechanical Professionals of Virginia (804) 644-9871 • 301 West Franklin Street, Richmond Laurie Crigler, Lobbyist–(540) 948-6230 Hilton Garden Inn Richmond Downtown (Special Session rates available) Qualified Gas Contractors–Peninsula–www.QGC-VA.org (804) 344-4300 • 501 East Broad Street, Richmond Richard Hibbard, President–(757) 229-8806 Holiday-Inn Express Richmond Downtown (Lower per diem rate offered) Qualified Gas Contractors–Southside–www.QGC-VA.org (804) 788-1600 • 201 East Cary Street, Richmond George Fordyce, VP & Secretary–(757) 436-5490 Qualified Gas Contractors–Suffolk–www.QGC-VA.org Linden Row Inn (Special Session rates available) Ray Cobb, Chair–(757) 539-7484 (804) 225-5841 • 100 East Franklin Street, Richmond Speech-Language-Hearing Association of Virginia (SHAV) C. Edward Vann, President • www.shav.org Scott Rankins, Vice President of Government Affairs Eateries Virginia AFL-CIO Bull and Bear Club Doris Crouse-Mays, President–(804) 755-8001 901 East Cary Street • James Center One 21st Floor • (804) 649-8431 C. Ray Davenport, Secretary-Treasurer Honorary Memberships during session for legislators & staff Virginia Association for Marriage and Family Therapy Contact Matthew Gleason for more information www.vamft.org Chez Foushee Virginia Association of Mortgage Brokers 203 North Foushee Street • (804) 648-3225 Steve Baugher–(804) 285-7557 www.chezfoushee.com Virginia Coalition of Police and Deputy Sheriffs David Napier’s White House Catering Chip Condon, President–(800) 913-2727 Historic Shockoe Bottom • (804) 644-4411

Virginia Education Association Meriwether’s at the Assembly Meg Grober, President • Rob Jones, Government Relations–(804) 648-5801 Capitol, 804.698.7438 • GAB, (804) 698-7692 Virginia Fire Chiefs Association Walt Bailey, President—(434) 470-9258 Virginia Fire Prevention Association Robby Dawson, President–(804) 717-6838 • (888) 668-8372 Virginia Fire Service Council BENNETT Stephen P. Kopczynski, Chairman–(757) 890-3612 FUNERAL HOME Virginia Independent Automobile Dealers Association Lois Keenan, Executive Director • (800) 394-1960 Virginia League of Conservation Voters Lisa Guthrie, Executive Director–(804) 225-1902 • www.valcv.org Charles D. Morehead, Sr. Virginia Motorcoach Association, Inc. Doug Douglas, Government Affairs–(434) 376-1150 Funeral Director & General Manager Virginia Petroleum Council Michael D. Ward–(804) 225-8248 3215 Cutshaw Avenue Virginia Police Benevolent Association, Inc. Richmond, Virginia 23221 (804) 359-4481 Sean McGowan, Executive Director—(800) 233-3506 ext. 352 Joseph Woloszyn, President Virginia Professional Fire Fighters Association Mike Mohler, President–(703) 591-9271 Virginia Public Media Association Curtis Monk, Chairman–(804) 560-8114 Settle and Associates LLC Virginia Retail Federation Margaret Ballard–(757) 406-9431, George Peyton–(804) 334-2932 Virginia Sheriffs’ Association John W. Jones–(804) 225-7152 Virginia State Firefighters Association Richard L. Settle Gary Allred, President–(757) 592-3240 Settle and Associates LLC Phone: 276-676-4444 Services 288 Clubhouse Drive Mobile: 804-240-1850 Abingdon, Virginia 24211–3839 [email protected] Connie’s Shoe Repair 110 N. 8th Street • 804-648-8896

Virginia Capitol Connections, Winter 2013 30 inSPIRE OnlInE DEgREE PROgRam Online ClassrOOm - l earn anytime, anywhere!

OPPORtunIty it’s On yOur hOrizOn

DEgREE PROgRamS REaSOnS tO cOnSIDER

six degree options are available through BluEfIElD cOllEgE Bluefield College’s online degree program: Bluefield isranked among the top 50 Baccalaureate colleges in the south in • Criminal Justice u.s. news & world report. • e-Business and entrepreneurship • human services the online, eight-week course format • management and leadership allows you to complete your advanced • Public safety degree quickly, while getting a quality • nursing: rn-Bsn education.

cOntact uS - www.bluefield.edu/info | 800.872.0176 | [email protected] Making better teachers.

Making teachers better.

A voice for quality education

VACTE • Dr. Diane Simon, President • [email protected]. • www.vacte.org ▲ ATE-VA • Dr. Patricia Shoemaker, Executive Director • [email protected] • www.ateva.org