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Outstanding Hanover County Employees
Janie Witherspoon
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| Shannon Schiebel and Kim Kinker | Director Curt Shaffer and Charles Smith | |
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| Chief Kilgore presents the Fleming Blunt Award to Lindsey Palmen. |
Lindsey Palmen
Animal Control
April 26, 2012
Congratulations to Lindsey Palmen, who recently received the top award given by Hanover Animal Control!
At the department’s annual awards ceremony held recently in the historic Hanover Courthouse, Lindsey received the Fleming Blunt Award as for Excellence in Service and Dedication to Duty. The late Mr. Blunt was Hanover County’s first Animal Control officer.
“Lindsey has demonstrated professional skills with appearance, work ethic, and compassion,” said Chief Kevin Kilgore. “She has set an excellent example of what an animal control officer stands for.”
Lindsey also was recognized for capturing the most wild or exotic animals in 2011.
Also receiving top awards at the April 11 ceremony were Jenna L. Vitale and Jackie Mickens.
Jenna received the Buddy W. Mills Award for Most Desired Animal Control Officer. Buddy Mills served Hanover residents in Animal Control for 30 years and the award goes to the officer who excels as a leader by example or one that has achieved significant improvement.
“Jenna has worked hard this year to hold our unit together through positive actions even when times were tough,” Kilgore said. “She was also commended and recognized several times during the year as being extremely customer-friendly and she generated multiple compliments for her customer service and overall compassionate handling of many situations.”
Jackie received the Super Staff Award. Chief Kilgore noted that Jackie was described by her peers in such ways as “is always friendly to me and the citizens”; “always kind”; “has been here a long time and can work with people even when they are upset”; and “a wonderful person”.
Other employees recognized by Chief Kilgore were:
- Steven Royalty of the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office was recognized for Outstanding Contribution in Law Enforcement. This year Hanover maintained its record of 100% convictions in dogfighting cases due largely to Steven’s efforts in a difficult case involving multiple jurisdictions and animal cruelty counts.
- Jeffrey Parker was honored for saving the most cats.
- Allan Smith Jr. was honored for saving the most dogs.
The awards ceremony highlighted the 8th national Animal Control Officer Appreciation Week.
Major Thomas Woody and Captain Richard Farmer of the Sheriff’s Office were the guest speakers at the ceremony.
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| Matt Westheimer was recently elected Chair of a prestigious statewide committee. |
Matt Westheimer
Building Inspections
March 2, 2012
Matt Westheimer of the Building Official’s office recently received a high honor. He was appointed Chair of the Energy Conservation Committee for the Virginia Building and Code Officials Association (VBCOA), a position that will give him a voice when changes to Virginia’s building codes are discussed.
“That’s the most exciting thing for me, to be able to participate in the changes in the code,” Matt says. “I have some ideas that I have already presented to the committee,” which he convened for the first time last week.
Matt would like to make it easier for contractors and the public to be able to accomplish their projects.
“I enjoy helping people get through the process as quickly as possible,” he says. “We’re not here to tell people what they can and can’t do; we’re here to tell them how to do what they want to do in a safe manner. I take great pride in that – playing a small part in helping make things safer.”
Matt is a Certified Master Code Professional, one of only about 40 in the Commonwealth of Virginia and about 600 in the U.S. This is the highest level of certification that a Building Inspector can obtain and is awarded by the International Code Council.
To obtain this level of certification requires and demonstrates commitment and diverse knowledge of the codes. The Master Code Professional certification reflects certification as a Certified Building Official, Property Maintenance Official, Accessibility Plans Examiner and Inspector, Commercial and Residential Building Plans Examiner, Commercial and Residential Plumbing Inspector and Plans Examiner, Commercial and Residential Mechanical Inspector and Plans Examiner, Commercial and Residential Electrical Inspector, Commercial and Residential Building Inspector, Plumbing Plans Examiner, Commercial and Residential Energy Inspector and Plans Examiner.
The ICC develops the codes used nationwide for residential and commercial structure construction. Most cities, counties and states adopt codes developed by the ICC.
Matt was also the first state-certified Residential Plans Examiner (in 2010) and the state’s first Commercial and Residential Energy Inspector, a certification he received in December. He is also a certified Amusement Device Inspector, performing inspections at Kings Dominion.
An Isle of Wight County native and resident, Matt has worked for Hanover County for three years. He is the first Hanover County Building Inspector to serve as the VBCOA Energy Conservation Committee and also serves on two national committees.
“Matt is a hard working fellow determined to make a difference,” says Richard Bartell, Chief Building Official. “He’s a real pleasure to work with “said Richard Bartell.
Matt and his wife Valerie have three children: daughters Averi and Addyson and son Landon.
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| From left to right are John Bourret, Melanie Andrews, Scott Yates, Connie Mills and Jason Collins. |
Management Certificate recipients
February 1, 2012
Hanover County offers a Management Certificate recognizing managers and supervisors who complete 38 hours of training in these areas:
- Diversity: Respect for People
- Ethics in the Workplace
- Generational Differences
- Give ‘Em the Pickle: Providing Excellent Customer Service
- Harassment Prevention
- Interviewing Skills
- Performance Management
- Spirit of Teams
- Substance Abuse
- Supervisors’ Accountabilities
- Supervisory Skills
Recently, the 11th group of managers to complete the training received plaques recognizing their accomplishment. Receiving Management Certificates were:
- Melanie Andrews, Director of Internal Audit, who has been employed by the County since 2008.
- John Bourret, Waste Collection Superintendent with the Department of Public Works, who has been employed by Hanover County since 2010.
- Jason Collins, Geographic Information Systems Analyst III, who has been with the County since 2005.
- Jacqueline Lawrence, Utility Operator-Master with the Department of Public Utilities, who started with the County in 2004.
- Connie Mills, Account Clerk III with Finance and Management Services, who has been employed by the County since 2007.
- Scott Yates, Utility Engineer II with the Department of Public Utilities, who began working for the County in 2008.
Management Certificate recipients
November 23, 2011
Hanover County offers a Management Certificate recognizing managers and supervisors who complete 38 hours of training in these areas:
- Diversity: Respect for People
- Ethics in the Workplace
- Generational Differences
- Give ‘Em the Pickle: Providing Excellent Customer Service
- Harassment Prevention
- Interviewing Skills
- Performance Management
- Spirit of Teams
- Substance Abuse
- Supervisors’ Accountabilities
- Supervisory Skills
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| Crystal McGee |
Charles K. Cheatham |
Becky Newcomb |
Recently, the 10th group of managers to complete the training received plaques recognizing their accomplishment. Receiving Management Certificates were:
- Charles K. Cheatham of Hanover Fire/EMS, who has been employed by the County since 2006.
- Crystal McGee, Training Senior Specialist with the Community Services Board, who has been employed by Hanover County since 2001.
- Becky Newcomb, Communications Officer III, who has been with the County since 1998.
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| Patti Beasley, Christina Burton and Nancy Mancuso |
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| Buddy Johnson, Donna Neely and Lawrence Roakes |
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| David Traylor and Nancy Roberts |
Management Certificate recipients
August 3, 2011
Hanover County offers a Management Certificate recognizing managers and supervisors who complete 38 hours of training in these areas:
- Diversity: Respect for People
- Ethics in the Workplace
- Generational Differences
- Give ‘Em the Pickle: Providing Excellent Customer Service
- Harassment Prevention
- Interviewing Skills
- Performance Management
- Spirit of Teams
- Substance Abuse
- Supervisors’ Accountabilities
- Supervisory Skills
Recently, the ninth group of managers to complete the training received plaques recognizing their accomplishment. Receiving Management Certificates were:
- Erin Armentrout, Utility Agent for Public Utilities, who has been employed by Hanover County since 2007.
- Patti Beasley, Purchasing Officer for Finance and Management Services, who has been employed by Hanover County since 2008.
- Christina Burton, Administrative Assistant for Finance and Management Services, who has been employed by the County since 2008.
- Mark Claveau, Captain with the Pamunkey Regional Jail, who has been with the Jail since 1993.
- L.D. “Buddy” Johnson, Project Manager for Information Technology, who has been employed by Hanover since 1995.
- Nancy Mancuso, Account Clerk for Finance and Management Services, who has been with the County since 1994.
- Donna Neely, Payroll Technician for Finance and Management Services, employed by the County since 2001.
- Lawrence Roakes, Systems Administrator-Sr., for Fire/EMS, who has been with Hanover since 2000.
- Nancy Roberts, Accountant for the Pamunkey Regional Jail, who has been employed by Hanover County since 1993.
- David Traylor, Firefighter/Medic for Fire/EMS since 1999.
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| Lt. Matt Greggs of Hanover Fire / EMS |
Matt Greggs
Fire / EMS
July 19, 2011
Lt. Matt Greggs of Hanover Fire/EMS earned a unique honor recently when he was graduated from the Virginia Fire Officers Academy.
Matt was one of only 40 firefighters from around the State who graduated from the Academy this year, and the only one from Hanover.
The prestigious Academy, a seven-day course held at the University of Richmond, focuses on developing leadership skills among the Commonwealth's rising acting officers, lieutenants and captains.
"Leadership is what helps an organization move forward and not become satisfied with the ways things are," Matt says. "We have done a lot of great things in Hanover Fire/EMS in recent years but there is always room for improvement and we want to keep improving."
Battalion Chief Chris Hubbard says Matt is one of the rising stars of Hanover Fire/EMS and the department wants to give him the tools to shine even brighter.
"He has made a real difference in this department and he always gives 100%," Chris says. "He is personable and dedicated and it's a pleasure to work with him."
Matt became a Junior Member at Station #7 (Mechanicsville) when he was 14 years old, the minimum age in Hanover to perform support functions such as washing trucks. He became a full-fledged volunteer as soon as he was able and spent 15 years as a volunteer before being hired as paid staff in December 2001.
As Lt. in the Training Division, Matt oversees the Fire Academy and EMT classes.
Matt and his wife Kera live in Mechanicsville with their children, Bonnie and Jason. |
| Deputy Davis Gooding of the Hanover Sheriff's Office |
Davis Gooding
Sheriff's Office
July 12, 2011
Deputy Davis Gooding has become the first Sheriff's Officer to win Rookie of the Year and Officer of the Year in consecutive years. Davis was recognized during the Sheriff's 11th annual awards ceremony in May.
Last year Davis made more than 50 drug arrests, approximately 90% of which were self-initiated. He also made 155 arrests for crimes, responded to 445 calls for service and assisted in 170 other calls.
Also in 2010, Davis was presented with the Mothers Against Drunk Driving Award after making 34 DUI arrests and receiving six additional commendations. In addition to his regular patrol duties, he serves as a breathalyzer operator, is certified in the operation of radar and is a member of the Tactical Field Force.
Davis also serves our country as a Captain in the U.S. Marine Corps.
Also recognized for their outstanding service in 2010 were:
• Deputy Jason Taylor was named Rookie of the Year. He received five commendations in 2010 and in one incident he and two other officers worked together to save the life of the driver.
• Deputy Danny Rudock was named Reserve Officer of the Year. He logged 610 hours of service, answered 58 calls, conducted 146 property checks and participated in six special assignments.
• Michael Mason was named Explorer of the Year. Michael has served as president of the program for two terms, performed over 200 hours of community and department service and received awards for crime prevention, perfect attendance and community service. Following his graduation from Old Dominion University next year, he intends to pursue a career in law enforcement.
• Winning Excellent Service Awards were Investigators Matt McGrain, David Klisz, Karen Godfrey and Tim Papenfuse and Deputies Barrett Laine, Michael Vaughan, Jason Taylor, Travis Six, James Cooper and David Parrish. Retired Sheriff V. Stuart Cook also received an Excellent Service Award.
• Winning Meritorious Service Awards were Major Allen Davidson, Sergeants Edward Smith and Chris Atkinson, Investigators Wendy Bailey, Mike Ihnen, James Cole and Scott Wilting and Deputies Steven Appouh-Hester and Barry Bland. Nancy Scott, Jean Newman and Lou Ann Jewell also won Meritorious Service Awards.
• The Training Unit/Support Division won the Unit Citation Award. This unit consists of Lt. Jud Flagg, Sgt. Kent Mullen, Deputy Zac Horne, Deputy Stewart Wickham, Deputy Mike Purcell, Scott Towne and Bernie Curlee.
• Recognized for their Excellent Service to Law Enforcement were Dr. Stewart Roberson, Postal Inspector Ed O'Donnell, Phil Heins, Dr. Tony Valentino and County employees Corey Beazley, Tom Harris, Ginny Ferguson, Marcus Allen, Steve Rykal, Shellie MacKenzie and Tom Vaughan.
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| Jeffrey Parker received the Fleming Blunt Award as Most Valuable Animal Control Officer. |
Jeffrey Parker and Allen Smith
Animal Control
April 21, 2011
Hanover County Animal Control recognized their outstanding personnel last week in a ceremony held on April 14 at Hanover Tavern. The awards ceremony concluded the 7th national Animal Control Officer Appreciation Week.
Jeffrey Parker received the Fleming Blunt Award as Most Valuable Animal Control Officer. Chief Kevin Kilgore called Jeffrey "a great example of what every Animal Control officer should stand for. He is an outstanding public servant and I am very proud of him." Jeffrey has been with Hanover Animal Control for four years.
Joining Chief Kilgore in presenting the Fleming Blunt Award to Jeffrey was Darlene Young, the late Mr. Blunt's daughter. Fleming Blunt was Hanover's first ‘dog warden', as they called them back in those days. The late Mr. Blunt in many cases paid out of his own pocket to feed stray pets.
Allen K. Smith received the Buddy W. Mills Award for Most Desired Animal Control Officer. Chief Kilgore praised Allen for not only his fine work but for being "extremely customer-friendly". Allen has been with Hanover Animal Control for 16 years and with Hanover County for a total of 23 years.
Also recognized by Chief Kilgore last week were:
- Karen Robertson received the Super Support Staff Award.
- Allen K. Smith was recognized for Most Dogs Saved.
- Jeffrey Parker was recognized for Most Cats Saved.
- Lindsey Palmen was recognized for Most Wildlife Captured.
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| Allen K. Smith received the Buddy W. Mills Award for Most Desired Animal Control Officer. |
Douglas Goodman, Police Chief for the Town of Ashland, was the guest speaker at the ceremony. Chief Goodman noted that last year Hanover's Animal Control officers responded to 6,747 calls for service in the field and facility staff handled almost 8,000 requests for assistance and visitors. These combined actions resulted in contact with over 6,507 animals, 26 of whom tested positive for rabies.
Chief Goodman related a personal story about adopting a dog from the pound two years ago. He thanked Animal Control "for taking care of my dog, treating her medical needs, providing nourishment, but most of all showering her with love and affection until she could find me."
"I wanted each of our animal control professionals to know how even their most mundane and routine task can affect a Hanover family like mine," Chief Goodman said.
Kathy Cheeley
Emergency Communications
April 19, 2011
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| Kathy Cheeley has been named Emergency Communications Officer of the Year for 2010. |
Kathy Cheeley has been named Emergency Communications Officer of the Year for 2010.
A graduate of Liberty Christian School, Kathy has been a part of Hanover County Emergency Communications since November 1999. She was nominated by her supervisors because of her outstanding dedication, professionalism and leadership ability.
"Kathy can always be counted on to display superior customer service under the most trying situations and prides herself in getting the job done while keeping a cool, calm and professional demeanor," said Charlie Udriet, Deputy Director.
Several other communications officers were recognized in a recognition ceremony held at the new Emergency Communications Center last week.
Jillian Thomas was honored for Individual Performance during a Critical Incident. This award was given for her performance last October 27, when a tornado struck down in the Mechanicsville area. The tornado was spotted headed directly toward the area where she lives with her husband and children, who were home at the time, while she was working the Police Radio. Nevertheless, Jillian held her composure and demonstrated great courage, performing her duties admirably.
Also honored for Outstanding Team Performance during this incident were Officers Eddie Eacho, Cynthia Martin, Katie Sprouse, Barbara Burrow, Whitney Trotter and Lorie Saunders; Supervisors Nancy Langley, Jude Dawson and Carole Starcher; and Senior Supervisor Arlene Sharpe.
"These individuals displayed some of the finest examples of how emergency communications personnel pull together during a time of crisis and perform some of the most complex and stressful tasks under some of the most trying conditions imaginable," Charlie said.
Other awards given included:
- Communications Officer Preston Main was recognized for receiving the highest number of peer recognition cards during the past year;
- Communications Officer Casey Barnette was selected as the Communications Training Officer of the Year for 2010;
- Senior Supervisor Stacey Adams was recognized as the Supervisor of the Year for 2010.
Recognized for years of service were:
- Stuart Baughan for 20 years of service;
- Clay Barret and Corina Nuckols (15 years);
- Diane Branch, Julie Cooper, Tiffany Dowdy, Kimberly Martin, Bruce Moore and Megan Nixon (5 years).
The Department also recognized Communications Officers Casey Barnett and Jillian Thomas for their outstanding performance utilizing the department's automated Emergency Medical Dispatch Protocols and having the highest annual EMD (Emergency Medical Dispatch) scores.
Perry Greene
Public Utilities
March 30, 2011
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| Perry Greene has been appointed by Gov. McDonnell to the Board of Waterworks and Wastewater Works Operators and Onsite Sewage System Professionals (WWOOSSP). |
Perry Greene, superintendent of the Totopotomoy Wastewater Treatment Plant, has been appointed by Gov. McDonnell to the Board of Waterworks and Wastewater Works Operators and Onsite Sewage System Professionals (WWOOSSP).
WWOOSSP is part of the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR). The Department ensures that those who obtain certification or licensure in these professions are qualified. The Department also investigates complaints from the public and ensures that all facilities and personnel comply with State law and regulations. Perry's first meeting with WWOOSSP will be next month.
"It's humbling," says Perry, who has been the Totopotomoy plant's superintendent since it opened in 2004. "Anytime you are given an opportunity by your peers to help improve your profession, it's a great honor."
Perry has been in this profession since he graduated from high school. A Mecklenburg County native, he worked for most of his career in the Burlington Industries Wastewater Treatment Plant in Clarksville. He was the plant's Operator-in-Charge when Hanover hired him in 2001.
"Hanover's Department of Public Utilities has a great reputation and relationship with state agencies because they know that we do things the right way," Perry says. "When I came here, I was amazed at the work ethic throughout the Department."
"The Board of Waterworks and Wastewater Works Operators and Onsite Sewage System Professionals made an excellent choice in appointing Perry Greene as a Board member," says Dave VanGelder, DPU's Chief of Operations and Maintenance. "A position such as this requires integrity, commitment and a high degree of fair-mindedness; Perry excels in all three. Perry and his staff do an outstanding job operating the Totopotomoy Wastewater Treatment Plant and I have no doubt that Operators in Virginia will be well represented by Perry."
The Totopotomoy plant has not had a violation in the seven years it has been open and has been regarded as state-of-the-art in many ways. The plant currently processes an average flow of 2.3 million gallons daily.
Perry wants to give special thanks to Jackie Lawrence and Keith Robertson, shift operators who have been with the plant since it opened, and Earl Spradlin, master technician, who "knows the plant inside and out."
Perry and his wife Angela have two daughters, Shawna and Letetia.
Thomas Chappell and David Johnston
Fire/EMS
March 23, 2011
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| Thomas Chappell of Station 8 (Montpelier) helped save the life of a man while working out at American Family Fitness last summer. |
Two Hanover County firefighter/medics have received awards for their off-duty lifesaving heroics.
Thomas Chappell of Station 8 (Montpelier) helped save the life of a man while working out at American Family Fitness last summer.
When he noticed the gym staff rushing towards the track and grabbing the defibrillator off the wall, Thomas stopped what he was doing and went to see if he could help. They found a man in cardiac arrest.
Thomas and another off-duty firefighter applied the defibrillator. They administered one shock and continued CPR, with Thomas doing chest compressions. After a second shock, they were able to get a spontaneous return of pulse and breathing. As the Henrico Fire Team arrived, Thomas continued to assist by preparing equipment to deliver the standard round of drugs.
The patient survived and the case was featured in local media and hospitals as part of a continuing education program on out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. Thomas received a Heart Saver Award from Henrico Doctors Hospital (Forest).
David Johnston of Station 6 (Henry) helped save the life of a man while who choked on his food at a restaurant last year.
David and his then-fiancée (now wife) Kathryn were enjoying dinner when his mother called their attention to a fellow customer who seemed to be choking. David and Kathryn rushed to help and he took over abdominal thrusts in an attempt to clear the obstruction.
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| David Johnston of Station 6 (Henry) helped save the life of a man while who choked on his food at a restaurant last year. |
When that was unsuccessful, they initiated CPR to the victim, who did not have a detectable pulse. After about a minute of compressions, the victim began to throw up. They rolled him to his side and helped get the food from his mouth. The man survived.
David received the Heart Saver award from the American Heart Association for his rescue.
He is a Captain at the Forest View Rescue Squad in addition to volunteering at Station #6.
Marvin Fletcher
Fleet Services
March 11, 2011
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| Marvin Fletcher, Hanover’s Director of Fleet Services, has been elected president of the newly-formed Center for Professional Fleet Certification.. |
Marvin Fletcher, Hanover's Director of Fleet Services, has been elected president of the newly-formed Center for Professional Fleet Certification. This group is an alliance of fleet industry associations, entities and universities that has been formed to advance the fleet management profession by establishing standards of excellence.
"The Center provides a way for diverse organizations with common interests to work together as we continue to pursue professional excellence in the fleet management profession as both individuals and organizations," Marvin explained.
The Center endorses and promotes the Certified Automotive Fleet Manager (CAFM) and Certified Automotive Fleet Specialist (CAFS) programs as the individual certification programs of choice in the fleet industry. Organizations join The Center by endorsing and supporting the programs endorsed by the alliance and gain the ability to provide training services and reference products for those certification programs.
The Center's ultimate goal is to help the CAFM designation within the fleet management profession achieve the same level of recognition as the CPA designation has within the accounting field.
Marvin is a longtime member (and current vice-president) of the NAFA Fleet Management Association, which is a member of the Center.
"I'm very grateful for this opportunity to continue my service to the fleet management profession," Marvin says. "I am looking forward to helping this new group provide a unique resource for organizations that are committed to continuing education."
Marvin earned the distinguished CAFM designation in 1993. He also is a charter member of NAFA's Old Dominion Chapter and has served that organization as Chair, Vice Chair and Treasurer.
Marvin has been with Hanover County since 1989 and has been Director of Fleet Services since July 1998. His 21-member staff provides fleet management and maintenance services for about 1,200 County and School vehicles.
Marvin and his wife Pat live in Mechanicsville.
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| Nathan Webel, Tiffany Dowdy, Craig Williams and Kevin Nelson |
Management Certificate recipients
February 14, 2011
Hanover County offers a Management Certificate recognizing managers and supervisors who complete 38 hours of training in these areas:
- Diversity: Respect for People
- Ethics in the Workplace
- Generational Differences
- Give ‘Em the Pickle: Providing Excellent Customer Service
- Harassment Prevention
- Interviewing Skills
- Performance Management
- Spirit of Teams
- Substance Abuse
- Supervisors' Accountabilities
- Supervisory Skills
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| Katherine Cheeley | Kim Kinker |
Recently, the eighth group of managers to complete the training received plaques recognizing their accomplishment. Receiving Management Certificates were:
- Kathy Cheeley, Communications Officer for Emergency Communications, who has been employed by Hanover County since 1999.
- Tiffany Dowdy, Communications Officer for Emergency Communications, who has been employed by Hanover County since 2005.
- Kim Kinker, Communications Officer for Emergency Communications, who has been employed by Hanover County since 1998.
- Kevin Nelson, GIS Manager, who has been with the County since 1995.
- Nathan Webel, Lieutenant for the Pamunkey Regional Jail, who has been employed by Hanover County since 2003.
- Craig Williams, Deputy Director for Information Technology, who has been with the County since 2009.
Dorothy Gibson
Community Services
February 2, 2011
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| Dorothy Gibson is used to doing good work. She’s not used to saving lives. But that’s just what happened on May 11 of last year. |
Dorothy Gibson is used to doing good work. She's not used to saving lives. But that's just what happened on May 11 of last year.
Dorothy, who is a Training Specialist Supervisor at the Day Health and Rehabilitation Center in Mechanicsville, noticed that one of their clients was choking on his food at lunch. Dorothy called for help and gave the client several back blows and front abdominal thrusts – but was unable to dislodge the food. Since the client was in a wheelchair, Dorothy asked support staff to remove the food tray and harness, she was then able to give two abdominal thrusts and dislodge the meat.
Unfortunately, the crisis wasn't over. Less than a minute after the client later, the client again began choking. As 9-1-1 was being dialed Dorothy gave additional abdominal thrusts, dislodging a second piece of meat.
"Miss Gibson remained calm and responded quickly," said Greg Smithson, the County's Safety and Risk Manager. "She remained attentive and kept a monitor on the client. Greg was thankful that Dorothy had received CPR training six weeks prior – "which really reinforces the need for training and refresher training," he added.
Dorothy admits that the CPR training helped. So did Higher Powers. "I was praying the whole time," she said. "I had to do something. His life was in my hands. It was really by the grace of God that I was able to help him."
Dorothy is a modest person who doesn't like much attention. But it came anyway. Last month representatives of the Virginia Municipal League came out and presented Dorothy with their Lifesaver Award. (VML Insurance Programs provides the County's automobile, liability, property, workers' compensation and other insurance coverage.)
On March 1, Dorothy will celebrate her 21st anniversary as a County employee. She was hired in 1990 as a mental retardation assistance instructor, a similar program to that which she now serves. Then there were four clients; now there are 27.
What hasn't changed is the satisfaction she gets out of the job, even when she's not saving a life.
"The clients are what make this job so great," she says. "The hugs, the smiles, the ‘thank you's that they say without saying it tell you how they feel. It's a very rewarding position."
She has known many of the clients a very long time now. One client has been under care since the day she began in 1990.
"They get very attached to you and you get very attached to them," she says. "They become almost like your children after so many years."
None of it is surprising to LaVerne Smith, who is Dorothy's supervisor and the program's coordinator.
"Dorothy is a very dedicated person," LaVerne says. "She really is a caregiver at heart. Some of our clients have very special needs that can be very challenging and that many people do not like to do, but she does not take that as a challenge – she sees it as an opportunity."
"She is a special person," LaVerne adds.
Dorothy and her husband James have two children of their own, a daughter named Omega and a son named Ernest.
Karen Winston
Commissioner’s Office
January 20, 2010
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| Karen Winston is the Association’s 2010 recipient of the Margaret Ann Anderson Award. |
Karen Winston, Deputy Commissioner for the Hanover Commissioner of the Revenue's office, has been with the County for longer than almost anyone – more than 35 years, to be exact. Over the years (decades!) she's played a variety of vital roles within the Commissioner's office. Recently, she received some great recognition: a prestigious award from the Commissioners of the Revenue Association of Virginia.
Karen is the Association's 2010 recipient of the Margaret Ann Anderson Award. This award is given to the top Deputy Commissioner in the State.
She was nominated for the award by her boss, Commissioner of the Revenue Scott Harris. Scott noted that Karen "has worked faithfully and tirelessly to promote a level of professionalism and commitment to our organization we would encourage all of our deputies to aspire to."
Karen was born and raised in Ashland and when she started with Hanover, the County government was a bit smaller. Even the Wickham Building was much less than half of its current size – the section facing U.S. Rt. 301 was not added until 1978 (the original section was built in 1963).
After graduating from Patrick Henry in 1974, Karen went to work for the Commissioner's office that summer. She started out as a drafting technician in the office's real estate division.
"I had always been interested in house plans and draw-ups," she says. "I even drew the plans for my own house."
She may have come by this interest ‘naturally'. Her father, William, was a construction supervisor for Leadbetter and in fact helped build the second floor of the Wickham Building as well as the Circuit Court and General District Court buildings.
Her responsibilities increased over the years as she learned new skills. "Through her own initiative and commitment, Karen quickly became skilled in the processes necessary and assumed primary responsibility for the time-consuming hand-drawn adjustments of tax property maps," said Scott Harris.
She was promoted to Deputy Commissioner for Real Estate in 1992. In 1995, she completed the courses necessary for the designation as a Master Deputy Commissioner.
Karen said she was "shocked" to receive Margaret Ann Anderson Award. "I had no idea that I had even been nominated," she said.
She loves her job because she loves working with people.
"We have a lot of hands-on contact with the general public in this office and it's one of my favorite things about the job," she says. "We have a chance to help people solve their problems and we try to do that as much as we can."
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| Jan Major and Dorothy Gibson (seated in front) and Anne Leary, Brian Gildea, Angie Conley, Stacey Lantz and Judy Davis. |
Management Certificate recipients
August 10, 2010
Hanover County offers a Management Certificate recognizing managers and supervisors who complete 38 hours of training in these areas:
- Diversity: Respect for People
- Ethics in the Workplace
- Generational Differences
- Give ‘Em the Pickle: Providing Excellent Customer Service
- Harassment Prevention
- Interviewing Skills
- Performance Management
- Spirit of Teams
- Substance Abuse
- Supervisors' Accountabilities
- Supervisory Skills
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| Mike Nannery and Kim Hicks are part of the seventh group to coplete training. |
Recently, the seventh group of managers to complete the training received plaques recognizing their accomplishment. Receiving Management Certificates were:
- Angie Conley, Administrative Assistant for Emergency Communications, who has been employed by Hanover County since 1992.
- Judy Davis, Social Work Supervisor for the Department of Social Services, who has been with the County since 1999.
- Dorothy Gibson, Training Specialist Supervisor with Community Services, who has been with Hanover County since 1990.
- Brian Gildea, Internal Auditor in the Internal Audit Department, who has been with the County since 2007.
- Kim Hicks, Personnel Analyst for the Pamunkey Regional Jail, who has been employed by Hanover County since 1997.
- Stacey Lantz, Communications Officer for Emergency Communications, who has been with the County since 1999.
- Anne Leary, Account Clerk for Social Services, who has been employed by Hanover since 2006.
- Jan Major, Chief Deputy Circuit Court Clerk, who has been with the County since 1993.
- Mike Nannery, Engineering Manager for the Department of Public Utilities, who has been employed by Hanover since 2007.
Scott Miller
Treasurer
July 9, 2010
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| Treasurer Scott Miller has become the first person in six years to win the Commonwealth Award. |
Treasurer Scott Miller has become the first person in six years to win one of the Treasurers' Association of Virginia's most prestigious awards – the Commonwealth Award.
The Commonwealth Award has been given only 13 times in the last 30 years and recognizes those persons whose vision, integrity and leadership has helped to enhance the Association through years of devoted service.
Scott was named "Treasurer of the Year" by the Treasurers' Association of Virginia (TAV) in 2004. He served as the TAV's president in 2005-06 and has been a leader of many of the Association's committees both before and after his presidency.
As chairman of the Treasurers' Education and Curriculum Development Committee, for example, Scott has helped create training opportunities for treasurers throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia. He has also served on the TAV's Board of Directors, its Legislative Committee and its Futures Committee, which deals with long-term issues faced by treasurers throughout the state.
Additionally, Scott has served as past chairman of the Software Tax User Group, helping other treasurers with issues related to that implementation. He will become chairman of that group again in 2011.
"Scott conducts himself in a professional manner at all times and he has done a lot to help other treasurers throughout the State," said Lee Pfeiffer of Cumberland County, Chairman of the TAV's Awards Committee. "He always strives to help us serve the citizens in a more efficient way and to enhance our level of service to the public."
"It's flattering and I'm very humbled by it," Scott said. "I have enjoyed working on Treasurer's issues and I hope that by working together we can continue to improve our services to all of our citizens."
Scott attained the title of "Master Governmental Treasurer" from the Weldon Cooper Center of the University of Virginia in 2000. "Master Governmental Treasurer" is the highest level of training and education available for local treasurers.
Originally elected Hanover County Treasurer in 1995, he has been re-elected three times.
Scott holds a Bachelors Degree in Accounting from Virginia Tech and has over 25 years of financial and government experience. Needless to say, he's a big Hokies fan.
He and his wife Jodi live in Ashland and have two daughters, Jennifer and Paige.
Brooks Dandridge
Public Utilities
June 1, 2010
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| Brooks Dandridge of Public Utilities has been named Wastewater Operator of the Year by the Virginia Rural Water Association (VRWA). |
Brooks Dandridge of Public Utilities has been named Wastewater Operator of the Year by the Virginia Rural Water Association (VRWA).
Brooks is an Apprentice Operator at the Ashland Wastewater Treatment Plant. Among his duties are collecting and analyzing data that ensures the plant complies with all requirements. He has independently made various repairs and improvements to the plant and can manage operations during challenging high-flow periods.
Thanks to the work of Brooks and the rest of its small but proficient staff, the Ashland WWTP received the prestigious Burke Award from the Water Environment Federation (WEF) and the Virginia Water Environment Association (VWEA) last year. The Ashland WWTP was the only facility in the Commonwealth to receive the Burke Award in 2009. The Plant also received the Platinum Award from the National Association of Clean Water Agencies last year.
"Brooks's work ethic and a strong ‘team-effort' approach have enabled the Ashland WWTP staff to continue to accomplish its goals, requirements and compliance with the plant's VPDES permit with very limited staffing," says Plant Superintendent Kim Spruth. "He shows a genuine interest in the Wastewater field as indicated by his performance, willingness to learn and the desire to continue to further his knowledge and apply it directly to his job functions and the Ashland WWTP operations."
Brooks said he was "speechless" when he learned of the award. "I thought it was a trick," he said with a laugh.
Brooks has been with Hanover DPU since August 2005. In April 2006 he transferred from his position as a Utility Technician in the Maintenance Division to Operator in Training at the Ashland WWTP. He received his Class III Wastewater license in September 2009 and was promoted to Apprentice Operator in October 2009.
"This is the best job I've ever had," Brooks says. "Kim gives you responsibilities but allows you to tackle projects on your own and I love that. It's a very positive environment in which to work."
His current goal is to earn the position of Journeyman Operator. He is studying for his Class II license from the Department of Environmental Quality, a four-hour exam that he hopes to take in the next month. He ultimately would like to work his way up to Master Operator.
A Hanover native, Brooks graduated from Lee-Davis High School in 2000. He received his Electronics Engineering degree from I.T.T. Technical Institute in Chesterfield County in 2002.
Brooks and his wife Kila have two daughters, Arianna and Mikah, and a son, Roman.
Brooks is the second Ashland WWTP staffer to win the VRWA's "Wastewater Operator of the Year" award; Tim Locklerr won it in 2006. Also, Dayna Sonovick was the VRWA's "Rookie of the Year" in 2004.
"The accomplishments of Brooks, Tim and Dayna, with the leadership of Kim, demonstrate how the department's mission of being environmentally responsible is translated into day-to-day actions," said Frank Harksen, Director of Public Utilities. "We are all proud of the accomplishments of Brooks and the other Ashland plant staff and their committed efforts to Hanover County."
Founded in 1987, VRWA is a private, non-profit association whose voting members are small municipal and rural water and wastewater systems across the Commonwealth.
Eddie Buchanan
Fire/EMS
May 27, 2010
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| Eddie was elected Vice Chairman of the National Advisory Committee for the Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI). The CFSI represents the interests of firefighters and first responders on legislative issues before the U.S. Congress. |
Hanover Fire-EMS Division Chief Eddie Buchanan continues to be recognized as a leader in national fire organizations – now he's even rubbing elbows with Congressmen!
Last month, Eddie was elected Vice Chairman of the National Advisory Committee for the Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI). The CFSI represents the interests of firefighters and first responders on legislative issues before the U.S. Congress.
The CFSI's National Advisory Committee includes representatives from a broad spectrum of fire service stakeholders throughout the nation. It provides guidance on legislative initiatives and monitors key fire service programs, including Assistance to Firefighters Grants.
"This is a big deal for Hanover County," says Fire/EMS Chief Fred Crosby. "Having Eddie in a leadership position on this committee allows us to have influence on the national level. This group works directly with Congress and both the majority and the minority leader in the House and many senior Senators belong to the Congressional Fire Service Caucus. In short, Eddie and his colleagues have the ear of some very important people."
"It's an honor to represent America's Fire Service and work with our elected representatives in Washington D.C.," Eddie said. "It is also a great opportunity to work with some of the greatest leaders in public safety and government. I look forward to learning a lot over this next year and into the future."
Eddie is also currently the President of the International Society of Fire Service Instructors, which provides professional development, political representation and networking for emergency service educators.
He also serves on the Technical Committee for Fire Service Training for the National Fire Protection Association, which establishes professional standards for the fire service.
Eddie began his career in the fire service in 1982 with the Henry Volunteer Fire Department, where he is a former Chief and Life Member. He helped establish Hanover's renowned training programs and served as the first program coordinator for Hanover's Fire Academy, which recently graduated its 25th class.
Eddie has served as a Hands-On Training Instructor for the Fire Department Instructor's Conference. He authored the Volunteer Training Officer's Handbook from Fire Engineering Books & Videos and has written various articles on training issues for professional trade magazines.
Eddie and his wife Tori live in Hanover and have two children, Jake and Baylee.
David Klisz
Sheriff’s Office
May 20, 2010
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| Investigator David Klisz has been named Officer of the Year by the Hanover Sheriff's Office. |
Investigator David Klisz has been named Officer of the Year by the Hanover Sheriff's Office. The recognition took place during the Sheriff's 10th Annual Awards Program on May 12.
Investigator Klisz also received the Excellent Service Award for his contributions in solving two ‘cold cases' in 2009. One case involved the identification of the remains of a man who had been missing since 2000. The other case involved a juvenile who went missing in 2004.
Investigator Klisz also brought to justice the perpetuator of a six-year sexual molestation of a 16-year-old child. Though little to no evidence was available, Investigator Klisz tenaciously pursued every angle and conducted a highly successful telephone sting which helped lead to the successful prosecution of the suspect and ultimately a lengthy prison sentence.
Investigator Klisz cleared 55 of 71 cases assigned to him in 2009 and obtained 45 arrest warrants. He serves as a reserve member of the department's Bike Team and as the Assistant Team Leader of the Crisis Negotiations Team. He also is an active member of the FBI's Innocent Images Task Force for the Richmond Region.
Also recognized for outstanding service during the May 12 awards ceremony were:
- Deputy Davis Gooding was named Rookie of the Year. In addition to receiving an Officer of the Month nomination and four commendations during his first year in law enforcement, Deputy Gooding earned the top academic achievement award in the 95th Basic Training Academy. Outside of the Sheriff's Office he serves our country as a Captain in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves.
- Deputy Nick Pugh was named Reserve Officer of the Year. Although Reserve Officers are required to log a minimum of 192 hours each year, in 2009 Deputy Pugh logged 822 hours. During this time he answered 154 calls for service, conducted 205 property checks and participated in 23 special assignments. In addition to his patrol duties, Deputy Pugh also participates in the Project Life Saver Program.
- Explorer Thomas Hauck was named Explorer of the Year. He is a student at J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College, majoring in Criminal Justice and planning a career in law enforcement. Thomas is employed at Kings Dominion where he was recently promoted to Park Police Officer.
- Deputy Richard Doran received a Medal of Valor Award for saving the life of an elderly woman who blacked out and crashed her vehicle into her garage.
- Sgt. Eddy Smith received a Silver Star Award for coming to the aid of a victim involved in an accident in which the vehicle caught fire.
- Winning Excellent Service Awards were Investigators Randy Agee, Mike Brown, Karl Smith, Drew Spain, Tyler Cary, Hazen Dunfee, Karen Godfrey, Chris Hatcher, Drew Hoehl, Kevin LaPlaga, Matt McGrain, and Matt Ratchford; and Deputies Maria Carrasco, Steven Diloreto, Matt Gowin and Mark McCormack.
- Winning Meritorious Service Awards were Lieutenants Bryan Cook, Kerri Freis and Brian Lecarpentier; Sergeants Lonnie Carter, Leon Musser, Chris Whitley, Doug Kinder and Tim Sutton; Investigators Chris Atkinson, Richard Wilson, Randy Agee, Mike Brown, Pete Carrasco, Chris Davis, Matt Gay, Chris Hatcher, Tony Wayne, Shane Wickham and Todd Layman; and Deputies Barry Bland, Jim McLaughlin, Phillip Miller, Robert Nelson, John Parrish, Matt Crist, Danny Crumpler, Carla Curran, Matt Gowin, Robert Hess, Jonathan Jones, Ray Quinn, Steven Spencer, Leslie Trexler, Steve Wills, Carey Clements, Chuck Davis and Lowell Lantz. Christie Williams, a Crime Analyst, also won a Meritorious Service Award.
- The Street Crimes Unit won the Unit Citation Award.
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| Lindsey Palmen has been named Animal Control Officer of the Year for 2009. |
Lindsey Palmen
Animal Control
May 12, 2010
Lindsey Palmen has been named Animal Control Officer of the Year for 2009.
Lindsey is a "dedicated and driven individual with both integrity and devotion to duty," said Chief Kevin M. Kilgore. "Lindsey answered more calls for service than any other officer, did more written enforcement and had the highest law enforcement statistics of any officer. She also performed more cruelty investigations than any officer on the force."
"Lindsey demonstrated professional skills with appearance, work ethic and compassion," Kevin added. "She has set an excellent example of what an animal control officer stands for."
A two-year veteran of Hanover Animal Control, Palmen has worked her way up to Animal Control Officer from the ‘ground floor'. She started as a volunteer at the Animal Pound before being hired as a kennel attendant.
Chief Kilgore also recognized several other people during a ceremony held on April 14 in the historic Hanover Courthouse:
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| Jessie O'Keeffe, Jeff Parker and Lindsey Palmen with their plaques. |
- Jeff Parker was named Most Improved Animal Control Officer. He captured and saved more wildlife and pets (total dogs and cats) than any other officer in 2009 and was also commended several times as being extremely customer-friendly.
- Jessie O'Keeffe received the Super Support Staff Award for her work in the Animal Pound. This is a new award.
- Dr. Rachel Touroo of the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services was recognized for her outstanding contribution towards the department. She supported the department with her courtroom expertise in prosecuting several high-profile cases of animal abuse and also provided training.
- Allen Smith Jr., Jeff Parker and Lindsey Palmen received service medals for saving dogs and cats and capturing wildlife and exotic animals.
Susan Deusebio
Economic Development
May 5, 2010
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| Susan Deusebio, Deputy Director for Economic Development, is serving as president of the Virginia Economic Development Association (VEDA). |
Susan Deusebio, Deputy Director for Economic Development, is serving as president of the Virginia Economic Development Association (VEDA).
VEDA seeks to shape the Commonwealth's public economic development policy and is a primary source of professional development, education and networking for Virginia's economic development industry. Its membership includes more than 500 leaders in economic development.
"My goal as President is to ensure that each member obtains value from their membership and a return on their dues investment," says Susan, who has been a VEDA member for 20 years. "VEDA is growing in strength as a voice for economic development professionals and the business community through an increasingly aggressive public policy agenda. Job growth, business retention and new revenue are critical to Virginia's localities, and VEDA is working collaboratively with our allies in state government and our elected officials to bring prosperity to the state and our local communities."
Susan notes that Virginia is ranked as America's Best State for Business and she wants it to stay that way. "The Commonwealth's economic development professionals have all worked hard to hold this prestigious designation for four consecutive years," she says.
Susan has been a member of VEDA's executive committee since 2008 and served as Vice President and as Secretary/Treasurer prior to her current position as President, which she will serve through this year.
Susan came to Hanover seven years ago from McKinney and Company, where she was Director of Business Development. Prior to that, she served Chesterfield County as a Project Manager in their Department of Economic Development.
She began her economic development career in 1989 at the former Virginia Department of Economic Development, which is now known as the Virginia Economic Development Partnership. Her early professional positions included marketing promotions at Kings Dominion and the Virginia Chamber of Commerce, where she worked as the Public Relations Manager.
At the ‘ground level', Economic Development has changed immensely over the years, largely due to technology. Not that long ago, Susan and others in public economic development spent a lot of time planning and hosting trips and visits and filling out extensive proposal requests – just to get to a short list of communities to be considered for a new investment project. Now, much of the preliminary analysis is done over the internet.
"The good side of technology is that our clients and prospects are able to obtain information so much more quickly," she explains. "The bad side is that relying too much on the internet takes out the relationship building process, which is so important in this business. We all look very similar on the computer. The difference is what you see on the ground, and the comfort level you can provide to the prospect that your locality is the best fit for their investment. Our prospects also need to know that the workforce will be here to support them."
The Department recently had its website (http://www.co.hanover.va.us/econdev/index.htm) re-designed to make it more comprehensive, user-friendly and functional. "We have made it easier to navigate and have included more demographic information," Susan says. "We want people to be able to get to whatever they need in two clicks if possible."
A particularly popular feature is Site LoGIStics, which is an interactive GIS-based system that provides access to extensive data on population statistics, zoning and neighboring land uses, transportation networks, businesses within a pre-determined radius and aerial maps.
A business looking to re-locate to Hanover County should be able to find out most anything they want about Hanover. And then, hopefully, place a call to Susan at the Department of Economic Development!
Management Certificate recipients
March 29, 2010
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| Ginny Ferguson, Keith Robertson and Kelly Pauley received the Management Certificate. |
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| Pam Barrafato, Meri Sweeney, Charlie Udriet and Cris Leonard received the Management Certificate. |
Hanover County offers a Management Certificate recognizing managers and supervisors who complete 38 hours of training in these areas:
- Ethics in the workplace
- Give ‘em the pickle (customer service training)
- Harassment prevention
- Interviewing skills
- Online recruitment system
- Performance management
- Spirit of teams
- Substance abuse
- Supervisors' accountability
- Supervisory skills
Recently, the fifth and sixth groups of managers to complete the training received plaques recognizing their accomplishment. Receiving Management Certificates were:
- Pam Barrafato, Training Specialist Supervisor for Community Services, who has been with the County since 1993.
- Ginny Ferguson, Quality Assurance Coordinator for Social Services, who has been employed by Hanover County since 1997.
- Kim Hopkins, Captain at the Pamunkey Regional Jail, who has been with Hanover County since 2001.
- Cris Leonard, Volunteer Member Coordinator for Fire/EMS, who has been with the County since 1998.
- Kelly Pauley, Communications Supervisor for Emergency Communications, who has been employed by Hanover County since 2004.
- Keith Robertson, Utility Operator for Public Utilities, who has been with the County since 2003.
- Carole Starcher, Communications Supervisor for Emergency Communications, who has been employed by Hanover since 1984.
- Meri Sweeney, Mental Health/Mental Retardation Case Manager for Community Services, who has been with the County since 1998.
- Charlie Udriet, Deputy Director for Emergency Communications, who has been employed by Hanover since 1985.
Sharon Williams
Community Services
December 2, 2009
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| Sharon Williams does her own job so well that she recently received the Pat Thacker Power of Team Award for her leadership in the program. |
Sharon Williams is one of the training specialists employed by Hanover Community Services to help people with disabilities find and keep jobs. She does her own job so well that she recently received the Pat Thacker Power of Team Award for her leadership in the program.
"Sharon is always there for me," said one client who nominated her for the award. "When I need help, I know all I have to do is call and she will be there."
Sharon works with the Employment Services program, which helps clients get jobs with employees in the private sector. Right now she has about 15 clients in different stages of the process, from job training to job development to long-term follow-along.
"I work closely with clients at every step," Sharon explains. "First I try to determine what kind of jobs they are interested in and assess their skills. I help them submit their applications, prepare and go on their interviews and advocate for them with their employers. If they get the job, I then train and do everything I can to keep them employed." About 70 local employers are currently participating in the program.
In this economy, finding jobs can be tougher than ever. "We even have to compete with unemployed post-graduates," she says. "We use every avenue we can think of – the internet, cold calling, networking, going through newspapers, constantly looking for every opportunity."
But the job also has great satisfactions. "Some of my clients really depend on me and are very appreciative," she says. "Developing relationships with them is a real joy. One of my clients travels abroad several times a year, and she always sends me postcards. I received a poem she had written about me and how she loves her job coach"
"I love this kind of work," she adds. "It's so rewarding. I want them to feel like I'm someone they can trust and someone they can feel comfortable with."
Sharon is one of six training specialists on her team. Others include Robin Zimmerman, Torrie Goodman, Roberto Chavarria, Ryan Maddox and LaDonna Hayes. "We are all very close, and we could not achieve the successes that we do without the help we give each other," she says.
Sharon has been with Hanover Community Services for about 3 years. She lives in Ashland with her husband Wayne. They have two sons, Chris and Courtney, and two grandchildren, Sam and Ellie.
The Pat Thacker Power of Team Award recognizes those who exemplify the dedicated leadership of Pat, who retired two years ago after 24 years of service to the County's residents. As Director of Mental Retardation Services, Pat was directly responsible for the growth and development of the CSB's employment programs and all of the CSB's residential options for persons with mental retardation.
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| From left to right, Melissa Thorne, Tennant Frost and Torrie Goodman. Not pictured is Nancy Langley.. |
Management Certificate recipients
August 12, 2009
Hanover County offers a Management Certificate recognizing managers and supervisors who complete 38 hours of training in these areas:
- Ethics in the workplace
- Give ‘em the pickle (customer service training)
- Harassment prevention
- Interviewing skills
- Online recruitment system
- Performance management
- Spirit of teams
- Substance abuse
- Supervisors' accountability
- Supervisory skills
Recently, the fourth group of managers to complete the training received plaques recognizing their accomplishment. Those receiving the Management Certificates were:
- Tennant Frost, Utility Supervisor for Public Utilities, who has been with the County since 1994.
- Torrie Goodman, Training Specialist for Community Services, who has employed by Hanover County since 1998.
- Nancy Langley, Communications Supervisor for Emergency Communications, who has been with Hanover since 2002.
- Melissa Thorne, Office Manager for the Commonwealth's Attorney's office, who has been with the County since 2001.
Stacy Reaves
Fire/EMS
August 6, 2009
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| Since being hired by Hanover Fire/EMS in July 2006, Stacy has distinguished himself in many ways. A rookie with no EMS experience when hired, within two years he earned his paramedic certification, a challenging two-year process. |
Unlike many of his colleagues, Stacy Reaves was not ‘born into' a family tradition of the fire service. "I'm a first-generation firefighter," he says.
But he's made up for ‘lost time', becoming a leader who is greatly respected by those with whom he serves.
"Stacy is an individual who cares about others with a strong desire to serve and make a difference," wrote one respected Fire/EMS staffer when Stacy applied to be a career firefighter in 2006. "You could easily see that he lives our mission and values."
Before being hired by Hanover, Stacy was a volunteer firefighter in Powhatan County for several years. His profession at the time was construction manager.
"I never in a million years imagined I would be a firefighter, much less a paramedic," Stacy recalls. "I grew up a farmer and then went into the construction business."
A few years ago, he became aware of what firefighters did and the contribution they made in the community. He was intrigued.
"I had some spare time so I decided to go down to the firehouse and volunteer," he recalls. "I told them I could do things like wash the trucks. Of course, you know how that goes. They told me they didn't need me to wash trucks, they needed me to run calls, and before long I was on the truck. After that first incident, I was hooked."
Since being hired by Hanover Fire/EMS in July 2006, Stacy has distinguished himself in many ways. A rookie with no EMS experience when hired, within two years he earned his paramedic certification, a challenging two-year process. He was a member of the Department's first paramedic graduation class in the spring of 2008. (He graduated from Hanover's Fire Academy in 2006).
Stacy took on the paramedic training at the same time he was taking on many other responsibilities at Henry Station #6, including managing the station's maintenance program and the sew shop. He has also served as a mentor in the department's recruit academy program. This spring, he served on the department's strategic planning committee.
He was recently transferred to Station #7 (Mechanicsville) as part of the department's implement of the Quick Vehicle Response (QVR) system, which is intended to get the appropriate medical assistance to callers as quickly as possible.
"Stacy is highly motivated and eager to take on any project with ease," said Lt. Matt Newell of Station #6. "I look for him to be a great instructor for our future BLS (Basic Life Support) and ALS (Advanced Life Support) students."
"Hanover really places a great emphasis on education and training," Stacy observes. "Not every place is like that. I think it is one of the things that make Hanover great."
He's not quite ready to be an instructor, he says, but in a way he's already serving that function.
"In this industry you have to be a teacher," he explains. "If you're not, the people who are behind you will fall behind. You should always have the goal of teaching every single thing that you know. The more people that know everything you know, the better the chance you have of getting the job done."
He also continues to volunteer in Powhatan when he can because he's a big believer in the volunteer system. "I have a great respect for volunteers," he says. "We have to continue to have volunteers here in Hanover County."
Stacy and his wife Stephanie have two children, daughter Erin and son Daniel.
Jaime Stoops
Pamunkey Regional Library
July 9, 2009
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| Jaime Stoops is manager of the Mechanicsville Branch Library, now a beautiful new building at 7461 Sherwood Crossing Place. |
Jaime Stoops loves books. And she finds herself in exactly the right place: manager of the Mechanicsville Branch Library, now a beautiful new building at 7461 Sherwood Crossing Place.
"It's light, bright and inviting," she says with enthusiasm. "That's one of the things we told the architect we'd like to see in the new building. I love giving tours. People are just amazed at what we have here."
The new library opened last month. In June, 975 new users registered for a free Pamunkey Regional Library card. "We used to get maybe 150 new applications a month," Jaime says.
There are many more computers in the new library and usage has increased dramatically, from about 2,000 a year ago in June to nearly 4,800 in June 2009. And the community meeting room – much larger than the one in the old branch – is already in constant use.
She gets perhaps the most comments about the expanded children's area. "I've seen kids cry because they don't want to leave," she says.
"To see these ideas that we had come to fruition and use is exciting," Jaime says.
As if opening a new library branch wasn't challenging enough, Jaime was also working hard to obtain her Master's degree in Library Science from Florida State University, which she earned in May. But she didn't commute to and from Tallahassee – she took all 36 hours of classes online.
"It took me three years," she says. "I went to classes online at night with people from places like Italy and Japan. I actually had more contact with my professors than I had had with some of my classes when I was obtaining my undergraduate degree."
Jaime received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Art History and Anthropology from James Madison University in 2001. Because of her love for books, her first job was managing the Barnes and Noble bookstore in Manassas. Eventually she worked her way back home, managing the Barnes and Noble branches at Virginia Center Commons and Short Pump before applying for the Mechanicsville Library Branch Manager position in 2003.
Needless to say, she got the job and loves it. "Our whole staff loves working here," Jaime says. "The staff has been together for a long time now. It's so different than retail. It's more about helping people here as opposed to the first concern being profit margins."
Jaime is a ‘hometown girl', having graduated from Lee-Davis High School in 1996. She and her husband Ricky live in Mechanicsville and are expecting their first child. Her parents, John and Jenny Weaver, live nearby.
"All of us at the Library are proud of Jaime," says Fran Freimarck, Director of the Pamunkey Regional Library. "She coordinated the big community move into the new Mechanicsville Library. She was instrumental in planning the new service model, new technologies and staff assignments in the library and has handled the overwhelmingly positive community response to the library with professionalism and grace."
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