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Virginia lawmakers propose change in response to death of Charles Byers: 'This was a system failure'

Del. Debra Gardner said she's considering legislation to tighten a gap in the overlap of the mental health and legal systems, after reviewing the circumstances surrounding the death of Charles Byers.

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By: Tyler Layne

Posted 4:28 AM, Jul 31, 2024 and last updated 4:51 AM, Jul 31, 2024

New de-escalation training still not implemented in Virginia, four years after police reform laws passed

Some lawmakers and use of force experts have raised concerns over the deadly police shooting of a mentally ill man who was holding a hatchet in a Chesterfield neighborhood last year.

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By: Tyler Layne

Posted 5:27 AM, Aug 07, 2024

"Chesterfield County invites residents to a free movie night at the fairgrounds featuring The Garfield Movie with family-friendly activities like balloon animals, food, and train rides." "Chesterfield County hosts Coffee with a Career Counselor sessions in September, offering career guidance and one-on-one counseling."

Join Debra Gardner for Community Movie Night and Career Counseling Events in Chesterfield

August 30, 20242 min read

Debra Gardner is dedicated to fostering strong community connections and providing opportunities for growth in Chesterfield County. This September, she invites you to two exciting events: a free family-friendly movie night and career counseling sessions designed to help individuals advance their professional goals.

Free Movie Night with Chesterfield County Animal Services

Join Chesterfield County Parks and Recreation and Chesterfield County Animal Services for an unforgettable movie night under the stars! On Friday, September 13, the community will come together at the Chesterfield County Fairgrounds for a fun-filled evening featuring The Garfield Movie on the big screen.

The event will run from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., and families can enjoy a variety of activities, including:

  • Balloon animals

  • Bounce houses

  • Food and drink vendors

  • Train rides for the kids

Please bring chairs and blankets to enjoy the movie comfortably. For the safety of the guest animals, we kindly ask that you leave pets at home.

This free event is a great opportunity to relax, connect with your neighbors, and support Chesterfield Animal Services. Don’t miss out on this evening of entertainment!

Coffee with a Career Counselor: Empowering Chesterfield Residents

Looking for guidance in your career journey? In partnership with Virginia Career Works, Chesterfield County is hosting Coffee with a Career Counselor on Thursdays throughout September. These informative sessions provide a space to network, learn from career experts, and ask questions about your professional goals.

A representative from Virginia Career Works will lead each session, which includes:

  • A networking opportunity

  • A 30-minute presentation on career-related topics

  • A Q&A session

  • One-on-one time with a career counselor for personalized advice

Additionally, staff from Chesterfield’s Social Services and Human Resources departments will be available to offer supplemental information and resources to help you succeed in your career.

Upcoming Coffee with a Career Counselor Sessions:

  • Thursday, Sept. 5: Midlothian Library (100 Millworks Crossing)

  • Thursday, Sept. 12: Latinos in Virginia Empowerment Center (9513 Hull Street Road, Suite B) — This session will be conducted entirely in Spanish.

  • Thursday, Sept. 19: Chester Library (11800 Centre Street)

  • Thursday, Sept. 26: Meadowdale Library (4301 Meadowdale Boulevard)

These sessions are open to everyone in the community, and no matter where you are in your career, you’ll find valuable insights and support.

A Commitment to Community

Debra Gardner is committed to helping the Chesterfield community thrive by supporting local events that bring people together and provide resources for growth. Whether it’s a fun evening at the movies or a career counseling session, these events are part of her ongoing efforts to make Chesterfield County a vibrant place to live, work, and connect.


Debra GardnerChesterfield CountyMovie NightChesterfield Parks and RecreationCareer counselingVirginia Career WorksCommunity eventsFamily-friendly activitiesJob resourcesProfessional development
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