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Eric Dinkens — coach, mentor, friend — remembered for loving, positive attitude AC CulpeperTimes_StripAd.indd 1

11/13/20 9:31 AM

By Josh Gully CULPEPER TIMES

Although Eric Dinkens died much too young at 49, he will continue positively impacting the world through the lessons he imparted to hundreds of students. Dinkens, a 1990 Culpeper County High School graduate, died Dec. 6 from congestive heart failure complications. He is survived by a daughter, Daisy, 22, his father, two brothers and countless friends - all of whom he loved dearly. His employment with the schools began in 2011 as Culpeper County Middle Schools’ head football coach, in-school suspension teacher and later basketball coach. Before that, he was a youth football coach and he later coached for Culpeper County High School’s football, lacrosse and tennis teams. In November 2019, he was hired as the school system’s facilities coordinator. Dinkens arrived with a bang at the middle school when his team handed Floyd T. Binns its first defeat in years. Rodney Stewart, who coached alongside Dinkens, said that was a big accomplishment that resulted in a big celebration. “They hadn’t been beaten in years. It was just a great, great, great experience for everybody,” Stewart said. Whether on the sidelines, in class or at a cookout, Dinkens’ friends all agreed that his positive attitude was infectious. Yolanda Shanks, a friend since elementary school, said “he kept you laughing.” She added that he was “a no-nonsense person” who “said what he meant and meant what he said” but he was also a jokester who was “quick with a comeback and little jokes to make you smile.” Daniel Nobbs, Culpeper County High School’s athletic director, said “if there was a person that went through C.M.S. or C.C.H.S., then Dink touched them.” “He was someone that you could talk to judgement free, he was real but a sneaky optimist, almost everything out of his mouth was positive and/or guiding,” he said. Doug Robson, the schools’ director of facility services who coached alongside Dinkens, will never forget that positive attitude, saying “Eric

PHOTO BY YOLANDA SHANKS

Eric Dinkens poses with the Culpeper Middle School Football team, which he began coaching in 2011 and brought the program to new heights. was the most jovial, happy individual I’ve probably ever been around” who was “all about the kids.” Dinkens never met a stranger or child he did not care for. “When you are on his team you were part of his family. He treated you like family, he took care of you like family, he looked out for you like family and never wanted anything but the best for anybody that he came in touch with,” Robson said. John Bridges, the schools’ director of counseling, said Dinkens “just connected really well with the kids.” While middle schoolers do not always listen, he said they universally listened to Dinkens. “If you think about the kids that he saw every day, they were always in trouble...He was fair, he was kind, he connected with kids really easily and the kids always felt that they were listened to and heard by him. Kids enjoyed being around him,” Bridges said. In turn, Shanks, who works at

the middle school, said students opened up to Dinkens. “If he wanted to know something and nobody was talking, all he had to do was go to one of the boys and say ‘what happened’ and they would tell him the truth. Anybody else could have gone and asked them and they would have said nothing,” Shanks said. Robson said that special connection continued long after graduation. “He had so many of them that he kind of took under his wing and they would come to him for advice even after they left the middle school program, and even on into life after they left the high school program,” Robson said. “He’s one of those coaches that the players stay in touch with and want to try and please him because he treated them with so much respect, and so much care and so much concern for their general well being.” Dinkens started coaching Eli

Marks as a seventh-grader on the youth football team. From there, Dinkens coached him in middle and high school. Marks said that Dinkens always pushed his players and “he told you what you needed to hear, not what you wanted to hear.” “He taught me a lot of life lessons. Always try your best no matter what you do...There were a lot of life lessons he taught me even away from the football side. If you’re going to do something, do it 100%,” Marks said. For Dinkens, football was secondary to school and he was not shy about reminding athletes of the importance of good grades. His W.I.N. - what’s important now? - motto applied to all aspects of life, not just football. He constantly reminded students to focus on the key steps that must be taken to achieve goals. “Your talent is not going to get you there, you have to hit the books, you have to get your GPA up. And he let them know that,” Shanks said. And when students needed a ride to visit colleges, Dinkens took them - just one of many ways he helped people in any way possible. “He was just great to be around. All the time, he was always thinking about others and what he could do to help somebody else,” Stewart said. Beyond family, friends and students, Shanks said Dinkens loved the Free Union Baptist Church, where he assisted with audio and visual for Facebook Live videos. Beyond all, Robson said he will remember “the way he carried himself.” “The way that he kept all of his affairs in order, how he took care of people around him - his father, his daughter - making sure they were settled, making sure they were comfortable. He was a very spiritual man and had that relationship taken care of. We can all learn from that,” Robson said. In addition to living on through those he impacted, his name may be memorialized as a petition is circulating to rename the middle school’s stadium after him. Additionally, friends are also attempting to initiate the “W.I.N. scholarship” in his name. Safe to say, Coach Dinkens will not be soon forgotten.

Culpeper Times • December 24-January 6, 2020

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Community-STARs honored as small business of the year By Josh Gully CULPEPER TIMES

Community-STARs helps children with disabilities become everything that they can be. For that important work, the company was recently honored as the Best Small Business of the Year during the Culpeper Chamber of Commerce’s annual Meeting and Awards Program. A full-service pediatric therapy clinic, Community-STARs specializes in serving children with disabilities and provides physical, occupational and speech therapy. Community-STARs owner Dr. Kim Lephart explained the company works with children who are developmentally delayed, have Down syndrome, cerebral palsy and genetic disorders. “We are trying to help them become everything that they can possibly be,” she said A Community-STARs news release explains that the company focuses on three factors: a child’s strengths, the goals they find important and putting the “fun” into functional. “By meeting a child where they are in their journey and building on their strengths, C-STARs is making

“For us, the Best Small Business of the Year award acknowledges the dedication, commitment and hard work of the C-STARs team on behalf of our community. To the C-STARs team, I say, ‘thank you’ and with them I share in this award.” Dr. Kim Lephart Owner everyday differences in the lives of children in our community, one child at a time,” the release states. Lephart was thrilled to receive the award and explained that “we are building a small community for our children with disabilities here and this is just an acknowledgement that we are continuing to build community for our children.” She added that the company is honored to receive an award that recognizes growth, innovation, integrity, customer service, community engagement, volunteerism and workforce development. “For us, the Best Small Business of the Year award acknowledges the dedication, commitment and hard work of the C-STARs team on behalf of our community. To the C-STARs team, I say, ‘thank you’ and with them I share in this award,” Lephart said.

In a year that has presented plenty of challenges, Community-STARs was able to keep its entire staff, with some working at decreased hours, by offering telehealth services amid the pandemic. “As other clinics were furloughing their staff, C-STARs viewed this as an opportunity to hire experienced therapists. Subsequently, C-STARs has doubled their staff since February 2020,” the release says. With coronavirus precautions implemented, Community-STARs continues working with clients both in-person and through telehealth services. Community-STARs is located in Culpeper and and also serves Madison, Greene, Orange, Charlottesville, Rappahannock and Fauquier. For more information visit everyday-stars.com

COURTESY PHOTO

Dr. Kim Lephart, owner of the Community-STARs businesses that serves children with disabilities, poses with the Best Small Business of the Year plaque given by the Culpeper Chamber of Commerce during its annual Meeting and Awards Program.

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Culpeper Times • December 24-January 6, 2020

Inaugural Pack the Cruiser fundraiser a massive success Citizens came out in big numbers to support the Culpeper Police Department’s inaugural Pack the Cruiser for Seniors event in the Walmart parking lot, where 15 police vehicles were loaded with donated goods and delivered to the Culpeper Senior Center. In addition to $400 in cash, donations included toilet paper, paper towels, paper plates, trash bags, pet food, laundry detergent, paper bags, batteries and hand sanitizer. The donations were dropped off at the senior center, where they were passed out the week of Dec. 21. The event was organized by Master Police Officer Michael Grant, Police Admin Specialist Rebecca Bennett and the community policing division. Grant said the successful fundraiser is another example of the community’s generosity. “The Culpeper community is always very giving and supporting of things we do…It’s wonderful to see, especially in today’s time with the way things are going on in the world, that they come out and still donate,” he said.

Grant explained donations were gathered for seniors because they sometimes have a tough time getting out and about. “Some don’t drive and rely on public transportation. So when they come to town, if something’s not available they just can’t run right back the next day and pick it up…So we decided with this we could get these items and distribute them out and hopefully help them out a little bit,” he said. Grant said the inaugural fundraiser will continue into the future, adding that the department has a similar spring event during which vehicles are packed with school supplies. He thanked Walmart for hosting the fundraiser and PetSmart for donations. Culpeper Police Department Sgt. Tony Caruso prepares to load pet food onto one of the 15 police vehicles that were packed with donated goods and delivered to the Culpeper Senior Center during the ﬁrst Pack the Cruiser for Seniors fundraiser. COURTESY PHOTO

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Culpeper Times • December 24-January 6, 2020

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Culpeper Times • December 24-January 6, 2020

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Effie Foster named the 2020 Culpeper Times Citizen of the Year ➤ With compassion and generosity, she has made Culpeper a better place to live By Josh Gully CULPEPER TIMES

There’s no doubt about it — the world would be a better place if there was an Effie Foster in every town. Luckily, the one and only lives in Culpeper. Ask anyone who knows Foster and they will quickly describe her as a compassionate, sincere and generous person who will gladly provide a helping hand to anyone in need. Foster has a warm spot in her heart for senior citizens, for whom she provides rides to doctor appointments, picks up groceries, does laundry or simply sits beside them if they need that little bit of extra loving attention. Rosalie Arthur, one of her 12 children, said she cannot help but crack up when her mother says “‘they’re senior citizens so I need to help them.’” Some may say that Foster, 88, is a senior citizen herself but do not dare tell her that. Then there are the famous, delicious pies. For decades, Foster has baked thousands of pies and provided them freely for volunteer fire department fundraisers, police department events, weddings, the Culpeper Senior Center, funerals and birthday parties. Or, if somebody’s spirits needed lifting, they got a pie. Due to Foster’s everlasting goodwill, she was selected as the Culpeper Times 2020 Citizen of

New Millennium

COURTESY PHOTOS

Above, Eﬃe Foster poses on Halloween with twins Lake and Lincoln Bostic and Harrison Brown Settle, three of her 50 great grandchildren. Top right, she shows oﬀ two of her famous pies.

the Year. Joan Byrnes, who was one person to nominate Foster, said she will help anyone in need. “If she hears of someone in need she will call her family members to seek donations of money, food, whatever the need may be. This is done discreetly and most others are not aware of what she does for others,” Byrnes said. Chris Settle, Foster’s grandson, said she makes a litany of daily phone TEMPLE LEAVELL calls to check REATOR®, ABR®, SFR® Licensed in Virginia on a variety of people to see if Cell: 540-222-6074 Office: 703-753-7910 they need anyEmail: temple.leavell@c21nm.com thing. 8074 Crescent Park Drive “She’s not a Gainesville, VA 20155 part of any spe"Providing Exceptional Service with Integrity, cific volunteer Experience and a Passion for Real Estate" organization. Each office independently owned and operated She’s really a one-person army,” Settle said. Friends and family say that if you ask her for a pie, believe you will get one. Usually, however, the pies appear unrequested. It is not unusual

to see every surface in Foster’s kitchen covered with pies before a fire department fundraising event. The Brandy Station Volunteer Fire Department and Auxiliary, which has received countless pies, composed a statement in which members said Foster “is a real gem and everyone who knows her loves her.” She has supported Brandy Station for as long as any member can remember. There are usually about six pies at bingo night and nearly 30 at fundraisers. Foster has told the volunteers that “I made a pineapple upside-down cake just in case you needed it” or “I made you an extra chocolate meringue pie because I know it’s your favorite.” She also helps sell raffle tickets for carnivals and is the first in line at Brandy Station’s annual chicken dinners. “We’re all better people just from knowing her,” the volunteers said. Arthur said her mother has a genuine passion for anyone that needs help. “She has never met a stranger. She is very into people, loves people and loves helping them,” Arthur said. “She has a big heart, she is very compassionate and

has always had a heart to help people. She loves everybody and everybody loves her.” Litsa Kambanellos, co-owner of the Chuck and Litsa’s South Main Cafe that Foster frequents, said her presence adds to the restaurant's family atmosphere. Echoing Foster’s other friends, Kambanellos described her as a sweet, loving woman who helps anybody in need. In addition to strangers and friends who need help, Foster has plenty of love to spread among her family, which includes eight kids from her first marriage to Brown Settle and four step-children from Turner Foster, who she married when they were both widows. And do not tell Foster that the four from her second marriage are step-children. “They’re her children, that's one of those positive features about her,” Arthur said. Sherry Thronhill, who owns the Country Cafe where Forster makes weekly pie deliveries, noted that she inspires her family to give back to the community - and what a large family it is. Foster has 26 grandchildren, 50 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. Foster’s memory has not declined with age and she remembers the full names and birthdays of every last grandchild, who can expect a card or gift every year. “She is really a once in a lifetime type of amazing person. These types of people don’t just come along every day. She always puts others above herself and I mean that very sincerely,” Settle said. While there unfortunately can not be an Effie Foster in every town, there is no doubt she has made Culpeper a better place to live. “Effie always puts everybody first, she always has,” Thornhill said. “Effie is Effie. You have Madonna, you have Oprah, you have Beyonce and you have Effie. And she’s awesome.”

Culpeper Times • December 24-January 6, 2020

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Culpeper residents sue Gov. Northam over church guidelines By Josh Gully CULPEPER TIMES

Shortly after a group of churchgoers re-filed their lawsuit in Madison County against Gov. Ralph Northam over pandemic-related church guidelines, three Culpeper County residents followed suit and filed nearly identical litigation against the governor. The Culpeper County lawsuit was filed by Ron Young, Alum Spring Baptist Church’s pastor, Charles Sheads Sr. and Jocie Stallings, who are both members of Novum Baptist Church in Madison County. Mike Sharman, the lawyer who filed both the Madison and Culpeper lawsuits, said the plaintiffs want equality and religious freedom, adding that churchgoers should not be subject to more restrictive guidelines than anyone else. The most recent guidelines regarding churches require: • Physical distancing at all times • Marked seating and common areas where attendees may congregate while socially distanced • That items used to distribute food or beverages should be disposable or cleaned between uses • Routine cleaning of frequently-contacted surfaces before and after services • Posted signs at entrances outlining public health notifications regarding the coronavirus • Face coverings for all in attendance The Madison County lawsuit was previously settled in September when Northam made facemasks the lone requirement in churches. It was refiled after a November Executive Order instituted further requirements for churches to follow. Now, Sharman explained both lawsuits seek guidelines that are the least possibly restrictive. For example, he noted that all Virginia citizens are supposed to wear face coverings. Since that is the least stringent guideline on the books, he said religious equality and freedom would mean churches should not have any additional rules. Alena Yarmosky, Northam’s press secretary, said the office does not comment on pending litigation but the governor “will continue to base all decisions based in science, public health, and the safety of Virginians.” During a recent press conference, Northam did not address any pending litigation but said people should “think about what is truly the most important thing” this holiday season. “Is it the worship or the building? For me God is wherever you are. You don’t have to sit in a church pew for God to hear your prayers. So I strongly call on our faith leaders to lead the way and set an example for their members. Worship with a mask on is still worship. Worship outside, or worship online, is still worship," Northam said. Sharman noted that schools must follow guidelines set by their governing bodies

such as school boards while churches are being directed by the state. This, he said, makes the “bigotry” expressed in the Executive Order clear as the state trusts school boards but not church leaders. Instead, he said church leaders should set rules for their congregations. If churches were receiving equal treatment, Sharman said he would not have filed the lawsuits because “then it wouldn’t be bigotry against people of faith, it wouldn’t be an attack on religious freedom.” “We basically wouldn’t have as strong an argument if this was truly generally applicable rule - that everybody, whether it’s a car lot or a church, whether it’s a school board or a Sunday school, whether it’s Walmart or the small business down the street,” Sharman said. “If it’s truly generally applicable then the religious freedom argument is much less.” He also expressed umbrage over the fact that a church could be forcibly closed if one individual does not follow Northam’s order. Sharman added that pastors are supposed to care for sick church members, pointing to a scripture stating: “Is any one of you sick? He should call the elders of the church to pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well.” “If we were actually carrying out scripture and doing that... because there are a lot of people who actually believe what the Bible says and believe that it does heal them... if the pastors go and do that, then they can’t come to church because they’ve been in contact with somebody who has the symptoms,” Sharman said. Plaintiff Ron Young is a full-time pastor and also works part-time at a funeral home. According to a news release, he joined the Culpeper County lawsuit because “Northam’s restrictions are reducing the amount of people worshipping” and “he is taking away our freedom of assembly.” Charles Sheads Sr., according to the release, is a parts coordinator at an equipment company who also performs gospel music at religious services throughout Virginia. He says in the release that responsible citizens should “respond to the edicts of the government of Virginia and question this latest unfair order of its authority to once again limit worship services.” Stallings, who is also a gospel musician, works as a registered nurse – a profession that the release notes has been declared essential. “Yet she is limited in her ability to carry out her religious freedoms,” the release states. Stallings says she would like church gatherings to be recognized as essential, “just like going to a store.” Sharman said he expects to file one last similar lawsuit in Rappahannock County but he encouraged lawyers throughout the state to plagiarize his complaints.

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Culpeper Times • December 24-January 6, 2020

Schools to continue course in second semester with a slight change ➤ Some high school students will be allowed increased in-person learning opportunities By Josh Gully CULPEPER TIMES

During the upcoming second semester, schools will continue offering the already established mix of in-person and virtual learning while also allowing more in-person days for a small number of high school students. The matter was up for discussion during a recent school board meeting after staff was directed to examine the possibility of increasing in-person learning at high schools. Some board members previously expressed interest in exploring the possibility of offering high school students four days of in-person learning. Currently, students either attend school two days a week with three days of remote learning or participate fully remote. Additionally, 65 special education students attend school in-person four days a week. Robert Hauman, the schools’ director of curriculum and instruction, explained there are 1,149 students at Culpeper County High

School and 1,422 students at Eastern View High School. In the first semester, about half of students are attending in-person two days a week. Those students are split into two “tracks” that see half of the students going to school Monday and Tuesday while the other half goes Thursday and Friday. While there is room to safely increase daily attendance, Hauman explained that combining the two tracks for a schedule in which these students receive four in-person learning days presents issues. For example, he said classes generally consist of about 15 properly spaced students. If both tracks were combined, certain classrooms would reach capacity and some students would go to an “overflow area” of the school to participate remotely. “At that point, they might as well just be at home,” Hauman said. Therefore, he told the school board that “we’re pleased with where we are.” “We’d recommend sticking with the model that we have for second semester at the high school level and give the schools permission to continue to add two-day or fourday for some folks who might really need the time, particularly seniors,

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to the four-day model,” he said. Hauman said principals see the need for more in-person learning and have asked for the discretion to allow certain students to attend school two or four days per week. Hauman noted that a lot of Virginia school divisions are implementing full-remote learning and Culpeper’s current model “is much more than several divisions have even attempted.” “Maintaining the current model would allow them to selectively add students until they reach their mitigation limits or until we get the green light to return,” he said. Even if four days of in-person learning were offered, Hauman said not many students or parents would be interested. He explained robocalls, emails and personal invitations offering more in-person learning have been sent. “Believe it or not, there are not droves of people beating down their door to come back to in-person,” he said. That may change, he added, when parents see first semester report cards. “We know sometimes kids don’t always tell everything as truthfully as we think they should. Some students’ parents are surprised when we call up and say ‘they’re not doing any work,’ and the parent tells us ‘they’re absolutely doing work, I see them on the computer all the time.’ That’s not necessarily what’s happening, so when grades do come out we might see a lot more requests to come back,” Hauman said. Any significant shifts in how students learn during the second semester, he said, would result in adjustments for families, school staff, the transportation department and food service personnel. He added that many students have said they like two days of in-person learning as they still see teachers while managing their own schedules. Many students, he noted, have started working and are

watching their younger siblings. With all that in mind, Hauman said the school system’s ultimate goal to increase in-person learning and eventually return to “normal school” – “whatever normal means.” “I think we all remember that, I think we have that picture and we want to return,” he said. Superintendent Dr. Tony Brads agreed, saying that the school system’s goal, while keeping safety in mind, is for students to receive five days of in-person instruction. “Don’t panic out there folks. I’m not saying that’s immediate… When it’s possible – gradual – that’s our goal,” he said. Brads added that online learning may continue being an option for some time “and we have to continue to improve on that aspect.” School Board member Marshall Keene noted that he previously expressed interest in returning remote learners to the classroom. Hearing the recommendation, he said “it’s very obvious just looking through your presentation that there’s so many different variables.” Currently, he said “I think what we’re doing now is perfect” and the schools “don’t need to change what we’re doing…as long as we gradually progress to that five-day a week schedule next year.” “Gradual progress back to five days a week. I know that’s ultimately my goal. I know that’s ultimately most of the community’s goal,” he said. Keene added that the possibility of getting some of the students who need extra time in classrooms back to school “is a huge step for progression for our school division.” School Board member Barbara Brown agreed, saying she is “ecstatic” about Hauman’s recommendation. “I am very much in support of this and it seems to be what the people who run the system for us want…I think yall are right on track,” she said.

Culpeper Times • December 24-January 6, 2020

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H E A LT H Feeling down about winter? Don’t let COVID-19 make it worse ➤ Change in seasons can be a difficult adjustment at any time, but even more so during the pandemic Novant Health UVA Health System COVID-19 is making a gloomy season even darker for people struggling with seasonal affective disorder, or SAD. SAD is a type of depression related to the changes in season. When days are shorter in the fall and winter, people with SAD tend to feel unmotivated or depressed. It’s much more serious than, for example, simply feeling down about a cold, dark weekend. Those with SAD can suffer from symptoms for weeks or even months. Mix in the emotional exhaustion from the COVID-19 pandemic and it can become a double whammy for patients that experience Seasonal Affective Disorder. “Many people here in the U.S. are already experiencing depression and

anxiety symptoms due to limited social interactions, lack of routine, job loss and financial insecurity, political climate, social justice concerns and other stressors,” said Karyn L. O’Brien-Flannagan, Psy.D., clinical psychologist and senior director, Novant Health UVA Health System behavioral health and diversity and inclusion. “These feelings will only be exacerbated for those with SAD.” SYMPTOMS OF SAD

Some symptoms of SAD overlap with those of typical depression, but there are many variations, O’BrienFlannagan said. In some cases, symptoms are so severe that it can cause serious mood changes and affect how someone feels, thinks or behaves. Common symptoms include: • Feeling depressed and/or hopeless • Irritability • Low energy levels • Oversleeping • Overeating and weight gain • Social withdrawal

“In children, they may become more irritable or fussy and may not show much interest in playing with their toys,” she said.

GET RELIEF FOR YOUR SAD

O’Brien-Flannagan offers possible treatment options that may relieve SAD symptoms: • Light therapy (also known as phototherapy) – This involves spending time, especially in the early morning and early evening, in front of a special therapy lamp that mimics natural sunlight, which can lift your mood. Usually people will sit for 30-45 minutes each day. • SAD patients may have low levels of vitamin D, which can be resolved by eating foods rich in vitamin D, taking vitamin D supplements and spending time in the sunlight. • If work or school prevents you from spending time outside before it turns dark on weekdays, try to schedule

outdoor activities during a lunch break or on the weekend. Exercise outside if it’s sunny. Even reading next to a window can be beneficial. • Medications - Talk to your primary care physician about your symptoms, which will help determine a treatment plan that could include antidepressants. • Counseling - Talking to a counselor can be helpful to identify coping strategies and improve your self-care. During the pandemic, many therapists can see their patients through virtual visits that can limit your exposure to viruses. Many people benefit from their daily social interactions, at work, school, through recreation and within their family. But, because the COVID-19 pandemic has postponed or limited many people’s routines, it’s important to continue to be intentional and make the effort in a safe way.

➤ See Health, Page 19

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NUV-66_Culpeper Cancer Care-Culpeper Times_9.6x6.4.indd 1

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Culpeper Times • December 24-January 6, 2020

Atlantic Union Bank to cease retail services at Main Street branch

By Josh Gully

CULPEPER TIMES

Come Feb. 15, retail services at Atlantic Union Bank’s 102 S. Main St. location will cease. The bank will maintain a presence in the building as offices for commercial lending, wealth management and home loans will remain open at the location and the ATM will be available. In a letter to customers with safe deposit boxes at the bank, Consumer Banking Group Executive Shawn E. O’Brien stated that “we have spent several months reviewing our branch network and have made a decision to close our Culpeper Main Branch.” This takes effect 2 p.m. Feb. 15,

when there will be no retail aspect offered at the bank and accounts cannot be opened at the location. Anyone with a safe deposit box at the location is asked to close it no later than Jan. 15. “We will gladly help you locate another box at a nearby branch and extend an offer for one year free rent for the same size box,” O’Brien says. The Atlantic Union Bank branches nearest to the Main Street location are at 717 James Madison Highway and 231 Southgate Shopping Center in Culpeper. According to reports from the American Banker, Atlantic Union announced in November - two

months after 14 branches closed that five more would close in February. The American Banker article explains that this marks an ongoing trend of banks reducing their branch network – efforts that have increased since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic. Citing S&P Global Market Intelligence data, the article states that banks have closed 1,275 branches in a year-long period beginning in September 2019. Written comments regarding the closing can be sent to the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond, P.O. box 27622, Richmond, 23261 or to comments.applications@rich.frb.org.

PHOTO JOSH GULLY

The Atlantic Union Bank, 102 S. Main St., will no longer have retail services come Feb. 15 but will continue using the building for commercial lending, wealth management and home loan operations.

Salvation Army doing ‘the most good for the most people in the most need’

By Josh Gully CULPEPER TIMES

Dropping a bit of spare change in the red kettles that have become a staple of the holiday season goes a long way in aiding the Salvation Army’s mission. Capt. Duane Burleigh, the Piedmont Core Salvation Army’s commanding officer, explained donations this year are more important than ever. Burleigh said there has been a significant decline locally in the Salvation Army’s volunteers who ring bells and spread holiday cheer while manning the Angel Tree donation stations. Many of the usual volunteers, he explained, are older and are understandably avoiding being around too many people. Out of the 16 locations the kettles can set up in the area, Burleigh explained there have been times that there were only enough volunteers available to man just five of the stations. Last year the Salvation Army raised $90,000 and the efforts are running about $20,000 behind. Being the Salvation Army’s only fundraiser, he said Angel Tree donations fund the purchase of gifts and food for needy residents, summer camps and more. This year, he noted that

COURTESY PHOTO

The cold weather was not enough to stop this group of Culpeper Young Professionals from ringing bells outside of Walmart at one of the Salvation Army's Angel Tree stations. the Salvation Army has provided a lot of rent and utility assistance. “Those kettles are extremely important not only at Christmas but 365 days a year,” he said. “It runs the program for the entire year. If we fall short here it will affect us long term and all of our programs.” Burleigh explained the lagging donations simply stem from a volunteer shortage, noting that “it’s a very giving and caring community” but “we just don’t have enough peo-

ple.” Burleigh recently came out of retirement from Virginia Beach to assume the commanding officer role on an interim basis through June and said he is happy to be here. “I’m glad to be in this area. I’m here to serve this community to the best of our ability, to meet the needs. The Salvation Army has a phrase: Doing the most good for the most people in the most need. And that’s what I try to do,” he said. The Salvation Army also runs

food pantries on weekdays out of its Culpeper and Warrenton offices. In addition to food, the pantries provide items such as diapers and baby formula. “Whatever their needs may be. We’ve handed out a lot of toilet paper this year,” Burleigh said. “Whatever their needs might be, we’re there to do what we can.” Other services the Salvation Army normally offers throughout the year include character-building programs and nursing home or long-term care facility visitations to provide gifts and encouragement. Of course, many of these programs have been stalled this year. “COVID has shut us down but it’s not going to be that way for long. We’re going to be back up and operating full-speed,” Burleigh said. If you do not see kettles around and want to donate, checks can be dropped off at 133 E. Culpeper St. in Culpeper or 62 Waterloo St. in Warrenton. Donations stay local, with 93 cents of every dollar helping the community. Checks should be made out to the Salvation Army and donors have the option of specifying in the memo line to which program the money should be directed.

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Culpeper Times • December 24-January 6, 2020

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Virginia scores poorly on anti-corruption index By Rachel Needham

They are table stakes, Shah said, falling well below the level of being aspirational. Does the state have an ethics agency with jurisdiction over executive and legislative branches? Does the agency have the power to conduct investigations, hold public hearings, and subpoena? Can it sanction or impose injunctions and fines?Are the members of the agency protected from removal without cause? Does the state have gift prohibitions? The commonwealth is one of four states whose ethics agencies have no ability to impose sanctions of any kind, one of only two states with no ability to investigate reports of wrongdoing, one of eight states that does not statutorily protect ethics agency members from removal without cause, and one of two states that does not require independent spenders to report information about its contributors. Shah said that these kinds of state anti-corruption measures hold public officials accountable to their constituents. “People have to be able to trust in their government and understand that our

RAPPAHANNOCK NEWS

The nonprofit Coalition for Integrity released its 2020 scorecard for state anti-corruption efforts in mid-November. Virginia ranks 46th in the nation. Washington State scored the highest, with 80 out of 100 possible points, followed by Rhode Island and the District of Columbia. But Virginia, scoring 33 points, finished in the bottom ten percent, outperforming only Utah, Michigan, Arizona, Idaho and Wyoming. The S.W.A.M.P. Index — a clever acronym which stands for States with Anti-Corruption Measures for Public Officials — analyzes the efficacy of state ethics agencies using 10 simple questions. “If you look at the questions, they’re really not that revolutionary, not at all controversial either,” said Shruti Shah, CEO of the Coalition for Integrity. Shah, a forensic accountant by training, spearheaded the S.W.A.M.P. Index initiative in 2018 when she stepped into the role of CEO. Many of the questions can be answered with a simple yes or no.

public officials, our leaders, are making decisions which are in our interest,” she said. “If I can view what you’re doing, I can hold you accountable. … If you are being transparent and the public has the ability to question or to support you, it leads to more sustainable change, it means that your decisions are more likely to be accepted by a wider population rather than being done in secret.” Virginia has three ethics agencies: the enfeebled Conflict of Interest and Ethics Advisory Council and the House and Senate Ethics Advisory panels. Shah explained that while the House and Senate Ethics Advisory panels have the authority to investigate, they can only investigate matters referred to them by the Council. “The Ethics Advisory Council has no investigative power and of course they don’t actually accept anonymous complaints,” Shah explained. “And also they don’t have any ability to sanction, they can’t issue injunctions or any fines whatsoever and the members of the ethics agencies are also not protected from removal without cause.”

Bob Good, congressman-elect of Virginia’s Fifth District, faced questions about his financial disclosure statements from this and other newspapers statewide just a few months ago. In October Virginia Public Media reported that, when asked about his failure to disclose assets while serving on the Campbell County Board of Supervisors, Good responded dispassionately: “I don’t think this question is of any concern to the voters of the fifth district.” But state ethics, Shah said, should be something Virginia voters care about. “[The pandemic has] kind of brought these issues of state ethics and transparency to the forefront in my mind because … this is who we are looking to for leadership, this is who we rely on for all these things that affect our daily lives. So we have to be able to trust that the decisions are being made in our best interest,” she said. You can read more about the S.W.A.M.P. Index and the full report on the Coalition for Integrity’s website at coalitionforintegrity.org/swamp2020.

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Culpeper Times • December 24-January 6, 2020

Churches embrace the Christmas spirit By Amy Wagner

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Precious Blood Catholic Church is embracing the Christmas season despite the pandemic, but they have had to think outside the box when it comes to this year’s live Nativity. With a theme of “O Come All Ye Faithful,” they are hosting a live drive-thru Nativity 6-8 p.m. Jan. 3 in the church’s lower lot at 114 E. Edmondson St. “This is the Feast of Epiphany,” Kelly Bennet, the church’s director of youth ministry and evangelization, said. Christmas music will be played in celebration of the season. Chalk kits will be handed out to honor the Christian tradition of “chalking the doors.” A centuries-old practice, Christians used chalk to write the following formula above their home’s entrances: 20 + C + M + B + 20. The “+” signs represent the cross and the 20s mark the year. The letters represent the initials of the Magi and abbreviate the Latin phrase Christus mansionem benedicat, which means “may Christ bless this house.” Pastor Kevin Walsh will dis-

“... we wanted to provide some sort of normalcy... There is no normalcy during this time of COVID.” John Hemming Lead pastor, Culpeper United Methodist Church tribute Christmas ornaments for adults and stickers for children, along with Christmas blessings. Food will also be collected for St. Joseph’s Table, a ministry of Precious Blood that supplements existing food pantries. The church also held a drive-thru live Nativity scene Dec. 20, during which advent hymns were sung and live animals were present as they were at Jesus’ birth. Bennett explained that Advent hymns are songs of anticipation, “in anticipation of the Christmas season.” The pandemic also did not hinder the efforts to spread seasonal joy at the Culpeper United Methodist Church, which offered three drive-thru caroling opportunities this month in the church’s lower parking lot. Five congregation members joined Jeannie Wood-Kobert, the church’s music director, on Dec. 5 as 13 cars filed into the church’s park-

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ing lot. Wood-Kobert, on keyboard, led the carols and attendees were encouraged to sing along, honk their horns and ring bells. John Hemming, the church’s lead pastor, said “we wanted to provide some sort of normalcy.” “There is no normalcy during this time of COVID,” he said. Volunteers were required to

wear masks and attendees were required to remain in their cars. Mandated by guidelines set by the Methodist Conference, congregations are prohibited from singing inside during worship time due to health concerns. Still, Hemming said “singing is a huge desire and we wanted to do something connected to singing.” “There are very few ways we can sing as a congregation,” said Hemming, adding that he was excited to see 40 people attend the first evening of caroling and anticipated larger numbers for the other two.

Culpeper County received just 247 applications for program doling out money to parents By Josh Gully

CULPEPER TIMES

Just 247 applications were submitted for Culpeper County's Child Care Relief Program intended to help offset pandemic-related increases in childcare costs. Earlier this month, the Board of Supervisors set aside $730,000 for the program and county officials expected over 1,000 applications from parents of students in grades k-8. The county was able to budget the money due to savings incurred from Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act funding. Since the county can not directly make payments to citizens, the Health Services department was enlisted to review applications and mail checks. Original plans called for the $730,000 to be equally split among applicants. Health Services Director Lisa Peacock said the county expected around 1,500 applications. If the money was evenly divided among the applicants, they would receive nearly $3,000 each. County Administrator John Egertson said that would not happen and the plan is to award successful applicants $1,000. He added that the county plans to extend the application deadline to mid-January and successful applicants during round two will receive up to $1,000. Parents who received money in round one are ineligible in round two. “At the close of the second round, we will evaluate where we stand,” Egertson said. The round one application peri-

County Administrator John Egertson said that the county plans to extend the application deadline to midJanuary and successful applicants during round two will receive up to $1,000. Parents who received money in round one can not receive money in round two. od was open Dec. 2 – 18 and checks will be mailed by the end of December. Just three out of the 247 applications were denied, because they came from people living outside of the county. Peacock said she has no clue why there were not more applicants. The application process, she explained, consisted of “basic questions.” All parents had to verify was that they are indeed the child's parent or guardian and that they are county residents with children in grades k-8 at private or public schools. Applicants also had to sign an affidavit swearing that all information provided is true and a W-9 form because the money is taxable income. All said, the application was a one-page document. Even though there were fewer applicants than expected, Peacock said “this is a wonderful thing the Board of Supervisors did and the families that applied can definitely use the funds and I was happy to be a part of the process.”

Culpeper Times • December 24-January 6, 2020

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POWERING OUR COMMUNITY

December 2020 • News from your electric cooperative

REC’s bright yellow truck brings holiday cheer to Culpeper

espite the Culpeper Christmas Parade looking a little different this year, REC's bright yellow pickup truck was still there to bring holiday cheer on Dec. 6. REC didn’t make an entrance like Santa, but Dwight Walker and Rachelle Scott, employees from REC’s Culpeper office, decorated the work truck and spread joy to those in attendance.

‘Birds-eye view’ T

boosts reliability

he pandemic has provided many of One key area the linemen have fous a chance to step back and gain a cused on includes trees outside the tranew perspective. For a handful of ditional right of way. Partnering with linemen at REC, that is true in a literal REC’s already robust Vegetation Mansense — and that new perspective will agement department, the linemen have directly benefit member-owners. helped find dead, diseased and dying Since mid-March, a small group of trees that could potentially tumble onto linemen has been dispatched — with power lines and related equipment. In drones — to find potential problems be- an effort to improve reliability, REC fore they can cause an outage. They are now looks for potential hazard trees up using the technology not only to inspect to 25 feet outside of the right of way. lines and equipment, but also to search “It saves so much time, because for trees near REC’s rights of way that otherwise you are going on foot or could fall and cause an outage. calling for someone to get a Drones As REC sought ways to four-wheeler,” inspected miles keep crews safe through soMichael said of the drones. of power lines “It gives you the chance to get cial distancing, linemen Jake and rights of Michael and Matt Fauver were a birds-eye view of the probamong those working a bit dif- way that would lem as opposed to looking up ferently recently. typically take from the ground. I’d say it cuts In REC’s Blue Ridge re- much longer to the time in half.” gion, they have walked miles As linemen inspected the cover. of rights of way. They have rights of way, tree-trimming driven four-wheelers through rugged, crews would come in behind them to often rocky terrain. And they have de- trim or take down the hazard trees. ployed drones to inspect miles of power While the work has focused on prelines and rights of way that would typ- vention, recent projects also will help ically take much longer to cover. A lot with outage restoration. of the territory they inspected included Along the rights of way, they have mountainsides, with steep inclines. met homeowners, whose property they “Re-deploying select line workers at might have to cross to reach damaged this time furthered three critical goals equipment. In some cases, they have for REC: safety, reliability and the im- built new gates to allow REC’s large plementation of new technology to bet- equipment to pass through, and in other ter serve member-owners,” said John instances they have discovered new and D. Hewa, REC president and CEO. faster paths to rights of way. “Even in these challenging times, our “In the middle of the night during a crews continue to focus on providing storm, we would not necessarily have reliable electric service. That focus will that option,” Michael said. “So this will never change.” ultimately help us restore power faster.”

Keep in touch at myrec.coop

Generator safety: What you need to know Generators can be a great backup resource, but it’s important that you use them properly and safely. Follow the manufacturer’s directions, and check out these safety tips:

 Read all safety instructions.  When a generator is not properly installed, it can “backfeed” through the transformer. This can endanger a line crew working on the system.  Isolate your generator from the co-op’s power lines. Connect appliances or other devices directly to the generator with the appropriate cords.  If you connect it directly to your building’s wiring, a transfer, double-throw switch is required to separate your generator from the co-op's system.  Take care when fueling your generator. Never refuel the unit while it’s operating.  Provide adequate ventilation and air cooling for the generator to prevent overheating and the accumulation of toxic fumes. Do not install your generator in a closed area. Exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide, which is poisonous.

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Culpeper Times • December 24-January 6, 2020

Series highlights Culpeper’s rich history By Josh Gully CULPEPER TIMES

There is no shortage of history within Culpeper’s county lines. From dinosaurs stomping around during the Triassic period to a young George Washington surveying the land, Culpeper has hosted many unique visitors and events. That rich past is now being highlighted by the Museum of Culpeper History, which is partnering with Culpeper Media Network to create the “Curating Culpeper” television and web series. The first season of Curating Culpeper will feature about eight short episodes that focus on a different chapter of the county’s history. The first episode, “Our Colonial Past,” aired this month and explores Culpeper’s 18th century origins. The camera follows the museum’s Executive Director Morgan Pierce to the Burgandine House and Fort Germanna – two historic sites open to the public – as he discusses some of the area’s first settlers. “In 1759, the county was officially established. When Culpeper

County was newly formed, there were more than 5,000 residents living and working on the land. Approximately one-third of these were enslaved persons, harvesting tobacco and grains on the

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plantations and farms. Closer to town, there were much smaller properties and it is quite possible the Burgandine House was one of these very early houses dating to Culpeper’s formation,” Pierce says in the show. Susan Williams, steward of the Burgandine House, explains in the show that a lot of business was conducted in the house before the courthouse was constructed. The unique house is open for free tours 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 1-5 p.m. Sundays. Viewers can also learn about Alexander Spotswood, Virginia’s former colonial governor, who established two colonies in the area in 1714 and 1717. Pierce explained those colonies were primarily populated by German immigrants who travelled to America as indentured servants to discover riches and mine the land to work off the debt they incurred to arrive in the area. Some of those settlers' last names – including Holtzclaw and Fischbach - remain prevalent in Culpeper and surrounding areas today. Other topics touched upon include the land grants given by Lord Fairfax and how George Washington served as the county’s original surveyor in 1749 and described Culpeper as having a “high and pleasant situation.” While each subject reviewed in the episode could be discussed in greater detail, Pierce said the intention was to make a short video that could be quickly absorbed by viewers of any age. “We just tried to quickly and briefly paint a picture of 18th century Culpeper – where it came

from, when it was founded and who the pivotal players were in that early history,” Pierce said. “Hopefully elementary school kids will be able to pick up on some of the details. If you’re new to the area or just simply need a refresher on some of the important people, places and dates that are important to Culpeper, we hope that you’ll take something away from these episodes.” The first episode is available on the Museum of Culpeper History Facebook page, culpepermuseum. com and will be aired at different times on Culpeper Media Network. The first season will include about eight episodes, with a new show airing monthly. Upcoming topics will include dinosaurs during the Triassic period, early transportation and the Culpeper Minutemen. Another show will delve into Culpeper’s unique history of presidential visits. Those include Lyndon B. Johnson’s speech from the back of a train at the depot when campaigning as John F. Kennedy’s running mate and James Monroe laying the cornerstone of St. Stephens Episcopal church during a masonic ritual. While the idea of the show has been discussed for some time, Pierce explained it provides a new way to reach residents as the museum has been closed since March due to the coronavirus. Although the show allows the museum to continue educating the public outside of its building’s walls, Pierce said Curating Culpeper will hopefully continue once normal operations resume.

Culpeper Times • December 24-January 6, 2020

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A gift of expectation Fly-fishing has taught me many another day or another breath is lessons, the top ones being the perhaps the most frightening. We importance of expectations in life. The forget or ignore our own mortality. other is the importance of patience None of us know the time or place of when allowing your back cast to our conclusion. unfurl. We need that same approach The other day I watched the to life. memorial service for Eric Dinkens, The very essence of Christmas a beloved, positive leader in our is centered on the hope that we community and thought about our can make ourselves and transient time on earth humanity better despite our and how we will be many shortcomings. We want remembered. What do we to reach our potential and do with that time? The Marshall Conner fall softly on our goals. eulogy I heard made me Life seldom is made up recall his smile and the of carefree casts—life gives legacy he leaves behind. us wind, tree branches, bad His life lessons will ripple knots, and impatience. on through many lives. The great Charles Life is like a cast— let it Dickens penned A Christmas unfurl to its full potential Carol, my favorite ghost and the fly has a better story. His beloved classic gave the chance of falling in the right place. Do reader a gift of witnessing the onenot rush it, force it, or overthink it. It night transformation of a miserly is our hope that life will give us many Mr. Scrooge. It shows us that with a casts. We should seek perfection on little supernatural prodding from a each cast but know that perfection is deceased business partner, a trio of ever elusive to us mortals. spirits from the past, present, and The pandemic, the wind that future—a soul can potentially change disrupts our lives, continues to haunt for the better. us since last spring. It is still out there Most of us do not have spirits casting our best made plans aside banging on our bedroom doors (at and testing our resolve. COVID-19 least I hope not) telling us how we can has forced us to refocus on what is rescue our eternal souls. We must find profoundly important, our faith, the our own motivation to improve. safety of our families, employment, The loss of the expectation of our courage, and the opportunity

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to see who truly has our back. We have witnessed a non-partisan virus that has twisted and divided us politically and ruined many plans. My expectation is that we can emerge from this more appreciative of the fragility of freedom. My expectation is that someday soon I can hug my friends freely, tell stories out loud, travel to fish with my best friend, watch sports in a crowded stadium and attend a concert. As a fisherman I tend to move past the spots that do not produce, forget the days when fish refuse to bite and focus on what lies in the next bend of the river, pool or change of a tide. It is the magic of expectation that makes life great. In the weeks before Christmas we plan, and we await gifts—we also hopefully look to the night sky and remember the hope for humanity that slept in a manger under a radiant star. It is supposed to look like the one that guided the wisemen. Let us keep the spirit of Christmas in our hearts a bit longer this year— we all need it. May the spark in the eyes of children and glistening wisdom in the eyes of our elders give us greater expectations for the year ahead. Let us learn from the snags and tangles of 2020 and hopefully next year we will all be holding something more beautiful.

‘The strength of our community is our people’ As 2020 mercifully winds to a close, we think of celebrations missed or postponed, unimagined cancellations, and time missed with friends and family. So many people have faced painful situations like illness, loss, economic instability, and mental health concerns. In short, 2020 has offered anything but clear vision. But we’ve also been thinking about the many ways we are blessed. As food shortages for families increased, so did donations and efforts to meet those needs. Health care workers and first responders have met the challenges of an evolving crisis to care for the community. Volunteers have found ways to give their time – virtually and in-person – for organizations making life better for others. Innovation has come in many different forms. Schools have found new ways to offer instruction, businesses and restaurants have adjusted to operations restrictions, and parents have added even more to their plates by monitoring Zoom classes and helping their children handle less time with their friends. We’ve shown our resilience in developing drive-through farmers markets, standing up against racial inequities, supporting local businesses and restaurants, and wearing masks

to protect others and ourselves. With the promise of wide-spread vaccine availability, we look forward to the return of visits with loved ones, graduations, weddings, concerts, ballgames and more. In the meantime, please continue to follow the guidelines of the Virginia Department of Health and Centers for Disease Control. Stay in touch with neighbors through emails and phone calls to help reduce social isolation. Check the PATH Volunteer Hub’s website – www.letsvolunteer.org -- to find ways to help area organizations, virtually and in-person. Contact area churches to support ways they’re helping our friends and neighbors in need. Or contact Culpeper Wellness Foundation to ask how you can help to improve the health of our community. Consider donating to the Free Clinic of Culpeper (www.freeclinicofculpeper. org) to insure that everyone has access to medical care and the medications they need. Or support Northern Piedmont Community Foundation’s Now and Forever Emergency Response Fund at www.donatenow.networkforgood.org/npcf to assist local organizations needed the most during this health crisis. Remember the food banks.

Contributions make a meaningful difference to people unable to make ends meet, especially 10 months into this trying time. If you or someone you know needs help finding services, call PATH Community Link at 855-495-5465 or email communitylink@pathforyou. org. They can assist in both English and Spanish, and they have over 1,000 resources in their database. Visit online at www.pathcommunitylink.org. The strength of our community is our people, and that has proven overwhelmingly true this past year. Though the winter looks particularly bleak, the vaccine helps us see light at the end of this long pandemic tunnel. While we don’t know how 2021 will unfold, the Culpeper Wellness Foundation and the PATH Foundation remain committed to supporting our community and those in need. We hope that you stay well in the holiday season, and we look forward to a brighter future Christy Connolly PATH Foundation President and CEO Shari Landry Culpeper Wellness Foundation President

Published every Thursday by Rappahannock Media LLC. ADDRESS: 206 S. Main St., Suite 301 Culpeper, Va. 22701 PHONE: 540.812.2282 HOURS: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays. WEB: www.culpepertimes.com E-EDITION available online PRESIDENT: Dennis Brack, dennis@rappnews.com NEWS Editor: Josh Gully, jgully@culpepertimes.com Paginator: Christopher Six, chris@culpepertimes.com ADVERTISING Publisher Group Sales Director: Thomas Spargur, tspargur@culpepertimes.com tom@piedmontpub.com Sales executive: Audra Dickey, audra@piedmontpub.com Creative Services Director: Jay Ford, jayford@piedmontpub.com CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING To place Classified and Help Wanted ads: Call 703.771.8831, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday - Friday or email tfields@insidenova.com. SUBSCRIPTIONS To subscribe, contact Circulation Manager: Jan Clatterbuck 540.675.3338, jan@rappnews.com CONTRIBUTORS Marc and Meg Ast, Amy Wagner John Barker, Wally Bunker, Marshall Conner, Katherine Charapich, Fran Cecere, Felecia Chavez, Ian Chini, Ed Dunphy, Kristin Erlitz, Brad Hales, Sophie Hudson, Charles Jameson, Shari Landry, Maggie Lawrence, Allen Martin, Jeffery Mitchell, Dr. Thomas Neviaser, Pam Owen, Blaine Pardoe, Donald Sherbeyn, Kim Kelly, Zann Nelson.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Write: Letters to the Editor 206 S. Main St., Suite 301 Culpeper, Va. 22701 Fax: 540.812.2117 Email: editor@culpepertimes.com Letters must be signed by the writer. Messages sent via email must say “Letter to the Editor” to distinguish them from other messages not meant for publication. Include address and phone for verification (not to be published). Letters are subject to editing for clarity and length. Letters must be received by 5 p.m. Monday to be considered for Thursday publication.

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CulpeperCulpeper Times • December 24-January Times • July 23-August6,5,2020 2020 Culpeper Times • Feb. 27-March 4, 2020

December february july

chamber advantage advantage chamber The ThePulse Pulseof of Business Business in in Culpeper Culpeper •••Volume Volume4,4, 4,Issue Issue69 62 The Pulse of Business in Culpeper Volume Issue 67

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EXIT Cornerstone Realty is COMMUNITY-STARS ISoffering GROWING! DOGGY CLIPPS is now pleased to announce that Faith C-STARs Pediatric Therapy Specialists Mobile grooming in our new state of Gil has joined its growing team just added Pediatric Occupational the art mobile grooming van! ofTherapy dedicated real estate sales to its therapy services! We professionals. now offer physical, occupational, and

THE CULPEPER REC CLUB will keep speech therapy for children.until We Sept. are its pool open members John Arp, P.E.tohas been propleased to introduce Sam Robson, 20 this year. The club welcomes moted to Rappahannock OTR/L! Sam is a graduate James new head manager Tracyfrom Fox and Electric Cooperative’s (REC) Madison University’s Occupational executive leadership team as and assistant managers Kendra Smith Therapy program. has had a Vice President Engineering, Jeremiah Walker.ofShe variety of different Operations and clinical Powerexperiences Supply. including an inpatient psychiatric InTHE thisREC role, he is will oversee CLUB proud to be syshospital, a skilled nursing tem planning, engineering working with Friendly Finfacility, Swim and schools and early intervention. technical services, ensuring Lessons, with Allison Woods asShe main spent her first level 2 fieldwork in early the successful implementation instructor/owner. The Club is also intervention andDance the school system. ofpartnering the Cooperative’s strategic with for Joy Studio

cessful continuance of the the flowers we will donate them to a Foothills Express transit route Franc Reserve - Gold Medal 90 Points local nursing home resident. serving Culpeper, Madison, and their 2017 Yash-Vir - Gold 91 Greene Points. and Albemarle Counties. DOGWOOD VILLAGE would like to recognize Jim Beavers for his

EXITDrugs, CORNERSTONE REALTY has Sex, God, Inc. contributionstheir to&the facility. Jim was announced 2nd Quarter winner (SDG) is celebrating the Virginia born in Roanoke, for production. are as follows. opening of and itsThey new location came to faith in#2 Christ #1 Danny Butters-$1,685,900, at 471 James Madison Hwy., as a young man and John Fischer Suite 101B. $1,244,800, #3 Michael

subsequently in lay Buters Jr, $1,156,450 and served the Stuart leadership roles for over Sex, & God, Inc. is TeamDrugs, # 4 at $1,037,200. 30 years. Later he earned Jim dedicated for those struggling his Master of Divinity and Beavers with addiction, depression, Mike and Ellen Butters just celebrated was ordained an Anglican loss, or anything else working their 10th Anniversary with The EXIT priest in 2009. Previously Jim served in asFranchise, a barrier between themEXIT CORNERSTONE primary and secondary education, both selves and recovery. By buildREALTY and Danny Butters just as a teacher and head of school for ing relationships and bonds celebrated his First Anniversary two Christian schools. haswe also worked ofwith the trust they areHe giving addicts company and are excited hope for recovery through for non-profit organizations including to Welcome a new agent to our a office spiritual peace that can emDoors with Brother Andrew ,Open James Smith from Madison, Va . power change their lives and theand C. S. Lewis Institute. In May plan. with Joyce Sanders for dance classes forever. 2011 he was called to Christ Anglican LIFESTYLE PHYSICIANS has ELEVATE offers NEW Discounted and Pranapiloga Yoga/Massage/ Bruce Simms, CEO ofPRP Virginia Fellowship in Orange, Virginia where introduced a new service (PlateletMemberships forlocation Students and Wellness with Rebecca Elsen. The new ofﬁto ce will be Regional Transit, announced he continues serve. Jim met his Rich Plasma) also known as a “Vampire Teachers! ELEVATE invites students Rebecca will teach Landthe Yogasucat 10 open Monday, Wednesday and on October 1, 2020 wife, Anne, while at William andcoMary Facial” forwater Hair Restoration and Skinon 16+, and teachers, to join our a.m. and yoga at 7:30 p.m. where he received Bachelor of Science Rejuvenation. working community with an exclusive Fridays. and Master of Arts degree, and they membership that allows access to have been married for 42 years. They THE CULPEPER COUNTY LIBRARY the space at any time (day or night THE CULPEPER YOUNG have three grown children and seven is hoping to better serve the needs — weekends, too!) at a very budgetPROFESSIONALS braved the heat grandchildren. He enjoys photography, of Library patrons by conducting a friendly price. Awesome internet, on Saturday July 18th at CULPEPER graphic design, nature study and lawn community wide survey in 2020 which plus tech and gadgets to help you CAR WASH, scrubbing tires, drying and garden care. in hopes will provide increased quality connect, in a comfortable space vehicles, giving out goody bags services, programs, and events. The where you can focus and knock out and collecting donations for the FRIENDS OF CEDAR MOUNTAIN Library is inviting patrons to consider your work. CULPEPER FOOD CLOSET. 203 BATTLEFIELD welcomes volunteers participating in a quick, 3-5-minute vehicles attended and they raised a to support preservation and clean-up survey that can be found winter edition NEW Private Office and Reserved total of $1,300 to donate! projects at the battlefield on April 4, of the Culpeper Quarterly which Desk Options! ELEVATE is now the American Battlefield Trust’s annual was mailed out to Culpeper County partnering with other Downtown NARMADA WINERY won 2 Gold Park Day. Volunteers are invited to help residents or located at The Chamber. spaces to provide private offices and Medals in the Critics Challenge with spreading mulch on trails, picking Upon survey completion you can reserved desks. We are managing International Wine & Spirits up litter and more, and will receive a submit by mailing or dropping off at these agreements through the Competition. Their 2017 Cabernet commemorative t-shirt for their efforts. the Culpeper County Library. Copies Info at friendsofcedarmountain.org of survey will also be available at the Library desk or online. The Library is TAMMY LAGRAFFE has joined the seeking all survey responses turned in Culpeper Wellness Foundation by April 1, 2020 to assist in planning for team as director of the Culpeper Free the upcoming fiscal year. Clinic. A registered nurse, she most recently has worked with the Virginia RAPPAHANNOCK-RAPIDAN Department of Health as a Public COMMUNITY Services is proud of Health Nurse Supervisor. Tammy also our Gladys Williams, who has been brings experience with women’s health, named the Culpeper Times Citizen of behavioral health and communitythe Year. Gladys, who’s been with RRCS based wellness programs to her new for 38 years, is a program coordinator role as clinic director. at the Culpeper Senior Center, working with 75 seniors every week — with more THE LIVING THE DREAM applying by the day to provide them FOUNDATION has begun planning with programs, cheer, a warm meal, for their 5th Annual 5k run and ‘Walk and transportation. She is a rock in the for Home.’ All funds raised are used community. locally to raise awareness and educate the community on depression, ENDLESS CREATIONS FLOWERS & substance abuse and suicide. They GIFTS celebrates the season of love by giving back. They are be doing food for give two scholarships each year to both Culpeper High schools, Orange, flowers throughout February. Simply Madison, and Rappahannock High bring in 5 cans or boxes and receive $5.00 value of flowers. If you don't want Schools for students who respond with

Thursday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. an essay and plan to in a related and by appointment. Elevate platform, sowork it works very field in thistoarea. motto is based similarly our Their monthly co-working The Culpeper County Volunon founders Gloria and Ed’s late son membership: affordable monthly teer Fire & Rescue AssociaBen Long’s name-B.E.L.: Believing membership with no lease or in tion members wishing you Every Life! It's the are contract! most flexible,

and yours a happy and safe affordable way to secure an office holiday season.Manager Here are a DAVID at Full space! MARTIN, Let us know what you're few safety tips we would like Circle Thrift, is pleased to announceto looking for: info@elevateculpeper. pass along. the promotion of Justine Lawson and

com Tracy Corbin to Supervisors. Justine’s First asmile few and tips abouthello Christmas warm has been ELEVATE Blackfriendly Artists Community Trees and Candle Safety in greeting customers for almost 13your years. Art Show. We are accepting visual home; Tracy has been with the store for 5 art submissions until Monday, July years and her energy and enthusiasm 27th, for aknow special exhibit that will be Did you that one isshared contagious. Full Circle Thriftin is ﬁve both in person and virtually! Christmas resinare caused beginning itstree 18th ﬁ year Drawing inspiration frombusiness the themes by a heat source being too and our motto is “Culpeper Helping of Equality, Hope, Peace, Progress close to the tree? Please make Culpeper." and Love, Black artists of any age

sure your tree is three feet are invited to submit a piece, in any away from21 any heat source CENTURY NEW MILLENNIUM medium, for the show. Pieces can (radiators, space heaters or TEAM Receives Coveted 2019 be dropped off at Elevate Mon-Fri fiPresident’s replaces). If you like a tree Award fromlasts 8am Team to 6pm. Full for details and that all season long you Commitment to Quality Service and guidelines at www.ElevateCulpeper. may wish to consider using Productivity. acom fire-retardant artificial tree. IfCAITLIN you are using a real tree TROILO-WADDELL from ENDLESS CREATIONS FLOWERS please ensure it is watered KK’s Printing and Stationery received & GIFTS having aoutside Christmas in daily andisfor take when the award 2019itPublic Servant July sale. All Items in store are 25% of the year by the Culpeper County off except plants, fresh flowers and Republican Party. delivery.

it has become too dry. Did you know that you can make a ﬁre-retardant solution for your live tree? The USDA Forrest Service has a recipe and other Robinson Plumbing live tree safety listed here: Community Banktips of the Chesapeake Chris RobinsonOwner https://www.fs.usda.gov/deSam Kessler tail/r2/recreation/?cid=stel9048 White Shop Road 10 Chatham Heights Road prdb5341325 Culpeper, VA 22701

welcomenew new welcome members members

Suite 104 Robinsonplumbing25@gmail.com Fredericksburg, 22405 Did you knowVA that over onewww.Robinsonplumbinginc.com kesslers@cbtc.com third of fires starting from Plumbing www.cbtc.com home decorations involve candles? Remember to keep Bank the Dream Living Foundation

candles 12 inches or more Ed & Gloria Long – Founders away from anything that Vent Vikings PO Box 4 burns, never to leave candles Anthony Barnhill Culpeper, VA 22701 unattended and think about 19507 Bootsie Lane livingthedreamculpeper@gmail.com using battery operated canNon-profit Brandy Station, VA 22714 dles.

ventvikings@gmail.com Blesseddreams, LLC on January www.ventvikings.com Please come out Ana Lyon – Photographer/Owner 17, 2021, between 12 noon Home Improvement 14614 Manorwood Drive and 4:00 pm to support the Culpeper, VA 22701 Rapidan VFD as they host Sweet Roux ana_lyon@blesseddreams.com their Ariel annual Davati deWinter CamposPork Tenwww.blesseddreams.com derloin Dinner Drive Thru 201 South East Street Photography style! $12.00 for Adults, $6.00 Culpeper, VA 22701 for Children 12 and under. adavati@outlook.com The Real Estate Store, Inc. www.sweetrouxofculpeper.com Ashley Rinehart Restaurants/Food 101 Duke Street Suite 215

Culpeper, VA 22701 LAUREL VAN HORN has been named COMMUNITY BANK OF THE info@therealestatestoreva.com stage manager for StageWorks' CHESAPEAKE is pleased to welcome www.therealestatestoreva.com upcoming show called The Emerald Sam Kessler as Vice President, Real Estates Heist. Laurel retired from teaching Commercial Loan Officer. In this role, English at Rappahannock County High he will focus on generating business Kona Ice of Culpeper, Locust Grove & School in 2010, and was fortunate lending opportunities while building 18th Annual Golf Classic Warrenton to find StageWorks and follow one banking relationships. Sam will serve Friday August 21st 8am Registration Maria Lischak of her dreams which was working in Orange, VA and the surrounding Country Club of Culpeper Harrison Circle the theater. She has happily worked Re-Employing Virginians132 Training Voucher markets, including Spotsylvania, 100 Country Club Road, Locust Grove, VA 22508 behind the scenes for two of their Culpeper, Charlottesville and more. Culpeper, VA 22701 culpeper@kona-ice.com most recent productions, Salt Are you unemployed or&underemployed due to COVID-19? Beverage Pepper and Southern Fried Funeral. You may qualify for a training voucherFood up to&$3,000 to cover the full Through StageWorks, she has met cost for career training or a semester of spring classes at Germanna and worked a group Education, of incredibly in Earlywith Childhood Healthcare, Information Technology, knowledgeable directors and actors. Manufacturing, Public Safety, and Skilled Trades. Rappahannock-Rapidan Community Laurel is looking forward to two In order of toabe eligible, you must haveServices receivedand unemployment a Board Member of performances unique and funny benefits on or after August their 1, 2020 orPiedmont must self-certify you are to CRUSHthat were invited play that will engage and delight working in a part-time job earning under $15 an hour for after the White House thelosing launch of audiences. a full-time job due to COVID-19. the Office of National Drug Control Policy’s (ONDCP) new Rural Community FAYE’S OFFICE SUPPLY Wishes Resource Guide, on January 31st, 2020. Happy Birthday to Rachel Rouleau. The ONDCP works to reduce drug use and its consequences by leading APPLETON CAMPBELL, a leading provider of residential HVAC, plumbing and coordinating the development, implementation, and assessment of and electrical now in its 44th year of U.S. drug policy. The action guide is top-rated service to Fauquier and one of several tools that was created surrounding counties, is looking specifically for rural leaders who forward in 2020 to opening a new are facing drug addiction in their facility in Warrenton. communities. In attendance were: Jim Contact Saberina Ballard today at (540) 834-1953 LaGraffe, Piedmont CRUSH Board THE AGING TOGETHER TEAM or sballard@germanna.edu Members Sean Polster, Town of hosts “Dementia Friends” session at Warrenton, and Crystal Hale, Orange monthly meeting. County Director of Social Services. JIM LAGRAFFE, Executive Director of

Community firstUpcoming events We’re giving back in a big way

Funding is limited. Get started today.

Germanna.edu/rev

Culpeper Times • December 24-January 6, 2020 Dinner includes Pork Tenderloin, Baked Apples, Green Beans, Mashed Potatoes, Roll, Beverage and Dessert. Rapidan Volunteer Fire Department is located at 9729 Locust Dale Road (phone: 540-672-5744). Take out only.

Verdun Adventure Bound is are offering a School Day Camp for students to come do their virtual learning with a certiﬁed teacher and then participate in outdoor activities focusing on building resiliency, learning about nature and respect, all while having fun participating in activities such as our high ropes elements, gardening, archery, ﬁshing, kayaking and much more. We would like to add this to the events calendar to get the word out. The new

semester will begin January 5th and run till the end of the school year unless children go back to school earlier. The Camp runs Monday-Friday 8am-4pm To inspire economic development and job creation in Culpeper, the Town is proud to present Culpeper Competes – Entrepreneur Education and Competition Program. Culpeper Competes is designed to encourage and develop an entrepreneurial spirit through business development education and mentorships to guide participants through the process of launching or growing their business. The Town of Culpeper received a $45,000 Community

Our o t ou Y Thank um Partners tin a l P 0 2 20

Reach Your Customers in the Next Issue—Call 540.812.2282 Business Launch grant from Virginia’s Department of Housing and Community Development, enabling the creation of Culpeper Competes. This grant is designed to assist communities in taking a systems approach to deﬁning and pursuing an asset-based small business development strategy. Culpeper Competes is now accepting applications, with a Thursday, January 28, 2021 deadline. Classes are set to begin on Tuesday, February 16, 2021 via Zoom. The personal meeting ID (PMI) will be shared with each registered participant prior to the start of classes.

welcome new members Ware’s Contracting Joe Ware, Owner/Operator Culpeper, VA 22701 (571) 274-4040 jpwworks@gmail.com Home Improvement, Construction/Building MadRapp Recorder Chuck Jackson PO Box 71 Flint Hill, VA 22640 www.madrapp.com news@madrapp.com News and Digital Media

Thank You to Our 2020 Ch amber Par tners

103.1 WJMA, 105.5 & 95.3 SAM FM Atlantic Union Bank Blossman Propane Gas & Appliance Cedar Mountain Stone Cintas Culpeper Media Network Partners 1st Federal Credit Union Rappahannock Electric Cooperative UVA Community Credit Union Able Heating & Air, Inc. • Appleton Campbell, Inc. Bingham & Taylor • Blue Ridge Bank Continental Automotive Systems, Inc. Culpeper Car Wash • Culpeperpalooza Davies, Barrell, Will, Lewellyn & Edwards, PLC Environmental Systems Services, LTD. Eppard Orthodontics • Nicholas, Jones & Co., PLC. Oak View National Bank • Piedmont Wealth Management Precision Machine Works, Inc. The Ole Country Store & Bakery • YHB CPAs & Consultants Blue Ridge Orthopaedic & Spine Center • CFC Farm & Home Center Culpeper Air Fest Foundation • Culpeper Dental Associates Living the Dream Foundation Price-Right Communications, a DISH Premier Local Retailer Rosson & Troilo Fire Protection Services

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Culpeper Times • December 24-January 6, 2020

It’s still a ‘Merry’ Christmas In previous years, I may was different for me. Despite have lamented at what I everything that has gone on experienced. But this year, it in this present year, nothing gave me a sense of hope. is going to stop the hope, the Pastor Brad Hales When I walked into the promise, and the anticipation local Dollar General store in that Christmas brings. October, I not only noticed the Even through pandemic, Halloween and Thanksgiving civil strife, economic collapse, items proudly displayed, but I job loss, business closures, a saw the inklings of Christmas contentious election, general paraphernalia beginning to loss and yes, even “murder dot the shelves. While many hornets,” the yuletide may protest that Christmas always celebration is still going to come and be “merry.” Why? Because when you drill seems to be starting earlier, this time it

FAITH IN THE COMMUNITY

down to the basics, Christmas is all about God and Giving. While these themes are timeless, it’s still possible to get “lost” in the season. As the frenetic pace of card sending, cookie baking, gift buying, tree/ house decorating, and eggnog sipping become center stage, we can’t lose fact of the true meaning of the season. Even a horrific year cannot stop the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ of Nazareth. That’s right. Christmas is not about getting sucked into a “consumeristic coma,” but it is focused on a little baby, mothered by a teenage virgin, born in

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With several open seats and uncontested races, there will already be several new faces on the Prince William Board of County Supervisors after November’s elections. Here are the candidates on the ballot. (i) indicates an incumbent

Pete Candland, Republican (i) Danny Funderburk, Democrat Ruth Anderson, Republican (i) Kenny Allen Boddye, Democrat Victor Angry, Democrat (i)

Yesli Vega, Republican Raheel Sheikh, Democrat Douglas Taggart, Republican Andrea Bailey, Democrat

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he Prince William Board of County Supervisors is guaranteed to have at least four new members following the Nov. 5 election. But the decision that voters make at the ballot box will still have major re» Dumfries voters percussions. to weigh region’s They’ll deterfirst gaming parlor mine whether PAGE 20 three incum» NOV. 1: Next week’s bents are able to paper will include a keep their seats. complete election They’ll decide guide whether Democrats flip a 6-2 Republican majority. And the decision at the ballot box could change the gender and racial makeup of the board, potentially ushering in a majority of women supervisors and a majority of minority members for a board that was all white and mostly men just nine months ago. Supervisors serve four-year terms, set

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United Kingdom flag was added to the Joint Personnel Agency HeadquartersRecovery Belvoir, last week. on Fort typical family clutter. Some prove valuable if not During the British flag posting cerehistoric. Then there are those mony, JPRA added cere rare finds beneath MDW Colors the United Kingdom the rafters and cobwebs that Passed: Air Force are downright to countries that work tional Capital Gen. Terrence shocking and creepy. As was with the U.S. personnel recovery Region flag to the case this for Capital Region incoming Military O’Shaughnessy passes past year in the musty attic around the world. of Clover Hill on Germany was the Joint Force Photo by Jim Dresbach District of Washington/Join Hall on Joint Commander Brig. Gen. added Sperryville Pike, where Eldon Headquarters-Na Omar Jones Base Myer-Henderson focuses on preventing last year. JPRA Farms’ longtime t Force Headquarters-Na during a change herdsman Rich Bradley stumbled Hall, June 4. of command upon the tion events; prepares warfighter isolaisola ceremony at tional them for what Conmy do if they become to isolated; and responds, See MYSTERY, Pageglobally, 12 to isolation events. The first UK for JPRA, Flight foreign liaison officer his wife, Harriet, Lt. Stephen Reid, and earlier this year. arrived at Fort Belvoir “This day is important to strong relationship show the By Jim Dresbach between the and the U.S., Pentagram Staff UK commander in terms of personnel Writer of the U.S. Northern covery,” he said re reCommand and before the ceremony. North American strong, Jones thanked “We’ve made Aerospace Defense change of one-time Army promises to get command our troops, hosts O’Shaughnessy our people, back. Command, and spokes- one person and of the event’s It’s perfect timing and Lt. Gen. world-class show how close-knit Walter Piatt, to out the importance hosts, pointed tor of the marathon runner Army Staff, and direcBrig. Gen. Joseph our countries are.” is now in JFHQ-NCR’s of how MDW/ charge of the Howard D’costa, the U.S. Army Military vice director mission overlaps and his family. District of Washington at Joint Force reserve with the Northcom’s During Piatt’s ment, hosted Develop Developmission. Force Headquarters and Joint the ceremony remarks, “A he and said it marks the maturing National tationsafe capital is a represen- praised the incoming and Capital Region. outgoing commanders, of a safe nation during relationship. of a close and enen noting that and what In a time-honored you’ve been Jones’ “Working closely able to accomplish selection as the new tradition, Brig. Gen. Omar MDW/JFHQwith our allies NCR chief was partner nations Jones assumed during this time you’ve and an excellent choice. is an essential command from been in in our national element “The Maj. Gen. Michael command reflects the strategies,” D’costa Howard during highest putting Army got this pick right said. a change of com- credit upon your joint services Celebrating 20 years, Omar This week mand at Joint and said. “Omar in command,” Piatt directly impacts Base See Flag, page a safe and is an amazing COURTHOUSE ROW................8 son Hall’s Conmy Myer-Hender- home,” Kid Pan Alley looks A4 Soldier he said to Howard. secure who has excelled Hall, June 4. EVENTS ....................................16 at every level, Gen. Terrence Now on watch to a bright future O’Shaughnessy, LETTERS ...............................14 and ready to keep from West Point super A4 Father’s Day the Army’s cadet to the spokesperson MEETINGS & NOTICES ........ MDW/JFHQ-NC A6 FBES Bridging Founder Paul Reisler has a 17 for the United plan: R States Army.” Ceremony SCHOOLS..............................10 “We decided we wanted to keep A7 CYS Dance it going past what I can do.” Recital 6 B1 CYS Color Run Sets Record

By John McCaslin Rappahannock

ttics are like graveyards, where sentimental treasures are placed in boxes and plastic bags and shoved into dark corners, allowing the pain of parting to be postponed for another day. Photo albums and love letters, comic books and cowboy boots, tea sets and violins forgotten for future generations — all better to brush aside the dust and deal with. Most attic stashes consist of the

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Meanwhile, of the students GAINESVILLE DISTRICT who do attend public

schools in RappahanRappahan Supervisor Pete Candland, R-Gainesnock very few are drop outs, according ville, said he doesn’t support to thenew road figures. bond referendum, which will ask An voters estimated 7 percent of the councoun to approve or deny allowing the ty’s county to student-age population are now learning their lessons in borrow up to $355 million for transportaa home setset ting, according to new statistics from tion projects, including $200 million for Virginia either a bypass or to widen Va. the Route 28. Department of Education. Given educa Candland said the process was tion politically the uniqueness of educain Rappahannock County, where motivated, proposed without analysis of unlike much of Virginia which projects would help the population most peo- is declining, the student how ple and how the real estate property tax is it to the school much of a concern district, which relies heavily on state rate will be affected. funds, that more “I’ve asked several times about what students are being homeshomes this will mean for tax bills,” chooled? CandlandWe put that question in rere cent days to Dr. Shannon said. Grimsley, superintendent of Rappahannock The Prince William Board County of County Public Schools. Supervisors has a policy to not increase “Am I concerned about declining its operating budget more thanenrollment? 3.5% each Of course,” she replied. “We've year while also planning revenue increascome a long way with increasincreas services es for capital projects, such ing as the $43 and programs to our stustu and families and that is very million for the expansion ofdents the Adult hard

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county policies, plan the county’sCounty budgethas nearly doubled from 2014 and serve on local and regionaltoboards. 2019 — from 34 to 62 students, a jump of 82 percent. Here’s a look at each race:

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the VRE and Amtrak station, said George Boosalis, the president of Boosalis Properties, which represented Grace Street Properties in the purchase. Boosalis said developing the site plan will take anywhere from three to five years with construction starting after that. The development will still have to go through the process of getting permits from the county. The owners want to work with the cur-

rent tenants to see if they want to lease space in the new development or another shopping center the company owns, Boosalis said. Grace Street Properties plans to build 2 million square feet for a mixed-used development, which will include retail space for lease. The developer wants to work with the county to consider a pedestrian bridge from the development to the VRE and Amtrak station across U.S. 1.

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the austerity of a cave, surrounded by animals and visited by smelly, third class citizen shepherds. This child, who is fully God and human, came to save humanity from its sins/misdeeds, and provide the world with a needed hope. Whether you believe in this Baby Jesus or not, that is what Christmas is all about. I distinctly remember one Christmas Eve when my church was still worshiping across the street from the downtown 7-11. While standing outside lighting candles, a scuffle ensued in front of us between an individual and the police. Since I knew this person, I volunteered to take him home. I remember sitting in the front room of the house, with this man and his aging mother. As the lights twinkled on the tree, I realized then and there a very important truth about this holiday. It's about relationships, healing and care. And that’s what was brought to us when the Word was made flesh. When Christ entered the world. God literally provided us with the gift of the Savior. That’s why giving continues to be a vital aspect of Christmas. We do it not expecting something in return, but simply provide out of love to another. It makes no difference if the present is large or small. Whether it’s physical in nature or intangible such as time or service. This act of selfless giving hopefully permeates from one heart and touches another heart. Not long ago I witnessed an act of kindness and giving which had an impact. While at a local hotel, I saw one of the guests provide a sizable tip to one of the cleaning staff. The guest explained that they really appreciated the employee’s service and infectious smile. The worker was visibly stunned. I’m not sure how often she received gifts, but it was clear that it joyfully took the hotel associate off guard. The happiness and excitement exuded from her whole person. It obviously made a difference. Over the last nine months, we’ve been forced to live through events that were unexpected, and maybe, inconceivable. But through resilience and hope, we’re learning to navigate our way through. As we embark on this Christmas season, let us understand that it is still a “merry” time even in the most difficult of circumstances. Merry, because no matter what is happening, God and Giving will ultimately prevail. God has given us the gift of Jesus, so earth has a reason to give thanks. And through this eternal gift, we can absolutely know that our lives have meaning and purpose, especially when we unselfishly reach out to others. As we are reminded in God’s Word, I John 4:9, “In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent his only Son into the world, so we might live through him.” Brad Hales is the pastor of Reformation Lutheran Church in Culpeper.

Culpeper Times • December 24-January 6, 2020

Reach Your Customers in the Next Issue—Call 540.812.2282

CULPEPER IN BRIEF TOWN LAUNCHES CULPEPER COMPETES ENTREPRENEUR PROGRAM

The Town of Culpeper is using a state grant to offer up to $45,000 in seed money to at least three downtown businesses through the Culpeper Competes program, which is designed to encourage and develop entrepreneurial spirit through business development education and mentorships. Participants will attend seven business development classes and present a detailed business plan to compete for the grants, according to a town news release. The program focuses on the .22 square miles that is the heart of the historic district. “We are excited to be launching Culpeper Competes as a coordinated, comprehensive program that identifies, triggers, and supports communitybased entrepreneurs and small businesses at all levels of development,” said Paige Read, the town’s economic development director. Culpeper Competes is accepting applications through Jan. 28 and classes will begin Feb. 16 on Zoom. More information regarding Culpeper Competes can be found at visitculpeperva.com/culpepercompetes. SUSAN PIERCE CHOSEN AS TOP PERSONAL INJURY LAWYER

Scalia Law School. CULPEPER WOMAN CHARGED IN DOMESTIC STABBING

Yvonna Evette Hackley, 49, of Culpeper was recently charged on a felony count of malicious wounding and a misdemeanor count of domestic assault and battery stemming from a Dec. 8 incident. Upon their arrival to a home in the 400 block of E. Chandler St., a police department news release states that officers found a victim with injuries stemming from being stabbed with a knife. Though she fled on foot, Hackley was quickly located by police and the weapon was found during a house search. The victim was transported to the hospital and later released. TOWN GETS CLEAN AUDIT

The Culpeper Town Council was recently notified that its financial books are in good order, as the government’s fiscal year 2020 audit received the highest possible opinion an auditing firm can give. David Buracker, of the town’s PB Mares auditing firm, said the town’s financial statements and internal controls received “unmodified opinions,” which is “the highest opinion that we as auditors can issue.”

Susan F. Pierce, an advocate for individuals injured in car, motorcycle and trucking accidents for threeplus decades, was selected as one of Northern Virginia Magazine’s top personal injury lawyers of the year and she is featured in their December issue. “Practicing from Walker Jones’ Old Town Warrenton office, she represents personal injury clients throughout Virginia and the DC area,” a Walker Jones news release states. “Currently serving as Bar Council to the Virginia State Bar, Ms. Pierce earned the distinction of The National Trial Lawyers Top 100 Civil Plaintiff.” Pierce is also a member emeritus of the George Mason University Inn of Court. She earned a BA in political science and english from the University of Mary Washington and her JD from George Mason University’s Antonin

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➤ Health, from Page 9

fun in planning activities with your immediate family members or closest friends in a safe manner. Create a daily routine or establish structure in your day with scheduled time spent outdoors. Consider going for short drives or walks. And, remember to eat healthy and get regular exercise. You are not alone” For more information on Novant Health UVA Health System’s behavioral health services, visit NovantHealthUVA. org/services/behavioral-health.

“This year everyone should take extra care of their mental health and emotional well-being,” O’BrienFlannagan said. “Be intentional in calling friends and family and learning to interact virtually. Reach out to your faith based and local social communities for additional opportunities to connect. Give yourself permission to try new activities or hobbies. Be creative and have some

The Culpeper Police Department on Dec. 6 received multiple reports regarding larcenies of unlocked vehicles along Virginia Avenue in the Lakeview and Pelham Reach subdivisions. A police news release states that the suspects appeared to be teen or young adult males who only targeted unsecured vehicles. “Vehicle tamperings and larcenies are crimes of opportunity,” Police Chief Chris Jenkins said. “It’s one of the most common and most preventable crimes that my officers investigate. Criminals are always looking for easy targets and it doesn’t get much easier than an unlocked car with a purse, GPS, or even a firearm inside.” Jenkins encouraged residents to follow a nightly routine of removing all

valuables from vehicles, closing garage doors, locking cars and turning on outdoor lights. THE CULPEPER FOOD CLOSET – NEED OF THE WEEK

This week we are in need of: chunky, Ramen, vegetable and tomato soups, crackers in individual sleeves, canned meat (Treet/Spam, ham, chicken and tuna).

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Reader Advisory: The National Trade Association we belong to has purchased the above classifieds. Determining the value of their service or product is advised by this publication. In order to avoid misunderstandings, some advertisers do not offer employment but rather supply the readers with manuals, directories and other materials designed to help their clients establish mail order selling and other businesses at home. Under NO circumstance should you send any money in advance or give the client your checking, license ID, or credit card numbers. Also beware of ads that claim to guarantee loans regardless of credit and note that if a credit repair company does business only over the phone it is illegal to request any money before delivering its service. All funds are based in US dollars. Toll free numbers may or may not reach Canada.

The Food Closet provides food and personal care items for Culpeper families, individuals, and seniors in need of assistance, and continues to serve the community during social distancing. For additional details or to learn more ways to help, visit the Food Closet’s Facebook or website at stsphensculpeper.net. The Food Closet can be contacted at 540-825-1177 or culpeperfoodcloset@gmail.com.

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Culpeper Times • December 24-January 6, 2020

C O V I D -19 U P D AT E Health Director: ‘Let’s all try to be wise men and women this holiday season’ Shortly after coronavirus vaccines arrived in the country, Virginia’s reported case count since March exceeded 300,000. Locally, Virginia Department of Health statistics show Culpeper recorded 2,727 cases as of Dec. 22. This compares to the 2,563 cases reported in Culpeper one week prior, an average of 23 new daily cases reported over that seven-day period. The county also reported 129 hospitalizations since the onset of the pandmeic, which marks an increase of 17 since the beginning of December. The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District — which also includes Fauquier, Rappahannock, Orange and Madison counties — reported 6,051 total cases as of press time. That included 2,109 in Fauquier, 262 in Madison, 814 in Orange and 139 in Rappahannock. Statewide, 314,481 cases were logged with a daily average of 607.7 new cases from Dec.1522. As cases pile up in the country, state and area, Health District Director Dr. Wade Kartchner reported in one of his weekly dispatches that “it will become more and more difficult to control the spread of illness.” “With the holidays coming up, as people gather there will be more opportunities for the virus to spread,” he said. “This isn’t a judgment made on any one gathering, but a blunt statement of fact. Smaller gatherings will yield less chance of transmission. Let’s all try and be wise men and women this season.” Kartchner noted the importance of staying home if you have been tested. “People often obtain a test and then continue daily activities,” he said. “We have had a number of unnecessary exposures because folks didn’t isolate until their results were back. Remember, a reason to test is a reason to isolate until the results come back.” VACCINES ARRIVE

Local hospital systems began immunizing their staff shortly after Pfizer vaccine doses arrived. Michell Strider, Novant Health UVA Health System’s chief quality officer, said the health system received 1,950 doses of the Pfizer vaccine on Dec. 15. Within two days, the health system began of-

PHOTO BY JOHN BOAL PHOTOGRAPHY.

Kim Shuler, RN, administers the Pﬁzer COVID Vaccine to Jessica McQuaid, rehab technician, at Novant Health UVA Health System Culpeper Medical Center, on Thursday, December 17, 2020. fering vaccine clinics for Culpeper Medical Center and Prince William Medical Center. “We don’t know the regularity of vaccine shipments at this time. We do anticipate receiving a shipment of the Moderna vaccine... Like other Virginia hospitals, we are notified as vaccine becomes available. We stay closely connected to the Virginia Hospital and Healthcare Association (VHHA) which works to keep us updated on vaccine shipments in Virginia,” she said. Fauquier Health also received Pfizer vaccines on Dec. 15 and Kevin Sale, the organization’s chief operating officer, said “we are in the process of distributing them in accordance with prioritization from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the federal government and the Virginia Department of Health.” Amy Kaminski, Fauquier Health’s vaccine coordinator, said it will take time for the majority of the population to get vaccinated “so we must continue to stay vigilant in the weeks and months ahead.” Kartchner said the health district expects to receive a shipment of the Moderna vaccine, which received emergency use authorization a week after Pfizer’s vaccine, the week of Dec. 21. Recipients of these doses will be health care workers and front-line personnel including EMS and local law

enforcement. These vaccinations should begin the week of Dec. 28 and it could take up to six weeks to vaccinate these individuals. “We anticipate receiving only a limited amount of vaccine this first week and we remind those in these groups to be patient,” he said. To those who are dubious of the vaccines, Kartchner said “the research done on the vaccines is the same research that’s done on any new vaccine that comes out.” “The same number of people that have received the vaccine in the trials is the same as any new vaccine that comes out,” he said, adding that trials have determined the vaccines’ “safety profile” to be “very good.” Kartchner explained that the vaccines will likely not be available to the general public until sometime after February. With that in mind, he said it is more important than ever for people to wash hands, practice social distancing, wear masks and not go to work if they are sick or have been tested. CULPEPER SCHOOL BOARD OPTS AGAINST PROVIDING THE PUBLIC A WEEKLY COVID-19 REPORT

An attempt to have Culpeper County Public Schools release a weekly coronavirus rundown to the public failed during a Dec. 14 school board meeting. As the meeting began, board member Barbara Brown suggest-

ed an agenda amendment to include a vote whether the school system will “provide information regarding COVID quarantines, isolations and positive cases weekly to staff and public for the remainder of the school year.” “I think we need to provide that to our employees and to the community so that we can show them that we care and that, for some of them that believe we’re hiding something, they will understand that we’re not hiding anything,” she said. The motion failed by a 4-3 vote, with school board members Patricia Baker, Marshall Keene, Anne Luckinbill and Elizabeth Smith choosing to not amend the agenda. Those in favor of the agenda addition were board members Brown, Christina Brunette and Michelle North. Keene attempted to comment on Brown’s motion but was cut off so a vote could be taken. Contacted after the meeting, Keene said he was attempting to say why he does not support the idea. He noted that school staff work hard every day to follow the mitigation plan and set examples for others. “Despite these efforts, exposures and close contacts occur and we inform those directly involved,” Keene said. “Showing numbers or keeping score doesn’t change behavior. In my opinion just sharing numbers could lead to unnecessary comparisons, blame, and ostracism. I can assure you that myself and every single staff member care about the safety of each other and the students, but creating another data driven dashboard will not change behavior.” Keene added that the school system must continue doing what it has done successfully and follow the mitigation plan. He added that Culpeper Emergency Services releases trends and data on a daily basis for those interested. During the meeting, Luckinbill expressed umbrage with Brown’s sentiments, saying “I take a little bit of issue that if we don’t release the information we don’t care.” “I think that’s not a fair assumption. I think all of us care. And if we’re going to release information I think it should be informative and instructive and I’m not sure the release of that information would change any behaviors,” she said.

Culpeper Times • December 24-January 6, 2020

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Culpeper Times • December 24-January 6, 2020

PHOTO BY JOSH GULLY

This winter’s ﬁrst snow on Dec. 16 falls upon S. Main Street. Although downtown is beautiful covered in snow, the storm and resulting ice caused wide scale power outages, downed tree branches and automobile wrecks. The Culpeper Chamber of Commerce presents scholarship funds to Culpeper County Public Schools and Career Partners. The scholarship funds are raised by donations from Chamber members and will support the new career and technical education school and the Career Partners programs. Pictured, from left, are Randi Richards Lutz, CCPS CTE Director, Ed Dalrymple of Career Partners, Jeﬀ Say, Chamber president/ CEO and Superintendent Dr. Tony Brads.

COURTESY OF CHAD HARVEY

A snowy view from Mt. Pony submitted by reader Chad Harvey. As a reminder, the Culpeper Times welcomes submitted photographs yearround.

COURTESY OF THE CULPEPER

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Gary Matthews, Director of Pharmacy at Fauquier Health, putting the ﬁrst allocation of COVID-19 vaccines into the freezer for proper storage. Right, The Fauquier Health team was excited to receive the COVID-19 vaccine allocation on Dec. 15. Seen here is Amy Kaminski, vaccine coordinator and employee health coordinator, Kevin Sale, chief operating oﬃcer, and Gary Matthews, director of pharmacy.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF FAUQUIER HEALTH

Culpeper Times • December 24-January 6, 2020

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THEME: YEAR IN REVIEW ACROSS 1. *New wardrobe accessory 5. *RIP, ____ 8. Flock's echo 12. Reply from a tunnel? 13. Feline noise 14. Edward Teller's "baby" 15. Beat 16. Competently 17. Savory jelly 18. *Blue vs. red competition 20. One third of a three-piece suit 21. Mailed greetings 22. Long time 23. ____ biloba 26. Anointing oil 30. Nurses' org. 31. Leafy vegetable 34. "Cogito, ____ sum" 35. Mooring spots 37. Bring into play 38. Old Brazilian coins 39. Prefix with 'graph' 40. *Joe's running mate 42. PGA peg 43. What bees did 45. Fixes firmly 47. Summer mo. 48. R in NPR 50. Widespread 52. *WHO's March announcement 55. Cliffside dwelling 56. Drop-off spot 57. Sonic sound 59. Sports figures, e.g. 60. Persian backgammon 61. Water carrier 62. *Late basketball legend 63. *____ lightning, cause of California wildfires 64. X-ray units DOWN 1. Copy cats 2. Flu symptom 3. Synagogue 4. 1/100th of a ruble

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5. Bid again 6. Western neckwear, pl. 7. Gwyneth, to friends 8. *Like a vote during lockdown 9. What Joy Mangano does on TV 10. Do like exhaust pipe 11. *"Transplant" network 13. ____ of honor 14. It's often wreaked 19. Zoo enclosures 22. Compass dir. 23. Labored breaths

24. *Jared Kushner to Donald Trump 25. Nigerian money 26. Part of an eye 27. About to explode 28. Looked at, amorously 29. Smelling organs 32. Two of the same 33. Philosopher's study 36. *Best Picture Oscar-winner 38. China grass 40. Party barrel 41. Having a cover 44. *What Zoom host does to guests,

sometimes 46. Type of jacket 48. "M*A*S*H" character 49. Ticked oﬀ 50. *President Trump used this power in 2020 51. United ____ Emirates 52. Be undecided 53. *Caucus state 54. Like most universities 55. Pose a question 58. Robinson or Doubtﬁre

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Culpeper Times • December 24-January 6, 2020

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