03/19/2014

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Powhatan, Virginia

The hometown paper of Rebecca Erdman

Vol. XXVII No. 12

March 19, 2014

Sheriff calls for additional deputies, dispatchers

By Jodi Deal Richmond Suburban News

D

uring a workshop meeting on Powhatan County’s public safety budget held Wednesday, March 12, the Powhatan County Board of Supervisors heard a plea from Sheriff Gregory Neal to fund two new deputies and three new dispatchers that are not currently included in the draft county budget for fiscal year 2015.

“These are not, in my mind, additional positions,” Neal said.

“All I want is funding for positions that were already there but were cut two years ago.”

Since the onset of the recession in 2008, Neal said the Powhatan County Sheriff’s Office has endured hiring freezes, benefit cutbacks and personnel reductions. He also said that he was told a few years ago by a previous administration that restoring the positions would be a priority.

“We cut them not because they weren’t needed, but because we couldn’t afford them,” Neal said.

Each deputy would cost $41,553 in salary and benefits each year, along with $45,999 in

PHOTO BY JODI DEAL

Sheriff Gregory Neal told the Powhatan County Board of Supervisors he needs more deputies during a budget session.

start-up capital costs for a car and computer, resulting in an ongoing annual budget increase of $83,106 and one-time capital costs of $91,998.

In his formal request for the new positions, Neal wrote that calls, court security needs and other duties his department carries out have increased, and that time off and mandated training are putting a strain on

shift coverage.

Currently, Powhatan County is funded by the state compensation board for 22 deputies, while the county pays for 15 — a total of 37, Neal explained in his presentation.

In a justification Neal wrote for funding beyond the state reimbursed level, he stated that “methods that have been developed to help agencies deter-

mine the appropriate number of offices needed are designed for larger jurisdictions and are not very well suited for full service sheriff’s offices serving small communities.”

In determining the number of deputies he needs, Neal told supervisors he tries to take many factors into approach — not just population or square miles.

He added that the state aver-

age of more than two officers per 1,000 people would translate 60 deputies in Powhatan County — a staffing level Neal said is unnecessary given the layout, population, demographics and crime rates.

Without the new deputies, Neal wrote, annual leave, compensatory hours and overtime see SHERIFF page 4A

School Board aims to phase out Supplemental Retirement Plan

By Jodi Deal Richmond Suburban News

At a Monday, March 10, workshop, the Powhatan County School Board reached a consensus on the school division’s muchdebated Supplemental Retirement Program (SRP), School Board chairman Rick Cole said at the close of a Tuesday, March 11, meeting.

“The board, at this point, we

know basically where we stand,” Cole, who represents District One, said.

He said members feel that they’re obligated to honor their commitment to the 17 employees who are currently eligible to participate in the program.

After that, the board has reached a consensus on phasing the program out, Dr. Eric L. Jones, superintendent, said in a later interview. He noted that two options

“Members feel that they’re obligated to honor their commitment ...”

School Board Chairman Rick Cole

Schools may get unexpected increase in county funding

By Jodi Deal Richmond Suburban News

Dr. Eric L. Jones, superintendent of Powhatan County Public Schools, didn’t factor in any increase in funding from the Powhatan County Board of Supervisors when he built his fiscal year 2015 draft budget proposal he presented to the supervisors on Monday, March 10.

In the county’s draft budget, which was presented on March 5, County Administrator Pat Weiler recommended that the local funding from the county be increased to

$21.091 million — an infusion of $609,043 over the current year’s local schools spending.

While an increase in funding is always good news, the school division’s proposed budget, built around a projected enrollment of 4,123 students, still has a funding shortfall of $359,738. If supervisors were to choose to fund the school division at the same level as the current fiscal year, rather than take Weiler’s recommendation, that shortfall could grow to $968,781.

During the joint workshop with super-

— phasing it out or immediately ending it — were considered and discussed at the special workshop on the SRP. “This has been a topic we’ve talked about at almost every meeting since August,” Jones said, adding that the Monday workshop was intended to let the board take a look at all of the input they have received from the community, employees and supervisors since discussions began. “There was

not a lot of new information to present. The purpose of the meeting was to see if the board had reached a consensus, so that consensus could be made public.”

The board has not taken an official vote on the matter, but Jones said it would be his recommendation that a vote be taken some time in the near future to make that stance official. see SCHOOL page 2A

Snow prompts lengthening of elementary school day

By Jodi Deal Richmond Suburban News

F

our two-hour delays and 11 snow days were simply too much for Powhatan County Public Schools to accommodate without somehow lengthening the school year — at least for elementary schoolers.

The last snow days, on March 3, 4 and 7, bumped Powhatan County’s elementary schools over the limit for time missed, Dr. Eric L. Jones, superintendent, told the Powhatan County School Board at a workshop meeting

on Tuesday, March 11.

State requirements dictate that students must get 990 hours of instructional time per year, Jones explained. Several days built into the calendar as days off or half days were changed to full instructional days, including upcoming full days on March 21, March 23 and May 9, the school division was poised to meet those standards for all students. However, the last wintry week changed that.

After the final snow days, the previously amended calendar would leave elementary school students 12.65 hours, or see SNOW page 7A

see FUNDING page 7A

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Powhatan Today, March 19, 2014

Page 3A

STAFF PHOTO

Members of Boy Scout Troop 1823 said they are proud to help members of the Powhatan Ruritan Club set up and take down American flags in the Courthouse Village area on national holidays.

Powhatan Ruritan Club seeking flag volunteers Staff Report news@powhatantoday.com For those who enjoy the American flags that line the Powhatan Courthouse Village area on national holidays, they can thank members of the the Powhatan Ruritan Club and Boy Scout Troop 1823.

“I believe we’ve been doing it at least a dozen years,” Ruritan Club president Jake Berman said as he and other club members were joined by some members of Boy Scout Troop 1823, Powhatan United Methodist Church, in taking down the flags on Presidents Day. The 32 flags were donated by the Woodsmen of America and are placed around the Courthouse Village area on national holidays, which number about 20, Berman said.

“We raise them at 8 a. m. and take them down at 5 p.m.,” Berman said.

“It’s one of our community services that we do.

We have a lot of these programs that we come out and do so this is just one of many community services that we enjoy doing.”

While the Ruritans and Boy Scouts have been faithful to set the flags up and take them down, they need some help, Berman said.

“We’re always looking for volunteers,” he said. “A lot of our members are up in age, so to speak, or have some sort of disability and, luckily, the Boy Scouts contribute 50 percent of our manpower.”

However, due to a school make-up day on Presidents Day, less Boy Scouts were available to help with the flags, Berman said.

“So there’s always situations that we don’t have enough people and you’ve got elderly people up here on ladders trying to take them up or put them down,” he said.

“The weather is not always favorable. I think we have missed one or two events over the years

just because of weather and with the people and the abilities that we have sometimes you’ve just got to make those decisions.”

Members of Boy Scout Troop 1823 have been helping with the flags for several years, according to John Nichols, committee chairman of the troop.

“It’s just my way of giving to the community,” Boy Scout Austin Griffith, a 16-year-old sophomore at Powhatan High School, said.

For Boy Scout Caleb Whitehead, a 13-year-old eighth grader at Powhatan Junior High School, he said helping with the flags is his way of “showing my patriotism.”

Troop 1823 member Chris Golden, also a 13year-old eighth grader at PJHS, said, “I get to be a part of the community and help out.”

Like Berman, Powhatan Ruritan Club member Steve Church is an Army veteran. He said helping with the flags takes on a special meaning.

“Well, it’s the opportunity to come out and to, you might say, dress up our community,” Church said.

He also said that some people who drive or run by when they’re putting up the flags take the time to thank them, while others will make remarks about how nice the flags look.

It’s usually news for the majority of people who stop and speak with them that it’s the Ruritans and Boy Scouts who are responsible for putting the flags up, Berman said.

“Most of the people that stop don’t know,” he said. “They ask us who we’re with or what organization is doing this and when we tell them, they say, ‘Oh. Isn’t that nice. We didn’t know.’ ” For those who would like to volunteer, call Powhatan Ruritan Club member Larry Cary at 804-598-5194.

Page 4A

Powhatan Today, March 19, 2014

Sheri: New deputies, dispatchers needed to handle increasing law enforcement duties Continued from page 1A

costs will increase, along with response times to calls.

Deputies’ safety could be compromised by lack of back-up, he added.

As for the dispatchers, Neal said the existing staff includes 10 full-timers, including a manager and supervisor who sometimes handle calls and eight-full time dispatchers, along with three part-time dispatchers. Dispatchers on duty are too busy to handle multiple emergency situations, he said, which could put both the public and officers at risk.

Each of the three dispatchers would cost $36,809 yearly in salaries and benefits, for a total increase of $110,427. Two of the positions were funded by the Board of Supervisors in December 2009, Neal noted, but cut in 2012.

Neal pointed out that Powhatan has 1.2 deputies per 1,000 citizens. Goochland County has 1.7, including 18 funded by the compensation board and 18 funded by the county, while New Kent County has 15 funded by the comp board and 26 funded by the county. With 28,123 people,

Powhatan County has the largest population of the three.

Echoing a point made earlier in the meeting by Commonwealth’s Attorney Bob Beasley, who was justifying a significant pay increase for a busy part-time attorney, Neal pointed out that indictments in Circuit Court went up 50 percent last year. Beasley’s request was funded in the budget proposal. “He needs that help,�

Neal said. However, he added, “we’re the ones who supply his work.�

New home construction and business development in recent years, including the opening of the Powhatan Walmart, have increased the demand on law enforcement. In fact, Neal noted, from the time Wal,art opened in October 2012 through the end of 2013, his department answered 129 calls they otherwise wouldn’t have gotten without the development, including 25 arrests and nine felony indictments. “I’m not knocking Walmart,� Neal said. “But when you bring in things like this, you bring people, you bring development, you bring activities, crime goes up, and we have to deal with it.�

Later in the meeting, supervisors chairman Carson Tucker, who represents District Five, called for the sheriff’s request to be added to a list of items supervisors revisit for possible reconsideration, along with a request from the Rescue Squad for $6,000 to help with the total cost of $14,790 needed to buy new uniforms. The Rescue Squad is seeking a grant to pay the rest of the cost.

District Two Supervisor Jason Moore concurred, and said it may be unfair to grant the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s request without considering the sheriff’s alongside them, especially since they’ve been promised in the past.

Part-time attorney Commonwealth’s Attorney Bob Beasley appeared to explain a $12,000 increase in his office’s budget to increase the pay of Tara Hatcher, a part-time assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney who specializes in domestic violence cases and crimes involving children. The proposed budget grants that request.

Hatcher’s position was initially funded by a shortlived grant, and, in the five years since that grant was

written, the county has taken over funding of her position at a level of $28,315.

Meanwhile, Beasley said, Hatcher has taken on additional duties, and often follows cases that progress out of Juvenile and Domestic Relations court to Circuit Court at no extra charge, although those duties aren’t dictated in her contract. “These are difficult cases to deal with and manage,� Beasley said. “If I lose her, I could fill the position for what we pay now.�

However, he said, the replacement would likely be younger and require training. “I can’t guarantee the level of service we have now if I were to lose her.�

Beasley noted that Hatcher maintains a separate private practice, and currently loses money working in Powhatan.

The $12,000 increase would bring Hatcher to a total salary of $40,315.

Beasley explained that he got that number out of a 2013 state compensation board pay scale for parttime attorneys, which ranges from $24,000 to $46,000.

After the meeting, Beasley said that Hatcher handled 124 misdemeanors

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SECOND ANTIOCH BAPTIST CHURCH 1059 Dorset Road Powhatan, VA 23139 Reverend Mark A. Divens, Sr. Pastor

Praise and Worship Service

Faith

Powhatan, Virginia Located on Lee's Landing Road

Powhatan, Va

Worship - 10:30 am Bible Study Wednesday 7 pm

Holly Hills Baptist Church

Expect great things from God; Attempt great things for God!

(Independent Bible Believing)

794-5864

www.HollyHillsBaptist.org

Randy Blackwell, Pastor Pastor Shawn Dandridge, Sr. Sunday School: 9:30 a.m.

Sunday School - 10:00 a.m.

Sunday Morning Worship - 11:00 a.m.

Worship Service: 11:00 a.m.

Bible Study Every Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. Sunday Youth Ministry - 6:00 p.m.

Office: 804-598-2667 Worship Service, Each Sunday, 11:00 a.m.

Sunday School, Each Sunday, 9:30 a.m.

Prayer and Bible Study, Each Thursday, 7:30 p.m.

Reverend Lawrence A. Wilson, Sr., Pastor 804-379-3539

Pastor Gregory L. Beechaum Sr.

"The church where Jesus is Alive"

379-8930 1659 Anderson Highway 3½ miles east of Flat Rock

804-375-9404

Baptist Church

Dr. Michael Edwards, Pastor Ed Alexander, Minister of Music Sheri Jordan, Minister to Children

Wednesdays 5:45 p.m. Church Supper 6:30 p.m. May’s Kids, TeamKID, RA’s All Youth Bible Studies Adult Bible Studies 7:30 p.m. Adult Choir

598-3098

www.maymemorialchurch.org Located on Rt. 13 in the Village

“A Church Where Love Never Fails!�

Pastor Otis B. Lockhart, Jr.

598-2763 Sunday School at 9:30 am Morning Service at 11:00 am Bible Study Every Wednesday Night at 6:30 pm 3964 Old Buckingham Road

Muddy Creek BAPTIST CHURCH Baptist Church

FIRST ANTIOCH BAPTIST CHURCH

2591 Ridge Road Powhatan, Virginia 23139 804-598-2051

3920 MAIDENS RD., POWHATAN Pastor Vera Rhyne

MOUNT ZION

Rev. Bryan Stevens, Pastor 11 a.m. – Worship Service 9 a.m. – Church School Wednesday Bible Study 10 a.m. & 7 p.m.

Sunday School - 9:45 am Worship - 11 am Wednesday Bible Study & Prayer Service- 7:00 pm

Dr. Ronald Wyatt, Jr., Pastor Praise & Worship 8:30 am Sunday School 9:45 am 2095 Red Lane Road Worship 11:00 am 1/2 mile off Rt. 60 on Red Lane Road Children’s Worship 11:00 am 804-598-2455 www.redlanebaptist.org Prayer Service - Wednesday 6:30 pm Contemporary Service 8:30 a.m.

598-3481 Sunday School 9:45 a.m.

975 Dorset Road Traditional Service 11:00 a.m.

Four miles south of Flat Rock Wed. Night Classes for all ages 6:30-7:30 www.gracelandbc.org Rev. Bill Gohmert, Pastor

5680 Cartersville Road • Powhatan, Virginia 23139

9:45 a.m.-----------Sunday School 10:45 a.m.----------Prayer & Praise 11:00 a.m.----------Sunday Morning Worship Kid's Church on 1st, 3rd & 4th Sundays 7:30 p.m.-----------Tuesday Night Worship & Bible Study

Wednesday Prayer - 7:30 p.m.

Graceland Baptist Church SBC

OLD POWHATAN BAPTIST CHURCH

Hollywood

Handbell Choir

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2901 Jude’s Ferry Rd.

GREENBRIER BAPTIST CHURCH

Sunday School Worship Children’s Choir Youth Soul Food

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St. James Baptist Church

Christian Fellowship

Bill Sisson, Pastor

Sundays 9:45 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

4:15 p.m.

6:00 p.m.

Mondays 7:00 p.m.

s r

CHURCH DIRECTORY

Sunday School 9:45-10:45 Sunday Morning Worship will begin at 11:00 a.m.

4731 Bell Road, Powhatan, VA 23139 804-598-5491

www.BuggyTop.com

posed budget by other revenue increases, including value added by new construction, personal property tax revenue increase and higher sales tax earnings.

To keep real estate tax revenue level, Weiler noted that the county could technically increase its tax rate to 92.5 cents from the current 90 cent rate — a change which is not included in the current budget Other matters proposal and has not been Floyd Green from the requested by supervisors.

Department of Emergency Management told supervi- Ongoing process sors that Nextel has canThe Board of Superviceled a tower lease with the county that started in 2005. sors expects to adopt a That will decrease the budget, tax rate and capicounty’s revenue by tal improvement plan at a $32,000, and no additional meeting set for 7 p.m. on companies have ap- Monday, April 28.

Remaining budget proached the county about workshops are set for 5 p. locating on the tower.

The county’s draft m. on Wednesday, March spending plan, up $1.4 mil- 19; Monday, March 24; lion from the current year’s Wednesday, March 26; operating budget, doesn’t Monday, March 31; include any merit raises or Wednesday, April 2; and across- the-board pay in- Wednesday, April 23.

A regular board meetcreases for county employees, but it does include an ing set for Monday, March estimated $191,950 to im- 17, which included the administrator’s plement a new pay and county classification plan for presentation of her proposed five-year capital county employees.

Of the $1.4 million the improvement plan, was county expects in increased ongoing at press time. revenue, $865,000 is committed to various county Other upcoming budget spending increases.

Weiler recommended a meetings include: $609,000 increase in school A public hearing spending — 55 percent of will be held on the budget the forecast revenue inat 7 p.m. on Monday, crease. Another $100,000 April 21. has been set aside as con A public hearing tingency funds.

The county’s real estate will be held on the tax reassessment saw land val- rate at 7 p.m. on Monday, ues go down. That means April 28.

All meetings will be the average tax bill will go held at the Village Builddown, Weiler told superviing, which is located at sors at a revenues work3910 Old Buckingham shop held on Monday, Road in Powhatan.

March 10. If the county doesn’t change its tax rate, Jodi Deal is news editor it will experience an effective 2.5 cent real estate tax of The Mechanicsville Lodecrease, at a cost of cal and The King William $700,000 in revenue for ex- Local. She can be reached isting properties. That de- at (804) 746-1235, ext. 29, crease is offset in the pro- or jdeal@mechlocal.com. and 35 felonies in juvenile and domestic court in 2012.

Out of those, about a dozen advanced to Circuit Court.

Tucker thanked Beasley for providing “frugal budget requests for many years.� He went on to add, “Both the Social Services Board and the Domestic Violence Task Force are horrified by the possibility of losing Ms. Hatcher.�

804-598-2301

3470 Trenholm Road www.muddycreekbaptist.org

Sunday School 10:00 a.m.

Sunday Morning Service 11:00 a.m.

Wednesday Mid Day Bible Study 11:30 a.m.

375-9212

Evening Bible Study 7:00 p.m.

3619 Huguenot Trail Powhatan, Virginia 23139 804-403-3070 www.finecreekbaptist.org Sunday School: 9:45 a.m.

Worship Service: 11:00 a.m.

Traditional Rev. David A. Simpson, Pastor

Advertise in Powhatan Today’s Church Directory

Call 598-4305 for details.

Brad Russell, Pastor 598-4241 First Worship 8:30 am Bible Study for all ages 9:45 am Second Worship 11:00 am Wed. Family Ministry 6:30 pm

2202 Old Church Road www.powhatanbaptist.org

Page 5A

Powhatan Today, March 19, 2014

Spring’s arrival marks start of gardening tasks Goochland-Powhatan Master Gardener

Y

awwwn ... As a roly-poly gopher emerges from winter hibernation, so do I. Being a slow riser who needs two cups of strong, hot tea to fully wake each morning, I also need a few months rest from garden chores to fully energize each year.

Winter is a time to leisurely admire my garden beds from the warm side of a window. There are only a handful of chilly days when I’ll venture into the gardens. After bouts of bad weather I forge outside to attend to any damage.

Occasionally, I’ll fly in and out of the herb garden, taking snips from plants that are cold hardy. On warm, teaser days I take a leisurely trek to appreciate the line and form of the terrain and hardscape. The stateliness of leafless tree and shrub branches, and attractive dried plant material which was left intact, add interest to the view.

As daylight hours and the temperature noticeably increase, I search out my garden gloves. There is an anxiousness to again be outside in the midst of the newly stirring world. There is also the panic of realizing the vast amount of work needed to get the gardens in shape. For in spring, there are more tasks to do than at any other time, especially if winter has not been kind.

We all had good intentions in the fall to do a great job of putting our yards in order. The overachievers did fine work. Others got a late start, made a valiant effort, but were halted by an early snow. The human slugs in the garden world who may or may not regret their lethargy during the fall, have a much longer “to do� list. No matter in which scenario we find ourselves, we all feel trapped behind the eight ball as we think about meshing garden tasks with all of life’s other responsibilities and commitments.

Calm down and take a breath. I have to remind myself to start out slowly. In my head, I have the speed and agility of a 25-year-old. The mirror and my much older body let me know quickly that this is not the case.

Garden cleanup can be broken down into manageable tasks. Take advantage of the dry days whether cold or warm.

For most, the end of February is a good time for planning with active work to follow in early March. Start in one spot and take care of all of the tasks there before proceeding. When you feel

overwhelmed, look at what has been accomplished and not at what still needs attention.

We all have our own way of working. Some may prefer or only have time to do a small amount during each work session. I prefer to schedule large chunks of time. Since I get “down and dirty� when I work outside, I might as well keep going: black smudges on my face, dirt embedded in every groove on my hands, mud and wet spots all over my ill-fitting gardening clothes. But, no matter how bad I look or tired I get, I will most always have a smile on my face as I commune with my plants and the soil, for I love the newness and neatness of the spring garden.

There are plenty of jobs that may need to be taken care of in your garden (see box, page 8). Some may have already been completed in the fall and will only need a small amount of effort to freshen up. Just remember that this is a time to be gentle. Step lightly on the soil to avoid compaction and destroying its structure. Also, keep an eye out for emerging plants.

Resist the temptation to cultivate and plant until you are sure the soil is ready. Soil condition and not the calendar determines planting time. Grab a handful of soil and squeeze. If the lump is sticky or if water runs out, you will need a tad more patience. When the lump crumbles apart when tapped, you have the green light to proceed.

A clean garden is a clean slate for creative growing. Give yourself a pat on the back for a job well done and enjoy the days ahead of planting and cultivating. Now if I can only find those pruning shears ‌

Your garden to-do list: Assess winter damage to plants and will improve their shape and encourage denser growth. signs of pests, moles, crabgrass, etc.

Repair and/or paint outdoor garden accessories such as trellises, statuary, bird feeders, and pots.

Clean, sharpen and repair tools.

Clean up winter debris from walks, steps and driveways.

If a soil test was not done in the fall, now is not too late. Add fertilizer and soil amendments such as lime where needed. Keep fertilizer Weed. Seedlings are easier to pull off foliage to avoid burning. out while their roots are still shallow in Less is better than more but always early spring. You will most definitely follow label directions. want to pull them before they go to seed and make more. If you can’t tell Add plant supports in if it is a beloved annual or perennial or the form of cages or stakes where needed. is actually a weed, wait a bit.

Label plants.

Prune trees and shrubs. This Metal markers work best.

Rid the lawn of dead growth, stray leaves and twigs. This will get light and air to the soil level, encouraging the grass to grow.

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CHURCH DIRECTORY

The Episcopal Churches of Powhatan welcome you!

St. Luke’s Episcopal Church SUNDAYS 8 AM Holy Communion 9 AM Family Service of Holy Communion with children’s sermon followed by 10 AM Sunday School • 11 AM Holy Communion with Choir 5:30 PM, 4th Sundays September through May, Taize Service Wednesdays 7 PM Holy Communion and Healing Service

Route 711 at Three Bridge Rd. • 794-6953 Visit us at www.stlukespowhatan.org

EVERGREEN COMMUNITY CHURCH Proclaiming & Practicing the Gospel of Jesus Christ

Worship service at 9:30 AM Meeting at Flat Rock Elementary School www.EvergreenPowhatan.com

598-8844 Rev. Leonard Liu, Pastor

New Harvest Church

Don’t be fooled by the old building!

Caring, Authentic, Practical, Casual Dress, Biblically Honest.

3931 Old Buckingham Road In the Village on Route 13 across from Skaggs Road Intersection.

(Next to Kountry Kids Daycare) 804-403-3100 Ken Filliben, Pastor Email: newharvestassembly@comcast.net

Emmanuel Episcopal Church Turn South At Post Office at Rt. 522 on Emmanuel Church Road 9:15 am – Worship "A Traditional Episcopal Church"

Visitors Welcome The Rev. Stephen P. Beatty, Vicar

Manakin Episcopal Church Sunday Services 8:00 a.m., 9:30 a.m. & 11:15 a.m.

985 Huguenot Trail (1 mile west of Rt. 288)

794-6401 www.manakin.org

Bethesda Community Church

“It’s an Experience�

Providence Presbyterian Church

Powhatan Christian Fellowship Sunday Morning Worship 11:00 a.m.

Worship Service 11:00 am Sunday School 10:00 a.m.

Sunday School 10:00 am Wednesday Night 7:30 p.m.

598-4970 Located 1950 Ridge Road (Rt. 627) 2/10th of a mile north of Rt. 13

Pastor Linda Beyond Our Doors Lowe

Worship: 8:30 Just off Rt. 13 in8:30 the Village Worship: & 11 a.m.& 11 a.m.

Sunday School: 598-4438 Sunday School: 9:45 a.m.

9:45 a.m.

2253 Rosson Rd.

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1957 Capeway Rd., Powhatan, VA

Sundays: 804-403-3963 Morning Worship 10:00 AM Stephen Shelton, Bishop Wednesday: Sacrament Service – 9:00 am Family Life Night 7:00 PM Gospel Doctrine – 10:20 am 2480 Academy Road Priesthood/Relief Society – 11:10 am 598-7159 Pastor: Johnathan M. Whichard Located off Route 60 at Lower Hill Rd.

Powhatan United Methodist Church Worshiping Sundays at: 4480 Anderson Hwy, Powhatan, 8:28AM, 9:45AM & 11:30AM Westchester Regal Cinemas, Midlothian, 10:30AM Online, 9:45AM pccwiredLIVE.net 598-1174 pccwired.net

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

www.powhatanumc.us 2253 Rosson Road

Weekday Preschool (ages 2-5)

t ff Rt13 i th Vill

3308 Pleasants Road, 1/4 mile off of Route 711 Russ Cress, Pastor 598-0733

St. John Neumann Catholic Church Rev. Walter G. Lewis, Pastor

Advertise in Powhatan Today’s Church Directory

CALL 598-4305 for details.

Saturday - 5 p.m.

Sunday - 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m.

598-3754 www.sjnpowhatan.org Located behind Flat Rock Village Shopping Center

598-6090

Hobson’s Chapel

United Methodist Church PASTOR TIM KENNELL 804-598-0240, 598-3365 3540 OLD BUCKINGHAM RD. POWHATAN, VIRGINIA 23139

5053-01

LOCATED AT INTERSECTION OF ROCKY FORD RD AND RT. 13-JUST

inviting. building. equipping. www.pmchurch.net

William Todd (Pastor Todd) Gess 1801 Huguenot Trail Sunday School 9am Sunday Worship 9:45 AM Sunday Worship 10am Wednesday Bible Study 6:45pm Sunday School 11:00 AM Rev. Bryan M. Holt, Pastor 492-4366 378-3607 Located on Route 13 (Old Buckingham Road) www.EmmausChristianChurch.org

Advertise in Powhatan Today’s Church Directory Call 598-4305 for details.

Page 6A

Powhatan Today, March 19, 2014

WE WANT TO BE YOUR REAL ESTATE CLOSING AGENT

Powhatan resident interned at General Assembly Ashley Fisher worked constituent issues during recent legislative session

F

1612-01

Call us today if you are Buying, Selling or Refinancing. Located in the Historic Village of Powhatan. We will come to you!

(804) 598-7160

Margie@powhatansettlements.com PowhatanSettlements.com

JERRY W. ARMENTROUT, JR. M AY 2 , 1 9 6 7 - M A R C H 1 7 , 1 9 8 5

Powhatan High School Class of 1985

or two months, Ashley Fisher of Powhatan worked every weekday in the Virginia General Assembly Building on Capitol Square in Richmond.

The 2014 legislative session started on Jan. 8 and concluded on March 8.

As an intern in the legislative office of Del. Richard L. Anderson, RPrince William, Ashley was considered an important part of the third term delegate’s team.

She is a full-time student at Liberty University and a graduate of the Powhatan Leadership Institute. She said the institute “was a tremendous opportunity offered to me by the community.”

Ashley graduated from Blessed Sacrament Huguenot and was taught

by Del. Lee Ware, who represents Powhatan County in the General Assembly. She was an active volunteer in his reelection campaign last fall.

Over the summer, Ashley attended the Young Americans for Liberty National Convention. She publically asked former presidential candidate Ron Paul a question about the Bank of International Settlements.

Now that her internship has ended, Ashley plans to participate in the Republican Party of Virginia’s Jennifer Byler Institute, and possibly a summer internship on Capitol Hill.

She said she foresees herself being politically active throughout her lifetime, as well as continuing her involvement within the Powhatan community.

Anderson said that “having Ashley on our team was a distinct pleasure. She came up to speed almost immediately and was a

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Intern, Ashley Fisher served as a key part of the office staff of Del. Rich Anderson

hands-on member of my staff over the last two months. I hope that she can work in my office again during the 2015 legislative session.”

Anderson represents Prince William County and the communities of Woodbridge, Manassas, Brentsville and Nokesville. He is a deputy House whip and sits on four House standing com-

mittees: General Laws, Transportation, Appropriations, and Science and Technology, where he serves as vice chair.

A retired Air Force colonel, Anderson chairs the General Assembly Military and Veteran Caucus, Transportation Subcommittee 1, and General Laws Subcommittee 2. He also chairs the Virginia Commission on Civics Education.

Defensive driving course to be offered for seniors

9957-01

I said, “God, I hurt.” And God said, “I know.”

I said, “God, I cry a lot.” And God said, “That’s why I gave you tears.”

I said, “God, I’m so depressed.” And God said, “That’s why I gave you sunshine.”

I said, “God, life is so hard.” And God said, “That’s why I gave you loved ones.”

I said, “God, my loved one died.” And God said, “So did mine.”

I said, “God, it is such a loss.” And God said, “I saw mine nailed to a cross.”

I said, “God, but your loved one lives.” And God said, “So does yours.”

I said, “God, it still hurts.” And God said, “I know.”

If tears could build a stairway and memories a lane, I’d walk right up to Heaven and bring you home again.

You are forever in my heart, Love, Mother

Contributed Report A 55 Alive Defensive Driving Course for seniors will be held from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Friday, April 11, at the

Graceland Baptist Church at 975 Dorset Road in Powhatan. For more information, or to reserve your space, call Lou Gregory at (804) 598-4434.

PHOTO SUBMITTED BY CATHY HOWLAND

Meridian, one of the local residents who participated in last year’s market, proved that the youth of the area can play a significant role as vendors in the Powhatan Kids Market during the Powhatan Farmers Market.

Powhatan Kids Market is back for a third season Contributed Report Cathy Howland, 4-H extension agent, said the Powhatan Farmers Market is excited to include the Kids Market again this season for young entrepreneurs interested in selling their own handcrafts and homegrown produce at the local market.

“In offering area youth this opportunity, we hope to introduce them to various skills, including social interaction, marketing, merchandising and monetary skills,” she said.

The Kids Market will be held the first Thursday of each month beginning in May. The Powhatan Extension Office will host two workshops to get young people ready and confident to par-

ticipate in the market.

The Young Entrepreneurs’ workshops are free of charge and take place after school from 3:15 to 5:30 p.m. on Thursdays, April 10, and April 17.

At the second workshop, participants will have the opportunity to make and design their own signs to use at the market.

More than 15 young people participated last year.

An application can be downloaded from the Powhatan Farmer’s Market website: http://powhatanfarmersmarket.com/.

The local market season starts May 1.

For more information, contact Howland at chowland@vt.edu or call the Powhatan Extension Office at 598-5640.

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Page 7A

Powhatan Today, March 19, 2014

CALENDAR Wednesday, March 19 Family story hours are held at 10:30 a.m. at the Powhatan Library on Monday and Wednesday. Library hours are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday. Gaming days are held from 3 to 6 p.m. on the first and third Fridays of each month. The library is closed on Sundays and county holidays. For more information, call (804) 598-5670.

to 23 at the Richmond Raceway Complex. Hours are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday and 11 a. m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. The show features shopping, fashion shows, cooking demonstrations, gourmet foods, health screenings, how-to workshops, makeovers, special guest appearances and more. Admission is $10 for adults at the door and $9 in advance online; youth ages 6 to 12 $5 at the door and online; ages 6 and under free with paying adult. The event is being sponsored by: Martin’s, the Richmond Times-Dispatch and Chevrolet. For more information, or to order tickets, call 800-849-0248 or visit www.SouthernWomensShow.com.

The Women’s Club of Powhatan meets at 10 a.m. every third Wednesday at the Powhatan Armory. The Women’s Club handles the Powhatan Clothes Closet, which is the main source of money for their many philanthropic projects such as The Powhatan Moose the Powhatan Rescue Lodge will be hosting Squad and the Fire Departsmoke-free Bingo at 7 p.m. ment, many scholarships on the third Friday of every for the students at all of the month. Doors open at 6 p.

Powhatan schools, plus m. with games starting at 7 many other projects. Most p.m. For more information, of the funds raised are put call (804) 598-2809. back into the county. For more information, call Sue Fish Fry Fridays will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. every Friday Kornegay at (804) 598-1014. through April 11 at SJN Habitat for Humanity-PowCatholic Church located at hatan holds its board meet2489 Batterson Road in ings at 5:30 p.m. on the third Powhatan.

Wednesday of each month.

Meetings are held at 1480 Saturday, March 22 Anderson Highway in the offices of JORD Construc- The Christian Motorcyclists Association Powhatan tion. chapter Living Wheels meets at 6 p.m. on the third Thursday, March 20 Saturday of each month at The Powhatan Rotary Club Company 1 Fire Station at meets at 7:30 a.m. every the intersection of Old Thursday at the County Seat Buckingham Road and Restaurant.

Mann Road. For more information, call (804) 598-1834 Library family story hours or (804) 357-6730 or (804) (see above). The library is 512-8835. closed on Sundays and county holidays. For infor- The HOPE Ministry Supper mation, call (804) 598-5670.

Table holds its monthly dinner between 3 and 5 p.m.

The Powhatan Chamber of on the third Saturday of evCommerce luncheon takes ery month. The Supper Taplace at noon on the third ble serves those in need Thursday of each month at and the elderly of Powhatan County Seat Restaurant.

County. Dinners are served at the Powhatan County Powhatan Farmers Market’s Fair building at 4317 AnderRoundabout Thursdays are son Hwy. For information, held from 4 to 7 p.m. every and if you need transportaweek at 3835 Old Buckingtion, contact Mamie Scott at ham Road in the Village.

(804) 382-9154. Free food Fresh produce, beef, seaand fellowship are providfood, baked goods, eggs, ed. Bring a friend and/or pottery, jewelry, soaps, neighbor. wool, cut flowers and much more are offered up for sale. Powhatan AA meets at 8 For more information, visit p.m. every Saturday at thepowhatanfarmersmarManakin Episcopal Church ket.com on Huguenot Trail.

The Powhatan Ruritan Club The Christian Motorcyclists meets at 6:30 p.m. on the Association Powhatan third Thursday of each chapter Living Wheels month at the Powhatan meets at 6 p.m. on the third United Methodist Church.

Saturday of each month at Dinner will be served folCompany 1 Fire Station at lowed by a program and a the intersection of Old brief meeting. It is a comBuckingham Road and munity service organization Mann Road. For more infordedicated to the county. All mation call (804) 598-1834 are welcome. For more inor (804) 357-6730. or (804) formation, call Larry Cary at 512-8835.

(804) 598-5194.

Tuesday, March 25

Awaken to Hope Al-Anon meets at 7:30 p.m. every The Chrysalis Writers Group Thursday at St. John Neumeets the first and third mann Catholic Church.

Tuesdays of the month at 5 p.m. in the small meeting Powhatan AA meets at 8 room of the Powhatan Counp.m. every Thursday in the ty Library. For more informaPowhatan Village Building. tion, call (804) 598-1795.

Funding: Schools may get unexpected increase in county funding Continued from page 1A

visors, Jones outlined a budget that includes $44.194 million in total expenditures, up $1.868 million over the current budget year, but only $43.834 million in revenues, an increase of $1.5 million.

At a School Board workshop held the next night, Tuesday, March 11, Jones suggested trimming expenditures by cutting a proposed across-the-board raise for employees from 2 percent to 1 percent to close the gap. If fully funded, a 2 percent raise for all employees would cost $646,808.

Other unknowns are at play for the school budget.

The Virginia General Assembly has not yet reached a compromise on proposed House and Senate budgets.

Under the proposed Senate budget, Powhatan County schools will receive an additional increase of $112,524 in state funding from what the current budget is built around. Should the House prevail, state funding will fall by $2,624.

Right now, the county expects about $20.97 million in state funding, a $1.28 million increase over the current budget year.

Most of that, Jones noted, is to offset increasing contribution requirements to the Virginia Retirement System and rising health insurance costs.

At the School Board workshop, board chairman Rick Cole of District One said of the draft budget, “I feel good about how close we are. I hope the revenue holds up on the county side.”

Vice chairman James Kunka of District Two echoed that assessment, calling a budget so close to balanced at this stage in the game “remarkable.”

The budget includes $302,000 to support the division’s Supplemental Retirement Program, which the board is now leaning toward phasing out over the

Snow Continued from page 1A

about 2.19 school days, short.

Their counterparts at the middle, junior high and high schools have 19.69, 21.49 and 10.06 “banked days” remaining, respectively.

Why only the big difference in banked time? One word: recess.

“The code specifically said lunch and recess can’t be counted as instructional time,” Jones said.

Some neighboring

next five to seven years.

Jones noted at a School Board workshop on Tuesday, March 11, that if the board immediately did away with the SRP, that money will go back into payroll and benefits to cover the individuals who had planned to participate, but won’t retire if the program ends.

Cost increases The school division performs well on standardized tests, but new Virginia Standards of Learning (SOLs) have made tests on elementary school tests more difficult, Jones told the supervisors. New reading and math specialists will be hired to help, he noted, but will be funded by a reallocation of positions.

The draft budget also includes a new position, director of elementary education, in the central office at a cost of $96,610.

“Right now, we don’t have anyone in the central office with a lot of experience in elementary education,” Jones said, noting that his and other top leadership officials have more expertise in high schools.

“We need someone strong in that area to support our schools.”

Jones also is suggesting that the school division hire a supervisor of instructional technology, at a projected cost of $69,024. As technological needs grow, Jones said, that position is “sorely needed.”

Three central office positions, including the associate superintendent, the assistant superintendent for human resources and the director of curriculum and instruction, are being eliminated. Human resources will be handled by an existing staffer who will be bumped up from assistant director to director status.

A coordinator of science curriculum to focus on science, technology, engineering and math education, also known as STEM, also school divisions have looser interpretations of that rule and may count some recess periods as instructional time, Jones added, but that’s not a practice in Powhatan County.

Jones came prepared with three options for fixing the problem: taking away days from spring break and/ or Memorial Day for all students, tacking days on to the end of the year for all students, or adding 15 minutes to each school day for elementary schoolers from Monday, March 24, through

is proposed at a cost of $74,592.

Cole told supervisors the school division is looking very hard at their staff.

“This is the first budget we’ve seen in a while where we’ve eliminated and reallocated positions, not just added positions,” Cole said.

“We know we need to make do with what we have.”

Other noteworthy budget items Jones highlighted include: Digital curriculum and teacher resources, $100,000; Expansions of the division’s digital assessment and reporting system, $40,000; Professional development to support a new Advance College Academy program with J. Sergeant Reynolds Community College, through which students can earn free college credits, $6,000, which will be paid for with federal funds set aside for teacher training initiatives; A new Virginia Preschool Initiative class will be established with staff funds and a reallocation of existing staff; Coaching supplements for coaches and club sponsors will be realigned to match the current pay scale at a cost of $11,000.

Security officers Powhatan County Public Schools have applied for a four-year state grant that would mostly fund the installation of three part-time, unarmed security guards in local elementary schools, Jones said, with the local share of the funding set at about $29,000. School officials expect to hear whether they’ve been awarded the grant by the end of March.

Unlike school resource officers, the security guards wouldn’t be affiliated with the Powhatan County Sheriff’s Department, Jones noted.

The item piqued the interest of supervisors and the end of the year. The only other option would be taking recess away, a fate no one wants, Jones noted.

“None of them are very palatable,” Jones said.

The board ultimately arrived on adding a little time each day for the elementary schools.

Although some school divisions have talked of seeking state waivers of the requirements, Jones said state officials have indicated that’s not going to happen.

Jones noted that the School Board may want to

school board members, who questioned whether the guards would be effective, especially since the positions are part-time, funded at only five hours per day. Principals could decide when the guards are needed most, Jones said, but they would likely be on-site during the high traffic arrival and dismissal hours.

District Three supervisor Barry Hodge said, “It seems you have a gap, do you not?”

Jones replied that the five-hour set-up is “pretty much the model now,” since working more than 30 hours per week would trigger benefit requirements under the Affordable Care Act. The next night, at the School Board workshop, Cole pointed out that, just one year ago, citizens were calling for extra security at elementary schools in the wake of the Sandy Hook, Conn., school shootings.

“I think it’s a step in the right direction to address that,” Cole said.

District Three school board member Valarie Ayers said she is concerned that the entire day wouldn’t be covered.

“How long is it going to take someone who wants to do something evil to figure out that the security guard leaves at 1 p.m.?” Ayers asked.

Jones noted that the school system has added cameras and buzzers to all schools in recent months with the proceeds of another state grant.

“We do have an extra layer of security that we didn’t have last year,” he said. “Considering our school configuration, there’s always an SRO right next door.”

Jodi Deal is news editor of The Mechanicsville Local and The King William Local. She can be reached at (804) 746-1235, ext. 29, or jdeal@mechlocal.com.

think about permanently lengthening the elementary school day, which is shorter than other schools’ days, by 10 minutes or so to allow more instructional time to be banked to avoid similar shortfalls in the future. He told the board he’d gather input from elementary school officials on that possibility.

Jodi Deal is news editor of The Mechanicsville Local and The King William Local. She can be reached at (804) 746-1235, ext. 29, or jdeal@mechlocal.com.

Friday, March 21

AA meets at 8 p.m. every Tuesday at St. Luke’s Episco The Southern Women’s pal Church on Huguenot Show will be held March 21 Trail.

Spring Garden Fest Sat., April 26th 8:00 am - 4:00 pm Reynolds Community College 1851 Dickinson Road, Goochland Register in advance for the best selection of Classes ($) and Workshops ($)

SEAN STANLEY JUNIOR Sean Stanley is a junior at Blessed Sacrament-Huguenot with an unbelievably busy

Visit www.gpmga.org for detailed descriptions

No admission fee to enjoy: Displays • Talking with Garden Experts Plants for Sale • Garden Vendors Beautifully Landscaped Campus For further info call the Goochland Extension Office 804-556-5841 or visit www.gpmga.org Presented by the Goochland-Powhatan Master Gardeners in cooperation with Reynolds Community College and Virginia Cooperative Extension

student and Blessed Sacrament-Huguenot could not be more proud of his success.

Colby is a high ability student who takes advantage of the academic offerings at PHS and puts forth 100% effort! He is involved in several organizations at PHS, including the Science Olympiad Competition team, Gaming Club, and Future Problem Solvers competition team for both Global Issues Problem Solving and Community Problem Solving. He holds leadership positions in 3 of these groups. Colby is part of the group of students at PHS who are involved in the solar energy initiative and “green” ideas.

Because of this, he has had the opportunity to meet with the PCPS Superintendent and representatives from various businesses to discuss opportunities and possible solutions to conserve energy and to use alternate sources of energy.

“STUDENT OF THE MONTH” IS SPONSORED BY:

Extension is a joint program of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and state and local governments. If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact Shannon Grayson, Goochland Extension office at (804)-556-5841 or (800) 828-1120 (TDD) during business hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations 5 days prior to the event

804-598-5028

14541-01

12955-01

COLBY WOODLIEF 11TH GRADE

Intersection of Route 60 & Academy Road www.plazarx.net

804-379-6986

& GIFTS

& GIFTS

The Shoppes at Southcreek www.powhatanrx.com

Pets enjoy fun in the sun, too. Where is the best place in Powhatan to relax with your pooch?

E-mail answers to editor@powhatantoday.com or submit them online. Visit www.powhatantoday.com to see fellow residents’ responses.

March 19, 2014

Page 8A

High anxiety stemming from medical malady (or not)

By Jim Ridolphi Contributing Columnist

I’m not sure exactly when going to the doctor’s office became one of the most dreaded experiences of my everyday life, and I’m also not convinced it’s not just a product of six decades of life.

But, a simple medical appointment causes me more dismay and anxiety than a ton of other more dangerous tasks I perform daily.

And doctor’s offices have sure enough changed over the years from one friendly receptionist, a doctor and a nurse to mini hospitals and an emphasis on expanded billing staffs.

I’ve taken the same asthma medication for 20 years, and when the prescription ran out, I recently called my doctor’s office for a refill and what I naively thought would be a simple procedure.

“You’ll have to come for a visit before that prescription can be refilled,” a somewhat perturbed voice on the other end of the phone said.

Long story short, refilling the prescription would require not only a visit to the office, but also a hospital visit for a chest x-ray.

When I finally arrived at the office, I discovered that I would not be seeing the doctor, but a doctor’s assistant. No problem with that on my end, but let’s get this show on the road.

Not even close. I was handed a medical records form to fill out regarding family history and surgeries. When I inquired if we were returning to paper forms after all of the

C I V I L WA R I N ‘ R E A L T I M E ’

By Jason Moore Contributing Writer

hype I’d heard about computerized medical records, I must admit I was surprised at the answer.

“It will be transferred to a computer,” the lady answered.

“Isn’t that a little inefficient, and what happened to standardized, computerized records that would access our history at the touch of a finger?” I asked.

“That would mean the loss of a job for someone in this office who enters that information,” she snapped.

“Oh.” And that idea that doctors could access our medical records from anywhere and anytime that we’ve heard about for more than a decade?

“That’s years down the road,” she said.

Now, I could have asked why can’t some genius software designer design a system for every licensed medical provider in the United States, but I displayed restraint. It doesn’t seem that overwhelming to me, and I suspect there are political reasons for its non-implementation.

You give me the kind of money that has been appropriated, distributed and wasted on promises of a universal records system, and I’d give you a system that works.

But, I didn’t ask, and thought I was finally through to the doctor’s assistant’s office, and that all-elusive refill.

Not quite.

I still had to endure an encounter with who I assumed to be the person behind the voice on the phone.

“OK, honey, let’s get

(Editor’s note: Last year, in marking the 150th anniversary of the start of the Civil War, Powhatan Today launched a monthly guest column detailing what was happening during that same time period.

These articles are written in real time, as we consider it a more effective way for the readers to experience the facts as they would have during the war years.)

January 1864

see ANXIETY page 9A

The 59th Virginia Infantry Regiment remains besieged in Charleston, S.C. The unit has been strung out across the entire area surrounding Charleston to help with supply problems.

Charleston has been the focus of numerous Federal military efforts, the chief aim of which has been to destroy the cradle of succession.

A joint Federal sea and land expedition was repulsed at the start of last year, but in the summer the Federals returned and laid siege to Fort Wagner on Morris Island.

The siege lasted all summer and cost the bluecoats a heavy number of casualties. Our soldiers, however, could not maintain the effort and abandoned the fort in September 1863.

After capturing Fort Wagner, the Federal launched a naval raid against Ft. Sumter. The Federals took all winter to prepare for the attack increasing the number of ironclads in the Charleston area to nine.

Most of the ironclads were of the Passaic class, which is bigger and better armed than the original Monitor class.

In addition, the bluecoats committed the ship New Ironsides, which was an ocean going armed frigate to the attack group.

The leader of the Union forces was Rear Admiral

Samuel DuPont of the famous Delaware munitions making family.

DuPont had led several successful attacks on our fortifications in South Carolina and Florida before being promoted to command the South Atlantic Blockading Squadron headquartered in Charleston.

DuPont opposed the attack without infantry support. DuPont knew he could not hold the city if he breached its defenses and that the Monitor’s slow rate of fire limited their offensive capabilities.

Lincoln and Secretary of Navy Gideon Wells, however, ordered DuPont to attack with naval forces alone on April 7, 1863.

The attack was a complete failure. DuPont’s ships were forced to slow or halt due to underwater obstructions laid by our troops.

The ships then became sittings ducks trapped in a cross fire between Fort Sumter and various other land based batteries. Of the nine ironclads that attacked, five were disabled, but later returned to service, and a sixth was subsequently sank.

Confederate artillerists in effect knocked out twothirds of the Federal ironclads blockading Charleston in one day.

Two months later DuPont was relieved of his command and replaced by Rear Admiral John Dahlgren, inventor of the heaviest naval ordinance invented to that time.

After the naval offensive failed and once in command of Fort Wagner, the Federals placed new and more effective heavy artillery on the casements.

The Federals have continued to bombard the city and Fort Sumter since October. The privations caused to the civilian population of Charleston have been great.

Many people have fled the city and those remaining live under bombardment,

inflation and a scarcity of necessities.

The Powhatan Artillery are constructing winter quarters near Frederick’s Hall. The unit marched to the small Louisa hamlet in December, but, due to a lack of supplies, they have not completed building their lodgings.

Private Nathaniel Johnson of the Salem Artillery, which is housed with the Powhatan Artillery, wrote: “The vicissitudes of soldiers in winter quarters are not very great.” Both artillery units suffer from a lack of supplies and have attempted to use the break in the fighting to obtain rifles, bayonets, scabbards, cartridge belts, cooking utensils and other necessities.

The 4th Virginia Cavalry Regiment began the year in saddle. The unit left its winter quarters near Mount Jackson for Moorefield.

They traveled across the North Mountains on the Orkney Spring Road.

At Moorefield, Gen. Fitz Lee learned that the Federals were entrenching around Petersburg, W.Va., but he decided to attack the New Creek Depot instead of Petersburg. His troops were too tried, unsupported by artillery and low on supplies to attack entrenched Federal infantry at Petersburg.

The attack, however, never materialized. Rain and hail made the mountain roads all but impassable for the smooth-shod horses in Lee’s command.

Lee retreated back to the valley via Romney and Brock’s Gap. During the raid, however, Lee’s troops captured 27 wagons, 110 prisoners, 460 head of cattle and 300 horses.

Some good news did come with the New Year.

Promotions were bestowed on most of the 4th Virginia Cavalry high command.

Col. Wickham was made a brigadier, Lt. Col. Payne a colonel, Maj. Randolph a lieutenant colonel and Capt.

Wooldridge a major. After announcing the promotions, the various companies were sent home for a winter furlong of one month. It was hoped that the furlonging of the unit will help with the supply problems.

February 1864 The Powhatan Company of the 59th Virginia Infantry Regiment witnessed one of the truly remarkable first in this war. For the first time in naval history a submerged vessel sank a surface vessel in the waters of Charleston Harbor.

CSS H.L. Hunley was a fish torpedo boat developed and paid for by Horace L. Hunley, James McClintock and Baxter Watson.

The three started work in 1861 to develop an underwater attack boat. Their first vessel was called the Pioneer and it was built in New Orleans.

With the Federal’s capturing of the city, the three moved to Mobile, Ala., and worked on a second vessel called the American Dream, but the ship sank in Mobile Bay in January of 1863.

Construction of the Hunley began shortly before the loss of the American Dream.

The Hunley was 40foot, 4-foot wide, weighted 8.8 metric tons, had a top speed of 4 knots and a crew of 8. It was hand-powered by a crank shaft rotated by seven of the crew, the eighth member steered the boat.

The boat had two ballast tanks on its fro and aft sections, which could be pumped or flooded by hand thus allowing the ship to submerge.

Additional weight was added by screwing heavy iron balls to the bottom of the boat, which could be unscrewed from the boat to allow a more rapid accent.

The boat also had two airtight hatches, a conning see CIVIL page 9A

Public safety is on the must list for funding

By Melody Kinser Managing Editor While the Powhatan County Board of Supervisors continues to crunch numbers and prepare for a new fiscal year, public safety is one area that must be funded to the best of the government’s ability.

This is about the citizens, the people the Sheriff’s Department and supervisors serve -- and answer to on a daily basis.

And, fortunately, the supervi-

sors have agreed to add Sheriff Gregory A. Neal’s request for funding to fill positions to the list of items they will revisit for additional discussion and consideration. He is seeking funds for deputies and additional dispatchers.

County Administrator Pat Weiler had not granted the sheriff’s request for additional deputies in her draft budget proposal.

She did, however, grant a pay increase for a part-time contract at-

torney with the commonwealth attorney’s office who goes above and beyond the call of duty.

There is no wiggle room when it comes to providing stellar law enforcement services. It’s an expectation of the residents and one that should be upheld each and every budget season.

Without a doubt, we realize that economic conditions are not what they used to be, but Powhatan County is an example in the region of wise spending and

P.O. Box 10 Powhatan, Va. 23139 Phone: 804-598-4305 Toll Free: 877-888-0449 Fax: 804-598-7757

Joy Monopoli

jmonopoli@RSNVA.com

Market Manager

Birgit Weeks

bweeks@powhatantoday.com

Managing Editor

Melody Kinser

mkinser@mechlocal.com

Michael Schoeffel

mschoeffel@powhatantoday.com

Stephanie Childrey

schildrey@mechlocal.com

Sue Smoak

ssmoaks@powhatantoday.com

Cindy Grant

cgrant@mechlocal.com

Publisher

Sports Writer Sales Representative Sales Representative Classifieds

proper funding.

We are confident in the Board of Supervisors and the actions they will take in working with the sheriff to adequately fund much-needed positions.

Similar to his counterparts in neighboring counties, Powhatan’s chief law enforcement officer has been forced to continue to police the county with fewer deputies.

His request for additional positions is among the funding we will always support. The same goes for

services provided by the Powhatan County Fire Department.

Any services that provide aid and assistance to the citizens demand sufficient resources.

Again, we trust that the supervisors as they work through this budget process and its many intricacies will do what they can to respond to the sheriff and his department’s needs.

The fine people of Powhatan County deserve only the best in terms of being protected.

WE WANT TO PUBLISH YOUR ISSUE-DRIVEN LETTERS Powhatan Today welcomes your Letters to the Editor on topics of concern to you and the community. Letters, which should be no longer than 400 words, must include the name, address and telephone number of the author. The deadline is noon the Monday before publication, but letters may be held until the following week upon the editor’s discretion.

The publisher or editor of Powhatan Today reserves the right to edit or withhold from publication any letter for any reason whatsoever. Once received, all letters become the possession of Powhatan Today. Letters reflect the opinion of the author, not necessarily that of Powhatan Today or its staff.

Powhatan Today is published weekly on Wednesday with offices located at 3229 Anderson Highway, Suite 200, Powhatan, Va. 23139. Periodical Postage paid at Powhatan, Va. 23139. USPS # 000-035 POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to: Powhatan Today, P.O. Box 10, Powhatan, Va., 23139.

Subscription Rate: $23.50 per year. Single copy price is 50¢. © 2014 by Richmond Suburban Newspapers. All advertising and editorial matter is fully protected and may not be reproduced in any manner without the permission of the publisher.

Page 9A

Powhatan Today, March 19, 2014

Civil War: C.S.S. H.L. Hunley, an unlucky ship, was sunk and raised more than once tower and small portholes to allow light. She was armed with a spar torpedo containing 90 pounds of black powder. It was constructed in Mobile, but again, because of Federal advances, the ship needed to be moved. She was sent by rail from Mobile to Charleston arriving on Aug. 12, 1863.

The Hunley was an unlucky ship. She sank during a training exercise, killing five and again two months later killing eight including H.L. Hunley. Each time the boat was raised and returned to service.

Due to the deaths of the first two crews, the Confederate Navy decided to only allow volunteers to serve on the third crew. There is an apocryphal tale about how the crew was selected, but I cannot confirm its source. The story is so good, however, it deserves telling.

ANXIETY from page 8A

your weight and blood pressure,” she said.

“How tall are you, about 5-5 or 5-6?” she continued.

“No, 5 feet 9 inches, all of my life,” I replied.

The doctor’s assistant walked in and began to introduce himself.

“We’ve met several times,” I said.

A recruitment officer visited the naval vessels defending Charleston and asked for volunteers. At the first vessel, he had the officer of the deck assembly the crew and the recruitment officer explained the dark situation and ill stared history of the Hunley.

He then said that he would understand if no man wanted to volunteer, so he would turn his back to allow anyone interested to step forward without feeling forced. He turned his back waited a minute and turned back around to see all the men standing in what he thought was the same place.

He told the officer of the deck that he understood and he started to leave. The officer of the deck stopped him, and said; “Sir, you don’t understand, the men didn’t remain still, they all stepped forward.”

After the new crew was selected and trained, the Hunley

After listening to my chest and declaring it satisfactorily working, he issued my well deserved prescription.

But, I left never wanting to return, feeling almost insulted or at least belittled.

I’m not sure it’s the medical insurance side of the equation that is broken or a more fundamen-

was sent on its first hunt on February 17, 1864.

Hunley found easy prey in the form of the USS Housatonic. The Housatonic was a 1,240ton, steam-powered sloop-ofwar with 12 large cannons built in 1861 in Boston and named after a river in Massachusetts.

She was stationed at the entrance to the harbor about five miles out to sea.

Lt. George E. Dixon commanded the Hunley, and he and the crew successfully embedding the barbed spar torpedo into Housatonic’s hull. The torpedo was detonated as the submarine backed away, sending Housatonic and five of her crew to the ocean’s bottom in five minutes.

According to Yankee papers, at just before 9 o’clock on Feb. 17, Housatonic, commanded by Charles Pickering, was maintaining her station in the blockade outside the bar.

tal function of the system that may be flawed.

Doctors — and people who work in medical facilities — should realize they have jobs just like the rest of us.

Working in a medical office does not make of-

fice personnel medical experts, and — when we want to speak with our doctors — they need to pick up the phone.

We pay premium prices for the healthcare we receive and it wouldn’t hurt for it to be

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Her officer of the deck sighted an object in the water 100 yards off.

“It had the appearance of a plank moving in the water,” he reported. Although the chain was slipped, the engine backed, and all hands were called to quarters, it was too late.

Within two minutes of the first sighting, the Hunley rammed her spar torpedo into Housatonic’s starboard side, forward of the mizzenmast. Before the rapidly sinking ship went down, the crew managed to lower two boats, which took all the men they could hold; most others saved themselves by climbing into the rigging, which remained above water after the stricken ship settled on the bottom. Two officers and three men died.

Hunley failed to return to her base.

The commander of “Battery Marshall” reported on the day

email: rfhatcher1777@gmail.com

Powhatan County Farm Bureau 3833 Old Buckingham Rd Powhatan, VA 23139

after the attack that he had received signals from Hunley indicating it was returning to base.

The report did not state what manner of signals were observed, but two blue lights were the prearranged signals, and a lookout on Housatonic reported seeing a “blue light” on the water after his ship sank.

The 59th Virginia Infantry Regiment was witness to these events, but is no longer in South Carolina. The unit was transported to Florida less than a week after the Hunley destroyed the Housatonic off the coast of Charleston.

The 4th Virginia Cavalry is still on furlong and has been ordered to remain in each troop’s respective county for rest, refit and resupply. Dance’s artillery battery is still posted in winter quarters in Northern Virginia and neither army seems willing to move until the spring comes.

delivered with an ample amount of respect and appreciation.

As I left the parking lot, I noted — although there was an empty waiting room when I exited — the parking lot was full of employee vehicles.

There were more people working at the doctor’s office than there were people visiting the place.

What’s wrong with that picture? You guys with the M.D. after your name should be able to figure that one out.

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03/19-03/20

SPRINGTIME WORD SEARCH

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

HOROSCOPES ARIES - Mar 21/Apr 20 Romance is on your mind, Aries.

That’s because you met a wonderful person and are interested in seeing where this relationship may go.

46. Poi plant

14. Hairstyle

1. Former ruler of Iran

48. Loudness unit

15. Moved along

5. Tax or levy

49. Deep blue color

18. UCB Business School

9. St. Vitus dance

54. Fiddler crab

20. Paddling

11. A bog

55. About retina

24. Tibetian Buddist monk

13. Mushroom rib structure

56. Nail protein

26. E. Timor cloth

58. Replace ammo

27. Latin for witness

15. One-sided

59. Most sensible

29. Dog sound

16. Before

60. Brooklyn team

31. 13-19

17. Extemporaneously

61. Father

33. Involving the mind

19. About aviation

CAPRICORN - Dec 22/Jan 20 Vist some bookstores this week, Capricorn. This will indulge your need to absorb information this week. Don’t overlook the value of the library on your quest.

TAURUS - Apr 21/May 21 You feel artistically inspired this week, Taurus. Use this inspiration to pursue an array of projects, whether you want to dabble in photography or make home improvements.

LEO - Jul 23/Aug 23 Love, romance and marriage are on your mind, Leo. Work on strengthening an existing relationship or heighten your efforts to find a special someone.

SCORPIO - Oct 24/Nov 22 Scorpio, be prepared for a busy week that gives your bank account a boost. Expect to begin a new work assignment that requires a lot of creative energy.

AQUARIUS - Jan 21/Feb 18 Aquarius, an encounter with someone new piques your intellectual curiosity. Take some time to gather some information, and give yourself time to digest this information.

GEMINI - May 22/Jun 21 Seeing a happy couple together inspires thoughts of a romantic nature, Gemini. Consider taking a budding relationship to a new level.

VIRGO - Aug 24/Sept 22 Virgo, you may have an unexpected visitor to contend with this week.

This could mean a complete overhaul of your schedule and living space. It’s time to get to work.

SAGITTARIUS - Nov 23/Dec 21 Sagittarius, you’re interested in promoting personal health this week.

Your research may extend into holistic treatments as well as more traditional alternatives.

PISCES - Feb 19/Mar 20 Thoughts of a career change are more prominent this week, Pisces. It may be a good time to finally act on those ideas.

35. Washington city

21. Macaws

CLUES DOWN

36. Beloved

22. Refuge room

38. One who yells

23. Court case

1. Someone who takes part

25. Conical kiln

2. Relating to Homer

27. Media mogul Turner

3. They __

41. The Phantom of the Opera

28. Cancer sign

4. Helicopter

43. Cut

30. Fit into

5. Coagulated milk

32. Somali supermodel

6. This (Spanish)

44. Bent away from vertical

34. Expires

7. Moved on a log track

45. He killed A. Hamilton

35. Trapped

8. Closed hermetically

47. Digits

37. Stabilizes

9. Nautical rope fastener

50. Public violence

39. Plea urgently

10. __ Romeo, car

51. Freshwater duck genus

40. Leg joint

11. All peoples of the Earth

52. Angry

42. Nothing (Latin)

12. “Three Weeks” author Elinor

53. Amounts of time

45. Bleat

LIBRA - Sept 23/Oct 23 Your mindset is intense this week, Libra. Others will find it very difficult to change your opinion on certain things, but that does not mean you should not listen to their ideas.

39. Whalebone

57. Cuckoo

THIS WEEK’S ANSWERS

CLUES ACROSS

CANCER - Jun 22/Jul 22 Cancer, you aspire to learn a new skill or take on a new project this week.

Forge ahead with this idea, which allows you to meet new people and learn some interesting things.

Page 10A

Powhatan Today, March 19, 2014

Clarkes celebrate 50th anniversary Gloria Faye and Randy Clarke of Powhatan celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on February 28, 2014. They have four wonderful children, seven grandchildren and four great-grand children who provide them with full, happy lives. A celebration of their lives together was held on Sunday, March 2, 2014, given by their family.

METRO

Interest growing in backyard chickens Contributed Report

limited ler now for a e d i k u z u S .

Get to your 2013 lineup e th n o rs e time off

local regulations.

Special pricing will be available for ural areas, many suburbs poultry-related products and particiand even some urban areas pants can register for prizes and giveare experiencing a huge aways. spike in interest in backyard Southern States also offers Poulpoultry, and you don’t tryPal, a free mobile have to be a farmer to app for iPhone and Anenjoy the benefits of droid users with inforSouthern States is fresh “home-grown” mation and support for sponsoring a eggs. backyard chicken enAccording to Backthusiasts. The app can “Backyard Chickens be downloaded from Yard Chickens.com, three to four hens can the App Store or Google 101” educational supply one to two dozen Play. eggs per week, enough event at many of for an average family.

Southern States is a their locations on In response to the Richmond-based farm growing interest in startsupply and service coSaturday, March 29. operative founded in ing and maintaining a backyard poultry flock, 1923 that now has more Southern States is sponthan 200,000 farmersoring a “Backyard members. As one of the Chickens 101” educational event at nation’s largest agricultural cooperamany of their locations on Saturday, tives, it provides a wide range of farm March 29. inputs, including fertilizer, seed, liveThe local events are intended not stock feed and pet food, animal health only for the home-flock newbies and supplies and petroleum products, as wannabes, but for experienced poul- well as other items for the farm and try-raisers and hobby farmers as well. home. The cooperative serves its Programs will include poultry in- members and non-member customers formation, seminars on getting started through 1,200 retail outlets. For more and tips from experienced producers information, visit http://www.southon bird health and safety, as well as ernstates.com.

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NAPIER is SOLD on POWHATAN Virtual Tours Online @ www.NapierERA.com 3970 Olde Links Ct.

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$205,000

To be built on 2 acres in Eastern Powhatan.

4 Bedrooms, 2 1/2 Baths, 1st Floor Master, Open flow from Kitchen with Center Island to Family Room with Gas Fireplace. Hardwood floors in the living areas & Granite in the Kitchen. Covered Rear deck can be easily turned into a screen porch. 2 car attached garage.

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Lummie Jones 804-794-4531

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Sylvia Miles, Associate Broker 804-310-7476 cell 2240 Lakeview Drive

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MOVE IN READY—Immaculate 2-story w/formal www.OakleafPowhatan.com living & dining rm w/hardwood flrs, family rm w/gas fp.

Parade of Homes 2013 Silver Award 4 bdrms, 2½ ba., eat-in kitchen w/ceramic tile, upgraded Oak Leaf Estates appliances,lotsofcabinetspace,tilebacksplash,porcelain • Wonderful new home with Craftsman sink & pantry. Large Florida rm w/ceramic tile flr, tinted flair and Dumont quality. skylights & windows w/access to wraparound deck. • First floor owners suite, open kitchen– New roof installed Oct. 2013 w/warranty, gutter guards family room, study & formal dining room. installed. Attached shed with workbench, shelving & • All the upgrades you would expect. power. Paved extra-wide asphalt driveway.

Lummie Jones 804-794-4531 Floyd Palmore 804-598-7700 3950 Mill Station Drive $659,000 27 Sherwood Rd, Cartersville $175,000

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CloseinlocationeastofFlatrockthateveryone is looking for. Minutes to high school and Rt 288. 8-yr-old vinyl siding & dimensional roof. New vinyl kitchen flooring, paint & carpeting updates. New media rm addition w/custom cabinetry & sink w/own entrance & gas heating unit. Large double deck, storage building w/chicken coop and 24x15 cabinet/workshop—perfect man cave.

Terry Adcock 804-375-3007 1155 Sparrows Lane

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$350,000

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Wonderful Open Floor plan, Gorgeous Kitchen with Stainless Appliances, granite countertops, Big Bedrooms with walk-in closets, Hardwood Floors in all the main living areas! Great Location just 15 minutes from 288.

Nancy Wise 804-347-3639 3018 Sublett Circle

$625,000

R DE ACT UNNTR CO This luxury home features an open floor plan with large rooms and extensive attention to details. Designer kitchen has 5 burner cooktop, walk-in pantry and granite counters. 4 bedrooms with master on 1st and 2nd floors. Finished 3 car garage. Located on 6.6 acres, close to Mill Quarter Golf course.

Lummie Jones 804-794-4531 1915 Old Tavern Rd

$324,900

Gorgeous custom brick home with Private “extra large” Guest Suite! 3900 sq. ft., 5 bedrooms, 2 kitchens, 2 Master suites, 2 family rooms, 3 full baths, 2 half baths and more! Huge walk-up attic! Attached garage! Park-like setting on 2.76 acres!

Jeanette Towler 804-334-4223

Brick ranch on 4 acres acres, with 3 bd bdrms, 2 full baths, dining rm, family rm w/fireplace, kitchen w/new granite countertops, front porch, heat pump w/central air, 24x24 covered porch could easily become a sunroom, 30x42 garage w/10 ft. ceilings has 4 bays (3 doors). Fruit trees, sheds, carport & 4 wheeler trails. A great place! Will sell FHA or VA (Veterans) Close to Powhatan!

Sylvia Miles 804-310-7476 3339 Anderson Highway

Patrick Conner 804-402-3070

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Horse Farm. 28+ Acres with 7 stall horse barn with tack and hay loft for 600 bails.

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Sylvia Miles, 804-310-7476

Beautiful custom built home located on 2 acres in St. Mary’s. This home features an open floor plan that offers two first floor master suites and two more bedrooms, bath and loft on second floor. The gourmet kitchen has gas cooking, 2 ovens and breakfast bar. Full back porch/patio with grilling area. Unfinished room over garage. Lots of extras.

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Great potential. Basement corner lot in a wonderful neighborhood just 7 minutes from 288. Owner has septic perk info.

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LOTS LOTS/LAND FOR SALE FOR SALE 2 Acres Duke Rd..................... $39,900 11.9 Acres Bowling Quarter Rd.........$89,000 2 Ac. Clayville Rd. ................... SOLD 2 lots Amelia 1.7 Acres..Under Contract 1 lot Amelia .07 Acres ...Under Contract 4 Acres Nottoway...................$20,000

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March 19, 2014

Powhatan, Virginia

Page 1B

Y O U N G A N D I N C H A RG E Bobbitt one of the youngest athletic directors in Va.

Powhatan-based club places 11th out of 158 teams

By Mike Schoeffel Sports Writer

Working as a contractor at Dominion Power for Blessed Sacrament athletic director Luke Bobbitt led him to realize that a typical desk job wasn’t for him.

Sure, he said, the job paid the bills, but the Virginia Commonwealth University graduate (he holds a bachelor’s of science degree in health and physical education) is a sports guy at the core.

As he toiled at repetitive office tasks at Dominion, he said he pined for the day when athletics would become his fulltime gig.

His first break came last spring. A college buddy, Jared Aldridge, told him that Blessed Sacrament was hiring a middle school P.E. teacher.

While at VCU, Bobbitt and Aldridge often joked about how fun it would be if they ended up working at the same institution. So naturally, Bobbitt, who was raised Catholic, applied for the position on the spot. He was hired almost immediately, thus beginning his rapid and unexpected ascent to the athletic director position.

“I interviewed for a [teaching] position in Louisa, as well,” he said.

Success for local wrestlers

Contributed report

PHOTO BY JOHN BEEBE

Luke Bobbitt (center) was named athletic director at Blessed Sacrament during the summer of 2013. Although he’s only been at BSH since last spring, he has become a highly involved member of the school’s tight-knit community.

“but ultimately thought that working here would not only be more fun but also give me more opportunities to coach. The fact that I grew up Catholic was also a big part of my decision.”

Bobbitt said he wasted no time in becoming highly involved with the Blessed Sacrament community.

In addition to holding a full-time position as a middle school P.E. teacher, he also taught elementary-level technology, coached middle school baseball, varsity golf and varsity girls basketball.

Bobbitt said he was thrilled to be freed from his desk job and doing

what he truly loved. It was liberating to get away from the monotony of life in the office, he added.

“Gym class is pure fun

doing that with the kids.”

Bobbitt said he had “long-term dreams” of becoming an athletic director, but not even in the

“The athletic director position was something I envisioned getting sometime down the road. So to get it at my age ... I just couldn’t be any happier.”

Luke Bobbit, AD at Blessed Sacrament

to me,” he said. “I’ll get out there and play quarterback, receiver, that kind of stuff. I’m very competitive so I enjoy

portunity arrived as his door step when BSH athletic director Brice Fritts, who held the position for about five years, announced he was stepping down to become a teacher at Tuckahoe Middle School. Bobbitt was enthralled with the prospect of landing the high-ranking gig, but remained realistic about youth and inexperience being a possible roadblock.

So he was simultaneously ecstastic and surprised when he was given the keys to the kingdom, so to speak.

“The athletic director position was something I envisioned getting some-

most ambitious of those mental conjurings did he expect to land the position before the age of 30.

Last summer, the op- See Bobbitt > 5B

The Powhatan Youth Wrestling Club (Blackhawks) nded the season with a stunning performance at the VAWA (Virginia Wrestling Association) youth state championships.

The VAWA saw 700 youth wrestlers representing 158 teams from across the Commonwealth. It is the culmination of the youth wrestling season.

The Powhatan Youth Wrestling Club made a huge statement in the VAWA this season.

The middle school team, which consisted of Bailey Coates, Weston Richardson, Jeffrey Hoyt, Sam Tomlinson, J.D. McMillin and Jahquez Holmes, took seventh place among 158 teams.

The elementarylevel team was led by Hans Rehme, R.J. May, A.J. Gaskin and Simeon Holmes.

Overall, the Powhatan Youth Wrestling Club placed 11th out of 158 teams.

Individual results

See Wrestling > 5B

Powhatan High School softball preview Indians eye state championship run with seniors

By Mike Schoeffel Sports Writer

By all accounts, the 2013 season was another successful one for the Powhatan softball program.

The Indians finished the regular season 17-1, capturing the Jefferson District regular season title, the Jefferson District tournament championship, and the Region II runner-up trophy.

However, their bid for a sixth state title was

squashed in the first round of the Group AA tournament, when they ran into a King George team coming off the first regional championship in the history of the program.

The Foxes’ surging momentum proved too much to overcome. The Indians fell 4-1, thanks in large part to an 11-strike out performance from Taylor Brandts, who is now mowing down batters at the University of Virginia-Wise.

Crump graduated six players from last year’s squad. Four of them – Rachel Revels, Jen Balcom, Rachael Shiflett and Micah Kingston – are playing college ball this

spring. While all four girls made significant contributions during their time with the program, Shiflett may end up being the most difficult to replace.

The acclaimed outfielder took a tanker-full of accolades with her when she left for Christopher Newport University: In 2013 alone, she was named Jefferson District Player of the Year, first team all-region and first team all-state.

Even with the deparPHOTO BY ANJIE HENLEY ture of Shiflett and her talented classmates, Powhatan’s Maddie Hutchison prepares to fire a pitch during a Crump’s expectations for scrimmage against Thomas Dale on March 14. Hutchison and Melissa Rundstrom are expected to be Powhatan’s top two pitchers during the 2014 season.

See Softball > 5B

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BLESSED SACRAMENT WHO: The Basketball Team

WHO: The Basketball Team

In girls basketball,

In girls basketball,

11885-01

named first team all-VCC, while Drew Taylor was named second team all-VCC. Congratulations to this fearsome foursome!

In boys basketball, Joey Balcom was named second team all-conference.

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Powhatan Today, March 19, 2014

Page 2B

Spring sports schedules B L E S S E D S AC R A M E N T Date 3/19 3/20 3/25 3/27 4/1 4/8 4/10 4/23 4/24 4/26 4/29 5/1

Time ?

4:30 4:30 4:30 4:30 4:30 ?

4:30 4:30 2:00 4:30 4:30

Baseball Opponent Cumberland Fuqua Kenston Forest Richmond Christ.

Southampton Tidewater Brunswick Acad.

Fuqua Kenston Hargrave Richmond Christ.

Southampton

Location CHS Fuqua Kenston Forest BSH BSH BSH Brunswick Acad.

BSH BSH Hargrave Richmond Christ.

Southampton

3/18 3/20 3/25 3/27 3/28 4/1 4/3 4/10 4/23 4/24 4/30 5/1

4:30 4:30 4:30 5:00 5:30 4:30 4:30 4:30 4:30 4:30 4:30 4:30

Softball Brunswick Acad.

Fuqua Kenston Forest CVHAA Cumberland Southampton Amelia Acad.

Brunswick Acad.

Fuqua Kenston Forest Amelia Acad.

Southampton

BSH Fuqua Kenston Forest BSH CHS BSH Amelia Acad.

Brunswick Aca. BSH BSH BSH Southampton

6:00 4:30 4:30 4:30 4:30 4:30 4:30 4:30 4:30 4:30 4:30 4:30 4:30

Boys soccer Brunswick Acad.

Kenston Forest Isle of Wight Southampton Carmel School Southampton Carmel School Fuqua Kenston Forest Fuqua Alliance Christian Brunswick Acad.

Isle of Wight

Brunswick Acad.

Kenston Forest BSH BSH BSH Southampton Carmel School BSH BSH Fuqua BSH BSH Isle of Wight

4:00 4:30 4:00 4:00 4:00 4:15 4:00 4:00

Girls tennis Tidewater Acad.

Goochland Southampton Fuqua Tidwater Acad.

Charlottesville TC Fuqua Southampton

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Time 5:00 6:00 5:00 5:00 6:00 6:00 6:00 6:00 3:00 1:00 3:00 3:00 6:00 6:00 6:00 6:00 6:00 6:00 6:00 6:00

Baseball Opponent Dinwiddie Western Albemarle Cosby Midlothian Monticello Louisa Albemarle Orange County Invitational Invitational Invitational Invitational Charlottesville Monticello Fluvanna Louisa Albemarle Orange County Fluvanna Charlottesville

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Powhatan Today, March 19, 2014

Page 3B

P H S B A S E B A L L S T E P S U P TO T H E P L AT E F O R N AT E Contributed report On the morning of Saturday, March 15, the Powhatan High School varsity baseball team joined together to run the Shamrock 5K at Westchester Commons.

Their purpose was simple: To raise money for Nathan Martin, a 7year old baseball player from Powhatan who had an head injury and now suffers from post-concussion syndrome. This unfortunate injury has left him watching from the bench instead of out on the field with his friends.

He also has had to undergo expensive treatments to quell the seizures he has been experiencing.

All in all, the turnout was a grand success: The Powhatan High School baseball team won the biggest team challenge, which included a $500 prize that will go toward Nathan’s continuing treatment.

PHOTO BY ANJIE HENLEY

The Powhatan High School baseball team poses with Nathan (in the orange shirt) before running in the Shamrock 5K at Westchester Commons.

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Powhatan Today, March 19, 2014

Page 4B

PHS baseball and softball host final scrimmages of preseason

By Mike Schoeffel Sports Writer

The Powhatan High School softball and baseball teams held their final scrimmages of the preason on Friday, March 14, at home.

The girls got started around 4 p.m., battling

Thomas Dale High School. The boys got started a little bit later — around 5 p.m., thanks to a late-arriving bus — against Matoaca High School.

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get in a full games-worth of work.

The softball team opened their season against L.C. Bird High School on Tuesday, March 18.

The baseball team will begin its season with a home game against Dinwiddie High School on March 25.

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Powhatan Today, March 19, 2014

Page 4B

PHS baseball and softball host final scrimmages of preseason

By Mike Schoeffel Sports Writer

The Powhatan High School softball and baseball teams held their final scrimmages of the preason on Friday, March 14, at home.

The girls got started around 4 p.m., battling

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The softball team opened their season against L.C. Bird High School on Tuesday, March 18.

The baseball team will begin its season with a home game against Dinwiddie High School on March 25.

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Ryan Kirtner takes a practice swing before heading to the plate against Thomas Dale.

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Powhatan Today, March 19, 2014

Page 5B

Bobbitt: ‘I’ve seen so much in a short period of time and had to adjust on-the-run. It’s been difficult, but fun.’

Continued from page 1B

time down the road,” he said. “So to get it at my age … I just couldn’t be any happier.”

At 27 years old, Bobbitt, who keeps his shoulder-length black hair tucked behind his ears, is one of the youngest athletic directors – if not the youngest — in Virginia.

He admits he’s had to learn the ins-and-out of the job — scheduling, communication with parents, field maintenance, etc. — “on the fly,” something he considers the most difficult challenge and the most lucrative reward. This winter has proven to be a major litmus test as an abnormal amount of snow has caused the cancelation or

rescheduling of many sporting events, leaving him scrambling to coordinate schedules and line up transportation.

“I’ve joked with a couple of the older athletic directors in the conference about how I feel like I’ve gotten three years of experience this winter,” he said. “I’ve seen so much happen in a short period of time and had to adjust on the run.

It’s been difficult, but fun. Every day offers a unique challenge.”

“I used to love snow days as a teacher, but, as an athletic director, I’m not so fond of them,” he joked.

Bobbitt said organization — a virtue he learned in college and honed as a contractor at Dominion Power — has been one of

the key components of his success as an AD. Another may be his youth. While he doesn’t have the experience of some of his hardened counterparts — such as Powhatan High School’s Jim Woodson, who started coaching football in 1985 and has been AD since 1999 — his vitality and vibrant enthusiasm balance out his relative greenness.

One of Bobbitt’s biggest initiatives at the moment is the middle school lacrosse team.

The Knights are slated to play nine games this year against a mixture of public schools, private schools and club teams, with the possibility of adding more opponents at the end of their sched-

ule if the opportunity arises. Bobbitt said he was initially concerned that the sport wasn’t going to catch on, but was pleasantly surprised when 13 to 15 kids came out for the team.

Blessed Sacrament doesn’t have a varsity lacrosse team, but Bobbitt said he hopes to start one once the players on the middle school team reach the high school level. He envisions the prospective varsity program as a possible selling point for BSH. Since Powhatan High School doesn’t offer the sport, perhaps students who are interested in the sport will be more inclined to make the jump to Blessed Sacrament.

By all accounts, Bobbitt has assimilated seam-

Softball: Crump will return seven seniors to team Continued from page 1B

the 2014 team remain steadfast.

“Our expectations never change,” she said.

“We expect our players to work hard every day and get better. We expect them to do whatever it takes to win.”

Thankfully for the Indians, a sturdy group of seven seniors is ready to step in and pilot the Indians through the 2014 campaign. Catcher Sami Pearce, infielder Christina Boyles and infielder Addi Johnson are the team’s seasoned veterans.

All three joined the varsity squad as freshmen, coming of age under Crump’s disciplined tutelage. Rounding out the senior class are infielder Ryan Kirtner, pitcher/ outfielder Maddie Hutchi-

son, pitcher/infielder Melissa Rundstrum and catcher/infielder Mackenzie Barrett. Their final season with the orange and black will be their chance to become curators of tradition, their opportunity to lay the groundwork for future generations of Powhatan softball players.

As far as the strengths and weaknesses go, Crump admits that it may be too early to pass judgment.

“We’ll be looking at numerous combinations in our lineup, so nothing is really set at this point,” said Crump. “We always pride ourselves on defense.

We work very hard on that facet of the game.”

Pitching could very well be a point of strength, as the Indians return two of their top hurlers — Hutchison and Rund-

strom — from a year ago.

In a sport where pitcher fatigue is virtually nonexistent, two pitchers may be all the Indians need to make a run at another state title. That softball truism could play to the Indians’ favor, as the staff beyond Hutchison and Rundstrom is relatively green: Only one other pitcher, sophomore Valarie Fridley, has varsity experience on the mound.

In addition to the nine returning players, Crump will welcome four newcomers to the team: freshmen Harley Conner, Ali Celeberti and Madison Foster and sophomore Lauren Ratliff.

The Indians are slated to play 20 regular season games this year. Their schedule is front-loaded with match-ups against

local schools, including Thomas Dale, L.C. Bird, James River, Midlothian and Clover Hill. The remaining 15 games are against Jefferson District opponents.

Powhatan opens the season with five consecutive road games before making their home debut on April 3 against Midlothian.

When asked what would constitute a successful season, Crump, the winningest softball coach in Virginia High School League history, steered clear of giving a specific win total or championship. Instead, she brought the focus back to a theme that has remained constant during her 34-year tenure with the program: unity.

“If we can become a ‘team,’ we’ll have a good season,” she said.

lessly with the BSH community, becoming passionately involved with every aspect of the athletic program. He saidhe knows all but a “handful of students” by name. He’s announced several football games, including the “Miracle on Academy” in the football state championship last year. He attends every game that takes place on campus, oftentimes cheering with such vigor that he has to remind himself to tone down his enthusiasm.

While he admits he initially harbored some skepticism about BSH — “we don’t have the newest buildings in the world, we don’t have a facility that looks like Steward,” he said — he has discovered a thriving and close-knit

community beneath the quaint exterior: something, he said, prospective athletes can learn a lesson.

“I think sometimes we’re a little bit of a secret out here,” he said.

“It’s a bit of ‘don’t judge a book by its cover.’

When kids come here to tour, they are surprised how much the BSH community supports sports.”

“When I was a [student] at Patrick Henry High School, I think I had one conversation with the AD my entire life. He was this mysterious person who you only saw if you were in trouble. I don’t want to be that way. I want the students to know me, not only as an athletic director or teacher or coach, but also as a friend.”

Wrestling: Six wrestlers will go to varsity Continued from page 1B

are as follows: Bailey Coates — state champion Joshua Jordan — second place Simeon Holmes — second place Jeffrey Hoyt — third place Hans Rehme — third place.

R.J. May — fourth place Zane Cox — state champion Sam Tomlinson — sixth place Colby Cheatham — sixth place J.D. McMillin — third place A.J. Gaskin — third place Damien Thayer, David Earnest, Ethan Elmore, Jahquez Holmes and Weston Richardson

also made major contributions during the tournament.

The Blackhawks will reload next year, beginning off-season training as early as Tuesday, March 18.

They will lose a number of talented wrestlers to the high school level, including Coates, Tomlinson, Hoyt, Richardson Holmes and Colin Gerardi.

The Blackhawks have sent players to the varsity level in the past, but this year’s class will be the biggest in its history (six).

Furthermore, all six boast individual national and state titles The Powhatan Youth Wrestling Club hopes to continue a steady feed of players into the high school program.

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Serving Powhatan and Surrounding Areas

RM Bishop Inc. Plumbing Contractor

YEAR ROUND SERVICE • MULCHING • MOWING TRIM WORK • SEEDING & FERTILIZING TREE & SHRUB PRUNING

AVID

Veterinary/Pet Care

LIDA PROFFITT

Licensed and Insured Owner Russell Bishop Since 1999

1416-01

12390-01

8502 Brook Road, Glen Allen, VA 23060

Dr. Elizabeth G. Hazlegrove, D.V.M Accepting New Clients Just West of the Courthouse 24 Hillcrest Road | Cumberland, Va. 23040

• Cell with Voicemail

804-426-7902

• Office/Fax 804-598-1578

www.rmbishop.com

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Are you or someone you know a victim of

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE? Contact Powhatan Domestic Violence Services at

598-5630 ext. 2422

C M Y K

TARGET YOUR CUSTOMERS WITH A BULLETIN BOARD AD! Call 598-4305 for rates and information.

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