Powhatan Today –11/04/2020 by Powhatan Today

Inside A6 CCPS returns to limited in-person classes

Powhatan, Virginia

B1, 2B Powhatan competes in 7-on-7 football in Chesterfield

Vol. XXXIV No. o. 18

November 4, 2020

Teachers share experiences with full virtual By Laura McFarland Editor

OWHATAN – It’s pretty much agreed across the board that all of them wish things were different. Were it not for a pandemic forcing people to make some difficult choices for themselves and their families, all Powhatan County Public Schools’ educators would likely be finishing up a normal first nine weeks of the fall semester right now and looking ahead to what comes next. But with the pandemic did come choices, and part of those choices meant the families of 907 students choosing to have their youth educated fully virtually. Accomplishing that feat are 16 fully virtual teachers at the elementary level and 74 middle and 30 high school teachers handling one or more fully virtual sections, all with the help of support staff and administrators assisting them to make it happen, said Dr. Tracie Omohundro, assistant superintendent for instruction. “It has been probably one of the biggest instructional challenges for many of our

Carla Crump, third grade teacher at Powhatan Elementary School, starts her class with the Pledge of Allegiance. Read about Crump’s virtual experience on page 3A.

teachers of their careers. And their dedication and commitment to trying to figure it out and to be the same strong teacher that they were in the regular classroom truly has been amazing to watch,” Omohundro said. “They are putting everything into something that is completely different than what they have been trained to do, and it has been a herculean task for them.” How much educators have learned this

year working virtually and the way it has shaped their craft in a really different way has been amazing, said Dr. Cheryl Thomas, director of elementary education. “They know how to teach, but teaching in this format, I think in a lot of ways it has been a real growing experience for both students and staff. And I am sure some of the things we have learned will stay with us,” she said.

At the elementary level, the support that virtual teachers receive in their efforts to help their students is designed to come from their school administrators, specialists working with them, and their fellow virtual teachers, Thomas said. Among the 16 elementary teachers, some work entirely from home, and some teach from their classrooms. At the secondary level, it has to be a full-team effort for the virtual students because of the nature of classroom teachers trying to juggle both in-person and virtual instruction, Omohundro said. The system see VIRTUAL, pg. 2

This is the second installment in a two-part series about the full virtual expereince. Several teachers agreed to share their experiences educating students on the PCPS full virtual learning pathway. This is a small sampling of teachers and can’t begin to cover the full scope of experiences divisionwide. To read their stories, look on pages 3A, 4A, and 5A.

Pumpkin contest brings joy to kids families enjoy

Halloween fun

PHOTO BY LAURA MCFARLAND

DELIVER TO: Postal Patron Powhatan, VA 23139

Prsrt. Standard U.S. POSTAGE PAID Powhatan, VA Permit No.19

Judges d move the h third hi d place l winner of the Pumpkins for Kids Project to the winners circle on Oct. 28 at Independence Golf Club in Powhatan. The fourth (top) and first place winners are shown inset.

By Laura McFarland Editor

POWHATAN – The Death Star Pumpkin narrowly beat out the pumpkin-ravaging dinosaurs for the title. The competition was stiff for the 10th annual Pumpkins for Kids Project, which saw businesses from around the region participating in a lighthearted decorating contest on Wednesday, Oct. 28 at Independence Golf Club in Powhatan. Held as a benefit for the Children’s Hospital Foundation, the event continues to be a way to bring the business community together for a good cause and spread a little joy along the way, said organizer Rachel Massengill of Powhatan.

Since part of the tradition is for the winning pumpkins to be put on display at the Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU, Massengill seriously wondered whether the contest would be allowed to go ahead as planned this year. However, it was decided that if the pumpkins were placed outside the hospital, they could still be brought there. “I was so excited that they said let’s roll with it because the kids love it and all of the staff there love it,” she said. And what’s not to love, she pointed out. The people who participate put so much creativity and innovation into their designs each year. Some of this year’s more than 89 pumpkins included displays see PUMPKINS, pg. 5

Despite espit ite the th cancellation ca anc ncel ella lati tion on of of many Halloween and Fall Festival events, Powhatan families still put on a great holiday for local youth. Shown are children trick or treating in the Butterwood Creek Subdivision, top; the Garner family (parents Catrina a and Trevor and kids Emersyn and Mason) embodying the Three Little Pigs story, center, and 4-month-old Tommy “Superman” Mullins enjoying his first Halloween. More photos page 8A.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS

County sees 43 percent voter turnout before Election Day Editor’s note: This edition of the Powhatan Today was printed before the results of the 2020 General Election were released. Powhatan’s unoﬃcial numbers are scheduled to be released on the newspaper’s Facebook page on Tuesday night and the oﬃcial numbers will be included in the Nov. 11 edition.

By Laura McFarland Editor

PHOTO BY LAURA MCFARLAND

Susan Cooper, from left, Barbara Jo Palsa, and Linda Jones count mail-in ballots on Oct. 30.

POWHATAN – Even as the Powhatan Office of Elections was dealing with an unprecedented number of early voters at the tent outside on Friday, work began inside on counting the huge number of absentee mail-in ballots for the 2020 General Election. see VOTER, pg. 4

Powhatan Today, November 4, 2020

Page 2A

VERA AYERS-KILMER Vera Ayers-Kilmer, 96, of Powhatan, went to be with the Lord and her husbands, Green Ayers and Fred Kilmer, on Thursday, October 29, 2020. She is survived by her daughter, JoAnn Ayers Greene (Parker (Moe)) of Powhatan; brother, Ronald D. Murphy (Margie) of Spencer. Vera was a retired employee of Gulf Oil. Funeral serAYERS-KILMER vices were held Sunday, November 1 at 2 p.m. at Moody Funeral Services, 202 W. Blue Ridge St., Stuart, VA 24171. The family will receive friends Wednesday, November 4 from 11 to 12:30 p.m. in the Bennett & Barden Funeral Home, 3215 Anderson Hwy. (Rt.60), Powhatan, with graveside services to follow at 1 p.m. in the Powhatan Community Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to CBN at www.cbn.com. Online condolences may be made at bennettbardenfh.com.

NELSON BISHOP Nelson Paige Bishop, 71, of Middlesex, formerly of Powhatan, was met in heaven by his parents, Nelson S. and Doris Taylor Bishop, on Thursday, October 22, 2020. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Virginia Price Bishop; son, Russell M. Bishop (Carolyn) of Powhatan; sister, Dr. Nancy B. Newton (David) of Alabama. Paige was a retired Captain with the Henrico County Fire Dept. and a Chief Bailiff with Middle-

sex County. A graveside service was held Wednesday, October 28 at 1 p.m. in the Powhatan Community Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to BISHOP an animal shelter of your choice, as Paige truly loved his fur friends. Online condolences may be made at bennettbardenfh.com.

LEANDER SCOTT SR. Mr. Leander O'Neal Scott Sr., peacefully passed from this life on Monday, October 26, 2020, meeting his Lord and Savior. He was reunited with his bride of 71 years, Eva; his son, Tom; his grandson, Cameron; and his parents, Price and Lela. He was 95.5 years old. Leander was a businessman, SCOTT pulp wood dealer, farmer and self-educated historian. He was a true entrepreneur who started multiple forestry-related businesses over the last seven decades, some of which are still in operation today. Leander loved "buying dirt" as he called it. His parents put a tract of land in his name to manage when he was a young teenager, fueling his lifelong drive for timberland acquisition and management. Active in his industry and community, Leander was a 70-year mem-

ber of the Amelia Masonic Lodge No. 101, Amelia VFW Post 8759, Virginia Forest Products Association and a lifetime member of Virginia Forestry Association. He was instrumental in the construction of the Amelia War Memorial Building and the founding of Amelia Educational Foundation and continued support throughout his life and beyond. Leander was born April 26, 1925, in the same room of the house in which he passed. An only child, Leander was greatly influenced by his industrious parents and his namesake grandfather. He often worked for his grandfather and watched as he conducted business. He tried to pattern his life after him. Both humble men had innovative spirits and minds that never stopped thinking, planning and moving forward. A World War II veteran, Leander left school early, telling his principal that the war was going to end and he had to go now. He was one of the Greatest Generation honoring God, country and liberty. He signed up with the Marine Corps, spending most of his time in the Pacific theatre. Leander was in the Marine 4th Division anti-aircraft battery on the atoll providing support for the battle of Peleliu Island. He was part of the first group of occupational forces entering Japan prior to their surrender and was able to be an actual eyewitness to the signing of the surrender by the Japanese in Tokyo Bay. Twenty-year-old Leander returned from the war to Amelia, his family and Eva, the girl he had asked to wait for him. He graduated from Smithdeal Massey Business School and attended the University of Richmond for a few semesters while court-

ing Eva, who was at the Medical College of Virginia. The two were married after their education was completed in 1948. Starting with a borrowed truck and saw, Leander began cutting pulpwood on land he bought from money saved while serving in the Marines. His varied business ventures and land acquisitions grew from there; even on the day of his passing Leander was still conducting business. Leander was disciplined, both in his business life and more so his personal one. He always saw his cup half full, never empty. While some saw problems and obstacles; he saw opportunities. A man of great faith, Leander Scott felt truly blessed for each day the Lord gave him. He was a thankful man; and his gratitude steeled his determination to use every physical and mental asset the Lord had blessed him with until his dying day. And this he did. Leander leaves much family behind that will miss him every day; his children, Jo Anne Webb (Jim), Rebecca Bogese (Jimmy), Lanny (Tammy), William (Stacy). His surviving grandchildren are Michael, Alex, Stirling, Trey, Tom, Tiffany, Lee and Clay; and there are also five great-grandchildren. We ask for your prayers. Visitation and service will be at the Amelia Academy gymnasium, 8741 N. Five Forks Road, Amelia, Va. Visitation is Friday, November 6, from 6 to 8 p.m. Funeral, 12 noon Saturday, November 7, with graveside at Amelia Presbyterian Church. Lunch to follow graveside at Amelia Academy. In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to Amelia Academy, 8741 N. Five Forks Road, Amelia, VA 23002.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR Wednesday, Nov. 4

Feeding Powhatan is a nonprofit food pantry that exists to feed people who are struggling financially in the Powhatan community. The pantry will be open from 5 to 7 p.m. on the following dates through the end of 2020: Nov. 4 and 18 and Dec. 2 and 16. The food pantry is located at 2408 New Dorset Circle (next to Community Life Church). Visit us on Facebook at Feeding Powhatan or call 804-3036431. Register at https://forms.gle/ QhweP5RgCTP4ryZz6. Powhatan County Public Library has reopened to the public, but due to COVID-19-related safety measures, it will be open for limited hours and occupancy, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday to Thursday and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays. For now, the library is closed on Fridays. Books to Go and Curbside Print services will also continue to be available; however, once the building reopens, the pickup stations will move to the library atrium. Library staff will continue to be available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Thursday and on Saturday to provide service and support to patrons. Library programs will remain online at this time. Face coverings

a table at the main entrance of the library. When patrons are notified that their items are available for pick-up, the order must be picked up by 4 p.m. that day. Due to limited stock, items not picked up will be placed back into circulation and patrons may place another hold for pickup. Limit of 10 holds per cardholder per day and 50 items checked out total per card. Library WiFi and e-branch resources are available 24/7. Ccontact Powhatan County Public Library at 804-598-5670 or library@powhatanlibrary.net.

are required inside the library. While Powhatan County remains under a local state of emergency, the library restrooms will remain closed. The library meeting rooms are also unavailable until further notice. Contact the library at 804-598-5670 or library@ powhatanlibrary.net.

Powhatan County Public Library is still offering Books to Go. Patrons may reserve print materials, DVDs, and audiobooks online or by phone. This provides a contactless pick-up option for those who prefer to obtain library materials in traditional formats while the building is closed to the public due to COVID-19. To take advantage of this service, patrons have two options: place items on hold online through the catalog at www. powhatanlibrary.net or call the library at 804-598-5670 to request items. Online hold placement is available 24/7. Phone service is available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Thursday and on Saturdays. Holds placed after 4 p.m. (online or via phone) will be available on the next business day. Staff will contact patrons by phone when items are available for pick up. Items will be packaged in a new paper bag labeled with the patron’s last name. The bag will be placed on

C R I M E R E P O RT Arrests • One male was charged on Oct. 22 with driving a motor vehicle while intoxicated (Misdemeanor) and speeding in 55/65 mph zone. • One male was charged on Oct. 23 with driving a motor vehicle while intoxicated (M), possession of marijuana (Civil), and failure to stop/yield. • One male was charged on Oct. 24 with driving a motor vehicle while intoxicated (Felony), DWI, refusal of test, 1st offense (M), driving with a suspended or revoked license, and reckless driving – excessive speed (M).

Powhatan chapter meets virtually from 8 to 9:30 a.m. every Wednesday. Visit Www.BNIVA.com for information. To attend a meeting as a guest contact Chapter President Sandy Duncan at sandy6284@msn.com.

Powhatan County Public Library is now offering Curbside Print. Patrons may submit one printing/copying request per day for up to 10 pages of black and white printing at no charge. Requests may be submitted via email to print@powhatanlibrary.net. Staff will notify the patron via email when the print request is ready for pickup on the table in the library atrium. Powhatan County Public Library will hold Facebook Storytime at 10:30 a.m. on the library’s Facebook page, www. facebook.com/pg/powhatanlibrary Tuesday and Wednesday mornings through the end of October. Business Network International (BNI)

VIRTUAL Continued from pg. 1

to support them comes from instructional specialists, school-based administrators, instructional technology resource teachers, and counselors following up to check on attendance for those kids. Powhatan High School students are assigned a virtual coach, who is generally one of their classroom teachers and is meant to help them troubleshoot and navigate any

The Free Clinic of Powhatan has resumed in-person appointments. Located at 3908 Old Buckingham Road, the clinic offers free health services for uninsured and low income residents of Powhatan, Cumberland and Amelia counties. Services include medical, dental, dietary, counseling, women’s health. Call 804-598-5637 to schedule or request more information. Patient visits are by appointment only. Registration for new patients is 4 to 7:30 p.m. Mondays. Lab services are provided from 9 a.m. to noon Thursdays. Patient appointments are 4 to 8:30 p.m. Mondays and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursdays. Administration hours are from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday. The Powhatan Lion’s Club will meet at 6 p.m. at the County Seat Restaurant. Contact Mike Jones at 804-794-1440 for more information.

At about 2 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 28, the Powhatan County Sheriff’s Office arrested Robert Wesley Brizendine, 54, of Powhatan on two counts of soliciting a child under the age of 15 for sexual purposes and four counts of using a communication system to expose his genitals to a child under the age of 15, according to a release from Chief Deputy Jeff Searfoss. Brizendine allegedly traveled from his home in Powhatan to another location in Powhatan expecting to meet a 14-year-old child but was instead met by Powhatan deputies. Brizendine is being held in the Piedmont Regional Jail with no bond. The sheriff’s office is requesting that if anyone has any information in reference to Robert Wesley Brizendine, they contact Detective Austin Schwartz at 804-598-5656.

Local woman sentenced in 2019 torture, killing of puppy A Powhatan County woman was recently sentenced to two years in prison for the torture and killing of a 10-monthold puppy in late 2019. On Oct. 22, Yasmine Burton, 21, was sentence by Judge Paul Cella to five years with three years suspended for killing Chappo, a pit pull puppy, on Nov. 22, 2019, said

The Powhatan Food Pantry is open from 10 a.m. to noon on Thursdays, Saturdays and Tuesdays and 5 to 7 p.m. on Thursdays at 2500 Batterson Road. Contact the pantry at 804372-9526 or powhatanvafoodpantry@ gmail.com.

The Huguenot Beekeepers Association is a group of experienced and beginner beekeepers that are dedicated to promoting beekeeping in our communities and supporting each other in our beekeeping activities. The group meets from 7 to 9 p.m. in the auditorium of the Powhatan Village Building, 3910 Old Buckingham Road, Powhatan. Visit https:// huguenotbeekeepers.org.

The original Powhatan AA meets from 8 to 9 p.m. every Thursday in the Powhatan Village Building.

The Powhatan Rotary Club meets at 7:30 a.m. every Thursday at the County Seat Restaurant.

Awaken to Hope Al-Anon meets at 7:30 p.m. every Thursday at St. John Neumann Catholic Church.

Saturday, Nov. 7

Thursday, Nov. 5

needs they have while they are working in the virtual world, she said. Some virtual students come in on Wednesdays to meet with teachers to work through some direct instruction to assist them with their learning when they are independent, Thomas said. The school division continues to listen to the teachers about what their challenges are and tries to support them every way possible, but they are aware it is a challenge, Omohundro noted.

CRIME BRIEFS Powhatan man arrested, charged for child sex crimes

Rob Cerullo, deputy commonwealth’s attorney. At the time of her arrest, Burton advised authorities that she hung the animal from a tree with an extension cord because she has angry at her boyfriend for abusing her, Cerullo said. The animal was found by authorities deceased at the defendant’s property. An orange extension cord was seized along with the animal’s body. A necropsy revealed the animal had “bite marks on the tongue and peri-tracheal hemorrhaging consistent [with strangulation],” he said. Burton’s sentencing came after entering a no contest plea on July 6, 2020, and requesting a background investigation before sentencing. Cerullo argued that the defendant’s action showed an incredible amount of malice and cruelty and asked that she be sentenced to three years out of a maximum sentence of five years. In addressing the court, Cerullo said a tearful and visibly upset Burton advised the court that she was sorry and that she “prays for forgiveness every day.” Burton also blamed her actions on a drug problem, saying, “I thought things were happening that were not” and that she understood that “I need to be punished but I also need help.” In sentencing the defendant to two years’ incarceration, Cella indicated that she did not seem like a particularly mean person and noted her lack of record, Cerullo said. However, he also advised that Chappo suffered and died for no reason. The judge ordered that after her release, Burton is to be on probation and ordered that she have no contact with any companion animals.

see CALENDAR pg. 3

Fire destroys Courtois Signs workshop

PHOTO BY LAURA MCFARLAND

Powhatan firefighters put out a workshop fire at Courtois Signs on Oct. 28.

POWHATAN – A Powhatan sign company that has been in business 46 years took a major hit last week when its workshop was destroyed by fire. At about 1:03 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 28, Powhatan Fire and Rescue was called to the scene of a workshop on fire in the 2300 block of Batterson Road.The building was part of Courtois Signs, Graphics, Screen Printing and Embroidery, which is owned by Mike and Carol Courtois, who were in the house next door when they were alerted to the fire and were not injured. By the time first responders arrived at the scene, the workshop was fully engulfed and could not be saved, said Don Houtsma, EMS coordinator. However, firefighters were able to keep the fire from spreading to the house, which suffered damage when the heat from the fire melted some of the siding.

Mike Courtois said he and his wife started their business 46 years ago in New York state and moved it to Powhatan in 1988. They have lived at their current location since 1990. While the first floor of their house is used for many parts of the business, the garage/workshop was also an important part of operations, including making signs and doing sign work on cars, he said. While he has to go through the insurance process, Courtois said they will be looking to rebuild because the workshop is an essential part of the business and their livelihood. The cause of the fire is still undetermined. The Powhatan Fire and Rescue units that responded to the fire were Engines 702, 701 and 705; Tankers 702, 704, 701, and 705; Truck 701; Rescue 702; Medic 741; Chief 702, and EMS 709. The last unit cleared the scene at 4:22 p.m.

Powhatan Today, November 4, 2020

Page 3A

Teachers share their experiences educating students virtually

arla Crump struggled with her decision to apply to be assigned to an all-virtual classroom because she is a Type 1 diabetic on an insulin pump. She wanted to be in the classroom with her students, but realized it wasn’t viable after talking to her doctors. Fortunately, she received full support from the school division. “There had been so much discussion and excitement about having students back in the building that to hear someone appreciated and recognized the value of remote instruction was huge for me,” Crump said. Crump said she would still love to be in her classroom, but unless things change significantly, she will request to stay on the current pathway. “My brother-in-law died in September from COVID. It has been devastating for my sister, but has reaffirmed for me that I am exactly where I am supposed to be,” she said. To help build a rapport with her students, Crump filmed an introduction video where she opened her front door as if welcoming them into her home, where she teaches class now, and sat down on the couch and chatted with them. “That was the first step, and then, yes, before

Carla Crump, third grade teacher at Powhatan Elementary School

school began I visited the home of every child I teach. I think there were only two or three out of 26 that were not home,” she said. She delivered a bag filled with dry erase boards, highlighters, and other school supplies, as well as Play-Doh and other fun items. Crump said she cultivates relationships by doing a Lunch Bunch where the children can eat lunch with her, and, every morning, she opens her virtual classroom 15 minutes before school starts so that they can chat and spend time together. “We’ve done several show-n-tells, which for a virtual student is super cool! How often can you take your bearded dragon, your ferret or gerbil, dog or cat to school,” she said.

She also makes personalized birthday yard signs that she delivers to their homes and has mailed a personal note to each child. “I think in some ways I might know and understand my students a little better because I get to go into their homes – into their family rooms, their kitchens and their bedrooms. At times, I’ve even been in a bathroom or two when a child has tried to find a quiet place to learn,” she said. Crump’s class of 26 students can be a challenge and a smaller class size or more support personnel would be a bonus, she said. But she has an amazing group that has gotten the hang of working together. She does small groups in the afternoon, which helps her monitor progress, and

meets with individual students when needed. Dry erase boards are an amazing tool for a quick assessment, she added. “I can tell in 15 seconds who understands how to round a number or has mastered this week’s spelling pattern. Even better, because they are all on my screen at the same time with student names, I can take a quick picture and go back later to make sure I didn’t miss someone,” she said. Internet connection was definitely an issue when school first began, but Crump feels like her class has overall gotten a handle on it. There are still glitches occasionally, but they know the routine and have learned to be flexible and give a great deal of grace. Getting creative about lessons that can engage her students wherever they are is another challenge she faces regularly. Crump has had students work on art journals; use YES or NO flip signs made out of index cards and jumbo popsicle sticks for answering questions or playing games; go outside and cloud watch as part of unit on the water cycle in science, or do scavenger hunts for items that support a concept. Maintaining control in a virtual classroom environment has been something Crump has learned to navigate. She was initially hesitant to speak to the parents of children not

doing what they were asked to do, but said she got over that because “it wasn’t fair to that student, the other students, or even to me.” Crump believes her students need to begin to take responsibility for their assignments and encourages parents to wait before they intervene so the children learn self-discipline. Fortunately, when she has needed to contact parents, “they have been super responsive.” Crump sends weekly email updates and calendar reminders and posts detailed lesson plans before each week begins. She receives phone calls, emails, Schoology messages, Seesaw messages, texts and even Facebook

37154-01

Carla Crump

messages. “There is not a lack of contact, but I’m trying to do a better job of establishing boundaries,” she said. Crump was forthright and admitted that the first few weeks of school were extremely difficult. “I cried. A lot,” she said. “Fortunately, there haven’t been tears in quite some time! We are in the groove and my kids are truly learning and growing! There is not a doubt in my mind that the quality of instruction they are receiving exceeds expectations for virtual learning with the added bonus that students get to have lunch with their families each day and ride their bikes for recess.”

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teach today’s generation, and these skills are best practiced face to face,” he said.

Bob Benway

hen the school division surveyed teachers this summer about their preferences on teaching hybrid or virtual, Powhatan High School teacher Bob Benway said he wanted to go hybrid. He feels that students learn best when they trust and have a positive relationship with their teacher, which happens best when they are face to face. While his AP Physics students are all on the hybrid pathway, he does have some all virtual students in his Engineering 1 and 2 classes. To help get to know those students, he posted a video talking about his teaching style, things he likes and doesn’t like students to do, and his passions – family and helping students achieve their goals. In turn, the students’ first assignment was to create a video of similar content about themselves to share with the class. When virtual students need additional support, he can meet with them after school on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and most Wednesdays, but he acknowledges that he still has not been able to get to know the virtual students as well as his hybrid students. “The exception is my virtual students that were my students last year. In a few cases, I have been able to give the motivation to complete their work in my class and some of their other classes as well,” he said. Benway said he has enjoyed the smaller class size of his hybrid/virtual classes

and that classroom management has not been an issue this year. While the smaller groups have worked to the advantage of creating better working relationships with hybrid students and drawing out shy students, he has to work hard to pull questions out of his virtual students. “However, I can quickly tell if my students are grasping the information by using real time formative questions that they can respond to anonymously,” he said. The virtual students “attend” class via Google Meet at the same time as Benway’s hybrid students, “which hopefully makes them feel part of the community.” He is using engineering learning software that provides engineering challenges (gliders, CO2 powered cars) and allows students to virtually design and test their unique creation. The software allows the students to compete against each other virtually in real time. “This allows the virtual students to challenge their hybrid peers to see who has the best design in the class. I had two virtual students place in the top 3 in my classes,” he said. to 11 a.m. at the church, 2253 Rosson Road, Powhatan. Join us for food and fellowship. Families welcome. Children’s activities provided.

Continued from pg. 2

Powhatan United Methodist Church will hold a Free Community Breakfast from 9

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Benway said he is pleased with the interaction that is taking place with some of his students during the virtual engineering challenges. He wishes he could use the engineering challenges that he used in the past where students worked in teams of two to four, because the challenges made them practice their communication and collaboration skills. In addition, these team challenges were great for the students to appreciate the value of using teamwork to solve problems. In the past some students saw home as a place where they could escape the pressures of school. That has carried over to virtual learning with some students, he said. The best way to overcome this challenge is good communication with the student and parents, who can be excellent motivators. Benway said he is truly amazed at the technology that teachers have at their disposal today, and he can’t imagine what learning would be like if this happened 10 years ago. “That being said, I think communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity skills are the most important skills we can Powhatan depends on volunteers and donors. Habitat is blessed with the community’s helpful, kind and generous participation. The see CALENDAR, pg. 7

Supporting our Christmas Mother with a

Christmas Open House 11/7 • 10am-6pm Raffle Desk/Chair (Retail $550): $5/ticket proceeds to Powhatan Christmas Mother $150 Gift Basket Raffle * 1 chance for each donation of adult socks or gloves for the Stockings for Seniors program

Powhatan Today, November 4, 2020

Page 4A

Mary Brown

owhatan Elementary fourth-grade teacher Mary Brown asked to be assigned to full virtual to avoid risk of exposure to her mother and mother-in-law, who are both in the age range of adults at risk and have underlying health concerns. She and her husband also decided to keep their 4-year-old from going to preschool to avoid the risk. She knew the virtual route would bring challenges, but, for her, they paled in comparison to potential exposure and/or risk to their loved ones. The hardest challenge for Brown is connecting and forming relationships with her students virtually. In March, every teacher mourned all that was lost when school suddenly closed, but their relationships with students were already formed, so it was easier to maintain that closeness via online assignments, phone calls, and even some FaceTime/Zoom with families, she said. This year, virtual teachers, were well aware of that challenge and worked hard to plan activities that would help foster relationships.

Brown, one of four fourth grade virtual teachers in the division, teaches language arts (writing). When the fourth grade virtual team began to plan in August, they were persistent in planning activities that provided opportunities to know their students and to allow for interaction. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We also gave ourselves three weeks to get to know one another. We knew that if students didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t feel seen or heard then we would not be as successful in making gains academically,â&#x20AC;? Brown said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We, as a fourth grade team, did not meet any of our students prior to the start of the school year because we followed CDC guidelines and it was important to respect the families who chose virtual for their own personal reasons.â&#x20AC;? The teachers are developing connections with students, but they are seeing stronger connections with students who are regularly participating, she said. Brown has started adding incentives to encourage participation. For example, if a student participates daily, turns in all assignments, and follows Google Meet etiquette, she offers a show and tell on Fridays. This nine weeks there will be an added incentive

VOTER

The Office of Elections as employees and election has been burning the can- officials held 45 days of Continued from pg. 1 dle at both ends for weeks early voting, and those numbers climbed even higher last week, said Karen Alexander, director of elections. She started noticing a decided increase in voting numbers after Columbus Day, and they became even more I am so excited to be noticeable after Tuesday, chosen for my profile to Oct. 27. be published as pet of the As of the end of the fiweek. First let me introduce nal day of in-person early myself my name is Rocco and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s believed that I am voting on Oct. 31, 7,761 a American Bulldog mix of Powhatanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 23,159 regaround 2 years old. Not to istered voters had cast a brag on myself, but I have ballot in the drive-through the most gorgeous blue early voting line, Alexaneyes, and the softest coat. der said. When combined I get along well with other dogs, and I have visited the with the 2,217 mail-in Rocco cat room, and showed no ballots the office has reinterest in the cats. However I would still need to be ceived, 43 percent of regintroduced slowly to my new fur siblings, and I do get istered Powhatan voters overly excited, and can be a little to hyper, So I would cast their ballots before need someone willing to be patient and work with me as I learn. I am already neutered, and up to date on my Election Day. shots, and really looking forward to a home of my own. Overall, the entire earSo call my peeps at 804-598-5672 and they will be happy ly voting process went to assist you in scheduling a meet and greet. pretty well for such an If you would like to help the animals ambitious new undertakin our care, you can do so by donating to our ing, Alexander said. medical fund at Claws and Paws, â&#x20AC;&#x153;It was exorbitantly 4313 Anderson Hwy., Powhatan, VA 23139 harder than I ever expectPowhatan Sheriffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Office | Division Of Animal Control ed it to be and exhausting Phone: 804-598-5672 | Fax: 804-598-5109 to a level I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t describe. I believe more voters were excited about the process than those who thought it

such as Lunch Bunch (eating lunch together while NOT on mute), which will allow them all time to socialize. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This additional time together will allow students to share stories and have a more realistic classroom experience as a class. We are all super excited about this,â&#x20AC;? she said. Most children by nature are social beings â&#x20AC;&#x201C; their stories are endless, their words are endless, and their ability to communicate knows no bound, Brown said. Addressing this in the virtual forum is tricky because they canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t talk over one another or others canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t hear. Students have gotten much better at waiting their turn and at staying muted until given permission. Building in times to socialize with one another is crucial because they do need peer socialization. Although not impossible, allowing students to work together on academics is difficult and takes creativity, she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;One way that students interact a great deal in my class is by walking one another through an assignment or technology problem. I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t always see a site or assignment the way that they do so itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not could have been done better. â&#x20AC;Ś But overall, considering we had never done this before and were dealing with a pandemic, I think it went extremely well,â&#x20AC;? she said. Alexander praised her staff and election officials, who have been slammed with work, sometimes under very difficult circumstances. When the polls opened for business on Thursday, Oct. 29, the line of vehicles was wrapped from the early voting tent, down Tilman Road, all the way down Skaggs Road and hitting Old Buckingham Road even before the polls opened at 9 a.m., Alexander said. Some voters told her they had been there waiting in line since 4 a.m. Heavy rains forced them to temporarily move the voting machine inside, which slowed down the process. She appreciated voters for their patience and dedication and election officials who were working in the cold and wet. Meanwhile, work began on Friday, Oct. 30 to

uncommon for a student to ask if they can â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;share the screenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; to help walk another student through something that seems tricky. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s so encouraging to me because they are learning something far greater than academics,â&#x20AC;? she said. Class size remains a struggle for many virtual teachers. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hard to get to everyone, assess them academically, and to monitor progress, but they are finding new ways daily, Brown said. She has finally found an organized system on the virtual platform to interact with students to answer their questions and to ask questions that allow her to gain insight into where they may need more clarification. As a virtual teacher, Brown battles technology issues daily, but she said she has become a fantastic problem solver when it comes to finding different pathways for students to access the curriculum. Teachers and students have also learned to practice patience, understanding, and grace. Technology isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t flawless even when in the classroom setting, she added. Encouraging movement tends to lead to more positive reactions and student partici-

start opening, verifying and counting the 2,072 mail-in ballots that had been received at that point, she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;To put that in perspective, the last presidential election in its entirety, we only had 700 mail-in absentees,â&#x20AC;? Alexander said Wednesday. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are going to have three times what we did in 2016, and there is no way we can complete the process with just three CAP officials on Election Night with that many ballots. It is going to take several days of running them through the machine.â&#x20AC;? The office has already been partially checking the mail-in ballots to make sure everything is correct, said Jamie Swemba, deputy registrar. Prior to Friday, the ballots were sealed inside an envelope that had to be returned inside another envelope. Election officials have been opening the outer envelopes as they were received to make sure they have all the correct information and calling voters in to make corrections if necessary.

CHURCH DIRECTORY St. Lukeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Episcopal Church

SUNDAYS Live Stream Worship!

www.stlukespowhatan.org All are Welcome For more information visit www.stlukespowhatan.org Route 711 at Three Bridge Road 794-6953

The Bridge

Genito Church Presbyterian â&#x20AC;&#x153;Building a Bridge of Hopeâ&#x20AC;? Isaiah 58:12 Church 2910 Genito Rd. Powhatan, VA

372-9074 Worship with us this Sunday Church service @ 9:30 AM Sunday school @ 10:30 AM

Sundays: Morning Worship 10:00 AM Wednesday: Family Life Night 7:00 PM 2480 Academy Road 598-7159 Pastor: Johnathan M. Whichard

Providence Presbyterian Church

EVERGREEN COMMUNITY CHURCH (PCA) Proclaiming & Practicing the Gospel of Jesus Christ Indoor Worship Service at 10:00 AM Meeting at the Powhatan War Memorial Building at 2375 Skaggs Rd, Powhatan, VA 23139

ECCPCA.ORG

598-8844

Rev. Robert Barnes

Meeting in the gym

! " # $

Meeting Sundays in Amelia, Farmville, Fork Union, Midlothian, Powhatan and Online. Visit pccwired.net for services times & locations. 598-1174 pccwired.net

598-4970

Powhatan United Methodist Church Living As Christâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Disciples Within Our Hearts and Beyond Our Doors 2253 Rosson Rd.

Just off Rt. 13 in the Village

598-4438

Worship: 8:30 & 11 a.m. Sunday School: 9:45 a.m.

www.powhatanumc.us Weekday Preschool (ages 2-5)

598-6090

Mount Calvary Baptist Church 2020 Red Lane Road

Powhatan, VA 23139 1801 Huguenot Trail Sunday School 9am Pastor, Larry B. Collins Sunday Worship 10am Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Wednesday Bible Study 6:45pm Sunday Worship 11:00 a.m. Wednesday Bible Study Bryan M. Holt, Pastor 7:30 p.m. 378-3607 www.EmmausChristianChurch.org Office 804-598-2398

Community Church Dr. Cavell W. Phillips, Pastor Where there is Unity, there is always Victory. A church â&#x20AC;&#x153;Where you are welcomeâ&#x20AC;? Wednesday: Bible Study Join Us For Sunday Worship 6:30 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 7:30pm ( 60 Minute 11:00AM â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 12:30PM Warm Up To Sunday ) Powhatan Village Building 3910 Old Buckingham Road ucc4me.org Powhatan, VA 804-256-4411

â&#x20AC;&#x153;They were all minor things, but they have to be fixed,â&#x20AC;? she said. After checking to make sure all the information on the envelope was correct, election officials took the ballots out and put them in a ballot box for the correct precinct. All of the ballots for each precinct were run through together. They were also counted at several points during the process to make sure the number was correct. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We just want to make sure everybodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vote is counted. We donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want anybody to get left out. By the same token, we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want more ballots than we should have,â&#x20AC;? she said. Alexander pointed out that the results reported for Powhatanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s numbers this week will be considered unofficial until Friday, Nov. 6, when the final canvas of the electoral board is complete. If someone mailed in an absentee ballot, as long as it was postmarked by Election Day, her office will count it if it is received by noon on Nov. 6.

Advertise in Church Directory.

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

see BROWN, pg. 8

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 Saturday - 5 p.m. Sunday - 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. 598-3754 www.sjnpowhatan.org Located behind Flat Rock Village Shopping Center

Call 804-746-1235 ext. 2 for details.

Powhatan Today, November 4, 2020 experiences relate to our curriculum (earth science) and have learned a lot about our students. Additionally, having taught in the county for more than 10 years, I have a couple of virtual students who I have Jimmy Roberts, earth science and physical science taught their older teacher at Powhatan Middle School siblings, so I feel this works to my adare the foundation for evJimmy Roberts erything for the year, Rob- vantage.” Roberts is able to meet hen he was erts said. It is important for with his virtual students his students to know he is asked twice a week, which about his there to support them equates to two hours and throughout their learning preferred 20 minutes. By compariteaching pathway this experience, and he ac- son, he sees hybrid stuyear, Powhatan Middle knowledged it has been a dents for only 90 minutes School earth science and challenge to form those each week, meaning he physical science teacher relationships. Roberts actually teach- actually “sees” his virtual Jimmy Roberts responded students more frequently. he could do either hybrid es his virtual class collab“Even though I am able or virtual, whichever was oratively with a colleague, to interact with my virtual needed more. But while he Dawn Monson. The two students more each week, felt comfortable going teachers cater to their the relationships I am decompletely virtual, his strengths and keep the mo- veloping are lacking by heart was to be in the mentum of the virtual comparison. In order to classroom. This semester, class rolling, he said. “While one of us is in- combat this issue, my colRoberts is teaching four league and I make it a hybrid courses and one structing, the other is tend- point to give plenty of opvirtual class and said he is ing to the Google Meet portunities for students to 100 percent pleased with Chat and vice versa,” he participate in class discussaid. “We strongly encourthe placement. sion. We consistently pull The relationships he age student participation by asking how personal see ROBERTS, pg. 7 develops with his students

PUMPKINS Continued from pg. 1

representing The Very Hungry Caterpillar, ice cream cones, UFOs, Minions, spiders, Disney characters, Charlie Brown, Pokémon characters, birds, unicorns, and much more. This year’s winners were: first place, Virginia Housing (Star Wars); second place, Kenmore Envelope (Jurassic Park); third place, DPR Construction (spiders attack building); fourth place, Paycor USI Insurance Services (ice cream cone), and fifth place, First Choice Quality services (Macho Man). “Everybody has really done an amazing job,” Massengill said. Of course, some adjustments had to be made this year. The contest moved outside of the club house and people there to drop off or stay and watch the judging were asked to social distance. The other hospitals and senior living facilities that usually display some of the pumpkins had to go through

SECOND ANTIOCH BAPTIST CHURCH

special approval processes because of new guidelines. Leading up to the event, Massengill said she had about 15 to 20 companies who usually participate drop out. Some had too many restrictions in place because of COVID-19 to make it feasible, and some had many of their employees teleworking. However, new volunteer Aimee West of Powhatan helped Massengill reach out to a bunch of new companies who made up the difference and provided some great entries, she said. Blake Rogers, who works for Colony Construction Inc. in Powhatan, designed and built an entry for his company, which entered for the first time after West reached out. He happily spent about 50 hours building a wooden truck with small pumpkins for wheels hauling a larger pumpkin in the back. “It is very exciting to get the community involved, whether you are a construction company or an individual, to raise awareness that

Brenda Bell

renda Bell knew she could be teaching virtual or hybrid this year, so she wasn’t surprised when she was assigned her class schedule at the beginning of the semester and saw both. Bell is a seventh grade life science teacher at Powhatan Middle School with one virtual class as her first class of the day. On the block schedule, first period meets every day, so she has her virtual class every day. Bell starts her class 10 to 15 minutes early so she and her students can talk. She asks them about their day, their weekend, or if they want to share anything. Other days they might talk about pets, birthdays, or topics they are interested in discussing. In a group discussion, Bell asked her students about the positive and negative aspects of virtual learning. Most of the positives were about not getting up early to get dressed and come to school. All of the negatives were about missing their friends and being social. “It is the format of using virtual. They are 12. You are sitting in a room and you have another person someplace else in another room. You are looking at little icons. How do you interact with each other on a personal level? How do you build that connection between kids when the kids can only see each other’s icons,” she said. Despite her efforts to get to know them better, because she has never met most of them in person, Bell, who has been teach-

Holly Hills Baptist Church

5680 Cartersville Road Powhatan, Virginia 23139

(Independent Bible Believing)

Pastor Gregory L. Beechaum Sr. “The church where Jesus is Alive”

www.HollyHillsBaptist.org

Randy Blackwell, Pastor Sunday School - 10:00 a.m. Sunday Morning Worship - 11:00 a.m. Youth Ministry 6:00 p.m. Adult Bible Study 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Prayer Meeting 7:30 PM

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

9:00 a.m. ---- Sunday School 9:45 a.m.----- Prayer & Praise 10:00 a.m.--- Sunday Morning Worship 5th Sunday at 11 a.m. Hour of Power 7:30 p.m. ---- Tuesday Night Worship & Bible Study

Baptist Church “A Church Where Love Never Fails!” Pastor Otis B. Lockhart, Jr.

MOUNT ZION

Muddy Creek BAPTIST CHURCH Baptist Church

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 Pastor Jeff Beard, MA, MBA 3470 Trenholm Road www.muddycreekbaptist.org

375-9212

Advertise in Powhatan Today’s Church Directory. Call 804-746-1235 ext. 2 for details.

804-375-9404

Hollywood

Rev. Bryan Stevens, Pastor

Graceland Baptist Church

Contemporary – 8:30 a.m. Sunday School – 9:45 a.m. Worship – 11 a.m. Children’s Worship – 11 a.m. Prayer/Bible Study – Wed. 6:30 p.m. 2095 Red Lane Road Children’s Worship (all ages) – 1/2 mile off Rt. 60 on Red Lane Road Wed. 6:30 p.m. 804-598-2455 New Generation Praise & Worship – www.redlanebaptist.org Sunday 6 p.m. Worship Service 9:00 a.m. Lighthouse Youth – Wed. 5:30 p.m. Small Groups 10:30 a.m. Miracles of God Sp. Needs Service: 2 p.m. the 2nd Sat. of each month Wednesday Night Classes for all ages at 6:15 598-3481 • 975 Dorset Road Dr. James Taylor, Pastor www.gracelandbc.org

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

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

see BELL, pg. 8

Dr. Ronald Wyatt, Jr., Pastor

Praise and Worship Service

Sunday School: 10:00-10:45 a.m. Worship Service: 11:00 a.m. 4731 Bell Road, Powhatan, VA 23139 804-598-5491

ing 28 years, believes she hasn’t been able to build the rapport with her students that she would like to have. “Relationships here are certainly different than if I did face-to-face. First of all, they don’t have to use their cameras, so all I see are icons for the kids. One kid will be a horse or another kid will be Shrek. Some of the kids I have never even seen their faces,” she said. “I develop relationships by talking to them, joking around with them, sharing my pets, sharing something that happened positive that week.” One of the topics that really engages her students is the animals Bell has in her classroom, such as a guinea pig named Ash or a leopard gecko named Sonny. She will use her camera to get close-ups of the animals,

CHURCH DIRECTORY

Reverend Mark A. Divens, Sr. Pastor

“God uses ordinary people to do extraordinary things. We walk by faith and not by sight” – Pastor Darnell Carruthers

Brenda Bell, seventh grade life science teacher at Powhatan Middle School

children are there and they do have needs,” Rogers said, adding whether he won or not, he was glad to help the children. Another first-timer, George Brauburger of Powhatan, spent about three days working on a pumpkin unicorn with his wife and daughter to submit for Work Versatile Merchant Solutions, a financial consulting business. “I thought it was super cool. Anything you can do to bring children some Halloween joy is obviously a positive thing. And to see all of these businesses come out, this is incredible,” he said. While Pumpkins for Kids was always intended to be a fun decoPHOTOS BY LAURA MCFARLAND rating contest that brought smiles The Pumpkins to children’s faces, Massengill apfor Kids Project preciates that it also developed held on Oct. 28 at into a fundraiser for the foundation Independence Golf along the way. This year the event Club brought out the raised more than $4,000 for the creativity in busiChildren’s Hospital Foundation. nesses competing to Laura McFarland may be have their pumpkins reached at Lmcfarland@powdisplayed at the Children’s Hospital of Richmond. hatantoday.com.

1059 Dorset Road Powhatan, VA 23139

GREENBRIER BAPTIST CHURCH

Page 5A

OLD POWHATAN BAPTIST CHURCH 3619 Huguenot Trail Powhatan, Virginia 23139 www.finecreekbaptist.org Sunday School: 9:45 a.m. Worship Service: 11:00 a.m. Traditional Rev. David A. Simpson, Pastor

2202 Old Church Road www.powhatanbaptist.org

“Your Community Church”

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

Sundays 10:00 AM Wednesday 6:30 PM Experiencing the presence, power and person of Jesus Christ

Loving, Investing, Fulfilling, Empowering Senior Pastor Justin Wilson Sunday Service 10:30am 2410 New Dorset Circle www.Communitylifechurchpowhatan.org Feeding Powhatan Open 3rd Wednesday of the month

FIRST ANTIOCH BAPTIST CHURCH

Sunday 10am, 11am & 6pm Wednesday 7pm

3920 MAIDENS RD., POWHATAN

804-598-2301

Evening Bible Study 7:00 p.m.

Worship on the Lawn Service Times 8:30AM and 10:15AM OPBCKids during 10:15AM service

Family Worship Center 2901 Judes Ferry Road Powhatan, Va 23139 804-379-8223

Sunday School 10:00 a.m. Sunday Morning Service 11:00 a.m. Wednesday Mid Day Bible Study 11:30 a.m.

Brad Russell, Pastor 598-4241

Travis L. Keith- Pastor Church Office: 794.7054 1530 Cook Road (Rt. 636)

www.glbcpva.org

Just Across from South Creek Shopping Center!

Page 6A

Powhatan Today, November 4, 2020

Cumberland County Hybrid students head back to in-person classes By Laura McFarland Editor

UMBERLAND – Cumberland County Public Schools recently took a big step forward in its phased-in return to in-person learning. On Monday, Oct. 19, the school division welcomed its first group of students back into the schools for in-person instruction, said Dr. Chip Jones, superintendent. The hybrid model the schools are using had students in Group A kick off the return to in-person learning with four days of classes. On Oct. 26, Group B students took their turn with a four-day week. The school division was looking for a model that gave the students consistency, and having them attend in-person classes for four straight days seemed like a good fit, Jones said. “I am very proud that we came up with a plan to open the schools. I am very proud of our families, because they have been very supportive. And I am very proud of our staff, because really they have transformed the way we deliver education,” he said. Week A has 469 students attending classes in person in grades pre-kindergarten through 12th grade, while Week B has 412 students, he said. Student placement was decided based on location. The division also still has 395 students whose families have chosen to stay on remote learning. The alternating in-person schedule will continue for hybrid students for the foreseeable

future, with Fridays being used on both weeks for deep cleaning, teacher planning, and teacher conferences, Jones said. Staff members put in a huge amount of work to make it possible to get to this point, Jones said. The division needed all of its safety protocols in place before re-opening the schools was possible. Rooms had to be set up for social distancing. Routines had to be set about daily cleaning of high-touch areas and weekly deep cleanings. Arrows were put on the floors to direct hallway traffic. Arrangements needed to be made to have lunches in the classrooms. Transportation logistics had to be worked out. The school division had to make sure students and their families were educated about wearing masks all day with built-in mask breaks, covering a cough, and not sending children to school if they have any COVID-19 symptoms, he said. The school is also doing temperature checks when all students enter the building. Much of the equipment and updates the school had to make were paid for using CARES Act funding, Jones said. Cumberland received $385,006 in the first round. In Round 2 and 3, the school division will receive $278,197 and $208,128, respectively. Jones praised the students for the good job they are doing adhering to the social distancing guidelines so far. The classes are ranging anywhere from nine to 12 students, which helps maintain the distance. He also praised the parents, teachers, and staff members for

remaining flexible in the face of some very difficult circumstances. They have done a good job learning how to balance all of the demands that have been put upon them, he said. Teachers especially have been really creative about coming up with ways to reach students. The biggest problem for the first nine weeks of school was making sure families either had the internet connection they needed to do work or get them other resources such as paper copies, Jones said. But despite many issues, they have done a great job of learning how to better use technology, he added. Going forward, the biggest challenge continues to be making sure the staff have the support they need to handle their diverse workload, he said. “We are making sure we find that balance for our staff where they don’t feel like they have to work 24 hours a day, seven days a week,” he said. Jones said it does his heart good to see children back in the school buildings. Of course, the ultimate goal would be to have all students back in school at the same time, but that will be a decision based on good health data, Jones said. “As long as there is a social

Cumberland Library offers services, events for patrons Contributed Report There have been some additional changes at the Cumberland County Public Library. Besides changing the hours to be open more each week for the convenience of library patrons, several safety measures have been put in place. Hand sanitizer stations are located at each entrance to the building with additional dispensers at the two doors leading to the meeting room (still currently closed). Aisle blockers have been installed throughout the library with signs that tell patrons to use hand sanitizer or ask for assistance in handling materials. For those individuals who either don’t want to come inside or can’t visit during the hours when the library is open, a set of digital access lockers have been installed on the front porch for use in picking up materials placed on hold. Returned materials continue to be collected in the dropbox at the back entrance to the library and curbside pickup is available as well. A new app called Beanstack® was activated on Oct. 30. Using a computer or a mobile device, patrons can keep track of their reading while earning badges and prizes by completing challenges set up by the library, including the 1000 Books Before Kindergarten program. There are some differences between the two platforms (computer and mobile device), but patrons can use either one to record their reading or completion of required activities. Patrons who prefer not to use a computer or mobile device can come into the library with a reading log and have an account set up so that staff can assist them in completing challenges. According to library director Lisa Davis, “We hope that patrons will enjoy using this program, which will make logging reading for next year’s Summer Reading Program much simpler for them to do. Beanstack® is used by libraries and schools across the country to track read-

ing and we are excited to offer it to you.” The setting up of a virtual classroom for offering workshops on various topics is also underway. The classes will be available online at the time of the class or by checking out the material later to watch on a computer that may or may not connect to the Internet. The first class to be offered is Saving Money using Coupons and Discounts. It will be held on Monday, Nov. 9, from 6 to 8 p.m. A second class on Creating Resumes and Cover Letters with Google will be held on Monday, Nov. 16 from 5 to 7 p.m. Additional classes will be offered as time goes on in both virtual and offline versions. Cumberland County Public Library is currently in the middle of its holiday fundraising campaign called “Let Us Help You Stuff Your Stockings.” Featuring over $700 in gifts and gift cards, the raffle will end just after the library’s Holiday Open House, which has tentatively been scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 12 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tickets for the raffle are $1 each or six for $5 and may be purchased at the library or through a donation link on the library’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/ ccplva/. A complete list of the raffle items available can be seen on the library’s website at https://www.cumberlandcountypubliclibrary.org/. Other upcoming but tentatively scheduled activities include the annual Christmas Tree Lighting on Monday, Dec. 7 at 6 p.m. and Sweets in the Stacks (the spring fundraiser event) on Saturday, March 13, 2021. More details on these can be found on the library website as time gets closer. In addition, the library will be closed on Wednesday, Nov. 11 for Veterans Day and will close at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 25, for Thanksgiving and will remain closed until Monday, Nov. 30, at 9 a.m. To get more information or to register for any courses, stop by the library or call 804-492-5807.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Students in the Group A hybrid group started back to school on Oct. 19. Group B students had their first day back on Oct. 26. It took months of planning by staff and tons of flexibility and patience to be prepared for the return to in-person learning, said Dr. Chip Jones, superintendent.

distancing requirement in place, I don’t see it happening in the near future,” he said.

Laura McFarland may be reached at Lmcfarland@powhatantoday.com.

Spooktacular Cumberland

Cumberland County Public Schools and Cumberland families shared their fun Halloween and Fall Festival costumes.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS

What is your favorite fall tradition or experience? E-mail answers to editor@powhatantoday.com or share them on the Powhatan Today’s Facebook page.

November 4, 2020

Page 7A

Pumpkin activities add to fall enjoyment By Laura McFarland Editor

ho knew pumpkins could be so enjoyable? I should preface this column by saying that, while growing up, my family never participated in Halloween activities and didn’t really decorate for fall. The only pumpkins I cared about were the ones that went into the yummy pies on Thanksgiving and Christmas. Even now, I am highly anticipating the pie. But pumpkins have been featuring a great deal in my observance of life this fall in Powhatan, and it has nothing to do with the perpetual debate of when is too early for pumpkin spice flavoring to start taking over. Back on Oct. 19, Johnny Green, a member of the Knights of Columbus in Powhatan, reached out to let me know that the fraternal organization would be replenishing its Pumpkin Patch on Anderson Highway the next afternoon. I had already been there in late September when the first load was delivered and was so pleased to see all of the volunteers working together at that time to ready the annual Pumpkin Patch to open for business. It is a huge fundraiser for the Knights, who use the money from sales and donations to fund local charitable causes in Powhatan. When Mr. Green called me again several weeks later to let me know sales had been the best they had ever seen – so good that they actually needed to add more to the selection – I was quite happy for them. Firstly, I enjoy passing by and seeing families with the little red wagons walking around the lawn selecting just the right ones. There are so

many curious pumpkins of all shapes, sizes, and colors to choose from that it is a delight to peruse them. And when you think that all the money you are spending there goes to help others in our community, I really can’t see a downside. So, of course, I went to take a few more photos to help spread the word on Oct. 20, when the second batch arrived. While there, I spotted something that instantly captured my attention. Now I have seen some strange pumpkins, but this was my first time seeing what I would learn is called a Turban squash. This acorn-shaped gourd had a bright orange top and a smaller white bottom. I am not much of a decorator, even seasonally, but, for some reason, I found it fascinating. So I bought one as soon as our conversation was over. (It now sits on a table in my room, unaccompanied by any other decorations, and inexplicably makes me smile when I look at it.) As I was leaving, I ran into a great local family with an adult son with special needs who were there on an outing to purchase a few more pumpkins for their house. They already had several, but picking out pumpkins gave their son so much joy that they were happy to come over and buy him a few more and support a worthy local organization. His excitement at seeing the volunteers unload the new pumpkins was contagious. There was a similar feeling of excitement in the air last week when I attended the 10th annual Pumpkins for Kids decorating contest held at the Independence Golf Club in Powhatan. This great program sees businesses in the region, including some from Powhatan, agreeing to decorate (not carve) a pumpkin and submit it for judging on Oct. 28. While this was started solely as a pumpkin decorating

LET TERS TO THE EDITOR Candidate’s choices bad for Americans’ standard of living Dear Editor, The economy is similar to a baby: it cannot be thrown into cold water or hot water, it must be treated gently. This is something that Obama and Biden never learned. Remember the "Cash for Clunkers" blunder that the Obama/Biden administration came up with? It created an economic vacuum! When those "older" cars were traded in, they had to be destroyed along with their titles. Not to be resold to any foreign countries, which would have eliminated the economic burden YOU, the American citizen, has still to pay for that fiasco. With the purchasing of all those new vehicles, again, there was an economic vacuum because no more new vehicles were needed. So, car manufacturing facilities then had to let their employees go. With these new cars, no new parts were needed, so auto parts stores were closed because of it, along with the companies that made those parts. Used car businesses were shut down because those used cars all were destroyed. New car dealerships also closed down because nobody needed new cars. Millions of people were then unemployed. Yes, Biden was part of that debacle! Powhatan had three new car dealerships before

Fred Behrens Powhatan County

hotline number is 804-3729755. The office is located in the Habitat Store and the office number is 804-594-7009.

CALENDAR Continued from pg. 3

Habitat Store at 1922 Urbine Road will be open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Nov. 7 and from 4 to 7 p.m. on Nov. 10. During this pandemic, anyone coming into the store must wear a facemask. The volunteer

the Cash for Clunkers. Now what do we have? Prior to 1983, Social Security benefits were not taxed. In 1983, Joe Biden voted for a bill to tax 50 percent of Social Security. Then, in 1993, Joe Biden voted for a bill to raise the percentage taxed from 50 percent to 85 percent - and his vote was the deciding vote in a 50-50 tie - which was broken in favor of the tax increase by VP Al Gore. Joe Biden has single-handedly (with an assist from Al Gore) lowered the standard of living of American seniors on Social Security by about 15 to 20 percent. When seniors run out of money before they run out of month, Joe Biden is the reason. Now in his and the Democrats’ platform, they advocate raising the age to receive social security to 72 - and to cut the benefits of those with IRAs and 401ks and pensions. And Biden has voted for tax increases 31 times - and he has never once voted against a tax increase. Over the years, Joe Biden has hammered seniors and the middle class time after time. It is calculable in dollars and cents. Seniors have a 15 to 20 percent reduction in standard of living due to Joe Biden's votes.

Powhatan AA meets at 8 p.m. every Saturday at Manakin Episcopal Church on Huguenot Trail.

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participate in class discussion. We consistently pull from their thoughts/experiences to enrich the teaching experience and breathe life into our discussion,” Roberts said. Not only does he want to foster a relationship with his students, but he also wants them to foster relationships with one another. Facilitating group discussion as well as opening lectures up to more of a conversation has allowed students to express their own opinions and discuss with one another, he said. This year, Roberts’ classes vary from seven to 16 students, which would have been unheard of in a general education classroom in years past, he said. With the use of technology, monitoring students’ progress is about the same. The downside of this is that students who have technology-related issues such as poor internet or who need that face-to-face interaction on a daily basis with their teachers have a harder time completing their work. “In order to tell if students are grasping concepts, I have begun teaching a ‘flipped classroom.’ I record myself delivering a lecture, which students view on their own time. The students then jot some notes on a GoogleDoc, which is shared with me, then we have a class discussion regarding the lesson taught,” he said. “We complete a lab activity/assignment specific

Powhatan Fire and Rescue’s Junior Emergency Technician program meets at 1:30 p.m. at different locations in the county. The program is free and open to 12- to 15-yearolds from all parts of the county interested in learning

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Managing Editor

Continued from pg. 5

Sunday, Nov. 8

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to the lesson and have additional discussion. For the first nine weeks, students have completed project-based assessments on the topics discussed in class.” For the virtual classroom, student connectivity has been an issue from time to time, Roberts said. One second, the student is present in the “classroom,” then they disappear only to reappear within minutes. Students who have poor internet connection have been provided with schoolissued hot spots, which allows them to connect and remain connected to the internet better than they would otherwise, whether virtual or hybrid. Based on his experience, internet-related issues have not posed much of an issue for his students. If a student has a consistent issue, they have been directed to the appropriate staff members, who have been able to help them through the issue. In lieu of giving summative assessments, giving virtual students the opportunity to create a model and explain their creation has been exciting, Roberts said. He and Monson have several avenues through which students can demonstrate their understanding of concepts learned in the classroom without having to sit and “take a test.” Additionally, pre-recording lectures and having students address the main concepts within each lesson prior to teaching the lesson has enabled Roberts to progress through curriculum in a more timely fashion. As opposed to having to build the

about their local fire, rescue and emergency services organizations. Applications may be picked up year-round at the fire administration office in the Village Building. Contact the office at 804-598-5646 or preams@powhatanva.gov.

Monday, Nov. 9

contest, it has morphed into a fundraiser for the hospital, raising several thousand dollars each year. After the judging, the top 10 or more pumpkins are selected to go on display at the Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU to bring the children and their families a reason to smile during what is probably an incredibly difficult time. The last few years I have covered this contest, I have always been surprised by the creativity and ingenuity of the people who decorate the pumpkins. There are amazingly detailed entries, such as this year’s winner, a Star Wars display with a Death Star pumpkin, or the second place winner, a Jurassic Park display with dinosaurs bursting out of the pumpkins. Powhatan-based Colony Construction entered a cool truck with small pumpkins for wheels and a large pumpkin as its cargo, while MoneyGuidePro (developed by PIEtech) had a fun Goosebumps-themed pumpkin set. My personal favorite was a set of five pumpkins decorated to look like the Very Hungry Caterpillar. I thought it was adorable. Organizer and Powhatan native Rachel Massengill talked about her brief uncertainty in holding the event and the resolve to power through because of the positivity it brings not only to the children in the hospital but the people who spend so many hours creating their fantastical entries. And she has a point. We have had some pretty tough times in 2020 so far, and we don’t know what really lies ahead. So if we want to take a little time to enjoy the feelings of whimsy and camaraderie that something as simple as choosing or decorating a pumpkin can bring, I say we embrace it.

foundation with each class meeting, they are able to jump off of that foundation because it is already in place. Other than the occasional student participating while on a road-trip, there have been no irregularities in the virtual classroom environment, he said. Prior to beginning each virtual class, they read a disclaimer and ask that students keep their microphones and cameras off unless otherwise instructed. His virtual class has been incident free and very much resembled the face-to-face classroom, he added. Students have done a great job tuning into class at the appropriate time and staying tuned in throughout the class meeting. Roberts strongly encourages Schoology messages from students and emails/phone calls with parents. Any question/concern, no matter how minor it may seem, is welcomed. The virtual classroom is keeping pace with the hybrid classroom, Roberts said. Students are engaged in the delivery of instruction and participate throughout each class session. Students who have opted to go the virtual route have developed good online communication skills and a routine to be successful. Students begin promptly, the class rarely has any “tardies,” and they are mindful of the learning atmosphere. “As far as changes to the virtual class, I cannot think of anything that I would want to change,” he said.

Powhatan 4-H is excited to offer Apple Pie Kits for the start of the holiday season! These kits are a fun, family activity and include everything you need to make an apple pie from scratch (except the salt and butter). Virginia grown apples, a cherished 4-H apple pie recipe, and

farm-to-table apple activities will also be provided. This is a great opportunity for local families to bake together and learn more about why the apple is such a healthy snack choice. Cost per kit is $15 and helps support the see CALENDAR, pg. 8

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 Thursday 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 8460 Times Dispatch Blvd., Mechanicsville, Va 23116. Periodical Postage paid at Powhatan, Va. 23139. USPS # 000-035 POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to: Powhatan Today, 8460 Times Dispatch Blvd., Mechanicsville, Va 23116. Subscription Rate: $23.50 per year. © 2020 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. CAC Audited Circulation: 11,026.

Powhatan Today, November 4, 2020

Page 8A

Powhatan families embrace Halloween costume fun PHOTOS BY LAURA McFARLAND ND AND CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS

Despite th the ca cancellation anc ncel ellati l t off many Halloween H ll and d Fall F ll Festival events, Powhatan families still put on a greatt holiday for local youth. People dressed up in costume e and attended trunk or treats, drive-thru trick or treating, visiting neighbors, and holding family events on their own.

BROWN Continued from pg. 4

pation, she said. The fourth grade team did an activity where students had to respond to questions by giving silly hand motions, running in place, and more. “The giggles across the screens were infectious, and it’s been an activity that we’ve been asked to repeat,” she said. So far, Brown has not encountered challenges maintaining the classroom environment. Students and parents have been responsive to required etiquette, and while there is background noise and the occasional moment of chaos, that is no different from a regular classroom, she said. In turn, she has loved getting an inside glimpse into her students’ family life, such as meeting pets (including giant Great Dane puppies and a a grumpy cat look-alike named Chloe) and younger siblings. “For show and tell one week, one of my sweet fourth-graders chose to show off her 4-year-old brother,” she said. “I am not sure who was prouder, my fourth-grader or the sweet 4-year-old who saw himself on ‘TV.’” These are the moments that bring light in the midst of what can feel overwhelming and exhausting to kids who

CALENDAR Continued from pg. 7

Powhatan 4-H program. Deadline to register and submit payment for a kit is Nov. 9. There are a limited number of kits available, so register today at

have given up a lot since March 13, Brown said. As a teacher, those moments bring light to overwhelming and exhausting circumstances. Good communication and parental involvement on any level increases student productivity. They still need help being organized, completing assignments, and meeting deadlines. Part of Brown’s job is to teach them skills that they will take with them far beyond her class. She also has to understand that every family’s situation is different. “Each year I expand my ability to see a child and their family through a different lens. That’s crucial when teaching children and when dealing with families. Life is hard, it’s messy, and it’s complicated, but our responses don’t have to be,” she said. Overall, the teachers are finding success in various ways. They are learning and growing, and Brown is proud to be a part of that. She makes changes daily and weekly to the way she teaches, the technology she uses, and the different formats she uses. “In 10 weeks, I have learned far more than I ever realized about technology and teaching in a virtual forum. I fully believe that when I enter back into a physical classroom that I will be a better teacher,” she said.

the following link: https://forms.gle/ GT7aEpM6xt7YojW16. Apple Pie Kit pick-up dates are Wednesday, Nov. 18, and Thursday, Nov. 19. A live virtual session with pie making tips will be held on Monday, Nov. 23. Contact Cathy Howland at 804-598-5640.

BELL Continued from pg. 5

which the students enjoy, and tie them into the lessons. With 22 students in the virtual class, it can be difficult making sure they understand the concepts, Bell said. While she is teaching, she constantly stops and asks questions, which is also a good tool to keep the students (who she can’t see) engaged and paying attention to the lesson. She does a mix of live teaching and prepared videos to cover the content. “It is difficult to monitor it because of all the variables. You have the internet connections that go out constantly; you have kids that get kicked off all the time,” she said. “Google Meets is, for me, not the best format to teach with. PowerPoints won’t work – the kids will get caught on one slide and you can’t go any further because they are on slide 1 and you are on 3.” Bell said she will often go back over a topic throughout

A Powhatan Hope Narcotics Anonymous (NA) meeting will be held from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. every Monday at PCC Church, 4480 Anderson Highway, Powhatan, Room 102. It is an open discussion meeting. Wheelchair accessible

Tuesday, Nov. 10

become firmer about having them adhere to deadlines. Given the current situation, the entire situation of teaching hybrid and virtual students is a learning process that is going alright, Bell said. She feels like teachers – both hybrid and virtual – are stretched thin with all of the work they have to do in the current environment, but they are also going over and above to make it work. It helps that Powhatan teachers are getting support from the administrators and that the teachers really do care about their students and want to give them the best education possible, she added. “I am going to keep trying to make changes. The teachers in our school are great, and we all work together and share ideas. I am always going to other teachers and asking them if they have ideas on how to do something. I will keep trying to come up with new things to do with the kids,” she said.

the week to make sure it is sinking in, but there is a level of disconnect that still makes it difficult to grasp how much students are retaining. Academically all her students are passing, but on learning content, she feels the hybrid students are further ahead. And if students were already struggling with the content, the gap seems to be getting worse. Seeing the virtual students every day allows Bell to help them stay more organized and give them reminders about deadlines, which can be challenging for them to navigate. Bell said she has tried to be very aware of the different circumstances students are in at home that might impact their schoolwork and the volume of work they are trying to balance. Bell said she has given the students plenty of grace to get work done. She was very lenient in the beginning, but as time goes on, she will

The new Bridge of Reason AA meeting is held at 7 p.m. every Tuesday at Powhatan Mennonite Church, 3549 Old Buckingham Road, Powhatan. It is an open, decision

and literature meeting for Powhatan, Goochland, and Cumberland counties.

AA meets at 8 p.m. every Tuesday at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church on Huguenot Trail.

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Powhatan, Virginia

Page 1B

PHOTOS BY NICK VANDELOECHT/POWHATAN TODAY

Powhatan youth teams do battle on the gridiron Powhatan’s two 14u football teams went head-to-head on Saturday, with Powhatan team No. 2 defeating No. 1 (in orange jerseys) 26-12. Both teams will play in the Chesterfield Quarterback League’s championship tournament at Cosby High School on Nov. 7. Team No. 1 begins play versus Crenshaw at 10:30 a.m., and team No. 2 will play the winner of Midlothian and Salem at 1 p.m.

English chooses Lynchburg All set for December VHSL sports to resume after Gov. Northam eases COVID-19 restrictions

By Nick Vandeloecht Sports Editor Ever since she was a little girl, Sarah English wanted to play softball at the collegiate level. Growing up, she really enjoyed watching her older sister compete, and she couldn’t wait until she was old enough to be on the field herself. Now, she only has to wait one more school year until she gets the chance to step onto a collegiate field as a studentathlete and softball player for Lynchburg University. From the minute she stepped onto the campus, she immediately fell in love with the environment. “I was looking for a college with smaller class sizes,” she said, “and this is exactly what Lynchburg had to offer.” Throughout her recruiting process, English said Lynchburg head softball coach Dawn Simmons was very consistent with staying in communication with her and coming to watch her play. “Lynchburg has a great softball program and coaching staff that makes you feel at home,” English said. “Coach Simmons is very open to talk with and encouraging to her players both on and off the field.” English committed to the Division III Old Dominion Athletic Conference school in July. The Hornets in 2019 assembled a final record of 37-15 and reached the NCAA super-regional round for the second time in program history after defeating two-time defending nasee ENGLISH, pg. 2B

By Tim Pearrell Richmond Times-Dispatch

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Powhatan High School senior Sarah English reacts while on base in a varsity softball game.

A day after Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam eased some restrictions on recreational sports – thus allowing high school athletics to resume in December – the Virginia High School League on Friday released its return-to-play guidelines. The amendments made by Northam were to his executive order on temporary restrictions due to the coronavirus pandemic. Per the VHSL’s guidelines, indoor and outdoor recreational sports are permitted as long as the total number of attendees doesn’t exceed the lesser of 250 people or 50% of the venue’s occupancy load. Races or marathons can have up to 1,000 participants, provided that staggered starts separate runners into groups of 250 or less. Screenings of coaches, officials, staff and players for COVID-19 are required before admission to a venue. Earlier guidance said participants in any sport should maintain 10 feet of physical distance where practicable. That is not in the amended order, although the state’s Phase Three guidelines recommend that at least 6 feet of distance should be maintained for most settings.

Among the guidelines, there “should be no hugging, high-fives, handshakes or fist bumps,” and pregame and postgame handshakes are eliminated. Some sports will have modifications. Basketball will not have jump balls, with the visiting team getting the first possession of the game. In boys lacrosse, there won’t be faceoffs — a coin toss will determine possession to begin the game — and body contact/checks are illegal. In girls lacrosse, there won’t be draws; the visiting team gets first possession, with alternating possessions thereafter. Wrestling is considered a higher-risk sport by the National Federation of State High School Associations. The VHSL guidelines do not limit contact but recommend, among other things, that: in practice, wrestlers should be paired in pods of four and should be exposed to only one teammate in the pod; the pod should remain the same for a minimum of two weeks; and schools should take mandatory breaks every 10 minutes to allow wrestlers to sanitize their hands. The complete list of guidelines are on the VHSL’s website, www.vhsl.org. The state has been under Phase Three guidelines since July 1. The VHSL said during the summer that some of those restrictions would need to be loosened before higher-risk sports, such as football, could be played by the state’s public schools. The Virginia Independent Schools see VHSL, pg. 2B

C&F BANK’S ATHLETE OF THE WEEK BASEBALL ALL-STAR

WHO: CHASE WHITLEY WHAT HE DID:

Playing for the Powhatan Little League Raiders in the Seniors division, Whitley in the top of the sixth inning hit a two-run single into right-center field to bring home two of his teammates and push the Raiders into the lead over the PLL Legends.

Whitley’s teammate behind him, A.J. Walsh, hit a line drive up the middle to plate another base runner, and the Raiders went on to win 4-1 when the umpires called the game official with one out on the board and two Legends runners on base in the bottom of the seventh due to fog that quickly moved across the field.

Whitley batted 1 for 3 with two RBI, and his teammate Brayden Barnes was credited with batting 2 for 3 and scoring a run. Their teammate James Ramsey batted 1 for 2 with a double, scored a run, and closed out the game on the mound for the Raiders, striking out three.

Powhatan Today, November 4, 2020

Page 2B

VHSL Continued from pg. 1B

Athletic Association plans to release its safety protocols for winter sports on Nov. 6. Earlier this week, VHSL executive director Billy Haun gave an inkling the change was coming when he told the Richmond Times-Dispatch that the league was on track to begin practicing and playing games after submitting guidelines to the governor’s office and the state Department of Health. Winter sports are scheduled to start practice Dec. 7-14 and start playing games Dec. 21-Jan. 6, according to the revised format approved in September by the VHSL’s executive committee. Fall sports, which were pushed back because of the pandemic, are scheduled to start practice in February and run through May 1. Spring sports are scheduled to PHOTOS BY NICK VANDELOECHT/POWHATAN TODAY start practice in mid-April and run through late June. “This amendment by the Governor clears the way for all of our sports to play,” Haun said in a news Powhatan’s 7u, 9u and 11u teams took on Jacobs in this past weekend’s release. “We appreciate the time, Chesterfield Quarterback League 7-on-7 youth flag football games at Salem Church effort and input staff received while Middle School in Chesterfield. All three teams will play in the CQL’s tournaments at preparing this document. Cosby High School this coming Saturday. 7u and 9u will play Woolridge at 8 a.m. “Adherence to these guidelines and 8:50 a.m., respectively, and 11u will play Swift Creek at 9:40 a.m. will offer a safe reopening for our students, coaches, staff, officials and communities once we start playing in December,” Haun said. “Additionally, we appreciate the close collaboration and guidance from the Governor’s office, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) and the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE).” Haun said earlier this week that decisions on whether or not to play will be up to local school divisions. The state’s 132 divisions are operating in various ways — fully remote, in person, partially in person, hybrid or partially hybrid — according to the state Department of Education. Powhatan High School athletic director Tim Llewellyn confirmed that the school is planning on playing all sports. “I am excited for our studentathletes who have been working hard with their out-of-season workouts with the hopes of having a season,” Llewellyn said. “The VHSL has laid out strict protocols that we will have to follow for athletes, coaches and fans. Our coaches and athletes that have been working out are already used to following the protocols we already had in place.” Chesterfield County schools spokesperson Tim Bullis said in an email that the county school system’s plan “is to review these new VHSL guidelines and the VDOE/VDH information with our local risk management team to see what can be adapted at each school site with our existing programs. In the meantime, our high schools have had active voluntary conditioning sessions that started in September, and we will follow the existing VHSL protocols for out-of-season conditioning until

Scenes: Powhatan vs. Jacobs

ENGLISH Continued from pg. 1B

tional champion Virginia Wesleyan to win the regional tournament. “Lynchburg softball is very competitive in the ODAC conference,” English said. “I’m looking forward to being part of the team.” English first started playing in the Powhatan Youth Athletic Association at 6 years old, then moved to travel ball when she was 9. “The competition is what drove me to love the game,” English said. “I enjoy the pressure and the adrenaline rush that comes along with that. Throughout the years of playing ball, I’ve really enjoyed meeting new people from all over and making new friends.” She’s been a part of three very strong travel teams that won many tournaments on the East Coast. As a member of Powhatan Middle School’s softball team, she was able to pitch in both the 2016 and 2017 Southside Conference championships, which she and her teammates won. English has helped strengthen her

teams with her ability to play multiple positions, and although she was a new player on the Powhatan High School varsity unit her sophomore year, the versatile player contributed to the Indians’ 15-6 record and regional semifinal appearance after the team lost seven starters from its 2018 state runner-up season. English pitched the majority of the Indians’ 2019 innings and played outfield or first base when not pitching. As a sophomore, she posted an earned run average of 1.77 in the circle. “Sarah really came through for us her sophomore season,” said Powhatan head softball coach Marie Crump, “and is expected to handle most of the pitching for us this year.” English was also a central part of Powhatan’s efforts on offense, batting .657. She hit her first career home run in the Indians’ early-season 2019 game versus Hanover, became a consistent extra-base hitter and helped form a powerful 3-4-5 chain in the batting order that also included fellow senior and teammate Kayla Davis and UCONN’s Rileigh De Weese. Her efforts were honored. English was named to First Team All-Region that season.

the projected VHSL opening dates in December changes the format.” We intend to play high school sports,” Henrico County schools spokesperson Andy Jenks said in an email. “Over the course of the next month, we will make sure that we have met all VHSL guidelines to practice and play.” Hanover County schools spokesperson Chris Whitley said in an email that the school system was evaluating VHSL’s guidance but had not made a final decision. “Keeping our student-athletes safe is critical during this pandemic,” Northam said in the VHSL’s news release. “I know I join many parents in looking forward to the safe return of school sports. “VHSL has been a tremendous partner throughout the COVID crisis, and I appreciate the thoughtfulness and diligence they have put in development of these guidelines for returning to play.” The VHSL’s 39-page document was assembled after looking at information from medical committees, the Department of Health, individual sports, the NCAA, coaches, advisory committees and schools. The document says the guidelines are “meant to decrease potential exposure to respiratory droplets by encouraging social distancing, limiting participation in administrative tasks to essential personnel and allowing for appropriate protective equipment. Recommendations include: cleaning and disinfecting; mask protocols; transportation; and how to run activities safely for individual sports and activities. If someone tests positive for COVID-19, the guidelines say “schools must follow their safety plan as well as adhere to Virginia and local Department of Health guidelines in determining a comprehensive plan of action.” Henrico High School boys basketball coach Vance Harmon said it was “exciting news that we are starting the return-to-play process.” “The VHSL is taking every [imaginable] precaution to ensure the safety of all participants,” he said. “I’m grateful that the student-athletes are getting a small taste of normalcy.” Cosby High School football coach Pete Mutascio called it “a great step forward” and said coaches and athletic directors “will now have to see how these guidelines can be met.” Highland Springs High School girls basketball coach Franklin Harris said he’s just looking forward to having games. “Great for the players,” he said. “Any recommendations we have to deal with, no big deal. What everyone has gone through this year, how we sit, wearing a mask, cleaning, it’s a little bump in the road. They are getting to play, and those still being looked at by colleges can be seen. Don’t look for the negative. It’s time to be positive, and if we are, it will work.” - Nick Vandeloecht contributed to this report.

Coming in print

Learn about Powhatan High School senior Autumn McMillen’s commitment to attend and play softball for Ferrum in the Nov. 11, 2020, print edition of the Powhatan Today!

“We’re counting on her to continue that strong presence in our lineup this year,” Crump said. “I have always loved representing Powhatan County,” English said. “I take a lot of pride in being able to be a part of the softball program. Playing for Coach Crump and Coach [Linda] Farmer has been a great experience and I appreciate them believing in me and pushing me to be the best I can possibly be.” In addition to her ability to make a play from wherever she stands – in the field, beside the plate or inside the circle – English feels that her positive atCONTRIBUTED PHOTO titude both on and off the field will Powhatan High School senior Sarah help motivate and encourage her fu- English pitches in a softball game. ture teammates at Lynchburg to be the “It feels great to know that all my best that they can possibly be. She plans on majoring in Elemen- hard work has paid off,” English said tary Education with a concentration in of committing to Lynchburg, “and that I have accomplished my dream.” Special Education.

Powhatan Today, November 4, 2020

Page 3B

PHOTOS BY NICK VANDELOECHT/POWHATAN TODAY

From left: Powhatan Little League Raiders player James Ramsey tags out PLL Legends player Sam Turner as he slides to third base; PLL Raiders player Hayden Campbell hits a game-tying double early in the Raiders’ game versus the PLL Legends last Monday in Fighting Creek Park.

PLL Raiders nab 4-1 win in fog-shortened game By Nick Vandeloecht Sports Editor POWHATAN - Chase Whitley launched a go-ahead line drive for two runs in the top of the sixth inning, and he and his Powhatan Little League Raiders secured a 4-1 win over the Legends last Monday at Fighting Creek Park. With one out on the board and two Legends runners on base, the umpires ruled the game official when fog quickly rolled over the outfield fence and swept across the field. Monday night’s game also moved quickly as defense shined on both teams. The Raiders and Legends tied 1-1 through the first five frames, as Will Karanian drilled a line-drive single up the middle to plate Luke Burkhart for the Legends, and Hayden Campbell slammed a line-drive double into right field to bring home Kruz Meadows for the Raiders. The designated visitors looked to plate a goahead run in the fourth inning, but Legends pitcher Burkhart struck out the side to strand two runners in scoring position. The Raiders, however, would fire up the bats again in the sixth, as two base hits and a walk loaded the bases

against one out, and Whitley smashed the pendulum-swinging two-run single into right-center to put his team in the lead for good. A.J. Walsh followed up Whitley’s big play with an insurance line drive that he crushed up the middle to bring home James Ramsey, who also closed the game on the mound for the Raiders. Ramsey faced two batters over the minimum in 2.1 innings pitched,

struck out three and initiated a 1-3 play in the bottom of the sixth. He also batted 1 for 2 with a double. His teammate Brayden Barnes batted 2 for 3 and was credited with a run scored. Meadows started the game on the mound for the Raiders, striking out six through the first three innings. Despite taking the loss, Burkhart

delivered a fiery effort on the mound, striking out the side three times – and in order twice – and tallying up 12 punchouts in all. Karanian pitched the seventh and also struck out the side. At the plate, Burkhart reached base in all three plate appearances and scored a run.

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Page 4B

Powhatan Today, November 4, 2020

PHOTOS BY NICK VANDELOECHT/POWHATAN TODAY

From left: Brooklynn Narbut (behind catcher) reacts after sliding across home plate for a run off of her own hit, aided by a fielding error, in Alex Narbut’s PYAA Ponytails’ Halloween Softball Bash tournament championship-round win over Josh Fox’s PYAA Ponytails team, 12-3, on Wednesday at Pitt Field; Summer Mitchell, playing for Josh Fox’s PYAA Ponytails team, warms up in the pitching circle.

PYAA Ponytails complete 2020 fall-ball season By Nick Vandeloecht Sports Editor The Powhatan Youth Athletics Association’s Ponytails closed out their fall-ball season in a doubleheader last Wednesday, with Alex Narbut’s team defeating Josh Fox’s team 12-3 for the Halloween Softball Bash tournament championship and 10-1 in the season finale. Brooklynn Narbut, who pitched the first inning in the opener and most of the nightcap, had an evening to remember. Aggressive on the base paths, she quickly put her team in the lead in the opening half-inning of the championship game and scored three runs, including one on a trip around the diaLiza Watkins, batting for Alex Narbut’s PYAA Ponytails team, smashes a mond that was aided by a fielding error double into center field in the nightcap versus Josh Fox’s PYAA Ponytails. committed by the opposing team. She

added two more runs in the season finale while batting 2 for 2 with an RBI. She also struck out 10 in the nightcap and allowed one hit and no runs through three and two-thirds innings pitched. Kaylie Cook pitched most of the championship game for Narbut’s Ponytails and was also in the circle for the final out in the season finale. She scored three runs for the whole evening. Arlena Johnson also scored three runs overall and DaZiya Henderson, in addition to scoring twice, smashed a two-run single into right field to grow her team’s lead early in the nightcap after Liza Watkins put her team on the board with an RBI groundball single that she drilled to the left. Watkins in the nightcap batted 2 for 2 and added a double to center field in the third inning.

Kelli Smith, playing for Alex Narbut’s Powhatan Youth Athletics Association Ponytails team, tags out a base runner for Josh Fox’s PYAA Ponytails team to complete a double play initiated by pitcher Kaylie Cook running down a flyball behind the mound; Lily Barr, playing for Josh Fox’s PYAA Ponytails team, throws the ball in last Wednesday’s doubleheader versus Alex Narbut’s PYAA Ponytails team.

From left: Kaylie Cook, pitching for Alex Narbut’s PYAA Ponytails team on Oct. 28, 2020, tosses the ball to first base for a 1-3 play against Josh Fox’s PYAA Ponytails team; Josh Fox’s PYAA Ponytails’ players and coaches talk together after the conclusion of their 2020 fall-ball season.

Collegiate girls tennis team remains undefeated Staff Reports GOOCHLAND - Collegiate girls tennis remained perfect in team play going into its last two matches of the 2020 fall season with a 7-0 sweep of St. Anne’s-Belfield on the Cougars’ Senior Night at Robins Campus in

Goochland. Collegiate also improved to 52-4 in total singles matches played. The home team earned five bagel sets in its top seven matches. Kylee Sanderson, playing at No. 7, blanked Emma Finley-Gillis 10-0, and Helena Huff, Elizabeth Mendoza, Nora Willett and Lucy Ottley won

10-0 over Eloise Granville, Haley Couling, Caroline Lang and Meredith Payne, respectively. Emma Eldrige denied Reese Couling 10-3, and Powhatan County’s Kayli Shenk routed Lisa Ng 10-2. The teams also played one exhibition match, and it was a competitive

one, as Sarina DePalma edged out Lily Wiley 9-7 to complete the overall sweep for Collegiate. The Cougars take an 8-0 team record into their final week, with road matches at St. Gertrude’s on Tuesday and at Trinity on Friday.

Powhatan Today, November 4, 2020

Page 6B

Cleaning Services

Miscellaneous

Photographers

JUNK REMOVAL

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High School Graduation is once in a lifetime and Graduating is a big accomplishment! The school is taking YB photos in whatever the students want to wear.

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Powhatan Today, November 4, 2020

AUCTION SALES

REAL ESTATE LAND AUCTION Saturday, Nov 14Th, 11:OOAM Rain / Shine MARK YOUR CALENDAR - Parking Lot of St. Johns Grub Hill Church at 12520 Grub Hill Church Rd

Amelia, VA 23002 Offering 3 - Undeveloped Parcels of Prime Real Estate Just 5 miles from the Heart of Amelia County, VA Parcel #1 60.+/- Undeveloped Acres fronting RT 636 (North Lodore Rd) & RT 609 (Grub Hill Church Rd) Parcel #2 & #3 79.831 +/- & 1.140+/- Undeveloped Acres fronting RT 630 (Egglestetton Rd) and adjoins parcel #1 at the rear. (Update: Parcel #3 will be sold with Parcel #2) Plat Information: Owner: The County of Amelia, VA Parcel #1 Deed Book / Page 271/6487 60+/- acres #2 Deed Book / Page 272/9282 79.831 +/- n/a #3 1.140 acres Tax Map Parcel #1: 21-29C Parcel #2: 21-29D (A & B)

Lanyon Auctions, LLC lic. #3263 Complete Auction Services Call (804) 363-9620 or (804) 363-9619 Go to www.auctionzip.com I.D. #22098 YARD & ESTATE SALES

HOUSES UNFURNISHED

Dumont Homes, LLC 1551 Oakbridge Drive, Ste E Powhatan, VA 23139 Builder Model Furniture Sale Saturday 8:00 am to 2:00 pm November 7th 2,000 sq. ft. warehouse full of new staging/model furniture & accessories. All newer designs for modern or traditional décor. Includes: various furniture, tables, bedroom suite, desk, chairs, lamps, plants, framed wall prints, towels, pillows, linens & rugs.

Business & Service Directory CONCRETE WORK Bernard’s Concrete Services Concrete, Retaining Walls, Pavers, Brick, Sidewalks. Install & repair. Free Estimates. Licensed & Insured. References. Please call 804-874-9184

TREE SERVICE Bernard’s Tree Service Tree Removal & Stump Grinding Landscaping & More! Free Estimates. Licensed & Insured References. Please Call 804-874-9184

Recruitment CONSTRUCTION & TRADES

COMMERCIAL SOIL TREATMENT APPLICATOR Experience preferred but will train. License provided. $18/hr with Benefits, vacations & holidays. Call Richard 804-358-3063 or email metroservice@verizon.net

GENERAL Housekeeper needed part-time, twice monthly for light housekeeping & deep cleaning periodically. Rate negotiable. Holly Hills Area. Please call 804-7944422, leave message.

HEALTHCARE Goochland Powhatan Community Services is seeking a full-time Recovery Coordinator to coordinate peer recovery services within Goochland and Powhatan Counties for adults experiencing substance use and co-occurring issues. Peer Specialist certification preferred, ability to be certified as a peer specialist required. Visit www.gpcsb.org for more details. Deadline: Friday, 11/06/2020, 4:30 pm. EOE. In Home Support Services Supervisor: This position will supervise the provision of In Home Support Services to adults and children with developmental disabilities. Position works under the supervision of the Director of Community Support Services. Must be a Qualified Developmental Disabilities Professional (QDDP). Starting salary 47,008 commensurate with experience. Visit www.gpcsb.org for job description and application. Deadline for applications is Wednesday, November 4, 2020. EOE

FOR RENT 1744 Ballsville Road Powhatan, VA 23139 4 bedrooms, 4 baths Walk-out Basement $1,595/month

2518 Georges Road Powhatan, VA 23139 2 bedrooms, 1 bath Second Floor Apartment $800/month 2880 Pleasantwood Road Powhatan, VA 23139 3 bedrooms, 2 baths Detached Two-Car Garage $1,595/month 1748 Theresa Lane Powhatan, VA 23139 3 bedrooms, 1.5 baths $1,495/month 2643 Red Lane Road Powhatan, VA 23139 3 bedrooms, 2 baths $1,495/month 6009 Trenholm Village Drive Powhatan, VA 23139 3 bedrooms, 2 baths NEW $1,595/month

LEGAL DISPLAY ADS

Legal Notices TRUSTEE SALES TRUSTEE’S SALE OF 1458 Donavon Mill Lane, Powhatan, VA Tax Map I.D. No. 051-A-8-1 In execution of a Deed of Trust recorded July 1, 2010, in Deed Book 790, Page 1362, Instrument No. 100002318, ("Deed of Trust"), in the Clerk’s Office, Circuit Court, County of Powhatan, VA ("Clerk’s Office"); the Substitute Trustee, having been appointed Substitute Trustee by Appointment of Substitute Trustee recorded October 7, 2020 as Instrument No. 202005317 in the Clerk’s Office, will offer for sale at public auction, the real estate briefly described as 1458 Donavon Mill Lane, Powhatan, VA, and which is more particularly described in the Deed of Trust ("Property"). The sale will be conducted at the front entrance of the building which houses the Circuit Court of the County of Powhatan, 3880 Old Buckingham Road, Powhatan, VA on November 18, 2020 at 11:30 a.m. TERMS OF SALE: Cash. The Property will be offered for sale "AS IS, WHERE IS" and "WITH ALL FAULTS" and will be conveyed by special warranty deed without any warranties and the conveyance will be subject to all encumbrances, rights, reservations, covenants, conditions, easements, restrictions and statutory liens, if any, having priority over the Deed of Trust, as they may lawfully affect the Property. The Trustee, the Auctioneer and the Secured Party make no representation or warranty whatsoever as to the existence, survival or terms of any lease, tenancy or possessory arrangement, and no credit shall be given against the purchase price for any associated security deposit(s). Except for the special warranty contained in the deed, the Trustee, and the Auctioneer disclaim all warranties of any kind for the Property, including without limitation any warranty relating to the zoning, physical or environmental condition, title, possession, quiet enjoyment, habitability, fitness for a particular purpose and merchantability. The risk of loss or damage to the Property shall be borne by the successful bidder from and after the date of the auction. The successful bidder shall assume all obligations for continuation of utility services to the Property. Securing possession and control of the Property following closing shall be the sole responsibility of the successful bidder. An initial bidder’s deposit in cash or by certified or cashier’s check of $10,000.00 must be shown to the Trustee and the Auctioneer prior to the auction in order to be approved to participate subject to bidder prequalification. Immediately after the sale, the successful bidder shall execute a contract of sale with the Trustee, a form of which is available for review upon request, and shall deliver to the Trustee an initial deposit which shall be the lesser of $10,000.00 or ten percent (10%) of the purchase price of the Property. No later than November 23, 2020, the Trustee and the successful bidder shall adjust the deposit amount (up or down) to equal ten percent (10%) of the winning bid amount. Any excess over $10,000.00 must be received by the Trustee by 4:00 p.m., November 23, 2020.

Case #20-01-AP: Joseph L. Sowers (Huguenot Magisterial District | District #1: Subletts/Manakin/Flat Rock), on behalf of David J. Sowers, has submitted an application to appeal the determination made by the Zoning Administrator on September 2, 2020 regarding vested rights and plans submitted for the Watkins Mill subdivision (including proposed plans for the remainder of Tax Map Parcels #43-44 and #43-51). The subject properties are located in northeastern Powhatan County off of Watkins Mill Road and are zoned Agricultural-10 (A-10). Members of the public may also participate remotely by joining a webinar at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83130249215 or by dialing in by phone at 1-929-205-6099 OR 1-312-626-6799, then typing in the webinar ID 831 3024 9215. During the public hearing, participants may raise their hand using the zoom controls on the computer screen, or (if dialing in) by pressing *9 on a phone. All meetings of the Board of Zoning Appeals are open to the public and interested persons are encouraged to attend on the day and time specified above. The application may be reviewed in the Department of Community Development in the Powhatan County Administration Building (3834 Old Buckingham Road) between 8:30 AM and 5:00 PM of each business day. Copies of the agenda packet are available prior to the Public Hearing upon request and will be available online at least five (5) days prior to the meeting at http://powhatanva.gov/agendacenter. Please call (804) 598-5621 with any questions.

HAMILL D. JONES, JR. DAVID F. BERNHARDT Substitute Trustees FOR INFORMATION CONCERNING THE AUCTION TERMS CONTACT: Hamill D. "Skip" Jones, Jr. FloranceGordonBrown A Professional Corporation 901 East Cary Street Suite 1900 Richmond, VA 23219 804-697-5128 hjones@fgb.com Tranzon Fox Attn: Bill Londrey P.O. Box 7448 Richmond, VA 23221 804-355-2251 blondrey@tranzon.com www.tranzon.com

OFFERING COMPLETE PROPERTY MANAGEMENT SERVICES Call for help with your rental property VISIT HankCosby.com Click RENTAL PROPERTIES for additional photos & information on available rentals.

HOMES RENTALS ACREAGE

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LEGAL DISPLAY ADS

Notice is hereby given, pursuant to § 15.2-2204 of the Code of Virginia, that the Board of Zoning Appeals of Powhatan County will conduct a public hearing on Thursday, November 12, 2020 at 9:00 AM in the Powhatan County Village Building Auditorium (3910 Old Buckingham Road) to consider the following request:

Settlement in full shall be made in cash at 901 East Cary Street, Suite 1900, Richmond, Virginia, within 30 days of sale, time being of the essence. Additional procedures, terms and conditions may be announced at the time of sale, and shall control.

Serving Powhatan, Cumberland & Surrounding Areas

LEGAL DISPLAY ADS

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING POWHATAN COUNTY BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS

If the successful bidder fails to timely close, the deposit shall be forfeited and (at the option of the Trustee) the Property may either be resold at the risk and expense of the defaulting successful bidder or the Trustee and the Secured Party may accept the next highest bid for the Property. The defaulting successful bidder shall be liable for any deficiency resulting from such next-highest closing or resale, and shall remain liable for any operating shortfall on account of the Property until closing of any such resale.

Electrical

Page 7B

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Powhatan Today, November 4, 2020

Page 8B

(804) 598-2875

HOMES

RENTALS

ACREAGE 3950 MILL STATION DRIVE POWHATAN, VA 23139

ES N CR TIO A 7 TA 7.2LL S MI

7.27 acre country estate, spacious custom cape, 4 bedrooms, 3 full & 2 half baths, formal dining room, living room/library, chef’s kitchen, great room, sun room, first floor master, first floor home office, attached threecar garage + detached 36x24 barn/workshop! Additional 5.45 acre lot available. $899,950

CR 7A

TH LO

3214 DUKE ROAD POWHATAN, VA 23139 Country retreat with 2.87 private, wooded acres, two bedrooms, one full bath, one half bath, rustic cottage with screened porch, updated eat-in kitchen, great room with wood floors, lower level recreation room/ workshop. $214,950

E CR A +

4930 TWELVEOAKS ROAD MIDLOTHIAN, VA 23112 Just updated! Rancher with 3 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, new laminate flooring, new roof, new windows, new heat pump, new carpet, freshly painted interior. $189,950

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3605 BOLLING ROAD POWHATAN, VA 23139

20 LAKE DRIVE COLUMBIA, VA 23038 Scenic setting overlooking Trice’s Lake! Right across the street from community beach & picnic area. Charming two-story home on corner double lot. Enjoy fishing, boating & swimming - vacation-style living year round!

62+ beautiful acres with lovely blend of open acreage for horses & animals, bulk of property is wooded with large hardwoods. Cottage on the property. Excellent country estate, close to Maidens boat landing and state park! $425,000

ACREAGE 2885 Crews Lane Powhatan, VA 23139 23.74 acres — $169,950

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LE NG SANDI PE

Cartersville Road & Tucker Road Powhatan, VA 23139 5 acres — $79,950

6123 AUTUMN BLUFF ROAD, POWHATAN, VA 23139

Vogel Road Cumberland, VA 23040 Next door to 298 Vogel Road 4 acres — $25,000

3.01 beautiful wooded acres! Private building site ready for your dream home. $69,950

HUGUENOT TRAIL POWHATAN, VA 23139

17.03 acres with small pond on the property, next door to 3132 Huguenot Trail, 2.3 miles east of Rt. 522 and Huguenot Trail. $124,950

BRANCHWAY SPRINGS Beautiful wooded homesites with easy access to schools, shopping, library, park and YMCA! Lot Lot Lot Lot Lot

1 ...3.35 acres..................................................................................................................................................................... $85,000 3 ...2.4 acres ......................................................................................................................................................................$84,000 12 .2.74 acres.....................................................................................................................................................................$82,000 SOLD 16..2.18 acres.....................................................................................................................................................................$84,000 18..3.11 acres..................................................................................................................................................................... $85,000

RENTAL

1744 Ballsville Road, Powhatan, VA 23139 4 bedrooms/3 baths $1,595/month

2880 Pleasantwood Road, Powhatan, VA 23139 3 bedrooms, 2 baths Detached Garage

6009 Trenholm Village Drive, Powhatan, VA 23139 3 bedrooms, 2 baths New

$1,595/month

2643 Red Lane Road, Powhatan, VA 23139 3 bedrooms, 2 baths

1748 Theresa Lane, Powhatan, VA 23139 3 bedrooms, 1.5 baths

$1,495/month

2518 Georges Road, Powhatan, VA 23139 2 bedrooms, 1 bath Second Floor Apartment $800/month

As deep as Hank Cosby’s roots run in Powhatan, he’s never been one to take his community for granted. His love for the area and its heritage have inspired him to do his best as a real estate professional. For Hank, his family’s deep local roots are a symbol of dedication to the Powhatan community. True to its name, Hank Cosby Real Estate brings the same kind of commitment to helping you achieve your goals. They know buying or selling a home is a big investment, so they commit all their energy and knowledge to helping you make the most of this exciting time. If you’re buying, selling, or renting a home in Powhatan or the surrounding communities, count on Hank Cosby Real Estate. Their time honored approach to real estate helps you see that These Roots Run Deep. Contact Hank Cosby Real Estate today -- you’ll be glad you did.

Powhatan Today –11/04/2020

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