Powhatan Today –11/16/2022

Powhatan groups honor Veterans Day

By Laura McFarland Managing Editor

POWHATAN – Powhatan County paid tribute this weekend to the men and women who have served the nation’s armed forces with four special Veterans Day events held around the county.

The ceremonies held over three days from Nov. 11 to 13 continued the longstanding tradition of honoring those residents who have served or continue to serve their country with musical and spoken word tributes, special speakers and more.

The busy weekend featured special ceremonies hosted by Powhatan Elementary School and American Legion Post 201 on Friday; the Powhatan County Branch of the NAACP on Saturday and St. Luke’s Episcopal Church on Sunday. All were open to the public.

Powhatan Elementary

Powhatan Elementary School kicked off the celebrations on Nov. 11 with its annual concert featuring all fifth grade students. Music teacher Gina Dickerson organized the event, which also

featured the participation of the Powhatan Middle School Band and Choir and Powhatan High School JROTC cadets.

The fifth graders learned the lyrics and hand movements for songs such as “America, My Home,” “God Bless America,” “You Are Our Heroes” and “You’re a Grand Old Flag.”

Veteran and PMS assistant principal Jon Ferguson was the honored guest speaker for the event. Ferguson, who served in the U.S. Army and was himself a child of two veterans, talked to the children about the opportunities enlisting offered him, including traveling internationally and making lifelong friends among his fellow soldiers.

By Laura McFarland Managing Editor

POWHATAN

School division urges caution as flu season arrives County sees 62% voter turnout

By Laura McFarland Managing Editor

POWHATAN

Superintendent Beth Teigen said last week that while school nurses have not tracked the total number of students with flu-like illnesses/symptoms, they have watched for clusters of illness in classes, on sports teams, or in other groups.

General Election.

With one congressional race and two local races on the ballots, director of elections Karen Alexander said they witnessed a few minor hiccups but the election overall went smoothly. While the voter turnout was lower than the same race four years ago, which saw about 69.5% voter turnout, she pointed out the 2018 election also included a U.S.

To read more about General Election 2022, go to Page 4A

Senate race, “so it isn’t comparing apples to apples.”

At the request of the epidemiologist from the Chesterfield Health District, the school division is reporting trends, she said. The division also requested a parent letter from the epidemiologist that could be sent to each school community, and the school nurses are communicating with parents when a student presents to the clinic with a fever and flu-like symptoms, she said.

The letter, which was sent out on Nov. 7, explained that the health district has been notified that a number of children have become sick with

Habitat works with new family, building process pathways

Contributed Report

Taking a bet, 12-year-old Aiden Chrimes could be a home builder- or architect-in-training after watching and listening to him in action recently.

The Powhatan Middle School seventh grader and his mom, Nicole Chrimes, and puppy Pepper, are Habitat for Humanity-Powhatan’s newest partner family, meaning they qualified for an affordable mortgage and will put 200 sweat equity/volunteer hours toward their new 1,200-square-foot home.

Chrimes, a VCU graduate who has worked for Powhatan Physical Therapy for 13 years and attends

Passion Community Church, has rented for years and the rental home she is in now needs a number of issues addressed. A co-worker mentioned that she should try the Habitat program.

“I also saw the information come up on Facebook and I signed up for the information meeting,” Chrimes said. “I was not sure if I could qualify. Everyone was so helpful and kind.”

“Homeownership for me and my son will provide a fresh start, no longer having to worry if the landlord may sell or raise rent,” she continued. “It’s also an accomplishment of

Powhatan, Virginia

– A mixed bag of races still drew a good voter turnout as more than 62% of registered voters in Powhatan cast ballots for the 2022

– Powhatan County Public Schools has been seeing an increase in absenteeism and clinic visits in all the schools over the last two to three weeks that prompted the division to send out a notice to families recently to increase awareness of influenza season.

PHOTO COURTESY OF HABITAT FOR HUMANITY-POWHATAN

Nicole Chrimes and her son Aiden are the newest family partnering with Habitat for Humanity-Powhatan.

Ferguson also shared how he was a “terrible student” with bad grades and behavior and struggled even as he entered college.

see VETERANS, pg. 8

PHOTOS BY LAURA McFARLAND

Four Powhatan groups held Veterans Day events from Nov. 11 to 13. Clockwise from top left: students at Powhatan Elementary School wave flags during a rendition of “You’re a Grand Old Flag”; organizer Ruth Boatwright introduces speaker Dr. Harold Young during the American Legion Post 201 ceremony; the Rev. Dr. Vera Rhyne speaks during the Powhatan County Branch NAACP’s program; and guests sing a hymn during St. Luke’s Episcopal Church’s program.

PHOTO BY LAURA McFARLAND

Election officials Theresa Fields, left, and Theresa Lamie check in voter Jonathan Spain at the Flat Rock polling precinct on Nov. 8.

BOBBY COX

COX, Bobby "Bob" Lee, 85, of Powhatan, Va., departed this life November 4, 2022, after a brief illness. Formerly of Brevard, N.C., he attended Brevard High School, Mars Hill College and graduated from UNC in 1959, where he played baseball and football. He was very proud of his "Most Talented in Music" and "Blue Devil - football" awards - he loved his sports and music. He was preceded in death by his mother, Alma Kelley Cox; father, Jefferson Hyde Cox; and brother, John Cox. He is survived by his wife of 28 years, Rebecca McMullin Cox; and his children, Primm Cox Winter (Tony), Robin Mead (Eric), Greg McMullin (Denise) and Brian McMullin; eight grandchildren who lovingly knew him as Granbob, two great-grandchildren

Wednesday, Nov. 16

The Free Clinic of Powhatan serves residents from Powhatan, Amelia and Cumberland Counties as well as select Chesterfield areas. Services include medical, dental, counseling and women’s healthcare by appointment. Eligibility requirements on website www.freeclinicofpowhatan. org/patients. Registration for new patients by appointment Mondays 5-8 p.m. or walk-in Tuesdays from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. For more information or to make an appointment, call (804) 598-5637.

Community Matters is a resource for all 55 and forward interested in learning, staying active and engaging with peers. Challenge and socialization are powerful combined and crucial at any age! Program is free; requires independent participation. Weekly sessions with a wide range of topics and activities are held on Wednesdays from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Rescue Squad Building, 3920 Marion Harland Lane. Information on various offerings, activities and topics presented can be found on Facebook: Powhatan County Reach for Active Services. Call program coordinator Jayne Lloyd at 804-698-0438 for more information.

Powhatan County Public Library is open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Fridays, and from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays. Meeting rooms are available by reservation; study rooms are available first come, first served. The library offers e-books through Overdrive and materials to borrow in person or by using Books to Go. With Books to Go, patrons may reserve print materials, DVDs, and audiobooks 24/7 online at www.powhatanlibrary or by phone during open hours at 804-598-5670; once the patron is notified that their order is ready, they have three days to pick it up at the to-go shelf. The outdoor library book drop is open 24/7 for returning library items; however, patrons must return mobile hotspots to the circulation desk inside the library. The library accepts donations and the Friends of the Library bookstore is open during library business hours. Visit www. powhatanlibrary.net or call the library at 804-598-5670 for more details, and like the library’s Facebook page for all the latest, up-to-date library news, information and program schedules.

Powhatan County Public Library will hold a weekly Story Time on Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m.

Participants will read stories, sing songs, learn finger plays and more! Story Time generally meets in front of the fireplace, and occasionally in our outdoor space.

Business Network International (BNI) Powhatan chapter meets virtually from 8 to 9:30 a.m. every Wednesday. Visit Www.BNIVA.com for information.

To register, visit https://tinyurl.com/ BNIOnFire or contact executive director Dawne Gulla at dawne@ bniva.com or 804-690-9220 for more information.

The Woman's Club of Powhatan meets at 10 a.m. every third Wednesday of the month, at May Memorial Baptist Church, 3922 Old Buckingham Road, Powhatan, from September to May. There are no meetings in June, July and August.

To attend a meeting, call membership chairman Kay Watson at 804-2404896 to let her know you will be coming or just simply drop in; the

OBITUARIES

(two more on the way); and last but not least, one of his best buddies, his dog, Hopscotch. Bob was employed by Karastan and Mohawk Rug Mills, where he retired after 35 years in 2001. He was an active member of May Memorial Baptist Church for more than 25 years, where he served in many roles including deacon, choir member and number one fundraiser. Bob will be remembered for his overwhelmingly positive attitude and outlook on life. He never knew a stranger and had a way of lighting up a room with his presence. To know him was to love him and his memory will be cherished by all who were blessed to call him friend. A Celebration of Life service will be held on Monday, November 21, 2022, at 2 p.m. at May Memorial Baptist Church, Powhatan, Va. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to May Memorial Baptist Church or your local SPCA.

CLIFFORD MILLER

MILLER, Mr. Clifford Edsel, of Powhatan, Va.,

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

welcome mat is always out. Visit the Facebook page for Woman’s Club of Powhatan.

Thursday, Nov. 17

Fine Creek Brewing Company, 2425 Robert E. Lee Road, is teaming up with Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources and Powhatan County Parks & Recreation. They have been working together to start up a fishing program through Powhatan County Parks & Recreation. A portion of Thursday's proceeds will go directly to this fund. DWR and the Powhatan County Parks & Rec department will also be out Saturday the 19th with their backyard bass setup and taking more donations with raffle prizes.

Raffle prizes will be available from DWR, Powhatan County Parks & Recreation, Moslow Wood Products, Green Top, Fine Creek Brewing AND Provision, Crazy Rooster, Väsen, and Hardywood!!

The Powhatan Food Pantry is open from 10 a.m. to noon on Thursdays, Saturdays and Tuesdays at 2500 Batterson Road. Contact the pantry at 804-372-9526 or powhatanvafoodpantry@gmail.com.

Just Kids, an affordable clothing shop selling gently used children’s clothes, sizes newborn to 8 plus, had its official opening June 7. Moving forward, the store will be open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. The shop is located in the Memorial Baptist Church Youth House, 3926 Old Buckingham Road. Just Kids is a ministry of May Memorial Baptist Church. Clothes cost $2 per bag.

A Called to Care Meeting will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on the first and third Thursdays of each month at Powhatan United Methodist Church. This organization offers both support to persons who have health issues and those who are caring for persons with health issues. The meetings may include guest speakers on a myriad of topics related to aging and good health.

Guest speakers have included a nurse practitioner, neurologist, nutritionist, physical therapist and many more. All are welcome to attend. This group is facilitated by Judy Cain-Oliver, licensed clinical psychologist.

Extension specialists and industry experts share timely topics for farmers in the Virginia Cooperative Extension Ag Today, held virtually at 9 a.m. every Thursday. These updates are relevant and brief and are recorded for folks who can't join on that day and time.

Podcasts (audio only) are posted on Westmoreland VCE webpage and YouTube video recordings can be found at https://www.youtube. com/ playlist?list=PL7_2QUVzrPXD pYsV2HY11CH8KBrluifyO. Contact Stephanie Romelczyk (sromelcz@ vt.edu) for information on joining the meeting live. Watched or listened to VCE AG Today? Let us know how we are doing! Find our survey here: https://vce.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/ SV_6fiYBb914AYRdn7.

Mark your calendars for the next

Powhatan Civil War Roundtable meeting at 6:30 p.m. on the third Thursday of the month at the County Seat Restaurant. Dinner will be included with a fee of $18 for members and $22 for nonmembers. To reserve space, contact Pat Whitmer at 240-298-0141 or patwhitmer77@gmail.com. Visit www. powhatancwrt.com.

The Powhatan chapter of the NAACP meets at 7 p.m. on the third Thursday of each month in the training room of the Powhatan African American Cultural Arts Museum, 4290 Anderson Highway (inside the gym of the Pocahontas Landmark Center). All are welcome. For more information, contact Gail Hairston at 804-598-3435 or powhatannaacp@gmail.com.

The original Powhatan AA meets from 7 to 8 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.

The Powhatan Ruritan Club will meet at 6:30 p.m. at Rosa’s Pizza and Italian Eatery in Flat Rock. Dinner will be served followed by a program and a brief meeting. They are a community service organization dedicated to our county. All are welcome. For more information call Jake Berman at 804651-4503.

The Powhatan Chamber of Commerce luncheon will be held at noon at County Seat Restaurant. Visit www.powhatanchamber.org.

Friday, Nov. 18

Graceland Baptist Church, 975 Dorset Road, will hold a Kids Night Out from 6 to 10 p.m. on Nov. 18. Call 804-5983481 for information.

Saturday, Nov. 19

Powhatan Christmas Mother Headquarters will be open on the following evenings for volunteers: Tuesday, Nov. 29 from 6 to 8 p.m. and Saturday, Nov. 19 and Dec. 3 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Visit https:// powhatanchristmasmother.org/.

Gospel Light Baptist Church, 2109 Anderson Highway, will hold an Arts and Craft Fair from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Powhatan County Public Library is spicing up the fall with its programming for adults. On Saturday, Nov. 19 at 10:30 a.m., the library will hold Gentle Beginner’s Yoga with Joanna Bartles. Participants will learn breathing techniques, postures and movements to relieve tension and tightness in muscles and joints. Bring a yoga mat or beach towel, and if able a firm pillow, block or towel for support. Bottled water will be provided. For details, contact Powhatan County Public Library at 804-598-5670 or library@ powhatanlibrary.net.

Habitat For Humanity - Powhatan depends on volunteers and donors. Habitat is blessed with the community’s helpful and generous participation. The Habitat ReStore at 1922 Urbine Road is open every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The office is located upstairs at the Habitat ReStore and the office number is 804-594-7009, ext. 2. Call and volunteer. Help us at the ReStore, perform critical repairs and/or with our upcoming builds.

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

The Christian Motorcyclists Association Powhatan chapter Living Wheels will meet at 6 p.m. at Company 4 Fire station at the intersection of Route 711 and Judes Ferry Road. Find out what they have been doing, and where their next ride or event will be. For more information call Tom Barnes at 804-690-4884 or

died November 7, 2022. He was born January 17, 1939, at Pilgrims Knob, Va., to Paul W. and Ivory (Ratliff) Miller. In addition to his parents; he was preceded in death by a brother, Paul Douglas Miller. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Alice Frances (Butcher) Miller; daughter, Anita Cheryl and husband, Robert "Bobby" Toone and daughters, Elizabeth and Sarah; son, Brian and wife, Charlotte and daughter, Emily. He is also survived by sisters, Anna Lee Harris and Alma Gayle Campanelli; and brother, Kirby Dwaine Miller. He was a member of May Memorial Baptist Church and Manchester Lodge No. 14, A.F.& A.M. There will be no memorial services. Interment will be private in Powhatan Community Cemetery.

Mark Lewis at 804-432-1831.

Sunday,

Nov. 20

Old Powhatan Baptist Church, 2202 Old Church Road, will hold a Community Thanksgiving Celebration with a service at 10:15 a.m. followed by a meal. Join us as we celebrate Thanksgiving together by singing, praying, praising, hearing from God's Word and fellowshipping together around good food. The meal is free.

The RVAg Pop-Up Market Series at Fine Creek Brewing Company concludes with the event on Nov. 20 from noon to 4 p.m. The event will include local vendors for your shopping pleasure. Sit on the veranda or out in the yard and sip on Fine Creek beer or cider and eat from their delicious menu.

Monday, Nov. 21

Powhatan County Public Library will hold Brick Slayerz from 4 to 5 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 21 and Dec. 5 and 19. This is a LEGO building club for 6-12 year-olds. Bricks and bases will be provided to attendees. A parent or guardian is required to stay with their child during the program.

The Coalition of Powhatan Churches meets at 5:30 p.m. on the third Monday of the month at May Memorial Baptist Church. The Coalition lends hands and hearts to people in need in the Powhatan community. All are welcome to the meetings. Call 804-598-2454.

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. 22

A Powhatan Day of “Praying for Others First” will be held at 6 p.m. at 3910 Old Buckingham Road, Powhatan. For more information, call 804-256-4411.

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.

Upcoming

Girl Scout Troop 3029 is helping the Huguenot Volunteer Fire Department achieve a long-held goal of building a memorial to honor the victims of the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001 at the station. The Girl Scouts are selling 411 bricks inscribed with the name, rank and company of a firefighter, law enforcement officer or paramedic killed during the attacks.

A donation of $23 will cover the cost of one inscribed brick in honor of a first responder. To purchase a brick, visit www.bricksrus.com/donorsite/ memorial911. Checks payable to Troop 3029 may also be mailed to Laura Baltz at 1510 Holly Hills Road, Powhatan, VA 23139. For more information, contact Baltz at 804-4674313 or Ljbal65@aol.com.

Unity Community Church will present its annual Unity Around the Table

Thanksgiving Dinner from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 24 at 3910 Old Buckingham Road, Powhatan. The event is free and open to the public and includes food, family, fellowship and a toy giveaway. For more information, visit www.ucc4me.org or contact 804-256-4411.

Passion Community Church will hold a Community Thanksgiving Dinner on Thursday, Nov. 24 at its Powhatan Campus, 4480 Anderson Highway.

The free meal will be held from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. ALL are welcome to join us at the Powhatan Campus for a Thanksgiving dinner OR stop by to pick up to-go lunches for your family! Spread the word and invite those you know who may be alone or unable to enjoy a Thanksgiving meal. Your RSVP for dinner (or to pick up dinners) is most appreciated via the form on the church website, https:// pccwired.net/fall-events/, found under the Powhatan Campus list.

Food donations are also welcome! Items needed include: turkeys, hams, dressing mix, instant mashed potatoes, green beans, and veggie trays. Drop off all donations at the Powhatan Campus. Interested in helping us prepare food? Complete the form on the church website and select the appropriate option. You can also RSVP. Contact Melinda Kinney at 518-429-9873 or melinda.kinney@ pccwired.net.

Powhatan Christmas Mother Headquarters will be open on the following evenings for volunteers: Tuesday, Nov. 29 from 6 to 8 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 3 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Visit https:// powhatanchristmasmother.org/.

Powhatan County Public Library’s Teen Advisory Board meetings from 4 to 6 p.m. on Nov. 29 and Dec. 13. Help plan and run teen programs, create library displays, suggest YA books and materials, and get volunteer hours. For local teens aged 13-18 (grades 6-12). Application required to join. Pick one up at the library front desk.

Lonesome Dove Equestrian Center, which is located at 6137 Old Buckingham Road, provides yearround therapeutic horseback riding exclusively for veterans with special needs and disabilities. Focusing on veterans in Central Virginia, the goal of this program is to improve the quality of life for the participants through activities that are positive to their cognitive, physical, emotional and social well-being. As of Jan. 1, 2021, the program is also welcoming first responders to come ride with the program. In November, volunteers are asked to arrive at 10 a.m. and the riding sessions begin at 11 a.m. Upcoming dates are Nov. 30. There are no sessions in December. LDEC is able to provide a variety of services to the veterans because of dedicated volunteers. Those who would like to help and have fun at the same time are asked to consider becoming a member of one of these teams. For more information about Lonesome Dove, visit http://ldequestrian.com/ or contact 804-318-6485.

Blessed Sacrament Huguenot Drama will put on a production of “The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe” with performances at 7 p.m. Dec. 2 and 3 and 3 p.m. on Dec. 3 in the school’s gym. The play is based on the story by C.S. Lewis. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students.

Graceland Baptist Church, 975 Dorset

Volunteers encouraged to pack shoeboxes for needy children

Contributed Report

Operation Christmas Child is once again collecting shoeboxes through Nov. 21 for needy children throughout the world.

The Samaritan’s Purse project collects and delivers the gifts to demonstrate God’s love in a tangible way. For many of these children, it is the first present they have ever received. This ministry provides an opportunity to share the gospel of Jesus Christ, not only to the children, but their parents and other family members as well.

Since 1993, Operation Christmas

Child, the world’s largest Christmas project of its kind, has collected and delivered more than 198 million shoebox gifts to children across the world. In 2022, Operation Christmas Child hopes to collect enough to reach another 11 million children worldwide, with 9.4 million of the boxes coming from the U.S. Locally, the 2022 goal in Richmond, VA is 55,122.

Anyone can pack a shoebox. Individuals, families, churches and groups fill empty shoeboxes with school supplies, personal hygiene items and toys, such as stuffed animals, dolls or soccer

balls. Learn how to pack a shoebox and view gift suggestions at samaritanspurse.org/occ. Participants are encouraged to donate $10 per shoebox for shipping. You may include a check in the box or pay online through Follow Your Box. If you pay online, you will receive a tracking label which enables tracking to its destination.

Do not include candy; toothpaste; used or damaged items; war-related items such as toy guns, knives or military figures; seeds; chocolate or food; liquids or lotions; medications or vitamins; breakable items, such as snow

globes or glass containers; or aerosol cans. If you prefer contactless delivery of boxes, you may build custom shoeboxes online for a donation of $25 per box. The URL for these contactless options is www.samaritanspurse.org/buildonline.

During National Collection Week (Nov. 14 – 21, 2022), Samaritan’s Purse is collecting the boxes at more than 4,000 drop-off locations in all 50 states and Puerto Rico. Drop-off Locations may be found at https://www.samaritanspurse.org/operation-christmaschild/drop-off-locations/.

COX

Contributed Report

Barbara Hurst was with her daughter on a Sunday, playing Virginia Lottery games online. She had noticed that the MONOPOLY Progressive Jackpots game had an unusually high jackpot. That’s when it happened.

“We looked at each other. We didn’t say anything,” her daughter Lisa recalled. “The look we gave each other said it all.”

Hurst had just won the $424,330 jackpot.

“It’s just unbelievable,” Hurst told Lottery officials. “I’m very excited!”

MONOPOLY Progressive Jackpots is one of dozens of online instant games available at the Virginia Lottery’s website, valottery.com. The jackpot grows as more people play. The odds of winning any prize in this game are 1 in 4.68.

All Virginia Lottery profits go to K-12 education in Virginia. Hurst lives in Powhatan County, which received nearly $1.7 million in Lottery funds for K-12 education last fiscal year. In fiscal year 2022, the Lottery raised more than $779 million for K-12 education, making up approximately 10% of Virginia’s total K-12 school budget.

NAACP hosts Parade to the Polls

Writers Roundup returns to Powhatan Couty Public Library

Contributed Report

library, located at 2270 Mann Road.

Powhatan High School

“Alice in Wonderland,” Nov. 18 at 7 p.m., Nov. 19 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., and Nov. 20 at 2 p.m. Join Alice in her adventures with the White Rabbit, the Cheshire Cat, the Mad Hatter, and many more as she tries to make her way home and not “lose her head.” The cast includes special guest ensemble performers from Powhatan Middle School Drama, and is fun for the whole family. Tickets are $8 at the door. Pictured left to right: James Elam and Zoe Lucas as the King and Queen of Hearts, Madeline Latham as Alice, Morgan Manson as the March Hare, Elizabeth Dewey as the Dormouse, Annabel Felts, Chase Jones, Kay Firda, and Journey McAllister as the Queen’s Court, and Kyle Burgmaster as a Card Soldier.

Families dive for pumpkins

Calling all local authors: Powhatan County Public Library invites local writers to be a part of the Writers Roundup. The popular event returns after a hiatus of several years, and is scheduled for Jan. 21, 2023, from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. at the

CALENDAR

Continued from pg. 2

Road, will hold its annual Christmas Drive Thru from 6 to 8 p.m. on Dec. 2 and 3. It is free and open to the public.

Powhatan County Parks and Recreation will offer a free Introduction to Pickleball session from 9 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 3 at the Pocahontas Landmark Center Gym, 4290 Anderson Highway. The event is for adults ages 18+ and is free for Powhatan County residents only. It will be taught by Linda Scott, a certified IPTPA instructor and USA Pickleball District Ambassador Virginia Central District. If you have your own paddles, bring them with you. Proper shoes and attire required. Participants must register and sign a waiver. Contact 804-598-5275 or mshelton@powhatanva.gov.

Powhatan County Public Library will have Craft Time! From 10:30 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 3. Elementary school aged children are invited to participate in this arts and craft program. Registration required.

This event is an opportunity for authors to meet their reading public, and a chance for the public to discuss writing and books one on one with those authors. Details are available on the library’s website (www.powhatan-

library.net) or by calling the library at 804-5985670. The event is free and open to all visitors.

Authors who would like to be featured at the event should contact Charles Joynes at cjoynes@powhatanlibrary.net or call the library.

Around 40 swimmers dove for pumpkins at the

pool on Oct. 29. It was a fun event for everyone with participants ranging in ages from preschoolers to adults with their families. After picking their pumpkin from the pool, participants decorated their pumpkins into their own masterpiece with paint, stickers and googly eyes on the deck. The kids and parents had a blast turning their pumpkins into artwork while creating memories.

Powhatan United Methodist Church will celebrate Advent with a musical program of Songs of the Season presented by Juan and Valerie Pineda and Friends hosted by Powhatan United Methodist Church’s Monday Night Circle. The event will be held at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 4. Juan is the worship director at PUMC and Valerie is director of music ministries at Welborne UMC. Both are very accomplished musicians. This event is free and open to the public.

The Heart of Virginia Beekeepers plans to meet Tuesday, Dec. 6 at 7 p.m. at the Prince Edward County Extension Office, 100 Dominion Dr., Farmville, VA 23901 next to Lowe's. We are planning to hold elections and our annual holiday dinner, so bring a dish to share. Details to be announced. Anyone who has bees or is interested in bees is welcome. For more information call Mary Jane Morgan at 434315-1433. To check on possible cancellations or changes, visit Facebook or our website: heartofvirginiabeekeepers.org.

PHOTO COURTESY OF POWHATAN HIGH SCHOOL

Theatre presents Lewis Carroll’s

PHOTOS COURTESY OF POWHATAN NAACP

The NAACP Parade to the Polls, a nonpartisan Get Out the Vote event, was held for the second time on Oct. 29. All candidates and local political leaders were invited to join Powhatan voters for a family-friendly meet and greet, and to parade in their decorated vehicles around the village area to celebrate the right to vote, as well as to provide rides to the polls for those in need of transportation. This year was attended by State Senator Ghazala Hashmi, candidates Josh Throneburg and Michael Edwards, and a parade of approximately 15 vehicles.

PHOTO COURTESY OF VIRGINIA LOTTERY Barbara Hurst of Powhatan recently won $424,330 playing the MONOPOLY Progressive Jackpots game.

Elizabeth Randolph Lewis Powhatan YMCA

General Election passes with only minor issues

By Laura McFarland Managing Editor

POWHATAN – With a good voter turnout and relatively minor issues overall, the 2022 General Election ran smoothly in Powhatan County, according to director of elections Karen Alexander.

Forty-five days of no excuse early voting followed by a solid Election Day turnout combined for a good overall experience, with some minor confusion and adjustments along the way, Alexander said.

One of the few issues experienced among some voters was confusion regarding voter precinct locations due to

the 2022 local redistricting, she said. Voters had received postcards from the Virginia Board of Elections detailing their precinct locations that were sent out prior to local redistricting being completed, she explained.

“Despite the fact that follow-up notifications were sent to those voters following the local redistricting, many voters were still not aware and were confused about where to go vote on Election Day,” she said. “Voters who presented at the incorrect precinct were given the information regarding their correct precinct along with directions on where to go to make sure that they could vote on the machine on Election Day.”

CRIME REPORT

Arrests

One male was charged on Oct. 25 with trespassing (misdemeanor).

One male was charged on Oct. 28 with possession of controlled substances (felony).

One male was charged on Oct. 28 with assault and battery of a family member (M).

One male was charged on Oct. 30 with assault and battery of a family member (M).

One female was charged on Oct. 30 with concealment, price alter merchandise (M).

One male was charged on Oct. 30 with petty larceny (M).

One female was charged on Oct. 30 with petty larceny (M).

One male was charged on Nov. 2 with threats to bomb or damage building (F).

One male was charged on Nov. 3 with petty larceny (M).

One male was charged on Nov. 6 with petty larceny (M).

One male was charged on Nov. 6 with destruction of property, monument (M) and assault and battery of a family member (M).

One male was charged on Nov. 7 with assault and battery of a family member (M).

Incident report for Oct. 24 to Nov. 6 - Incident type & total calls

Abandoned vehicle 2 Abduction 1

Advice 55 Animal calls 59 Assault 5 Assist 28

“I think there continues to be significant interest from Powhatan voters in being involved in the democratic process. We saw a very healthy turnout for an election where congressional campaigning wasn’t pervasive,” she said.

Alexander said Thursday that the following numbers are still the unofficial election results as there were currently 88 provisional ballots yet to be tallied with the possibility of more mail-in ballots (as long as they were postmarked by Election Day) accepted through noon on Monday, Nov. 14. Because of the office being closed Friday for Veterans Day, the official numbers wouldn’t be counted until after any final ballots were received on Monday, which occurred after press time.

However, in all cases, the provisional ballots would not make a large enough difference to change the outcome of any of the races, she said.

As expected, republican Robert G. “Bob” Good handily received the most votes in the race for House of Representatives 5th District, receiving 11,111 votes over democrat Joshua M. Throneburg, who received 3,675 votes and 19 write-in votes.

Although all District 5 votes hadn’t been counted by press time, Good had the definitive lead as of Monday morning with 57.94% over Throneburg’s 41.86%.

In a statement on election night, Good called representing the district one of the “greatest privileges” of his life and said he is grateful for continued support of his voters.

“I am committed to continuing to fight for you in Washington and I pledge to work relentlessly to secure the border, balance the budget, put parents and children first in education, restore our constitutional freedoms and hold the Biden administration accountable,” Good said.

The only other race on all Powhatan ballots was for the commonwealth’s attorney’s seat, in which unopposed candidate Robert C. Cerullo was elected with 13,029 votes. He had already been serving as interim commonwealth’s attorney and is expected to be sworn in to continue the role officially.

Cerullo said Thursday that he was both thrilled and humbled to see the amount of support he received from the community. While he ran unopposed, Cerullo said campaigning did allow him to get to know more of Powhatan in a very positive way.

“As a prosecutor you mostly deal with folks who have either been victimized or are doing the victimizing – so not at their best. During my campaign it was nice to get to know folks outside (of) my role as prosecutor and get to know people on a personal level,” he said. “I think also that it helps me in the future in my role as a prosecutor – when you can put a name to face outside the criminal justice system it helps me do this job better because I can better understand where people are coming from if I do have to run into them in court.”

While he had already been serving in an interim capacity for a few months and gaining a whole new appreciation for handling the administrative side of the office that his predecessor made look easier than it is, Cerullo said he does

Attempt to locate 24 BOL 4 Child welfare 5 Civil 5 CPR 3

Damaged property 4

Death investigation 1 Disabled vehicle 24 Disorder/disturbance 4 Domestic 13

Drugs 2 Drunk in public 1 Fingerprints 1 Followup 5

Fraud 3 Funeral 3

Game offense 1

Gunshot calls 5 Hit and run 2 Hold-up alarm 1 Investigation 20 Larceny 4 Lockout 18

Lost property 2 Loud music 3

Missing person 2 MVAs 50

Noise 2 Overdose 1 Parking violation 2 Pd alarm 12

Phone threat 1 Project lifesaver 4 Protective order violation 2

have goals for the little more than a year left in the unexpired term.

Currently, Powhatan is seeing a marked increase in larceny cases, so his office will work with the sheriff’s office, business owners, the department of social services and court services to address the issue, Cerullo said.

“I also intend to work with the sheriff’s department in any way we can to address the mental health cases we are seeing. I have already reached out to Henrico County and spent a day with their Court learning about their mental health docket and hope to utilize some of the things I have learned there,” he said.

Cerullo added he intends to fully support the multijurisdictional grand jury –“which in my opinion is best tool we have to investigate and prosecute criminal cases in Powhatan” – and continue the K-9 therapy program used to help victims.

There were 301 write-in votes in the commonwealth’s attorney’s race, but Alexander said no write-in name received 10% of the vote to be considered as an

Psychiatric 2 Reckless driver 20

Road rage 2

School threat assessment 1

Sex offense 3 Shoplifting 5 Stalking 1 Suspicious 47 Traffic hazard 22

Traffic stops 118

Transfer 1 Transport 3 Trespass 5 Unauthorized use 1 Underage possession 4 Unknown emergency 27 Vandalism 3 Warrant service 3 Welfare check 18

official candidate.

That wasn’t the case with the race for District 1 school board member, which had 437 write-in votes. While the final write-in count has not been tabulated, Alexander said late candidate Michael Edwards did receive more than the 10% threshold to be an official write-in candidate even though he didn’t win the race.

Instead the title went to Vicki R. Hurt, who won the race easily with 1,970 votes over Edwards and official opponent Christopher J. Coplan, who received 866 votes.

Hurt said Thursday that she was deeply honored to be supported by such a large group of voters in District 1.

“Simply said, I was absolutely thrilled! The large margin also confirmed that what the voters in District 1 had told me were their concerns is an accurate representation of a large segment of the voters. We worked so hard on this campaign and I stayed true to myself and my beliefs—it was amazing to see all of our hard work pay off, especially since

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PHOTOS BY LAURA MCFARLAND

Powhatan Elementary School held its annual “Thank you, Military” salute on Nov. 11. Members of the public were invited to come see a performance of fifth graders as well as the Powhatan Middle School Band and Choir and Powhatan High School JROTC cadets. Veteran Jon Ferguson, PMS assistant principal, was the guest speaker.

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Powhatan African American Cultural Arts Museum

St. Luke’s Episcopal Church

St.

Saber, and by Saturday of that week, mom and son were selecting the color of their siding, shingles and shutters.

“This doesn’t seem real,” said Aiden as he put together a vinyl flooring sample and countertop color like a pro for the bathroom that he will use. Later that morning, the two came to the Powhatan ReStore and found four ceiling fans with lights that were needed.

Since finding out his family was a finalist, Aiden, a member of Boy Scout Troop 800, has been researching the building process, watching YouTube videos, looking over the house plans and figuring out how he can best organize spaces. He can’t wait until February when a huge crane will “set” and “marry” two halves of their semi-complete house on its foundation, after which local contractors and volunteers will complete the finish work — HVAC, painting, plumbing connections, porch and deck building, landscaping and more.

“We’ll make that day quite an occasion,” says Tyler Hudgins, whose firm, Moseley-based Class A Lud Hudgins Inc., has worked with modular housing for more than 30 years. This home will come from Virginia Homes Building Systems.

Using a modular/factory-built home to begin the Habitat process is a new twist for the Richmond region. It has been successfully used by Staunton-AugustaWaynesboro’s Habitat, which was looking to improve economies of scale and place more families into homes in a shorter

timeframe. Modular homes are constructed to meet or exceed site-build standards, and the homes are placed on load-bearing masonry foundations. These homes are financed, insured and appraised to the same criteria as stick-built homes.

“While this is something new that we are trying, the process will still involve volunteers and a team of giving local partners, including Benchmark Construction, who will help us oversee the finishing,” says Susan Winiecki, executive director. “We will do two houses this way in 2023 after almost a year of research and an unexpected move of another partner family to Amelia, which meant we had to start our application process again.”

This new build is being supported in part by PlanRVA/Virginia Housing, Envestnet Money Guide Wells Fargo, and Reed and Gail Schweickert.

Education and preparation are keys to the homebuying process, so Habitat-Powhatan is also starting a two-part Pathways to Homeownership program on Wed., Nov. 30 and Wed., Dec. 7 at the county library from 5:30

to 7 p.m. This free program, which requires registration, is intended for county residents and those who have worked in Powhatan for at least a year who want to learn about the homebuying/ mortgage process and about Habitat’s program.

“Our board is blessed to have current and retired mortgage professionals, such as Family Services Chair Robin Cupka, and realtors who can share their expertise,” Winiecki said. “They are ready to answer your questions.”

Helping to support the new program is the Bob and Anna Lou Schaberg Foundation.

Register for the Pathways to Homeownership program at habitatpowhatan.org/events or call 804-594-7009, ext. 2.

If you are interested in volunteering with the build or Habitat’s critical repair program, call 804594-7009, ext. 2, or email executivedirector@habitatpowhatan.org. Or if you wish to volunteer at the Restore, which has expanded its hours to every Saturday from 9 to 2 and Thursday afternoons noon to 4 p.m., contact store@habitatpowhatan. org or call 804-594-7009, ext. 1.

PHOTOS BY LAURA MCFARLAND

The Powhatan African American Cultural Arts Museum had a display of local military artifacts and veteran photos on display for its Veterans Day program, which honored all veterans but especially highlighted the contributions of black veterans. The event included musical selections, the lighting of a memorial candle, recognition of local veterans and special speaker the Rev. Dr. Vera Rhyne.

Chrimes

learned that they were selected on Sunday, Oct. 30 with Habitat board presi-

dent John

PHOTO COURTESY OF HABITAT FOR HUMANITY-POWHATAN Nicole Chrimes and her son Aiden select flooring and other items for their home with Tyler Hudgins of Lud Hudgins Inc.

Luke’s Episcopal Church held a ceremony “Remembering Veterans and Those Who Serve Now” on Nov. 13. From left, veterans Charles Alexander Brown (Air Force) and Robert Searle (Navy) attended; participants sing hymns; and the Rev. R. Dale Custer gives the homily.

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Veteran ‘well pleased’ with clubs honoring him

By Laura McFarland Managing Editor

In thinking ahead to what my column would be about this week, Veterans Day was always top of the list.

But what to say about Veterans Day that hasn’t been said before? I thought about focusing exclusively on the four Powhatan County Veterans Day events held over three days this weekend. That wouldn’t be a hardship as they were all wonderful ceremonies.

The fifth graders of Powhatan Elementary School once again put on a beautiful military salute with the help of Powhatan High School and Powhatan Middle School students. An amazing amount of veterans attended – some connected to the school and some not – and were honored during the ceremony. I hope the children’s voices and shows of respect echoed in their hearts.

Whether it was listening to special speaker Dr. Harold Young talk about life at a MASH unit during the Vietnam War or hearing David Grubbs recite a poem recounting all too clearly the cost of PTSD on our military personnel, the American Legion Veterans Day program did not fail to meet the mark.

The Powhatan County Branch of the NAACP’s Veterans Day program once again

ELECTION

started with veterans through the years lining up in the hallway and marching in together to be recognized. The moments where all the veterans introduced themselves were filled with good natured joking between the branches of the military and it just felt right.

The program was also uplifted by beautiful music and a word from Rev. Dr. Vera Rhyne, who talked about her military experiences and those of her own father when he served.

The Veterans Day program at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church was a small intimate affair, but the reading of the names of veterans either buried in the church’s cemetery or submitted by church members while the late afternoon sun shone through the stained glass windows was incredibly peaceful.

I could’ve gone more into depth about all of those events, which were all wonderful ways to honor our local veterans.

Instead I want to talk about Gray Valentine, a 91-year-old veteran who lives in Powhatan. Mr. Valentine is a U.S. Navy veteran who enlisted right after high school and served from 1947 to 1950. Most of his service was spent on the USS Coral Sea, an aircraft carrier, doing fire control and several other odd jobs.

Looking back, he said he wished he had stayed in longer than three years; at the time he

just “wanted to be home and eating my mama’s cooking.”

“I am proud of it. Somebody had to do,” he said of his time in the navy. “I did it for my family and everyone else in the country.”

Mr. Valentine had some unexpected visitors on Saturday morning. Members of the Powhatan Rotary Club and PHS Interact Club showed up on his door step and offered to clean up and landscape his yard as part of a work weekend organized by Habitat for Humanity-Powhatan.

On an unexpectedly beautiful sunny day the club members trimmed branches, mowed the lawn, improved the sight line on his driveway, raked leaves and more. All the while Mr. Valentine sat in his wheelchair on his front porch and watched in amazement.

“They have done a beautiful job. I am well pleased,” he said. “They are taking time away from their homes to come and do this. Thank God for people like them.”

Mr. Valentine was more than grateful for the support Saturday and the previous help he received a few years ago when Habitat built him a ramp so he could get in and out of his house. “Without the ramp I would be totally housebound.”

So in the face of all of those amazing ceremonies where so many veterans were honored, why write about Mr. Valen-

thought that they would be voting for somebody else,” she said.

tine? I started thinking about the planning. All of the events mentioned above likely took weeks or months to prepare for and organize, and while I know Habitat also took great care to organize the landscaping project as part of its critical repair outreach, the scale felt personal in a different way. It felt like the help any person could do for their neighbor or to honor a veteran because they saw an immediate need and filled it.

Veterans Day is not only important, it is essential. We need to take the time to recognize the men and women who are willing to put their lives on

VOTER

the line for our nation. It is a vital part of life where attention must be paid.

At the same time, the other 364 days of the year also have the potential to be filled with acts of thanks, remembrance and honor for our veterans. While the timing of Habitat’s project on Saturday coincided nicely with Veterans Day weekend, it really could have happened at any time and still had a huge impact on Mr. Valentine’s life in a very real way. That, to me, was a hugely important reminder.

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

Continued from pg. 4

Anyone unable to get to their correct precinct was given the option to vote a provisional ballot at their previous precinct, she added. “Everyone who chose to vote provisionally because of that reason, I know their ballot is being counted,” Alexander said.

One of the biggest issues administratively was that same day registrations were allowed legally for the first time in Virginia, Alexander said.

“We had 79 same-day registrations across Powhatan County, which slowed down not only the Election Day process but the postelection provisional process has been deterred greatly because of the research needed to process those registrations,” she said Friday, adding they hoped to complete them by Monday after press time.

This was the first election since the office of elections acquired an early voting building, which is located behind the Village Building. Alexander said Powhatan had a 17% turnout of early voters, which was lower than she expected based on the previous two November elections. However, the building helped the early voting process tremendously, she said.

“It was a dream to not have to worry so much about weather conditions and the safety of the election officials performing their duties,” she said.

B.J. Palsa, chief election official at the Flat Rock precinct, said Election Day saw a steady turnout all day with peaks and surges at key points. She said there was confusion from some voters about candidates on their ballots caused by redistricting and thinking they were still in another district.

“We had people who originally thought that they would be voting for one particular candidate. They get here and they are not recognizing who is on the ballot because they

District 1 voter Jonathan Spain said the economy was his main focus going into this election.

“I work in construction and right now the housing market is just dropping. We have laid off half of my company in the last month and a half and it is just heading in the wrong direction. That is the main reason I came today,” he said after casting his ballot at the Flat Rock precinct.

District 1 voter Jillian Stocks came to cast her ballot with her children, Lucas, 13, and Kayleigh, 4. She brings them every year because she wants them to know “you have an impact, that one person can make a difference.” This year Lucas also had the opportunity to do an extra credit assignment related to voting for class, she added.

Stocks said the school board race, the economy and education were big priorities for her, along with the “cost of everything.” At the local level, Stocks said her focus was core classes and wanting to see test scores improve now that schools are bouncing back after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Veronica Sanders, precinct chief at Smith Crossroads, agreed they also had seen a steady flow of voters all day with about 700 voters by 5 p.m. on Election Day. People seemed eager and excited, and she noted there were several first-time voters.

District 5 voter James Cole said education was his priority in this election and making sure schools are more like they used to be.

Fellow District 5 voter Lula Clarke said there wasn’t anything in particular that drew her out for this election; she was just “trying to make sure the right people are in right place.”

“I can’t be heard if I don’t voice my opinion,” she said.

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we have to turn around and do this again in a year,” she said.

When he announced his retirement as District 1 school board member, Rick Cole made it effective Dec. 31, 2022, so Hurt will be sworn into office in January 2023. At that time, the focus is expectedly to largely be on the budget for the next fiscal year, which Hurt expects to be a big focus.

“I hope to find resources to direct to battling learning loss. I will work diligently to be certain every dollar of the tax payers money is spent wisely and responsibly with complete transparency, especially those outrageous Amazon charges,” she said.

Hurt added that she will work to ensure adequate policies are in place to protect Powhatan’s children from sexualized material in classrooms, lessons and libraries and focus on their overall safety.

“We must maintain the innocence of childhood and protect our students from adult world issues,” she said. “Safety is also a big concern of mine. I don’t want any parent to worry about their child’s safety. I learned, when I was meeting with voters, that the radio system on buses needs to be updated. I have been told that there are areas of the county that the radio system does not work on the buses. We also need stronger policies to protect our students from any predator, as it can be difficult to always know who may be a predator.”

Hurt said she doesn’t intend to waiver from supporting parents’ rights first and fighting against indoctrination and politics in school to make sure the focus is on “basic academics in our schools.”

Hurt currently serves on the Powhatan County Planning Commission. After consulting with the county attorney, Hurt said she has found no legal reason she has to resign the planning commission.

“I am fortunate that I was able to retire from my teaching position last year, so now serving this community that I love is my only job,” she said. “For the next year I will serve in both capacities. I feel very strongly that once I make a commitment, that I see it through. I will not be seeking reappointment to the planning commission after my term expires next year.”

For final numbers updated after provisional ballots have been cast, visit the Virginia Department of Elections’ website, results. elections.virginia.gov.

Richmond Times-Dispatch reporter Charlotte Rene Woods contributed to this story.

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PHOTO BY LAURA McFARLAND

Members of Powhatan Rotary Club and PHS Interact Club arrived at the home of Gray Valentine, a 91-yearold Powhatan veteran, on Saturday to landscape and clean up his yard. Sitting next to him is his son, Robert Newsome of Prince George.

Company 1 holds Open House

Christmas Mother holds pet food drive

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

The Powhatan Christmas Mother is holding a 2022 Pet Food Drive for clients this Christmas. Drop-off locations are: Free Clinic of Powhatan; Goodwyn Lumber, through Dec. 9; 1933 Public House, through Dec. 11; and Murray Automotive, 1731 Douthit Court (across Route 60 from River Run Veterinary Clinic). Shown is Martina Chandler, director of operations at the Powhatan Free Clinic, in front of one of the drop-off boxes. Everyone is invited to drop off cat or dog food at any location by Dec. 8.

“It took the army to change me – change me for so many positive ways,” he said, describing how he quickly changed his ways and came to realize how much he could accomplish when he was willing to put in the hard work.

Principal Constance Deal said all of the fifth graders who put on the program did a fantastic job paying tribute to the visiting veterans, and she appreciated the collaboration with the middle and high school students. While many of the veterans who attended know or are related to students or staff, some are members of the community who simply enjoy the ceremony.

“It is just a great way to honor our veterans and to spend some quality time with them and speak to them to let them know they are special,” she said.

Deal said Dickerson started teaching the children the songs in early September in their classes. Then in the last few weeks, all of the fifth graders came together during their resource time to practice together as a large group.

The school also tried to engage the prekindergarten through fourth grade students, who learned “You’re a Grand Ole Flag” in their music classes so they could join in the final musical number.

“This was a way for them to participate with that song. They knew it and they had their flags ready,” she said, adding the flags were handed out just before the song to prevent too much distraction.

American Legion

American Legion Post 201’s Veterans Day program at 11 a.m. on Nov. 11 continued many special traditions the group uses to honor veterans, who made up a large portion of the audience.

The event was punctuated by performances such as Chaytor Green singing The National Anthem and David Grubbs reciting “Hometown Battlefied,” a poem based on a song that tells of the struggles military personnel face when they return home and try to get back to “normal life.”

The special guest speaker for the event was Dr. Harold Young, a neurosurgeon who served with the 312th Evacuation Hospital in Chu Lai, Vietnam and later went on to serve as the chair of VCU School of Medicine’s Department of Neurosurgery from 1985 to 2015.

FLU

Continued from

influenza and/or influenza like illnesses throughout PCPS. It went over common reminders about using good hygiene practices, using antiviral medications, staying home when ill and encouraging families to get flu vaccines.

According to the health district, the influenza vaccination is usually 40% to 60% effective in preventing the flu in healthy persons. “Even if someone who is vaccinated gets the flu, vaccination can still offer some protection by reducing the severity and duration of illness.”

Teigen reiterated that the school nurses and health services team want to encourage students to “stay home when they are sick, and they should not return

Young’s presentation covered a few topics, including his experiences in Vietnam and some of the people he met. He stressed numerous times the high cost of war. Young repeatedly drew parallels between the past and present, talking both about the horrors experienced long ago in Vietnam and those happening currently in the Ukraine, where citizens are dealing with bombardments as well as the shortages that come with war.

“We have learned, unfortunately, that war is hell to get into; it’s hell to fight and we’ve learned from Vietnam it’s hell to get out of. War is terrible,” Young said, talking about not only the immediate casualties but the wounds and afflictions that follow military personnel home and impact the rest of their lives.

Other special moments included having the veterans stand and be recognized both by their branch of service and those who served in military conflicts.

African American Museum

A few minutes before the Powhatan County Branch of the NAACP’s Veterans Day program was set to begin on Nov. 12 at the Powhatan African American Cultural Arts Museum, the veterans were asked to line up in the hallway of the Pocahontas Landmark Center gym lobby so they could march in together.

In the minutes that followed, veteran Charlie Williams walked down the line and had all of the veterans introduce themselves and mention in which military branch they served. There was plenty of good natured ribbing between the veterans about their branch, much to the crowd’s delight.

The program was full of music, with pianist Edward Foster playing a selection of patriotic songs spread throughout the program, including “America the Beautiful” and “My Country ‘Tis of Thee.”

The Rev. Dr. Vera Rhyne talked about her father, who served first in the navy and then as a marine; her decision to eventually join the army; and the differences in their two experiences as she took advantage of opportunities not available when he served in the military to become a commissioned officer.

“I am thankful because I saw the proud look on the face of my father when pinning the bar on his baby girl – something that he did not see in his own time when he was serving,” she said.

She talked about one of the proudest moments of her life in 2011, when she accepted the Congressional

Powhatan Volunteer Fire Department Company 1 held an Open House on Oct. 29. Attractions included fire suppression demonstrations; fire and EMS apparatus on display; safety smoke house demonstrations; child safety information from local law enforcement; Virginia State Police Medflight; extrication tool demonstration; and trick-or-treating.

to school until their symptoms have improved and they are fever-free for 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication.”

If you have additional questions, contact your child’s physician or the Chesterfield Health District Epidemiologist, Emilie Schweikert, at (804) 7481205.

A weekly U.S. Influenza Surveillace Report is generated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and can be found at https://www.cdc.gov/flu/ weekly/index.htm. The CDC estimates that, so far this season, there have been at least 2.8 million illnesses, 23,000 hospitalizations and 1,300 deaths from flu nationwide, according to the website.

Gold Medal posthumously in her father’s honor for contributions he and other Montford Point marines made so many decades earlier.

“See they had determined to accept a challenge that changed the course of history and to pave the way for me and for others who came from all walks of life. But these men had to fight the fight for the right to fight,” Rhyne said. “Some paid the ultimate sacrifice by laying down their life for this country.”

The entire lobby was decorated with photos and military paraphernalia of Powhatan veterans for visitors to peruse. Down one hallway, there was also a bulletin board display dedicated to navy veteran Claudette Holmes, including important documents and photos from her years of service.

St. Luke’s Episcopal

St. Luke’s Episcopal Church held a small but meaningful Veterans Day program that used music, scripture and a homily from the Rev. R. Dale Custer to honor veterans past and present.

Custer talked about the struggle to understand the contrast between the peace of God with the “human reality of war and violence – a direct result of our failing to live out the image and likeness of God possessed by every human being.”

“How do we reconcile those difficult questions about faith and loyalty and freedom? How do we answer questions that touch at the very heart of Christian values about peace and justice? These conflicts between the ideas of violence and peace have been found in every world religion since their beginning and it is there in our roots as well,” he said.

As the small gathering came together to reflect on Veterans Day and honor those who have served “an honest place for the Church is to join in a grateful nation to express appreciation to men and women who have served and serve in our military and to do so with a profound hope that, as the Gospel is lived into Jesus’ message of reconciliation is proclaimed, that in the very near future, a military is not needed, and not one new name will be added to the list of those who served,” he said.

In addition to a number of musical selections, including harp music by Brook Boddie, the program included reading the names of those veterans interred in the St. Luke’s Cemetery as well as those provided by members of the parish.

Vikings claim state title over the Knights

By Robby Fletcher Sports Editor

After a 66-8 whalloping at the hands of Covenant School in just its second game of the season, there were murmurs that the defending champion Blessed Sacrament-Huguenot Knights wouldn’t have the ammunition to get back to the state championship.

Flash forward to November, and the Knights (7-4) quieted the early-season noise and found themselves back on the championship stage against an explosive Brunswick Academy team. The Vikings (11-1), a team that topped the Knights 27-20 in a matchup on Oct. 21, again proved too much to handle with a state title on the line, ending the BSH cinderella run with a 35-20 final at Dinwiddie Sports Complex on Nov. 12.

“We just didn’t have

BY ROBBY FLETCHER

Seven field hockey players named to All-Region teams

By Robby Fletcher Sports Editor

With their season’s conclusion after a loss in the state tournament, the Powhatan field hockey team is already seeing multiple players honored for their efforts during a successful 2022-23 season.

With the VHSL All-Region Teams starting to get released, plenty of familiar Powhatan names were featured on the two-team list commemorating the top field hockey stars of the 4B region.

On the first team, Lexi Campbell, Erica Krauss and Casey Grell all were honored as featured members, while Caroline Camp, Chloe Holt, Emily Reimondo and McKenzie Halfon were named to the second team.

Campbell, the lone senior honored as an AllRegion honoree, was one of the team’s most reliable scoring threats as a forward, displaying strength on the ball and the ability to clean up re-

Knights run defense that had come in prepared and ready for the anticipated rematch with the Vikings stars.

After both defenses stepped up to force gameopening punts, the Vikings were the first to generate offensive momentum on their second drive, as Powell went untouched on a run down the middle of the field for a touchdown that made it a 7-0 game with 2:08 left in the opening quarter.

The Vikings would quickly make it a two-score game on their next drive to start the second quarter, when on a short fourth down in the red zone, they caught the Knights offguard with a pass into the right corner of the end zone that made it 14-0 with just under five minutes to play.

With halftime quickly approaching and in need of a response to keep the game

Powhatan field hockey falls in states

By Robby Fletcher Sports Editor

An impressive field hockey season came to an end for the Powhatan Indians, who battled hard all the way to an appearance in the VHSL Class 4 State Quarterfinals.

In their state tournament appearance, the In-

dians traveled to Virginia Beach Sports Complex on Nov. 8 to take on the Great Bridge Wildcats (16-3) for a chance at a trip to the semifinals.

The Indians kept it close with strong defensive play that had the Wildcats leading with a narrow 1-0 lead entering the fourth quarter, but the favored Wildcats were able to pull away late

with two more goals in the final stretch to take a 3-0 lead and move on in the tournament, while the Indians closed the book on their 2022-23 campaign.

It was an eventful year for Powhatan, who finished with a 12-7 overall record and a 9-2 regional record, a spot in the Class 4, Region B championship game and a win over

Patrick Henry in the region semifinals that redeemed last year’s heartbreaking loss to them at the end of the season.

The Indians also had one of their biggest wins in recent memory with an upset over the eventual region champion Atlee Raiders in a 2-1 thriller on Sept. 29 that saw sophomore Erica Krauss see FIELD HOCKEY, pg. 2

PHOTO BY ROBBY FLETCHER

Junior Will Fichter gets pushed out of bounds after a run down the sideline in the third quarter of the state final between BSH and Brunswick Academy on Nov. 12 at Dinwiddie Sports Complex.

PHOTO

Powhatan field hockey players Emily Reimondo (16) and Caroline Camp (1) were named to the All-Region second team.

PHOTO BY ROBBY FLETCHER

Powhatan sophomore forward Caroline Camp (1) takes the ball down the sideline during the Class 4, Region B championship between the Indians and the Atlee Raiders at Henrico High School on Nov. 3.

enough horses to match theirs today. They’re a good football team,” BSH head coach Gary Brock said.

“We just couldn’t match their speed, and they have a couple kids that are really strong. That’s the name of

the game.” Behind the running power and speed of guys like Jerry Powell and Noah

Waller, the Vikings were able to sustain drives, chew clock and come away with points against a solid

Green and Seibel complete first XC states race

By Robby Fletcher Sports Editor

In their first ever appearance at states, Ella Green and Sean Seibel entered the stage among the best cross country runners in the state, and proved they belonged with positive performances.

Held at Oatlands Plantation on Nov. 12, Green and Seibel came off their states-qualifying regional runs looking like runners not content with just making it to the Class 4 state championships, but competing with the best on a course that is known as one of the most challenging in the state.

Facing two water crossings, tall grass and what is effectively referred to as “the hill,” the

Indians cross country runners battled through high water and muddy terrain to both finish within the top-50 of their respective competitions.

Sophomore Elizabeth Weimer also competed in the state championship, though she was not able to finish due to hip pain.

Seibel, who finished in eighth at regions with a time of 17:14.40, finished in 46th among 100 runners at states, recording a time of 18:08.00 on the difficult trail.

Among 101 recorded runners in the girls competition, Green finished with an impressive 38th

place result with a time of 21:29.00 to wrap up an impressive sophomore season.

Though Seibel and Green’s cross country seasons came to an end, Weimer still has another race to prepare for this season, as she plans to race again at the national

qualifying Nike Cross Southeast Regional meet on Nov. 26 at WakeMed Soccer Park in Cary, North Carolina on N.C. State’s home cross country course.

Weimer, who finished in eighth place in the region final with a time of 19:59.80 at Pole Green

Park, appeared in the Class 4 state championships for a second time in her career.

She also appeared in states for indoor track in her freshman season as well.

Robby Fletcher can be reached at rfletcher@ powhatantoday.com.

Wade featured on first team All-Region list

By Robby Fletcher Sports Editor

After a 2022-23 season that saw the Indians finish with a 14-8 record and a regional record that had them ranked third entering the regional tournament, Powhatan volleyball saw one of its star athletes recognized for her efforts over the course of the season.

Senior Sydney Wade was the lone Powhatan player recognized on the All-Region list made after

the season, with Wade being named to the first team.

Wade, a setter, was a vital part of what made Powhatan a tough team to beat, working as one of the team’s best playmakers and leaders as they ventured through the season. For the year, Wade added 417 assists, 31 kills, 21 aces, 141 digs and 17 blocks.

Despite having to be patient with her return from a shoulder surgery before the season, Wade was in fine form for the In-

dians in front of the net, consistently setting up with her teammates with great success.

Wade had plenty of memorable performances, including a 38-assist outing versus James River in a five-set thriller on Sept. 15, a 17-assist and 10-dig double-double against Manchester in another five set game on Sept. 29 and a 42-assist game in the team’s second meeting with James River on Oct. 18.

In her senior night

against Clover Hill, Wade and her fellow seniors were honored with their family and friends and dominated in a 3-0 win that saw Wade pitch in 17 assists and four digs.

Wade said after the game how much she valued her time with the program, and how proud she was of what the team was able to accomplish.

“It brought back so many memories and made me almost tear up, it was an amazing experience,” she said.

SIGNED: Sam Flippo puts pen to paper

ALL REGION

Continued from pg. 1

bounds consistently as she built upon a junior year that saw her placed not only on the All-Region team but the AllMetro team as well. She finished the season with 12 goals and 12 assists.

Krauss, a sophomore and sister to All-Region mainstay Jordan Krauss, has quickly established herself as a star scoring threat in her own right, adding highlight goals in big games like the team’s win over Atlee on Sept. 29 and in their region semifinal victory over Patrick Henry on Nov. 1. Her 13 goals were second most on the team while she also added 13 assists.

Grell largely found herself patrolling the middle

of the field for Powhatan, acting as an all-around talent that could impact the game as an attacker and as a defender. Grell finished the year with seven goals and 15 assists, with her assist numbers leading the team this season.

Camp, coming off a

successful freshman season as a lacrosse and field hockey player, was an effective player on the wings, adding a teambest 16 goals and 12 assists, while fellow sophomore Chloe Holt added four goals and eight assists to earn herself a spot

on the second team.

Reimondo was a speedy and dynamic scoring presence off the left side for Powhatan, with one notable highlight being a hat trick performance against Monacan coming off an injury that sidelined her for three games. She

finished the year with 12 goals and six assists.

Halfon became what head coach Stephanie Tyson called a “powerhouse” in the net for the Indians in her first season on varsity, allowing just nine goals in her net while recording 10 shut-

outs that left opponents empty-handed.

Leaving the season with the second best record in the district and as the regional runner-up, these seven Powhatan student-athletes’ invaluable efforts to help the team didn’t go unnoticed.

PHOTO BY ROBBY FLETCHER

Powhatan senior Sydney Wade was named to the All-Region first team after her final season with the volleyball team.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS

Powhatan multi-sport senior Samantha Flippo made her college decision official on Nov. 9 by signing with High Point University, where she will continue her academic and athletic career. Flippo, who plays basketball, volleyball and lacrosse for the Indians, will be joining the High Point lacrosse team next year.

PHOTOS BY ROBBY FLETCHER

(From left to right): Erica Krauss, Lexi Campbell, Casey Grell, McKenzie Halfon and Chloe Holt were all featured on the All-

Region field hockey team after the season concluded.

PHOTOS BY HEATHER SEIBEL

Left, Powhatan cross country runner Sean Seibel (747) runs in the Class 4 state championship at Oatlands Plantation on Nov. 12. Right, Seibel is joined by state qualifiers Ella Green (left) and Elizabeth Weimer (middle).

Gallery: Powhatan football season comes to an end

Staff Reports Powhatan Today

After a loss in the first round of the VHSL Class 4, Region B playoffs to the undefeated Dinwiddie Generals, Powhatan football season officially came to an end as the Indians finished their season with a 6-5 record.

Powhatan started the season strong with a 5-1 record that included blowout wins over Monacan, George Wythe and Clover Hill, but a tough schedule to close out the season saw the Indians drop three consecutive games entering the postseason, including a regular season finale defeat on the road to the Cosby Titans.

Still, there was plenty of promise from a young team that had few returning starters from last year’s lineup. With the loss to Dinwiddie, the season marks the final high school appearances of notable senior contributors like Dylan Trevillian, Landon Hutchison, Oscar Whitely, Darius Reddick, Charles Osterman and Wyatt Groseclose, among others.

The Indians now look ahead to a 2023-24 season that’ll see the team significantly more experienced and ready to once again compete for a spot in states.

from getting out of hand, BSH stormed down the field on its next drive with a quick deep ball to junior Will Fichter and a tough catch in traffic across the middle from senior David Mann with 34 seconds left that gave them momentum entering halftime. After junior running back Hunter Case converted on a run up the middle for the 2-point conversion, the Knights trailed by just six points entering the halftime break, 14-8.

Out of the gate came the Vikings with another long touchdown run to start the second half though, as D.J. Whitfield-Smith played from under center and bounced outside in a foot race that brought the Vikings back up with a 21-8 lead.

On BSH’s opening drive of the half, a more pass-heavy adjustment

FIELD HOCKEY

Continued from pg. 1

score both the game-tying goal and the gamewinning goal in a wild overtime finish.

The loss to Great Bridge also marks the final appearance of three seniors from this year’s team, with midfielder Kate Adams, forward

from the offense allowed them to drive down the field in a quick manner with Mann grabbing a 15yard catch and Case scoring on a run from 13 yards out to again make it a onescore game at 21-14 after a failed 2-point conversion.

The Knights got a huge break on defense on the ensuing drive when the Vikings coughed up a fumble in the red zone with just over five minutes left in the third quarter, but the Knights failed to take advantage of the opportunity and went into the fourth quarter down by seven.

The Vikings, getting a break after their lone turnover of the day, were able to close out the game with a five-minute long drive that resulted in a touchdown with seven minutes left to make it 28-14.

After getting another defensive stop, they added another touchdown for good measure to make it 35-14 with three minutes

Lexi Campbell and defender Emilee Taylor all leaving the program. Senior Izzy Carsen, who missed the season due to injury, will also be moving forward from her field hockey career as an Indian.

“All four seniors have made an impact on the team and program over the past 4 to 5 years,”

left, solidifying their titlewinning performance despite the Knights quarterback Afton Harrow throwing a touchdown to Mann with 1:22 left.

Despite a tough loss in a close game with so much at stake, it’s hard not to look at the season as a successful one for the Knights, who silenced their doubters and gave themselves a shot at becoming repeat champions.

“A lot of people left us out for dead, and people were thinking we’d go .500 or something, but we surprised some people,” Brock said.

With plenty of returning starters that were vital to the team’s success, there’s hope that the Knights will be back to this very stage next season, once again fighting for that championship glory that many of these players experienced just a season ago.

“I think we’ll be back,” Brock said.

head coach Stephanie Tyson said after the team’s senior night. “It’s always sad to see another group go off to college but it’s also amazing to reflect on how they have grown up on and off the field. They have all been role models and led this team in more ways than they will ever realize.”

Despite losing multi-

ple contributors, the Indians will reload with a team that still boasts plenty of talented rising seniors and young contributors that played key roles in the team’s journey to states, including juniors Casey Grell and Emily Reimondo along with sophomores Krauss, Chloe Holt, Caroline Camp and Mackenzie

Halfon.

Those players, among others, will be asked to step into some big shoes moving forward as the next batch of veteran leaders that aim to catapult the Indians to even greater heights next season.

“This team is special in many ways, but especially because of the

close knit bond they have,” Tyson said. “I think this is due to the type of role models our seniors are. They have set such a great example of what it means to be a part of this team and how we are so much like a family.”

Robby Fletcher can be reached at rfletcher@ powhatantoday.com.

BSH

PHOTOS BY ROBBY FLETCHER

Above, running back Hunter Case (44) runs with his quarterback Afton Harrow (7) as his lead blocker.

Right, junior Nathan Roberts (60) and senior David Mann (85) combine for a sack against the Vikings in the first half of the state championship.

PHOTOS BY ROBBY FLETCHER

Dylan Trevillian (2), Nasir Trent (38), Bradley Coerper (52), Landon Gibbs (27), Oscar Whitely (25) and Charles Osterman (35) made highlight plays across Powhatan’s 2022-23 season, which finished with a 6-5 record.

Blessed Sacrament Huguenot first nine weeks honor roll

Third Grade All A:

Wyatt Balch, Saylor Behrens, Caroline Kelley, Tessa Neal, Charlie Tatro, Berkley Welch.

Third Grade All A/B:

Timothy Derryberry, Elana Felts, Cailyn Francis, Hayes Howerton, Meg Leatherwood, Charlotte Marks, Gabrielle Meyer, Skylar Nguyen, Zoe Perkinson, AnnMarie Plale, Ben Riegler, Berkleigh Watts, Sloane Weyant.

Fourth Grade All A:

Raegan Chumney, Madeleine Dudley, Tucker Harrison, Alex Jonjic, Colin Lerch, Lexi Lockhart, William McCoy, Olivia Rice, Andrew Rob-

erts, Sophie Stevens, Samuel Walker, Hunter Watkins, Lilli Wilcox.

Fourth Grade All A/B:

Allie Baggett, Julianne Biedrycki, Kurtis Camara, Ella Daves, Angel Fitz, Austin Gregoire, Zoe Harrow, Charlotte Hawkins, Paisley Hearn, Declan Hubbard, Kennedy McDonough, Abigail Perkins, Aiden Solimine, Caris Springer, Heather Stevens.

Fifth Grade All A:

Sam Bowman, Katie Derryberry, Evan Felts, Melody Gordon, Annalise Gross, Maggie Pool, Leila Purdum, Silas Roberts, Dawson Tatro, Noelle Wilson, Kelly Zuniga.

Fifth Grade All A/B: Brady Adams, Dani Blakley, Addisyn Clifton, Bailey Dowdy, Ali Gillenwater, Peyton Ledbetter, Ruby Norman, Morgan Puglisi, Beazy Sweeney, Zach Tovar, Leo Triano, Brantley Turner.

Sixth Grade All A/B: Jake Berkman, Adam Biedrycki, Andrew Costello, Thomas Delmege, Noah Folliard, Henry Freedman, Christian Hayden, Lucas McCuiston, Sage Oprandi, Cruize Springer, Evan Watts, Briana Welch, Hudson Wright.

Seventh Grade All A: Havana Costello, Nat-

alie Kloz, Luca Nea, Stephen Roberts, Chloe Trueblood.

Seventh Grade All A/B:

Abigail Alcazar, Tommy Badman, Sydney Callis, Madison Carmack, Heath Case, Charlotte Cavanagh, Maddie Gross, Gwen Hayman, Jack Hickey, Meredith Klotz, Avery Poore, Aidan Vaughan.

Eighth Grade All A: Carter Callis, Abigail Delmege, Addison Dowdy, Lilly Hayman.

Eighth Grade All A/B: Courtney Carter, Hayden Case, Kaelyn Kipley, Alex Perkins, Brennon Welch.

Ninth Grade All A: Paige Decker, Aubrey Pool, Peter Roberts.

Ninth Grade All A/B: Brian Bodman, Grant Gilliam, Nick Hickey, Michael Polster, Liza Watkins, Samantha Yago.

10th Grade All A:

Katie Book, Madeline Goodman, Olivia Purdum, Lydia Roberts, Claire Sheridan, Sophie Thompson.

10th Grade All A/B: Natalie Allen, Libby Boclair, Lizzie Davis, Addison Doyle, Vee Finnegan, Ryder Hansen, Cole Sutherland, Cody Trent, Jameson Ward, Ian Weber, Temple Williamson.

11th Grade All A: Callista Kurek, Cooper Kurek, Elizabeth Norwood, Melanie Snead.

11th Grade All A/B: Hunter Case, Wright Condrey, Will Fichter, Parker Gill, Makayla Gregory, Lily Hickey, Colleen Maynes, Charlie Potter, Trenten Quinlan, Nathan Roberts, Clare Wood, Natalie Yago.

12th Grade All A: Kendrick Sheffield. 12th Grade All A/B:

Hayden Campbell, Jackson Hawkins, Annie Huynh, David Mann, Dorian Page, Bibiana Posada, Berkley Roudabush, Tanner Wood.

Fellowship to hold community Thanksgiving service, meal

Contributed Report

The Powhatan Pastor’s Fellowship will have a Community Thanksgiving Service on Sunday, Nov. 20 at 5 p.m. at May Memorial Baptist Church. A reception with food and fellowship for all in attendance will be held following the service.

The Powhatan Pastor’s Fellowship has a long history in the county and brings together a diverse group of pastors from many of Powhatan’s churches. The Powhatan Pastor’s Fellowship meets monthly on the second Monday at Angela’s Italian Restaurant, and provides fellowship, support and community worship opportunities for participating pastors and churches.

The pastor’s fellowship also works together to help individuals and families in Powhatan who experience a financial crisis, especially with housing issues.

The Powhatan Pastor’s Fellowship has traditionally held joint worship services throughout the year, but the Thanksgiving Service has always been the primary joint worship experience. This year’s Thanksgiving Service is the first joint worship service since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.

At this year’s Thanksgiving service, an offering will be collected for the Coalition of Powhatan Churches, a vital community organization that works to address food and housing needs with residents of

Powhatan County. Father David Arnold, priest at Saint Cyprian’s Orthodox Church will deliver the sermon, and there will be special music by musicians from Mt. Zion Baptist Church, Unity Community Church, St. Cyprian’s Church and May Memorial Baptist Church.

Each pastor in the fellowship will participate in the service, and all members of the community are invited to this special worship service. If you are interested in learning more about the Pastor’s Fellowship or would like to participate contact Pastor Bryan Stevens, Mt. Zion Baptist Church, or Pastor Michael Edwards, May Memorial Baptist Church.

Contributed

Youngkin recently announced that Virginia

Department of the Treasury Unclaimed Property Division has launched their new KAPS program and website to manage the administration, reporting and claiming of unclaimed property. This new user-friendly website makes it easier for citizens to identify and more quickly claim their unclaimed property.

“The Commonwealth’s new website and system streamline the claims process which allows us to expedite the return of unclaimed

funds to the rightful owners,” said Youngkin.

Virginia’s consumer protection law requires businesses to turn unclaimed property over to the state, relieving the business of the financial liability. Virginia holds unclaimed property as the custodian until the rightful owner, or heir, files a claim. Unclaimed property can be dormant or inactive accounts such as securities or investments, bank accounts, unpaid wages, money from insurance policies,

tangible property, etc. Since this program was created in 1961, over $1 billion in unclaimed property has been returned to citizens.

Treasury’s new KAPS program is utilized by over 30 states and provides complete management for the entire unclaimed property process from reporting to the successful payment of claims to citizens. The new website instantly creates claims and allows claimants to securely upload their documents from any smartphone or computer. It also has a fast-track processing feature that will expedite any claims that can be quickly verified by the system. Outreach efforts to inform Virginians about unclaimed property include annual newspaper inserts distributed throughout the Commonwealth, collaborations with organizations and media, Treasury’s website, remote call events and proactive mailings.

“Our mission is to protect the property of our citizens and return these assets to the rightful owner,” said Secretary of Finance Stephen Cummings. “This public service comes at no cost to citizens and returns millions each year to our citizens.”

Be aware of unauthorized fee-based services and always make sure to work with Treasury department to claim your unclaimed property through our website www.VaMoneySearch. gov. This website allows individuals to search the Commonwealth’s unclaimed property database and begin the claim process immediately.

“One in four Virginians has unclaimed property so we encourage all Virginians to search our free website for their unclaimed property,” said Virginia Treasurer David Richardson. “There is no deadline, and no fees will be charged to claim your property.”

Report Governor Glenn

National Cat Day was held Oct. 29, and Powhatan residents were happy to share photos of their furry friends in all their feline greatness.

NOTICEOFPUBLICHEARINGS

POWHATANCOUNTYBOARDOFSUPERVISORS

NoticeisherebygiventhatthePowhatanCountyBoardofSupervisorswillconduct publichearingsonMonday,November28,2022at6:30PMinthePowhatan CountyVillageBuildingAuditorium(3910OldBuckinghamRoad)regardingthe followingmatters:

Ordinance#O-2022-40PowhatanCountySchoolBoard requestsamendmentto theCodeofPowhatanCounty,relatingtopassingastoppedschoolbus.Pursuantto Section46.2-844(B)(2)oftheCodeofVirginia,authorizingthelocalitiestocontract withavendortoinstallandoperateavideo-monitoringsystemonschoolbuses operatedbytheSchoolBoardforthepurposeofrecordingviolationsofCodeof VirginiaSection46.2-844(A)andissuingcivilpenaltiesresultingfromsuchviolation payabletoPowhatanCountyPublicSchools.

O-2022-41Case22-07-CUP:SoilSolutions (District#2:PowhatanStation/ Graceland)requestsaconditionalusepermit(CUP)toallowaWood&Stump RecyclingBusinessuseintheAgricultural(A-10)zoningdistrictperSec.83-162 oftheZoningOrdinanceoftheCountyofPowhatan.Theapplicantisseekingtouse thesitetoprocesstimberintowoodchips.Theparcelislocatedat2040GenitoRd, TaxMap#53-101BineasternPowhatanCountyapproximately1300feeteastofthe intersectionofGenitoRd(Rt.604)andTurkeyRidgeDr.Thesubjectpropertyconsists ofapproximately63.6acresThe2021LongRangeComprehensivePlandesignates thesubjectpropertyasRuralAreasandProtectedLandsontheCountywideFuture LandUsePlan.

Resolution#R-2022-35ThePowhatanCountyBoardofSupervisors intends toenterintoaleasewiththeGoochland-PowhatanCommunityServicesBoard (“GPCSB”)for7,815squarefeetwithintheVillageBuildingat3910OldBuckingham Road;foraninitialtermoffive(5)years,withtwooptionone(1)yearrenewals.The GPCSBhasheldsuchaleasesince2016,whichexpiredin2022.

ResolutionR-2022-36GrantofRightofWayToTheSouthsideElectric Cooperative:TheBoardofSupervisorswillconsidertheconveyanceofarightofway agreementonCounty-ownedpropertylocated2269MannRoad,overlandidentified asthePowhatanYMCA,beingtaxmapparcel26-62.Saideasementistolay,erect, construct,reconstruct,relocate,remove,repair,maintain,andupgradeanelectrical transmissionand/ordistributionlineorsystem(s)anditsattendantpoles,guywires, transformers,andotherrelatedequipmentorappurtenancesandtohavetheright tokeeptherightofwaydescribedhereinclearofalltrees,vegetation,buildings,or structures(exceptgatedcross-fences)andshallhavetherighttocut,trim,eradicate, andcontrolthegrowthoftrees,shrubbery,roots,andthelike,whichmayinterfere withorthreatentoendangertheoperationandmaintenanceofthelineorsystem andtofurthercutortrimtreesoutsidethespecifiedrightofwaywidth,whichin theopinionofSECendangersthesafeoperationofitsfacilities,includingdead, weak,orleaningtreeswhichwouldstrikethelineinfallingandtolicense,permit, orotherwiseagreetothejointuseoroccupancyofthelineorsystembyanyother person,association,orcorporationforutilityorcommunicationpurpose.