Powhatan Today –11/23/2022

School board turns focus on internet safety for students

Jeff Durrett, technology director for the division, updated the board during its Nov. 8 meeting about how Powhatan County Public Schools (PCPS) addresses the issue of internet safety and a pilot program that will lead to even better controls when rolled out on a divisionwide basis.

are raised, such as apps or websites that are discovered, reported and blocked.

By Laura McFarland Managing Editor

POWHATAN – The Powhatan County School Board recently got a look at how the school division is addressing internet filtering and student safety and changes expected to come to improve both further.

The presentation was prompted at least in part by concerns raised by a parent at the board’s October meeting regarding students being able to access inappropriate websites on their school-issued Chromebooks.

Durrett addressed some of the concerns raised by the parent and explained the process of how PCPS addresses issues that

Currently, PCPS uses a filtering program called Lightspeed Filter (formerly Relay) that he said has served the division “fairly well.” The cloud-based program is administered by Google and the division has a back-end administrative console in Google where staff sets policies beyond only basic filtering.

“Any time the student is using that Chromebook anywhere off the premises it is subject to filtering, and we can pull reports of what the student is doing online. That is very important, because regardless of the systems

Nonprofit fundraises for school

Free Clinic honors dedicated doctor as Volunteer of the Year

By Laura McFarland Managing Editor

POWHATAN

his patients.

Schmitt was surprised with the award during a special volunteer appreciation party held on Sunday, Nov. 13 at Bienvenue. Schmitt is the second recipient of the award.

Choosing a single volunteer out of the amazing group of dedicated people who give their time to the Free Clinic is always difficult, and this year was no different, said Connie

Moslow, executive director. But Schmitt was ultimately chosen because of the way he has thrown himself into the work they do at the clinic and made himself so available to help.

Schmitt works a set schedule every Thursday but also comes in some Mondays and has volunteered to come in anytime he is needed, Moslow said. Having a professional doctor on staff as a volunteer every week and as needed is a huge boon to the clinic and its patients.

“He just comes in every day that he comes and thanks us for letting him come here. He just seems to think it adds a lot to his life. He enjoys coming here,” Moslow

By Laura McFarland Managing Editor

POWHATAN – When Lupi Mwaipalo started teaching a preschool in the yard of his home in Tanzania, he dreamed of a better life for the children in his area.

Having been orphaned at age 14 and taken to a Roman Catholic Center, where he went to school, Mwaipalo later returned to his native area and brought with him a passion for helping local children.

Slowly but surely, Mwaipalo’s dream of providing a safe, permanent place to educate children has been becoming a reality, thanks to Together for Tanzania. The Powhatan-based nonprofit is

funding the construction of Save Life English Medium School on 8 acres outside of Kyela in southern Tanzania.

What started with digging a well in 2016 now encompasses a school that has an administration building, toilet facilities and six classrooms for 13 teachers and 236 children, 47 of whom are orphans. The seventh classroom is currently being built and Together for Tanzania is raising funds for the eighth classroom. Once complete the school will have two classrooms per grade for preschool through third grade.

“I feel very happy and very excited that God is answering my prayer and fulfill-

Office of elections releases final numbers for 2022

By Laura McFarland Managing Editor

POWHATAN – The Powhatan Office of Elections wrapped up the 2022 General Election results on Monday, Nov. 14 with numbers changing slightly but overall results remaining the same.

This year’s election saw 89 provisional ballots cast during voting and 12 mail-in votes that came in before noon on Nov. 14 to be counted, according to director of elections Karen Alexander.

The final results of the election were delayed because of Veterans Day being a holiday for county employees

and the provisional ballots, she said.

“It was a lot more time consuming than in years past because of all the same-day registration provisionals that needed to be verified and counted,” she said.

With 78 new people counted in the registered voter total, Powhatan had 23,992 registered voters, making this year’s voter turnout 62.34%, Alexander said.

In the final count of Powhatan’s results, republican Robert G. “Bob” Good still handily received the most votes in the

Volunteers hard at work spreading Christmas cheer

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

Powhatan, Virginia

race for House of

PHOTO COURTESY OF MELANIE BAILEY

Free Clinic of Powhatan Executive Director Connie Moslow presents the nonprofit’s Volunteer of the Year award to Dr. James Schmitt.

– The Free Clinic of Powhatan recognized Dr. James “Jim” Schmitt last week as its 2022 Volunteer of the Year for dedicated service over and above to

PHOTO COURTESY OF TOGETHER FOR TANZANIA

Second graders attend class in Save Life English Medium School, a primary school In Tanzania slowly being constructed with the support of the nonprofit Together for Tanzania.

PHOTO BY LAURA MCFARLAND

Kathy Ware , the 2022 Powhatan Christmas Mother, right, works with her predecessors, Dale Goodman, left, and Fran Carleton, back, during the Nov. 15 work day at headquarters.

Wednesday, Nov. 23

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. On Nov. 23, participants will assemble, tag and wrap blanks with ribbon for another delivery to the Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU. On Nov. 30, the group will welcome art history instructor Juana Levi for a talk on Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Super at 10 a.m. At noon, there will be an art class focused on transferring swirled floating inks onto paper and fabric. 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 804598-5670 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 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.

Thursday, Nov. 24

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.

The original Powhatan AA meets from 7 to 8 p.m. every Thursday in the Powhatan Village Building.

Saturday, Nov. 26

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.

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 will be open every Saturday, come November 2022, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The office is located upstairs at the Habitat ReStore and the office number is 804-5947009, 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

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

at Manakin Episcopal Church on Huguenot Trail.

Monday, Nov. 28

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. 29

Powhatan Christmas Mother Headquarters will be open on the following days for volunteers and donations: 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.

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 longheld 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 804467-4313 or Ljbal65@aol.com.

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).

Education and preparation are keys to the homebuying process, so Habitat for HumanityPowhatan is starting a two-part Pathways to Homeownership program on Wed., Nov. 30 and Wed., Dec. 7 at Powhatan County Public 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. Register for the Pathways to Homeownership program at habitatpowhatan.org/events or call 804-5947009, ext. 2.

Lonesome Dove Equestrian Center, which is located at 6137 Old Buckingham Road, provides year-round 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 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 Public Library will hold its annual Children and Families Holiday Craft Program at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 3. Families are invited to come make four different crafts and to enjoy a cup of hot chocolate and a candy cane. Participants will make reindeer paper bag puppets, paper plate Christmas trees, pipe cleaner tree ornaments and dreidel suncatchers. Children of all ages and their grown-ups are encouraged to attend. The program will take place in the main area of the library, and hot chocolate will be served in the atrium. No registration required. While craft supplies last. The event is free and open to the public. For details, contact Powhatan County Public Library at 804-598-5670 or library@ powhatanlibrary.net.

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.

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 Elizabeth Randolph Lewis Powhatan YMCA will host a free and very special Sensory Friendly Santa experience from 4 to 7:30 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 5. This will be visit with Santa in a quiet and calm environment for children with sensory sensitivities. The lights will be dimmed, soothing soft sounds in the background, and no jingle bells, or booming chants of “Ho Ho Ho!” This event will require advance registration and will be a timed entry in order to eliminate the need to wait in line with other excited children. Each time slot is per family - there may be multiple children in it. Don't forget your cameras to capture those special moments! Event will be held at Bienvenue Event Venue: 3841 Old Buckingham Road, Powhatan, VA 23139. To register, visit ymcarichmond.org and use the following tabs: Youth and Family > Family Events > Family Events > choose a Sensitive Santa by timeslot.

Powhatan County Public Library will hold Brick Slayerz from 4 to 5 p.m. on Monday, 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 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.

Powhatan County Public Library will hold Read 2 Rover from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 7. Would you like to gain confidence in your reading skills and have fun? Sign up to read to a certified therapy dog! Reading sessions are 15 minutes per child. A parent or guardian must stay with the child while they read. Register through the library website, http://www.powhatanva.gov/247/PowhatanCounty-Public-Library, or by calling 804-5985670.

Holly Jolly Holiday Market will be held from 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 8 at Independence Golf Club, 600 Founders Bridge Blvd., Midlothian. It's our annual holly jolly holiday market featuring live music, food and drink specials, kids crafts, vendor market, and more!

Teen Anime Club will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 8 at Powhatan County Public Library. Bring manga, notebooks, cosplays, or other projects to work on. We will watch a different anime each meeting. For local teens aged 13-18 (grades 6-12). Application required to join. Pick up one at the library front desk.

Powhatan County Public Library’s Middle Grade Anime Club will meet from 4 to 5 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 9. Bring manga, notebooks, cosplays, or other projects to work on. We will watch a different anime each meeting. For local children aged 8-12. Application required to join. Pick up one at the library front desk.

Graceland Baptist Church, 975 Dorset Road, will hold a Family Movie Night at 7 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 9 featuring “A Christmas Story.” Come join us for the Powhatan Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting on Dec. 10. Parade lineup starting at 1 p.m. with the parade starting at 3 p.m., the parade route is along Old Buckingham Road, from Mann Rd to the Courthouse area. There will be vendors in the Courthouse area beginning at 1 p.m. and Santa will be available for Christmas wishes and pictures. The Tree Lighting will be held in the Village following the parade. Applications can be found at www.PowhatanChristmasMother.org or by contacting the Parade committee at PowhatanChristmas@gmail.com Hope to see you there!

Powhatan County Public Library’s Teen Advisory Board meetings from 4 to 6 p.m. on 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.

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! Programs are free; requires independent participation. On Wednesday, Dec. 21, the group will hold A Very Quichey Christmas. Join with other participants for carols with youth, cookie decorating, quiche and salad, and ornament making from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Powhatan Rescue Squad Building. 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 804698-0438 for more information.

Graceland Baptist Church, 975 Dorset Road, will hold a Candlelight Service at 5:30 p.m. Dec. 24. It is open to the public.

Register now for our first Heart of Virginia Beekeepers Conference to be held Saturday, Jan. 14 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Blackwood Ballroom of Longwood University in Farmville. For conference details and on-line registration, go to these links: bit.ly/HOVBconference or https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/heart-of-virginiabeekeepers-1st-annual.

Calling local authors. After a several year hiatus, Writers Round-up is returning to

Powhatan County Public Library. Tentative dates are Jan. 21 or 28, 2023. If you are an author interested in participating, contact Charles Joynes at cjoynes@powhatanlibrary. net.

Ongoing

The Coalition of Powhatan Churches has available resources to help people who would like assistance in learning to manage their finances. If you know of anyone who needs or would like to have this service, or to get more information, call Robin Cupka at 804-8019851.

Backpacks of Love, a nonprofit committed to eliminating hunger in school-age children by providing nourishing food for their weekend, needs help. BPOL is looking for delivery drivers that would be available to deliver on Thursdays. They are in immediate need of a driver to deliver to Cumberland County and or Amelia County. These are great jobs for students looking for community hours. Always accepting food donations of single serve raviolis, spaghettios, apple sauce, cereal, cookies, crackers and more. Contact Kevin Hardy at 804-350-1127 for more information.

Powhatan Food Pantry is currently seeking volunteer drivers who can pick up food from the local Food Lions on different days between 8:30 and 10 a.m. and transport them to the nonprofit at 2500 Batterson Road. Contact the pantry at 804-372-9526 or powhatanvafoodpantry@gmail.com.

Powhatan Parks and Recreation is pleased to offer the following at the Pocahontas Landmark Center Gym (4290 Anderson Highway, Powhatan). Keep in mind when county offices are closed for holidays, inclement weather, etc., activities will not be held unless specifically noted: Open Gym Walking, Wednesdays, 9-11 a.m.; Open Gym Pickleball, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9-11:30 a.m.; Open Adult Special Needs Basketball, every Monday, 10 a.m.-noon; Open Gym Adult Volleyball, Tuesdays, 7-9 p.m. until Nov. 15; Paid Momentum Volleyball, Tuesdays and Thursdays starting Dec. 1 (contact Cindy Bryant by email at momentumvolleyballclub@ gmail.com); Paid Pulse Basketball, Wednesdays and Fridays and 2 Saturdays starting Wednesday, Nov. 30 (contact Brian Griffen by email at vicepresident@ powhatanpulse.com); On-going Senior Basketball on Monday nights, 6:30-8:30 p.m.; Adult Open Gym Basketball on Wednesday nights until Nov. 16; Free Pickleball Clinic coming in December on a Saturday, stay tuned for more details. Continue to follow all COVID19 guidelines. Everyone will also need to sign a facility use waiver that we will keep on file for one year, and there is a $10 non-resident fee for activities. Remember we ask everyone to wear rubber soled shoes (no heels) on the gym floor and only allow water in the gym. We are still working on other activities as well. Contact the Recreation Office at 804-598-5275 with any questions or send an email to mshelton@ powhatanva.gov or mwoodel@powhatanva. gov.

The Friends of Powhatan County Public Library’s Bookshop is open during library hours and accepting donations again. The bookshop accepts books, movies, audiobooks, CDs, and magazines. Materials can be given to a library staff member or placed in the book shop corner (tuck them by the file cabinet in the back), which is at the end of the passageway once you come in the front door. Proceeds from the book sale are used for additional library programming.

The Powhatan County Cooperative Extension Master Gardener Help Desk is here for yet another growing season. Although office hours are reduced because of COVID-19 restrictions, the Help Desk is still ready and available. Email questions and detailed photos of your stricken plants to gpmastergardener@gmail.com and volunteers will try and find a solution for you. You can also directly call the Powhatan County Extension at 804-598-5640 and leave a message. The Help Desk will be in touch. If a real-life diagnosis or determination is needed, large plant samples including root, stem and leaves can be dropped off at the Powhatan County Extension’s office after consulting with Master Gardener volunteer. If you have plants/shrubs/trees needing identification in your yard, or are new to the Powhatan or Goochland area, we also offer free one to twohour site visits.

Habitat for Humanity-Powhatan always is looking for donations of gently used appliances, cabinets, and furniture such as dining room and bedroom sets (no mattresses or upholstered furniture). Call to drop off at 804-594-7009, ext. 1. Or email store@ habitatpowhatan.org. Habitat also does pick-ups for a $20 donation to our Critical Repair program. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram. Check out our website at habitatpowhatan.org

Volunteer transportation program - free service to Powhatan seniors age 60+ who are unable to drive for basic needs. Drivers receive all information from program coordinator on rides that are requested by registered riders, and accept only rides they are available to fulfill. Call 804-698-0438 or email RAServices.PVA@ gmail.com to register as a rider or apply as a volunteer driver.

Powhatan County Public Library is excited to partner with Wowbrary to offer library patrons the opportunity to subscribe to a curated weekly e-newsletter showcasing new library acquisitions. Each newsletter features the latest bestsellers, movies, audio books, children's titles, cookbooks, mysteries, and more purchased by the library. Wowbrary alerts are free and all you need is a valid email address. Visit www.wowbrary.org to sign up. A Powhatan County Public Library card in good standing is required to check out print and electronic items. To obtain a library card, visit the library or apply online at www. powhatanlibrary.net.

Narconon Arrowhead is here to help you. Narconon offers free addiction counseling, assessments, and referral services to rehabilitation centers nationwide. Call 1-800-468-6933 or log on to www.

Center. The churches that have opened their doors are some of the oldest churches in Powhatan County. There is much to be learned about each one as guests walk through their history as told by their members. History telling will be on the top of each hour in each church from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Each church will be a unique experience of beauty and histo-

ry. Tickets will be sold at May Memorial Baptist Church at 3926 Old Buckingham Road, Powhatan for $25. Visitors will begin the tour from there. The tour is sponsored by the Coalition of Powhatan Churches.

Providence Presbyterian Church was organized in 1825 as “Powhatan Presbyterian Church.” It became known as “Mount Carmel Presbyterian Church” after moving into a new building on present Route 60 in 1831. In 1890 the church took the name “Providence” in

gratitude for timely gifts and donations that enabled the building of a new sanctuary on Ridge Road in Belona.

Brief presentations at the top of each hour during the Coalition of Churches’ Tour of Historic Churches will include: the history of Providence, the design and building of its 130-year-old sanctuary, the tradition and symbols of the seasonal Chrismon tree, and the community ministry of the church. The pastor and others will be available to answer questions and provide a tour of the build-

ing, grounds and historic cemetery.

New Walk Bible Church (old Emanuel Episcopal Church) was built in 1842 and is registered as a Natural Historic Landmark. In late 2018, New Walk Bible Church was started by a group of Christians with a desire to work together, follow the Bible and allow God to lead them. see TOUR, pg. 8

Presbyterian Church is one of five stops on the Coalition of Powhatan Churches’ Christmas Tour on Dec. 3.

we have, if we can’t monitor and especially gauge its effectiveness, it is really not doing us much good,” Durrett said.

Durrett pointed out that the division’s approach to technology has rapidly changed in the last five years, which has necessitated constant updates and evaluation regarding keeping students safe.

Everything began to change for PCPS in the 2017-2018 school year with the start of the one-to-one program at the high school to equip all students with a Chromebook. Before that, student devices had remained at the school, where web filtering was done by a physical server on the premises, he said.

“We didn’t really have to worry so much about what happened when the students left because our devices were here and when you were at home you were under your parents’ care,” he explained.

But as the one-to-one program was initiated and then expanded and students were allowed to take their Chromebooks home, the program had to evolve. That included developing a Chromebook agreement, which shared PCPS’s expectations for the safe use and care of the device, and using a filtering solution that worked off the premises, he said.

In the years that followed, the one-toone program has expanded to include all K-12 students. Students taking the devices home are mainly middle and high school students but also third through fifth graders based on assignments.

As time has gone on, staff has seen the need for a program that does more than allow and block websites. Durrett took the opportunity to introduce a new filtering program the division piloted this year with 23 teachers across all grades and disciplines at Powhatan Middle School called Blocksi. The pilot ran from the start of school in August through Oct. 31.

An addition to enhanced web filtering options is the ability to have a safety tool that looks for harmful and unsafe behavior inside every student’s Gmail, Gdocs, Gdrive and any web searches and activity, Durrett said. Examples would be searches or messages dealing with drug abuse, cyberbullying, threats, self-harm, adult images and violence that would prompt the system to alert an administrator.

“I think this is very valuable because it really makes me feel good that we are trying to not so much block a site or an activity but we are really trying to catch these behaviors and find out is there really a problem that is going on that we need to be aware of,” he said.

He pointed out that websites and apps are constantly changing and evolving, so

while the regular website filters do the best they can, the division supplements it by doing their own blocking as issues are discovered. For instance, the issue raised by the parent in October was immediately blocked locally but it was also shared with Lightspeed to make them aware for the benefit of all of its customers.

“I would like to guarantee that every site would be blocked 100% of the time, and we do the best we can and we feel like this new system is very effective,” Durrett said of Blocksi.

When board members asked questions following Durrett’s presentation, James Taylor, who represents District 4, said he liked that Blocksi seemed to address both a school’s need to be responsible for the devices it issues and parents to play a part in keeping their children safe. He expressed concerns about privacy issues with a system that is reading emails.

“On one level that’s a good thing if it’s seeing something that would alert someone to help a student that is in that situation where help is needed,” Taylor said. “On the other side, it seems very invasive to privacy.”

Durrett said the system is reading the emails for those key words that may lead to alerts but staff can look into the implications. He added that email on Chromebooks is only allowed at the high school but even that is being examined currently to see if the division wants to continue allowing that moving forward.

Staff who piloted the program also liked that it includes classroom management features for teachers that will help with both instruction and control. Teachers can access student screens to make sure they are staying on task or share their screen so they know all students are seeing the same content. This will allow the teachers to focus more on instruction and less on discipline, he said.

Other important aspects of Blocksi were improved student safety features and a parent portal that would allow parents not only to view their child’s browsing history but enforce extra controls on their child’s at-home browsing behavior.

More than just filtering, Durrett said students are trained starting in kindergarten about “digital citizenship” to enforce with children the need to be safe on the web because they are putting themselves out there. However, that message needs to be reinforced at home.

“We feel like, as we are trying to enable students to become digital citizens, we are trying to do everything we can to enable parents to help us in that regard as well by giving them some extra control and monitoring ability at home,” he said.

Durrett mentioned a pilot for parents using the portal during the meeting but in

Arrests

CRIME REPORT

One male was charged on Nov. 8 with violating a protective order (Misdemeanor), trespassing (M), possession of controlled substances (Felony) and assault and battery on a family member (M).

One female was charged on Nov. 11 with petty larceny (M).

One male was charged on Nov. 12

with offenses relating to registration (M), eluding officer/fail to stop (M) and reckless drivingexcessive speed (M).

One male was charged on Nov. 12 with trespassing (M).

One male was charged on Nov. 14 with strangle another causing wound (F).

Incident report for Nov. 7 to 13 - Incident type & total calls

Abandoned vehicle 4

Advice 51 Animal calls 29 Assault 2

Assist 14

Attempt to locate 12

B&E 1 BOL 1 Child welfare 2 Civil 6 CPR 3

Damaged property 1 Death investigation 1 Disabled vehicle 9 Disorder/disturbance 5

Domestic 7 Found property 2 Fraud 2 Gunshot noise 2 Hit and run 3 Investigation 3 Larceny 6 Lockout 5

Lost property 1 Loud music 1 Missing person 1 MVAs 26 Open door 1 Pd alarm 12 Phone threat 2

a subsequent interview said that after conducting a parent pilot with PMS staff who are also parents of middle school students, their feedback indicated that the division is fine to open the door to any middle school parents who would like to start taking advantage of the features.

“The parent dashboard is intuitive, and the signup process is easy. Parents can register from Blocksi.net and we’ll see their requests on the admin portal and will grant them access to the system. We’ll post specific information on the PMS website, including a video with complete instructions,” he said. “We’re also planning a night at PMS for parents to come in for a hands-on training session if they so desire.”

The school is working on setting a date for that event, which will be published on the middle school’s website.

Durrett pointed out that while the parent concern raised in October provided a good opportunity to formally present Blocksi to the school board, the process of seeking a new student safety platform started last spring. The Blocksi pilot was already underway as school started this year, and there was such overwhelming support from teachers, especially in regard to the classroom management features, that the division decided to move forward with the purchase, he said.

The pilot program received great feedback from participating teachers, who said there was a definite impact on student learning and it was easy to use,

Project lifesaver 1 Protection order violation 4

Pursuit 1 Reckless driver 12 Shoplifting 1 Stolen vehicle 1

Suspicious 14 Traffic hazard 14

Traffic stop 55

Transport 2 Trespass 7

Underage possession 1 Unknown emergency 11 Vandalism 2 Warrant service 4

Durrett said. After final teacher training session on Monday, Nov. 21, all PMS teachers will have been trained on the product, he said. The plan is for the new program, which has already been purchased based on that pilot, to be rolled out divisionwide in the 2023-2024 school year.

When asked about the cost, Durrett said Blocksi is $2 cheaper per student to get more features and control all bundled together. He said in a separate interview that the last renewal of Lightspeed was $17.28 per student while Blocksi was $15.24, based on the enrollment at PMS at 985 students.

“Even though we were using Blocksi as a pilot, we did a full implementation of the product at PMS, and Blocksi was our sole filtering product for students during the pilot,” he said. “As of Oct. 31, we are on a fully-licensed version of Blocksi at PMS, and Lightspeed is still in use at the other schools, as well as (Pocahontas Landmark Center).”

Implementing Blocksi this school year was not budgeted, but staff felt there was such a need to get moving on the issue that the pilot program was started. However, next school year, the program will simply replace the budget line item currently earmarked for Lightspeed. The license expires with Lightspeed on June 30, 2023, at which point the division will move forward with the purchase of Blocksi.

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

SundaySchool10AM

WorshipService11AM

PastorJohnEngle 603-933-0141 3540OldBuckinghamRd. www.pmchurch.net

1801Huguenot Trail

SundayWorship10am BryanM.Holt, Pastor 804-378-3607

www.EmmausChristianChurch.org https://www.facebook.com/2emmaus/

2020RedLaneRoad Powhatan,VA23139

Pastor,LarryB.Collins SundaySchool9:45a.m. SundayWorship11:00a.m. WednesdayBibleStudy 7:30p.m. Office804-598-2398

Library plans holiday craft program for Dec. 3

Contributed Report

Powhatan County Public Library is delighted to announce that its annual Children and Families Holiday Craft Program will take place at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 3. Families are invited to come make four different crafts and to enjoy a cup of hot chocolate and a candy cane.

Let your inner artist take flight! Participants will make reindeer paper bag puppets, paper plate Christmas trees, pipe cleaner tree ornaments and dreidel suncatchers. Children of all ages and their grown-ups are encouraged to attend. The program will take place in the main area of the library, and hot chocolate will be served in the atrium.

No registration required. While craft supplies last. The event is free and open to the public.

For details, contact Powhatan County Public Library at 804-598-5670 or library@powhatanlibrary.net.

Three teens achieve Outdoor Emergency Care certification

PHOTO COURTESY OF KELLY WALLACE Rylan Powers, from left, (Powhatan High School junior), Addison Wallace (PHS sophomore), and Franklin Heyming (Maggie Walker junior) worked hard for the last three months to become Outdoor Emergency Care certified while maintaining honors courses and sports. Outdoor Emergency Care is a course similar to Emergency Medical Technician but with a focus on the outdoor environment. The course was led by Linda Humphries and executed with multiple volunteer instructors. Nine graduates were produced from this 2022 class. This officially qualifies them as Wintergreen Ski Patrollers. Their next step is On-The-Hill training beginning in December and then Alpine certification. The Wintergreen Ski Patrol is a nonprofit, volunteer-driven organization with over 140 members skilled in toboggan handling, chairlift evacuation and technical ropes rescue.

Every year, on the Friday after Thanksgiving the WSP holds a fundraising Ski Swap. Proceeds from the sale of donated ski and snowboard equipment benefit the Wintergreen Volunteer Ski Patrol. This year, the Ski Swap will be hosted at King Family Ranch in Crozet on Nov. 25 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Go to www.wintergreenskipatrol.org for more information or to register to consign your items.

Churches to hold Thanksgiving Day meals

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 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! RSVP at https://pccwired.net/fall-events/.

1059DorsetRoad Powhatan,VA23139 ReverendMarkA.Divens,Sr. Pastor PraiseandWorshipService SundaySchool9:45-10:45 SundayMorningWorship willbeginat11:00a.m.

FIRSTANTIOCH BAPTISTCHURCH 3920MAIDENSRD.,POWHATAN 804-598-2301 SundaySchool10:00a.m. SundayMorningService 11:00a.m. WednesdayMidDay BibleStudy11:30a.m.

2095RedLaneRoad 1/2mileoffRt.60onRedLaneRoad 804-598-2455 www.redlanebaptist.org SmallGroupClasses9:00a.m. WorshipService10:30a.m. Dr.JamesTaylor,Pastor

GracelandBaptistChurch Dr.RonaldWyatt,Jr.,Pastor Contemporary–9:00a.m. SundaySchool–9:45a.m. Worship–11a.m. Children’sWorship–11a.m. Praise&Worship–6p.m. LighthouseYouth–Wed.5:30p.m. BibleStudy–Wed.6:30p.m. Children’sWorship(allages)–Wed.6:30p.m. MiraclesofGodSp.NeedsService: 11a.m.the2ndMon.ofeachmonth 598-3481•975DorsetRoad www.gracelandbc.org

OLDPOWHATAN BAPTISTCHURCH

BradRussell,Pastor 598-4241

Servicetimesare 8:30a.m.and10:15a.m. Worshiponlineat10:15a.m. 2202OldChurchRoad www.powhatanbaptist.org

PHOTO COURTESY OF POWHATAN COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY

Powhatan 4-H offers two-day holiday baking workshop

Contributed Report

Let’s Get Baking! Join Powhatan 4-H for some holiday baking – open to all youth ages 9-13! What better way to spend a few days off from school than learning to bake for others? The twoday workshop takes place on Monday and Tuesday, Dec. 19 to 20, from 9 a.m. to noon at the Powhatan Extension Of-

fice. Youth will increase their knowledge of following a recipe, using kitchen equipment safely and lots of fun. We’ll also create a few items perfect for gift giving. Registration deadline is Dec. 12 (unless it fills up first). Fee per child is $25. Scholarship applications are available upon request.

Not into baking? Powhatan’s 4-H

Pet food drive collecting donations

The Powhatan Christmas Mother is holding a 2022 Pet Food Drive for clients this Christmas. Dropoff 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 Murray Automotive owner Morgan Murray holding a flier for the pet food drive. Everyone is invited to drop off cat or dog food at any location by Dec. 8.

clubs are open to youth between the ages of 5 and 18. We have a variety of

different clubs to suit a variety of inter-

ELECTIONS

Representatives 5th District, receiving 11,200 votes over democrat Joshua M. Throneburg, who received 3,711 votes, and 20 write-in votes.

In the countywide race for the commonwealth’s attorney’s seat unopposed candidate Robert C. Cerullo was elected with 13,114 votes. There were 304

write-in votes.

In the District 1 School Board race, Vicki R. Hurt definitively won the race with 1,985 votes over official opponent Christopher J. Coplan, who received 870 votes. Out of the 440 write-in votes received, 359 ballots were cast for late addition candidate Michael Edwards. That was just over 10%, Alexander said.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

PHOTO BY LAURA McFARLAND Smith Crossroads election officials Jim Kelly and Jackie Cahill check in voter Lula Clarke on Election Day, Nov. 8.

What are you most thankful for this Thanksgiving? E-mail answers to editor@powhatantoday.com or share them on the Powhatan Today’s Facebook page.

Thanksgiving celebrations offer lifelines of love

By Laura McFarland Managing Editor

Growing up, holidays in my family were spent a certain way. With few exceptions, the same people came to the house of the family hosting that year and brought the same foods. The same people had the same priorities – catching up with other family members, watching television, busying themselves with preparation or cleaning, etc. Insert whatever tradition you want – it was familiar and just the way things were. There was kind of a comfort in always knowing what to expect.

As an adult living more than 1,000 miles away from my closest family member, there isn’t a set way of doing things when I am not home, especially when I have been invited into the homes of friends and get to experience another family’s holiday traditions for the first time.

Last year was particularly difficult as I couldn’t make it home for Thanksgiving or Christmas and no family members could visit me either. The loneliness was more prevalent at Christmas because Thanksgiving, quite frankly, was too busy to be lonely. After attending the Thanksgiving meals offered by three local churches to write a story about the festivities, I went to a friend’s house for a lovely meal with amazing company.

Approaching this Thanksgiving and knowing I would again not be going to Texas for the holiday, I still plan to visit the Thanksgiving festivities offered by the local churches. I will go ahead and remind

people of those in case they weren’t aware the events are happening.

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 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 at the Powhatan Campus for a Thanksgiving dinner OR stop by to pick up to-go lunches for your family! RSVP at https://pccwired.net/fall-events/, found under the Powhatan Campus list.

Powhatan being such a strong community, the season of thanks wasn’t limited to one day this year. The county had at least three open community celebrations this past weekend.

On Sunday, Old Powhatan Baptist Church held a Community Thanksgiving Celebration with a service followed by a meal. Later that night, the Powhatan Pastor’s Fellowship held a Community Thanksgiving Service followed by a reception with food and fellowship for all in attendance.

While I was unfortunately unable to attend either of those events, I did want to give them credit for reaching out to the community in that way to provide people with those special holiday memories.

Fortunately, I was able to attend a Thanksgiving celebration held Saturday at Graceland Baptist

Church, which was attended by almost 100 people. The church catered a free meal for all those in attendance. The event also included a brief sing-a-long with children and adults in the special needs community and a message from associate pastor Greg LeMaster.

Toward the end of the meal, he passed out sheets of paper asking people to write prayer requests and things they are thankful for with the plan to read them aloud. If I had to pick out a particularly powerful moment, it was listening to some of the items on attendees’ gratitude lists: “freedom to worship”; “friends, family and neighbors”; “my health and home”; “thankful my parents are still here”; “thankful for Jesus”; and “thankful for God telling me no to things I want because he has a better plan.” That last one hits close to home sometimes.

The holiday season can be an amazing time of celebration and togetherness, but depending on someone’s situation, it can also be a time of isolation and loneliness. I won’t pretend to know the reasons any individual or family chooses to attend any of these Thanksgiving celebrations, but I would have to think wanting to feel connected to others is a major factor for at least some.

While I completely understand wanting to take time to focus on your own family, I am thankful for local churches and groups who take the time to reach out to others with a smile, a meal and maybe a little good company, all in sharing the important message – “you are not alone.”

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

Pickleball now a national phenomenon

By Jim Ridolphi Contributing Columnist

Perhaps, no sport in recent history has captured the attention of Americans as quickly or intently as the latest game being played on courts across the history — pickleball.

The game, described as a mix between tennis and ping pong, has enjoyed phenomenal growth in recent years, and it’s hard to find a comm¬¬¬unity without at least one of the courts.

It’s a generational-friendly game that allows players of all ages to engage in intense competition while not requiring acute physical skills or hyped endurance to play and enjoy.

The game has enjoyed phenomenal growth in recent years, gaining in popularity by leaps and bounds. According to estimates, as many as 5 million Americans are taking a swing at the popular sport, and in the past two years pickleball has gained the title as America’s fastest growing sport.

pickleball a national phenomenon.

Professional athletes like Tom Brady and Lebron James have purchased teams in the new professional league, and exOlympic swimmer Michael Phelps is an avid participant in the sport.

So, what’s not to like about pickleball? Well, apparently the sound of a plastic ball hitting a plastic racquet produces a unique sound that is annoying to some residents who live near the facilities. Also, some tennis aficionados have complained that more and tennis courts are being gobbled up to make more room for pickleball.

~ IF YOU GO ~

Powhatan County Parks and Recreation’s free Introduction to Pickleball session for adults Saturday, Dec. 3 from 9 to 11 a.m. at Pocahontas Landmark Center, 4290 Anderson Highway

It’s an easy sport to love. While offering a fun and competitive form of exercise, the recent phenomenon also offers opportunities for like-minded paddlers to meet and interact. Leagues have formed in most communities, and a professional version of the sport is now available. It’s even been named the official sport of Washington state.

Legend has it pickleball was invented by two families who created the game while on vacation. Out of boredom, the group combined a ping pong paddle with a whiffle ball and headed to the nearest badminton court for the initial contest. Their dog Pickles provided the inspiration for the name.

And while the sport has somewhat been tagged as a senior dominated sport, only about 20% of participants are seniors. There’s no doubt the fast action attracts former tennis players who can no longer cover a full tennis court but can still handle a racket at close range.

The court is about a fourth as large as traditional tennis courts, and many recreational areas are opting to replace some tennis courts with pickleball courts.

Some large cities have pickleball facilities where food and drinks are available – even one chain calling itself Chicken and Pickle.

Combine the social aspect of the popular sport with its obvious health benefits and it’s easy to see why some are calling

The emerging sport has even acquired its own lingo – a unique blend of terms known only to the most committed. For example, a live shot is called a dillball, and dinks and flapjacks are terms used to describe various shots in the game. The non-volley portion of the court is called the kitchen, and players yell pickle to mark the start of a volley.

With USA Pickleball estimating there are more than 35,000 courts nationwide, there’s a good chance there’s a venue near you. You won’t be able to miss it. Unlike the quiet and dignified atmosphere surrounding most tennis courts, picklers can be loud and expressive.

It never hurts to try new things, and pickleball has certainly captured the attention of a large segment of our population. Experts predict it’s only the beginning, and before it wanes, most of us will have experienced the exciting prospect of being pickled, (a term used to describe a match where you score no points); or maybe not.

Editor’s note: Powhatan County Parks and Recreation offers pickleball indoors from 9 to 11:30 a.m. every Tuesday and Thursday at the Pocahontas Landmark Center. Outdoor courts are open daily until 11 p.m.

Additionally, 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 804-5985275 or mshelton@powhatanva.gov.

8460 Times Dispatch Blvd., Mechanicsville, Va 23116 Phone: 804-746-1235 Toll Free: 877-888-0449 Fax: 804-344-8746

Publisher Joy Monopoli jmonopoli@rsnva.com

Production Manager Denine D’Angelo ddangelo@mechlocal.com

Managing Editor Laura McFarland lmcfarland@powhatantoday.com

Sports Editor Robby Fletcher rfletcher@powhatantoday.com

Sales Representative Tom Haynie thaynie@mechlocal.com

Classifieds Cindy Adams cadams@mechlocal.com

BAKING

Continued from pg. 6

ests. Local 4-H clubs focus on the following project areas: archery/ hunter safety skills; horses; sailing/water adventure; livestock (starts back in December); Cloverbuds (5-8 year-olds); dairy judging (starts in 2023) and shooting education (call to be placed on waiting list). Also, seeking adult volunteers to start a new community 4-H club. If you have a talent or hobby you’d like to share or teach a group of young people, contact the office.

For those seeking more of an outdoor adventure, mark your calendar for Powhatan Junior 4-H Camp the week of July 17-21, 2023. The camp is situated on the beautiful bank of the James River at Jamestown 4-H Center. Registration for 4-H camp starts January 31. Watch for details to come.

To register for Let’s Get Baking, or obtain information about the Powhatan County 4-H clubs, contact the Powhatan Extension Office at (804) 598-5640, or email Cathy Howland, 4-H Extension Agent, at chowland@vt.edu.

CALENDAR

narcononarrowhead.org.

Continued from pg. 2

A box was provided by the National Association of Counties (NACo) to provide citizens a place to bring flags that need to be retired properly. It is located at the County Administration Building in the vestibule area by the front doors. County Administration is working with local groups that hold flag disposal ceremonies and will be routinely transporting the flags collected to these ceremonies. Call 804-598-5612.

Hope Project provides free transportation for Powhatan County residents who have lost their driver's licenses due to drugrelated charges. Examples include rides to court, rehab, job interviews, doctor's appointments, and probation meetings. Contact the Hope Project coordinator at 804-301-3324. Give a minimum of 24 hours’ notice.

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 © 2022 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.

School board discusses policy on explicit materials

By Laura McFarland Managing Editor

POWHATAN – The Powhatan County School Board is considering a policy change related to parent notifications of any instructional material that includes sexually explicit content.

During the board’s meeting on Nov. 8, Tracie Omohundro, assistant superintendent for instruction, gave a presentation on how staff is recommending adjusting its policy. Senate Bill 656 requires that local school boards shall adopt policies no later than Jan. 1, 2023.

The policy regarding ensuring parental notification of any instructional material that includes sexually explicit content outlines that the division must directly identify the specific instructional material and sexually explicit subjects and permit the parent of any student to review instructional material that includes sexually explicit content and provide, as an alternative, non-explicit instructional material and related academic activities to any student whose parent so requests.

Omohundro said the first step is creating the policy. The school division then has to develop procedures for division curriculum resources and classroom supplemental materials. The division also has to identify items and apply procedures to materials that may fall under the policy using definitions provided by the state.

According to the code section, “ ‘Sexually explicit content” means (i) any description of or (ii) any picture, photograph, drawing, motion picture film, digital image or similar visual representation depicting sexual bestiality, a lewd exhibition of nudity, as nudity is defined in § 18.2-390, sexual excitement, sexual conduct or sadomasochistic abuse, as also defined in § 18.2-390, coprophilia, urophilia, or fetishism.”

According to the draft policy, the superintendent is responsible for creating, implementing and peri-

FREE CLINIC

said.

Schmitt is warm, kind and has proven he cares about the patients, she said. Without giving specific details because of patient confidentiality, Moslow shared how Schmitt accompanied a patient to a specialist doctor’s appointment because language was a barrier and he wanted to make sure the patient was understood. Schmitt started to learn medical terms in Spanish so he could better communicate with some of his patients.

“Who does that,” Moslow said, shaking her head with a smile.

Schmitt has been volunteering with the Free Clinic for about a year and a half but his career in medicine has lasted more than 50 years. He graduated from medical school in 1971 and now at age 78 still feels like he has something to give and to learn.

He said he is an internist with his boards in internal medicine, spinal cord injury and endocrinology. He retired from the Veterans Administration after 33 years and, not content to fill his life with only hobbies and still wanting to

TOUR

odically updating procedures for implementing this policy. Those procedures will include processes for: identifying instructional materials with sexually explicit content; providing notice to parents prior to the use of any instructional materials with sexually explicit content; access for parental review of instructional materials that include sexually explicit content unless such review is not technically feasible or is prohibited by copyright protection; and informing parents of their right to request that their child use alternative, non-explicit instructional materials and/ or related academic activities.

According to the draft policy, “ ‘Instructional material’ is any content used by one or more students for an educational purpose, regardless of its format or thetime, place and manner in which the content is used. Library materials are considered instructional materials when assigned for use for completion of an assignment, or as part of an academic or extracurricular educational program. Materials containing sexually explicit content does not automatically disqualify them from use. Instructional materials shall not be designated as sexually explicit based solely on sexual orientation of the characters therein.”

The policy is expected to come back for a final presentation at the school board’s Dec. 13 meeting.

If the policy is passed, Omohundro said there is no deadline for when the procedures need to be done, but “once the policy is in place, in good faith we need to start developing those procedures so we can get them in place and into practice as quickly as possible.”

First Omohundro and later Rick Cole, who represents District 1, pointed out that while this policy is important, having the kind of sexually explicit materials covered in this policy is not a regular occurrence in PCPS.

Much of the discussion regarding this matter was driven by Dr. James Taylor, District 4. He asked about notifications about school assemblies and making sure parents receive ample notifications as well as

use his knowledge and skills, began volunteering at a few other locations.

Schmitt said that despite a career in medicine spanning more than five decades, he is still expanding his knowledge, which can only help future patients he sees.

“I will say one thing about medicine is it is a learning experience and there are mistakes you make and things you discover you should have done differently. They are imprinted in your mind what you should have done differently,” he said. “As you move along in medicine, what you learn in time impacts patient care. Now I have this experience I can look back on and say ‘I learned that, I know something now I didn’t know five years ago’ and it is great I have this extra knowledge.”

Medical education should be a continuous thing where you learn more and get better and better from your experience, he added.

Schmitt was in the U.S. Air Force for two years after he finished his residency and later went into the U.S. Navy for four years. He also served for 17 years in the Navy Reserves. He said all of his

New Walk Bible Church bought the beautiful historic building, which was in need of much repair, from the Episcopal Diocese.

The members of the church repaired damaged

wanting to identify materials in teachers’ classroom libraries.

Taylor also argued fervently for the possibility of expanding on the proposed draft to include materials that deal with gender identity.

Omohundro repeatedly pointed out gender identify does not fall under the definition of sexually explicit content.

Taylor also took issue with the timing of the policy, saying it needs to be in place before Jan. 1 but if significant changes were made to it at the December meeting, the public would have a right to know about the changes before a vote was taken.

Some discussion revolved around pointing out the policy could be adopted as-is and updated again later as the board goes more in depth in what it wants.

No formal action or proposed changes to the draft policy were made at this meeting.

Other business handled at the meeting included: The school board is seeking parent feedback on two potential calendar drafts proposed for the 20232024 school year. Omohundro presented two main options developed in conjunction with a calendar committee with the superintendent receiving feedback from student and teacher advisory groups.

Topics discussed during development included teacher and student days assigned; professional development days; parent-teacher conferences; fall holidays; length of quarters (nine weeks) and semesters; length and timing of winter break; and graduation. The two calendars meet state requirements for instructional hours. On both calendars, the first day of school would be Aug. 21, 2023, and the last day would be May 31, 2024.

The major difference between the two options is the timing of the winter break. Under Option 1, the end of the first semester would be Dec. 15, with a winter break held from Dec. 18, 2023, through Jan. 1, 2024. This option creates bookends with three

military service he served in a medical capacity.

Schmitt, who lives in Midlothian, said he actually was volunteering at the Goochland Free Clinic and ended up in Powhatan by chance. He received a mailer intended to attract patients and called up and ended up volunteering in Powhatan.

“I called them up and they said ‘we can use you’ and I started volunteering,” he said.

The Free Clinic of Powhatan serves an extremely important need for those in the community who fall in areas where they are not eligible for patient care, Schmitt said.

“There is a barrier where if you have enough money you get all the patient care in the world. If you have some money but not enough, you are not eligible for patient care. If you have absolutely no money, you can get patient care again,” he said. “There are people who fall into an area where they are not eligible for patient care. We fill a gap in patient care and get to help somebody who would not get help.”

Over and above simply wanting to

plaster, sanded and painted walls, replaced or refinished flooring in the sanctuary and fellowship halls, replaced broken window panes, restored the foundation, and replaced the electrical and plumbing. The people of Powhatan responded to the group’s presence with gifts of free gravel, tree removal, flowers and landscaping, half priced paint, and a mural for the nursery.

New Walk members are planning to share with visitors much of the church’s history and a fair amount of the architecture that makes it so unique. They will be decorating with natural plants and herbs, similar to how it would have been adorned in the Victorian Age. They also plan to serve cookies and punch.

Hollywood Baptist Church had its beginning rooted in God’s intervention and the transformation of the lives of its ancestors in 1862. The church was established before the Emancipation Proclamation, where freed slaves began worshiping at the Petersville Baptist Church in Powhatan, a congregation of blacks and whites. These former slaves formally congregated under a brush arbor near the holly trees outside the church and decided in 1862 to establish an indepen-

help people, Schmitt said he enjoys the Free Clinic and the other staff and volunteers, who are hardworking, cheerful and genuinely care about the patients. Volunteering to help others makes people feel good about themselves, he said, adding he is no different.

There are parts of life many people dedicate to getting what they want –money, fame, power, position and more, he said when talking about the surprise of receiving the Volunteer of the Year award.

“It is nice to reach a certain point where you have made the choice to do something for people not expecting a financial award. It makes you feel virtuous,” he said. “I feel virtuous working here, and getting a little recognition for working here makes me feel virtuous.”

When not at the Free Clinic, Schmitt said he enjoys spending time with his wife and walking their dogs. He is also a writer, with two books already, “The Lottery of Life and Death” and “Speed Bumps and Tsetse Flies,” and a third, a novel, he is currently writing.

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

dent black Baptist Church called “Hollywood Baptist Church.” Not long after its establishment, the congregation purchased the property and began worshiping at the present location.

In 1903, the congregation through much prayer and faith was obedient to God’s Word and erected a building that has stood for generations. Learn how Hollywood got its name as the rest of their history comes to light on the tour.

Mount Pero Baptist Church was constructed in 1874 with its first place of worship under a brush arbor. After the Civil War, the black people of this community were told they could worship at Mt. Moriah Baptist Church. They worshiped there until 1873. At that time, they were given 1 acre of land on which they could build a church. A brush arbor was constructed as the first place of worship with the first service taking place on the first Sunday of September 1874. In 1876, a building was erected to replace the arbor. In 1937, the cemetery was opened and in 1940 electric lights were installed in the church. Mt. Pero continued to grow and, in 1962, the cornerstone was laid for the new church.

Over the past 148 years, Mt. Pero has gone from worshipping once a month to every Sunday and has had only nine pastors. Learn more of the history of Mount Pero on the tour.

The Drexel-Morrell Center invites local and global communities to envision, create and sustain a place that: develops as a site for gathering as a community, to research the ancestors’ stories and that shapes and creates a new narrative for the future; creates a place of ecosocial justice that honors the story of the land and the people; and establishes a place of education and inspiration dedicated to renewing the Earth where individuals and organizations gather to celebrate the wisdom of the past and create a path for justice today and into the future.

For more information about the Coalition of Powhatan Churches, visit https://www.coalitionofpowhatanchurches.com/.

SCHOOL

ing my vision, because we prayed. It is like dreams come true,” said Mwaipalo, who pastors two churches but also oversees facilities at the school.

Save Life English Medium School is a private faith-based primary school where families pay a reasonable fee for their children to attend, except the orphans, whose fee is waived.

Mwaipalo recently shared his dream and his experiences during a visit to Powhatan to raise money and awareness of the difference Save Life is making in its students’ lives. He stayed with the Brannan family from Nov. 4 to 21, visiting several local schools, churches and even farms, where he was looking for ideas to expand on the farms he operates to feed his children and students at the school. They also scheduled some fun time, taking him to a University of Richmond football game.

Jeanette Brannan, founder and executive director of Together for Tanzania, was thrilled to have Mwaipalo visiting again. She met him in 2013 when he was invited to interpret for her. He began learning about what the organization does beyond just coming to speak in

MATERIALS

weekends around the break.

churches and started sharing his own ideas with her, which led to the amazing collaboration they have developed through the years.

“It is very fulfilling and for me it is sort of a dream come true, because as an educator I have always wanted to be part of building a school in Tanzania. Lupi’s vision really became mine, too,” Brannan said.

Mwaipalo and three other men visited in 2018 to share about the work the nonprofit does, including sponsoring the education of 80 students of all ages across Tanzania. This trip was focused on raising funds for the new school classroom, which costs about $13,000 to build.

Unlike the United States, where construction costs have skyrocketed because of inflation, Mwaipalo said the cost of materials has stayed mostly level. Instead, Brannan said where the country has been hit the “hardest with inflation is the cost of food. The cost of food and availability of food is just awful.”

That is part of the reason several of the stops on this visit were focused on speaking with local farmers. Mwaipalo farms both to support his family – he and wife Tumaini Lupi have 16 children (14

Continued from

In Option 2, the winter break begins Dec. 21, 2023, and ends Jan. 2, 2024. That means there would be class Dec. 18 to 20. Also, Jan. 2 would be a teach-

were orphans they adopted) – and to help feed the children at the school.

His cash crop, which he lost most of this year because of a drought, is maize, but he also grows cassava, rice and bananas.

At many Tanzanian schools, children go home to have a meal or don’t eat. At Save Life English Medium School, the children receive meals at 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. Mwaipalo said he wants the children to like school, but he also wants to make sure they can make it through the day, especially since some of them are traveling a good distance from home to get to school riding a bus he rents to pick them up.

“They are being in school for so long, from 7:30 to 4, so being in school that long, they must eat,” he said. “But also the main reason is when we provide food for a child, they have the strength to read. If you don’t feed them when they are very young, tomorrow they don’t want to come to school. Each child likes to come to school because they know they are going to eat. I believe some when they go home they don’t eat.”

The eventual goal for the school is to have 16 classrooms that educate all the way up to seventh grade, Mwaipalo said.

er work day and student holiday.

Omohundro said the overwhelming preference for the stakeholders was for Option 2, in part because of people not wanting to miss out on the busyness of mid-December with events such as the schools’ holiday concerts. This calendar also includes one more

He also hopes to have a dining hall so the children don’t have to eat in their classrooms, which takes time to clean up afterward.

Sitting in Brannan’s home recently, Mwaipalo spoke of the school’s academic record with pride. His wife is the head mistress and they make sure to hire excellent teachers, who offer all instruction in English to help the students in the job market later.

He talked about a recent experience the school had that could have turned out extremely negative. On regional exams administered to all students, Save Life students scored extremely well – so well that government officials questioned the results and insisted on a retest under supervision with dire consequences if they didn’t perform as well. Instead, the children did even better on the retest with two of them even scoring a 100, Brannan said.

“I think Save Life is a shining light of education for that whole region and maybe most of especially rural Tanzania or anywhere, not just rural. The quality of education at Save Life is exemplary,” she said.

For more information, visit www.togetherfortanzania.org.

instructional day than in the Option 1 calendar.

The school board is expected to vote on the calendar at its Dec. 13 regular meeting at 7 p.m.

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

PHOTOS COURTESY OF TOGETHER FOR TANZANIA

Shown left are classrooms and the administration building at Save Life English Medium School, a primary school In Tanzania slow ly being constructed with the support of Together for Tanzania. Shown right is a group of students from the school.

Indians aim to build off program-best season

By Robby Fletcher Sports Editor

Following up a 2021-22 season that included the team’s first ever appearance in the Class 4 State Tournament will be a tall task for this year’s Powhatan girls basketball program, but with several familiar faces and a coaching change that features two local legends returning to the bench, there’s plenty to get excited about.

Last year’s Indians coached by Kristy Henderson in her final year with the school were among the best in the region offensively, with crisp ball movement, multiple high-caliber defenders and star power headlined by seniors Faith Henderson and Kayla Terry.

Replacing Henderson the coach on the bench will be long-time boys head coach Steve Washburn, who returned in an interim capacity with the boys team to end its season last year. The decorated Powhatan figure brings with him a winning resume from his 13 years as the head coach of the boys team.

“I just thought the program was in a really good position, and I thought it was a good time for me to get in with a well-established program that [Kristy Henderson] built up and work with them and hopefully continue to have the success that she’s already developed,” Washburn said after he was announced as the new head coach.

Sanchez leads the way in building girls wrestling team

By Robby Fletcher Sports Editor

When Natalia Sanchez checked her phone in school one day last September to see a message from her wrestling coach in a team groupchat, the news that the VHSL voted to sanction girls wrestling as a separate sport took a moment to sink in.

After all, it was a years-long process with numerous roadblocks and lobbying efforts from coaches and athletes across the state to get the VHSL’s executive committee members to vote on the issue in their favor.

With girls wrestling

taking the first of many steps to one day having teams feature varsity squads of their own, the sport is currently held under what’s called an “emerging status,” which gives girls wrestling up to three years to prove it deserves varsity sport status.

When that news finally sunk in, Sanchez says the win for the wrestling community felt like Christmas morning.

“I was so very thankful,” she said.

Now a senior and coming off a terrific junior year that featured state titles in the VAWA Folkstyle Championships and the Virginia Girls Championship, Sanchez wants to use this final year at Powhatan as

a chance to get other girls involved in the program, generating buzz through an interest meeting and

expand the team says a lot about her passion for the sport.

“We’re super proud and happy with Natalia on the mat and off the mat,” Tanaka said. “It was really cool to see her step up and take the reins on this one.”

Sanchez says she wasn’t sure exactly what the response would be from the interest meeting considering she hadn’t heard of too many classmates talk about the sport, but after having five people show up with interest and two new girl wrestlers on the team, she says it was a huge success for the school.

“A lot more girls were interested than I thought,” Sanchez said.

see GIRLS WRESTLING, pg. 2

Dale captures SEBRA national championship in barrel racing

By Robby Fletcher Sports Editor

Entering the SEBRA National Finals for barrel racing held at Murfreesboro, Tennessee in second place, Powhatan native Reed Dale needed a dominant showing to take first place and claim a national title at the biggest rodeo event of the season.

After winning both of her go-rounds, Dale left the rodeo the national champ,

the champion on average and winner of the colleague-voted Horseman of the Year award.

All this to say, it was about as perfect a weekend as it gets.

Dale, who has won multiple barrel race titles and belt buckles over the years dating back to her days in the youth circuit, saw this win as a completely different challenge compared to her previous competitions. It was her first in

the world of rodeos, which is not barrel racing-exclusive like her previous wins.

“This is my first jump into the rodeo world, and my first championship as a rodeo contestant,” Dale said. “It’s asking a very different thing from your horse. It’s very different.”

With the rodeo, which also has events like bull riding on its schedule, Dale said she had to take into account the larger crowds, louder atmosphere and

lack of exhibition or practice runs around the barrels that allow her and her horse to get a better feel for the ground they’re competing in.

If that wasn’t pressure enough, Dale was doing all of this while working toward her graduation from nursing school at Brightpoint Community College, formerly John Tyler Community College.

Her school schedule

see BARREL RACING, pg. 2

PHOTO BY ROBBY FLETCHER

Powhatan sophomore guard Emma Terry (2) dribbles past a defender in the team’s opening scrimmage against Hermitage on Nov. 17.

FILE PHOTO

Powhatan’s Natalia Sanchez, competing in the 106-pound weight class in her junior season, takes on a Midlothian opponent on Jan. 19, 2022.

flyers placed across the high school.

Powhatan head coach Jonathan Tanaka says

that Sanchez has always been a leader by example for the team, and that her showing this initiative to

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Powhatan local Reed Dale won the SEBRA national title for barrel racing held in Tennessee.

Washburn also brings with him another familiar face to the Powhatan bench in Paulette Bowman, who he was an assistant under when she first started coaching the girls team.

Bowman has decades of experience as an allaround coach that worked not only with Powhatan’s girls basketball team, but also with the school’s cheerleading and track and field programs as well. With two experienced coaches that helped elevate the sport of basketball in Powhatan, it’s easy to see why, despite so many major departures, the team is in good hands as far as Xs and Os.

Sophomore Emma Terry says that it has been a positive environment working with Washburn and Bowman to start the season, noting the energy the team shares entering this new era of Powhatan basketball.

“They’re both really positive, and they try to put us in the position that’s best for us,” Terry said.

Now that Terry and Faith Henderson are play-

ing at the collegiate level, one of the bigger questions surrounding the team revolves around who becomes the next go-to scoring threat that the offense can play through.

There’s likely not a clear answer, especially this early in the season, but the Indians certainly have promising options.

Returning contributors from last year’s team like seniors Sam Flippo and Katherine Cerullo have starting experience that’ll prove vital, while juniors like Shauna Callahan and Corynn Lampman will be expected to step into even larger roles from their sophomore seasons.

Flippo, who is coming off an impressive volleyball season, returns as the team’s de facto perimeter defender, establishing a reputation in her time with the team as an excellent on-ball wing stopper.

Lampman also provides a resume of defensive fortitude for the Indians, showcasing her quick hands on ball swipes and timing on shot contests as a key role player on last year’s run to the region finals.

She’s also a capably talented driver to the hoop that can finish through

contact and earn trips to the free throw line.

Cerullo will lead the frontcourt after an impressive junior season, and will likely be one of the team’s best scorers inside the paint as well as a crafty playmaker in fast break situations.

Another returnee likely to see a lot of minutes is Emma Terry, who earned minutes in the backcourt last year with a quick-trigger jumper and some offensive finesse reminiscent of her sister Kayla.

Lampman says that the scoring aspects of the team will have to come from everyone that sees the floor, and that confi dence in that shooting will be key to their success on the offensive end.

“It’s going to be a different season,” Lampman said. “Everyone needs to shoot and not be afraid to shoot. Shooter’s gotta shoot.”

It’s a roster that’ll likely need time to develop an identity in the early parts of the season, but the talent is unquestionable, and Washburn says after their first scrimmage against Hermitage, he came away impressed with the defensive efforts and passing to start the new season.

Above, Powhatan forward Katherine Cerullo pushes the ball in transition in the first half of Powhatan’s game against Cosby on Feb. 8, 2022.

Right, guard Corynn Lampman takes the ball up in the team’s scrimmage versus Hermitage.

and

With a chance to build off a historic season for

Now, the team has five girl wrestlers on its roster, with two coming up as freshmen after being on the team as eighth graders last year.

“It’s a cool sight. We went a lot of years where Natalia was the only girl in the room, and now to have these new girls in the room, we can build on that,” Tanaka said.

At the interest meeting, Sanchez addressed potential concerns or misconceptions that the girls might have had about the sport, and things that even she has grappled with in her time as a wrestler.

“I just told them that you can be feminine in a male-dominated sport,” she said. “I kind of used the worries that I had in the past and brought them up because I know

those are the same things that they’re thinking.”

After an honest and open discussion, the team saw a rise in numbers thanks to the interest meeting, and now with newcomers being

introduced to the sport and helping shape the girls roster, Tanaka says he’s liked what he’s seen in their early development.

“We’re really happy with the girls that have

come out,” Tanaka said. “All the new ones seem like they like it and are very engaged, willing to work hard and continue to improve.”

With the season just getting underway and a

scrimmage at St. Christopher’s on the horizon to kick things off, Sanchez is looking forward to this final run with her Powhatan teammates and any new faces that think wrestling is the right

sport for them.

“I’m very proud of anyone that thinks about [trying] wrestling,” she said. “It takes a lot to get into this sport, but I’m proud of anyone, whether it be boys or girls.”

nomenal horse.”

Continued from pg. 1

made her very selective on which rodeos she could enter.

“There were a lot of rodeos that I wasn’t able to go to because I was studying, and I had to pick and choose where I could go based on my test dates and stuff like that,” Dale said.

With less experience at the rodeo to begin with and a need to prioritize her studies, Dale didn’t necessarily see this being a season that ended in a title run.

In fact, compared to the rider that was in first place heading into the SEBRA finals, Dale says she had just 26 rodeo runs compared to her competitor’s 45.

“Actually going in, I didn’t know this was going to end up being our year,” she admits. “Coming into the finals I really just told myself that there was no pressure and to take it one run at a time and let my horse shine and she did.”

She defied her own expectations, coming away with a terrific showing at Murfreesboro that ended with her winning four belt

buckles. The other accolade, her Horseman of the Year honor, was something that was voted on by her peers in the barrel racing community.

“That was really cool to win. I was super excited and I’m thankful they

chose me to win that,” she said. “I put a lot into taking care of my horse. My preparation takes days ahead of time to make sure she’s ready and feeling her best, and I really try to put her first.”

Dale’s trusty mane,

Blazin’ Six Moons, has been with her since the horse was 2 years old when Dale got her from a woman in Texas off of Facebook.

After having her train with a friend and riding with her over the years, Dale says she’s thankful to

be competing with a horse that has surpassed every expectation she’s had of her.

“She’s pretty much grown up with me since she was almost a baby,” she said of her horse. ”She’s just been the most phe-

Initially not thinking Blazin’ Six Moons would make a great rodeo horse because of her fear of loud noise, she was surprised to see her handle the big stage as well as she had when they ultimately gave her a try.

In her first rodeo with the horse, Dale was allowed to have an exhibition run to end the day and says she would’ve actually won that rodeo had the time been counted. It was then that they realized she was capable of competing among the best in the sport.

Still, Dale emphasized warming up with Six Moons in quieter areas to work with her without her getting nervous from the noise.

It’s been a long journey for Dale to get to that national title, both at the rodeo and in her studies, but with a great horse and the support of her mom Vicki through it all, she was able to come away a champion.

“I’m super thankful for my mom, I wouldn’t have been able to do what I did without her. I’m just really appreciative.”

PHOTOS BY ROBBY FLETCHER

“This team is learning how to play in different roles because of last year with Kayla and Faith being such major parts of the team, so we’re having to accept different roles,

I really think this team is learning its identity and finding ways to go about winning,” Washburn said.

the program and plenty of the people that helped get the team to that point still sharing the court, it looks to be another promising season of basketball in Powhatan.

FILE PHOTOS

Left, Powhatan’s Natalia Sanchez controls her matchup with her Clover Hill opponent in a varsity wrestling quad meet on Jan. 26, 2021. Right, Sanchez is named the winner in a match against Matoaca on Feb. 3, 2022.

BARREL RACING

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Powhatan local Reed Dale won belt buckles for the average championship, one for each go-round victory and the national championship at the SEBRA National Championship.

Deer on the move a risk to road safety

Contributed Report

Autumn is here and along with colorful leaves, crisp air and shorter days, deer are on the move. Fall is the breeding season for deer, so deer will be more active over the next couple of months than at any other time of the year.

Motorists will also be driving more often in the dark, increasing the likelihood of encountering a deer on the road. Colliding with a deer can cause considerable damage to the animal, people and property.

The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) recommends the following tips to avoid hitting a deer:

Slow down and be attentive, particularly at night (from dusk to dawn). If you see one deer, watch out for others.

Deer habitually travel the same areas. Use caution when you see deer crossing signs installed in these areas.

Apply brakes, even stop if necessary, to avoid hitting a deer, but never swerve out of the lane to

miss a deer. A collision with another vehicle, tree or other object is likely to be more serious than hitting a deer.

Always wear a seat belt! Even if a collision is unavoidable, you are more likely to avoid injury or death if you are wearing a seat belt.

If you hit or kill a deer or bear while driving, immediately report the accident to a Conservation Police Officer or other law enforcement officer in the county or city where the accident occurred.

If you kill a deer or bear while driving, you may keep it for your own use if you report the accident to a law enforcement officer where the accident occurred and the officer views the animal and gives you a possession certificate.

For more information, see this page and video on deer/vehicle safety: dwr. virginia.gov/blog/driversstay-alert-deer-are-onthe-move/.

Submitted by the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources.

State police urge drivers to buckle up

Contributed Report

For many Virginians, gathering with family and friends is the true meaning for Thanksgiving. Some will even travel long distances to share in these wonderful family moments. Just as important as it is to make sure those pies and casseroles make it to the dinner table safely, motorists need to make their own safety a priority, as well.

Virginia State Police is reminding all drivers and passengers of all ages to buckle up this holiday weekend. Preliminary data show that 54% of those who have died in traffic crashes this year were not wearing a seatbelt or safety restraint, according to data from the Virginia Highway Safety Office.

“The fact that more than half of those who have lost their lives in traffic crashes this year were not wearing a seatbelt is a tragic and inexcusable reality for Virginia,” said Colonel Gary T. Settle, Virginia State Police Superintendent. “Your family wants you to arrive safely and clicking a seatbelt can help that happen. Virginia State Police and your loved ones want you to arrive at your destination safely – ditch distractions, comply with posted speed limits, never drive buzzed or drunk, and, again, always buckle up.”

To further prevent traffic deaths and injuries during the Thanksgiving holiday, the Virginia State Police will once again be participating in Operation C.A.R.E. - Crash Awareness and Reduction Effort. As part of the state-sponsored, national program, state police will be increasing its visibility and traffic enforcement efforts during the five-day statistical counting period that begins at 12:01 a.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 23, and concludes at midnight Sunday, Nov. 27.

The 2021 Thanksgiving Operation C.A.R.E. initiative resulted in troopers citing 5,127 speeders and 1,565 reckless drivers statewide. Virginia troopers charged 65 drivers for driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol and/or drugs, and cited 477 drivers for failing to buckle up themselves and/or juvenile passengers.

There were five traffic fatalities during the 2021 five-day Thanksgiving statistical counting period and 12 traffic fatalities during the same period in 2020.

This year, the Thanksgiving Holiday C.A.R.E. initiative falls within the annual “Click It or Ticket” campaign. This enforcement and educational initiative aims to further emphasize the lifesaving value of seat belts for every person in a vehicle.

With increased patrols, Virginia State Police also reminds drivers of Virginia’s “Move Over” law, which requires motorists to move over when approaching an emergency vehicle stopped alongside the road. If unable to move over, drivers are required to cautiously pass the emergency vehicle. The law also applies to workers in vehicles equipped with amber lights.

Submitted by Shelby Crouch, public relations coordinator for the Virginia State Police.

ministrationbuilding.GPCSintendstoevaluatetheproposal,maynegotiateaninterimor comprehensiveagreementwiththeproposer basedontheproposal,andwillreceiveforsimultaneousconsiderationanycompetingproposalsthatcomplywiththeproceduresadoptedbytheBoardandthePPEA.Anyinquiries aboutproposalsmaycontactCarinneKightat (804)556-5400.

TRUSTEESALEOF

5316CartersvilleRoad,Powhatan,VA23139 InexecutionoftheDeedofTrustdatedNovember14,2014,intheoriginalprincipal amountof$129,500.00,recordedinDeedBook 859,page1169,intheClerk’sOfficeoftheCircuitCourtfortheCountyofPowhatan,Virginia,defaulthavingoccurredinthepaymentof theindebtednesstherebysecuredandatthe requestoftheholderofthenote,theundersigned,asSubstituteTrustee,willsellatpublic auctionatthefrontentranceoftheCircuit CourtfortheCountyofPowhatanonDecember7,2022,at10:00a.m.,thepropertylocated attheaboveaddressanddescribedasParcel 2containing2.704acres,moreorless,as shownonaplatrecordedinDeedBook849, page1,togetherwitha30’proposedaccess easementforingressandegressfromState Route684acrossthewesternlineofParcel1, CountyofPowhatan.TERMS:CASH.PROPERTYSOLDASISWITHSPECIALWARRANTYOF TITLE.Adepositof$9,000.00or10%ofthe successfulbidamount(whicheverislower) willberequiredimmediatelyofthesuccessful bidder,incashier’scheckorcertifiedfundsonlypayabletoorsignedoverto"DOLANREID PLLC,TRUSTEE",balanceduewithin15days fromdateofsale.Nopersonalchecksaccepted.Saleissubjecttopostsaleconfirmation andauditofthestatusoftheloanincluding, butnotlimitedto,determinationofwhether theborrowerfiledforandobtainedbankruptcyprotection,enteredintoanyrepayment agreement,reinstatedorpaidofftheloanpriortothesale.Inanysuchevent,oriftrustee isunabletocompletethesale,orifitisset asideornotfullycompletedforanyreasonexceptpurchaser’sdefault,thesaleshallbenull andvoid,andthepurchaser’ssoleremedy,in laworequity,shallbethereturnofthedeposit withoutinterest.Uponpurchaser’sdefault, thedepositshallbeforfeitedandtheproperty resoldattheriskandcostsofthedefaulting purchaser.Saleissubjecttoallpriorliens, easements,restrictions,covenants,reservationsandconditions,ifany,ofrecord,aswell asinchoateliensandanyothermatterswhich wouldbedisclosedbyanaccuratesurveyor inspectionofthepremises.Realestatetaxes willbeadjustedtothedateofsale.Allcostsof conveyance,deed,examinationoftitle,recordingcharges,grantor’staxandpossession willbeattheexpenseofthepurchaser.All risksofcasualtyimmediatelypasstothesuccessfulbidder.Timeisoftheessence.Winningbiddermustsignamemorandumofsale immediatelyuponcompletionofsale.Additionaltermsmaybeannouncedatthetimeof sale.Trustee’saffidavitandacopyofthenoticeofsaleavailableattheforeclosuresale. Theopeningbidisnotannounceduntilthe sale.Currentsalestatusavailableat dolanreid.com/foreclosure-sales.THISISA COMMUNICATIONFROMADEBTCOLLECTOR.

ANYINFORMATIONOBTAINEDWILLBEUSED FORTHATPURPOSE.

ForInformationContact: DolanReidPLLC,SubstituteTrustee(s) 12610PatrickHenryDr.,Ste.C,NewportNews, VA23602;(757)320-0255 PublishOn:November23&30,2022

NOTICEOFPUBLICHEARING POWHATANCOUNTYPLANNING COMMISSION

Noticeisherebygiven,pursuantto§15.2-2204ofthe Codeof Virginia,thatthePlanningCommissionofPowhatanCountywill conductapublichearingon Tuesday,December6,2022,at 6:00PMinthePowhatanCountyVillageBuildingAuditorium, 3910OldBuckinghamRoad, toconsiderthefollowingrequest: Case#22-05-REZC:CountyLineDevelopment(District#1: Subletts/Manakin/FlatRock) requeststherezoningofTaxMap Parcels#43-61,43-64,and43-64EfromAgricultural-10(A-10)to VillageCenterPlannedDevelopment(VC-PD)andLightIndustrial (I-1)andamendmentofthezoningdistrictmapofapproximately93.6 acresoflandlocatedonthenorthsideofStateRoute675(PageRoad) nearitsintersectionwithU.S.Route60(AndersonHighway)adjacent totheChesterfieldCountyline.Approximately55.7acreswouldbe rezonedtoI-1andapproximately37.9acreswouldberezonedto VC-PD,whichisconditionedtoamaximumof4.8dwellingunitsper acredevelopedinaccordancewithamasterplan.Approximately 26.3acresonthenorthernpartoflot43-61willremainA-10andis excludedfromthisrezoning.Profferedconditionsaddressamaster planofdevelopment,transportationimprovementproffers,maximum density(upto181totaldwellingunits),accessandcirculation,and elevations.The2021Long-RangeComprehensivePlandesignates thesubjectpropertiesasProtectedLands,GatewayBusiness,and EconomicOpportunity(Route60CorridorEastSpecialAreaPlan) ontheCountywideFutureLandUsePlanwhichrecommendsa maximumoffourdwellingunitsperacre.

Themeetingmaybewatchedlivebyvisitinghttp://powhatanva. gov/432/Live-Stream-of-Powhatan-County-Meetings.

AllPlanningCommissionmeetingsareopentothepublicand interestedpersonsareencouragedtoattendonthedayandtime specifiedabove.Copiesoftheproposedplans,ordinances,and amendmentsmaybereviewedintheDepartmentofCommunity DevelopmentinthePowhatanCountyAdministrationBuilding (3834OldBuckinghamRoad)between8:30AMand5:00PMofeach businessday.CopiesofstaffreportsareavailablepriortothePublic Hearinguponrequestandwillbeavailableonlineatleastfive(5)days priortothemeetingathttp://powhatanva.gov/agendacenter.Please call(804)598-5621withanyquestions.

METRO CREATIVE

PUBLICHEARINGNOTICE COUNTYOFPOWHATAN INTENTTOAMENDTHEFISCAL YEAR2023ADOPTEDBUDGET

Therewillbeapublichearingontheproposedamendmentsandappropriationsto theFiscalYear2023adoptedbudgetat6:30pmonNovember28,2022intheVillage BuildingAuditorium.Thismeetingwillalsobeheldelectronicallyinaccordancewith VirginiaCodeSection15.2-1413.Instructionsonhowtovieworparticipateinthe meetingcanbefoundattheendofthisnotice.OnMay18,2022thePowhatanCounty BoardofSupervisorsadoptedtheFiscalYear2023PowhatanOperatingBudgetin theamountof$150,293,470.TheCodeofVirginiaSection15.2-2507statesthat anylocalitymayamenditsbudgetandmustholdapublichearingifanysuchbudget amendmentexceedsonepercentofthetotalexpendituresofthecurrentlyadopted budget.ResolutionR-2022-37amendstheFY2023adoptedbudgetintheamount of$3,344,453fortheadditionalstaterevenue($425,440),stateschoolconstruction revenue($1,794,013),HVACARPGrant($375,000)andschoolcapitalmaintenance reserve($375,000),whichis2.225%oftheoriginalbudget.Theresolutionis availableforreviewintheCountyAdministrator’sofficebyappointmentonly.All publicmeetingsareaccessibletopersonswithhandicapconditions.

Membersofthepublicmayparticipateremotelybyjoiningawebinarat https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83998792911orbydialinginbyphoneat1-929-205-6099 OR1-312-626-6799,thentypinginthewebinarID83998792911.Duringthepublic commentperiod,participantsmayraisetheirhandusingthezoomcontrolsonthe computerscreen,or(ifdialingin)bypressing*9onaphone.

Themeetingmaybewatchedlivebyvisitinghttp://powhatanva.gov/432/ Live-Stream-of-Powhatan-County-Meetings.

Publiccommentsmayalsobesubmittedtoadministration@powhatanva.govorby leavingavoicemailat(804)598-3639.Anycommentsreceivedpriorto5:00PMon Monday,November28th,2022willberecordedinthemeetingminutes.

Allinterestedpersonsareinvitedtoparticipateinthepublichearingsandtopresent theirviewsand/ortosubmitwrittencomments.Personsrequiringspecialassistance tovieworparticipateinthosehearingsshouldcontactthePowhatanCounty Administrator’sOfficeat(804)598-5612atleastthreedayspriortothemeeting. DocumentsrelatedtothisproposalcanbereviewedbycontactingtheCounty Administrator’sOfficeatadministration@powhatanva.govor(804)598-5612.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS

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.

Powhatan Fall Classic draws crowds to watch marching band competition

Contributed Report

Powhatan High School Marching Band hosted the 31st annual Fall Classic Band Competition on Oct. 22 at the PHS Football Stadium.

The full day of performances saw bands from all over the state competing. The event ended with an exhibition performance by the Powhatan High School Marching Band.

Results of the competition were:

Black Division Winner- Orange County High School (highest score out of 3A, 4A, and 5A)

Orange Division Winner- Spotswood High School (highest score out of 1A and 2A)

Class Placements

Class 1A

First place- Spotswood High School

Second place- Cumberland High School Class 2A

First place- Hermitage High School

Second place- J.R. Tucker High School Class 3A

First place- Orange County High School

Second place- West Point High School Class 4A

First place- North Stafford High School

Second place- Midlothian High School Class 5A

First place- Glen Allen High School

NOTICEOFPUBLICAUCTION

PursuanttothetermsofthosecertainDecreesofSaleenteredintheCircuitCourtofCountyofPowhatan,the undersignedSpecialCommissionerwillofferforsaleatasimulcast(withonlineandinpersonbidding)public auctionthefollowingdescribedrealestateat 3910OldBuckinghamRd,Powhatan,Virginia23139,inthe VillageBuildingAuditoriumonDecember7,2022at11:00AM.

Thesaleofsuchpropertyissubjecttothetermsandconditionsbelow,andanytermorconditionswhich maybesubsequentlypostedorannouncedbyForSaleByAuction,Inc.(“Auctioneer”)andTaxingAuthority ConsultingServices,PC(“TACS”).Subsequentannouncementsmadeonthedayoftheauctiontake precedenceoveranypriorwrittenorverbaltermsofsale.

No. PropertyOwner(s)

1JordanCoy,etal.

2. L.W.Drake,etal. (PocahontasFarissJones,etal.)

3.PeterF.Jenkins,etal.

4.AgathaE.Michael,etal.

5.JackSayles,etal.

6.J.S.Smith,etal

AccountNumbers Description

TaxMapNo.036-82 AccountNo.5795 TACSNo.659607 MaconDistrict;Michaux;unimproved;wooded; nearOldTavernRd;10.0Acres+/-

TaxMapNo.025-52 AccountNo.2293 TACSNo.659673

TaxMapNo.017-28 AccountNo.1370 TACSNo.659595

MaconDistrict;PetervilleChurch;unimproved; Wooded;29.0Acres+/-

SpencerDistrict;CeasarTown;unimproved; 3.0Acres+/-

TaxMapNo.004-76 AccountNo.100 TACSNo.659720 MaconDistrict;CartersvilleRd;Stratton;wooded; 6.0Acres+/-

TaxMapNo.016-17 AccountNo.1220 TACSNo.659764

TaxMapNo.024-45 AccountNo.2192 TACSNo.659568

SpencerDistrict;3408JeffersonLandingRd; Hening;improved;0.5Acres+/-

MaconDistrict;nearOldTavernRd;Mt.Rose; wooded;unimproved;unknownacreage

GENERALTERMSOFSALE: AllsalesaresubjecttoconfirmationbytheCircuitCourt.TheSpecial Commissionerhastherighttorejectanybidsdeterminedtobeunreasonableinrelationtotheestimated valueoftheProperty.Anyunsoldpropertywillbeofferedforsaleagainatthenextauction,wheneverthat maybe.

PropertiesareconveyedbySpecialWarrantyDeed,subjecttoanyeasements,covenants,agreements, restrictions,reservations,andanyandallrightsofrecordwhichmayaffecttheproperty.Propertiesareoffered forsaleas-is,where-is,andif-is,withallfaultsandwithoutanywarranty,eitherexpressedorimplied.Persons areencouragedtomakeavisualinspectionofthepropertywithinthelimitsofthelawandtoobtainan independenttitlesearch,attheirownexpense,priortobiddingonanyofthepropertiestodeterminethe suitablenessofthepropertyfortheirpurposes.Itisnotguaranteedthatthepropertyhasaright-of-wayor thatitisnotlandlocked.Propertyissoldingrossandnotbytheacre.Thereisnowarrantyastotheaccuracy oftheGISsystem,noristheinformationcontainedthereinalegalrepresentationofanyofthefeaturesofthe propertywhichitdepicts.

Thesaleofpropertytothehighestbidderisnotcontingentuponobtainingfinancing. Financing, ifneeded,isthesoleresponsibilityofthehighbidder.Bybidding,partiesareenteringintoalegallybinding contract,waiveallrescissionrights,andunderstandthattheirbidisimmediatelybinding,irrevocable,and enforceable.Additionally,bybidding,partiesarerepresentingthattheyhaveread,andagreetobeboundby, alltermsandconditionsforthissale.Failuretocompletethepropertypurchasewillresultinforfeitureofany fundspaidandmaysubjectthehighestbiddertoadditionaldamages,whichmayincludeexpensesandany deficituponresale.

PAYMENTTERMS: Onthedayoftheauction,thehighestbiddershallmakeadepositintheamountof twenty-fivepercent(25%)orOneThousandDollars($1,000.00),whicheverishigher, alongwitha10% buyer’spremiumaddedtothefinalbid.BidswhicharelessthanOneThousandDollars($1,000.00)shall bepaidinfullatthetimeoftheauction.DepositsshallnotexceedTwentyThousandDollars($20,000.00) perparcel.SuchsumshallbeheldbytheSpecialCommissionerandcreditedtowardsthepurchaseprice followingconfirmationofthesale.Subsequenttaxeswillbeproratedfromtheauctiondate,andthehighest bidderwillberesponsiblefortaxesfromthatdateforward.

Thebalanceofthepurchasepriceandrecordingcostsfordeedrecordationshallbedepositedbythehighest bidderwiththeSpecialCommissionerwithinfifteen(15)daysofconfirmationofthesalebytheCourt.

TermsapplicabletoIn-PersonBiddersONLY:Thedepositandbuyer’spremiumaredueonthedayof theauction.Allpaymentsmustbemadeintheformofpersonalcheck,cashier’scheckormoneyorder. Nocashwillbeaccepted.

TermsapplicabletoOnlineBiddersONLY:Allinterestedpartiesmustregisterandbeapprovedbythe Auctioneer.RegistrationandbiddingarefreeofchargeandaredonethroughtheAuctioneer’swebsite www.forsaleatauction.biz.Ifanyinterestedbiddersareunabletoattendforin-personbiddingandwish tobidonproperty,butdonothaveaccesstotheinternet,pleasecontactForSaleAtAuction,Inc.at (540)899-1776forassistance.

Thehighestbidderwillreceivetheirpurchasecontractandbalancedueviaemailfollowingthecloseof theauction.ThecontractshallimmediatelybeexecutedandreturnedtoTACS. Thedepositandbuyer’s premiummustbereceivedinfullwithinseven(7)daysfollowingtheauctionclosing(nolaterthan December14,2022).Allpaymentsmustbemadeintheformofcertifiedfunds,cashier’scheck,money orderorwiretransfer.Cashandpersonalchecks willnot beaccepted.Checksandmoneyordersshallbe madepayabletoCountyofPowhatanandforwardedtoTACS,attheaddressshownbelow.Wiretransfer instructionswillbeprovidedtothehighestbidderuponrequest.

GENERALTERMS

:Toqualifyasapurchaseratthisauction,youmaynotowedelinquenttaxestoCountyof PowhatanandyoumaynotbeaDefendantinanypendingdelinquenttaxmatter.Questionsconcerningthe registrationandbiddingprocessshouldbedirectedtotheAuctioneeronlineatwww.forsaleatauction.biz,by emailtoinquiry@forsaleatauction.bizorbyphoneto(540)899-1776.Questionsconcerningthepropertysubject tosaleshouldbedirectedtoTACSonlineatwww.taxva.com,byemailtotaxsales@taxva.com,byphoneto 804-548-4424,orbywritingtotheaddressbelow.

Re:CountyofPowhatanJudicialSaleAuction TaxingAuthorityConsultingServices,PC P.O.Box31800 Henrico,Virginia23294-1800

LEGALDISPLAYADS

PHOTOS BY LAURA McFARLAND

Powhatan High School Marching Band hosted the 31st annual Fall Classic Band Competition on Oct. 22 at the PHS Football Stadium. Powhatan residents and band supporters from all over came to watch bands compete and an exhibition performance by the PHS Marching Band (above).