Powhatan Today – 05/10/2023

Volume XXXVI, Issue 43

Board approves FY2024 budget

ROSLYN RYAN Editor

Powhatan County supervisors approved the County’s FY2024 operating and capital budgets on May 1, though not before spending much of the special meeting debating several last-minute amendment requests.

Annual county fair kicks o Friday

ROSLYN RYAN Editor

For over 100 years, the Powhatan County Fair has been offering families in and around Powhatan the chance to enjoy all the thrills of a traditional county fair, and organizers say this year will continue that proud tradition.

Centered on the theme “A Fair-bulous Time,” this year’s event promises the same rides, attractions and family-centered fun that attendees have come to expect as well as several new o erings, said organizer Runda Harris.

Carmack

The changes to the $154,560,547 budget were brought forward by District 5 supervisor Karin Carmack, and included reducing a previously discussed 7% raise for county employees to 5% and using the $341,000 di erence—plus $379,000 Carmack proposed taking from funds set aside for the county’s obligation to sewer improvements in Richmond—as part of the plan to help cover the $998,824 cost of fully covering health insurance for county school employees.

A tale of family, food and furniture

According to Harris, Coles Shows will be supplying the carnival-style rides and games once again for the event, which is set for May 12, 13 and 14. New this year will be performances from the Barony of Caer Mear a group the stages historical reenactments from approximately the year 1600.

The group will dress in medieval clothes and demonstrate medieval arts and crafts, as well as martial arts such as sword fighting and archery.

Shop moving but heart of business remains

GWEN SADLER

Contributing Writer

Williams

While Carmack insisted that her requested changes would not only help relieve an ongoing challenge for the county’s schools and would actually decrease the county’s budget, District 1 representative David Williams immediately zeroed in on the fact that board members had no numbers in front of them to help them understand Carmack’s proposal. “I don’t even have a scorecard,” said Williams. “If we break these out, what is the systemic e ect on the budget—the bottom line?”

Funds for Company 1 floor remain in budget

ROSLYN RYAN

Editor

After an impassioned plea from Powhatan County Fire Chief Phil Warner, a proposal that would have eliminated county funds earmarked for a maintenance project at the county’s Company 1 fire station was withdrawn by District 5 supervisor Karin Carmack during the Powhatan County Board of Supervisors’ May 1 meeting.

Warner

Karen Mast and her husband, Darryl, opened their original food and furniture emporium in a small strip mall along Anderson Highway in Powhatan in 2003. A year later, on Memorial Day weekend, the store moved a couple miles west to the location at 1901 Anderson Highway in Powhatan Station they’ve occupied since. In an act of symmetry not lost on Mast, the shop will see its last day at that site on May 26. During the following Memorial Day weekend, the Masts, along with family members and the store’s employees, will move the business and its contents to a new location in Amelia.

Local actors will also be helping sta the fairgrounds’ Heritage Village and Campground. Parking and admission is free for the fair, and pets are allowed. Advance unlimited ride tickets are $15 and are on sale through May 12 at 5 p.m. at www.powhatanfair.org. Organizers are strongly encouraging those wishing to attend the fair to buy tickets online as long lines are expected again this year.

As to what fairgoers can expect this year, Harris o ered the following:

„ Helicopter rides

„ A petting zoo and pony rides

„ Axe throwing

The move is a result of a pending sale of Powhatan Station, which has been years coming. The Masts and other tenants were given about six months’ notice that they would have to vacate.

The Masts weren’t new to the furniture business before opening Country Food and Furniture, having previously owned a business selling handmade chairs, bar stools and benches. But with cheaper imports cutting in on the business’ profits, Karen Mast had the idea that selling food as well might boost sales.

She was on to something.

“We sell some furniture, but the food is what carries the business,” Mast said. The sandwiches, salads and desserts have become the stars of

the shop. In addition to fresh-made food and handmade furniture, the store o ers everything from packaged candies, jams and spices to books and cutlery.

While Darryl is involved in parts of running the business, including occasionally making a piece of furniture to add to their inventory, most of which is shipped from Pennsylvania, Karen is at the store’s helm, and was reluctant to leave Powhatan. “We would have like to have stayed in Powhatan with our customers here,” she said, “but we weren’t able to find anything that would meet our needs without a lot of expensive renovations.”

Opening day after the move will be June 8, with a grand opening tentatively scheduled for June 16 and 17. The new Country Food and Furniture

location will be 17231 Genito Road, Amelia County, just a couple miles beyond the Powhatan County line, and about a 20-minute drive from its current place.

„ Captain Jim, Master of Illusions

„ Medieval reenactment

„ Heritage Village and Camp demonstrations

„ Blacksmith demonstrations

The building the store is moving into was once a sandwich shop that shut down several years ago, Mast said. It includes two stories, plus a basement, which will be used for storage. Food will be prepared and sold on the main floor, while the upper floor will be devoted to furniture and crafts, with a small section set aside for dine-in customers. For those who may not be able to climb the stairs, Mast assures there will also be a place on the main floor for dining on the premises. Mast does most of the food preparation herself, with a lot

„ Total Terror Haunt

On Sunday, May 14, the fairgrounds will host a car and bike Cruz-N for a Cause event to benefit FeedMore and Backpacks of Love. Food and monetary donations encouraged. A free dental clinic and Sunday Gospel Jubilee are also scheduled for that day.

For more information, to purchase unlimited ride tickets, or to become a sponsor, vendor or volunteer call (804) 598-9808 or visit www.PowhatanFair.org. The organization’s Facebook page is Powhatan County Fair and it can be found on Twitter at twitter.com/Fairgrounds VA.

Carmack had introduced the proposed budget amendment as the board prepared to vote on the County’s FY2024 operating and capital budgets. Carmack requested that $50K originally set aside to help Company 1 complete the refurbishment of its equipment bay floor be eliminated from the county’s Capital Improvement Program, noting that the department would likely be able to use donated funds to cover that cost.

Warner, however, when asked for his thoughts on the proposal, strongly urged board members

Please see BUDGET, Page A8 Please see FUNDS, Page A8

Local group hosts self-advocacy training

COMMUNITY REPORT

Self-advocates from The ARC of Virginia recently facilitated a Self-Advocacy Training at Goochland Powhatan Community Services Board (GPCS). The training was for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities interested in learning more about self-advocacy. The presentation was led by two peer self-advocates from the ARC of Virginia, who gave a wonderful presentation full of information about what self-advocacy is and how individuals with develop-

mental disabilities residing in Goochland and Powhatan can be self-advocates. Goochland Powhatan Community Services is invested in supporting community members with developmental disabilities in becoming self-advocates and forming a local self-advocacy group. Anyone interested in learning more about self-advocacy, or who would like to participate in a self-advocacy group, is urged to visit www. gpcsb.org.

Submitted by the Goochland Powhatan Community Services Board

GWEN SADLER PHOTOS

Karen Mast, owner of Country Food and Furniture, will be moving her beloved local shop to Amelia at the month. “We would have like to have stayed in Powhatan with our customers here,” she said, “but we weren’t able to find anything that would meet

COMMUNITY BRIEFS

Providence Presbyterian to celebrate 198th

anniversary

Providence Presbyterian Church in western Powhatan is celebrating its 198th anniversary with a barbecue dinner mission fund-raiser on May 20 from 5 to 7 p.m. Providence Church was organized in 1825 alongside present day Rt. 60. In the 1880s a new sanctuary was built on Ridge Rd., just off Old Buckingham Highway, in the Belona community. To celebrate their anniversary, the congregation is planning a fund-raising dinner of pulled-pork barbecue and sides with entertainment by Charlottesville area folk musicians Tom Proutt and Mitch Russell on guitar and mandolin. All donations for the meal will go to support the work of the Free Clinic of Powhatan.

Powhatan State Park offering ranger-led hiking tours

Powhatan State Park has planned a series of monthly ranger-led hikes to explore the park throughout 2023. Each month, park visitors can join in a hike on a different trail in the park and learn about local history and wildlife. All hikes begin at 10 a.m. Registration is required and limited to nine hikers per trip. Email Powhatan@ dcr.virginia.gov with the subject line “hiking series” including the desired date/hike to reserve your spot. Upcoming events are: May 27:

Coyote Run Trail, meet at Equestrian Lot; June 24: River, Gold Dust and Turkey Trail, meet at Equestrian Lot; July 29: Cabin Trail/Big Woods Trail, meet at the playground area; Aug. 26: Pine Trail, meet at Yates Parking Area; Sept. 30: Coyote Run Trail, meet at Equestrian Lot; Oct. 28: River, Gold Dust and Turkey Trail, meet at Equestrian Lot; Nov. 25:

POWHATAN

Shell Station

1300 Anderson Highway, 23139

Powhatan Library

2270 Mann Road, 23139

Atkinson Insurance

3829 Old Buckingham Road, 23139

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

WEDNESDAY, MAY 10

Cabin Trail/Big Woods Trail, meet at the playground area; and Dec. 30: Pine Trail, meet at Yates Parking Area. Wear comfortable, closed-toed shoes and bring plenty of water. Children are welcome but be aware that some hikes may exceed 4 miles and require navigating uneven terrain in all weather conditions.

AARP Virginia Fraud Alert focuses on gift card scams

Gift card sales rose from $130 billion in 2015 to $173 billion in 2021, and while they are popular with consumers, they are also popular with criminals. In fact, researchers estimate that $40 to $50 billion is stolen from fraud victims in any given year.

Powhatan residents are urged to be aware of the two primary ways people are defrauded using gift cards.

Criminals have several ways of claiming gift card balances so that the money is gone before the card is even delivered. In fact, a 2022 AARP survey found that one in four respondents to the AARP survey said they had given or received a gift card that turned out to have no value on it. To combat this purchase cards directly from the business that issued them, preferably by ordering them online. If you do purchase them in a store check to make sure that the packaging hasn’t been tampered with and register your card with the retailer if that option is offered.

Lastly, criminals prefer gift cards as a form of payment from their victims because they are readily available and hard to trace. If anyone asks you to pay for a debt or obligation with a prepaid gift card it is a scam and you should cut off communication.

Visit the AARP Fraud Watch Network at www. aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork or call the AARP Fraud Watch Helpline at 1-877-908-3360 for more information.

Community Driving School

3229 Anderson Highway, 23139 Goodwill

1885 Stavemill Crossing Lane, 23139

Community Matters is a resource for all 55 and forward interested in learning, staying active and engaging with peers. Challenge and socialization are powerful benefits and crucial at any age! Multiple weekly sessions with a wide range of topics and activities are held at 10 a.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays at the Pocahontas Landmark Center, 4290 Anderson Hwy, in the training room of Powhatan Parks and Recreation. Information on various o erings, activities and topics presented can be found on Facebook: Powhatan County Reach for Active Services. Program is free; requires independent participation. Call program coordinator Jayne Lloyd at 804-698-0438 for more information.

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.

<p class=”xmsonormal”>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 804-6909220 for more information.

The War Memorial Roundtable for all Veterans meets at 7 p.m. on the second Wednesday of every month at the War Memorial Cultural Arts and Community Center, 2375 Skaggs Road. Contact Ruth Boatwright at 804-337-6859. THURSDAY, MAY 11

The Powhatan Village Farmers Market opens is open from 4 to 6:30 p.m. every Thursday on the grounds of Bienvenue in the Village

Just Kids, an a ordable clothing shop selling gently used children’s clothes, sizes newborn to 8 plus, and warm coats, is open. The store is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. The shop is located in the Memorial Baptist Church Youth House, 3926 Old Buckingham Road. Just Kids is a ministry of May Memorial Baptist Church. Clothes cost $2 per bag.

A Caregiver Support Group will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. the second Thursday of every month at May Memorial Baptist Church, 3922 Old Buckingham Road, Powhatan. Build a support system with people who understand. For more information, contact Jayne Lloyd at 804-698-0438. Visit alz.org/grva to learn more about caregiver programs and resources.

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.

Extension specialists and industry experts share timely topics for farmers in the Virginia Cooperative Extension Ag Today, held virtually at 9 a.m. every Thursday. These updates are relevant and brief and are recorded for folks who can’t join on that day and time. Podcasts (audio only) are posted on Westmoreland VCE webpage and YouTube video recordings can be found at https://www.youtube. com/ playlist?list=PL7_2QUVzrPXDpYsV2HY11CH8KBrluifyO. Contact Stephanie Romelczyk (sromelcz@ vt.edu) for information on joining the meeting live. Watched or listened to VCE AG Today? Let us know how we are doing! Find our survey here: https://vce.az1.qualtrics.com/ jfe/form/SV_6fiYBb914AYRdn7.

growers market for young entrepreneurs ages 9 – 17. The goal of the market is to cultivate young entrepreneurs by gaining life skills needed to develop and operate a business. Weekly workshops take place after school where they learn about funds handling, communication, building a business plan and more. Workshops will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. May 11, 18 at the Powhatan Extension O ce. Next, youth are given the opportunity to sell their products monthly from June to September. All products sold at the market must be made or grown by the young person. For more information, contact Cathy Howland at chowland@vt.edu.

SATURDAY, MAY 13

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 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The o ce is located upstairs at the Habitat ReStore and the o ce number is 804-594-7009, ext. 2. Call and volunteer. Help us at the ReStore, perform critical repairs and/or with our upcoming builds. Powhatan AA meets at 8 p.m. every Saturday at Manakin Episcopal Church on Huguenot Trail.

SUNDAY, MAY 14

Powhatan Fire and Rescue’s Junior Emergency Technician program meets at 1:30 p.m. on the second Sunday of each month at di erent locations in the county. The program is free and open to 12- to 15-year-olds from all parts of the county interested in learning about their local fire, rescue and emergency services organizations. Applications may be picked up year-round at the fire administration o ce in the Village Building. Contact the o ce at 804-598-5646 or Sarah Zobells at szobell@powhatanva.gov for this month’s location.

MONDAY, MAY 15

A Grief S upport Group meets from 10 to 11 a.m. on the second Monday of each month at Powhatan United Methodist Church. All are welcome to attend. This group is facilitated by Judy Cain-Oliver, licensed clinical psychologist. Powhatan Pastor’s Fellowship provides pastors in the county with fellowship, joint worship experiences and ways to serve the needy in the community. The group meets at 11:30 a.m. on the second Monday of the month at Angela’s Restaurant. The group is open to any pastor; newcomers welcome. For more information, call Michael Edwards, pastor of May Memorial Baptist Church, 804-598-3098.

A Powhatan H ope N arcotics

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.

Relay for Life South of the James meets at 7 p.m. on the second Monday of the month online. For more information, contact Pat Johnson at 804-241-1161 or pjj804@icloud.com.

A Powhatan H ope N arcotics 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, MAY 16

include bagpipe music by Virginia Scots Guards, an address by Benjamin Barrett entitled ‘Why Do We Have Memorials,” and an artillery salute by Knibb’s Battery and refreshments. The ceremony will take place at 915 Old Confederate Cemetery Road, in Midlothian o Huguenot Springs Road just west of Route 288 and south of Route 711 (Robious Road) in Powhatan. For more information, call (804)356-8868 or e-mail KnibbsBattery@Aol.Com or HugSprCemetery@Gmail.Com.

UPCOMING

Indoor Yard Sale will be held by the Women’s Organization of Saint John Neumann Catholic Church located at 2480 Batterson Road in Powhatan on Saturday, June 3rd, 8 a.m. to 2pm, rain or shine. Proceeds benefit church ministries. Scout Troop 3029 is helping the Huguenot Volunteer Fire Department achieve a long-held goal of building a memorial to honor the victims of the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001 at the station. The Girl Scouts are selling 411 bricks inscribed with the name, rank and company of a firefighter, law enforcement officer or paramedic killed during the attacks. A donation of $23 will cover the cost of one inscribed brick in honor of a first responder. To purchase a brick, visit www.bricksrus.com/donorsite/memorial911. Checks payable to Troop 3029 may also be mailed to Laura Baltz at 1510 Holly Hills Road, Powhatan, VA 23139. For more information, contact Baltz at 804-467-4313 or Ljbal65@aol.com.

Lonesome Dove Equestrian Center, which is located at 6137 Old Buckingham Road, provides yearround therapeutic horseback riding exclusively for veterans with special needs and disabilities. Focusing on veterans in Central Virginia, the goal of this program is to improve the quality of life for the participants through activities that are positive to their cognitive, physical, emotional and social well-being. As of Jan. 1, 2021, the program is also welcoming first responders to come ride with the program. From A pril through S eptember, volunteers are asked to arrive at 9 a.m. and the riding sessions begin at 10 a.m. Upcoming dates are: May 16 and 24; June 6, 20 and 28; July 11, 18 and 26; Aug. 1, 15 and 23; Sept. 12, 19 and 27. From October through November, volunteers are asked to arrive at 10 a.m. and the riding sessions begin at 11 a.m. Upcoming dates are: Oct. 3, 17 and 25; Nov. 7, 14 and 29. 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 804-356-6327.

Juneteenth Powhatan, a day of celebration, culture and history, will be held from noon to 4 p.m. June 17 both inside and outside at the Pocahontas Landmark Center, 4290 Anderson Highway. Activities will include an exhibit and program, food and vendors, music and a kids zone. The event is rain or shine. It is free and open to the public. Donations are welcome.

Relay for Life South of the James, the combined Relay for Life event for Powhatan and Chesterfield counties, will be held from 4 to 10 p.m. Saturday June 10 at Powhatan H igh S chool, 1800 Judes Ferry Road. Come support the fight against cancer by walking laps and fundraising as a team or participating in the event and supporting the di erent teams’ fundraisers. Highlights include enthusiastic teams joining together in the fight against cancer, performances, food for sale, themed laps, a Survivor’s Lap, luminaria that can be purchased in honor or in memory of a loved one, and much more. Contact event lead Pat Johnson at pat. rflsoj@gmail.com.

Saturday Under the Stars at Powhatan State Park will be hosted by the Richmond Astronomical Society throughout 2023. Events are open to the public and held at the Equestrian / Trailhead parking area. Visitors are welcome to bring their telescopes and test them out under a dark sky with assistance from our astronomers. This is a great opportunity to try out a new telescope that might have been a holiday gift. No telescope is required, though. You can always check out the views through ours or just bring a comfortable chair. Event times are listed below, but volunteer astronomers will be on site before the event to provide telescope assistance. Note that the $5 park fee applies at all times; park fees are waived for volunteer astronomers who are sharing their expertise or equipment for the event and volunteer astronomers are welcome to continue to observe through the night after the public hours. Astronomers that can help with any of these events, send a message to president@richastro.org. Upcoming dates are: 8:30 to 10:30 p.m. July 22; 8 to 10 p.m. Sept. 16; and 5 to 7 p.m. Dec. 9.

ONGOING

T he Powhatan Village Farmers Market season will be open from 4 to 6:30 p.m. every Thursday through Oct. 26. The market is on the grounds of Bienvenue in the Village. You’ll love reconnecting with your favorite vendors and meeting over 15 new ones! The market o ers a huge variety of local goods like seasonal produce, unique breads and baked goods, co ee, honey, pastured meats, kombucha, eggs, mushrooms, artisan creations, selfcare products, flowers and even dog treats. While you shop enjoy live music and a tasty food truck dinner! This season Powhatan’s local Parks and Recreation will provide kids’ activities every week and they have all sorts of fun stu planned for opening day! Prizes for the kiddos and friendly dogs are always welcome. This season your family will also love visits to the booths of the Powhatan State Park, Powhatan library, Master Gardeners and so many more critical community organizations.

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Powhatan Stars Cancer Support Group, formerly known as Powhatan Supporting the Alliance and Respecting Survivors (STARS), meets at 6 p.m. on the second Thursday of the month at The County Seat Restaurant in the back room. The group is for survivors, caregivers and family members to listen and support each other. For more information, contact Sue Bird at 804-212-8651 or Patty H icks at 804-375-3499.

A community prayer meeting is held at 7 p.m. on the first Thursday of each month at the War Memorial Cultural Arts and Community Center, 2375 Skaggs Road. The group prays for world, national and local issues. It is open to the public.

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

The new Bridge of Reason AA meeting is held at 7 p.m. every Tuesday at Powhatan Mennonite Church, 3549 O ld 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.

T he Powhatan A merican Legion Post 201 meetings are held at 7:30 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month. Legion members invite all veterans of our armed forces to attend the meetings of Post 201 which are held at the War Memorial Cultural Arts and Community Center, 2375 Skaggs Road. For more information, contact David Bradley at 804-306-3740.

SATURDAY, MAY 20

Providence Presbyterian Church, located at 1950 Ridge Rd., invites community members to a barbecue dinner mission fund-raiser from 5-7 p.m. rain or shine. All donations for the meal will go to support the work of the Free Clinic of Powhatan.

MONDAY, MAY 29

Powhatan State Park has planned a series of monthly Ranger Led Hikes to explore the park throughout 2023. Each month, park visitors can join in a hike on a di erent trail in the park and learn about local history and wildlife. All hikes begin at 10 a.m. Registration is required and limited to nine hikers per trip. Email Powhatan@dcr.virginia.gov with the subject line “hiking series” including the desired date/ hike to reserve your spot. Upcoming events are: April 29: Pine Trail, meet at Yates Parking Area; May 27: Coyote Run Trail, meet at Equestrian Lot; June 24: River, Gold Dust and Turkey Trail, meet at Equestrian Lot; July 29: Cabin Trail/Big Woods Trail, meet at the playground area;

Aug. 26: Pine Trail, meet at Yates Parking A rea; S ept. 30: Coyote Run Trail, meet at Equestrian Lot;

Oct. 28: River, Gold Dust and Turkey Trail, meet at Equestrian Lot;

Nov. 25: Cabin Trail/Big Woods Trail, meet at the playground area; and

Dec. 30: Pine Trail, meet at Yates Parking Area. Wear comfortable, closed-toed shoes and bring plenty of water. Children are welcome but be aware that some hikes may exceed 4 miles and require navigating uneven terrain in all weather conditions.

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The Powhatan Republican Committee’s monthly meeting will be held on the second Thursday of every month at Rosa’s Italian Restaurant. Social time is at 6:30 p.m. and the meeting starts at 7 p.m.

N ext Generation 4- H Youth Market is a youth-led maker and

T he 42nd annual H uguenot Springs Cemetery Memorial Day Service will start at 2 p.m. on Monday May 29 and is co-sponsored by the J. E. B. Stuart Camp #1343 of the Sons of Confederate Veterans and Huguenot Springs Cemetery Foundation. The event will

RECENT PROPERTY TRANSFERS

„ 13.4 acres; Morgan A. Harney to Marcia Cramer, $330,000.

„ 5 acres; Gorman M. Lilley to R.K. McDaniel Jr., $315,000.

„ 3576 Calvin’s Trail, Powhatan; W.V. McClure Inc. to Dean Robert Young, $659,184.

„ 1950 Fairpine Drive,

Powhatan; Stephen Lancashire, trustee to Timothy Lee White, $412,000.

„ 1226 Hawkwell Drive, Maidens; Timothy W. Vidra to Casey J. Fabling, $386,000.

„ 1351 King William Woods Road, Midlothian; Capitol City Development LLC to Benjamin P. Garner,

The Westchester Concert Series is back with a full summer 2023 lineup planned. All concerts are from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Westchester Concert Field. Each concert will benefit a di erent nonprofit. Upcoming performances are: June 1, En’Novation (Autism Society of Central Virginia); June 15, The English Channel (Chesterfield Historical Society of Virginia); June 29, The Jangling Reinharts (Free Clinic of Powhatan); July 13, 64 Crayons Band (RVAG); and July 27, Good Shot Judy (Fatherhood Foundation of Virginia).

For more information, visit www. shopwestchestercommons.com.

$214,000.

„ Lot 7, Section B, Cumberland Gap; Nicholas Conti Balducci to Thomas Elon Mitchell, $220,000.

„ 1416 Page Road, Midlothian; Heirs of Douglas

I. Jamerson to Thomas P. Langham, $535,000.

„ 2678 Poplar Forest Drive, Powhatan; Nathan

T he Powhatan Coalition of Churches is looking for one or more volunteers to manage the Food Pantry which serves over 100 households each month. Primary responsibilities include training and coordinating volunteers, overseeing purchasing and inventory, record keeping and reporting, and publicity and communications. If you feel called to this vital ministry to neighbors in need please contact Theresa Fields at powfields@comcast.net or 804-372-9526.

Agricultural lands in Goochland and Powhatan counties continue to be eligible for conservation assistance funds from Monacan Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) for stream exclusion fencing, establishing rotational grazing fields, developing water resources, wells, springs and stream access points, reforestation of critical areas and establishing or enlarging bu er areas along waterways. Funds are also available for nutrient management plan development and implementation, cover crops and numerous other conservation practices. Monacan encourages producers to explore options now since program options have recently been revised and significantly improved for the producer. The District has highly skilled employees who are well trained in

Please see CALENDAR, Page A8

W. Henry to Jade Laurana Frank, $455,000.

„ 3305 Sherwood Ridge Drive, Powhatan; Beers & White Inc. to Jennifer Hammond Paciello, $337,000.

„ 1922 Urbine Road, Powhatan; Jennifer Megan Paciello to Habitat For Humanity-Powhatan Inc., $315,000.

Powhatan Middle School students welcome group from NASA Langley

Powhatan Middle School recently welcomed a group from NASA Langley for an exciting event in which students learned about some of the jobs and roles at Langley and the significance of space exploration. Students then worked in small groups to solve a challenge based on navigating a lunar landing while gathering resources along the way.

The students did an amazing job not only collaborating and problem solving on the challenge, but also communicating with each other and with the

whole group about their process. The NASA presenters couldn’t say enough good things about our students’ knowledge, enthusiasm, and engagement. There was time for students to ask questions and they demonstrated so much insight and creativity.

Students o ered a big “thank you” to teacher Bilal Raychouni for his help organizing the student groups and to school board members Susan Smith and Kim Hymel for attending and being so supportive. — Submitted by Powhatan County Public Schools

of help from her all-female crew. The store employs 10 to 11 part-timers, with about half of them working at any given time.

Mast likes working with “the girls,”

“We had four sons, and I loved raising my boys. They all worked in the store some as they were growing up, but they’re grown. Now I get to do the ‘girl thing.’

It’s very di erent, and I enjoy it.”

Working with those women is among Mast’s favorite parts of her job. Getting to know the customers is another positive for Mast. As for her least favorite job chore, she had to think hard

to come up with something.

“I guess it can get more hectic sometimes than I would wish, but there isn’t anything about [the business] I really don’t like.”

While some nostalgia for the past may linger with Mast, the closer the moving date gets, the more excited she grows. The new location is closer to the Mast’s home and she looks forward to opportunities to “run home during the day and see to things. We have enjoyed Powhatan, but change comes in life, and you just go with that change and do what’s best,” she said.

The new location won’t be the only transformation the shop experiences.

Currently, the store’s hours are Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays,

story idea, community events, photos, birth announcements, 40th anniversaries & above or 80-year-old birthday & above announcement submissions can be e-mailed to news@powhatantoday.com or call 804-363-1577

News

News tip, story idea, community events, photos, birth announcements, 40th anniversaries & above or 80-year-old birthday & above announcement submissions can be e-mailed to news@powhatantoday

9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Wednesdays, 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. The post-move hours will be Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Wednesdays, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. And while all the current foods on the menu will still be o ered, the lineup will be revised to include breakfast fare. Mast assures customers that those breakfast foods will be available every day, even on Wednesdays, when the store will open later in the morning.

Beginning June 8, the phone number will change as well. The store can be reached after that at (804) 561-0970. Until then, Country Food and Furniture can still be reached at (804) 794-4454.

PHOTO BY GWEN SADLER

Karen Mast, owner of Country Food and Furniture, checks on some of

“sweet” inventory of packaged confections.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF POWHATAN COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Looking for fire threats? Check the laundry room

Fire departments across the United States respond to hundreds of thousands of home structure fires per year.

Smoke detectors are a key component of fire protection, but there’s much more homeowners can do to protect themselves, their families, their belongings, and their homes from structure fires.

Routinely inspect smoke detectors. Smoke detectors can only alert residents to a fire if they’re working properly. Battery-powered smoke detectors won’t work if the batteries die. Routine smoke detector check-ups can ensure the batteries still have juice and that the devices themselves are

still functioning properly. Test alarms to make sure the devices are functioning and audible in nearby rooms. Install additional detectors as necessary so alarms and warnings can be heard in every room of the house. Hire an electrician to audit your home. Electricians can inspect a home and identify any issues that could make the home more vulnerable to fires. Ask electricians to look over every part of the house, including attics and crawl spaces. Oft-overlooked areas like attics and crawl spaces pose a potentially significant fire safety threat, as data from the Federal Emergency Management Asso-

ciation (FEMA) indicates that 13 percent of electrical fires begin in such spaces. Audit the laundry room. The laundry room is another potential source of home structure fires. National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) data indicates around 3% of home structure fires begin in laundry rooms each year. Strategies to reduce the risk of laundry room fires include leaving room for laundry to tumble in washers and dryers; routinely cleaning lint screens to avoid the buildup of dust, fiber and lint, which the NFPA notes are often the first items to ignite in fires linked to dryers; and ensuring the outlets washing

machines and dryers are plugged into can handle the voltage such appliances require. It’s also a good idea to clean dryer exhaust vents and ducts every year.

Look outward as well. Though the majority of home fires begin inside, the NFPA reports that 4 percent of such fires begin outside the home. Homeowners can reduce the risk of such fires by ensuring all items that utilize fire, including grills and firepits, are always used at least 10 feet away from the home. Never operate a grill beneath eaves, and do not use grills on decks. Never leave children unattended around firepits, as all it takes is a single mistake and a moment for a

fire to become unwieldy.

Sweat the small stu . Hair dryers, hair straighteners, scented candles, clothes irons, and holiday decorations are some additional home fire safety hazards. Never leave candles burning in empty rooms and make sure beauty and grooming items like dryers, straighteners and irons are unplugged and placed in a safe place to cool down when not in use.

Fire departments respond to hundreds of thousands of home fires each year. Some simple strategies and preventive measures can greatly reduce the risk that a fire will overtake your home.

—MetroCreative

Safety is key when heading outdoors

At 11:15 p.m. on Monday, April 24, Powhatan County Fire and Rescue was notified by the Powhatan Public Safety Communications Department of a house fire in the 3900 block of Old Buckingham Road. Firefighters arrived on scene to find fire coming from the roof and windows of a single-story home. A hoseline was placed in service, and the fire darkened down in a matter of minutes. All of the occupants were able to escape the blaze and were evaluated by Powhatan Volunteer Rescue Squad, Inc. and then assisted by members of the American Red Cross. Unfortunately, one dog was lost and three cats are unaccounted for. Approximately 23 career and volunteer fire and rescue personnel responded to the scene and operated for over two hours. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation by the Fire Marshal’s O ce.

Spending time outdoors is good for the mind and the body. Researchers have studied the e ects that spending time outdoors, particularly in wooded areas, has on well-being. A 2021 meta-analysis published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health concluded that forest-based interventions have a beneficial, therapeutic e ect on stress, mental health disorders, hypertension, and immune system function. In their excitement to engage in outdoor activities, nature lovers should not forget to heed safety precautions. That means recognizing the potential for safety hazards outdoors and how to react in potentially di cult situations.

Weather Weather patterns can change rapidly. Always check multiple weather sources for your destination prior to heading out. Layer clothing accordingly for the weather in your destination, and have a plan in place in case a storm blows in. If stuck outdoors in a thunderstorm with lightning, find a low spot with a ditch or a depression, suggests AccuWeather. Keep in mind that tents and pavilions provide inadequate shelter and are nearly as risky as standing under a tall tree, advises the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

water. When hiking, you may need to stabilize a twisted ankle or a broken limb from a fall, so carry a splint on challenging hikes. Bringing a buddy along also is a safety measure. That way he or she can seek out help if you are injured, and vice versa.

Topography

The lay of the land can be hazardous. Outdoor enthusiasts should be aware of their surroundings, which can include sheer cli edges, steep climbs, loose rocks, deep waters, and more. CoolHikingGear.com warns that any river above ankle height has the potential to sweep a person o his or her feet if the current is moving. Avoid crossing rivers and know the terrain ahead of time to plan safely.

Wildlife

Congratulations are in order for firefighter

David Berry for his appointment to the rank of Technician II, indicating he is now cleared as both an engine driver/operator and a cleared paramedic. Berry recently came to the Powhatan County Fire Rescue with over a decade of experience as a critical care flight paramedic and almost seven years in the career fire service.

Powhatan County Fire Rescue was honored on April 19 to be one of several jurisdictions from across Virginia that filled in at various Henrico County fire stations so that all on-duty Henrico Fire personnel could attend the funeral of firefighter Steve Whitson. Powhatan’s engine filled Fire Station 4 in Varina along with a medic unit from New Kent County.

Injuries

No one wants to get hurt while enjoying the great outdoors, but injuries happen. Always carry safety gear. Pack a first aid kit with the basics, but also items geared toward your adventure. For example, a life jacket is essential when boating or spending time on the

People are not the only animals who enjoy the great outdoors. Encountering wildlife is common when venturing into their habitats. Some animals even travel into residential neighborhoods in search of food. Many animals prefer to run o rather than engage with humans. But they also can be surprised by people or pets in nature. Traveling in groups; making noise so as not to surprise animals; keeping pets close by; and avoiding hiking at dawn and dusk when many animals are most active can reduce the risk for potentially dangerous encounters. Be aware of wildlife birthing seasons, as a mother may be overly protective if you stumble across her young. When the great outdoors beckons, individuals answering the call must remember to do so safely. —MetroCreative

CHURCH DIRECTORY

Genito Presbyterian Church

2910GenitoRd.Powhatan, VA 372-9074

WorshipwithusthisSunday Churchservice @ 9:30AM Sundayschool @ 10:30AM

E VERGREEN C OMMUNITY C HURCH (PCA)

Proclaiming&PracticingtheGospelofJesusChrist WorshipServiceat10:00AM Meetingat2210BattersonRoad,Powhatan.

Pastor NickKrauss ECCPCA .ORG 598-8844

SundaySchool 10AM

WorshipService11AM

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

1801HuguenotTrail

SundayWorship10am

BryanM.Holt,Pastor

804-378-3607

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

M ee tingSundays inFar mville, ForkUnio n, M idlothian, PowhatanandOnline. Visitpcc wired.net fo r servicestimes& lo cat ions 598 -1174pccwired.net

MountCalvary

BaptistChurch

2020RedLaneRoad Powhatan,VA23139

Pastor,LarryB.Collins

SundaySchool9:45a.m.

Sunday Worship 11:00a.m.

WednesdayBibleStudy

7:30p.m.

O ce804-598-2398

Providence Presbyterian Church

“WorshipingandWitnessing inWesternPowhatan since1825” WorshipService11:00am AllAreWelcome! 598-4970 Located1950RidgeRoad (Rt.627)

LivingAsChrist’sDisciplesWithinOur HeartsandBeyondOurDoors

PowhatanChristian Fellowship

SundayMorningWorship 11:00a.m.

SundaySchool10:00a.m.

WednesdayNight7:30p.m.

3308 PleasantsRoad, 1/4mileo ofRoute711 RussCress, Pastor 598-0733

St.John Neumann

Catholic Church

Rev.WalterG.Lewis,Pastor

Saturday -5p.m.

Church Director y. Call 804-746-1235 ext. 2 fordetails.

2253RossonRd. Justo Rt.13intheVillage 598-44 38

Worship: 8:30&10:30am www.powhatanumc.us WeekdayPreschool(ages2-5) 598-6090

Sunday -8:30a.m.&11a.m. 598-3754 www.sjnpowhatan.org

LocatedbehindFlatRock VillageShopping Center

PHOTOS COURTESY OF POWHATAN FIRE RESCUE

‘Tis the season: Spotting signs of cedar apple rust

COMMUNITY REPORT

April showers bring May flowers…and also the blooms of cedar apple rust. As you drive around the county, keep your eyes peeled for the distinctive orange fruiting bodies of cedar apple rust that can be seen this time of year on Eastern redcedar (Juniperus virginiana) trees. After a spell of wet weather, slimy, rust-colored tentacles emerge from golf-ball-like galls on redcedar branches. Heavily infested trees may look like they still have holiday decorations up.

As you might have been able to tell from its scientific name, Eastern redcedar is not truly a cedar, but actually a juniper. Female trees produce aromatic blue berries that are characteristic of junipers and beloved by birds. In addition to hosting many bird species, Eastern redcedar also hosts the first half of cedar apple rust’s complicated life cycle. Cedar apple rust is a fungus that requires two hosts: a juniper species and a member of the rose family. Quince, hawthorn, serviceberry, and pear (including the inva-

sive Bradford/Callery pear) can all help cedar-apple rust complete its life cycle, but apple and crabapple seem to be preferred by the fungus. In the spring, the distinctive bright orange tentacles release spores that infect apple and crabapple trees. This second infection is usually less dramatic, with small orange lesions appearing on leaves and fruit. Under heavy disease pressure, the trees can defoliate.

The leaf and fruit lesions eventually release spores that return to redcedar trees, and the cycle begins

again. There are two other related species of fungus, cedar-hawthorn rust and cedar-quince rust, that have similar host ranges and symptoms.

Cedar apple rust is much more damaging to apple trees than to redcedar trees. That said, if both kinds of trees are planted in close proximity, disease levels can build to the point where even our rugged redcedar begins to su er. The best course of action is to get as much distance between the two types of trees as possible. Intrepid gar-

deners can try to break the disease cycle by applying protective sprays to their apple trees when galls are sporulating. Galls can be pruned out of cedar trees, but this is more about managing aesthetics than disease, as spores can travel from galls quite some distance away. Have a question about a plant, insect, or soil? Call the Powhatan Extension O ce at (804) 598-5640 or visit the o ce at 3910 Old Buckingham Rd. Contributed by the Goochland Extension O ce

Group urging farmers to monitor mental health

COMMUNITY REPORT

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) is reminding farmers that a small gesture can go a long way for a loved one who’s not OK.

The AFBF is focusing on the power of relationships this year—both as a tool for helping farmers cope with stress, and as a lifeline for those struggling with depression, suicidal thoughts or substance misuse.

During May, AFBF is challenging members to reach out to friends, neighbors and fellow farmers by sending a text or note, or calling to check on them.

“You never quite know what someone is going through,” said Jeremy Daubert, a Virginia Cooperative Extension agent and recent guest on Virginia’s Young Farmers Podcast with Laura Siegel, AgriSafe health communications o cer.

AgriSafe, a national network of agricultural resources and trainings, created the AgriStress Helpline, which is available 24/7 in Virginia. Farmers can call or text 833-897-2474 to speak directly with a healthcare professional, and crisis specialists have access to a Virginia-specific database of agricultural and health resources.

Hosted by Virginia Farm Bureau Federation Young Farmers Ashley Kuhler and Morgan Slaven, the podcast episode emphasized the importance of recognizing stress in a friend or a loved one, particularly among farmers.

“They can’t just take a week o here or take a month o there. It’s day in, day out, and that stress really has a detrimental impact on mental and physical health,” Daubert said.

The farming population is 3.5 times more likely than the gen-

eral population to die by suicide, according to Siegel.

Poor mental health also can lead to increased risk of injury on the farm, according to Becky Broaddus, a member of the VFBF Farm Safety Advisory Committee and a leader of mental health trainings for those who work with farmers.

Common barriers to farmers seeking mental health counseling include accessibility to counsel-

ors, the need to take time away from the farm, admitting that a problem exists, and the stigma associated with seeking help, said Broaddus.

A 2021 AFBF survey suggests that stigma surrounding mental health among rural adults has decreased by 11% since 2019, but 61% of the 2,000 rural adults surveyed still agree it is an obstacle to seeking help.

“The farm community can help

fight this stigma by working to-

gether to recognize signs and symptoms, encouraging those who need help to get it, supporting those who are struggling, and by not being afraid to say something or do something,” Broaddus said.

Any change in behavior can be a sign that a loved one or friend is struggling. Common signs of distress include nervousness, agitation or irritability, exces-

sive crying or sleeping, changes in personal relationships, or avoidance or withdrawal.

“If you know someone is struggling but you’re not sure what to do, start by just listening to them,” Broaddus said. “You don’t have to fix the problem; just listen, and be there.” Visit AFBF’s Farm State of Mind website for more information. —Submitted by Virginia Farm Bureau

CHURCH DIRECTORY

Pastor StephenBattaglia 2390 EmmanuelChurch Road www.newwalkbible.org

SundayWorship10:00AM

SundaySchool9:00AM BibleStudyWed.7:00PM 804-372-9254

Advertise in Powhatan

Today’s Church Director y. Call804-746-1235 ext.2fordetails.

St.Luke’sAnglicanChurch

555RiverRoadWest(PattersonAvenue) 3.5mileswestof288intersection www.stukesrichmond.org

SUN.9:30amMorningPrayer 10:00amMass WED.6:00pmEveningPrayer

MOUNTZION BAPTISTCHURCH

2591RidgeRoad

Powhatan,Virginia23139

804-598-2051

Rev.BryanStevens,Pastor 10a.m.–WorshipService 8:30a.m.–ChurchSchool

MuddyCreek BaptistChurch

Sunday School - 9:45a.m. Worship - 11a.m.

Pastor JeffBeard,MA,MBA

3470TrenholmRoad www.muddycreekbaptist.org

FIRSTANTIOCH BAPTISTCHURCH

3920MAIDENSRD.,POWHATAN

804-598-2301

SundaySchool10:00a.m.

SundayMorningService 11:00a.m.

WednesdayMidDay BibleStudy11:30a.m.

EveningBibleStudy7:00p.m.

1530CookRoad(Rt.636)

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

3619HuguenotTrail Powhatan,V irginia2 3139 www. necreek baptis t.org SundaySchool:9:45a.m. Wor shipSer vice:11:00a.m. Traditional VernGilmer,Pastor

GracelandBaptistChurch

Dr.RonaldWyatt,Jr.,Pastor Contemporary–9:00a.m. Sund aySchool–9:45a.m. Worship–11a.m. Children’sWorship–11a.m. Praise&Worship–6p.m. Light houseYouth–Wed.5:30p.m. BibleStudy–Wed.6p.m.–7p.m. &Choi rPractice7p.m.–8p.m. Children’sWorship(allages)–Wed.6:30p.m. MiraclesofGod Sp.NeedsService: 11a.m.t he 2nd Mon.ofeachmonth 598-34 81 975DorsetRoad www.gracelandbc.org

Loving,Investing,Ful lling,Empowering Senior Pastor JustinWilson SundayService10:30am 2410NewDorsetCircle www.Communitylifechurchpowhatan.org

Sunday10am,11am&6pm

Wednesday7pm

TravisL.Keith-Pastor ChurchOf ce:794.7054

JustAcrossfromSouth CreekShoppingCenter! www.glbcpva.org

During the month of May, which is designated as Mental Health Awareness Month, the American Farm Bureau Federation is challenging people to reach out to fellow farmers by sending a text or note, or calling to check on them.

Relay family gathers to honor late founder of Powhatan chapter

On Wednesday, April 19, Powhatan’s Relay for Life volunteers, participants and survivors gathered at the County Seat restaurant to celebrate all that the late Powhatan resident Sharon Pike did for Powhatan Relay For Life. Pike, who died in 2003, is credited with bringing the American Cancer Society fundraiser to Powhatan. Along with Sharon’s family and former coworkers, many prior Relay leaders, American Cancer Society

sta members, and relayers. To learn more about this year’s Relay event, which will be held from 4-10 p.m. on June 10 at Powhatan High School, visit the organization’s website at www.RelayForLife.org/SOJ. To read more about this year’s e ort and recent Relay events, see the letter from Pat Johnson of Relay for Life South of the James on page 7. Photos courtesy of Relay for Life South of the James

OPINIONS

Finding time to hit the road

ROSLYN RYAN

Here’s a question for you: When was the last time you went for a drive?

Has it been a while?

A quick clarification: I’m not talking here about your daily commute to work, or your weekly pilgrimage to the store for groceries, or even your last trip out of town. I’m asking, more specifically, about the last time you walked out of your house, got in the car with no destination in mind, and just drove.

In the interest of full disclosure I must note that it’s been a while for me too. In fact, if I’m thinking back to the last time I found myself out on the roads just for the sheer joy of driving— radio on, window down, no par-

ticular destination in mind—the distance would best be measured in years.

I doubt that I’m alone on this.

For so many of us, the pace and pressures of life these days necessitate that time behind the wheel must be productive. When we drive, most of us are definitely going somewhere, preferably as quickly and e ciently as possible, with a focus on getting things accomplished. Some of us take this a step further and somehow manage to return phone calls (hands-free, hopefully) and have “meetings” en route from one place to another, though I’ve never quite gotten the hang of that.

Maybe part of the reason many of us don’t think to “go for a drive” is that we often take our

own surroundings somewhat for granted. Over the course of my driving life I’ve had the very good fortune to have lived in a few places where going “out for a drive” meant taking in some of the most beautiful and inspiring scenery one could imagine. During a few months spent in New Mexico there were long, late-afternoon drives through the desert, where the setting sun reflecting o the rock formations created a glow and a color palette that is hard to describe to this day. I also lived in Maine, for a time, a state that rewards visitors with incredible scenery at any time of year, but most notably in the fall when the leaves change and the winding roads beckon.

Relay founder’s legacy lives on though e orts of local volunteers

PAT JOHNSON

Relay For Life

April was a fantastic month for Relay For Life. On Wednesday, April 19, we gathered at County Seat to celebrate all that founder Sharon Pike did for Powhatan Relay For Life. Along with Sharon’s family and pharmacy family were many prior Relay leaders, American Cancer Society sta members, and relayers. A picture of Sharon, with a tribute written by Jessica Groover, was hanging at the American Cancer Society (ACS) o ce before COVID. Our prior ACS sta partner, Amy Swartz, took this for safekeeping, and it will now be hanging at the County Seat for all to see.

While planning this event, I communicated with many people over the past few months.

I want to share a thought from Sharon’s sister-in-law, Vicki Pike Jarratt, who could not attend the gathering: “There are no words to tell you how much I loved Sharon... I was the one that organized the first “Pike’s Pack” in Mechanicsville the year before. At the time, Sharon had just been diagnosed with breast cancer. The first year we had 42+ walkers and raised $5,000. The following year was when Pike’s Pack moved to Powhatan. I’ll always remember the overwhelming support we received. Sharon was loved by all.”

Sherry Means, the ACS sta partner when Sharon started Re-

lay For Life of Powhatan, shared, “Sharon was a special person who took her illness and used it to open the conversation about cancer. Her position as a pharmacist gave her more insight into her community. Her spirit was infectious, and we all loved that about her. I remember that first event pitching my tent on the old high school field, the luminaries around the field, and her amazement at how it brought the community together. I remember it like it was yesterday.”

When Sharon started Relay in 1996, I don’t know if she realized the impact it would have on so many people in our community. She lives on in all of us who have followed in her footsteps. Our American Cancer Society sta partner, Stephanie Pugh, shared, “I can’t think of a better week to honor Sharon than National Volunteer Week. Before our office closed during COVID, we had pictures highlighting some outstanding volunteers and events over the years. I’ve looked at Sharon’s picture thousands of times over the 12 years I was in the o ce and was constantly reminded, “Wow, this all started with one volunteer dedicated to making a di erence, and look at what it’s become.” The Relay For Life of Powhatan started in 1996 and has raised over $3.1 million since then. The dollars raised have helped move cancer research forward, provided free programs and services for cancer

patients and their families, and allowed us to advance education and prevention.

This month, I was also invited to the Powhatan Leadership Institute to share some information on Relay For Life. It was great connecting with other community non-profits, and I look forward to speaking at some of their events as well.

On Saturday, April 22, we held a dinner for survivors, the reason we Relay. This was catered by Olive Garden in Midlothian and was served by event leadership and family. In addition to the meal, there were homemade desserts by the event leadership. Some survivors shared their stories, and everyone there had a great time. This annual event got postponed during COVID, and we were grateful to bring it back this year.

To learn more about this year’s event, please check out our website at www.RelayForLife. org/SOJ and follow us on social media on Facebook (@rflsoj) and Instagram (@rflsouthofthejames). Through these channels, you can join our FUNdraising events. If your business would like to participate in Relay with a team and/or business sponsorship, please contact me, Pat Johnson, at patrflsoj@gmail. com.

We invite everyone to join us at Relay For Life South of the James on June 10, 2023, from 4-10 p.m. at Powhatan High School.

Perhaps it’s because I’ve lived in this area for so many years that I forgot how good our own roads can be for driving, especially once you get out past the more densely populated areas.

I know I’m certainly guilty of being so caught up with whatever task I’m trying to accomplish or problem I’m trying to solve that I forget to take notice of anything else. Last Saturday, however, after an afternoon spent with a few good friends, I found myself driving home just as the sun was dipping low and the light dappling the trees was golden. The road was winding gently, the window was down and there was bluegrass on the radio. For a moment I felt that familiar joy of having miles of unexplored road ahead and no

particular place to be.

While years ago I might have just kept driving, this time I did go home. I fed my dogs. I answered some e-mail. I threw in a load of towels, made a grocery list and went about the business of being an adult with the kinds of responsibilities that can sometimes crowd out the ability to do things “just because.”

But I also vowed that I would do what I could to find time every once in a while for a good long drive, not for any particular reason other than the pure joy of it.

Hopefully, I’ll see you out there too.

Do you have a favorite place to drive, or memories of a special road trip? Tell us about it at news@powhatantoday.com.

Search for perfect dress ended at home

MARY LONG MOBLEY

Columnist

Contributing

Editor’s note: The following is part of a continuing series in which we ask readers to share a true story with us—any story—as long as it happened to them or a family member. Do you have a story to tell? Send it news@powhatantoday.com.

When my husband and I were invited to a semi-formal work-related event, I sailed into dress mode like a 16-yearold dreaming of prom night, envisioning chic bliss in the perfect dress, albeit in a Beverly Hillbillies sort of way. Thus the search began.

I ransacked racks of clothes at department stores and dress shops where I found selections in small sizes a pittance compared to the abundance in size 16. My choices were also limited by my ever-pragmatic frame of mind that refused to let me pay an outrageous amount for an outfit I would likely wear only once.

When my shopping efforts produced no workable results and my options were dwindling, I dropped in on a secondhand boutique of gently-used designer castoffs. There I came close to snatching a spaghetti-strapped bargain but its floor-length made it too formal, and shortening the hem would have ruined the lines. Next I persuaded my husband to come with me to a bridal shop where the sweetest salesgirl hung a mix of styles in my fitting room, including some that were cut to flatter Marilyn Monroe’s curves or Tina Turner’s legs.

After flinging more than half a dozen dresses off hangers and over my head, I walked out the door empty-handed alongside my husband, both of us downtrodden and exhausted.

On the way to the car, he said to me, “As well as you can sew, you ought to just make a dress.” I responded by telling him that I would not even consider such an undertaking, even though I could handle a needle and thread quite well and had been in stitches most of my life.

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I reminded him that I grew up poor and wore homemade clothes out of necessity, and that I still associated one with the other, and that through hard work I had risen above my meager beginnings and left my homemade clothes behind. I further explained that my sewing skills were cut out for quilts and crafts and that making a proper garment, like baking the perfect pound cake, takes practice. My cry-me-a-river dissipated into the wind as my husband’s negotiation skills kicked in. He can be persuasive at times and at times I can be receptive. The next thing I knew, we were in Piece Goods collaborating on a pattern, even though I had not sewn a dress since Mr. Carter’s presidency.

Back at home I pulled several yards of sunshine-yellow gabardine from a stash of relics and made a prototype of the asymmetrical one-shouldered dress, learning again that following directions is easy but obtaining the right fit is challenging. Undeterred, I pinned and repinned before heading to the fabric store again to purchase two yards of satiny black fabric and a zipper.

I cut out the dress a second time then pressed the foot pedal of my Kenmore with tenacity and apprehension.

My perseverance paid off and soon a dress that I liked emerged from my sewing machine but it lacked pizzazz. After yet another shopping trip, I spent two hours hand-stitching a sequinned trim around the neckline, across the shoulder and back. When the time came for the once-in-a-lifetime affair, I put on the dress and zipped it up, free of any homegrown shame or psychological snags.

The dress still hangs in the archives of my closet, nestled between skirts and blazers leftover from my office years. As predicted, I only wore it once, but a few dollars and a trifle of hours turned out to be well spent. A little bit of grit goes a long way, especially when you throw in some sequins and satin.

The sta of Powhatan and Plaza pharmacies gathered recently to celebrate the memory of Sharon Pike. Pike, who worked with them as a pharmacist, was the driving force behind bringing Relay For Life to Powhatan.

Funds

to keep the money for the floor project in the budget.

“I just caution you, you make my job very di cult if you tell our volunteers now to spend the money that is donated to them, to their 501c3 that is run by their own board—you really just make my job very, very di cult,” Warner said. “Please, be careful.”

Chairman Mike Byerly, in his response, reminded Warner that the county had already approved $1.8 million for an addition to the firehouse. While he noted that the work accomplished by the men and women who volunteer their time is “amazing,” he also questioned whether with-

holding what amounted to only a portion of the total project cost of $140K for the floor refinishing would lessen the volunteers’ commitment to the county.

District 1 representative David Williams, for his part, said he would not support removing the funds from the budget, pointing out that it was the dedicated service of local fire and rescue volunteers that had allowed Powhatan to e ectively “buck the trend” seen across the nation as communities see fewer people willing to serve as volunteer first responders.

“If we are able in some small way to show our appreciation by picking up one forth f the total cost of a project in their station, I’m for that,” said Williams. District 4 representative Bill

Cox agreed, pointing out that the volunteers’’ service helps slow down the steadily rising employment costs so many counties are facing.

Responding to Williams and Cox, Carmack insisted that she never intended to harm volunteers’ morale or disparage their service to the community.

“This was not meant to be a ‘Karen doesn’t like the volunteers’ stump speech,” Carmack said, just before withdrawing the motion related to Company 1 as well as a previous motion to eliminate funding for audio and visual equipment upgrades at Company 2. She still maintained, however, “that these requests should be questioned and scrutinized, just like any other ask.”

POWHATAN COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS HONOR ROLL

POWHATAN MIDDLE SCHOOL

SIXTH GRADE ALL A’S

Charlotte Abbondanza

Riley Aeschlimann

Justin Aguilera

Dylan Allen

Benjamin Armstrong

Alexis Babb

Madison Baldwin

Aily Barnes

Nala Batten

Mason Berger

Rachel Bohn

Abigail Boland

Dylan Borgerding

Ashlynn Braswell

Jeremiah Brooks

Emma Jean Brown

Travis Clark

Olivia Coddington

Hayden Columbo-Powell

Sydney Conlon

Harlynne Crain

Corbin Cridlin

Parker Daniels

Brittany Daughenbaugh

Clayton Davis

Isabella Desmet

Tyler Dickerson

Macai Dorliae

Kara Emery

Tiago Erazo

Brooks Fessler

Colson Fetko

Catherine Firda

Hailey Fishburne

Lilian Frame

James Gibson

Reed Golden

Jett Hansen

Martin Heinike Jr

Mason Henley

Gabriella Hickman

Richard Hinson

Monica Howell

Riley James

Sage James

Chloe Johnson

Mason Kerns

Chase Kinnier

Caleb Krieger

Rebekah Kunze

Ava Laughon

Casey Luna

Tucker Lyons

Lyla Martin

Benjamin Mayer

Bryor Mays

Kadence McDowell

Madelyn McMichen

Haden McQuiddy

Carson Miles

Noah Montano

Mattie Monte

Campbell Moore

Jacelle Morgan

Mason Morrison

Connor Murphy

Jacob Nicholson

Natalie Palmore

Elena Paulin

Kaylie Perritt

Morgan Persaud

William Plunkett

Mary Pollard

Je erson Reilly

Mason Riley

Mackenzie Ringsta

Summer Rowland

Marlin Salinas

Jane Smartschan

Holland Stough

Caroline Striker

Ethan Swan

Kainoa Tanaka

Jakob Thomas

Layla Tomlinson

Nathaniel Upson

Bristol Vaughn

Hadley Wagner

Alice Watson

Andrew Weng

Annabel Williams

Branden Witt

Steven Yellis

SIXTH GRADE ALL A/B’S

Wyatt Markwith

Rylee McNutt

Cody Merchant

Shakira Morris

Ti any Mosby

Liam Mues

Berkeley Nice

Sophie Nice

Ali Osborne

Tyler Pallett

Tristen Payne

Korbyn Powers

Tyler Powers

Peyten Proper

Addison Raynor

Owens Reynolds Colton Rouse

Alondra Rutherford

Wyatt Saur

Emma Schmitt

Preston Schwartz

Jack Scioscia

Stella Sheets

Anna Shoemaker

Luke Shultz

Jackson Shupp

Hadley Singh

Harper Skinger

Gavin Slang

Hunter Smith

Jackson Smith

Rylan Snovell

Jaxson Spade

Wyatt Stallworth

Anabelle Stephenson

Robert Stewart

Sean Sullivan

Leland Sumpter

Ella Terry

Sampson Thomas

Lucille Thompson

Lydia Tibbs

Milo Toft

Dylan Tomlin

Rylan Tronge

Madison Turner

Rhett Vaughan

Lana Wagner

Hayleigh Walton

Justys Watkins

CeCe Waycaster

Gavin Welsh

Liam Wheat

Garrett Wilkerson

Michael Williams

Chase Willis

Devin Willis

Tyler Wilson

Levi Woodfin

Tessa Woodworth

Finnley Wright

Erica Yeager

SEVENTH GRADE ALL A’S

Ryan Baltz

Sophia Benton

Kaitlyn Berry

Adelaide Blankenship

Ana Blevins

Nolan Blisick

Morgan Borgerding

Cailin Britt

Madelyn Cha ns

Jude Chapman

Aryanna Conway

Avabel Cote

Julia Crompton

Carly Davidson

Hudson Day

Elizabeth Dewey

Gwenyth Dittman

Moriah Dorliae

Madison Fletcher

Luke Forkey

Rylan Fox

Harper Garland

Stephen Garrett

Elizabeth Gibbs

Jackson Holland

Jane Holt

Seth Hull

Alyssa Kennedy

Madison King

Maci Kinker

Jacob Lane

Madalyn Myers

Hazel Nice

Desmond Olah

Kadence Oliver

Justin Parker

Tyler Paulette

Lorelei Pope

Maya Sanders

Josie Strickland

Makenna Talamantes

Stella Tucker

Charlotte Wallace

Autumn Ward

Andrew Watts

Teresa Wilson

Natalie Woodard

Simon Woodard

SEVENTH GRADE ALL AB’S

Joseph Arnold

Savannah Atkinson

Carter Baggette

Skylar Berbert

Sean Bjerregaard

Alexis Boggs

Lily Bowers

Adelynn Bowles

Matthew Brandenburg

Annabelle Brevard

Mackenzie Brock

Chase Brownson

Ethan Burchett

Olivia Burkhart

Sahlomen Burton

Jemma Cabaniss

Makinley Call

Charlotte Campbell

Wyatt Carl

Demeatrius Coleman

Derek Collazo

Everett Conyers

Hunter Cousins

Emma Crews

Wyatt Daniels

Joshua Davis

Tyler DeGroat

Nicholas DeKeyser

Khloe Domer

Shyla Dunbar

Brayden Durham

Emilee Duttweiler

Zoe Eakin

Addison East

Dylan Eberts

Evan Eberts

Daylon Edling

Gabriella Fewings

Landon Flora

Landon Garland

Casen Geiger

William Gobble

Charlotte Golden

Brayden Hamilton

Annabelle Harris

Martha Harrison

Addison Hartless

JaDa Von Henderson

Jackson Hill

Kaleb Hill

Danica Hirsch

Lyric Hogle

Logan Hoppin

Gabriella Humphrey

Jaidyn Jackson

Maggie Jackson

Alyssa M. Jamerson

Lane Jennings

Alexander Johnson

Gabrielle Johnson

Isiah Jones

Aidan Kaleta

Ashmeet Kaur

Parker Kennedy

Ann Kimbrough

Zebadiah Koelzer

Johnathan Lakel

Peyton Ledford

Chloe Liford

Austin Lynch

Conner Mabe

Madison Machotka

Jacob Madison

Francis Maher

Alexa Matko-Cook

Chancellor Mays

Tyler McCracken

Rhia Melton

Lindsay Morris

Shawn Murphy

Colton Nelson

Mckayla Nuckols

Cassidy O’Neil

Callie Orange

Jackson Orban

Emiliano Marentes

Bailey Pennington

Allison Phinney

John Pinnell

Vitor Popper

Kara Posey

Emily Priddy

Clayton Priest

Miller Redlich

Hannah Reynolds

Michael Richter

Ella Lew Robinson

Ryder Rodriguez

Stephen Roszel IX

Sierra Ryman

Matthew Sabatini

Taylor Shenk

Mason Shirkey

Lauren Sickmiller

Eric Smith

Garrett Smith

Yasmine Smith

Landen Ji Wan Son

Christopher Swann

Matthew Taylor

Brooke Thacker

Levi Thompson

Ryan Urban

Tucker Utley

Landen Ward

Lindsey Whitney

Imani Whitver

River Williamson

Austin Windsor

Dallas Windsor

Dillon Wise

Ethan Woyansky

Isabella Wright

William Wyatt

EIGHTH GRADE ALL A’S

Isaac Abbondanza

Brandon Barr

Zachary Bilthuis

William Blashfield

Coleman Breschel

Colson Byrne

Laurel Clark

Owen D’Ambrosio

McKenna Davenport

Ava Duke

Timothy Easter

Carter Epperly

Evelyn Favreau

Annabel Felts

Cash Hansen

Carrington Harrison

Sahara Henshaw

Emily Kantzler

Brendan Law

Isabella Marshall

Brandon Murphy

Leah Nice

Miles Reilly

Lila Robertson

Lydia Smith

Peter Stallings

Maddie Taylor

Kayden Terry

Emily Thomas

Blane Thompson

EIGHT GRADE ALL A/B’S

Alayna Abel

Delaney Adam

Taryn Adamek

Emma Aeschlimann

Jordan Aguilera

Andrew Asencio

Jacob Bass

Cohen Belcher

Elizabeth Berry

Kensley Blaska

Kyle Blinn

Garrett Blisick

Emma Bolton

Henry Boyer

Harmony Branch

Ryder Breaux

Camden Bryant

Jillian Butler

Gavin Cary

Gemma Hernandez

Lillian Coleman-Chatman

Aidan Conrad

Lucas Crockett

Carolyn Culver

Michael Darr

Emily Derrer

Abigail Elder

Patrick Ellis

Coleman Epps

Mason Epps

Henry Fessler

Roy Fridley

Addison Gillespie

Jacob Go

Mason Golden

Claire Gri en

Harrison Hedgepeth

Conner Hiatt

James Hudson IV

Jillian Inglish

William Jacobs

Aiden Johnson

Lauren Johnson

Aaron Keeler

Jake Kimsey

John Kinnier

Christopher Langer

Justine LaPrad

Maeve Laroche

Ismerai Lopez

Kyrsten Marshall

Adrianne Martin

Kane McLachlan

Austin Mika

Charles Morrison III

Aaliyah Myers

Charlotte Myers

Fox Nolen

Ashton Pasi

Malina Paulin

Salo Piacente

Morgan Powers

Kirsten Pritt

Keegan Quinn

Cora Reynolds

Josephine Reynolds

Claire Romer

Zackary Rosas

Ava Rose

Lillian Rozario

Lisa Sha er

Suzanne Skeens

Kelli Smith

Kinzley Sobbing

Trevor Soderstrom

Robert Stallworth

Julia Stewart

Samuel Stout

Cassie Taggart

Hailey Taylor

Kathryn Toman

Kendall Utt

Naomi VanSchalkwijk

Cadence Walton

Liam Watkins

Logan Weinhardt

Sloan Weiss

Hunter Wilson

Taylor Wirt

Alyssa Woo

Abigail Wright

Benjamin Yarhouse

Nicholas Yellis Jr

Calendar

both the technical aspects of conservation management and program delivery. Sta members assist producers in developing conservation plans that work for their operation and navigating program opportunities. Not all programs are created equal and sta members assist applicants in understanding the options and choosing the program that suits their farm’s needs. Anyone interested in exploring the many benefits of conservation planning can contact District conservation specialists Betty McCracken at (804)556-0935 or Colton Sullivan at (804)556-0143.

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 804-801-9851.

Backpacks of Love, a nonprofit committed to eliminating hunger in school-age children by providing nourishing food for their weekend, is looking for volunteers to help every week to pack food bags for the children, deliver the bags to schools, help with fundraisers and special events, and help provide food and monetary donations. The food donations we are looking for is single serve raviolis or spaghetti and meatballs, 16-ounce jars of peanut butter, apple sauce, small boxes of cereal, cookies, crackers and more. Contact Matt Henke at director@backpacksoflove.org for more information.

Young people in the 4-H community learn leadership, citizenship, and a vast array of life skills that benefit them for the rest of their lives. Through school-based, after-school, and community clubs as well as camp settings, 4-H members pledge to build a better community, country, and world. The new 4-H year starts Oct. 1 and runs through Sept. 30, 2022, so this is a great time to join a 4-H club! In Powhatan County, 4-H SPIN and project clubs include the following designed for youth ages 9-18: Livestock, Archery, Equine, Dairy Judging, and Shooting Education (waiting list). For our younger youth, ages 5-8 years old, we’re seeking new club leaders interested in starting a second Cloverbud 4-H Club in Powhatan. 4-H School Enrichment programs are also available for homeschool groups.

Reach out to Cathy Howland, Powhatan 4-H Extension Agent, at 804-598-5640 or chowland@vt.edu for details about the 4-H opportunities listed, and/or information on starting new 4-H clubs or programs.

Powhatan Food Pantry is currently seeking volunteer drivers who can pick up food from the local Food Lions on di erent 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.

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 sta 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

Budget

From A1

Williams said he did not think it was appropriate to vote on numbers he hadn’t seen.

“I have nothing,” Williams said. “How do we do the people’s business in this fashion?”

Carmack responded by reiterating what she wanted to amend, noting that those changes would ultimately result in the county spending less than it had anticipated.

“You’re actually putting more money in the bank,” Carmack said, “it’s not like you’re spending, spending spending.”

Carmack also pushed back against Williams’ concern about defunding the Richmond sewer obligation.

“Right now we have $1.1 million the county has set aside for comp and class,” Carmack said, referring to an ongoing study aimed at ensuring that County employees are being compensated appropriately for the work that they do. “We have no idea if that is going to cost $600K, $6 million or $6K. The one thing we do know for sure is that we need $998,000 to equalize the health insurance. The schools have said repeatedly that health insurance is an issue. It’s di cult recruiting and retaining teachers because of this issue. My point is that if the $379,000 for Richmond utilities gives you angst, pull it o the comp and class.”

Williams said the issue ultimately comes down to the schools needing to stand by the decisions they make about how they spend their allocated funds.

“They make decisions where their money is going to go,” said Williams. “Instead of equalizing the subsidy for the health insurance, they chose to do other things with their budget.”

Williams said he viewed the health insurance issue very much like the two boards’ previous backand-forth over early retirement for teachers.

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 o at the Powhatan County Extension’s o ce 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 o er free one to two-hour site visits.

Available now Emergency Housing relief funds to assist with rent, mortgage or other housing concerns. Powhatan Community Action Agency has received funding for housing relief for families in Powhatan County who have been a ected by COVID-19. Contact Renee Van Natter at valerie.vannatter@dss.virginia.gov or via cell at 804 814-5332.

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 o at 804-594-7009, ext. 1. Or email store@habitatpowhatan.org. Habitat also does pickups 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 o er 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 o ers free addiction counseling, assessments, and referral services to rehabilitation centers nationwide. Call 1-800468-6933 or log on to www.narcononarrowhead.org.

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. For questions, call 804-598-5612. Hope Project provides free transportation for Powhatan County residents who have lost their driver’s licenses due to drug-related charges. Examples include rides to court, rehab, job interviews, doctor’s appointments, and probation meetings. Contact the Hope Project coordinator at 804-3013324. Give a minimum of 24 hours’ notice.

“Once again, this is a decision that an elected school board makes with the money we send them,” Williams said. “ Because you have to plan, manage and spend within your budget. You can’t just come back and say, well we used up that money give us more money so that we can do this.”

District 4 supervisor Bill Cox appeared to side with Williams, noting that this was a problem for the school division to solve.

“Do we ever stop bailing out the schools for bad decisions?” he asked.

Asked for his opinion on the matter, county administrator Bret Schardein said he did have some concerns about the message it would send to take 2% from the previously proposed county employees’ raises.

“When we chose to hold the line on our employees’ insurance, [the schools] chose to fund other things,” Schardein said. “And they may have been better things, I don’t know. But, again, we didn’t get here by accident—it’s because [the county] purposely worked to get ourselves to this place.”

Carmack said she understood Schardein’s point, but also urged county employees to consider the fact that the ongoing study could result is many employees receiving a sizable bump in pay.

“I think the important takeaway is that we understand we are behind in salaries and we are addressing it,” Carmack said. “That will be addressed. Period.”

After discussing several other items that were part of Carmack’s original motion, including facility improvement for two county firehouses (see story below), the board took a final vote, passing the county’s FY 2024 budget 4-1. Williams cast the only vote against approving the plan.

“I can’t blindly go out and vote, and then find out the consequences of the vote later,” Williams said. “That’s not the way you do a budget, and not the way you do planning.”

Indians tie season-high in runs

ROBBY FLETCHER

Sports Editor

Not many teams in the Dominion District have showcased a knack for running up the scoreboard as e ectively as the Powhatan Indians this season.

In a matchup against Huguenot, they further proved that point, scoring 18 runs in a shutout for the second time this season. The first came just a week prior in a victory over George Wythe, which kickstarted the winning streak that got as high as four games after Powhatan took down Huguenot.

The Indians (10-5) outscored their four opponents 46-1 during the streak, which came to an end in a 7-1 loss to Monacan on May 4.

Against the Falcons, pitchers Mason Timberlake and Evan Reese pitched the shutout, allowing just a single hit while each striking out six batters. Powhatan’s pitching has been excellent lately, with the win being their third shutout in five games.

Seven of Powhatan’s batters generated multiple hits on the day as well.

Somehow, the o ense was even better against the Falcons.

On 32 a-bats, 19 hits were generated from the white hot Indians, who were led by three-hit outings from Andrew Shiflett, William Tuttle and Grayson Palmore.

In the bottom of the first, Powhatan got started with two runs thanks to a grounder from Tut-

tle to score Shiflett in as well as a sacrifice bunt from Alex Peloke that allowed Tuttle to make it home. Timberlake struck out three of the four batters he faced in the top of the second and another batter in the third to keep the Falcons scoreless, allowing the o ense to return the favor with five third inning runs to extend their lead to 7-0. Powhatan scored four of those runs on three straight hits from Palmore, Rhett Boyer and Shiflett as well as a fly out from Hunter Beil where Shiflett scored on a wild pitch. With Reese in at pitcher in the top of the fourth, the Powhatan

FLETCHER

Indians run up the score on senior night

ROBBY FLETCHER

Sports Editor

On a night where emotions mixed with their usual competitive edge, the Powhatan Indians boys soccer team bid a proper farewell to a class of eight seniors when the Indians hosted the Huguenot Falcons on May 2.

Those seniors couldn’t have asked for a better night, with four of them contributing to the goal-scoring of a 5-0 rout that, along with a 3-2 win over Monacan two days later, put the team two games above .500 with a 7-5 record.

Seniors Paul Bonner, Fischer Daniel and Connor Nickerson all chipped in goals on the night, while Colton Hiatt added an assist to completely blank the Falcons. Along with those four, seniors Angel Cedillo, Shaw Stancil, Cole Whiting and Austin

Whitlock all were honored with a walk with their parents down to midfield before the game.

For head coach Willie Miles, the group holds a special place

in his heart, with many of these players being onboard with the program since the eighth grade. Now, he’s watching them lead the program to another strong

season, while mapping out the foundational work ethic asked of the underclassmen that’ll soon see their own names called to midfield for senior night.

“They bought into the culture and what it took to elevate it,” Miles said. “They essentially got us to this point of feeling confident. They’ve set a new mark for us and I couldn’t be prouder of them. They’re my guys through and through.”

Nine minutes into the contest, it was Bonner who opened the scoring, coming all the way down from his centerback position to head in a corner kick cross past the keeper.

Chances were coming early and often from the Powhatan side, with shots on goal from Hiatt, Nickerson and Daniel

C&F Bank’s Athleteof the Week C& FBa nk AthleteoftheWeek

TennisStandout

WHO: EMMACARTER

WHATSHEDID:

PowhatangirlstennisplayerEmma Carterhasbeenareliablepresence atthetopoftheteam’sstartinglineup thisyear.

AstheNo.1singlesplayerforthe second straightyear,thesophomore tennisplayerhasshownimproved composureunderpressure,leadingto somestrongperformancesagainstthe bestplayersin thedistric t.

“Shehasawayofstayingcalmand determinednomatterthescore,andin doingso,shesetsafantasticexample

fortherestofourteam,”headcoach AnneLouiseMaliffsaidofhertopplayer. AgainstMonacanonApril 27,Carter wasabigreasonfortheteam’s5-4 victory,beatingMayleeYounginsetsof 6-2and6-0insinglesandlaterbeating Youngand ClaireLaForsalongsideher teammateCarterQuinninathrilling 8-5set.

ZACH JOACHIM

For Richmond Times-Dispatch

The VHSL is past the point of deciding whether or not to allow student-athletes to engage in opportunities to profit o of their name, image and likeness — NIL at the high school level is here, and it is here to stay, said VHSL executive director Billy Haun.

So Haun and the high school league held a webinar with media Wednesday afternoon releasing guidelines for VHSL policy concerning NIL deals.

Haun said he has recently fielded questions from multiple Virginia high schools with student-athletes currently engaged in NIL activities, but declined to specify the schools and type of NIL deals.

Those schools have sought guidance regarding how to navigate this new reality stemming from the U.S. Supreme Court’s 2021 ruling deciding that the NCAA’s rules limiting education-related benefits for student-athletes violated federal antitrust laws.

Though the ruling pertained to college athletes, its ramifications have inevitably trickled down to the high school level, and the protections a orded to NCAA student-athletes have thus far extended to high school student-athletes in various states.

“It’s here. We’re trying to help students, parents and schools manage this,” Haun said.

“This policy is not about allowing or not allowing (NIL activity), this is about how not to violate VHSL policy on being amateur status and maintaining your eligibility.”

Haun spent a little more than 30 minutes going through slides that laid out particular guidelines to which student-athletes engaged in NIL activity must adhere in order to maintain their eligibility.

PHOTOS BY ROBBY

Senior forward Fischer Daniel dribbles past multiple Falcons defenders on the way to the net. Daniel finished with two goals on his senior night.

VHSL releases guidelines for high school athletes to profit o name, image, likeness

PHOTO BY ROBBY FLETCHER

Pitcher Mason Timberlake tossed six strikeouts in Powhatan’s 18-0 win over Huguenot

Powhatan senior midfielder Colton Hiatt takes a shot on goal in the first half of his senior night against Huguenot on May 2.

BSH beats Tidewater for largest margin of victory this season

ROBBY FLETCHER

Sports Editor

It hasn’t always been easy for the Blessed Sacrament Huguenot baseball team, which currently holds a 5-12 record, but against Tidewater Academy on May 2, the Knights sure did showcase the best of their abilities.

The 17-1 victory was BSH’s biggest of the season, with the team scoring its 17 runs in just three innings as the game ended early with a Knights victory. The win was also BSH’s fourth in the Vir-

ginia Colonial and their second over the Tidewater Warriors after an 11-1 victory on March 30.

In the second matchup, the Knights recorded nine hits on 24 at-bats, including multi-hit performances from Willie Poore and Afton Harrow.

On the mound was multisport star Kendrick She eld, who struck out five batters while allowing just a single hit in his brief, but e ective outing. Sheffield, along with Hayden Campbell, were recently honored on

their senior night when the team played Southampton Academy on April 27.

The Knights opened up the top of the first inning with three runs, one from a RBI single from Noah Danburg to send Harrow home and a costly two-run error o a Brian Bodman line drive.

After the defense quickly got o the field to end the first frame, the o ense was even more explosive, running o eight runs in the top of the second for an 11-0 lead. After the first three at-bats, the

Knights found themselves with bases loaded and took full advantage, earning runs o an RBI single from Harrow, walks from Pete Bodman and Hunter Case and a RBI single from Grant Gilliam.

After Gilliam’s single made it 9-0, Michael Polster nailed a ground ball that led to another Tidewater error and two more runs for BSH. Seeing the o ense cycle through its lineup again, Harrow was again walked to score another Knights runner in and a final error on a hit from Campbell

finally ended the scoring run to bring the lead to 12-0.

Tidewater finally got on the board in the bottom of the second, but it was a minor victory in an otherwise completely dominant Knights performance.

Blessed Sacrament added four more runs to end the day early, including RBIs from Campbell and Harrow to end the day with an impressive victory.

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

Three track athletes place first at district meet

ROBBY FLETCHER Sports Editor

With the region championships approaching later this month and states following soon after, the Powhatan Indians outdoor track season has reached the point where athletes are fine-tuning their skills in their respective competitions.

A Dominion District meet held at Cosby High School on May 2 provided the perfect opportunity for them to work on those skills, taking on nine schools who are also in the process of tweaking their own processes before the postseason begins.

It was a solid week for the Powhatan runner, who also competed along with seven teammates at the Dogwood Track Classic at Lannigan Field in Charlottesville. Jenkins competed in the 400 and the 800, with her 400 time exceeding her first place run at Cosby with a time of 1:00.24 and placing her within the top half of an event with 84 runners.

that kept the Falcons pinned to the defending side of the field throughout the first half.

Ultimately, the second goal came from freshman Dylan Mapes, who poked the ball past the keeper o a marvelous cross from junior playmaker Brayden Elzey with 13 minutes left in the half.

Less than two minutes into the second half, Nickerson scored to make it a three-goal game and added to a stellar final season that Nickerson says he’s proud to share with his fellow future graduates.

“It’s everything I love doing plus all my friends are doing it with me, and I get to do it everyday after school. I couldn’t ask for anything more,” Nickerson said.

Nickerson, who is a three-year varsity starter who is going to Richard Bland College next fall, says his favorite moment on the field as an Indian came last year when the team took down the Cosby Titans, but his overall favorite moments were less about

what happened on the field and more about the bonding that took place in between the competitive action.

“This might sound crazy, but it’s less about the soccer part because at the end of the day this doesn’t do a whole lot for us, it’s just being with everybody and creating this bond that can last a lifetime,”

Nickerson said. “At the end of the day, these scores don’t matter when I’m 20 years in the future, it’s just gonna be about the bonds that I made with these guys.”

Nickerson wasn’t the last senior to put the ball into the back of the net, with Daniel adding two second half goals of his own. The first came on a cross from Hiatt, which landed right on the feed of the team’s leading scorer. He had little issue converting that chance into a goal, making it a 4-0 game in the middle of the second half.

Hiatt threatened throughout with multiple long-distance strikes, but it was his playmaking that’ll get him credit on the box score. The senior midfielder, who Miles has described as the motor of the team, says after seeing years

of senior nights for the guys he’s looked up to, it was an exciting experience to finally have his turn with his graduating class.

“I’ve been on this team for five years now. I’ve seen four senior nights and this is my turn, it was amazing. I loved the atmosphere,” Hiatt said.

Daniels completed his brace performance with his second goal late in the game, with Elzey again delivering a pinpoint cross to give the team their fifth and final goal of the evening.

“It was a really good team performance,” Daniel said. “To see the team come out with confidence and finally settling down with our feet was relieving to see, I think we’re getting some maturity on the ball. It was a great night.”

With back-to-back wins and four consecutive home games to close out the regular season, the Indians have a chance to carry some positive momentum into the regional tournament, which they nearly won last season.

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

Baseball

From B1

defense didn’t miss a beat, as Reese struck out three straight batters while allowing a single walk.

With a 7-0 lead, the Indians refused to let o the gas in the fourth inning, scoring a wild 11 runs in what felt like a never-ending nightmare for the Falcons defense.

It started with a Tuttle triple to lead o the inning, but RBI

singles from Matt Layman and Altieri got the lead to 9-0. Those hits were followed by a ground out that scored in Luke Burkhart and consecutive RBI doubles from Shiflett and Beil before Tuttle came back to the batter’s box for another RBI single to bring the lead to 16-0. Burkhart and Boyer contributed for the final RBI singles to stop the bleeding at 18-0 and leave the Falcons in the dust for another blowout victory in Powhatan’s favor.

With just four games left in the season before the regional tournament, the Indians are showcasing themselves as a potential favorite for a deep run in the Class 4, Region B Tournament.

The Indians host the Clover Hill Cavaliers in their next game on May 11 at 6 p.m. Powhatan previously beat Clover Hill 7-2 on April 11.

Robby Fletcher can be reached rfletcher@powhatantoday.com.

For the Indians, it was a demonstration of what their top athletes can do on a given night, as the team saw two sprinters and one shot put thrower place first in their events while seven more placed within the top-3.

Runners Mayson Jenkins and Jackson Morris found themselves atop the standings by the end of their runs, with Jenkins winning the 400-meter dash with a time of 1:00.37 and Morris winning the 100-meter dash with a time of 11.58 seconds. Morris also finished third in the 200-meter dash with a time of 23.99 seconds.

Jenkins found herself in a close battle alongside L.C. Bird freshman Lauren Taylor, with those two both getting marks just above a minute, and Jenkins edging out her competition in 0.16 seconds.

Along with Jenkins, junior Teddy Anderson had a highly productive week in the shot put event at Cosby and at the Dogwood Track Classic, winning at Cosby with a throw of 48 feet, 0.5 inches and placing 15th out of 43 athletes in Charlottesville with a throw of 47-3.25.

Powhatan also saw second place finishes from multiple athletes, including Leyla Sakrisson in the discus (94-5), Joshua Little in the high jump (5-8) and Elias Morris in the discus (115-1) and the shot put (45-1). Little was close to winning his event outright, coming close to matching first place winner Sean Selfe from Clover Hill, who finished with a jump of 5-10. Other top-3 finishes from Powhatan’s runners include Owen Kerns’ third place mark in the 3200 (11:49.86) and Torie Nash’s third place finish in the 110-meter hurdles (18.99).

Powhatan now starts its preparation for the Class 4, Region B Championships, which starts on May 24 at Matoaca High School.

“It’s here. We’re trying to help students, parents and schools manage this. This policy is not about allowing or not allowing (NIL activity), this is about how not to violate VHSL policy on being amateur status and maintaining your eligibility.”

VHSL

From B1

“Having this guidance is better than having no guidance,” Haun said, adding that the high school league has worked closely with Bill Carter, an NIL consultant and educator with the University of Vermont, in addition to its legal counsel and other states molding comparable policies designed to police this new frontier.

“We consulted with many folks to try and get this right.”

Haun said roughly 75-80% of high school NIL deals are done through social media. He added that numbers outlining how many VHSL student-athletes are currently engaged in NIL deals were not yet available. But he did say experts told him between 1.5-9.5% of high school athletes could sign NIL deals in Virginia.

The guidelines specified that student-athletes may receive compensation for commercialization of their own name, image and likeness through activities such as commercials, product endorsements, personal appearances, autograph sessions, merchandise and apparel sales, group licensing and acting as a social media influencer.

Haun said the guidelines passed a committee by a vote of 32-2. He added that VHSL is likely to adjust its NIL policies as the new landscape continues to take shape.

Haun said schools will be responsible for self-reporting any NIL infractions. Key stipulations outlined in the

Billy Haun, VHSL executive director

policy

Student-athletes cannot use intellectual property of the VHSL such as school names, logos, uniforms or mascots, and their NIL activities cannot include any reference to their school’s district or region or the VHSL.

Schools or anyone associated with the schools such as booster clubs, coaches, administrators and alumni cannot use NIL money to attract student-athletes to their programs or otherwise incentivize membership in any way. Schools cannot use “collectives” to organize NIL deals as is the case at many colleges.

School sta cannot advise students about NIL deals unless the student is their own child.

Student-athletes must notify their principal or athletic director in writing of an NIL deal within 72 hours of entering into the contract.

Student-athletes may not endorse or promote any NIL partner during school athletic events unless the identifying mark or logo is part of the standard school uniform for that sport.

Categories or products that student-athletes are prohibited from promoting or endorsing include adult entertainment; alcohol, tobacco or electronic vaping; opioids, prescription drugs or other controlled or dangerous substances; casinos, gambling or sports betting; and weapons such as firearms.

Violation of any of these policies will result in immediate ineligibility for a student-athlete in regards to VHSL competition.

PHOTO BY ROBBY FLETCHER

Powhatan senior Luke Burkhart catches an out at first base in Powhatan’s win over Huguenot on May 2.

PHOTO COURTESY OF KIRK WHITING

Powhatan boys soccer honored eight seniors against Huguenot, many of which have been with the program since the eighth grade.

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