as Paul Harvey used to say ... "and Now the Rest of the Story"
November 4, 2011

For Immediate Release
Powhatan Commonwealth’s Attorney
October 27, 2011

Powhatan Commonwealth’s Attorney Robert Beasley
announced today that Dominyce Brown was convicted of burglary and grand larceny in Powhatan Circuit Court on October 24, 2011. Brown was involved in a string of burglaries that occurred in the summer of 2010. Maurice Becton, the leader of the
burglary team, was convicted on June 10, 2011 of nine counts of breaking and entering and nine counts of grand larceny. He was sentenced to 20 years in a state penitentiary for each conviction with 11 years
suspended on each for a total of nine active years. Brown will be sentenced later this year.

Beasley also announced today that Shaheem Evans was convicted in Powhatan Circuit Court on October 24, 2011, of distribution of marijuana. The incident occurred on June 27, 2011 in the parking lot at the Shell Station on Rt. 60 at the Powhatan County line. Also, Eric Glover was convicted of making a threat to bomb, burn or destroy the home of a woman with whom he shares a child. He will also be sentenced later this year.


Foal'n Around 4-H shares love for horses
at the Farmer's Market

Members of the Foal'n Around 4-H club recently enjoyed showing off three of the miniature horses they use for demonstrations. The younger members spent several days grooming and working with the “minis” to get them ready for Powhatan Farmers Market on October 13. The young people demonstrated the wonderful things these miniature horses can do and how friendly they are with people.

According to club leader Catherine Akins, “A great time was had by all.” They also decorated horse shoes and sold them as a fundraiser. Club members and minis pictured from the left are: “Trouble”, Eliza Cart, Ceira Connor, “Ittsy”, Lexie Akins, Mia Spott, Ashley King, Kayley Thompson, “Eclipse”, Maddie Bonner, and Sophie Kidd. Missing from the picture are Caitlin Reamy and Daija Goode

Many thanks to our sponsors:

Bullying MUST be stopped in Powhatan!

November 10, 2011 - 7:00 pm
Powhatan High School
Auditorium
For PARENTS - Bullying Seminar

Bullying Is a Big Problem. Every day thousands of teens wake up afraid to go to school. Bullying is a problem that affects millions of students, and it has everyone worried, not just the kids on its
receiving end. Yet because parents, teachers, and other adults don't always see it, they may not understand how extreme bullying can get.

Possible warning signs that a child is being bullied:
•Comes home with torn, damaged, or missing pieces of clothing, books, or other belongings;
•Has unexplained cuts, bruises, and scratches;
•Has few, if any friends, with whom he or she spends time;
•Seems afraid of going to school, walking to and from school, riding the school bus, or
taking part in organized activities with peers (such as clubs);
•Takes a long, “illogical” route when walking to or from school;
•Has lost interest in school work or suddenly begins to do poorly in school;
•Appears sad, moody, teary, or
depressed when he or she comes home;
•Complains frequently of headaches,
stomachaches, or other physical
ailments;
•Has trouble sleeping or has frequent bad dreams;
•Experiences a loss of appetite; or
•Appears anxious and suffers from low self-esteem.

Bullying is when a
person is picked on over and over again by an individual or group with more power, either in terms of physical strength or social
standing. … Powhatan High School’s FCCLA is sponsoring an anti-bullying program NOVEMBER 10TH-it is a professionally developed presentation on bullying, cyber-bullying and other issues teens face. It will be presented to students at both the Jr. High and high school NOVEMBER 10th, 2011. A parents' session will be same day, Nov. 10th at PHS auditorium at 7 p.m. Spread the word-bullying is wrong and is rampant; we must stop this negative behavior and its crushing our children's spirits.
November 10, 2011 - 7:00 pm
Powhatan High School
Auditorium
For PARENTS - Bullying Seminar

Do you know what this is? Do you have a story to share about them? Send them to info@powhatanva.com 

Reaching children Worldwide through
CEF (Child evangelism Fellowship)

Written by Meghan Schaefer;
Contributing Community Writer
Powhatan Resident of twenty one years

CEF is the world’s largest mission agency geared towards children. This foundation was founded in 1937 by Rev. J. Irvin Overholtzer, who was a man with a vision he believed to be solely from God for reaching girls and boys and showing them the
Savior.  Throughout an average year’s time over eight million children in the fifty states and all around the world will be reached by CEF. So far there has been work in 159 countries with a goal of establishing this children’s ministry in all of the countries of the world by 2017.  The purpose is to
co-work with churches, schools, and communities so that children worldwide have the opportunity to not only hear, but also understand their need for Christ and to grow in their own individual faith walk.

One of the areas CEF uses to reach these children is through the working of Good News Clubs which has been at the heart of CEF since the very beginning. 

Clubs usually meet once a week during the school year in the public schools, community centers, churches, homes, and other locations.

Since the United States Supreme Court made the decision in June of 2001 to confirm the freedom of access to elementary public schools, these clubs have been opening up and running even in places where they had earlier been denied for many years!

So you may ask. What exactly are these after- school Good News Clubs, what is the teaching that is presented to these thousands of children, or why should I be in favor of this? Well, let’s take a closer look.

Good News Clubs are cost free, once a week after school classes any child from the ages of five and twelve, regardless of their religious background can attend. It is a wonderful opportunity for children who are in the public schools to hear the Gospel story as well as to learn the truth from the very Word of God. It includes Dynamic Bible lessons, creative learning activities, inspirational missionary stories, meaningful songs, and Life-changing Scripture memory, and review games or other activities that focus on the lesson theme. And the benefits are not only on a biblical standpoint. Your child will be taught the moral values of everyday life as well as character qualities and respect for authority. The results of Good News Clubs provide hope for children who may be angry from abuse, they offer real-life solutions which are backed by the power of God’s Word, they help children to develop a committed walk with Jesus Christ, improves a child’s memory skills, grades, attitudes, and behavior at home, and offers moral foundations needed to fight against the pressures of drugs, theft, violence, and other influence which would harm them.

CEF greatly respects the right all parents have in their decision whether or not their child should attend these events. For this reason, signed permission is required for each child’s attendance. Also, the safety and protection of your child is one of CEF’s greatest desire to look out for. Every teacher has been specially trained by Child Evangelism Fellowship which has taken specific steps to ensure well-being of each child. All club workers have been carefully screened as a requirement by the CEF Child
Protection Policy.

So why is it important for children to learn Biblical principles? These statistics were recently taken from the Children’s Defense Fund.

Every day in America:
6 children commit suicide.
13 children are homicide victims.
14 children are killed by firearms.
5,753 children are arrested.
34 children die from accidents.
1,329 babies are born to teen mothers.
367 children are arrested for drug abuse.
17,297 public school students are suspended.

Many churches adopt a school as their mission field. The schools in Powhatan County and the churches who have taken on this role are:
- Powhatan Mennonite Church is involved with the (Powhatan Elementary School)
- Red Lane Baptist Church goes to the (Pocahontas Elementary School)
- Old Powhatan Baptist Church ministers to (Flat Rock Elementary School)

“I feel the Good News Clubs are a very positive opportunity for the children of our county,” Says Bev Kennell, Powhatan resident and wife of Pastor Tim of Powhatan Mennonite Church. “Many of them do not have the opportunity to learn about God and His message to us in the Bible. Through these clubs, they are taught biblical morals and character qualities that will help them through their growing up years as well as into adulthood. All of our children go through struggles and challenges, whether at school or at home. The club can be a safe place where they will feel loved and accepted." The Children in our lives, in our community, and around the world need our support and love, yes. But more than that, they need to know the love of God who gave the greatest gift anyone could ever ask for. Thank you to all those who willing give of their time and resources to make this all possible.

Matthew 19:14 And Jesus said, “Let the little children come unto me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”

Upcoming Events!

November 3 – The Powhatan
Garden Club meets in Father Val Hall, at St. John Neumann
Catholic Church, Batterson Rd.
Jason McAuliffe of Cross Creek
Nursery will present the program, “Spring 2012 Lineup-Hot New
Annuals and Perennials”.
Hospitality time is 7:00pm and
program/meeting from & 7:30pm to 9:00pm. All are welcome. The PGC, initiated in 1972, meets the FIRST Thursday of the month,
September-December and
February-May. We offer a variety of programs and workshops
covering vegetable & flower
gardening, lawn care, floral
design, tree care, and more.
Info call Pam Mann 598-2650

November 9 - The World War II Round Table of Central Virginia meeting on Wednesday, November 9 beginning at 7:00 PM is another special monthly program interviewing a Marine Tarawa survivor veteran whose unit suffered over 40% casualties. In keeping with remembering World War II, the sing alike Andrew Sisters will bring back many memories dressed in their World War II uniforms with a
rendition of many songs of the era many of us remembered so well. Meetings open to the public at 2480 Batterson Road (behind Flat Rock Shopping Center) in Father Val Hall of St. John Neumann Catholic Church. For more information, go to www.ww2rtcva.com.

November 19 - 8 am - 5 pm.
Emmaus Christian Church … Stephanie’s Closet. Gently used
ladies’ clothing, shoes, purses,
outerwear, jewelry for sale at
rock-bottom, fabulous prices. A great place to shop on a shoestring. At the corner of Judes Ferry & Huguenot Trail. For more information call 794-1971.

November 19 - Emmanuel
Episcopal Church Annual Bazaar will be held from 8 AM til 2 PM on Saturday, Delicious baked goods for your holiday meals will be featured as well as attic treasures, furniture, Christmas decorations, antiques, books and much more.  Lunch will also be available.  There will be something for everyone!  We are
located on Emmanuel Church Road just south of Powhatan Post office.

November 19 ANNUAL HOLIDAY
GIFT HARVEST craft show - Powhatan United Methodist Church. 9am- 4pm This event is the largest community fundraiser for the Powhatan Junior Woman's Club. So come out and enjoy the food, art and craft vendors. For more information or to be a vendor, visit www.powhatanjuniors.webs.com

November 19 - Holly Days Bazaar Powhatan Elementary School 4111 Old Buckingham Rd (Rt 13), Powhatan, VA 23139
9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Bazaar featuring crafts, art, grab bags

Every Monday
Free Zumba class every Monday at PCC (Powhatan Community Church)! We have rocking music and we do Zumba in the dark! (So no worries about if you are doing it exactly right-just have fun) It’s a great way to sweat, get in shape or just have a great time! Location: PCC 4480 Anderson Highway, Powhatan, VA 23139 Questions - swagner24@gmail.com
-Sara Wagner

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

Send your events in …
info@powhatanva.com  Or stop by our office Monday - Thursday from
12 noon - 5 pm. 3430 E Anderson
Highway - beside Allen’s Chinese

____________________

The Friends of Powhatan
Public Library Book Sale

Thursday
November 3, 9:00 A.M. – 7:00 P.M.
Friday
November 4, 9:00 A.M. – 5.00 P.M.
Saturday
November 5, 10:00 A.M. – 3:00 P.M.

Powhatan Public Library
2270 Mann Road, Powhatan
In the Large Meeting Room

Paper Back Books 50 cents
Hard Back Books $1.00
VHS, and CDs $1.00
DVDs $2.00

Saturday is $5 Bag day.
Fill a grocery sized bag,
Paper or Canvas, for only $5

All profits benefit the Library.
Please come and support
your local library.
We have lots of non-fiction books,
history books, biographies
as well as fiction.
Donations of books tapes,
DVD’s & CD’s are still being accepted.

file is large.
 please wait while downloading.
thank you.

Powhatan Board of Supervisors Candidate has stimulated the public:
submitted by Tammy Kramer Rogers, Powhatan, VA

Independent Randy Schulkers is challenging the establishment for the District 4 Seat, without the benefit of political history, major party support or big money backing.

Schulkers said, "All our neighbors are equal regardless of party or no party. I still feel that someone can win an election with the right principles and ideals - and without spending a ton of money. We are running a frugal campaign, just as I will run the office of Supervisor. We have only inexpensive photocopied brochures and basic signing. My campaign manager is my best friend, and my volunteer workers are neighbors and friends. We are all working toward the same basic values and goals. It is all about representing the people - doing what they want done. The people appreciate the common sense approach."

Just like in the old days, Schulkers is knocking on every door in the district, day after day - since last November when he passed out brochures at the last election. With the huge increase in population in Powhatan in the past few years, it is a daunting task. "I love a challenge and my goal is to stop at every door in my district. If I miss any, it will be because I can't find it." Powhatan residents enjoy the country atmosphere and many homesteads may have hundreds of acres, without paved driveways.

Schulkers may have a big challenge from the hand-picked replacement of the incumbent Supervisor, Scott Daniel, who selected Bill Melton, his commissioner for the past 2 terms, to replace him. Along Powhatan highways, there seems to be many times the number of Melton's signs that often dwarf Schulkers' small 18" x 24" yellow signs. But it is not hard to find Schulkers' supporters in any part of the county. Schulkers seems to have struck a positive chord with the public, and a lot of people are rooting for their underdog. This should be an interesting race to watch.

More info at www.Randyschulkers.com 

Editorials ... below you will find letters submitted to us that ran in this week's paper. The following are letters that were submitted for the Powhatan Today and not run ... the citizens have kindly asked that their voice be heard. (another note, if the paper does not have "room for more letters" then take out the games and TV listings or add more pages - content is easy to come by in Powhatan it's a busy community.
OLD HANDKERCHIEFS

Dear Editor:

Love the Old Fashioned Handkerchiefs piece. My mother, Virginia DeNoon thought handkerchiefs were okay for everyday use but you should carry a
handkerchiefs to church, wedding and funerals. Thanks for reminding me of that memory. I have been thinking about a statement I read in a Self magazine yesterday. I may never be a great beauty but I can always be a great person. What does it take to be a great person and how would you measure it. Maybe a heart of gold would be what it takes.

Blessings, Charlene
Powhatan, VA

____________________

SUPPORT OF RANDY SCHULKERS

Dear Editor:

A Man of Integrity…
I am, as I have always been, a proud Republican – a conservative.  I am currently the 2012 Republican-endorsed candidate for re-election to the Powhatan School Board in the fourth District.  I have learned that most citizens want to know about a candidate’s value system and his or her positive qualities.  Since every elected official will be faced with challenging decisions once elected; what set of core principles does a candidate possess that hopefully he or she will be relying on to make these tough decisions? It has to be about more than just
vocalizing – giving lip service as the saying goes.  We want to see the evidence, or history that shows they have lived by the same qualities espoused in their campaign promises.  
Randy Schulkers is a man who is a conservative by principles. He is running for the Board of Supervisors in the Fourth District - as an independent.  He believes that someone can win an election with the right principles and ideals – in a
conservative way - by economizing the campaign in the same ways he will work for us as a Supervisor.  I respect and admire the man that he is and how he has honored his word over and over again. Trust is a sometimes slippery term to use in politics; but I trust Randy to be my representative for the Board of
Supervisors for District 4.   You should too – here’s why… I have known this candidate for over four years. I have worked with him and watched him work on community programs; come up with ideas to benefit Powhatan; volunteer his time and advice in workshops and committees; and much more.  He has
always made it a priority to attend the Board of Supervisors Meetings and Workshops - actually, for the past year, he has attended each and every one.  No other candidate can even come remotely close to that record!  If you check, you will find that most other candidates only started regularly attending these
important Workshops and Meetings in the past few months.  More to the point, he has developed critical first-hand knowledge of the issues of our community.
Consequently, Randy has already contributed a vast list of creative ideas about how to be smarter about spending, grow wisely, and preserve the rural
character of the Powhatan we know and love.
Randy has over 40 years in the International Business world.  That experience, coupled with his 4 years of work with an unofficial citizen’s group that
studied Powhatan budgeting and spending for the past decade, has already influenced positive change within the administration's budgeting
techniques.  Randy likes to give credit to others, saying “that goes to show that you really can see results if you get involved”. He has published numerous newspaper articles related to local
budgeting and spending, included ideas for the betterment of Powhatan, and consistently demonstrated a capability to offer realistic suggestions for positive change. Always looking for ways to make it better for Powhatan, his graduation from the PLI (Powhatan Leadership Institute) prompted him to develop a new PLI study class titled Leadership, which was added as an integral part of the PLI course. I have watched Randy’s unselfish work over the years, and remain impressed by his commitment to others - how he honors his word each and every time - without sacrificing his moral character - without compromising his principles, or attacking someone else. He focuses on what he
believes in, does the due diligence, and then he trusts us, the citizens of the community, to decide for ourselves.   He stimulates others to higher achievement with an ability to teach, giving
encouragement with his often tendered family slogan – “A quitter never wins and a winner never quits.”
I hope that you will join me in supporting Randy for 

District Four
Supervisor on November 8th.  As he always says, "Together we can make Powhatan an even better place to live."

God Bless,
Debbie M. Jones
Powhatan County School Board
4th District Representative

____________________

SUPPORT OF CARSON TUCKER

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

I wish that I did not have to write this
letter, but after attending the meeting Wednesday night where the Board of Supervisor candidates were invited to express their positions regarding the future of Powhatan, I have no choice. Of the eight candidates present seven were well-spoken and clearly expressed their thoughts concerning the future of the County, what needed to be done, and what they would do if elected. One, Tim Gresham, candidate for District Five, took the opportunity to personally attack his opponent, Carson Tucker. I was appalled, as I think the majority of the audience was, to hear that kind of mud-slinging political garbage in a Powhatan election campaign.

I’m sorry, Mr. Gresham but that kind of electioneering is not done in Powhatan. I do not want you, with that attitude, on the Board of Supervisors.
To his credit, Mr. Tucker did not respond to the calumny, but presented a cogent and detailed statement. I have worked with Carson Tucker on several projects, both State and County and I can say that I have found him to be exemplary in all respects. He is hardworking, objective, very responsive to the input of others, and a master of the logical decision making process. For those who might doubt that, look at his web page, talk to others who have worked with him, and certainly review the minutes of the Board meetings to see how he voted on issues that concern you.

Unfortunately, I do not live in District Five and so I cannot cast my vote for Carson Tucker; but I am sure that if you do your own research and do not depend on “facts” provided by others, you will do so.

Sincerely,
Judge James W. Ash . Powhatan, VA

_______________________

CITIZEN AWARENESS

Dear Editor:

Thank you for the hard work in bringing awareness of the many events and issues surrounding the citizens. It is about time we know what is going on in Powhatan.
Sincerely,
John Timbers
Powhatan, VA

_______________________

IN SUPPORT OF MY FATHER

Dear Editor:

My name is Katherine Flannagan; I am a life-long resident of Powhatan County. My father, Frank Flannagan, is currently running for the District 3 seat for Powhatan’s Board of Supervisors. I would like to take this opportunity to share a little bit about my father.

My father moved to the County as a child over forty-five years ago. One of my favorite family stories is how my grandfather, Julian Sledd, was one of the first Powhatan residents to welcome my father to the county. The encounter stood out so much to my father that he retold it in my grandfather’s eulogy. The two met with my father walked out to the mailbox at his new home and my grandfather was there to deliver his mail and offered his neighborly assistance if there was anything my father needed. Little did either of them know that years later they would become family. I like to think of my grandfather’s welcoming nature and sense of community is what convinced my father that Powhatan was where he wanted to stay and ultimately raise his family.
Although, my father would quickly assert that many Powhatan families showed the same concern for not only him but for all of their neighbors. That sense of community pride and citizenship is what defines my father.

As a young child I spend a lot of time at the old Company 1 Fire House while my father was Chief as well as at the War Memorial Building [when it was still the National Guard building] where my father had served since he had enlisted directly after finishing his Turf Grass Management Certification at Virginia Tech. Many of my early memories of my father are of him in some sort of service roll: whether it be seeing him off to go assist in bridge
rebuilding in Madison County after the flood in the mid 1990’s, witnessing his swearing in as a member of the Board of Military Affairs for the Commonwealth of Virginia, or simply collecting meal tickets at the Lion’s Club Steer Roast.
While I was growing up my father strived to instill in me the same values he constantly exhibits. Nearly every Christmas or whenever there was a family in need, I remember going through my toys and clothes in order to select as many as I could part with to donate to a local family that had lost their own possessions in a house fire. When I was too old to have toys, this tradition was replaced when my father and I joined his fellow Knights of Columbus and their families at McGuire Veteran’s Hospital every Christmas Eve to serve dinner to military veterans and the doctors and nurses who cared for them. Even now, he is often busy splitting wood for the elderly, handing out tootsie rolls in return for KOVAR donations or hurrying home from teaching a CPR/AED certification class for the American Heart Association, or teaching a Turn Grass Management class at J. Sergeant Reynolds Community College; only to change clothes to run back out to serve at church as an usher. 

My father’s service has also made him closely familiar with the political system. In addition to being Chairman of Powhatan’s Parks and Recreation Advisory committee, he has also served as the
liaison for Virginia’s Turf Grass Council to the General Assembly and had worked on numerous political campaigns before serving as the precinct captain at the Bethesda precinct within our district. It is because of my father’s extensive community involvement as well as his familiarity and deep respect for the people, history, and heritage that make Powhatan the unique home that it is for all of us; that I am sure my father will be able to honestly and effectively serve Powhatan as a member of the Board of Supervisors. I would like to thank all of our family and friends for their support and ask that you support my father on November 8th.

Katie Flannagan
Powhatan, VA

________________________

Letters to the Editor can be emailed to info@powhatanva.com or mailed to
3430 E Anderson Highway,
Powhatan, VA 23139.

Letters are printed as is, no edits - foul language or threats will not be permitted.  Otherwise, America is FREE - send it on.

 

DOES PARTY MATTER?

Dear Editor:

Ruth Boatwright raised two important issues in her letter in the July 20 Powhatan Today. She criticized the role of money in election campaigns and the involvement of political parties in local elections. Each poses a concern about liberty.

The First Amendment guarantees our right to free speech, which includes how we choose to spend our money on political issues and candidates. It also guarantees our right to associate with others without undue interference by government. These guarantees set us apart from most other nations. 

There would be no need for political parties or lots of money for campaigns if we all held the same opinions and value preferences, but that has never been the case and never will be. Our system of
government would not function properly if we didn’t tolerate the robust discussion that characterizes American politics. It also wouldn’t work without political parties. Both money and parties can cause abuses to be sure, but the need for political accountability far outweighs the risks
associated with the exercise of our right to free speech and free association.

The freedom to associate means that we have the right to form political parties. But do we need political parties to be involved in local elections? If there are differences of opinion about the direction the County should take or about the way our elected officials are managing the County, there is a definite role for parties to play. Parties can provide a way for County voters to hold their local government accountable that is much more effective than if each voter acted alone. Even where the two major parties are not involved, organizations such as Citizens for Good Government or Taxpayers against Waste are formed to serve the same purpose. Without this kind of concerted action, government is less likely to reflect popular preferences. 

Local politics often involves differences of opinion on taxes and spending, to name just two issues. Political parties can frame the issues in a way that gives voters a clear choice on the direction that a locality should take. Parties can also provide voters with a means of holding elected officials accountable for implementing the preferences chosen by the voters. 

Elected officials do represent all of the people in their respective constituencies, but they must do so in light of what the last election resolved. We don’t merely elect individuals to do what they think best. The voters make choices about policy in elections. Candidates campaign on issues and make commitments so that voters will have choices. Some voters prevail by succeeding in electing their preferred candidate. Those voters whose candidates don’t win have no right to demand that elected officials implement their preferences or expect that to happen. Elected officials must respect the outcome of an election when policy choices are clearly made by the voters.

We all want noble, honest and moral elected officials, but those qualities don’t assure good government or a government that is consistent with the policy preferences of a majority of the people. Our Republic was founded on the notion that the people are sovereign, that they have the right to determine what policies their government will pursue and that their elected officials are accountable to them. That is true at the local level as well.

Patrick McSweeney
3358 John Tree Hill Road
Powhatan, VA 23139
804/937-0895
July 25, 2011 submitted to Powhatan Today and not printed

__________________

FURTHER FROM THE TRUTH
(submitted to Powhatan Today, week for this week's mailing - not printed.)

To the editor,

I would like to comment on a recent letter to the editor.  The writer wrote that David Williams was more or less a pawn for a former member of the board of supervisors.  He wrote that Williams was selected for the planning commission to help the former supervisor obtain passage of a project he was involved in.  The writer then wrote, Williams was now running for supervisor of district one so as to further assist the former supervisor in this project.

Nothing could be further from the truth.  The writer can not prove his accusation because there is no evidence to prove his slanderous remarks.  David Williams was selected for a position on the planning commission due to his qualifications.  Williams' qualification were clearly stated in a recent edition of the Powhatan Today.  This writing shows that he is considerably more qualified than his opponent.

I have known David for several years and find him to be an honest, intelligent person.  David did not jump at the opportunity to run for supervisor of district one.  I have encouraged him to run for the last couple of years.  Thankfully he finally agreed to do so.

I was born in Powhatan County, seventy-eight years ago.  I have seen supervisors come and go, some good, some bad.  We do not want our local government body to become a small version of Washington, D.C. who is spending far more money than it takes in.

David Williams is a conservative, he will do all in his power to keep our taxes as low as possible.  David is not only the right choice, he is the only choice.  I urge all voters in district one to support and vote for David Williams.

Thank you,
Nelson L. Batterson
Powhatan, VA

_____________________

IN SUPPORT OF TIM GRESHAM

The following is a letter I submitted to Powhatan Today which did not make the print edition. I received a very nice e-mail from that editor saying it would be posted at their online site:

To The Editor,

I am writing to ask each voter in Powhatan's 5th District to come to the polls on November 8th and cast your vote for Tim Gresham for the Board of Supervisors. Our current supervisor says in his campaign literature that he's committed to securing future access to water for Powhatan for economic development. But he voted against a collaborative effort to develop a reservoir in Cumberland County to serve our region. 

Our incumbent has for years been heavily in favor of enticing corporate "big box" stores to Powhatan as the solution to all our tax and economic woes. He doesn't seem to know that most people in this country work for small businesses, and that every dollar spent at a local small business circulates through the local economy more times, and benefits it more, than that same dollar spent at a big box store whose profits go to a headquarters somewhere else.
The incumbent's campaign brochure tells us he donates his county salary to help pay real estate taxes for elderly and disabled homeowners. Helping strangers in need is a very generous and admirable act, and he should be commended for this. But... how many times did he throw some firewood in the back of his pickup and take it a mile and a half down the road to our medically disabled neighbor, on a very fixed disability income, who relied entirely on a woodstove for heat? That neighbor has moved out of the county. How many of his acquaintances did he refer to the home based business just a few doors away; a single parent struggling to keep their home? That neighbor now rents, in another part of the county. When you wax eloquent on building community as often as the incumbent does, I think you ought to be slightly more observant of your neighbors in need.

Many of you may remember how the incumbent made a political name for himself, and announced his first campaign for Supervisor four years ago. He resigned from the Planning Commission in protest to the Board of Supervisors cutting him off when his allotted speaking time was up. Some people felt he was some kind of folk hero standing up for his right to be heard. Well, I can tell you from personal experience, he has stomped out of an organization's board meeting in order not to have to listen to someone else. And I have seen his short temper when others argue against his position.

His literature talks about his belief in openness and inclusion, but my experience working with the incumbent has taught me that he likes closed meetings and backroom deals and secret financial arrangements. As a Supervisor he favors exempting County business from coverage by the Freedom of Information Act. He doesn't want the public to have the right to know what our local government is up to. I think President Woodrow Wilson said it beautifully: "Everybody knows that corruption thrives in secret places and avoids public places, and we believe it is a fair presumption that secrecy means impropriety." (I can still hear Mr. Tucker's footsteps loudly, and quickly, exiting the building as soon as I began to speak those words.)
I'm a Democrat and I will vote for Tim Gresham, Republican candidate for the 5th District Supervisor, on November 8th. I hope my fellow voters will give Mr. Gresham their votes as well.

Sandra Person
Powhatan, VA

Concerned Citizen Remarks:

A Tale of Two Boards

“Some of the things being said could be considered inflammatory”---Supervisor Carson Tucker to the School Board at a Joint budget meeting.

“Well Mr. Tucker, sometimes the truth is inflammatory”-----School Board Member Debbie Jones in reply.

It’s no secret that budgeting can be strenuous during difficult economic times.  In our homes and businesses, we sit down at tables of varying sorts and hammer out our priorities and elective spending. More often than not, all parties sacrifice. Through attrition and give and take, we find common ground for fiscal wellbeing and viability. When times get better, we address those priorities we could not attend to previously. Is it not reasonable to expect the same of our local government?

Imagine now a household, where one party generates and controls the revenue. They not only refuse to sacrifice or curtail their spending priorities, but increase them. As revenues diminish, the shortfall is made up by the other party in forced cuts with no consideration or concern for the long term consequences of those decisions. Most counselors would probably tell you that relationship wasn’t going to work long term for the overall good of the household. In extreme cases, some would even term it economic abuse.  So goes the Board of Supervisors relationship with the School Board these last few years.

Numbers don’t lie. The BoS have increased taxes twice during the last four years. They have continued spending as if there were no economic slowdown or loss of revenue. They have shown their priorities in both actual spending and in their capital improvement forecasts. They removed the replacement of the Jr. High school in favor of architecture and engineering on a new government complex. We can afford neither facility, because debt affordability or the proverbial credit card is maxed. Their budgeting is based on the previous year’s spending. While the BoS did cut spending from $73 million to $68 Million from two years ago, the net increase in the last four years is $5 million. Positions have been added, including a full time County Attorney and legal assistant. The majority of funding differences have been made up by the schools. This year, the overall budget remained basically the same as last, though the schools were forced to reduce by $1.2 Million.

For the last two years, the schools have come to the budget table with legitimate concessions and reductions. Their budgeting is zero based. The schools have been forced to reduce positions and other areas while watching their counterparts add positions and continue on as if nothing has changed economically. If the overall spending is the same, but the schools are given reduced funding, that isn’t a shortfall, it’s clearly a show of priorities by the BoS. The schools have been honest brokers at the table, only to be treated as unwanted guests.

It isn’t spin or hyperbole to say that the BoS and County Administration’s treatment of the School Board has been unprofessional at best and abusive at worst. During workshops, Chairman Walton alternately checks his watch and stares at his computer screen while school representatives are talking. When it’s his turn to speak, it’s more of a lecture on what he thinks and what he said previously. Often, the workshops are not a meeting of the minds to hammer out priorities, but a session where it’s Mr. Walton talking to the SB and the SB talking to Mr. Walton.  Other government parties are texting and instant messaging during the meeting up to and including the county administrator. The relationship has descended to a point where the BoS and SB have their lawyers present and are called upon often. The schools representatives are often spoken to and treated as unwanted guests who should make their presence brief, as told by Chairman Walton’s constant reminders of the remainder of time available.

The schools have sought out and encouraged citizen involvement. They encourage public comment and input at every availability, even seeking out those who may disagree with them to engage in discussion and clarity of the facts and issues. It’s not exaggeration to say they can track their expenditures down to the pencil. They have trimmed everywhere that they can to a point where further cuts will result in a large overhaul of how they deliver education. Consider for a moment that of all the local jurisdictions, only Powhatan Public Schools were 100% accredited this year despite fiscal constraints. Information can be found on the School Board’s website or quickly and professionally by contacting them.

The BoS have stifled public involvement. They sought legal means to deny citizens public input during joint workshops. Supervisor Tucker called those who came to speak at one joint workshop a “special interest group who wants to disenfranchise the voters of his district.” The Board threatened to walk out of that workshop if the schools insisted on public comment. This, the same workshop they came unprepared for because they had just returned from a weeklong vacation, while the budget was front and center on the agenda. Some members of the Board have threatened to circulate petitions to silence radio shows. Another sent emails to demand certain articles were removed from privately owned websites. Used intimidation and coercion to attempt to silence those who have concerns about the function of our local government, myself included. In some cases, writing letters to the Powhatan Today lecturing the public on civility and compromise while being a party to actions that indicate anything but.

Their budgeting is consistently based on last year’s numbers and they couldn’t tell you what they spend on cell phones, fuel, vehicle service, and various other expenditures without having to research it. Often, FOIA requests are needed to get information from the county. They also pushed legislation at the General Assembly to put limits on those requests.

I’m not trying to imply that the schools should have revenue raising capability or a blank check. My conclusion is simple. It is impossible to find common ground for the overall good, in this case our children, when the BoS absolutely refuses to compromise or share in sacrifice. I don’t expect the budget process to be smooth and without some contention. I expect it to be professional at the least. This BoS, led by Mr. Walton and Mr. Tucker, has been anything but.

Darrell Griffin

from the editor's desk:

This year's election season is coming to a close in just a few short days.  There will be some of you who get this email that will immediately remove your name from this list.  Not caring about local politics nor caring about what your neighbour has to say.  You have that right.  Others also have the right to be heard and that my friend is something that doesn't happen in Powhatan County any longer.  Only SOME comments are heard - at meetings, in public, even in our local media outlet.  Letters, columns, articles that are written are filtered and only the "good ol' boy network" gets to voice their opinion.  And even down to innocent children who might "kill their first deer, or score a goal at a game" can't even share with the community if their parents or grandparents are on "the other side of the fence".  All that to say this ... for the past MANY years, attempts to shut up (harsh words, I know) the public and keep them where "others want" has created a Powhatan that is EMPTY!  Everyone is going in circles not knowing what the other is doing or needing.  Candidates for office, as well as paid positions came to the table with song and dance, totally "caring about the community" UNTIL "power" set in.  Control - and it's WRONG!  Just more "drama" - "fluff" - always concerned about looking pretty ... whether physically or with words.  More fluff, more spending, more facebooking, more stirring the touchy-feely stuff to win their self-inflicted popularity contests.  This is the REAL world.  And our community needs REAL business.

There is a time and place for everything.  MANY sit behind a desk, play, start and sit through meeting after meeting discussing the same things over and over.  Making a mountain out of a molehill.  Establishing umpteen committees or hiring outside firms to "tell them how to do their job" - and the most embarrassing of it all ... then go to other localities showing just how "out of touch" we are about our own government begging for water to supply the lavish wants to bring more more more to the Route 60 corridor or the "village" ... and wanna be mini Westchester Commons. 

It's NOT rocket science.  It's a JOB - it's been done for YEARS before they came on board - and was done without 40 deputies, and however many people it takes to stand at the transfer station and watch people dump trash, or however many people it takes to take care of the paperwork for our community.  If more time was spent DOING the job, and stop flirting with life, facebooking, texting, having LONG lunches at all the restaurants in the community, constantly talking about the same things over and over and over again - we could get something done.  But there's plenty of time to organize, manage and FUND drinking parties and social gatherings ... but no money to take care of BUSINESS.  Then they proudly brag about it on the front page news or Facebook as word has been given to local law enforcement to NEVER arrest anyone for a DUI or lose their job.

But no ... the government has taken control of everything.  They know when an elderly person needs to go to the bathroom, they know which articles will and won't be written in the local paper, they make sure the photographs taken and posted of them makes their numbers rank higher in the public eye, they choose the businesses to come and GO in the community, they threaten lives if one comments or questions decisions.  They go as far as spending YOUR money to buy what they please just like the new leather recliners with embroidered logos for the new fire department's theatre seating.  Nothing against the hardworking guys at the fire departments ... it's so we can look "GOOD" to big box stores and big developers.  Powhatan has become another mini Midlothian - and it's not stopping.  YES we need business, smart business ... but most important we need to be FAIR AND EQUAL.  ALL COLORS, ALL SKILLS, ALL INCOME LEVELS.

It's time to CLEAN HOUSE - and to put the RIGHT ones in office.  NOT the ones who are also hand picked by the old.  And just as important clean house inside as well.  Last time I checked it's not MY COUNTY ... it's OUR COUNTY.  When you silence the public - you are saying this is YOUR COUNTY.

I go on record ... God's keeping the record.  People can write articles that begin with "The Truth, The Whole Truth, and Nothing But the Truth" ... but they left off the most important ending phrase ... "SO HELP ME GOD."  Why - because they do not believe in or respect God.  Our work is hated by many because it radiates the LOVE of God and His Blessings - it radiates how we should act and live as neighbours.  Our local government has told me that they have lost all respect for Curtis and I.  All because we stand up for what's right - and for God.  Well - that's fine - we don't deserve that kind of respect anyway.  But I do not expect any different when there are admitted atheists and satanic worshippers among those who hate us.  God also is bigger than satan.  

I was told "be careful what you say" you don't want to upset people, they might come after you - well Jesus didn't tell everyone constantly ... "oh I love you, do whatever you want, I will still love you." No He showed them their wrong and show them also the right` way."  We are coming down to the end of the wire, time is drawing near and how we live and work and manage the gifts that God has given us to be stewards of is how we will stand before Him on that day.  If standing for the RIGHT is for nothing else but to honor and praise the God that gave His only begotten son to DIE for the sins of this world and to bestow the gift of salvation - and to thank Him for the opportunity to give back to Him and manage His blessings on our lives - that's WORTH IT ALL!

Many blessings to you all - and pray hard this weekend.  ~ Katrina

Listen carefully to the radio interviews of Candidates here.  Listen to the words, the tone of voice, the mission.

-

9/29/2011 7:00 PM District 5 RACE ... Interviews Mr. Carson Tucker Mr. Timothy Gresham Mr. Vernon Poe PLAY
10/06/11
7:00 PM
Meet Kevin Penrose ... American Family Pawn ... District Two - Jason Moore
Commissioner of Revenue - Jamie Timberlake
Sheriff Race - Sheriff Greg Neal - Sheriff Opponent - Ms. Lynn Freeman
PLAY
10/13/11
7:00 PM
District 4 Supervisor Candidates
Mr. Bill Melton
Mr. Randy Schulkers
School Board Candidates
Mrs. Debbie Jones
Interview with Ms. Stephanie Sellers
PLAY
10/20/11
7:00 PM
Interview Powhatan County Treasurer Mrs. Faye Barton and Mr. Paul Escobar candidates for the upcoming election - also Mr. Bob Beasley, Commonwealth Attorney for our county. PLAY
10/27/11
7:00 PM
District Three RACE - Mr. Barry Hodge & Mr. Frank Flannagan PLAY
11/3/11
7:00 PM
Candidate for US Senate - Mr. David Bernard Candidates from District ONE - Mr. Joe Walton and Mr. David Williams Special Guest - Dr. Michael Blair
Discussion over ALL things Powhatan!  Censorship, Silencing and much more! 
PLAY

And the controversial past radio shows that has caused so much silencing in the community - we were told that it would be to our best interest to have them removed from the website and not again shared with the public - we feel as though you
have the RIGHT to listen.

6/30/2011 7:00 PM Interview with Mr. Darrell Griffin - COUNTY OVERSPENDING PLAY
07/07/2011 7:00 PM Interview with Mr. Darrell Griffin - Powhatan County Government PLAY

 

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and God turned on the lights ...

While sitting in the tree stand last week, I was again reminded how God has everything in His hands.  It was a cool morning, a shimmer of light to  brighten the path down to my tree stand.  My family still sleeping from a long night before.  I looked forward to starting my day off meditating on the day ahead, having prayer with God and looking forward to a deer slipping up the creek behind our house.

The earth was silent.  As many times as I had sat in the woods hunting, for some reason, this day seemed more quiet.  All around me the leaves on the trees were changing colors, watching them fall all week long; but not today.  It seemed as though the woods were still asleep.  Not one bird made a noise, not a squirrel moved, I couldn’t hear a dog bark, a car on the highway - nothing.  I thought of how it would be if everything in our world came to a stop without warning; frozen in time.  For that time, I enjoyed the deadening silence to let my heart rest and strengthen.

  Within a half hour the sky began to lighten and it happened.  The sun peaked through the trees and God turned on the switch.  The leaves began to fall, birds began to sing, squirrels barking and gathering nuts.  What an amazing sight and sound to behold.  God the Creator of the ends of the earth has everything in His hands.

  I thought of how God gives us day to work and night to rest.  How He gives us energy, strength and renews us for each new day.  What a blessing this day had become for me, and no; I didn’t bring home a deer that morning, but I couldn’t wait to share my experience with my wife and children around the breakfast table.  ~ Curtis Blankenship


MIAMI BOOK
FAIR ... POWHATAN RESIDENT!

"For eight days in November,
Miami becomes the literary
center of the world. With book
lovers, writers, publishers, and
sellers gathering in numbers
totaling in the hundreds of
thousands, the Miami Book Fair
International is widely
recognized as the nation's largest and finest literary event of its kind. The fair will take place at the Miami Dade College in downtown Miami from Nov. 13 - 20, 2011 with a street fair the weekend of Nov. 18-20. (Trafford Publishing). Chosen to be featured this year by Author Solutions is "What's REALLY Cookin' in the Kitchen" by Martha Gangwer, 1974 graduate of Powhatan High School, elected Homecoming Queen, Senior Class Treasurer, Most Talented, and daughter of Helen Gangwer, who taught Special Ed at Powhatan High School, and Ed Gangwer, now
deceased, who was former Food Service Manager at Powhatan Correctional Center.  The book is a
collection of family recipes, along with Martha's stories about her search for "Mr. Right".  It is available on Amazon.com in hard copy and in Kindle format.


POWHATAN COMMUNITY JOURNAL

Christmas Mass Mailing!
December 1st
Get your events and
information
ready for the
public!
call 598.9301 or
email info@powhatanva.com 
Special GIFT Giving Guide!

mailed to 11,400 HOUSEHOLDS & BUSINESSES!

Ask Bobby …

My car shakes when I apply the brakes. Does this mean I need new rotors? Not necessarily, you may be able to turn them, also your abs system can cause a pulsation as well as worn suspension parts. The best thing to do is to have it checked to confirm that its the brakes causing your vibration when braking.

It used to be recommended to change your oil every 5000 miles. Then it was every 3000 miles. Which statistic should we use? It is recommended by the industry to change your oil every 3 months or 3000 miles which ever comes first. The purpose for changing your oil every 3000 miles is to get the contaminants out of your engine, and get fresh filtration.

How can I tell if I need a front end alignment? You really don't have a way, you should have your alignment checked annually. Signs of needed alignments are pulling, unusual tire wear, and vibration, which all these symptoms can be caused by tires, worn suspension parts, etc.

804.598.9301
email info@powhatanva.com

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Feel free to send your questions, comments, articles, inquiries, advertising information to:

katrina@katrina.com or

info@powhatanva.com

call 804.598.9301 or 804.513.4756

our studio is located at:
3430 E Anderson Highway
Powhatan, VA  23139
beside the ORGANIC CLEANERS

 
 
 

"We are not put on this earth to see through one another, but to see one another through."

It's never too late to say I'm Sorry ...
It's never too late to change ...
It's never too late to make an impact ... It's never too late to start over ...
as long as the last breath exists.

 

Many thanks to our sponsors:

Saturday Night Lights by Chris Parks

The lights are on. The cheer leaders are in place.  The ball is in position and ready for kick off.  Much will be accomplished this night.  

A distinct winner will emerge from the turf and the mud.  Much must be risked in love, war and football.  The Flat Rock Senior Warriors will test their skill once again in Football (read: Battle).

At the helm of Flat Rock Football stands a resolute image.  The image transfixed on the sideline remains that of an accomplished leader who has led many teams to victory in his 22 year tenure as coach.  Tonight, coach Kevin Mawyer will once again lead the Flat Rock Senior.  Warriors to clench a playoff position.

“It’s not really an accomplishment for me, It’s really a privilege to be here” shared coach Mawyer as he reminisced over the last 22 years of coaching PYAA.  His eyes drifted as he shared some striking memories and
accomplishments that had little to do with him and a lot to do with the kids and the rest of the coaches that helped out.   Memories of how the kids learned to believe in each other, trust each other and grow up together.  Many of the kids had been together since minors football.

Coach Mawyer: “Josh Fox actually played for me. The guy right there in the blue and orange” He points to a coach on the field “He was my quarter back when he was 13.”

Me: “So now he’s your protégé?”

Coach Mawyer: “That’s who were trying to get to do things next year. He’s got a step son on the minors.  So he doesn’t have a kid on this team, but he played for me years ago and were trying to get him involved to maybe take things over.”

Me: “That’d be great!”

Coach Mawyer: “So, it’s been neat to have him out.  Even though it makes you feel really old”

The conversation drifts as Coach Mawyer stares out at the field and relates with
excitement how he has had 2 former players now come back to coach.  A humble pause radiates the conversation as Coach Mawyer relates this will probably be his last year coaching.  The conversation ends as the team prepares to take to the field and wage battle as Warriors should.  I couldn’t help but think of all the lives enriched by 22 years of selfless service and mentoring.
Congratulations Flat Rock Senior Warriors in a season well played and good luck in the playoffs!  Warriors!
We salute you!


the Field

The day has come. Anticipation permeates the field of play as childhood celebrities make their way from the sidelines onto the pitch for the weekly game. Today’s match will feature a clash between Dynamo and the Rockets. 

This widely anticipated match has a small band of faithful followers ready to energetically applaud every move. With the referees in place the match begins. The crowd erupts with volcanic fervor, following every move, cheering every dribble and glorifying every shot of each player. Today is the day – the day for the groupies. The day mom, dad, grandma and grandpa gather, travel to the field, setup chairs and encourage their offspring on the field of play. This, my friends is Powhatan Soccer.

Powhatan Soccer is in season. Each week an army of volunteers coach teams, manage programs, train staff, arbitrate teams on the field of play and maintain the proper conditions of the pitch. Each week requires the selfless dedication of a few for the enjoyment of many. To understand better the complexities of each week, we catch up with one of the directors of Powhatan Soccer, Mark Hopson.
We caught up with Hopson on the sidelines observing a game in progress. His athletic build, straight posture and focused gaze indicated tenure in service to his country. The conversation that
ensued revealed even more.

Assignments around the world in service to his country, fluency in German and Italian, rank and status as military officer, athletic participations, coaching and more all collided with soccer when his eldest first desired to play when he and Elaine, his wife, were residing in York Town, Virginia. Hopson had played and coached just about every sport except for soccer. Soccer was new. 

In 2001 Hopson was reassigned from
Ft. Monroe to Richmond. Soccer was now a
requirement set by his boys. Upon taking up
residence in Powhatan, Hopson signed his boys up for soccer and found that many of the coaches volunteering their time had never played soccer before. This intrigued Hopson. Before long Hopson, in good military style, was researching soccer, watching soccer, attending soccer clinics and finally volunteering to coach, all this without ever having played a game. In the matter of time Hopson gradually expanded his confidence and now coaches the U19 soccer team, organizes the referees and line judges, coordinates the annual certification of the referees and line judges, and sits on the board of directors.

In further discussion, Hopson intimated that he spent over 20 hours a week in preparation, coaching and management of the Powhatan Soccer Association. Twenty hours is a serious amount of time, especially as an uncompensated volunteer.
Refereeing is always difficult in soccer.
Soccer is still the only sport that uses only one main referee to make all the calls while players are on the pitch, while the line judges usually only help with the out of bounds and off sides calls. The complexity of getting the call right in enormous. I asked Hopson about how he helped each referee with this complexity.

His response was:

“They’re going to make bad calls, that’s not a big deal. Especially [in] the older kids [games]. You know, it’s a fast game. You can’t tell who the ball went off of. You have a 50% chance of being right, you have a 50% chance of being wrong. My biggest frustration has been when they don’t blow the whistle. The game continues, the kids are playing, the parents are yelling stop, the coaches are yelling stop, and the kids are just playing. That’s probably the biggest emphasis I make to them. Make a call like you saw it 100%, whether you did or not. Make a call like you mean it. Blow the whistle like you mean it, you know. So that we stop, and we can restart play quickly, and let the game continue.”
Referees and line judges are challenged and
committed to get every call right, though some will be missed. Hopson certainly offered good advice for any referee who is engaged in the game, attempting to keep play fair and
honorable.

Me: “So what would be your recommendation to anybody looking to coach?”

Hopson: “Number one, just get involved. We always need volunteers. We are a volunteer
organization”

Powhatan Soccer Association is a volunteer
association where many enjoy the efforts of a few. No experience is necessary to volunteer. Visit www.powhatansoccer.org for more
information on programs and opportunities to volunteer.

Me: “So here’s the real question <pause> you didn’t grow up playing soccer, do you play soccer now? “

Hopson: “I do play a little bit. I played my first official soccer game at 50 years old.”
No time like the present to learn, lead and
mentor. Powhatan Soccer Association, no
experience required.

By Chris Parks, contributing writer

Visit: www.powhatansoccer.org