December 28, 2012 – January 31, 2013 • ONE COPY FREE
Buckingham
Your News Source For
Buckingham Living
Beacon
Johnny Scruggs
Let’s Play Ball
PAGE 8
10th Annual Breakfast with Santa
A Magical Tradition
Well Worth the Wait
The Beloved
Dr. Pratt
PAGE 10
Page 4
Highlights
from the
Christmas Parade
Page 13
Ellis Acres GED
Program
PAGE 3
This Month in the
paper that covers Buckingham County exclusively.
5,000 copies are circulated throughout the county
per issue. One copy is free, additional copies are
$1 each payable in advance to the publisher.
Buckingham Beacon:
Publisher
C.M. Santos
[email protected]
Thomas Wise earns Eagle
Scout....Page 7
Advertising Account Manager
Diane Eliason
Advertising Director
Judi Price
[email protected]
Graphic Designer
Marilyn Ellinger
Operation D.A.P. (Dues
Already Paid)...Page 12
Writers
Martha Louis
Sarah Haines
Sue Miles
Contributors
The Fuqua School, Linda Davis
Wilber Dean
E-mail: [email protected]
Mailing address: P.O. Box 59,
Palmyra, VA 22963
Cover
11 month old Bonnie Brockwell is dressed in
holiday colors as she gets ready to greet Santa.
Photo by Sue Miles.
Cover designed by Marilyn Ellinger
Office location: 2987 Lake Monticello Road,
Palmyra VA 22963.
Phone: (434) 591-1000
Fax: (434) 589-1704
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© Valley Publishing Corp. 2012. All rights
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General: Buckingham Beacon is published
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2• BUCKINGHAM BEACON • December 28, 2012–January 31, 2013
NEW LISTING
PRICE REDUCED
In the Spotlight
Ellis Acres Bestows First GED
S
By Sue A. Miles
Correspondent
ammy Smith admits that he didn’t always make good
decisions as a teenager. “I got thrown out of school
when I was 17,” he said. But, bad decisions didn’t
continue and now Sammy, at age 32, is proud to say that he
has reached a milestone in his life; that of just recently earning
his GED or a General Educational Development credential. It’s
considered the equivalent of a high school diploma. What makes
this accomplishment even more special is that Sammy is the first
graduate from the Ellis Acres Memorial Park GED program.
After being expelled from school, Sammy started working
construction. “I was making nine dollars an hour and felt that I
was doing pretty good,” he said. Over time he established himself as a reputable drywaller, working with a construction company, as well as independently. But the recent economic downswing saw Sammy being laid off, causing him to realize that he
needed to rethink his future. “I had never really thought about
a GED until then,” said Sammy. “But I knew that if I wanted to
change careers I would need to get my diploma.”
Sammy Smith proudly holds his newly acquired GED certificate. He was the first person to earn
With the support of his wife and son, Sammy began taka diploma from the Ellis Acres Memorial Park GED classes. Photo by Sue Miles.
ing GED classes under the supervision of long-time GED tutor,
Linda Paige. “Mrs. Paige made me feel smart,” he said. “She
With a bright future ahead of him, Sammy serves as a role model for not only his
always gave me encouragement and convinced me that I could
teenage son, but for others who may be in the same situation. Sammy also noted
pass the test.”
And pass it, he did. After one month of night classes at the Ellis Acres GED class- that he hung the drywall during the restoration of Ellis Acres. “When I first saw the
room, Sammy successfully took the test in November. “I’ve always looked towards building, I couldn’t believe that people were putting so much effort into its restorathe future,” said Sammy. “Hanging drywall is hard on the body, there’s no retire- tion,” he said. “But that effort has helped me in my efforts to better myself. I’m
ment, and I knew I wanted to do something different. Now that I have my high school grateful for that.”
GED classes at Ellis Acres Memorial Park are on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9 a.m.
diploma I plan to take Criminal Justice classes at the local community college,” he
said. “I came to realize that I needed to put some effort into my life and that as long to noon and at the Buckingham County Public Library on Mondays, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
as I didn’t have a diploma and further career training, I would always be at the end For more information on GED classes in Buckingham County contact Linda Paige
at 983-3307.
of the line.”
Ellis Acres Grants Awarded
By Wilbert M. Dean
Contributor
Grants totaling $17,500 were awarded to Ellis Acres Memorial Park. The sum of
$10,000 came from the Community Endowment Fund in the Charlottesville Area
Community Foundation, and the sum of $7,500 came from the Bama Works Fund of
Dave Matthews Band in the Charlottesville Area Community Foundation. These grants
will be used for equipment in the Youth Play Zone and educational and recreational
activities.
This Play Zone will far exceed the typical playground. It will display innovative artistic
drawings, designs and labels conveying an educational message to children using the
installed equipment in the Youth Play Zone and Tennis Court w/QuickStart Features.
The drawings, designs and labels will portray scientific information identifying human
and animal anatomy features; plant life characteristics; geometrical designs, and
mathematical calculations. Students will be able to reinforce these concepts taught in
school while relaxing and playing.
Wil Dean, Executive Director, Ellis Acres, expressed profound appreciation for the
generous support from the Community Endowment Fund and the Bama Works Fund
of Dave Matthews Band for the incalculable support in developing and sustaining Ellis
Acres. John Redick, President CACF, says “It is a pleasure to be involved in the rescue
and conversion of this historic campus into a community asset for its citizens.” Other
supporting foundation staff witnessing the grants awarded included Peggy Williams,
Director, Communications and Events and Special Assistant to the President; Brennan
Gould, Director of Grants Strategic Initiatives, and Jon Nafziger, Director of Donor
Relations and Programs.
In order to accelerate Youth Play Zone development and to enhance recreational
activities, Ellis Acres is seeking donations to match these grants of $17,500 from park
supporters and businesses. Donations are tax deductible in the year given. Please help
keep the momentum going!
Team photograph [R -L] John Redick, Jon Nafziger, Peggy Williams, Brennan
Gould and Wilbert Dean.
December 28, 2012–January 31, 2013 • BUCKINGHAM BEACON • 3
Cover Story
11 month old Bonnie Brockwell and her mother, Sarah, wait in line to visit Santa. All photos by Sue Miles
10th Annual Event
Two year old Isaac Carter reaches
for one more gumdrop to add to his
gingerbread house.
Breakfast With Santa Claus
By Sue Miles
Correspondent
Christmas season in
Buckingham County is
always special because
of a very special event:
the traditional “Breakfast with
Santa” event.
T
he
In its tenth year of existence, the occasion
brings together children, parents, grandparents,
and families in general into a magical world of
gingerbread houses, a warm breakfast of sausage
and pancakes, and a visit from that jolly old
gentleman, Santa Claus. Last months’ Breakfast
with Santa took place in the community center
at the Carter G. Woodson Education Complex.
Sponsored by Buckingham County High
School’s Prom Club, SCA, and RAGU Club, the
event brought together community and student
volunteers to raise money for the benefit of young
people and families in need.
The Prom Club’s efforts resulted in funds to put
together the annual high school prom in May.
The RAGU Club and SCA made sure that needy
families in the county had a better holiday than
they would have otherwise. And, the children
who attended the event left with memories of a
special day of holiday activities.
•••
Santa has his hands full with three babies.
4• BUCKINGHAM BEACON• December 28, 2012–January 31, 2013
Maggie Vaughan (holding camera) and Brittany
Whittington (behind Maggie) are part of the
high school’s Prom Club efforts to raise money for
the May event. Pictures of Santa with the children
were printed on site for happy parents.
Cover Story
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December 28, 2012–January 31, 2013 • BUCKINGHAM BEACON• 5
Making News
Community Builders Award
Buckingham Masonic Lodge #242 recently presented the Community Builders
Award to Dillwyn Correctional Center. This prestigious service award recognizes
the assistance provided by the Dillwyn Correctional Center and its employees with
the Child ID program conducted by Masons of the 17th Masonic District. From left
to right are Pat Crickenberger, Warden Earl Barksdale, Steve Amos, Worshipful
Master of Lodge 242, and Assistant Warden David Call.
Shelby Stout, Mrs. Millinder (Spanish teacher), Kiesha Baker, Greg
Mast, Ms. Crouch (Spanish teacher), Kendrick Allen, Leon Ragland, and
seated, Jervonte Morgan.
Students raise money to buy llama
By Sue Miles
Correspondent
Spanish students at Buckingham County High School have once again raised
enough money to purchase a llama for a struggling family in South America,
through the charitable organization Heifer, International.
The students donated dollars throughout October and November, and by the
end of the first week in December, the full amount of $150 had been raised.
The llama will be used as a pack animal for carrying goods to market and as
a source of income through its fur, which can be made into clothing, ropes,
blankets, and other necessary items. The gift of a llama will impact a family for
years to come.
Heifer, International has been in existence since 1947 and provides thirty different types of animals to poor families throughout the world. Their mission is
"to work with communities to end hunger and poverty and care for the Earth".
Congratulations to all the Spanish students for their contribution to this very
worthy cause.
Buckingham man chosen chairman of
electric association
The Virginia, Maryland and Delaware Association of Electric Cooperatives
(VMDAEC) board of directors took action to elect a new slate of officers for
2012-2013.
Serving as VMDAEC board Chairman is K.M. Beasley, Jr., a farmer and businessman from Dillwyn in Buckingham County who represents Central Virginia
Electric Cooperative.
“Each of these new officers also serves on the board of directors of their local
electric cooperative and on one or more of the Association’s 10 committees,”
said Richard G. Johnstone, VMDAEC executive vice president.
“We truly value and depend upon the commitment of each board member
and officer to provide input on how to expand and improve the services we
provide our members.”
CVEC President and CEO, Gary Wood, praised K. M. Beasley for his leadership as a CVEC director and for his service at the statewide level, “K.M. has
actively supported the efforts of the Association, an organization that provides
a number of important services to the 13 Virginia electric cooperatives, including government relations, safety and training, as well as marketing and communications. “
“As Chairman, K. M. will provide strong guidance based upon his years of
See Electric Page 7
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Happy
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26401 N. James Madison Highway
Conveniently located an 8/10 mi. north of Gold Hill School
6 • BUCKINGHAM BEACON • December 28, 2012–January 31, 2013
Pharmacist and Owner
Michael T. Towler
Dillwyn, VA 23936
Phone 983-2013
Nights & Holidays – 983-3823
“Where Your Health Is Always More Important To Us Than Your Purchase!!”
Making News
Rescue Squad
fundraiser
A fundraising event for the Buckingham
Rescue Squad will be held Feb. 2 at the
Buckingham County High School. Doors
open at 6 p.m.
The Bruiser Wrestling Federation will
present six wrestling matches as part of
the fundraiser. Doors open at 6 p.m. The
first bell time is set for 8 p.m.
This annual fundraiser enables the
squad to serve the citizens of the county
and surrounding areas. Rescue squad
members will handle the concessions.
Tickets are available throughout the
county. More information is available at
www.bwfprowrestling.com.
Cosmetology classes
Southside
Virginia
Community
College plans to offer evening classes in
Cosmetology at the Buckingham
County High School Career &
Technical Center beginning on January
8. For more information about the program contact Dennis Smith at SVCC at
434-736-2008 or by email at
[email protected] or Ms.
Felicia Harris, Cosmetology instructor,
at 434-969-6180 or by email at [email protected].
Culinary classes
SVCC will offer three Culinary Arts
classes for the spring semester at Ellis
Acres in Buckingham County starting
on January 8. The classes will be taught
by Mr. Craig McPherson who has over
45 years of experience in the industry
including stints as the executive chef at
the James River Country Club and
head chef at Longwood. He also was a
co-owner of the Heritage House in
Farmville. Interested students should contact Dennis Smith at SVCC at 434-7362008 or by email at [email protected] or contact Ms. Diane Holman
James at Ellis Acres directly at 434-9835600
or
by
email
at
[email protected].
The HRI 106-107 Principles of
Culinary Arts I & II will be offered on
Monday and Wednesday evenings while
the HRI 105 Introduction to Culinary
Arts will be offered on Tuesday nights.
Electric from Page 6
representing the members of Central
Virginia Electric Cooperative.”
Recent initiatives actively supported
by the VMDAEC board include development of the Association’s new lineman
training facility in Palmyra, Va., which is
sited on land provided by Central
Virginia Electric Cooperative.
“This state-of-the-art facility will open
in early 2013 and enable VMDAEC to
provide comprehensive training for line
workers at our member cooperatives,
enhancing their ability to provide the
highest level of service possible to the
1.5 million citizens served by 15 locally
owned electric cooperatives in Virginia,
Maryland and Delaware,” said Beasley.
Thomas Wise Earns Eagle Scout
By Martha Louis
Correspondent
Thomas Edward Wise
has been involved in
scouting from Tiger
Cub Scout to Eagle
Scout. Thomas won
numerous Pinewood
Derby contests in Cub
Scouts. While a Boy
Scout, he served as a
Patrol leader, Senior
Patrol leader and Junior
Assistant Scoutmaster
and was inducted into
the Order of the Arrow
(Scouting’s
Honor
Society).
Thomas’s
Ed Wise, Mary Winston Wise, Thomas Wise, Steve Amos, Worshipful Master of Masonic
Eagle project consisted of
Lodge 242 , and Scoutmaster Spencer Adams. Photo by Martha Louis.
building picnic tables for
his church, Smyrna United Methodist Church, where he served first as an acolyte and now as an usher.
Thomas was active in 4-H since age 9 showing livestock and winning many awards. He was awarded a $500 scholarship for active participation in livestock shows.
Thomas has been a soccer player at all levels – Youth League, Junior Varsity and Varsity teams. He was a member of
Buckingham’s first team to go undefeated in district play.
Another talent of Thomas’ is art and he has been involved in the school art club. Thomas is currently enrolled as a student at Southside Virginia Community College with plans to transfer to a four year college in the future. He is considering
a major in computer science.
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December 28, 2012–January 31, 2013 • BUCKINGHAM BEACON • 7
Playing ball on his field
of dreams
Sue A. Miles
Correspondent
ost people view their time on this earth through events such as graduations, jobs, weddings, birthdays, and anniversaries. Buckingham
resident Johnny Scruggs can add a few more activities; softball
games, tournaments, championships, and the recognition of his
skills on the field. And, when most men are looking at their retirement years as an
opportunity to relax, at age 63, Johnny is simply looking for another softball game
to play.
John William Scruggs, Jr. was born in Buckingham to John William and Ruby
Watson Scruggs. “My father grew up in a time where he was never able to play ball,”
said Scruggs. “When I got of age, he started pitching and hitting to me. My dad
would always come in early to make sure I got to the games,” said Scruggs. “He
would also pick up my friends and take us to Saturday practice.” Sadly, Scruggs’
father died at the age of 46 of a heart attack.
Johnny started playing Little League when there were only four teams in the
county: Buckingham, Wellwater, Arvonia, and Dillwyn. “We played during the summer,” said Scruggs. “Bobby Gowin was our coach.” Scruggs recalls some of his
teammates during that time: Hambone Agee, Johnny Holmes, Tank Taylor, and
Donnie Davis; players who would continue to play with him throughout his school
years.
“After we finished our Little League season, we still wanted to play,” said
Scruggs. “Coach Gowin would set up some pick-up games in area cow pastures. We
were 12 and 13 years old, playing grown men.”
Scruggs also played and lettered at Buckingham High School (nee Central). But
his true passion was still to come. “I went to work at DuPont in Richmond,” he said.
“I wanted to continue to play ball but I worked shift work and only got off one weekend a month.” Scruggs started playing with his brother-in-law’s church softball team.
“I played with them for a year before joining Buckingham county teams that had
started up.” During that time, Scruggs played for the Appingham Team
(Appomattox and Buckingham), the Adams Oil Company team, and a team in
Arvonia.
Scruggs realized very soon that his passion was softball. “Living in the country,
we didn’t have many other opportunities,” he said. “We’d get together on Sundays
and practice. Whenever there was a game, I was there.”
“For about two or three years, I would drive from Richmond from work to play,”
he said. “That’s about the time that Blinky Jones got the idea of choosing the best
players from all four teams to put together a new team. He wanted to play tournaments in Richmond and other areas.”
Coached by Jones, the newly created Seay Milling slow pitch softball team consisted of what are now infamous Buckingham ballplayers: Tank Taylor, Donnie
Davis, William Noble, Bob Murphy, Reuban Perkins, Grandy Llewellyn, William
Garrett, Charlie Buck Baird, Mike Watson, Ray Lam, and David Fulcher. And, of
M
Scruggs proudly displays his team ring for the 2000 National Championship.
All photos by Sue Miles.
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8 • BUCKINGHAM BEACON • December 28, 2012–January 31, 2013
Winning MVP with a .900 batting average, Scruggs is show with Coach Allen
Gillespie. Photo provided by Scruggs.
course, Johnny Scruggs.
“We started going to Appomattox,
Farmville, Cumberland, Richmond,
Lynchburg, and Charlottesville for
tournaments,” said Scruggs. “During
that time we built a ball field in Toga,
which eventually became the Toga
Community Center, complete with
swimming pool, horse ring, and a
picnic area.”
By this time, Scruggs was married
and had two children, Tracy and Jay.
“I was still playing league ball during
the week and tournaments during the
weekends,” he said. “The Seay
Milling team won the state USSSA
State Championship. In 1976, we
came in fourth in the state and had a
chance to go to Detroit, but couldn’t
afford it.” Scruggs then played for
teams such as Flameless Specialties,
Lawson Ford, and Dalton’s Cabinet
Shop.
“That’s when David LeSueur
decided to get a team together,” said
Scruggs. “We played through the
‘80s with David as our manager.”
Scruggs’ medals, medallions, windbreakers, and other memorabilia reflect years
The “we” included David Johnson,
of playing ball. His wooden bat, from Little League, is part of his collection.
Larry Morris, Bucky Branch, James
Bolden, Ernest Bolden, Curtis Toney,
Boston; sponsored by Dairy Queen and then Lewis Metals.
and Barry Ragland. Scruggs laughed as he said, “At this point,
“When we played in tournaments, other teams might try to
I’m actually playing with the sons of the men that I had played
recruit you,” he said. “I couldn’t say no. I was always looking
with in my 20s.” While playing with this team, called
for someplace to play. That was about the time that the
Buckingham Independence, Scruggs was also playing with a
Independents were folding up.”
Kyanite co-ed team in league ball and a co-ed and men’s
For the next four or five years, Scruggs played for the
DuPont team in Richmond.
See Scruggs Page 14
By the 1990s, Scruggs started playing teams out of South
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December 28, 2012–January 31, 2013 • BUCKINGHAM BEACON • 9
An appreciation of the beloved Dr. Pratt
By Martha Louis
Correspondent
T
Photo of Dr. Whitcomb E. Pratt
Photo donated to Housewright Museum by
grandson Franklin Spencer.
he Franklin Spencer family recently gave Dr.
Whitcomb Eliphet Pratt’s doctor’s bag and
small leather bag which contained liniments and
medicines of the day to the Housewright Museum for display. This display will be enjoyed by visitors to the museum for years to come and will add to their knowledge of
the rich history of Buckingham County.
At his burial Sunday, May 19th, 1901 it was estimated
that a thousand people stood by the grave side burial of Dr.
Pratt thus showing their esteem and regard for the their
departed friend and physician who died at the age of 52.
Being the daughter of Buckingham doctors, (Dr.
Margaret and Dr. William Pennington,) this writer wanted
to know more about this man who was held in such high
esteem. Dr. Pratt was also the child of a physician, Dr.
Bryce M. Pratt, and his wife, Emiline Trent Pratt. Dr. Pratt
was born at “Claybank” in the eastern part of the county on February 28, 1849. Whitcomb Pratt entered the
Medical College of Virginia at the age of 23 in 1872. (60
years later my parents enrolled at the Medical College of
Virginia)
From old newspaper articles, I found out that Dr. Pratt
loved his profession intensely and evidently his patients
were very appreciative. As did my parents, Dr. Pratt made
house calls on a daily basis. Of course he travelled by horse
and buggy and it is said through dark of night on rough
roads, rain or shine, to be at the bedside of his patients.
As Dr. Pratt practiced during the post Civil War era, I
feel sure many patients could not pay in cash. I imagine
in the summer, Dr. Pratt found baskets of fresh vegetables
Medical bags of Dr. W.E. Pratt just donated to
the Housewright Museum by Franklin Spencer family.
or salted meat by his back door and maybe venison in the
winter. Even in the 1950s when I was just a kid, I would
come home from school and on our back porch there
would be a country ham or a basket of tomatoes (payment
for medical services).
And actually in 1950 a visit to Dr. Pennington was all
of $3 – sometimes $5 if you got the works! I can only
imagine what a visit in Dr. Pratt’s office or a house call
would cost. In the 1890s Dr. Pratt was the only doctor in
a 12 mile radius of Buckingham Courthouse. In his earlier
days, Dr. Pratt had a large OB practice and delivered many
babies in Buckingham. It was thought that his devotion to
Scruggs
from Page 9
South Boston team, which gave him the
opportunity to play against more competitive teams. “I started senior tournament ball when one of the umps, who
was also a team manager, asked me
how old I was,” he said. “Teams are
divided by five year increments, so a lot
of players move up together as they get
older. That’s when I started playing senior ball. I played for Colonial Ford, out
of Richmond, for about three years.”
During this time, Scruggs married his
current wife, Patsy Jones. “I told her I
was going to quit playing ball when we
married,” he said. “I was worried that
the time involved with playing might
cause a problem.” Patsy, who had
known Johnny since high school, was
pretty direct with her response. “Hell
no, you’re not going to quit,” was her
answer. Married for the past 21 years,
she is one of his biggest fans, traveling
with him whenever she can and serving
as curator of his medals, trophies, and
memorabilia.
As time went on, Scruggs moved up
to more aggressive and competitive
teams; and more travel. “In senior ball
you usually go to the same places.
That’s where the tournaments are;
Virginia Beach, Roanoke, Maryland,
Raleigh, NC,” said Scruggs. The senior
league has a special rule, created to pre-
10 • BUCKINGHAM BEACON • December 28, 2012–January 31, 2013
See Dr. Pratt Page 11
vent injuries. “There are two home
plates and first bases,” said Scruggs.
“That allows for an out without physical
contact.”
When Scruggs reached age 55 he
played
with
Virginia
Vending
(Richmond). At age 60 he played for
Secure Horizon for one year and then
Southland Log (Christiansburg). “I
changed teams when I felt that I could
play with a better group,” he said. For
the past two years, he’s played with the
Northern Virginia Force, a self-sponsored team. “We just returned from Las
Vegas where we played a weekend tournament with 25 other teams. We came
in seventh. There were teams from all
over the US.” His ability to play and
travel has improved since his retirement
from DuPont.
Other than a broken ankle, Scruggs
has been basically injury free. His home
is full of medals, medallions, windbreakers, patches, plagues, and photo
albums. 1999 World Series Trophy,
SSAA Grand Slam World Series, Men’s
Class E World Champions, World
Championship in Mobile 2003 (Extra
Innings); and MVP trophies. One of his
favorite MVP awards was the result of
batting a .900 at a weekend tournament.
Scruggs, who has traveled to more
than 11 states to play ball, is heading to
Myrtle Beach and then Florida in the
near future. “The teams go up to the
See Scruggs Page 14
Learning how to play
healthy
By Sarah Haines
Correspondent
Buckingham Primary School has
begun the year with a newly renovated
building. The school is stunning and
was recently given an award for its
architectural design, but the building,
however, is not the only new topic at
the school.
This year, after being briefly introduced over the summer, a program
affectionately called Healthy Play has
been added to the daily schedule for
kindergartners and first graders.
Healthy Play, is just that, a time where
children are allowed to be children and
are encouraged to play. The program is
based on a book titled Learning to Play,
Playing to Learn by Charlie Steffens
and Spencer Gorin. The book was written to help reduce bullying in schools
and promote character development in
children. The idea is that while at school
no child should feel left out or bullied or
remotely bad about oneself. Most
games for children are created to have
one winner, and lots of ‘losers’ but
Healthy Play was created to teach children that they play in order to have fun,
not to win or make others feel belittled.
There are four basic rules of Healthy
Play. The first rule is that children play
to have fun. The second rule is that the
most important part of the game is the
child. If there is no child, there is no
game, and then no fun is had. The third
rule is that if a child falls or gets hurt
while playing, the child closest to them
is to stop playing and comfort the fallen/hurt child. The last rule is that if
there is a disagreement on the playing
field, whether it is if a child is out, or if
someone feels that they were not
tagged, the two children who are having
a disagreement must step off the playing field to work out their problems and
can only return to the game when the
issue has been resolved.
Children, by nature, are very compas-
Dr. Pratt
from Page 10
his patients and going out in cold rain
or snow to their bedsides might have
contributed to that which killed him at
the early age of 52-- possibly pneumonia.
Dr. Pratt was also interested in politics, being the Chairman of the county
Democratic Party. I never found that he
sought political office himself , but he
always had strong views. He indulged
in politics as a recreation from the strain
of his profession. (My father also represented Buckingham in the House of
Delegates and loved politics as well as
Grace
Episcopal
Church
Warmly Invites Young and Senior, You,
Your Family, Your Friends and Neighbors
To Worship God with Us with all your
heart, mind, and spirit
• Every Sunday at
11:00 AM
• Children’s Sunday School
10:55 AM
Bremo Bluff
Bremo Bluff Road
(804) 266-1410
Leave filled with Forgiveness, Joy,
Peace, and Your heart overflowing
with God’s Love.
Carla Coffey, one of the healthy play
instructors, and Kelly Wright the
BCPS guidance counselor are
working hard to provide ways for
ways to stop bullying.
sionate, so they truly enjoy helping a
classmate in need. Often times, notes
Carla Coffey one of the Healthy Play
instructors, more than one child volunteers to stop playing and console the
injured child. And the fourth rule teaches the children two things. First, it
teaches them how to work through
problems on their own -- a valuable life
skill. Second, the children will argue
less when they realize that sitting on the
sideline is no fun when they could be
agreeing and playing with their classmates.
The children go to Healthy Play during their language arts/reading block.
Half of the teacher’s reading class goes
while the other half stays behind and
has more time with the teacher in a
smaller class setting and the child therefore becomes more successful in reading. The Healthy Play instructor then
See Play Page 14
medicine).
The historic “Dr. Tucker House” as it
is called is located in Buckingham
Courthouse Village and had the distinction of being the office (and home for
some )
at different times of 4
Buckingham
physicians
:
Dr.
P.E.Tucker, Dr. Perkins Glover, Dr. G.L.
Morris and Dr. Whitcomb E. Pratt . This
building being located in the center of
the county at the county seat and right
on the main road made getting to the
doctor perhaps easier for many.
The Housewright Museum is located
across the street from the Courthouse
and is open April through the first week
of December on Wednesdays and
Saturdays 1:00 to 4:00 pm.
December 28, 2012–January 31, 2013 • BUCKINGHAM BEACON • 11
For my Fluvanna Listings Visit: www.akarionrealty.com
2013
A New Year
with New Beginnings
Check out these great properties
during the holidays....
All photos by
Sarah Rachele Haines
Call Mike Spessard Today!
434 - 960-0290
HOMES FOR SALE
Many men and women from all over the country came to participate in this event for wounded veterans.
Hunting with Operation Dues Already Paid
Well-kept rancher with extras in a nature lovers
setting. Pride of ownership shows. 24x24 insulated, paneled garage/shop with finished 12x31
studio/office and a machinery shed. Minutes
from the James River. Great for home business
or artist. Low maintenance and taxes. MLS:
502155 $139,900
Beautiful brick rancher on 17.683 wooded parcel
located less than a mile from the James River. Whole
house generator, a giant 30'x40' insulated brick
garage/shop, a full partly finished basement with
almost new oil furnace. Basement has a large wood
stove that hooks into the duct system. Upstairs has
hardwood floors plus a fireplace with a wood stove
insert. Large floored attic could be finished for additional space. MLS# 487462 $355,000
PRICE REDUCED
Nice rancer on .83 acres. Near the James River. Nice
landscaping with small apple orchard. House appears to
be in great shape with a recently remodeled kitchen with
oak cabinets. All appliances convey. Central air with oil
furnace plus gas logs. MLS# 492147 $89,900
NOW IS TIME TO INVEST IN LOTS AND LAND
Beautiful Slate
River frontage
property. Great
get
away.
Several home
sites with 1 overlooking the river.
Nice gravel road.
Small stream running through the property. The
Slate River is a scenic canoeing and kayaking river
with good fishing. Nice level camping area on the
river. Owner has found small amounts of gold in the
river. MLS: 502343 $75,000
Nice wooded building
lot near the James
River. Seller will consider paying for new survey with full price offer.
MLS #487662 $22,000
By Sarah Rachele Haines
Correspondent
A
irman Christopher Frost was riding in his humvee
in 2008 while touring Iraq when his vehicle succumbed to an IED (improvised explosive device). It
is said that over 60% of the casualties that have occurred in
Iraq and Afghanistan since 2001 are caused by IED’s.
On that fateful day in 2008, Christopher Frost lost both his
legs to a roadside bomb. Many other men and women have
stories just like his. And those who were fortunate enough to
come home from the war in one piece will tell you that no one
came home unscathed. Everyone who has ever served in any
war came home a different person. Too much was seen. Too
much was heard.
So in 2011 when Buckingham resident and Marine Corps
veteran Micah Haines was approached by fellow Buckingham
resident Ben Gormus to offer a special hunt day for veterans
who were wounded in action, Haines couldn’t help but say
yes. Immediately Haines and Gormus began planning and
fundraising for a day to honor veterans, a day to allow men
and women, like Christopher Frost, who served our country
selflessly and paid a hefty price for their service. Haines, an
avid outdoorsman and an Iraqi Freedom veteran, could not
imagine not being able to hunt and feels this event is so
important, “to allow veterans who have suffered injuries and
wouldn’t normally have the chance to hunt due to their
injuries. Becoming a civilian again is hard. You lose contact
with your buddies and events like this are good to get veterans
together so they can swap war stories and have a good time.”
And a good time was had by all. Gormus, president of Blue
• 4 - 2 ACRE LOTS at $22,000 each walking
distance from the James River.
• DILLWYN AREA: Owner/Agent 4+ Acre
building lot near Dillwyn. $15,900.
(L-R) Arnold Beard, Robert Satterwhite, Tracey Arms,
Chuck Martin. Satterwhite who served in the army shot
the first deer of the day.
12 • BUCKINGHAM BEACON • December 28, 2012–January 31, 2013
Rock Resources scouted the perfect area to hunt in
Buckingham County. In most areas avid outdoorsmen join
clubs, clubs that allow them to hunt on good property. These
clubs often have membership dues in order to participate.
From this piece of information a name was chosen for this
hunt day for wounded veterans by Gormus’ wife Alice.
Operation D.A.P. (Dues Already Paid) was born and on
December 17, 2011 the inaugural hunt day was achieved.
This year, for the second Operation D.A.P. held on
December 15 2012 in Buckingham County, the turnout was
even greater than last year with nearly thirty participants.
Veterans came from all parts of the country: Pennsylvania,
North Carolina, Maryland and many Virginia residents from
various areas including Alexandria, Buckingham, Fluvanna,
Louisa, and Nelson. Haines and Gormus contacted many
wounded vets, but many came to this hunt day by word of
mouth.
Sam Ward was contacted by Frost who knew of the hunt
from his participation last year. Ward, a Louisa county resident who served in the Navy, says he has participated in many
events for wounded veterans, but the name of this particular
hunt day is what struck him and sparked his interest in coming. He found Operation D.A.P to be very organized and an
altogether good group of people.
Haines and Gormus are a part of Whispering Springs Hunt
club, and this club was able to secure 3,000 acres of prime
hunting grounds for the veterans this year. So many men and
women helped to make this day possible, and the way they
came together to support veterans restores a little faith in our
society especially on the heels of the horrific Connecticut
school shootings.
The veterans arrived early on Saturday morning to the
Curdsville Community Center for breakfast and to go over
hunter safety rules. Shotguns were provided to any veteran
who did not have their own as well as a bucket full of supplies
to get them through the day. The buckets included a snack,
water, and a blanket. Sack lunches were provided, and supper
was cooked by the Curdsville Hunt Club later in the day.
So many men and women from Blue Rock Resources and
Kyanite Mining were on hand to help. Lionheart Resort put
the veterans up in cabins on Friday night. Clay’s Garden
Center, Dominion Outdoors, and Cumberland Building
Supply donated supplies. Browns Chapel United Methodist
See Hunting Page 14
Photos by Martha Louis
Highlights from the Dillwyn Christmas Parade
By Martha Louis
Correspondent
Saturday, Dec 15th at 10 a.m. Hundreds of people lined the parade
route for the annual Dillwyn Christmas
Parade sponsored by the Dillwyn Town
Council.
"Come Home for the
Holidays" was the theme & 38 units participated! Award winning units were:
Best in Show - BCHS HOSA Club, Best
Theme Float - Ellis Acres Memorial
Park, Most Creative Float - Slate River
Veterinery Services and Most Spirited
Float - MT Nebo Baptist Church.
December 28, 2012–January 31, 2013 • BUCKINGHAM BEACON • 13
Scruggs from Page 10
Scruggs’ home is full of plaques noting his success as a
long-time softball player. Photo by Sue Miles.
Play from Page 11
brings the children back to class and
takes the other half of the reading
group.
Because this program takes place
during the children’s reading block,
Healthy Play has partnered with the
reading program and is supervised by
Hunting
age of 80,” he says. “I plan to continue until I
can’t. I never imagined that I would be playing
this long. If it weren’t for senior ball, I wouldn’t
be. I played with younger teams up until a couple of years ago. Players can play with young
teams, but not older.” Scruggs has always played
either short stop or outfield. “I can still run and
throw well, so they put me out there.” Patsy
laughed and offers, “With the age of the teams,
the most common cologne you smell at the
game is Ben-Gay. They are an amazing group of
men who love the sport and the joy of playing.”
It’s obvious that Scruggs has a passion for
this American sport. “Patsy and I enjoy the
Courtney Browning, the primary
school’s reading specialist. Browning is
excited about this program and the
impact it is having on the children. Not
only because the children have the
opportunity for creative play and to
release some very cooped up energy,
but also because Healthy Play is a great
character developing program and tran-
from Page 12
Supply donated supplies. Browns Chapel United Methodist Church, Wise Ridge
Country Store, Nannies’ Recipes, and Mitchell’s Restaurant provided food to serve
meals to the veterans. Tenneck Realty, Farmer’s Café, Spencer’s Drug Store, and
Spreading God’s Gift gave donations and time and effort to this event. RTV rentals
were donated and delivered by Taylor’s Forbes of Farmville, Spaulding Equipment
of Clover, James River of Fishersville, and Beverage Tractor of Stuarts Draft. The
501 Hunt Club provided the dogs and volunteers to aide in the man drives. Red
Taylor, a Nelson County resident and army veteran, could not believe the support
this hunt day received. “There are so many to thank, so many who helped, so many
who gave”, he said and Taylor appreciated it all. Red Taylor sponsored a softball
tournament back in May 2012 to help raise money for this hunt day, and he was
surprised by the outpouring of support then too.
The veterans were given damage control permits which allowed them to shoot
does as well as bucks. Nine deer were shot by the veterans that day. The first deer
to be shot was by a wheelchair bound veteran, Mr. Robert Satterwhite who hails
from North Carolina. Operation D.A.P. used a 6 by 12 trailer covered with donated plywood to transport the men in wheelchairs to their hunting location. Dogs and
man drives were used to push the deer out of the woods so the veterans could have
a clear shot at them. The wonderful folks of the Curdsville Hunt Club processed all
Where can I pick up my Buckingham Beacon?
The Courhouse Cafe (Arts Center)
The Spa 794 Main St.
Farmers Bank
Luckys Texaco
Depot Diner
BB&T Bank
Pino’s Restaurant
Vance RE/Hair Corral
New Images Hair Design
Teresa’s Place
Wise Ridge Country Store
Sheppards Exxon
Bates Market
Buckihgam Co. High School
EXXON
Buckingham Co. Admin. Bldg.
Herbert Maxey’s Office
Nancy’s Gifts
Ducks Corner
Route 20 Market
Midway Market
Glenmore Store
Howardsville Store
Faulknier’s Country Store
Spanglers
P&S Market
Review Office
New Canton Post Office
Byrants Grocery
Jeffery Oil/The Shed, Rt. 15
Ella’s Salon
Jax Mini Mart (inside rack)
Jax Mini Mart (outside box)
Jax Restaurant
Arvonia Post Office
Arvonia Chiropractic
Cental Va Health
Ellington Gas
Bank of America, Dillwyn
Jenkins Exxon
Buckingham Library
Dillwyn Pharmacy
Real Estate III (inside)
Real Estate III (outside)
Cheryl’s Barber Shop/Beauty Salon
Robert Snoddy Attorney Office
State Farm Office
Acie Allen Attorney office
Dillwyn Laundry
Farmers Foods (inside rack )
Farmers Foods
(outside box)
Heritage Hall
Martha Jefferson Clinic
Fast Mart Valero
Fast Mart Auto
Food Lion
China Restaurant
14 • BUCKINGHAM BEACON • December 28, 2012–January 31, 2013
friendship of the players and their families. They
are a good group of people.” Patsy supports
Johnny’s appreciation of the players and teams.
“They usually always start with a prayer before
the game,” she said. “If a player gets hurt, everyone stops and kneels on one leg to support
them.”
The prospect of being able to play into his
80s certainly gives Scruggs something to strive
for. “It’s my passion and something that I love to
do,” he said. It sounds like we’ll be hearing more
about this amazing man, who refuses to stop
doing what he loves – playing ball on his field of
dreams.
scends the designated play time.
Children carry the tools they are learning in Healthy Play throughout their
day.
And because Healthy Play is a character developing and anti-bullying program, they have also partnered with
Kelly Wright, the primary school’s guidance counselor. Wright is thrilled with
this program as well and is working with
the Healthy Play instructors on how
they can better the program and therefore better the school.
While Healthy Play is a new program
and there are kinks to be ironed out, the
results thus far with Healthy Play are
very positive, and the children thoroughly enjoy it.
nine deer for the veterans on site so they could take a part of this hunt day home
with them. Though for most veterans, the memory of the day was enough to carry
home with them.
Arnold Beard of Maryland, who is also in a wheelchair, was very impressed with
the organization of the event. Christopher Frost was pleased with his second trip out
to this event too. Last year was his first time having the opportunity to hunt since
the IED hit his humvee. Says Frost, “I love the name of this event, it’s what got me.”
He may have challenges in his life due to his injury, but Operation D.A.P provided
a way for him to hunt. And as Frost points out, “the deer don’t care that I’m missing my legs.”
Whether you support hunting or not, this day was a memorable day for these men
and women, and Operation D.A.P. wants to make it possible for wounded veterans
to continue to do the things that they love. It’s a small way to pay tribute to them
for their service. Though these events provide wonderful memories for veterans, it’s
important that they are thanked at every opportunity, not just at these special
events. America wouldn’t be America without them.
If you would like to participate in next year’s hunt or know a wounded veteran
who may be interested contact Micah Haines ([email protected]) or Alice
Gormus ([email protected])
Thank you for your service veterans. You are always welcome to hunt with
Operation D.A.P because your dues have already been paid.
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EVENTS
LAKE MONTICELLO FIRE & RESCUE
BINGO: $1,000 Jackpot every Thursday.
New Progressive Game. Doors Open at
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Questions? Call 434-591-1018.
SERVICE DIRECTORY
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& TAX SERVICE
GRACE ROBELEN, EA
434-392-6229
www.APlusTaxHelp.net
NEW Artwork and Crafts available online at:
Open all year
in Buckingham County
to help businesses and individuals
save money and time
Need a New Tractor?
Variety of Sizes
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HOURS:
Driver Improvement Clinic (CDL Approved)
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Classroom Instruction
Mailing Address
81 Troublesome Creek Rd.• Buckingham, VA 23921
Tuuesday, & Saturday 9am-3pm
Fridays 9am-6pm
Open late on Wednesday & Thursday 9am-8pm
“Located 1/4 mile south of Sprouses Corner on Rt. 15”
Phone
(434) 983-3869 • (434) 315-1702
Book your party now for the New Year...
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merchandise is still
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Hours:
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434-983-2523
www.sprousesgarage.com
DON’T GO TO THE BIG CHAIN CAR RENTALS!
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In VA the insured may choose which rental agency
For your next car rental choose:
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(434) 983-3035
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Located @Moss Motor Company • Rt. 15 South of Dillwyn
SERVICE DIRECTORY PRICES
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Call Judi Price
434-207-0223
December 28, 2012–January 31, 2013 • BUCKINGHAM BEACON •
16 • BUCKINGHAM BEACON • December 28–January 31, 2013