'Trucker' seeks classmates from 1977

Churchland High School alumni can now keep in touch thanks to Debbie Darley-Runyon. The class of 1977 graduate started a Facebook group to stay connected to former Truckers. Debbie was involved in several school activities, including cheerleading, drama, chorus and track. She says chemistry teacher Mrs. Perlick and English instructors Mr. Holbrook and Mr. Paige were her favorites. “Mr. Holbrook would write a grammatically-correct sentence from one end of the board to the other for us to diagram,” she remembers. Debbie now lives in South Carolina. After attending ODU and Virginia Tech, she married VMI graduate John Runyon (Churchland class of ’76),  finally settling in his last Navy duty station. Two classmates she has had trouble locating are Tommy Gryder and Ross Spencer. Drop Debbie a line on Facebook  to reconnect with former classmates; the page is open. Search “Churchland High School Alumni,” then click on  “Student Groups.”

Churches and individuals all over Your Corner are helping with the Haiti relief efforts. John Knight and Chandler Turner met while members of Churchland Rotary Club, which has collected and shipped 30 to 40 tractor-trailer loads of medical supplies all over the world. John has supported Physicians for Peace and traveled with them and other relief agencies on their missions of mercy. He said the earthquake in Haiti will result in 250,000 amputees, the same number officials give as the estimated death count. One Saturday morning, John e-mailed his friend Chandler to report that Physicians for Peace was set up at ODU to collect prosthetic devices, crutches, wheelchairs and walkers to send to Haiti. Chandler then e-mailed a few church groups and they quickly got together donated supplies and headed over to ODU. When Chandler pulled into the school’s parking lot, there were six vehicles in front of him and before he would leave, another four joined them. “This time it was a nice surprise to be in a line of people,” he says. Chandler has no idea how much Physicians for Peace collected, but several people seemed to be surprised at the amount of medical equipment being delivered.  

Contact me at pamelawrites@ hotmail.com or 717-0628 with your Churchland news.

ADVISORY: Users are solely responsible for opinions they post here and for following agreed-upon rules of civility. Comments do not reflect the views of The Virginian-Pilot or its Web sites. Comments are automatically checked for inappropriate language, but readers might find some comments offensive or inaccurate. If you believe a comment violates our rules, click the "Report Violation" link below the comment.

Don't forget the 'Honor and Remember Flag'

The Honor and Remember Flag is one step closer to official recognition by Virginia. The flag is a symbol of gratitude and respect to military members lost in the line of duty. The House of Delegates just approved the bill, allowing it to advance to the state Senate. I’ve mentioned in a previous edition that Long Point residents Donovan and Darlene Kelly have been involved in the flag initiative. The couple lost their son, Shawn Dunkin, in 2007 during his second tour of Iraq. Darlene is president of the Hampton Roads chapter of the Gold Star Moms, who provide support to mothers who’ve lost a son or daughter in service to our country. Though Virginia is well on the way to adopting the flag, there is still a petition before Congress to designate the flag as a national emblem for fallen soldiers. Visit www.honorandremember.org to sign the online petition or buy a flag.

Portsmouth author Jeffery Sheler was the guest speaker at the Friends of the Portsmouth Public Library quarterly meeting last month. The award-winning freelance journalist, formerly a senior writer for U.S. News and World Report, is the author of  “Believers: A Journey into Evangelical America” and “Is the Bible True?” which  was named one of the top 10 religion books of 2000 by Christianity Today magazine. Sheler stopped by to discuss his newest work, “Prophet of Purpose,” an inside story of mega-church pastor Rick Warren, author of “The Purpose Driven Life” and the man many have deemed the next Billy Graham.

Though the Churchland Swim Club is closed for the season, many of its participants swim year-round with the Portsmouth YMCA Aquatic Club and the Virginia YMCA Aquatic Club. The coach for both teams is Mike Salpeter.  He tells me that the Portsmouth club is geared toward recreational swimmers and those at the beginning stages of competitive swimming while members of the Virginia club compete at the national level. The Virginia club has won the South Hampton Roads YMCA League championship for the past 10 years. In December, it competed at a top level meet in North Carolina and finished sixth among clubs that outnumbered them by 100 kids. Salpeter, also coach at Western Branch High, credits Virginia club assistant coaches Ryan Smith, Margueritte Duval-Dalton and Mark Keating for much of the team’s success His wife, Emily, is a coach at Churchland Swim Club.

Contact me at pamelawrites@hotmail.com or 717-0628 with Churchland news you’d like to see on this page.

ADVISORY: Users are solely responsible for opinions they post here and for following agreed-upon rules of civility. Comments do not reflect the views of The Virginian-Pilot or its Web sites. Comments are automatically checked for inappropriate language, but readers might find some comments offensive or inaccurate. If you believe a comment violates our rules, click the "Report Violation" link below the comment.

Help our neighborhood officer take the Plunge

Churchland’s neighborhood impact officer, Howard Harrison, will be participating in the Polar Plunge, the  Special Olympics fundraiser  at the  Oceanfront Feb. 6. Howard has been dashing into the icy Atlantic since 2001. He tells me that he, his family and friends run out into waist-deep waters then dunk under. The police department’s SWAT dive team dons wet suits to make sure no one goes out too far. Howard’s wife, Cathy, daughter, Heather, 18, and son, Christopher, 14, incorporate the event into their mini-vacation, also Heather’s birthday, and will be spending the weekend at the beach . “Going back to a warm shower at the hotel is the best part,” he said. Several Churchland civic leagues are sponsoring Howard .  You can join the cause  at his Polar Plunge Web site, www.firstgiving.com/howardharrison4.

The Churchland branch library is assisting the AARP in providing tax preparation assistance to the public. From Feb. 1  until April 15, the tax aide program will offer free tax preparation for seniors and low-to-moderate income individuals  to help with filing the 1040 form and standard schedules . The service will be offered Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the library’s technical training lab.  Please call AARP directly at 1-888-227-7669 with any questions.

Portsmouth is the new home of the award-winning Virginia Youth Symphony Orchestra. Started in 1998 by composer and conductor Robert Ian Winstin,  the musical troupe includes students from across Hampton Roads. The group has performed in London, Paris, Athens and Vienna and has produced two CDs.  Robert is the music director of Virginia’s Millennium Symphony, the recording conductor for the Prague Radio Symphony and the principal guest conductor of the Kiev Philharmonic. The orchestra is now headquartered in the old Colony Theater at 430 High St ., across from the Commodore. The building, built in 1901, was  deteriorating when the city approached Winstin about moving in. “I fell through the floor on the walkthrough,” he said. Still, he knew they’d found their new home. He renamed it the New Colony Theater , and along with his wife Susan, symphony members and community volunteers, got to work remodeling.  Rehearsals are Sunday from 2-5 p.m. and are open to the public.  Learn more  at www.vyso.us.

I love hearing from  you. Contact me at pamelawrites@ hotmail.com or 717-0628 .

ADVISORY: Users are solely responsible for opinions they post here and for following agreed-upon rules of civility. Comments do not reflect the views of The Virginian-Pilot or its Web sites. Comments are automatically checked for inappropriate language, but readers might find some comments offensive or inaccurate. If you believe a comment violates our rules, click the "Report Violation" link below the comment.

Churchland woman to get Congressional Gold Medal

Last summer, President Obama singed into law a bill to award a Congressional Gold Medal to the Women Airforce Service Pilots, who flew noncombat military missions during World War II. Long Point resident Jean McCreery will be a recipient. She joined the pilots group at the age of 19. “It was a wonderful opportunity,” she said. These were the first women to fly American military aircraft and their missions across the country freed their male counterparts for combat. From 1942 to 1944, more than 1,000 women joined the organization; they were awarded veteran status in 1977. After the war, Jean married, raised 10 children and eventually began a career in engineering. At 85, she’s the youngest of the remaining members of the group. She spends four days a week at the YMCA, where she participates in aerobics, tai chi and yoga. Jean said she and her peers will actually bring home a bronze award; the gold one will be showcased in the Smithsonian Institute. The date for the award ceremony has not been set.

When the General Assembly convened last week, Churchland resident and newly-elected 80th district Del. Matthew James was among them. Keep abreast of the session from the comfort and convenience of your home with the assembly’s Web site. You can track bills, review a summary of proposed budgets, see special events (for example, the Virginia Foundation for Healthy Youth is meeting today) and take a virtual tour that includes the newly renovated Capitol Building. You can have a voice in this session. Visit http://legis.state.va.us/

It’s not to soon to begin thinking about Paint Your Heart Out, the Churchland and Portsmouth Rotary clubs’ neighborhood beautification project. This year, the  event will be April 17. Nominations are being accepted.. Elderly or handicapped homeowners who make less than $20,000 qualify to have their home’s exterior painted and yard cleaned. Last year, more than 300 business, military, church and civic volunteers joined to spruce up 11 homes. To nominate someone, call Bob Ossman at 483-4422.

Enjoy the beauty of nature at your own pace. The Hoffler Wildlife Preserve offers free, self-guided tours of its 142 acres from 10-4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Golf carts are available for those unable to walk the trails. If you eat at California Pizza Kitchen at MacArthur Center on Jan. 25, 20 percent of your check will benefit the preserve. Free valet parking if your meal exceeds $10. Print the flyer at the Web site (www.hofflercreek.org) to present to your server.

Contact me at pamelawrites@ hotmail.com or 717-0628.

ADVISORY: Users are solely responsible for opinions they post here and for following agreed-upon rules of civility. Comments do not reflect the views of The Virginian-Pilot or its Web sites. Comments are automatically checked for inappropriate language, but readers might find some comments offensive or inaccurate. If you believe a comment violates our rules, click the "Report Violation" link below the comment.

Olde Towne Scottish Walk was a hit parade

They came out by the hundreds, some dressed in woolens and plaid, all bundled against the cold, for  the annual Olde Towne Scottish Walk on New Year’s Eve.  The event honors local merchants and offers blessings for a prosperous new year. The  walk began on Washington Street, curled through Olde Towne and ended at High Street Landing. Churchland High School magnet instructor Susan Cocke coordinated the event and felt the festival’s sentiment was especially pertinent given the current economy. Spectators and participants enjoyed pipe music, caroling and mini-concerts at Olde Towne restaurants and pubs.  The MacDonald clan, whose members own Portsmouth’s Glencoe Inn, were lauded for their support of the walk and their contribution to local business. The evening ended with a splendid lighted boat parade.

The Wonderful Wizards of Needle and Thread know that many hands make light work. The sewing group of the Church of the Resurrection on Cedar Lane began meeting in 1970, before the church was formed. Back then, five or so members met in each other’s homes and fashioned altar linen and vestments . Today, the ladies get together for  fellowship and work. Their annual quilt raffles  raise  funds for upgrades and local missions. One of their biggest endeavors is a prayer blanket –  flannel-backed  with a pocket that holds a prayer book to encourage those recovering from illness. In three years, the group has made 200. It all began when Betty Osborne got one from her sister-in-law in Kentucky when she was recuperating from surgery. Betty  said the blanket was fashioned after one made by a church in Texas. The blankets are free, with different designs for women, expectant moms, children and men. The Wonderful Wizards of Needle and Thread meet from 10 a.m. to noon on the first, third and fourth Tuesdays at the church. You don’t have to be a member of the church to join, and sewing ability isn’t necessary. They also have crafters and knitters in the group. Call Betty at 484-0589 for more information.

The new Beazley School of Nursing at the Portsmouth campus of Tidewater Community College is so advanced that EVMS wants to partner to use the technology. Armistead Forest resident Rose Ware isn’t surprised. She was in the school’s first nursing class and remembers  being pioneers even back then. Rose started in September 1969 and graduated in May 1972. Until that time, Maryview Hospital had the only local nursing program. When it closed, TCC’s began and was the only community college with a nursing course. Rose was the oldest student in her class, having waited until the last of her eight children began school before she started her nursing training. After graduating, she worked a year in the surgery department. Back then, she says, patients were kept overnight and prepped for surgery the next day. “They were often anxious and fearful and because surgeries were scheduled at shift changes, we couldn’t be very supportive,” she said. Rose found a better fit in psychiatric nursing, where she remained for 22 years, eventually becoming the director of after-care services and a liaison with Eastern State Hospital.

Churchland High  alumni can now keep in touch thanks to Debbie Darley-Runyon. The  1977 graduate started a Facebook group to stay connected to former Truckers. Debbie, who was involved in  cheerleading, drama, chorus and track, says chemistry teacher Mrs. Perlick and English instructors Mr. Holbrook and Mr. Paige were her favorites. “Mr. Holbrook would write a grammatically correct sentence from one end of the board to the other for us to diagram,” she remembers. Debbie now lives in South Carolina. After attending ODU and Virginia Tech, she married VMI graduate John Runyon (Churchland class of 1976), and they followed his naval career, finally settling in his last duty station. Two classmates she’s had trouble locating are Tommy Gryder and Ross Spencer. Drop Debbie a line on the open Facebook  page. Search “Churchland High School Alumni,” then click on  “Student Groups.”

Thanks for sharing your Churchland news with our Your Corner neighbors. Contact me at 717-0628 or pamelawrites@hotmail.com.

ADVISORY: Users are solely responsible for opinions they post here and for following agreed-upon rules of civility. Comments do not reflect the views of The Virginian-Pilot or its Web sites. Comments are automatically checked for inappropriate language, but readers might find some comments offensive or inaccurate. If you believe a comment violates our rules, click the "Report Violation" link below the comment.

Winter boaters warned of cold

Stan Miley is more than a little concerned. The commander of Portsmouth’s Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla No. 58 knows the season brings out a lot of waterman. “Boaters are looking for stripers and other big fish that are still out this time of year,” he said. Winter boaters are at a greater risk of hypothermia, where the body’s temperature falls below what is needed to function. Stan says it’s basic physics that involves water temperature and body size. “Insulation (body fat) cools slower. Thin bodies lose heat faster.” Also, the shock of cold water will exacerbate an already weak heart. The Coast Guard Auxiliary hosts safe boating classes throughout the year. The next session is March 8 at the Russell Memorial Library. We’ll send out a reminder.

If you’re anything like me, whenever you’re on Rodman Avenue, you slow down near October Moon, the home goods shop across from Suburban Pharmacy. Owner Jeanne Jackson showcases some of her wares outside and says it’s not unusual to see folks window shopping while driving by. Jeanne, known as “Buttons” to her friends, started the business three years ago. The name seemed natural, considering three children in the family - her first and third child and her sister’s first child - were all born on Oct. 2. She also loves the children’s book “By the Light of the Moon,” The business carries an eclectic combination of new and not-so-new treasures - think Pier 1 Imports meets your grandmother’s antiques. Jeanne hired Sadie Wornstaff after she kept running into her at sales. “She’s perfect here,” she says. Sadie’s love of red and orange balances Jeanne’s preference for cobalt blue and hot pink. The shop is ideal for savvy decorators who surround themselves with things they like. Western Branch resident Mary Ellen Smith reported a great shopping experience there. October Moon is at 509 Rodman Avenue and is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Call them at 295-0071.

The weekend after Christmas as my husband watched the Cowboys/Redskins debacle, the girls and I settled in for “The Sound of Music,” one of our favorites. Near the end of the movie, the reverend mother tells young Maria - soon to become Mrs. von Trapp - “You must find what it is you are to do in this life.” A few months ago, Maria’s granddaughter Elisabeth  gave a concert at Centenary United Methodist Church on Cedar Lane. Elisabeth’s father is Werner von Trapp, whose character was renamed Kurt in the movie. I was surprised to hear Elisabeth say that singing wasn’t something she thought she’d ever do. She’d promised Maria that she’d focus on her education but eventually music won out. “I decided to stop watching what I loved and start doing what I loved,” Elisabeth explained to the rapt audience. And while I’m not a big fan of New Year’s resolutions, I pray that all Your Corner readers discover and accomplish what they are meant to do.

Thanks for sharing your stories with our Your Corner readers. Contact me at pamelawrites@ hotmail.com or 717-0628.

ADVISORY: Users are solely responsible for opinions they post here and for following agreed-upon rules of civility. Comments do not reflect the views of The Virginian-Pilot or its Web sites. Comments are automatically checked for inappropriate language, but readers might find some comments offensive or inaccurate. If you believe a comment violates our rules, click the "Report Violation" link below the comment.

Sterling Point Garden Club wins big

The Sterling Point Garden Club got four blue ribbons in the Portsmouth Area Council of Garden Clubs annual wreath contest. That one club won in four of seven categories for the area is impressive. Winning entrants were June Leckrone (religious), Sandy Burgess (dried with fresh and dried material), Rachel Benzie (fresh wreath with fresh fruit) and Ginny Flanders (swag with fresh fruit). Judith Mitchell leads the club in 2010. Meetings are the second Tuesdays at the home of Phyllis Kraatz. You don’t have to be resident of Sterling Point to join. Call 484-5366.

After years in the Churchland shopping center, The Village Mailbox has a new home. They are now at 3301 Tyre Neck Road, in the Plaza Shopping Center. Yvonne Stevens and her wonderful staff still provide the great customer service they always have. A new drive-thru window allows customers to conduct business even more quickly. In addition to UPS, notary and mailbox rental, they now offer passport, group, business card and baby photos. The business shares the space with Budget Truck rental and A & L Upholstery. Call them at 484-2647.

Those who think math is difficult and boring would have been shocked at the Mathfest competition Dec. 19 at Churchland High School. The brainchild of former Portsmouth resident Ron Boykins, the all-day competition allows school teams and individuals from across the country to compete and have fun while reinforcing valuable math skills. The event includes a large group session with grade-level competition and smaller break-out groups with games and activities. I saw local first- through eighth-grade students interacting with kids from other cities and states and having a great time. We’re accustomed to science fairs and spelling and geography bees. It’s nice to see a math event get the same prominence. I’ll be reporting more on this soon.

The Portsmouth Sheriff’s office is again offering the Safe Ride Home program on New Year’s Eve. Deputies will grant a free, no-questions-asked ride home to any city resident who’s had too much to drink from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. Call 393-5030.

Contact me at 717-0628 or pamelawrites@hotmail.com.

ADVISORY: Users are solely responsible for opinions they post here and for following agreed-upon rules of civility. Comments do not reflect the views of The Virginian-Pilot or its Web sites. Comments are automatically checked for inappropriate language, but readers might find some comments offensive or inaccurate. If you believe a comment violates our rules, click the "Report Violation" link below the comment.

Birthday girl is generous to a 'T'

Here’s a story that will warm your heart. When 8-year-old Hollie Noel Wimbish left her birthday party at the MacArthur skating rink last year, she asked her parents if they could stop by CHKD so she could donate some of her birthday money to the CHKD telethon hosted by a local radio station. Hollie’s aunt, Jean Freeman, told me this is nothing new for her niece. “From the time she could walk and talk, she has wanted to help others as much as she could.” This year, Hollie asked her mom for a Winter Wonderland themed-birthday party and asked her guests to bring an unwrapped gift for Toys for Tots. Two weeks ago, when Hollie and her friends gathered at her Merrifields home to celebrate her birthday, they filled a large box with toys for other boys and girls. Guests were so touched by Hollie’s request that they bought two gifts: one for Holly and one to be donated. Hollie, a third-grader at Court Street Academy, serves as an acolyte at her church, is a cheerleader for the Churchland Tigers and is a member of the Girl Scouts.

Last Sunday, the Gomley Chesed Congregation at 3110 Sterling Point Drive invited the public to a menorah lighting. Participants came to hear the story of Hanukkah with a traditional celebration, refreshments and gifts for children. This is the first year for the event, and was a way to meet and educate the community. In October, the congregation welcomed a new leader, Rabbi David Goldstein, who formerly served in Florida. Gomley Chesed is a Conservative congregation, and at 123 years, is one of the oldest synagogues in Hampton Roads.

I’ve previously reported that Clint Rudy, former Churchland library branch manager, was promoted to systems administrator for the library system and that Portsmouth native Todd Elliott, who has worked in libraries for more than 20 years, filled Clint’s old position. Now there are more changes at the library. Last month, Todd was named director of libraries for the city. He filled the vacancy left by Sue Burton, who recently departed for a well-earned retirement. Also, former Churchland librarian Mary Hodges now manages the Cradock library. Mary still returns to the Churchland branch on the second and fourth Tuesdays from 6 to 8 p.m. to direct the writers’ group. She tells me one of the group members was recently awarded an honorable mention in a writers’ contest and that a few have self-published their writing. If you’re interested in joining the group, stop by or call Mary at 393-8759 for more information. Being without a home is hard enough, but the pain of homelessness during the holidays compounded by domestic violence is tragic. The Help and Emergency Response (H.E.R.) shelter needs folks willing to assist with their Adopt-a-Family and After Care programs. Both programs use a wish list to provide necessities for children up to age 17 who live in the shelter or who have moved on with their families but are still helped by the agency’s support groups and home visits. The wish list has each child’s sex, age, clothing size and toy/gift preference. Executive director Sandra Becker tells me the shelter has plenty of non-perishable food, and that gift cards for perishables are appreciated so they can present families with an array of food. Sandra says she often has to remind moms to list a few items for themselves, as they are more likely to insist that they are just happy that their kids are taken care of. Because of the confidential nature of the business, the families cannot meet their benefactors for a face-to-face thank you, but each child does write a thank-you note so donors know the items are received. If you can help, contact program coordinator Kim Deerfield at 485-1445 or kim@hershelter.com

Do you have any unusual plans for the holidays? Contact me at 717-0628 or pamelawrites@hotmail.com to share them with our neighbors.

ADVISORY: Users are solely responsible for opinions they post here and for following agreed-upon rules of civility. Comments do not reflect the views of The Virginian-Pilot or its Web sites. Comments are automatically checked for inappropriate language, but readers might find some comments offensive or inaccurate. If you believe a comment violates our rules, click the "Report Violation" link below the comment.

Charity + bowl = winning combo

The 2009 Charity Bowl football game was a smashing success. The legendary game, played since 1968 and made up of former local football players, raised more than $7,000 for the Pilot’s Joy Fund to provide Christmas toys for children who would not otherwise have them. This year, the contest featured two games. Game 1 was played Thanksgiving morning at ODU’s Powhatan field and won by the Southeastern District. The Beach/Eastern District won Game 2 a week later at the Virginia Beach Sportplex. Organizer Ray Potter explained that the city of Virginia Beach offered the stadium for the second game, citing a desire to support their efforts and give back to the community. Until an interruption last year, the game had been played in Virginia Beach. The amazing thing about this game is that everyone, from the players, coaches, band members and vendors, buys a $5 ticket to participate, and the players sell blocks of tickets. Ray joked that even Santa Claus - who helped with the coin toss- paid $5 to get in. My family thoroughly enjoyed ourselves and the Charity Bowl game is our new Thanksgiving tradition.

The Portsmouth waterfront will be transformed this weekend by the Olde Towne Holiday Music Festival. The first seven blocks of High Street will come alive with performances, children’s activities, re-enactors in period attire, carolers and strolling characters. Santa Claus will arrive by fire boat at High Street Landing at 5:30 p.m., then join a parade in a horse and buggy to the Courthouse Galleries .  The choruses of Churchland Elementary and Churchland High will perform on a stage at the corner of High and Court streets. The elementary school will begin at 2:50 p.m. and the high school will sing at 3:25.  Churchland Academy and Churchland Middle choruses will entertain on the steps of the Courthouse Galleries at 1:40 p.m. and 3:25 p.m., respectively. The  musical tribute to the holiday season will have events will all day.

For more than 30 years, Your Corner faith communities have come together for an annual Thanksgiving service. Members of Green Acres Presbyterian, St. Andrew Lutheran, St. Christopher’s Episcopal, Temple Sinai, Aldersgate UMC, Park View Christian, Churchland Baptist, St. Therese Catholic, Covenant UMC, Centenary UMC and Church of the Resurrection gathered Nov. 22 to worship, visit and help the less fortunate. Each year a different church hosts this  Churchland Interfaith Council . This year St. Andrew Lutheran at 4811 High St .  served a soup supper before the evening service. Pastor Walt Hunting of Green Acres Presbyterian tells me it was a wonderful evening. The evening’s offering was given to a local community organization and world outreach missions.

Coldwell Banker Professional at 3210 Academy Ave . has that new-car smell. First, the office has a fresh new look with a warm and inviting environment. The business also has a new manager, Harriet Beachum Sadler. The Western Branch woman is a lifelong resident who attended both Wilson and Churchland high schools. She has been in the real estate business for more than 23 years, in management since 2003 and is licensed in both Virginia and North Carolina. Amy Holloway is the new office administrator and together with Harriet is filling the office with enthusiastic agents and great energy. Both say they are proud to be with a company that has been in business for more than 100 years.  Drop by or call them at 484-4400.  

Attention crafters. There’s still time to reserve a table at River Shore Baptist Church’s second  Christmas bazaar, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. this Saturday. Organizer Deborah Littlefield tells me they have room for a few more vendors. They’ve reached their limit for handcrafted jewelry, but retailers and those who hand-make other items are welcome. Last year’s efforts raised $500 for a local ministry. This year they plan to help families in need. The event will also feature pictures with Santa from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The cost is $5 . The organizers have reached out to the 34 churches of the Portsmouth Baptist Association . Whether buying, selling or just hanging out, all are welcome. River Shore Baptist Church is at 4510 River Shore Road. Call 686-1225 for more information.

Thanks for sharing your news. Contact me at 717-0628 or pamelawrites@hotmail.com.

ADVISORY: Users are solely responsible for opinions they post here and for following agreed-upon rules of civility. Comments do not reflect the views of The Virginian-Pilot or its Web sites. Comments are automatically checked for inappropriate language, but readers might find some comments offensive or inaccurate. If you believe a comment violates our rules, click the "Report Violation" link below the comment.

Truckers football team made playoffs again

The Churchland Truckers recently met the Great Bridge Wildcats in the Eastern Region Division 5 high school football quarterfinals. After being washed out by the nor’easter, the game was rescheduled and held at ODU’s Powhatan Field. Craig Brooks scored the Truckers’ first touchdown, while Johntae Outten caught a 19-yard pass in the end zone. In the end, it was the final three minutes that decided the game, as Great Bridge scored a 36-yard field goal with no time remaining. I wouldn’t feel too bad for Churchland, though. This is third-year coach Cedric Cradle’s second trip to the quarterfinals and he has every intention of returning next year. 

Mothers of preteens are familiar with the popular American Girl dolls. They also know how expensive their clothing and accessories are. My Gracie has two and my husband jokes that outfitting them requires a bank loan. Enter Cathy Heimer. When she bought one of the dolls for her daughter, she realized she could easily make those clothes. I saw her handiwork at the Church of the Resurrection’s recent Christmas bazaar and was impressed. She also makes custom doll clothing. I saw a few dolls with high school logos which she were a big hit with cheerleaders. Call Cathy at 638-3228.

If you plan to craft jewelry for gifts this year or want to make a few things for yourself, let Beadworkz help. The store at 3258 Academy Avenue near Blockbuster Video is having a trunk sale until Christmas, with discounted semi-precious stones and pearls. They have lots of unusual items for one-of-a-kind pieces. If you need help, just ask. Better yet, sign up for a class. Call 483-7800.

It’s been nearly a year since a fire destroyed one of the buildings of the Taylor Shoppes on Tyre Neck Road. The businesses have all eventually rebounded.  Larry Betterton told me the fire was devastating for his company and that he was left with only ashes and his faith in God. “We were used to helping others build. We never dreamed we’d be in that situation,” he said. I’m glad Betterton Home Improvement is still serving Your Corner for room additions, sun rooms, windows and siding. Call them at 483-1640 or visit www.bettertonhomeimprovements.com.  

Contact me at pamelawrites@ hotmail.com or 717-0628 if you have news you’d like to share.

ADVISORY: Users are solely responsible for opinions they post here and for following agreed-upon rules of civility. Comments do not reflect the views of The Virginian-Pilot or its Web sites. Comments are automatically checked for inappropriate language, but readers might find some comments offensive or inaccurate. If you believe a comment violates our rules, click the "Report Violation" link below the comment.