Well done, Nottoway!
Dear Sir:
I want to express my gratitude to Nottoway Allies for Paws, Inc., Nottoway CAReS, and the faithful volunteers who sponsored the 2025 BINGO fundraiser on Saturday, November 8th.
I was amazed by the planning, organization, and dedication that went into this event.
The door prizes, “egg prizes,” raffle ticket prizes, game prizes, and concessions were top notch! Many hours had been spent seeking gift cards, gift certificates, and prizes of high quality.
Each bingo game was played fairly, and efforts were in place to accommodate multiple winners. It was evident that there had been countless hours of planning involved in this fundraiser!
I applaud these organizations and Nottoway County for working so diligently to provide a new shelter for helpless animals.
Congratulations!
Diane Beasley
Amelia
Let’s help every child shine
Dear Sir:
November marks National Adoption Awareness Month, a time to celebrate families formed through adoption and to raise awareness about the thousands of children and teens across Virginia—and the nation—who are waiting for permanent, loving homes.
At Shineforth, formerly known as UMFS, we believe every child deserves a safe, stable, and nurturing environment where they can thrive. Our mission is rooted in the belief that all children are uniquely created and deserve to be seen, heard, and supported.
For over a century, we’ve worked alongside families, social workers, and community partners to ensure that youth in foster care—especially those with complex needs—find the unconditional love and lifelong connection they deserve.
Adoption is not just a legal process; it’s a journey of healing, hope, and belonging. This month, we honor the courageous youth who continue to hope for a forever family, the adoptive parents who open their hearts and homes, and the professionals who walk alongside them every step of the way.
We also recognize that older youth, sibling groups, and children with special needs are often overlooked in the adoption process. National Adoption Awareness Month is a call to action—to learn, to advocate, and to consider how each of us can play a role in ensuring that no child grows up without the support of a permanent family.
To learn more about how you can support adoption and foster care in Virginia, visit us at: www.shineforth.org
Together, we can help every child shine.
Holly Coates
Shineforth (formerly UMFS)
Regional Director, South and
and West Region: Farmville,
South Hill, Lynchburg
Setting a poor example
Dear Sir:
Considering that the Board of Supervisors has disapproved the sale of Burkeville Elementary School, it is my opinion that their decision was influenced by the many citizens who spoke with knowledge and eloquence about their wishes.
However, when we are unable to speak calmly and respectfully—without hostility or personal attacks—we lose credibility. Unfortunately, I believe this reflects the recent behavior of Mr. Outlaw, a member of the School Board.
Mr. Outlaw reportedly confronted a private citizens at his home, speaking in a disrespectful manner because of a difference of opinion. As a member of Nottoway County School Board, Mr. Outlaw represents not only our school division but also our children.
We must ask ourselves—is this the example we want to set for our youth?
I understand that guilt in a legal sense hasn’t been determined, but the School Board also has a responsibility to uphold standards of conduct and protect the trust of the community.
When a board member is charged with Trespassing and of verbally abusing a private citizen, that behavior — regardless of the legal outcome — reflects on the entire board. Many governing bodies have codes of ethics that address conduct separate from guilt.
Taking reasonable action — such as a review, censure, or acknowledgment of the seriousness of the situation — isn’t about declaring someone guilty, it’s about affirming that the board expects respectful, professional behavior from its members. That protects both the community and the board’s integrity.
Carolyn A. Davis
College Road
Blackstone
Plant seeds today for bright future
Dear Sir:
Be encouraged today and know that whatever you are doing now, you are building a resume for tomorrow.
In 2007, I took a position that was advertised as a cheerleader for Blackstone. My family and I had moved here from Chesterfield County, and it afforded me an opportunity to work locally and spend more time with my young children.
In many ways, it was a labor of love because I enjoyed those years and got to rub elbows with the business owners and the local government as well.
We accomplished a lot during the eight years from 2007-2015, but the richest part of the experience was all those relationships and connections that were established.
Fast forward to 2025 and my name had not been in print or discussed publicly since my departure, so I thought I was off-the-radar as I settled into the solitude of retirement.
Little did I know that while not mentioned, apparently I was far from forgotten. Today, I am amazed to be serving again as the lead cheerleader for Blackstone in the position of mayor!
I hope my story will inspire someone. Wherever you are in life right now, know that people are watching you, too. Realize that every relationship you make is a bridge for the future and a foundation that you are building on.
And finally, know that I’m excited about your future because you are destined for great things! Have a wonderful day and be encouraged to know your future is built on the foundation you are laying today.
Lafayette Dickens
Brunswick Avenue
Mayor, Town of Blackstone
Mighty sensitive if you ask me
Dear Sir:
Well, well, well. The Councilman At-Large says criticism doesn’t bother him and that’s he’s trying to make Blackstone great — but how much has he made from the Town of Blackstone?
He’s saying he put up millions in Blackstone. I say show up or shut up and the same to his good buddy and defender, Chris from Los Angeles.
Like I’ve said, it’s time to drain the swamp. I can’t wait until Tractor Supply comes right there on the edge of “Nashville.” And by the way, I believe the ballot box is rigged.
El Presidente´, you could never walk in my shoes. I guess the truth hurts and feathers are getting ruffled.
Sam Mordan
Jetersville
Blackstone taxpayer
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