Families of inmates will benefit from reduced video visitation costs within the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC), as announced by Assisting Families of inmates (AFOI). Starting January 1, 2025, the cost will decrease from 20 cents per minute to 15 cents, with future reductions planned for July 1, 2025, when the rate will drop to 12 cents. This initiative aims to strengthen the connections between inmates and their families, which is seen as integral to successful rehabilitation efforts.
Chad Dotson, Director of VADOC, emphasized the importance of affordable video visitation, stating, “Access to video visitation with friends and loved ones is a crucia component of successful reentry.” He thanked AFOI and ViaPath Technologies for their partnership and support. Fran Bolin, Executive Director of AFOI, noted, “Reducing costs associated with visitation has been a priority of AFOI’s since program inception.”
AFOI, founded in 1978, specializes in serving families impacted by incarceration. The organization has offered video visits across Virginia since 2010 and expanded its services to allow for visits from home as late as 2019. Bolin expressed pride over the continual expansion and cost reduction of the program, highlighting the strong emphasis on maintaining valuable family ties.
Turning to local athletics, Powhatan High School's Gavin Utley ended his junior wrestling season at the Class 4 State Championships. Utley faced Sawyer Jones of Woodgrove High School and finished as the runner-up in the 144-pound weight class. Reflecting on his performance, Utley stated, “You start having some regrets if you didn’t accomplish what you wanted to.” Following the season's conclusion, Utley prepared for his senior year by focusing on building muscle and adjusting to a higher weight class.
His preparation has yielded success, as he currently boasts 18 wins and only 2 losses at the 150-pound level, aiming to find balance between technique and strength. His 100th match milestone was celebrated at Powhatan High School, where family and friends cheered him on during his victory by pin against Eastern View.
Utley’s growth as a wrestler has drawn praise from his coaches. Head coach Jonathan Tanaka remarked, “I think it speaks to the consistency of his career.” Utley attributes his technical success to careful observation of opponents rather than aggression. He indicated the importance of preparation and adaptability as key factors of his strategy on the mat.
On community safety initiatives, the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is inviting organizations to apply for highway safety grants aimed at reducing fatalities on state roadways. The grants are directed toward nonprofits, colleges, and law enforcement agencies working on programs to combat unsafe driving behaviors.
Examples of past grant-funded initiatives include efforts by the Christopher King Foundation to promote teen driver safety and campaigns by Substance Abuse Free Environment Inc. to change community attitudes around impaired driving. These projects highlight the importance of community involvement and proactive measures to promote safety.
Beneath this backdrop of community focus, the Powhatan Rotary Club has recently recognized Larry Brown and Sandy Prokopchak as the organization’s January Rotarians of the Month. Brown, having been with the Rotary since its inception, has provided mentorship for the local Interact Club, emphasizing the importance of leadership skills. Prokopchak’s service and volunteer efforts have also earned her recognition, particularly for her role during the Field of Honor event.
Meanwhile, the local firefighter community marks progress as several firefighters completed the Virginia Department of Fire Programs Fire Instructor I course, enhancing their skills to educate future generations. Notable graduates include Daniel DeHart and Adam Jones from Fire Company 2, as well as Erik Edwards and others from Fire Company 1.
Looking forward, Powhatan-Goochland CASA is seeking partners for its upcoming CASA Community Challenge event scheduled for April 26, 2025. This initiative encourages local businesses to engage with the community through interactive challenges, creating awareness for CASA’s mission.
Finally, the Powhatan County Board of Supervisors is forming a Housing Affordability Study Steering Committee to address local housing concerns. Interested community members can apply to participate, aiming to gather data and insights for solutions on improving housing conditions within the county. Applications should be submitted by January 22 for consideration.