The Mechanicsville-Ashland Local – 05/24/2023

Hanover softball rebuilds culture while remaining undefeated

Kinser named Beginning Teacher of the Year

COMMUNITY REPORT

Hannah Kinser, a third grade teacher at John M. Gandy Elementary School (JGES), has been named the 2022-23 Hanover County Public Schools (HCPS) Beginning Teacher of the Year.

“It is such an honor! It truly has shown me that hard work really does pay off. I am not good at talking about myself, but I can recognize that I do much more than teach the Standards of Learning,” said Kinser, a Virginia Commonwealth University alumna. “I try to put 100% into the relationships with my students and their families. This along with making learning fun, engaging, and equitable can be exhausting. Being recognized makes all the hard work feel worth it and like I am making a difference!”

Dr. Michael Gill, Superintendent of Schools, made the announcement on Thursday, May 11 at a JGES staff meeting, surprising Kinser, an HCPS alumna, in front of her family, co-workers, and even Amy Williams, a former HCPS principal who taught Kinser when she was in elementary school and helped inspire her to become a teacher.

“It has been so rewarding to be able to work in the county I grew

Strawberry Faire Scholarship Committee makes big announcement

have loved it. Being able to give back to the community in any way makes me happy, but especially being able to do so in my classroom!”

John M. Gandy Elementary School principal Leigh Finch said Kinser is a “natural educator.”

“She develops relationships with students and all other stakeholders including parents, support staff, instructional coaches, and siblings! Through these relationships she is able to reach every single student she teaches,” Finch said. “Ms. Kinser excels equally at meeting her students’ needs –both academically and emotionally. Ms. Kinser reflects on every lesson she delivers and constantly seeks to improve her teaching. We are grateful to have her as part of the Gandy family!”

Coyotes in Hanover? Yes, one study finds

DR. RICHARD GROOVER

Contributing Writer

Have you seen a coyote in Central Virginia? In the last 50 years Virginia has seen a new wildlife resident. The coyote, Canis latrans, is a remarkable case of survival and adaptability, but they are a hated species for some pet and livestock owners. Dealing with them can be difficult.

up in. I went to school in Mechanicsville and was always volunteering on that side of the county,” she

said. “Getting my job at Gandy has allowed me to become familiar with the western side of Hanover and I

Each year, HCPS selects one new teacher for this distinguished award who exhibits several qualities, such as: being inspirational, poised, articulate, and knowledgeable; exceptionally skilled and dedicated; respected and admired by students, parents, and colleagues; and actively and meaningfully involved in their school and community.

—Submitted by Hanover County Public Schools

The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources reports that a conservative estimate of coyotes in Virginia is 50,000. Some people have seen them for brief moments. Many say they have heard them howling at night. Some citizens report the disappearance of small pets. Farmers are seen small livestock like chicken

PHOTO COURTESY OF HANOVER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS Hanover County Public Schools 2023 Beginning Teacher of the Year Hannah Kinser, right, shares a moment with Amy Williams, a former HCPS teacher and principal. Williams taught Kinser when she was in elementary school and helped inspire her to become a teacher.

A big announcement for Strawberry Faire’s scholarship program

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

Thanks to a significant donation from the Hometown Family Education Fund, the Ashland Strawberry Faire’s scholarship program was given a big boost this year.

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Todd Rogers of RCI Builders and Hometown Realty is the leader of this fund, and thanks to this partnership, the Faire was able to increase the scholarship amounts from $600 to $1,000 per scholarship. Rogers has committed to funding the scholarship program through 2026.

Donors to the scholarship program will now be known as “Golden Rule” donors

in honor of Mr. Roger’s late mother who believed in treating others as one wants to be treated. Thank you, Hometown Family Education Fund!

The 2023 Golden Rule Doners are Hometown Family Education Fund, Louis and Ginger Brooking and Elizabeth Mason. For more information, visit the Faire’s website at www.ashlandstrawberryfaire.com

Upcoming Events:

ASHLAND STRAWBERRY FAIRE , INC.

The 2023 strawberry Faire scholarship winners joined ashland mayor steve Trivett and some of the Faire sponsors at the May 5 scholarship/sponsors event held at the Hanover arts & activities Center.

MECHANICSVILLE — ASHLAND LOCAL PICK UP LOCATIONS

Mechanicsville — 23111

360 Coin Laundry & Cleaners , 7040 Mechanicsville

Tpke.

Truist — Lee davis, 7016 Mechanicsville Tpke.

Books Beads & More, 8106 Mechanicsville Tpke.

Colonial Pharmacy, 7510 Mechanicsville Tpke.

dorns Body & Paint, 8190 Mechanicsville Tpke.

essex Bank, 6316 Mechanicsville Tpke.

FCL Favor Christian Life, 6501 Mech Tpke, ste 101

Gus’ Italian Café, 7358 Bell Creek Road

Hanover Cleaners, 8092 Mechanicsville Tpke.

HealthLink Chiropractic Center, 7347 Bell Creek Road

Hometown Realty, 7240 Lee davis Rd, suite 200

Kroger, 6335 Mechanicsville Tpke.

Lee davis B & P, 7051 Mechanicsville Tpke.

Lee davis Pharmacy, 7016 Lee Park Road

205 England Street

Ashland, VA 23005

Give us a call: (804) 401-7007

Book Club: The Next Chapter

May 24 - May 25 at 7pm

The highly anticipated sequel follows four best friends as they take their book club to Italy for the fun girls trip they never had

Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse

June 1 - June 2 at 7pm

June 3 at 2pm & 7pm

June 4 at 12pm

June 7 at 7pm

June 9 at 7pm

June 10 at 2pm & 7pm

10AM Toddler Takeover!

June 10 at 10am (Free Event)

For ages 1 month to 6 years, 1 hour of cartoons & family friendly fare! Concessions will be available & theatre lights remain on.

Purchase tickets & see upcoming events at: ashlandtheatre.org

Little Bean Coffee Co., 7032 Mechanicsville Tpke.

Mechanicsville drug store, 8077 Mechanicsville

Tpke.

Mechanicsville Library, 7461 sherwood Crossing

Place

Primis Bank (Mechanicsville), 8123 Mechanicsville

Tpke.

TGI Friday’s, 8100 Creighton Parkway

The Ville, 7526 Mechanicsville Tpke.

Treats and Treasures, 5912 Cold Harbor Road

Village Bank (Old Mech), 8051 Mechanicsville Tpke. West store, 4225 Mechanicsville Tpke.

Mechanicsville — 23116

atlee Branch Library, 9212 Rutlandshire drive

Balducci Realty & Builders, 10173 Chamberlayne Road

Bell Creek Vet., 8310 Bell Creek Road

dominion Women’s Health, 8239 Meadowbridge Road

Hogg Professional Building, 9137 Chamberlayne Road

KidMed, 8356 Bell Creek Road

Owens and Minor, 9120 Lockwood Blvd

Progressive dental, 8417 n Run Medical drive

Pulmonary assoc. Richmond, 7497 Right Flank Road

Primis Bank (Kings Charter), 9495 Charter Gate

drive Valero (atlee & sliding Hill Rds.), 10030 sliding Hill Road

Ashland- 23005 ashland Library, 201 s.Railroad ave.

ashland Police dept., 601 england street

ashland Town Hall, 101 Thompson street

ashland Visitor Center,112 n. Railroad ave.

Cross Brothers Grocery, 107 south Center street

Hanover Community service, 12300 Washington

Hwy.

Hanover Parks and Rec, 13015 Taylor Complex Lane

Henry Clay shopping Center, Rt. 54

Rise n shine diner, 10372 Leadbetter Road

sheetz/ashland, 12341 n. Washington Hwy.

sheetz/Leadbetter dr, 10037 sliding Hill Road

skateland, 516 n. Washington Hwy.

Village Bank, 10035 sliding Hill Road, #101

Ashland — 23059

aw shucks Country store, 6100 Pouncey Tract Road

Montpelier — 23192

Fas Mart, 16575 Mountain Road

Food Lion, 16615 Mountain Road

Montpelier Library, 17205 sycamore Tavern Lane

Montpelier Pharmacy, 17128 Mountain Road

Virginia Family Practice, 15028 Brown Pleasants Road

Glen Allen — 23059

aw shucks Country store, 6100 Pouncey Tract Road

essex Bank /Va Center, 9951 Brook Road

Aylett — 23009

Primis Bank- Central Garage, 20 Commerce Lane

Hanover — 23069

Hanover County admin Bldg, 7516 County Complex

Road

Hanover Co sheriff’s Office, 7522 County Complex Road

Hanover Branch Library, 7527 Library drive

Hanover Post Office, 13228 Hanover Courthouse Rd

Pamunkey Regional Jail, 7240 Courtland Farm Road

Wickham Bldg., 7515 County Complex Road

King William — 23086

Citgo Route 360 and 30, 5033 RichmondTappahannock Hwy.

Valero (King William), 12132 King William Road

One stop Market, 2185 Richmond-Tappahannock

Hwy.

Manquin — 23106

Manquin Post Office, 2171 Richmond Tappahannock

M & M Pizza — B&P station, 1418 RichmondTappahannock Hwy.

Studley — 23162

studley store, 5407 studley Road

Atlee PTSA hosting post-prom event

COMMUNITY REPORT

The Atlee Parent, Teacher, Student Association (PTSA) is pleased to announce that they will be hosting a postprom activity for Atlee juniors and seniors on June 3 from 10 p.m. until 2 a.m. This event will be held at the Bowlero Mechanicsville and is supported in partnership with Hanover Cares. The event will include unlimited bowling, arcade and billiards, snacks and prizes and giveaways for participants. Bowlero Corporation is a local, Hanover business that offers bowling and league

activity for the Hanover community at large.

This event will be open to all juniors and seniors, whether they attend the prom or not, and will be a safe, enjoyable opportunity for students to gather and spend some additional time with their friends without having to do so in an unsafe environment. Attendees will have access to unlimited bowling, an arcade, a pool, food and beverages and even giveaways.

Atlee PTSA is currently accepting additional sponsorships from the community. They are also happy to accept

items from our local business partners as prizes for this event. If your business is interested in supporting this event in any way, please contact atleehospitality@gmail. com for more information. Each sponsorship will support keeping the cost of attending this event for students at $5 as an add-on to their prom ticket. The more sponsorships they receive the more students they can help participate.

submitted by the atlee Parent, Teacher, student association

Hanover BOS recognizes employees

The Hanover County Board of Supervisors on May 10 recognized nearly 100 Hanover County Government employees for their length of service, including one employee with 40 years of service to the public: Mike Whitley with the Department of Public Utilities.Whitley has been with the department almost since its inception and is its’ longest serving employee. He started with Public Utilities in 1982 as an operator-in-training at the Doswell Water Treatment Plant. In 1988 he moved to field operations and in 1993 was promoted Superintendent of Field Operations, the position he holds today.

“Mike’s professionalism and dedication is recognized by his co-workers and many others,” said Human Resources Director Catey Dickensheets from information provided by Director Steven Herzog. “He was nominated by the Virginia Department of Health and received EPA’s Region Three’s Professional Operator Excellence Award. In addition to being a great superintendent and co-worker, Mike is an outstanding musician and regularly charms listeners with his bluegrass talent.”

The accomplishments, traits and interests of each employee were recognized with similar remarks and Board of Supervisors Chair Canova Peterson and County Administrator John A. Budesky were among those congratulating the employees for their service. Four employees were recognized for 35 years of service, all with the Sheriff’s Office: David Barton, Leonard Dean, William Shaw and Michael Tiller. Eight employees were recognized for 30 years of service: Cheryl Buchanan of Emergency Communications; Kenny Epling of the Sheriff’s Office; David Garber of Public Utilities; Sheila Hall

and Amyjean Johnson of the Commissioner of Revenue’s Office; Edwin Hart of Public Works; Vicki Holtzlander of Parks & Recreation; and Amy Thomas of the Community Services Board.

Twenty-two employees were recognized for 25 years of service: Joseph Alt and David Guyton of General Services; Lonnie Carter, Donald David, Karen Godfrey, Kevin Laplaga, Paul Maes, Patrick Murphy, Daniel Pittman and Sean Smith of the Sheriff’s Office; Kimberlee Daniels of Planning; Shirley Edwards of Building Inspection; Ginny Ferguson and Cheryl Jackson of Social Services; Torrie Goodman and Rhonda Lowry of the Community Services Board; Iris Green and James Willett of the Pamunkey Regional Jail; Frances Hubbard of Community Resources; Becky Newcomb of Emergency Communications; and Jethro Piland and Jonathan Wingfield of Fire-EMS.

Recognized for 20 years of service were Chris Anderson, Troy Balderson, Jerome Stout and Jason Williams of Fire/ EMS; Donna Bowen of Planning; Melissa Carter and Rene Elder of the Commissioner of Revenue’s Office; Robert Eacho and Casey Lawrence of Emergency Communications; Craig Fortune, Albert Myers, Joseph Vidunas and Christopher Weldon of Public Works; Dana Gaskin and Robert Schilling of the Community Services Board; Thomas Gontkovic and Paul Duc of Public Utilities; Steven Haag, Kathleen Harvey, Arlicia Henley and Karen Hurd of Pamunkey Regional Jail; Michael Hazelwood of Parks & Recreation; James Leahey of Information Technology; Matthew Ratchford of the Sheriff’s Office; Harold Stills of Building Inspection; and Susan Webb of the Circuit Court Clerk’s Office.

Recognized for 15 years of

service were Daniel Angelidis, Nicholas Bond, Jason Bonifacio, Amanda Courtney, Stephen Crowe, Dennis Edwards, Donald Fein, Lilliane Fenner, Michael Finn, Matthew Gathright, Robert Hill, Norman Lee, Travis Six and Nicholas Wagner of the Sheriff’s Office; Erin Armentrout and Matthew Ellinghaus of Public Utilities; Joseph Armstrong, Dwayne Banks and Shannon Thweatt of Pamunkey Regional Jail; Colin Bunn, Robert Drake, Constantinos Kapataidakis, Brian Kincaid, Matthew Stainback and Walter Stephens of Fire/ EMS; Janet Byers of Human Resources; Ramon Chalkley and Shari Skipper of the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office; Jennifer Clarke and Julia Long of the Commissioner of Revenue’s Office; Darlene Dankos of the Treasurer’s Office; Matthew Eakin and Daricka Jones of Social Services; Sheilah Frattini of the Voter Registrar’s Office; Kelly Kirby of Planning; Ryan Maddux of the Community Services Board; and Constance Mills of Finance and Management Services. Peterson and Budesky thanked the employees.

“Our employees are our greatest asset and we are pleased to be able to honor you through this service program,” Peterson said.

Budesky noted that these employees collectively represented more than 2,000 years of service.

“I would put our employees up against anyone’s,” Budesky said. “The work you do goes above and beyond. All of you are ambassadors for Hanover County and I am proud to work with you.”

The Board of Supervisors annually recognizes its employees for their years of service with the County. Employees reaching at least 15 years of service receive a certificate and service pin.

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Hanover to host May 29 Memorial Day ceremony

COMMUNITY REPORT

Hanover County will honor those who gave their life in our nation’s military service with a Memorial Day ceremony at the Hanover Veterans Memorial on Monday, May 29 at 10 a.m. The Hanover Veterans Memorial is located at Hanover Wayside Park, 8225 Hanover Wayside Road.

LOCAL CALENDAR

SATURDAY, MAY 27

soundtracks concerts are held from 4 to 7 p.m., guests are invited to shop, dine, and play in downtown ashland while they enjoy the musical styles of local performers. Listeners can tune into the free outdoor music from nearby patio dining areas or even from a lawn chair in the pedestrian area. The concert is free, accessible, and open to the public at 102 south Railroad avenue. Learn more at ashlandVirginia.com/soundtracks.

FRIDAY, JUNE 2

ashland Fourth Fridays events will celebrate local artisans. dine downtown, listen to live music, and discover art you can’t find anywhere else at the first ashland Fourth Fridays event of the season from 5 to 8 p.m. in downton ashland. For more information visit www.ashlandvirginia.com/fourthfridays.

SATURDAY, JUNE 3

Cold Harbor Ruritan shrimp Festival will be held at 4 p.m. at Hanover/Cold Harbor Ruritan Park in Mechanicsville. Tickets are $40 each and can be purchased from Club members, West store, Bob’s Hair s hop and at the Hanover adult Center. Proceeds benefit the community.

The 41th annual ashland strawberry Faire will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Randolph-Macon College 500 Henry street in Historic ashland. enjoy arts & Crafts, Hanover in action Pavilion, Pet Pageant, BaRKing Lot, youth strawberry Pageant, Kid Zone, dunk Tank

Phillip Brashear will serve as the guest speaker. He is the son of Carl Brashear, late U.S. Navy Master Diver and subject of the major motion picture “Men of Honor.”

The event will also include the laying of the Memorial Wreath, the reading of names on new bricks added to the Veterans Memorial and music from the Ha-

nover Concert Band.

Dedicated in 2007, the Hanover Veterans Memorial honors Hanover military veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice in hostile action from World War I to the present day, and those who have or are currently serving in the Armed Forces.

—Submitted by Hanover County

and of course, strawberries! Rain or shine. Proceeds support area nonprofit groups and scholarships for Hanover County Public school students. Pet friendly.

SATURDAY, JUNE 10

Mechanicsville Baptist Church is hold a workshop, engaging Brain Change, Understanding dementia from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at 8016 atlee Road in Mechanicsville. This impactful learning event will be held in the Family Life Center behind the main church building. Become “dementia aware” and gain better understanding of brain changes that occur with alzheimer’s and other dementia related diseases. Light refreshments will be provided by dowda senior Consultants. sign-up at office@mechanicsvillebaptist. org or 804-746-7253 by Wednesday, May 31 with your name, phone number and the number of people planning to attend.

SATURDAY, JUNE 17

Hanover County Va naaCP Juneteenth Celebration will be held from noon to 5 p.m. at Pole Green Park, 8996 Pole Green Road in Mechanicsville. Fun activities are Car show with old cars, trucks. Bikes, corvettes & others. 3 on 3 Basketball Tournament for Kids & adults. Corn Hole Tournament for kids & adults. e mail hanovernaacp2@ gmail.com to participate. Honoring Hanover;s unsung hereos, Mr. Hosea Fox — Hanover’s Promoter, Mr. spencer Curtis — Hanover ‘s Black Volunteer Fire Leader from Coatesville, Brook s Brothers- 6

Hanoverian Veteran brothers, Jock Jones- 1st Hanoverian drafted into the nFL, The 8 students who integrated Patrick Henry & the former Lee-davis High school, now Mechanicsville High shool. Musical guests will be on stage. Vendor spots available to for profits (we reserve the right to deny permission if products don’t reflect our values & mission) email hanovemaacp2@ gmail.com for more information.

ONGOING

a re you the parent of a child with Type 1 diabetes? Parenting a teen with Type 1 diabetes in Hanover. We all understand how demanding this life is. Which is one of the reasons Tara Gray is setting up a meet and greet and a group for have monthly meetings. Please send an email to grays708@yahoo. com with your name and information if you would like to join. If you think you may have a drinking problem, aa can help. Visit aarichmond.org for meeting info in Hanover County and other areas or call the 24 hour hotline: 804-355-1212. Mechanicsville Churches emergency Functions One stop shop (MCeF Oss) is open for food, clothing and linens from 9:30 to 11 a.m. on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday and from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday at 7235 stonewall Parkway in Mechanicsville (rear parking lot). The shop is available for residents in the 23111 and 23116 zip codes with identification and proof of residency.

Please see CALENDAR, Page 10

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OPINION

To this day, some war stories still confound

JACK AGNEW

Contributing Writer

One of my good friends in the late seventies was a former Marine infantry sergeant named Terry. He was leading a sixman squad on night patrol in Vietnam, when they were fired on from a village, with a machine gun. They were surrounded by rice paddies, and hiding behind the gravestones in a small cemetery on a little knoll outside of the village. They were exposed and had basically no cover. Rice paddies obviously being flat as water, and Terry was a great big guy.

The rules of engagement that Henry Kissinger negotiated (and the DC politicians agreed to) included maps designating certain villages as “friendly”, and therefore it was against policy for the US to hit them. Terry radioed for an air strike on the village, but the operator said, “I can’t, it’s a friendly village.” You can imagine how Terry reacted, he went berserk. A different voice got on the phone and said, “Son, I’ll have you know you don’t talk to my radio operator like

Has America soured on the Royals?

JIM RIDOLPHI

Contributing Columnist

that. I’m a full-bird Marine colonel! Don’t use language like that!” Terry shouted, “I don’t care if you’re God Almighty! If you don’t hit that village with an air strike, I’m going to kill you with my bare hands if we live through this. THEY’RE FIRING ON US!”

He threw the radio away and hollered to his squad, “They’re not coming!”

During those years in the military, we had a grenade launcher that was lethal. You could put a grenade down a rat hole, it was really effective. Terry hollered to his grenadier, “I’m going to run forward and throw a grenade, and in the flash you better hit that gun, or we’re all dead!” He jumped up and went splashing through the rice paddies. Terry was 6’3” and weighed about 250, he was a big guy. Once he got to where he thought he was close enough, he planted his feet, threw a grenade, then heard a splash. He was going to try to throw two of them, so when he heard the splash, he thought he had dropped the second one.

Please see WAR, Page 13

There are few things in life more relaxing than a late July day lounging on a Nags Head Beach, and that’s where I found myself in July, 1981. Like many other local families, we chose a week at the beach as our summer vacation, and the Outer Banks still uncrowded and offered a certain allure with its pirate history and mysterious legacy.

But, on this day, the normally leisurely pace was disrupted by an excitement derived from an event taking place an ocean away, the marriage of Princess Diana and Prince Charles. And our day at the beach turned to a daylong almost voyeuristic peek at the Royal family through constant television coverage, and the pomp and circumstance of a royal wedding was

exciting.

Americans couldn’t get enough, and news of the wedding flooded the airwaves attracting a worldwide audience.

I contrast the mood of that occasion with the collective yawn expressed by most Americans as Prince Charles ascended to the throne recently. Early ratings revealed more Britains watched the late Queen’s funeral than the Coronation, and fewer Americans showed interest in what once a momentous event that attracted global attention.

That doesn’t mean the Brits didn’t make every effort to promote the event, spending a reported $125 million on the ceremony that attracted dignitaries from the Crown’s shrinking empire as well as official delegations from numerous countries. First

Lady Jill Biden represented her husband, a move that some equated to a snub from the American aristocracy, but White House officials claimed it was no more than a traditional diplomatic move. Turns out other American presidents have taken a pass on past coronations.

All of this doesn’t indicate that America’s bond with England is less than substantial, and we still watch with intrigue as the royal family continually makes headlines; but maybe were fed up with the more than pretentious lifestyle associated with the crowned ones coupled with the endless streams of controversy.

I heard a British commentator who explained Charles’ lack of embrace by the public by explaining he’s less

Please see ROYALS, Page 13

Heard but never seen: A twister tears through Hanover

VERONICA REARDON

Contributing Writer

Editor’s note: The following is part of a continuing series in which we ask readers to share a true story with us— any story—as long as it happened to them or a family member. Do you have a story to tell? Send it news@mechlocal.com.

We had been in a tornado watch all day. Big deal – I had been in these watches before, and nothing ever had

editorial & Business office and Mailing address: 8460 Times-dispatch Blvd. Mechanicsville, va 23116

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Toll free – (877) 888-0449 Fax – (804) 344-8746 online: richmond.com/community/mechanicsville-local

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happened. Arriving home from work a little past 5 p.m., I noticed as I walked along the sidewalk to my second level apartment that the air was extremely still, almost abnormally still, with a bit of haziness in the sky. It certainly was not the type of weather I had ever associated with a tornado.

Not long after this observation, I settled down on the sofa inside, ready to spend some time relaxing with a newspaper. Yet not much time

WE WANT TO PUBLISH YOUR ISSUE-DRIVEN LETTERS

The Local welcomes your signed letters to the editor on topics of interest to Mechanicsville and Hanover residents. Letters must include your address and a daytime telephone number. We reserve the right to edit letters. We do not guarantee that every letter received will be published. Letters reflect the opinions and positions of the writers and not The Mechanicsville-ashland Local.

send letters to: The Mechanicsville-ashland Local 8460 Times-dispatch Blvd. Mechanicsville, Va. 23116 Fax: (804) 344-8746 e-mail: editor@mechlocal.com

elapsed, just a few minutes at most, before the electricity went off. Strange – why would the power go out in a dead calm? (tiny warning bells begin in my head)

Trying to refocus on the paper, my mind was soon arrested by the Sound. Very sudden, very close. To me, it resembled the intense idling sound of a huge semi.

Please see TORNADO, Page 13

GIFFORD, Jean Turner

GIFFORD, Jean Turner, of Mechanicsville, died on May 15, 2023. She is survived by her husband, George Ray Gifford; two nieces, Katherine J. Kwolek of Winchester and Shannon B. Hauser; nephew, Robert W. Bryant; two great-nieces, Heather A. Kwolek of Leesburg and Melissa Wilkerson of Henrico; and two sisters in-law, Betty Hauser of Mechanicsville and Lynda Powell of North Chesterfield. Mrs. Gifford was a member of Shalom Baptist Church. Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, May 18 at the Mechanicsville Chapel of the Bennett Funeral Home, with the family to receive friends one hour prior to service. Interment followed in Westhampton Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Children’s Hospital, 2924 Brook Road, Richmond, Va. 23220.

OBITUARIES

DRINKARD, Janet Ann

DRINKARD, Janet Ann, 89, of Mechanicsville, passed away Monday, May 15, 2023. She was born in Indian Head, Md. on October 19, 1933 to the late Harold and Mary Mitchell Warder and was also preceded in death by her husband of 70 years, Charles Edward “Charlie” Drinkard. Janet is survived by four children, Mary Ann Vencill (Gene), Sherrie Taylor (Rich), John Drinkard (Cherry), and Mark Drinkard (Melissa); eight grandchildren, Brandon, Hunter, Nichole, Amanda, Christine, Sara, Rachel and Zack; and 11 great-grandchildren, Kaylee, Evelyn, Ellory, John Michael, Kacey Layne, Sadie, Emilia, Harvey, Lois, Lee, and Jim. She was an active member of Hope Community Church of the Nazarene, where she served as organist for many years, was a leader in children’s ministries, women’s ministries, and senior adult ministries. Janet was also an integral part in welcoming new members and planning meals for church events. She was a true gift from Heaven who touched countless lives and was a bright spot in the community. The family received friends from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the Mechanicsville Chapel of the Bennett Funeral Home, 8014 Lee-Davis Rd. Services were held 12 noon Friday, May 19, 2023 at Hope Community Church of the Nazarene, 8391 Atlee Rd., Mechanicsville, Va. 23116. Interment followed in Signal Hill Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hope Community Church of the Nazarene.

FIFER, Wayne Lee

FIFER, Wayne Lee, died on May 16, 2023. Born in Lynchburg, Virginia, the son of Samuel and Thelma Fifer, on August 17, 1937. He was preceded in death by his mother and father; sister, Dorothy “Dot” Brown; brother, Jerry Wallace Fifer; and nephew, Ricky Brown. He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Theresa Murray Fifer; and family, Dennis Wayne Fifer, Debra Lynn Fifer, Richard Wayne Fifer (Carol); his two special girls, Whitney Highlander (Josh) and Sara Moore (Alec); nieces, Brenda Woolard and Janice Bricker; as well as numerous other family members; and family friend, Amy Armstrong. Wayne enjoyed all sports, he drove race cars in his younger days at Moores Field, Langley and Strawberry Hills for Cinderella Cleaners (#88) and “Blue Burton’s” car #33. He then went on to coach for Mechanicsville Little League for over nine years. Wayne also refereed J.V. and H.S. basketball games in the Central Virginia area. Wayne started and ran WL Fifer Heating and Air Conditioning from 1978 until his retirement in 2002. Late 1984, he became a Mason, starting at #10 Lodge and transferred to #344 Washington Henry. He rose through the ranks and became Potentate of the Acca Temple in 2001. A visitation was be held on Tuesday, May 23, 2023 at Bennett’s Funeral Home, Mechanicsville, from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. There was a Masonic Service at 7 p.m. A private burial will take place in Mount Calvary Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Wayne’s memory to the Shriners Hospital for Children, donorrelations@shrinenet .org.

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Peace of mind: pre-planning takes the burden of making important decisions off of your loved ones during a difficult time

Why pre-pay your funeral? –

Financial assurance: pre-payment of your funeral through Bennett Funeral Home will render the costs associated with your final expenses inflation proof

– Why Bennett funeral home? –

Longevity: Bennett Funeral Home has been locally owned and operated since 1897. For over a century, Richmonders have turned to us with trust and confidence in their time of need.

TRAYLOR, Mary Edwards

TRAYLOR, Mary Edwards, 79, of Ashland, Va., died on Wednesday, May 17, 2023. She is survived by her husband, Arthur Linwood Traylor Jr. Mary was the youngest child of Charles G. Edwards Sr. and Katherine Heath Edwards (Ashland, Va.) and sister of Charles G. Edwards Jr. and Milton H. Edwards. She is a Hanover County native, graduate of Patrick Henry High School, valedictorian, class of ‘62, became a “jack of all trades” never limiting herself to one field of endeavor. She attended several academic institutions and trade schools to provide the necessary qualifications needed to switch career paths over the years; chairside

dental assistant certification, Red Cross first aid instructor, licensed real estate salesperson, tour director/public relations at a local pharmaceutical company, administrative assistant to the president of a local wholesale/distribution company, and part-time veterinarian assistant, to name a few. Mary loved all animals and had many special dogs and cats during her lifetime. She enjoyed sewing, crafting, and working in her flower and vegetable gardens. Her faith was very important to her, and she read, studied, and lived her life according to the Bible as closely as she could. She was a member of Mechanicsville Baptist Church, Mechanicsville, Va. Remains rest at Nelsen Funeral Home, 412 Washington Highway, Ashland, Va., where visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 24 from 6 to 8 p.m., and funeral service will be conducted on Thursday, May 25 at 11 a.m. followed by graveside service in the family section at Kenwood United Methodist Church Cemetery, 11208 Elmont Road, Ashland, Va. Online condolences and fond memories of Mary may be offered to the family on the Nelsen-Ashland Funeral Home website.

See more obituaries on pages 9 and 16

GURLEY, Jonathan William

GURLEY, Jonathan William, 40, of Winston Salem, N.C., passed away on Mother’s Day, May 14, 2023, from injuries he sustained in an ATV accident in Mechanicsville, Va. He is survived by his heartbroken parents, Emily and Tom Gurley of Mechanicsville; his brothers, Chris Gurley (Larissa) of Farmville and Joey Gurley of Mechanicsville; his grandmother, Angie Coppedge of Farmville; as well as a large number of aunts, uncles, cousins, a multitude of friends and teammates; and his precious kitty, Nala. Jon was born in Mechanicsville, Va. on August 30, 1982. He graduated with honors from Lee-Davis High School. He attended NASCAR Technical Institute, where he learned how to build race cars, followed by Pit School, where he learned to be on a Pit Crew as a Rear Tire Changer. Jon loved racing and everything involved with it. He started out as a changer at KHI, a NASCAR Truck team, owned by Kevin Harvick. He worked on a number of teams through the years, travelling the country to races, both as a changer and a fabricator. He worked for a number of years for Richard Childress Racing and then he finally found his happy place back with the truck series a few years ago, as a fabricator for Halmar-Friesen Race team. At the time of his death, he was happier than he had ever been. Jon loved anything that had to do with the outdoors, including wake surfing, snowboarding, hunting, fishing, skeet shooting, softball, hiking and camping. He was very active in Boy Scouts and obtained the rank of Eagle Scout when he was 18. He adored his family, especially his two brothers. He took his role of big brother very seriously. He also loved his friends and teammates with a passion, and discovered several years ago that he was a cat person when Nala chose him to be her guy. He will be missed by so very many people. Visitation was on Monday, May 22, 2023, from 2 to 4 and from 6 to 8 p.m. at Bennett Funeral Home in Mechanicsville. The service was held on Tuesday, May 23 at 11 a.m. at Bennett’s, followed by a celebration of Jon’s life at the East Hanover Volunteer Rescue Squad Building in Mechanicsville. If you are not able to attend the service, it can be viewed via livestream at https://www. reellyfeproductions.com/watch-live. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Jon’s name to the Hanover Humane Society or the East Hanover Volunteer Rescue Squad. Online condolences may be registered at www.Bennettfuneralhomes.com.

AVAILABLE in racks & Boxes

Food lion

16615 Mountain Road

Montpelier library

17205 Sycamore Tavern Lane

Montpelier Pharmacy

17128 Mountain Road

virginia Family Practice

15028 Brown Pleasants Road

Glen allen - 23059

aw shucks country store

6100 Pouncey Tract Road

essex Bank /va ctr 9951 Brook Road

ayleTT - 23009

Primis Bank 20 Commerce Lane

hanOveR - 23069

hanover county admin Bldg 7516 County Complex Road Hanover Co Sheriff’s Office 7522 County Complex Road

hanover Branch library

7527 Library Drive

Hanover Post Office

13228 Hanover Courthouse Rd

Pamunkey Regional Jail 7240 Courtland Farm Road

Wickham Bldg

7515 County Complex Road

KinG WilliaM - 23086

Understanding dementia workshop set for June 10

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

Engaging Brain Change

Understanding dementia workshop will be held on Saturday, June 10, from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at 8016 Atlee Road in Mechanicsville. This impactful learning event is free and will be held at Mechanicsville Baptist Church in the Family Life Center behind the main church building.

Become “dementia aware” and gain better understanding of brain changes that occur with Alzheimer’s and other dementia related diseases. Bring your questions and experiences as together we explore ways to support family and friends on the dementia care journey. You will learn the “why” behind the change in thinking and behavior you may observe in the person you care about and practice some strate-

gies and skills for better connecting and supporting a person living with brain change.

Presenter Missy Harden, MS, OTR/L, CDP, is a Certified Independent Positive Approach to Care Consultant and Trainer and NCCDP Certified Dementia Practitioner. Missy has extensive knowledge and training in dementia care, volunteers with Greater Richmond Alzheimer’s

Association and is passionate about educating and equipping others with skills to better care for family members with dementia.

Light refreshments will be provided by Dowda Senior Consultants. Sign-up at office@mechanicsvillebaptist.org or 804-7467253 by Wednesday, May 31 with your name, phone number and the number of people planning to attend.

Taylor Complex Lane

henry clay shopping center

Rt. 54

Rise n shine Diner 10372 Leadbetter Road

sheetz/ashland 12341 N. Washington Hwy.

sheetz/leadbetter Dr

Sliding Hill Road

skateland 516 N. Washington Hwy.

Bank

Sliding Hill Road, #101

MOnTPelieR- 23192

Fas Mart 16575 Mountain Road

citgo Route 360 and 30 5033 Richmond-Tappahannock Hwy.

valero (King William)

12132 King William Road One stop Market 2185 Richmond-Tappahannock Hwy.

Manquin- 23106

Manquin Post Office 2171 Richmond Tappahannock M & M Pizza - B&P station

Richmond-Tappahannock Hwy.

sTuDley - 23162

studley store 5407 Studley Road

Hanover County is working with residents, businesses, landowners and other community members to update its Comprehensive Plan. Called “envision Hanover,” the plan is the county’s long-range vision of Hanover over the next 25 years, addressing land use, housing, economic development and natural resources. It also provides guidance on where growth may be appropriate throughout the county and what that growth should look like. Hanover residents’ feedback will shape the Comprehensive Plan and decisions regarding growth, preservation and public investment for years to come. Based upon the feedback received, the project team has been working to identify key concepts related to land use, economic development and historic

resources. Residents will be able to share their ideas by participating with an in-person meeting or webinar, depending upon their schedules. The Hanover Board of supervisors will hold public work sessions on the Comprehensive Plan on July 26. The current schedule calls for the Planning Commission to hold a public hearing on the proposed update in august, with the board’s public hearing to take place a month later. For information on the planning process, and how you can participate, visit www. envisionhanover.com. you can also follow the process on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

SATURDAYS

Trinity Lutheran Church, ashland Campus, located at 11515 ashcake Road in ashland 2 miles west of U.s. 1, holds its church service at 5 p.m. with Pastor Rev. dr. Roy Minnix. Visit www.trinityrichmond.

net or call 804-270-9626.

SUNDAYS

all souls episcopal Church celebrates Holy eucharist Rite II at 9:15 a.m. at Messiah Lutheran Church at 8154 atlee Rd. in Mechanicsville. a nursery will be available for infants and toddlers. Katherine G. dougherty is the deacon in charge of all souls. Visit www. allsoulsva.org.

a Healing and Recovery ss Class meets at 9 a.m. at the Walnut Grove Baptist Church at 7046 Cold Harbor Rd. in Mechanicsville. The class is for adults 18 and over and is an extension of the northstar community that also meets at 6 p.m. Fridays at the church. The Christian 12 steps and Biblical wisdom are the basis of study and discussion to learn about God’s place in our lives. all are welcome. Contact 804746-5081 or contact Craig simpson at craigwgbc@gmail.com.

PHOTO COURTESY OF MECHANICSVILLE BAPTIST CHURCH annderstanding dementia workshop will be held from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at 8016 atlee Road in Mechanicsville. sign up before May 31.

LOCAL ARTIST’S WHIMSICAL WORK WILL BE ON DISPLAY AT LIBRARY

Mechanicsville resident Helen Ruiz will be the featured artist on display next month at the Pamunkey Regional Library in Mechanicsville. This painting, entitled “Outdoor seating” will be one of the works on display. Ruiz said she was inspired to paint it while listening to music and looking back on her childhood growing up in new york City.

Hanover

COMMUNITY REPORT

During busy hay season, motorists must use caution

COMMUNITY REPORT

To reduce the risk of roadway incidents, hay farmer Robert Janney sometimes chooses odd hours to move heavy equipment on rural roads, like an early Sunday morning.

“It’s no fun being out on a tractor while people flip you a bird because they think you’re in the way,” he said. “We’re all trying to make a living, and everybody’s in a hurry, but we need to share the road.” To literally make hay while the sun shines, time is of the essence, Janney continued.

“The farmer is trying to get from field to field or get their crop in the barn before it rains,” he explained. Meanwhile, motorists are hurrying to a ballgame or meeting

County

Hanover County recognized outstanding volunteers at a recent celebration at Atlee High School. The Spirit of Volunteerism ceremony highlighted individuals who spend countless hours helping their community.

“This event is a beautiful reminder of how blessed we are in Hanover County because of our volunteers, who go above and beyond each and every day to elevate the lives of others and make our community a great place to live,” County Administrator John A. Budesky said.

Judges awarded volunteers from nine organizations. Recipients included Girl Scouts, business owners and retirees. This is the 21st year for the Spirit of Volunteerism recognition.

The following volunteers were selected for 2023 Spirit of Volunteerism awards:

„ Blazer Heating, Air and Plumbing received the “Commitment to

loved ones for a meal. “A meal the farmer has most likely helped produce food for!” he added. “Just like their time matters to them, our crops are time sensitive to us.”

Peak growing conditions for hay mean motorists will see increased activity on Virginia’s rural roadways.

“To get forage quality in dry hay, you need to get it dried down completely, and quickly,” said Matt Booher, a Virginia Cooperative Extension crop and soil sciences agent in Rockingham County. “That’s the challenge. We tend to get scattered rain this time of year. And as forages mature and put out seed heads, the quality starts to drop pretty quickly. So that also puts you in a rush to get out and

mow the fields before they get too mature. It’s a short window of time.”

He added that many farmers are simultaneously planting row crops and spraying fields.

With the planting season in full swing, motorists are urged to respectfully share the road, said Dana Fisher, chairman of the Virginia Farm Bureau Federation Farm Safety Advisory Committee.

“Our food systems depend on transportation,” Fisher said. “As farmers are doing their part, motorists should take necessary precautions to ensure everybody reaches their destination safely.”

Janney, who has grown orchard grass fescue for feeder cattle for over 30 years, said heavy equipment didn’t utilize public

roadways as frequently when farmland was more contiguous. However, as development and land loss encroach on agricultural activities, motorists should expect to share the road with equipment.

He recalled a fatality in 2018, when a motorcyclist in a no-passing zone struck a farm tractor turning left into a private drive.

Visibility is key. “Slow down. Give space,” Janney advised.

“If I have a big baler behind me, I can’t see you,” he said. “If I’m getting ready to make a left turn and you’re impatient and whip out to pass me, we’re going to meet in the road, and it’s going to be a problem.”

submitted by Virginia Farm Bureau

honors volunteers at Spirit of Volunteerism celebration

Community Award.” The company offers HVAC replacement or repairs at no cost for low-income homeowners. It also provides heating, air and plumbing materials to benefit Habitat for Humanity. The Hanover Chamber of Commerce, sponsor of this award category, will be making a financial contribution to Hanover and King William Habitat for Humanity.

„ Paul Warren received the “Spirit of Dedication” award, given to a volunteer aged 60 or over. Paul has volunteered with the Patrick Henry YMCA for six years. Last year, he served 223 hours as a front door greeter and monthly food pantry volunteer. The category’s sponsor, Covenant Woods, will be making a financial contribution to the Patrick Henry YMCA in Paul’s honor.

„ Tim and Joanna Etheredge received the “Spirit of Family” award. Tim and Joanna are leaders of the Enon Church Feed Senior Outreach program that has served the Stud-

ley community since 2019. The category’s sponsor, Ace Hardware & Equipment, will be making a financial contribution to Enon United Methodist Church Feed Senior Outreach Program in honor of Tim and Joanna.

„ Frank and Mae Antkievicz received the “Spirit of Inspiration” award for individuals who have volunteered for 20 years or more within a specific organization. Fran and Mae lead the English as a Second Language program at Walnut Grove Baptist Church, which has taught more than 420 students and prepared 30 individuals for American citizenship. Award sponsor Grace Community Church will honor Frank and Mae with a contribution to the English as a Second Language program at Walnut Grove Baptist Church.

„ Anne Geddy Cross received a “Spirit of One” award. Anne has volunteered innumerable hours for her community, serving on more than 21

board and committees and holding leadership positions in more than half of these. In her honor, award sponsor Rappahannock Electric Cooperative (REC) will be making a financial contribution to the Hanover Museum of History & Culture.

„ Becky McCully of Patrick Henry High School received the “Spirit of One” award for Hanover County Public Schools. Becky has served as president of the school’s theatre and choir boosters since the fall of 2021. REC will be making a financial contribution to Patrick Henry High School Theater Boosters in honor of Becky.

„ The “Spirit of Team” award was presented to the Tools 4 Teachers Community Program. This program targets donations of school supplies for middle school students. The program began in 2021 and in just one year, provided $15,000 in supplies. In honor of Tools 4 Teachers, award sponsor Copy Cat Printing will be making a financial contribution to

support the work of the Mechanicsville Churches Emergency Functions (MCEF).

„ Kayla Richardson won the “Spirit of Youth” award. Kayla is a regular volunteer at Laurel Meadow Elementary School, volunteering more than 40 hours last summer helping prepare for the school year. The category’s sponsor, Virginia Credit Union, will be making a financial contribution to Laurel Meadow Elementary School to continue the outreach Kayla has created.

„ Girl Scout Troop #5276 won the “Spirit of Youth Team” award. Troop members Katherine Alexander, Ashley Godwin and Lauren Hoehl spent nearly 150 hours last summer to renovate the child witness room for Hanover Juvenile and Domestic Violence Court. Virginia Credit Union will make a financial contribution to Hanover Youth Service Council in honor of these youth.

ARTWORK BY HELEN RUIZ

Georgetown School custodian named Support Employee of the Year

COMMUNITY REPORT

Selena Watkins, the custodian at The Georgetown School (TGS), has been selected as the 2022-23 Hanover County Public Schools (HCPS) Support Employee of the Year.

Dr. Michael Gill, Superintendent of Schools, made the surprise announcement on Thursday, May 11 at TGS in front of other members of the school’s faculty and staff, as well as School Board Office staff members. Watkins is in her fourth year with HCPS and first with TGS. In addition to serving TGS, Watkins often as-

Volunteers

From 11

“The volunteer efforts of our

sists other schools.

“To receive this recognition is very special to me. It brings me great pleasure to know that my hard work and dedication is seen and valued not only by my peers, but by members of the entire school division,” said Watkins.

“I’m glad to know that how I feel about what I do on the inside is seen in my work from the outside.”

Watkins said her favorite part of her job is her co-workers and “being in such a good environment.”

“Being the custodian and able to roam the building allows me the opportunity of getting to

know the staff and the students,” she said. “Sometimes, just stopping in a classroom to say hello or greeting the students in the hallway with a smile can lead to them having a good day and that means a lot to me.”

She added: “Being a custodian may not be the job for many, but it is for me! It’s about caring: caring for the staff, the students, and taking pride in the cleanliness of my school. Thank you, Hanover County Public Schools and The Georgetown School, for this award.”

TGS Principal Brian Ford said

Watkins has been “a tremendous addition to our school community.”

“The building has never looked better, but it’s the ‘above and beyond’ areas that make her really stand out,” he said. “She is a fantastic role model for our students, takes some students under her wing to mentor them, and provides all kinds of treats for students and staff. She is truly a remarkable person, and we are blessed to have her in our lives.”

HCPS employs more than 1,000 support employees in order to accomplish its mission. Each year,

one employee wins this distinguished award. It is given to an employee who exhibits several qualities, such as: provides unique and exceptional contributions to the school division; demonstrates commitment through quality job performance and a positive attitude; demonstrates leadership; seeks to enhance their skills and knowledge; and, fosters cooperation and positive relationships with colleagues, students, teachers, administrators, and the school community.

submitted by Hanover County Public s chools

nominees help transform lives, build social connectedness, foster active citizenship and create resilient communities within Hanover County,” Hanover

County Board of Supervisors Chair Canova Peterson said.

Volunteers in Hanover offered more than 190,000 hours of service last year, which represents

a dollar value of more than $5.7 million.

The Department of Community Resources presented a representative ‘check’ to members

of the Hanover County Council on Aging and the Ashland-Hanover TRIAD in honor of Older American’s Month.

submitted by Hanover County

PHOTO COURTESY OF HANOVER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS dr. Michael Gill, superintendent of Hanover County Public schools, made the surprise announcement on Thursday, May 11, that selena Watkins, the custodian at The Georgetown school, had been selected as the 2022-23 Hanover County Public schools support employee of the year.

Coyotes

and geese killed, and one goat farmer in Hanover County had a dozen of his herd killed by coyotes. In 2017, according to the Virginia Department of Agriculture, it was reported that coyotes killed over one million dollars in livestock value. Coyotes are present and thriving, even with hundreds of coyotes are killed by fur hunters in Virginia each year. It is not a statistic tracked every year, but surely the damage continues.

The Virginia Academy of Science provided two project grants to scientifically verify they are present in Hanover County, maybe determine how many coyotes are pres-

War

From 6

When he looked down, he saw a flash, and that’s the last thing he remembered from Vietnam. He woke up in a hospital in the States three or four months later, in a body cast. One day (after he had come out of the coma and was halfway on the mend), his grenadier came into the room laughing. Terry said, “What in the name of conscience is so funny?” “Do you remember that night in Vietnam?” he asked. Terry answered, “Yeah, everything right up to the flash between my legs.” He told him, “Yeah, well, they saw you coming, and they got you with a grenade right after you threw yours. But the reason I’m laughing is that you must have been scared to death when you threw your grenade, because it went off about a quarter of a mile behind the village.” Terry smiled at the hyperbole and said, “Yeah, I guess I was scared.” The grenadier continued, “But anyway, in that brief flash, man, I nailed them, I got ‘em all.

ent, and where they might be most abundant. Some behavioral characteristics regarding their travel and movement were also revealed in this study. The study is now published in the latest issue of the Virginia Journal of Science, article title: Coyote Occupancy and Movement in Hanover County, Virginia. Several methods were undertaken, including nighttime observations with calls and night vision equipment. One successful method of getting images was the deployment of a game camera placed about 10 meters from a fake fox hole, complete with the lure of fox urine. Coyotes don’t like fox and will kill them. Over 30 locations were surveyed for his study over two years. The results show their wide distribution in Hanover

You were so cut up, we just put you in a body bag, we knew you were dead, you were just covered in blood. But you squeaked when we threw you on the floor of the medevac chopper, so I cut your bag open with a bayonet, and the medic saved you. You came so close, we just knew you couldn’t be alive.” To this day, I still can’t believe that a Marine, or an Army officer, or anybody with a fellow American out there in a rice paddy getting chopped to death with a machine gun wouldn’t go help them. It dogged me for years, I couldn’t understand it. I think I made my peace about it, knowing he probably did it so he wouldn’t get a letter of reprimand from the politicians in D.C. and then not make general, which would cut down his retirement money. At least there was a reason, no matter how stupid. I don’t know, but they wouldn’t help them. They would not hit that village, and it’s criminal. It’s criminal what we did to those kids in Vietnam. We tied one hand behind their backs, and told them to go fight a war. It was insane. And it left 58,000 dead.

County, especially in the more rural western area. This is probably typical in Central Virginia. The study did find some coyotes in residential and urban areas, but not as often. Coyotes were observed at all hours of the day, but more often at night when they may be more active. Another behavior uncovered was their patterns of movement. Based on game camera data, the coyotes move mostly along trails and farm roads, and do not wander through the woods as you might find deer doing. In a statistic applied to the data, they occupied 76.8 % of the county but their detection probability was only 16.8% of the time. This lower detection number is based on several factors, but one may be the distance of their movement per

Royals

From 6

likable that the recently passed Queen or Diana. No doubt Charles in no rock star, but I’m thinking a regime that surrounds itself with jewels and riches while its citizens struggle to make ends meet might also have something to

Tornado

From 6

With a slight daze and slow motion-like, I rose and peered through the balcony sliding door window.

The leaves on a tree close to the building, which not ten minutes ago had hung limply, were now being driven sideways with such force that they didn’t even flutter (warning bells ringing louder).

However, I saw nothing and so moved to a bedroom window, situ -

day. Depending on the availability of food, they may move as much as five miles per day. Their vast diet also supports their survival success; they will eat fruit, insects, rodents, deer and, sadly, cats and small dogs.

Coyotes may be seen occasionally in pairs, but most often they hunt and travel as a solitary animal. They do not hunt in packs like wolves do. Mating occurs in the winter, and the puppies are born in the spring when food is more abundant. Both parents will feed the young puppies while they are in the den, but that ends as they get older, usually in early summer.

Coyotes do possess an interesting population characteristic like wolves. If the local population drops below 60%, the females start

do with the lack of public acceptance.

Looking back to the that day in Nags Head, perhaps we were more infatuated with the story book tale of Charles and Diana, a love story we now know was mostly invented.

And that was before we had been flooded with royal news that painted a less than favorable pic -

ovulating more eggs and the litter sizes will increase to 4-5 puppies instead of 2-3. This is one reason why selected hunting of them is not successful in locally trying to kill all of them. Studies report that the local population can be restored within one year.

It is estimated from this study that 200 – 400 coyotes are now residents in Hanover County alone. Coyotes in Hanover and Central Virginia are here to stay.

Hanover County resident Dr. Richard Groover is a retired college community college professor and dean, and a Fellow of the Virginia Academy of Science. He is currently on the Board of Trustees for the Science Museum of Virginia and serves as the chairperson of the Finance and Operations Committee.

ture of life in the castle. Maybe the bubble broke with Prince Andrew and Fergie’s misguided exploits, or perhaps we overdosed on Prince Harry and Meghan’s public pursuit of privacy.

In any event, our lack of interest in Charles coronation wasn’t an exclusive American viewpoint. Surveys showed large number of

Brits also didn’t watch the event, and big name performers like Adele, Ed Sheeran and the Spice Girls turned down invites to perform at the gala.

In any case, the who cares attitude may be a sign of things to come for monarchs universally. As one commentator said, “People just aren’t that keen on Kings anymore.”

ated on a wall 90 degrees adjacent to the balcony. The sight was the same, leaves “frozen” sideways from sheer force.

Once again, besides this, I saw nothing.

Then entering the bathroom located between these two windows, I could hear it distinctly. The Sound was there, behind the bathroom outer wall. The tornado was there.

Not remembering what to do in such a situation, I went and stood within the doorframe of the other bathroom

(which I realized later was not correct protocol). I began my prayers to prepare for death.

While in the midst of doing so, the sound gradually subsided and finally was gone. (my next-door neighbor later told me that he saw the tornado pass right in front of our building).

With an extremely grateful heart, I soon went outside (along with everyone else who lived there, it seemed) to view the damage.

One of the buildings with a gaping hole in its side, a large tree

uprooted, a chain link fence knocked over, and a thick iron fence, twisted.

The tornado was later classified as mostly an EF0; I can’t imagine what anything stronger would have done.

Certainly many people in Mechanicsville encountered the twister on that calm, hazy day in 2010 and have their own stories, but this is my story.

Funny, even though I was close enough to almost shake its hand, I never actually did see that tornado.

Ellis hurls Yellow Jackets to regional victory

ROB WITHAM Special correspondent

They took the scenic route, but still reached their destination.

Randolph-Macon made history Saturday, avenging a first-round loss by sweeping a gutsy Swarthmore team 4-0 and 3-0 on Saturday to win the Ashland Regional in the Division III softball tournament.

The Yellow Jackets completed a run of four wins in just over 24 hours to climb out of the elimination bracket to win back-to-back region titles for the first time in school history. Now 42-9, Randolph-Macon broke their record of wins in a season (40) set in 2018.

With ODAC pitcher of the year Gracie Ellis leading the way, the Yellow Jackets scored all of their runs in the first inning of both victories. Ellis struck out eight Garnet batters in a one-hit performance in Game 1, then scattered six hits in Game 2.

“You have to focus on every out,” Ellis said of her marathon day. “You can’t think like, oh, I’m only in inning two, I have five more to go … I kind of ignore the scoreboard. I try to look to dead center (field).”

It’s an advantage to take the circle with an early lead. In Game 1, Amanda Lanyon and Naomi Sadler continued their torrid hitting, each singling, and, combined with a Lanyon stolen base, runners were quickly at the corners.

Rilee Baughan reached on an error, scoring Lanyon, then Kayla Davis walked to load the bases. Olivia Owens drew a bases loaded walk to plate Sadler, then Jessica Pittman completed the inning with a two-RBI single.

The Garnet’s only hit was an infield single in the fourth from Cassidy Cheong. Two runners were stranded, the only frame where Swarthmore (26-18) reached base.

After a 1-2-3 Garnet first, Lanyon opened the Yellow Jackets’ half doubling down the leftfield line. Sadler’s sacrifice bunt advanced Lanyon to third. She scored on a Kayla Davis single.

Pinch-runner Olivia Allen scored two batters later on a bases-loaded walk, then Hanover graduate Reagan Hill singled to score Owens for a 3-0 lead that held the rest of the way.

Swarthmore went down swinging, loading the bases in the sixth. But Ellis induced a infield flyout from Kate Hart to end the Garnet

threat. In the seventh, two singles weren’t enough as Iris Barone grounded out to Owens at second base to clinch the title.

“Coming back to win like we did isn’t a terrible thing,” said Yellow Jacket head coach Kevin Proffitt, who earned his 499th career win in the second game. “You figure out what you’re made of a little bit … losing on Thursday, I don’t think it fazed them.”

With two wins, Ellis set the single-season program record for victories in a season with 25.

Randolph-Macon will find out

their site and opponent for the Super Regional round Sunday evening. Ellis and her teammates know what has to happen, the missing piece from their seasonending losses at Eastern Connecticut State at this level last year.

“Hitting. We’ve got to hit,” Ellis noted, remembering the two shutout losses in 2022. “Pitching?

I’ve learned a lot in the past year.”

The lessons will be tested as Randolph-Macon seeks its second-ever berth in the Division III World Series.

Randolph-Macon Baseball

Johns Hopkins 10, RandolphMacon 3: Jimmy Stevens homered twice and drove in three runs as the Blue Jays, the top-ranked team in Division III, rolled past the Yellow Jackets in Baltimore.

Dylan Souvignier hit a threerun home run in a decisive fiverun fourth inning for Johns Hopkins (41-4). Carter Johnson homered, and Mules Webb went 3 for 4 for Randolph-Macon (3214), which played St. John Fisher in an elimination game late Saturday.

MIKE KROPF, TIMES-DISPATCH

Randolph-Macon’s Gracie ellis runs toward home plate during an nCaa division III regional softball game against swarthmore on Thursday.

Hanover softball rebuilds culture while remaining undefeated

MELANIE MARTINEZ-LOPEZ

Richmond Times-Dispatch

Being undefeated and ranked No. 6 in the nation is not something that the Hanover softball team expected, but even though the Hawks know where they rank, they refuse to let that make a difference in their game.

“I don’t think they think about it too much,” second-year coach Tommy Evans said. “They see it and they think it’s cool and stuff but I don’t think it’s a driving factor.”

It has not been an easy road for the Hawks (18-0), as the defending Class 4 state champions have had to fill five key positions that were left open but also build a team culture that will help them that will help them reach their goal to win a state championship.

There was a lot of shuffling involved and only two players started in the same positions from last year, while others were moved to new positions.

“It was not quite a rebuilding year, but it was a year where we had to replace a lot more than expected,” Evans said. “Overall the team has recently bonded, we were a little slow at the beginning getting to that point, but here lately we have definitely made great strides in where we need to be.”

The girls have also seen the improvement of the team’s culture and chemistry, and senior pitcher Julia Cuozzo said that the ultimate goal is to create a sisterhood with the team.

“We want to make it like a sisterhood, because we spend with each other which is hard because sisters don’t even get along with each other every single day, but we’re trying to bring it together so that everyone feels that they have a support system,” she said.

Evans’ leadership has also contributed with the new team culture as sophomore Kaileigh Byars said that he is coaches them when necessary but is also

kind and fun.

“He makes sure we know that he supports us and is always there for us and listens to us and makes it fun,” Cuozzo said.

The team bought into the plan of Evans, who has led Hanover to 40 consecutive victories, but he gives credit to the girls’ talent.

“I think it’s above the talent, it’s a great group of kids,” he said. “They support each other and they do things the right way, they work hard at practice, they do the little things. It’s just my job to keep them happy and playing together.”

The biggest advantage of the team according to Evans has been the pitching with Cuozzo and Lily Parrish at the helm, only allowing 10 runs all year.

“Our pitching has been a trademark this year, it has been the amazing pitching,” he said.

The goal for this year is to win the state championship because the last time that they went undefeated (in 2021) and went to the state championship, they lost in the final. They also want to secure back-to-back state crowns this time around.

“We’re going to keep the same

“We want to make it like a sisterhood, because we spend with each other which is hard because sisters don’t even get along with each other every single day, but we’re trying to bring it together so that everyone feels that they have a support system."

mindset going through it (the postseason) because things have been going good,” she said. Even though the team has other focuses in mind, for Byars it is an honor to be part of the

squad.

“Not everyone has the opportunity to be part of a team like that so I’m just honored to be here and contribute to that, it’s a cool dynamic,” she said.

MIKE KROPF, TIMES-DISPATCH

Hanover High school girls varsity softball pitcher Julia Cuozzo throws a ball during practice.

— Julia Cuozzo, Hanover softball senior pitcher

HOLMES, Harry 'Duke' E. Jr.

HOLMES, Harry “Duke”

E. Jr., of Mechanicsville, Va., departed this life to enter God’s heavenly kingdom on May 8, 2023. He was preceded in death by his father, Harry E. Holmes. He is survived by his mother, Judy Holmes; and sister, Beth Holmes of Midlothian; and his much loved Labrador pup, Buck. Duke was a graduate of Huguenot Academy and Elon College. While attending Elon, he became a member of the Tau Kappa Epsilon Fraternity. He was a longtime employee of Greentop Sporting Goods. A memorial service will be held on June 3, 2023 at 11 a.m., at The Episcopal Church of the Redeemer, 2341 Winterfield Road, Midlothian, Va. 23113. In lieu of flowers, make contributions to Cedar Rock Park in honor of Duke Holmes, 3916 R. Dean Coleman Road., Burlington, N.C. 27215.

TIGNOR, Doris Perkins Loving

TIGNOR, Doris Perkins Loving, age 96, of Mechanicsville, Va., passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 13, 2023 at her home. She was the daughter of the late Julia and Herbert Loving and devoted wife of the late, Norman Lane Tignor Sr. She is survived by her three daughters, Judy Green (Bobby), Ann Ramsey and Kay Fajardo; two sons, Norman Lane Jr. “Bubba” (Faye) and Keith; sister of, Barbara Jean Goodman; 14 grandchil-

JOHNSON, Helen Berkeley Londeree

JOHNSON, Helen Berkeley Londeree, 84, of Mechanicsville, Va., peacefully went to the Lord on Wednesday, May 17, following a long illness. She was preceded in death by her husband of 58 years, Dr. Bradley Gray Johnson. She is survived by her son, Bradley Gray Johnson Jr.; her daughter, Laura Ellen Johnson and her husband, David

dren, eight great-grandchildren, four great-great-grandchildren; and favorite chair guards, Luca and Fenn. She was preceded in death by her siblings, Margaret, Frances, Annie, Joyce, Monroe, Alvin, H.T. and Vernon. She is a longtime member of Lebanon United Methodist Church and leaves five strong generations behind. Relatives and friends were invited to Doris’ visitation at Woody Funeral Home-Atlee Chapel, on Thursday, May 18, from 6 to 8 p.m. A funeral service was held at Lebanon United Methodist Church, on Friday, May 19 at 11 a.m. Interment will follow in the church cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Lebanon United Methodist Church Cemetery Fund or a charity of your choice. The family requests in remembrance of their mother to watch Wheel of Fortune with someone you love tonight. Online condolences and fond memories of Doris may be offered to the family on the Woody Funeral Home — Atlee Chapel website.

Rancour; two granddaughters, Amelia Hope Rancour and Elise Anne Rancour; and other devoted family and friends. After graduating from Westhampton College in 1961, she worked as an elementary school teacher for 10 years for the Richmond School district, volunteered in the school library and was involved in her husband’s dental practice. She enjoyed being with family and friends, traveling, gardening, dining out and she was a lifelong member of the Westhampton Baptist Church. The family expresses sincere gratitude to the faithful, loyal caregivers during her lengthy time of illness. A memorial aervice will be held on Wednesday, May 24 at 12 p.m. at the Mechanicsville Chapel of Bennett Funeral Home. Interment will follow in Signal Hill Memorial Park. Memorial contributions may be made to Sheltering Arms or a charity of your choice.

Hanover Evangelical Friends 6420 Mech Trnpk. 804-730-9512, friendlychurch.org

Worship: Sun. 10:30AM

Sunday School @ 9:15AM

Fairmount Christian Church, 559-8070 6502 Creighton Rd.

Sunday AM Worship Traditional

8:00 & 10:15, Contemporary 9:00, Modern 11:15, Bible School at 9:00, 10:15, & 11:15.

Rick Raines, Senior Minister; Chris Santasiere, Associate Minister; Seth Wortman, Associate Minister; Tracy Thomas, Worship &Music Minister; Bill Nicol, Associate Worship Minister; Davis Ellenberger, Youth Minister; Ashley Sears, Children’s Director fairmountcc.org

Gethsemane Church of Christ

5146 Mechanicsville Turnpike

Sunday AM Worship Services

(Check website for times) 804-779-2044

Bill Wines, Senior Minister www.gethsemanechristians.org

Truth Baptist Church, 627-2170 COME & SEE! All info at: www.truthbaptistchurch.com

St Paul Lutheran Church (LCMS) 427-7500 ∂ 8100 Shady Grove Rd, saintpaul-lcms.com

Rev. Rodney Bitely, Pastor; Sun. Sch. 9:15am, Worship 10:30am

HOPE COMMUNITY CHURCH

Home of Atlee Christian Academy & HopeNow Counseling. info & more: www.hopenow.cc

Fairfield Presbyterian Church 6930 Cold Harbor Rd., 23111 8:45 & 11:00am services www.fairfieldpcusa.org

Meadowbridge Seventh-Day Adventist Church

7400 Antique Lane Mech., Saturday Services:

Sabbath School, 9:45 am. Worship Service, 11 am.

Wednesday evening Prayer Meeting, 6:30pm. Church phone: 746-2788 meadowbridgesda.org meadowbridgesdachurch@gmai l.com

Black Creek Baptist Church, 6289 McClellan Road

Sunday School - 9:00 a.m.

Sunday Worship - 10:15 a.m.

Adult Bible Study & Youth Group

Wed. nights at 6:00 p.m.

Pastor, Stephen Kendrick blackcreekbaptistchurch.org or call (804)781-0330

Cool Spring Baptist Church 9283 Atlee Station Rd.

For info, activities & worship times visit www.coolspring.org or call 746-0800

Fellowship Community Church of Mechanicsville

After 10 years at Hanover High School we have purchased our own building. We continue to teach the Word of God and watch for the miraculous.

Join us Sunday mornings 9:45am at 8505 Bell Creek Road, Suite K. www.fellowshipcc.com

Mechanicsville Baptist Church 8016 Atlee Rd. Office: 804.746.7253

Worship in person and Live Streamed on YouTube & Facebook on Sundays at 8:30 & 11:00 a.m. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Find us on the web at mechanicsvillebaptist.org

New Bethesda Baptist Church 9019 New Bethesda Rd. 779-2101 Caleb Bittler, Minister Sunday School 9:30 AM, Worship 10:45 AM Bible Study/Prayer Youth & Children activities

6:30pm, Wednesday www.newbethesda.org

New Highland Baptist Church 550-9601, 9200 New Ashcake Rd newhighland.org, 9:15 AM Bible Study, 10:30 AM Worship In Person & online. Rev. Derek Nicksich

Shalom Baptist Church

8116 Walnut Grove Rd. Office: 746.7737

Worship in person and Live Streamed on YouTube & Facebook on Sundays at 8:30 & 11:00 a.m

Wednesday Night Suppers at 5:30 p.m. and Bible Study at 6:15 p.m. Find us on the web at shalombaptist.net

Walnut Grove Baptist is a Church committed to following Jesus & loving people. You can find us at wgva.church 7046 Cold Harbor rd

Lebanon United Methodist Church 8492 Peaks Road, 746-0980

Sarah Sealand, Pastor Worship In Person and on Facebook Live:

10:00 am each Sunday www.facebook.com/LebUMC

9:00 am Sunday School

For more info, check us out at www.lebanonumc.org

Mechanicsville United Methodist Church 7356 Atlee Road 746-5118

Reverend Amy Dunn, pastor

10 am in person worship or Facebook live @MechUMC Childrens and Youth Programs Cub Scouts Pack 517 www.mechumc.org

Shady Grove United Methodist 8209 Shady Grove Rd. at the corner of Meadowbridge Rd., Mechanicsville, 804-746-9073 shadygroveumc.org

In-person Worship Sundays at 8:15, 9:45, & 11:15 a.m., Online at 9:45 a.m. Programs for all ages. Rev. Wayne Snead, Pastor info@shadygroveumc.org

Church of the Redeemer 8275 Meadowbridge Road 746-4911 www.churchredeemer.org

Mass celebrated on Saturday 5:30 PM Sunday 8:00 & 10:00 AM

Mechanicsville-ashland local

Affordable Home Repairs Carpentry, Roofing, Siding, Replacement Windows, Gutters & Decks. Lic/Ins. Jim Martin, 804-347-3812

Hanover Chimney Sweeps

Serving area since 1981. Ins. Chimney & Gutter Cleaning. 746-1056

Bernard’s Concrete Services Concrete, Retaining Walls, Pavers, Brick, Sidewalks. Install & repair. Free Estimates. Licensed & Insured. References. Call or Text 804-874-9184

Grading and Gravel Driveways Grand IMPROVEMENTS, LLC 804-229-0381 THEGRAVELTEAM.COM

Affordable Electrical Installations For your home or business. Lic./Ins. BBB 746-4350 www.mallory-electric.com

BLS Electrical Specializing in Residential Service, New Residential and also LED Lighting. Affordable pricing Lic/Ins. 804-397-5478 or email at BLSELECTRICAL.LLC@gmail.com

Danny Electric Specializing in Residential Service. Professional work that you can afford! Lic/Ins. Danny Hinton, 804-640-5044

**Fence Scapes** 559-8797

Custom Wood, Chain-Link, Vinyl, Ornamental Aluminum. www.fencescapesllc.com

Good Neighbor Fence Inc

Custom wood , Aluminum, Vinyl , Chainlink & repairs Goodneighborfencing.com A+BBB … Angie’s List 804-737-4664

Home Maintenance & Repairs Veteran operated. Over 30 years experience Call Dave, 804-874-4774

Purcell Construction Custom Builder Hunter Purcell 804-972-2215 www.PurcellConstruction.Biz Total Rehabs ∂ Custom Renovations &Homes Additions ∂ Church Renovations ∂ Decks ∂ Po rc hes ∂ Siding ∂ Windows ∂ Barns ∂ Ramps ∂ Insurance Claims ∂ Renovations &MORE! Class ALicense &Insured ∂

PAINTING, CARPENTRY, VINYL SIDING, ROOFING, GUTTERS, FLOORING, KIT/ BATHROOM REMODELING, CERAMIC TILES, TIN ROOFS, DECKS, TREE CUTTING & BRUSH REMOVAL. LICENSED / INSURED. CALL WILKINS CONSTRUCTION, 804-833-7470.

Affordable Quality Wash Homes, decks , sidewalks, etc

804-550-2345

Serving Hanover for 26 years

HANOVER HANDY SERVICES

Low Pressure Powerwashing Gutter Cleaning Lic. & Ins. Call 363-8393 www.hanoverhandy.com

Affordable Yard Work. Average size yard, $45 Cut & Trim. Call 804-402-8918

ALL LAWN CARE -Friendly and professional service. Grass cutting and other services offered. Affordable prices. Local resident 40+ years. Call Mark for free estimate, 804-833-4539

Ground Keepers Lawn Care

Your #1 Choice

Grass Cutting • Trimming • Hedges Tree Work

• Mulching • Aerating • Seeding

Overstreet Enterprise & Landscape LLC Landscaping, Irrigation, Concrete, Patio, Brickwork, Tree Work, Grading, Top Soil, Drainage & Gravel. Call 804-337-1281 for free est

Pole Green Care LLC

Providing mowing, hedge trimming, mulching and yard cleanup. Please call or text Jarrod 804-514-8214

Guy Stinchfield Painting & Repair Int./Ext. Painting, Carpentry, Drywall Repair, Pressure Washing, Wallpaper Removal. Lic/Ins. 20 yrs experience Refereneces. Free Est. 804-439-7700

PCT Remodeling Exterior/Interior Painting. Licensed/Insured. 264-9352

Paul Brown Plumbing - in Business

Since 1983. New Residential, Light Commercial, Renovations, Additions & Service. We do it all! Senior Citizen Discounts. For free est. 804-746-5030

Herring

• Reasonable Rates Rick Custalow, 804-517-3321

• FREE Est.

Landscape & Hardscape design & Installation. Lawn Maintenance programs. Fully Lic/Ins. Free Estimates Call 804-730-2367 or text 804-301-8626.

30+

For Your EntErtainmEnt burger joint slang Wor D searCH

CrossWor D puzzle

Clues

20.

25. State lawyer 26. Patti Hearst’s captors

29. Pound 30. Electronic data processing

31. Sports player 32. Treats with contempt

HorosCopes

ARIES • Mar 21/Apr 20

You may struggle to get going this week, Aries. But once you do, it will be full speed ahead. In fact, you may need to slow things down to let others catch up.

TAURUS • Apr 21/May 21

Taurus, if you are feeling a bit scattered as of late, take some time out of your schedule to meditate and reflect on what is most important to you. Then follow that path.

GEMINI • May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, give yourself permission to move slowly this week. If you racing through things, you’re apt to make mistakes. Set your own pace and let things play out as they may.

40. Ribosomal ribonucleic acid

CANCER • Jun 22/Jul 22

Deadlines could make for a heated week, Cancer. It’s best to remove yourself from any situations before they get out of hand. Offer advice when things cool down.

LEO • Jul 23/Aug 23

Routines are boring you lately, Leo. You may need to shake things up. If you work a set schedule, see if you can go to flex time and look for ways to change.

VIRGO • Aug 24/Sept 22

Do not let drama that doesn’t involve you sneak into your orbit, Virgo. If you need to distance yourself from others for a while, then do so.

LIBRA • Sept 23/Oct 23

Libra, others feel you’re giving off some high-strung vibes this week, and they wouldn’t be wrong. Something is weighing on your shoulders. Figure out what it is and lighten the load.

SCORPIO • Oct 24/Nov 22

Scorpio, you’re dishing out all sorts of sage advice but it may be frustrating if others don’t want to take it. All you can do is offer and let others lead their lives.

SAGITTARIUS • Nov 23/Dec 21

Things may be a little rough around the edges lately, and you’ll need to figure out the ways to smooth things over, Sagittarius. Find a few friends who are in your corner.

CAPRICORN • Dec 22/Jan 20

Capricorn, emphasize a slow and methodical approach to a problem with an elusive solution. Slowing things down has a tendency to provide substantial clarity.

AQUARIUS • Jan 21/Feb 18

Disagreements on how to move forward could bring tension at home or work this week, Aquarius. Everyone needs to put their ideas on the table and whittle down the best answer.

PISCES • Feb 19/Mar 20

Don’t compare yourself to others, Pisces; otherwise, you may downplay all of your wonderful attributes. Be proud of who you are.

43. Employee stock ownership plan

44. Male parent

45. The 23rd letter of the Greek alphabet

46. Female bird

47. Autonomic nervous system