Ashland-Hanover Local & Local's Choice– 03/30/2022

COMMUNITY MCEF continues 45 year legacy of community service with ‘One Stop Shop’

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Vol. 7 No. 30 | Richmond Suburban News | March 30, 2022

Citizens bring school transgender issue to supervisors

Hanover student competes in spelling bee

By Christina Amano Dolan Editor

Christina Amano Dolan/The Local

The ladies of the Pamunkey Woman’s Club celebrate the club’s 90th birthday at the Mechanicsville Baptist Church during their monthly meeting. Pictured in the front row are Debbie Mitchell, Gerri Nolan, Peggy Arnold, Virginia Darnell, Jean Blankenship and Cindy Modzelewski. Pictured in the back row are Celeste Cohen, Janice Sadler, Debbie Walker, Mary Page Gregory, Nancy Hayden and Jeane Shanks.

Pamunkey Woman’s Club celebrates 90 years of service Photo courtesy of Hanover County Public Schools

Sidhvidheer Janapareddy, an Oak Knoll Middle School student, participated in Saturday’s 2022 Richmond Times-Dispatch Regional Spelling Bee. Story on page 5.

By Christina Amano Dolan Editor The Pamunkey Woman’s Club recently gathered at the Mechanicsville Baptist Church to celebrate the club’s 90 years of dedicated volunteerism to Hanover County

and communities across the world.

“We’re really excited to celebrate this milestone of 90 years and the difference that we’ve made in our community,” said Pamunkey Woman’s Club president Debbie see PAMUNKEY, pg. 2

More than 100 impasssioned citizens came to speak tto the Hanover County Board oof Supervisors last week in rresponse to continuing county debate over transgender and d nonbinary inclusive policies in n Hanover County Public Schools H (HCPS).

The crowd of visitors sswarmed the meeting room in rresponse to a Hanover County SSchool Board decision to engage Alliance Defending Freedom A (ADF) for legal review of the ccurrent HCPS “equal educattional opportunities” policy.

ADF is a Christian legal aadvocacy group “committed to protecting religious freedom, p ffree speech, marriage and familly, parental rights, and the sancttity of life,” according to ADF’s website. w

Christina Amano Dolan/The Local

An attendee of the March 23 board of supervisors meeting holds a sign in support of transgender equality.

The decision to seek legal guidance from ADF passed with a 4-3 vote during the March 8 school board meeting and drew immediate backlash

by LGBTQ supporters, particularly concerning ADF’s history of backing anti-LGBTQ polisee BOARD, pg. 2

MAR 18 - APR 17 HANOVER TAVERN VIRGINIAREP.ORG 804-282-2620

PAMUNKEY Continued from pg. 1

Mitchell at the March 21 monthly meeting. “And I just thank everybody that’s here today as part of our group and just remembering all of the people that have been here in the past.”

The club was first formed by eight charter members in March 1932 and went on to sponsor the Pamunkey Junior Woman’s Club in 1935. The club is the Mechanicsvillebased member of the Greater Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC), which is an inter-

national women’s organization dedicated to community improvement through volunteer service. The GFWC was founded in 1890 and currently holds around 80,000 members across the globe.

The gathering celebrated the Pamunkey Woman’s Club’s rich history of giving back to the community, with Mitchell sharing a few significant community service projects that members have participated in since the club’s birth.

According to Mitchell, the club became a “beehive of activity” during World War II, with members helping the County

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Ashland-Hanover Local March 30, 2022

Rationing Board by making bandages, knitting, sewing and selling war bonds. The club also played an important role in the rehabilitation of the historic Garthright House by raising funds to renovate and furnish the home after a fire.

In addition, the club established a park between the old and new court building in the Hanover Courthouse in 1983 by planting a tulip poplar from seeds that George Washington planted at Mount Vernon.

Today, the club currently consists of 17 members, with a few having participated in the club for over 20 years. Virginia Darnell, the club’s former president, has been a member for over 50 years.

“We’re small but effective,” said Cindy Modzelewski, the club’s membership chairman. Modzelewski has been a member for around nine years and participates in other local women’s clubs in the area.

Nine decades after it was created, the club continues to find new ways to serve communities both locally and afar through a series of themed programs developed throughout the year.

“We all really enjoy doing things for our community and feeling like we’re contributing,” Mitchell said.

Following the model of the GFWC, the Pamunkey Woman’s Club holds a series of programs throughout the month that follow one of its core community service themes: arts and culture, civic engagement and outreach, education and libraries, environment, and health and wellness.

This month’s theme is

health and wellness, with the 90th anniversary celebration featuring a “Healthy Pot Luck Luncheon” that consisted of healthy and nutritional dishes created by and shared among members. Members took turns during the meeting sharing the recipes of their dishes in order to promote healthy eating, including recipes for a chickpea salad, low-calorie Jell-O salad, mini muffins and more.

Last month followed the education and libraries theme, with members touring the new Atlee Branch Library for the first time. In April, members will be visiting the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts in honor of the club’s arts and culture month.

“We’re always looking for organizations, groups or things happening in the county that we can learn more about,” Mitchell said. By following different programs each month, the group additionally aims to educate its members on a variety of different topics.

According to Mitchell, the group seeks new guest speakers from various organizations to educate club members and interested community members on new topics, including previously hosting a guest speaker to discuss the differences between Alzheimer ’s disease and dementia.

If they plan on hosting a guest speaker from a nonprofit organization, club members will begin collecting items or building care packages that will benefit the organization’s mission in the months leading up to the visit, Mitchell said.

“We’re always collecting things,” she said, mentioning a

variety of community service programs that the group participates in throughout the year.

One of the club’s year-long initiatives is collecting soda tabs for the Ronald McDonald House Charities, which is a nonprofit organization that aims to improve the health and well-being of children and their families by providing a number of support programs. Mitchell said the club collected about 10 pounds of soda tabs earlier this year and is currently collecting more.

The club also annually supports the mission of Operation Smile, a national organization of doctors who visit developing nations to provide children with safe cleft lip and cleft palate surgeries in areas where it is needed the most. The Pamunkey Woman’s Club creates care packages of toys, toothpaste and other items for dental hygiene that are gifted to the children after their surgeries.

The club’s local initiatives include putting together hygiene kits for the Hanover Safe Place located in Ashland.

The Hanover Safe Place offers emergency shelter, 24/7 hotline services, safety planning, court advocacy, counseling and many more services to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault.

The club is also one of the oldest organizations that continuously offer support to the Mechanicsville High School scholarship program.

Members additionally provide yearly donations to Hanover High School, the Hanover County Fire-EMS Department, Pamunkey Regional Library branches, Hanover Christmas

Mother, Hanover Adult Center, Feed More and other local organizations.

“Just being exposed to things in the community and new ideas is one thing that joins a lot of us to the group,” Mitchell said.

She and other members reflected back on their initial interest in joining the club and the fond memories they have made over the years with one another.

“I wanted to get out and meet new people,” Mitchell said. “And so that kind of got me involved, but I’ve just really enjoyed all the leadership that I’ve developed over the years.”

Gerri Nolan, one of the club’s newest members, said she joined the group due to an interest in local volunteer opportunities.

“I was looking for something with community service and wanted to find something where I could really get involved,” Nolan said, who joined the club a few months ago.

Modzelewski said she really enjoys the social aspect of women’s clubs and sought similar comradeship after moving from Connecticut to Mechanicsville.

“So for me it was kind of twofold: to get to know new women and get to know this corner of the Richmond area,” Modzelewski said. “And I really liked the activities that we plan, both for educational and for fun.”

For more information on the Pamunkey’s Woman Club, its many programs throughout the year and membership opportunities, contact Cindy Modzelewski at 804-366-0864.

BOARD

NAACP, ACLU Virginia, He She Ze and We and Side by Side Virginia to organize and take action against the decision.

In addition, Atlee High School students organized a walkout on March 18 and drew together a crowd of community protestors.

Debate surrounding the HCPS equal opportunities policy gained momentum last fall when school board members voted against incorporating certain Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) guidelines that allow transgender students to use the bathroom of their

choice.

Virginia ACLU filed a lawsuit against the school board in December 2021 following the decision on behalf of five transgender students in Hanover County.

Continued from pg. 1

cies.

A series of protests followed the school board’s decision.

A virtual Zoom meeting was held on March 16 by Equality Virginia, the Hanover County

see BOARD, pg. 5

SHERIFF’S REPORTS | Crime, Accidents, Fire & Rescue reported in the 11100th block of Leadbetter Road, Ashland.

March 16

Petit larceny, parts was reported in the 10400th block of Cobbs Road, Ashland.

Possession of a Schedule I or II controlled substance was reported in the 11000th block of North Lakeridge Parkway, Ashland.

March 18

Grand larceny, $500 or more, not from a person was reported in the 14300th block of Elletts Crossing Road, Ashland.

Auto theft from other jurisdiction and recovered vehicle was reported in the 14000th block of Greenwood Road, Ashland.

Destruction of property, monument was reported in the 7500th block of County Complex Road, Hanover.

March 17

Assault and battery on a family member was reported in the 15300th block of Scotchtown Road, Montpelier.

DWI: First offense was reported in the 11400th block of Cauthorne Road, Glen Allen.

Trespassing after being forbidden to do so was

Possession of a Schedule I or II controlled substance was reported in the 14300th block of Mountain Road/Greenwood Road, Glen Allen.

March 19

Simple assault was reported in the 7400th block of Lee-Davis Road/Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville.

Possession of a Schedule I or

II controlled substance was reported in the 16500th block of Mountain Road, Montpelier.

DWI: BAC more than .20, first offense was reported in the 17200th block of Mountain Road/Beaver Dam Road, Montpelier.

March 20

Obtaining money or signature by false pretenses was reported in the 10300th block of Pochins Pw, Ashland.

Petit larceny from auto was reported in the 10200th block of Lakeridge Square Court, Ashland.

Assault and battery on a family member was reported in the 16100th block of Greenwood Church Road, Montpelier.

Simple assault was reported in the 12400th block of Cedar Lane, Ashland.

Arrests made in larceny case, sheriff ’s office seeks help in locating suspect HANOVER – After a thorough investigation into the theft of numerous catalytic converters, investigators with the Hanover County Sheriff ’s Office have charged and arrested two individuals believed to be responsible for these crimes.

Herbert D. Jones Jr., 28, of Richmond and Christopher Meeks, 38, of Henrico have both been charged with the following crimes: grand larceny, conspiracy to commit a felony, vandalism, trespassing and possession of burglary tools.

Both Jones and Meeks are currently incarcerated at Pamunkey Regional Jail.

The Sheriff ’s Office is also requesting community assistance in locating one individual who was believed to be involved in these crimes. Kristopher M. Williams, 31, of Richmond is currently wanted on the same charges as listed above.

Williams is described as a black male with black hair and brown eyes. He is 5 feet, 6 inches tall and weighs 400 pounds.

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Williams is asked to

KRISTOPHER M. WILLIAMS

contact the Hanover County Sheriff ’s Office at (804) 365-6140 or the Metro Richmond Crime Stoppers at (804) 7801000. Citizens can also download the “P3 Tips” app for their mobile device to submit their tip. Both Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.

Information submitted by Lt. James R. Cooper, Hanover County Sheriff’s Office public information officer.

Ashland-Hanover Local March 30, 2022 3

MCEF continues 45 year legacy of community service with ‘One Stop Shop’

By Christina Amano Dolan Editor or over 45 years, the Mechanicsville Churches Emergency Functions (MCEF) has been uplifting the Hanover County community in powerful ways. After closing for a short period of time during the COVID-19 pandemic, the MCEF One Stop Shop is up and running with an abundance of pantry and clothing items to support local families in need.

With a sizable network of community churches, individuals and businesses uniting to aid neighbors most in need, MCEF

F

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offers an array of influential services, including a clothing and food pantry shop, senior ride service, school supply store for teachers and more.

MCEF was first established in 1976 by three local churches with the mission of aiding residents who struggle financially.

Today, the group is made up of approximately 34 churches along with businesses and individuals who combine their resources to help struggling community members get back on their feet.

MCEF’s goal is to help families handle financial emergencies, improve their quality of

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Ashland-Hanover Local March 30, 2022

life, maintain their independence, prevent homelessness and promote health and wellness. Local churches house and support the eight different missions of MCEF: food pantry, senior rides program, financial assistance, linen closet, infants and newborn closet, kid’s closet, adult closet and teen closet.

The MCEF One Stop Shop, located at 7235 Stonewall Parkway, Mechanicsville, accommodates each of the churches’ eight missions, providing free clothing, linens, food and other helpful resources to those in need.

According to MCEF president Pat Hubert, the group has approximately 165 volunteers today who help operate its missions. MCEF is run by a 100% volunteer force, with all supplies funded by church and community member donations.

“We’ve never gone to the government for anything,” Hubert said. “All we do is put the word out to the churches and community when we run short on anything, and in they come. It’s a wonderful community.”

The One Stop Shop first opened on Oct. 1, 2017, after all MCEF churches agreed to support the shop’s overhead and a location was secured. The shop aimed to provide a larger and centralized space to support each of the churches’ missions.

The shop is open to clients from 9:30 to 11 a.m. on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday. It is also open from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Thursdays.

“It’s set up like a complete grocery store,” Hubert said. “So they actually shop and put in their bag what they actually use.”

Customers are guided by arrows through each of the fully-stocked pantry aisles to grab the allowed number of canned vegetables, canned meat, condiments, baking supplies, toilet-

MCEF President Pat Hubert stands in front of the MCEF food pantry’s mission wall. Hubert helped establish the One Stop Shop in 2017 and has been expanding the program’s community outreach over the years alongside his wife, Glady, and the network of MCEF volunteers and churches.

Christina Amano Dolan/The Local

ries, dish soap, laundry detergent and more to fill up their grocery bags. Customers are also provided a fresh carton of eggs from the shop’s refrigerator.

While the shop primarily carries canned and dry foods, fresh fruit and vegetables are donated by churches from their own gardens, local businesses and residents who have an abundance of their own produce. In addition, the Hanover Master Gardeners donate fresh fruit at the end of the season to MCEF. Hubert said the shop’s spacious layout makes shopping easier and accommodates a much larger inventory than the pantry’s previous location, which was located in a 15-by30-foot building.

“We didn’t have a place for restock or anything else, so sometimes the bags went out pretty light,” Hubert said.

“Here they go out extremely full because we have everything and have the ability to restock immediately.”

The shop’s location also accommodates a fully-stocked linen closet, infants and newborn closet, kid’s closet, adult closet and teen closet, along with the MCEF offices. Brand

new socks and underwear are offered to every age group as well.

“Everything is donated to us, so they get to pick and choose what they can use,” Hubert said. “And anything we run low on, we just pick up the phone and put the word out to the churches, and in it comes.”

In addition, the shop has a kitchen, which Hubert and two other volunteers use to incorporate pantry items and fresh produce into easy, healthy and innovative recipes for clients.

“So I take food off the shelves there and create brand new recipes, and [clients] get to taste them,” Hubert said. “If they like it, we give them a copy of the recipe.”

They even provide a cookbook that features a list of the first 16 recipes created by the trio, including recipes for a veggie casserole, pumpkin corn muffins, healthy apple cinnamon sweet potato fritters, Mexican cauliflower rice and more.

Hubert said there are currently 64 volunteers who operate the shop during the weekdays, along with a separate team of volunteers who help with donations on donation Sundays.

The shop serves around 100 families per month, but they would assist around 50 families a week prior to COVID-19.

Due to this shortage of customers, Hubert said they have an abundance of pantry items sitting on the shelves.

In 2019, 424 households visited the shop, while 527 households visited in 2020. In 2021, the One Stop Shop served 233 households, or 1,415 people, with 1,937 bags of food, 795 bags of clothing and 121 bags of linens.

Hubert said there are numerous reasons why the pandemic reduced the number of families seeking pantry items, such as the federal government supporting free meals in schools and increasing the amount of available food stamp money. More churches also began handing out free food during the pandemic.

With the recent lifting of COVID-19 restrictions, Hubert said they are seeing an upward trend of new families seeking food, clothing and financial assistance.

In addition, MCEF has extended its services to further target children in need in the community, including offering see MCEF pg. 5

Oak Knoll student reaches regional spelling bee

By Christina Amano Dolan Editor

O

ak Knoll Middle School student Sidhvidheer Janapareddy participated Saturday in the 47th annual Richmond Times-Dispatch Regional Spelling Bee. The Richmond Times-Dispatch (RTD) Spelling Bee is held each year and draws together elementary and middle school students from across central Virginia. The winner of the spelling competition receives a $1,500 scholarship and an all-expenses paid trip to the Scripps National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C. Janapareddy said he received help from his brother in prepara-

MCEF Continued from pg. 4

support to the Mechanicsville Weekend Backpack program.

The program provides children in need in the school district with backpacks stocked with food. Hubert said MCEF has given almost 4,000 pounds of food to the program.

MCEF has also recently partnered with Hanover County Public Schools to develop the Tools 4 Teachers Store, which aims to offer support to teachers by donating school supplies for schoolchildren in need.

“Teachers spend thousands of dollars out of their own pockets every year because kids don’t have what they need,” said Hubert’s wife, Glady.

BOARD Continued from pg. 2

Over 30 Hanover citizens signed up to speak during the March 23 board of supervisors meeting to express both disapproval and support of the decision.

Chair Angela Kelly-Wiecek prefaced citizen’s time by clarifying that while board of supervisors members appoint school board officials, the supervisors have no authority to “compel the school board to act in a certain way or simply remove a school board member” under state law.

She explained that appoint-

tion for Saturday’s bee, reading around 27 pages of text in order to practice his spelling. In addition, he downloaded a spelling app on his phone to improve his vocabulary.

Janapareddy secured his position as a finalist in the RTD bee by ranking an impressive score of 39 out of 40 in the first online test, scoring the highest out of the 25 other contestants. He represented Hanover County Public Schools as one of the six finalists to reach Saturday’s competition.

“It was very exciting,” Janapareddy said. “Everybody at my school was so happy for me, too.”

Saturday’s bee was held via Zoom, with Janapareddy and five other finalists competing in a multi-round spelling test. The five

other finalists were Naol Mintesinot of Goochland Elementary School, Emily Ridout of Edward W. Wyatt Middle School, Annalee Steffan of Charles City County Elementary School, Zainab Iqbal of Al Madina School of Richmond, and Trey Felton of Northumberland Middle School. Janapareddy was one of four young spellers who did not make it through the first round.

After a grueling 56 rounds, Trey Felton secured the title of the 47th RTD Regional Spelling Bee champion.

Janapareddy said he will definitely be participating in the spelling bee next year and will continue his rigorous studying in preparation.

“And we’ll have lots of time to study for it,” he said excitedly. “So that’s good.

Support for the program derives from community partnerships and donations, which volunteers utilize to purchase a generous inventory of school supplies. The program’s inventory is currently stored in the Youth Services office inventory space, although donations are accepted at the One Stop Shop.

Currently, middle school teachers at Bell Creek, Chickahominy, Liberty and Oak Knoll Middle schools may submit requests for needed classroom supplies twice a month.

While the new program is currently limited to middle schools in the area, they hope to expand their services to other schools in the county moving forward.

Since fall 2021, program partners have contributed

$2,500 in financial support.

Volunteers have made 16 school deliveries, supporting 127 classrooms and fulfilling 211 teacher requests with over 1,900 items.

Hubert said the ribbon cutting ceremony for the Tools 4 Teachers store will be likely held at the end of the month.

Another one of MCEF’s primary programs is offering direct financial assistance to families struggling to pay for electricity, water, rent, fuel oil, prescriptions and other essential expenses. In 2021 alone, the program provided 120 families with $58,172 of direct financial assistance.

In addition, MCEF partnered with Ashland Christian Emergency Services (ACES) to create the Hanover Senior Ride

Program.

The program provides transportation to medical appointments, the grocery store, bank and other locations to seniors aged 60 and up who cannot drive themselves. The program additionally assists riders with disabilities, but the drivers are not equipped to accommodate wheelchairs.

Glady Hubert is among approximately 25 volunteer drivers based in both Ashland and Mechanicsville. It is a volunteer-based ride service that relies on drivers to use their personal vehicles to transport riders, with all drivers qualified through background checks and driver safety training. MCEF also provides its riders with liability insurance coverage.

“Sometimes we stay with them, sometimes we shop or do something while they’re in their appointments,” she said. “But then we take the person home.”

Seniors who need a ride can call the MCEF ride coordinator with the detail of their need, preferably a week in advance.

The coordinator will schedule the trip with a designated driver and call the rider back.

In 2021, the Hanover Senior Rides program gave 1,116 rides to residents in need.

Those who wish to participate in the Senior Rides program as a rider, driver or coordinator can call 804-357-9360 for more information.

Individuals who wish to support Tools 4 Teachers may contact the Hanover

Department of Community Resources at 804-365-4300 or email Kristina Yager with Youth Services at kayager@ hanovercounty.gov.

Those who wish to provide a monetary donation to MCEF for any of their services can visit the website, www.4mcef.com, and select the donation button.

Donated supplies for the One Stop Shop or Tools 4 Teachers program can be dropped off at the One Stop Shop on the first and third Sundays of the month from 2 to 3:30 p.m.

Those interested in volunteering for any of the MCEF’s eight missions can print out a volunteer application on the group’s website and mail it to the MCEF P.O. Box 604, Mechanicsville, VA 23111.

ed school board members can only be removed for reasons tied to individual wrongdoing. Any petition to remove a school board member requires a majority vote of approval by the board of supervisors and would be heard by the Hanover Circuit Court.

“Members of the Hanover County Board of Supervisors take an oath of office to serve all constituents faithfully and impartially,” Kelly-Wiecek said.

“We take that oath very, very seriously.”

In order to ensure all citizens had the opportunity to speak, board members divided citizen’s time into two segments

and voted to extend the public comment period to 11 p.m.

Citizens both pre-registered and in attendance were invited to speak for three minutes each at the beginning of the meeting and end.

Many in opposition to the school board’s decision said they are in violation of state law by failing to adopt fully inclusive policies for transgender and nonbinary students.

“They are creating hostile educational environment for my child and others like him,” said Kelly Carter Merrill, a resident of the Ashland District. “If you value having an appointed school board, you must find a

way to hold these bad actors accountable.

Merrill said with a lack of inclusive guidelines for bathroom use in schools, her son avoids using the restroom entirely. Others mentioned that while schools provide gender neutral bathrooms, they are difficult to access and take away from instructional time.

Many citizens who spoke in support of the school board’s decision said they are acting on behalf of parental authority.

“Parental rights are enshrined in the Code of Virginia,” said Kimberly Thurston, a Mechanicsville resident. “And that means that all

parents have the right to decide what is best for their child, not specific groups.”

Various speakers in support of the school board argued parents have the right to choose what topics are taught to their children in schools.

“Schools need to go back to teaching the basics and let

the parents teach the morals and values,” said Rebecca Hendricks, a Chickahominy District resident. “I don’t care what you do behind closed doors.”

“So you’re saying that maybe transgender and LGBTQ can’t be themselves in school see BOARD, pg. 13

746-5853 WE WANT TO BE YOUR PLUMBER Ashland-Hanover Local March 30, 2022 5

OPINION | The Local Views From the editor

Community organizations seek funding for interactive exhibits

By Christina Amano Dolan Editor

time this week or next.

“Prior to that being made public, I will be sure to personAshland Town Council ally reach out to everyone who’s recently heard requests from asked for funds, whether it is community organizations to how long they’ve been funded, fund a variety of desired projnot funded or funded through ects for fiscal year (FY) 2023. some percentage,” Farrar said. continuous desire to accomplish more fundraising basketball games, organizBy Christina Amano Dolan Among the organizations presHe said his recommended and learn new ways, each year, to impact ing a charity casino night and holding a Editor ent were representatives from budget is largely based on citithe lives of neighbors and strangers alike. canned food drive to benefit Feed More CultureWorks, Inc. and the ince I first began covering hapzen and council input, but there But perhaps the most memorable and other local nonprofit organizations.

Ashland Museum, who intropenings in Hanover County, I impression made on me during my are opportunities to adjust the I still vividly remember the day my duced separate interactive dishave frequently heard of and dis- interaction so far with local volunteer organization unveiled the thousands of budget moving forward. play projects to bring innovative covered the love that residents groups has been the exposure to the canned goods and funds we had accuScott Garka, president of forms of storytelling to visitors hold for their community. It’s happened overwhelming sense of comradeship mulated over the course of a week and CultureWorks, Inc., presented and the community. when I was having friendly conversa- that is uniquely found among members. how the room full of students erupted the organization’s FY2023 fundThe March 22 meeting was tions with residents or even grabbing a Many volunteers that I have spoken with into surprised applause as we marveled ing request to continue its curthe second budget work session bite to eat at popular local restaurants. talked about the enduring friendships at what we achieved. rent pilot program of bringheld by the council, with a porBut as I continue to learn about Hanover they have made during their many years ing interactive art displays to As I look back on my time in college, tion of the schedule dedicated and its people, I continuously uncover a of service. While they may have initially I remember these efforts most fondly Ashland communities. to community organization collective passion for volunteerism.

CultureWorks is a nonbeen united by their shared philanthrop- as, for the first time, I saw the powerful funding requests.

Most recently, I saw this in action ic aspirations, meaningful bonds and impact of what a community can accomprofit organization that serves “We sort of set up this quarduring a visit to the Mechanicsville fun memories they have made with their plish by joining together for a worthy the Richmond and Tri-Cities ter over the last number of Churches Emergency Functions (MCEF) fellow volunteers over the years are what cause and the meaningful bonds formed region, including Hanover years, giving each organization One Stop Shop. As I looked at volunteers truly binds them together.

County and the town of because of it. Discovering what seemingthe opportunity to speak but energetically floating around, assisting Ashland. Garka said the nonThese experiences have reminded ly modest efforts can accomplish for the not requiring that they attend visitors or tending to other operational me of my own memories of volunteer- prosperity of others offers an unmatched profit’s mission is to “strengththis meeting,” said Matt Reynal, needs with vigor, I noticed the vibrancy ing, especially during my time as a col- feeling of fulfillment. I know that is only en artists in arts and culture the town’s finance director. of the shop’s atmosphere and the shared lege student. While I initially sought to one of many motivations that may drive organizations to drive a greater Town administrator Josh enthusiasm of the volunteers. impact in the community.” join campus organizations to familiarize a passion for volunteerism, but it is a Farrar clarified that no deciI saw this inspiring drive for com- myself with my new community and powerful one.

“And when we talk about sions were being made during munity service again last week during form new connections, I came to disimpact, it’s education impact, While I have seen and experienced a the meeting; the requests offer a visit to see the ladies of the Pamunkey cover the joys of service to communities collective passion for volunteerism witheconomic impact and that the opportunity for citizens and Woman’s Club. Perhaps what impressed most in need. social cohesion that helps build in my student community, I had never council members to listen and me the most was the amount of years a stronger and healthier comThroughout my time in college, my quite been exposed to a communitywide ask questions. He said the decimany of the members have spent in the organization found new ways each year passion for volunteerism before starting munity,” Garka said. sions on funding requests will club, volunteering for decades to serve to engage with other groups in commu- my adventures in Hanover. As I continue CultureWorks has been become available in the form both the local community and com- nity service. Together, we addressed seri- to uncover the many stories of compartnering with the Better of his recommended budget, munities in need across the world. I ous issues such as food insecurity in a munity volunteers, I can’t help but feel a Housing Coalition since 2016 which will be published somewas equally impressed by the volunteers’ fun, collaborative way, including hosting reignited drive for volunteerism myself. to bring unique and accessible art experiences to modestincome communities each year.

Editorial & Business Office and Mailing Address: CultureWorks received $2,500 WE WANT TO PUBLISH YOUR ISSUE-DRIVEN LETTERS 8460 Times-Dispatch Blvd. Mechanicsville, VA 23116 from the town’s general fund for Phone – (804) 746-1235 Editor – (804) 212-6266 The Local welcomes your signed letters to the editor on topics of interest to FY2022 and is currently working Toll free – (877) 888-0449 Fax – (804) 344-8746 Hanover residents. Letters must include your address and a daytime telephone Online: richmond.com/community/mechanicsville-local with residents of Ashland’s Sedgefield number. We reserve the right to edit letters. We do not guarantee that every letter community, Ashland staff and local received will be published. Letters reflect the opinions and positions of the writers Publisher Joy Monopoli .........................................jmonopoli@RSNVA.com artist Alfonso Perez to bring an interand not The Ashland-Hanover Local. active arts and culture experience Managing Editor Laura McFarland ....................lmcfarland@powhatantoday.com Send letters to: The Ashland-Hanover Local this spring.

Editor Christina Amano Dolan........................ cdolan@mechlocal.com 8460 Times-Dispatch Blvd. Mechanicsville, Va. 23116 Garka said an interactive outFax: 344-8746 E-mail: editor@mechlocal.com Production Manager Denine D’Angelo .................................ddangelo@mechlocal.com door event is scheduled from 5 to 7 p.m. May 12 at the Ashland Junction Sports Editor David Lawrence .................................dlawrence@mechlocal.com Shopping Center. Alfonso is creating © 2022 by Richmond Suburban Newspapers.

All advertising and editorial matter is fully Sales Representative Tom Haynie ............................................thaynie@mechlocal.com protected and may not be reproduced in any manner without the permission of the publisher. a “mobile message of hope” in the

A passion for volunteerism discovered throughout the community

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Ashland-Hanover Local March 30, 2022

CAC Audited Circulation: 13,776.

see COMMUNITY, pg. 13

Sports

UPCOMING EVENTS

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31 2022

Baseball/Softball: Patrick Henry at Mechanicsville 6:00 p.m./6:00 p.m.

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03 2022

Auto Racing: Toyota Owners 400 at Richmond Raceway, 3:30 p.m.

| Youth, High School, College, Recreational & Professional

Yellow Jackets reflect on championship Team honored by home fans, national organizations

Cobb, Nuckols yield reins of PH girls team

By Dave Lawrence Sports Editor Monday, March 21, was a special day for the RandolphMacon men’s basketball team.

Sure, the Yellow Jackets had classes — they are students after all — but that evening they were to be honored by the campus for a singular accomplishment: winning an NCAA Division III National Championship.

They were appropriately feted and fed. They got a chance to speak to the crowd in Crenshaw Gymnasium.

The honors kept coming.

On Tuesday, the National Association of Basketball Coaches named head coach Josh Merkel its Division III Coach of the Year. D3hoops. com named Merkel its coach of the year. It also named senior guard Buzz Anthony the National Player of the Year and junior forward Miles Mallory to its All-America second team.

Their accomplishments this past season, the past three COVID-challenged years, have been legion. The Yellow Jackets have been ranked near or at the top of the national polls.

This year, their 33 wins — 27 straight after an overtime loss to Christopher Newport in

By Dave Lawrence Sports Editor

Alexa Welch Edlund/Times-Dispatch

Randolph-Macon head men’s basketball coach Josh Merkel (right) gives Buzz Anthony (left) a high-five after Anthony spoke to the crowd gathered in Crenshaw Gymnasium Monday night to celebrate the Yellow Jackets’ NCAA Division III national championship.

November — both figures are program records.

It takes a lot for a team to achieve so much. And much of what it takes is in the intangible category.

“Those guys put in the work,” Merkel said. The commitment is when they commit to us, they know that they’re going to have to compete. And they’re going to have to com-

pete daily and be disciplined and bring it because there’s always going to be guys that they’re competing and going up against. So that’s where it comes from.”

The magic starts with the recruiting.

“Getting the right guys on the bus involves a lot of different things,” Merkel said. “One thing is you want self-motivat-

ed guys. You want guys that have a … drive. If I want them to be a better player than they want to be, then we’re going to be butting heads and I don’t think they’re going to get very far. … It’s about getting the right guys that are driven, that look at R-MC as a place to continue to better themselves and continue to develop.”

It helps to have more than

a strong work ethic. Basketball is a game, after all, and should be fun.

“Being around guys that are fun to be around makes it fun to come to work and we’ve enjoyed that all year. And I think it gives us an advantage,” Merkel said. “When people feel good about themselves,

As any working parent knows, it’s often a challenge to balance the demands of both family and work.

When the two conflict, something has to give.

For two long-time Patrick Henry girls basketball coaches who have been running into such a conflict, what had to give was the coaching job.

Head girls basketball coach Phillip Cobb and assistant coach Leslie Nuckols both announced they are stepping down from their respective posts which they have held for the past 13 years.

Both have resigned because their coaching responsibilities are keeping them from being able to watch their respective children compete in other winter sports. Being able to see REINS, pg. 8

see REFLECT, pg. 8

Ashland-Hanover Local March 30, 2022 7

Missed opportunities trip up R-MC women’s lacrosse

By Rob Witham for The Local ASHLAND — RandolphMacon women’s lacrosse has no interest in moral victories.

They’re tired of seeing the same movie plot unfold on the field, falling behind to an opponent, and spending their full efforts on catching up, only to find the eliminated margin again on the scoreboard.

Sunday at Nunnally Field against Mary Washington, having already come back from two

three-goal deficits, the Yellow Jackets had four chances to take the lead during an 8-8 tie in the third period. But turnovers and other factors denied them that lead, as the Mary Washington Eagles survived Sunday’s contest by an 11-10 score.

“They’re a very aggressive team, and we played an aggressive team in Meredith, but this time it took us too long to get used to it,” explained Yellow Jacket head coach M.K. Geratowski. “We had a couple of unforced turnovers that were

just from them playing solid body defense on us. We just dropped the ball.”

Indeed, two turnovers helped Mary Washington grab a 4-2 lead early in the second period, building the lead to 5-2, and 7-4 before RandolphMacon (3-5) scored the first half’s final two goals in the last 81 seconds of play for a 7-6 halftime tally.

The major consistency of play for the Yellow Jackets came at draw control, as they dominated the Eagles in the circle by

more than a 2-1 margin. The corresponding inconsistency came offensively via unforced errors, passing which was less than crisp, and failing to adjust to the Eagles’ defensive strengths.

After scoring six goals at Christopher Newport last Wednesday, freshman Rianna Lowery continued her inspired play with a three-goal, two-assist performance. Lily Henderson and McKenzie Hynson each scored twice. Hynson moved to fifth place all-time in program

REINS

history in draw control wins Sunday afternoon.

With Old Dominion Athletic Conference play finally on the horizon with a trip to Bridgewater Saturday, Geratowski can preach the gospel of a 0-0 record. Hopefully it will help the Yellow Jackets in finding the way forward to strong game starts, and making the opponents play the catch-up game. The emergence of Lowery to go with leading scorer Annie Bartley offers opportunity.

“CNU did a great job

of shutting Annie down and Rianna stepped up big time for us, and now, I think, it’s really tough for defenses,” Geratowski explained. “They’ve got to key in on Annie, on Rianna, but they also have to pay attention to Lily and McKenzie.”

The firepower is developing. The defense is there. Now Randolph-Macon must find consistency in capitalization.

Opportunity knocks again Saturday.

Rob Witham can be reached at sports@mechlocal.com.

REFLECT

and play basketball,” Talbert said. “Me and Buzz, we’ve been coming up with all these big games. We talk to each other.

He came down [to Virginia Beach] last summer to my house and we went outside to play pickup basketball.

“So we always joked and came back to that before the introductions before the game, you know. We always said, ‘Hey man, we’re just we’re going out to play another pickup game.’ ” Talbert and his teammates picked up a national championship trophy, one pickup game at a time.

Continued from pg. 7

Continued from pg. 7

cheer their own children on is a higher priority.

Cobb and his wife, Erin, have two sons, the elder of which (Ashton) is a freshman at Patrick Henry this year who played quite a bit on the boys junior varsity team. The other, Brown, will be an eighth grader next year.

“The girls and boys play opposite of each other,” Cobb said. “So if we’re away and the boys are home and vice versa, and just out of 20-something games, there’s very, very few games — I think it’s like four games where the schedule worked out to be able to watch them, the boys program. And so, it’s not an easy decision as far as the coaching goes, but it is an easy decision when it comes to being able to watch my kids play high school sports.”

Cobb mentioned the desire to watch his own children at the end-of-season banquet this year.

“I told our parents at our banquet last week that I’m envious of the parents in the room to be able to watch their kids play high school sports,” Cobb said. “That’s a privilege. And,

then they do good work. I do think there’s a lot to be said for that. Those guys just love being around each other, which means they love being in the gym. And which means they work on developing and even being in the film room, so they get better.”

One of the players most responsible for bringing fun to the court was David Funderburg. The 6-foot-7 senior forward, who sported a mustache and beard until his return to Ashland from the national championship game, always had a smile that burst through the facial hair.

“I love Fundy,” said teammate Josh Talbert. “He’s the biggest cheerleader. He’s the biggest, the most joyful guy. His big word is joy. He finds a way to make other guys happy. And he’s a big people guy. I think that we all feed off that. It really makes it fun.”

Talbert said his teammates try not to let the pressure of games get to them.

“We talk about going out there and be free, play freely, you know — don’t think about the outcome, just go out there

8

Joel Klein for The Local

Patrick Henry head basketball coach Philip Cobb (center, kneeling) and assistant coach Leslie Nuckols (center, standing), shown here in a game at Atlee in 2020, have announced they both are stepping down after 13 years at the helm of the Patriots’ teams.

unfortunately, I haven’t been able to do that. My wife, my lovely wife, reminds me that I only get four years of the kids in high school and to experience that with them. It goes by really, really fast,” Nuckols and her husband, Brad, have an extra challenge.

While their son, Cole, is a swimmer at Patrick Henry — swimming is a winter sport like basketball — their daughter, Logan, will be playing college basketball at Campbell University in Buies Creek,

Ashland-Hanover Local March 30, 2022

North Carolina.

“It’s just time with Logan leaving. We’re definitely going to want to be able to watch her as much as possible,” Nuckols said. “My son’s a big swimmer.

You know, I missed a lot of his Friday night swim meets at Friday night basketball games. I don’t want to do that anymore.

He’ll be a junior next year. So yeah, it’s a good time to hang it up.”

Cobb and Nuckols have been successful over their 13-year tenure, leading the

Patriots to a 183-106 record.

Ten of their players have gone on to college careers.

“It’s been a good ride,” Cobb said.

He hopes it’s not over, however.

“Coaching is in my blood,” Cobb said. “My father coached at Patrick Henry High School — football — for 43 years. I definitely can see some point coaching again. … But at this time, I need to be able to watch, find a way to watch, my kids play.”

CORRECTION: The photo caption for “Spring seasons begin for county high school teams,” in the March 23 edition of The Local contained a mathematical error.

The original caption read that Mechanicsville’s Blake Moody won the boys 400-meter dash in the Fred Hardy Invitational by 52 seconds, quite a feat considering his winning time was 50.13 seconds.

Instead, Moody won the race by nearly a second, 0.92 seconds.

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Vote in our annual Local’s Choice contest to help us recognize the best of the best.

Just fill in your choice for the best business in each of the categories on the online ballot.

Hurry, voting ends on Friday, April 8, 2022.

Contest Rules You must be at least 18 years or older to enter.

No purchase necessary to vote. A purchase will not improve one’s chance of winning.

Online voting begins at 12:01 a.m. on Wednesday, March 30, 2022 and ends at 11:59 p.m. on Friday, April 8, 2022. Limit one vote per category per person per 24 hrs. – online voting only.

The 2021 Local’s Choice Contest includes Hanover County and the town of Ashland businesses only.

The 2021 Local’s Choice Contest winners will be determined by the highest number of votes from the entries received, by the contest deadline.

The 2021 Local’s Choice Contest results will be published in The Mechanicsville Local and Ashland-Hanover Local on Wednesday, May 16, 2022.

The contest results do not reflect the views of The Mechanicsville Local and Ashland-Hanover Local.

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Mark Your Calendars for June 11 - The Ashland Strawberry Faire Returns!

This year is the 40th anniversary of the Ashland Strawberry Faire with lots to celebrate!

Since 1982, folks of all ages have come to play, enjoy strawberries, visit friends, listen to music, pet animals and shop for unique items

and special treats rain or shine. Best of all, the Faire is free!

New for 2022

COMMUNITY Continued from pg. 6

form of an 18-by-24-foot mural. Community members will be invited to add their own color and creativity to pieces of artwork in the form of yard signs that will ultimately complete the mural.

“And when those pieces come together, it reads a message of ‘Mi casa es su casa,’” Garka said. “It will offer a message of welcome and community healing, incorporating a celebration of color and Hispanic culture into the Sedgefield community logo.”

CultureWorks is requesting $5,000 for FY2023 with the goal of bringing a similar event next year to another Ashland community. Garka said the funding that they requested is largely put toward artist fees and supplies.

“From my own past experience in these kinds of community events, in addition to creating the beautiful work of art, there's even greater value in the experience that happens of bringing people together, the relationships that are built that come from joint creative experience like this,” Garka said.

Representatives from the Ashland Museum proposed plans to introduce their own interactive exhibit to the Ashland community using popular museum technology provided by Riggs Ward, a multi-disciplinary firm in Richmond that specializes in museum exhibit planning and design. The firm’s interactive developers provide modern audio-visual media systems and touchscreen interactives to elevate art and history museum exhibits.

Tom Wulf, a member of the Ashland Museum Board of Directors, discussed how the museum

BOARD Continued from pg. 5

but only in their home?” said Dottie Walsh, a Beaverdam resident, shortly after Hendricks.

A majority of discussion surrounded the topic of parental concern for their child’s safety, with parents worried about the vulnerability of their children if VDOE guidelines for inclusive bathrooms were enacted.

“The policies pertaining to bath-

Photos courtesy of the Ashland Museum

Above is the current appearance of the Ashland Museum pending planned renovations.

Above is the envisioned final product of the Ashland Museum, located at 105 Hanover Avenue, Ashland. Museum officials aim to paint the building a deep teal (not true to picture) and red in honor of Ashland’s town colors, decorate both sides with new signage and replace the damaged awnings.

has archived a vast amount of timely topics and special events throughout the town’s history, including Ashland Train Day, the 100th anniversary of Cross Brothers Grocery, Light up the Tracks, Randolph-Macon College events, special interviews with important town figures and many more.

“All of these video treasures reside in a couple

rooms and changing facilities jeopardize the bodily safety and privacy of young girls,” said Todd Gathje, an Ashland resident. He said the concerns of a “vast majority” of parents were ignored by the state.

“We urge you to stand behind the members of the school board and with the vast majority of Hanover parents who have chosen this course of action,” Gathje said. “In their wisdom, they’ve chosen a high-caliber law firm to represent them at no cost to taxpayers.

Listen, watch or join the parade of the “Ashland Strawberry Kids” as they stroll down Henry Street to Blackwell Stage to kick-off the Faire at 9:30 a.m. Young, old and in-between are invited to participate.

The 2022 “Spirit of the Faire” will be awarded to a parade participant exhibiting the most enthusiasm for the Faire.

of external hard drives that are connected to my PC,” Wulf said. “Nobody can see them.”

Wulf said they aim to showcase the museum’s rich collection of captured town moments using Riggs Ward touch screen displays. Visitors would be able to walk up to the provided screens, select a category from the listed menu and learn about Ashland through their own interactive experience.

The upgraded technology will allow the museum to share a wealth of information surrounding Ashland’s history and accommodate for new museum content as it becomes available.

“The other thing that is absolutely wonderful about it is we really want to engage youth in the museum,” said Ann Martin, president of the Ashland Museum. “This is their technology… so it’s multigenerational.”

According to Wulf, prices start at around $13,000 for the interactive displays, so the museum is requesting that amount to fund one display.

If funding is secured, Wulf said they will decide the scope of the project and potentially add additional monitors and screens.

In addition to enhancing visitor experience with new technology, Ashland Museum board members seek to transform the museum’s appearance. Martin presented a separate budget request for the revamping of the current building, with its current location occupying the old gymnasium at Randolph-Macon College.

“After searching for a larger space within the confines of the town, the board came to the conclusion that a move was not going to happen,” Martin said.

She said in order for the museum to remain relevant and appear welcoming to visitors, the

board first voted to transform the interior of the building by covering the cinderblock walls and exposed pipes with wallboard.

Now they seek to address the exterior of the building, with plans currently underway to paint the building a deep teal color with a red trim, representing the Ashland colors of teal and red.

A majority of the cost of paint will be gifted to the museum on behalf of George E. Mowbray, Jr. Paint & Wallpaper Company.

In order to address the museum’s lack of visibility, they seek to illuminate two new signs on the north and south side of the building and replace the currently tattered awnings.

The museum is requesting $14,000 in funding to assist in the cost of the building’s past and future renovations. While it is a significant investment, they plan to optimize the building’s use for a minimum of five to 10 years, Martin said.

She pointed out they were recently approved for the town’s Façade Enhancement Grant and will withdraw any secured grant funding from the requested $14,000.

With monetary assistance from the town, Martin said the museum can focus efforts on expanding programming, rotating exhibits and other activities related to admission in order to attract new and returning visitors. By promoting the town of Ashland and its collection of history, local businesses will also benefit from the improved museum.

“The museum tells Ashland’s story, provides programming inside and outside the walls of the museum, and allows residents and visitors to learn and understand our distinctive history,” Martin said.

This is responsible governance.”

Speakers on the other end argued that LGBTQ students are vulnerable in the absence of inclusive policies, with many parents and advocates sharing stories of students who face bullying by peers.

Bethany Greene, a Cold Harbor resident, said she stood to advocate for this group of “vulnerable children” and called for schools to create a “safe place” for all children.

“Some of them come from sup-

see STRAWBERRY, pg. 19

portive and loving families yet still struggle with demons brought on by the hatred of others,” Greene said.

“Some don’t come from supportive and loving families and they need a safe place.”

Christopher Berg, a Chickahominy resident, said his nonbinary child regularly struggles with bullying and mistreatment by peers. He argued a lack of guidelines and employee training regarding the treatment of transgender and nonbinary students has negatively

affected his child’s education.

“Our transgender and nonbinary students, including my student, deserve to be supported and respected.

They deserve to receive the same education as their peers,” Berg said.

After an emotional series of debate, the evening ended on a lighter note with the last few speakers calling for both sides to unite and address the overarching issue of bullying in see BOARD, pg. 19

Ashland-Hanover Local March 30, 2022 13

Hanover County Department of Public Works Pole Green Rd Widening Design Public Hearing Monday, April 25, 2022, 6-7:30 pm Pole Green Elementary School 8993 Pole Green Park Ln, Mechanicsville, VA 23116 Hanover County will hold a public hearing on Monday, April 25, 2022, beginning at 6:00 pm at Pole Green Elementary School, 8993 Pole Green Park Ln, Mechanicsville, VA 23116 to present plans for the proposed widening of approximately 1.63 miles of Pole Green Rd (Rt. 627) from Bell Creek Rd (Rt. 642) to Rural Point Rd (Rt. 643).

The purpose of the hearing is to provide citizens and other interested parties the opportunity to review the project materials which include the plans showing proposed right-of-way and easements, environmental documents, schedule and funding.

The plans and environmental documents are available on the County’s web site at https://www.hanovercounty.gov/816/Roads-and-Transportation or can be reviewed in person by contacting the Dept. of Public Works at (804) 365-6176 to schedule an appointment to review these materials.

The hearing will begin with a presentation followed by a question and answer session after which there will be an opportunity to engage one-on-one with County representatives. Comments will be accepted at the hearing or they may be submitted to the attention of Joseph E. Vidunas, Project Manager, Dept. of Public Works, P.O. Box 470, Hanover, Virginia 23069. Comments may also be submitted via email to jevidunas@hanovercounty.gov. Please reference “Pole Green Rd Widening Public Hearing” in all correspondence. Comments must be received by 5:00 pm, May 5, 2022 to be included in the public hearing record.

Hanover County ensures nondiscrimination and equal employment in all programs and activities in accordance with Title VI and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Anyone requiring special assistance to attend and participate in this hearing may contact Joseph E. Vidunas at (804) 365-6176 or TTY/TDD 711 or via email at jevidunas@hanovercounty.gov.

Project: VDOT Project #0627-042-873, P101, R201, C501 (UPC 109260) Federal Aid Project #RSTP-5A27( )

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Ashland-Hanover Local March 30, 2022

LEGAL DISPLAY ADS

LEGAL DISPLAY ADS

Public Notice NoticeisherebygiventhattheHanover County Board of Supervisors has set Wednesday,April 6, 2022 6:00 P.M., in the Board Room of the Hanover County Administration Building at Hanover Courthouse, 7516 County Complex Road, Hanover, Virginia, as the day, date, time, and place for a Special Board Meeting - Budget Public Hearing.

Public Notice Notice is hereby given that the Hanover County Board of Supervisors has set Wednesday, April 13, 2022 2:00 P.M., in the Board Room of the Hanover County Administration Building at Hanover Courthouse, 7516 County Complex Road, Hanover, Virginia, as the day, date, time, and place for a Regular Board Meeting.

LEGAL DISPLAY ADS

HANOVER COUNTY, VIRGINIA NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING AND PROPOSED 2022 TAX RATES Notice is hereby given that the Hanover County Board of Supervisors will hold a Public Hearing on Wednesday, April 6, 2022, at 6:00 p.m. in the Board Room of the Hanover County Administration Building, 7516 County Complex Road, Hanover, Virginia, on the following: 2022 Proposed Tax Rates Real Property Personal Property Qualifying Volunteer Fire and Rescue Vehicle Personal Property Qualifying Disabled Veterans Vehicle Personal Property Machinery and Tools Aircraft Personal Property Merchants’ Capital Mobile Home Generating Equipment

2021 $0.81 $3.57 $1.78

2022 $0.81 $3.57 $1.78

$0.00

$0.00

$3.57 $0.50 $1.90 $0.81 $0.81

$3.57 $0.50 $1.90 $0.81 $0.81

All levies above are per one hundred dollars of assessed valuation.

Hanover County Recycling Service District The County of Hanover, Virginia, proposes to levy a tax of $41.00 per residential lot located in the Hanover County Recycling Service District for the purpose of funding recycling services. The fee for the prior year was $36.00.

Atlee Manor Sewer Service District The County of Hanover, Virginia, proposes to levy a tax of $780.00 per residential lot located in the Atlee Manor Sewer Service District for the purpose of funding sewer system improvements.

The Hanover County Board of Supervisors is not obligated to adopt the proposed tax rates but may adopt rates up to the amounts listed as it deems necessary.

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PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS The Hanover County Board of Supervisors will hold a public hearing on April 27, 2022, at 7:00 p.m. in the Board meeting room at the Hanover County Administration Building, 7516 County Complex Road, at Hanover Courthouse, Hanover, Virginia, on the following ordinance being proposed for adoption: ORDINANCE NO. 22-02 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ORDINANCE 06-01 OF THE COUNTRY CLUB HILLS SANITARY DISTRICT TO ADJUSTTHEDEBTSERVICESURCHARGE AND THEN ABOLISH THE COUNTRY CLUB HILLS SANITARY DISTRICT, PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 2 OF TITLE 21 OF THE CODE OF VIRGINIA, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION SECTIONS 21-117.1, 21-118, AND 21-118.4 Debt service surcharge – effective June 2022 billing Debt service surcharge – effective August 2022 billing

EXISTING

PROPOSED

$40.00

$30.00

$30.00

$0.00

A complete copy of the proposed ordinance and related information is available at the office of the County Administrator any regular working day between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

All persons wishing to comment on the proposal may appear at the stated time and place.

Related information is available for inspection online and at the Office of the County Administrator, 7516 County Complex Road, Hanover, VA, (804) 365-6005, any regular working day between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. The options available for providing written or oral statements are posted on the County website: www.hanovercounty.gov.

John A. Budesky, County Administrator Ashland-Hanover Local March 30, 2022 15

LEGAL DISPLAY ADS

LEGAL DISPLAY ADS

LEGAL DISPLAY ADS

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS The Hanover County Board of Supervisors will hold a public hearing on April 6, 2022, at 6:00 p.m. in the Board meeting room at the Hanover County Administration Building, 7516 County Complex Road, at Hanover Courthouse, Hanover, Virginia, on the following ordinance being proposed for adoption: ORDINANCE NO. 22-06 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE HANOVER COUNTY CODE, CHAPTER 22, TAXATION, ARTICLE II, DIVISION 3, SECTIONS 22-19, 22-21, AND 22-25, TO (1) INCREASE THE AMOUNT OF NET COMBINED FINANCIAL WORTH ELDERLY OR DISABLED TAXPAYERS OTHERWISE QUALIFYING FOR THE REAL ESTATE TAX EXEMPTION MAY HOLD, (2) INCREASE BY $2,500 EACH THE INCOME LEVELS TO WHICH THE TAX EXEMPTIONS APPLY, (3) INCREASE THE PERCENTAGES OF THE TAX EXEMPTION APPLICABLE TO A GIVEN INCOME LEVEL, AND (4) MAKE OTHER TECHNICAL AMENDMENTS. EXISTING PROPOSED Net Household Worth $200,000.00 $300,000.00 Income Levels Affected $0.00 – $22,500.00 $0.00 – $25,000.00 $22,501.00 – $32,500.00 $25,001.00 – $35,000.00 $32,501.00 – $42,500.00 $35,001.00 – $45,000.00 $42,501.00 – $52,500.00 $45,001.00 – $55,000.00 Percentage Taxes Exempted Range of Income $0.00 – $25,000.00 100% 100% Range of Income $25,001.00 – $35,000.00 75% 80% Range of Income $35,001.00 – $45,000.00 50% 55% Range of Income $45,001.00 – $55,000.00 25% 30% A complete copy of the proposed ordinance and related information is available at the office of the County Administrator on any regular working day between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

All persons wishing to comment on the proposal may appear at the stated time and place.

John A. Budesky, County Administrator

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TOWN OF ASHLAND NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Please take notice that on the 19th day of April 2022, at 7:00 p.m. the Ashland Town Hall, 121 Thompson Street, Ashland, VA, the Ashland Town Council will conduct public hearings pursuant to Virginia Code section 15.2-2204 for the purpose of receiving input, and may take action on the following:

REZ22-0201 & ORD2022-02 AMBURN LANE Keith Whipple, on behalf of the property owner Amburn Partners LLC, requests to conditional rezone from the Rural Residential RR-1 and Residential Limited R-2 to Residential Medium R-3 the property located at the southwest corner of the intersection of James Street and West Vaughan Road (GPIN 7870-65-5420). The property is approximately 7.1 acres in size.

The applicant proposes to construct 14 single-family detached and 6 single-family attached dwellings (12 units total) for a total density of 3.66 units/acre. Uses will be controlled by zoning ordinance regulations and proffered conditions. The comprehensive plan recommends Traditional Neighborhood, density should not exceed 4 units per acre.

CUP22-0201, AMBURN LANE Keith Whipple, on behalf of the property owner Amburn Partners LLC, requests a conditional use permit in accordance with Sec. 21-48(i) of the Ashland Town Code to construct six singlefamily attached dwellings (12 units total) in the R-3 Residential Medium zoning district for a total density of 3.66 acres. The property is located at the southwest corner of the intersection of James Street and West Vaughan Road (GPIN 7870-65-5420) and is approximately 7.1 acres in size. The comprehensive plan recommends Traditional Neighborhood, density should not exceed 4 units per acre.

Copies of REZ22-0201, ORD2022-02, and CUP22-0201, may be obtained by contacting Town Hall at (804) 798-1073. Written comments may be submitted to planning@ashlandva.gov or Town of Ashland, P.O. Box 1600, Ashland, VA 23005. All interested persons may attend and express their views. Any person with a disability requiring assistance to participate in this public hearing is asked to contact Town Hall in advance so that appropriate arrangements can be made.

TOWN OF ASHLAND NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Please take notice that on the 19th day of April at 7:00 p.m. at the Ashland Town Hall, 121 Thompson Street, Ashland, VA, the Ashland Town Council will conduct a public hearing for the purpose of receiving input, and may make a recommendation on the following application: CPA2022-01, Comprehensive Plan Amendment – Chapter 8 Environment The Town of Ashland is requesting approval of CPA2022-01 to amend Chapter 8 Environment of the Comprehensive Plan. The proposed amendments update the stated goals, objectives, and timetables of the Plan to ensure consistency with standards set forth by the Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act. Copies of CPA2022-01 may be obtained by contacting Town Hall at (804) 798-1073, Monday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Written comments may be submitted to planning@ashlandva.gov or mailed to Town of Ashland, PO Box 1600, Ashland, VA 23005. All interested persons may attend and express their views. Any person with a disability requiring assistance in order to participate in this public hearing is asked to contact Town Hall in advance so that appropriate arrangements can be made.

16

Ashland-Hanover Local March 30, 2022

TOWN OF ASHLAND NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Please take notice that on the 13th day of April 2022, at 6:00 p.m. the Ashland Town Hall, 121 Thompson Street, Ashland, VA, the Ashland Planning Commission will conduct public hearings pursuant to Virginia Code section 15.2-2204 for the purpose of receiving input, and may provide a recommendation on the following: REZ22-0201 & ORD2022-02 AMBURN LANE Keith Whipple, on behalf of the property owner Amburn Partners LLC, requests to conditional rezone from the Rural Residential RR-1 and Residential Limited R-2 to Residential Medium R-3 the property located at the southwest corner of the intersection of James Street and West Vaughan Road (GPIN 7870-65-5420). The property is approximately 7.1 acres in size.

The applicant proposes to construct 14 single-family detached and 6 single-family attached dwellings (12 units total) for a total density of 3.66 units/acre. Uses will be controlled by zoning ordinance regulations and proffered conditions.The comprehensive plan recommends Traditional Neighborhood, density should not exceed 4 units per acre.

CUP22-0201, AMBURN LANE Keith Whipple, on behalf of the property owner Amburn Partners LLC, requests a conditional use permit in accordance with Sec. 21-48(i) of the Ashland Town Code to construct six single-family attached dwellings (12 units total) in the R-3 Residential Medium zoning district for a total density of 3.66 acres. The property is located at the southwest corner of the intersection of James Street and West Vaughan Road (GPIN 7870-65-5420) and is approximately 7.1 acres in size. The comprehensive plan recommends Traditional Neighborhood, density should not exceed 4 units per acre.

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CPA2022-02, TRADEPORT 95 Andrew M. Condlin, on behalf of the property owners EAI LC and Theatre Square LC, requests a comprehensive plan amendment to the future land use map to change the future land use classifications from Interstate Commercial and Traditional Neighborhood to Interstate Commercial and Industrial. The property is commonly known as “East Ashland” and is located along the southern line of East Patrick Henry Road (State Route 54), approximately 700 feet east of its intersection with Woodside Lane (GPIN parcels 7880-61-7681, 7880-61-4768, 7880-60-4701, 7880-61-6987, 7880-72-0523, 7880-60-1053, and 7880-60-4343). The property includes existing zoning of Planned Unit Development (PUD), Planning Shopping Center (PSC) and Highway Commercial (B-2). The existing use of the property is single-family residential, farmland, and open space.

CUP22-0228, BUDGET MART Stuart Little of Sekiv Solutions, on behalf of the property owner Shree Sai Sagun LLC, is requesting approval of a conditional use permit (CUP) to allow for a fueling station pursuant to Sections 21-101(x) which permits fueling stations within the B-2 Highway Commercial district with issuance of a CUP. The site is located on the northwest corner of the intersection of Telcourt Road and East Patrick Henry Road (S.R. 54) (GPIN parcel 7880-42-6201). The site is within the B-2, Highway Commercial district. The future land use designation is Mixed Business.

Copies of REZ22-0201, ORD2022-02, CUP22-0201, CUP22-0228, and CPA2022-02 may be obtained by contacting Town Hall at (804) 798-1073. Written comments may be submitted to planning@ashlandva.gov or Town of Ashland, P.O. Box 1600, Ashland, VA 23005. All interested persons may attend and express their views. Any person with a disability requiring assistance to participate in this public hearing is asked to contact Town Hall in advance so that appropriate arrangements can be made.

Ashland-Hanover Local March 30, 2022 17

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Ashland Museum’s HistoryTalks presents ‘Hanover County’s Three Railroads’ program Join the Ashland Museum when Art Taylor, president of the Hanover County Historical Society and author, presents the museum’s next HistoryTalks program on Thursday, March 31 at 7 p.m. at the Pamunkey Regional Library Ashland Branch, 201 S. Railroad Avenue, Ashland.

Taylor will talk about the early history of railroads in Hanover County and will have some railroad artifacts on display.

This talk is free and open to the public.

For any questions, leave a voice message at 804-368-7314 or email ashlandmuseum@ Photos courtesy of the Ashland Museum comcast.net.

Shown is the Richmond, Fredericksburg and Potomac Railroad tracks looking south from College Avenue and Henry Clay Road.

Submitted by Ashland Museum.

Photo courtesy of Jessica Robertson Photographic Artistry

Dan Bartges, the art instructor for the new Hanover Arts & Activities Center ‘Spring into Painting’ program, is pictured with his dog as he paints on a sunny spring day.

Continued from pg. 13

What to expect for the 40th anniversary of the Faire

Hanover Arts and Activities Center hosting ‘Spring into Painting’ Beginning in April, the Hanover Arts & Activities Center (HAAC), located at 500 S Center Street, Ashland, will offer a weekly studio art class for all levels and in all media, such as oils, acrylics, watercolors or charcoal. Subjects will include a live model and still lifes.

Weekly class will be limited to the first 15 people who register. The class will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. on the following Mondays: April 11, 18, 25 and May 2. The one-time fee is $80 for all four classes.

Classes will be conducted by Dan Bartges, a nationally-known artist and author whose artwork appears in the collections of several Fortune 500 companies and in many private collections. Bartges is donating all proceeds from the classes directly to the HAAC. To register, visit the HAAC website: https://www. hanoverarts.net/workshops-classes.

Some materials are not included. The instructor will send a supply list before the class. For any questions for the instructor, contact Bartges at dkbartges@verizon.net.

BOARD Continued from pg. 13

schools.

Rob Sanders, an Ashland resident, said he has

thriving communities.

“Just as the Ashland Strawberry Faire provides scholarships to Hanover students to help fund their continued education, local events not only bring the community together, but they also support local nonprofits who offer valuable support and opportunities to members of their community,” Campbell added.

STRAWBERRY

Park your car, then hop on a trolley to the tree-lined streets of Randolph-Macon College to enjoy all that the Faire has to offer.

Visit over 300 vendors on Henry, Patrick and Caroline streets. There will be arts and crafts vendors, Hanover County businesses, nonprofit groups and government services folks available from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Come hungry to feast at the Food Court.

There will be many food vendors speckled around the campus serving up ice cream, fresh-squeezed lemonade and strawberry-delicious goodies.

In addition to the many vendors coming to the Faire, enjoy the “Motor Mile,” where all kinds of vehicles will be available to touch and see. The BARKing Lot returns with adoptable pets from various animal groups. Many people have found their “furever” friend at the Ashland Strawberry Faire. The Faire also boasts a large Kid Zone with a bounce house, “Berry” Walk and lots of games and prizes.

Village Bank is the presenting sponsor for this year’s event

seen both sides to the community. He said while he received a “myriad of hostile comments” in school, he additionally experienced an “unequivocally large amount of community support” in the loss of a fellow classmate.

Sponsorship openings still open Photo Ashland Strawberry Faire, Inc.

Ashland Town Council member Dan McGraw volunteered in 2018 at the Dunk Tank, taking the plunge many times to raise money for Hanover Habitat for Humanity (now Hanover & King William Habitat for Humanity). The Dunk Tank returns in 2022.

Village Bank, an independent community bank, has been serving the Greater Richmond area since 1999 and currently operates in nine branch locations, including locations in Sliding Hill and Mechanicsville.

The bank is known for its dedication to customer service and its branch promise, “You’re a neighbor, not a number,” as well as its commitment to supporting local community organizations.

“We are very proud to be sponsoring the Ashland Strawberry Faire this year,” says Valenda Campbell, director of marketing for Village Bank. “Community events such as the Faire are important events that help to build

“It needs to be nurtured, and it needs to be cared for by the community members and board members here today by starting to make outreach programs for some of the most vulnerable people... specifically gender non-conforming and

There are still some sponsorship opportunities available.

Visit www.

AshlandStrawberryFaire.com.

Join the 2022 sponsors to date: Village Bank, Ashland Ace Hardware, the Town of Ashland, Ferber’s Tire & Auto and Fin & Feather Pet Center of Ashland and sign up today. The Faire committee is grateful for the continued backing of hometown sponsors: Randolph-Macon College, the Mechanicsville Local, the Ashland-Hanover Local and the Town of Ashland.

The Faire is still accepting applications for vendor spaces. Early bird pricing ends on April 15. The Faire is a nonprofit organization working in partnership with the Kiwanis Club of Ashland. Proceeds from the Faire go back to the community in the form of nonprofit support and scholarships for Hanover County public schools, the Hanover Center for Trades and Technology and Randolph-Macon College. nonbinary students” Sanders said.

While citizen’s time is not an interactive process, the supervisors listened to all citizens and will follow up with anyone who has questions or concerns.

Ashland-Hanover Local March 30, 2022 19

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