Ashland-Hanover Local – 12/07/2022

COMMUNITY Santa Run schedules Page 2

SPORTS Young Patriots stay motivated, focused on positives through season opening setbacks

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Vol. 7 No. 13 | Richmond Suburban News | December 7, 2022

Mechanicsville Parade offers ‘Christmas through a Child’s Eyes’

By Christina Amano Dolan Editor

Joel Klein for The Local

Truth Baptist Church of Mechanicsville won first Place Best in Keeping With The Theme. More photos on page 15 and 16.

T

he Mechanicsville Christmas Parade returned this year like never before, offering a vibrant and festive afternoon with the annual spectacle’s largest lineup of participants to date. Spectators lined the streets to catch a glimpse at “Christmas through a Child’s Eyes,” the theme for this year’s parade, through a record number of 96 units.

The first place winner of the Best

Watch the full Mechanicsville Christmas Parade on The Mechanicsville Local’s Facebook page at facebook. com/mechlocal.

see PARADE, pg. 15

41st annual Craft Bazaar another holiday success

By Christina Amano Dolan Editor The Church of the Redeemer’s Craft Bazaar recently returned for its 41st year, drawing a crowd of almost 2,000 visitors and families throughout the day to holiday shop for handmade crafts from over 120 vendors.

In addition to its abundance of family attractions, such as a special visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus along with exciting raffle prizes, the annual fair serves as one of the church’s largest fundraising events of the year.

Photo courtesy of the Church of the Redeemer

Dave and Terry Worland’s granddaughters, Lilly and Cora Wilcox, snuggle up with Santa and Mrs. Claus during the 41st annual Craft Bazaar.

This year’s event was held on Saturday, Nov. 19 at the church, located at located at 8275 Meadowbridge Road in Mechanicsville.

While admission was free, the church requested a $1 donation at the door that was rewarded with a door prize ticket, with this year’s door prizes including Santa Claus cookie jars, Enamel pie plates, mugs and more.

Visitors who brought a nonperishable food item for the church’s food bank received an additional door prize ticket. see BAZAAR, pg. 4

Deck The Halls fundraiser returns for 20th year

By Christina Amano Dolan Editor Residents from the local community and beyond visited the 20th annual Deck the Halls fundraising event last weekend to craft fresh holiday arrangements with friends and family while benefiting Hanover Safe Place.

The annual event was held Sunday, Dec. 4 at the home of Carolyn and Jerry Peart, who have been holding Deck the Halls on the family’s historic Pine Grove Farm since 2002.

With a single exception in 2006, the Pearts have dedicated the past 20 years to hosting the fundraising holiday event every year following Thanksgiving.

Deck The Halls sees visitors who sign up for specific time slots to select up to three wreath forms and three premade bows to craft custom decorations for their homes, offices and more using fresh greenery such as fir, cedar, holly, boxwood, pine and more supplied by Hickory Hill, Winterberry, Maplewood, and Claybrooke Farms. Participants are also offered wire, clippers, and all-natural decorations such as pine cones, holly berries, beauty berries, winterberries and more.

Volunteer “coaches” assist crafters with the various wreath forms, with many being local gardening experts from the Ashland Garden Club and others. In addition, decorations premade by Hanover Safe

Christina Amano Dolan/The Local

Visitors at the Deck the Halls event craft customized arrangements at the various stations around the family farm using fresh greenery, ribbon and all-natural decorations including pine cones and winterberries.

Place volunteers and area garden clubs are sold at low prices throughout the event, including wreaths, swags, table toppers and more.

All proceeds raised from the event directly support Hanover Safe Place, which is the only nonprofit organization in Hanover County that provides assistance to victims of domestic and sexual violence.

According to Carolyn, they have reached up to $20,000 in donations in a single year prior to the COVID-19 pandemic.

While she didn’t know the donation total at press time, she said there were over 300 see DECK, pg. 8

SANTA RUN 2022 SCHEDULES Editors note: More 2022 Santa Run fire station schedules will be printed in future editions as they become available.

Ashland Volunteer Fire Company This year’s Santa Run for Ashland Volunteer Fire Company Station 1 has released the following schedule for December. The streets listed below are the basic order they will be following each night. The station will have a makeup night on Wednesday, Dec. 14 at 6:30 p.m. if they are unable to keep the listed schedule.

The trucks are large, so they will stick to main thoroughfares.

They will be unable to drive down cul-de-sacs or side streets.

The station requests that spectators do not approach the moving units. They should hear them coming, as the station will give a notice with sirens.

The station thanks the community for their tremendous support and hopes all families will come out to see Santa. For updates on routes and changes, visit the Ashland Residents Page on Facebook.

Tuesday, Dec. 6, beginning by 6:30 p.m.

Oakhill Estates Subdivision, Fox Mill Run, Melton Road, Ashland Heights Road, Ashglade Court, Cheroy Road, Cheroy Woods Subdivision, Mount Herman Farms, North Woods Subdivision, Country Club Hills & River Run Subdivisions, Stanley Park Drive, Ashland Park Drive, Carters Hill Subdivision.

Mist Pines Apartments, Maiden Lane, Lee Street, 100 & 200 Block of Robinson Street, Sedgefield Subdivision, Palm Leaf Subdivision, 500 Block of Pleasant Street, Myrtle Street, Short Street, Randolph Street, Henry Clay Apartments, 300 Block of Robinson Street, S. Taylor Street, 300 Block of New Street, Arlington Square Apartments.

hoods visited were: Charleston Ridge, Atlee Ridge, Green Ridge, Hickory Ridge, Beechwood Farms, Summer Duck Farm, Chickahominy Oaks, Madison Springs, Honey Meadows, Taylor Farms, Kings Charter II, Stephens Manor, Ivy Banks, Castlewood, Kingswood Court, Rapidan Woods, Kings Charter I, Charter Creek Apartments.

Sunday, Dec. 11, beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 10, 12 to 6 p.m.

College Avenue, Caroline Street, N. Taylor Street, Calhoun Street, Louisiana Street, Macon Circle, Henry Place, N. Cottage Green Drive, Trotter Mill Close Apartments, Hanover Apartments, Laurel Woods Apartments, Vaughan Road, Ashland Towne Square, Smithtown Road.

Totopotomoy, Milestone, Ashcreek, Ashcake Station, Forest Lake Hills, Fox Head, Somerset, Colonial Estates, Chickahominy Falls, Elmont Woods, Stony Run Estates, Cedar Lea Park, Kosmo Village, Telegraph Road, Lakeridge Apartments, Americamps

Monday, Dec. 12, beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Dale Ave, S. James Street, Duncan Street, Early Street, S. Center Street (SW side), Oaks Apartments, Ashland Manor Apartments, Cox Lane, Stebbins Street, Race Course Street, W. Francis Street, Hanover Avenue, S. Snead Street, Beverly Road, Lee Avenue, Cubs Lane, Thompson Street (Southern side), Kenton Ridge.

Tuesday, Dec. 13, beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Wednesday, Dec. 7, beginning by 6:30 p.m.

Jamestown Road, Woodside Lane, Providence Subdivision, Woodside Estates Subdivision, Wintercrest Subdivision, Omni Park Place, Omni Apartments, Slash Cottage Subdivision, Lance & Bridle Subdivision.

Thursday, Dec. 8, beginning by 6:30 p.m.

S. Center Street (SE Side), Virginia Street, E. Francis Street, 1000 Block of Maple Street, Kilby Station Road, 100 & 200 Block of New Street, MacMurdo Street, Arlington Street &

Henry Street (North of RMC), Berkley Woods Subdivision, A & B Streets, 100 Block of Berkley Street, 500 & 600 Block of N. Center Street East, Henry Apartments, NW Henry Lane, 200 Block of Berkley Street, Burruss Apartments, N. Center Street (West Side), W. Patrick Street, N. James Street (N. Snead to Thompson), Mullen Drive, N. Snead Street, Wesley Street, John Street, Henry Clay Road, Thompson Street (North Side), Chapman Street, Cross Road, Clover Hill Drive, Elm Avenue, Park Avenue, Linden Street, N. Macon Terrace Subdivision, Lauradel and Luck Brothers Drive.

Chickahominy Volunteer Fire Department

For subscription information or delivery questions contact:

Michelle Wall 804-775-2711

email: mwall@timesdispatch.com 8460 Times Dispatch Blvd., Mechanicsville, VA 23116 2

Ashland-Hanover Local December 7, 2022

This year’s Santa Run for Chickahominy Volunteer Fire Department Station 10 has released the following schedule for December. The neighborhoods this year are reversed from years past due to activities in King’s Charter. The neighborhoods listed are not necessarily in the order that they will follow.

Due to staffing and available resources, Santa is no longer able to go down every street as in years past. His routes have been changed to travel down the primary roads in the neighborhoods in order to see the most people. Take a look at Santa’s travel plans on his website at https://cvfd10.ort/santa and follow his progress on both Facebook (@ChickahominyVFD. Station10) and Twitter (@HanoverFire_10).

If Santa is unable to make it on the scheduled day for weather or other reasons, the make-up day will be on Sunday, Dec. 11.

Note: Station 10 Santa Runs took place on Saturday, Dec. 3, which occurred before press time. The following neighbor-

Hanover Courthouse Volunteer Fire Company This year’s Santa Run for Hanover Courthouse Volunteer Fire Company Station 5 has released the following schedule for December. If Santa and the crew must stop the Santa Runa for weather, the make-up date will be Dec. 17. Follow the station for updates on Santa Runs or to learn more about volunteering by searching the Facebook page: @hcvfc.

The station will end every run by driving through the County Courthouse Complex and the last stop is the Courthouse entrance loop, in case residents missed Santa.

Thursday, Dec. 15, beginning around 6:30 p.m.

Route 54 (between 301 and the Taylor Complex): Liberty Oaks Lane, Depot Road, St. Pauls Church Road, 301 (between Depot Road and Route 54), Hickory Hill subdivision, Jennings Road, Mount Hernon Road, Goddins Hill Road, Mount Eagle Subdivision.

Begin on 54 West, turn on Liberty Oaks, left on Depot, right on St. Paul’s Church Road, right onto 301, Right on Depot Road, Left on Liberty Oaks, left onto 54 going West. Turn right into Wickham Manor Way travel throughout the subdivision.

Come back out Wickham Manor Way turn right onto Route 54 to Haley Farm Subdivision, right on Haley Farm then to Taylor complex and tum around. Turn left on east Route 54, turn Right on Goddins Hill Road, right on Jennings- Road to the End. Turn Left on Mount Hermon Road, Left on Goddins Hill Road then Right on Mount Eagle Road. Turn around and proceed back on Mount Eagle Road turn left on Goddins Hill Road then turn left on Mount Hermon Road end at Stumpy Road, then return to Courthouse Complex ending in front of Courthouse Building.

Friday, Dec. 16, beginning around 6:30 p.m.

301 (between Norman Bridge Road and Hill Crest Road): Cady’s Mill Road, Peaks Road (between 301 and Mount Hermon Road), Hill Crest Road, Glebe Hill Subdivision, Chestnut Church Road, Foxal Road, Georgetown Road (between 301 and Chestnut Church Road). see SANTA RUN pg. 5

SHERIFF’S REPORTS not from a person was reported in the 16000th block of Theme Park Way, Doswell.

Aug. 6

Assault and battery on a family member was reported in the 11000th block of Mount Hope Church Road, Doswell.

Driver not reporting accident with damage up to $1,000 was reported in the 14100th block of Hanover Courthouse Road/Caroline County, Hanover.

Petit larceny, less than $500 not from a person was reported in the 10000th block of Sliding Hill Road, Ashland.

Assault and battery on a family member, third offense was reported in the 15200th block of Fountain Road, Ashland.

Simple assault was reported in the 16000th block of Theme Park Way, Doswell.

Petit larceny, less than $500

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

Aug. 9

Aug. 7

Road/Courtland Farm Road, Hanover.

Aug. 8

Trespassing after being forbidden to do so was reported in the 10100th block of Kings Dominion Boulevard, Doswell.

Obtaining money or signature by false pretenses was reported in the 7300th block of Cadys Mill Road, Hanover.

Identity theft with intention to defraud, up to $200 was reported in the 10300th block of Agecroft Manor Court, Ashland.

DWI: Drugs, first offense was reported in the 12400th block of Hanover Courthouse

| Crime, Accidents, Fire & Rescue

Trespassing after being forbidden to do so was reported in the 10100th block of Kings Dominion Boulevard, Doswell.

was reported in the 13200th block of Hanover Courthouse Road/E Patrick Henry Road, Hanover.

Failure to appear on felony charge was reported in the 7500th block of County Complex Road, Hanover.

Grand larceny, building was reported in the 14200th block of Mountain Road, Glen Allen.

Driving with revoked license, no endangerment was reported in the 10400th block of Cobbs Road/Washington Highway, Ashland.

Uttering was reported in the 9600th block of Sliding Hill Road, Ashland.

Driver not reporting accident with damage up to $1,000

Petit larceny, parts was reported in the 11500th block of Sun Shade Lane, Ashland.

Conspiracy to obtain money, etc., by false pretenses; larceny, $200 was reported in the 19100th block of Woodsons Mill Road, Beaverdam.

Aug. 11

Violation of protective order was reported in the 7200th block of Courtland Farm Road, Hanover.

Impersonating a law enforcement officer was reported in the 12200th block of Stancroft Road, Rockville.

Aug. 10

Entering property with intent to damage was reported in the 16200th block of Beaver Dam Road, Montpelier.

Failure to appear on felony charge was reported in the 7500th block of County Complex Road, Hanover.

Simple assault was reported in the 16000th block of Theme Park Way, Doswell.

Aug. 14

Assault and battery on a family member was reported in the 12100th block of Ashland Heights Road, Ashland.

Grand larceny, parts was reported in the 10100th block of Lewistown Road, Ashland.

Petit larceny from auto was reported in the 13400th block of Woodside Lane, Ashland.

Petit larceny from auto was reported in the 16000th block of Theme Park Way, Doswell.

Grand larceny, $500 or more not from a person was reported in the 16000th block of Theme Park Way, Doswell.

DWI: BAC .15 to .20, first offense was reported in the 12100th block of Chewning Road, Glen Allen.

Aug. 12

the 17000th block of Beaver Dam Road, Beaverdam..

Aug. 13

Assault and battery on a family member was reported in the 12100th block of Winns Church Road, Glen Allen.

Unlawful bodily injury was reported in the 17300th block of Belsches Road, Bumpass.

Destruction of property, monument was reported in

Aug. 15

Public swearing or intoxication was reported in the 9400th block of Chamberlayne Road/Shady Grove Road, Mechanicsville.

Ashland-Hanover Local December 7, 2022 3

Photos courtesy of the Church of the Redeemer

Volunteers Eileen Falcone and Chris Stilwell assist shoppers while manning the Craft Bazaar’s bake sale booth.

Craft Bazaar co-chairs Dave and Terry Worland pose with the event’s featured guests, Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus.

Volunteers Debbie Ward, Ciara Kocik and Mike Bonelli greet Craft Bazaar visitors at the information desk while waiting to assist vendors with loading and unloading.

Gail Robertson was among the 120 plus vendors at this year’s Craft Bazaar and sold her handmade Zodiac Rocks.

BAZAAR Continued from pg. 1

According to event co-chairs Terry and Dave Worland, they drew in around $1,700 in door donations alone and filled the church’s shelves in donated canned goods.

“We were packing bags all the way down the hall,” Dave said, adding that they could fill multiple shopping carts to the brim with the collected canned goods.

“This is the fundraiser that keeps the lights on that allows all of the other fundraisers to all the other ministries do their work and benefit the community,” Terry said.

Dave and Terry, who have helped to organize the event for the past five years, said the Craft Bazaar continues to grow in size and prominence as they continue to draw in more vendors every year, with some even traveling from out-of-state.

4

“It always draws a big crowd,” Dave said. “I think a lot of the community looks forward to it every year. We see a lot of the same people and a lot of new people come in every year.”

One of the features of the annual fair is the requirement that all items sold by vendors are handmade, offering one-of-a-kind holiday gifts at reasonable prices.

It’s a requirement the vendors really appreciate because they’re not competing with large direct sales companies, Terry said, adding that they “do a lot of work to keep the vendors happy.”

Bazaar volunteers assist vendors with unloading and loading their items, placing them on carts, and wheeling them to their assigned spaces. The church’s youth volunteers even collect lunch orders from the vendors and place them on their behalf to the church’s kitchen, which serves breakfast and lunch to visitors throughout the event.

Ashland-Hanover Local December 7, 2022

“We try to make it easy for the vendors, because if we don’t have crafters, we don’t have a craft fair,” Dave said.

This year’s large assortment of handcrafted items included handsewn items, such as towels and bags, along with jewelry, crocheted items, pottery, local honey, jellies, soaps, candles and more.

The Bazaar additionally featured a Santa Shop with an abundance of small, inexpensive gift items that were primarily donated by church members. With the help of a few of Santa’s elves, children shopped around for gifts for their family while parents waited outside.

In addition, the Bazaar featured its annual raffle with impressive prizes such as the Oculus Quest 2 VR, gift card trees worth over $300, a TV and more. In previous years, they have featured items such as a Nintendo Switch, the newest Play Station and even a drone.

“It takes a lot of organizing but

the day of the Bazaar, it’s almost like it runs itself,” Dave said. “It takes a lot of hard work to get to that point, but when you get there, you see all the people enjoying themselves and getting their Christmas shopping done, and it’s just fun to sit back and watch.”

He added that it takes a “huge amount of volunteers,” with the church’s staff, members, youth, Boy Scout troops, American Heritage troops, and even local schools pitching in to bring the annual fair to life. Many parishioners donate items for the Santa Shop, bake sale, refreshment spread and raffles.

“It’s a good opportunity for everyone at church to be involved in this, and we’re very thankful because Redeemer is a very active parish,” Terry said.

Terry and Dave said they always enjoy helping to organize the annual event, as it helps them stay connected with the community and

the parish and offers the chance for their own families to join in the day’s festivities.

Dave said he enjoyed watching his granddaughters, Lilly and Cora Wilcox, sit on Santa’s lap and share what they wanted for Christmas.

“We’re surrounded by some really good people,” he added.

“We’ve got a terrific committee that puts this on, and the staff is very helpful. It’s just kind of one of those things of if you surround yourself with good people, a lot of good things tend to happen.”

They said they have already drawn in a number of vendor applications for next year’s Craft Bazaar and predict the return of around 70% of this year’s vendors.

Open registration for the 2023 Craft Bazaar begins Feb. 1, 2023. To submit a vendor application or for more information on the annual event, visit https://www.churchredeemer.org/craft.

Hudson announces candidacy for Mechanicsville District Supervisor Supervisor in a Nov. 30 press release. He offered the following message in the release: Contributed Report The Local

Richard S. Gillis, Jr./Ashland Branch Library A Royal Storytime at the Ashland Branch Library.

Thursday, Dec. 8, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Calling all Princess and Princesses for a Royal Storyime. Dress in your best royal outfit and join the library for stories and crafts befitting your highnesses. Register for a reminder at https://pamunkeylibrary. libcal.com/.

Mad about Mahjong! at the Ashland Branch Library.

Fridays, Dec. 9, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Looking for experienced players to play with? Join other Mahjong enthusiasts in playing the cultural tile game at the Ashland Library.

Santa’s Workshop Family Escape Room at the Ashland Branch Library. Saturday, Dec. 10, 11 a.m. to noon, 1 to 2p.m., 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. Jack Frost is trying to ruin the holidays by hiding Santa’s magic sleigh key. Can your family figure out the clues to find the key and save the holidays? Register for a time slot at https://pamunkeylibrary.libcal.com/.

3 Rivers Livestock Club at the Ashland Branch Library.

Tuesday, Dec. 13, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Ages 5-18. Would you like to participate in planning community service events and hone your expressive arts skills? At the library’s meetings, learn how to get involved in community and public affairs, how to be a good role model, how to give back to your community, and how to use time management skills to enjoy every part of life.

Sew Ready to Learn at the Ashland Branch Library.

Wednesday, Dec. 14, 5 to 8 p.m. Join the Hanover Sewing Group to work on various projects as a seasoned quilter talks about various quilting methods, ways to run a guild and combining quilting with other hobbies.

Hanover Quilting Circle at the Ashland Branch Library.

Wednesday, Dec. 14, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Grab a sewing machine, supplies and current project. This group meets the second Wednesday of every month to share ideas, fabric, skills and stories. Beginners, experienced quilters and those curious see LIBRARY, pg. 9

SANTA RUN Continued from pg. 2

301 South towards Cady’s Mill Road.

Right on Cady’s Mill Road, right on Peaks Road, right on Stumpy Road to Mount Hermon Road. Turn left continue at stop sign then left on Peaks Road turn right on 301 right on Hill Crest Road to Hillcrest Baptist Church. Hillcrest Road then right on Peaks Road cross over 301 to Georgetown Road. Georgetown Road then turn left on Chestnut Church Road.

Chestnut Church Road and into Glebe Hill subdivision through the Glebe Hill

Contributed photo

Ryan Hudson announced he is a candidate for the Mechanicsville District Supervisor.

Editor’s note: Ryan Hudson announced his candidacy for Mechanicsville District

I am pleased and honored to announce my candidacy for Mechanicsville District Supervisor. Our work from 2019 is not done.

I pledge to bring a sense of community, business experience, sound judgement, and know-how to office.

The primary role for the supervisor should be to serve

as an advocate and be the voice for the people.

There are many issues that will come before us, which include; responsible growth, empowering education in the classroom, fighting against the constant “drip campaign” from the Left, and unwavering, visible support for public safety (Sheriff’s department, Fire and EMS).

My background in healthcare has taught me compassion. In my role as a longtime business owner, I am constantly in touch with both citizens and business owners,

gaining a real-time understanding of their needs.

As a firm believer in civil discourse, we should work to seek common ground in order to forge a way forward for a better good.

I look forward to this campaign season. I will be taking the message to the citizens of the Mechanicsville District and providing them with the context to understand how we got where we are as a community.

Learn more about the campaign by visiting www.

RyanforHanover.com.

Cold Harbor Battlefield Visitor Center closed for winter Contributed Report The Local Richmond National Battlefield Park announced last month that the Cold Harbor Battlefield Visitor Center (5515 Anderson Wright Drive) closed for the winter season on Thursday, Dec. 1. It will reopen on Wednesday, March 1, 2023. Trails and the park’s driving tour will remain open and accessible to the public daily from sunrise to sunset.

The park’s visitor center at Chimborazo Medical Museum (3215 E Broad Street) remains open Wednesday through

area, exit back out Chestnut Church Right on Georgetown Road, turn Right on Foxal Road to the dead-end, tum around, right on Georgetown, right on 301 north, return to Courthouse Complex ending in front of Courthouse Building.

Saturday, Dec. 17, beginning around 6:30 p.m.

301 (between the Caroline County Line and River Road): River Road (between Williamsville Road and 301), County Courthouse Complex, Normans Bridge Road, Hanover Quarter Road, Fire

Sunday from 9 am to 4:30 p.m., and the park’s contact station at Tredegar (500 Tredegar Street) remains open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site Visitor Center is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. All sites will be closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. For more information about the park, visit Richmond National Battlefield Park online at www.nps.gov/rich or on Facebook at www.Facebook. com/RichmondNPS.

House Road.

301 South, turn Left onto River Road right Into Dundee estates, through subdivision, back out entrance and right on River Road to the county line. River Road to 301, turn Right onto 301 north, tum right onto Firehouse Road, turn Right on to Normans Bridge Road, turn left onto Hanover Quarter Road, and head back to Normans Bridge Road turn Right, back to 301, north to Caroline/Hanover County Line. Turn around at the boat ramp, head back to 301 South to the County Courthouse complex, ending in front of the Courthouse Building.

746-5853 WE WANT TO BE YOUR PLUMBER

205 England Street Ashland, VA 23005 Give us a call: (804) 401-7007

Holiday Events

Upcoming Events:

Upcoming programs at Hanover area libraries

Now thru December 20 Join us for Holiday Fun through December 20th.

See our full holiday film schedule online.

Frosty the Musical!

From the Barter Theatre

December 7 at 6pm A fun, beautiful story the whole family will love!

The Jolly Jaunt 2022 December 10 at 8pm

Visit participating locations around town from 6pm-8pm for the Jolly Jaunt Crawl. Then join us at Ashland Theatre for a concert at 8pm.

10AM Toddler Takeover December 17 at 10am

Holiday Theme: Free event for ages 0 - 6 years, 1 hour of cartoons & family friendly fare!

Purchase tickets & see upcoming events at:

ashlandtheatre.org

Ashland-Hanover Local December 7, 2022 5

LETTERS

OPINION

| Reader Views

| The Local Views From the editor

The family who gives the gift of giving back

By Christina Amano Dolan Editor

G

rowing up in a modest colonial town in New England, Carolyn Peart developed a different view of the world as a young girl – one that still inspires the restless philanthropist to never slow down, even in the middle of an ice storm.

Peart, who has been an Ashland resident for over 20 years now, has carried the powerful lessons of her parents to a community that proves their validity every day.

Planning ahead for the family’ annual Deck the Halls fundraising event, Peart’s spirits were hopeful despite the usual hiccups that always seem to occur at the last minute. With rain showers occurring the day before the Dec. 4 event, she knew she and the volunteers would have to scramble to set up in the early morning.

But as the fundraising event has been held every year since it was established 20 years ago – with a single exception – rain or shine, blizzard or a ferocious pandemic, it was nothing the family couldn’t handle. Even a nasty ice storm in 2013 couldn’t dissuade Peart or the near-200 attendees that day, with many even taking to foot with the streets coated in ice. Community members from near and far flocked to the family’s farm, adorned in spectacular holiday decorations, to carry on her family’s tradition of crafting holiday assortments in all shapes and sizes – all while benefiting the meaningful cause of Hanover Safe Place.

“It’s so touching to this day when people tell me, ‘This is our family tradition,’ ” Peart said as she reminisced over decorating the Christmas tree with her family. As she fondly shared her memories with me in the days leading up to the event, a wave of nostalgia seemed to overcome her during our phone

conversation. Recalling my own beloved memories of long upheld family traditions, such as the many festive evenings spent decorating our childhood home with handmade ornaments, I thought how special it would be to share my family’s fondest holiday memories with families from afar.

Because as Peart has powerfully shown, another kind of family can be found even far beyond the bounds of one’s childhood home, as she strives to spread these joyous memories to her new family every year.

With the barn adorned with holiday decorations and homemade goodies from Hanover Safe Place volunteers, visitors and volunteers were embraced with the kind of warmth of arriving at a family Christmas party. Peart shared how this has always been a necessity for any charity event she organizes, as she has invited streams of once-strangers into her family home over the years to enjoy see FAMILY, pg. 8

Reader thanks local ‘unsung heroes’ Dear Editor, I would like to thank a group of unsung heroes in our Mechanicsville Community.

These unsung heroes are a group of gentlemen who grew up in Hanover, graduated from the former Washington Henry and Battlefield Park High School and continue to give back to our community. These men ask for nothing in return and never want to be named or praised.

They give from their hearts.

Since 2012, these men have donated over $50,000 to families at Christmas time. The donations have gone each year to buy gift cards for families in need so children can wake up on Christmas morning with presents and be filled with joy and hope. They have truly saved Christmas for families year after year.

I want to say thank you for continuing to give back to our community, thank you for your endless generosity and thank you for inspiring me personally to give back. You all have brought joy to hundreds of kids in Mechanicsville.

Sincerely, Jackie McCaleb Mechanicsville

Donald McEachin gave his all to constituents as long as he could

By Jim Ridolphi Contributing Columnist Public service is a demanding pursuit. In addition to the infinite number of hours required to fulfill legislative duties, elected officials are faced with endless travel, a slew of late night meetings and an endless stream of buffet dinners.

As I covered local government for years, I never encountered a person more suited to meet those challenges than Donald McEachin.

The congressman lost his decade-long battle with cancer last week, leaving a void in the state political landscape that will be difficult, maybe even impossible, to fill. Respected by both parties

Editorial & Business Office and Mailing Address: 8460 Times-Dispatch Blvd. Mechanicsville, VA 23116 Phone – (804) 746-1235 Editor – (804) 212-6266 Toll free – (877) 888-0449 Fax – (804) 344-8746 Online: richmond.com/community/mechanicsville-local Publisher

Joy Monopoli .........................................jmonopoli@RSNVA.com

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Ashland-Hanover Local December 7, 2022

for an unwavering work ethic and sense of fairness that appealed to both sides of the aisle, McEachin will be most sorely missed by a group of constituents who formed a bond of trust through his years of dedicated service.

I’ve also spent a few hours at those community meetings, supporters dinners and local political

WE WANT TO PUBLISH YOUR ISSUE-DRIVEN LETTERS The Local welcomes your signed letters to the editor on topics of interest to 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 Ashland-Hanover Local.

Send letters to: The Ashland-Hanover Local 8460 Times-Dispatch Blvd. Mechanicsville, Va. 23116 Fax: 344-8746 E-mail: editor@mechlocal.com © 2022 by Richmond Suburban Newspapers. All advertising and editorial matter is fully protected and may not be reproduced in any manner without the permission of the publisher.

CAC Audited Circulation: 13,776.

events. Early in that process, I met McEachin at a local legislative update dinner in Goochland that began a decades-long professional relationship.

Over those years, I developed a respect for a politician that, in my estimation, did what most of us expect from our elected leaders. I also admired his tenacious and dedicated willingness to listen to constituents, meet with reporters and make transparency a staple in his repertoire.

Like many who knew him during this time, I watched as he changed physically as he relentlessly battled cancer, never short of energy or enthusiasm or too busy to meet with a line of constituents. No dinner or meeting was too small for Don, and no issue too insignificant to consider.

Prior to his election to the U.S. see MCEACHIN, pg. 9

CALENDAR | News, Updates & Listings Fax submissions to calendar to 344-8746, email to events@mechlocal.com, or mail to 8460 Times-Dispatch Blvd., Mechanicsville VA 23116. Deadline is 1 p.m. Thursday for the following week’s issue. Calendar announcements cannot be taken by phone. We reserve the right to edit all items submitted to Ashland-Hanover Local.

Saturday, Dec. 10 Trinity Lutheran Church – Ashland Campus, located at 11515 Ashcake Road, Ashland will hold its annual Homemade Cookie Sale from 9 a.m. to noon. There will be lots of homemaker cookies – fill your own box – as well as other tasty holiday items for eating and gift-giving including baked goods, jam, relish, apple butter, fudge, buckeye candy and more. Cash or check only. For further information, contact Ellen at 804-798-6937.

The Independence Ruritan Club will host an all-you-caneat Salt Fish Breakfast from 6:45 to 8:45 a.m. to benefit the Western Hanover Emergency Action Team (W.H.E.A.T).

Breakfast includes: salt herring fillets, scrambled eggs, bacon, spiced apples, cornbread, grits, coffee and orange juice. Cost is $11 for adults. The Ruritan Building is located behind Independence Christian Church, 14033 Independence Road (off Route 54, west of

Ashland). For more information, call 804-798-5171 or contact Dave at e-mail wdtoney@ mindspring.com.

Books, Beads & More, located at 8106 Mechanicsville Turnpike in Mechanicsville, has invited former Navy Chaplain and Grace Christian School teacher, David Reid Brown, to conduct a Christmas book signing event at their store on from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Brown will be signing copies of his devotional book, “Lost Summer,” as well as his seafaring personal journal series, “Spirit Soundings.” These inspirational stories were born out of his global experiences in naval chaplaincy, spanning twenty-one years of peace, war, and three overseas deployments.

If you have any questions about this event, contact Erin at 804730-2665.

Sunday, Dec. 11 The first ever “Frosty Fest” will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 9204 Center Oak Court in Mechanicsville. Frosty Fest is

a shop local event that will benefit CodeBlue Cares Foundation in their mission to provide technology to schools, libraries and rural communities. Over 20 artisans and businesses will be set up in The Rutland Center along with local food vendors, gift wrapping and more. The event is open and free to the public. For more information, visit www.codebluecares.org or email donate@codebluecares. org.

Church of the Redeemer, located at 8275 Meadowbridge Road in Mechanicsville, invites all to its annual Advent/ Christmas Concert at 3 p.m.

This concert will feature Redeemer’s 35+ member Adult Choir, Redeemer Ringers-a 3 octave handbell choir, talented instrumentalists, and the Youth/Children’s Choir. You’ll hear seasonal favorites and new choral pieces, sing-alongs and more! The concert is free to attend but we will take up a free-will offering toward the see CALENDAR, pg. 12

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The Parsons’ Cause Foundation seeking donations for summer 2023 programs Contributed Report The Local After a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Parsons’ Cause Foundation was pleased to present shows during the summer of 2022. In all, 741 people attended a show this past summer.

The foundation is now setting their sights on bringing a superb lineup of performers to the Historic Hanover Courthouse in the summer of 2023. To do so, they are request-

ing assistance from the community and ask that residents consider the foundation for their end of the year charitable contributions.

Tax deductible donations can be sent to the foundation at the following address: The Parsons’ Cause Foundation, Inc., P.O. Box 364, Mechanicsville, VA 23111-0364.

The Parsons’ Cause Foundation Board of Directors thanks the community for their support and consideration and wishes all a Merry Christmas and a prosperous 2023.

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DECK Continued from pg. 1

visitors, up from 156 visitors in 2021.

Carolyn said she chose to partner with Hanover Safe Place in 2013, recognizing the organization’s important mission because of her own childhood experiences. Throughout Carolyn’s childhood, her parents offered their home as a safe haven to children and women that had been removed from their homes due to dangerous circumstances.

“Is someone going to not eat or get sick or maybe even die if I don’t help them? Is it life or death? Those are the missions my husband and I have really focused on,” Carolyn said.

Stacie Francis, Hanover Safe Place director of development and communications, said they were thrilled when the Pearts reached out about the partnership.

“We had been wanting to be involved in the event for a while,” Francis said. “It’s a great event and it was a great opportunity for us to reach more people and let them know about our services.”

Francis said it is a “true organizational-wide effort,” as

FAMILY Continued from pg. 6

conversation over a homecooked meal.

“That’s my philosophy – gather together, break bread together, tell stories together and that’s how you change the world,” she said.

And she never ceases to find new ways to change the world, as her parents powerfully taught her as a young girl – a lesson she will never forget.

“Mom and Dad always said, ‘Everybody wants to help, but there aren’t enough opportunities to give back,’” she said.

“When you ask them to help, you’re giving them a gift.”

As Peart has learned since

8

Christina Amano Dolan/The Local

Community members from near and far visited Pine Grove Farm in Ashland for the Peart family’s 20th annual Deck the Halls fundraising event to benefit Hanover Safe Place on Dec. 4. Premade wreaths and other fresh holiday arrangements for sale adorn the Pine Grove Farm’s historic shed.

volunteers and staff are very hands-on throughout the planning process in decorating the farm, assisting visitors with crafting, manning different stations, and even baking a large assortment of warm Christmas treats and beverages to offer to guests from inside the barn.

“It’s a great kickoff to the holiday season,” Francis said. “It’s something that our staff always looks forward to because they get to come and enjoy it as well.”

The Pearts always offer

Deck the Halls volunteers warm meals and beverages in their home throughout the event.

“Give your volunteers the most exquisite, fun, happy event you can give them -- not just your patrons -- and you know they will come back,” Carolyn said.

“I think it’s just a great kickoff to the holiday season,” Francis said. “It’s so fun and magical, really, the way everything comes together. We play holiday music, we’ve got sweet treats and warm drinks in the

barn, we have food for volunteers in the house… It’s just so fun.”

Kristi McCullough, a Powhatan resident, said she has been coming to Deck the Halls for 12 years. She enjoys making beautiful holiday décor for friends, family and her own home. She also loves how the selection of fresh greenery varies every year.

“It’s a way of doing good and spreading joy at the same time,” McCullough said, adding that she most appreciates the event’s charitable nature.

“They’re letting us help in a way that doesn’t feel like just donating but building a community.”

The Garcia family travelled from their different homes around Virginia to bond over their love of crafting.

“This year we thought, ‘You know, let’s do something for Christmas where we actually spend time together instead of just buying all the gifts,” said Adele Garcia, who brought her two daughters along for the first time.

“It’s such a blessing to do

this event,” Peart said. “It's nothing but joy; you know, that feeling inside when you think it might be heaven on earth.”

Peart said they can always use more volunteers and welcomes any interested community members to reach out to her with inquiries at carolyn. peart@verizon.net or Hanover Safe Place by visiting the website, https://www.hanoversafeplace.com/. For more information on Deck the Halls, visit the website, www.deckthehallsva. org.

moving to Hanover County, every opportunity to give back is met with more enthusiasm than she could have dreamed of, reminding her of the philanthropic spirit that surrounded her childhood home every day, whether from housing children who were orphaned or displaced from turbulent homes, Cambodian refugees, disadvantaged pregnant women, and anyone else in need of a safe place and helping hand.

“I was brought up in a tradition of be present, give back,” Peart said. “Is someone going to not eat or get sick or maybe even die if I don’t help them?

Is it life or death? It’s as simple as that.”

This message has driven Peart’s determination over the years to never give up – even when faced with an ice storm and a family tragedy. Just two months prior to the 2013 Deck The Halls event, Peart’s husband underwent brain surgery after an impossible diagnosis. Now 10 years cancer-free, Peart’s husband is one of the few people in the world to survive this particular cancer.

With only a month to plan for the grand annual event and a bleak weather forecast, Peart was faced with an impossible challenge that she championed with this determination.

“For nonprofit events, it’s all about, ‘Keep going,’” she said. “Is someone going to be

harmed if you don’t do this?

You’ve got to keep going. I don’t even think twice about it.”

While trying times have come and gone over the last 20 years since the first Deck the Halls event, this determination to keep going has never ceased.

Even amid the COVID-19 pandemic when the world had closed its doors, cars lined up on her family farm to safely grab their holiday décor kits to-go. Even as attendance and donations have slowed as the world still feels the pandemic’s devastating effects, every dollar given has offered her immeasurable joy and fondness for the community that gives.

Peart was left speech-

less when Ashland Town Councilmember Dan McGraw handed her a check made out to Hanover Safe Place on behalf of the Kiwanis Club of Ashland last week. Regardless of the value, it was the gesture of kindness alone that nearly brought her to tears.

“We all help each other all the time,” she said fondly. “Oh, it’s such a wonderful thing.”

After listening to Peart’s recollection of the event over the years with the same nostalgic air as when she reminisced over family memories, her parents’ notion of a philanthropic spirit in all of us seemed to echo in my mind throughout the day. It’s no wonder that Peart holds such fond memo-

ries of this community joining hands to prove the validity of these words, as from covering an endless stream of charity efforts since arriving to the county, I can confidently say they ring true in the hearts of countless Hanoverians.

Peart invites any interested community members to join the annual fundraising efforts of the beloved “Deck the Halls,” whether by volunteering, offering sponsorship, or simply bringing the family for a day of fun and philanthropy.

For more information on how to join the annual effort, contact Peart at carolyn.peart@verizon. net or Hanover Safe Place by visiting the website, https://www. hanoversafeplace.com/.

Ashland-Hanover Local December 7, 2022

Ashland Garden Club celebrates 100 years Contributed Report The Local The Ashland Garden Club (AGC), founded on Oct. 12, 1922, is celebrating its Centennial anniversary. Club members took a photo in September at Rhodeen on the campus of Randolph-Macon College. Mary McDermott Beirne, founding member and first president of the AGC, lived at Rhodeen and many of her white daffodils can still be seen blooming in the spring near the house.

On the anniversary date, the club hosted its Fall Fantasy fundraising event. Nancy Hugo gave an exceptional program on “The Extraordinary Osage Orange.” Fall Fantasy proceeds are used to fund scholarships for students to attend events such as Camp Bloom and 4-H Camp, as well as a $2,000 scholarship for a Patrick Henry High School senior who plans to study horticulture, agriculture, botany or environmental

LIBRARY Continued from pg. 5

about the hobby are all welcome to drop in.

Must Love Words at the Ashland Branch Library.

Wednesday, Dec. 14, 7 to 8:30 p.m. Ages 18 and up. Join the library for constructive feedback and discussion about the

MCEACHIN Continued from pg. 6

House of Representatives in 2016, McEachin served in both houses of the Virginia General Assembly, and also was a founding partner in McEachin and Gee Law Firm.

Throughout his career McEachin was known for

Contributed photos

Above, members of the The Ashland Garden Club mark their Centennial by planting daffodils in public spaces around Ashland. Right, members of The Ashland Garden Club are shown in September 2022 in front of Rhodeen.

studies. The Ashland Museum opened a new exhibit about the AGC that will run through January 2023.

Additionally, club members are planting 525 daffodil bulbs in public spaces around Ashland this fall as

craft of writing on each of this month. Due to group resources, email and word processing are used to communicate outside of meetings. Access to email and familiarity with word processing is preferred.

for a few rounds of Among Us. Bring a smartphone, tablet or laptop and be ready to play.

They recommend pre-installing the app before the event.

Registration required at https:// pamunkeylibrary.libcal.com/.

Among Us Game Night at the Ashland Branch Library.

Thursday, Dec. 15, 6:30 to 8 p.m. Ages 12-18. Join the library

his unwavering dedication to equal rights and environmental justice and served on the House Committee on Energy and Commerce (E&C), the House Committee on Natural Resources (Natural Resources), and the Select Committee on the Climate Crisis.

A graduate of St.

a cheery springtime gift to the town for years to come.

Areas planted to date include

the Ashland Train Station, Ashland Library, Hanover Arts & Activities Center, the

Ashland Police Station, Henry Clay Elementary School and the town parks.

book of the month and engage in a lively discussion about it.

Share views about the book and author and share reading recommendations.

Share views about the book and author and share reading recommendations.

Morning Book Club at the Ashland Branch Library.

Friday, Dec. 16, 10:15 to 11:15 a.m. Ages 18 and up. Read the

Afternoon Book Club at the Ashland Branch Library.

Monday, Dec. 19, 1 to 2 p.m.

Ages 18 and up. Read the book of the month and engage in a lively discussion about it.

From the Heart Stitchers at the Ashland Branch Library.

Thursday, Dec. 22, noon to 4 p.m. From the Heart Stitchers began in 2001 making chemo hats for the Massey Cancer Center and today has over 1899 stitchers making 1000’s of items

for service groups across the Commonwealth. Sew, knit, crochet or loom anything from blankets to shawls and everything in between. Bring a sewing machine, knitting needles, etc. and supplies, and make items for From the Heart every fourth Thursday. See https:// fromtheheartstichers.org/ for more information about this organization.

Christopher’s School in Richmond, McEachin was the son of an Army veteran and a public school teacher, and never forgot his local roots when representing his constituents.

He graduated from American University in Washington and obtained his law degree from the University

of Virginia. McEachin also held a master’s degree in divinity from the The Samuel DeWitt Proctor School of Theology at Virginia Union University.

A special election will be scheduled to fill the seat won

by McEachin in November but no timeline has been announced by the governor.

Rep. Bobby Scott of Virginia fought back tears as he remembered his friend and colleague on the floor of the House last week.

“May we all seek to honor Donald’s life and legacy by working to build a future in which everyone has access to clean air, water and soil,” Scott said. “Madam Speaker, this

body has lost one of its most dedicated public servants and fiercest advocates for justice and equality, and he will be deeply missed.”

That loss will be felt hardest by those who benefitted the most from his life of dedication and commitment — his constituents and those who knew and loved him.

Ashland-Hanover Local December 7, 2022 9

Sports

UPCOMING EVENTS

12

07 2022

Patrick Henry girls basketball at Hermitage 7 p.m.

12

08 2022

Atlee girls basketball v.

Godwin 7:30 p.m.

| Youth, High School, College, Recreational & Professional

New era dawning for Mustangs basketball

By Rob Witham Special Correspondent

F

rom the moment you entered the Mechanicsville High School gym Friday night, you could feel a difference.

As the boys junior varsity basketball team sewed up a 49-45 win over King William on Dec. 2, one could immediately sense a new standard of pride and confidence from players, fans, even the student section. And it only grew in intensity when varsity hit the floor.

The Mustangs led from the opening tip to the final horn with an impressive performance, knocking off the Cavaliers 72-39 to even their season record at 1-1.

For a team who has already dealt with a rash of injuries and illnesses, it was a fine showing of their developing chemistry in spite of the obstacles.

“The team has a tremendous chemistry, better than I’ve seen since I’ve been here,” noted Mechanicsville head coach Gene Foley. “The kids truly like each other. They’re friends on and off the court, and it shows.”

Nine different Mustangs scored during the contest, the accelerator belonging to guard Joe Evans.

His 10 first quarter points helped Mechanicsville (1-1) begin the game on a 7-0 run, grabbing a quick 21-9 lead after the first eight minutes.

King William’s Tre Robinson did his best to keep the Cavaliers within striking distance, scoring 14 points in the first half, but the Mustang defense clamped down on the senior, as he scored just five points in the second half to finish with 19.

Robinson’s work helped the Cavaliers prevent the Mustangs from running away with the game in the first half, going to the locker room

10

Rob Witham for The Local

Jamil Mashore (#11, right) drives past King William's Emmett Short (#4, left) for two of his 17 points during Mechanicsville's 72-39 victory over the Cavaliers on Friday night. Mashore scored 10 of his points in the second half.

down 33-20. Mechanicsville’s attack offensively would prove to be too much for King William, slowly wearing the Cavs down while continuing to extend their lead.

It was an unusual game in that, in a matchup of two schools who have become on-court rivals over the past several years, there was never a definitive momentum swing. The Mustangs were in control the whole way.

Ashland-Hanover Local December 7, 2022

Caden Frise scored all seven of his points in the final period, while Santino Moore (16 points) and Jamil Mashore (17 points to lead the Mustangs) each scored six in the final stanza.

The most critical element to Mechanicsville’s success came on the glass, limiting King William to one shot per possession the majority of the night.

“Rebounding is one of our important areas to focus on this year,” Foley explained. “Last year, we didn’t do very well with that, and you pay the price when you don’t rebound on both ends of the floor.”

Two good tests lie ahead as Mills Godwin comes to Mechanicsville Dec. 13, followed by a trip to Maggie Walker Governor’s School on Dec. 15 before preparing to host their

annual holiday tournament just after Christmas.

Evans believes this Mustang team has the right formula for a successful season: offense feeding defensive intensity, and a fan base best described as a “sixth player.”

“The Stampede is great,” Evans said of the student section. “They cheer us on and they’re great fans. We definitely love it.”

Young Patriots stay motivated, focused on positives through season-opening setbacks

Nick Vandeloecht for The Local

Patrick Henry head girls basketball coach Summer Price talks to the players prior to the start of the Patriots’ home opener versus Glen Allen on Dec. 1 at Patrick Henry High School. Junior Maddie Just (left) attempts to block a shot by Glen Allen in Patrick Henry’s 2022-23 home opener.

By Nick Vandeloecht For The Local Featuring a new, young team and a new coaching staff led by Summer Price, Patrick Henry’s girls basketball team faced two tough season-opening matchups with the goal of keeping their heads high.

They did just that.

While the Patriots will continue to battle for their first season win following opening-week setbacks to Mills Godwin (48-18) on Tuesday, Nov. 29 and Glen Allen (5925) in Thursday’s home opener on Dec. 1, Price was proud of their performance against the Jaguars on Thursday.

“Our team didn’t play like we were losing, ever,” Price said, “which means, going forward, no matter what team we play, we’re not playing like we’re down. We’re going to play

like we’re winning, no matter what the score is, and that’s all a coach can ask for.”

After the Patriots battled nervousness in Tuesday’s season opener against Godwin, Price on Thursday praised the team’s energy and saw the players keep their heads up all game against Glen Allen.

“Going forward, I hope we can work on rebounding some a little better, fight a little more in there,” Price said.

“Otherwise, like I told [our players], it’s only up from here.”

In Thursday’s game, senior Alicia Artis and junior Maddie Just each scored nine points for the Patriots. They executed several clean plays as Just drove the lane for a swift layup in the first quarter and also made an airtight pass to Artis in the paint in the fourth, with Artis putting away the bucket off of Just’s assist.

Each of the Patriots’ two

3-pointers in Thursday’s game was scored by the lone seniors on the team: Artis in the fourth quarter and Julia Dull in the second. The two seniors’ leadership has been valued not only by the players, but also by Price as a new coach.

“They know what the system was for a lot of things starting out a game, warmups and everything like that - and I know the girls definitely look to them just because they’re young, this is a new season for them, too,” Price said. “With [Artis and Dull] having that experience, it’s a calming thing out there for other girls on the court.”

Following a Tuesday home matchup against Varina that was slated to end after press time, the Patriots host Hermitage on Wednesday, Dec. 7, at 7:15 p.m. and will head to Henrico for a 7 p.m. contest on Monday, Dec. 12.

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Ashland-Hanover Local December 7, 2022 11

CALENDAR

Continued from pg. 7

PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is hereby given that the Hanover County Board of Supervisors has set Wednesday, December 14, 2022 at 6:00 P.M., or as soon thereafter as the Board’s consideration of the administrative agenda permits. In the Board Room of the Hanover County Government Building at Hanover Courthouse, Hanover, Virginia, as the day, date, time, and place for a public hearing to consider the following cases, at which public comments will be accepted: REZ2022-00029, HELLENIC, L.L.C. Request(s) an amendment to the proffers approved with rezoning request, C-39-02(c), Frank and Anna Volo, on GPIN 8724-49-0864, consisting of approximately 1.0 acre, zoned B-2(c), Community Business District with conditions. The property is located on the south line of Mechanicsville Turnpike (U.S. Route 360) west of its intersection with Brashier Boulevard (private road). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Commercial.

(PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Mechanicsville REZ2022-00024, JUDSON T. VAUGHAN, III AND GREGORY W. VAUGHAN Request(s) to rezone from A-1, Agricultural District, to AR-6(c), Agricultural Residential District with conditions, on GPIN 7789-73-4998, consisting of approximately 25.2 acres. The property is located on the east line of Cheroy Road (State Route 659) approximately 250 feet north of its intersection with Cheroy Woods Lane (State Route 270). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Agricultural. The proposed zoning amendment would permit the creation of four (4) building lots for a gross density of one (1) dwelling unit per 6.3 acres. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Beaverdam REZ2022-00007, HOPKINS PROPERTIES II, L.L.C., ET AL. Request(s) an amendment to the proffers and conceptual plan approved with rezoning request C-9-07(c), Am. 1-09, Hopkins Properties, L.C., et al., on GPINs 7787-35-4726, 7787-35-6891, 7787-36-4155, 7787-36-4548, and 7787-36-1918, consisting of approximately 22.6 acres, zoned B-3(c), General Business District with conditions. The property is located on the northeast quadrant of the intersection of Washington Highway (U.S. Route 1) and Sliding Hill Road (State Route 656). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Commercial.

The proposed zoning amendment would permit two additional entrances and modify the roadway improvements shown on the conceptual plan. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: South Anna SE2022-00024, HOPKINS PROPERTIES II, L.L.C., ET AL. Request(s) a Special Exception Permit in accordance with Section 26-199 of the Hanover County Zoning Ordinance, to permit an exception for loading spaces in the required front yard and Section 26-337 to reduce the thoroughfare buffer width on GPINs 7787-35-4726, 7787-35-6891, 7787-36-4155, 7787-36-4548, and 7787-36-1918, consisting of approximately 22.6 acres, zoned B-3(c), General Business District with conditions. The property is located on the northeast quadrant of the intersection of Washington Highway (U.S. Route 1) and Sliding Hill Road (State Route 656).

(PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: South Anna Copies of the above case may be reviewed in the Planning Office, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., please contact the Planning Office or you may also go to https://www.hanovercounty.gov/697/Board-of-Supervisors-Upcoming-and-Archiv for more information.

12

Ashland-Hanover Local December 7, 2022

purchase of acoustic panels to enhance the quality of sound in our Worship Space. Reception to follow. For more information check out www.facebook.com/ RedeemerMusicMInistry or call (804) 746-4911.

Tuesday, Dec. 13

The Hanover Concert Band is presenting a Christmas Pops Concert at the Hanover Arts and Activities Center at 500 South Center Street in Ashland from 7 to 8 p.m. All are welcome to hear the band play seasonal favorites.

Mechanicsville AARP Chapter 5407 will be meeting from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at First Union Baptist Church, 6231 Pole Green Rd. in Mechanicsville. The Hanover Christmas Mother, a person from Senior Connection will be the guest speakers, election of officers and board members, and any committee chairpersons positions.

Wednesday, Dec. 21

Blue Christmas Service will be held at 7 p.m. at Mechanicsville United Methodist Church, 7356 Atlee Road in Mechanicsville. A service of light for those who are feeling blue, sad, grieving and experiencing loss this Christmas season. This service occurs on the Winter Solstice, the longest night of the year. Invite those who have experienced loss and grief this year. All are welcome.

Nursery provided for children 4 and under.

Ongoing

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.

LEGAL DISPLAY ADS

LEGAL DISPLAY ADS

PUBLIC NOTICE Code of Virginia Title 58.1 Section 3911 Town of Ashland real estate and personal property taxes for 2022 are due on February 6, 2023.

Public Notice Notice is hereby given that the Hanover County Board of Supervisors has set Wednesday, December 14, 2022 at 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.

Public Notice The Hanover County Board of Supervisors will conduct a Comprehensive Plan Workshop on Wednesday, December 14, 2022 from 12:00 – 2:00 P.M. This workshop will be held in the Board of Supervisors’ Conference Room in the Hanover County Administration Building at Hanover Courthouse, 7516 County Complex Road, Hanover, Virginia.

Discussion will include concepts related to land use policies, along with updates for economic development and historic resources. This meeting will be open to the public but it is not anticipated that public comment will be taken at the workshop.

LEGAL DISPLAY ADS

LEGAL DISPLAY ADS

LEGAL DISPLAY ADS

TOWN OF ASHLAND NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Please take notice that on the 20th day of December 2022, at 7:00 p.m. at the Ashland Town Hall, 121 Thompson Street, Ashland, VA, the Ashland Town Council will conduct public hearings for the purpose of receiving input, and may provide recommendations on the following: ORD2022-07 GAS CANOPY HEIGHT Karl E. Schwartz of The Plan Source, Inc., requests a Zoning Ordinance Text Amendment to Chapter 21, Article XXV, Section 21-269 of the Ashland Town Code to allow for an increase of one and one-half feet in the height restriction on gas station canopies. The proposal would change the current maximum height of fourteen (14 ft) feet and revise the language to allow fifteen and one-half feet (15.5 ft) of height measured from grade.

Copies of the proposed ORD2022-07 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.

TOWN OF ASHLAND NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Please take notice that on the 14th day of December, 2022, at 6:00 p.m. at the Ashland Town Hall, 121 Thompson Street, Ashland, VA, the Ashland Planning Commission will conduct public hearings for the purpose of receiving input, and may provide recommendations on the following: REZ22-1102 & ORD2022-11 HANASH, LLC Kerry Hutcherson, on behalf of the property owner, Hanash, LLC, requests a rezoning from RR-1 Residential Rural to M-1 Light Industrial for two parcels, GPIN 7789-23-1532 and GPIN 7789-13-5953, also known as 12156 Washington Highway and 12178 Washington Highway, respectively. The properties are located on the east side of Route 1, across the intersection with Maple Street and approximately .35 miles south from the intersection with Dow Gil Rd. The proposed rezoning includes a total of 46.87 acres across the two parcels. The future land use category for the properties is Industrial and Open Space. There is no specific use, tenants nor concept plan proposed for the property at this time.

CUP22-1026 LEVEL UP DOG SPORTS Aaron Speagle, of Speagle Real Estate Holdings, requests approval of a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for the property identified as GPIN #7789-16-4934, to allow for temporary overnight parking of recreational vehicles at the proposed Level Up Dog Sports business. The proposed site, which encompasses 6.80 acres of the 22.04-acre parcel, is within the B-2 Highway Commercial district. The future land use designation for the parcel is Limited Industrial. This request is pursuant to Section 21-101(az) which permits temporary uses through the issuance of a CUP. Copies of REZ22-1102, ORD2022-11, and CUP22-1026 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.

Ashland-Hanover Local December 7, 2022 13

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Ashland-Hanover Local December 7, 2022

Licensed/Insured

2022 Mechanicsville Christmas Parade

Photos by Joel Klein For The Local

River City C&F Mortgage Corporation took home the title of Best Small Motorized (Commercial).

This year’s Judge's Pick winner was Blue Star Cowboys Football & Cheer with their float that blasted fake snow.

The Best Small Motorized (Non-Commercial) Unit was the Old Coots on Scoots in their fun holiday costumes.

The Best Large Motorized (Non-commercial) Unit was the River City Wranglerz. Right, Santa Claus concludes the parade on the Truck 407 Ladder.

PARADE Continued from pg. 1

in Keeping with the Theme category was Unit #38, Truth Baptist Church of Mechanicsville, and second place was Unit #79, the Zehringer Family Float.

Also recognized for their entries were: Best Motorized Categories: Large Non-commercial – Unit #60, River City Wranglers; Small Noncommercial – Unit #86, Old Coots on Scoots; Large Commercial –

Unit #81, Aaron’s Towing; and Small Commercial – Unit #21, C&F Mortgage Corporation.

Judges Pick: Unit #84, Blue Star Cowboys Football and Cheer.

Best Boy Scout Unit: Unit #35, Cub Scout Pack 502.

Best Musical (Non Band): Unit #45, Ashland Dance Company/Jump Start Dance.

The parade’s judging portion did not include the Best Girl Scout Unit category this year.

The Grand Marshal this year was Amera Hudson, a second grade stu-

dent in Hanover County who loves playing with friends, all things pink, her big brothers, basketball and gymnastics.

David Fuller, co-chair of the parade, said this year yielded the longest lineup of parade participants yet, with several units arriving in large numbers, such as the River City Wranglers and their display of dozens of holiday-themed Jeeps.

“We enjoyed every minute of it,” Fuller said, adding that the sunny weather added to the success of this year’s parade.

The 2022 Hanover Christmas Mother, Michele Clements, waves to the parade crowd.

“We are so grateful for the people who participate in the parade,” Fuller said. “A number of folks return from year to year, and there’s always some new faces, too.”

Various spectators had a few parade favorites in mind when eagerly waiting for the start of the parade, which stepped off at 2 p.m. at Hanover Green Drive and Signal Hill.

The Gage family has visited the parade through multiple generations, with Nikki Gage recalling even participating in the lineup when she was in high school. Her favorites of

the parade are the impressive and lively performances by several area marching bands, while her daughter, Catherine’s, favorite part is always “when all of the cheerleaders come,” Catherine said.

Laura McFarland, Denine D’Angelo and Christina Amano Dolan, representatives of Richmond Suburban News, which includes The Mechanicsville Local and AshlandHanover Local, served as judges.

The Mechanicsville Christmas Parade is sponsored by The Rotary Club of Mechanicsville.

Ashland-Hanover Local December 7, 2022 15

2022 Mechanicsville Christmas Parade

Photos by Joel Klein For The Local

The Veterans of Foreign Affairs Battlefield Post 9808 kicks off the parade with the Hanover County Sheriff’s Office following.

Children enjoy the moment during the parade while catching a front row glimpse on the sidewalk.

ACCA Shriners race down the parade streets on their bikes.

Operation Purple Heart Truck is greeted by flag waving Mechanicsville Rotary-Ruritan Christmas Parade goers.

Congressman Rob Wittman gives a thumbs up to the crowd.

16

Ashland-Hanover Local December 7, 2022

Hanover Sheriff David Hines and Fire and EMS Chief Jethro Piland wave to the crowd.

Del. Scott Wyatt hands out American flags.

Children watch the parade from their van’s trunk.