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LOCAL CONTEST Macey Hutto first winner of Kids Local contest

EDUCATION

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Academic requirements for athletes still stay the same — for now

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Vol. 1 No. 29 | Richmond Suburban News | January 20, 2016

Stanley returns as chair Kelly-Wiecek elected to serve as supervisors’ vice chair By Jim Ridolphi for The Hanover Local HANOVER — If the Hanover County Board of Supervisors was looking for experience and political longevity in its next chairman, they found it. Long-time Beaverdam District representative Aubrey “Bucky” Stanley took the reins from outgoing chairman Wayne Hazzard, South Anna, at the board’s first meeting of the New Year last Wednesday. After 33 years of service to the county as a supervisor, Stanley accepted the latest appointment, his fifth as chairman, with his usual brand of seriousness and public responsibility tinged with light-hearted humor. “I’m starting my 33rd year as a Hanover County board member, and I assure you I will not be here 33 more years,” Stanley joked. “I’m honored

‘Jurisdiction’ makes OKMS 7th grader spelling bee champ By Meredith Rigsby News Editor

A Jim Ridolphi for The Hanover Local

Outgoing chair Wayne Hazzard is thanked for his service by incoming chair Aubrey “Bucky” Stanley.

to serve as your chairman for 2016, and, by the way, I still only get one vote.” The veteran supervisor said he would depend on his fellow board members to address issues in their respective districts.

“Whatever comes up in your districts, I am going to let you take care of. If you need help, I’ll be there to help you out when needed,” Stanley said. “If county issues come up, I won’t be hesitant in forming

SHLAND — After 17 rounds, a seventh grader from Oak Knoll Middle School secured the first place title at the 2016 Hanover County Public Schools Division Spelling Bee. Delaney Cotton won the competition by correctly spelling the word “jurisdiction.” Mack Turner, a fifth grader from South Anna Elementary School, incorrectly spelled the word “effusive” and came in second place. Thursday, students ranging from grades four through eight, representing school winners from spelling bees held in 2015, gathered at the Hanover County School Board Office to participate

Meredith Rigsby/The Hanover Local

Mack Turner, runner-up, and Delaney Cotton, winner, shake hands after the 2016 Hanover County Public Schools Division Spelling Bee competition.

see STANLEY, pg. 12 

in the Hanover County Division-level Spelling Bee. Of those participating, 14 were elementary school students and four were middle school students. Julie Tate, curriculum

specialist for Media Services, acted as pronouncer, providing each contestant with a word they must correctly spell out loud in front of the see BEE, pg. 12 

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obituaries

| Death Notices & Funerals ELEANOR COBB

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The Hanover Local January 20, 2016

Eleanor Moss Cobb, 92, passed away at her Henrico County home December 24, 2015, surrounded by her family. She was born in Hanover County to Wallace Jordon and Liberty “Libby” Dokupil Moss. Eleanor was preceded in death by her six brothers, Wilfred, Claudius, Wallace, Robert, Francis and Carroll. She also was predeceased by her husbands, Warren F. Johnson Sr. (1921 to 1945) a n d Gregory B o y d C obb (1921 to 1978). cobb Eleanor is survived by her son, Warren F. Johnson Jr.; and his sons, Christopher, Matthew and Joseph Fields-Johnson; and by her daughter, Deborah Moss Cobb Hillier; her husband, Bert; and their son, Phillip. Eleanor graduated from Rockville High School in 1941 and St. Claire’s School for Medical Secretaries and Office Assistants in 1942. She worked for Royal Globe Insurance Co. for 29 years. After her retirement, she launched a catering business and became well known for her wedding cake designs. Later graduating from Clown School as “Butterfly,” she entertained at community fundraising events. The family thanks the caregivers from Bon Secours Hospice, Mary and Kim, for their professional care in the past year and Covenant Home Care for the past seven years of care, especially Caroline, Martha, Leah and Jacque. A memorial service was held at 11 a.m. Saturday, January 16, 2016, at Berea Baptist Church at 15475 Ashland Road in

Rockville. Interment was at 10 a.m. Flowers may be sent to the Berea Baptist Church; donations may be sent to Bon Secours Hospice, Richmond, Va.

JOSEPH D. EXLINE

Joseph D. Exline, 80, of Beaverdam, went to be with the Lord on Sunday, January 10, 2016. He departed peacefully at 7:30 a.m., surrounded by all of his loving family members at his home in Little River Estates on White Pine Road in Beaverdam. He bravely struggled to recover from major heart valve replacement surgery that took place in October of 2007. His unconditional love for his family gave him strength to survive for another exline eight and onehalf years. He was born, June 1, 1935, in Lewis County, West Virginia. He was the proud son of Frank and Dona Exline. He had one brother, Gerald Exline; and two sisters, Mary Emaleen Saville and Joann Brill. He graduated first from Glenville State College in Glenville, West Virginia, where he married his wife, Janet Carol White, on April 19, 1958. They moved to Herndon after graduation in 1960, where he taught Earth Science and Biology at Herndon High School. In 1968, he received a Master’s degree in Biology from Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio. He also earned a Doctorate in Earth Science from Maryland University in College Park, Maryland, in 1973. His next step in his educational career was when he joined the Virginia Department

of Education in 1974 in Richmond. He was appointed Director of Science in 1978 by Secretary of Education James Dyke to develop the stated Statewide Systemic initiative. He was Principal Investigator and Project Director for Virginia Quality Education in Sciences and Technology called V-Quest, funded by the National Science Foundation in Washington, D.C., in 1992. He directed the project until June 1995, at which time he took the Governor’s early retirement. He then formed Exline Consulting Services Inc. in 1987. He remained actively engaged in civic affairs. One of his major accomplishments was working as President of Beaverdam Heritage Day Foundation and to see the construction of Pop’s Country Store. This was a small museum that housed a collection of old store antiques that were generously donated by the late Retta Smith from Edgewood, her childhood home. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Janet C. Exline; and three children, son, Joseph David Exline (Sharon), daughter, Diana Carol Exline (Gregory/Mike) and son, Christopher Andrew Exline (Angela). Also surviving are grandchildren, Paul David Exline (Christie), Matthew Lee Exline (Leah), Dustin Gregory Peirce (Tara), Bryan Scott Exline, Jessica Ashley Arnold and Taeah Nicole Exline; and great-grandchildren, Shayne Exline, Braydan Exline, Bryce Peirce, Savannah Frye and Layla Peirce. Other special friends of the family are Claude Payne, Annette Truelove, Teressa Clark and Joshua James. A memorial service was held at 11 a.m. Friday, January 15, 2016, at Nelsen Funeral Home, Reid Chapel, at 412 South Washington

Highway in Ashland. The family wants to send thanks to the Beaverdam United Methodist Church, Heartland Hospice Care, Nelsen Funeral Home and all the friends and family that have offered their condolences and support. A very special thanks to Kim Hall for being a wonderful caregiver prior to Hospice. He was well-respected by not only his friends and family, but by the entire community. His guidance and leadership have been an encouraging example to all. He will be forever loved and missed. He may be gone, but will never be forgotten. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Heartland Hospice Care and/or Beaverdam United Methodist Church.

CAROLYN GIBBS

Carolyn Danner Gibbs, age 58, departed this life on January 13, 2016. She was predeceased by her father, Alvin G. Danner, a n d h u s bands, Ricky Smith a n d Donald GIBBS Strong. She is survived by her mother, Dolly Danner of Powhatan; brother, Gary Danner of Chester; sister, Teresa Bliley (Martin) of Meadville, Pennsylvania; her four children, Benjamin Smith, Dennis Smith and Jennifer Smith Hairfield (Ronnie), all of Richmond, and Christopher Strong of Ashland; many grandchildren, one greatgranddaughter and many family members and friends in Virginia, Arkansas and North Carolina. A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, January 23, 2016, at see OBITUARIES, pg. 4 

| Crime, Accidents, Fire & Rescue Jan. 5 

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Suspect assaulted victim on Woodlawn Farm Drive. Suspect was in possession of controlled substance on Lewistown Road. Suspect was in possession of controlled substance on Mechanicsville Turnpike/ Interstate 295.

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Suspect assaulted victim on Lee Davis Road.

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Suspect used victim’s information without permission on Peace Road.

Jan. 6 

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Suspect stole items on Washington Highway. Suspect violated a protective order on Muzzle Court.

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Suspect forged document on Beaver Dam Road.

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Suspect stole items on West Patrick Henry Road.

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Suspect violated protective order on Muzzle Court.

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Suspect stole items on Henley Road.

Suspect assaulted victim on Mechanicsville Turnpike.

Jan. 9 

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Suspect violated a protective order on Banshire Drive.

Suspect assaulted victim on Tower Road.

Jan. 10 

Suspect stole items on Anvil Lane.

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Suspect was in possession of controlled substance on Combs Drive/Cool Spring Road.

Suspect assaulted victim on Mountain Road.

Jan. 8 

Park.

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Suspect assaulted victim on Beaverdam Trail.

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Suspect assaulted victim on Atlee Station Road/ Kings Acres Road.

Jan. 11 

Suspect assaulted victim on Elm Tree Trail.

Studley Road. 

Suspect assaulted victim on Richardson Road.

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Suspect assaulted victim on West Patrick Henry Road.

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Suspect damaged victim’s property on Piping Tree Ferry Road.

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Suspect used victim’s information without permission on Courtland Farm Road.

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Suspect used victim’s information without permission on River Pine Drive.

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Suspect broke into listed location on Hopefull Church Road.

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Suspect stole items on Turkey Road.

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Suspect stole items on Crown Hill Road.

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Suspect forged bank note on Bell Creek Road.

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Suspect discharged weapon on Lakeridge

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Suspect violated protective order on

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Suspect assaulted victim on Turkey Road.

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Hanover Idols auditions set Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com

SHLAND — Auditions for the 2016 Hanover Idols competition will be held Sunday, Jan. 24.

faith gitchell 2012 Hanover Junior Idol

This is the sixth time the

Hanover Arts & Activities Center is sponsoring a singing competition for Hanover residents. Song selection takes time, and this competition takes place every other year. Two winners were selected in 2014 by a panel of local celebrity judges: Sarah Hopkins was crowned Hanover Idol 2014 and Audrey Kate Taylor was crowned 2014 Hanover Junior Idol. These two “idols” went on to perform at various events in 2014 and 2015, including special appearances at the Ashland Musical Variety Show. Sarah is attending Trevecca Nazarene University and is part of the National Praise and Worship Institute in Nashville. Audrey Kate is a seventh grader at Chickahominy see AUDITIONS, pg. 5 

The Hanover Local January 20, 2016

OBITUARIES Continued from pg. 

Gum Neck Church of Christ in Gum Neck, North Carolina. Memorial donations may be made in her honor.

JAMES GRAVATT

James Carroll “Jim,” of Ashland, passed away on January 10, , at the age of 77. He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Christine Gravatt of Ashland. He is survived by his children, a daughter, Jill Alexeev Ferguson (John), and a son, James (Jay) Carroll Gravatt Jr. (Lucia) from Stevenson Ranch, California, and three grandchildren, Jaymes Alexeev, Annabelle Ferguson and Adrian Gravatt, and by a brother, Robert A. Gravatt

Jr. (Sharon) of Montpelier. Jim was a loving and devoted father and grandfather (Pop). Jim attended Randolph-Macon College, where he played football, and, in 1960, received the MVP Trophy in the Shrine Bowl game against HampdenSydney. He served in the U.S. Army, during which time he spent two years in Germany. He was an avid golfer and member of Hanover Country Club, where he won multiple Club Championships. In addition, he especially loved all UVA sports and the Washington Redskins. He also was a great lover of country and bluegrass music. A graveside service was held at 2 p.m. Friday, January 15, 2016, at Signal Hill Memorial Park in Hanover. In lieu of flowers, please consider contributions to the American

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Heart Association or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Nelsen Funeral Home at 412 South Washington Highway in Ashland was in charge of arrangements.

BETSY GRIFFITH

Betsy Ann Mende Griffith, 64, peacefully passed away at home on Sunday, January 10, 2016. She is survived by her husband of 38 years, Grayson; daughter, Mende (Joshua) Garren; grandchildren, Theora and Maximus; aunt, Elizabeth Vaughan; brother, George (Nancy) Mende Jr.; nephew, George L. Mende III; niece, Tammy (Robert) McCoy; a n d greatniece, Tay l or. griffith Betsy was a former marathon runner and only one of two who participated in all 37 Ashland Railroad Races. She enjoyed being a lifelong member of Westminster Presbyterian Church, where she served the community faithfully in many roles, including being her husband’s “lovely assistant” at Sunday School. She was proud of her career achievements, including being a draftsperson

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Office hours 8:30 – 5:00 • Monday – Friday Questions? Call 804-746-1235 ext. 0 / 804-775-4610 or email mwall@mechlocal.com The Hanover Local January 20, 2016

at William J. Davis, serving as school librarian at Victory Christian Academy and as a bagger at Martin’s Food Markets, where she earned the 2011 Associate of the Year Award. Betsy was dearly loved and will be sorely missed by all whose lives she touched. A memorial service was held at 3 p.m. Friday, January 15, 2016, at Westminster Presbyterian Church at 4103 Monument Ave. in Richmond. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Westminster Presbyterian Church or the American Stroke Association.

OLIVE H. LLOYD

Olive H. Lloyd, 96, of Beaverdam, passed away on Saturday, January 16, 2016. She was preceded in death by her husband, John H. Lloyd Jr.; and grandson, T.J. Lloyd. She is survived by three sons, John W. Lloyd (Doris), Steve N. Lloyd (Margaret) and Jerry W. Lloyd (Gina); eight grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. today (Wednesday, January 20, 2016) at the Oak Grove Wesleyan Church at 16354 Woodman Hall Road in Montpelier. Interment will follow in the church cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Oak Grove Wesleyan Church. Online condolences can be registered at www.nelsenashland.com. Nelsen Funeral Home, Reid Chapel, at 412 South Washington Highway in Ashland is in charge of arrangements.

THOMAS SWISHER JR.

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The Hanover Local, Attn: Subscription 8460 Times Dispatch Boulevard Mechanicsville, VA 23116 Cash and Check accepted at the above address.

Thomas “Tommy” E. Swisher Jr., 59, of Ashland, found peace at last on January 11, 2016. Born in Hanover County on February 16, 1956, to the late Patricia and Thomas Swisher, Tommy worked for well over 30 years for Canterbury carpet and

AAA carpet. Tommy enjoyed his truck and collecting model cars. He is survived by his aunt and uncle, Marie and Francis Yates; and many cousins. The family would like to express their great thanks and appreciation to Joseph Melton for his assistance during this time of need. A graveside service for Tommy was held at 2 p.m. on Monday, January 18, 2016, in Signal Hill Memorial Park in Hanover. Bennett Funeral Home, Mechanicsville Chapel, was in charge of arrangements.

DIMPLE TALIAFERRO

Dimple Sizer Taliaferro, heeded the call of the Master and departed this earthly life on Sunday, January 10, 2016, at her r e s i dence, with her taliaferro family at her bedside. She was predeceased by her parents, John and Amanda Davis; and 11 of her siblings. Surviving and celebrating her life are her two sons, Robert “Sonny” Sizer Jr. (Helen) of Beaverdam and Johnny A. Sizer Sr. (Barbara) of Richmond; seven grandchildren: Katrina Jones (Troy) of Sandston, Robin Sizer of Orlando, Florida, Ronel Sizer of Midland, Texas, Jeffrey Reese (Janelle) of Waldorf, Md., Jennifer Sizer of Arlington, Johnny Sizer Jr. of Washington, D.C., and Tiffany Harris of Richmond; six greatgrandchildren; one sister, Ruth Costa; and devoted niece and nephew, Jeanne Costa and Emanuel “Butch” Costa, all of New Bedford, Massachusetts; numerous other nieces, nephews, cousins and friends; and her special friends, Emma Baylor, Lillian Sizer and Corean Wilson. Homecoming services were held at noon Saturday, January 16, 2016, at Ebenezer

Baptist Church in Chilesburg, with the Rev. Albert H. Brown, pastor, officiating. The eulogy was delivered by the Rev. Kenneth Davis, pastor of St. Luke Baptist Church in Ruther Glen. Interment followed in the Ebenezer Baptist Church Cemetery. Owens Funeral Service at 104 Green Chimneys Court in Ashland was in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be found at owensfuneralservices. com.

STEVEN WALLER

Steven Lee “Big Time Buck” Waller, 53, of Beaverdam, departed this life on January 8, 2016. He leaves to cherish one brother, Melvin Coles; f o u r sisters, Lillie a n d Justine waller Waller, Pauline Graves (David) and Adell Fisher (Micklos); two aunts, three uncles and a host of loving family and friends. Funeral services were held at noon at the Union Baptist Church in Beaverdam. Owens Funeral Service in Ashland was in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be made at owensfuneralservices. com.

LUTHER WHITE III

Luther Wesley White III, age 92, died January 9, 2016, in Lynchburg. His beloved wife of 52 years, Patricia Bowers Wh ite, and his p r e cious s o n , Lut h e r Wesley white White IV, preceded him in death. Hs is survived by his daughter, Mari White Smallshaw and her husband, Steven Smallshaw, see OBITUARIES, pg. 7 

AUDITIONS

calendar

Continued from pg. 

| News, Updates & Listings Wednesday, Jan. 20

Call Federal Credit Union will host a Shred-a-Thon from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Hanover Branch at 9397 Atlee Rd. in Mechanicsville. Members of the community are invited to shred documents and join in refreshments of free hot cocoa and cookies. There also will be a chance to win an Apple iPad Air2. War Room Training will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesdays through March 9 at the Grace United Family Church at 8700 Bell Creek Rd. in Mechanicsville. According to Pastor Glenn Hawkins, the

church will “seek to implement the privilege and discipline of strategic prayer for our family, community and the world.” Dinner will be provided and training will be for students and adults. For more information, call Hawkins at 804-335-6728 or visit www.graceunited.org.

Sunday, Jan. 24

Charles Bryant, past president of the Virginia Historical Society, will speak at 3 p.m. at the Ashland Library. He will discuss “The History Crisis in America – Myth or Reality.” He also will sign copies of his new book, “Imperfect Past – History in a New Light.” Bryant’s

appearance is being presented by the Ashland Museum.

Tuesday, Jan. 26

The Hanover County Department of Social Services Board meeting will be held at 3:30 p.m. in the Conference Room at Hanover County Social Services at 12304 Washington Hwy. in Ashland. The meeting is open to the public.

Monday, Feb. 1

Applications are now being accepted for the following programs for the 2016-2017 school year, which are specifically intended for rising 9th through 11th grade students:

Middle School, and is featured in many local musical productions, including Virginia Rep productions. Sue Watson and Lorie Foley, who team up every other year for the Ashland Musical Variety Show, are once again producing Hanover Idols. Hanover Idols is open to Hanover residents ages 10 and older. To audition for Hanover Junior Idols, applicants must be 10 to 15 years of age (as of Jan. 1, 2016). To audition for Hanover Idols, applicants must be 16 years of age or older (as of Jan. 1, 2016).

Application forms are available at www.hanoverarts. org or by calling 804-7982728. Sign-up forms were due to the Hanover Arts and Activities Center on Friday, Jan. 15. The producers will contact applicants to schedule auditions to be held Sunday, Jan. 24, at the Hanover Arts & Activities Center. Judging will be based on vocal ability, performance standards, stage presence, power to evoke emotion, and suitability for the Ashland Musical Variety Show and other public venues. All varieties of music are encouraged, including, but not limited to, show tunes, church music,

gospel, opera, rap, hip/hop, pop, folk, country, etc. “We want to stress that our local celebrity judges are friendly, talented and nurturing,” Watson said. Candidates are encouraged to sing with musical accompaniment, Karaoke CD, or a cappella for the two-minute audition. Fred Horn, music director at Berea Baptist Church in Rockville, will provide piano accompaniment for the actual competition. The 2016 Hanover Idols Junior Competition will take place at 3:30 p.m. Sunday, March 6, at the Ashland Theatre. Doors will open at 3 p.m.

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opinion

| The Local Views From the editor

What would you have done with the money? By Melody Kinser Managing Editor

With the world watching, and lottery machines spitting out tickets left and right, we saw a record $1.5 billion Powerball last week. Folks from three states — California, Florida and Tennessee — awoke Wednesday, Jan. 13, to life-changing wealth. So what happens now? We all think about what we would do if we struck it rich — whether through a lottery or an unexpected inheritance. This writer has discovered through aging (and hopefully maturing from a financial standpoint) that impulse buying may have been OK (it really wasn’t) when I was much younger — but there’s this thing called retirement that has a very strong appeal. Surprisingly, our needs and wants change as we age. So, what would you do with unexpected riches? The simple life has a great attraction: a beach, an ocean breeze and fruity drinks (non-alcoholic, thank you). But what about sharing the wealth? I’d like to believe I would review charities and how those organizations raise funds and distribute them. As we’ve seen in the past, there are abuses within at times, but, by the same token, some merit as much help as possible. How much money do we really need to live comfortably yet not excessively? Do we think about those who struggle daily? Do you ever wonder if the person in front of you at the grocery store is having to decide which purchases are within the parameters of a set budget? What about the homeless? Do you ever stop and just hand someone $5, $10 or $20 and urge them to buy a meal? Yes, it’s easy to think about the mega-house, luxurious automobile, exotic travels and closets full of clothes, shoes and purses. But, at the end of the day, where is the satisfaction? There are so many rewards to helping others. My late sister was very generous as she became more successful professionally. She was a member of a women’s philanthropic organization. I used to call her “Reasonable Robin,” a title she was quite proud to have. I’m convinced she would be impressed that practical and justifiable spending have become part of my life. In reality, wealth comes in far more ways than a bank account. Giving is better than receiving.

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The Hanover Local January 20, 2016

Donald Trump will not be president By Roslyn Ryan Richmond Suburban News

A word of warning: What I am about to say may break a few hearts and elicit a few angry letters —but I am going to say it anyway. Donald Trump is not going to be president. He is going to be — and apparently already is — a force to be reckoned with, and he is going to be a thorn in the side of many. And, of course, he is going to be entertaining. But he is not going to win the presidency. Listing the reasons why would take up more space and ink than we have available, but to do so also would overshadow one very interesting point about the fact that someone like Donald Trump (a man who

has managed to stay relevant for the past several decades by ingeniously turning himself into walking, talking, oddly-coiffed caricature) has captured the attention —and the steadfast support — of so many. At the very least, the fact that a Donald Trump presidency is being discussed outside the realm of comic strips and late night talk show parodies tells us one simple fact about the American public: A lot of us are very, very angry. To a man, just about every person I know who sincerely supports Trump’s alleged bid for the presidency has become enamored with him largely due to the billionaire’s somewhat pugnacious attitude toward, well, just about everyone. “He tells it like it is,” they say, pointing to the fact that Trump

“doesn’t seem to be afraid of anything or anyone.” In a world that had become uncomfortably politically correct for many, Trump wantonly insults women, minorities and fellow presidential hopefuls, burnishing his selfstyled image as a man whose vast wealth has made him untouchable. For people fed-up with the smarmy charm of career politicians, Trump offers just the opposite: He is perhaps the most unapologetically uncharming candidate in recent memory (need proof? During a recent debate, he made the typically boorish governor of New Jersey, Chris Christie, look almost demure). Trump, his supporters feel, is a brawler — and he’s fighting for them. When it comes to Trump, there is see TRUMP, pg. 7 

letters | Reader Views

Resident: County businesses are the best My husband and I moved to Hanover County 26 years ago, and it was undoubtedly one of the wisest decisions we’ve ever made. Many reasons and people help contribute to that belief, but today I want to thank the businesses in our county. More specifically, Michael Cohan, owner and managing partner of RiverBound on the 360 corridor, and Marty’s Grill over on 301. Having been involved in my children’s schools as a volunteer, PTA board member and substitute for the past 20 years, I can attest to the dedication that he has always shown for our Hanover students and their programs, as well as other fundraising events that benefit our community. Do his businesses benefit from donating food and time from these requests? From a publicity standpoint, absolutely! But he gives it right back – with no hesitation! So Michael, I just want to thank you, for everything you do for our Mechanicsville/Hanover community. It would not be the great place that it is to live and raise children if it were not for the extremely generous supporters such as you, backing it all up, making it happen! You don’t just “Talk the Talk,” you actually “Walk the Walk” . . . Thank you!

And not to be remiss, there are many other businesses in our county that offer the same support for our citizens in Hanover County. I encourage all our residents to support those businesses, to keep our community the best place to call “home!” Cindy Spott Mechanicsville see LETTERS, pg. 7 

Letters to the Editor 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 Hanover Local. Send letters to: The Hanover Local, 8460 Times-Dispatch Blvd. Mechanicsville, VA 23116. Fax: 730-0476 E-mail: editor@mechlocal.com

OBITUARIES

First winner

Continued from pg. 4 

Michelle Wall/The Local

Macey Hutto, a fourth grade student at Kersey Creek Elementary School, was the first winner of the Kids Local contest. She said the activities are her favorite part of the new publication. In her spare time she likes to read. As for her favorite TV show or movie, she said, the movie “Aquamarine.”

Humane Society fundraiser slated Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com

GLEN ALLEN – The Hanover Humane Society and Panera Bread at Virginia Center Commons at 9960 Brook Road in Glen Allen will join from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 21, for a fundraiser. Present an event flyer (available online at www.

TRUMP Continued from pg. 6 

certainly more to be written. But who will be the one to address the rising tide of anger and dissatisfaction among certain segments of our population is anyone’s guess.

hanoverhumanesociety.org) at the time you pay for your order, and Panera Bread will donate a portion of your tab to Hanover Humane Society. The Society is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit entity located in Ashland. It provides animal adoption, education, and prevention services for residents in Hanover County and the surrounding counties. No, I’m not concerned about Trump sitting in the Oval Office, or about him having access to the Nuclear Codes. I’m more concerned about what his potential candidacy says about us. Roslyn Ryan is editor of The Goochland Gazette.

and their four sons, Wes, Rich, Charlie and Jimmy, all of Lynchburg; daughter, Nellie White King and her husband, William E. King, and their children, Billy Tricia, Frances and Jack and his wife, Lindsay, all of Norfolk; son, Dr. John P. White, M.D., and his wife, Lila Young White, and their daughters, Elizabeth and Sarah Grace, all of Goochland County; by Luther’s widow, Lisa White and her children, Logan and Henley Moseley, all of Richmond. Born and raised in Norfolk the son of Luther W. White Jr. and Edith Prettyman White, Luther graduated from Maury High School. He went on to attend Randolph-Macon College in Ashland in 1941 and graduated in 1947, after an interruption of three years’ service as Lt. (JG) U.S. Naval Reserve, with duty as a gunnery officer in the Amphibious Forces in the Pacific. As an undergraduate, he was elected to Phi Beta Kappa and Omicron Delta Kappa. Luther attended Washington & Lee University School of Law, where he served on the Board of Editors of the Law Review and graduated cum laude in 1949. He entered private practice in Norfolk and for

three years served as Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney of the City of Norfolk, after which he and others founded the law firm Worthington, White & Harper. Appointed by the Supreme Court of Appeals of Virginia, he served a term on the five-member Virginia Board of Law Examiners. In 1967, he was elected president of Randolph-Mason College, where he served for 12 years. In his term as president, he founded, with others, and served as the second president of the Council of Independent Colleges in Virginia, whose work provided tuition assistance for Virginia students to attend the Commonwealth’s 24 independent colleges and universities. Beginning in 1979, Luther served for nine years as president of Kentucky Wesleyan College in Owensboro, Kentucky. He received honorary degrees from Washington & Lee University, Randolph-Macon College, Kentucky Wesleyan College and Bridgewater College. Luther and Patricia retired to Lake Monticello in Fluvanna County and both were active in the administration of its Owners Association and in the Palmyra United Methodist Church. Luther loved music and served on the Boards of the Norfolk Symphony, the Richmond

Symphony and the Owensboro Symphony Orchestras. After the death of his wife in 2006, Luther moved to Lynchburg, where he met a cordial and active group of new friends, particularly at the Centenary United Methodist Church. Luther was kind and charming. He had both a powerful sense of purpose and a robust sense of humor. He adored his family and treated those he adored like family. He loved to play the piano while his family gathered around him to sing hymns -- he even preferred to sing the mealtime blessing. He was a gifted wordsmith and had an inimitable way of churning out expressions that will forever be a cherished part of the family vernacular. A celebration of his life and a witness to the resurrection were held at 11 a.m. Saturday, January 16, 2016, at the Centenary United Methodist Church in Lynchburg. The interment will take place in Norfolk at a later date. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be sent to Centenary United Methodist Church, 1501 Rivermont Ave., Lynchburg, VA 24503. Heritage Funeral Service and Crematory, 434239-2405, is assisting the family. Memories and thoughts may be shared with the family at heritagefuneralandcremation.com.

LETTERS Continued from pg. 6 

Circles USA founder to visit The issue of poverty has been a major issue in the community in recent months. In Ashland, there have been several initiatives to assist persons, but now a local group is pulling together resources from multiple areas under with the connection to Circles USA. That group, Circles Ashland, will be hosting Scott Miller, the founder of Circles USA, for several events Feb. 10. The mission of Circles is to inspire and equip families and communities to resolve poverty and thrive. Circles USA has affiliate groups across the country with proven success in reducing poverty of families living well below the poverty level. Scott will address the public in a 7 p.m. lecture and discussion at the Ashland Theatre and holding a presentation and breakout groups in Birdsong Hall of Randolph-Macon College from 2 to 3:30 p.m. For more information, email Dave Cooper, coordinator of Circles Ashland, at circlesashland@gmail.com. Rev. Sandra Stanley Duncan Memorial United Methodist Church Ashland

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The Hanover Local January 20, 2016

sports

The Hanover Local January 20, 2016

sports

The Hanover Local January 20, 2016

sports

The Hanover Local January 20, 2016

classified

The Hanover Local January 20, 2016

Academic requirements will stay the same — for now By Jim Ridolphi for The Hanover Local

ASHLAND — A policy regarding academic requirements for student athletes in Hanover County will remain unchanged, at least for now. Hanover County School Board members voted unanimously to maintain the current policy that mirrors Virginia High School League guidelines that required participating students to take and pass five classes. A committee formed by Hanover County Public Schools to study the current policy and research alternatives headed by Lead Teacher Specialist John Trott issued its recommendation at a meeting last week. The study group considered options such as requiring student athletes to maintain a 2.0 grade point average, but decided to leave the current policy in place until they gather more information and meet to issue a final report in the spring. Among more than 700 athletes who participated in fall sports in the county, only 13 would be affected by the changes. The small percentage of students not making the 2.0 mark was not, in the committee’s mind, a sufficient number of athletes to affect a change in policy. Hanover and Chesterfield counties currently regulate academic requirements utilizing VHSL

BEE Continued from pg. 1

judges. Judges included Pat Bossler, curriculum specialist for English, Language Arts and Reading; Margie Walthall, assessment specialist; and Catherine Zachmeyer, data management specialist. Also at the judge’s table was Dr. Tricia Miller, director of Elementary Education, who acted as audio assistant, and

STANLEY Continued from pg. 1

another committee.” Hazzard expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to serve the county. “I would like to thank the board for putting up with me for the last year,” Hazzard said. “It has been interesting to say the least. I have enjoyed the

guidelines, while Henrico County and the City of Richmond have instituted 2.0 GPA minimums. Hank Lowry, Ashland District, asked how the percentage of fall athletes who didn’t make the 2.0 grade compares to the figures in the general student population. Dr. Michael Gill, superintendent, said those figures could be included in the spring report when sports from the winter and spring seasons also will be completed. Other board members asked if requiring athletes to maintain a minimum GPA could affect other extra curricula activities like marching band or show chorus. Cold Harbor representative Norman Sulser called for the study raising academic standards for student athletes, but seemed pleasantly surprised at the low number of affected students. “It was always my intent to first do a citizens committee/work group study of GPA for sports activities and then after study to make a decision about whether to raise the GPA from a grade of D to a grade of C in order to be eligible to participate in sports as a student,” Sulser said. “I think it surprised everyone that it was a high as 98 percent for fall sports. I think it will be even higher for winter and spring sports.” Sulser said tasking the committee with further research duties regarding band, chorus and drama would serve no purpose.

“I believe that expanding the committee study to include the band, chorus and drama students would not be a productive use of the committee’s time and that they are a completely different group than the students who elect to voluntarily participate in sports. Why open Pandora’s Box?” Trott said the 18member committee considered the pros and cons of a 2.0 GPA requirement and whether a change was necessary regarding the current policy. Advantages of the new program included increased emphasis on academic improvement and improved accounttrott ability. But, the elimination of some students from participation weighed heavy along with concerns regarding data-keeping and enforcement. In the end, the committee’s recommendation suggested no change in the current policy, continued monitoring and enhanced efforts to reach the few student athletes who are not achieving the 2.0 mark. In other matters, Jennifer Greif, director of accountability and accreditation, was named

new assistant superintendent in charge of instruction. She replaces Gill who left that position to accept the superintendent’s job. The board also approved the 2016-2017 school calendar that includes some changes from the current edition. The Columbus Day holiday has been eliminated to accommodate the county’s desire to close campuses on Election Day. Since New Year’s Day falls on Sunday, 12month employees will be given the preceding Friday off as school begins that Monday. The board amended a current policy that requires that Sunday holidays be observed on the following Monday to accommodate the change in schedule. The board also established a schedule for upcoming budget hearings that included a presentation of the document at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 19. A public hearing is scheduled for Jan. 26 and tentative approval is scheduled for Feb. 9. Lowry requested an additional meeting to allow enough time to study the proposed document. Chairman Robert Hundley, Chickahominy, said the board could conduct additional meetings if necessary, but thought scheduling was not needed. An approved budget must be submitted to the county administrator by March 1.

Tami Slater, a lead teacher specialist for English, Language Arts and Reading. As the winner of the division spelling bee, Cotton will represent Hanover County Public Schools at the Richmond Times-Dispatch Regional Spelling Bee scheduled for March. Winning the division spelling bee “feels great, especially after being runner-up last year,” Cotton said. Following her win, Cotton

was awarded a Webster’s Dictionary. All words, rules and guides for the division-level spelling bee are provided by the Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee. Winners of the elementary and middle school level spelling bee competitions who competed in the Hanover County Public Schools Division Spelling Bee included: m Zachary Tyler, Battlefield Park Elementary

School, grade 4 m Dana Huber, Beaverdam Elementary School, grade 5 m Felix Mo, Chickahominy Middle School, grade 8 m J.C. Salubre, Cold Harbor Elementary School, grade 5 m Allie Davis, Cool Spring Elementary School, grade 5 m Anjali Ramachandran, Elmont Elementary School, grade 5 m Michael Dennehy, John

M. Gandy Elementary School, grade 4 m Jude Crooker, Kersey Creek Elementary School, grade 5 m Carleigh Heckel, Laurel Meadow Elementary School, grade 5 m Samara Terrell, Liberty Middle School, grade 7 m Hannah Talcott, Mechanicsville Elementary School, grade 4 m Delaney Cotton, Oak Knoll Middle School, grade 7

m Henry Rabung, Pearson’s Corner Elementary School, grade 5 m Erin Woodson, Pole Green Elementary School, grade 5 m Will Blake, Rural Point Elementary School, grade 5 m Mach Turner, South Anna Elementary School, grade 5 m Caleb Roden, Stonewall Jackson Middle School, grade 7 m Sam Tolley, Washington-Henry Elementary School, grade 5

cooperation I’ve gotten.” Hazzard emphasized the importance of the board’s vision to work together to accomplish the county’s goals. “This board and this staff work as a team. From the bike race, to the courthouse and all the other accomplishments, it all happened in spite of me,” Hazzard said. “I

appreciate you all putting up with my mistakes and giving me the opportunity to sit in this chair and represent you. Thanks to all of you and it’s an experience I will not forget.” Anglea Kelly-Wiecek, Chickahominy, was appointed vice chair, and had high praise for the new chairman as she placed his name in nomina-

tion. “He is an example of hard work, humility, honesty and a true public servant,” KellyWiecek said. Last week’s meeting was the first for incoming supervisors Scott Wyatt, Cold Harbor, and Faye Prichard, Ashland. Wyatt was immediately tasked with selecting the Cold Harbor District’s new Planning

Commission representative. He recommended former LeeDavis High School student and James Madison University graduate Fred McGhee to fill the chair of outgoing commissioner Ashley Peace who resigned due to scheduling conflicts associated with new job requirements. The board unanimously endorsed Wyatt’s selection.

McGhee and his wife have two children who attend Hanover schools, and are lifetime residents of the county. “Obviously, there’s a huge learning curve with this new job, but I’m excited to have the opportunity to represent my neighbors,” McGhee said. McGhee is a contractor for B-Dry Waterproofing.

The Hanover Local January 20, 2016