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Rural Plains to host afternoon of 19th century children’s games

Masterworks Chorale begins new season PAGE

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Vol. 2 No. 10 | Richmond Suburban News | September 7, 2016

One man’s vision becomes a reality Gill credits students, Train mural in Ashland is tribute to Art McKinney By Jim Ridolphi for The Hanover Local

SHLAND -- From a small second floor office nestled along the railroad tracks in Ashland, Art McKinney reached out to

the world. The company he founded and headed has achieved worldwide recognition for completed projects, and McKinney and Company is a well-respected world-class engineering firm. The work continues in that small office without the stalwart who created the vision and traveled the world displaying his engineering prowess. But the Virginia Tech graduate’s heart was never far from the place he called home, and the familiar roar of a passing train and a picture that existed only in his mind. McKinney often spoke about a vision he had for the block he knew so well, and expressed a desire to add a decorative and historical mural to the side of his building. “Art McKinney was a very prominent man in this town,” said Dan Dicandilo, one of the organizers who is trying to make the vision a reality. “He ran an internationally known engineering firm from the office above the Iron Horse. McKinney passed away earlier this year, but his imprint on the town left a lasting impression. “He was a Virginia Tech graduate and supporter, and was a key donor to the YMCA here in Ashland.” “One of his dreams was to put a mural on his building depicting the history of some of the trains coming through Ashland,” Dicandilo said. “When he would come in to talk, he’d show me pictures and

tell me his idea of what he wanted to do… but he never got to finish it.” Thanks to some concerned citizens, that project is moving forward. Friends of Art (FOA) is a community-based committee formed to make Art’s dream a reality. Ashland Street Parties is the nonprofit that is sponsoring the mural effort.

The group commissioned local artist Ed Trask to complete the project. “We sat down with him and came to an agreement as to what we were going to do,” Dicandilo said. “In a short period of time, we put together the most beautiful train mural you have ever seen.” The committee, dubbed Friends of Art (FOA), is focused on raising funds to

Jim Ridolphi for The Local

Art McKinney, a prominent Ashland businessman, had a love for trains. Since his passing, an organization formed that led to the creation of a mural in his honor.

“Art’s vision was to celebrate the trainscape which is ingrained in the daily life of all Ashland residents and visitors,” said FOA committee member Hank Lowry. Dicandilo, Art’s wife and partner Jerry McKinney, and McKinney and Company president Nancy Walker join him on the committee. Dicandilo said finishing the project became a priority for him after McKinney’s courageous battle with cancer ended earlier this year. “I was very fond of him. I thought it would be a nice idea if I picked up the project,” Dicandilo said. “I spoke with his wife, Hank and Nancy and we formed a committee under the umbrella of ASP.”

complete the project and contributors will be invited to take part in the actual painting of the project. Their names also will be included on the train. Persons wishing to donate are offered three levels of contribution. Bronze level donations are $100, while silver and gold level categories are $500 and $1,000. “Not only is this something that will memorialize Art, but it will also beautify Ashland,” Dicandilo said. The mural will greet northbound travelers on the many trains that pass through the town daily. McKinney’s wife, Jerry, provided pictures and notes for the project, and one of see MURAL, pg. 2

staﬀ with successes By Melody Kinser Managing Editor MECHANICSVILLE – When Dr. Michael accepted the position of superintendent of Hanover County Public Schools he was well aware of the division’s successes because he was already part of the division. He was named the 13th superintendent last fall while serving as the assistant superintendent of Instructional Leadership since 2014. In a recent interview with The Local, he was humble and modest, giving the credit for the district’s statewide acclaim to the students and staff. “We are extremely proud of the efforts of our staff and our students, first and foremost,” Gill said, “and the scores reflect a lot of hard work, a lot of dedication on behalf of our staff and certainly the efforts of

our students.” He also praised the administration and the central office support staff. “It’s their hard work that is deserving of all praise. That being said, our belief — and it’s my belief — but I hope if you talk to any Hanover educator and, quite probably any educator period, is that no single score on paper should define the worth of a child, should define the worth of a teacher, a school, a school division.” Gill’s comments came following the release of Standards of Learning assessments from the Virginia Department of Education, which reported that improvements in the commonwealth’s schools are being made in reading, math and science. Those results stem from the 2015-2016 school year. “While we want to celebrate our successes, we also want to do so with the mindset that this is one measure of success but it see GILL, pg. 12 File photo/Kenny Moore

Dr. Michael Gill, superintendent of Hanover County Public Schools, addressed the 2016 class at the VCU Siegel Center in June.

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ASHLAND -- The Central Virginia Masterworks Chorale, based in Ashland, welcomes new and returning singers to fall/winter rehearsals on Sept. 12. The Chorale meets from 7 to 9:15 p.m. on Mondays at the Duncan Memorial United Methodist Church at 201 Henry St. on the campus of Randolph-Macon College. All voice parts are welcome: sopranos, altos, tenors, baritones/ basses. Formal music training is not a requirement, but previous experience with choral singing and some sight-reading ability are encouraged. Artistic director Ryan Tibbetts returns to the podium, and the holiday concert promises something for everyone. Following themes of hope, joy, peace, faith, and merriment, the music will feature many pieces accompanied by renowned accompanist Daniel Stipe, as well as several a cappella numbers. For questions or for more information, contact Becky Severin, Chorale president, at rvseverin@ gmail.com, or visit the Chorale’s website, www. cvamc.org.

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Masterworks Chorale begins new season

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The Hanover Local September 7, 2016

Continued from pg. 1

the photos displayed an old train that passed through Ashland years ago. “The artist saw this and wanted to incorporate that train in the mural, so that’s what we did,” Dicandilo said. The project is relying on private donations and there also are opportunities for local businesses. The mural will feature trolley cars with the names of local businesses that contribute inscribed on them. “It’s a great opportunity for everyone,” said Dicandilo.

Photo submitted by Michael Andrus

Rural Plains will be filled with the sounds of children as a special event is scheduled later this month at the historic site. The Shelton House remains a favorite on the grounds.

Rural Plains to host afternoon of 19th century children’s games Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com MECHANICSVILLE -- The yard at Rural Plains will become a playground for children and families on Sunday, Sept. 25, when the Rural Plains Foundation and Richmond National Battlefield Park host an afternoon of 19th-century children’s games. “Games on the Grounds” is a free event aimed primarily at fourth graders, but older and younger children also are welcome. Volunteers will provide instruction in the games and Richmond National Battlefield Park will provide the toys needed for an afternoon of

All agree it’s a fitting tribute to a man who loved Ashland, its people and the trains that passed through its heart each day. His widow, Jerry, told committee members what she thinks her late husband would think of the effort. “I believe Art will like this.” Anyone wishing to contribute or assist should make checks payable to FOA, c/o Hank Lowry, 111 S. Railroad Avenue, Ashland, VA 23005. ASP is planning a special daytime street party for Oct. 1 to benefit the mural efforts. It will be held in the parking lot adjacent to the new painting.

old-fashioned fun. Visitors can stop by between 1 and 4 p.m. to enjoy the activities. In addition to playing 19th century games and learning about other activities during the same time period, children will have an opportunity to use a scrub board, compare the common household tasks of the 19th century with those of today, and learn how to make simple toys from yarn or a handkerchief. Rural Plains is located at the Totopotomoy Creek Battlefield at 7273 Studley Rd. For more information about Rural Plains, visit www.ruralplains.org or email foundation@rural plains.org or call 804-277-4727.

Free Open House tour of Historic Hanover Courthouse Sept. 13 HANOVER — The Hanover Historical Society offers free “open house” tours of the historic Hanover Courthouse on the second Tuesday of each month between a10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The next tour is scheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 13. For more information, call Hanover Parks & Recreation at 804-365-7150. Information submitted by Tom Harris, Hanover County public information officer.

SHERIFFâ€™S REPORTS

Falling Creek Estates

| Crime, Accidents, Fire & Rescue Aug. 25

Suspect was in possession of a controlled substance in the 15000 block of Mountain Road. Suspect used victimâ€™s information without permission in the 16000 block of Theme Park Way. Suspect assaulted victim in the 9300 block of Hickory Hill Road.

Suspect stole items from listed location in the 9400 block of Charter Creek Drive.

Suspect stole items from listed location in the 8200 block of New Ashcake Road.

Suspect was in possession of a controlled substance in the

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8000 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike and Cold Harbor Road.

Suspect fled scene of an accident in the 16300 block of Coatesville Road.

Suspect used victimâ€™s information without permission in the 9000 block of Lunette Lane.

Suspect was in possession of a controlled substance in the 7500 block of Cold Harbor Road.

Suspect was in possession of a controlled substance in the 9100 block of Chamberlayne Road. Suspect stole items from listed location in the 9300 block of Atlee Road. Suspect was in possession of marijuana in the 7100 block of Brandy Run Drive. Suspect damaged victimâ€™s property in the 14400 block of Ashland Road.

Suspect assaulted victims in the 7100 block of Autumn Ridge Lane.

Suspect assaulted victim in the 10300 block of Parahunt Pathway.

Suspect stole items from listed location in the 13200 block of Spring Road.

Suspect assaulted victim in the 7200 block of Harver Way.

Suspect stole items from listed location in the 8100

block of Kiwi Lane and Snowshed Lane.

Aug. 28

Suspect assaulted victim in the 17300 block of George Ruth Road.

Suspect stole items from listed location in the 16000 block of Theme Park way.

Suspect stole items from listed location in the 10100 block of Kings Dominion Boulevard.

Suspect assaulted victim in the 8200 block of Little Florida Road.

Suspect stole items from

! "# $ % & # ' ( % ) * + , - . /,0

see SHERIFF, pg. 4

CALENDAR | News, Updates & Listings

Thursday, Sept. 15 Back to School Night will be held at 6 p.m. at South Anna Elementary School.

Thursday, Oct. 6 The next quarterly Human Services Network Meeting will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. at the Hanover Human Services Meeting Room at 12304 Washington Hwy. in Ashland. For more information, contact Lisa Adkins at 804-365-4302 or email ldadkins@hanovercounty.gov.

Ongoing

Taylorsville Baptist Church located at 15415 Taylorsville Rd. in Doswell will celebrate its 175th anniversary with a day-long celebration beginning at 10:30 a.m.

Families Anonymous Support Group meets from 7 to 8:30 p.m. every Monday at the Episcopal Church of the Creator at 7159 Mechanicsville Turnpike in Mechanicsville. The group is a self-help fellowship for the friends and family members of addicts who are in need of understanding and healing themselves. For details, call Sandy at 804-7304812 or email sandy.leigh@ verizon.net.

Saturday, Oct. 15 The ladies of the St. Paul Lutheran Church LWML are seeking vendors for their 2016 Fall Festival/Craft Sale, which will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (rain or shine) at the church located at 8100 Shady Grove Rd. in Mechanicsville. Limited outside 18â€™x16â€™ spaces are available on a first come, first serve basis for a cost of $20. Table, chairs and tents are not supplied and vendors may not sell food or quilts. For more information, contact Grace at omawilley@gmail. com to sign up or call 804779-3370.

Overcomers Outreach and Womenâ€™s Codependency, a Christ-centered anonymous support program offering hope and healing for recovering alcoholics, addicts and their families meet every Monday at 7 p.m., at the Mechanicsville Christian Center at 8061 Shady Grove Road in Mechanicsville. For more information, call 804-366-9645 or email kjfaith1@gmail.com. see CALENDAR, pg. 5

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The Hanover Local September 7, 2016

OBITUARIES

SHERIFF Continued from pg. 3

| Death Notices & Funerals

JOSELYN CONLON Joselyn Rahne “Josie” Conlon, 27, passed away Saturday, August 20, 2016, at her home in

Chesterfield. She is survived by her loving family and friends. A Celebration of Life service will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, October 16, 2016, at Duncan Memorial United Methodist Church beside Randolph Macon College in Ashland. A reception will follow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions to the A. Purnell Bailey PreMinisterial Program at Randolph-Macon College (Office of College Advancement, Randolph-Macon College, P.O. Box 5005, Ashland, VA 23005).

KATHY TUCKER Kathy Ann Lunsford Tucker, 63, passed away at her home In Beaverdam on August 27, 2016. Born to Marguerite Colgin Lunsford and Charles Henry Lunsford on July 23, 1953, in Petersburg, she is survived by her two children she adored, Kelly Jean Tucker and Charles B. Tucker; and her husband forever, James B. Tucker; sisters, Diane Lunsford Graf, Barbara Lunsford and Karen Lunford Laidler; brothers, James Lundsford and Charles Henry Lunsford Jr. Kathy grew up in Colonial Heights and graduated from Colonial Heights High School, continuing her education at Hollins University and the University of Virginia, with a

degree in English from Virginia State University, later receiving a degree in Computer Science from Virginia Commonwealth University, and finally a master’s degree from George Washington University. Her love of languages TUCKER led her to studies in Germany and The Sobornne University in Paris, France. Kathy spent her business career as a programmer analyst with The State of Virginia, Capital One, and lastly, as the owner of her own real estate appraisal company. She and her family found great happiness living at the river in Dunnsville for 10 years, finding immense enjoyment living at a farm in the mountain foothills in Sutherland and finally the farm in Beaverdam. Kathy and her husband were most happy with their weekend excursions in the Virginia mountains and the bluegrass community of Floyd. She was particularly close and found great enjoyment from her two chocolate Labs, Maggie and Blue, and they will miss her greatly. A memorial service will be held in the coming weeks at a location to be announced. The family is eternally grateful to all members of Gentiva Hospice, who provided her so much comfort.

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Suspect assaulted victim in the 16800 block of Mountain Road.

Suspect assaulted victim in the 11300 block of Rocky Ridge Road.

Aug. 29

Suspect fled scene of an accident in the 9000 block of Pole Green Park Lane.

Suspect stole items from listed location in the 15100 block of Rehoboth Road.

Suspect stole items from listed location in the 6300 block of Caro Trace.

Suspect stole items from the 13400 block of Hanover Quarter Road.

Suspect obtained item(s) under false pretense from the 10100 block of Lewistown Road.

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GERALDINE AYLOR Geraldine Brooks Aylor, 67, of Rockville, passed away Sunday, August 28, 2016, at VCU Hospital after a courageous three-year battle with Multiple Myeloma. She was born January 6, 1949, in Louisa. She is survived by her beloved husband, Douglas Kenton Aylor of Rockville; daughter, Stacy Aylor Pritchett and husband, John; granddaughters, Christina and Fallon Pritchett; brother, Thomas Milton Brooks Jr. (Roberta) of Geneva, Florida; sister, Brenda Brooks Thompson and husband, Kenny, of Gordonsville. Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Thursday, September 1, 2016, at Preddy Funeral Home Chapel in Madison, with interment at Bethel Baptist Church Cemetery, conducted by Pastor Josh Shifflett. Please consider donations to Massey Cancer Center for Multiple Myeloma research. The family would like to thank all of the doctors, nurses and volunteers at VCU on the following units: BMT, RICU, Palliative Care and at St. Mary’s Infusion Center for the exceptional loving care over the past few years.

listed location in the 9400 block of Staple Lane.

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CALENDAR Continued from pg. 3

Tuesdays The Hanover Concert Band rehearses from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. every Tuesday, mid-January through mid December, at the Hanover Arts and Activities Center at 500 S. Railroad Ave. in Ashland, just south of U.S. 54. Membership is open to anyone who can read music and play a non-string instrument. High school students are welcome with parentsâ€™ permission. For more information, visit www.hanoverconcertband.org or call 804-789-0536. General cancer support group meets from 9:30 to 11 a.m. in the Cancer Resource Center in Medical Office Building 1 on the hallway leading to VCU Massey Radiation Oncology. The group is cofacilitated by an oncology

social work navigator, registered nurse navigator and survivorship nurse practitioner

Second Mondays The WEB of Hope meets from 10 a.m. to noon the second Monday of each month (May 9, June 13, July 11, Aug. 8, Sept. 12, Oct. 10, Nov. 14 and Dec. 12) at the Black Creek Baptist Church at 6289 McClellan Road in Mechanicsville. The WEB of Hope group, an extension of the American Red Cross, meets to knit, crochet, sew and quilt for those that need assistance. Gifts are distributed to such groups as the Pregnancy Resource Center, MCEF, Bless the Children, various Native American Reservations, etc. Participants will learn how to knit and crochet if they donâ€™t know how. For more information, call Laurie Wagner at 804-781-0338.

First Tuesday Cancer caregiver support group meets from 2 to 3 p.m. in the Cancer Resource Center in Medical Office Building 1 on the hallway leading to VCU Massey Radiation Oncology. The group is facilitated by a Bon Secours oncology social work navigator and VCU Massey social worker.

Second Tuesdays Hanover Family Support Group, a support group for family members of a loved one with a mental illness, meets from 7 to 8:30 p.m. the second Tuesday of each month at the Ashland office of Hanover Community Services located at 12300 Washington Hwy. in Ashland. Attendees support one another, share experiences, challenges, and resources and to advocate for their loved ones. For more information, contact Jennifer K. Edelman, LCSW, at 804-365-4145.

Floral Decoration Guidelines available in our offices.

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Fall Season

The Hanover Local September 7, 2016

OPINION | The Local Views From the editor

Opinion page oﬀers forum for all types of expression By Melody Kinser Managing Editor

ccasionally, we feel a need to clarify for our readers’ benefit the role of this page – Opinion – in our weekly and monthly publications. If you see a name on an editorial column, that is solely the opinion of the author. That is not the opinion of the newspaper. We, as well as those who participate in our letters to the editor section, express ourselves and our opinions. If you agree or disagree, you are more than welcome to submit a letter to the editor. And, yes, as long as you abide by the legal aspects of your words, it will be published. Our policy for letters to the editor is published on the Opinion page and states that we have the right to edit and reject. We want you to take possession of this page because we are here to serve the community – through our words and yours. Do not hesitate to comment, question or criticize our opinions. Your voice matters to us and our readers. Just as the editorial is the opinion of an editor or contributing columnist, the letters to the editor section is dedicated to your opinion. As you have seen, we will publish those letters that strongly challenge our opinions. But we want that conversation. We want that community involvement. Early in my career, I was taught: “Don’t tell people what to think; give them something to think about.” I’ve always tried to write with that in mind. So, if you get angry about something we have written, express yourself. If you’re pleased with something we’ve written, share that too. The bottom line: It’s your paper — use your voice.

Editorial & Business Office and Mailing Address: 8460 Times-Dispatch Blvd. Mechanicsville, VA 23116 Phone – (804) 746-1235 Toll free – (877) 888-0449 Fax – (804) 730-0476

Joy Monopoli Publisher Melody Kinser Managing Editor Denine D’Angelo Production Manager David Lawrence Sports Editor Tom Haynie Sales Representative Sarah Suttles Sales Representative Jenifer Hinton Administrative Coordinator Online: www.mechlocal.com For news: news@mechlocal.com For events: events@mechlocal.com For advertising: sales@mechlocal.com For classifieds: cgrant@mechlocal.com For circulation: mwall@mechlocal.com

The Hanover Local September 7, 2016

A hook, line and thinker life By Jim Ridolphi Contributing Columnist

rt Lecker was the oldest man in Appleton, Wisconsin, diagnosed with polio when the epidemic stuck nationwide in the early 1950s. One day he was an active, hard-working farmer and the next day he was permanently crippled. When I first met him in 1968, he had long become accustomed to the inconveniences of his illness, and the debilitating condition had not dented his tenacious spirit. Art was still the boss, and most days found him sitting on a tractor on the acres now overseen by his son. On my numerous trips to Wisconsin, I always stayed on the second floor of Art’s house in Appleton, only a stone’s throw from his family farm. I got to know Art through my relationship with his favorite granddaughter Sue, my high school sweetheart. She had moved here from Wisconsin when she was in the eighth grade. I quickly learned that staying at Art’s

house meant getting up early, and the set of stairs that separated me and the feisty old German provided no protection from his wrath at sleeping late. He rattled his crutches, sticks as he called them, on the walls at the bottom of the stairs until he was convinced you were up and moving. Much of the time I spent with Art was at a place called Loon Lake where Art had a summer trailer and a small fishing boat. It was a family-oriented camping park comprised of most regulars, many of them spending generations on the lake. The days were pleasant and filled with simple pleasures like water skiing or swimming, but late afternoons were reserved for something Art loved almost as much as his farm: fishing. I learned quite a bit sitting in that small boat facing one of the strongest men I’d ever known, sitting patiently with a rod tip pointed intensely at the mirror-like water. I’ve encountered few people as

authentic as Art, and one did not entertain frivolous or exaggerated conversation when talking with the man in the chair. His tolerance for that which did not merit attention was non-existent, and he could shut down a conversation with a penetrating look and a word or two of wisdom that sent the message …clearly. Those same eyes could display a kindness, warmth and sincerity that no one could dispute came directly from his heart. To be honest, I’m not much of a fisherman, but I was convinced Art didn’t know that. Of course, he did but he allowed me to continue on those late evening trips to the other side of the island in the center of the lake. It was a time of day and a peace and quiet whose memory still provide a sense of tranquility decades later. What I lacked in fishing expertise, Art more than made up for with years of experience and knowledge of the lake see HOOK, pg. 7

LETTERS | Reader Views

Astounded by editorial stance I was astounded at the ignorance displayed in the Aug. 24, 2016, edition’s editorial. Does the editor not know that any and all countries have borders? What are borders for? They are to mark the boundaries inside which the citizens live and enjoy the rights of citizenship. If a country does not defend its border, it has no border; it is not a country. So, when the editor writes “If you are in favor (of) building a fence/wall to keep Mexicans out of our country (emphasis mine) ... I don’t want to know you” the editor is saying we are a country, and we are not a country, in the same sentence. Then the editor goes on to say “don’t even get me started on deporting Muslims” Insinuating that Trump has advocated deporting any legal resident, Muslim, Mexican or Moroccan, when even the casual political observer knows he has done no such thing. Then the editor has the gall to say “For the record I am a born-again Christian”, stressing her “I’m a good person”

bona-fides in typical liberal style, all the while the gist of the editorial is that she/we should support the save the whale, kill the baby, and marry the sodomites candidate. Regards Shannon Pritchard Ashland

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 TimesDispatch Blvd. Mechanicsville, Va. 23116. Fax: 730-0476

E-mail: editor@mechlocal.com

HOOK Continued from pg. 6

that allowed him to find the big â€œnorthernsâ€? that hid in the weeds in special spots. While I filled the chain hanging over the edge of the boat with brim, he routinely reeled in large pike. â€œLook at that, my friend,â€? he would softly exclaim as he lifted the menacing looking fish into the boat. It wasnâ€™t until years later that I realized I gained little knowledge about fishing on those afternoon escapades, but I learned a lot about courage and determination from a man whose lessons serve me well to this day. It was an unlikely pairing: a long-haired liberal college student and a no nonsense farmer from Wisconsin. But the hours spent on that lake prove that the most unlikely of possible outcomes are usually the ones that happen the most often.

I never thought of Art as being disabled. I suppose thatâ€™s the most appropriate tribute to a man who lived through a life of obstacles, and didnâ€™t mind smiling along the way. On that path, he touched hundreds of lives and influenced the way many of them approached a lifetime of challenges. As I struggle with and for a family member who is facing insurmountable odds and faces a life without the use of his legs, Artâ€™s legacy means even more and I often speak of him when my son is in need of inspiration. And fishing. Well, I havenâ€™t done much of it since those summers in Wisconsin and I rarely think of it ... except for those special moments when my mind wanders back to a small boat sitting on Loon Lake and the simple sound of ripples quietly splashing against the shore -- and a man who taught me what I know about fishing, but much more about something that is most important: life.

Hanover County Public Schools ADULT EDUCATION 2016 Fall Programs Adult Education Classes â€˘ GEDÂŽ Preparation â€˘ Official GEDÂŽ PracticeTesting English for Speakers of Other Languages â€˘ English Literacy/Civics Education

Adult Basic Education/GED Preparation Adult Basic Education classes are designed to help adults improve their skills in reading, writing, and mathematics. Cost - $60 (includes textbooks)Tuition must be paid prior to beginning class. GED classes provide targeted instruction to students preparing to take the Official GEDÂŽ test. Online option available â€“ some restrictions apply.

Day Classes

Evening Classes

The Georgetown School

Tuesdays &Thursdays â€˘ 8:30-11:30 a.m (ABE/GED)

Mondays & Wednesdays â€˘ 5:30-8:00 p.m. (ABE/GED)

THIS SATURDAY! SEPTEMBER 10th 11am - 7pm

ÂŽ

GED Online Distance Learning

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The Georgetown School On site face-to-face meetings required for pre-testing and Official GEDÂŽ Practice testing - Minimum scores required to enroll

English Language Learners (ELL) ELL classes feature English Literacy/Civics education with an emphasis on speaking, reading, writing, and understanding American culture. Cost - $60 (includes textbooks) Tuition must be paid prior to beginning class.

Day Classes

Evening Classes

The Georgetown School

Henry Clay Elementary School

Mondays & Wednesdays â€˘ 9:00-12:00 p.m.

Mondays & Wednesdays â€˘ 6:00-9:00 p.m.

Lee-Davis High School Tuesdays &Thursdays â€˘ 6:00-9:00 p.m.

and attend an evaluation to determine class level before entering classes. The evaluation may take up to 2 hours. Students must present a government-issued photo ID at the time of registration. Adult students may register at the following locations: The Georgetown School â€“ Aug. 24, 25, 31, Sept. 1, 7, 8 from 9:00-12:00 p.m. and Mechanicsville Library â€“ Aug. 25, 31, Sept. 1, 7, 8 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Call The Georgetown School at (804) 723-3471 for an appointment to register. Visit our webpage at http://hcps.us/georgetown/ for more information. Please do not contact the locations where classes are being conducted.

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The Hanover Local September 7, 2016

UPCOMING EVENTS

10 2016

Cross country: Pole Green Classic at Pole Green Park 8:00 a.m.

10 2016

NASCAR Sprint Cup: Federated Auto Parts 400 at RIR 7:30 p.m.

| Youth, High School, College, Recreational & Professional

Patriots show strength in football opener By Andrew Spencer for the Hanover Local ASHLAND – Patrick Henry displayed some offensive firepower, generating more than 400 yards total offense in a 4314 win over visiting Caroline Friday night. The Patriots excelled on both sides of the ball. Their offense amassed 231 yards on the ground and 177 through the air. Their defense held the Cavaliers to 36 yards rushing and 50 yards passing. It was a solid outing for a team who was missing 11 starters because of injuries. The Patriots took the opening kickoff and put together a nine-play drive that culminated in a fourth-down pass from Travious Tyler to Kaleb Smith for a 35-yard touchdown. The Patrick Henry defense then held strong, forcing a Caroline punt, which Terrance Oxendine took 66 yards for another Patrick Henry touchdown that set the tone for the rest of the night. “Some kids really stepped up tonight,” said Patrick Henry head coach Bryan Davis. “We had a huge number of players out on both sides of the ball. If we can get healthy, I believe we’ll be a pretty good team.” It was a note of marked optimism from the coach of a team that finished the 2015 season 56. But that doesn’t mean Davis

start penalty. On the next snap, Josh Guerrero ran away from the Caroline defense for a 46yard touchdown. The Patriots were charged with two different personal foul penalties during the ensuing celebration, an offside call on the kickoff, and two more personal fouls during the kickoff return. While he wasn’t happy with the penalties, Davis was able to look past them. “For a lot of the guys we had playing tonight, it was their first time under the Friday night lights,” Davis said, “So there were some nerves and some aggressive playing.” It is too early to tell how good this year’s Patriots really are, but Friday’s performance was enough to provide some much-needed hope. “This team has worked tremendously hard to get to this point,” said Davis. “The kids really care about each other and they want to do well.” Time will tell if those qualities translate into a playoff run for the 2016 Patriots. The Caroline Cavaliers looked outmatched in just about every facet of the game, but head coach Antron Yates Nick Liberante for The Local was excited about his team’s Patrick Henry wide receiver Parker Davis makes the catch for a 10-yard touchdown in the Patriots 43-14 win over Caroline Friday. performance. “We’re trying to take baby The quarter started with is completely satisfied with his cution flaws,” Davis said. “We what might have been the most bizarre sequence of the night, Patrick Henry on offense, fac- steps, and I think we took steps had a lot of penalties.” team’s performance. The Patriots committed 19 seven of those penalties came ing fourth down at the Caroline forward tonight, even though “We had some special teams situations where we didn’t play penalties on the night, includ- at the beginning of the fourth 46. The first play of the quarter was negated due to a false well, and there were some exe- ing nine personal fouls. In quarter. see PATRIOTS, pg. 10

The Hanover Local September 7, 2016

Field hockey teams look to interesting future By Dave Lawrence Sports Editor MECHANICSVILLE – This should be an interesting year among Hanover County field hockey teams. Lee-Davis looks poised to challenge Deep Run for dominance among the areas Group 5A teams. Atlee is rebuilding, but has aspirations to reach the state tournament again. Patrick Henry has an experienced squad that could have an impact on this year’s regional playoffs. And Hanover likewise fields a young team, having lost six seniors to graduation last year. Lee-Davis The Confederates lost only four starters to graduation last year, and have plenty of experience coming back. The challenge for head coach Merridee Gibson early on, however, is in getting the team to gel as a lot of team members have been out of town at various points in the preseason. She expects the situation to improve. “I haven’t had a full team in practice yet,” Gibson said. “Once we get together and can get organized in a significant

fashion, I think the gaps will start to work themselves out.” Lee-Davis will be led by senior midfielder Layne Courter, and the defense will feature an experienced keeper, junior Dede Gilmour. “Gibson expects a solid postseason. “I believe we’ll be up there with the leaders because we have such an experienced group that’s now caught up with everybody,” Gibson said. “The additions that we’ve been able to make have proven to be able to keep up and excel, and that’s good, too.” Atlee The Raiders lost seven starters from a team that reached the regional semifinals last year. But head coach Alyssa Farling said the team should not be counted out. “The good news is that, in each area – forward, midfield, defense – I still have a returning player in that position who can provide leadership that was a starter last year,” Farling said. “That’s good news.” While Atlee lost an excellent keeper, Numa Rehmani, to graduation last year, Farling gets a sophomore goalkeeper

Dave Lawrence/The Local

Patrick Henry defenders try to clear the ball from near their goal as Hanover forwards press on in the Patriots’ 2-1 win on Aug. 29

Campbell Whyte, who despite “Campbell Whyte plays she’s a good goalie. It’s hard her youth, is a solid and experi- year-round,” Farling said. “She’s to fill Numa’s shoes, but she’s enced hand. very committed to hockey and doing a nice job.”

The Raiders also lost senior see HOCKEY, pg. 10

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HOCKEY Continued from pg. 9

forward Hayley Anna, who along with her younger sister, Faith, formed a formidable scoring tandem. Now Faith has to forge ahead alone. “Last year, one would score and one would assist and vice versa – a lot,” Farling said. “So that’s new for Faith, just being on her own, but she’s a really strong player. She’s my leadership on the forward line.” Among the Raiders’ other leaders are sophomore midfielder Reaghan Kolb and senior defender Claire Reagan. Dave Lawrence/The Local

Patrick Henry’s Caroline Joyce (right) hands the baton off to teammate Hailey Draper during a cross country relay Wednesday. Teams from Lee-Davis and Mills Godwin also competed.

PH runners find way on course By Dave Lawrence Sports Editor ASHLAND – Patrick Henry may be missing a mainstay of its cross country program this season, but the Patriots have plenty of young talent to fill the vacuum. Senior Grant Davis, who has arguably been one of the Patriots most impactful runners the past couple of years, transferred to

Hanover High School for his senior season so that it would be easier to take classes in its sports medicine program. In his stead will be a number of younger runners, some of whom are new to cross country. “We’re very young, and we’re still learning the sport,” said Patrick Henry head cross country coach Jeremy Dobrinski. “But I think once we get into the swing of things we should

be a strong team.” Two juniors, Noah Campbell and Blake Mason, are working their way into the boys team leadership. The Patriots’ girls are likewise young. Sophomores Caroline Joyce and Hailey Draper finished among the top 10 at last week’s Patrick Henry Relays. Dave Lawrence can be reached at dlawrence@mechlocal.com.

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Patrick Henry The Patriots return five starters from its 2015 squad, and that experience should help the team stay in the mix among the top local teams in Group 5A. One of their top returners is senior midfielder Aidan Rossman, who scored 16 goals last year. They also return senior goalkeeper Taqiyah Chernesky, who allowed 23 goals, senior forward Hana Beatty, senior midfielder Josie Price, senior defender Raelynn Maier and junior midfielder Caroline Quigley. A key to Patrick Henry’s success will be the development of a cadre of skilled juniors. “I have a core group of

PATRIOTS Continued from pg. 8

the score might not reflect that,” Yates said. Yates praised his players’ determination to keep fighting even after Oxendine’s first quarter punt return for a touchdown “After that run, a lot of players would have laid down and given up,” Yates said. “But these guys kept coming back. They never quit, and I’m proud of them for that.”

Dave Lawrence/The Local

Atlee’s Taylor Bates (right) fights to get the ball away from a Lee-Davis defender in the Raiders’ 3-0 victory over the visiting Confederates on Aug. 29.

juniors who are at an advanced state of play,” said Patrick Henry head coach Abbie Rossman. “They’re all very capable.” A newcomer to watch is junior defender Olivia Trent, who will be one of the anchors of the Patriots’ defense. Coach Rossman is bullish on her team. “I have very high hopes,” she said. “I know what they can do, what they’re capable of. … I think we need more mental preparation, and that’s something I’m working on right now, setting goals and using visual imagery and writing things down. I’m asking them to be better students of the game.”

Hanover The Hawks lost six starters to graduation last year. This year, they have seniors returning in two key positions. First is goalkeeper Rachael Weis, who had 62 saves last year. Another is senior midfielder Keri Kane, who forms a powerful scoring tandem with her sister, sophomore forward Kora Kane. Juniors fill a number of key positions in the Hanover lineup, including midfielders Allison Bunn and Lauren Didlake and defender Alexis Slicker. Dave Lawrence can be reached at dlawrence@mechlocal.com.

Andrew Spencer can be 2-pt conversion) reached at sports@mechlocal. C — Coleman 5 run (missed kick) RUSHING com. C – Coleman 4 carries 34 yards, Caroline P. Henry

0 0 7 6 — 13 14 14 0 15 — 43

PH — Smith 35 pass from Tyler (Martinez kick) PH — Oxendine 66 punt return (Martinez kick) PH — Davis 10 pass from Tyler (Martinez kick) PH — Smith 23 pass from Tyler (Martinez kick) C — Labonte 36 pass from Smith (Thorne kick) PH — Guerrero 46 run (Martinez kick) PH — Guerrero 59 run (Davis run

LaBonte 7-10, Rollins 1-6, Monroe 1-0, Smith 13-(minus 14). PH – Guerrero 6-127, Carter 12-61, Newell 2-15, Oxendine 2-14, Sullivan 1-4, Tyler 5-(minus 2), Jones 1-(minus 2), Alber 2-(minus 7), Williams 1-( minus 10). PASSING C – Smith 5 completions 10 attempts 50 yards 0 interceptions. PH – Tyler 8-10-162-0, Jones 1-115-0. RECEIVING C – LaBonte 2 catches 38 yards, Williams 3-12. PH – Smith 4-91, Davis 2-25, Coles 1-35, Oxendine 1-16, Bentley 1-15..

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GILL Continued from pg. 1

is not the sole measure of success,” the superintendent said. He said one interpretation could be: “ ‘Hey, look at us.’ That’s not to say that SOLs don’t have their place, but I don’t believe that you can say a single benchmark of measurement that is all encompassing when defining educational success.” Gill did praise the efforts of the Department of Education and the Virginia General Assembly. “I do believe through the SOL Innovation Committee, which has been in place now for a couple of years through recent legislation is promoting a refinement of the accountability system.” However, he continued, “It still remains to be seen how it will manifest itself in terms of guidelines or regulations issued by the DOE. But what we do know very clearly is that the profile of a Virginia graduate in the very near future is going to look very different than it does right now, meaning that for years, decades, a student has had to pass SOL tests in order to get verified

credits, and it has been a system that has been in order for a long time in order to meet the end goal, which, of course, is that diploma. “But, in the near future some of that at least will change in which students will also have to show mastery and career steadiness skills as well as other competencies that will show that they are ready for the world in which they will live and work.” Gill said HCPS welcomes changes, but he doesn’t believe standardized tests will go away in their entirety. “I do believe it is being recognized and I welcomed the recognition that they can’t be the only measure of success.” “So, to transition a little bit, in Hanover we have two main focus areas for this year. We always have initiatives we certainly want to continue.” The superintendent, who assumed the responsibilities on Dec. 1, 2015, said he could sum up the county school system’s next step with equity and relevance. “In terms of equity, people can define that in many ways, but our working definition essentially is making sure that every student, every building, has the resources and sup-

ports that they need in order to be as successful as possible with as rigorous course work as is appropriate and so this is not a new concept necessarily but it is one we want to have a concentrated focus on.” He said there is also the “understanding that every student learns differently; every student has varying levels of abilities in different areas. What is easy for one in one area may not be easy for the other, but that student may excel in a completely different area.” Looking ahead, Gill wants to provide opportunities to enhance areas that are already provide strength and support growth in areas which may need an additional focus. “The other part about that is providing the resources needed in order to make that happen and understanding what is right in one place may not be right in another. We are differentiating equity from equality.” As for relevance, Gill said he has “become a bit of a broken record. I’m doing so because I do believe that when we hear questions that every student has asked, including yours truly, ‘Why do we have to learn this? Are we every

going to have to use this stuff?’ These are good questions. We live in a world where basic knowledge can be looked up in a couple of clicks.” When information is presented, he said, “It has to be with a mindset ‘How are we going to assist students with building skill sets that will serve them well for the rest of their life?’ There’s no way that we could predict every job that will be available in the next 10 years, let alone in the course of their lifetime or their career lifetime. But what we can do is give them the thought process; instill in them work habits; instill an innovative and creative spirit that will serve them well in an ever-changing world.” “So that’s what we mean by relevance,” Gill added. “We want to make sure that what they learn inside the classroom is applicable when they go outside the brick and mortar of a building — when they’re engaged, learning habits.” He said student engagement can help prevent dropping out of school. “We remain extremely proud of our dropout rate. Engagement is one of the ways to make sure that a student is connected and, therefore, wants to

learn.” “Finally, the last but certainly not least area that is always going to make a difference, no matter what the year, is the relationship between staff and students, and I think our staff excels at that and we have to continue to do that.” Gill adheres to the philosophy that, despite the year on the calendar, “getting to know our students in an authentic way is never going to go out of style. We are very proud and that certainly includes me.” The superintendent does show that proud side when talking about the system he leads. Four words influence him and they can be found at the bottom of the HCPS seal: “A tradition of excellence.” “But the thing you will find about any company, corporation, body of individuals of any kind, and certainly of school systems is the ones that have a true tradition of excellence never become complacent,” Gill said. “And, so while we are extremely proud of our achievement, we also recognize that we can never become complacent in order to sustain that tradition of excellence.”

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