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HANOVER Hanover Tomato Festival vendor registration is open.

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Bryce Reeves to speak at Republican Women’s Club

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Vol. 2 No. 27 | Richmond Suburban News | January 11, 2017

‘Century Farms’ owners: Keep rail out of history By Rachel Moore for The Hanover Local

anover County is known for its rich history and historical properties. To date, 34 farms in Hanover County are designated as “Century Farms.” “The Virginia Century Farm Program recognizes and honors those farms that have been in operation for at least 100 consecutive years,” according to the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Several adjoining farms

in western Hanover recently attained “Century Farms” status, including Willow Spring Farm, Little Bethel Farm, Stillhouse Spring Farm, and White Oak Farm. “We just thought that was kind of unusual,” said Anne Marie Samuel, co-owner of Willow Spring Farm, who noted that typically these historical farms are scattered throughout towns, rather than side-by-side. When talking with property owners, it is obvious these farms have been a significant part of Hanover’s history and culture for far more than just The farm house at Willow Springs is shown after being remodeled.

the past century. These are the farms that once solely supplied the town with local produce, goods, and services. These are the descendants of local store owners, pharmacists, pilots, mail carriers, local registrars, and Civil War doctors. On these properties are hand-built homes, passed down through the generations, some of which still boast original hardwood floors and doors, original chimneys, and ornate, hand-carved carpentry. When you visit, family Bibles dating back to the 1700s chronicle the

Rachel Moore for The Local

see CENTURY, pg. 5

APD conducts traﬃc safety survey on Ashcake Road Staff Report news@mechlocal.com ASHLAND – Officer Chip Watts, spokesman for Police Chief Doug Goodman, said the Ashland Police Department recently conducted a survey of traffic, specifically speeding, on Ashcake Road. “Based on input from our community regarding speeding on Ashcake Road, Ashland PD Traffic Safety officers conducted a survey of traffic using our A.C.U.T.E. (Addressing Complaints Using Technology and Enforcement) traffic safety program throughout the last three months of 2016,” Watts said. .He said that data collected during the traffic safety survey indicated that there is a speeding

problem on Ashcake Road, with a substantial number of vehicles exceeding 15 miles per hour over the posted speed limit of 35 mph. According to Watts, officers will be conducting ongoing speed enforcement action in that area to insure the safety of motorists and pedestrians. Motorists are reminded that the speed limit throughout Ashcake Road in town is 35 miles per hour. “The Ashland Police Department is committed to ensuring the safety of citizens and visitors alike and asks that you drive safely at all times,” Watts added. “Residents with traffic safety concerns may call 804-412-0600 or make a report on our website at www. ashlandpolice.us.”

A Snowy day in Ashland Nick Liberante for The Local

Passengers board a northbound train at the Ashland station. photos on page 3.

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Pick up a FREE copy at the Following Locations 23005

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ASHLAND LIBRARY

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ASHLAND COFFEE AND TEA ASHLAND VISITOR’S CENTER ASHLAND TOWN HALL CROSS BROTHERS GROCERY

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RITE AID RISE N SHINE DINER 10372 Leadbetter Road SHEETZ / ASHLAND 12341 North Washington Highway SHEETZ / LEADBETTER 10037 Sliding Hill Road SKATELAND 516 North Washington Highway STARBUCKS 704 England Street

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7-ELEVEN 10126 Kings Dominion Boulevard WOODY’S TOWING 16424 Washington Highway

parksrec.com and simply search “tomato.” Artisan, commercial and nonprofit vendors can go straight to program number 6318 and full service food vendor spaces (very limited availability) can go straight to program number 6319. Booth fees are $150, now through

place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, July 8, at Pole Green Park located at 8996 Pole Green Park Lane in Mechanicsville. Vendors also have the option to open early on Friday for visitors and participants in the Papa John’s 4K Pizza Run. For more information about the

March 1 for artisan, commercial and nonprofit vendors. Add on options include additional booth spaces ($125 each), a tent installed at your booth ($200), table and chairs delivered to your booth space ($25), electrical hook up ($75) and loading assistance ($75). The Hanover Tomato Festival will take

Hanover Tomato Festival, visit www. hanovertomatofestival.com or email hanovertomatofestival@hanovercounty. gov or call Hanover County Parks and Recreation at 804-365-7150. Information submitted by Marcie Durrer, recreation program director, Hanover County Parks and Recreation.

Cooper winner in Petco campaign

THE MECHANICSVILLE LOCAL MECHANICSVILLE LIBRARY 23116

ATLEE LIBRARY 23146

ROCKVILLE LIBRARY 16600 Pouncey Tract Road

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FASMART 16575 Mountain Road FOOD LION 16615 Mountain Road MONTPELIER LIBRARY 17205 Sycamore Tavern Lane MONTPELIER PHARMACY 17128 Mountain Road MONTPELIER POST OFFICE 17132 Mountain Road

The Hanover Local January 11, 2017

Ruritan Salt Fish breakfast Jan. 14 Staff Report news@mechlocal.com

HANOVER POST OFFICE

CENTER OF THE UNIVERSE BREWING

PATRICK HENRY YMCA

he Hanover Tomato Festival is now accepting applications for Hanover County’s signature event. “We are searching for local vendors who make or sell unique tomato-related products, community based businesses and organizations to make this year’s event one of the best in the event’s 39-year history,” Greg Sager, Parks and Recreation Department director, said. The Hanover Tomato Festival is a signature community event with participation that exceed 25,000 each year. The event highlights Hanover’s famous fruit and features free children’s activities in the MaterFUN Zone and live entertainment, making it the perfect platform to see thousands of potential customers. Register online now at www.hanover-

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HANOVER PARKS AND RECREATION

AW SHUCKS COUNTRY STORE

Hanover Tomato Festival vendor registration is open

Nick Liberante for The Local

Kristin Donaldson’s rescue dog Cooper recently was recognized as a winner in the Petco Holiday Wishes campaign. Due to the honor, Cooper received $5,000 for Hickory Hill K9 Rescue in Ashland, the kennel from which he was adopted. On hand for the check presentation were Courtney Rice, PETCO; Alexis Moore, PETCO Foundation; Rachel Turner, PETCO store leader; Denise Zapf, Hickory Hills volunteer; Sabina Levy, Hickory Hills volunteer; Janet Moncure, Hickory Hilsl volunteer; Linda Wickham, Hickory Hills volunteer; Suzanne Donaldson, Hunter Donaldson, Alex Donaldson, Kristin Donaldson and Cooper, Andrew Donaldson, Iris Deffely Hickory Hills volunteer; and Max Sexton, PETCO market leader.

ASHLAND – An all-youcan-eat Salt Fish Breakfast, hosted by the Independence Ruritan Club, will be held from 6:45 to 8:45 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 14, at the Ruritan Club Community House. The Ruritan Community House is located behind the Independence Christian Church at 14033 Independence Rd. (off Route 54, west of Ashland). Proceeds from the breakfast will benefit Ashland Christian Emergency Services (ACES). Breakfast includes: salt herring fillets, scrambled eggs, bacon, spiced apples, cornbread, grits, coffee and orange juice. The price is $9 for adults. For more information, call 804-798-6579.

Louisa County crash claims life of Ashland man

SHERIFFâ€™S REPORTS | Crime, Accidents, Fire & Rescue family member was reported in the 11200 block of Cedarlea Park, Glen Allen.

Dec. 28

Credit card forgery was reported in the 10100 block of Lewistown Road, Ashland. Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 6100 block of Retreat Hill Road, Mechanicsville. Destruction of property, monument, was reported in the 11300 block of Yowell Road, Ashland. Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 4100 block of Interstate 295 South, Mechanicsville. Destruction of property, monument, was reported in the 8200 block of Janice Avenue, Mechanicsville. Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 7500 block of Mechanicsville Bypass/Elm Drive, Mechanicsville. Assault and battery of a

Driver did not report an accident with damages, $1,000, in the 8500 block of Beatties Mill Road/Bultaco Trail, Mechanicsville.

Assault and battery of a family member was reported in the 8300 block of Windsor Drive, Mechanicsville.

Assault and battery of a family member was reported in the 12300 block of Mount Hermon Road, Ashland.

Dec. 29

Possession of marijuana, subsequent offense, was reported in the 9300 block of Totopotomoy Trail/Sliding Hill Road, Ashland. Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 3400 block of Creighton Road, Mechanicsville.

Possession of marijuana, subsequent offense, was reported in the 15100 King Road, Montpelier. Simple assault was reported in the 6300 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville. Credit card theft was reported in the 7400 block of Early Drive, Mechanicsville. Simple assault was reported in the 13200 block of Mountain Road, Glen Allen. Destruction of property, monument, was reported in the 8400 block of Old Cavalry Drive, Mechanicsville.

Dec. 30

Mechanicsville.

Obtaining money or signature by false pretenses was reported in the 13900 block of Stanley Park Drive, Ashland.

Identity theft financial loss, $200, was reported in the 11000 block of Tally Ho Drive, Mechanicsville.

Receiving stolen goods was reported in the 3700 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville.

Simple assault was reported in the 7400 block of Hoofprint Lane, Mechanicsville.

Concealment, price altering merchandise, $200, was reported in the 7300 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.

Staff Report news@mechlocal.com LOUISA COUNTY â€” An Ashland man was killed Thursday night, Jan. 5, in a two-vehicle crash in Louisa County. According to Sgt. Stephan Vick, 22-year-old Timothy R. Wilmore died at the scene. He was riding a 2015 Tao moped when it was struck head-on by a 2015 Ford F-150 driven by Danny K. Torgerson, 47, of Louisa County. The truck, which was traveling on Route 33 when it crossed into the eastbound lanes and hit the moped, continued off the road to the left and struck a tree.

Torgerson was transported to UVA hospital with serious non-life-threatening injuries. Vick said he was not wearing a seatbelt. Torgerson was charged with driving under the influence; more charges are pending. Both men were the sole occupants on/in their vehicles. Vick said the crash took place at 8:30 a.m. on Route 33 (Jefferson Highway), 2/10-mile east of Route 657 (Apple Grove Road). Virginia State Police Trooper G. S. Stewart is investigating the crash. The Virginia State Police Crash Reconstruction Team is assisting with the crash which remains under investigation.

Unlawful purchase or possession of alcoholic beverage was reported in the 10000 block of Chamberlayne Road/ Crown Colony Parkway,

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The Hanover Local January 11, 2017

CALENDAR

Snow in Ashland

| News, Updates & Listings Tuesday, Jan. 17 Dawn of Victory: Breakthrough at Petersburg, March 25-April 2, will be presented at 7 p.m. at the Hanover Tavern. Edward Alexander will talk about his book, “Dawn of Victory: Breakthrough at Petersburg, March 25-April 2.” “Dawn of Victory” tells the story of the men who fought and died in the decisive battle of the Petersburg campaign. Readers can follow the footsteps of the resolute Union attackers and stand in the shoes of the obstinate Confederate defenders as their actions decided the fate of the nation. Since 2011, Alexander has worked at Pamplin Historical Park & The National Museum of the Civil War Soldier in Petersburg, and previously with Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

Friday, Jan. 20

Winn’s Baptist Church will host a gospel music concert at 7 p.m., with Floyd Lane. Winn’s is located at 12320 Winns Church Road in Glen Allen. A love offering will be taken. For more information, call 804-798-5512, 804-798-6179 or Carlton at 804-651-4544.

Saturday, Jan. 21 An all-you-can-eat Salt Fish Breakfast, including scrambled eggs, bacon, potatoes, spiced apples, biscuits, cornbread, coffee andjuice, will be held from 6 to 9 a.m. at the Doswell Ruritan Club at 16433 N. Washington Hwy. in Doswell. Takeouts will be available. The cost is $9 for adults and $4 for ages 4 to 10.

Tuesday, Jan. 24 An Evening of Colonial Dance will begin at 7 p.m. at the Hanover Tavern. Those attending will experience a night of learning and fun as they “kick up their heels and explore dance in the colonial

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The Hanover Local January 11, 2017

Photos by Nick Liberante for The Local

period.” Local author Joshua LeHuray, an educator at the American Civil War Museum in Richmond, co-director of the Janesville, Wisconsin, Fife and Drum Corps, and an adjunct history professor at Rappahannock Community College, will kick off the evening with a presentation on his new book, “Virginians Will Dance or Die! The Importance of Music in PreRevolutionary Williamsburg.” Music was everywhere in preRevolutionary Williamsburg -- from the public musical events enjoyed by the masses to the lavish private concerts and dances of the elite classes. Drawing on contemporary newspaper accounts, this book is the first to explore how some 18th-century Williamsburg citizens experienced the growing musical world around them. After hearing about dancing and its place in colonial society, the Colonial Dance Club of Richmond will take center stage to give a live demonstration of the popular steps of the 1700s, along with live music and audience participation. Following the interactive demonstration, LeHuray will be available to sell and sign copies of his book and guests will have the chance to tour historic Hanover Tavern by night. Light refreshments will be served. Cash bar available. Tickets are $15 for members and $20 for the general public.

Ongoing 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 see CALENDAR, pg. 12

An Amtrak passenger train stops at the station. Maintenance workers at Randolph-Macon College, above, clear sidewalks. A plow clears snow heading north on U.S. 1. The early morning snowfall covers the ground around Ashland Town Hall.

CENTURY Continued from pg. 1

births, deaths, and marriages of generations. In fact, every nook, cranny, and home addition all tell the story of the folks who have lived there before. But now these same residents are concerned for the future of their historical properties. According to the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DPRT)’s website, DRPT is “working to improve intercity passenger rail service in Virginia and throughout the East Coast to offer a viable, efficient transportation choice” that is slated to ultimately connect the Southeast from Washington, D.C., to Raleigh North Carolina. This route passes directly through Hanover County along the Interstate 95 corridor, with the western bypass option slated to run through several historical farms in the western portion of the county.

Local residents have founded their own 501(c)(3), Families Under the Rail, with a stated goal of being “engaged and aggressively committed to the opposition of new railroads throughout our bucolic community,” according to their website. If the proposed “western bypass” route is selected, several of the Century Farms will see their land literally divided. Lee Stanley would have his 500-acre White Oak Farm split in half. Lee lives on the property, and still actively farms the land, along with his two sons. “This land has been in our family for over 100 years, and we’ve been farming it. I’d hate to lose it because of a railroad,” said Lee. The same is true for Norman and Caroyln Burnett of Little Bethel Farm, where the proposed western bypass would pass just beside their barn and backyard, cutting their property in half. “We don’t want to sell and move; we want to stay here,” said Carolyn Burnett, who added that they’d hoped to one day pass the property down

dotting the area shows that many are worried about the proposed rail’s impact. “It’s a quiet neighborhood. It will affect our other neighbors even if it doesn’t take any of their property,” said Burnett. Even so, while many residents are not happy with the proposed western bypass, they also acknowledge that the other proposed track, through the town of Ashland, isn’t ideal either. “It’s pitted neighbors against neighbors,” said Samuel. “We are trying to unify. It would tear up and destroy Ashland as well.” David Hamilton said, “I hope they don’t do anything, but I’ve always felt like the trains should stay in the CSX right-of-way.” According to a 2006 DPRT Third Track Feasibility study, “there may be sufficient room within the existing CSX right-of-way to construct a third track, with only a few parcels totally less than an acre having to be obtained.” The study did mention, however, that “final engineering would need to completed before

the actual amount of right-of-way requirements could be determined.” The study also noted that utilities may need to be relocated for this proposal, which could result in “substantial costs.” Regardless of which track is selected, several residents are still not convinced of the necessity of this project. “From my understanding, it will cut minutes off the travel time, but, in order to do that, you’re disrupting so many lives and farms,” said Burnett. David Hamilton remained concerned by the taxpayer dollars involved to fund this project. “It’s poorly spent money for what they are going to get back from it. There’s so much more work that needs to be done on highways and bridges and things that are already [in existence]” he said. Anne Marie Samuel summarized what seems to be the sentiment of many local area residents: “It doesn’t mean anything to them, but it means a lot to us.”

Hanover County Public Schools ADULT EDUCATION 2017 Winter Programs Adult Education Classes • GED® Preparation • Official GED® PracticeTesting English Language Learners • 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 GED® test. Online option available – some restrictions apply.

Day Classes Submitted photo

This photo shows the original farm house at Willow Springs.

Evening Classes

The Georgetown School

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

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

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to their three grown children. “They’re not going to want it with the railroad going through it,” she said. David Hamilton of Stillhouse Spring Farm echoes his neighbors concerns. “My farm is a total of 173 acres and it will pretty much cut my farm in half. It will take 75 to 80 acres and landlock 75 to 80 acres,” he said. “This property has never been out of the family. It goes back to about 1720,” said Hamilton. “It is my retirement. I am the last of the line that’s owned it. You don’t want something just taken away from you without being able to plan for what you’re doing.” While only some residents’ land may be directly affected by the proposed route, the prolific amount of “NO HIGHSPEED RAIL” signage

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.

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Registration: GED and ELL Students are required to complete a registration form

441352-01

Currently, there are three alternatives being studied: “one alternative would result in a two-track bypass going to the west of Ashland and another would add a third track through Ashland beside the existing tracks. A third build alternative would not add any tracks through Ashland, but would include various improvements to crossings, signals, and safety systems,” according to the DPRT’s project website. The website states that a final decision will not be made until the Tier II Environment Impact Statement (EIS) is completed. This study will “assess the environmental impacts of potential rail improvements and identify ways to avoid, minimize, or otherwise mitigate any negative impacts,” according to the DRPT website, http://dc2rvarail.com/

On site face-to-face meetings required for pre-testing and Official GED® Practice testing - Minimum scores required to enroll

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. Call The Georgetown School at (804) 723-3471 for an appointment to register. Please do not contact the locations where classes are being conducted.

The Hanover Local January 11, 2017

OPINION

LETTERS

| The Local Views

| Reader Views

From the editor

A new year’s goal: Be wrong more often By Roslyn Ryan Richmond Suburban News “I hope that in this year to come, you make mistakes. Because if you are making mistakes, then you are making new things, trying new things, learning, living, pushing yourself, changing yourself, changing your world. You’re doing things you’ve never done before, and, more importantly, you’re doing something.” — Neil Gaiman When it comes to New Year’s resolutions, I typically embrace most of the same ones everyone else does. And so, like many others, I usually find myself this time of year making promises to lose some weight, stick to a budget, be more organized, and do at least a half dozen other things that will help turn the me of 2016 into a healthier, less stressed, more productive version.

This year, however, even while I grudgingly promise to pay some mind to health and budget, my real focus in on different, never-beforeattempted resolution: This year, I would like to be wrong more often. Maybe that didn’t come out quite right (especially since I’m already wrong about plenty of things, every single day — just ask my husband). What I actually mean is that, this year, I would like to make sure that I spend more time and energy challenging the things that I already believe to be true. I would like to learn more about things I have only a passing understanding of, and have more discussions with people who don’t think like I do. I would like to have my own assumptions tested and, in the case that they are based on misinformation, misjudgment or just plain old factual inaccuracy, I’d like to correct them. The spark for this idea, I’m happy to say, came

from one of our readers who was kind enough several months ago to point out that I had been getting something quite wrong, quite often, in these weekly columns. As Alice Araks explained, I had erred several times when I referred to the United States as a democracy, when in fact it is a Constitutional Republic. Ms. Araks was, I must note, incredibly gracious in her email. And, while I am a bit embarrassed that I went for so many decades embracing this nugget of incorrect information, I thanked her profusely for taking the time to set me straight. It was the first of many changes to my thinking that I hope will occur as I try to embrace this New Year’s resolution, one that will likely lead to some discomfort, sure, but also growth. And if that isn’t the goal of all resolutions, I’m not sure what is.

‘Sager Strong’ was more than just an expression By Jim Ridolphi for The Hanover Local

And there are countless others who perform extraordinary feats dealing with disease and death. Recently, the sports world lost one of those heroes with the death of long-time on air NBA analyst Craig Sager. Sager was outstandingly unique not only in his outrageous attire that rivaled only fellow sportscaster and walking fashion faux pas Haywood Hale Bruon. For more than three decades, he displayed a professionalism and thoroughness that almost made viewers forget the unforgivable designs from

The longer I live, the more I realize we can learn a lot from sick people. Often their words and acts of wisdom are unencumbered by many of the outside influences that shape people who are not sick and their routines. It’s easy to find examples like Jimmy Valvano who faced a brutal battle with cancer with dignity and determination, never surrendering to a nemesis he knew in his heart he could not defeat.

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The Hanover Local January 11, 2017

his sport coats that seemed to attack the camera. Sager was diagnosed with leukemia in 2014 and underwent three bone marrow transplants and more than 20 full rounds of chemotherapy during his struggle for each and every day. The expression “Sager Strong” became a uniting chant for NBA insiders, and few could ignore the courage and determination displayed by Sager throughout the years of his battle. But, those who knew him best realized quicksee MESSAGE pg. 7

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 Hanover Local. Send letters to: The Hanover Local 8460 Times-Dispatch Blvd. Mechanicsville, Va. 23116 Fax: 730-0476 E-mail: editor@mechlocal.com © 2016 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.

Defacing bumper sticker may be caught on camera To the person who used a Sharpie to write “idiot” on a political bumper sticker on my car: I guess you value neither private property nor free speech. By the way, it washes off. Hope the parking lot cameras get a nice shot of your face. I look forward to meeting you. Judy Thomas Mechanicsville

How do atheists make Christmas ‘great again?’ Just a few words regarding a flash spot on TV news – a high sign post – don’t remember where by the American Atheist Association: “Make Christmas Great Again – Skip Church.” Now, I realize that many believers do neglect the Christ of Christmas; however, do you have any opinion as to what the atheists could mean by “Greater Christmas?” What/how would they be celebrating? Phyllis Terrell Ashland

House Dems request input on survey Jan. 11th is the first day of the 2017 legislative session for the Virginia House of Delegates, and our members want to hear what’s important to you. Every year we conduct a legislative survey, then share the results with our members so they know the issues and priorities you have for 2017. Please fill out our legislative survey at this link: http://bit.ly/2017VALegisl ativeSurvey see LETTERS pg. 7

Ashland Musical Variety Show rehearsals to get underway on Monday

Reeves to speak at Republican Women’s Club meeting Jan. 17 Staff Report news@mechlocal.com MECHANICSVILLE – Bryce Reeves, candidate for lieutenant governor, will address the Jan. 17 meeting of the Hanover Republican Women’s Club. The meeting will get underway at 6 p.m. at Anna’s Italian Kitchen at 7009 Mechanicsville Tpk. in Mechanicsville. For more information about the meeting or becoming a member of the HRWC, contact Liza Bradford, president, at elizabeth.bradford@hrwomen.com or visit our website at www.hrwomen.com.

MESSAGE Continued from pg. 6

ly that Sager was much more than a fashion statement, and his commitment to the game, and, more importantly his dedication to family, quickly overshadowed his tendency to wear outlandish jackets. Those who knew Sager best said the premiere broadcaster didn’t need prompting to pull and display pictures of his five children from his briefcase. Weeks before his death, Sager was more concerned about making it to his son’s basketball game than the ultimate and untimely end that was lurking around the corner. So, for us who don’t follow the NBA and knew Sager only from his other stints in other sports, or stopped flipping channels just because we noticed a guy wearing a coat that shouldn’t have been stitched, Sager’s legacy involved much more than a stellar professional career.

REEVES

Every life has a message, and Sager’s passing reminds us that there’s often much more to a person than what we see on the surface. When Sager received the Jimmy Valvano courage award last year, he didn’t liken his diagnosis to the death sentence it actually represented, and explained the news only enhanced his zest for life, love for family, and desire to contribute each and every day. And there were certainly some tough days for Sager and his family and he struggled through treatments and operations, always with a goal of returning to work and life with his family. Sager’s message lives on in the many lives he touched in more than three decades of broadcasting. More importantly, his courage and dedication will serve as beacons for those who suffer, and persevere. I’ve heard all my life about an old saying that states clothes make the man, but, in Craig Sager’s case, nothing could be further from the truth.

Staff Report news@mechlocal.com ASHLAND – With all the events that take place in “The Center of the Universe,” it’s no surprise that this year’s Ashland Musical Variety Show will be using the theme, “Ashland Loves a Parade.” Rehearsals will get underway Monday, Jan. 16. The Hanover Arts & Activities Center sponsors the every other year show. The Ashland Musical Variety Show takes the stage at the Blackwell Auditorium on the campus of Randolph-Macon College. Since 1982, the entertaining, family show traditionally features about 400 cast members, ages kindergarten and up. Cast members usually rehearse each of their numbers one night a week for 30 minutes, and enjoy singing and dancing together for a good cause, the Hanover Arts and Activities Center. There also is a Children’s Chorus that rehearses after school at John M. Gandy Elementary School each Wednesday afternoon starting on Fe.b 8. Lorie Foley and Sue Watson, co-producers/

LETTERS Continued from pg. 6

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directors, and Carter Flippo and Fred Horn, music directors, already have planned musical numbers to showcase various types of music, talent, dancing, singing, comedy, and people. Three shows are scheduled: March 30, 31 and April 1. The curtain rises at 7:30 p.m. While talent is not a requirement, it is certainly appreciated. All the organizers ask is that participants have a smile and a desire to have fun together. Ashland residency also is not required. The cast traditionally comes from all over the Ashland/ Hanover/Greater Richmond area. For more information, contact Sue Watson at 804-798-5686, Lorie Foley at 804-798-0704, or the Hanover Arts and Activities Center at 804-7982728. The Hanover Arts & Activities Center is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to promote arts, education and community building. For more information, visit www.hanoverarts. org.

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OBITUARIES | Death Notices & Funerals ANN ALEXANDER Ann (Wyatt) Alexander, of Doswell, departed this life January 1, 2017. Funeral services were held at 1 p.m. Saturday, January 7, 2017, at the Bethany Baptist Church in Montpelier. Owens Funeral Service in Ashland was in charge of arrangements. Condolences may be made at owensfuneralservices.com.

ALEXANDER

BRENDA BICKERSTAFF-STANLEY Brenda Bickerstaff-Stanley, 70, of Rockville, died peacefully at home on January 5, 2017. She was preceded in death by her parents, James Henry Bickerstaff Jr. “Bootie” and Pauline Bloxton Bickerstaff. She is survived by her husband, Dennis D. Stanley of Rockville; son, Robert Daniel Stanley and his wife, Katherine of Charlottesville; son, Christopher James Stanley and his fiancee, Amie Gathright of New Kent; and grandchildren, Lane Underwood, Brant Stanley, Dylan Underwood, Chesney Stanley and Paisley Stanley. She also is survived by BICKERSTAFFSTANLEY her siblings, Janet Bickerstaff Dykes and her husband, Hank, James Henry Bickerstaff III “Jim,” John Wayne Bickerstaff and his wife, Janit, and Kenneth Michael Bickerstaff. Brenda was an accomplished fine artist, known for acrylic, watercolor and oil paintings depicting her local surroundings and

international travels. She received local, regional and national recognitions. Her works were featured locally at For Art’s Sake Gallery and Crossroads Art Center and can be found on display in businesses throughout the Richmond area. Her passion was sharing her love of art with local students of all ages. In her free time, she enjoyed shooting, African safari, world travel and spoiling family and friends with her famous chocolate chip cookies. A Mass of Christian Burial was held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, January 10, 2017, at St. Michael’s Catholic Church. Interment followed at Mt. Calvary Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Michael’s Catholic Church. Bliley’s-Central, 3801 Augusta Avenue, was in charge of arrangements.

JOHN ELLIS JR. John Granbery Ellis Jr., of Palm Coast, Florida, departed this life on December 8, 2016. Born on March 8, 1927 in Richmond to Hettie Richardson and John Granbery Ellis, John was preceded in death by his sister, Eugenia Ellis Mason; and his adopted son, Kenny Ellis. He is survived by his wife, Grit Ellis; a granddaughter, Sheree Leeann Serio; two nieces, Eugenia Mason Guthrie and Alice Leigh Mason; and a nephew, Alexander Hamilton Mason. A distinguished graduate of Thomas Jefferson High School in Richmond, John went on to obtain degrees from Duke University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology. John ELLIS

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served as a First Lieutenant of the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War. He was shot down on his 83rd combat mission and kept as a POW (prisoner of war) until after the war’s end. He was awarded the Purple Heart on July 20, 1952. He later served as an accomplished engineer, including service with GE for the Apollo Lunar Landing project. In 1975, John entered the real estate field and founded Pioneer Realty, with which he remained active up until his death. John will be laid to rest in a family site at the Woodland Cemetery in Ashland. Those wishing to honor John may do so by making a donation to the Purple Heart Foundation, purpleheartfoundation.org.

ETTA KENT Etta Dillard Kent, 75, of Ashland, passed away on January 3, 2017. She is survived by her sons, Benjamin Wilson and George L. Wander Jr.; daughter, Dorothy Phillips; grandchildren, Selena Wilson, Demeeka Cobb and Whitney Phillips; brothers, Luther Dillard (Maudine) and Robert Dillard; sisters, Barbara Dailey, Vivian Bagby (Robert) and Ellen Martin; and also a friend, Jack Vanstaden. A memorial service was held at 3 p.m. on Saturday, January 7, 2017, at the Nelsen Funeral Home, Reid Chapel, at 412 South Washington Highway in Ashland.

SHIRLEY MATTHEWS Shirley Gentry Matthews, 78, of Richmond, went to be with the Lord on December 31, 2016. She is survived by her daughter, Linda Diane Clemons; daughter and spouse, Pamela and Bentley Cobb; granddaughter, Candice Cobb Gunn and spouse, Curtis Reid Gunn Jr.; grandson, Bentley Cobb Jr.; great-grandson, Reid Thomas Gunn; numerous nieces and nephews and special friend, Annie Gregory. Shirley was an avid church member of Ashland Church of God. She worked at Speed and Briscoe for 20 years and retired from Ukrop’s after 20 MATTHEWS years of service. Funeral services were held at 1 p.m. Thursday, January 5, 2017, at the Ashland Church of God at 407 Myrtle St. in Ashland. Interment followed in Signal Hill Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Ashland Church of God. Bliley’s-Staples Mill Chapel was in charge of arrangements.

REBECCA SMITH

J.R. Hammond

Tom Haynie

Sarah Suttles

Rebecca Ann Smith departed this life December 30, 2016. Becky and her brother Robert “Bobby” were the twins born to Mack V. and Marie Waddy Smith on August 3, 1941, in Washington, D.C. She attended Monroe Elementary, Banneker Junior High and Roosevelt High School, graduating in 1959. After graduation, she attended Howard University in Washington, D.C., majoring in Sociology to pursue her lifelong goal of becoming a Social Worker and helping those in need. After leaving Howard University, Becky’s first employer was Junior Village of Washington, D.C., in 1964. Junior Village was one of the largest orphanages in the country for homeless children. She knew this see OBITUARIES, pg. 12

The Hanover Local January 11, 2017

UPCOMING EVENTS

11 2017

Men’s basketball: Hampden-Sydney at Randolph-Macon 7:00 p.m.

13 2017

Girls/boys basketball: Patrick Henry at Atlee 6:00 p.m./7:30 p.m.

| Youth, High School, College, Recreational & Professional

Patrick Henry, Lee-Davis split doubleheader By Andrew Spencer For the Mechanicsville Local ASHLAND – Those hoping for singular bragging rights from the Lee-Davis at Patrick Henry girls and boys basketball games Friday night left disappointed as the two schools split the double-header along gender lines, with the Patriot boys and Confederate girls each emerging victorious against their crosscounty rivals. Patrick Henry’s boys came out strong and shut down the Lee-Davis offensive attack in a 60-34 Patriot win. The Confederates only managed 11 points in the first half and followed that performance with a 3 point third-quarter. “We’ve been preaching defense from the beginning of the year, and it’s finally starting to come together for us,” said Patriots head coach Randy Anderson. “It looks like it’s finally coming together for us.” While the Patriots played a stifling full-court press on defense, the Confederates played with a lack of focus and intensity. “They punched us in the mouth at the start, and we didn’t respond. You’ve got to come out ready to play every single night, and we just didn’t do that tonight,” said Lee-Davis head coach Chad Bishop. “We were finally playing relaxed and having fun out there in the fourth

Nick Liberante for The Local

Lee-Davis’ Jahmarry Smith is trapped by Patrick Henry defenders Seth Foster (12) and Peyton Luck (4) in the Patriots’ win Friday.

quarter, but that was too little too late.” The outcome was no surprise to the Patriots’ Anderson. “We’ve been having great practices since the new year,” he said. “The kids have been pushing each other and challenging

each other, and this is the final product. This is the potential this team has had all along.” “One of our goals this season is to win the county,” Anderson said. “We fell short against Hanover, but we’ll see them again. I just couldn’t be

prouder of these guys, though. They played tough tonight and I’m proud of them.” Bishop echoed that pride in his own team’s spirit. “They kept fighting down to the end,” he said. “Plus we had some guys who hadn’t played a

lot of minutes this season, they played really hard. Patterson Smith, for instance, is a senior and he hasn’t gotten a lot of minutes. But he played hard when he got in there and hit some 3pointers in the fourth quarter.” In the girls’ game, the

Confederates were much better from the free-throw line than they have been in recent games, converting 76 percent of their attempts en route to claiming a 46-32 win. “We’ve been working on free throws a lot during practice,” said Lee-Davis head coach Alvin Puller. “It was an area we needed to improve, and we showed improvement in that area tonight.” The improved free-throw performance was complemented by a monster effort by LeeDavis center Codie Helig, who contributed 20 points (including one 3-pointer and eight of 10 free-throws). She proved a juggernaut the Patriots couldn’t contain. “Tonight was about playing aggressive,” Puller said. “We wanted to play an aggressive game. We came out slow, but we made some adjustments and got aggressive.” The Confederates trailed after the first quarter, but a dominant defensive performance that featured a handful of blocked shots by Helig and contested rebounds by the Lee-Davis defense shut down the Patriot attack in the second quarter. The Patriots managed only a single field goal in the entire quarter while the Confederates put 19 points on the board. Andrew Spencer can be reached at sports@mechlocal. com.

The Hanover Local January 11, 2017

Yellow Jackets win close one against Marlins By Jordan Bondurant For the Mechanicsville Local ASHLAND — RandolphMacon and Virginia Wesleyan have played some memorable regular season and postseason contests through the years, and on Wednesday night another meeting between the Yellow Jackets and the Marlins produced another memorable result. A Daniel Noe 3-pointer with 26 seconds left in regulation gave Randolph-Macon a twopoint lead. When Wesleyan’s Andre Banks missed the potential go-ahead 3-pointer on the ensuing possession, Macon’s Jermaine Johnson was given a golden opportunity to ice the game. Johnson, a 5-foot-10 junior, took full advantage. He made both free throws, giving the Yellow Jackets a 67-63 Old Dominion Athletic Conference win. “I’m very proud of the effort our guys showed,” said Randolph-Macon head coach Josh Merkel. “We expected to come in and win this ballgame. Our guys went out there and made the big shots when they needed to and found a way to come out on top.”

Nick Liberante for The Local

Randolph-Macon’s Michael Taylor takes a shot in the first half of the Yellow Jackets’ 67-63 win over Virginia Wesleyan Wednesday.

The Yellow Jackets (7-5, 30 ODAC) extended their winning streak to four games. The win was also the team’s ninth in 11 meetings with Virginia Wesleyan (8-4, 1-2). Tempers flared early on the court. Marlins senior Khory Moore drove to the basket, but was met in the paint by Randolph-Macon’s Boris Ngundji. Moore didn’t take

kindly to Ngundji’s hard play, and both Merkel and Virginia Wesleyan head coach Dave Macedo quickly stepped in to make sure cooler heads prevailed as the two exchanged words and shoves. “I think this game brings a lot of excitement from both sides,” Merkel said. “Our guys just had to remember to keep their composure and focus on

winning the game.” Despite shooting 44 percent from the floor after 20 minutes, the Yellow Jackets took a 29-24 lead into the halftime locker room. Still, the lead never got larger than six before the Marlins came back to tie and eventually take a brief lead. Wesleyan built a five-point advantage with 7:26 to play in

regulation, but the Yellow Jackets managed to keep the Marlins within striking distance. Leading 63-62 with less than a minute to play, Wesleyan generated a turnover and a 2on-1 fast break going the other way. Moore, who finished with a game-high 27 points, missed the layup underneath. Johnson secured the rebound for Randolph-Macon as the

Marlins called timeout. Johnson drew attention under the rim on the ensuing possession, but found Noe wide open. Noe drained the 3-pointer, giving the Yellow Jackets the 65-63 lead. “[Noe]’s just a great shooter and a really talented basketball player,” Merkel said. “We know he can make those big shots, and that’s what he did.” Noe finished with a teamhigh 20 points. He added six rebounds and four assists. Johnson was the only other Yellow Jacket in double-digits. He tallied 12 points, grabbed seven boards and had two assists. It’s all ODAC opponents from now until the end of February for the Yellow Jackets, who play two of its next three games in Crenshaw Gym. But Merkel says he and his team aren’t looking further ahead than whomever’s next on the schedule. “We’re taking things one game at a time, one possession at a time,” he said. “I’m just excited to get back to practice and getting ready for our game at Bridgewater on Saturday.” Jordan Bondurant can be reached at sports@mechlocal. com.

Young, multitalented roster leads Patriots to gymnastics win By Dave Lawrence Sports Editor MECHANICSVILLE – Youth took the lead in a gymnastics tri-meet at Hanover High School when Patrick Henry junior Sierra Baxter claimed wins in three out of four events as well as the all-around title to lead the Patriots past Atlee and Hanover Wednesday night. In the Patriots’ case, the team is young and small, but

multitalented. “We only have 11 girls, whereas I think Atlee has 17 girls and I think Hanover has 13,” said Patrick Henry head coach Kylie Foster. “We have way less girls, but all of our girls do most events. They are not specializing in just one event … which is kind of nice.” The Patriots had several serial placers. Baxter won the floor performance, balance beam and uneven bars and finished third

The Hanover Local January 11, 2017

in the vault. Jennifer Flores was second in the beam and in a four-way tie for second in the vault and finished fourth in allaround points. Madison Spence won the vault and finished in a tie for third on the floor. Baxter has been one of the leaders of the Patriots’ squad since she was a freshman. Her growing leadership skills has been a boon to Foster – in her first year as a gymnastics coach, not just as a head gymnastics

coach – as Foster adjusts to the new team and sport. “She has the best attitude. She is uplifting,” Foster said. “I’m thankful more for that than her skill level.” Atlee’s Bell Beregeron finished second in the all-around standings, with Hanover’s Sophie Vota third. Patrick Henry’s Brianna Dorsey and Kayleigh Bohn were fifth and sixth, respectively. Beregeron finished second

in the vault, third on the beam and in a tie for third on the bars. Fellow Raider Haley Frost finished second in the vault and fifth on the bars. Vota finished fourth on the floor, bars and vault and sixth on the beam. Her Hanover teammate Maddison Klump finished second on the bars and fifth on the beam. Dave Lawrence can be reached at dlawrence@mechlocal.com.

Dave Lawrence/The Local

Patrick Henry junior Sierra Baxter leaps through the air during a winning floor performance in a gymnastics meet against Atlee and Hanover Wednesday.

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The Hanover Local January 11, 2017

OBITUARIES Continued from pg. 8

job would not be easy with so many children in need of love, care, and guidance, but she knew she was ready for the challenge. On February 10, 1967, Becky was SMITH blessed with the joy of her life when her son, Steven Vincent Smith, was born. She cherished Steven and the bond between them was unbreakable. She worked at Junior Village until 1971. At that time, she decided to change her focus and work with children and families, so she moved to Richmond, where she would soon become a Supervisor for the Department of Social Services. She retired from the Department of Social Services in 2003 after more than 30 years of service. Being a parent and watching Steven grow up playing football through high school and college was Becky’s passion. She became an avid football fan over the years and she and Steven followed everything football together, especially the Washington Redskins. Becky joined Mt. Olive Baptist Church in 1982. She was a devoted member and served with the

Ushers Ministry for 25 years even serving as President for a term. She also was a member of the Pastoral Relations ministry until her health began to fail. She was very proud of Mt. Olive, always recognizing and sharing all the wonderful accomplishments of her church from expansion and growth to community outreach services. Becky was preceded in death by her son, Steven Vincent, and her parents, Mack and Marie Smith. She leaves to cherish her memories a devoted family of one brother, Robert (Bobby) Smith; two sisters, Gloria S. Rush (Carlton, deceased) and Cynthia S. Caruthers (Bertram); one aunt, Margaret S. Gordon; one uncle, William Gordon; six nieces, Carla Rush, Chanda Steve, Cherie Suther, Deanna Queen, Shelly Smith and Tiara Smith; three nephews, Bertram “Buzzy” Caruthers, Daryl Rush and Robert (“Bobby Jr.”) Smith; a devoted cousin, Vonda K Gordon; and a host of other family members and friends. Becky also leaves a devoted friend of many years, Margo Thaniel, and a very caring friend and care giver, Barbara Whitaker. Funeral services were held at noon Monday, January 9, 2017, at the Mt. Olive Baptist Church in Glen Allen. Owens Funeral Service in Ashland was in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be made at owensfuneralservices.com.

The Hanover Local January 11, 2017

ALBERTA TILLMAN Alberta Tillman, of Richmond, departed this life December 30, 2016. She is survived by two sons and one daughter, Alvin Tillman, Ricky Tillman and Carolyn Tillman; six grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; one brother; one sister; and a host of nieces and nephews. Funeral services were held at 1 p.m. TILLMAN Sunday, January 8, 2017, at the Second Mt. Zion Baptist Church at 31220 Old Dawn Road in Hanover. H.W. Dabney Funeral Home at 518 North Washington Highway in Ashland was in charge of arrangements.

PRESTON WILLIS Preston M. Willis, 85, of Montpelier, passed away Friday, January 6, 2017. He is survived by his loving wife, Jean Lassiter Willis; three children, Shealor Woodall (Kermit), Preston Willis Jr. (Kathryn) and Rodney Willis; three grandchildren, Madeline Elliott (Chris), Preston Willis III and Cullen Willis; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his grandson, Haydn Woodall. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. today (Wednesday, January 11, 2017) at the West Chapel of Bennett Funeral Home at 11020 W. Broad Street.

CALENDAR Continued from pg. 4

in need of understanding and healing themselves. For details, call Sandy at 804-730-4812 or email sandy.leigh@ verizon.net. Overcomers Outreach and Women’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 804366-9645 or email kjfaith1@gmail.com.

Tuesdays The Hanover Concert Band rehearses from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. every Tuesday, mid-January through midDecember, 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 parents’ 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 co-facilitated by an oncology social work navigator, registered nurse navigator and survivorship nurse practitioner.