Ashland-Hanover Local – 02/22/17

ASHLAND

EDUCATION

Growing up black and white to be shared Sunday, Feb. 27

School board OKs $180 mil budget plan

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Vol. 2 No. 32 | Richmond Suburban News | February 22, 2017

Arrest made in Ashland shooting

By Melody Kinser Managing Editor ASHLAND – A Mechanicsville woman has been charged with first degree murder, use of a firearm in the commission of a felony, and shooting into an occupied vehicle following a Saturday night incident on the parking lot of Walmart on Hill Carter Road in Ashland.

Officer Chip Watts, public information and community policing for the Ashland Police Department, said 24-year-old Brittany L. Wiggins of the 9000 block of Guenevere Place has

been arrested in the shooting sincere gratitude to the media death of Ashley Fricke, 25, of for quickly broadcasting information related to Woodford. this crime as well Wiggins is as to the public in being held at the the effort to assist Pamunkey Regional us in making this Jail in Hanover. arrest.

Watts said officers “Ashland PD were dispatched to also asks our comthe store around 11 munity to keep p.m. Feb. 18 where WIGGINS Ms. Fricke’s family they found a female in your thoughts and dead in a vehicle. He said she had suffered from prayers.”

On Sunday, Feb. 19, Watts obvious trauma.

Speaking on behalf of Chief had sent out requests to the Douglas Goodman, Watts said, media seeking the public’s “We would like to extend our assistance identifying a person

of interest in the homicide.

Surveillance images and a video were released showing the suspect as well as vehicles that may have been in the area of the shooting.

Early information from Watts said the suspect “possibly a female, appears to be wearing a white top, dark pants and boots. The vehicles of interest are a red SUV and a silver/ grey/gold compact four-door sedan. The person of interest depicted is believed to be the driver of the sedan involved in the shooting seen leaving in see ARREST, pg. 10

County administrator unveils 2018 budget proposal Real estate and personal property tax unchanged

By Jim Ridolphi for The Hanover Local HANOVER — Preparing a county budget is a year-round process that involves a number of staff, input from department heads, feedback from the public and a list of demands that almost always exceeds the means to address them.

But, this year’s Hanover County proposed Fiscal Year 2018 budget comes about as

Jim Ridolphi for The Local

Col. David R. Hines, sheriff, left, and Dr. Michael Gill, superintendent of Hanover County Public Schools, presented their budget requests to the Hanover County Board of Supervisors last Wednesday.

close as a document can in fulfilling most critical requests and funding some vital func-

tions of county government: education and public safety.

Last week in a special

budget meeting, County Administrator Cecil R. “Rhu” Harris Jr. presented his $440.3 million proposal, a $12 million increase over last year’s budget or about 2.8 percent.

The county’s General Fund is proposed at $241.1 million, up $7.8 million from last year. The economic goals are achieved without raising the county’s real estate rates, currently set at 81cents per $100 of assessed value.

“This budget funds enhanced services for the sheriff and Fire/EMS budgets and is the strongest five-year plan for Public Safety in over 20 years,” Harris said after the see BUDGET, pg. 4

Rob Williams addressed the Hanover County Planning Commission on behalf of Douglas Harris, the applicant.

Logan Barry for The Hanover Local

‘Keep Montpelier Rural’ gets planners’ support

By Logan Barry for The Hanover Local ASHLAND — Citizens hoping to “Keep Montpelier Rural” were given some hope Thursday night after the Hanover County Planning Commission unanimously voted to recommend denial of a proposal to change the designation of the general land use map near the community from its current agricultural designation to commercial.

The property in question is located near the intersection of Mountain Road (U.S. 33) and Locust Run Drive.

Although the current proposal only seeks to change the general land use designation, and to determine whether a commercial node would be appropriate for the location, the applicant, Douglas Harris, also identified specific uses in

his application.

Harris’ specific uses he included in the application were a convenience store with gas pumps, a restaurant, drivein movie theater, and an area for special venues.

These uses would not be consistent with the current agricultural designation for the area.

Residents against the proposed development, sporting green t-shirts that read “Keep Montpelier Rural,” showed up in high numbers at the Feb. 16 public hearing. This specific agenda item was an individual public hearing during a regular Planning Commission meeting.

One of the arguments against the proposed location for the commercial node is the fact that it is in a residensee PLANNING, pg. 16

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Ashland PD to host Coffee with a Cop Feb. 22 Program offers opportunity to meet local officers, discuss community issues ASHLAND – This evening, from 6 to 6:45 p.m., officers from the Ashland Police Department and community members will come together in an informal, neutral space to discuss community issues, build relationships, and drink coffee. The event will be held at Starbucks at the Ashland-Hanover Shopping Center at 704 England St. All community members are invited to attend.

For more information, contact Officer Chip Watts at 804-412-0615 or cwatts@ashlandpolice.us.

Watts said Coffee with a Cop provides a unique opportunity for community members to ask questions and learn more about the department’s work in Ashland’s neighborhoods.

The majority of contacts law enforcement has with the public happen during emergencies or emotional situations.

Those situations are not always the most effective times for relationship building with the community and some community

members may feel that officers are unapproachable on the street.

Coffee with a Cop breaks down barriers and allows for a relaxed, one-on-one interaction.

“We hope that community members will feel comfortable to ask questions, bring concerns, or simply get to know our officers,” said Chief Douglas Goodman.

“These interactions are the foundation of community partnerships.”

Coffee with a Cop is a national initiative supported

by The United States Department of Justice, Office of Community Oriented Policing Services. Similar events are being held across the county, as local police departments strive to make lasting connections with the communities they serve.

The program aims to advance the practice of community policing through improving relationships between police officers and community members one cup of coffee at a time.

Applications to be accepted for Hanover Preschool Initiative Pick up a FREE copy at the Following Locations 23005

23059

ASHLAND LIBRARY

23069

ASHLAND COFFEE AND TEA ASHLAND VISITOR’S CENTER ASHLAND TOWN HALL

DAWN LIBRARY HANOVER POST OFFICE

CENTER OF THE UNIVERSE BREWING

HANOVER LIBRARY

CROSS BROTHERS GROCERY

23111

HANOVER PARKS AND RECREATION PATRICK HENRY YMCA 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

23047

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

2

AW SHUCKS COUNTRY STORE

THE MECHANICSVILLE LOCAL MECHANICSVILLE LIBRARY 23116

ATLEE LIBRARY 23146

ROCKVILLE LIBRARY 16600 Pouncey Tract Road

23192

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 February 22, 2017

Free, full-day preschool program available to Hanover families meeting eligibility requirements ASHLAND – Hanover County Public Schools started accepting applications for the Hanover Preschool Initiative (HPI) for the 2017-2018 school year on Feb. 15.

HPI is a free, full-day preschool program with experienced teachers that enables students to engage in an exciting curriculum and a stimulating learning environment.

Space is limited, and only children who will be 3 or 4 years of age by Sept.

30, 2017, qualify.

In addition, families must reside in Hanover County and meet other eligibility requirements.

The program also requires that 10% of the enrollment opportunities be available to children with disabilities.

Interested residents can call 804365-4506 or visit www.hcps.us. Find “More Quick Links” on the upper right side of the page, and click on “Hanover Preschool Initiative” for more information.

The application will be available to

print online and completed applications will be accepted on the following dates: 8:30 a.m. to noon today (Wednesday, Feb. 22) -- Henry Clay Elementary School at 310 S. James St. in Ashland.

8:30 a.m. to noon today (Wednesday, Feb. 22) – Mechanicsville Elementary School at 7425 Mechanicsville Elementary Drive in Mechanicsville.

Noon to 4 p.m. Wednesday, March 8, at the Hanover County School Board Office at 200 Berkley St. in Ashland.

9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, March 22, at the Hanover County School Board Office at 200 Berkley St. in Ashland.

9 to 11 a.m. Saturday, April 1, at the Hanover County School Board Office at 200 Berkley St. in Ashland.

8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday, April 20, at Henry Clay Elementary School at 310 S. James St. in Ashland.

8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday, April 20, at Mechanicsville Elementary School at 7425 Mechanicsville Elementary Drive in Mechanicsville.

Noon to 4 p.m. Wednesday, April 26, at the Hanover County School Board Office at 200 Berkley St. in Ashland.

Information submitted by Chris R. Whitley, public information officer, Hanover County Public Schools.

Submitted photo

Parks and Rec will present the annual K-9 Heroes Day next month.

Vendors wanted for K-9 Heroes Featuring Pooch Pursuit event Hanover County Parks and Recreation will host the annual K-9 Heroes Day Featuring Pooch Pursuit on Saturday, April 15.

Canine-related business and/or organizations wishing to participate as vendors are now being sought by Parks and Rec. K-9 Heroes Day is free and open to the public.

Canine-friendly vendors will be on hand throughout the event, which runs from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Spectators will browse vendor booths as they watch demonstrations in the areas of command, protection and tracking, as well as be able to partake in a K-9 Fun Zone packed with see K-9, pg. 10

SHERIFF’S REPORTS

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| Crime, Accidents, Fire & Rescue

Credit card fraud, $200 in six months, was reported in the 7400 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.

Grand larceny, $200 or more not from a person, was reported in the 7700 block of Stand Circle, Mechanicsville.

Identity theft, financial loss, $200, was reported in the 7200 block of Walnut Grove Drive, Mechanicsville.

Concealment, price altering merchandise, $200, was reported in the 7400 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.

Petit larceny, $200 not from a person, was reported in the 7400 block of Sherwood Crossing Place, Mechanicsville.

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

Assault and battery of a family member was reported in the 8200 block of Raven Run Drive, Mechanicsville.

Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 8100 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike/Henrico County, Mechanicsville.

Breaking and entering at night with intent to commit a felony was reported in the 10100 block of Lakeridge Parkway, Ashland.

Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 8400 block of Shady Grove Road, Landsdowne Road, Mechanicsville.

Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 15000 block of Ashland Road/Abner Church Road, Glen Allen.

Failure to perform construction after advance was reported in the 8300 block of Bink Place, Mechanicsville.

Driver did not report an accident with damages, $500, was reported in the 7200 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.

Grand larceny, $200 or more not from a person, was reported in the 14400 block of Augusta Lane, Ashland.

Feb. 13

Credit card theft was reported in the 7400 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.

Grand larceny, $5 or more from a person, was reported in the 13000 block of Cedar Lane, Ashland.

Failure to stop for a school bus flashing lights was reported in the 7000 block of Marie Lane, Mechanicsville.

Local solicitation for money, etc. (panhandling) was reported in the 9300 block of Crestfield Drive, Mechanicsville.

Simple assault was reported in the 9300 block of Totopotomoy Trail, Ashland.

Trespassing after being forbidden to do so was reportedin the 18600 block of Rolling Meadows Trail, Montpelier.

Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 16600 block of Mountain Road, Montpelier.

Credit card theft was reported in the 7000 block of Senn Way, Mechanicsville.

Feb. 12

Feb. 14

Destruction of property, monument, was reported in the 9200 block of Totopotomoy Trail, Ashland.

Simple assault was reported in the 9000 block of Pole Green Park Lane, Mechanicsville.

Grand larceny shoplifting was reported in the 7200 block of Battle Hill Drive,

ACCOUNT/DELIVERY INFORMATION: Name: Street: City: ________________ State: Zip Code: Phone:

Possession of marijuana, subsequent offense, was reported in the 7400 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.

Grand larceny, $200 or more not from a person, was reported in the 7300 block of Roosevelt Avenue, Mechanicsville.

Violation of protective order (violence), second within five years, was reported in the 6100 block of Retreat Hill Lane, Mechanicsville.

ONE YEAR (52 WEEK) SUBSCRIPTION $30.00 FOR HANOVER COUNTY ZIP CODES, ALL OTHERS $40.00

Grand larceny, $200 or more not from a person, was reported in the 7400 block of Knightly Road, Mechanicsville.

Simple assault was reported in the 13400 block of Liberty School Road, Ashland.

Petit larceny shoplifting

Feb. 11

Feb. 10

Obtaining money, etc., false pretense, larceny, $200 conspiracy, was reported in the 13000 block of Fairway Lane, Ashland.

Mechanicsville.

Grand larceny from auto was reported in the 18000 block of Beaver Dam Road, Beaverdam.

Annoying phone calls was reported in the 9400 block of Atlee Station Road, Mechanicsville.

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

187998-01

was reported in the 7400 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.

Feb. 9

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The Hanover Local February 22, 2017

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BUDGET Continued from pg. 1

Real

FACTS. STORIES. NEWS. Real

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Journalism you can depend on.

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The Hanover Local February 22, 2017

presentation.

The increase in this year’s budget is made possible by elevated revenues including: A 6 percent real property revenue increase of $6.1 million.

Personal Property increase of $2.9 million.

Ongoing General Fund revenue increases of about $10.5 million.

A slight increase in water and sewer rates of 2.5 percent that will increase bi monthly bills by about $3.11 or $18.66 annually.

The Sheriff ’s Office will receive six new positions under the proposed plan, including five law enforcement officers and one administrative assistant.

“That fully funds the law enforcement budget request,” Harris said.

In addition, eight new Fire/EMS positions will allow the department to fully staff stations in Beaverdam and Rockville with 24/7 service.

In addition to the 16 new public safety positions, the proposal calls for 8.2 non-public safety positions and eight new school positions.

A large chunk of this year’s budget proposal, about 43 percent, is dedicated to education with specific focus on technology upgrades in the five-year Capital Improvement Plan.

Harris said that was challenging with a $1.2 shortfall in state funds for a salary increase, and a $2 million payment to the Virginia Retirement System.

“Having to absorb this loss while also providing a compensation increase presented a major challenge in the FY2018 budget,” Harris said. Local funding for schools increased $3.2 million from last year’s allotment.

The proposed budget also makes a huge commitment to a five-year technology plan for the schools, with a $5.4 million

investment in FY19 and FY20.

Harris’ proposal also provides capital improvement funds for roads and includes a $900,000 grant that allows the county to begin and design on the new Atlee Library with funding for construction in 2019.

Following Harris’s presentation, a number of department heads presented their budget requests.

Col. David R. Hines highlighted crime statistics from the past year, most of them citing lowered figures.

Response times are down and solve rates are up. His office received an 8 percent increase in calls for service last year.

Hines did point to several pressing issues in the county, including a growing opiate addiction and thieves taking advantage of unlocked cars and stealing items that are visible from the outside.

Hines pointed to the many successful programs in which his office participates, including SHIELD and other support projects.

The sheriff said a program outfitting Hanover deputies with body-worn cameras will be completed this year.

The sheriff said cooperation between his office and county staff resulted in projected fiveyear plans that are “in sync.”

The proposed Capital Improvement budget outlines a plan that supplies the Sheriff ’s Office with 27 additional positions during the five-year period.

“I would like to sincerely thank the Sheriff ’s Office staff and Mr. Harris’ staff for working very hard to bring these plans together,” Hines said.

“Today this budget planning process is even more reflective of balancing dollars with the needs of our community. In short, this is a budget process that we can all be proud of.”

Dr. Michael Gill, superintendent of Hanover County

Public Schools, presented his recently approved $180.4 million 2018 budget, a plan that focuses on instruction and technology.

Gill said the technology upgrades will allow Hanover students to take advantage of the new literacy, and stressed that advanced technology can do more than just replace pen and paper.

He explained how programs allow teachers to provide more individualized instruction, and students are now capable of holding conversations with students all over the world.

Gill’s budget supplies a 2 percent increase for school employees, funds six new positions, including school safety coordinator, and funds VRS (Virginia Retirement System) increases for employees.

The five-year school capital budget provides more than $16 million in funding for technology, a plan that includes laptops for teachers and student devices in 2021.

Gill told the supervisors he was hesitant to speculate on what type of device that might be considering the quickly changing technological environment. “That could be a laptop, a iPad , or something that hasn’t been invented yet,” Gill said.

Even with the optimistic proposal and improving figures, Harris said there are areas where the county is still not fully rebounded from the economic downturn of 2008.

“Real property assessments are not all the way back,” Harris said. He explained that’s true when comparing actual land and property values in 2008 from those same samples in 2016.

“The gross number may be higher than the starting point was, but it’s got all the new construction,” he said. “If you took the homes and businesses that were here in 2008… and then you look at the Land Book for see BUDGET, pg. 16

OBITUARIES | Death Notices & Funerals OSCAR CARLE Oscar Carle, 90, of Montpelier, joined his wife, Barbara, in Heaven on February 11, 2017. He was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara; brother, Frank Whitlock. He is survived by his son, Allen Carle and his CARLE wife, Donna, of Allentown, Pennsylvania; daughter, Lynn Massini of Allentown, Pennsylvania; two stepbrothers, Harrison Whitlow of Atlanta, Georgia, and Robert Morris of Tappahanock; three grandchildren, Tanya, Darrell and Travis; and four great-grandchildren. Oscar retired after many years from Air Products and Chemicals Corporation.

He also worked for Treadwell Corporation while residing in Allentown, Pennsylvania.

After relocating to Montpelier, he enjoyed fishing, golfing and became very involved in VFW Post 10657. He and his wife ran the VFW Bingo for many years. He also worked part-time at The Hollows Golf Club. A graveside service was held at 1 p.m. Friday, February 17, 2017, at Westhampton Memorial Park. .

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the VFW Post 10657 in Glen Allen. Bliley’s-Staples Mill at 8510 Staples Mill Road was in charge of arrangements.

HAIKE GIRAGOSIAN Haike Manuel Giragosian passed away at home on February 14, 2017, after a brief illness. He was born on July 7, 1924, GIRAGOSIAN to Manoog and Taqouhi Giragosian, proud Americans who emigrated

from Armenia. Haike is survived by his wife of 67 years, Betty Jean Franck Giragosian; and his sons, C. Christopher Giragosian (Brenda Baird) and Mark. S. Giragosian (Peggy Bokinsky). He also is survived by six grandchildren, Haike II, Christopher (Noemi), Matthew (fiancee, Jill) and Anna Giragosian and Greer and Sara Gibson (fiance, Chris); four great-grandchildren, Penelope Rose, Carrigan, Ethan and McKenna; his brother, John Giragosian (Ruby); and several nieces and nephews. Haike was born and raised in Richmond.

He was a record-holding basketball player at Thomas Jefferson High School. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II, was a survivor of the Normandy invasion, and finished his military career in submarine service. He graduated from Randolph-Macon College, where he honored the basketball court with his skills and won the heart of his beloved Betty Jean. Haike and Betty moved to Elmont after marrying and lived there for 66 years. Haike’s career with Jones Motor Car Company/ Moore Cadillac was legendary.

His reputation as an honorable businessman, hard worker and tough negotiator made him a lifelong favorite of customers and employees alike. He was formidable on the tennis court, shrewd with a hand of cards and putty in the hands of his grandchildren, who worshiped their Poppop. He adored his long line of German Shepherds and is survived by Abby, the only one to be welcomed into the family room full time. The family would like to thank the wonderfully compassionate staff of Covenant Care, particularly Scott Ferry, and the caregivers from AseraCare Hospice. They also are thankful for the prayers and support of a loving network

of extended family and friends.

A memorial service was held at 2 p.m. Sunday, February 19, 2017, at Bliley’s-Staples Mill at 8510 Staples Mill Road. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Haike’s name to Kenwood Methodist Church, 11208 Elmont Road, Ashland, VA 23005 or to St. James Armenian Church, 834 Pepper Avenue, Richmond, VA 23226.

WILLIAM HARRIS William Basil Harris Jr., and affectionately known as “Fraz” or “Billy Jr.,” 73, of Ashland, passed peacefully and suddenly on February 9, 2017, surrounded by family. He was the son of the late William Basil Harris Sr. and Mildred Lowry Harris, having grown up in Montpelier.

He was preceded in death by his son, Thomas Wayne Harris.

He worked as a Master Builder building custom homes. He was a previous member of the Ashland Volunteer Rescue Squad for seven years and was a member of Old Dominion Historical Fire Society. His favorite pastimes were debating politics with his grandson and discussing business ownership aspirations with his granddaughter. He had hands with a golden touch, there was nothing he could not do or repair.

William is survived by his wife of 53 years, Nancy Tignor Harris; daughter, Melody Harrison, and son-in-law, Thomas Harrison; grandson, Nicholas Christopher Harrison; granddaughter, Kristen Nicole Harrison; sister, Rebecca Parks, and brother-inlaw, Michael Parks; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews. Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Monday, February 13, 2017, at Nelsen Funeral Home, Reid Chapel, at 412 South Washington Highway in

Ashland. Interment followed in Signal Hill Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association at 4217 Park Place Ct., Glen Allen, VA 23060. Online condolences may be registered at www.nelsenashland.com.

BERYL HERZOG Beryl Beck Herzog, 85, of Beaverdam, widow of Robert W. Herzog, passed away on February 10, 2017. She was born on January 15, 1932 in R ichmond HERZOG to the late Charles and Lucy Beck. She is survived by her son, Andrew S.

Herzog (Kathy); daughter, Gwen H. Leech (Steve); and grandchildren, Robert W. Herzog II, Shelby Gray Herzog, Charles R. Leech and Preston P. Leech.

She was preceded in death by her granddaughter, Ashley Elizabeth Herzog. Beryl was a passionate animal lover. She raised and bred Morgan horses on her beloved farm for over 50 years. She began her leadership career heading up her daughter’s 4-H Horse and Pony Club.

She was a leader in the Virginia Horse Industry serving as past president of the Virginia Horse Council; past president, current board member and Hall of Fame member of The Virginia Horse Show Association and the past president and founder of Old Dominion Morgan Horse Association. She served for many years as the Morgan horse representative on the Virginia Horse Industry Board see OBITUARIES, pg. 7

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The Hanover Local February 22, 2017

5

OPINION | The Local Views

LETTERS

From the editor

| Reader Views

‘Chasing the Dragon’ spotlights opioids

Group addresses HCPS technology budget proposal

By Melody Kinser Managing Editor

I

t’s purely coincidental that this week’s topic mirrors what was written last week. But the reality is that we have a serious — and growing — problem in our nation. And, as much as we’d like to think we aren’t susceptible to all the woes of the world, this demon is in our community.

Once again, we are going to address opioid abuse and what concerned citizens and officials are doing to combat the problem.

At 7 p.m. Monday, a documentary, “Chasing the Dragon,” will be shown in the Ellis Hall of the First Baptist Church at 800 Thompson St. in Ashland. A question-and-answer session will follow.

In addition to the issue of opioid abuse, the program will delve into the horror of heroin.

Hanover Cares Coalition is the primary organization behind the evening’s film and discussion.

We’ve heard the Hanover County Sheriff ’s Office and Hanover County Public Schools will have representatives in attendance.

While we hear the word opioid more and more, for years we referred to the prescriptions as pain pills. And, I do believe there is a need for them — if used properly.

My father was of the generation that didn’t turn to medications to ease pain. That was his attitude until cancer took over his lungs. The oncologist couldn’t make any promises of any kind of recovery or life expectancy.

Dad was being given morphine to ease his suffering. As a family we realized his agony when he requested more morphine.

I’ll admit I support marijuana as a relief for those with terminal illnesses and other conditions in which it can provide some comfort. But that’s a legal issue for those who make the laws.

Ashland activist Ragan Phillips is among those community leaders who organized next Monday’s program. He recently said that more people died in the Commonwealth from opioid overdose (800 deaths) than were killed in traffic accidents last year — for the second consecutive year.”

Phillips said the county is at risk. “The abuse of opioids is not limited to cities or to those families with low incomes. The risk is for everyone, regardless of race, culture, age, or economic status. Opioid abuse is indiscriminate as to who it traps and kills.”

No one is immune, and consider those who may have a genetic disposition for addictions.

I’ve seen this more in alcoholics, but addictions fall in many categories, including food.

Phillips compared the opioid addiction to a disease like cancer. “We must not allow this addiction to become stigmatized. We must not allow our community to ‘look the other way’.”

As a community, he said everyone is a stakeholder, noting that, from a prevention perspective, we are “gate keepers.”

Phillips said we must work together “to avert and alleviate opioid abuse in our community.”

“We are urgently trying to make our community ... your community ... aware of this risk.

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The Hanover Local February 22, 2017

We intend to provide information on prevention and to inform families about the resources that are available, if needed, to those caught in this terrible addiction,” Phillips said.

To register and get free tickets, go to http:// tinyurl.com/zc6wh3v.

The only way to battle the demon is to help those who are afflicted. I’ve always urged that we work toward learning why so many fall prey to drugs. We’ve heard plenty of catch phrases through the years, but at issue is what draws people to feel the need to take drugs that could not only ruin their lives but end them.

Saying goodbye to a hero I did not know Henri G. Moore Jr., assistant chief of Hanover Fire-EMS, but, based on the response to our Facebook posting of his obituary, he was one of the most respected and beloved members of that very special “family.”

Our sympathies go out to his family and his brothers and sisters in Fire-EMS. His obituary included this: His passion was to always encourage, inspire and guide those he met with a compassionate, loving and selfless spirit.

Most significant in his obit was the fact that he had given his life to the Lord and served well.

In addition to Fire-EMS, he was involved with his children’s activities.

Assistant Chief Moore was laid to rest Thursday. Now he rejoices with God. Our loss is Heaven’s gain.

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 © 2017 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.

We support Superintendent Michael Gill’s proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2018. He did the best job that he could with the funds available.

We are in favor of granting teachers a long overdue raise of 2% and are glad that Hanover County Public Schools are covering health insurance cost increases and Virginia Retirement System obligations.

We support the laptops for teachers which are, again, long overdue, that will start with our middle school teachers next year. We are confident that the additional staffing is necessary.

We are pleased that all of our schools will now be participating in the National School Lunch Program. We support the investments in maintaining current technology and in bandwidth infrastructure expansion.

Dr. Gill’s proposal includes a five-year plan that represents a major investment in educational technology — devices and infrastructure. This plan was much needed. It is what the accrediting and evaluative bodies and HCPS stakeholders, including many of us, have been asking for.

However, it is hard for us to get too excited about this proposal. For one, no device is slated to be in any student’s hands until 2020 — nearly a quarter into the 21st century and a long time from now in the career of a K-12 student.

And how will all of the technology be accommodated in our older high school buildings? In Patrick Henry High School, for example, only a handful of outlets can be in used in any given classroom at any given time.

This past October, due to a blown fuse, half of the classrooms on the 400s hallway lost power for several days. What happens to the electrical grid when every student in the building has a device?

We agree that, in this day and age, see LETTERS pg. 11

Growing up black and white to be shared Sunday Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com ASHLAND -- In 1960, John F. Kennedy is elected President. Martin Luther King Jr. gives his I Have A Dream speech in 1963. President Lyndon Johnson pushes through the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The Vietnam War intensifies. Hippies replace the Beatniks of the 1950s.

The Beatles appear on The Ed Sullivan Show.

These are just a few of the events that changed the course of the 1960s and life in Ashland and Hanover County.

At 4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 26, at the Duncan

OBITUARIES Continued from pg. 5

and on the Board of Directors of the Atlantic Rural Exposition (State Fair of Virginia). She was currently serving as the chairman of The Virginia Museum of The Horse. She touched many lives by sharing her love of horses. She also loved her two Mastiff dogs, Michael and Willie, who will miss her dearly.

For over 50 years, Beryl was an active member of the Beaverdam Bridge Club, where she developed many dear and long lasting friendships. Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. Saturday, February 18, 2017, at Nelsen Funeral Home-Reid Chapel at 412 South Washington Highway in Ashland.

Interment followed at Sunnyside Farm Family Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Southern States Mastiff Rescue, 2229 Tennessee Ave., Savannah, GA 31404 or Rouzie’s Chapel, 21089 Green Bay Rd., Beaverdam, VA 23015. Online condolences may be registered at nelsenashland.com.

ROBERT JACKSON Robert “Bob” Bolling Jackson, age 80, of Ashland, went to sleep in death on January 30, 2017. He is survived by loving wife, Faye W. Jackson; and sons, Paul Jackson and Ben Jackson.

Memorial services were held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, February 18, 2017, at The Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses at 14048 Greenwood Church Road in Ashland.

Memorial United Methodist Church at 201 Henry St. in Ashland, the public is invited to come hear stories about growing up in our area during the 1960s and how national events affected our local life.

There will be a panel discussion with participants from around our county, including Carolyn Hemphill, James Henry, John Newell, Betty Carol Stevenson, Katherine

DOROTHY LACY Dorothy Mae Lacy, 75, of Doswell, went home to be with the Lord on February 7, 2017. She was predeceased by her husband, Charles B. Lacy Jr.; and her three daughters, Dorine, Glenda and Wanda. She was a retiree of Alpha House Assisted Living. Left to cherish her memory are her two loving sons, Charles Lacy III and Jessie Lacy; devoted granddaughter, Andreya; four grandsons, two great-grandchildren; and one devoted sister, Joyce C. Smith; two devoted friends, Mildred Dabney and Joyce Jackson; along with a host of other relatives and friends.

Homegoing service was held at 1 p.m.

Saturday, February 11, 2017, at the Jerusalem Baptist Church in Doswell, with the Rev. Dr. E. Richard Swan, pastor, officiating, and Rev. Corine Lucas, eulogist. Interment followed in Belmont Cemetery in Doswell. F.E. Dabney Funeral Home in Ashland was in charge of arrangements.

HENRI G. MOORE JR. Henri G. Moore Jr., 47, of Mechanicsville, left this world into the arms of Jesus, his Savior, on February 10, 2017. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Carol and Stanley Moore and Leola and William MOORE Wirtz. He is survived by his wife of 16 years, Wendy W. Moore; daughter, Madison Moore; son, Ryan Moore;

Tinker and Avon White. The moderator will be Anthony Keitt.

Tom Wulf will provide a video overlay.

Closing comments will be provided by Rev. Dr. E. Richard Swan of the Jerusalem Baptist Church in Doswell.

Krystal Brooks, Minister of Music at the Shiloh Baptist Church, will lead a Community Gospel Choir.

sister, Tammy (Bill) McCarter; and his parents, Betty and Henri G. Moore Sr. Henri was Assistant Chief, Hanover Fire & EMS. He graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University and as professional firefighter and paramedic. He also served with the Virginia Air National Guard and Henrico County Fire and EMS units.

He loved and cherished the friendship of every brother and sister in Fire & EMS. His passion was to always encourage, inspire and guide those he met with a compassionate, loving and selfless spirit. He served as a deacon at Fairmount Christian Church, where he found peace and fulfillment in serving his Lord. He enjoyed making barbeque and ribs on his portable cooker for his many friends and family, loved hunting and fishing with his children and was active with Atlee Girls’ Softball and Hanover Sports 8U Travel Ball. He had wonderful memories of marching with the Garfield Cadets, World Champion Drum Corps, in 1986 and 1987 and recently joined the Fairmount Christian Church Orchestra as a tuba player.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, February 16, 2017, at Fairmount Christian Church at 6502 Creighton Road in Mechanicsville.

Interment followed at Washington Memorial Park at 6217 Memorial Drive in Sandston. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Fairmount Christian Church, Onward Campaign or Hanover Fire & EMS.

ERNEST SPINDLE SR. Ernest Spindle Sr., 70, of Ashland,

The program is free of charge.

For more information, call 804-368-7314 or visit www.hanoverarts.org, awjefferson@ rmc.edu, www.ashlandmuseum.org and www. mainstreetashland.org.

Showcasing the rich historical and cultural heritage of Ashland, Untold Stories is sponsored jointly by The Hanover Arts & Activities Center, Randolph-Macon College, Ashland Museum, and Main Street Ashland.

Also supporting the program is the Hanover County Black Heritage Society Inc., which was established in 1994.

departed this life on February 14, 2017. Funeral services were held at noon Saturday, February 18, 2017, at the Abner Baptist SPINDLE Church in Glen Allen. H.W Dabney Funeral Home in Ashland was in charge of arrangements.

JOHN STANLEY John George Stanley, 32, of Ashland, passed away on February 12, 2017. He was preceded in death by his one true love and mother, Shirley Jean Stanley; grandparents, Peggy and John George Stanley; and grandmother, Addie Stanley. He worked at Best Buy at Virginia Center Commons for 10 years.

John loved wrestling, horror movies, music and video games. John is survived by his father, Johnny Stanley; sister, Angie Stanley; and his beloved cat, Mr. Steve; many aunts and uncles, as well as his family at Best Buy. A celebration of life was held from 6 to 8 p.m. on Saturday, February 18, 2017, at Nelsen Funeral Home - Reid Chapel at 412 South Washington Highway in Ashland. The family requests that you come dressed as you are -- it’s what John would’ve wanted. Online condolences may be registered at www.nelsenashland.com.

WESLEY E. TILLMAN Wesley E. Tillman entered into eternal rest on February 13, 2017. Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. on Sunday, February 19, 2017, at Second Mt. Zion

Baptist Church at 31220 Old Dawn Road in Hanover.

H.W. Dabney Funeral Home at 518 N. Washington Highway in Ashland was in charge of arrangements.

TILLMAN

JESSIE WILLSON Jessie Valcarcel Willson, 98, of Ashland, \ died peacefully on February 8, 2017. She was predeceased by her husband, George Cralle Willson Jr.; and by her infant daughter, Jessie Matilda Willson. Jessie is survived by her sons, George M. Willson and his wife, Chris, and Frank C. Willson and his wife, Cindi. She also is survived by six-grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Jessie was born in Trujillo Alto, Puerto Rico, on July 6, 1918, and graduated from the University of Puerto Rico High School. She then studied at Radford College, graduating at age 19 in 1938.

She enjoyed flower arranging, was president of the Slash Cottage Garden Club, collected innumerable blue ribbons, and often served as a flower show judge. She also was a member of the Ashland Women’s Club. Jessie was an active parishioner of St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Ashland for 49 years until she moved to Virginia Beach in 2004.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at 1:30 p.m. at St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Ashland. Interment followed the Mass in Woodland Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Ann’s Catholic Church, 105 S. Snead St., Ashland, VA 23005.

The Hanover Local February 22, 2017

7

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Saturday, Feb. 25 The Independence Ruritan Club will hold its semi-annual Brunswick Stew sale from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Ruritan Clubhouse located behind the Independence Christian Church at 14017 Independence Rd. (off Route 54 west of Ashland).

The stew is being sold for $7 a quart. Quantity is limited. To reserve the stew in advance, call 804-798-5171 or 804-798-6579 ASAP. Proceeds will help provide three scholarships for the Class of 2017 at Patrick Henry High School. In conjunction with this stew sale, the Disciples Women of Independence Church will be holding a bake sale.

will be the keynote speaker. She will discuss “Acupuncture.”

Doors open at 1:30 p.m. and refreshments will be served. The meeting is open to the public and is free of charge. To register, call 804-399-1844 or email jrshalf@gmail.com.

Saturday, March 18 Airpark 5K Run will be held at the Center of the University at the Airpark in Ashland. The event will feature music, beer and food trucks.

Friday, May 19

The Ashland Beekeepers Association meets at 7 p.m. the first Thursdays at The Family Life Baptist Church at 206 S. Washington Hwy. in Ashland. Anyone interested in honeybees and beekeeping is welcome to attend. For more information, email to mail@ ashlandvabeekeepers.org .

Registration is now open for the Hanover Airpark Business Association’s 3rd annual golf tournament in support of Stop Child Abuse Now (SCAN). The tournament will be held at the Hollows. Those who may not wish to golf are invited to sponsor the event or only attend the dinner. The golf package is $400 per team. The day includes: 18 holes of golf; lunch; shotgun start at noon; dinner and prizes presentation at 4:30 p.m.; and a chance to win a golf trip on Par 5 hole – world long drive golf professional will hit 400-yard drive for each group that participates, any group that makes a donation and holds out his shot from the fairway wins a $5,000 golf trip for two. Participants are urged to arrive no later than 11 a.m. HABA is seeking hole sponsors, donations and prizes.

Dinner only is $25.

Wednesday, March 8

Ongoing

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The Hanover Democratic Women’s Coffee will be held at 7 p.m. at Sonya Arrington’s home at 7110 Kella Way in Mechanicsville. For more information or to RSVP, contact Diane Neergaard at daneergaard@comcast.net or 804299-2399.

At Home In Ashland Educational Series will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Richard S. Gillis Jr./Ashland Branch Library at 201 S. Railroad Ave. in Ashland. The program includes: Ashland “Village” Meeting with Beth Harrison, chair, At Home in Ashland. Cara Jennings, M.D., Bon Secours Palliative Medicine,

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 heal-

F

ax submissions to calendar to 730-0476, email to events@mechlocal. com, or mail to 8460 Times-Dispatch Blvd., Mechanicsville VA 23116. Deadline is 1 p.m.

Thursday for the following week’s issue. Calendar announcements cannot be taken by phone. We reserve the right to edit all items submitted to The Hanover Local.

ing 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 804-366-9645 or email kjfaith1@gmail.com.

Tuesdays The Hanover Concert Band rehearses from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. every Tuesday, mid-January through 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 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.

The Hanover Local | February 22, 2017 9

School board OKs $180 mil budget plan

By Jim Ridolphi for The Hanover Local

A

SHLAND -Hanover County School Board members unanimously approved – with few changes -- a $180 million budget as proposed by Dr. Michael Gill, superintendent of Hanover County Public Schools, during a regular meeting last week.

It’s a budget that many believe takes the first steps in addressing a technology deficit in Hanover County schools.

The proposal includes a $16 million five-year technology plan that provides laptops for teachers, upgrades and improves the system’s IT infrastructure and eventually provides devices for students.

“This budget is due to the great cooperation between county leadership and school leadership,” board chair John Axselle, Beaverdam District, said. “Over the years it seems that the state funding has continued to dwindle while local funding has continued to increase, and that partnership has allowed us to do this.”

The budget now moves forward for the Hanover County Board of Supervisors’ consideration with final approval expected in April. Final figures could be adjusted due to Virginia General Assembly action before final approval.

Gill’s proposal also provides six new positions, a hefty Virginia Retirement System payment that finally brings the system up-to-date financially, and a 2 percent salary increase for all school employees.

Gill joined Axselle and several board members in pointing to a collaborative effort in creating this year’s plan that includes the board of supervisors and the citizens of Hanover County.

That’s because a larger

10

share of the proposed budget is derived from local funds. That represents a growing trend of lowered state revenues and an increased burden on localities to balance budgets.

The school budget’s local share for 2018 increased by $2.4 million.

In other business, a group of Hanover parents are asking how soon is soon enough regarding a recently studied 10-point grading system.

The group is seeking to conclude a two-year process and have the board consider a change in policy that would bring Hanover’s grading system in line with 90 percent of Virginia schools.

Kyle McMahon, parent of two Hanover students, began his efforts to reform the county’s grading system in March 2015.

County school officials and McMahon and other concerned parents waited on results from a VCU Metropolitan Educational Research Consortium (MERC) study that focused on impacts of a conversion to a 10-point scale. Information for that study centered on Chesterfield County, but data was not available and the study was eventually shelved.

Since then, a steady stream of parents has petitioned the board to conduct further study.

Many of those parents were involved in a study committee whose findings overwhelmingly supported a change. The board received those results in January.

McMahon expressed his frustrations at the Feb. 14 meeting during a public comment period.

“I am the person who started the petition in March 2015, almost two years ago,” McMahon said. “Waiting for the MERC study was a waste of time for us.”

That petition was suspended,

The Hanover Local February 22, 2017

Jim Ridolphi for The Hanover Local

Gov. Terry McAuliffe has declared February as School Board Appreciation Month. Superintendent Michael Gill presented certificates of appreciation to Hanover County School Board members at last week’s meeting. Above, Gill recognizes Mechanicsville representative Roger Bourassa.

according to McMahon, because concerned parents were assured the board was addressing and considering the 10-point scale.

“Two years has gone by and nothing has happened,” McMahon said. “I know things take time, but two years?”

McMahon said that, in a long line of speakers who have addressed this issue, not one has defended the current sevenpoint scale.

“For the most part, there’s been nothing but support from the community,” he said.

He also noted the lack of recommendation or list of next steps contained in January’s committee findings presented by assistant superintendent Jennifer Greif.

Axselle dismissed any appearance of delay tactics as some parents have contended.

“This is not a delay game. We are just taking this very seriously.

We just don’t want to react, but be responsive and very deliberate and methodical.”

Axselle defended the timeline and questioned the need for immediate action. “What’s the urgency?” he asked. “When

we go through the process, we make a better decision.”

For parents like Molly Poisant, the wait for action has become excruciating, and she’s concerned that county school officials are employing delay tactics in their inaction.

Poisant represents a group called Hanover Parents Supporting a 10-Point Grading Scale, and is perplexed at the lack of action once the committee recommendation dropped.

“I’m frustrated,” she said following last week’s meeting.

“The reality is that this has been a two-year process. Kids that were freshmen when this conversation started are going to be seniors next year.”

She responded to Axselle’s urgency question. “Every year that this gets pushed off is a year that their constituents are leaving dollars on the table for scholarships and that some of the students currently struggling in the system continue to struggle.”

The school board has scheduled a full discussion on the grading scale on its March 20 workshop agenda.

Gill said that still allows

ample time for implementation in Fall 2017 should the board opt for a change during its upcoming work session.

“If the board adopted a new policy at any time during the school year, then, yes, there would be time to implement it,” Gill said.

He said predicting the board’s final action on changing the grading scale is not part of his job.

“I have to believe the board will consider all sides of that issue during that work session.

In terms of predicting what the outcome would be, I’m not in the prognostication business,” Gill said.

Cold Harbor school board representative Norman Sulser said he would support a change to the current grading system.

“I would support this and I think we should approve it. We are here to represent our constituents and this is something that the public supports,” he said.

Asked about the timeline, Sulser said, “I’m frustrated that we have studied this issue for two years and still haven’t made a decision. I think we should act.”

ARREST Continued from pg. 1

the video.”

The video was posted at: https://www.dropbox.com/ home?preview=02.18.17+Inc ident.mp4.

As officers delved further into the case, Watts said, “Investigators also want to speak to the individuals in the red SUV seen in the video regarding anything they saw during the incident.”

“This incident is very troubling and we have dedicated significant amount of resources to investigating this incident,” Watts said.

Before Fricke’s identity was made public, Watts said, “At this time, we simply ask our community to keep this victim’s family and friends in your thoughts and prayers.”

K-9 Continued from pg. 2

activities and games for their canine companion.

Pooch Pursuit is the 5K Run / 2K Walk that begins at 9 a.m. with the K-9 Heroes Day immediately following the race.

Proceeds from this dogfriendly event benefit Hanover Hounds K-9 Search & Rescue and Friends of Hanover Dog Parks.

Participating vendors will receive a 15’x15’ space at the event for a $30 fee.

Interested vendors are asked to register online at: www.hanoverparksrec.com and search “K9” to complete their registration.

Specific questions about becoming a vendor may be directed to JudiAnn Shaver at 804-779-3117 or parksandrec@hanovercounty.gov.

Information submitted

by Niko Reikalas, recreation coordinator, Hanover County Parks and Recreation.

Holiday Lake 4-H Educational Center welcomes past campers and participants Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com APPOMATTOX -- Holiday Lake 4-H Educational Center is searching for campers and other participants that camped at Holiday Lake

LETTERS Continued from pg. 6

educational technology is an essential, yet many schools continue to lack other essentials; our schools continue to have many other needs.

We are still $10 million below 2008 funding levels and at the schools’ budget presentation, even Assistant Superintendent Terri Stone acknowledged that HCPS division heads had $10 million in items that did not make it into the superintendent’s budget.

Many of our teachers continue to work second jobs and continue to have overwhelming workloads. Our veteran teachers experience salary compression and we lose them to surrounding counties.

We have classrooms without sufficient numbers of books and instructional materials. We have schools with dysfunctional HVAC systems and chronically leaking roofs.

Some of our children — and the adults who visit the buildings that house them — are forced to use crumbling bathrooms that lack heating.

Furthermore, accommodating that level of technology requires an infrastructure and a modernization that many of our school buildings simply do not have. Our four oldest and neediest school buildings need replacement or renovation: Battlefield, Beaverdam, Henry Clay, and Washington-Henry Elementary Schools. But that is not to be for six or seven more years. LeeDavis and Patrick Henry High Schools also will require large-scale renovation or replacement.

Industry standard is to replace or renovate school buildings every 50 to 60 years. We have surpassed that already. People in those high school communities want modernized buildings.

And while the four elementary schools are in the greatest need, a community’s high schools are the most

4-H Educational Center at any time since its opening in 1941.

The 75th Anniversary Celebration and Girl’s Bathhouse Ribbon Cutting will get underway at noon March 3. Lunch will follow at 12:30

visible, flagship facilities to existing and potential Hanover County families and to the public.

We continue to ask for reasonable workloads for our teachers so that they can sufficiently instruct our children and for sufficient educational technology.

Most of all, we are demanding an investment in our schools in the form of a concrete, written long-term renovation and replacement plan for our aging school buildings. This includes a transparent and honest proposal for how it would be paid for.

Hanover has revenue issues that will not be solved by a vehicle decal or by the current unreliable casino-like build-o-rama approach that irreversibly swallows our rural land and fills the coffers of developers.

At $0.81 per $100 of assessed value, Hanover currently has the lowest property tax rate in the Greater Richmond Metro area and it shows in our inadequate services and facilities.

Caroline’s is $0.83, Henrico’s is $0.87, Chesterfield’s is $0.96, and the City of Richmond’s is $1.20.

If we raised our property taxes by only $.01 per year, for a property assessed at $300,000, for example, this would equate to a mere $30 a year. We could also institute a meals tax — 50% of which would be carried by those from outside the county — currently in effect in the Town of Ashland, the City of Richmond and Henrico County, where restaurant business has not been negatively impacted.

The Hanover County Board of Supervisors must come up with a responsible, sustainable revenue-generating plan that would sufficiently fund our schools and other public services. They must trust the public to decide if great 21st century technology and schools are worth having in our community. We certainly think so and we are willing to pay for them.

Rachel Levy, Chris Pace, Michelle

p.m. along with the recognition of the 75th Anniversary and experiences over the decade.

Previous campers from each decade will be recognized.

The event is free of charge.

Schmitt, Randy Sherrod, Cathy Easter, John Hardy Willson. Mary Anne Pugh, Glenn Millican, Delores Dalton Dunn, Web Stokes, Jeanne DuLaney.

Jason and Christi Byrd, Pat Pace, Elizabeth & Todd Chambers, Dina and Ben Pully, Heidi Craft. Diane Colquitt, Bonniejean Boggess, Mitch and Meredith Hayes, Daniel McGraw, Dan Chamberlain. Justin Godard, Martha Montgomery, Chris and Kristina Leggett, Marty McDonell.

Jamie Edwards, Phillip Hein, Cedar Riener, Rob and Sharon Stiles, Jen and Brent Chambers, Becket Franklin.

Jendi Davis, Carl and Rebecca Schieber, Kim Farnsworth, Jim and Ricki Carson, Jason Burrow. Rebecca and Jim Nathanson, Kayla McClure, Max and Christiane Riederer von Paar, and George and Sylvia Spagna

Tea Party officer says real estate tax will increase At the Feb. 8, 2017, meeting of the Hanover County Board of Supervisors Mike Flagg, director of Public Works, gave an update on Long-Term Road Improvements Needs and Funding.

His report contained nothing new. The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has no money for road improvements. Every member of the BOS has known this for years. Yet they took no action.

After this report there was a discussion about how to raise the necessary funds. There was some talk about having Hanover County assume responsibility for all Hanover County roads.

They do not want to do this just yet.

Every possible tax increase was discussed.

Hanover County only has one thing in abundance that can be taxed enough to provide anything like the millions of dollars necessary: This is real estate.

Hanover County residents current-

Reservations are required.

To reserve your lunch and designate which decade you will be representing, call the 4-H Center at 434-248-5444 or RSVP at www.holidaylake4h.com.

ly enjoy a low real estate tax rate when compared to other localities in this region. This is about to change.

Residents can expect their real estate tax rate to be raised from $.88 to $1. Even this may well not be enough.

The current chairman of our BOS wants to add bike trails to all road improvements. This will add millions.

It is not too late to stop this unnecessary extravagance.

This is very clear. Our taxes are going to go up more than we ever thought possible and then they are going to come back for more.

Larnie Allgood Vice President Mechanicsville Tea Party Mechanicsville

Resident: BOS neglects duty to respect citizens I’d like to second the opinion of Larnie Allgood with regard to the letter “Resident: development at all cost” that ran in the Feb. 8, 2017, edition.

For too many years now, members o9f the Hanover County Board of Supervisor have neglected their basic duty to respect the input of county residents. Their willingness to “green light” virtually every project presented to them has led to development that not many residents want, leading to road construction that not many residents want, and finally now to a proposed decal tax that I’m certain no resident wants.

If the BOS as a whole does not have the ability to say “No” to projects then members completely misunderstand the purpose of their elected positions as my 18-year-old could just as easily “green light” projects if that is all that is required.

What’s even more disturbing is the cavalier attitude of Sean Davis’ edict concerning transportation funding,

that it “has to come from taxpayers (“Hanover considers reviving car fee to pay for roads”, Richmond TimesDispatch, 1/26/2017). Really, Mr. Davis? Who made you King Tut? The only saving grace in all this is, as mentioned, is these are elected officials and we, the residents of Hanover, will be able to be heard even more loudly when these “public servants” are up for re-election.

Ken Essigman Mechanicsville

Fowler, Peace thanked for no vote on dogs I would like to express my appreciation to Del. Buddy Fowler and Del. Christopher K. Peace for voting “no” on HB1900.

HB1900 was a bill introduced into the 2017 General Assembly of Virginia that would allow dog owners to be subject to a civil penalty of $100 per dog per occurrence for a dog “trespassing” on posted land.

While this penalty would not be exclusive to hunters, hunting with dogs is a long- standing tradition in Virginia (and especially in Hanover County) and this would be a step in the wrong direction for preserving that heritage.

There are existing laws that should be enforced whenever a person is trespassing, hunting without permission, causing damage to livestock, etc.

This bill would have been a nuisance to animal control, conservation police, and other law enforcement from a logistical standpoint. It also could have had a negative effect on neighbor relations and caused good, law-abiding people to pay unnecessary fines because their pet crossed a posted sign.

Thanks again to Del. Fowler and Del. Peace for their support on this.

Mark Brock Mechanicsville

The Hanover Local February 22, 2017

11

UPCOMING EVENTS

02

25 2017

Prep track: Group 5A championships at Boo Williams 8:00 a.m.

02

25 2017

Softball doubleheader: Frostburg State at Randolph-Macon 1:00 p.m./3:00 p.m.

| Youth, High School, College, Recreational & Professional

L-D’s Aldridge takes time to win state title

By Dave Lawrence Sports Editor CHESAPEAKE – Lee-Davis head wrestling coach Craig Spruill was overheard telling Andy Aldridge’s mother that Aldridge “likes drama.” From the evidence of the 160-pound championship match at the Virginia High School League Group 5A wrestling championships Saturday at Oscar Smith High School, the statement was accurate.

Aldridge, a freshman, waited until two seconds were left in his match to get the winning points and defeat Mountain View senior Rodrigo Silva 5-1 and claim what he hopes is the first of many state titles.

Neither wrestler made it easy for the other. Several times Silva grabbed one of Aldridge’s legs and kept the Confederate hopping. Any time one wrestler got what might at first look like a takedown, the falling wrestler would find a way to spin out of it, nearly turn the tables on the other and end up in a position where neither one scored.

Until the final seconds, the only points awarded were for escapes after the start of a new round. Aldridge knew he had to make a move in the final minute.

“I saw I had 40 seconds left.

I knew I’d either run the clock out and go into overtime or go ahead and take a shot and finish

12

Atlee boys second in region track

By Dave Lawrence Sports Editor

Dave Lawrence/The Local

Lee-Davis freshman Andy Aldridge gets the takedown he needs to win the 160-pound state title in the VHSL Group 5A wrestling championships at Oscar Smith High School Saturday. Aldridge’s win helped propel the Confederates to a fourth-place finish.

it right there,” Aldridge said. “So I decided I was going to take a shot and try to finish it. … After I took that shot, I knew I had him. I reached around the hip, pulled him down, and got him on his back.”

Aldridge might have pinned Silva had the round not ended, but a championship medal is a championship medal.

Aldridge’s win helped LeeDavis finish fourth. Teams north of the Rappahannock

The Hanover Local February 22, 2017

ruled, however. Two of the top three teams hailed from Stafford County: the champion, Brooke Point with 143 points, and the runner-up, Mountain View 1ith 134. The third spot went to Potomac in Prince William County. Potomac finished with 115 points, followed by the Confederates (91) and Broad Run 88.5. Matoaca was the only other local team with a top 10 finish.

The Warriors, with the 120-

pound champion in Brandon Woody, and the 132-pound champion in Noah Roulo, finished sixth with 74 points.

Woody, a senior, was happy to return to the ranks of the state champions. He won his first state title as a sophomore, but said he didn’t take the competition seriously enough last year as a junior and finished third. He wasn’t going to make that mistake this year.

“I thought I had to give it all

I’ve got, all I had, especially after placing third my junior year,” Woody said. “I knew I had one more year to go get it.”

He faced another local, Mills Godwin’s Carson Tinsley, in the final, and won a 4-2 scrap to cap his high school career with another title. He said this championship felt better than his first.

Roulo, a sophomore, likesee ALDRIDGE, pg. 13

HYATTSVILLE, Md. – Led by victories from juniors Cason Gardner and William Chapman, the Atlee boys totaled 61 points, good for a runnerup finish behind Potomac at the 5A North region championships at the Prince George’s Sports and Learning Complex.

Gardner won the high jump, clearing 6-4, and Chapman won the pole vault, clearing 15-7.

Nick Turochy finished second in the pole vault for the Raiders. Kameron Helmlinger finished second in the 1,000-meter run and Cameron Foreman finished fifth in the 55 dash.

All three Atlee boys relay teams finished in the top five. The 1,600 relay see TRACK, pg. 14

R-MC sweeps weekend stand with Rensselaer

By Dave Lawrence Sports Editor ASHLAND – RandolphMacon swept a three-game homestand against visiting Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute this weekend, but the Yellow Jackets prefer to not get too cocky.

They first defeated the Engineers 7-0 Saturday. They then swept Rensselaer in a doubleheader Sunday, 10-4 and 7-0.

But they had one big advantage: The Yellow Jackets have had a month of practice on their field.

The Engineers, at the time they left their home in Troy, New York, had 18 inches of snow on their field. They haven’t yet had the chance to limber up.

Meanwhile, RandolphMacon head coach Ray Hedrick sees plenty the Yellow Jackets – off to a 5-0 start – need to improve upon.

“I think we need to clean up some things on offense. I think we’re striking out too many times,” Hedrick said. “We need to clean up some things

ALDRIDGE Continued from pg. 12

on the mound. We’ve just got too many walks. I mean, I’m a throw-to-contact guy.

‘You’ve got to play defense when you’re going to have that kind of mentality – and we didn’t make an error this weekend. I’d just like to see, if we’re going to play that kind of defense – which isn’t going to happen every day – we’ve got to be able to throw more strikes.”

Over the course of the three games, Randolph-Macon pitchers gave up 14 hits and 11 bases on balls.

Hedrick noted that his pitchers too often got behind in the count to the Engineers.

“We talk about using … the three-pitch battle, just trying to win that three-pitch battle,” Hedrick said. “We were forever losing it. We were 2-1, 2-1, 2-1 – I think four of the first six hitters [Saturday] we were 2-1 on.

First-pitch strikes are going to be very important.”

While Hedrick would like to see the Yellow Jackets strike out less, the offense had plenty of punch, with 28 hits and 17 RBI. One of the players hav-

White won his opening match, an 8-3 decision over Salem’s Charles Szcar in the 160-pound division. He fell to Aldridge 3-2 in his second match of the tournament, then defeated Patrick Henry-Roanoke’s Calvin Paige 2-1 before being eliminated by Brooke Point’s Roger Pierce 4-2 one match shy of the consolation rounds.

Atlee finished 11th in the 45-team field with 44 points.

The area’s other top-20 teams were Hermitage (18th) and Mills Godwin (19th).

wise wrestled a scrappy match, pulling off a 5-2 decision over Brooke Point’s Joseph Knight.

He credited his win to his ability to outlast his opponent and to stop his attacks.

Two other locals made the finals. Lee-Davis 152-pounder Fisher Evans fell to Stone Bridge’s Arsam Jafaryzad.

Jafaryzad pined Evans in 1:35.

Atlee’s Evan Buchanan dropped a 5-1 decision to Patrick HenryGroup 4A Championships Roanoke’s Theo Taxton in the SALEM – Hanover’s David 113-pound championship Hoover won the 138-pound match.

Patrick Henry’s Brendan championship in the VHSL

Dave Lawrence/The Local

Randolph-Macon first baseman Jay Patti (33) makes a catch in a tight spot to end a bases-loaded Rensselaer scoring threat in the Yellow Jackets’ 7-0 victory over the visiting Engineers in the second game of a doubleheader Sunday.

ing an impact at the plate was shortstop Jeff Butler. Butler hit a three-run home run Saturday and had two hits in each of the games Sunday for four more RBI.

“I’m just trying to stay confident as much as I can and just trying to step up and be a leader,” said Butler, who said he is focusing on barrel control at the plate. “I’m just trying to

get on base any way that I possibly can. On-base percentage is more important than batting average to me. So, just as long as I’m finding a way to get on base and I’m finding a way to steal

bases and score runs – that’s how our team is going to be successful.”

Dave Lawrence can be reached at dlawrence@mechlocal.com.

Group 4A championships at the Salem Civic Center Saturday with a 7-3 decision over Liberty Christian’s Justin Phillips in the final.

Hoover’s teammate, Carson Allen, finished third in the 152pound division as the Hawks finished 15th in a 42-team field.

Jones’ teammate, Shane Shannon, fell to Tazewell’s Derrick Young 10-2 in a thirdplace match.

Dave Lawrence can be reached at dlawrence@mechlocal.com.

Championships 106: Sweeney (Potomac) d.

Browning (Princess Anne) 6-2; 113: Thaxton (Patrick Henry-Roanoke) d. Buchanan (Atlee) 5-1; 120: Woody (Matoaca) d. Tinsley (Mills Godwin) 5-2; 126: New (Salem-VA Beach) d. Gootee (Massaponax) 106; 132: Roulo (Matoaca) d. Knight (Brooke Point) 5-2; 138: Garnett (Edison) d. Sindihebura (Patrick Henry-Roanoke) 4-3; 145: Mitchler (Mountain View) d. Giglio (Broad Run) 4-2; 152: Jafaryzad (Stone Bridge) p. Evans (Lee-Davis) 1:35; 160: Aldridge (Lee-Davis) d. Silva (Mountain View) 5-1; 170: Battista (Broad Run) md. Williams Jr. (Mountain View) 20-8; 182: Vasquez (Mountain View) md. Gamboni (Hickory) 13-3; 195: Pierce (Brooke Point) d. Shifflett (Orange County) 8-3; 220: Birchmeier (Broad Run) md. Walker (Gloucester) 15-6; 285: Montalvo (Brooke Point) d. Gray (Nansemond River) 3-2.

Consolations 106: Murshidi (Briar Woods) p. Jones (Salem-VA Beach) 4:34; 113: Braswell (Matoaca) d.

Abbondante (Salem-VA Beach) 114; 120: Montague (Brooke Point) p. Sizemore (Hickory) 1:14; 126: Bangura (Potomac) d. Altorfer (Mountain View) 3-1; 132: Moaz (Potomac) d. Horowitz (Hickory) 53; 138: Taylor (Broad Run) d. Sausser (Norview) 3-2; 145: Inserra (North Stafford) d. Conrad (Lee-Davis) 3-2; 152: Colza (Lee) d. Garcia (Potomac) 4-3 (TB-1); 160: Neice (Hickory) d. Pierce (Brooke Point) 5-1; 170: Mohsin (Edison) d. A. Anthony (Lee-Davis 8-5); 182: N. Anthony (Lee-Davis) md. Jardine (Princess Anne) 11-3; 195: Phares (Mountain View) d. Baldwin (Princess Anne) 1-0; 220: Adelstein (Atlee) d. Saddler (Hermitage) 3-2 (TB-1); 285: Isaac (Potomac) d. Chang (Mountain View) 5-1.

Group 5A Championships At Oscar Smith High School Team scores: 1. Brooke Point 143; 2. Mountain View 134; 3.

Group 2A Championships Potomac 115; 4. Lee-Davis 91; 5.

SALEM – King William’s Broad Run 88.5; 6. Matoaca 74; 7.

Beach 73; 8. Hickory 69; David Jones won the 182-pound Salem-VA 9. Princess Anne 68.5; 10. Patrick championship as the Cavaliers Henry-Roanoke 62.5; 11. Atlee 44; finished 11th out of 37 teams in 19. Mills Godwin 24; 26. Highland the VHSL Group 2A champi- Springs 13; 27. Prince George 11; Glen Allen 6; 34. Deep Run; 35. onships at Salem Civic Center 32.

Henrico 4; 37. Douglas Freeman 3; Saturday.

37. J.R. Tucker 3; 37. Patrick HenryJones won an 11-4 decision Ashland 3; 41. Meadowbrook 2.

over Lebanon’s Logan Smith.

The Hanover Local February 22, 2017

13

Yellow Jackets survive late surge by Eagles accounted for 10 points and Midulla 7 in the game’s final 10 minutes.

Taylor finished with a gamehigh 27 points – converting 11 of 17 field goals including four 3-pointers – and Midulla finished with 16. Midulla was nine of 12 from the free throw line.

Bridgewater was led by Efe Balfour with 14 points and Kevin Saylor with 12.

Merkel was disappointed with his team’s performance.

“That’s probably the worst game since maybe the first game or two of the year,” Merkel said.

“Credit to their defense, their pressure. We were not offensively tough. We were not valuing the ball like we need to. So we can learn from those things.

“I am happy with the way the seniors [Taylor, Jamie Wilson and Boris Ngundji] played and how we made some shots down the stretch and made some free throws down the stretch and found a way to win.”

Dave Lawrence can be reached at dlawrence@mechlocal.com.

By Dave Lawrence Sports Editor ASHLAND – RandolphMacon’s men’s basketball team had to make it interesting.

The Yellow Jackets – tied with Guilford for first place in the Old Dominion Athletic Conference – hosted 5-18 Bridgewater Tuesday night in Crenshaw Gymnasium. It should have been a blowout.

But Randolph-Macon, which led by 10 just before halftime, led the Eagles slip back into the game and tie it with 13 minutes left.

The Yellow Jackets pulled themselves together after a timeout, however, and pulled away in the final 10 minutes for a 64-56 victory.

Randolph-Macon forward Michael Taylor said the Yellow Jackets weren’t edgy enough in the second half.

“We were being stagnant.

We weren’t really taking care of the ball,” Taylor said. “We got a little too comfortable in the second half. We didn’t come out with that energy that we needed.”

The Eagles caught up with Randolph-Macon 43-43 with 13:13 left in the game. After a Bridgewater turnover a few seconds later, Randolph-Macon head coach Josh Merkel called a timeout.

When the team returned to the floor, more energy and aggressiveness was evident.

“Once our coach called

TRACK Continued from pg. 12

team of Gardner, Helmlinger, Conor Helmick and Buddy Northington finished second.

The 800 relay team of Cameron Foreman, Kendall Haley, Tim

14

timeout, I told the boys it was fire and not let this team walk team, together and got our Taylor and teammate our last home game, possibly. all over us,” Taylor said. “That energy up – gave us the ability Grayson Midulla especially We needed to come out with really brought us, brought our to push through.” caught fire after that. Taylor

BRIDGEWATER (6-18, 314 ODAC) — Saylor 12, Boggs 8, Balfour 14, Kopp 2, Baumgartner 3, Grier 0, Brown 1, Dennis 8, Turner 3, Thompson 5. Totals: 18 15-20 56.

RANDOLPH-MACON (17-7, 13-2) — Noe 5, Taylor 27, Ngundji 0, Wilson 3, Midulla 16, Turner 0, Adams 2, Johnson 4, Williams 7, Nowell 0. Totals: 20 17-27 64.

3-point goals — BC: Saylor 3, Boggs, Turner. R-MC: Taylor 4, Wilson, Midulla, Williams.

Halftime score: RandolphMacon 31-23.

Owen finished second. Owen, Cornelia Brower, Amber Kaplan and Maddie Radolinski ran to a third-place finish in the 1,600 relay.

Olivia Demattia led Patrick Henry’s girls with a third-place finish in the girls 55 hurdles and a fourth in the 300 dash.

Her teammate, Logan Phillips, finished fourth in the 55 hurdles. Alayna Richardson was fourth in the pole vault and Jean Woodrum finished fifth in the shot put.

Dave Lawrence can be reached at dlawrence@mechlocal.com.

Dave Lawrence/The Local

Randolph-Macon’s Darryl Williams (10) takes an off-balance shot in the Yellow Jackets’ 64-56 win over Bridgewater Wednesday.

Willis and Ahmad Richardson finished fourth, and the 3,200 relay team of Helmick, Nathan Welles, Jake Dehetre and Helmlinger finished fifth.

Patrick Henry’s Corbin Turner finished third in the pole vault. Noah Campbell finished fourth in the 3,200 run.

The Hanover Local February 22, 2017

Potomac finished with 96 points. Mountain View was third with 57. Thomas Edison (54) and Brooke Point (50) rounded out the top five. Patrick Henry finished in a tie for second with seven points.

Atlee’s girls placed seventh with 38 points. Senior CeeCee

Harris won the 55-meter dash in 7.21, a personal best. She also finished fourth in the long jump.

Two of the Raiders’ girls relay teams finished in the top five. Their 3,200 relay team of Cabell Franklin, Jessica Faulk, Emma Sudol and Laney

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The Hanover Local February 22, 2017

15

Recreation instructors wanted for summer 2017 ASHLAND -- Instructors and teachers are invited to share their talents with the Hanover Community.

Hanover Parks and Recreation has been a leader in providing recreational experiences for the County. The department is currently seeking instructors who bring specialized talents to the community.

“Become part of this dynamic team and provide an opportunity for people to grow and learn,” Greg Sager, Parks and Rec director, said.

“Many of our instructors have years of experience teaching and enjoy the benefit of being able to offer classes,” he said.

“A recreational experience enables people to participate in a physical activity, offer an opportunity for individuals to learn a new hobby or skill,” Sager added.

J

Parks and Recreation is currently accepting instructor proposals for adult, youth, toddler and activities specifically designed for individuals over the age of 50.

Contact parksandrec@ hanovercounty.gov, or 804-3657150 for more information.

“We are accepting proposals on an ongoing basis for summer 2017,” Sager said.

To see what other instructors are teaching though Parks and Recreation, view the latest Hanover Review brochure to get a sampling or visit the online portal at www.hanoverparksrec. com.

“We hope you’ll join us in enriching our community,” Sager said.

Information submitted by Nikodemas M. Reikalas, recreation coordinator, Hanover County Parks and Recreation.

BUDGET

PLANNING

Continued from pg. 4

2017 and you took only those homes and businesses, you would not have the same total value yet.”

But, overall, Harris was pleased with the proposal and the advances achieved.

In a letter addressed to board members, Harris said: “This budget focuses on the future,” he wrote. “We bolster our support for Public Safety and Education. We provide additional resources to help the schools implement their Five-Year Technology Plan.

We make important investments in roads and other capital projects. We reward our County and School employees for demonstrating the continued excellent customer service that is a hallmark of Hanover County.”

Department budget presentations continue this week, and a public hearing on the proposed budget is scheduled for next month.

Continued from pg. 1

tial area of Montpelier, and that there is a commercialdesignated land use area in Montpelier that already exists less than two miles west on Mountain Road.

Other arguments that opposed the proposal were concerns with traffic and the potential negative impacts that it could have on the environment.

“One of the biggest concerns is well water. We talked to people when we canvassed the neighborhoods around here; there are people who live in this neighborhood who have 40-foot shallow wells,” said Ed Gooding, a life-long resident of Montpelier.

The applicant has proposed to drill an 800-foot deep well.

“We had a pretty tough drought a number of years ago, and what happened was the deep wells dried the aqui-

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The Hanover Local February 22, 2017

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the proposed application to the Hanover County Board of Supervisors.

“One thing that gets my attention in this country and this county … is that we vote on things, and when we have a turnout like tonight — that opposes something to this degree — that gets my attention. I believe that when you vote, you show up to vote,” said Commissioner Frederic McGee Jr., who represents the Cold Harbor District.

The fate regarding the applicant’s proposal will fall in the hands of the board of supervisors, who will make the final decision whether to approve or deny the application.

“Keep Montpelier Rural” is a recently formed group of residents who disagree with the proposed change in land use designation for the area in question, as well as the development that would follow it.

Offering more information about the group and its mission, its website also includes a section where people can sign a petition to oppose the comprehensive plan amendment (CPA-116).

Anyone interested in learning more about the group can visit www.keepmontpelierrural.com.

fers down, so the people with the shallow wells had to drill new wells,” he said.

Gooding also pointed out to the Planning Commission that a resident he’s been in contact with has claimed that he was offered money to sign a petition in approval of the proposal, and Gooding presented a “sworn, notarized affidavit” from one of the residents who claimed he was offered $100 to sign his support.

In other comments, residents who favor the proposal expressed how they felt bullied by others in the community and were afraid to come forward with their support for Harris’ plans.

“People are feeling bullied in our community, [they have a] fear of speaking out and I wanted to use this opportunity to speak for me and other people who agree with this proposal,” said Kelly Schips.

“I truly believe that this development is for the better outcome of the community; yes, it will affect a few. But I’ve always been taught that what benefits the most, rather than what’s affecting the few, is the better outcome,” Schips said.

After hearing all of the public input provided during the meeting, the commissioners announced their decision to recommend denying

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