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VOLUNTEER Hanover Tomato Festival: MaterFUN Zone needs you this year.

CHARITABLE

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Lipscombe contributes to Hanover Humane Society operations.

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Vol. 2 No. 36 | Richmond Suburban News | March 22, 2017

Ashland Town Council budget workshops continue By Logan Barry for The Hanover Local

SHLAND – Budget work sessions wrapped up last week, with Ashland Town Council members receiving presentations from the Ashland Police Department, town council and Board of Elections, as well as the town manager’s proposal. Police Chief Douglas Goodman, who was accompanied by two of his officers, appeared before council with a fiscal year 2017-2018 budget that he said he and his staff determine is necessary to

uphold the quality of services needed in the municipality. “This is a participative process within the agency – in trying to reach down to those subject matters that are experts that work out in the field every day, to give us the best information we can to develop on our budget,” Goodman said. He told council that the department was requesting a budget of about $2.6 million for 2017-2018. The budget

GOODMAN

‘Ashland Loves a Parade’ includes the Circle of Life By Mollie Hargrove Reporter ASHLAND — From a small church in Ashland to a wartime hospital, and just about everything in between, the Hanover Arts and Activities Center in “The Center of the Universe” has remained a well-loved nonprofit organization offering workshops, studio spaces for artists, local performances, and community events. Every other year, Ashland and Hanover County residents

take to the stage at the Blackwell Auditorium on the campus of Randolph-Macon College to celebrate the Center with the Ashland Musical Variety Show. The 2017 production will be presented at 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday, March 30-31, and Saturday, April 1. “Ashland Loves a Parade” is the theme of the show, which features over 400 performers displaying their talents in skits and musical numbers. see SHOW, pg. 2

Corinne Luck performs as a Hippo for the Circle of Life, African Animal Parade in this year’s Ashland Musical Variety Show. The costume was made by Jen Inge and Ginger Brooking. Photo submitted by Sue Watson

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request landed at $2,657,008; increasing 3.4% higher than the FY 2016-2017 mid-year estimate. In addition to requesting an additional officer position be added to the department’s roster that would serve dual-roles in a combination between patrol-level operations and investigative components due to increased workload, Goodman said the public safety agency also has an urgent need for additional assistance with narcotics

investigations. “We talk about this, this is not a big secret – but the heroin epidemic is nationwide and we are not immune,” the chief said. He noted that, in 2014 and 2015, Ashland had zero deaths caused from opiate overdoses; but in 2016 there were 10 overdoses and three deaths in the town that were a result of these drugs. “We have two investigators [who] that’s pretty much all they do: focus on narcotics, and by narcotics, [I mean] the heroin trade. There is always room see WORKSHOPS, pg. 12

Nominations wanted for Marc Weiss Awards Staff Report news@mechlocal.com The annual Marc Weiss Hanover Workforce Awards are awarded to Hanoverbased organizations that have achieved success in areas such as recruiting, hiring, training, retaining, innovative workplace environments and other strategies that have led to an effective workforce.

Weiss, who was the director for Economic Development in Hanover County, died in April 2011 after a brief battle with pancreatic cancer. Winners are recognized in both the small and large business categories. Businesses with 1 to 149 employees are considered see AWARD, pg. 2

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Randolph-Macon College has always been well represented in the Ashland Musical Variety Show. This group photo was taken before rehearsal started Tuesday, March 14, at Blackwell Auditorium. All of the folks have direct ties to R-MC. The every other year show will be presented at 7 p.m. March 30 and 31 and April 1 at Blackwell Auditorium on the R-MC campus. For reserved seats, call 804-798-2881. General admission tickets (in the balcony) are available at Cross Bros Grocery. Tickets are selling fast. For more information, visit www.hanoverarts.org.

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The Hanover Local March 22, 2017

SHOW Continued from pg. 1

The 104-year-old building that houses the Hanover Arts and Activities Center is a staple of the history in the Town of Ashland, continuously bringing the community together through art and education. The all-volunteer board mimics its founders, who relied entirely on fundraising to not only purchase the building from the First Baptist Church, but to run the center and provide its continuous amount of community projects. This year marks the 50th anniversary of community arts and outreach at the Center. Rehearsals started at the Center, but have since moved to Blackwell Auditorium. In addition to the talents of community members, the show spotlights leaders, including Ashland Town Council, the

Hanover County Board of Supervisors, Hanover County Public Schools, Hanover County School Board and Ashland Police Department. Ashland Mayor James Foley; Dr. Michael Gill, superintendent of HCPS; and John Axselle, chairman of the school board; agreed that the time together during rehearsals provides silliness and fun for them. They said they enjoyed being able to show the public their “not so serious” side. While there won’t be any spoiler alerts, the mayor said one costume he will be wearing is “fabulous.” He would not elaborate on the performance. Tickets are on sale and can be reserved for Thursday, which is Family Night and all seats are $15; and $20 on Friday and Saturday. General admission tickets (balcony seats) are $15. To purchase tickets, call 804-798-2881. They also are available at Cross Brothers Grocery.

AWARD Continued from pg. 1

small and 150-plus employee companies are considered large businesses. Businesses are encouraged to nominate themselves or another company, if they are: Applying innovative techniques to achieve a larger, better-trained, stable, safe and happy workforce; Successfully creating jobs and/or incorporating innovative hiring practices; Creating innovative workplace cultures; or Using effective training strategies to optimize their workforce and develop future leaders. For more information, go to http:// www.chamberrva.com/programs/business-councils/marc-weiss-award/.

SHERIFF’S REPORTS | Crime, Accidents, Fire & Rescue

Petit larceny building was reported in the 9400 block of Station Road, Mechanicsville.

Simple assault was reported in the 9400 block of Atlee Station Road, Mechanicsville.

Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 13200 block of Mountain Road, Glen Allen.

Bomb/burn threat accused was reported in the 12400 block of West Patrick Henry Road, Ashland.

Petit larceny building was reported in the 8200 block of Ellerson Drive, Mechanicsville.

March 6

March 7

Possession of Schedule I and II controlled substance was reported in the 7400 block of Johnsonville Way, Mechanicsville. Destruction of property, monument, was reported in the 8400 block of Bink Place, Mechanicsville.

March 8

Simple assault was reported in the 10000 block of Learning Lane, Mechanicsville.

Identity theft financial loss, $200, was reported in the 7100 block of Rural Point Road, Mechanicsville. Obtaining money or signature by false pretenses was reported in the 12300 block of Cady Creek Road, Hanover.

Identity theft financial loss, $200, was reported in the 7200 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.

Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 7200 block of Garden Park Lane, Mechanicsville.

Identity theft financial loss, $200, was reported in the 18100 block of Old Ridge Road, Montpelier.

Damage to a vehicle, boat or aircraft was reported in the 10200 block of Lakeridge Square Court, Ashland.

Possession of marijuana, subsequent offense, was reported in the 8200 block of Whipporwill Road, Mechanicsville.

Grand larceny, $200 or more not from a person, was reported in the 7500 block of Cold Harbor Road, Mechanicsville. Credit card fraud, $200 in six months, was reported in the 10100 block of Lewistown Road, Ashland. Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 7100 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike/ Wynbrook Lane, Mechanicsville.

Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 6300 block of Creighton Road/Interstate 295 to Creighton Road eastbound, Mechanicsville.

March 9

Grand larceny building was reported in the 5100 block of Cold Harbor Road, Mechanicsville.

Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 7200 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville.

Assault and battery of a family member was reported in the 11200 block of Howards Mill Road, Glen Allen.

Grand larceny building was reported in the 8000 block of Creighton Parkway, Mechanicsville. Grand larceny building was reported in the 5300 block of Mantilo Creek Road, Mechanicsville.

Conspire to conceal, $200, was reported in the 7200 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.

Simple assault was reported in the 7100 block of McCauley Road, Mechanicsville.

Assault and battery of a family member was reported in the 7000 block of Daffodil Road, Mechanicsville.

Assault and battery of a family member was reported in the 7100 block of Melecole Drive, Mechanicsville.

Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 3700 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville.

Identity theft financial loss,$200, was reported in the 6000 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike/ Mechanicsville.

Assault and battery of a family member was reported in the 13200 block of Winston Drive, Ashland.

Obtaining money, etc., by false pretense, larceny, $200 conspiracy, was reported in the 7500 block of Right Flank Road, Mechanicsville.

Destruction of property, monument, was reported in the 6000 block of Turkey Hollow Place, Mechanicsville.

March 13

Obtaining money or signature by false pretenses was reported in the 8100 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville. ID theft ID to defraud, $200, was reported in the 5300 block of Studley Road, Mechanicsville.

Obstructing justice with force was reported in the 7300 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville. Driver did not report an accident with damages, $1,000, in the 8200 block of Atlee Road, Mechanicsville.

Grand larceny building was reported in the 9400 block of Atlee Station Road, Mechanicsville.

Destruction of property, monument, was reported in the 7400 block of Park Drive, Mechanicsville. Driver did not report an accident

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Simple assault was reported in the 7400 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville. Breaking and entering at night with intent to commit felony was reported in the 10300 block of Rose Garden Path, Mechanicsville.

March 11

Destruction of property, monument, was reported in the 9100 block of Totopotomoy Trail, Ashland.

ID theft ID to defraud, $200, was reported in the 8000 block of LeeDavis Road, Mechanicsville.

Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 10300 block of Chamberlayne Road, Mechanicsville.

Possession of marijuana, subsequent offense, was reported on Mechanicsville Turnpike eastbound to Cold Harbor Road, Mechanicsville.

Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 8300 block of Old Calvary Drive/ Reunion Drive, Mechanicsville.

Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 9000 block of Shady grove Road/ Academy Drive, Mechanicsville.

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

Possession of Schedule I and II controlled substances was reported in the 8700 block of Kennon Court, Mechanicsville.

Grand larceny building was reported in the 12400 block of West Patrick Henry Road, Ashland.

Violating emergency protection orders was reported in the 5400 block of Muzzle Court,

March 10

was reported in the 9100 block of Chamberlayne Road, Mechanicsville.

with damages, $1,000, in the 9100 block of Chamberlayne Road/ Leon Lane, Mechanicsville.

March 12

Possession of Schedule I and II controlled substances

see SHERIFF’s, pg. 12

Thursday, May 11 4:30pm - 8pm

Buy tickets at Union First Market Banks in Hanover County • www.hanoverrotary.org 804-550-3098 Bruce Perretz The Hanover Local March 22, 2017

Fairfield Inn & Suites hotel opens in Ashland Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com ASHLAND — The 103-room Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott in Ashland opened Thursday, March 16, at 11625 Lakeridge Parkway. The Fairfield Inn & Suites Richmond Ashland will operate as a Marriott franchise, owned by Holladay Properties and managed by Guest Services Inc. of Fairfax. Located 23 miles from Richmond International Airport and 15 minutes from downtown Richmond, the hotel offers guests convenient access to Richmond International Raceway, James River Cellars Winery, Hanover County Airpark, Harley Davidson and Bass Pro Shop. Rates begin at $89 per night. “Delivering both function and comfort, our new design and décor elevate the Fairfield brand, setting a new standard in the moderate tier category,” Shruti Buckley, vice president and global brand manager, Fairfield Inn & Suites, said. “At Fairfield Inn & Suites, we provide an easy, positive and productive travel experience, as well as the promise of consistent and reliable service at an exceptional value. The Fairfield Inn & Suites Richmond Ashland is a truly stunning example of the brand’s contemporary look and feel, and we are pleased to introduce Fairfield Inn & Suites hotels in the Ashland area.” The hotel boasts bright new design features, including an updated exterior with a signature tower, a curved porte-cochere

and a glass entrance. The hotel’s open public space features natural light and views throughout the lobby to connect the indoors with the outdoors. In the lobby area, guests can enjoy breakfast or a snack. They also can unwind in the lobby’s living area - whose focal points include a natural stone hearth, organic-shaped sofa and lounge chair, and unique local features — or they can grab a drink or snack item from the 24/7 Corner Market.

television viewing. The hotel’s rooms and suites place the living and working area near the window to allow for more natural light and views. Building on this natural design, the room décor features organic patterns and fresh colors, blending wood tones with bright pops of color. The new design also places the sleeping area toward the middle of the room. The bright, spacious living area also offers a couch, refrigerator, coffeemaker and microwave.

The breakfast area’s signature farm table provides a central gathering place where guests can watch television, meet up with colleagues or get work done. In the morning, guests can enjoy complimentary hot breakfast, choosing from oatmeal, scrambled eggs, sausage, make-your-own waffles and other healthy items, such as fruit, yogurt, and whole grain cereals and breads. The signature “smart” room décor welcomes guests. The guest room includes a well-designed work area, an ergonomic chair, task lighting and electrical outlets where guests need them. A curved, mobile desk enables guests to create their own work space, while also optimizing their

Additional hotel amenities include an indoor swimming pool, an exercise room, lobby bar, valet laundry service, complimentary WiFi, as well as fax and copy services. The hotel also offers 750 square feet of space to accommodate functions of up to 50 people. For more information or reservations, contact the Fairfield Inn & Suites Richmond Ashland hotel directly at 804412-4800, call the Fairfield Inn & Suites toll-free number at 800-228-2800, visit www.fairfieldinn.com, become a fan at www.facebook.com/fairfieldinnandsuites or follow Fairfield at www.twitter.com/ fairfieldhotels. Visit Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) for company information. For more information or reservations, visit www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com.

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Hanover Tomato Festival: MaterFUN Zone needs you ASHLAND — Hanover County’s signature event – the Hanover Tomato Festival — is known for free family fun! The Hanover Tomato Festival Committee and Hanover County Parks and Recreation are searching for local businesses and organizations that can help deliver fun activities, crafts, games or creative play to make this year’s event one of the best in the event’s 39-year history. “Families come to this event looking for fun things for their children, what can you offer?” Greg Sager, Parks and Rec director, asked. Register online at www. hanoverparksrec.com and search “MaterFUN” to sign up for a 20x20 space where you can lead your approved

activity and promote your organization. The fee is only $50 for the space, with add-on options of electrical, tent, table and chairs available. The Hanover Tomato Festival will be held 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. For more information about the 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 Nikodemas M. Reikalas, recreation coordinator, Hanover County Parks and Recreation.

PLUMBING, HEATING & COOLING

The Hanover Local March 22, 2017

Lipscombe helps Humane Society Deadline extended for ‘Spirit of Volunteerism’

Tom Haynie/The Local

Greg Koegler, left, owner and operator of Lipscombe Appliance in Mechanicsville, presents Andrew Paine, operations director of the Hanover Humane Society, a check representing a percentage of the profits from all sales in a February sale. Lipscombe donated the funds directly to the Hanover Humane Society. The check presentation recently took place at the Hanover Humane Society facility on 12190 Washington Hwy. in Ashland. Paine said, “All donations are welcome at this time or any time.

The deadline to submit nominations in honor of outstanding volunteers serving Hanover County has been extended to 5 p.m. Friday, March 24. These annual awards recognize outstanding volunteer service throughout the county. Anyone may nominate inspiring individuals or groups of any age, whether they serve small or large organizations, schools, neighborhoods, government, faith-based community initiatives or civic-led community outreach. Self-nominations also are welcomed. Awards are granted in the following categories: Spirit of One (honoring an individual over 18); Spirit of Youth (honoring youth or youth group up to age 18 or still in high school);

Spirit of Dedication (honoring an individual 60 and over); Spirit of Team (honoring two or more adult volunteers working toward a common cause); Spirit of Family (honoring two or more family members working together toward a common purpose); Spirit of Inspiration (honoring an individual who has volunteered 20 years or more for a specific organization); and Commitment to Community (recognizing a Hanover business which has demonstrated a sustained commitment to supporting the community). Award recipients will be selected from each category. All will receive an engraved plaque and a financial donation of up to $250 made in their honor to the tax-exempt organization designated on the honoree’s

nomination form. The county also will nominate the award recipient for the statewide Governor’s Community Service and Volunteerism Awards. All nominees will be recognized and award recipients will be announced at 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 16, at the Spirit of Volunteerism Celebration in the Hanover High School auditorium. This event is free and open to the public. Online submission information and other details are available at www.hanovervolunteers.org or by contacting the Hanover County Department of Community Resources at 804-365-4300. Information submitted by Tom Harris, Hanover County public information officer.

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The Hanover Local March 22, 2017

OPINION

LETTERS

| The Local Views

| Reader Views

From the editor

Innocence removes fear of federal probe By Melody Kinser Managing Editor

hinking about living in a world filled with who’s listening in on who and who’s hacking whose computer accounts brought back an incident that took place in the summer of 1991. Yours truly was called into the publisher’s office at my hometown newspaper. Granted, sometimes it felt as though I was going to the principal’s office (but that’s another story). Anyway, after being summoned in and told to sit down, he proceeded to tell me that we had been checked out by the FBI and we both came up clean. Knowing I had nothing to hide, my immediate response was: “Did they ask you why you don’t pay me more?” That only elicited a glare.

I wasn’t shaken or upset. It didn’t bother me that federal investigators had kept track of my comings and goings. I expect some of the calls may have been entertaining — if they were, in fact, tapping my phones. It was no secret that agents were in the county gathering evidence about political corruption. Since our newspaper was the primary news source, the publisher and I, as managing editor, were put under the government microscope. The publisher was relaxed as we talked about our status. I remember telling him that there was no money trail and any check written to me was signed by a Kinser (that would be my parents and my sister, who kept her maiden name when she married). He did ask me: “Didn’t you notice the dark cars driving by your house?” Well, I wasn’t expecting anybody, so I didn’t spend any time looking out the win-

dows in a paranoid frenzy. It was an 11-room house and watching traffic was hardly on my to-do list. Just as I felt at that time, I’m not bothered by the idea of federal authorities looking into my background. With age, I’ve become pretty boring. I wonder if those phone recordings still exist. They would be interesting to hear. When I’ve shared this story through the years, I often get a wide-eyed look. People seem surprised that I didn’t freak out when I learned the Feds had been watching and, I guess, listening. After all these years, I’m still unfazed by the situation. That’s because being innocent provides that kind of security. As for the outcome of the probe, the federal government indicted two elected officials and an appointed one. They each served time in federal prisons.

Parlez-vous francais? A new slant on French cuisine By Jim Ridolphi Contributing Columnist If there’s a project due the next day in one of my children’s’ classes, I’m always the last to know about it. I’ve grown tired of my same old diatribe about how we need to plan things in a timely manner and make sure we don’t leave things for the last minute, but it seems so old and ineffective I hardly bother anymore. And every parent knows these unfortunate surprises always fall at the most inopportune of times, and

often involve late nights and frayed nerves. And, so it was a couple of weeks ago when Emma informed me of a French project scheduled many weeks ago that required students to cook a three-course French meal with authentic ingredients. Now I took a couple of years of French in high school. Problem is, most of it was in French I. I’ve also been to France when I landed a photography assignment in Monte Carlo. A local television station escorted its top advertisers to the Cote d’Azur for a week of sun and fun to show their appreciation for

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

Publisher Managing Editor Production Manager Sports Editor Sales Representative Sales Representative Sales Representative Classifieds

Joy Monopoli Melody Kinser Denine D’Angelo David Lawrence Tom Haynie Sarah Suttles J.R. Hammond Cindy Grant Adams

The Hanover Local March 22, 2017

jmonopoli@rsnva.com mkinser@mechlocal.com ddangelo@mechlocal.com dlawrence@mechlocal.com thaynie@mechlocal.com ssuttles@mechlocal.com jhammond@mechlocal.com cgrant@mechlocal.com

their generous contracts. While the assignment was almost too good to be true, I was immediately worried that my less than adventurous eating habits would be challenging in a world with high class cuisine and meals served in numerous rounds. I survived by recalling one of the French words I did remember, and I searched every menu for one word: boeuf. On almost every occasion, my order resulted in some form of beef, usually a nice filet. see FRENCH, pg. 12

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.

Taking issue with delegates picking voters In response to the Tea Party letter about Del. Buddy Fowler: I am sure the delegate is a nice man, but did you know he voted to kill reform of political gerrymandering? This means that delegates get to pick their voters. I admit that I prefer it when voters pick their elected officials. JM Thomas Mechanicsville

Traffic stop had best intentions from the deputy I had a disappointing traffic stop this morning on my way to work. I was driving along U.S. 360, minding my own business and listening to 94.5 radio station when I heard the toot of a siren and saw the blue lights in my rear view mirror. Knowing that I am always in compliance with the law, never speeding, inspection sticker and registration up to date, I figured there are only two things left that could be reasons for the stop. My tag says KG (KING) TRUMP and, knowing the odds are against a Democrat being in the Hanover County Sheriff ’s Office, I knew right away I wouldn’t be getting stopped for the tag. That leaves reason number two. As I’m listening to the radio they urge people to call in about the disadvantages of being too good looking, so right off I said to myself, “That’s it!! This is what they’re talking about; I’m being ticketed for being too good looking.” It turned out to be a short-lived evaluation on my part as I soon found out the deputy just wanted to remove a tree limb I was dragging under the driver’s side of my truck. see LETTERS, pg. 8

OBITUARIES | Death Notices & Funerals REV. DONALD COLLINS The Rev. Donald Orlando Collins, 91, of Emporia, went to be with the Lord on March 18, 2017. He was preceded in death by his wife, Ann Smith Collins; and his son, Donald Stephen Collins. He is survived by his daughters, Beverly C. Flippo (Carter) of Doswell and Kim C. Johnson (Mike) of Jackson, North Carolina; grandchildren, Brittany and Emily Flippo, COLLINS Mason and Claire Collins, Lauren Ashley Collins, Lauren Hasty and Brad Johnson; two greatgrandsons, Aubrey and Hunter Hasty; brother, Ben F. Collins of Greensboro, North Carolina; and many nieces and nephews. He served as Seaman 1st classman on the USS Gunston Hall in the Pacific area during World War II. After being honorably discharged from the military, he completed his education in broadcasting at RPI in Richmond in 1947. He spent the next 41 years as a broadcaster and the sales manager at WEVA in Emporia. During the early 1970s, he spent much time lay-ministering in the prisons or filling in at local pulpits. In 1987, he decided to retire from radio and pursue his real passion, the ministry. In 1988, he completed his coursework at Duke University to be ordained as a minister within the United Methodist Church. He became the minister of three small churches in Dinwiddie County on June 16, 1988. Oak Grove UMC, one of these three churches, became his passion and

he spent 19 years ministering there, until his retirement in 2007. Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, March 22, 2017, at the Oak Grove United Methodist Church, with burial in the church cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Oak Grove UMC, 12715 Acorn Rd., Petersburg, VA 23805. Online condolences may be made at owenfh. com. Owen Funeral Home in Jarratt was in charge of arrangements.

DENNIS HARRIS Dennis Allen Harris, 57, of Beaverdam, passed away March 15, 2017. He was preceded in death by his father, Allen Ray Harris. He worked at Bear Island Paper Company and was a dedicated employee for over 38 years. He was a member at Chapel Church of Christ in Montpelier. Dennis is survived by his son, Ryan Matthew Harris; HARRIS mother, Catherine Harris; sisters, Debra Harris Gravatt and Tammy Harris; mother of his son, Lisa Harris Lohrey, as well as several nieces and nephews. Funeral services were held at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, March 22, 2017, at Nelsen Funeral Home & Crematory - 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 Kidney Foundation in Dennis’ honor. Online condolences may be registered at www. nelsenashland.com.

JANE HOBSON Jane Mitchell Hobson, age 87, of Ashland, passed away March 14, 2017, at home. She was preceded in death by her parents, Thomas B. and Mary Berthal Hall Mitchell; and one brother, James Wallace Mitchell. Jane had worked at Thalhimers as a credit analyst. She is survived by her daughters, Martha H. Smith (Kenneth), Mary H. Bowles (Paul) and Elizabeth H. Lowmaster (David); three grandchildren, Kelley R. Smith, Kristin N. Smith HOBSON and William T. Lowmaster; three siblings, Nell M. Spain, Thomas L. Mitchell and Marvin L. Mitchell; nieces, nephews and many friends. Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 18, 2017, at Woody Funeral Home - Atlee Chapel at 9271 Shady Grove Road in Mechanicsville. Burial followed in Hollywood Cemetery. Online condolences may be made at www.woodyfuneralhomeatlee.com.

MONICA M. HUTSON Monica M. Hutson, 44, went home to be

with the Lord on March 12, 2017. She was born in Williamsburg on January 4, 1973. She was currently living in Richmond with her companion, Jacob. She was an R.N. at Bon Secours, but was currently working, alongside her family dogs, HUTSON Hope and Marley, in the family business. She was predeceased by her brother, John “Matt” Hutson. She is survived by her mother, Debbie Jenkins Gibson of Rockville; her father, John M. Hutson of Mathews, but currently living in Buxton, North Carolina; her son, Landon Nixon, stationed in Louisiana with the Army and his wife, Taylor; along with many aunts, uncles and cousins. Funeral services were held at 4 p.m. Sunday March 19, 2017, at Woody Funeral Home, Parham Chapel. Interment was private. Condolences may be made at www.woodyfuneral homeparham.com. Donations may be made to either Our Lady of the Seas, PO.BOX 399, Buxton, NC 27920 or Faith Landmarks Ministries, 8491 Chamberlayne Ave., Richmond, VA 23227. see OBITUARIES, pg. 8

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The Hanover Local March 22, 2017

CALENDAR

Fax 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.

| News, Updates & Listings Thursday, March 23

Saturday, April 1

Nothing but Networking will be held from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at O’Banks Café & Grill at 10392 Leadbetter Rd. in Ashland.

The Doswell Ruritan Club is offering a night of music and dancing featuring Patsy and The County Classics from 8 p.m. to midnight at the Doswell Community Center at16433 N. Washington Hwy. in Doswell. The admission fee is $10 at the door.

Saturday, March 25 A Pork BBQ Dinner with rolls, baked beans, slaw, baked apples, dessert and beverages will be sold from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Doswell Ruritan Club at 16433 Washington Hwy. in Doswell. The cost is $9 for adults and $4 for ages 4 to 10. Takeouts are available.

OBITUARIES Continued from pg. 7

HENRY LONG

Henry Lee Long, 62, of Doswell, passed peacefully March 15, 2017. He was born to the late Harvey Lee Long and Odell Marie Tucker. He was predeceased by his sister, Josephine; and brothers, Charles and David Kerns. He worked at Kings Dominion for

Tuesday, April 4 Guys Night Out will be held from 6 to 7:30 p.m. in the cafeteria of South Anna Elementary School. For more information, contact Emily Kitching at ekitching@hcps.us.

30 years, was an avid Dallas Cowboy fan, and loved spending time with family. Left to cherish his memory are his devoted wife, Bonnie; daughters, Shalita Pharel (Lewis) and Dawn Michels (Greg); grandson, Lathan Pharel; two brothers, Joseph Kerns and Harvey K. Long; two sisters, Harriett and Ellen Kerns; along with a host of other relatives and friends. In accordance with

Henry’s wishes, services will be private. F.E. Dabney Funeral Home in Ashland was in charge of arrangements.

THOMAS ROBINSON Thomas Alford “Red” Robinson departed this life Monday, March 6, 2017. He was predeceased by four siblings and one grandson. Thomas

Sunday, April 9 Bobbie Street of Ashland will present her Women’s Club paper on longevity, focusing on those “blue zone” communities, where people enjoy extraordinarily long life spans at 2 p.m. in the Ashland Library at 201 S. Railroad Ave. in Ashland. Her program will examine “how DNA isn’t necessarily destiny.” The event is sponsored by At Home in Ashland (AHA) and admission is free and open to the public. Registration is recommended to ensure adequate seating. For reservations, email jrshalf@gmail.com or call 804-399-1844.

was a member of the Jerusalem Baptist Church for many years. He retired ROBINSON f r o m Kings Dominion after 20 years of employment. Left to cherish his memory are

his devoted wife of 64 years, Margeory; eight children, Larry Tillman (Dorine), Delores Bertrand (Lawrence), Franklin Robinson (Evelyn), Alphonso Robinson, Shirley Pleasants, Sherry Robinson, Brenda Curtis (Ronald) and Kelvin Robinson; two siblings, Henry Robinson and Lucille Pleasants; 13 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, along with a host of other relatives and friends. Homegoing service was held at 2 p.m. Sunday, March 5, 2017, at the Jerusalm Baptist Church in Doswell, with Dr. E. Richard Swan, pastor; the Rev. Marvin Fields, officiant; and the Rev. Corine Lucas, eulogist. Interment followed in Second Mount Zion Baptist Church in Dawn. F.E. Dabney Funeral Home in Ashland was in charge of arrangements.

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The Hanover Local March 22, 2017

Inez P. Rollston, 81, of Chesterfield, went to be with the Lord on Friday, March 10, 2017. She is survived by her son, Robert C. Rollston Jr., and his wife, Cheryl C. Hays; daughter, Sheila R. Garrison, and her husband, Carl E. Garrison III; grandchildren, Lisa Burleigh, and her husband, Lucas, Cody Garrison and Michael Rollston and his significant other,

LETTERS Continued from pg. 8

Pretty nice of the deputy as she probably was thinking my disappointment was due to the stop, so she removed the limb and tossed it aside instead of making me get out and do it. Although I didn’t get the ticket I wanted for being too good looking, thanks to the deputy for the stop and tossing the limb. Maybe next time. Ted Mentz Old Church Felicia; greatgranddaught e r s , Sawyer a n d Carter Burleigh. ROLLSTON She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert Clarence Rollston Sr.; parents, Jeanette S. and William Walter Robertson Sr. Inez was a member of the Arbor Baptist Church in Amelia, a member of the Marine Corps League James M. Slay Detachment #329 Ladies Auxiliary, a charter member of the John P. Quarles Memorial Senior Center and the Swinging Seniors bowling league. She was a lover of Blue Grass music, gardening and dancing. A graveside service was held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, March 16, 2017, in Dale Memorial Park, with the Rev. Jim Wilson officiating. A celebration of her life was held from 2 to 4 p.m. on Thursday, following the graveside service, at the John P. Quarles Memorial Senior Center at 945 Worth Street in Richmond. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions be made to the Fisher House Foundation, 1401 Rockville Pike, Suite 600, Rockville, MD 20852.

UPCOMING EVENTS

22 2017

Prep softball: Patrick Henry at Deep Run 6:00 p.m.

22 2017

Prep baseball: Patrick Henry at Deep Run 6:00 p.m.

| Youth, High School, College, Recreational & Professional

Patriots show no mercy in softball opener “Grayson provides some senior leadership,” Pettus said. “And we have a few returning players that were all-conference last year, so we feel like we have a great foundation on this team.” That experienced lineup is bolstered by two freshmen starters – third baseman Saxon Radcliffe and leftfielder Jamie Hughes – who both turned in solid performances Friday. “We just want to play the best we can when we’re on the field,” said Pettus. And as well as the Patriots played tonight, the coaching staff knows that they’ve got some stiff competition on the horizon. “We’re going to face some really good pitching this season,” Pettus said. “But tonight was encouraging. Everyone hit the ball very well. And I think we’re going to be pretty good this year.” After thinking about it for a minute, he was quick to add, “But you’re only as good as your last game.” Andrew Spencer can be reached at sports@mechlocal. com.

By Andrew Spencer for the Hanover Local HENRICO – Patrick Henry softball coach Walter Pettus is fond of reminding his team that they’re only as good as their last game. By that metric, it’s safe to say that, at least for right now, this year’s Patriots squad is pretty good. The Patriots dominated the Hermitage Panthers Friday night, blasting their way to a 17-1 lead on 21 hits. After five innings game, officials invoked the mercy rule and declared the game over. The Patriots dominated from the first inning. After three of the first four Patrick Henry batters reached base, Hailey Thomas hit a shot to right-center that brought in the first two of the Patriots’ runs. But the real offensive fireworks came in the fourth inning, when pitcher Charlotte Mitchell sent a ball over the center field wall for a two-run homer. Not to be outdone, Thomas stepped up to bat after Mitchell and hit her own out-of-the-park ball over the left field wall. “We hit the ball well tonight,” Pettus said of his squad’s offensive performance. The Patriots were as sharp defensively as they were offensively. Mitchell pitched all five innings, allowing only three hits and one run, while striking out nine and walking one.

Nick Liberante for The Local

P. Henry 256 31 — 17 21 0 Hermitage 000 01 — 1 3 4 Mitchell. Dolin and McPherson. The Patriots have only one W: Mitchell. L: Dolin. HR – PH: Slenaker, Mitchell, senior starting this season, shortstop Grayson Radcliffe, Thomas. Records: Patrick Henry 1-0, who went 4-for-5 with three Hermitage 0-1.

Patrick Henry pitcher Charlotte Mitchell held Hermitage to three hits and a walk in a 17-1 victory over the host Panthers Friday.

“We got an outstanding pitching performance from Charlotte tonight,” Pettus said. “She was first team all-conference last year, so it’s not surpris-

ing to us that she pitched so well tonight.” Even that compliment was something of an understatement, as Mitchell struck out

seven of the first nine batters she faced. Of the two she didn’t strike out, one was a groundout to first and the other was her RBIs. only walk of the night.

The Hanover Local March 22, 2017

Lacrosse, soccer teams face new challenges By Jonathan Howard and Andrew Spencer for the Hanover Local ASHLAND – Patrick Henry’s soccer and lacrosse and teams begin their seasons drenched in newness: new starters, new players (period) and, in some cases, new coaches. The greenness of the players on the field may pose some challenges as the Patriots face tough local and conference competition, but even the new coaches have the experience it takes to build strong, young teams. Girls soccer Head coach Anna Wright’s Patrick Henry girls soccer squad returns 10 starters from last year’s 7-7 team. She sees that as the team’s strength. “We have an experienced team going into this season.” Wright said. “They seem to have grown a lot from last year so hopefully we will see a more winning record.” The primary strength of the team will be the defensive side of the ball – where seniors Sophia Basso and Caitlin Rutherford will see time – as well as the midfield. Senior Madison Brown will likely draw the start in goal. The challenge for the Patriots will be finishing scoring opportunities. Juniors Julia LaFortune and Brooke Purcell could solve that problem. Boys soccer Patrick Henry has only four starters returning from last year’s team – the Patriots lost 14 seniors to graduation last year. Yet the team still boasts 14 seniors with significant playing experience. Citing their ability to possess McGraw expects the midfield, ability to get the ball accurately determine the team’s success the ball and control the flow of led by Corey Finchum, to be into forward areas to third-year in improving last year’s scoring the game, head coach Daniel the strength of the team. Their starter Coleman Cheeley will output.

The Hanover Local March 22, 2017

John Beebe for The Local

Above, Patrick Henry sophomore Piper Mullins is one of the returning players who should lead the Patriots this season.

Nick Liberante for The Local

Above, Patrick Henry players celebrate a goal against Hermitage in the Patriots’ 4-0 win over the Panthers Friday. Dave Lawrence/The Local

Left, junior Ben Schubert, shown against Atlee two years ago, will be one of the Patriots’ leaders this year.

Anchoring the defense is senior goalkeeper Collin Donaghy, who is reportedly the strongest he’s ever been after participating in an off-season weight program. Boys lacrosse First-year Patrick Henry head coach Blair Penny inherits a Patriots squad that ended 2016 with a 6-8 record. But with a 92-59 career coaching record, Penny has the experience and the history to build

the program. The Patriot team is loaded with experience, including senior attacker Austin Bailey and junior attacker Ben Schubert and senior defensemen Mason Perdue and Carter Riddle. If Penny can leverage that experience effectively, the Patriots could surprise some people in the Conference 16. Girls lacrosse Patrick Henry is another team that, while lacking depth and experience, return some offensive firepower. Junior attacker Emily Flinn put up 26 goals in 2016, and sophomore middie Ryan Peebles added 23. But perhaps the most significant statistic for first-year head coach Taylor Huber is 10. That is the number of starters the Patriots lost from last year’s 6-7 team. With only two seniors on this year’s team – defender Clare Seuss and goalkeeper Andrea Lindgren – 2017 could be a rebuilding year. Jonathan Howard and Andrew Spencer can be reached at sports@mechlocal.com.

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The Hanover Local March 22, 2017

FRENCH Continued from pg. 6

Gastronomically speaking, it was a challenging week but I returned stateside without opening the box of crackers and jar of peanut butter I’d packed as a last resort against starvation. So, I only knew one French meal and that as filet de boeuf, or filet mignon as we know it. Oddly enough, if you order filet mignon in France you usually get pork, but I digress. We cooked Ratatouille for the side dish and prepared a fruitfilled custard tart for desert. That final step offered its own brand of defeat as we attempted and threw

WORKSHOPS Continued from pg. 1

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SPECIAL SECTIONS FROM The Hanover Local March 22, 2017

for more, I could put four officers to work tomorrow on this issue alone,” Goodman said. He wanted to be clear though, he’s only asking for one, and having a person assigned to investigations to help assist them during periods while the patrol duty is fully-staffed with officers, “would be a godsend.” As with many budget proposals, Goodman reported on expenses during the 2016 fiscal year. “Like we’ve done in the past, we want to give you an overview of what we’ve done in the past year, I like to let you and the citizens know what we’ve done with your money …I think that’s a valuable exercise to go through,” the chief said. Goodman reported that the department has had an employment vacancy since Sept. 1 that they have not been able to fill, and they are in a second selec-

out several batches of custard that didn’t seem yummy. Finally, as the clock ticked closer to bedtime, we substituted the custard with ice cream and decorated it with fruit. Finally finished, you say, but a good parent knows you are never finished and there’s always one more surprise in store for tired and weary fathers. We needed a drink to accompany the meal, preferably a French concoction that looked frothy and had a fancy name. But, it was too late for translations, so we decided on café mocha. As I whisked the milk into a bubbly mess, I poured it on a cup of instant coffee, and, voila, we

had something that resembled a French treat, at least by some stretch of the imagination. I’m not sure how Emma did on the project. The jury is still out with the grade, but -- if there’s any credit awarded for effort -- I hope she passes. And I’ll pay a little more attention to the menu and try to expand my dietary quests to include more adventurous and foreign-sounding dishes in an effort to be better equipped for the next assignment in world cuisine. Will I be prepared for that next project that comes with a quickly approaching deadline? Not a chance!

tion process now to fill the empty position. He said recruiting in law enforcement has been more challenging in the last few years, and how they don’t hire just anybody. “We need to make sure they’re the right fit for our town, and that they’re highly qualified before we bring them on board in our police department; there’s too much at stake to not hire the right person,” said Goodman. The APD had 6,300 calls-toservice last year, with a significant decrease in part-one offenses, which he credited Maj. Anthony Callahan with for his large part in working with Wal-Mart to reduce shoplifting and trying to prevent crime as opposed to having to respond to, investigate and make arrests with crime. Callahan was one of the officers attending the work session. They made 3,300 traffic stops that resulted in traffic tickets being issued to roughly 59% of the motorists that were stopped,

which resulted in just over 2,000 traffic summons, 38 citations for driving under the influence (DUI), 29 drug arrests and 11 fugitives. “Not everyone in Ashland who gets stopped by a police car gets a ticket,” he added. Also being focused on during the Tuesday, March 14, budget work session were more FY18 overviews for the finance department, planning and community development department, fire and rescue services, and the information technology budget. More information regarding other Ashland budget overviews that were discussed at that work session can be found at http:// www.town.ashland.va.us/89/ Town-Meetings. Council was scheduled to hear from Town Manager Joshua Farrar at the March 21 regular meeting. Once council has heard Farrar’s budget presentation, members will advertise a notice for a public hearing.

of Creighton Road, Mechanicsville.

SHERIFF’S Continued from pg. 3

Mechanicsville.

Driver did not report accident, damages, $250, in the 7200 block

Forging was reported in the 9300 block of Susquehanna Trail, Ashland. Grand larceny auto theft was reported in the 10900

block of Richardson Road, Ashland.

March 14

Brandishing a firearm was reported in the 7000 block of Senn Way, Mechanicsville.