Ashland-Hanover Local – 12/27/17

GOVERNMENT 2019 inspections stickers to be relocated on vehicle windshield

PAGE

7

Vol. 3 No. 21 | Richmond Suburban News | December 27, 2017

Train controversy holds top spot For second year, high-speed rail comes in at No. 1

By Melody Kinser Managing Editor MECHANICSVILLE – For the second year in a row, the proposed high speed rail from Washington, D.C., to Richmond takes the No. 1 spot

in the Top 10 stories. The controversial issue also topped the list last year.

While the proposal primarily targets the Town of Ashland and western Hanover County, it has become a topic of concern and interest county-wide.

In May, 16 members of a Community Advisory Committee agreed that there are no easy answers to the idea following their first meeting

Economic development strong in county in 2017 ty’s new director of economic development. "The announcement of Amazon was a huge MECHANICSVILLE -- win for the county and, in name alone, will help our marEconomic developketing efforts movment in Hanover ing forward.”

County continued The director in 2017 with the said the Amazon announcement of project sends just several projects the right message that are fortifyto other businesses ing the county’s looking to reloplan to attract new cate to Hanover. businesses while “Corporations do maintaining and their research and enhancing the curTHOMAS many will look at rent commercial Hanover based on base.

“Some of our largest the decision Amazon made to successes regarding new locate here.”

While Amazon was the announcements came along the Lakeridge Parkway most recognizable of the 2017 Corridor this year,” said see ECONOMIC, pg. 3 Linwood Thomas, the coun-

By Jim Ridolphi for The Hanover Local

TOP 10 STORIES OF 2017 1 — D.C. to Richmond high-speed rail controversy continues 2 — Hanover County road projects need attention 3 — School budget targets technology deficits 4 — Education and public safety focus of county budget 5 — No vehicle levy fees take back seat to transportation $$ 6 — School district changes to 10-point grading system 7 — Mechanicsville Ruritans decide to stop hosting Shuknpul 8 — Developer halts movement on outlets project 9 — Community becomes informed in battle against opioids 10 — Teen gets 6 years in wreck that claimed friends’ lives

to talk about the impact of the proposed D.C. to Richmond Southeast High Speed Rail

(DC2RVA) project.

File photo The Virginia Department An Amtrak train makes its way through the heart of downtown see TRAIN, pg. 4

Ashland. A proposed high-speed rail was the top story of 2017.

Ashland Main Street Association announces new executive director Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com ASHLAND – The Ashland Main Street Association (AMSA) has announced it has selected a new executive director.

Margaret “Maggie” Longest was chosen from more than 80 candidates who applied for the position.

Longest is an Ashland resident with an M.S. in Economics who most recently worked in economic development with the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

She is very familiar with the Virginia Main Street Program through her workshops with the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development.

She previously served as the legislative assistant to Sen. John Barrasso of Wyoming.

“We are very excited that we found a new director that is local and knows our community,” said AMSA President Bill Gatewood. “She has a great personality and is very outgoing. I know everyone is excited to meet her and welcome her to

MAGGIE_LONGEST

the organization.”

“I am an Ashlander through-andthrough,” said Longest. “My family is invested in this community and depend upon its continued vibrancy for our future.

We participate in town government, support local business, and utilize every possible benefit of the town and the college.

My life strategy is place-based personal development. It is an honor to transition from neighbor to community organizer.”

Departing AMSA director Tom Wulf said he intends to help with the transition, and to continue to serve the organization

in a different capacity.

“I am very proud of the accomplishments of our hard-working volunteer board over the nearly eight years I’ve been with AMSA,” Wulf said. “We have worked closely with the town on projects ranging from streetscaping to initiating theater renovations. Our partnership with the Ashland Museum and the Hanover Arts and Activities Center have yielded forums like Untold Stories and preservation initiatives like our historic marker program.

Events like Train Day and Light Up the Tracks have brought tourism and substantial economic benefit to the downtown. I am excited about my successor and believe that Maggie will help AMSA accomplish even more for our downtown.”

AMSA earned its Virginia Main Street Designation in 2013, and has been accredited by the National Main Street Center every year since. Its mission is to preserve, enhance, and promote downtown Ashland.

For more information about the Ashland Main Street Association, visit www.MainStreetAshland.org.

TOP 10 We wish our family, friends, customers and clients alike a very happy, healthy, prosperous 2018.

Happy New Year!

Judy Kilgour Honest & Trustworthy Professional Serving Hanover County since 1989. judy.kilgour@longandfoster.com

670033-01

804-569-0238

Kevin Kilgour Committed to Excellence kevin.kilgour@longandfoster.com

804-347-8615

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 December 27, 2017

Continued from pg. 1

of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT) received additional time to come up with options to increase rail capacity through the Ashland-Hanover region before making a formal recommendation to the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA).

At that first meeting of the CAC, DRPT director Jennifer Mitchell told the panel, “Tonight will be a lot about education, a lot about presenting you all with information and allowing you to ask questions.”

In July, after the second of six scheduled public meetings set up to gain input from those most affected by the highspeed rail, many attendees left with more questions than answers. One said, “I feel like they are just going through the motions and then are going to do whatever they decide.”

DRPT representatives assured the public that the CAC process was designed to consider alternative routes, but, to some, it appeared as though most of the viable suggestions were eliminated.

An August meeting of the CAC became heated as a standing room only crowd voiced opposition to the proposed routes.

This session quickly took on a different appearance than the previous two, which saw DRPT officials talking and the public listening.

The tone was set when the board indicated it was ready to eliminate some of the proposed routes from consideration.

September’s fourth CAC meeting came to a close with residents leaving without what they wanted in definitive answers about the rail proposal.

Mitchell told committee members in August that she expected some of the more than a dozen alternatives to be eliminated through discussion, but it became apparent that most were not prepared to issue final recommendations, or eliminate most of the options.

“What we’d really like to do is start taking some alternatives off the table,” Mitchell had said. “We’re hoping to get a CAC recommendation from this group.”

A September meeting of Ashland Town Council focused on the CAC facing crunch time as the appointed members were tasked with reaching a consensus on the best option for a high speed rail project scheduled for construction in the next 15 to 25 years.

Representatives from Ashland serving on the CAC called the meeting to receive public input on an alternative to current through-town rail options, some that include installing a third rail that would disrupt the downtown area.

Mayor Jim Foley, a CAC member, has repeatedly said that a third rail above ground option is not acceptable.

A brief – and final – meeting of the CAC in September was described as being anti-climactic with only two members talking when the issue of recommendations was addressed.

Some of the studied alternatives were eliminated, but no final conclusions were reached.

Town residents found themselves at odds with those who live in the western part of the county as a bypass option made its way into the conversation.

In late September, Aubrey Layne, director of transportation, told a packed Commonwealth Transportation Board meeting that the panel sought a deferral on a decision to pick a preferred route for the Ashland portion of a high-speed rail, but the request was denied by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA).

Layne, who is also chairman of the CTB, said the panel was confronted with the same issues that challenged the DRPT and the CAC, which was organized to study alternative routes.

“Obviously, this issue is a difficult one and it’s going to impact people not just economically but their lives regardless of whether it’s built today or 20 years from now,” Layne said. “Whatever decision is made is going to leave a cloud over whatever preferred alternative is taken.”

He said that many of the arguments presented seemed valid.

In early October, some Ashland residents were uncertain about the placement of the high-speed rail.

Aubrey “Bucky” Stanley, Beaverdam District representative on the Hanover County Board of Supervisors and a member of the CAC, said the supervisors passed a resolution saying that both a third rail above-ground alternative and a western bypass were unacceptable and should be eliminated.

Stanley said the third rail trench proposal offers the least impact on county residents.

In mid-October, the supervisors approved a resolution endorsing a plan that leaves two tracks in place through Ashland, and allows three tracks both

north and south of the town.

The CAC had included the 3-2-3 option in its list of “least objectionable” alternatives regarding routing of the proposed and yet unfunded project.

Members also listed a western bypass and three-track trench option in its recommendations to the CTB that makes the final decision on alternative routes through the Ashland sector of the project.

In mid-November, an announcement came down from the DRPT, recommending a reprieve for Ashland downtown business owners and residents on a proposed western bypass route considered for the high speed rail project.

DRPT officials recommended a 3-2-3 alternative for the Ashland section of the proposed route, eliminating the threat of a third rail being constructed through the town’s downtown district. A third rail would be added north and south of the town, and overpasses will be constructed at Vaughan and Ashcake road crossings.

The department also recommended a study to identify safety improvements that could enhance pedestrian and vehicle traffic in the downtown area. Handicapped access and safety issues are challenges for downtown businesses.

The recommendation removes the threat of any property being condemned for the project, a relief to residents along a western bypass alternative that threatened up to 25 homes.

County and town officials supported the 3-2-3 option at a CTB meeting; the selection seemed to indicate the path of least resistance for affected parties.

Road projects in the county came in the No. 2 position for 2017.

With county officials being confronted with years of declining state road revenues allocated for secondary road improvements, they are looking for ways to fund an expanded list of local road projects.

Public Works director Mike Flagg said there are no easy answers and that applying for and receiving those state funds is becoming more difficult.

Awards through the CTB often are weighed on immediate impact, as well as problem areas and funds needed to complete the project.

Flagg said the state focuses on “broken roads” and projects deemed critical to certain areas. He also said that many approved projects are located in see TOP 10, pg. 4

SHERIFF’S REPORTS | Crime, Accidents, Fire & Rescue transportation of firearms, stun weapon, was reported in the 16100 block of Washington Highway/ Taylorsville Road, Doswell.

Dec. 12

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

Destruction of property was reported in the 14300 block of West Patrick Henry Road, Doswell.

Driver did not report an accident with damages, $250, in the 7400 block of Olde Grove Glen, Mechanicsville.

Possession or

ECONOMIC Continued from pg. 1

additions, it wasn’t the only success story. “CTDI a global engineering firm took down 83,000 square feet in the Northlake Business Park and we had new construction of the Fairfield Inn & Suites as well,� Thomas said.

The new construction is important, but Thomas emphasized the mission also includes the county’s existing businesses. “Equally important is to continue to help grow and support our existing industries and one of our larger expansion projects for 2017 included the $34 million assisted living and memory support units for Covenant Woods, Thomas said. “Absolute Stone and Design also expanded their operations with a brand new 35,000-squarefoot design center and showroom off of Route 1 in Ashland,� he added.

While the county continues to attract exciting and diverse new investment, Thomas said it’s important not to lose sight of the existing business base. “We want to continue to move the needle regarding large corporate announcements but we also place a major emphasis on support-

Mechanicsville.

Driver did not report an accident with damages, $1,000, in the 4500 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike/Pole Green Road, Mechanicsville.

Cruelty to animals was reported in the 9200 block of Monongahela Trail, Ashland.

Grand larceny building was reported in the 12000 block of South Anna Drive, Rockville.

Reckless handling of a firearm was reported in the 6400 block of Cherrygrove Lane, Mechanicsville.

Possession of marijuana, subsequent offense, was reported in the 7000 block of Creighton Road/Cold Harbor Road, Mechanicsville.

Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 7100 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike,

ing and helping our existing Hanover businesses grow and thrive!� Thomas said. “This is a very important role for our department and you will continue to see us out in the community providing support for our local small businesses.�

A board of supervisors that supports the efforts, witnessed by recent zoning policy changes that provide more sites for potential development, has assisted Thomas’ department. “As we move into 2018 I am hopeful the county will continue to build on this key initiative and look to find creative ways to add critical infrastructure to these sites where needed to get them more ready to be developed,� Thomas said. “This will help us be more competitive in the global economy we are currently operating in.�

There was one discouraging headline during the past year when Craig Realty announced it would not be building an outlet mall near Interstate 95. “I think the county as a whole is sad to see the announcement that the Outlet Mall has pulled out of Hanover County, but we also must be realistic with expectations and what the ever-changing world of what economic development looks like,� Thomas said. “Retail bricks and mortar oper-

ations will not simply go away, but the model has changed due to online consumers.�

Improvements to infrastructure, location and a positive energy combine to make that area a natural center for growth and development, and Thomas said he thinks that will happen despite the lack of the outlet mall. “Moving forward we still have a great site there for development along a strategic corridor that has seen recent improvements to utility and transportation infrastructure,� Thomas said. “The county fully intends to work with Craig Realty Group, or whomever the developer is for the property, to find the best use and generate the greatest return for the taxpayers of Hanover County.�

The factors all add up to a positive outlook for economic development in Hanover County, and Thomas shares that enthusiasm for the future. “Hanover County is well positioned both strategically and fiscally to take advantage of a model that supports health, sustained growth with the emphasis on healthy,� Thomas said. “We are almost 10 years out of the Great Recession and the economy overall is good.

$

%

%

7 4

/"

0

0 1-1(2( '3 4 5,66'-78 '9 :,61; #19< ,-= '9<.+ '33.+ '+ '- *+.:1'27 *2+&<,7.7

!"!

###$ % $&'()*+'*,-.

see ECONOMIC, pg. 5

The Hanover Local December 27, 2017

3

TOP 10 Continued from pg. 2

the state’s two main traffic areas, Tidewater and Northern Virginia.

A $440.5 million Fiscal Year 2018 budget received a unanimous vote from the board of supervisors in April.

While the new budget did address Fire-EMS issues, support for the Sheriff ’s Office, and provided initial funds needed to revamp Hanover County Public Schools’ technology and information systems, Sean Davis, vice chair and Henry District representative, called the budget “the best one I’ve seen in the five years I’ve been here.”

He was joined by some fellow members of the board in voicing reservations about the budget’s inability to address vital road issues.

The Hanover County School Board comes in a No. 3 with a $180 million budget proposed in February by Dr. Michael Gill, superintendent of Hanover County Public

Schools.

A s w a s included in the budget talks of the supervisors, the GILL budget t argets the technology deficits in the school system.

Gill’s proposal in-cluded 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.

The new operating budget provided a 2 percent salary increase for all employees, increased staffing by six positions, and funded the county’s increased share for the Virginia Retirement System (VRS).

The Capital Plan portion took major steps in addressing a technology deficit.

More than $16 million in

five years was proposed to address technology infrastructure and maintenance and provide laptops for all teachers, starting with the 2017-2018 school year.

The plan also called for students to receive one-onone devices beginning in year 2021, and also provided technical staffing to support the upgrades.

At No. 4, the year-round budget process on the county governmental level came about as close as possible in fulfilling most critical requests and funding education and public safety.

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

At least for a year, Hanover County automobile owners will not receive vehicle fee levies in the No. 5 story of 2017.

In a unanimous move, the Hanover Community Development Committee

EVERY TIME IT RAINS

F LO O D WAT E R S I N VA D E

BASEMENTS.

voted not to recommend initiating a vehicle tax fee this year, choosing instead on a focused and intense public relations and legislative effort to encourage state legislators to restore depleted transportation funds in next year’s budget.

Hanover and other localities are addressing a serious cutback in state road funding that equates to a 90 percent reduction in state funds for local road projects.

“When you cut a program by 90 percent, that’s not a reduction, that’s an elimination,” Davis, who serves as committee chair said. The panel had studied options to fund important road projects in the county.

He offered two choices to address the road funding issue: Either supervisors could provide a local funding mechanism for road construction, or county officials should start eliminating projects on Hanover’s road construction priority list.

The No. 6 story goes back to the first of the year when the school division started talking about a 10-point grading system.

With students being graded on a seven-point scale, a group of concerned parents approached the school board in January about changing the grading scale. Few systems in

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

Call JES Foundation Repair for a Free Inspection, Consultation, and Estimate.

4

The Hanover Local December 27, 2017

see TOP 10, pg. 5

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

G E T I T F I X E D. S AV E $ 5 0 0 W I T H T H I S A D. *

187998-01

www.jesnow.com | 888.385.6071 *Good only at time of Free inspection.

Not to be combined with any other offer.

voted 6-1 to go with the 10-point grading system at the start of the 2017-2018 year.

Concerned parents maintained that the seven-point system discriminated against their children in regards to college admissions and scholarships.

Julie Stubblefield, one of the founders of Hanover Parents, said their persistence paid off. She also said she was pleased with the action taken by the school board.

Sadly, after 36 years, the Mechanicsville Ruritan Club announced its decision to stop hosting the Shuknpul, a major fundraiser for the organization, to come in at No. 7.

The Shuknpul was a favorite throughout Hanover County and neighboring communities, and featured an Oyster Roast and a lawn mower tractor pull.

For many, the Shuknpul meant the beginning of the spring season, and it was the first major pull of the year for the Shenandoah Tractor Pullers.

It was considered the first major outdoor event of the year, and attracted oyster lovers, tractor pullers and the community at large.

The Shuknpul had started small with the Ruritans and their families gathering for a

Have the Hanover Local delivered to your mailbox every week!

If your basement is already damp, one good storm will leave inches of water in your unprotected basement. Humid air and wet floors leave valuables stored below you at risk of irreparable damage.

Owned and Operated by Professional Engineers since 1993.

the state were still using that system.

Parents supporting the change appeared before the school board during public comment periods for a few months, voicing their concerns about the seven-point scale.

Hanover Parents Supporting a 10-Point Grading Scale had more than 800 followers, and conducted a wellorganized effort to initiate a discussion and, ultimately, a change.

In March, the school board agreed to explore a change in policy that would replace the seven-point system.

The next month, board members got a first look at the proposed change.

Assistant Superintendent Jennifer Greif presented a plan that would transfer students from the current seven-point grading scale to a 10-point system, bringing the county more in line with most school divisions in the state.

The proposal contained plus and minuses within the 10-point scale and placed the minimum passing grade at 65.

A sticking point for some members was the lack of data endorsing or disputing the merits of a change, but Gill said extended research may not provide solutions to the questions.

In May, the school board

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

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

TOP 10 Continued from pg. 4

small oyster roast. As the years passed, the event grew to a crowd of over 2,000.

When The Mechanicsville Local celebrated its 35th anniversary in May 2009, Holladay Propertiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; plans to build a major shopping development at Winding Brook off Interstate 95 in Ashland dominated that edition. The status of the project comes in at No. 8.

At that time, Hanover County had already put out the welcome mat for Bass Pro Shops in the Lakeridge Parkway and Lewistown Road area. Plans were to move forward on opening shops, hotels and a park.

In late September, developer Craig Realty Group, based in Newport Beach, California, hit the brakes on the Outlets at Richmond. Attempts to get a response from Craig failed.

According to Craigâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website, it â&#x20AC;&#x153;owns, operates and manages nearly 5 million square feet of existing retail development â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 15 centers in 9 states, and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re in development of 4 more projects across the U.S.â&#x20AC;?

Some county officials said communications broke down long before the announcement was made by Craig.

While some were not surprised by the

groupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s plans to forego building the commercial project, others said they saw the writing on the wall sometime earlier.

The heroin and opioid abuse program in Hanover County took center stage in early March to come in at No. 9.

A documentary, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Chasing the Dragon,â&#x20AC;? was aired at the First Baptist Church of Ashland, with a goal of changing minds and saving lives. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Chasing the Dragonâ&#x20AC;? was released by a joint operation between the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) in an effort to educate Americans on the true, unscripted tragedies of people who have fought and are still fighting the demon of addiction.

Program committee member Ragan Phillips, said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;There mustâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been 100 people packed in that room, and the most important thing was how engaged everyone was â&#x20AC;&#x201D; we could have stayed there for another hour or so.â&#x20AC;?

Heroin and opiate abuse has become a major epidemic in the United States, and it has, unfortunately, found its way into Hanover County. County citizens are steadfast in their determination to put a stop to it.

After being behind the wheel of a truck that crashed in a tree and claimed the lives of two friends in April 2016, Nickolas Seth Fleming, 19, was sentenced on two counts

of involuntary manslaughter. That story rounds out the Top 10 of 2017.

The victims were passengers Dylan Ballard, 17, and 22-year-old Elliott Hinton, 22.

Fleming had FLEMING pleaded guilty earlier this year and is now serving six years in prison.

He was driving a pickup that he drove off the road and slammed into a tree after he had been drinking.

The fatal crash took place on Cold Harbor Road.

Fleming was found by passersby trapped in the wreckage, hysterical and bleeding badly. When one asked the teen if he had been drinking, he responded, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Yeah, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m wasted.â&#x20AC;?

The interior of Flemingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2001 extended-cab Dodge Ram pickup was littered with cans of Old Milwaukee and Busch beer, some of which had burst on impact.

Police found a can of Old Milwaukee lodged under the vehicleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s brake pedal, and a cooler that apparently was ejected from the truck was discovered alongside the road.

ECONOMIC Continued from pg. 3

Though a small pullback could be in order nationally, I think you will continue to see consistent growth in Hanover in 2018.â&#x20AC;?

While searching for those new businesses, Thomas said his department will continue to monitor and assist existing companies located in the county. â&#x20AC;&#x153;One of the things I am most proud of in our department is the work we have done with our existing small businesses,â&#x20AC;? Thomas said.\ The department is putting a personal touch on its outreach efforts. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Last year we met with 198 local businesses individually and were able to help 121 of those with 21 expansion projects we facilitated,â&#x20AC;? the director said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We will continue to put a strong emphasis on this next year and into the future.â&#x20AC;?

Eight months into the job, Thomas is finding his stride and completely in on the Hanover mission. â&#x20AC;&#x153;My first eight months here in Hanover have been exciting,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I never thought I would leave the Greater Fredericksburg Region, where most of my economic development career had taken place, but I truly believe in the longterm potential Hanover County offers.â&#x20AC;?

Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also setting his sights high for the upcoming New Year. â&#x20AC;&#x153;My expectations for 2018 just like every year are extremely high,â&#x20AC;? Thomas said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We want to create an economic development model that provides a destination for corporations and small businesses alike to thrive and grow, but maintains a quality of life that ensures we continue to have great schools, low crime rates and an affordable cost of living.â&#x20AC;?

Townhomes starting in the $150â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

!

Call Jason Collier today for more information! 804-912-3515

Ideal Aylett location-just minutes Idea to shopping + dining

Community clubhouse, pool, pavilion + fitness center

One and two story townhomes available Starting from 1121 sq. ft. | 2-3 beds, 2+ baths

The Hanover Local December 27, 2017

5

CALENDAR | News, & Listings Ongoing Families Anonymous Support Group meets from 7 to 8:30 p.m. every Monday at the Episcopal Church of the Creator at 7159 Mechanicsville Turnpike in Mechanicsville. The group is a self-help fellowship for the friends and family members of addicts who are in need of understanding and healing themselves. For details, call Sandy at 804-730-4812 or email sandy.leigh@verizon.net.

Overcomers

Outreach

and

Women’s

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

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.

Tuesdays

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

The group is co-facilitated by an oncology social work navigator, registered nurse navigator and survivorship nurse practitioner.

Wednesdays At 3 p.m., the Gathering Place, formerly Ashland Coffee and Tea, hosts the “AHA Moment,” which is sponsored by At Home in Ashland (AHA). At Home in Ashland is a tax-exempt nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting seniors wishing to remain in their homes as they age. The informal get-togethers

OPINION | The Local Views From the managing editor

Looking back on ’17 and ahead to ’18

By Melody Kinser Managing Editor

W

ith another year almost in the rear view mirror, it’s time to reflect on 2017 and target our goals for the new year.

Who among us doesn’t at least attempt to measure some success with resolutions?

Of course, it seems nearly everyone has a healthier plan for the future. That is certainly an admirable -- and attainable -- goal.

What do you consider the most important plan in the coming year? You are more than welcome to share your thoughts and ideas on

this topic. Send any comments to mkinser@ mechlocal.com. I’m curious to see what makes our community tick as a new year approaches.

We are blessed in Hanover County -- that’s a given. Our school system and our law enforcement are renowned for success. We can expect that momentum to continue in 2018.

Our county government is always looking toward ways to attract residents, business and revenue. Kudos to our officials and their commitment to those they serve.

We did enjoy a good year in 2017 and that’s why it’s only to natural to assume the same in ’18.

Our Top 10 stories of the year somewhat

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

6

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

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

The Hanover Local December 27, 2017

mirrors how 2016 came to a close.

The proposed high-speed rail from Washington, D.C., to Richmond again took the top spot as county and Town of Ashland officials remained firm in their decision about the Amtrak train’s location.

Your voice is heard in Hanover County and your involvement ensures that. Never back down on what you believe and consider best.

Looking back or looking ahead, we have so many positives in our county.

It’s with a sense of community that we can move forward with the knowledge of what lies ahead for our little slice of heaven.

Happy New Year!

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.

are open to any interested Ashland area senior and provide an opportunity to make personal connections and discuss topics of mutual interest. No registration is needed. For seniors who are still employed, AHA also has arranged for evening gatherings at 6 p.m. every fourth Tuesday at Trackside Grill. This event does require advance registration before noon on the fourth Monday.The contact person is Carol Dedischew: 804-299-3171 or cdedischew@aol. com.

Thursdays The Rotary Club of Ashland meets at noon for lunch at the Henry Clay Inn at 114 N. Railroad Ave. in Ashland. For more information, contact Jennifer Fox at 804-314-2834 or jfox@barnesfamilylaw.com.

Second Mondays The WEB of Hope meets from 10 a.m. to noon the second Monday of each month (May 9, June 13, July 11, Aug. 8, Sept. 12, Oct. 10, Nov. 14 and Dec. 12) at the Black Creek Baptist Church at 6289 McClellan Road in Mechanicsville. The WEB of Hope group, an extension of the American Red Cross, meets to knit, crochet, sew and quilt for those that need assistance. Gifts are distributed to such groups as the Pregnancy Resource Center, MCEF, Bless the Children, various Native American Reservations, etc. Participants will learn how to knit and crochet if they don’t know how. For more information, call Laurie Wagner at 804-7810338.

2019 inspections stickers to be relocated on windshield Free open house tour set Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com RICHMOND â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Effective Jan. 1, 2018, Virginia state inspection stickers will no longer be affixed to the bottom center of a vehicleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s windshield.

Due to new innovations in the automotive industry, the state inspection stickers will be placed in the bottom left corner of the windshield, when viewed from inside the vehicle. This change in location also will apply to the placement of any other authorized stickers. There have been no changes made

to the size or appearance of the existing vehicle inspection sticker.

The relocation stems from the fact that automobile manufacturers now offer crash avoidance technology in many of their vehicles. In such vehicles, the new technology utilizes the center of the windshield. Therefore the placement of items in that area, including stickers, could prevent crash avoidance systems from operating properly. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The core mission of the Virginia Safety Inspection Program is to promote highway safety and the crash avoidance technology is

Contributed photo

State inspection stickers will be placed in the bottom left corner of the windshield.

another tool provided by manufacturers to ensure vehicles operated on the roadways are safe at all times,â&#x20AC;? said Capt. R.C. Maxey Jr., Virginia State Police Safety Division Commander. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Therefore, we immediately began evaluating the situation and set forth to make the necessary changes to the Motor Vehicle Safety Inspection Manual, which

governs the placement of the safety inspection sticker on all vehicles.â&#x20AC;?

Existing Virginia vehicle inspection stickers are to remain in their current position â&#x20AC;&#x201C; in the bottom center of the windshield. Once a vehicle is inspected and issued a 2019 sticker, the new inspection sticker must be placed in the lower left corner, which is consistent with other states across the nation.

The Virginia State Police Safety Division began Dec. 2, 2017, notifying all Virginia certified inspections stations of the placement change that is to take effect Jan. 1, 2018

of Historic Courthouse HANOVER -The Hanover Historical Society offers free â&#x20AC;&#x153;open houseâ&#x20AC;? tours of the historic Hanover Courthouse on the second Tuesday of each month between 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The next tour is on

Tuesday, Jan. 9.

For more information, call Hanover Parks & Recreation at 804-365-7150.

Information submitted by Tom Harris, Hanover County public information officer.

PLUMBING, HEATING & COOLING

Gooding Construction

The Albany We Build by Our Plans or Yours

$119,950 $112,950 $109,950 Built on your land Shown with Some Options

Contributed photo

Teens Care Too applications are being accepted through Feb. 5. These are some of the previous participants.

HANOVER -- Teens Care Too is a coalition of 8th through 12th grade students in Hanover County who work to keep their schools and communities alcohol and drug free by taking positive peer leadership roles.

The group is sponsored by the Hanover County Community Services Board Behavioral Health and Wellness Unit.

Teens Care Too meets

monthly and coordinates service projects and activities that promote healthy alternatives to drug and alcohol use.

Participating students also may be selected to attend the annual Youth Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention Project (YADAPP) summer conference at Longwood University.

Applications are due by Feb. 5, 2018. Visit http://www. hanover-cares.org/teens-care-

too.html to learn more about Teens Care Too and download an application.

For more information, contasct Laura Robertson, prevention specialist, at larobertson@ hanovercounty.gov, 804-3656621 or Maureen Earley, prevention specialist, mbearley@ hanovercounty.gov, 804-2924097.

Information submitted by Tom Harris, Hanover Count public information officer.

â&#x20AC;˘ No Money Down for Approved Landowners FAMILYROOM KITCHEN

BRKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;FST

HALL

DININGRM

FOYER

BEDRM #2

BEDRM #3

â&#x20AC;˘ Financing arranged â&#x20AC;˘ Lowest Rates

OPTIONAL

We Build Quality Custom Homes at the Fairest Price

Limited time offer. Builder reserves the right to make changges without notice. See disclaimer on builderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s web page.

The Hanover Local December 27, 2017

590684-01

Teens Care Too accepting applications for membership

* Shown with optional brick

7

UPCOMING EVENTS

12

27 2017

Boys/girls basketball: Patrick Henry at Douglas Freeman 3:00 p.m./5:00 p.m.

12

29 2017

Men’s basketball: Frostburg State at Randolph-Macon 7:00 p.m.

| Youth, High School, College, Recreational & Professional

2017: A Year of Heartbreak and Triumph Some teams snagged titles, others saw them slip away

By Dave Lawrence Sports Editor It has been nothing less than a wild year for Hanover County sports, with teams experiencing tremendous highs of individual and collective achievement.

But some have also experienced tremendous lows as their dreams were dashed – just when the ultimate prize was within their reach.

The biggest story of the year was that of the Atlee Little League’s Juniors softball team, which was hours away from playing for their World Series final when they were ousted by league officials because of an inappropriate social media post.

The story spread around the world, and the team was both – most vociferously by those who know nothing of the kids themselves – but also given much needed support from those with the capacity to understand.

While there is room to argue whether the punishment fit the crime, one thing is certain: there was only one undefeated team remaining in the field when it was sent home: Atlee.

8

The Hanover Local December 27, 2017

Daniel Sangjib Min/Times-Dispatch

Above, Atlee High School pitcher Peyton St. George celebrates her solo home run in the Raiders’ 1-0 victory over Lee-Davis in the Virginia High School League Group 5A championship game at Westfield High School in Chantilly on June 10. Below, members of Atlee High School’s softball team form a dogpile after winning their third VHSL Group 5A state softball championship.

Dave Lawrence/The Local

Above, in the biggest local sports story of the year, Atlee Little League’s Juniors softball team got within hours of playing for the Little League World Series title before they were ousted from the tournament because of an inappropriate social media post.

Robert Zullo/Times-Dispatch

Left, supporters of the Atlee Little League’s Juniors softball team greet them at Richmond International Airport.

Dave Lawrence/The Local

Above, the Hanover girls tennis team enjoy their first state championship trophy after a 5-1 victory over Sherando in the VHSL Group 4A girls tennis team championship at Roanoke College on June 10. Below left, Hanover’s Madison Moore returns a shot in her and Stephanie Broussard’s 6-1, 6-2 victory over Midlothian’s Julia Deaver and Grace Clarke in the doubles final on June 9.

Below right, Broussard returns a shot in her 6-1, 7-6 (7-5) win over Eastern View’s McKinley Smith in the singles final on June 8.

Natalee Waters/Roanoke Times

Top, Hanover’s David Hoover is crowned champion after he defeated Liberty Christian’s Justin Phillips for the 138-pound title in the VHSL Group 4A state championships at Salem Civic Center on Feb. 18. Above, King William’s David Jones (top) defeats Lebanon’s Logan Smith for the 182-pound title in the VHSL Group 2A championships.

Dave Lawrence/ The Local

Dave Lawrence/The Local

Lee-Davis freshman Andy Aldridge gets the takedown he needs with two seconds remaining in regulation to defeat Mountain View senior Rodrigo Silva for the 160-pound state title in the Virginia High School League Group 5A wrestling championships at Oscar Smith High School on Feb. 18. Aldridge’s win helped propel the Confederates to a fourth-place finish. His teammate, Fisher Evans, also reached the 152-pound final.

Dave Lawrence/The Local

Patrick Henry head boys volleyball coach Michael Townsend slides across the floor as his team gets ready to pounce on him to form a dogpile after the Patriots’ 25-21, 25-23, 25-19 victory over Midlothian in the VHSL Class 4 boys volleyball championship game at the Siegel Center on Nov. 16.

King William golfer Taylor Hubbard (center) gets a hug from coach Jay Blanton on the 18th hole after clinching the state title in the Virginia High School League Class 2 Golf Championshp at Heritage Oaks Golf Course on Oct. 10.

The Hanover Local December 27, 2017

9

CLASSIFIEDS Merchandise MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE GRAND OPENING, MATTRESS SALE Quality Mattresses at Sale Prices Twin Sets as low as $99, Fulls $119, Queens $129. Delivery Available.

Call 804-615-6599

YOU READ THIS. SO WILL THOUSANDS OF OTHERS. CALL

746-1235 TO PLACE YOUR AD HERE!

10

Community News In Focus For the latest in... Community News, Business News, Sports, Engagements & Weddings, Birth Announcements, Student News, Letters to the Editor, Calendar, Obituaries, and Classified Advertising read The Hanover Local

PLACE YOUR AD TODAY

(804) 746-1235 ext. 2

FAX: (804) 730-0476 or classifieds@mechlocal.com

HOME IMPROVEMENT SPECIALISTS GENERAL CONTRACTORS Purcell Construction Hunter Purcell 804-972-2215 www.PurcellCons truction.Biz Custom Homes & Additions ∂ Barns ∂ Siding & Replacement Windows ∂ Roofing ∂ Sunrooms ∂ Decks ∂ Porches ∂ Inter/Exter Renovations ∂ Kitchen & Bath Remodels ∂ Free Est. ∂ Lic/Ins Res/Comm ∂ 34 yrs exp ∂ A+ Rating with the BBB & Angie’s List ∂ Senior Citizens Discount

ROOFING Davidson Roofing Co. Residential Roofing & Repair Specialists. Lic/Insured GAF Master Elite Contractor BBB /Free Estimates 804-672-0540 www.davidsonroofing.com

TREE SERVICE

LAWN CARE

746-1235 8460Times-Dispatch Blvd, Mechanicsville,VA 23116 Toll Free (877) 888-0449 • email: news@mechlocal.com For Advertising, email: sales@mechlocal.com or classifieds@mechlocal.com

The Hanover Local December 27, 2017

Aaron’s Outdoor Maintenance Fall Leaf Clean Up and Yard Preparation Free Estimates & Insured. 804-629-4826

PLUMBING Paul Brown Plumbing - in Business Since 1983. New Residential, Light Commercial, Renovations, Additions & Service. We do it all! Senior Citizen Discounts. For free estimate, 746-5030

Tree Services: Deadwood/Thinning, Weight/Height Reduction, Tree/Stump Removal, Emergency Services.

Hardscape Services: Patio Installs/ Designs, Sidewalks, Retaining Walls, Repairs. For free estimates call, 804-779-3464. Fully Insured. hanoverpruningandhardscapeinc.com

TREE SERVICE

Trimming & Take Downs. Stump Grinding. If it’s tree work we do it! Insured. Free Est. BBB THANK YOU!!!

MC/VISA/Discover.

CLASSIFIEDS

PLACE YOUR AD TODAY

(804) 746-1235 ext. 2

FAX: (804) 730-0476 or classifieds@mechlocal.com

Recycle Your Stuff For Cash in the Classifieds

Call

746-1235 to buy, sell or tell

CLASSIFIEDS Call 746-1235 or email: cgrant@mechlocal.com

Public Notice – Environmental Permit PURPOSE OF NOTICE: To seek public comment on a draft permit from the Department of Environmental Quality that will allow the release of treated wastewater into a water body in Hanover County, Virginia.

PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD: December 28, 2017 to 11:59 p.m. on January 29, 2018 PERMIT NAME: Virginia Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Permit – Wastewater issued by DEQ, under the authority of the State Water Control Board APPLICANT NAME, ADDRESS AND PERMIT NUMBER: Hanover County; P.O. Box 470, Hanover, VA 23069; VA0089915 FACILITY NAME AND LOCATION: Hanover County Totopotomoy Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP); 9015 Pole Green Park Ln., Mechanicsville, VA 23116 PROJECT DESCRIPTION: Hanover County has applied for reissuance of a permit for the public Hanover County Totopotomoy Wastewater Treatment Plant. The applicant proposes to release treated sewage wastewaters at a rate of 10 million gallons per day into a water body.

Sludge from the treatment process will be disposed of by a licensed contract hauler. The facility proposes to release the treated sewage wastewaters in the Pamunkey River in Hanover County in the York River watershed. A watershed is the land area drained by a river and its incoming streams. The permit will limit the following pollutants to amounts that protect water quality: organic matter, solids, nutrients and bacteria. This facility is subject to the requirements of 9 VAC 25-820 and has registered for coverage under the General VPDES Watershed Permit Regulation for Total Nitrogen and Total Phosphorus Discharges and Nutrient Trading in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed in Virginia.

HOW TO COMMENT AND/OR REQUEST A PUBLIC HEARING: DEQ accepts comments and requests for public hearing by e-mail, fax or postal mail. All comments and requests must be in writing and be received by DEQ during the comment period. Submittals must include the names, mailing addresses and telephone numbers of the commenter/ requester and of all persons represented by the commenter/requester. A request for public hearing must also include: 1) The reason why a public hearing is requested. 2) A brief, informal statement regarding the nature and extent of the interest of the requester or of those represented by the requester, including how and to what extent such interest would be directly and adversely affected by the permit. 3) Specific references, where possible, to terms and conditions of the permit with suggested revisions. A public hearing may be held, including another comment period, if public response is significant, based on individual requests for a public hearing, and there are substantial, disputed issues relevant to the permit.

CONTACT FOR PUBLIC COMMENTS, DOCUMENT REQUESTS AND ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Morgan McHugh, DEQ Piedmont Regional Office, 4949-A Cox Road, Glen Allen, Virginia 23060; Phone: (804) 527-5133; E-mail: morgan.mchugh@deq.virginia.gov; Fax: (804) 527-5106. The public may review the draft permit and application at the DEQ office named above by appointment or may request copies of the documents from the contact person listed above.

The Hanover Local December 27, 2017

11

Personal property tax paid early can be deducted from tax returns HANOVER -- Hanover County’s 2017 personal property taxes are not due until Feb. 5, 2018, but payments made before this calendar year ends may be deductible on your Federal and State tax returns if you itemize your deductions.

If you are mailing in your payment, the postmark must be no later than Dec. 31.

Barring inclement weather, the Hanover County Treasurer’s Office will be open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday this month except for Dec. 25 and 26.

If you have not received your 2017 personal property tax bill

by Dec. 17, you may view and/or pay your taxes online by visiting the Treasurer’s Online Tax Services website at https://www. hanovercounty.org/.

For more information, call the Treasurer’s Office at 804-3656050.

Information submitted by Tom Harris, Hanover County public information officer.

Tired of the same old marketing plan? Out with the old and in with the new! Call Tom and Sarah today to make your advertising dreams come true!

‘18

Tom Haynie

Advertising Representative 775-4627 thaynie@mechlocal.com

Sarah Suttles

670527-01

Advertising Representative 775-4620 ssuttles@mechlocal.com

‘17

201

8

Pets of the Week Photos submitted by Andrew Hodnett

The Hanover County Pound, located at 12471 Taylor Complex Lane in Ashland, has wonderful pets available to a good home. Chloe, 498975, is a 2-year-old female spayed hound. She has had her first set of vaccines and is Heartworm test negative. Miss Chloe is such a sweetie.

She came to the shelter in early November. Chloe has been nothing but a good dog. She loves human contact and affection. Chloe also does really well around other dogs. She is very active and playful. Chloe would make a great companion for anyone looking for a new pet. Luna, 486194, is a 6-month-old female domestic short-haired feline. She has had her first set of vaccines given and is FELV/FIV test negative. Luna is a great little cat. She fits the description of a loveable companion. She loves to be held and scratched on the head and back.

Luna is already well litter trained and keeps her living space neat and clean. Luna also is social with other cats. She even wanted to make friends with a 65 lb. dog that was introduced to her. Luna is a perfect fit for someone looking for a feline companion. For more information on these great pets, as well as the many more still in need of homes at the Hanover County Pound Facility, call 804-365-6485 during the day. The hours are 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday. The facility is closed on Sunday and county holidays. You also can visit the website to see other animals available for adoption at http://hanovercounty.gov/Animals/Adopt-a-Pet/.

BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL DIRECTORY 804-536-3196

HenrysAsphaltPavingVA.com

12

586850-01

644031-01

Paving, Sealcoating, Repairs, New Installation, Resurfacing, Rip-Outs, Patch Work, Driveways, Parking Lots, Private Roads.

Residential/Commercial. Licensed/Insured. Over 30 years of experience. State of the art machinery being used to install work.

Free Estimates. Discounts for seniors, military, family & first responders. Family owned & operated.

The Hanover Local December 27, 2017

TO PROMOTE YOUR SERVICES IN THIS DIRECTORY, CALL 746-1235 X2 OR EMAIL: CLASSIFIEDS@MECHLOCAL.COM