COMMUNITY
EDUCATION
Belize firefighters train, bond with local ‘brothers
Hanover Youth Service Council to hold school supply drive
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Vol. 3 No. 46 | Richmond Suburban News | July 25, 2018
Council OKs town hall and pool projects By Jim Ridolphi for Ashland-Hanover Local
Joel Klein for Ashland-Hanover Local
Pamela Hoy, left, pilot Marcus Simmons and David E. Cox nod to family members and friends as Simmons taxis out to the runway for a flight to Tazewell County on Saturday, July 7. Cox, 88, and Hoy, his daughter, were going to attend a family reunion in Scott County later that day.
Vet gets wish to fly again By Dave Lawrence Richmond Suburban News
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SHLAND – David E. “Gene” Cox of Caroline County wanted to go into the wild blue yonder one more time. The 88-year-old veteran of the U.S. Air Force – and former private pilot – wanted to go to his family reunion in Lebanon, Virginia, on Saturday, July 7, but he’s gotten to
the point where his body can no longer handle the 6-hour (one-way) trip in a car. His pilot’s license, frayed around its edges from decades of stowage in his wallet, was not going to be of much use, either. When he told his younger brother Eddie – the last remaining sibling from a brood of 10 – his brother called one of David Cox’s daughters, Pam Hoy of Mechanicsville. see VET, pg. 15
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Ashland Town Council members took the last step in the long process of planning, funding and designing two legacy projects for the town. In past months, council approved a budget that funded a new town hall and the renovation of the town pool, considered and approved plans for both projects. Only one item remained — financing the $8.75 million necessary to begin the projects. At last week’s meeting, that final cog in the wheel was inserted as members chose a direct bank loan from BB&T to fund the two projects. Kyle Laux of Davenport and Company told council members that due to the town’s sound financial status and reputation, there were options available.
Jim Ridolphi for The Mechanicsville Local
A building in the 12200 block of Washington Highway has been occupied by many different businesses, including a funeral home, restaurant and office. The site will be home to Jak Max Auto, a firm that is relocating to Ashland from Henrico County. Kim Bostain will run the used car business.
In addition to the direct bank loan, the town could also utilize the Virginia Resource Authority, an agency that advertises and sells bonds for government funded projects. Or, the town could advertise and sell bonds in public
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markets, a process that could involve additional costs and create a degree of uncertainly, according to Laux. “We wanted to make sure there was built in flexibility,” see COUNCIL, pg. 10
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Entries for Crab Feast tickets due by 5 p.m. at Local’s office Staff Report news@mechlocal.com MECHANICSVILLE – Entries must be received by 5 p.m. today (Wednesday, July 25) by The Mechanicsville Local office, located at 8460 Times Dispatch Blvd. in Mechanicsville to qualify for a ticket to the Hanover Firefighters Crab Feast ’18. No purchase is necessary. A purchase will not increase your chances of winning. Entrants must be at least 18 years old to enter. Limit is one entry per person. Winners will be announced in The Mechanicsville Local on Wednesday, Aug. 1. They will be contacted by telephone. One ticket will be awarded per winner. The winner must provide photo identification when picking up the ticket. Complete official contest rules available at The Mechanicsville Local office. For more information about the contest, call 804-775-4627. Gates for the Crab Feast will open at 1 p.m. and close at 8 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 18, at the Hanover/Cold Harbor Ruritan Park at 8131 Walnut Grove Rd. in Mechanicsville.
2012 file photo
The smiles on this group of folks show just how tasty those crabs are at the Hanover Firefighters Crab Feast. The 2018 event will be held Saturday, Aug. 18, at the Hanover Cold Harbor Ruritam Park in Mechanicsville.
General Admission tickets are $40 and are only available during the pre-sale period (until noon on Sunday, Aug. 5). Admission tickets will not be sold at the gate, and will only be available through online sales, and sales at local Hanover vendors. Children 5 years old and under are admitted free with a paying adult. Tent spaces (12x12) must be purchased
online. Hot dogs will be sold from 1 to 5 p.m. or until depleted. Beverage service, with identification required, will be available from 1:30 to 7 p.m. Crabs will be served from 2 to 6 p.m. or until depleted. Only 4,500 hot dogs and 250 bushels of crabs will be available.
Kids’ History Camp Owned & Operated by Professional Engineers
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The Ashland Museum Kid’s History Camp will be held from 9 a.m. to noon Monday through Friday, July 30 to Aug. 3, at the Hanover Arts & Activities Center at 500 S. Center St. in Ashland for rising 2nd through Photo submitted by Betsy Hodges rising 6th graders. The day camp will let 21st century kids experience life during late 1800s to the early 1900s. There will be activities with National Park Rangers, a dig for old relics, exploring the Town of Ashland, and crafts are part of the week’s adventures. For more information and registration details, visit www.ashlandmuseum.org or email ashlandmuseum@comcast.net.
HYSC to hold school supply drive Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com HANOVER -- In the middle of their summer vacation, the Hanover Youth Service Council (HYSC) is coordinating a county-wide school supply drive. All supplies benefit Hanover’s elementary, middle, and high school students in need. This signature service project has been conducted by HYSC for 19 years. The drive is through Aug. 17. In addition to donations through collection boxes, members also will conduct a live collection at the Kroger on 9351 Atlee Rd. in Mechanicsville from 9 a.m. to noon on Aug. 3. HYSC is collecting generic backpacks, composition books, supply boxes, 2-pocket folders, glue sticks, erasers, dividers,
durable binders, supply boxes, pencil pouches, notebooks, hi-lighters, crayons, pencils, markers, colored pencils, loose leaf paper, scissors, sanitizing wipes, dry erase markers, hand sanitizer, tissues, index cards, and any other school supplies for all grade levels. Donations can be dropped off at the follow locations: Ashland: Ashland Library –201 S. Railroad Ave. Community Resources – 12310 Washington Hwy. Chenault Veterinary Center – 351 Hill Carter Pkwy. Ashland Christian Church- 301 S James St. Mechanicsville: Mechanicsville Library – 7461 Sherwood Crossing Place Atlee Library –9161 Atlee Rd.
Burkwood Swim& Racquet Club – 9120 Burkwood Club Drive Covenant Woods- 7090 Covenant Woods Drive Atlee Community Church- 7171 Verdi Lane Hanover: Hanover County Administration Building – 7516 County Complex Rd. Hanover County Wickham Building- 7497 County Complex Rd. Hanover Library –7527 Library Drive Montpelier: Montpelier Library17205 Sycamore Tavern Lane Rockville: Rockville Library– 16600 Pouncey Tract Rd.
school’s guidance counselor. HYSC is comprised of 35 middle and high school students from throughout Hanover who plan and lead various service projects to address local needs. For more information, contact Hanover County Dept. of Community Resources at 804-365-4300 or email volunteer@hanovercounty.gov
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Belize firefighters train, bond with local ‘brothers’ By Jim Ridolphi for Ashland-Hanover Local
HANOVER -- It’s more than 3,000 miles separating Hanover County from the small country of Belize, but half a dozen firefighters from the small Central American country are narrowing that gap. Thanks to a Hanover training program, the group will train with county firefighters and attend their Fire Academy. Two Belizean firefighters recently completed the course and will be heading home, making way for the next pair to arrive in Hanover and begin their training. Fire Chief Jethro Piland said the collaborative efforts began with a chance discussion with the Belizean fire chief at last year’s Hanover Tomato Festival. Belize is a small independent country in Central America. In 2001, a national Fire Service see BELIZE, pg. 14
Jim Ridolphi for Ashland-Hanover Local
Patrick Parks, left, and Johnny Cardenas are among the half dozen firefighters from Belize who will be receiving training with Hanover Fire-EMS.
BY BETH HENLEY DIRECTION BY STEVE PERIGARD JULY 20 - AUGUST 26 | VIRGINIAREP.ORG | 804-282-2620 Ashland-Hanover Local July 25, 2018
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OBITUARIES | Death Notices & Funerals GRACE O. ALBERTA Grace O. Alberta, 91, of Richmond, died on Sunday, July 15, 2018. She was preceded in death by her husband of 50 years, Edward T. Alberta Captain U.S. Navy (Retired). She is survived by her sons, Mark E. Alberta of Washington, D.C., and Christopher S. Alberta (wife, Rosemarie) of Ashland; granddaughters, Emily L. Cochran (husband, Brannan) of ALBERTA Barnesville, Georgia, Hillary Alberta-Sherer (husband, Jordan) of Atlanta, Georgia, and Lauren R. Alberta of Glen Allen; great-grandchildren, Ethan C. Cochran and Madison B. Cochran of Barnesville, Georgia. Mrs. Alberta was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on April 26, 1927, and graduated from the University of Pittsburgh in 1947, with a B.S. degree in mathematics. After graduation from General Line School in Newport, Rhode Island, she joined the United States Navy as a commissioned Ensign. She was in the first WAVES (Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service) class of 29 women line officers in the United States Navy. After marriage to Ensign Edward T. Alberta in 1949, she resigned her commission and accompanied her husband on tours of duty in the United States and overseas. Grace lived in Vienna for over 30 years after her husband’s retirement in 1972. After the death of her husband in 2000, Grace moved to Glen Allen to reside with her son, Chris, his wife, Rosemarie,
and their daughter, Lauren. Her hobbies included sewing, reading, gardening and traveling. The family received friends from 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, July 18, 2018, at Bliley’s at 8510 Staples Mill Road. Interment to follow at a later date at Arlington National Cemetery, where she will be laid to rest with her devoted husband, Ed.
were held on Saturday, July 21, 2018. Interment followed in Shiloh United Methodist Church Cemetery, Beaverdam. Gale was an avid animal lover. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to the ASPCA at aspca.org/donate.
JEANETTE M. CAREY
Kevin Dandridge Flagg, 54, of Ashland, passed away on July 17, 2018. Kevin was preceded in death by his father, Welford Dandridge Flagg Jr. Kevin is survived by his mother, Joyce W. Flagg; his fiancee, Sharlene Mitchell; his brother, Bryan W. Flagg and his wife, Terri; his nephews, Justin R. Flagg (Bonnie) and Jonathan FLAGG B. Flagg (Taylor); and his great-nephews, Richie and Walton. Kevin was a jeweler by trade, an avid hunter and fisherman and an excellent mechanic. A memorial gathering will be held at a later date. Please visit www.nelsenashland.com for updates from the family.
KEVIN D. FLAGG Jeanette Melton Carey, 84, of Ashland, passed away on July 18, 2018. Visitation will be held Friday at Woody Funeral Home in Mechanicsville. A memorial service was held on Saturday at Grace Baptist Church in Richmond, with reception following. Please visit woodyfuCAREY neralhomeatlee.com for full obituary.
C. GALE CASTLEBERRY C. Gale Castleberry, 62, of Hanover, went to be with the Lord Tuesday, July 17, 2018. She was preceded in death by her mother, Mildred Mills; and is survived by her dear beloved friend, Melvin Hermann; three sisters, Wanda “Clippa� Pearson (Billy), Penny Post (Kevin) and Sarah Ritchie (Gary); aunts, Juanita Askew and Nancy Stanley; uncle, James Stanley; as well as several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and a great-nephew. The family received friends on Friday, July 20, at the Mechanicsville Chapel of the Bennett Funeral Home, where services
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LOYD E. HOLMES Loyd “Scoot� Earl Holmes, 56, of Doswell, passed away on July 16, 2018. He was preceded in death by his father, Houston; and brother, “Buck.� He will be missed by his wife of 25 years, Debbie; mother, Lena; and children, Michael, Bubba, John and Kim. Scoot had several grandchildren, HOLMES and one great-grandchild. He is survived by his siblings, Virgil (Tina), Bonnie and Debra. Most of all, he will be missed by his dog, Chief. For 20 years, Scoot was a truck driver for Best Specialized, but spending time fishing was his “special time.� Funeral services were held at Nelsen Funeral Home on Friday, July 20, with a service at the Nelsen Funeral Home Chapel on Saturday, July 21.
PAULINE MILES Pauline Miles, 93, of Richmond, passed away peacefully on July 15, 2018. She was preceded in death by her husband of 66 years, Raymond E. Miles; her parents, Joseph and Mattie Wills; and
eight brothers and sisters. She is survived by her daughter, Melanie Hewes (Richard Baird) of Chesterfield; and her son, Joseph L. Miles (Susan) of Ashland; four grandchildren, Heather Miller (Brad) of MILES Chesterfield, Jonathan Hewes (Holly) of Chesterfield, Andrew Miles (Colleen) of Richmond Hill, Georgia, and Steven Miles (Jennifer) of Columbia, Maryland; eight greatgrandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. Pauline grew up in Stony Creek, and moved to Richmond in 1946. She was a charter member of Willow Oaks Country Club, an avid golfer, an active member of Ramsey Memorial Methodist Church for 68 years, and attended 87th Army Division reunions and functions with Raymond continuously since 1950. Many thanks to all of her caregivers, especially her niece, Cheryl Garrett, her hospice nurse, Jenn Gittman, and caregiver, Pamela Stewart. A funeral ceremony was held at 11 a.m. on Friday, July 20, 2018, at Ramsey Memorial United Methodist Church at 5900 Hull Street Road. Interment followed in in Dale Memorial Park. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Virginia (www. hospiceofvirginia.com) or Ramsey Memorial Church (www.ramseymemorial.org). Bliley'sChippenham at 6900 Hull Street Road was in charge of arrangements.
JEANNE P. REEVES Jeanne Powers Reeves, after a courageous battle with cancer, died peacefully in her sleep July 12, 2018, at home with her family. She was born October 27, 1951, in Richmond. Jeanne was preceded in death by her mother, Virginia Lee Giannotti Powers; and her brother, Dale Powers. She REEVES was survived by her husband of 20 years, Bill Reeves. She is also survived by her twin sister, Janice Michalski (Edward); her sister, Millie Brock (Herman); her nephews, Tony and Chris; and her niece, Sherrie Forman. Jeanne helped found the Animal Adoption and Rescue see OBITUARIES, pg. 11
The Universe from the Center: fascination with Mars
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s I write this, we’re still a week away from seeing Mars at opposition, and 11 days from closest approach on the 31st. I’m hoping for a successful Mars Watch program at the Keeble Observatory – but with low expectations for seeing any surface details. The Red Planet is currently shrouded by a planet-wide dust storm, obscuring virtually all surface features except (possibly) the north polar cap. These storms occur roughly every 6-7 years (3 – 4 Martian years), but their cause and evolution are unclear. This is a great opportunity to study one from start to finish. The storm began on June 10, and within 10 days it was global. One potential casualty of the storm is the Opportunity rover on the surface. The desk-sized probe has been on Mars since January 2004, a total of over 5150 “sols” (Martian days) and over 28 miles on the odometer. Unfortunately, this particular rover depends on solar energy to keep its batteries charged. Accordingly, it has gone into automatic “sleep mode” to minimize power consumption. It may be September before the storm clears and the Sun can once again provide power to recharge the batteries. Controllers are hoping to regain contact once that happens. Three orbiting space craft are studying the storm from above. They are imaging its progress and probing at different wavelength to understand precise atmospheric conditions. The probes are Mars Odyssey, the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter (MRO), and MAVEN. MRO also serves as a radio relay for surface probes.
Opportunity is the other (we hope) active rover on the surface. It’s about the size of a small SUV, and unlike Opportunity it is powered not by the Sun but by a small Radioactive Thermal Generator (RTG) which uses the decay of a plutonium isotope to produce heat which
will reach maximum western elongation (greatest angular distance from Sun) on the 26th. Venus to the northwest at evening twilight, setting around 10 pm. Mars is visible all night, tracking due south at midnight, setting around 4:00 am. Jupiter is to the southeast at twilight, setting around 11
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then generates electricity from thermocouples. This probe is being used in part to monitor the atmosphere from the surface. Lunar phases for August: Last Quarter on the 4th, at 2:18 pm; New Moon on the 11th, at 5:58 am; First Quarter on the 18th, at 3:49 am; Full Moon on the 26th, at 7:56 am. This is the month for the annual Perseid meteor shower, which will occur 11-14 August, with the peak expected on the 13th. If the weather cooperates, this should be a good year since the New Moon will keep the background skies from washing out fainter meteors. If you think you’d like to try seeing this event, you’ll need to find a dark site away from street lights and other outdoor illumination. Best viewing times are typically after midnight until predawn twilight, since the Earth’s rotation will be carrying you into the meteor stream. Mercury is in the eastern sky at pre-dawn twilight. It
pm. Saturn is due south at 10 pm, setting at 2:00 am. Our mid-month overhead view, about 3 hours after sunset, finds Cygnus near zenith, the Swan is flying along the plane of the Milky Way from north-northeast to southsouthwest. Cygnus lies in the direction of the Sun’s motion around the center of the Milky Way, a roughly circular orbit which takes between 200
and 250 million years to go completely around. This is known as the “cosmic year” – and it means that the Sun and Earth have circled the Galaxy about 18 times since they formed some 4.5 billion years ago. Deneb is the brightest star in Cygnus. Vega, in the constellation Lyra lies about 75 degrees above the eastern horizon. Altair, in Aquila, lies about 60 degrees above the southern horizon. These three stars mark the “summer triangle” – which is high overhead for this summer month. To the south, closer to the horizon, look for the “teapot” shaped asterism which marks the constellation Sagittarius. This is the direction toward the center of the Milky Way. The Galaxy appears brightest and widest here, though the actual center is obscured by intervening dust and gas clouds. To “see” through them, we observe at very short (x-ray) or very long (infrared and radio) wavelengths. If readers have questions about astronomy or science in general that you would like to see covered in one of these columns, please feel free to contact me at gspagna@rmc. edu.
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Ashland-Hanover Local July 25, 2018
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CALENDAR
OPINION
| News, & Listings
| The Local Views
Wednesday, July 25
From the managing editor
Hanover proves it loves festivals and fairs started in 1978 at the former location of the Black Creek Volunteer Fire Department when members decided to raise funds for equipment and training by selling the tasty tomatoes. We -- as in The Mechanicsville Local -- are proud to be represented on the Hanover Tomato Festival Committee by Richmond Suburban News (RSN) Publisher Joy Monopoli. Our tent is at the entrance, so it’s a great opportunity to meet with our readers. We so enjoy being part of the festival. A few years ago during an interview with former Ashland Town Manager Charles Hartgrove, he said there was always something going on there. We’ll second that. You can’t say there isn’t something to do in Hanover County during the week and especially on the weekend. Between the events offered
By Melody Kinser Managing Editor Forty years and it just keeps getting better. Of course, I’m talking about the Hanover Tomato Festival. The July 14 event, held at Pole Green Park in Mechanicsville, proved once again that the people of Hanover County and surrounding areas love a festival or fair. This year’s event was a record-breaker with 43,750 people filling the park to enjoy the festivities and, of course, those divinely delicious Hanover Tomatoes. As a matter of fact, 550 cases of the county’s favorite fruit were sold. (I’m one of those who always has to be reminded that a tomato is a fruit. Seems like it ought to be in the vegetable category.) Anyway, “the” summer event in Mechanicsville
by the Hanover County Parks and Recreation Department and the Town of Ashland, every age can find something educational, entertaining or just downright fun. Thank you to all who give of their time to make these events so successful. The support of volunteers strengthens the dedicated paid staffs who work to bring events to our county. We would be remiss if we didn’t recognize the cooperative efforts of the Hanover County Sheriff ’s Office, Hanover County Fire-EMS and Ashland Police Department. They join in and help in every way possible in the communities they serve. We also appreciate the commitment of the Hanover County Board of Supervisors and Ashland Town Council. Hanover County -- where the living is good and festivals and fairs bring neighbors together.
Vacation Bible School, “International Spy Academy,” will wrap up at 6:30 p.m. at Rural Point Baptist Church at 6548 Studley Rd. in Mechanicsville for ages 4 to 12. For more information, and to preregister your child, call 804-730-3226, or go to www.ruralpointbaptist.com and the church’s Facebook page www. facebook.com/RPBCVA/.
Sunday, July 29 All Souls and Messiah Lutheran combine for worship and fellowship beginning at 9:30 a.m. On July 22, special music will be presented by Michael Jones. On July 29, both congregations will participate in several outreach activities after the service, including Brunch and Fresh Food from the All Souls Community Garden giveaway for residents at Christian Village, and participation in the construction of see CALENDAR, pg. 10
A story from long about why I won’t ‘go’ in the woods By Jim Ridolphi Contributing Columnist I’m not as tolerant as I used to be, and things that in the past never annoyed me now tend to irritate in varying degrees. As I watched a World Cup Match on television, the constant sound of a bad version of “Turkey in the Straw” played over and over again
from a loud speaker mounted on an ice cream truck. It certainly wasn’t the same popsicle man that I remember from youth. The truck was new and shiny, bright blue and highly polished. But somehow the absence of that puff of ozone that shot out of the tiny door each time the man opened it for another popsicle made the latest version seem too sterile and
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Ashland-Hanover Local July 25, 2018
modernized for me. When it comes to popsicle trucks, I should be the last person on earth to reminisce fondly on those early days of a most-anticipated visit to any neighborhood in the mid-1950s. Our house was new and the road in front paved only with gravel. Piles of fine dust provided the shoulders to the seldom-used road.
It was on one of those hot August days that seemed to go on forever that my sister and I lounged on a screened side porch, slung strategically on an old glider that my father considered our most valued piece of furniture. At first, the sound was faint and barely recognizable, but, as seconds passed, the high pitched chime became more distinct and finally,
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 Ashland-Hanover Local. Send letters to: The Ashland-Hanover Local 8460 Times-Dispatch Blvd. Mechanicsville, Va. 23116 Fax: 730-0476 E-mail: editor@mechlocal.com © 2018 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.
recognizable. “The popsicle man is coming,” we screamed in unison. My father handed out small change and we proceeded to the opposite side of the road and secured a location in a quickly forming line. These were well-honed customers who knew that only a novice would stand on the side of the road where the freezer door was not located. Even with the early jockeying for position, a 5-year-old usually ended up near the end. As the first puff of cold air shot out of the freezer, I recognized an urge that was even more recognizable than the popsicle bell. I had to go in the worst way. As the line moved ever so slowly, the need to relieve became almost unbearable. Without revealing delicate details and at what I still contest was with the permission and see WOODS, pg. 11
UPCOMING EVENTS
07
28 2018
GRAL swimming: Champs at SwimRVA 9:00 a.m.
07
29 2018
GRAL swimming: Champs at SwimRVA 9:00 a.m.
| Youth, High School, College, Recreational & Professional
Tidal Waves get edge on Sharks in last meet By Rob Witham for Ashland-Hanover Local MECHANICSVILLE – Several scenarios surround the final Greater Richmond Aquatic League (GRAL) swimming meet of the regular season. Most importantly, it is a final opportunity for swimmers to qualify for this weekend’s annual Champs tournament, where the top swimmers compete for league supremacy in many categories based on age and ability. But another plot swirled around the Kings Charter pool Wednesday evening in a return meet with Hanover Golf Club delayed one night by thunderstorms. The Tidal Waves remembered their loss to the Shark Attack in their season opener last month, and built just enough of a lead to hold off Hanover to take a team victory by just ten points, 1,075 to 1,065. “We were really excited for this meet,” noted Kings Charter head coach Tristan Amatruda. “It’s a lot more about individual performances at this meet. For a lot of them, this is their last swim for about a year, the last time to race, so we’re keeping working on the starts and turns, the little things.” Little things, like Kemp Jones of Hanover holding off Ryan Konecny to clinch victory in the final race of the night, the
Summer sports camp calendar
Joel Klein for The Local
There are many ways to enter the water as demonstrated by these 8 and under girls in the 25-meter freestyle event in Hanover Country Club’s Greater Richmond Aquatic League regular-season ending swim meet at Kings Charter Wednesday..
15-18 200-yard mixed medley relay, winning in 2:20.96, just over a second ahead of the Tidal Waves. Then there’s Kings Charter
triple winner Ethan Salser, taking nearly a second off his best time in the 9-10 boys 100 individual medley to win going away in 1:22.22.
Hanover’s Maddie Medei, a best time, while fellow quafour-time victor, stormed to a druple winner Cole Nuckols 1:17.87 finish in the 11-12 girls turned in his best performance 100 individual medley, shedding over two seconds off her see WAVES, pg. 9
• ASHLAND – Randolph-Macon College’s men’s basketball program will hold a Shooting Camp in Crenshaw Gymnasium from Friday, July 27, to Sunday, July 29. The camp, for boys aged 10 to 18, gives campers the opportunity to focus on improving their shooting skills. Emphasis is placed on technique, footwork, shooting drills, shooting off the dribble, shooting off the pass, shooting games, free throw shooting and post/perimeter shooting. Overnight and commuter camp options are available. Check in is from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Friday, followed by a session from 3 to 9 p.m. for all campers. Camp sessions are 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday and 9 to 11 a.m. Sunday. The cost is $250 for see CAMP, pg. 8
Ashland-Hanover Local July 25, 2018
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Post 175 ends Legion regular season undefeated By Dave Lawrence Sports Editor MECHANICSVILLE – For the first two innings, it looked like Powhatan Post 201 might spoil host Mechanicsville Post 175’s quest for an undefeated regular season. Powhatan Reilly Dickerson was effectively suppressing the explosive Mechanicsville offense, and the game was scoreless going in to the bottom of the third inning at Atlee High School. But, by then Mechanicsville’s batters began to make adjustments, and Post 201 – while not rolling over – saw its chances for an upset slip away as Post 175 scrapped its way to a 6-0 shutout. The task then for Mechanicsville manager Brandon Powers was keeping his players focused to avoid a postseason letdown in the District 11 tournament, which was scheduled to begin Saturday, but which actually began Sunday because of the weekend’s stormy weather. But Powers had plenty of confidence in his team. “I think the last couple of games, outside of maybe one, have been pretty competitive. We’ve kind of seen the best of everyone,” Powers said. “With that, I try to tell my guys that, like, tonight was playoff game one for us since we don’t play Saturday. We had to take [the Post 201 game] and treat it that way because the team that is going to play us on [Monday] has already got a win.” Post 175 hosted Post 201, a 7-3 winner over Midlothian Post 186 in their tournament opener Sunday, at Atlee High School Monday night after this edition went to press. Powhatan Post 201 manager Eric Mead was pleased with his pitchers. Dickerson alloweed six hits and four runs over the
8
back walks, and J.T. Fitzpatrick singled to bring Beach home. That was all the runs Post 175 needed, but they added another run in the fifth when Fitzpatrick hit a solo shot to left field, and added two more in the sixth. Sisson opened the scoring with a one-out single. Nick Zona followed with a single that drove in Sisson; he advanced to second on the throw home and subsequently stole third. After Camden Grimes walked, Beach hit a sacrifice fly to deep center field that brought Zona home. All the while, the Mechanicsville pitchers – starter Landon Smith and reliever Orion Debres, held Powhatan to just three hits and one walk. Smith struck out seven and Debres, in two innings of relief, struck out two. The defense behind them was flawless, recording no errors. “If we keep making making plays in the field, it’s going to be hard to beat us,” Powers said. “That’s the biggenst thing, to continue to make plays. Our bats are going to play. These guys make adjustments pretty quick.” Dave Lawrence/The Local Dave Lawrence can be Above, Mechanicsville Post 175’s J.T. Fitzpatrick squares up for an RBI single in Post 175’s 6-0 win over Post 201 Wednesday. reached at dlawrence@mechlofirst five innings, while reliever 11, and Mechancisville’s batters didn’t really have to tell [my gle to open the Mechanicsville cal.com. Hunter Montgomery allowed hit him enough to get and stay batters] anything because they third. Brian Sisson then drove a 201 000 000 0 — 0 3 0 know. They’re smart hitters and rocket over the left field wall to Post ahead. two hits and two runs. Post 175 003 012 x — 6 8 0 bring himself and Odell home. “[Powhatan] threw a lefty they made their adjustments.” “We knew that 175’s a really Dickerson, Montgomery (6) Austin Odell got the Post Two outs later, Zack Beach and and Dawson. Smith, Debres (6) and good hitting baseball team, and out there who got us off-balthey hit the ball well against us ance early,” Powers said. “I 175 offense started with a sin- Braden Lambert drew back-to- Karnes, Beck (7). and some of our faster pitching when we faced them the go to https://rmcbasketball. first time,” Mead said. “Our plan ketball program will hold a perimeter shooting. tonight was to come out with Overnight and commuter jumbula.com/Summer2018/ Shooting Camp in Crenshaw Continued from pg. 7 Reilly Dickerson. Reilly spots Gymnasium from Friday, July camp options are available. RMCShootingCamp the ball up really well. He can Check in is from 1 to 2:30 p.m. 27, to Sunday, July 29. • ASHLAND – Randolphthrow a lot of pitches – he can overnight campers and $200 for The camp, for boys aged 10 Friday, followed by a session run his pitch count up into the commuter campers. to 18, gives campers the oppor- from 3 to 9 p.m. for all campers. Macon College’s men’s bas80s and 90s with no problem For more information, tunity to focus on improving Camp sessions are 9 a.m. to 9 ketball program will hold at all. He doesn’t throw the ball go to https://rmcbasketball. their shooting skills. Emphasis p.m. Saturday and 9 to 11 a.m. a Complete Skills Camp in Crenshaw Gymnasium from real hard, but he does hit his jumbula.com/Summer2018/ is placed on technique, foot- Sunday. spots. As far as I’m concerned, RMCShootingCamp The cost is $250 for over- Sunday, July 29, to Thursday, work, shooting drills, shoothe pitched one heck of a game.” ing off the dribble, shooting night campers and $200 for Aug. 2. But he was throwing against • ASHLAND – Randolph- off the pass, shooting games, commuter campers. the best-hitting team in District Macon College’s men’s bas- free throw shooting and post/ For more information, see CAMP, pg. 9
Ashland-Hanover Local July 25, 2018
CAMP
Tourney runs come to end for Little League teams By Rob Witham for Ashland-Hanover Local There are so many unknowns when a Little League or Babe Ruth all-star team is selected and practices get underway. How will the chemistry form amongst the players? How many players are highly motivated to take their team as far as possible? And many times, there is simply a case where, eventually, you run into a team on the field that outperforms you. Few teams get to win their final game of the season, thus the critical importance to remind players, and sometimes coaches and parents, to enjoy each step of the journey, no matter how long it may last. For Atlee Majors softball and Mechanicsville 9-11 baseball,
until Saturday, the second day of pool play, to get underway in Pool C. Their opponent, Spotsylvania, was already in desperation mode after losing their opener 10-0 to Fort Hunt. That fact did Mechanicsville no favors, as they fell 5-3 in Saturday’s affair, setting up a must-win of their own Sunday against Fort Hunt. Unfortunately, the season came to a close as Fort Hunt was victorious 9-1, joining Courtesy of Rockville Softball League Spotsylvania as the two teams Rockville’s 12U Softball All-Stars prepare for their departure to qualify for the state quarterThursday for Jensen Beach, Florida, for the Babe Ruth Softball World Series, which begins on Friday. The team has swept finals out of Pool C. its way through its postseason, defeating three opponents in The ladies of Atlee, smarting Hampton en route to its district championship three weeks from a loss to McLean which ago and outscoring opponents 51-7 in the Virginia state sent them into the elimination championship tournament in Fishersville two weeks ago. bracket, showed grit and deterthe journeys came to a close League state tournaments, in mination early last Monday, this past week, but not without Woodstock for Mechanicsville knowing they would need two wins that day to qualify for the each team providing maximum and in Luray for Atlee. Mechanicsville had to wait championship round. In a slugeffort at their respective Little
WAVES Continued from pg. 7
of the season in the 11-12 boys individual medley, winning in 1:15.63, .64 better than his previous best. For Salser, Medei, Nuckols and others, the meet was that final opportunity to gain, or continue, positive momentum into Champs, which takes place Saturday and Sunday at SwimRVA in Richmond. Thus, despite hoping to exact some revenge on the Shark Attack, the Tidal Waves and their foes were both mostly focused on earning as many spots at the championship as possible. Still, they still keep score, and for Hanover, the meet taking place just one day later than scheduled may have cost them a shot at sweeping their Division 3 rivals. “We had pretty much our whole roster, which was fabulous,” said Shark Attack head
Joel Klein for The Local
Hanover Country Club’s Kaleb Kashinejad leads Kings Charter’s Nolan Konecny in the 11-12 boys 50-meter breaststroke in a Greater Richmond Aquatic League swim meet Wednesday.
coach Leslie Nuckols referring to the June opener, which they hosted. “Tonight, we’re missing a ton of swimmers, so that hurt. Even moving from last night to tonight, we lost a bunch.” Be it noted, this wasn’t a case of a coach giving an excuse for her team’s performance, as while winning is always important, the greater good was twofold: preparing some swimmers for Champs, while sending
the rest of the team into their offseason with positive lessons learned, and the chance to come back and make their own Champs dream come true a summer from now. Hanover’s Ava McKinney is ready for Champs, winning four races including the 9-10 girls 50 backstroke in 38.72, the best time in the race by any GRAL competitor this season. Kings Charter’s Maggie Caten
Charter shaved a third of a second off her best time in the 9-10 girls 50 breaststroke and qualifies second league-wide with a time of 45.22, only .13 behind top qualifier Alice Zhang of Wyndham. McKinney, Medei and Nuckols were joined by Cameron Greene, Robert Jones, Kaleb Kashinejad, Sydney McAdoo, Will McAdoo, Emma Medei, Shelby Nash and Brooke Voekler as quadruple winners for the Shark Attack. Tyler Caten, William Cope, Henry Crain, Hanna Goodman, Kurt Jacoby, Andrew Kiss, Hudson Lutton and Luke Salser were quadruple winners for the Tidal Waves. Swimmers aged 12 and under will compete at Champs on Saturday, with those aged 13and older swimming on Sunday. For start times or more information, email champs@ gralva.com. Rob Witham can be reached at sports@mechlocal.com.
fest, the District 5 champions outlasted District 15 champion Matthews 15-11, setting up a game with Tazewell for the right to face McLean for the state title. In that second game, the Atlee girls fell just short, falling 6-4 to Tazewell, ending their 2018 campaign with a third place finish in the Commonwealth. For both teams, there is disappointment now. But there are also foundations already planted, motivation already brewing deep in the hearts of nearly thirty kids representing both Mechanicsville and Atlee to work hard, focus, and seek to finish next year what they started this year. In Babe Ruth action, the Rockville 9U Baseball All-Stars finished a magical run all the way to the Cal Ripken Southeast Regional Championship before
falling on Saturday afternoon in the title game 9-0 to West Raleigh, North Carolina. Rockville had defeated Western North Carolina representative Matthews 11-6 earlier in the day to qualify for the championship contest. Victories over host Clemmons, North Carolina (14-6) and Stafford, Virginia (3-1) in National Pool play had qualified Rockville for the semifinals. The Rockville 12U Softball All-Stars are wrapping up final preparations as they ready to play for the Babe Ruth World Series championship, leaving on Thursday for Jensen Beach, Florida, where tournament festivities are scheduled to begin on Friday. Rob Witham can be reached at sports@mechlocal.com.
day campers. For more information, Continued from pg. 8 go to https://rmcbasketball. jumbula.com/Summer2018/ The camp, for boys aged RMCCompleteSkillsCamp 10 to 18, is intended to help players of all abilities develop • ASHLAND – Randolphathletically, refine fundamental Macon College’s women’s basbasketball skills and enhance ketball program will hold an their skill set at the post, wing, Elite Camp for girls entering or guard position. Emphasis is grades 9 through 12 on Sunday, placed on fundamental devel- Aug. 5. opment, shooting, offensive The Elite Camp is for moves, defense, rebounding, highly motivated studentteam play, and more. athletes that have the passion Overnight, extended day and desire to play at the coland day camp options are lege level. Randolph-Macon available. Check in is from 1 staff and players will challenge to 2:30 p.m. Sunday, followed and instruct student-athletes on by a session from 3 to 9 p.m. individual skill development, for all campers. Sessions run as well as working in a team from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday dynamic. through Wednesday for day The cost is $65 for the camp, campers, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. which will run from 9 a.m. to for extended day campers; and 2 p.m. Check in begins at 8:30 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday a.m. for all campers. For more information, go to The cost is $450 for over- https://thinkyellowjackets.com/ night campers, $375 for extend- camps.php#elite ed day campers and $300 for
CAMP
Ashland-Hanover Local July 25, 2018
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COUNCIL Continued from pg. 1
Laux said in describing one of things considered in their research. That consulting group eventually settled on the direct bank loan as the best method forward to finance the projects. When the budget was approved, the council anticipated a 20-year loan with a 4.5 percent interest rate. Davenport considered offers from several bands, but seriously considered two, one from Sterling Bank and the offer from BB&T. In the end, flexibility was an integral element in the decision. The BB&T loan offered a 3.61 percent interest rate for 15 1/2 years. If the town decides to pay the loan off early, there is a 1 percent penalty in the first 10 years and no penalty
if the loan is satisfied in the 10- to 15-year period. Under those terms, the town would pay about $622,000 annually. The loan would be reset for the final four years, but the town could opt to refinance or pay off the loan at that time. Sterling’s bid was slightly higher but offered a fixed rate for the full term of the loan. The cost to the town under those terms was $631,000 annually. Council members compared the figures and accepted Davenport’s recommendation to endorse the BB&T proposal, approving the measure with a unanimous vote with council member Kathy Abbott absent. In the past, officials have indicated a desire to begin the bidding process for the new town hall by the end of the year. In other matters, council approved a Conditional Use
Permit application by Kate Bostain to open and operate a used car lot on Route 1 near Ashland. Jak Max Auto currently operates a lot in Henrico County on West Broad Street, but was forced to relocate when that site was sold. The property on Route 1 is zoned B-2, but since use as an auto lot was not continuous, a conditional use permit is required. Town attorney Andrea Erard said new dealerships are permitted by right in B-2 zoned areas since most of those operations are governed by corporate guidelines that address issues identified in Bostain’s application. Council approved the request complete with 14 stipulations for operation that addressed items such as outdoor storage, signage, setback
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CALENDAR Continued from pg. 6
Welcome Home Kits for St. Joseph’s Villa. All Souls and Messiah worship at 8154 Atlee Rd. in Mechanicsville. A nursery will be available for infants and toddlers. Rev. Katherine G. Dougherty is the priest. For more information, visit www. allsoulsva.org.
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Ashland-Hanover Local July 25, 2018
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requirements and parking. Council member George Spagna noted that Jak Max originally was located in Ashland, so the approval was really a welcoming back for a former neighbor. “I believe the Jak Max was originally in Ashland and then moved to Broad Street,� Spagna said. “So, she is essentially asking to come home.� Last week’s meeting marked the final meeting for Council Clerk Joseph Collins. Mayor Steve Trivett informed members of a new partnership with GRTC that will provide bus service from Ashland to King’s Dominion or the downtown area. The service was originally started to accommodate a large number of King’s Dominion employees who live in Richmond. The local theme park is planning to remain open for Winterfest. Council contributed $12,000 to participate in the GRTC program and will evaluate its value once the initial venture is completed. Finally, the start of next month’s council meeting has been moved to 7:30 p.m. so members can attend National Night Out ceremonies throughout the town.
Saturday, Sept. 29 The Lee-Davis High School Class of 1973 will hold its 45th see CALENDAR, pg. 13
Streets celebrate 50th anniversary
Submitted photo
Bob and Brenda Street celebrated their 50th anniversary on July 20, 2018. They have two sons and five grandchildren.
CJ’s Thumbs Up Foundation to hold fundraiser at COTU Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com ASHLAND -- C.J.’s Thumbs Up Foundation, an area nonprofit with a mission to provide assistance to families of children with chronic and life-threatening illnesses, will host a fundraiser, CJ The DJ’s Boogaloo from 1 to 9 p.m. on Saturday, July 28, at the Center Of The Universe Brewing Co. at 11293 Air Park Rd. in Ashland. The event will include music and beverages. Several bands will be performing live music throughout the afternoon and evening. There will be a 50/50 raffle, food trucks, and beer. All proceeds from the fund-
raiser will benefit CJ's Thumbs Up Foundation. Organizers are asking for a suggested donation of $20 per adult. Kids and pets are welcome. (Note: Pets are not allowed inside, but are welcome on the outdoor patio.) For more information and to learn about CJ’s programs and the organization, go to www.CJSTUF.org.
Libraries announce remaining programs for month of July HANOVER – Librarian Carolyn Garner of the Pamunkey Regional Library has announced the list of upcoming programs at Ashland-area libraries.
Richard S. Gillis Jr./ Ashland Branch Library
Monday (July 30), 10 a.m. Mother Goose Storytime and 10:45 a.m. Family Storytime 10:45 a.m.; Tuesdays (July 24 and 31) – 10 a.m. Toddler Storytime and 10:45 a.m. Preschool Storytime. For more information, call 804-7984072 or visit the library at 201 S. Railroad Ave.
Hanover Branch Library
Rainbow Puppets’ “Creatures Great & Small” at the Ashland Branch Library – 1:30 p.m. Thursday, July 26, 1:30 p.m. -- See the fantastic show “Creatures Great & Small,” starring an acrobatic flea, a giant stegosaurus, and almost everything in between. For more information, call 804-798-4072 or visit the library at 201 S. Railroad Ave. Storytimes at the Ashland Branch Library --
Shark Week Fun at the Hanover Branch Library – 11:30 a.m. Saturday, July 28 -- It’s Shark Week! Join in on some super, shark-y fun at the library. Snacks will be provided by the Hanover Branch Library Friends. For more information, call 804365-6210 or visit the library at 7527 Library Drive. Mother Nature’s Travelin’ Road Show at the Hanover Branch Library – 1:30 to 2:30
OBITUARIES Continued from pg. 4
Foundation of Richmond, Va. in 1993 and served as president for four years. She was also president of the Hanover Humane Society and The Potomac Valley Pekingese Rescue. Jeanne began rescuing animals over 35 years ago when her friend, Kitty Nelson, talked her into res-
WOODS Continued from pg. 6
somewhat urging of my older sister, I made one of my first bad decisions in life. As fate would have it, the popsicle truck that provided my cover pulled away and a small a 5-year-old boy was left standing in the most precarious of positions.
p.m. Tuesday, July 31 -- The Virginia Living Museum's kid-friendly show returns to the library with up-close and personal experiences with the animals of Virginia. For more information, call 804-3656210 or visit the library at 7527 Library Drive. Storytimes at the Hanover Branch Library – Friday (July 27) – 10:45 a.m. Family Storytime 10:45 a.m. For more information, call 804-365-6210 or visit the library at 7527 Library Drive.
dery floss. For more information, call 804-883-7116 or visit the library at 17205 Sycamore Tavern Lane. Storytimes at the Montpelier Branch Library -- Wednesdays (July 25) – 10 a.m. Family Storytimes. For more information, call 804883-7116 or visit the library at 17205 Sycamore Tavern Lane.
Cochrane Rockville Branch Library
String a Work of Art at the Montpelier Branch Library – 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, July 28, for ages 18 and up. String a unique work of art using one of our design templates, nails, and embroi-
Rainbow Puppets’ “Creatures Great & Small” at the Cochrane Rockville Branch Library – 11 a.m. to noon Thursday, July 26 -- See the fantastic show “Creatures Great & Small,” starring an acrobatic flea, a giant stegosaurus, and almost everything in between. For more information, call 804-749-3146 or visit the library at 16600 Pouncey Tract Road.
cuing a solid white female cat. Jeanne was a true animal lover and advocate. She devoted countless hours to the rescue and adoption of hundreds of animals up and down the East Coast and gave loving care to her own precious animals. Jeanne retired from United Virginia Bank after 20 years of service. At the time, she was the youngest female assistant
vice president in the bank’s history. Jeanne was multitalented and upon retiring, she pursued many other interests. After extensive study, she was awarded the title of “Master Gardener.” Using her vast knowledge of plants, she and Bill created a garden oasis in their backyard, which was regularly featured on the Bellevue Garden Walk. She also worked at The Great
Big Greenhouse, owned and operated Daisy Maids cleaning service for over 10 years, added to her ceramic figurine collections and worked independently as a faux painter. A funeral ceremony was held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, July 18. Burial was in Forest Lawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, you may make donations to The Potomac Valley Pekingnese Rescue Club.
As I gathered myself, I looked up and saw my father standing at the front door of our house, a witness to my ungentlemanly behavior. In one brief moment of bad judgment, I stood there – exposed, so to speak -- popsicle in one hand and future in the other, both jeopardized by a quickly departing popsicle truck.
Now, the details are blurred but I still remember the image of a melting orange popsicle laying wasted in one of those light brown piles of dirt. My father refreshed me on the responsibilities of civil behavior, and the incident was mostly forgotten except when my sister told everyone who would listen of the incident.
The poet said there’s a lesson to be learned in each of life’s experiences, good or bad. The incident didn’t deter my love of orange popsicles, but, over the years, while others headed for the woods or side of the road to relieve themselves, I always wait for the gas station. You never know who’s watching.
Lois Wickham Jones/ Montpelier Branch Library.
Happee Birthdae, Harry Potter! at the Cochrane Rockville Branch Library – noon to 2 p.m. Saturday, July 28 -- Celebrate Harry Potter's birthday with Rememberalls, make your own wand, origami owls, a Wanted Wizard selfie station, and more. Cosplaying is encouraged. Hogwarts-style snacks will be provided by the Friends of the Rockville
Library. For more information, call 804-749-3146 or visit the library at 16600 Pouncey Tract Road. Storytimes at the Cochrane Rockville Branch Library -- Friday (July 27) – 10:30 a.m. Family Storytimes. For more information, call 804-749-3146 or visit the library at 16600 Pouncey Tract Road.
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Culver at judi.culver@gmail. com or 804-387-6153.
9645 or email kjfaith1@gmail. com.
Ongoing
Tuesdays
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.
The Hanover Concert Band rehearses from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. every Tuesday, mid-January through mid-December, at the Hanover Arts and Activities Center at 500 S. Railroad Ave. in Ashland, just south of U.S. 54. Membership is open to anyone who can read music and play a non-string instrument. High school students are welcome with parents’ permission. For more information, visit www.hanoverconcertband.org or call 804-789-0536. General cancer support group meets from 9:30 to 11 a.m. in the Cancer Resource Center in Medical Office Building 1 on the hallway leading to VCU Massey Radiation Oncology. The group is co-facilitated by an oncology social work navigator, registered nurse navigator and survivorship nurse practitioner.
Continued from pg. 10
reunion at Creamfield Farm in Mechanicsville. The event will be catered by Smokey Bottom BBQ. Organizers are in need of address/phone updates for classmates and in search of “1970s era” faculty members that would like to take part in the reunion. Invitations will be mailed soon. Those interested are asked to contact Dale Carter Anderson at 804-6433509 or email danderson@ cfpm.comcastbiz.net or Mary Pusey Cox at 804- 781-0508 or email ccoxjr10@aol.com.
Saturday, Oct. 20 The 1978 Class of Lee-Davis High School will hold its 40th reunion at The Via Club at Pebble Creek in Mechanicsville. As arrangements continue to progress, invitations will be arriving soon. For details, go to Facebook (Lee-Davis Class of 1978), or contact Judi Craft
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 804-366LEGAL DISPLAY ADS
Legal Notices NOTICE OF ACTION Notice is given a blue 2001 10’ Polaris Virage #PLE22084B101 Reg. #UA2902AX is abandoned for more than 60 days on property of Burt Iszczenko 15471 Coatesville RD Beaverdam, VA 23015 804-338-0075. Application for watercraft title will be made under section 29.1-733.25 code of VA if not claimed & removed within 30 days of first notice is published.
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Wednesdays
Thursdays
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 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.
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. Overcomers Outreach, a Christ-centered anonymous support program offering hope and healing for recovering alcoholics, addicts and their families, meets at 7 .pm. at 7446 Adams Farm Rd. in Mechanicsville. For more information, call 804-3666524 or email mjfaith1@gmail. 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 804-781-0338.
First Tuesday Cancer caregiver support group meets from 2 to 3 p.m. in the Cancer Resource Center in Medical Office Building 1 on the hallway leading to VCU Massey Radiation Oncology. The group is facilitated by a Bon Secours oncology social work navigator and VCU Massey social worker.
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TOWN OF ASHLAND NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Please take notice that on the 8th day of August 2018 at 7:00 p.m. at the Ashland Town Hall, 101 Thompson Street, Ashland, VA, the Ashland Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing pursuant to Virginia Code section 15.2-2204 for the purpose of receiving input, and may provide a recommendation on the following: ORD2018-11 R-MC Text Amendment - Signage ORDINANCE NO. 2018-11 AMENDS THE ASHLAND TOWN CODE, CHAPTER 21, “ZONING”, ARTICLE XX SIGNS. The amendment would allow for a larger monument style sign within the HE, Higher Education, District. A copy of ORD2018-11 may be obtained by contacting Town Hall at (804) 798-1073. Written comments may be submitted to planning@ashlandva.gov or Town of Ashland, P.O. Box 1600, Ashland, VA 23005. All interested persons may attend and express their views. Any person with a disability requiring assistance in order to participate in this public hearing is asked to contact Town Hall in advance so that appropriate arrangements can be made.
Ashland-Hanover Local July 25, 2018
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Tourney honors Clay Light, supports Ruritan projects Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com
M
ECHANICS-VILLE -- The Mechanicsville Ruritan Club held its Second Annual Golf Tournament on Friday, June 22, at the Hanover Country Club in Ashland. The fundraising event, named The Clay Light Memorial Golf Tournament, was described as a success. Light was a long-time devoted member of the club. First place team winners were Mason Jones, Marion Craft, Clarence Mills and Steve Goldsmith. Second place winners were Adam Kelly, Andrew Wilkerson, Greyson Rhodes and Hunter Robbins. Third place winners were Billy Rudd, Scott Motley, Kelly Esslinger and Jamie Bright. Golf tournament chairman Rickey Dandridge said, “We had exceptional support from sponsors and players for our annual tournament. The support
BELIZE Continued from pg. 3
was founded, but resources for the small department have been difficult to obtain. Currently, they have only six stations and 32 vehicles. Efforts like the Virginia Emergency Services Assistance Program for Belize seek training and equipment acquisition opportunities for the small nation. Piland set up a meeting with the Virginia Department of Fire Programs The chief goal was to establish a creditable fire training and officer development program … “a plan where six Belizean firefighters would travel to the United States, two at a time, and participate in our career fire academy,” Piland told the Hanover County Board of Supervisors at a recent meeting. The trainees enter the United States with an A-2 Visa, a designation reserved for diplomats or government officials who are visiting the U.S. on official business or representing their country. Applicants are thoroughly vetted during
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Tom Haynie for The Local
It’s time to start the tournament with all the golf carts full and ready to go. Tom Haynie for The Local
Chairman Ricky Dandridge addresses the golfers.
we received is just the ‘norm’ coming from our community. We are excited with the results and looking forward to next year’s event.” The goal of the tournament is to help continue to award scholarships to Atlee, Hanover and Lee-Davis high school seniors planning to attend college. Since 1986 the Mechanicsville Ruritan Club has provided over $235,000 to 75 local high schools students. Since the club’s existence, members have raised and contributed over
This poster shows Clay Light, for whom the golf tournament was being held in his honor.
the process. The two are assigned to the Rockville Fire Station as they attend the county’s Fire Academy with 11 other new hires. Patrick Parks and Johnny Cardenas arrived in Hanover in January and were sworn in as volunteers after extensive vetting and physical testing. “Once they passed all of their backgrounds, we assigned them to Rockville Fire Station #9,” Piland said. In addition to sending two will qualified and certified firefighters back home to complement the national fire service, Piland said the experience has impacted his department in many positive ways, including.a focus on safety and effective communication,, assisted in growth of Hanover County instructors and officers, and exposed the department to cultural diversity. “We’ve also learned and grown from our friends in Central America,” Piland said. “We have strengthened the fire service bond and brotherhood with an international element here in Hanover.” The benefits were even greater for
Belize and its national Fire Service. Piland told the supervisors that Belizean fire officials are modeling their fire service education plan on Hanover’s current system. “Hanover County is really making an incredible impact on this country,” Piland said. Piland said neighboring departments, including Powhatan, Fredericksburg, King George and Northumberland, have donated personal protection gear for the Belize Fire Service. Piland said changes in department policy now address international students. Those revisions were based on consultation with Michael Gill, superintendent of Hanover County Public Schools, and the school system’s policies regarding foreign exchange students. Supervisor Aubrey “Bucky” Stanley, who heads the board’s Safety and Security Committee, endorsed the program. “I’ve been here a long time and Hanover has certainly been in the forefront of doing a lot of things good
Ashland-Hanover Local July 25, 2018
Tom Haynie for The Local
and I think this is one of them,” the Beaverdam representative said. “We welcome and endorse this program.” Chickahominy representative Angela Kelly-Wiecek also supports the program. “The more opportunities we have to help our friends and neighbors in getting their programs set up is a great thing,” she said. Canova Peterson, Mechanicsville District, noted the positions in the academy filled by the two foreign firefighters did not deny local candidates an opportunity to attend. “The slots were available anyway,” Peterson said. Ashland supervisor Faye Prichard commented on Belize’s desire to design its fire safer education plan based on what they’ve learned from Hanover. “When I hear an entire country is modeling their system on our county system — what a feather in our cap,” she said. “I echo the sentiments of my fellow board members,” Sean Davis, chair, said. “I am glad Hanover Fire/EMS is an
$825,000 back to the Hanover County community. This new major fundraiser, The Clay Light Memorial Golf Tournament, will be held every June. The Mechanicsville Rotary/ Ruritan Christmas Parade, with revenue going to the Hanover Christmas Mother and the Adopt-A-Highway program, Business Route 360 Mechanicsville Turnpike, are projects the Mechanicsville Ruritan Club helps sponsor. agency that is held in such high regard that we can train other departments.” The Henry District supervisor had questions regarding some confusion in information provided to the board before the program began. “It is the board’s duty to make sure we have accurate information in matters such as this,” Davis said following the meeting. “When county administration informed us of what they were doing, there were some things that simply didn’t make sense,” Davis said. He noted the board’s responsibility to research and question details on policy. “Some of the information kept changing, so I needed to ask questions,” Davis said while noting that asking those questions did not indicate an objection to the program. “In the end, I appreciate Chief Piland getting us answers and providing us with sound information. I wish all the recruits the very best in their training,” he concluded.
VET Continued from pg. 1
“I can’t imagine my brother not being at the reunion,” Eddie Cox said. “You have got to do something!” Hoy wanted to see David Cox – called “Pop-pop” by his family – get to Scott County, so Hoy and her sisters, Debbie Powers-Reynolds of Mechanicsville and Tracy Wright of Caroline County, cast about for a solution. It came in the form of another veteran, Marcus Simmons, who continues to serve in his own way by helping people out when he can. It seemed extra appropriate given the timing: the week of our nation’s birthday. The two men, while in different services – Simmons was in the Navy – served in largely similar circumstances. Both worked on keeping things working: Cox kept the Air Force’s F-86 jet fighters in the air; Simmons helped keep the Navy’s ships – specifically the USS Dominant, a minesweeper, and the USS Lexington, an aircraft carrier – operating properly. Their foreign deployments were during unpopular conflicts. Cox served in a still white-hot Korean Peninsula where a state of war still technically exists – but things where much more tense when he was there in 1953-1954, even after the armistice pausing hostilities was signed at Panmunjom. Simmons served during the Vietnam era, 1969 to 1971, although the Navy kept him out of the combat zone because he was an only son. Despite the tens of thousands of U.S. casualties in each conflict, the two were officially referred to as anything but wars for years afterward. The veterans were often the targets of public anger over policies the veterans had nothing to do with. “It’s the ‘Forgotten War,’ I guess you’ve heard that,” David
Joel Klein for The Local
David E. Cox, 88, of Caroline County shows his pilot's license, which he has kept in his wallet for decades, as he awaits news of whether his planned flight to a family reunion to Scott County will departed as planned from Hanover County Municipal Airport on Friday, July 6. Left, Cox Airfore photo.
Cox said of the Korean War. “We here hung up and nailed to dry.” Simmons remembered more direct hostility. “Going through the airports, people would throw stuff at you, especially the people that were your age,” Simmons said. “It was just a tough time back then. Everybody was against the war. Those of us that wanted to serve, but still had doubts about whether the war was the right thing to do, were just into serving the country. … The stars could never line up where everybody was kind of on the same page as far as what we should or should not be doing. It was just tough, a tough time.” Still, both are proud of their service and how it changed them as men. “It served me well,” Simmons said. “I don’t regret it.” The other parallel is that both learned to fly after their time in the military. David Cox, while living in Caroline, usually flew out of the Hanover airport, taking family members on joy rides. While not as fast
as on the F-86’s he worked on, it was still a lot of fun for them – even as they learned some hard-won Depression-era wisdom from the pilot. “We were in a small Cessna preparing for takeoff, I felt
Contributed by Pamela Hoy
The Cox family reunion gets off to an early start at Tazewell County Airport after the arrival of 88-year-old David E. Cox (left of center, with cane) who has flown to southwest Virginia by pilot Marcus Simmons (center).
comfortable knowing Uncle Gene knew what he was doing – I admired him so,” said his nephew Frank Kauffman. “We started heading to the runway and uncle Gene started gaining speed, but we were not on the runway. We were rolling along on the grass parallel to the side of it. I asked him why we were not on the actual runway and
he responded, ‘I am saving the treads on the tires.’ ” Hoy found Simmons through a mutual friend. She explained the situation the family faced – which was good enough motivation for the flight – but if he had harbored any initial doubts about the flight, learning that David Cox was also a veteran made his
decision obvious. “The fact that he was a veteran is what made the difference,” Simmons said. “Then, after I met him and got to know him a little bit, it became even more obvious that we’ve got to do this. “He’s just a very nice man, see COX TO, pg. 16
Sarah Suttles
Tom Haynie
Ashland-Hanover Local July 25, 2018
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COX Continued from pg. 15
and, from what I see, the quality of his daughters and grandchildren, he did a pretty good job. When I grow up, I want to be just like him.” The party – Simmons, David Cox and Hoy – originally planned to leave on Friday, July 6. A host of family congregated at Hanover County Municipal Airport, Simmons fueled and performed pre-flight checks on his Rockwell Commander 112, and checked the weather one last time. While it looked like scattered thunderstorms might leave an opening to get to their original destination, Virginia Highlands Airport in Abingdon, visibility conditions in the region ruled it out. Weather ruled
out alternate airports nearby. So the group reconvened at Hanover County Municipal Airports the next morning. Persistent fog scratched Virginia Highlands off the landing list, but conditions at Tazewell County Airport were suitable. They found another group of family members awaiting them in Tazewell and made it to the family reunion in time. Simmons, who had not requested nor expected any payment for the flight, left the family reunion with a good selection of freshly canned – as in Mason jar, not tin – fruits and vegetables. “It’s not that often you can get freshly canned goods right from the farm,” he said. “It was a nice treat.” As for Cox, he got the star treatment at the
family reunion. “It was an experience, an opportunity, that nobody thought Pop-pop would have,” said Debbie Powers-Reynolds. “This man (Simmons), through
the blessings of people, they brought this dream to come true for Pop-pop to make it home.” Dave Lawrence can be reached at dlawrence@ mechlocal.com.
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Joel Klein for The Local
Marcus Simmons (left) and David E. Cox pose by Simmons' plane prior to a planned flight to Abingdon on Friday, July 6, 2018. While the flight did not depart that day because of weather conditions, Simmons did fly Cox, 88, to Tazewell County so that Cox could attend a family reunion in nearby Scott County.
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Contributed by Pamela Hoy
Pilot Marcus Simmons (left) helps David E. Cox, 88, of Caroline County out of the plane with the help of Cox's family at Tazewell County Airport on Saturday, July 7, 2018. Simmons volunteered to fly Cox to southwest Virginia.