Ashland-Hanover Local – 01/30/19

COMMUNITY R-MC observes MLK Day Page 2

ENTERTAINMENT Ashland Theatre and The Broadberry Entertainment Group kick off live music Page 7

Vol. 4 No. 20 | Richmond Suburban News | January 30, 2019

Harris outlines 2020 initiatives

By Jim Ridolphi for Ashland-Hanover Local

Jim Ridolphi for Ashland-Hanover Local

John Axselle, left, listens as Marla Coleman talks about the Hanover County Public Schools’ 2019-2020 budget during a public hearing on Jan. 22 at the Central Office in Ashland.

Public input positive for proposed school budget

By Jim Ridolphi for Ashland-Hanover Local ASHLAND -- A week after Hanover County Public Schools superintendent Michael Gill presented his proposed 2019-2020 budget, members of the public received an opportunity to voice their opinions regarding the $194.5 million operating budget.

Most comments offered during the special meeting were positive, and many highlighted the 3 percent salary increase for school employees and the budget’s commitment to mental health and behavioral issues as positive and much needed.

Gill’s proposal is laden with

additional positions, including counselors and behavioral specialists in an effort to confront a growing problem in schools nationwide.

Gill said this year’s budget is a “step in the right direction” in addressing issues that reportedly affect one out of every five middle school students.

The endorsement of efforts to combat the growing problem was almost uniform in all of the comments received at the meeting.

“Our association strongly supports Dr. Gill’s 2019-2020 proposed budget,” said Hanover Education Association presisee BUDGET, pg. 2

ASHLAND – The Hanover County Board of Supervisors got a sneak peek at what might be contained in County Administrator Rhu Harris proposed budget as he presented a list of initiatives for 2020 at last week’s regularly scheduled meeting.

Harris is scheduled to reveal his 2020-2021 budget next month.

Heading that list is a transportation issue that plagues many special needs, elderly and disabled county citizens. Harris said many people do not have access to vehicles and a new program seeks to address those issues and provide rides to doctors’ visits or other important appointments.

“As many of you are aware, Hanover has the highest percentage of population over 65… and about a thousand Hanoverians have no access to a vehicle for transportation,” Harris said.

The cost for the first year of the program is 80 percent federally funded, and Harris said the ser-

HARRIS

vice could provide county citizens with transportation alternatives. The county must apply for the federal grant money

by Feb. 1.

“This is the first step of what we think we can find to help those citizens who are truly struggling to meet life’s daily needs,”

Harris said.

Also included in the list of priorities is a recommendation to renovate the District Courts Building. “This is a continuation of an initiative we are currently working with this year,” he said.

Bids for the project would be advertised in the spring, with a goal of having departments move into the building by fall 2020. The Assessor’s Office, Human Resources, Parks and Rec, General Services and Building Inspection see INITIATIVES, pg. 4

Two horses die in barn fire

Photo submitted by Battalion Chief Gregory R. Martin/Hanover Fire-EMS

Several crews with Hanover Fire-EMS responded to a barn fire in Beaverdam on Monday, Jan. 21. Two horses died in the blaze at an equestrian center. For more details, turn to page 5.

Schaeffer running for supervisor Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com BEAVERDAM – Andy Schaeffer is announcing his candidacy for the Beaverdam District seat on the Hanover County Board of Supervisors.

In challenging Aubrey “Bucky” Stanley, who has held the office since 1983, Schaeffer said “the time has come for SCHAEFFER a fresh approach in the Beaverdam District.”

“Citizens have complained for years about the lack of high speed internet in Western Hanover. This issue is not just a Beaverdam issue or a Hanover issue. It is felt at state and federal levels,” he said.

Schaeffer said both candidates that ran for the First District seat in the U.S. House of Representatives made the issue part of their platform.

“The Governor has created a group to help Rural Virginians find solutions,” he added.

“The problem is that no one on the local level has been working to address the need. see SCHAEFFER, pg. 2

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Rev. Janie M. Walker was guest speaker at Randolph-Macon College on Monday, Jan. 21, in celebration of the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. "Dr. King was one of America's greatest moral and philosophical leaders," Walker said as she began her address. Members of the Shiloh Baptist Church Choir sang several songs to celebrate the life of Dr. King.

BUDGET

Continued from pg. 1

dent Gene Matthews. “We appreciate the 3 percent raise that will go to all school board employees, not just to SOQ (Statement of Qualifications) funded positions and not just to teachers.�

Matthews also endorsed a proposed adjustment to the

SCHAEFFER Continued from pg. 1

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Ashland-Hanover Local January 30, 2019

The citizens need someone on the board of supervisors to move the needle and focus resources here in our area,â&#x20AC;?

Schaeffer said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The board of supervisors had a failed attempt several years ago in forming a committee that Mr. Stanley and other board members worked on. After two years they reported there was nothing they could do.

In asking current supervisors

teachersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; pay scale that takes the first step in addressing salary compression. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We particularly appreciate the adjustment the superintendent has made to the teacher salary scale to begin the transition from a compressed scale to a linear one,â&#x20AC;? he said.

Matthews was joined

by Hanover Professional Educators president Bill

Callahan as both groups endorsed the proposed budget set for approval at the Feb. 12 school board meeting. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our two groups also concur with the counselor, special education and behavior support positions, as well as the additional funding proposed for special education so that

recently, the response has been â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;We are not preventing anyone from bringing internet service to Hanoverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;.â&#x20AC;?

Schaeffer has 30 years of experience in Information Technology. He is employed as director of Information Technology for a law firm based in Richmond.

He said he has â&#x20AC;&#x153;not only the technical expertise to help Hanover County work through this problem,â&#x20AC;? but he â&#x20AC;&#x153;believes he has the project management experience and

real world business skills to manage and address the fiscal issues and county management challenges that exist in these times.â&#x20AC;?

A resident of the Beaverdam District for 20 years, he said he understands the concerns of the citizens.

While never having held public office, Schaeffer said he was the first Honorary Mayor of Beaverdam and was lucky enough to win a second term as part of local community fundraising efforts.

see BUDGET, pg. 4

SHERIFFâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S REPORTS | Crime, Accidents, Fire & Rescue

Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 3500 block of Interstate 295 South, Mechanicsville.

Driver did not report an accident with damages, $250, in the 16100 block of Mountain Road, Montpelier.

Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 8000 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike/Cold Harbor Road, Mechanicsville.

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

Possession of marijuana, subsequent offense, was reported in the 7500 block of Cold Harbor Road, Mechanicsville.

DWI, BAC .20 first offense, was reported in the 11100 block of Elmont Road, Ashland.

Grand larceny, $500 or more not from a person, was reported in the 7200 block of Battle Hill Drive, Mechanicsville.

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

Possession of Schedule I and II controlled substance was reported in the 7500 block of Mechanicsville Bypass/Cold Harbor Road, Mechanicsville.

Assault and battery of a family member was reported in the 6300 block of Pine Slash Road, Mechanicsville.

Destruction of property, monument, was reported in the 7100 block of Ellerson Mill Circle, Mechanicsville.

Possession of marijuana, subsequent offense, was reported in the 7200 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.

Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the

Destruction of property, monument, was reported in the 7500 block of Lee-Davis Road, Mechanicsville.

more not from a person, was reported in the 6000 block of Perryville Trace, Mechanicsville.

Possession of marijuana, subsequent offense, was reported in the 13100 block of Mountain Road, Glen Allen.

Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 100 block of Arbor Oak Drive/Winter Oak Drive, Ashland.

Dec. 9

Assault malicious victim injured was reported in the 8100 block of Mimosa Hill Lane, Mechanicsville.

Possession of marijuana, subsequent offense, was reported in the 8500 block of New Ashcake Road, Mechanicsville.

Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 10300 block of Verdon Road/Washington Highway, Doswell.

Breaking and entering to commit assault and battery was reported in the 8100 block of Mimosa Hill Lane, Mechanicsville.

Violation of a protective order (general) was reported I the 7300 block of Edgeworth Drive, Mechanicsville.

Grand larceny from auto was reported in the 13400 block of Ashland Road, Ashland.

Failure to appear on a felony charge was reported in the 7500 block of County Complex Road, Hanover.

Petit larceny from auto was reported in the 9200 block of Hanover Crossings Drive, Mechanicsville.

Credit card fraud, $200 in six months, was reported in the 8500 block of Steeplebush Place, Mechanicsville.

DWI second conviction within less than five years, BAC .20, was reported in the 11100 block of Egypt Road/ Ashcake Road, Ashland.

Petit larceny, $500 not from a person, was reported in the 7000 block of Old Millstone Drive, Mechanicsville.

Driver did not report an accident with damages, $1,000, in the 16500 block of Pouncey Tract Road, Rockville.

Brandishing a firearm was reported in the 10400 block of Leadbetter Road, Ashland.

Identity fraud, use of identifying information to defraud, was reported in the 10300 block of Deer Oak Lane, Mechanicsville.

Driver did not report an accident with damages, $1,000, in the 7400 block of Beulah Church Road/Keitts Corner Road, Mechanicsville.

Possession of Schedule I and II controlled substance was reported in the 7400 block of Pebble Lake Drive, Mechanicsville.

Driver did not report an accident with damages, $500, in the 7300 block of Atlee Road, Mechanicsville.

Destruction of property, monument, was reported in the 14000 block of Old Ridge Road, Beaverdam.

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

Driver did not report an accident with damages, $500, in the 10000 block of Lakeridge Parkway, Ashland.

Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 8000 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike/Cold Harbor Road, Mechanicsville.

Assault and battery of a family member was reported in the 6100 block of Brashier Boulevard, Mechanicsville.

Dec. 11

Dec. 10

of alcohol was reported in the 16300 block of Mountain Road, Montpelier.

Assault and battery of a family member, third offense, was reported in the 6400 block of Tammy lane, Mechanicsville.

Dec. 13

Petit larceny, $500 or

Driving under the influence

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BUDGET

OBITUARIES

Continued from pg. 2

| Death Notices & Funerals MAMIE ODELL CARTER Mamie Odell Carter, 88, of Ashland, departed this life on Thursday, January 24, 2019. She was preceded in death by her husband, Herman L. Carter Sr. She leaves to cherish her loving memory daughters, Joyce Ball (James) and Sharon Boone (Lewis); sons, Herman Jr. (Antoinette), Calvin, Ronald (Delynda) and Sandy (Rocky) Carter; a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren and other loving relatives and friends. A homegoing celebration was held at 1 p.m.

CARTER on Monday, January 28, 2019, at March Funeral Home at 2110 East Laburnum Avenue. Interment followed in Roselawn Memory Gardens.

EDWIN CHRISTOPHER GOEBEL Edwin Christopher Goebel passed away on January 12, 2019. He was 78 years old. He was born in Wichita, Kansas, on June 16, 1940.

When he was younger, he often played the piano or pipe organ in local churches.

Ed served in the U.S. Navy on the USS Oriskany. He attended Central Technical Institute, receiving a degree in electronics. Ed worked as a computer programmer and systems analyst at several sites and retired at the Christian Broadcasting Network (700 Club) after 25 years. Ed is survived by his wife, Mary; children, Gregory and Lisa; grandchildren, Taylor, GOEBEL Reagan, Hannah and Gabriel; and five brothers and six sisters. A memorial service at 3 p.m. on Saturday, January 26, 2019, at Harmony Vineyard Church at 9562 King Charter Drive, Suite 100, in Ashland.

EVERETT GLENN MELTON SR. Everett Glenn Melton Sr., 83, of Rockville, passed away on Friday, January 25, 2019. Born to Stonewall Jackson and Ruth Nicholas Melton, he graduated from Rockville High School and attended the University of Richmond and University of South Carolina School of Banking. Following 35 years of service with the Federal Reserve Bank, he served as Deputy Treasurer of Hanover County.

In later years he enjoyed success as an internet Stock Market Trader. He was preceded in death by a sister, Ruby M. Schonberg; brother, Thomas Mason Melton; and son, Jerry Duane Melton.

He is survived by his wife and high school sweetheart, Hazel White Melton; sons, Everett Jr., Steven (Shelley) and Patrick (Terri); seven grandchildren and MELTON four great-grandchildren; sisters, Vera M. Wilson and Violet M. Lane, both of Henrico; and brother, Stuart James Melton Sr. of Rockville. He was loved and adored by his family and his faithful beagle, Misty, that slept at his bedside. A memorial service was held at 2 p.m. on see OBITUARIES, pg. 12

4

Ashland-Hanover Local January 30, 2019

our students with disabilities can receive all of the services they need,” Matthews concluded.

Callahan recommended the board assume the entire cost of health insurance costs for the coming year, something the budget addresses but does not guarantee.

Gill explained that’s because those rates are negotiated through county government offices and the plan includes not only school employees, but he expressed concern regarding those rising costs.

“We would simply ask the board to fund the entire increase in health insurance costs for the 2019-20 school year,” Callahan said.

Gill and Callahan agreed that better educating employ-

INITIATIVES Continued from pg. 1

are slated to occupy the new space.

Harris said plans are well underway for Hanover County’s upcoming 300th anniversary, and Bucky Stanley and Scott Wyatt are heading a 12-person citizens committee assisting in the planning.

“We are excited about this undertaking and look forward to proceeding,” Harris said.

Another initiative for the upcoming year is the Atlee Library construction, a project that has been a priority for several years.

“We’re getting closer to the actuality of being able to construct the building,” Harris said. The proposed plan outlines a 20,000-square-foot two-

ees on efficient ways to use their health insurance could reduce future increases.

Gill cited an example where services at a local clinic are available with no co-pays while emergency rooms can result in high out-of-pocket costs in addition to higher costs for services.

Callahan also asked that bus drivers be included in VRS (Virginia Retirement System), a move that he contends would enhance retention of good employees.

Other speakers commended the superintendent for including items like additional positions at CodeRVA and the exclusion of fees for current lacrosse teams at county schools.

Rachel Levy, representing Together Hanover, told board members her organization supports the proposal but noted some issues the new budget does not address.

“In particular, we can identify five areas that we’d like to see addressed: better working conditions for teachers and learning conditions for students, more courses or sections of certain courses need to be added, additional programming and staffing and more funding for facilities,” Levy said.

Levy said that lack of course selection especially affects electives with many classes not available.

She also said important classes like writing require one-on-one instruction and timely interaction.

“This is not because HCPS doesn’t know how to teach writing,” Levy said. “It’s that you lack the resources to do it well.”

Gill applauded the efforts of the many who worked to comprise this year’s budget, one he described as “a positive

step in the right direction.”

“I’ve been proud of every budget we’ve put forth since I’ve been here,” Gill said. “But, I think this is the one, so far, that I’ve been the most proud.”

Marla Coleman, who represents the Henry District on the Hanover County School Board, agreed. “This has been a very smooth budget process and the cooperation with the committees and the [Hanover County] Board of Supervisors has been outstanding.”

“I think this is one of the most inspiring budgets I’ve seen,” she added. “I’m a very happy educator today.”

The school board will consider Gill’s proposed budget for approval at its regularly scheduled Feb, 12 meeting, which will begin at 7 p.m.

The board of supervisors will consider the entire budget in coming months, with approval slated for April.

story building.

Harris said bids have been received for the project, and the plan is to begin construction this spring with an opening in the summer of 2020.

Another initiative is to continue supporting Hanover County Public Schools’ technology upgrades, a program that began two years ago, which will eventually provide personal devices to all students.

Harris said plans are underway to maintain those improvements and avoid a lump sum upgrade like the one required over the past three years. “We don’t want a $7 million surprise down the road,” he said.

“This is the third year of that plan and we will have invested more than $7 million in that project,” he added.

Airport improvements on the east side of the Hanover Airport continue, and new ramp aprons, a parking lot and access road are complete.

“Next year we plan to embark on a new corporate hangar and begin the design for a new terminal,” Harris said.

Also included on the list is a project that would convert the old Clerk’s Office to a History Museum that Harris said would enhance tourism in the courthouse area.

The supervisors will consider the list for amendment or approval of the list once the budget process is completed in April.

In other matters, South Anna resident Retta Christoph voiced her concerns regarding the recent Personal Property mailings. While the assess-

ments were supposed to be received by Dec. 31, she didn’t receive her bill until Jan. 2.

After inquiries to her supervisor and county officials, Christoph said she wasn’t the only county citizen who didn’t receive the bill in a timely manner.

Christoph said she learned through those efforts that 40 percent of the bills were mailed late.

County billing services are utilizing new billing systems and the new technology has caused some glitches in addition to the late mailings by a vendor.

“Everybody up here and everybody on staff are well aware of this situation,” board chairman Canova Peterson said, adding that the matter is receiving “full attention.”

and II controlled substance was reported in the 7300 block of Hanover Green Drive/ Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville.

subsequent offense, was reported in the 3700 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville.

Mechanicsville.

SHERIFF’S Continued from pg. 3

Concealment, price altering of merchandise, $500, was reported in the 7200 block of Bell Creek Road,

Bomb/burn threat accused, 15, was reported in the 7200 block of Jackson Avenue, Mechanicsville.

Possession of Schedule I

Operating a motor vehicle, habitual offender, second

Driver did not report an see SHERIFF’S, pg. 5

Horses die in barn fire Staff Report news@mechlocal.com BEAVERDAM -- Two horses died early last Wednesday morning in a barn fire in the 15000 block of Tyler Station Road in Beaverdam.

Battalion Chief Gregory R. Martin said Hanover Fire-EMS units were dispatched at 2:44 a.m. When they arrived, they found the barn fully engulfed in fire and learned horses were still inside.

“A rural water supply operation was established,” Martin, who serves as public information officer, said. “Fire-EMS crews attacked the fire from the exterior, suppressing the fire; however, the barn was a

GoFundMe account established BEAVERDAM -- A post on the Ashland-Hanover Local Facebook page identified the structure as the Beaverdam

Equestrian Center Barn, which was located at 15361 Tyler Station Rd. in Beaverdam.

A GoFundMe account has been set up to help Patti and Delaney Carter

total loss.”

“Unfortunately, during the overhaul portion of the operation, it was confirmed that two horses had died as a result of the fire,” Martin said.

He said the fire was under control at 3:09 a.m.

The incident is being investigated by the Hanover County Fire Marshal’s Office.

Units from Beaverdam Station 2, Doswell Station 4 and Montpelier Station 8 responded to the call, which included: Battalion Chief 402, Engine 402, Engine 404, Engine 408, Tanker 402, Tanker 404, Tanker 408, Medic 408, Battalion Chief 470 and Fire Marshal 472 responded to the scene.

Staff Report news@mechlocal.com

Rehearsals start Monday for chorus Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com ASHLAND – Rehearsals for the Community Gospel Chorus will be held as follows:

7 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 4, at Shiloh Baptist Church at 106 S. James St. in Ashland.

7 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 12, at Ashland Christian Church at 301 S. James St. in Ashland.

3 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 17, at the

Ashland Theatre at 205 England St. in Ashland.

The Community Gospel Chorus will conclude the “Untold Stories” program at 4 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 17.

Tyler Spurlock from Brown Grove Baptist Church will be the director.

Those planning to participate are encouraged to attend at least two of the rehearsals.

For more information, contact Sue Watson at watson240@aol.com or 804-402-0296.

Program on enslaved children slated Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com ASHLAND -- Dr. Lauranett Lee will present the program, “Enslaved Children – Past and Present”, at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 6, at The Center at 500 S. Center St. in Ashland.

reported in the 10400 block of Knotty Pine Lane, Glen Allen.

SHERIFF’S Continued from pg. 4

accident with damages, $1,000, in the 10200 block of Lewistown Road/Lakeridge Parkway, Ashland.

Unlawful bodily injury was

Dr. Lee’s talk is a part of the History Talks series co-sponsored by the Ashland Museum and The Center.

The program is free of charge and open to the public.

For more information, visit ashlandmuseum@comcast.net or 804-368-7314.

Breaking and entering at night with the intent to commit felony was reported in the 7600 block of Walnut Grove Road, Mechanicsville.

Credit card fraud, $200 in six months, was reported in the 7200 block of Mayetta Drive, Mechanicsville.

Failure to perform construction after advance was reported in the 7300 block of Pole Green Road, Mechanicsville.

Club learns about ‘Birds’ Photo submitted by Barbara Boor

Betty Walters presented the Jan. 8 program to her fellow members of the Clay Spring Garden Club. She chairs the “Birds” committee and shared many species of birds, as well as experiences she had encountered.

Walters told the club that she loves watching her birds, especially bluebirds, from her sunroom. She celebrated her 90th birthday this month. Members enjoyed hearing about Walters’ bird stories and her extensive knowledge of birds. Mary Wiblin received "Best in Show" for her design "Circling Around". The next meeting is scheduled for 1 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 12, at the First Baptist Church off of Route 54 in Ashland. Some club members will be share their "Favorite Things of Gardening".

CALENDAR Senior servicesto be discussed | News, Updates & Listings Saturday, Feb. 2 Eastern Hanover Volunteer Fire Department Brunswick Stew Sale will be held from noon to 4:30 p.m. at Station 3, 4428 Mechanicsville Tpk. in Mechanicsville. Pre-ordering is available at www.ehvfd.com or by phone/text by contacting firefighter Neri at 804475-0536. The cost is $10 a quart, cash or credit card only.

Net proceeds will be donated to firefighters affected on Interstate-295 on Oct. 11, 2018.

The Studley Ruritan Club’s “Super Bowl Chili” will be available for pick-up between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. at the Studley Store/Post Office on the corner of Studley Road and Williamsville Road. Order early before it sells out. The price is $8 a quart. Proceeds benefit the community. To order, call Douglas Newcomb at 804-730-0570 or any Studley Ruritan member.

Friday, Feb. 8 Music in the Old Church 2019, featuring the Commonwealth Bluegrass Band, will begin at 7 p.m. at the Immanuel Episcopal Church at 3263 Old Church

at February 6 meeting Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com

MONTPELIER -- Wanda Trexler will discuss the many services that Hanover County provides for its aging population at 7:45 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 6, at the Parks & Recreation Building located next to the

Montpelier Center for Arts & Education.

Senior citizens are invited to learn how to access these services.

Trexler is a guest of the Montpelier Ruritan Club, but the public is encouraged to attend.

For more information, call Dan Johnson at 804-883-7249.

Ashland Theatre Is Open!

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see CALENDAR, pg. 7

Ashland-Hanover Local January 30, 2019 5

OPINION

LETTERS

| The Local Views

| Reader Views

From the managing editor

Brief actions can have lasting impressions

By Melody Kinser Managing Editor

I

nterpretation. In a world filled with realtime events being videoed and repeatedly looping throughout social media, actions today are under scrutiny than in the days before smartphones. However, with that should come the knowledge that what you’re doing in public may end up online.

An image that I wish I could remove from my head is the one of a student in the face of a Native American -- and veteran of the United States Marine Corps -- on Friday, Jan. 18, at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. It haunts me -- and disgusts me.

No matter how the high-powered public relations firm that Nick Sandmann’s parents hired tries to spin the encounter, the youth, a student at Covington Catholic High School in Park Hills, Kentucky, appeared to be smug and too close

to Nathan Phillips, who was taking part in the Indigenous Peoples March.

I’ve reached that age where I immediately think “Kids today.” Well, no matter how anyone tries to lessen the impact, that behavior is unacceptable and disrespectful.

The boys from the Catholic school were in the nation’s capital to participate in a March for Life rally. Some were wearing President Trump’s famous cap with the words, Make America Great Again or MAGA. I don’t know if the face-off was so much political as it may have been a teen trying to pull a macho stunt in front of his classmates.

Regardless, that attitude is shameful. Have today’s youth lost all respect for their elders?

I don’t want to think the boys were being racist, but I have no idea how they think or how they have been raised. I do know that privilege doesn’t mean you have class and dignity.

We should revere the Native American

elders and leaders of this country for they have suffered in ways we may never understand.

Their ceremonies, peaceful in nature, deserve our respect.

Some Black Hebrew Israelites were said to be taunting the Covington Catholic group. Phillips, sadly, was drawn into the fray as he marched and beat on a drum with fellow Native Americans.

Sandmann appeared on The Today Show last Wednesday to tell his side of the story. Phillips had been talking to news crews in the previous days. So, we go back to interpretation.

As for me, I think the boys owe Phillips and his group an apology. Whether their intention was to seem menacing and intimating reverts to the word interpretation.

What happened on that fateful day has led to unwanted attention for the school and Sandmann. Only time will tell how this incident plays out in the public eye.

Hopefully there have been lessons learned.

Remembering another influential Henry Ford

By Jim Ridolphi Contributing Columnist No, it’s not the one you’re thinking of.

While there’s no doubt the Detroit auto magnate has an enormous impact on American culture and changed transportation for decades to come, the Henry Ford that I remember did not enjoy the same

name recognition.

For many students who attended J. R. Tucker High School in the 1960s, Ford’s influence was immeasurable and most of us were much more familiar with teacher Henry Ford than the inventor of the Model T. When Tucker first opened its doors, the campus was unfinished and the school felt isolated or even ignored.

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Ashland-Hanover Local January 30, 2019

English Composition teacher Henry Ford was there from day one. His immaculate dress and distinguished aura made him somewhat of an enigma, a sort of diamond in the rough scenario.

Like most of my fellow students, I didn’t realize the value of two semesters in Mr. Ford’s class, and didn’t immediately appreciate his dedication to language see FORD, pg. 12

WE WANT TO PUBLISH YOUR ISSUE-DRIVEN LETTERS The Local welcomes your signed letters to the editor on topics of interest to Hanover residents. Letters must include your address and a daytime telephone number. We reserve the right to edit letters. We do not guarantee that every letter received will be published. Letters reflect the opinions and positions of the writers and not The 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 © 2019 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.

Defining fairness to all parties After recently receiving a letter from the Commissioner of the Revenue, I thought that I had better recheck my understanding of what "fairness" is. It seems that a new tax management software system has been implemented that now, for some reason, needs an established minimum assessed taxable value of $300 for all taxable items of personal property. The letter continues that after a review of my 2018 personal tax billings I do, in fact, have an item with an assessed value below $300.

The letter continues ... "In the interest of fairness we have corrected your bill ..."

So, in the interest of fairness, the assessed value of an almost 20-yearold utility trailer has been raised from $265 to the new minimum of $300.

Hmmm, an appreciated value of 13.2%. I might note that I doubt if the trailer even cost $300 back in 2000.

What is fair about setting a "new minimum value"? Could not the new software have been programmed for, say, a $100 or $200 minimum assessed value?

I also noticed that the letter wasn't actually "signed" by the Commissioner. Yep, to be fair, I wouldn't have signed it either.

And, as long as I'm on the "fairness" issue ... how about the fact that our legislators have not done anything to address the discrepancy we Virginia taxpayers will face when filing this year? With President Trump's new tax regulations, most middle income taxpayers will not itemize their Federal return and under current Virginia law how you file federally will be how you must file for state. This little glitch will mean approximately $500 to $600 million windfall for Virginia, with most coming from the pockets of individual taxpayers. Is this fair?

Our Governor apparently has see LETTERS, pg. 7

Ashland Theatre and The Broadberry Entertainment Group kick off live music ASHLAND — Ashland Theatre and The Broadberry Entertainment Group will officially launch live music programming at the venue with The Trongone Band on Friday, March 1, and American Aquarium on Saturday, March 2.

“Bringing live music performances to Ashland Theatre has been part of our dream for this space since our renovations began two years ago,” said Douglas Love, president and CEO of the Ashland Theatre Foundation. “With stateof-the-art lighting and audio, a newly expanded stage and dressing rooms, we are thrilled to welcome these talented musicians to our venue in March.”

“We’ve been watching the renovations to the theatre for the last year and are so excited to finally be ready to start booking live music in this great new space. The theatre is beautiful, the production is excellent for the artists, and it’s

LETTERS Continued from pg. 6

already made plans for this extra state revenue and it's not going to be in the form of a refund, but instead there's talk that it will go to low income workers in the form of cash grants. I might point out that these low income workers most likely have a zero tax burden. Ah, yes, income redistribution at its best. What could possibly be fairer than that?

Chuck Williamson Mechanicsville

Taxpayer Appreciation Day nears Don’t forget, Feb. 5, 2019, is first half personal property tax due date, but, more importantly, is that Feb. 5 also is Taxpayer Appreciation Day, a day set aside so government employees can show some sign of appreciation, a chest bump, a high five or just a hug for the taxpayers whose tax money makes their government employment journey, profit-

going to play a significant role by providing live entertainment for people in Ashland and the surrounding counties,” said Jessica Gordon of Broadberry Entertainment Group.

“The intimate atmosphere at the newly renovated Ashland Theatre will offer a very special experience for both artists and concertgoers alike,” added Lucas Fritz of Broadberry Entertainment Group. “The box seats and options for the first two rows will allow fans to see their favorite acts up close and personal.”

Friday, March 1 – The Trongone Band 7:30 p.m. (6:30 p.m. doors)/Tickets: $20 to $40.

Hailing from Richmond, The Trongone Band is touring in support of their 2017 debut album, “Keys to the House”, released on Harmonized Records. With a sound that Paste Magazine likens to the “freak-outs of My Morning Jacket with the Muscle Shoals-inspired Leslie speakers and The Band’s narrative storytelling”, The Trongone Band is turning heads and making an impact on the Southern Rock ‘n’ Soul and

able, enjoyable and stress-free.

Benefits such as lots of paid holidays, sick days, vacation days, no layoffs, no termination, early retirement, great health and life insurance, and other perks to name a few, are all results of taxpayer dollars.

And more good news, there will be more tax dollars coming your way due to the newly-increased real estate assessments.

This Taxpayer Appreciation Day is not like the Hot Dog or Hamburger Appreciation Days where you just walk in a store anytime of the day and grab one. The taxpayers are working during the daylight hours and to catch one to hug, chest bump or high five will have to be done before 7 a.m. or after 5 p.m.

In case anyone feels uncomfortable showing their appreciation in public, there is a solution. Take a taxpayer with you and go through the drive-thru car wash on Chamberlayne Avenue. The tunnel atmosphere, soapy water and brushes will insure no one will see, hear, or know how much you really care.

Sounds like a nice gesture

Americana scenes.

Saturday, March 2 -- American Aquarium 7:30 p.m. (6:30 p.m. doors)/Tickets: $18 to $40.

With the release of their seventh studio album Things Change, American Aquarium brings the band’s finest collection of folk-infused Southern rock-and-roll to date. Frontman BJ Barham’s candor has fueled American Aquarium’s runaway appeal. Featuring a new band lineup that includes Shane Boeker on lead guitar, drummer Joey Bybee, bassist Ben Hussey, and Adam Kurtz on pedal steel and electric guitar, Things Change is American Aquarium’s first release on a label after selling thousands of records on their own.

Tickets may be purchased online at ashlandtheatre.org or at The Broadberry’s box office at 2729 W. Broad St. from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Monday through Friday.

Each show at the Ashland Theatre will offer a variety of seating options, including box seats,

to me since there certainly is no lack of wanting appreciaContinued from pg. 5 tion from us by government employees for simply doing a Rd. in Mechanicsville. Tickets job being paid to do. are $15. To purchase tickets, Ted Mentz email events@immanueloc.org Old Church

CALENDAR

premiere front row, and general admission.

Limited box seats will be available for each show to include reserved balcony seating and a private lounge with beer, wine, specialty cocktails and concessions.

About Ashland Theater Ashland Theatre is located at 205 England St. in Ashland. Owned by the Town of Ashland, the theatre building celebrates its 70th year as it reopens its doors. For more information, visit www.ashlandtheatre.org or call 804-401-7007.

About The Broadberry Entertainment Group The Broadberry Entertainment Group, a joint partnership of The Broadberry LLC and The Trigger System LLC/RVA Shows, exclusively books live entertainment in four of Richmond’s most thriving venues: The Broadberry, The Camel, Richmond Music, and Ashland Theatre, as well as number of other venues across the state of Virginia.

or call 804-779-3454.

Tuesday, Feb. 12 The Mechanicsville Chapter 5407 of AARP will from 10 a.m. to noon at the

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!

First Union Baptist Church at 6231 Pole Green Rd. in Mechanicsville. The AARP Chapter will be reviewing activities for the coming year see CALENDAR, pg. 11

‘19

Tom Haynie

Advertising Representative 775-4627 thaynie@mechlocal.com

Sarah Suttles

Advertising Representative 775-4620 ssuttles@mechlocal.com

‘18

201

9

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Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com

Ashland-Hanover Local January 30, 2019 7

UPCOMING EVENTS

01

31 2019

Prep swimming: Patrick Henry vs.

Lee-Davis at R-MC 7:00 p.m.

02

02 2019

Men’s basketball: Roanoke at Randolph-Macon 4:30 p.m.

| Youth, High School, College, Recreational & Professional

Winners have to work in DH at Hanover

By Dave Lawrence Sports Editor MECHANICSVILLE – In neither case did the victor have it easy. Both the girls and boys basketball games between visiting Patrick Henry and host Hanover Friday night proved quite competitive.

And, by the time the night was over, each school could claim a win.

While Patrick Henry was led by a solid offensive effort – 16 points apiece from JaBryah Haverkamp and Ava Smith – its defense is what came up big as it throttled the Hawks in the second and fourth quarters to claim a 49-35 victory.

The Patriots held the Hawks to just 5 points in the second quarter and just 6 in the fourth.

One big reason for Hanover’s reduced offensive output was Patrick Henry’s 6-foot, 2-inch center Jessica Osuanah, who grabbed a game-high 15 rebounds in addition to her 7 points.

The key for the Patriots was to hold off a Hawk charge in the third quarter in which Hanover almost overtook Patrick Henry on the scoreboard.

“They’re a very good team.

We knew that it was going to be a tough game,” said Patrick Henry head girls basketball coach Phillip Cobb. “We struggled shooting the ball a little bit tonight. We were moving

8

Ex-UNC women’s star to give goalkeeping clinic

By Dave Lawrence Sports Editor

Dave Lawrence/The Local

Patrick Henry’s Ava Smith (25) goes up for 2 of her 16 points in the Patriots’ 49-35 win Friday.

the ball. We were getting open shots, but they weren’t falling.

“Fortunately for us, our defense came up and we played pretty well after the first quarter

Ashland-Hanover Local January 30, 2019

and we settled down. Only giving up 35 points is a pretty good night defensively.”

The board game played to the Patriots’ advantage.

“We did a better job rebounding,” Cobb said. “We always talk about crashing the boards. Jessica Osuanah had 15 rebounds tonight, which was a

MECHANICSVILLE – Samantha Leshnak, who just finished a history-making career at the University of North Carolina and who has represented the United States on USA Soccer’s Under17 and Under-20 Women’s National Teams, will be coming to Mechanicsville this weekend to conduct a winter goalkeeping clinic in concert with the Richmond Goalkeeping Academy.

Leshnak, who graduated from UNC in December and has been invited to two pro training camps: by the Utah Royals and North Carolina Courage of the National Women’s Soccer League.

The clinic, which will be held at WashingtonHenry Elementary School in Mechanicsville, will consist of several sessions: Advanced (U-15 to college-aged) on Saturday from 9 a.m. to

10:30 a.m.; Junior (U10U14) Saturday from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.; and all ages from 2:30 p.m to 4:30 p.m.

Saturday and again from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday.

Cost for the clinic ranges from $105 to $150. Ten percent of the profits will be donated to Challenger Sports, a non-profit that helps children with special needs learn and play soccer.

Leshnak will also be conducting a private coaching clinic for an autistic child in conjunction with Richmond Goalkeeping Academy and Challenger Sports.

In addition, there will be a meet-and-greet and autograph session at Cool Spring Baptist Church from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Tickets for the meet-and-greet are $10, with all of the profits going to Challenger Sports.

For more information and/or to register, go to www. richmondgoalkeepingacademy.com

big part of the game, as well as that size in the middle of the four or five – I think it was five paint.”

– blocks tonight as well. That helps when you have somebody see WORK, pg. 9

Every county school gets a winner at meet

By Dave Lawrence Sports Editor RICHMOND – All four county schools fielded winners at the St. Christopher’s Indoor Invitational at St. Christopher’s School Friday and Saturday.

All four winners – two girls and two boys – were in field events. Atlee’s Jada Foreman won the girls high jump with a leap of 5 feet, 6 inches. LeeDavis’ Megan Mann won the shot put with a throw of 40 feet, 11 inches.

On the boys side, Hanover’s Joe Badalamenti won the pole vault with a 15-feet, 6-inch performance, and Patrick Henry’s Cedric Carter won the shot put with a throw of 50 feet, 4.25 inches.

The boys pole vault was the county teams’ strongest event, with four county athletes placing in the top 10. In addition to Badalamenti, Isaac Grubbs (Lee-Davis) finished second. Atlee’s Josh Duegaw was fifth and his teammate John Thumma finished ninth.

Other strong performances include Atlee’s boys 3,200-meter relay team, which finished second, and Foreman’s fifth-place finish in the girls long jump.

Their teammate Emma Moore finished eighth in the girls pole vault. The Raider girls’ 3,200 relay team finished 10th.

The Lee-Davis girls had three other top-10 finishers, all

WORK Continued from pg. 8

Hanover head coach Mike Rohr said Osuanah, a freshman, made life difficult for the Hawks.

“I don’t think we did a very good job of establishing position, and she’s gotten a lot bet-

Mechanicsville youth 5th in state horse show

By Dave Lawrence Sports Editor

Joel Klein for The Local

Atlee freshman Jada Foreman clears 5 feet, 6 inches in her winning effort in the girls high jump at the St. Christopher’s Indoor Track and Field Invitational Friday afternoon.

PH to hold baseball camp Patrick Henry High School will hold its Patriots Indoor Baseball Camp for kids in grades 1 through 8 interested in improving their baseball skills beginning Feb. 12.

The camp, taught by Patrick Henry baseball staff and current and former players, consists of three sessions

each for hitting (Feb. 12, 13, 14) and fielding (Feb. 19, 20, 21).

Sessions run from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. each day.

Registration begins at 6:15. If inclement weather closes the school, the scheduled session will be made up the following evening.

The cost is $50 per week, $90 for both weeks. Team and family rates are available.

Campers should bring tennis shoes, bat and glove.

Helmets are optional.

For more information, contact head baseball coach Sam Hart at shart@hanover. k12.va.us or (804) 365-8000.

MECHANICSVILLE – Terryn Holt, an 11-year-old fifth-grader at Cold Harbor Elementary School, made quite a splash in her first-ever statewide horse show.

Terryn placed fifth in the Junior Western Pleasure division at the 4-H state horse show in Lexington from Nov. 29-Dec. 2.

“I was really excited to get that,” she said. “I didn’t expect I would get that in my first states.”

In equitation, the rider and horse are judged as they execute a series of maneuvers on a closed course. The duo need to have a close, almost intuitive bond, as the rider gets more points the less effort it appears to take to get the horse to execute the required moves.

The bond is an important one for Terryn.

“I love how they can be your best friend and how they can listen to everything you and they can protect you while you’re on the horse,” she said. “They make it such a joy to ride.”

Terryn, riding her family’s 22-year-old Arabian, Saaher’s Concert, started out in a field of 40 riders before making the final round of the competition.

The horse was trained by her grandfather, Terry Goode.

The Arabian can have a bit of a temperamental streak, especially if he hasn’t been ridden in a while.

“If you haven’t ridden him in a couple of days, because he gits a little antsy … we’ll put him on the long line and he’ll get all of his ants out.

He’ll buck and kick sometimes, but when you get the horse, he’s completely calm and focused and ready to ride.”

Patriot 1,600-meter relay team ished ninth in the 300 dash.

Dave Lawrence can be finished fourth and the 3,200 of whom finished ninth in their Taylor in both the long jump shot put. respective events: Sierra Puleo and triple jump. Adam Soliman Patrick Henry’s girls had relay team finished seventh. On reached at dlawrence@mechloin the 2-mile run, and Lauren finished seventh in the boys two top-10 performances. The the boys’ side, Jeff Miller fin- cal.com.

ter. She works really hard down there,” Rohr said. “She did a really good job of getting in position on shots and getting some second shots. I thought that was a big difference in the game.”

Hanover was led by Emily Mott with a double-double: 10 points and 12 rebounds. She also had three blocks. Julia

Mardigian scored 12 points and got four steals.

In the nightcap of the evening, the Hawk boys jumped on Patrick Henry to build a big lead early and withstood a number of Patriot rallies – including one at the cusp of the third and fourth quarters – to hold on to a 61-48 victory.

Hanover was led by Will

Fahed with 17 points and Cole Wallace with 11.

“We knew that Patrick Henry was going to always keep fighting,” said Hanover head coach Darren Thornton. “One, it’s a county rivalry. … We know those guys have pride. We won’t look at their record. They’re a team that always plays hard and keeps coming. They’re a young

team, so they’re always going to keep believing in themselves and keep trying.”

The Patriots were led by Camden Byrd with 14 points and Jayden Mines with 10.

“We’re going to fight. We’re going to claw. We’re going to give it everything we’ve got,” said Patrick Henry head boys basketball coach Randy Anderson.

“It’s just, when it matters the most, [the Hawks] had more big plays. … Their guys, you can tell, they were seasoned, veteran guys that made the right pass at the right time. When it mattered the most, they made better plays than us.”

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

Ashland-Hanover Local January 30, 2019

9

CLASSIFIEDS LEGAL DISPLAY ADS

LEGAL DISPLAY ADS

Town of Ashland Town Council Public Hearing The Ashland Town Council has scheduled a public hearing for Tuesday, February 5, 2019 at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers of the Town Hall at 101 Thompson Street, to accept comments from the public on the following: Capital Improvements Program FY 2019-2020 through 2023-2024: Review recommendations for amendments or revisions to The Capital Improvements Program (CIP). The CIP is a program that spans five (5) budget years. Nonrecurring projects that are capital intensive are included in the CIP. The identified projects and assigned priorities are reviewed annually by the Planning Commission and the Town Council.

A copy of the proposed CIP is available for review in the Town Hall at 101 Thompson Street, Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.

TOWN OF ASHLAND NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Please take notice that on the 13th day of February 2019 at 7:00 p.m. at the Ashland Town Hall, 101 Thompson Street, Ashland, VA, the Ashland Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing for the purpose of receiving input, and may provide a recommendation on the following ORD2019-01 Lower, Brad Text Amendment Ordinance 2019-01 proposes an option to amend Section 21-40 of the Ashland Town Code to allow educational facilities in the R-2 zoning district in conjunction with a Conditional Use Permit, or an option to amend Section 21-265 of the Ashland Town Code to include group instruction or assembly as a Home Occupation.

A copy of the request 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.

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Ashland-Hanover Local January 30, 2019

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NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ASHLAND TOWN COUNCIL Please take notice that on Tuesday, February 5, 2019 at 7:00 PM, the Ashland Town Council will conduct a public hearing at Ashland Town Hall, 101 Thompson Street, Ashland, Virginia on the following:

Merchandise MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE One Cemetary Plot For Sale Washington Memorial Cemetary $2300. which is below market value.

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ORDINANCE NO. 2019-02 ORDINANCE NO. 2019-02 AMENDS THE ASHLAND TOWN CODE, CHAPTER 2, “ADMINISTRATION,” ARTICLE V, “TOWN TREASURER,” SECTION 2-36, “AUTHORITY TO SIGN CHECKS” TO CLARIFY WHO HAS THE AUTHORITY TO SIGN CHECKS ON BEHALF OF THE TOWN. BE IT ORDAINED by the Ashland Town Council that the Ashland Town Code, Chapter 2, “Administration,” Article V, “Town Treasurer,” Section 2-36, “Authority to Sign Checks” be amended to read as follows:

“Sec 2-36 Authority to Sign Checks The Finance Director, or his or her designee, shall disburse all monies payable by the town. All checks shall be signed by two persons in the following positions: (i) the Town Manager, (ii) the Assistant Town Manager (iii) the Assistant to the Town Manager, (iv) the Director of Public Works, or (v) the Finance Director.”

The purpose of this public hearing is to receive input and all interested persons are encouraged to attend and express their views. Following the public hearings, the Ashland Town Council may take action to approve this Ordinance. Copies of the Ordinance may be obtained by contacting Town Hall at 798-9219 (101 Thompson Street, Ashland, Virginia 23005) Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Written comments may be submitted to Matthew Reynal, Assistant Town Manager, via email at mreynal@ashlandva.gov or through regular mail to Clerk of Council, Town of Ashland, P.O. Box 1600, Ashland, VA 23005. Any person with a disability requiring assistance in order to participate in the public hearings is asked to contact Town Hall in advance so that appropriate arrangements may be made.

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The Richmond Times-Dispatch is Virginia’s News Leader, providing an indispensable, trustworthy source of news, advertising, commentary and entertainment. We also boast the area’s largest, most visited website, Richmond.com. Join our team and generate revenue that funds the largest local media team in the region, informs our community, supports a free press and is a foundation for our democracy.

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CIRCULATION MANAGER #2383 Seeking a candidate to be accountable for ensuring that maximum circulation revenue is achieved by timely distribution and providing efficient service for all BH Media products and partner publications.

DISTRICT SUPERVISOR #1310 (NIGHT SHIFT) Motivate and train carrier force to provide good service while increasing circulation and attaining collection goals. This individual will assist in maintaining overall distribution center operations and be responsible for achieving consistent, proper and on-time delivery to newspaper subscribers daily.

WAREHOUSE CLERK- (PART-TIME) #2541 Provide assistance to the Metro Circulation Department, Operations and Circulation Manager in distributing, verifying and stack out of designated newspaper sections within the distribution center.

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE #3136 The Outside Sales Advertising Account Executive works with businesses to develop, sell, service and coordinate their advertising. This candidate’s primary function is to sell existing/new busines into the Richmond Times-Dispatch and Richmond.com.

WAREHOUSE STACK OUT (PART-TIME) #3119 Warehouse specialist for our Lakeside Distribution Center. This candidate will provide assistance to the Metro Circulation Department, Operations and Circulation Manager in distributing, verifying and stack out of designated newspaper sections within the distribution center.

HANOVER LOCATION

MACHINIST #2984 Handle preventative maintenance and repairs on company equipment. Additional responsibilities will include operating lathes, mills, surface grinders, and other machine shop equipment. The candidate will also machine and fabricate mechanical parts and components for necessary repairs and/or modification of production related equipment.

FACILITIES MANAGER #3153 Provide an efficient and safe working environment for employees and their activities by using best business practices to manage resources, services and processes to meet the needs of the company.

JOURNEYMAN/PRESSMAN #2863 Candidate will perform daily press operations required to manufacture BH Media Group and contract print publications in a cost-effective manner, with the highest quality.

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Please apply online at bhmginc.com and select Careers.

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Anthony Logan Jr. decided to have his own basketball game following a recent contest that pitted RandolphMacon College women against Emory & Henry. Based on his reaction to the camera, he was quite pleased with himself.

CALENDAR Continued from pg. 7

and discussing revisions to its Standing Rules. Lunch will be served. All national members of AARP are invited. For more information, call Larry Gooss at 804-839-2347.

Saturdays Trinity Lutheran Church, Ashland Campus, located at 11515 Ashcake Road in Ashland two miles west of U.S. 1, holds it church service at 5 p.m. with Pastor Nycholas Greig. For more information, visit www.trinityrichmond.net or call 804-270-9626.

Sundays

— EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER —

Outside the Walls, a new Narcotics Anonymous group, has been organized and will meet from 6 to 7 p.m. in the lobby of the Pamunkey Regional Jail at 7240 Courtland

Farm Rd. in Hanover. For more information, contact John Shinholser, McShin president, at 804-249-1845. The website is http://www.mcshin.org.

Tuesdays A Commanders Coffee is held from 10 a.m. to about 11 a.m. at the Beaverdam Post at 17662 Beaver Dam Rd. in Beaverdam. Members discuss issues of interest/befits of the American Legion. Eugene Truitt is the Post commander.

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.

Ashland-Hanover Local January 30, 2019 11

County Senior Softball League is looking for softball players Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com

M

ECHANICSVILLE -- The Hanover Senior Softball League is looking to expand its membership by reaching out to the local community.

The league provides an opportunity

for men 50 years of age or over and women 40 years of age and over to play competitive slow pitch softball in a friendly and safe environment.

All talent levels are welcome to participate and enjoy this friendly social time with games being played on Wednesday nights at Pole Green Park from mid-April to August.

The cost is $80 per player.

Registration deadline is Friday, March 1.

Learn more about the Hanover Senior Softball League by attending the annual league meeting at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 12, at the Eastern Hanover Volunteer Fire Department

FORD

OBITUARIES Continued from pg. 4

Continued from pg. 6

Tuesday, January 29, 2019, at the West Chapel of Bennett and the written word.

But, no one could attend Funeral Home at 11020 West Broad Street in Glen Allen. Interment followed in Calvary Christian Church Ford’s classes without gaining a new respect for words and Cemeteryat 14196 Ashland Road in Glen Allen. how to group them to convey a thought or tell a story.

LEWIS TOMLIN I suppose I was in the infancy Lewis Tomlin, of Montpelier, died on January 16, 2019. He was a retired employee of Greater Richmond of becoming an aspiring writer, Transit and a Vietnam veteran. He is survived by his so the emphasis on composition wife, Patricia; his daughter, Lisa Townsend; three beloved didn’t bother me. In fact, it held my interest more than any other grandchildren, one great-grandchild and a sister. class, and English was one subject that came easy to me.

MELINDA DIANE WOODS I was under the false impresMelinda Diane Woods, 56, of Ashland, passed away sion that I knew how to write -peacefully on Sunday, January 20, 2019, surrounded and maybe I did have an inclinaby her family. Melinda was preceded in death by her tion to the art -- but Mr. Ford’s class father, Willard White Sr.; and stepfather, Thomas Massey. enlightened me to just how little I Survivors include her husband of 42 years, Michael; knew and how much I had to learn. sons, Michael Jr. (Crystal) and Richard Woods; daughter, For a year, I listened to a Melissa Woods; mother, Hazel Massey; grandmother, man who recognized potential in Mamie Stone; eight grandchildren; brothers, Junior and every student, and raised the level Ricky White; sisters, Joan Wheeler (Pete) and Ruth Ann Barnette; stepbrothers and stepsisters, numerous uncles, of consciousness of the thouaunts, nieces, nephews and cousins. A graveside service sands he instructed throughout was held at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, January 29, 2019, at the years.

He was the first teacher who Riverside Baptist Church Cemetery in Beaverdam. Lacy Funeral Home in Mineral was in charge of arrangements. appreciated my interest in writing and took the time to nurture and Online guestbook is available at www.lacyfh.com.

located at 8493 New Bethesda Rd. in Mechanicsville.

The new board will be introduced, and practice dates and plans for the season will be presented.

For more information, as well as registration forms, go to hanoverseniorsoftball.org.

Metro Creative Graphics

refine what he called raw talent.

I’m not exactly sure what he saw in me, but he offered me the chance to learn how to write and construct readable copy.

Mr. Ford provided tools essential to the craft, tricks of the trade and taught me something he called the perfection of simplicity. He opened a world of wonders by introducing a group of mostly immature students to great artists like Hemingway, Steinbeck and O’Connor.

I suppose there are thousands of stories of inspiring high school teachers who had major influences on the lives of the students they taught, but Mr. Ford instilled in me an interest and dedication to the written word that would last a lifetime.

After years enjoying a career I truly love, I often think of those days in Mr. Ford’s class in that barren campus that seemed forever unfinished. As a managing editor, publisher, photographer or reporter, I carried his words of wisdom close and often relied on one of those little tricks learned

in his class to improve a story or make it more readable.

Throughout those years, I carried two pieces of literature to every office I occupied. One was a list of different ways to begin a sentence and the other was Edgar Allen Poe’s “The Philosophy of Composition.”

Both were given to me by Henry Ford, but they are only reminders of what I learned in his class and his personal attention.

His encouragement and personal interest in my journey provided a confidence that couldn’t be printed on a sheet of paper, or erased with the hands of time.

Sitting in Mr. Ford’s class, I was awakened in a literary sense, and came to the conclusion that composing and arranging words would be a lifelong pursuit for me.

In my wildest of dreams, I envisioned that someday that early fascination with words would actually become a career.

The pursuit took years, and many teachers refined and tweaked my

abilities after Mr. Ford.

But, it all began in that small classroom at Tucker with Mr. Ford and his ability to relate to all students and a belief that a little encouragement can provide immeasurable guidance to those willing to listen.

After years of teaching English, Mr. Ford became a guidance counselor and assisted even more students as they prepared for college or a career.

Looking back, maybe that was his calling — a job that allowed him to become involved in and guide the futures of students, but his words as an English teacher are the ones that still inspire me.

Ford’s commitment to the students he taught are not unique but serve as a reminder of the thousands of dedicated educators whose efforts are largely unrecognized.

But, the impact on the kids they inspire is a lasting tribute to teachers like Henry Ford and others like him who make lasting impressions, change lives or shape careers.

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Ashland-Hanover Local January 30, 2019

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