Ashland-Hanover Local – 11/04/20

OPINION

COMMUNITY

‘Not Detected’ explained in terms of COVID-19

Tim Joyce retiring after 35 years with the YMCA PAGE

6

PAGE

16

Vol. 6 No. 10 | Richmond Suburban News | November 4, 2020

The Finish Line’s in Sight Image submitted by Downtown Ashland Association

Nov. 30 is the deadline for lovers of America’s railroad history to meet the $50,000 matching grant for the MidAtlantic Railroad Park project in Ashland. Otherwise, the entire grant will be withdrawn.

Research shows that the Railroad Park will strengthen our region’s economy for years to come, and the $50,000 matching grant from the Mary Morton Parsons Foundation is the very best chance to make this exciting attraction a reality.

Please watch an informative video at ashlandvirginia.com/railroad.

Then donate securely online, or write your check to Downtown Ashland Association and mail it to P.O. Box 33, Ashland VA 23005 (write “Railroad Park” on the memo line). Supportive organizations include the Downtown Ashland Association, Virginia Port Authority, Ashland Museum, Hanover County Black Heritage Society, CSX, Ashland Kiwanis Club, Marketing Ashland Partnership, and the Hanover County Historical Society. A permanent plaque will recognize donors of $5,000+ as Honored Founders and donors of $1,000+ as Honored Supporters. Any and all donations will be greatly appreciated. Thank you for joining in to make this happen!

Revised wetlands request open for comment - again

By Jim Ridolphi for Ashland-Hanover Local RICHMOND -- It could be as late as March 2021 before the State Water Control Board considers a revised Wetlands permit application submitted

by Wegmans to build a distribution center in Hanover.

Following a hearing in August where dozens of citizens submitted or voiced objections to the original permit request and its wetlands delineation, the Department of

Environmental Quality (DEQ) has announced a second round of public comment regarding the project.

The agency issued a press release earlier this month announcing the extended public comment period. Input will be received until Dec. 4, and a public hearing is scheduled for 7 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 19.

The release includes the following statement regarding the agency’s intentions regarding see WETLANDS, pg. 8

HCPS receives Chromebook shipment; all students get one ASHLAND – Hanover County Public Schools has received a shipment of more than 9,000 Chromebooks that will be distributed starting this week.

Superintendent Michael Gill said he was “thrilled to announce an exciting development

in [the school division’s] ability to provide the necessary technology for all students to learn in the digital world.”

The accomplishment, paid for through CARES Act and local funding approved by the Hanover County School Board and Hanover

County Board of Supervisors, means every HCPS middle and high school student will have a Chromebook by Thanksgiving break, which starts Wednesday, Nov. 25. Elementary school students will receive their device in December.

HCPS previously distributed more than

6,600 Chromebooks and roughly 600 internet hotspot devices to students enrolled in the fully virtual Hanover Online School.

“The receipt of these devices, at a time

Books, Beads & More is your local used books, DVD, CD, and local artist store.

We support and sell crafts and artwork from our local artists.

Not sure what to choose?

A gift certificate is always perfect.

Still open & providing a safe place to shop • Social distancing & curbside pickup

8106 Mechanicsville Turnpike across from the windmill in the old Degoff’s building | BooksBeadsandMore.com | 804.730.2665

see CHROMEBOOK, pg. 8

FISH DAY!

Plans unveiled for widening of Pole Green Road

IT’S TIME TO STOCK YOUR POND!

Delivery will be:

Friday, November 13 Richmond BS 9:00-9:45 @Southern States

Tuesday, November 17 Ashland 11:45-12:30 @Ashland Feed Store Montpelier 1:00-1:45 @Montpelier Feed & Seed LIKE US ON FACEBOOK!

FISHWAGON

To Place an Order Call

1-800-643-8439

www.fishwagon.com

By Jim Ridolphi for Ashland-Hanover Local HANOVER -- The good news is a plan is being designed to provide relief for the thousands who travel or live along Pole Green Road and suffer daily delays and backups along the heavily-traveled road.

Hanover County officials held a citizens information meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 27, to introduce residents to a proposed plan to widen Pole Green Road from Rural Point Road to Bell Creek Road, alleviating a two-lane nightmare that has

PLUMBING, HEATING & COOLING

plagued residents for years.

The good news was tempered with the reality of a timeline that doesn’t see any dirt turned until 2024.

Joe Vidunas, traffic engineer and project manager, said the project is in its infant stages and designs are incomplete.

Affected citizens and residents are encouraged to provide public input to a project that Vidunas concedes will have a significant impact on residents in the area.

“We know that this project is going to have significant impacts on your way of life,” Vidunas said. “We will do everything we can to try to minimize those impacts within reason but we are limited to some extent as to what we can do.”

Realizing that residents’ properties are an important asset, Vidunas said he doesn’t take those impacts lightly. “I try to put myself in your shoes and how I would feel about certain things.”

He also acknowledged the impacts will not be “equitable” and some residents will be affected more than others.

Even with those considerations, Vidunas said the project is designed to provide safe and functional travel for those traveling Pole Green Road for the next 20 years and address increased traffic on the thoroughfare due to planned growth in the region.

Pedestrian safety and connectivity also will be enhanced with the improvements.

With more than 19,000 cars and trucks utilizing the roadway each day, Vidunas said the road is reaching a “tipping

Tours resuming with Historical Society at Old Courthouse 2

Ashland-Hanover Local November 4, 2020

point” that requires a solution.

In 2009, the county widened a section of Pole Green that extends from U.S. 295 to Bell Creek, but a new ABC (Alcoholic Beverage Control) Distribution Center and numerous residential developments like Bishops Park prompted officials to continue on a plan that will eventually see four lanes from U.S. 295 to U.S. 360.

Though unrelated, improvements in Commonwealth Park that include the new ABC Distribution Center and improvements at Antique Lane also will ease congestion in the area.

Although the design plan is still in the planning stages, there are several elements to the Pole Green project that should enhance safety and decrease accidents on the road.

Medians are included in the plan that will divide two lanes of traffic in each direction and a sidewalk is planned for the entire length of the project along the south side of Pole Green, providing pedestrian access to shopping areas. The plans also include a bike path that will either be incorporated in an outer shared lane in each direction or a marked path that will require additional right of way acquisition.

Pedestrian crosswalks also are planned at the Bell Creek intersection and continuous T’s or dedicated left turn lanes are outlined at Hanover Grove and Plum Grove.

The project also will require three stormwater drainage basins, and the intersection at Lee Davis Road also will be improved.

Vidunas admitted the addi-

Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com HANOVER — The Hanover County Historical Society has announced that the Old

tion of medians will prevent some homeowners from leaving their driveways and turning left, but said the intersections would facilitate easier and safer U-turns at several intersections.

The project manager said citizens’ input is important and designs are still evolving, noting that several changes have resulted from citizens’ communication.

Improvements at the LeeDavis Road intersection that include the elimination of the bump-out and an extended left hand turn lane as well as additional crosswalks at the Bell Creek intersection were changes initiated by citizens’ requests or input.

The project’s total cost is projected at $24 million, the main chunk ($13 million) derived from Federal funds.

Vidunas said construction is scheduled to begin in 2024 and last about 18 months.

The project is currently in the 10% stage, according to Vidunas, and a final design plan puts the project at the 30% complete stage. The next step involves right-of-way acquisition and utility relocation.

A public hearing on the project is scheduled for next year, once a complete design plan is in place.

Mike Flagg, Department of Public Works director, responded to questions submitted by citizens before the meeting as well as written requests from those in attendance.

Some of those concerns were the lack of signals for intersections at Hanover Grove and other intersections. Flagg said the county does not con-

Courthouse will be open for tours from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. beginning Tuesday, Nov. 10, with Society Docents, and continue as originally scheduled for the second Tuesday

trol the process, and VDOT (Virginia Department of Transportation) enforces standards regarding when a traffic light is required. According to recent traffic studies, Flagg said those intersections did not meet those guidelines, but said improvements to those intersections like the continuous T’s and extended left turn lanes would enhance safety at those intersections.

Flagg said the road will be designed to handle traffic for the next 20 years and actual traffic study results and projections will be available in a written summary next month.

While acknowledging the construction is a sacrifice for those living along the design route, Flagg said homeowners will have access to their sites, excepting rare exceptions, during the construction period. He said most work will be done during normal business hours, but some paving or similar work could take place at night.

The director said the project is at a stage where options are available, and public input is important and sought as design plans are configured.

“We want to hear from you, especially those residents who live along the project,” Flagg said. “We’ve learned a lot from the interaction we’ve had and we want to hear from people that we may have missed during this early phase. We’re going to take these comments under consideration.”

Several members of the Hanover County Board of Supervisors and Hanover County Planning Commission attended the meeting at the Administration Building. of each month. Come prepared and observe the protocols for facial coverings (masks) and social distancing. ... and just in time for the upcoming holiday season.

SHERIFF’S REPORTS | Crime, Accidents, Fire & Rescue of Auburn Mill Road, Glen Allen.

Sept. 29

Unauthorized use of vehicle, boat or animal was reported in the 8100 block of Carter Lane, Mechanicsville.

Driver did not report an accident with damages, $250, in the 5200 block of Studley Road, Mechanicsville.

Petit larceny from auto was reported in the 14200 block of Elletts Crossing Road, Ashland.

Fraudulent removal of leased property, $200, was reported in the 7000 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville.

Simple assault was reported in the 11200 block of Washington Highway/ Lewistown Road, Ashland.

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

Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 7000 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike/Lee-Davis Road, Mechanicsville.

Credit card fraud, $200 in 6 months, was reported in the 7300 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.

ID theft to obtain ID to avoid arrest was reported in the 8100 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville.

Unauthorized use of vehicle, boat or animal was reported in the 9200 block of Beaverdam Trail, Mechanicsville.

Sept. 30

Petit larceny, $500 not from a person, was reported in the 9200 block of Chamberlayne Road, Mechanicsville.

Obtaining money by false pretenses, $200, was reported in the 7100 block of Garden Park Lane, Mechanicsville.

Driver did not report an accident with damages, $1,000, in the 13100 block

Credit card fraud, $200 in 6 months, was reported in the 9300 block of Colvincrest Drive, Mechanicsville.

Obtaining money or signature by false pretenses was reported in the 10300 block of Caracara Drive, Ashland.

Destruction of property, monument, was reported in the 8000 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville.

Convicted felon (nonviolent) was reported to be in possession of a firearm in the 8100 block of Mechanicsville Bypass/Elm Drive, Mechanicsville.

Receiving stolen goods was reported in the 10200 block of Washington Highway, Glen Allen.

Grand larceny parts were reported in the 18300 block of Mountain Road, Montpelier.

Bumpass.

Oct. 1

Hit and run, personal injury, was reported in the 10300 block of Georgetown Road, Mechanicsville.

Destruction of property, monument, was reported in the 6400 block of Studley Road, Mechanicsville.

Simple assault was reported in the 17300 block of Rocky Ford Road, Montpelier.

Simple assault was reported in the 19000 block of Bent Oak Lane,

Grand larceny, auto theft, was reported in the 13000 block of Mountain Road, Glen Allen.

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

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

Petit larceny, $500 not from a person, was reported in the 10400 block of Charleston Road, Mechanicsville.

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

ID theft to obtain ID to avoid arrest was reported in the 41 block of Chamberlayne Road, Mechanicsville.

Possession of Schedule I and II controlled substance was reported in the 6400 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville.

Possession of Schedule I and II controlled substance was reported in the 5100 block of Cold Harbor Road, Mechanicsville.

ID theft to obtain ID to avoid arrest was reported in the 7500 block of Mechanicsville Bypass/ Mechanicsville Turnpike eastbound to Cold Harbor Road, Mechanicsville.

Destruction of property, monument, was reported in the 9000 block of Red Hill Circle, Mechanicsville.

DWI, BAC .15 to .20, 1st offense, was reported in the 7200 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.

Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 37 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville.

ENJOY

F F O 20% his

during t e r o t s e ing in th Everyth special event.

5 DAYS ONLY! Tuesday, November 3rd TO Saturday, November 7th Store hours for these 5 days are from 9am to 6pm.

*Excluding Brighton

8319 BELL CREEK ROAD • SUITE H • MECHANICSVILLE,VA 23116

Thank you,

D. Alan Chandler, MD 804-256-3020

“Personalized Eye Care for Your Eyes and Your Vision” D. Alan Chandler, MD has opened his own ophthalmology practice in Mechanicsville at Bon Secours Memorial Regional Medical Center, within 2 miles of his former location.

Now scheduling new and existing patients, and accepting most insurances.

Call 804-256-3020 to schedule your appointment.

8266 Atlee Rd., MOB II • Suite #226 • chandlereyemd.com Dr. Chandler is certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology.

All testing and surgery are done on site at Memorial Regional Medical Center.

Comprehensive Eye Exams for Glasses and Contact Lenses, Diabetic Eye Exams, Cataract / Lens Implant Surgery including advanced technology lens implants, In-office laser, Diagnosis and Treatment of Glaucoma, Macular Degeneration, Dry eye and many other eye and vision disorders.

Ashland-Hanover Local November 4, 2020 3

MEMORIES ARE FOREVER

The services and facilities you deserve at a price that makes sense.

REMOTE ARRANGEMENTS AVAILABLE FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED

Complete Traditional Funeral Service with Basic Casket

3,995

$

Starting at

* *Plus Tax

Cremation Packages

Memorial Service & Cremation Package

Starting at $1,295

Starting at $1,995

Serving the Richmond Metro Area and Surrounding Counties From Two Convenient Locations 2720 Enterprise Parkway Richmond, VA 8074 Mechanicsville Turnpike Mechanicsville VA 804-477-3136 • www.affinityfuneralservice.com 4

Ashland-Hanover Local November 4, 2020

School district continues to serve free meals throughout end of year ASHLAND – Hanover County Public Schools will continue serving meals for free to children 18 years old and under through the end of the school year.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced earlier last month that it has extended flexibility initially granted in August that allows for meals to be served to county students, both in-person and virtual, at no charge.

Meals are available at all 25 schools, with curbside distribution at five schools.

Families can still add funds to their MySchoolBucks accounts for à la carte items.

You can view school menus through Nutrislice at https:// hanover.nutrislice.com/menu/ menus-eula.

The locations where free meals will be served in person, with an * designating the school as a curbside pickup location from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Mondays and Thursdays are: Atlee High School, 9414 Atlee Station Rd., Mechanicsville.

*Battlefield Park Elementary School, 5501 Mechanicsville Tpk., Mechanicsville.

*Beaverdam Elementary School, 15485

Beaverdam School Rd., Beaverdam.

Bell Creek Middle School, 8021 Lee-Davis Rd., Mechanicsville.

Chickahominy Middle School, 9450 Atlee Station Rd., Mechanicsville.

Cold Harbor Elementary School, 6740 Cold Harbor Rd., Mechanicsville.

Cool Spring Elementary School, 9964 Honey Meadows Rd., Mechanicsville.

Elmont Elementary School, 12007 Cedar Lane, Ashland.

Hanover High School, 10307 Chamberlayne Rd., Mechanicsville.

Henry Clay Elementary School, 310 S. James St., Ashland.

*John M. Gandy Elementary School, 201 Archie Cannon Drive, Ashland.Kersey Creek Elementary School, 10004 Learning Lane, Mechanicsville.

Laurel Meadow Elementary School, 8248 LeeDavis Rd., Mechanicsville.

Liberty Middle School, 13496 Liberty School Rd., Ashland.

*Mechanicsville Elementary School, 7425 Mechanicsville Elementary Drive, Mechanicsville.

Mechanicsville High

School, 7052 Mechanicsville Tpk., Mechanicsville.

Oak Knoll Middle School, 10295 Chamberlayne Rd., Mechanicsville.

- Patrick Henry High School, 12449 W. Patrick Henry Rd., Ashland.

Pearson's Corner Elementary School, 8290 New Ashcake Rd., Mechanicsville.

Pole Green Elementary School, 8993 Pole Green Park Lane, Mechanicsville.

Rural Point Elementary School, 7161 Studley Rd., Mechanicsville.

*South Anna Elementary School, 13122 Walton's Tavern Rd., Montpelier.

The Georgetown School, 10000 Learning Lane, Mechanicsville.

- The Hanover Center for Trades & Technology, 10002 Learning Lane, Mechanicsville.

Washington-Henry Elementary School, 9025 Washington Henry Drive, Mechanicsville.

More information on curbside pickup can be found at http://hcps.us/events/ c_o_v_i_d-19_news/curbside_ meal_distribution.

Information submitted

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

Christmas Mother donations arriving Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com DOSWELL -- The Hanover Christmas Mother would like to thank the following for their generous donations: Beverly W. Alexander; Atlee Ruritan Club; Anne J. Bales; J. Basinger; David F. Beazley; Phyllis Bishop; Joseph N. Black.

Janet Brackett; David and Deborah Brooks; Randall and Elsa Brooks; Harold Brown; Jill Brown; Waverly Bugg; Randy Burcham; Dr.

Arthur Burke Jr.; Arthur Campbell; Robert and Mary Ann Campbell.

David and Barbara Camper; Albert Christiansen; John and Eloise Cobb; Mr. and Mrs. V.S. Cook; S. Cooley, in memory of Broaddus and Rusty Norment; Faye Coppage; Douglas J. Cumins; Claude B. Daniels.

Alan and Patricia Davis; William Davis; Joanne Diana; Duffy’s Repair Service; Alex Durham; Betty Elmore; Farrington Ruritan see CHRISTMAS, pg. 8

Public Utilities facilities get multiple national awards HANOVER -- Four wastewater treatment plants operated by the Hanover County Department of Public Utilities have been recognized as being among the top performers in the nation or state.

The Ashland, Totopotomoy, Doswell and Hanover Courthouse Wastewater Treatment Plants were awarded by the National Association of Clean Water Agencies (NACWA) with Peak Performance Awards for permit compliance in 2019.

The Ashland Wastewater Treatment Plant was recognized for 21 years of perfect permit compliance and the Totopotomoy Wastewater

Treatment Plant for 15 years of perfect permit compliance.

Both of these plants again earned NACWA’s Platinum Peak Performance Award for their operations and the Doswell Plant won the Silver Award.

“This consistency does not happen by accident but only through the dedication and effort of everyone involved with the operation and maintenance of these plants under the guidance of plant superintendents, Kim Spruth and Jacquie Lawrence,” said Steven P. Herzog, director of Public Utilities. “Both of these plants have incredible records of permit compliance.”

On the water side,

Hanover’s Doswell Water Treatment Plant earned the Virginia Department of Health’s Excellence in Waterworks Operations and Performance, and Fluoridation Quality awards.

Hanover’s Department of Public Utilities provides utility service to approximately 22,000 water customers and about 21,500 wastewater customers. It is a self-supporting enterprise fund whose expenditures are funded with revenues generated from customer user fees and one-time fees paid at the time of connection.

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

Fuel assistance applications taken HANOVER -- The Hanover County Department of Social Services is now accepting applications for the Fuel Assistance Program.

Fuel Assistance is a temporary program that helps eligible households with the costs of heating their homes. The amount that is received will not necessarily cover all of the winter heating costs but will be a supplement. Those who have been accepted for eligibility in past years are automatically registered for this year’s program.

Benefits are based on the availability of funds and the number of applications received within the state. In order to be eligible for fuel or utility assistance, your household’s income must be less than the maximum allowed for the number of people in the home, and you must be responsible for paying the heating bill.

Applications will be processed as soon as

possible but must be received or postmarked no later than Nov. 13, 2020. Funds are sent directly to the vendor beginning the first week in January. Hanover’s share of this statewide allocation is limited.

Applications for Fuel Assistance can be submitted through: z CommonHelp (www.commonhelp. virginia.gov), z The Enterprise Customer Service Center (1-855-635-4370), or z a (pre-printed) Fuel application, or z a paper Fuel application (local agency) You can call a Human Services Agent at 804365-4100 to have an application mailed to you. A face-to-face interview is not required.

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

‘Making Holidays Bright’ program to help needy through county DSS

H

ANOVER -- Are you looking for ways to make the holidays brighter for others? The Hanover County Department of Community Resources has a list of organizations seeking holiday assistance for those they serve.

“In person” volunteering needs may be limited, but this year’s “wish list” is still full of opportunities to show compassion and bring joy to others.

The “Making Holidays Bright” holiday wish list provides individuals, businesses and community groups with opportunities and contact information of local agencies that are in need of community support as they serve

others during the Holiday season.

The Metro Creative Connection document is available online at www.HanoverVolunteers.org.

The list includes ways in which you can: Make a monetary donation Share your time Collect or contribute items in need Shop for a specific child, family or elder Create an item or a gift The list also includes

GH U O EN RVE, ARE! G I B E H TO C S O G T NOU E L AL

SM

PR

E N A OP

235 3 4 ) 55 (804

Special Offer!

E-waste recycling event set Saturday HANOVER -- Hanover County will host an e-waste recycling event from 8 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Nov. 7, at the Mechanicsville Solid Waste Convenience Center at 7427 Verdi Lane.

Flat screen monitors will

cost $6 per unit to recycle and flat screen televisions will cost $14 per unit. CRT (old convex style) monitors or televisions will not be accepted.

Computers, tablets and cells phones will be accepted and shredded (hard drive only

for computers) at the event for a $5 charge.

Printers under 25 pounds will cost $2 per unit to recycle and those over 25 pounds will cost $5 per unit.

You will be able to pay with

information on community Thanksgiving dinner “Pick Up” offerings and the Hanover Christmas Mother.

Finally, don’t forget that with the new year, we will again be accepting nominations for Hanover’s Spirit of Volunteerism Awards. Start creating your own “wish list” of “unsung heroes” who volunteer their time throughout the year to make a positive impact.

Nomination details will be available Jan. 1, 2021.

For more information, call the Department of Community Resources at 365-4300 or e-mail volunteer@hanovercounty.gov.

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

$25 OFF YOUR FIRST PROPANE DELIVERY* CHECK OUT ANY ONE OF OUR 1000s OF ONLINE REVIEWS! CONNECT:

* Minimum of 150 gallons; Not valid with any other offer or on previous purchases.

VISIT:

WWW.ASKWOODFIN.COM/propane

see E-WASTE, pg. 7

Ashland-Hanover Local November 4, 2020 5

OPINION

LETTERS

| The Local Views

| Reader Views

‘Not Detected’ in COVID terms

By Dave Lawrence Richmond Suburban News

Let me tell you a cautionary tale.

A couple of weeks ago, I was covering the Dominion Energy Charity Classic when I felt what I thought was an old friend coming on: allergies.

My nose was getting itchy. Drainage was irritating my throat.

But it didn’t feel like a big deal and I wasn’t worried. I was wearing a mask, keeping my distance, and being careful about not touching anything more than I absolutely needed.

Overnight, while I was trying to prepare the forthcoming sports sections for the week’s Locals (Mechanicsville and Ashland-Hanover), it started to feel like more than mere allergies. I was stuffy, sneezing and coughing. By Monday morning, all I wanted to do was slap my sections together and go back to bed. By Monday night, I was running a fever.

By Tuesday morning, I had met enough criteria for COVID-19 that I went to my doctor to get tested. Because of the usual trajectory my body typically takes with any kind of respiratory infection, she also began treating me for bronchitis.

I spent the ensuing two weeks in isolation. I got tired of being stuck at home. But that is irrelevant.

I’m not writing all this to kvetch to you readers.

I’m writing because there’s an important lesson to be learned.

When the nurse called me to give my result, she said it was “negative.” I used the term “negative” myself in describing the result. Most people, after getting a similar result, would likewise use

“negative” to describe their COVID status.

Here’s where the cautionary bit comes in: The lab report does not say my result is “Negative.”

Instead, it says, “Not Detected.”

You may be guessing the punch line at this point. … Yes, there is a difference between “Negative” and “Not Detected.”

In my years as an environmental regulator reviewing toxic substance monitoring reports, I never saw a report that said a chemical was not present. If the substance was detected, there would be a number representing the concentration of the pollutant in the sample. If the sample was not detected, there would be some notation like “DL” that was shorthand for “below detection limit.”

Most biological or chemical assays are only so sensitive in that there must be a minimal amount of whatever of interest for the test to register. That is referred to as the detection limit. At or above that minimal amount, the test can quantify how much is there.

But, if the amount of the thing of interest is below the detection limit, you cannot do the opposite and conclude it is not in the sample. It might very well be in sample, but in an amount too small for the test to be able to measure.

We run into this dilemma with the COVID-19 tests. If the results say the virus has been detected in your sample, odds are you are infected. The tests have not had a big problem with false positives – except where, as with the initially rolled out version of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention test, the test kits (or samples) are contaminated in some way.

If you have no COVID symptoms and your

Editorial & Business Office and Mailing Address: 8460 Times-Dispatch Blvd. Mechanicsville, VA 23116 Phone – (804) 746-1235 Toll free – (877) 888-0449 Fax – (804) 344-8746 Online: www.mechlocal.com

Publisher Managing Editor Production Manager Sports Editor Sales Representative Classifieds

6

Joy Monopoli

jmonopoli@rsnva.com

Melody Kinser

mkinser@mechlocal.com

Denine D’Angelo

ddangelo@mechlocal.com

David Lawrence

dlawrence@mechlocal.com

Tom Haynie

thaynie@mechlocal.com

Cindy Adams

cadams@mechlocal.com

Ashland-Hanover Local November 4, 2020

sample comes back “Not Detected,” it may be reasonable to conclude that you are not infected.

Nevertheless, you could be mistaken. If you’ve had a recent close contact, you still need to be careful.

Testing of my sample was done via LabCorp.

The results of my sample came back “Not Detected,” but that’s where the detection limit comes into play. I could still be COVID-positive, yet shedding virus at levels too low to register.

According to LabCorp’s emergency use authorization documentation, the viral test – which looks for copies of viral genetic material, not the antibodies we may (or may not) produce against the virus – has a detection limit of 6,250 copies per milliliter. Other tests have been developed that can detect far lower concentrations of virus, but some can only detect higher concentrations. As with everything, cost/benefit considerations apply, and the LabCorp test is intended for a mass, not a niche, market.

“The LabCorp test is likely sufficiently sensitive to identify patients who are ‘infectious’ on the day of testing assuming the sample was collected appropriately,” wrote Harvard University researcher James E. Kirby via email (response slightly edited for clarity). “It is one point in time.

Detected viral load usually precedes symptoms; however, I don’t know if this is always the case.

And if you test patients later during infection viral load starts to fall and becomes undetectable, at this point you may still be infected, but not infectious.”

In my case, let’s say there were 6,000 copies per milliliter of virus in my sample. I would definitely see COVID, pg. 7

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: 344-8746 E-mail: editor@mechlocal.com © 2020 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.

Hickory Grove rezoning impacts East Ashland The proposed Hickory Grove mixed use rezoning on Route 54 east of the Town of Ashland features traffic manipulation and deception. The developer’s traffic study falsely denies the existence of the massive, approved but undeveloped East Ashland project which would add over 33,000 vehicles across from Hickory Grove.

East Ashland impacts traffic on Route 54 and the Interstate 95 Exit 92 interchange and has proffered road improvements along Route 54.

In 2016, the General Assembly passed legislation specifying that a proffered road improvement should be attributable to a development creating the need for it. If East Ashland’s traffic and road improvements had been included in the traffic study in compliance with express VDOT (Virginia Department of Transportation) guidelines, Hickory Grove’s development would create a need for major proffered road improvements to the Exit 92 interchange and likely Route 54.

By denying the existence of East Ashland, however, Hickory Grove falsely claims a temporary traffic signal on a wooden pole at the Exit 92 southbound off ramp as its only proffered road improvement. How convenient.

Hickory Grove can claim compliance only because its traffic study ignores East Ashland, cumulative impacts, and VDOT guidelines.

There’s more. Although East Ashland’s traffic is ignored and it pays no cash proffers, county staff resurrects the 33,000 vehicle trips in calculating Hickory Grove’s cash proffers. Without support, traffic from far away developments near the U.S. 301/Rural Point Road intersection also is included.

Because these vehicle trips show up in the denominator in cash proffer calculations, Hickory Grove’s cash proffers are sharply reduced to less than 1% of the estimated $33.2 million cost for permanent Route 54/Exit 92 road improvements. see LETTERS, pg. 16

Uninvited silence and understanding importance of words

By Jim Ridolphi Contributing Columnist Joe Biden is my hero.

Contrary to what may first enter your mind, this is not a political statement. I’m not sure who won the debate last week, or who will become president in less than a week -- but, I know personal courage when I see it.

As a child, Joe Biden was what has been described as a serious stutterer, and suffered as his schoolmates teased and bullied. He lived the fear of that day in English class when oral book reports were due and the sleepless nights that preceded, or the disappointing look from a teacher who equated a stutter with stupidity.

He felt the sting of the chuckles when simple introductions in class became a source of endless anxiety, or attempting to answer an easy question using only the limited volume of words that came out easily.

And, somehow through all the indignities that accompany individuals who have a speech impediment like stuttering, he chose to not only endure, but over-achieve. That might seem

E-WASTE Continued from pg. 5

checks or cash. Credit cards will not be accepted.

All other electrical items (anything with a plug except appliances that contain Freon) including microwaves will be accepted without charge. All items with plugs will be recycled.

In addition, rechargeable batteries will be accepted for recycling at this event. Be aware that these batteries can pose a fire hazard. Hanover

COVID Continued from pg. 6

be COVID-positive, but my test result will be just as “Not Detected” as if I had zero copies per milliliter in my sample.

So, if you find yourself in that situation, what should you do?

Here’s what the LabCorp emergency-use authorization documentation says: “Negative results do not

like ambition to some, but, to me, it’s a badge of courage displayed by the few who decide to live and achieve despite the uncomfortable situations or disabilities. To the contrary, Biden placed himself in the fray, and fought through speeches and public appearances that might have intimidated many with the good fortune of perfect speech.

During the recent debate, I sat with nervous anticipation as I noticed Biden’s stutter become more noticeable than in past performances. I stumbled over the words with him, and noted each time a word was changed at the last possible second to avoid a stutter.

I suppose only a few could realize the difficulty in answering a difficult question while also juggling a selection of “usable” words. Somehow, it always leaves one robbed or shortchanged of an opportunity to say more, if only the words could have arrived more easily.

So, how do I know so much about the intricacies of stuttering and how it can affect what seems like simple communication to most of the population?

County solid waste facilities have experienced numerous fires related to rechargeable batteries.

Alkaline batteries or smoke detectors will not be accepted.

There are some special requirements for residents participating in this event: All residents must wear masks.

All residents must stay in their vehicles.

Material being dropped off must be in the trunk, far rear of SUV/Van or bed of pick-

up truck (furthest point from resident).

The contractor will remove e-waste from vehicles.

This event is for Hanover County residents only (ID required).

No business generated material will be accepted.

For more information, call the Hanover County Department of Public Works at 804-365-6181.

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

preclude SARS-CoV-2 infection and should not be used as the sole basis for patient management decisions. Negative results must be combined with clinical observations, patient history, and epidemiological information.”

Emily Goldberg, a spokesman for LabCorp, put it this way: “A positive result is considered definitive evidence of infection with COVID-19.

However, a result of negative does not definitively rule out infection with COVID-19.”

In other words, if you’ve been exposed, or even worse, have symptoms – BE CAREFUL! I possibly had a recent closecontact – kind of a two degrees of Kevin Bacon thing that I initially overlooked.

Likewise, I had symptoms (and still do as I write this). I had some symptoms typically

Years ago, I was asked to speak at a support group for stutterers. As I visited with the attendees before the event, I was amazed at the cross-section of America represented by these people who found solace among friends. In this one place, they were judged on who they were, and their thoughts were valuable, no longer how long it took to express them.

I spoke with doctors, lawyers and other professionals as well as deliverymen, plumbers and IT specialists. Some told me that their careers mirrored their desire to perform tasks that required a minimum of oral communication or explanation.

Others seemed to have selected careers that challenged their speech limitations, purposely accepting careers that required constant interaction and speech.

All had suffered the same indignities I described above, and the shared suffering was somewhat the tie that bound this unlikely band of brothers. It was a unique experience just being in an environment where jokes with delayed punch lines were appreciated, and moments of

strained silence were approached with patience and understanding.

As the time approached for the event to begin, I felt some very familiar emotions brewing in my mind, and I immediately rushed through a mental checklist of preventative measures. I thought briefly of those horrifying oral book reports, but there was no time to dwell on the unpleasantness.

I slowly walked to a podium, carefully timing my arrival with the first words of my comments.

“I am a stutterer and you are my heroes,” I said with words that emerged without a hint of hesitation.

So, as Joe Biden spoke to millions of Americans in what would have a difficult forum for any former or current stutterer, he placed himself in glorified air in my mind.

Voters decided who won the debate, and who knows how the election evolved, but Joe Biden’s words represented a victory for the millions of Americans who suffer through uninvited silence, and reminds us all that all words are important.

Library system lists virtual programs Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com HANOVER – Librarian Carolyn Garner has released the list of virtual programs planned by the Pamunkey Regional Library.

Children’s Book Week will be celebrated Monday through Sunday, Nov. 9-15. There will be fun at-home activities and book giveaways.

For more information, visit www.pamunkeylibrary.org or call your local branch.

Intro to Tarot Cards – 7 to 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 13, presented by Kris Waldherr, author of “The Lost History of Dreams.” Learn about the origin of tarot cards as simple playing cards of 14th century Italy used in elaborate parlor games among the nobles and more successful merchant class and see the elaborate hand-painted artwork of what used to be an expensive toy for the rich. Go to https://pamunkeylibrary.libcal.com/ event/7212755 to register. This program is hosted virtually through Zoom, and the meeting link

Virtual programs on Zoom found with a cold, but not the flu.

I had some symptoms typically found with the flu, but not a cold. All of the symptoms are common with COVID-19.

I also had some weird ones that have been reported in folks with COVID like foul-smelling urine. (I have that asparagus thing, so I can recognize when something is “off.”)

In my case, the smart play is to assume I am positive

see LIBRARY, pg. 15

and do all the things I’m supposed to do to avoid spreading COVID to others: isolate, wear a mask when I can’t, wash my hands, cover up my coughs, be careful about touching my face and surfaces around the house, etc. I’ve been trying to be a good boy. I’m not perfect, but the effort is there.

I would prefer to see more of our fellow residents taking this more seriously. Instead, I see far too many people refusing

to wear masks, not respecting other folks’ social distance, and – at least the last time I was in a public restroom – refusing to wash their hands. (Guys, grow up!) I hear a lot of folks shouting “Freedom!” and “Rights!” but few discussing “responsibility.” But it’s long past time to be responsible. Lives – including mine – depend on it.

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

Ashland-Hanover Local November 4, 2020 7

WETLANDS Continued from pg. 1

the application: “DEQ’s preliminary decision is to recommend issuance of the permit.

Final action on the permit will be taken by the Board, at a regular or special meeting, after the close of the public comment period.”

The statement also acknowledges the long list of concerns raised by citizens at the earlier hearing that included improper wetland delineation resulting in fewer surface waters identified onsite. z inadequate analysis of secondary impacts from the proposed project. z inaccurate compensatory mitigation requirements; insufficient off-site alternatives analysis. z increased flooding from the project. z environmental justice concerns. z location of historic resources onsite.

Since the closing date for that additional input is Dec. 4, the application will not be considered at the SWCB’s December meeting. The panel meets quarterly and the next scheduled meeting is not until March.

A group of concerned citizens, many of them from surrounding subdivisions adjacent to the project, focused their efforts on the July meeting, and, apparently, DEQ officials heard the public input.

Many citizens requested the

DEQ re-evaluate the amount of wetlands affected or destroyed and conduct additional studies regarding environmental justice as it pertains to the Brown Grove Community.

A team from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers re-surveyed the property in August and issued a revised PJD (Preliminary Jurisdictional Determination) in mid-September. Additional wetlands affected by the project were discovered. Although only 6.1acres were identified in the initial filing, Corps officials determined that figure was 14.8 acres in a revised finding.

In its revised application, Wegmans agreed to mitigate the identified wetlands damage by purchasing 29.41 acres of mitigation credits.

Hanover resident Rod Morgan has been active in the opposition to the project, beginning with its approval late last year, and was instrumental in prompting a second look at the project by board members in the form of revised proffer amendments Morgan also is a plaintiff in a case filed against the county regarding the Wegmans approval, and said the revised DEQ application still falls short of a resolution of what he terms critical issues.

“There are at least five major defects with the new application,” Morgan said.

“Some are with the Corps, some are with both DEQ and the Corps.”

He cites a continuing lack

CHROMEBOOK Continued from pg. 1

when there is a national shortage of Chromebooks, is a significant advancement for our school division and our ability to serve the ever-changing needs of our students and families,” said Dr. Gill and Terri Hechler, director of Technology Services. “We pride ourselves on our Tradition of Excellence, which entails providing a top quality education to students.

Now more than ever, this technology is a

8

of communication with the community by the Corps, and said the wetlands delineation remains suspect.

“Although the Corps correctly eliminated the mosaics and now regards those areas as 100% wetlands, there were other issues relating to the delineation than what originally done,” Morgan said.

Many considered the initial survey invalid due to drought-like conditions during the initial inspection. The revised study only examined areas previously identified as mosaics, but did not include the entire property, according to Morgan.

“Air Park’s own consultant, RK&K, found 33.8 acres of wetlands on-site. This should be the Corps starting, not ending point,” Morgan said.

Although other Hanover properties were considered for the project, the new application asserts the Ashcake Road site as LEDPA (Least Environmentally Damaging Practicable Alternative).

“Both DEQ and the Corps are required to find that this site is the LEDPA. It is not.

Wegmans analysis contains bogus costs and is sprinkled with pixie dust,” Morgan said.

Founded by freed slaves following the Civil War, many Brown Grove residents are concerned regarding impacts of the 1.2 million-square-foot facility, including effects of traffic, cultural impact and lifestyle disruption.

Morgan said those envi-

necessary tool for our students’ toolbox — keeping them connected to learning outside the classroom, no matter the circumstances.”

“Without question, technology will never replace our great teachers. However, when used effectively, it has the ability to transform instruction in a way not previously possible. It empowers teachers and students alike to create and participate in new lessons that were previously unimaginable and better prepares students for the world in which they will live and work,”

Ashland-Hanover Local November 4, 2020

ronmental justice concerns are not addressed in the revised application.

“Brown Grove has the legal right to true engagement.

When asked about their EJ (Environmental Justice) activities, Wegmans advises that they conducted a meeting on Feb. 7 and followed up with an email on 14th,” Morgan said.

“They then go on to make the case that there is no bona fide EJ community in the area.

That’s a particularly repugnant stance.”

Chris French is a concerned citizen who opposes the project at its current projected site and also is the chair of the Hanover NAACP Environmental & Climate Justice Committee.

French said there have been environmental justice issues with the Brown Grove community for at least six decades dating back to the construction of Interstate 95 and numerous industrial projects that have affected the community.

“Brown Grove has been suffering from industrial encroachment for the past 60 years,” French said. “Nobody at the state or federal level is addressing that nor do they have a plan to address it at this time.”

Wegmans representatives responded to the latest delineations and the adjusted results determined by the Corps.

“The revised application should address the comments/ questions/concerns raised by the citizens at the last DEQ

they added.

As outlined in the Five-Year Technology Plan, the HCPS technology department will distribute the devices to middle school students first. This will be followed by distribution to high school students and elementary school students.

School principals will communicate more distribution details directly with their school communities soon.

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

public hearing, to the extent they were applicable to the DEQ action. So, for example, it is outside of the DEQ’s responsibility to be addressing traffic impacts of the project, which were brought up at the DEQ public hearing (but already addressed through the county’s proffer amendment process with the [Hanover] County Board of Supervisors),” said Dan Aken, director of Real Estate and Site Development for Wegmans Food Markets Inc. “But, for all other comments, I believe they will be adequately addressed in our application and the DEQ’s subsequent findings. There are no significant deviations from the original application, primarily just the U.S. Army Corps’ determination that the wetlands that were classified as ‘mosaic’ no longer fit that classification. The overall limits of the wetlands has not changed,” Aken added.

He also acknowledged that the lengthy permit approval process and the pandemic have affected the company’s timeline regarding the project.

“The additional public hearing process (re-review of the wetlands) along with COVID have created significant delays in our project,” Aken said. “We had originally hoped we would be starting site construction this past spring (April 2020). It appears we are now at least one year behind schedule. We remain

committed to this project in this location,” he concluded.

French said public claims regarding the project regarding wetlands infringement have all turned out ‘to be accurate.’

“This is a flawed permit.

These issues are substantial,” French said. “This permit, at both the state and federal level continue to be significantly flawed or not scientifically or legally defensible as a result.”

Both Morgan and French contend they are not opposed to the proposed distribution center being located in Hanover County, but not at the site proposed.

French said the public involvement and community efforts have exposed numerous issues with the project.

“Throughout this proposed development, the public has identified numerous instances where government agencies did not follow their own rules. The Corps of Engineers having redo their wetlands delineation determination is one such example of how the public has been getting this right from day one,” French said. “It is clear there is more politics than science influencing this effort.

That must stop immediately if citizens are to have trust and confidence in the government that should be doing the people’s work. These government agencies should stop focusing on special interests and return to their purpose of running programs without favoritism, he concluded.

CHRISTMAS

Sally T. Hart; Carolyn Horner; Barbara Hultz; Hutcheson & Company; Benjamin W. Hutcheson; Charles and Mary Hutcheson; Independence Christian Church Friendship Class; Jerry and Melissa Jarvis.

Jennings Appliance; Charles A. and Betsey L. Johnson; Johnson & Johnson Attorney

Continued from pg. 4

Club; Martha Fearnow; Martha and George Paul Flint.

Virginia and Tom Foster; Kathleen and Donald R. Garstang Sr. ; Richard D. Goodman; Louise Gordon; Margaret and Norman B. Graham Jr.; Lois Grissom; M.A. Gwaltney; Barbara D. Haney; John and Nancy Hart.

see CHRISTMAS, pg. 9

Housing, food resources offered via partnership Photo courtesy of Tom Harris

The Hanover County Board of Supervisors recently gathered with members of the Martha Ann Fields family to dedicate the newly renovated General District Court in her name. Fields was enslaved at Nutshell, the tract of land that now houses the government complex, and escaped with her 11 children during a Union raid on the property. The new building will house the Assessor’s, Human and General Services and Parks and Recreation offices.

Former Nutshell slave honored with court building dedicated in her name

By Jim Ridolphi for Ashland-Hanover Local HANOVER -- Standing only yards away from the site of slave quarters that housed their family matriarch, descendants of Martha Ann Fields gathered to cut the ribbon on a Hanover County government building recently named in her honor.

The former General District Court building at the Hanover Government Complex was named in honor of the former slave in a ceremony last month.

The fully-renovated facility will house General Services, the Registrar’s Office, Parks and Recreation and the Assessor’s Office.

Mechanicsville supervisor Canova Peterson spearheaded an effort to recognize Fields by naming the building

CHRISTMAS Continued from pg. 8

at Law; Gordon and Charlotte Johnson; Marion R. Jones; Irv Keayon; Kroger Stores; Wilbur and Ann Lawrence; Donna Lewis.

Loving’s Auto Body; E.J. Luck; Glenn and Kathy

in her honor, and told those assembled at the dedication the recognition is well deserved.

The supervisor said he was moved to action after viewing a one-woman show

by Valerie Davis depicting Fields’ plight offered at the Hanover Tavern.

“She was only a slave in her body because she was free in her mind and heart,” Peterson said. “She proved that to the world when she escaped slavery with 11 children and made the trip through a dangerous situation and made the trip to freedom in Hampton Roads.”

“When we look back at an historical county like this and considered who were some of the people who really made a tremendous impact on our community and our Commonwealth, Martha Ann Fields came to mind. This woman had great courage and fortitude,” Peterson

Martin; McCaul, Martin, Evans & Cook; David and Julie May; C.Q. and Brenda Meadows, in honor of Melanie Goodpasture; Gay and Roger Mitchell; Jane Mitchell.

Geneva and Otho Mitterer; Betty Moore; Wayne and Shirley Morris; Capt. and Mrs. Milton Outten; Jethro H.

said.

Fields’ life at Nutshell, the farm that formerly occupied the land where the government complex is now located, was a struggle as she attempted to raise 11 children in an environment where families were routinely separated or sold.

Two of Fields’ oldest children were either sold or contracted out for labor on other plantations or industries in Richmond.

Ajena Rogers, one of Fields’ descendants, provided a brief outline of that treacherous journey. Following her escape from Nutshell, Fields and her children headed for a bridge over the Pamunkey River but found the structure burning and impassable. With the help of a family member, Fields ferried each of

Piland Jr. ; Judy and Herbert Pond; R.F. Priddy; The RECO Foundation; Janet Reid; Fran Sadler.

Ann H. Scott; Fred F. Small; Jay and Linda Small; Erika Smith; Robert Smith; Dorothy H. Southworth; Gary and Mary Spruill; James H. Starkey III; John and Joanne

see SLAVE, pg. 10

Stevenson; Pamela and John C. Stevenson Jr.; Lorraine Suttles.

Virginia and Elvin Talley Jr.; Sally Talley; Robert and Julie Tate; Pamela Teates; Wayne T. and Deborah Tennent; Joy M. Tiller; Trio Fasteners Inc. ; Stanley and Sandra Tucker; George Tunstall; Marie W. Turner.

HANOVER -- Are you a Hanover resident who is facing challenges with mortgage, rent, utility or food expenses due to the coronavirus national emergency? There is good news about direct assistance available to those in need.

Hanover County has partnered with United Way of Greater Richmond & Petersburg to distribute funding to community partners to help those who need direct assistance during this time.

The following Hanover community partners have received Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act funding for non-profits: z Ashland Christian Emergency Services (rent, mortgage, utilities); 798-2784; aceshanover.org z Commonwealth Catholic Charities (food, mortgage, rent, utilities); 285-5986; cccofva.org z HumanKind (food, mortgage, rent, utilities); 4613585; humankind.org z OAR of Richmond, Inc. (returning citizens only); 643-2746; oarric.org z Beaverdam Food Pantry (food); 564-9384; beaverdambaptist.com z Hanover Safe Place (food, mortgage, rent, utilities);

752-2728; hanoversafeplace. com z Moments of Hope Outreach, Inc. (food, mortgage, rent, utilities); 913-9151; momentsofhopeoutreach.org z Senior Connections (food; utilities); 343-3000; seniorconnections-va.org z Circles Ashland (food, mortgage, rent, utilities); 4961212; circlesashland.org United Way, citing its campaign partnership with Hanover County Government, has agreed to administer these funds without any administrative fee. Moreover, United Way will work with Hanover County Government to ensure that the funds are spent appropriately in order to maximize their benefit to the intended population.

The Hanover County Board of Supervisors made the funds available from the county’s Coronavirus Relief Funds under the CARES Act. Those in need of assistance must apply to one of the listed organizations prior to Dec. 31, 2020. Organizations will be assisting Hanover residents based upon availability of funding.

Additional organizations

Robert and Peggy Vaughan; W. Vaughan; Mary Lee Vinson; Charles W. and Cathy Waldrop; Wayne K. Waldrop; James and Carol Watts; Pam Wells; Mary Wiblin; Hilda Wickham.

Angela M. Will; M. Catherine and Ron Williams; Gregory and Janet Willis;

Thomas H. Willis, Jeannine Yowell, in memory of Beverley C. Yowell.

If you have not made your donation, please send it to HANOVER CHRISTMAS MOTHER, P.O. BOX 39, DOSWELL, VA 23047.

Thank you for your donations.

see HOUSING, pg. 16

Ashland-Hanover Local November 4, 2020 9

SLAVE Continued from pg. 9

her children across the waters on a journey to freedom.

“She had an indomitable spirit, one that recognized that she was more valuable than a cow or corn or a horse. Though she was looked upon as a commodity … she knew she was a person who loved her children with all the spirit of her heart and mind,” Rogers said during a ceremony that took place following a Hanover County

Board of Supervisors meeting.

After Fields was separated er two oldest children, she obtained a guarantee from her mistress that none of her remaining children would be sold or separated, but Catherine Winston did not keep her promise and when Fields and her children arrived at Nutshell, she detected a sense of urgency.

Rogers said Fields’ daughter Louisa was sold in front of the Hanover Courthouse.

“It almost broke her spirit,”

“She had an indomitable spirit, one that recognized that she was more valuable than a cow or a horse.

Though she was looked upon as a commodity . . . she knew she was a person who loved her children with all the spirit of her heart and mind.”

AJENA ROGERS Martha Ann Fields’ descendant

Rogers said.

In 1863, Fields saw a chance for escape and an opportunity to reunite her family when

Protection your loved ones deserve ...

GUARANTEED Life Insurance up to $15,000.00

Modified Whole Life Insurance from Physicians Life Insurance Company

Imagine what $15,000.00 could mean to your family after you’re gone — cash to help pay your funeral, medical bills or other final expenses.

• Guaranteed acceptance for ages 45 to 85* • No medical exam, no health questions • Lock in your rate for life Find out how affordable this coverage can be — Call for your FREE Information Kit

1-804-800-9140 or go to www.life55plus.info/ashhan

 Plus — you’ll also get a FREE

Final Wishes Planner just for calling!

6236

10

*Ages may vary by state. Guaranteed for one of these life insurance policies.

Benefits reduced first two years. Insurance Policy L770 (ID: L770ID; OK: L770OK; TN: L770TN).

Ashland-Hanover Local November 4, 2020

Union soldiers staged a raid on the courthouse area. “It was her opportunity to make that escape and it wasn’t an easy one,” Rogers said.

Those children inherited that indomitable spirit and engaged in distinguished careers and made significant contributions to their community and the Commonwealth. Her son

James, who once tended the horses of lawyers working at the neighboring courthouse, became a lawyer and member of the House of Delegates, and others solidified Fields’ legacy with numerous achievements.

“When she got to freedom, she made sure they knew the importance of what they had,” Peterson said. “She made sure they were properly educated and properly raised so she was not just courageous and showed great fortitude, she took responsibility for making sure her children grew up with an appreciation of what they had accomplished and with the strength and courage to follow on a path which she had shown them.”

Rogers said many of the landmarks that highlight the store of Martha Ann Fields are

still recognizable in Hanover, and that makes the building dedication more significant.

This land still has the features that were here at the time she was here,” Rogers said. “The entrance to Nutshell Farm and the pathway are still there. It is so relevant now that this building on this ridge near where the quarters of the enslaved would have been on Nutshell is on this very land.”

“By choosing this name for this place, we are acknowledging that this was a very complex history that we are living today, that someone like Martha Ann who was looked upon as the least of these on this land, can have such a great impact that her immediate descendants became leaders in the Hampton community,” Rogers added.

Pets of the Week Photos submitted by Andrew Hodnett

The Hanover County Pound, located at 12471 Taylor Complex Lane in Ashland, has wonderful pets available to a good home. Elvira, Animal ID# 576760, is a 1-year-old female domestic shorthaired feline. She has had her first set of vaccines and is FELV/FIV test negative. Elvira is a sweet kitty that has been at the shelter for a few weeks now.

She came in as an outdoor cat. Elvira has a sweet disposition.

She is very friendly around people.

Elvira seems to be well littertrained.

She would be an ideal indoor/ outdoor pet. Lakai, Animal ID# 576625, is an 8-month-old neutered male Australian Cattle dog/pitbull mix canine. He has had his first set of vaccines and is Heartworm test negative. Lakai is a ball full of energy. He has been in the shelter for over a month now. Lakai is very friendly, but is still learning his boundaries. He is learning not to jump up on everyone. Lakai loves to run and play with other dogs. He also has done really well on a leash. With continued obedience training, Lakai will be a great companion. He will probably do best with an owner who can keep him active. For more information on these great pets, as well as the many more still in need of homes at the Hanover County Pound Facility, call 804-365-6485 during the day.

The hours are 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday.

The facility is closed on Sunday and county holidays. You also can visit the website to see other animals available for adoption at http://hanovercounty.gov/Animals/Adopt-a-Pet/.

WE NEED YOUR HELP With the pandemic-related cancellations and delays, we could use your story ideas.

Contact Dave Lawrence at dlawrence@mechlocal.com with your suggestions.

For more information go to www.mechlocal.com

| Youth, High School, College, Recreational & Professional

Runners beat weather, PRs at Pole Green

By Dave Lawrence Sports Editor MECHANICSVILLE – The threat of foul weather hung over the field at Pole Green Park Sunday morning, and it did eventually arrive, but no matter how dreary the scene looked, plenty of runners showed up for the WERC Invitational 2020.

Three of the four races beat the rain, and plenty of runners beat themselves, not just beating their personal records, but in some cases shattering them.

“It was actually glorious up ‘til about 10:30, and then it started pouring,” said West End Run Club coach Jeremy Dobrinski.

“The first two, three races were already over, and then the storm came in and [the runners] got drenched – but there were some pretty decent performances in that race as well.”

Out-of-state runners won the two “A” races. Elliott Kleckner of Newport, North Carolina, outpaced Brogan Giffin of Aldie, Virginia, for a 4-second winning margin of 15:23 in the boys “A” race. Patrick Henry student Trevor Mason was not far behind, coming in third in 15:32 for the best local finish – and beat his previous PR by 30 seconds. Mechanicsville’s Cole Lewis likewise beat his previous PR by 30 seconds, finishing eighth in 16:08.

In the girls “A” race, Anna Avila of Kensington, Maryland,

Another Hawk commits to D-I

By Tim Pearrell Richmond Times-Dispatch

Joel Klein for The Local

Anna Avila of Kensington, Maryland, leads at the 4 kilometer mark in the WERC Invitational 2020 at Pole Green Park Sunday. Taylor Gibson of Aldie, Virginia, follows. Avila would win the girls “A” race with time of 18:58, 14 seconds ahead of Gibson.

won with a time of 18:58, 14 seconds ahead of runner-up Taylor Gibson of Aldie, Virginia.

Mechanicsville’s Sibyl Harrell finished 19th in 21:16.

Other local runners in the boys “A” race included Luke

Taylor, who finished 10th in 16:16; Ethan Coleman, who finished 15th in 16:33; Joshua Gray, who finished 17th in 16:34; and Nicholas Ligday, who finished 32nd in 18:01.

In the boys “B/C” race,

Patrick Henry student Michael Leff finished fourth with a time of 18:02.

The presence of out-of-state and out-of-town runners was a benefit for the local runners, most of whom will be running

cross country for their local high schools in the spring.

“Because it was a club race, they could come in from anywhere,” Dobrinsky said. “We see RUNNERS, pg. 12

Hanover baseball coach Tyler Kane says he’s spoiled with a group that includes seven Division I commitments. The latest is junior Anthony Gabello, a righthanded pitcher/first baseman who committed to James Madison.

Already committed from the Hawks’ junior class is Levi Huesman, a left-handed pitcher who is headed to Coastal Carolina (he’s the son of Richmond football coach Russ Huesman); Chase Hustead, a right-handed pitcher/ outfielder going to JMU; Cannon Peebles, a catcher/right-handed pitcher going to Old Dominion; Seth Keller, a right-handed pitcher/middle infielder see HAWK, pg. 12

Ashland-Hanover Local November 4, 2020

11

RUNNERS Continued from pg. 12

had, probably I’d say, 10 to 12 kids from either North Carolina or Maryland, come down.”

Being able to compete proved a special treat for Kleckner, the boys winner from North Carolina.

“The winter on the boys side was just getting over an iron issue, and he was just happy to get a race in,” Dobrinski said.

“And he raced very well.”

CLOG-FREE GUT TERS

OR YOUR MONEY BACK

GUARANTEED!

AFT

BEF

OR

a E Le

fFil

E

a R Le

fFil

ter Joel Klein for The Local

Above, Mechanicsville’s Ethan Coleman leads a group of runners in middle of the pack early in the WERC Invitational 2020 at Pole Green Park Sunday. Coleman would finish 15th in 16:33. Left, Elliott Kleckner (144) of Newport, North Carolina, leads Brogan Giffin of Aldie, Virginia, with about 1 kilometer left.

Kleckner would hold on for the victory with time of 15:23. Top left, Griffin (43) Aiden Nathan of Ashburn, Virginia follow the white-lined path while leading the field at the 1-kilometer mark. Giffin would finish second. Nathan finished sixth.

ter

15% OFF YOUR ENTIRE LEAFFILTER PURCHASE* Exclusive Offer – Redeem By Phone Today!

ADDITIONALLY

10% OFF SENIOR & MILITARY DISCOUNTS

CALL US TODAY FOR

A FREE ESTIMATE

1-804-800-9568 Promo Code: 285

Mon-Thurs: 8am-11pm, Fri-Sat: 8am-5pm, Sun: 2pm-8pm EST

HAWK

PLUS!

THE FIRST 50 CALLERS WILL RECEIVE AN ADDITIONAL

5% OFF YOUR ENTIRE INSTALL! **Offer valid at estimate only

Continued from pg. 11

FINANCING THAT FITS 1 YOUR BUDGET! 1

Subject to credit approval.

Call for details.

*The leading consumer reporting agency conducted a 16 month outdoor test of gutter guards in 2010 and recognized LeafFilter as the “#1 rated professionally installed gutter guard system in America.” CSLB# 1035795 DOPL #10783658-5501 License# 7656 License# 50145 License# 41354 License# 99338 License# 128344 License# 218294 License# 603 233 977 License# 2102212986 License# 2106212946 License# 2705132153A License# LEAFFNW822JZ License# WV056912 License# WC-29998-H17 Nassau HIC License# H01067000 Registration# 176447 Registration# HIC.0649905 Registration# C127229 Registration# C127230 Registration# 366920918 Registration# PC6475 Registration# IR731804 Registration# 13VH09953900 Registration# PA069383 Suffolk HIC License# 52229-H

12

Ashland-Hanover Local November 4, 2020

also going to ODU; and Owen DeShazo, a middle infielder headed to Boston College.

Senior Caden Plummer, a righthanded pitcher/outfielder, is going to VMI. Gabello, who’s 6-foot-3, 230 pounds, is a two-way player whose fastball has been clocked

at 93 mph and is “every bit as good offensively as he is on the mound,” Kane said.

Gabello was hitting 88 mph as a freshman in 2019 when he pitched two innings in Hanover’s Class 4, Region B championship victory over Midlothian. Teams didn’t play this past spring because of the coronavirus pandemic.

“He’s a big, physical kid,” Kane said. “He really excels in

the classroom, he’s a great kid, and he’s a hard worker. He’s what every Division I program wants, a guy who’s going to be able to go in and be able to contribute right away, and he gets it done in the classroom as well.

“The crazy thing about Anthony is his birthday is in November, but he’s a year younger than everybody else.”

Tim Pearrell can be reached at tpearrell@timesdispatch.com.

LEGAL DISPLAY ADS

Business & Service Directory CLEANING & HOUSEKEEPING L & L Cleaning Services - We create FREE TIME for busy people! wkly, bi-wkly, monthly, one-time clean Put down that mop! Call today to schedule! Bonded & Insured.

804-305-4068 LLCleans.com

CONCRETE WORK Bernard’s Concrete - sidewalks, cobblestones, retainer walls, patios, repair brick, References. Licensed. & insured.

Call 804-874-9184

TREE SERVICE Bernard’s Tree Service, stump grinder, mulch, landscaping, & more. Free estimates. References. Licensed. & insured. Call 804-874-9184

Recruitment CONSTRUCTION & TRADES

COMMERCIAL SOIL TREATMENT APPLICATOR Experience preferred but will train.

License provided. $18/hr with Benefits, vacations & holidays.

Call Richard 804-358-3063 or email metroservice@verizon.net

LEGAL DISPLAY ADS

LEGAL DISPLAY ADS

TOWN OF ASHLAND NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING CONCRETE & BRICK Bernard’s Concrete Services Concrete, Retaining Walls, Pavers, Brick, Sidewalks. Install & repair.

Free Estimates. Licensed & Insured.

References. Please call 804-874-9184

TREE SERVICE Bernard’s Tree Service Tree Removal & Stump Grinding Landscaping & More!

Free Estimates. Licensed & Insured References. Please Call 804-874-9184

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

Full Service Tree Company.

(Removal, trimming, topping, stump grinding & firewood delivery) Offering free estimates and providing fully insured work.

Tree & Shrub Pruning, Removals, Stump Grinding. Health/Risk Assessments. Insured. Free Estimates.

804-779-2170 Certified Arborist and MD LTE

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

MC/VISA/Discover.

804-346-5500

Copies of REZ20-0819 and CUP20-1009 may be obtained by contacting Town Hall at (804) 798-1073, Monday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Written comments may be submitted to planning@ashlandva.gov or mailed to Town of Ashland, PO Box 1600, Ashland, VA 23005.

CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PROGRAM FY 2021-2022 THROUGH 2025-2026 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PROGRAM FY 2021-2022 THROUGH 2025-2026: The purpose of the public hearing is to review recommendations for amendments or revisions to The Capital Improvements Program (CIP). The CIP is a program that spans five (5) budget years. Non-recurring 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 121 Thompson Street, Monday through Thursday from 7:30 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. *** PUBLIC HEARINGS WILL TAKE PLACE AT THE NEW ASHLAND TOWN HALL BUILDING ***

ROOFING

Free Estimates

REZ20-0819, ORD2020-15, & CUP20-1009 JAG LOGISTICS Michael Howard, applicant and owner of the property at 106 Jamestown Road, requests to rezone his property from RR-1, Residential Rural, and M-1, Limited Industrial, to M-2, Industrial. The applicant intends to use the property for a contractor’s office and to store his landscaping equipment. Storing landscape equipment, in conjunction with a contractor’s office, is a use by-right in M-2. The applicant is also requesting approval of a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) to store tractors associated with a separate trucking business. Storing tractors are associated with a truck terminal use, which requires a CUP in the M-2 district (Sec. 21-135, Permitted Uses). The property is approximately three acres in size, has a split zoning designation of M-1 and RR-1, and has a future land use designation of Mixed Business.

GENERAL CONTRACTORS Purcell Construction Custom Builder Hunter Purcell 804-972-2215 www.Purcell Construction.Biz www.PurcellConstruction.Biz Custom Renovations ∂ Historical Additions ∂ Sunrooms ∂ Decks ∂ Porches∂ Siding ∂ Replacement Windows ∂ Barns∂ Stamped Concrete ∂ Kitchens & Baths ∂ Handicap Ramps ∂ T e r m i t e Damage ∂ Insurance Claims ∂ Interior & Exterior Renovations ∂ Commercial Renovating & MORE! Class A License & ∂ ∂ Insured 37 yrs exp A+ Rating with the BBB & Angie’s List Don’t Move...Improve!

Dont Move....Improve!

Please take notice that on the 18th day of November at 7:00 p.m. at the Ashland Town Hall, 121 Thompson Street, Ashland, VA, the Ashland Planning Commission will conduct public hearings for the purpose of receiving input, and may take action on the following:

All interested persons may attend and express their views, however, the number of people admitted to Town Hall is being limited in accordance with CDC Guidelines. Citizens are encouraged to participate electronically; please contact Bernadette Cornelius, bcornelius@ashlandva.gov to make those arrangements. 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.

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

746-1235

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

Ashland-Hanover Local November 4, 2020 13

LEGAL DISPLAY ADS

LEGAL DISPLAY ADS

TOWN OF ASHLAND NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Please take notice that on the 17th day of November 2020, at 7:00 p.m. at the Ashland Town Hall, 101 Thompson Street, Ashland, VA, the Ashland Town Council will conduct a public hearing for the purpose of receiving input and may take action on the following item: ORDINANCE NO. 2020-14 Transportation Impact Analysis Text Amendment Ordinance No. 2020-14 amends the Ashland Town Code by modifying Sec. 21-140.3, “Site Plan Required,” and Sec. 21-185, “Specific Information” to revise and add a new threshold for the number of proposed vehicle trips per day that would require a transportation impact analysis. Ordinance No. 2020-14 is considered pursuant to the grants of authority contained in VA. Code §§ 15.2-2200, 15.2-2240, 15.2-2280, 15.2-2285, and 15.2-2286.

Copies 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, however, the number of people admitted to Town Hall is being limited in accordance with CDC Guidelines. Citizens are encouraged to participate electronically; please contact Bernadette Cornelius, bcornelius@ashlandva.gov to make those arrangements.

Any person with a disability requiring assistance in order to participate in this public hearing is asked to contact Town Hall in advance of the public hearing so that appropriate arrangements may be made.

PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is hereby given that the Hanover County Planning Commission has set Thursday, November 19, 2020, at 7:00 P.M., in the Board Room of the Hanover County Government Building at Hanover Courthouse, Hanover, Virginia, as the day, date, time, and place for a public hearing to consider the following cases, at which public comments will be accepted: REZONINGS REZ2020-00036, ANGELO JORDAN, ET AL. Request(s) to rezone from A-1, Agricultural District, to AR-6(c), Agricultural Residential District with conditions on GPIN 8718-28-2005, consisting of approximately 14.45 acres, and located on the north line of Foxal Road (State Route 699) at its intersection with Georgetown Road (State Route 651). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Agricultural. The proposed zoning amendment would permit the creation of three (3) building lots for a gross density of one (1) dwelling unit per 4.82 acres. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Henry REZ2020-00037, ANNIE MAE DIXON-BAKER AND IRVING L. BAKER, SR. Request(s) to rezone from A-1, Agricultural District to RS(c), Single-Family Residential District with conditions, on GPIN 8715-39-9790, consisting of approximately 7.18 acres, and located on the west line of Verdi Lane (State Route 710) approximately 1,400 feet west of its intersection with Havelock Lane (State Route 2281). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Suburban General (1.5-3 dwelling units per acre).

The proposed zoning amendment would permit the creation of two additional building lots for family members for a gross density of one (1) dwelling unit per 2.39 acres. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Chickahominy REZ2020-00038, DOSWELL VENTURES, L.L.C. Request(s) an amendment to the proffers approved with rezoning request, C-22-92(c), George A. Hase, III, on GPIN 7796-91-8715, consisting of approximately 1.34 acres, zoned B-3(c), General Business District with conditions.

The property is located on the northwest line of Chamberlayne Road (U.S. Route 301) at its intersection with Leon Lane (State Route 1364). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Commercial.

The proposed zoning amendment would allow revisions to the approved proffers regarding architectural treatment and thoroughfare buffer landscaping. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Chickahominy REZ2020-00034, GRACE COMMUNITY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH Request(s) to rezone from A-1, Agricultural District, to B-1(c), Neighborhood Business District with conditions, on GPIN 7798-30-4187, consisting of approximately 5.47 acres, and located on the south line of Sliding Hill Road (State Route 656) approximately 0.25 miles west of its intersection with New Ashcake Road (State Route 643). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Commercial. The proposed zoning amendment would allow the property to be used for church offices and small group meetings. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Ashland CONDITIONAL USE PERMITS CUP2020-00013, GRACE COMMUNITY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH Request(s) a Conditional Use Permit in accordance with Section 26-110.7 of the Hanover County Zoning Ordinance to permit church offices and small group meetings on GPIN 7798-30-4187, consisting of approximately 5.47 acres, zoned A-1, Agricultural District (rezoning request pending for REZ2020-00034 for B-1, Neighborhood Business District with conditions), and located on the south line of Sliding Hill Road (State Route 656) approximately 0.25 miles west of its intersection with New Ashcake Road (State Route 643). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Commercial. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Ashland CUP2020-00012, TRUSTEES OF HILLCREST BAPTIST CHURCH Request(s) an amendment to a Conditional Use Permit (CUP-6-03, Trustees of Hillcrest Baptist Church) in accordance with Section 26-20.21 of the Hanover County Zoning Ordinance to permit a church expansion and its related uses on GPIN 8708-76-6495, consisting of approximately 5.42 acres. The property is zoned A-1, Agricultural District, and located on the west line of Hanover Courthouse Road (U.S. Route 301) at its intersection with Hillcrest Road (State Route 649). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Agricultural. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Beaverdam Copies of the above cases may be reviewed in the Planning Office, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

14

Ashland-Hanover Local November 4, 2020

PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is hereby given that the Hanover County Board of Supervisors has set Wednesday, November 18, 2020, at 7:00 P.M., in the Board Room of the Hanover County Government Building at Hanover Courthouse, Hanover, Virginia, as the day, date, time, and place for a public hearing to consider the following cases, at which public comments will be accepted: REZONING REZ2019-00019, HICKORY HILL II, L.L.C. Request(s) to rezone from A-1, Agricultural District, to MX(c), Mixed Use District with conditions, and B-2(c), Community Business District with conditions, on GPINs 7880-92-1335 and 7880-81-6802, consisting of approximately 51.5 acres, and located on the north line of East Patrick Henry Road (State Route 54) at its intersection with Providence Church Road (State Route 662). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Planned Business and Commercial. The proposed zoning amendment would allow 42.33 acres to be rezoned to MX(c) for development of a mix of commercial (retail, office and restaurant) uses and residential uses (100 townhome units) at a density of 2.36 dwelling units per gross acre, and 9.17 acres to be rezoned to B-2(c) for a mix of commercial that may include a convenience store and a fast food restaurant with drive-through. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Beaverdam CONDITIONAL USE PERMITS CUP2020-00002, HEIDI M. AND LAMERRO L. MASON Request(s) a Conditional Use Permit in accordance with Section 26-20.14 of the Hanover County Zoning Ordinance to permit a recreational facility/event venue on GPIN 7861-31-5506, consisting of approximately 11.86 acres, zoned A-1, Agricultural District, and located on the east line of Horseshoe Bridge Road (State Route 686) approximately 300 feet north of its intersection with West Patrick Henry Road (State Route 54). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Agricultural. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Beaverdam CUP2020-00010, HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS (PUBLIC UTILITIES) Request(s) a Conditional Use Permit in accordance with Section 26-174.1 of the Hanover County Zoning Ordinance to permit a water storage tank and pump station on GPIN 7881-15-1901, consisting of approximately 7.6 acres, zoned M-2(c), Light Industrial District with conditions, and located on the northwest line of Hickory Hill Road (State Route 646) at its intersection with Ellett’s Crossing Road (State Route 641). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Industrial. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Beaverdam CUP2020-00011, CAROLYN H. AND RICHARD E. BARRETT Request(s) a Conditional Use Permit in accordance with Section 26-20.14 of the Hanover County Zoning Ordinance to permit a recreational facility/event venue on GPINs 8719-65-5010 and 8719-65-2975(part), consisting of approximately 26.49 acres, zoned A-1, Agricultural District, and located on the south line of River Road (State Route 605) approximately 910 feet east of its intersection with Broad Neck Road (State Route 326). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Agricultural. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Henry Copies of the above case may be reviewed in the Planning Office, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

LIBRARY Continued from pg. 7

will be sent to the email registered one day before the event occurs. For more information, or if you have a special physical or communication need, contact ask@pamunkeylibrary.org.

NaNoWriMo Teen Chat – 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 19, for ages 12 and up.

Are you a teen writer participating in National Novel Writing Month? Join our chat to talk about your novel and share writing tips with other teen writers. Go to https:// pamunkeylibrary.libcal.com/ event/7200628 to register.

This virtual program is hosted through Zoom and the meeting link will be sent to the email registered 1 day before the event occurs. For more information, or if you have a special physical or communication need, contact ask@ pamunkeylibrary.org.

Kids’ Lego Club – 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 20, for grades K-5. Meet and talk with other Lego fans about your current creations, ask questions, and show off your amazing builds. Registration required at https://pamunkeylibrary. libcal.com/event/7200626.

This program is hosted virtually through Zoom, and the meeting link will be sent to the email registered one day before the event occurs. For more information, or if you have a special physical or communication need, contact ask@ pamunkeylibrary.org.

Cyber Security for Seniors – 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Monday, Nov. 23. Martin Bailey, AARP Community Ambassador, will explain how to stay safe while shopping and visiting online this holiday season.

Registration is required at https://pamunkeylibrary.libcal. com/event/7212275. This virtual program is hosted through

Zoom and the meeting link will be sent to the email registered one day before the event occurs. For more information, or if you have a special physical or communication need, contact ask@pamunkeylibrary.org.

to https://www.youtube.com/ user/pamunkeylibrary or https://tinyurl.com/prlteens to see the video. For more information, or if you have a special physical or communication need, contact ask@pamunkeylibrary.org.

On Demand videos Kitchen Close-ups: Pizza Roll-ups – Premiered Tuesday, Nov. 3, for ages 5 and up with an adult. Learn to make some delicious pizza roll-ups and enjoy a read aloud telling of “The Princess and the Pizza”

by Mary Jane and Herm Auch.

Go to https://pamunkeylibrary. libcal.com/event/7200825 for the ingredient list. Starting Nov. 3, go to https://www. youtube.com/user/pamunkeylibrary or https://tinyurl.com/ prlchildrens to see the video.

For more information, or if you have a special physical or communication need, contact ask@pamunkeylibrary.org.

Make Your Own Sourdough Bread -- Premieres Wednesday, Nov. 4, for ages 18 and up.

Learn how to make easy, noknead Sourdough Bread. Go to https://pamunkeylibrary.libcal.com/event/7213289 for the ingredient list. Starting Nov. 4, go to https://www.youtube. com/user/pamunkeylibrary or https://tinyurl.com/prladults to see the video. For more information, or if you have a special physical or communication need, contact ask@pamunkeylibrary.org.

Science Makers: All About Slime -- Premieres Thursday, Nov. 5, for ages 12 and up.

Learn the amazing science of Oobleck. Participants will make this oozy, gooey creation, all while learning about the amazing properties of this non-Newtonian fluid. They’ll also learn how to make other fun slime recipes. Go to https:// pamunkeylibrary.libcal.com/ event/7211280 for the ingredient list. Starting Nov. 5, go

DIY Journal Making -Premieres Saturday, Nov. 7, for ages 18 and up. Participants will learn how to make creative journals using stuff found around your home. Starting Nov. 7, go to https://www. youtube.com/user/pamunkeylibrary or https://tinyurl.com/ prladults to see the video. For more information, or if you have a special physical or communication need, ontact ask@ pamunkeylibrary.org.

Cooking Class: Garden Focaccia -- Premieres Tuesday, Nov. 10, for ages 12 and up.

Learn how to make easy, no-knead garden focaccia. Go to https://pamunkeylibrary.libcal.com/event/7200859 for the ingredient list. Starting Nov. 10, go to https://www.youtube. com/user/pamunkeylibrary or https://tinyurl.com/prlteens to see the video. For more information, or if you have a special physical or communication need, contact ask@pamunkeylibrary.org.

Science Makers: Explosive Experiments -- Premieres Thursday, Nov. 12, for ages 8 and up with an adult. Watch the library staff attempt to make things pop, go sky high, or erupt using a few simple supplies. You can try these experiments at home with adult supervision. Starting Nov. 12, go to https://www. youtube.com/user/pamunkeylibrary or https://tinyurl.com/ prlchildrens to see the video.

For more information, or if you have a special physical or communication need, contact ask@pamunkeylibrary.org. see LIBRARY, pg. 16

Ashland-Hanover Local November 4, 2020 15

LIBRARY Continued from pg. 15

Magic or Science? -- Premieres Saturday, Nov. 14, for ages 8 and up. Is it magic? Or is it science? Learn how to perform tricks to impress your friends and the science behind each trick.

Starting Nov. 14, go to https://www.youtube. com/user/pamunkeylibrary or https://tinyurl. com/prlchildrens to see the video. For more information, or if you have a special physical or communication need, contact ask@pamunkeylibrary.org.

Kitchen Close-ups Dessert Crescent Rolls -- Premieres Tuesday, Nov. 17, for ages 5 and up with an adult. Learn to make delicious dessert crescent rolls and enjoy a read aloud telling of “Cook-a-Doodle-Doo!” by Janet Stevens and Susan Stevens Crummel. Go to https:// pamunkeylibrary.libcal.com/event/7200827 for the ingredient list. Starting Nov. 17, go to https:// www.youtube.com/user/pamunkeylibrary or https://tinyurl.com/prlchildrens to see the video.

For more information, or if you have a special physical or communication need, contact ask@ pamunkeylibrary.org.

LETTERS Continued from pg. 6

East Ashland traffic is out, then East Ashland traffic is in.

Contradictory and irreconcilable assumptions. How can this be? What is the principle?

No principle. The developer and the county staff have acted arbitrarily and capriciously to produce minimal proffers.

The bottom line for Hickory Grove is a $302,200 cash payment and a temporary traffic signal on a wooden pole.

Hanover taxpayers are crucified. Hickory Grove is a mixed abuse project. Abusive development must be rejected by the Hanover County Board of Supervisors.

Bob Nelson Mechanicsville

Resident: Keep pristine setting in Ashland area Three years ago, my wife and I “escaped” our neighborhood north of Denver

16

Wreathmaking Workshop -- Premieres Saturday, Nov. 21, for ages 18 and up. Participants will learn how to put together a festive holiday | Death Notices & Funerals wreath using fresh greenery.

WILLIAM McARTHUR Starting Nov. 21, go to https://www.youtube. com/user/pamunkeylibrary or https://tinyurl.

THORNBURG SR. com/prladults to see the video. For more inforWilliam McArthur Thornburg Sr., 77, of mation, or if you have a special physical or Mechanicsville, passed away Thursday, October communication need, contact ask@pamunkey- 15, 2020, at his home. Bill raised seven children, library.org. served in the United States Marines, founded Air Progress flying school and Centurion Cooking Class: Garden Focaccia -- Premieres Properties real estate firm. His love and care Tuesday, Nov. 24, for ages 12 and up. for family was always first and this will never We may not be able to travel overseas now, be forgotten. Bill was preceded in death by his but we can still celebrate global diversity. Learn son, Lesley (Lex) Thornburg; and Bill’s siblings, how to make dishes from other countries and Robert, Marvin, Keak, Violin and Charles. enjoy these tasty new treats with your family. Go to https://pamunkeylibrary.libcal.com/ He is survived by his devoted wife, JoAn; event/7212814 for the ingredient list. Starting and his daughters, Debbie Thornburg Webb Nov. 24, go to https://www.youtube.com/user/ (Jim), Jennifer Thornburg, Georgie, Maria and pamunkeylibrary or https://tinyurl.com/prlteens Pepper. He is also survived by his son, William to see the video. For more information, or if you Thornburg Jr. (Margie); seven grandchildren, have a special physical or communication need, Brooke, Emilee, Blakelee, Reid (Kathleen),

OBITUARIES

contact ask@pamunkeylibrary.org.

Librarian Carolyn Garner may be contacted at cgarner@pamunkeylibrary.org or 804-3656214.

and moved to the Providence housing development adjacent to Providence Church Road and East Patrick Henry Road.

When we first moved to Colorado, our quiet neighborhood was adjacent to a twolane road. Our county subsequently allowed a “small” zoning change to allow a “small” office building. A few years later, the road was expanded to six lanes, supporting numerous retail centers and other commercial properties -- just like Short Pump. And now, we see this same story may unfold here in Ashland.

After several Hanover County Planning Commission meetings, we were encouraged to convince three of seven members to vote no at the Oct. 15 planning meeting to allow the Hickory Hill II rezoning.

At that meeting, there was a line of residents with two petitions signed by more than 50 people urging a “No” vote, but the commission wants more commercial business.

The residential aspect of

Ashland-Hanover Local November 4, 2020

this application doesn’t bother residents, but the commercial side can only bring “commercial” blight to our area on top of 7,120-vehicle visits per day of additional traffic.

Although what’s “in the mix” for what those commercial enterprises will be, at present it includes a 2,800 square feet fast-food restaurant, 5,600 square feet convenience store with 16 fueling station gas station, and two restaurants of 4,000 square feet and 7,000 square feet, respectively. And not more than one mile away are numerous similar businesses across Interstate 95 with many vacant store or office spaces. And the traffic impact is a minimum number and does not include the future “East Ashland” project.

As the director of planning said, this “mix-use” rule is a guide, it’s not a law. Let’s just go with residential alone and save our pristine rural setting on Route 54 between Ashland and Hanover.

John Denler Ashland

Waylon, Abel and Gabriel; and one greatgrandchild, Madison; nieces, nephews, extended family and close friends.

The family will receive friends from THORNBURG 3 to 4 p.m. on Friday, November 6, at Affinity Funeral Service Richmond Chapel, 2720 Enterprise Parkway, Richmond, Va. 23294, with a memorial service to follow at 4 p.m. Interment will be private.

Online guestbook is available at affinityfuneralservice.com.

Hazardous waste and paper shredding event set for Nov. 14 at Verdi Lane solid waste center HANOVER -- Hanover County will hold a special household hazardous wastes and paper shredding recycling event between 8 a.m. and noon on Saturday, Nov. 14, at the Mechanicsville Solid Waste Convenience Center on Verdi Lane.

During this event, Hanover County residents will be able to recycle household hazardous wastes and shred up to four boxes (10x12x18) of personal documents or information at no charge.

Household hazardous waste accepted for recycling at this event includes pool chemicals, pesticides, herbicides, household cleaners and oil-based paints.

Electronic waste will not be accepted for recycling at this event.

This event is for Hanover County residents only (ID required).

No businesses will be permitted. No out-of-

HOUSING Continued from pg. 9

will be approved for funding on a rolling basis until all funds are distributed. Contact information for approved organizations will be routinely updated

county materials will be accepted.

There are some special requirements for residents participating in this event: All residents must wear masks.

All residents must stay in their vehicles.

Material being dropped off must be in the trunk, far rear of SUV/Van or bed of pick-up truck (furthest point from resident).

The contractors will remove HHW and paper from vehicles.

The Mechanicsville Solid Waste Convenience Center is located at 7427 Verdi Lane in Mechanicsville.

For more information, call the Department of Public Works at 365-6181.

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

on the Hanover County website, www.hanovercounty. gov, click the Quick Link for CARES Act Funding for Nonprofits.

For more information, contact the United Way of Greater Richmond & Petersburg (cus-

tomerservice@yourunitedway. org) or the Hanover Department of Community Resources at volunteer@hanovercounty.gov or 804-365-4300.

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

OBITUARY SUBMISSIONS Call 804-643-4414, ext. 3 Email: paidnotices@timesdispatch.com Deadline is noon Friday for the following week’s issue.