HANOVER Col. David R. Hines receives national award for ‘Excellence in Outreach’
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from the staff of Ashland-Hanover Local
Vol. 5 No. 15 | Richmond Suburban News | December 25, 2019
97th District House seat, Nov. 4 election take first place in Top 10 By Melody Kinser Managing Editor
Denine D’Angelo/file photo
Voters at the Mechanicsville Elementary School precinct patiently waited in long lines to cast their ballots in the Nov. 5 General Election. Turnout in Hanover County far exceeded recent elections.
MECHANICSVILLE – From a hotly-contested 97th District House of Delegates seat to gun rights to changing the Confederate names of two Hanover County schools, the news of 2019 was filled with members of the community expressing themselves in the polls and in government meetings. The 97th District race and the Nov. 4 election take the top spot in our list of Top 10 stories for 2019. Scott Wyatt, who represents the Cold Harbor District on the Hanover County Board of Supervisors, ousted longtime Del. Chris Peace for the 97th District seat. Controversy swirled around the county following six months of county Republicans battling for their preferred candidate. WYATT
Supervisors, Constitutional officers take Oath of Office By Jim Ridolphi for Ashland-Hanover Local HANOVER -- Retiring South Anna Supervisor Wayne Hazzard sat in the back of the room and watched patiently as his former colleagues and newlyelected representatives took their oaths of office last Wednesday at the historic Hanover County Courthouse. Hazzard is wrapping up two terms on the panel, and said leaving a post he loves won’t be easy. “I have mixed emotions,” Hazzard said. “All of these folks have become like
family to me and I will miss all of them.” He admitted his tenure on the board had become a familiar routine after decades of service, and the South Anna rep said he wasn’t sure what his first days of life as a private citizen might entail. “I’m worried about waking up on Jan. 1 and wondering what do I do now,” he joked. Hanover Circuit Court Judge J. Overton Harris presided over a special session of the court on Dec. 18, see OATH, pg. 5
1) 97th District race and General Election 2) Second Amendment resolution passes 3) Wegmans investing millions in county 4) NAACP sues to change schools’ names 5) County and school system budgets 6) Affordable housing an issue in area 7) Carter Park Pool and Ashland Theatre 8) Town manager presents Ashland budget 9) High-speed rail remains on Ashland’s mind 10) Two key administrators talk retirement Peace, who had held the office for 13 years, conceded following a process that had included a May 4 election considered out of order by the delegate’s supporters. On June 1, a canvass or firehouse primary placed Peace in the frontrunner’s position with a victory of over 2,400 votes. The party’s State Central Committee followed by upholding Wyatt’s claim to the nomination. The State Department of Elections then approved the result in early July, and declared see TOP 10, pg. 4 Jim Ridolphi for Ashland-Hanover Local
After taking the Oath of Office, members of the Hanover County Board of Supervisors chatted and took time for a group photo. Shown are, from left, Sue Dibble, Canova Peterson, Sean Davis, Michael Herzberg, Angela KellyWiecek and “Bucky” Stanley. Faye Prichard was on the other side of the historic courthouse.
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Col. David R. Hines receives national award for ‘Excellence in Outreach’ HANOVER -- Each year, the publication, “Homeland Security Today� honors shining stars in the community who are making their own unique, invaluable contributions to advance the mission of keeping America safer from myriad threats. On Wednesday, Dec. 11, Col. David R. Hines, sheriff of Hanover County, was awarded “Excellence In Outreach� at a ceremony in Washington, D.C. Lt. Col. Allen Davidson and Lt. Terry Sullivan accepted the award on his behalf. The sheriff was recognized based on the following: “Col. Hines has developed homeland security measures to partner with federal, state, local and private-sector partners through multiple innovative initiatives that are at the core of Sheriff ’s Office operations. These innovations include efforts to educate the public about homeland security priorities, threats and vulnerabilities; promote suspicious activ-
Photo submitted by Sgt. Steve DiLoreto
Lt. Col. Allen Davidson and Lt. Terry Sullivan accepted the “Excellence In Outreach� honor on behalf of Col. David R. Hines during a recent ceremony in Washington, D.C.
ity reporting; and fostering state, national and international partnerships that led to the
development of the Hanover Sheriff ’s Office SHIELD initiative and the Global SHIELD
Network, incorporating a community policing strategy that provides a formal platform for any citizen to partner with the Sheriff ’s Office and receive not only the latest terrorism information from around the world but local and regional crime trends as well. “The foundation for the SHIELD initiative in Hanover County was built on streamlining already established partners in the Neighborhood Watch, Business Watch and Worship Watch programs; 160 churches actively participate in the Worship Watch program. The model has been shared with multiple metropolitan police agencies to assist them in developing a SHIELD initiative. International law enforcement from have also reached out to the Hanover Sheriff ’s Office in their efforts to develop a similar model�. Information submitted by Sgt. Steve DiLoreto, Hanover County Sheriff’s Office public information officer.
Green Top Shooting Range Grand Opening Photos submitted by Kent Brockwell
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Ashland-Hanover Local December 25, 2019
Grand opening ceremonies recently were held at Green Top Shooting Range in Ashland. Shown in the ribbon-cutting photo are, from left, Will Doss; Austin Brockenbrough III; Blaine Altaffer, Green Top CEO; Del. Buddy Fowler, R-55; Faye Prichard, Ashland representative on the Hanover County Board of Supervisors; and Scott Wyatt, Cold Harbor representative on the Hanover County Board of Supervisors. Left, Curt Hinton was the first customer to release rounds on the range, shooting his favorite 9 millimeter.
Three taken into custody after truck is stolen in I-95 work zone Staff Report news@mechlocal.com HANOVER COUNTY – Two men, including Darrell Michael Harris, 29, of Richmond, and a woman were taken into custody by Virginia State Police on Wednesday, Dec. 18, after receiving reports of a Curtis crash cushion truck being stolen from a work zone at the 88.6 mile marker on Interstate 95. Sgt. Keeli L. Hill, VSP Division 1 public information officer, said troopers were notified at 8:31 p.m. of the incident. The vehicle was located a short
time later with the driver, identified as Harris refusing to stop for troopers. A pursuit ensued with Harris driving recklessly and striking two marked trooper vehicles. The pursuit ended on Route 1 near Ashcake Road. Harris and two other occupants were taken into custody without further incident. “The pursuit ended with the subject stopping on Route 1 just south of Ashcake Road with the assistance of Hanover County Sheriff ’s Office and Ashland Police Department,” Hill added. Harris was charged with, two felony counts of grand
larceny, two felony counts of assault on law enforcement, one felony count hit and run, one count felony elude, three felony counts of destruction of property, one misdemeanor driving revoked, and reckless driving. Charges are pending against the other two. As of Thursday, Harris was being held at Pamunkey Regional Jail. Hill said one trooper sustained minor injuries after his vehicle was struck. He was transported to the hospital for treatment. The incident remains under investigation.
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SHERIFF’S REPORTS | Crime, Accidents, Fire & Rescue
Simple assault was reported in the 10400 block of Dellwood Road, Glen Allen.
Simple assault was reported in the 7100 block of Brook Way, Mechanicsville.
Threats of death or bodily injury by letter or electronic means were reported in the 300 block of North Laburnum Avenue, Richmond. Simple assault was reported in the 7100 block of Pole Green Road, Mechanicsville.
Obtaining money or signature by false pretenses was reported in the 10300 block of South Cedar Lane, Glen Allen.
Grand larceny, $500 or more not from a person, was reported in the 8300 block of Beatties Mill Road, Mechanicsville.
Driver did not report an accident with damages, $1,000, in the 7200
Credit card fraud, $200 in six months, was reported in the 7000 block of Walgrove Court, Mechanicsville. Simple assault was reported in the 8200 block of Atlee Road, Mechanicsville. Concealment, price altering merchandise, $500, second offense, was reported in the 7400 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville. Destruction of property, monument, was reported in the 12500 block of Moates Drive, Ashland.
Grand larceny building was reported in the 10400 block of Morning Dew Lane, Mechanicsville.
Driver did not report an accident with damages, $500, in the 10000 block of Pamunkey Road, Mechanicsville.
Sale and distribution of marijuana, ½-ounce, was reported in the 12400 block of West Patrick Henry Road, Ashland.
Petit larceny, $500 not from a person, was reported in the 7400 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.
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Entering property without intent to damage was reported in the 10000 block of Seminole Road, Mechanicsville.
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Petit larceny, $500 not from a person, was reported in the 17000 block of Bandana Farm Lane/Beaver Dam Road, Beaverdam.
Destruction of property, monument, was reported in the 11100 block of Linderwood Drive, Mechanicsville.
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turned out on Dec. 11 for the meeting. Continued from pg. 1 In a major coup for the county, Wyatt the certified candidate. the number three story of the year is While Virginia, in the words about Wegmans Food Markets will of Gov. Ralph Northam, went blue be investing $175 million to establish in November with the Democrats a full-service, regional distribution regaining control of the General operation. Gov. Northam said the Assembly, Hanover County voters center will create 700 new jobs. stuck to their conservative roots with Wegmans, which has stores Republicans winning in most local throughout the Northeast and Midcontests. Atlantic regions, will locate the center Nick Collette, chairman of the along Sliding Hill and Ashcake Roads Hanover Republican Committee, in Ashland. said, “Hanover Republicans did their An ongoing debate takes the fourth part on Tuesday by sweeping every position in our 2019 lineup. The single race on the ballot from State Hanover County NAACP (National Senate to the [Hanover County] Association for the Advancement of Board of Supervisors,” said. “Each Colored People) has filed a lawsuit to campaign should be proud of the change the names of Lee-Davis High results.” School and Stonewall Jackson Middle Hanover Democratic chair Toni School. Radler said -- despite the predicted The Southern Poverty Law Center losses -- this election was meaningful said only 13 schools in Virginia are for Hanover and the Commonwealth. still named for Confederate leaders. “This was one of the most exciting An effort to change the names elections for Hanover in decades,” in 2018 fell short when the Hanover she said. County School Board voted 5-2 to Hanover voters held close to their maintain the current names and masconservative roots, going to the polls cots of Lee-Davis, the Confederates, in significant numbers. “Historically, and Stonewall Jackson, the Rebels. local elections in Hanover have mainA closed meeting on Nov. 22 tained a 25% turnout on average, but ended with no action being taken. this election was closer to a gubernaOriginally, the NAACP had filed torial with 53% voter turnout,” Voter the lawsuit against the school board Registrar/Director of and board of superElections Teresa “Teri” visors. The county Smith said. was dismissed as a Coming in second defendant by Robert place was action taken E. Payne of the U.S. a couple of weeks ago District Court for the by the board of superEastern District of visors by adopting a Virginia. resolution endorsing Payne granted a and protecting Second motion made by the Amendment rights county that removes and declaring its intent the supervisors and to oppose any changes the county as defento gun laws when dants, but does not the Democraticallyexcuse the school Jim Ridolphi/file photo controlled General board from the litigaCounty Administrator Assembly is seated Rhu Harris addresses the tion. next month. Hanover County Board of The lawsuit However, supervi- Supervisors. was filed in August sors did not declare with the county NAACP claiming the county a Second Amendment the county’s refusal to change the sanctuary. names of two schools named for The General Assembly is expected Confederate leaders violates the First to increase background checks and and Fourteenth Amendment rights limit magazine loads. of students who attend those schools. Hundreds of gun rights activities The fifth story of the year finds
TOP 10
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Ashland-Hanover Local December 25, 2019
County Administrator Rhu Harris presenting his budget to the supervisors. He said a prospering local economy allowed him to present an ambitious Fiscal Year 2020 budget that expands county services, rewards the workforce, and funds education without raising local real estate taxes. Harris said this year’s proposed $492.4 million budget is an increase of $29.4 million from last year’s plan. Increases in the county’s real estate tax revenue, coupled with increase sales tax receipts and personal property tax revenue, represented an increase in ongoing revenue of $13.4 million. “The increase in state support, growth in general fund revenues, and positive economic indicators combine to create the opportunity to fund our priorities,” Harris said. In addition, the state’s contribution to schools increased by $3.6 million. Harris said this year’s budget relies on traditional county priorities such as funding education, investing in public safety, supporting the community, and maintaining a skilled and motivated workforce. The budget contains a 3 percent raise for all county employees. A 3 percent across-the-board salary increase for all employees was included in a $194.7 million budget proposed by Dr. Michael Gill, superintendent of Hanover County Public Schools. Also included in the 20192020 plan were funding for additional counselors, mental health and special education specialists, and continuing technology efforts and improvements. The school board also approved a five-year $78 million Capital Improvement Program (CIP) that includes plans to construct a new elementary school, currently identified as a consolidation of Henry Clay and John Gandy elementary schools. The approved CIP also provides funds to construct vestibules at 14 county schools, enhancing safety at these campuses by providing secure entrances where visitors can be screened for admission. School board members also approved a school nutrition budget of $7.4 million for the 2019-2020 fiscal year. Our sixth story for 2019 focuses
Jim Ridolphi/file photo
The Carter Park Pool celebrated with a reopening after the Town of Ashland invested in improvements.
on affordable housing, which was brought before the supervisors by Elizabeth Greenfield, Partnership for Housing Affordability director, and Laura Lafayette, Richmond Association of Realtors president. They said it is a real and growing problem in the state and across the nation. Recent statistics listed about 35% of Metro Richmond residents as being considered “cost-burdened,” paying more than 30% of their income for housing. A vision for a comprehensive regional plan was presented by the women. Greenfield said, “Fifteen percent are severely cost-burdened, paying more than 50% of their income on housing.” Affected residents are evenly divided among renters and home buyers. Senior citizens also are among a large majority of cost-burdened homeowners. While the homes in which they live may be paid for with equity available, the cost of transitioning to senior living can be costly. Improvements in the Town of Ashland come in at number seven, with the Carter Park Pool and Ashland Theatre. The Carter Park Pool benefited from $1.5 million in renovations. The pool opened in May, with residents facing a hike in admission for the first time in 10 years. Town Manager Josh Farrar told Ashland Town Council that the
increase is long overdue and will assist the town with operating costs for the community pool. While Ashland provides the pool memberships as a service to its residents and rates compare favorably with other pool options in the area, Farrar said that recouping 60% to 70% of those operating expenses is a goal. The Ashland Theatre, which opened its doors in December 2018 after a $2.1 million renovation project, enjoyed a successful year and continues to bring the latest movie to the big screen, as well as live performers. Farrar proposed a budget of $20.1 million to council, with a goal of balance and compromise. His plan provided funding for an Ashland Police see TOP 10, pg. 5
council had passed a resolution expressing the town’s position Continued from pg. 4 Department Cadet Program, a and concerns regarding the longevity program that rewards future project. In 2017 and early 2018, seniority, an increase in council Ashland considered a plan salaries, additional money for that would provide increased increased hours for attorney passenger train service on the services, pool expansion, and RVA2DC corridor. money to cover increased solid Working with the Virginia waste and recycling costs. Department of Public and Rail Taking the ninth position Transportation, a draft enviin our Top 10, high-speed rain ronmental impact study was and possible effects on the submitted to the town remain a conFederal Railway cern of town counAdministration for cil and residents in approval. Ashland. The Top 10 The RVA2DC wraps up with the project saw resideparture of two dents become significant adminactively involved istrators in Hanover two years when County governoptions were disment. County cussed regarding RIVES Attorney Sterling the construction Rives retired in that some estimate February after more than 30 is “decades away.” years. County Attorney Cecil In response to the Federal R. “Rhu” Harris Jr. announced Railway Administration’s last month that he will retire release of a Tier II Final from the office he has held Environmental Impact Study, since 2004 on May 15.
TOP 10
OATH Continued from pg. 1
and individually administered the oath to Hanover’s recently- elected Constitutional officers and board of supervisors. The significance of the venue and ceremony was not lost on Michael Herzberg, the newly-elected Cold Harbor representative who took the oath for the first time at last week’s ceremony. “It’s a little overwhelming to be here in this building where there is so much history. I was more nervous today than I was during the whole campaign season,” Herzberg said. He said he’s gaining an immediate respect for the responsibility of the position even before his term officially begins Jan. 1. “People have been calling or writing, asking me my positions on certain things in the district. I’m looking forward to doing the work,” Herzberg, who replaces newlyelected 9th District Del. Scott Wyatt on the board, said. “We’ve got some great people living in this district and I’m looking forward to serving them. I’m very grateful for this opportunity.” Herzberg said maintaining and supporting Hanover County’s schools and acquiring broadband for underserved areas are just a sampling of issues he expects to face
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Jim Ridolphi for Ashland-Hanover Local
Hanover Circuit Court Judge J. Overton Harris presided over a special session of the court on Dec. 18 when he swore in members of the Hanover County Board of Supervisors, including Sue Dibble, shown here, and Constitutional officer.
in the coming months. Sue Dibble took the oath of office representing the South Anna District and replacing Hazzard. She vacates a seat on the Hanover County School Board to assume those duties. She also noted the significance of the historic setting as she embarks on her new assignment.
“Tonight's swearing in ceremony was a very special moment for me,” Dibble said. “Being in the historic courthouse was such an honor. Thinking of those famous persons who stood where I was standing and made such a profound difference in our world really caused my heart to pause.” Being able to share that special moment see OATH, pg. 16
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OPINION
LETTERS
| The Local Views
| Reader Views
From the managing editor
Memories flood in as Christmas Day arrives By Melody Kinser Managing Editor ditor’s note: This column first appeared in the Dec. 24, 2014, edition of The Mechanicsville Local.) My sister was always the best on Christmas Day. Without disturbing our parents, she was so agreeable when her little sister bounded out of bed to rush into the living room to see what wonderful gifts Santa Claus had left under the tree. And, how impressive was this: Santa always had our gifts separated on either side of the tree to avoid any confusion. Although, with her being four years older and our wish lists being polar opposites, there was no question as to which gift was for her or yours truly. That anticipation and excitement of Christmas
‘E
Eve and Christmas morning changed with her death in 2011. I miss her every day and cherish the memories of our experiences. They seem more pronounced with family gathering through the holiday. Thanks to my brother-in-law, a tradition they established in 1986 continues with the Tacky Lights Tour. My sister delighted in spending time with her family, especially two nieces — now young women. The elder niece was the reason the tour became a Christmas staple. Memories of my father — who left us suddenly in 1992 — engulf us. He was such a big kid. Mom has shared the story so many times of the Christmas that Dad barely got the Barbie Dream House completed before their youngest child (yes, that’s me) would run to find that Santa had deliv-
ered it. Well, it was on the wish list. And then there was the Christmas edition at my hometown newspaper that nearly had a typographical error that, thankfully, was caught just before we went to press. With a nice nativity scene, I had included Luke 2:11 (King James Version): “For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.” Well, this writer had mistakenly submitted Davin instead of David. Coincidentally, a community named Davin is in my home county. Thank goodness for an eagle eye staffer. Having grown up in a home that attended church regularly and celebrated the birth of Jesus, there was always the knowledge of why we were exchanging gifts and joining for a feast at the dining room table. Merry Christmas!
Searching for that special spirit? It may be closer than you thought By Jim Ridolphi Contributing Columnist The lady slowly stirred the gooey mixture bubbling in a pan on her stovetop, and an almost instant blast of sweet-smelling goodness filled her tiny kitchen. I inquired not what the mixture was or would become, but, instead asked what ingredients comprised the aromatically-pleasing blend. She explained it wasn’t a recipe,
verbatim, but a Christmas tradition she learned from her grandmother to make the house smell like the holidays. She explained the blend of brown sugar, nutmeg, cinnamon sticks and a small amount of apple cider placed on low heat can provide hours of holiday aroma therapy. “My kids love the smell. They say it gets them in the Christmas spirit,” she smiled as she swirled the concoction and lowered the heat to a flicker.
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On my way home, the thought of Christmas spirit seemed distant, and I wondered just what triggers that special and unique feeling that lifts one’s spirits and provides a once a year unmatched feeling of glee and goodwill. Could it possibly be attained by just combining a few spices and setting out a few figurines on pine-roped counters? Or is it a combination of several factors that only intersect dur-
ing the holidays, a perfect storm scenario that evokes a sense of euphoria in children, young and old. I remember visiting my grandmother’s house in Maryland weeks before Christmas and marveling at the production line cooking-making factory previously known as her kitchen. Her kitchen was as big as our living room and even had a separate room attached that she called a pantry. see SPIRIT, 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: 730-0476 E-mail: editor@mechlocal.com © 2019 by Richmond Suburban Newspapers. All advertising and editorial matter is fully protected and may not be reproduced in any manner without the permission of the publisher. CAC Audited Circulation: 13,776.
Compromise needs to be part of gun discussion The Second Amendment resolutions that are currently being passed in many Virginia counties come across mainly as a defiant, pre-emptive strategy, only inflaming a polarized discussion. Many vocal Second Amendment supporters seem to be putting the rest of the citizenry on notice that they are the only true patriots in our modern public square discussion of citizens’ rights. This is a somewhat skewed and condescending position. The First Amendment ensures that citizens can discuss with one another, with the government and with God the means to improve our republic. And so we must. The hard work of getting beyond cliches is made even harder in a rancorous atmosphere that threatens to quash debate. But we must do that work. The discussion surrounding gun safety, use and abuse must continue and must allow for the real exchange of meaningful thoughts, and, yes, even compromise. Pattie P. Bland Beaverdam
The question: Partisan politics is taking us where? The Congressional soap opera the nation has been witnessing, which began the moment political outsider Donald Trump overcame Hillary Clinton, reached historic proportions when the Democratic Party bloc in the House of Representatives voted to impeach the Republican president, giving the never-Trump clique a stocking full of Christmas goodies and the always-Trump group a lump of coal. This verdict placed Trump next to Andrew Johnson and Bill Clinton as the only presidents impeached by the see LETTERS, pg. 9
CALENDAR | News, Updates & Listings Saturdays Trinity Lutheran Church, Ashland Campus, located at 11515 Ashcake Road in Ashland two miles west of U.S. 1, holds it church service at 5 p.m. with Pastor Roy Minnix, senior pastor, and Nycholas Greig, associate pastor. For more information, visit www. trinityrichmond.net or call 804-270-9626.
Sundays Outside the Walls, a new Narcotics Anonymous group, has been organized and will meet from 6 to 7 p.m. in the lobby of the Pamunkey Regional Jail at 7240 Courtland Farm Rd. in Hanover. For more information, contact John Shinholser, McShin president, at 804-249-1845. The website
SPIRIT Continued from pg. 6
She took holiday baking seriously and the efforts continued for days, as shiny metal tins the size of those orange Home Depot buckets became filled with sugar cookies, brownies and other delights. And although my grandmother was the best cook I’ve encountered in my life and the person who taught me what little I know about in the kitchen, she made a most inedible fruitcake that each and every family member received annually. I’m not sure if anyone ever had the nerve to tell her most of those weighty loaves ended up in the trash, but I can’t remember anyone at our house ever taking a bite of the mysteriously looking dessert. She would send us home with a trunk full of those tins, filled with cookies and treats so intense the smell perme-
is http://www.mcshin.org.
Tuesdays A Commanders Coffee is held from 10 a.m. to about 11 a.m. at the Beaverdam Post at 17662 Beaver Dam Rd. in Beaverdam. Members discuss issues of interest/befits of the American Legion. There also will be donuts. Eugene Truitt is the Post commander. He can be contacted at 804-746-4734. The Hanover Concert Band rehearses from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. every Tuesday, mid-January through mid December, at the Hanover Arts and Activities Center at 500 S. Railroad Ave. in Ashland, just south of U.S. 54. Membership is open to anyone who can read music and play a non-string instrument. High ated through the back seat and made the whole car smell like Miss Lilly’s kitchen. As a child, I think that’s when Christmas began for us. I suppose in those days after Thanksgiving, that the first hints of that much sought after spirit begins to flicker somewhere deep down in our souls. And shopping for gifts for loved ones, searching for that perfect tree, singing a Christmas carol, listening to a choir of youths at Midnight Mass, or wrapping gifts at the dining room table all combine to create a full-blown version of that elusive Christmas spirit. Over the years, I’ve come to realize just what that special spirit entails is different for everyone. It could be the smallest act of kindness, or the heftiest of sacrifices … or just a kind encouraging word that might bring out that spirit in someone. For me, the gathering of
school students are welcome with parents’ permission. For more information, visit www. hanoverconcertband.org or call 804-789-0536.
Thursdays The Rotary Club of Ashland meets at noon for lunch at the Iron Horse Restaurant at 100 S. Railroad Ave. in in Ashland. For more information, contact Steve Dunham at 804-4966093 or sandrdunham@yahoo. com.
Third Mondays The Hanover County Community Services Board meets at 6:30 p.m. at 12300 Washington Hwy. in Ashland.
Second Tuesdays Hanover Family Support family or enjoying a good meal together during the holidays seems like a gift, and I place less and less emphasis on what I received and more on how lucky I am to have a wonderful family. And, that wonderful feeling of Christmas morning and running down the stairs to see what’s under the tree is just a memory for me. But, watching my kids on Christmas morning and enjoying the excitement in their eyes is just as rewarding, and, yes, still brings out that indescribable feeling that only Christmas can provide. And, in the interest of full disclosure, my house has been smelling very much like the holidays, thanks to that kind lady and her grandmother’s mixture of what I call liquid Christmas spirit. Here’s hoping your holidays are filled with that illustrious warmth of the season, and the spirit moves you.
Group, a support group for family members of a loved one with a mental illness, meets from 7 to 8:30 p.m. the second Tuesday evening of each month at the Ashland office of Hanover Community Services located at 12300 Washington Highway in Ashland. Attendees support one another, share experiences, challenges and resources and to advocate for their loved ones. For more information, contact Kathy Redfearn, LCSW at 804675-4230. The
Hanover
County
Historical Society will be conducting free tours of the Old Hanover Courthouse on the Historic Courthouse Green from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every second Tuesday through December. The address is 13182 Hanover Courthouse Road in Hanover. For more information, visit http://www. hanoverhistorical.org/index. html. The Clay Spring Garden Club in Ashland meets at 1 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month (except for the month of July at the First
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ax submissions to calendar to 730-0476, email to mkinser@ mechlocal.com, or mail to 8460 Times-Dispatch Blvd., Mechanicsville VA 23116. Deadline is 1 p.m. Thursday for the following week’s issue. Calendar announcements cannot be taken by phone. We reserve the right to edit all items submitted to The Ashland-Hanover Local.
Baptist Church in Ashland off of U.S. 54. Barbara Boor is the president. Doors are open to anyone who would like to attend.
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Ashland-Hanover Local December 25, 2019 7
Upcoming programs at Ashland-area library announced Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com HANOVER – Librarian Carolyn Garner has announced upcoming programs for Ashland-area libraries in the Pamunkey Regional Library system. She also pointed out that all branches of the Pamunkey Regional Library will be closed on Wednesday, Jan. 1.
Richard S. Gillis Jr./Ashland Branch Library For more information, call 804-798-4072 or visit the library at 201 S. Railroad Ave. Stitchin’ Time! -- Monday, Jan. 6, 13, 20, & 27, 7-8:30 p.m. Grab your needles, yarn, and patterns and join in on fun conversation and stitching at the drop-in fiber crafts group. From knitters to cross-stitchers, crocheters to hand-sewers, all are welcome. Chess Club -- Thursday, Jan. 9, 16, 23, & 30, 4:30-6 p.m. for ages 5-18. Do you like to play chess? Play a few games with the chess club! Refreshments will be provided by the Friends of the Ashland Library.
American Red Cross Blood Pressure Clinic -- Friday, Jan. 10, 11 a.m.–1 p.m. Have your blood pressure checked by an American Red Cross trained registered nurse and monitor your number over time with a free blood pressure card.
Ashland Afternoon Bridge Club -- Friday, Jan. 10 & 24, 1-5 p.m. The Ashland Afternoon Bridge Club is open to up to 16 players with a familiarity and affinity for bridge.
Hanover Master Gardeners Series -- Saturday, Jan. 11, 9 a.m.noon. Join the Hanover Master Gardeners as they present a wealth of gardening knowledge to homeowners and anyone wanting to make their thumb greener. Each Saturday a new topic, each designed to beautify your yard and enrich your gardening experience, will be presented. Your specific gardening questions will be welcome.
Forky and Friends: a Toy Story Celebration -- Saturday, Jan. 11, 1:302:30 p.m. Welcome to the world of Toy Story. Celebrate some of your favorite
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Toy Story characters with Toy Storythemed games, crafts, and activities. Refreshments will be provided by Friends of the Ashland Library. Genealogy Class -- Monday, Jan. 13, 2-4 p.m. Learn how to search for information to build your family tree using Ancestry Library Edition and HeritageQuest. (Basic computer experience is preferred.) Register online or call or visit the library to sign up for this class. South Anna 4-H Meeting -Monday, Jan. 13, 7-8:30 p.m. for ages 5-18. Would you like to participate in planning community service events and hone your expressive arts skills? At these meetings, you can learn how to get involved in community and public affairs, how to be a good role model, how to give back to your community, and how to use time management skills to enjoy every part of your life. Must Love Words -- Tuesday, Jan. 14, 7–8:30 p.m. Writers, are you looking for inspiration? Need readers with a discerning eye? Join in on constructive feedback and discussion about the craft of writing. Computer Basics -- Wednesday, Jan. 15, 4-6 p.m. Covers beginning computer skills like finding out about the parts of a computer, learning how to use a mouse, beginning to explore & search the Internet, and how to create and save documents with Microsoft Word. Rock Painting for Teens! -Wednesday, Jan. 15, 6:30-7:30 p.m. for ages 11-18. Do you have a special message or design that you would like to share with the world? Why not paint it on a rock? It’s fun. Supplies and snacks will be provided by the Friends of the Ashland Library. Morning Book Club -- Friday, Jan. 17, 10-11 a.m. Read the book of the month and engage in a lively discussion about it. Share views about the book and author and share reading recommendations. Refreshments will be provided by the Friends of the Ashland Library.
Long-term Care: Living Life on Your Terms -- Saturday, Jan. 18, 10:30-11:30 a.m. The need for long term care can happen to anyone at any time. It can result from a chronic ill-
Ashland-Hanover Local December 25, 2019
ness, a severe cognitive impairment, or an unexpected accident or injury. Find out how to navigate the process if this happens to you or a loved one. Medicare 101 -- Saturday, Jan. 18, 1–2:30 p.m. A professional Medicare expert will help you learn to navigate Medicare (including Parts A, B, C, and D), Medicare Advantage Plans and Medicare Supplements. This presentation will also include information on when and how to sign up for Medicare, the costs involved, and how to avoid enrollment penalties. Afternoon Book Club -Monday, Jan. 20, 1- 2 p.m. Read the book of the month and engage in a lively discussion about it. Share views about the book and author and share reading recommendations. Refreshments will be provided by the
Ashland Library.
of Depression -- Wednesday, Jan.
Why Water, Not Wipes? -Wednesday, Jan. 22, 7-8:30 p.m.
8, 6:30-7:30 p.m. What’s the difference between sadness and depression? Where can teens go for help? Join the discussion with teen panelists and Laura Robertson, prevention specialist, Hanover Community Services Board. Refreshments will be provided by Friends of the Montpelier Library. Second Saturday LEGOs -Saturday, Jan. 11, 11 a.m.-noon. You bring your ideas, the library will provide the bricks. Buildings, superheroes, animals -- the sky’s the limit. Enter to win a LEGO book too. Snacks will be provided by the Friends of the Montpelier Library. DIY Kaleidoscopes -- Monday, Jan. 20, 3-4 p.m. Ready to use color and patterns to change your world? Design and assemble your own working kaleidoscope using mirrors, markers, and imagination. Snacks will be provided by the Friends of the Montpelier Library.
Get ahead of the yucky flu season. Learn and understand why there are such rigorous guidelines for handwashing, diapering and toileting in infant and toddler settings. All Virginia Infant and Toddler Specialist Network training sessions are geared for those who care for children from birth to 36 months.
DIY Rejuvenating Body Scrub -- Tuesday, Jan. 28, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Join in for a make and take body scrub activity that will make your skin glow. Storytimes -- Mondays (Jan. 6, 13, 20, & 27), Mother Goose, 10 a.m., and Family, 10:45 a.m.; Tuesdays (Jan. 7, 14, 21, & 28), Toddler, 10 a.m., and Preschool, 10:45 a.m.; and Saturday (Jan. 4), Family, 11 a.m.
Hanover Branch Library For more information, call 804-365-6210 or visit the library at 7527 Library Drive. OutBreak! -- Saturday, Jan. 11,
Metro Creative
Friends of the Ashland Library.
Wiregrass Chronicles: Long Rows to Hoe -- Tuesday, Jan. 21, 7-8:30 p.m. Long Rows to Hoe, the first in the “Wiregrass Chronicles” series by Glenda Stroud-Peace, focuses on early settlers and indigenous people in Southeast Alabama’s Wiregrass region. Go to www.glendastroudpeace.com to learn more about this exciting new series of interest to Civil War buffs and lovers of historical and southern fiction alike. Ashland Evening Book Club -Tuesday, Jan. 21, 7- 8 p.m. Join the Ashland Branch Library Afternoon Book Club by reading the book of the month and engage in a lively discussion about the book. Share views about the book and author and share reading recommendations. Refreshments will be provided by the Friends of the
10:30-11:30 a.m. What do germs, washing your hands and the song Happy Birthday all have in common? Come find out as we learn all about germs and how they are spread. Homeschool Germs Alive -Friday, Jan. 24, 1:30-2:30 p.m. Want to know how fast a sneeze travels? Or maybe learn a song to help you better wash your hands? Explore the different types of germs and how to avoid spreading them. Storytimes -- Fridays (Jan. 10, 17, 24, & 31), Family, 10:45 a.m.
Lois Wickham Jones/ Montpelier Branch Library For more information, call 804883-7116 or visit the library at 17205 Sycamore Tavern Lane. Paws to READ -- Wednesday, Jan. 8, 5- 6:30 p.m. Is your child a reluctant reader? Sign them up for a 20-minute session reading to Chrissie, a Paws to READ reading education assistance dog. Call or visit the branch to sign up.
Teen 2 Teen: Finding Ways Out
Lock & Talk Virginia: Lethal Means Safety -- Wednesday, Jan. 22, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Want to find out what it takes to become a Lock & Talk Virginia family? Laura Robertson, prevention specialist, Hanover Community Services Board, will talk about lethal means safety. Free resources. Snacks will be provided by Friends of the Montpelier Library. Family Storytimes -- Wednesday, Jan. 8, 15, 22, & 29, 10 a.m.
Cochrane Rockville Branch Library For more information, call 804-749-3146 or visit the library at 16600 Pouncey Tract Rd. First Friday Films -- Friday, Jan. 3, 4-6 p.m.Bring the whole crew for a great movie on the big screen. Refreshments will be provided by the Friends of the Rockville Library. Scrapbooking -- Wednesday, Jan. 15, 7-8 p.m. Do you have pictures from holidays and vacations packed away or stuck on your phone? Learn to scrapbook. You’ll learn some scrapbooking basics and make a couple of pages to get you started. Just bring some see Library, pg. 9
OBITUARIES
Whitaker donates to Habitat
| Death Notices & Funerals JOHNSON, David William, 72, of Henrico, died on December 8, 2019. David is survived by his wife, Melanie Shopshear Johnson; his children, Kathryn “Kayce” Clark Johnson, Anne “Annie” Margaret Feeney Johnson, Elizabeth “Bitsy” Cooper Johnson and her fiancee, Amber Brooke Chadil; and by his stepdaughters, Olivia Shopshear and Victoria Russell Pace. David is also surJOHNSON vived by his first wife, Kathryn C. Johnson. David is survived by his siblings, Thomas D. (Madeleine) Johnson, Beverly (Steve) Bray
LETTERS Continued from pg. 6
House. Richard Nixon, who was in the middle of the criminal Watergate incident, resigned from office before he had to face prosecution. The Democrat alliance’s all-out assault aimed at Trump was met with heavy resistance from the House Republican coalition, which levelled their political guns and fired salvos of their own, claiming the process was strictly politically motivated to unite the disjointed Democratic Party and unlock the White House’s front door for its 2020 election candidate. The multi-year Russian-collusion attack failed, and the impeachment strategy could be on that same course as well. To convict Trump in the Senate will require a two-third majority vote; 52 of its 100 members are Republicans who appear dissatisfied with the lack of eyewitness accounts to substantiate Trump having committed any High Crime or Misdemeanor. If these
LIBRARY Continued from pg. 8
printed photos and the library will provide the rest. Read 2 Rover -- Monday, Jan. 20, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Read 2 Rover provides comfort and motivation for begin-
and children, David and Meghan and Katie (Harvey) Gay. Born in Louisville, Ky., to William and Mary Weeks Johnson and raised in Ashland, Va., David graduated from R-MC and Virginia Tech and completed ABD on a Ph.D. in computer science at VCU. David served 35 years in the U.S. Army Reserve. He worked for Dominion Energy, the Commonwealth of Virginia and taught at VCU and other colleges and schools. David also worked at Media General. A celebration of David’s life will be held on Sunday, December 22, 2019, at 12 p.m. at Nelsen Funeral Home, 412 S. Washington Highway, Ashland, Va. 23005. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to the 11q Research and Resource Group in David’s name, 5155 Shotwell Street, Woodstock, Georgia 30188.
Photo submitted by Amanda Gunter
State Farm® agent Julie Whitaker presented a $10,000 donation to Hanover Habitat on Monday, Dec. 16, at Hanover Habitat’s new neighborhood, Hanover Cove, in Ashland.
witnesses are not presented in the trial, the Democratic Party’s gambit to remove Trump from office will likely fail and his prospect for re-election could actually be bolstered. Meanwhile, seemingly undeterred, the arrogant and judgmental Trump goes about his business, continuing to aid and abet his enemies with an offensive outspoken style, which he directs at those opposing him. The impeachment process has derailed Congress, which was already bogged down in the quagmire of partisanship politics. The notable exception was Nancy Pelosi proudly announcing a new trade agreement between Mexico, Canada and the United States to replace the blatantly unfair NAFTA deal. Ironically, the new deal would not have been on the table without Trump, who made it a campaign promise and one of his top priorities While the Senate trial is underway, our elected members of Congress will undoubtedly continue to lock horns in what has become an arena of dis-
sention. Even after the trial ends, whatever fate awaits Trump, the nation will have suffered another self-inflicted wound. The chasm that divides the two major political parties and their ideologies will have widened further, possibly too wide to bridge. Perhaps the nation is destined to eventually collapse under the weight of its freedom that allows us to hold and voice one-sided perspectives with no room for compromise. The only true supreme human being to have ever lived once declared, “And Jesus knew their thoughts, and said unto them, every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation; and every city or house divided against itself shall not stand …” Will this be the fate of the greatest nation in the history of the world? The answer lies in the hands of its citizens. Daniel Corso Mechanicsville
With Christmas here, my mind goes back to the time when Virginia almost passed a law allowing full birth babies to be killed because the mother and the physician decided that the birth was untimely and not wanted. I’m so glad that God and Mary and Joseph did not decide to kill the Baby Jesus even though they did not have a comfortable place for him to lie. We have been pre-warned that the law will almost certainly pass the next time around. Where are all the people with Judeo-Christian values? As the politicians say, “We are better than that!” There are many childless couples out there that have to go out of the country to adopt. When I worked in the nursery as a student nurse, a premature baby weighed in at 2 pounds, 1 ounce, and
ning readers as they read aloud to therapy dogs. Call or visit the library for more information or to register for this rewarding program. Snow Much Fun! -- Saturday, Jan. 25, 11 a.m.-noon. It’s winter and that means snow. But have you ever wondered what snow is and how it
happens? What does a snowflake look like? You’ll learn all about snow through this fun, interactive, STEAMcentered program. Refreshments will be provided by the Friends of the Rockville Library. LEGOs! -- Saturday, Jan. 18, 11 a.m.–5 p.m. for ages 5-12. Use your
engineering skills to create a LEGO design all your own. Snacks will be provided by the Friends of the Rockville Library. Rockville Book Club -- Tuesday, Jan. 28, 10 a.m.-noon. Discover new books and authors. Join in book discussions and share your reading sug-
Concerns offered about full birth abortion issues
lost weight to 1 pound, 5 ounces. He was placed in an incubator. We reached him through two holes in the incubator and fed him with a dropper every hour for several months. He thrived on his care and eventually went home and grew to be a healthy well-adjusted adult. He is now 60. Another baby was born “anencephalic” (part of skull missing). With the same loving care, God chose to take him back after about three days. My sister and brother-in-law adopted a newborn baby boy, and, 18 months later, a newborn baby girl. There were already 11 grandchildren, but we needed two more. They grew to be wonderful responsible adults and contributing members of society. When we start pretending that these precious babies do not have a father who should have a voice in this decision, my prayer is that people will step up and quit pretending that “Thou shalt not kill” is not in the Bible. Helen McFadden Gales Mechanicsville gestions. Refreshments will be provided by the Friends of the Rockville Library. Family Storytimes -- Fridays, Jan 10, 17, 24, & 31, 10:30 a.m. Carolyn Garner may be contacted at cgarner@pamunkeylibrary.org or 804-746-3176.
Ashland-Hanover Local December 25, 2019 9
UPCOMING EVENTS
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28 2019
Men’s basketball: Lebanon Valley at Randolph-Macon 4:00 p.m.
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Men’s basketball: Rowan or Dickinson at Randolph-Macon 2:00 p.m. or 4:00 p.m.
| Youth, High School, College, Recreational & Professional
County swim teams make way into season By Rob Witham for Ashland-Hanover Local ASHLAND – As the four county high school swimming teams did battle in duals in the week leading up to Winter Break, the competitions weren’t about finals on scoreboards, but benchmarks for swimmers old and new, finding right combinations and preparing for the first major event of the season. Wednesday evening at Randolph-Macon College, as Atlee defeated Patrick Henry, Raiders head coach Karen Seeber eyed competitors all evening, looking for any edge, any improvement in a season that has presented some different challenges. “We’ve lost some top guns recently. We don’t have the depth like we’ve had in years past,” Seeber said. “We’re rebuilding, working with these kids, and they’re working really hard. The ones that come in with just the basics, they’re doing great. I’m excited about that.” Meredith Boggess of Atlee had a good outing, winning the girls 100-yard breaststroke in 1:15.72, just ahead of fellow junior Maggie Ivie, who was victorious in the 100 freestyle in 1:00.37. On the boys side, Wyatt Jones earned a personal best Dave Lawrence/The Local
see SWIM, pg. 13
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Patrick Henry’s Paul Datovech (foreground) pulls ahead of Atlee’s Kyle Beck in the boys 100-yard backstroke in a meet at Randolph-Macon Wednesday.
Ashland-Hanover Local December 25, 2019
Deadly Practice: Climate change raises risk By Dave Lawrence Sports Editor Editor’s Note: When I more or less wrapped up the series in October, I was not sure I wanted to raise the issue of climate change and heat injury risk. But I was persuaded to reconsider. — DML MECHANICSVILLE – The Richmond metropolitan area is all too familiar with stories of athletes felled by heat injuries during practices or competition. Despite great strides in understanding many of the risk factors and how to manage them, athletes continue to sicken, even die, from overdoing it in the heat. Most of the Deadly Practice series so far has focused on conditioning and fitness screening to identify athletes at risk of heat injuries. But so far, the nation has done little to grapple with what may be the single biggest threat to outdoor athletes in the coming decades: climate change. While the topic may be offputting to some, the science is clear: the planet is warming and we are the main cause of that warming because of our fossil fuel emissions, destruction of natural ecosystems and other activities. Climate change will affect many aspects of our lives in the future, but it may have one of its biggest impacts on when and how we choose to enjoy ourselves outdoors. Those who enjoy outdoor sports may have to make significant adjustments to adapt to the hotter temperatures to come. This past summer, the Union of Concerned Scientists published a report – both as a peer-reviewed study in a research journal as well as an expanded version on its web-
Courtesy of Kristina Dahl/Union of Concerned Scientists
The Union of Concerned Scientists published a study last summer looking at how climate change will affect the timing and distribution of extreme heat waves in the continental United States. The left column shows the historical average number of days with a heat index above 90 degrees (top row), 100 degrees (middle row) and 105 degrees (bottom row). The middle column shows the same for mid-century if nothing is done to reduce carbon emissions, and right column shows the same by the end of the century if nothing is done. Note that Virginia High School League guidelines recomend restricted outdoor activity above 90 and none above 105. DEADLY PRACTICE Last installment in a series
site – on how extreme heat will affect the United States in the coming century. The research team, led by Kristina Dahl and Rachel Licker, looked particularly at the heat index.
What they found, is that extreme heat will affect more and more of the country more frequently than it has in the past. “We found that if we fail to reduce our carbon emissions, that there will be expansion of dangerous heat across the
country,” Dahl said. “Athletes are particularly at risk.” The trend has already begun. “The hottest day of the year is typically sometime near the third or the fourth week of July,” said Jeremy Hoffman, climate science specialist at the Science
Museum of Virginia. “The days that are very hot have kind of fattened out into earlier and earlier parts of the spring and even into the fall. “Even though the warmest day might be going on, traditionally, sometime in late July, the likelihood of seeing a very
hot day outside of that time has gotten higher.” John Boyer, meteorologist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, had another way of looking at how the climate will change. “Another way of thinking see RISK, pg. 12
Ashland-Hanover Local December 25, 2019
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I survived the exercising — and even got better! By Dave Lawrence Sports Editor MECHANICSVILLE – When I began work on the Deadly Practice series, Mike Craven of Mike’s Olympic Gym had been preaching the gospel of fitness testing as a way to: a) identify athletes at risk of heat injury; and b) to help design conditioning programs to lessen the risk of heat injury. And Craven was – is – a fervent disciple of the usefulness of VO2max testing for that purpose. But at the time, I did not understand what the test was, so I did what any respectable journalist would do: I had myself tested to get a feel for it. As followers of the series already know, I was not terribly fond of the test. I was less fond of the result. My VO2 max was 27.6, which, while not surprising, was still below average for men in my ever-advanced age group. So I asked Mike how I would improve it, and he put me on a 12-week conditioning program. If you have followed the series, you already know how much I didn’t enjoy that. The 12 weeks wrapped up after the initial run of the series came to an end, and I promised a follow-up. And, I can attest that, if one embraces a properly designed conditioning program, he or she will get fitter.
RISK Continued from pg. 11
about it is Richmond potentially having a summer climate more like eastern Texas,” he said. What the Union of Concerned Scientists found, is that – assuming nothing is done to reduce carbon emissions – that the number of days in Hanover County with a heat
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Joel Klein for The Local
Right, Mike Craven (left) of Mike’s Olympic Gym in Mechanicsville fits a mask on Local sports editor Dave Lawrence in preparation for Lawrence’s follow-up VO2max test. Above, a computer monitors how much oxygen Lawrence breathes in and now much carbon dioxide he breathes out while exercising.
In my case, the regimen of VersaClimber, elliptical and walking resulted in a new VO2max of 33.8, which is above average for men in my age group. For me, that was an impressive improvement. But there was a more pleasant surprise to come. In November, shortly after wrapping up the conditioning program, I got my annual physical (a year late, as usual). At the beginning of 2015, I was diagnosed with Type II
diabetes. Since then, my A1C – a long-term measure of my blood sugar level – ran above 6. While the numbers I was getting were in the high but acceptable range, I thought I had been doing good. The exercise program had me doing much better than I
could have imagined. My A1C in November was 5.7 – near the top of, but still in, the normal range. That’s a number I can most definitely live with. I began another 12-week program with Craven, but to be honest, I got off track recently
because of an illness (with complications) that has been wreaking havoc among a lot f folks I know. But I like my more fit body, and I love that lower A1C, so I get back on the medieval torture device otherwise known as a VersaClimber, and pace
the roads, and keep an eye on my heartbeat to make sure I’m working hard enough. The long-term benefits most certainly outweigh the short-term pain. Dave Lawrence can be reached at dlawrence@mechlocal.com.
index above 90 degrees will likely increase threefold, from 45 days per year historically to 119 days per year by the end of the century. The number of days with a heat index above 105 degrees will likely increase more than twenty-fold, from two days per year historically to 55 days per year by the end of the century. By mid-century – just a generation of grandkids away – we
will be seeing more than 76 days per year with a heat index above 90 degrees, nearly ten times the historical average of nine days per year above 90. For those wondering whether that will affect our daily lives, consider the current Virginia High School League heat safety guidelines. They recommend restricting outdoor activities when the heat index reaches 90 degrees. They recommend
prohibiting all outdoor activities when the heat index reaches 105. By the end of the century, that could pretty much prohibit any outdoor practice – or play – for much of the month of August when most fall sports begin practice. It could wreak havoc on the traditional summer season for sports like Little League baseball and softball. Dahl notes that athletes and
the military are particularly at risk of heat injury. “I think that in athletic cultures, or in a culture like the military, there is a tendency to push ourselves, to push ourselves physically,” she said. “There is a temptation when it is hot to just try to push through it. I think that is hard for teams and for individuals to get over.” Climate changes are already wreaking havoc with athletics.
A heat wave in Europe affected the Women’s World Cup soccer tournament. In the World Athletic Championships in Doha, Qatar, in September, organizers schedule the marathon at night; Still, quite a few got seriously ill because of the heat even during what was supposed to be the “cool” part of the day. The headlines from this past year are a worrisome hint of things to come.
Ashland-Hanover Local December 25, 2019
SWIM Continued from pg. 22
in winning the 100 freestyle in 55.31, while sophomore Tyler Caten took 25 seconds off his personal best while winning the 500 freestyle in 5:11.34. Top Patriot times included Paul Davotech’s victory in the boys 100 backstroke in 58.63 and Mark Dinger, winning the boys 100 breaststroke in 1:10.28. Patriot head coach Bob Flanagan was pushing buttons, trying to motivate his team to practice over the holidays, as Patrick Henry’s schedule is already nearing the halfway point. “When we get back, you can definitely see the ones who’ve gone and the ones who haven’t, but anyone still home, we’re still practicing,” Flanagan said, noting a morning call time to foster continuity while giving studentathletes the bulk of their days off from academics to enjoy. Flanagan also keeps an eye on the future, as eighth-grader Christine Davotech competes, though not officially on the Patrick Henry team until next season. She is allowed to participate in order to immerse herself in the high school swimming experience. “She’s in sub-varsity events and heats. Even if you’re a yearround swimmer, the atmosphere of a high school meet is different,” Flanagan said about why her participation should pay dividends in the future. The night before at Brock Center, Hanover entered its dual with Lee-Davis with momentum on its side after a big early meet against the Raiders. The Hawks swept the Confederates, looking to prepare for a big showing at their host tournament, the Hanover Hawk Invitational at Collegiate School Aquatic Center. Sophomore Abby Gammon helped kickstart the Hawks, taking seven seconds off her personal best in the girls 200
Dave Lawrence/The Local
Above, Lee-Davis swimmer Katlyn Vieni swims to victory in the girls 100-yard breaststroke in a meet against host Hanover at RandolphMacon College’s Brock Center on Dec. 17. Vieni finished in 1:12.53. Right, Hanover’s Kira Woods swims the third leg of the girls 400-yard freestyle relay. Her team, which included Tori DeStephanis, Delaney Childs and Cere Duplissey, won in 4:13.48.
freestyle, winning in 2:11.94. Senior Luke Daley grabbed two wins, shaving nearly a halfsecond off his personal best in the boys 200 individual medley for a 2:05.11 finish to win the race, then returned for another personal best, this time the 100 butterfly, winning in 54.85. placed second in 56.12, taking In the latter race, Daley almost 2 seconds off his best faced competition from Lee- time. Davis junior Logan Deal, who Also for the Confederates,
Katelyn Vieni joined Deal in sweeping the 50 freestyle events, Vieni was victorious in the girls 50 in 26.95, Deal clocked in the
as freshmen Ben Gordon and Morgan Pittman earned victories, Gordon in the boys 500 freestyle with a Class 4 state tournament-clinching time of 4:55.14, and Pittman in the girls 100 freestyle in 57.35, only 1.16 seconds off a state cut. Finally, for Lee-Davis, an “oh so close” moment as the boys 200 freestyle relay team of Deal, Kyle Anderson, Ty Williams and Collin Marks won in a time of 1:35.64, just .05 away from earning that elusive Class 4 state tournament berth. All the more reason to redouble efforts for the Hawk Invitational, which took place December 21 at SwimRVA – after this edition went to press because of early holiday press boys at 23.86. Vieni also won deadlines. Look for complete the 100 breaststroke in 1:12.53. coverage in our January 1 issue. Rob Witham can be reached The Hawks got an exciting glimpse into their future at sports@mechlocal.com.
Ashland-Hanover Local December 25, 2019
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LEGAL DISPLAY ADS
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TOWN OF ASHLAND NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Please take notice that on the 8th day of January 2020 at 7:00 p.m. at the Ashland Town Hall, 101 Thompson Street, Ashland, VA, the Ashland Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing for the purpose of receiving input, and may make a recommendation:
HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
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The Hanover County Board of Supervisors will hold a public hearing on Wednesday, January 8, 2020 at 7:00 p.m. in the Board meeting room at the Hanover County Administration Building, 7516 County Complex Road, at Hanover Courthouse, Hanover, Virginia, on the following ordinance being proposed for adoption:
A copy of the request may be obtained by contacting Town Hall at (804) 798-1073. Written comments may be submitted to planning@ashlandva.gov or Town of Ashland, P.O. Box 1600, Ashland, VA 23005. All interested persons may attend and express their views. Any person with a disability requiring assistance in order to participate in this public hearing is asked to contact Town Hall in advance so that appropriate arrangements can be made.
ORDINANCE 19-10 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE HANOVER
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IN EACH INCOME TIER IN THE SCHEDULE OF EXEMPTIONS FOR ELDERLY AND DISABLED PERSONS. Full Service Tree Company. (Removal, trimming, topping, stump grinding & firewood delivery) Offering free estimates and providing fully insured work.
A complete copy of the proposed ordinance and related information is available at the office of the County Administrator any regular working day between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. All persons wishing to comment on the proposal may appear
PLUMBING Paul Brown Plumbing - in Business Since 1983. New Residential, Light Commercial, Renovations, Additions & Service. We do it all! Senior Citizen Discounts. For free estimate, 746-5030
Tree & 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.
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AMEND THE MAXIMUM INCOME ALLOWANCE
TREE SERVICE
Ashland-Hanover Local December 25, 2019
at the stated time and place. 1040274-01
HAULING
LEGAL DISPLAY ADS
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
DRIVEWAYS ASPHALT PAVING Gravelwork, Driveways, also concrete driveways. ROC Construction 804-615-3699
LEGAL DISPLAY ADS
Cecil R. Harris, Jr., County Administrator
LEGAL DISPLAY ADS
LEGAL DISPLAY ADS
LEGAL DISPLAY ADS
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Notice is hereby given that the Hanover County Board of Supervisors has set Wednesday, January 8, 2020, at 7:00 p.m. in the Board Room of the Hanover County Administration Building, 7516 County Complex Road, Hanover Courthouse, Hanover, Virginia, as the time, date and place for a public hearing concerning quitclaim of easement interests affecting GPIN 8714-87-5203, located within Mechanicsville Magisterial District in Hanover County, Virginia.
LEGAL DISPLAY ADS
LEGAL DISPLAY ADS
LEGAL DISPLAY ADS
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Notice is hereby given that the Hanover County Board of Supervisors has set Wednesday, January 8, 2020, at 7:00 p.m., in the Board Room of the Hanover County Administration Building, 7516 County Complex Road, at Hanover Courthouse, Hanover, Virginia, as the time, date and place for a public hearing on the appointment of a school board member for the South Anna Magisterial District, in accordance with Section 22.1-29.1 of the
All persons desiring to be heard on the above may appear at the above time and place. A plat of the subject real estate is available for inspection in the County Administrator’s OfďŹ ce, County Administration Building, during the regular business hours of 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Cecil R. Harris, Jr., County Administrator
Code of Virginia.
All persons desiring to nominate or support candidates for this position may appear at the above time and place.
Cecil R. Harris, Jr., County Administrator
Ashland-Hanover Local December 25, 2019 15
Finding ways out of depression topic of discussion at Montpelier Branch Library Staff Report news@mechlocal.com MONTPELIER – Depression will be the topic of a program at the Montpelier Branch Library featuring a recent Goochland High School graduate. Kevin Harris will discuss “Teen2Teen: Finding Ways Out of Depression: at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 8. Harris will lead the panel of local teens ready to share their experiences with depression, bullying, self-harm, and suicide. Renee K. Sottong, branch manager of the Lois Wickham Jones/Montpelier Branch of the Pamunkey Regional Library, said their message to other teens is, “Don’t give up, and don’t be afraid to tell your story.” The discussion and Q&A will be
health and suicide prevention resources in Hanover County.” She continued, “We have developed a new partnership between Hanover CARES and the Montpelier Branch Library, designed to bring information and resources to our Hanover neighbors. For example, the library now carries medication lock boxes, disposal kits, and trigger locks provided by Hanover CARES through the Lock & Talk Virginia program.” Sottong said, “Everything is free and open to the public.” A Lock & Talk Virginia program for adults is scheduled for Jan. 22 at the library. The Lois Wickham Jones/Montpelier Branch is located at 17205 Sycamore Tavern Lane in Montpelier. For more information, call the library at 804-883-7116.
facilitated by Laura Robertson, Hanover CARES prevention specialist. Also included in the evening will be a resource fair with local organizations working on a variety of issues, including: LGBTQ youth, dating violence, suicide prevention, youth mental health resources, and child abuse prevention. Teens and adults are welcome (content will not be appropriate for young children). Everything is free and open to the public. “I am especially excited to bring this program to Hanover County,” Sottong said. “As a library representative, board member of Goochland Powhatan Community Services, member of the Goochland County Public Schools Youth Mental Health Task Force, and founder of Goochland ParentNet, I am highly invested in the effort to promote youth mental
Fraud, Waste and Abuse Hotline available HANOVER -- Hanover County provides a Fraud, Waste and Abuse Hotline for citizens to call when fraud, waste or abuse in Hanover County government is suspected. The number is 804-365-6813 and it is operational 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Calls are confidential. The hotline is maintained by the Internal Audit Department. “Citizens expect honest, effective and efficient government,” said Angela W. Baxter, director of Internal Audit. “When
there is fraud, waste or abuse everyone pays. Anyone who suspects fraud, waste or abuse is encouraged to call the hotline. We take all reports seriously. Calls help us evaluate county operations and identify needed improvements. Using the hotline is a great way for anyone to make a positive contribution to Hanover County.” For more information about this process, including a reporting form, visit
OBITUARY SUBMISSIONS
http://www.hanovercounty.gov/General/ Reporting-Fraud,-Waste-or-Abuse/. You also can search for Internal Audit in the list of county departments. Contact the Hanover County’s Sheriff ’s Office non-emergency line at 804-3656140 to report any suspected criminal activity or scams that do not involve Hanover County government or school resources. Information submitted by Tom Harris, Hanover County public information officer.
INCIDENTS
Concealment, price altering merchandise, $500, was reported in the 10200 block of Lakeridge Parkway, Ashland.
Unauthorized use of vehicle, boat or animal was reported in the 6400 block of Lakevista Drive, Mechanicsville.
Profane, threatening language over a public airway was reported in the 9200 block of Castle Tower Place, Mechanicsville.
Continued from pg. 3
Driving after forfeiture of license was reported on Meadowbridge Road/Shady Grove Road, Mechanicsville.
Email: paidnotices@imesdispatch.com
Simple assault was reported in the 7200 block of Harbor Hill Drive, Mechanicsville.
Threats of death or bodily injury by letter or electronic means were reported in the 7400 block of Pole Green Road, Mechanicsville.
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Driver did not report an accident with damages, $1,000, in the 9000 block of Pelot Place, Mechanicsville.
the 8300 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.
Call 804-643-4414, ext. 3
Deadline is noon Friday for the following week’s issue.
Ashland-Hanover Local December 25, 2019
Jim Ridolphi for Ashland-Hanover Local
Aubrey “Bucky” Stanley, who represents the Beaverdam District on the Hanover County Board of Supervisors, talks with outgoing South Anna Supervisor Wayne Hazzard on Dec. 18 when the Oath of Office was administered.
OATH Continued from pg. 5
with the people closest to her also made an impression on Dibble. “Also, having my family close by meant the world to me. Their love and support allow me to serve.” It was not Beaverdam Supervisor Aubrey “Bucky” Stanley’s first rodeo when it comes to swearing-ins. In fact, it was his 10th time on the receiving end of the oath. More than three and a half decades since his first election in 1983, Stanley said he could never have predicted his longevity as an elected official, but the endorsement of his constituents proved otherwise. “I didn’t know if I would win,” he laughed. Stanley’s margin of victory has increased with each passing election, but that’s not what motivates him. “I think it all comes down to a love of helping people. If I can help someone by my actions on this board, that’s what it’s all about,” Stanley said following last week’s ceremony.
He also has another more poignant inspiration for continuing to serve. The recentlywidowed Stanley said his wife never encouraged him to run in his many campaigns, until shortly before her death. “You need to run because you like helping people,” she said to him. “That’s probably the real reason I ran,” Stanley said. Participants, families and guests retired to the Coach House at Hanover Tavern for a reception following the swearing in. Those sworn in last week included Soil and Water Conservations Director Donald L. Wells and Constitutional Officers Treasurer M. Scott Miller, Sheriff David Hines, Commonwealth’s Attorney Ramon (Trip) Chalkley and Commissioner of Revenue T. Scott Harris. In addition to first-term Supervisors Dibble and Herzberg, incumbents Faye Prichard, Bucky Stanley, Angela Kelly-Wiecek, Sean Davis and Canova Peterson also were sworn in.