Ashland-Hanover Local – 01/08/20

ECONOMY

COMMUNITY HanoverCaroline SWCD recognizes conservation practices

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Hanover among counties to get funding for CampusRVA

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Vol. 5 No. 17 | Richmond Suburban News | January 8, 2020

County teacher organizations Roberson to discuss successful present joint budget requests school division at History Talk Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com

By Jim Ridolphi for Ashland-Hanover Local

ASHLAND -- Stewart D. Roberson will lead off the 2020 Ashland Museum History Talk series with his talk, “Building A Successful Public School District – A Historical Perspective,” at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 15, at The Center at 500

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SHLAND -Although budget planning and preparation is a year-long process for Hanover County Public Schools’ administrators, it’s the beginning of the year when the year’s efforts are presented for consideration by the Hanover County School Board.

In addition to the regular board meeting scheduled for Tuesday, Jan. 14, two other budget-related sessions are scheduled during the month.

Superintendent Michael Gill will present the division’s FY21 budget proposal at 6 p.m. on Jan. 21 followed by a public hearing planned

Jim Ridolphi for Ashland-Hanover Local

HPE president Bill Callahan, left, and HEA president Gene Matthews presented a list of priorities for consideration during the upcoming budget process. Superintendent Michael Gill will present the FY21 budget at 6 p.m. on Jan. 21 at the Central Office. The School Board will hold its regular monthly meeting at 7 p.m. on Jan. 14.

for Jan. 28.

The superintendent's recommended budget requires board approval, and adjust-

ments to that proposal are considered during that process. see BUDGET, pg. 4

Collette resigns as county Republican party chairman

By Melody Kinser Managing Editor HANOVER – Nick Collette, who stepped into the office of chairman of the Hanover Republican Committee in June, submitted his resignation on Dec. 28, noting, “2019 has been a challenging year for our committee.”

“A couple of weeks ago,” he said, “the final appeal regarding Hanover

County was withdrawn, finally allowing Hanover Republicans to get back on track and focus on winning, just like we did this past November when we re-elected our Republican leaders countywide.

His resignation was immediate, but he did say, “I believe it is now time for me to step aside and let someone see COLLETTE, pg. 4

S. Center St. in Ashland.

He will discuss how events in Hanover’s history have led, cumulatively, to the success of today’s school district. This event is free and open to the public.

Roberson served Hanover County Public

Schools for 16 years as the district’s 11th school superintendent. Prior to that, he was the superintendent of schools in Falls Church. His earliest service was as a middle school teacher, middle and high school principal, director of instruction, STEWART D. and assistant ROBERSON superintendent of finance.

As an educator for 42 years, he continues as a Professor of Practice for the Curry School of Education at the University of Virginia.

At his retirement in Hanover, he was named Superintendent Emeritus by the Hanover County School Board. Randolph-Macon College awarded him the Honorary Doctorate of Humane see ROBERSON, pg. 4

Accessibility project continues at Ashland Amtrak station Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com

Jim Ridolphi for The Hanover Local

Phase 1 of the construction project to improve accessibility and safety at the Amtrak stop in Ashland is underway. Soil excavation and curb removal have been completed, which allowed for the structural foundation of the platform has been installed.

WASHINGTON – The construction project to improve accessibility and safety at the Amtrak stop in Ashland is underway.

The work has been divided into two phases.

Several milestones have been completed in Phase 1, including approximately 150 feet of improvements. The historic platform brick pavers have been salvaged. Soil excavation and curb removal have been comsee PROJECT pg. 3

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Ashland-Hanover Local January 8, 2020

Photo submitted by Karen I. Fetty

Jill and Dennis Thompson, center, receive the BMP Forestry Award for Savanna Watch, with son, Clay, left, from Leigh Pemberton, H-C SWCD Board chairman and Matthew Coleman, Senior Area Forester, Virginia Department of Forestry, far right.

Hanover-Caroline SWCD recognizes conservation practices Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com At its fall Conservation Awards Banquet, the HanoverCaroline Soil and Water Conservation District was honored to name three 2019 awardees for their outstanding conservation practices.

Recipients and their honors were Allen and Brenda Tignor, the Clean Water Farm Award; Dennis and Jill Thompson’s Savanna Watch, BMP Forestry Award; and the Lake Caroline Property Owners Association, the Urban Conservation Award.

Located in the small community of Tignor, Virginia, is the successful fourth generation farming operation of Allen and Brenda Tignor, who implement an array of best management practices (BMPs) to eliminate nutrient and sediment pollution in Virginia waterways.

The Tignors’ operation includes Black Angus and Simmental cattle, 1.350 acres of cropland, 20 acres of hay and 60 acres of pasture.

The Tignors have embraced the concept of rotational grazing, moving cattle herds regularly to maximize the quality and quantity of forage growth.

They also have created more than 67 acres of riparian buffers,

Photo submitted by Karen I. Fetty

Representatives of the Lake Caroline Property Owners Association, center, receive the 2019 Urban conservation Award from Leigh Pemberton, H-C SWCD Board chairman, left, and David Nunnally, Senior Environmental Planner, Caroline County, right.

generally more than 100 feet wide, excluding their cattle from more than a mile of streams.

In addition to water quality measures on pastureland, the Tignors plant multi-species cover crops during the fallow season to prevent soil erosion, scavenge excess nutrients, and improve soil health. Continuous no-tillage techniques are implemented on all cropland.

The Tignors also received the prestigious 2019 York River Basin Clean Water Farm Award

from the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, which recognizes one standout farm in each of Virginia’s major watersheds, annually.

After retiring from long careers in conservation and agriculture, Dennis and Jill Thompson acquired 50 acres and a house on the South River in Caroline County in 2015, which they named Savanna Watch. see SWCD, pg. 4

SHERIFF’S REPORTS | Crime, Accidents, Fire & Rescue

Grand larceny from auto was reported in the 13300 block of Folly Trail Place, Ashland.

Possession of marijuana, subsequent offense, was reported in the 100 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville.

Destruction of property, monument, was reported in the 9200 block of Chamberlayne Road, Mechanicsville.

Driving after forfeiture of license was reported in the 7000 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike/Lee-Davis Road, Mechanicsville.

Driver did not report an accident with damages, $1,000, in the 10100 block of Cool Spring Road/ New Ashcake Road, Mechanicsville.

Failure to stop for school bus flashing lights was reported in the 11200 block of Hanover Courthouse Road, Hanover.

Possession of Schedule I and II controlled substance was reported in the 7000

Grand larceny parts was reported in the 7500 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville.

Driver did not report an accident with damages, $250, in the 6600 block of Cold Harbor Road, Mechanicsville.

Identity fraud use of identifying information to defraud was reported in the 8200 block of Studley Road, Mechanicsville.

Dec. 3

Simple assault was reported in the 13200 block of Mountain Road, Glen Allen.

Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 8500 block of Meadowbridge Road, Mechanicsville.

Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 13000 block of Hanover Courthouse Road/Normans Bridge Road, Hanover.

Possession of marijuana, subsequent offense,

Possession of marijuana, subsequent offense, was reported in the 38 block of Interstate 295 South, Mechanicsville.

Obtaining money or signature by false pretenses was reported in the 7400 block of Brandy Creek Drive, Mechanicsville.

Driver did not report an accident with damages, $1,000, in the 8300 block of Springset Lane, Mechanicsville.

DWI, 3rd offense in 10 years, was reported in the 8200 block of Holly Ridge Road/ Atlee Road, Mechanicsville.

Destruction of property, monument, value $1,000, was reported in the 7200 block of Jackson Avenue, Mechanicsville.

Complex Road, Hanover.

Sale and distribution of marijuana, ½-ounce to 5 pounds, was reported in the 8100 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike/Edgeworth Road, Mechanicsville.

Simple assault was reported in the 7100 block of Studley Road, Mechanicsville.

Obtaining money or signature by false pretenses was reported in the 9400 block of Manorwood Drive, Mechanicsville.

Possession of Schedule I and II controlled substance was reported in the 7200 block of Stonewall Parkway/Garden Park Lane, Mechanicsville.

Identity theft financial loss $200 was reported in the 10400 block of Old Telegraph Road, Ashland.

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OBITUARY SUBMISSIONS Call 804-643-4414, ext. 3 Email: paidnotices@timesdispatch.com Deadline is 12 p.m. Friday for the following week’s issue.

Dec. 4

Failure to appear on felony charge was reported in the 7500 block of County

PROJECT Continued from pg. 1

Get Your Life Back

Now open in Ashland!

Jim Ridolphi for Ashland-Hanover Local

Phase 1 of the construction project to improve accessibility and safety at the Amtrak stop in Ashland is underway. Soil excavation and curb removal have been completed, which allowed for the structural foundation of the platform has been installed.

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pleted which allowed for the structural foundation of the platform has been installed.

In January, Railroad Construction Company will jack and bore under the tracks as part of the installation of the electrical and fiber conduit duct bank. This work will be followed by laying the pipe for the underground platform drainage system.

Construction will not impact Amtrak service and is anticipated to be completed in the fall/winter of 2020.

The Amtrak Northeast Regional provides daily service to the station located in

Ashland-Hanover Local January 8, 2020 3

Pocahontas Chapter presenting one of city’s first environmentalists

SWCD Continued from pg. 2

During their first year, the Thompsons raised a barn, installed exterior fencing, and renovated eight acres of pasture for Jill’s horses, which she rotationally grazes in multiple paddocks.

Jill introduced trees into her pastures for future shade by protecting native seedlings and transplanting saplings from the surrounding forest.

The Thompsons have developed a management plan for longleaf pine, native warm season grasses, forbs, and shrubs. They will use prescribed burning and livestock grazing to help manage their savanna.

Lake Caroline Property Owners Association uses best management practices to keep its community a pretty and healthy place to live.

Those practices include implementation of yearround lake dredging, debris removal and maintenance of sediment forebays, establishment of a mandatory five-year septic system pump-out, weekly water testing, establishment of a 110-foot RPA buffer, participation

COLLETTE Continued from pg. 1

else prepare to take the mantle of chairman going into what is sure to be the most critical election of our lifetime in 2020. This decision does not come easily, and I have truly enjoyed working with each and every single one of you over the course of the past year.”

Photo submitted by Karen I. Fetty

Allen and Brenda Tignor, center, receive the 2019 Clean Farm Award from Leigh Pemberton, H-C SWCD Board chairman, right.

in the Mattaponi TMDL plan, and recreation and lake access are stabilized for improved runoff mitigation and aesthetics.

The Lake Caroline POA has conducted a Continuity of Operations (COOP) exercise, bringing together fire, sheriff, emergency services and utilities to formulate an emergency plan to be prepared for natural disasters.

According to Collette, a mass meeting will be scheduled in the spring to elect a new chairman.

“Stepping aside now allows for those who are interested in running for chair to make their intentions known and prepare for what is likely to be a contested mass meeting,” he added.

He said the decision “does not come lightly for me. While I will continue to work on electing

BUDGET Continued from pg. 1

Once the board approves the proposed budget, Gill presents the school board approved document to the Hanover County Board of Supervisors for their consideration and approval.

Last month, two of the county’s professional teachers’ organizations presented their recommendations to the school board, relying on results from member-submitted surveys that prioritized requests.

Hanover Education Association (HEA) president Gene Matthews and Hanover Professional Educators (HPE) president Bill Callahan listed a number of priorities based on results gathered from that survey issued to members of both organizations.

As in past years, salaries and compensation topped the list of concerns for county teachers.

“Overwhelmingly, our HEA and HPE members indicated a need to

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Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com

Republicans in 2020 and beyond, I must now turn my focus to my family and growing my business.

I am blessed, but I also now know how critical it is to never let anything, especially politics, get in the way of what’s truly important in life.”

He closed by extending his thanks “to everyone for their support and hard work in 2019.”

improve salaries as their overreaching goal,” Matthews told board members at the Dec. 10 meeting.

“Therefore, we ask for a minimum 3% pay raise for all school board employees.”

Teachers also requested relief from continued salary compression issues and requested extra compensation be paid to teachers on the steps in the 10to 25-year range of the salary scale.

“Both HEA and HPE members indicated that fixing salary compression for experienced teachers and continuing the movement to linear scale should be a priority for the school board,” Matthews said.

Also high on the priority wish list is a request for the system to absorb the rising costs of health insurance and VRS (Virginia Retirement System) retirement.

Matthews acknowledged that neither the school board or board of supervisors can control rising insur-

Ashland-Hanover Local January 8, 2020

RICHMOND – Join the Pocahontas Chapter of the Virginia Native Plant Society on Thursday, Jan. 9, to learn from Anne Wright about one of Richmond's first environmentalists, Newton Ancarrow, who documented wildflowers and other plants in the James River Park System.

Ancarrow’s photographic collection of 35,000 slides is housed at the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden. This presentation focuses on both Ancarrow's story and the digital wildflower archive that has been developed to preserve his work.

Finally, Wright will describe the continuing efforts to locate and record the number of species that are still present in the park today.

This free meeting is open to the public and starts at 7 p.m. in the Kelly Education Center of the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden at 1800 Lakeside Ave. in Richmond.

The room is available at 6:30 p.m. so you can come early and get to know others with similar interests. A short business meeting will follow the presentation.

Wright directs Outreach for the VCU

ance costs, and said the two associations are willing participants in the search for solutions.

“We stand ready to work with Hanover’s governing bodies to educate our members in ways of containing the costs of health insurance,” Matthews said.

“We see this as everyone’s responsibility.”

A majority of members listed the need for additional planning time, and requests that stipends be paid when teachers are forced to give up planning time to relieve other teachers.

Both associations requested the restoration of 30-minute lunch periods at all elementary schools, and middle school agricultural vocational agriculture teachers be placed on 10½-month contracts.

The groups also requested a stipend for teachers associated with the Advanced College Academy, and an additional 3% salary increase for teaching assistants.

Callahan said his organization also

Life Sciences and Center for Environmental Studies and is an Assistant Professor in the VCU Biology Department. She has a background in aquatic and stream ecology, benthic macroinvertebrates, and water quality monitoring. In 2013, she began developing Science in the Park, a website of sciencebased explorations of the natural resources, plants, and animals in the James River Park System in Richmond.

The Pocahontas Chapter is one of 12 Virginia Native Plant Society chapters, and serves the counties of Hanover, Amelia, Charles City, Chesterfield, Goochland, Henrico, King William, New Kent, Powhatan, Prince George, and the cities of Colonial Heights, Hopewell, Petersburg, and Richmond.

Membership in a chapter is available to anyone who joins the Virginia Native Plant Society.

VNPS members enjoy the natural world and support efforts to preserve Virginia’s native plants. Ranging in age from students to seniors, members are professionals, knowledgeable amateurs and many who are just beginning to learn about our flora.

For more information, visit the state website: http://vnps.org/.

polled its members employed as bus drivers.

“They listed VRS membership and the right to purchase health insurance at the full time rate as their first and second priorities, but the vote was very close,” Callahan said.

Matthews told board members the survey did not address scheduling for high school teachers, but noted continuing concerns regarding the current schedule blocks.

In the additional comments section of the survey, “a large number of our members asked the board to consider alternatives to the present high school schedule.”

Other work/life balance issues included the increasing number of after-school meetings, standardized test proctoring, and growing amounts of paperwork.

“At least some of these factors can be addressed without impacting the budget,” Matthews said.

ROBERSON Continued from pg. 1

Letters.

A Patrick County native, his bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees were earned at UVA. Since August 2011, Stewart has been the president of Moseley Architects, the leading education design firm in the mid-Atlantic.

In cooperation with The Center (Hanover Arts and Activities Center), Ashland Museum History Talk will continue on Feb. 5. Cameron Patterson, director of the Moton Museum, will speak at 7 p.m. at The Center.

The Moton Museum is the former Moton High School in Farmville, which had a role in the 1954 Brown v. Board of Education case. This event is free and open to the public.

Virginia Farm Bureau Legislative Day to focus on political action Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com RICHMOND –– Farmers will step away from the fields and into the statehouse on Jan. 27 to discuss agricultural issues and concerns with legislators during the 2020 Virginia Farm Bureau Federation Legislative Day. This year’s theme is Farmers In Action to emphasize the importance of farmers being politically active.

Pittsylvania County farmer Kristal Harris said putting a human face on the issues affecting Virginia’s agricultural community means lawmakers can make decisions informed by real relationships.

Harris has participated in VFBF Legislative Day the past few years. “You have to go and tell your story, because you’re the expert,� Harris said.

Her first-generation farming family produces flue-cured tobacco, small grains, hemp, beef cattle and poultry. She is the Southside District leader for the VFBF Women’s Leadership Committee. “It’s all about opening the lines of communication,� she said. “What a phenomenal experience to go up and speak to your legislator one-on-one, to be able to tell them how you feel, and how a change will affect my family, my farm operation, help me or hurt me — it puts a face on it.�

VFBF governmental relations staff coordinates group meetings with legislators for the annual Legislative Day but encourage farmers to extend relationships past the one event.

Harris said she and her husband have built strong, personal relationships with lawmakers and staff representing their home district, and urban districts too. “It’s nice to build a relationship with

someone not so strongly knowledgeable about agriculture,� she said. “You become a resource for them as well.�

Among the issues important to farmers in 2020, the mandatory conservation requirements of the Phase III Watershed Implementation Plan, or WIP III, takes priority.

Farm Bureau also will advocate for funding of the Agricultural Best Management Practices program, increased funding to retain Virginia Cooperative Extension agents, and the ability to use crop protectants. “It’s critical that farmers reach out to legislators, whether it's through face-toface visits, emails or phone calls,� said Kelly Roberts, VFBF assistant director of member engagement. “Hearing directly from farmers on how an issue could impact their operation could greatly affect how a legislator votes on a bill.�

Christmas Mother thanks donors for support of program Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com DOSWELL -- The Hanover Christmas Mother would like to thank the following for their donations to our program: Abner Baptist Church, Kirk Aliotti, Charles B. & Barbara F. Anderson; Norma Jean Atkins; Lisa Bane; John E. & Jane D. Basinger; Joan S. Beal; Tim Bishop; Joseph Black.

Harriet S. Brockenbrough; Wayne & Sharon Carter; Mr. & Mrs. William Chaisson; Hanover Helping Hands; Joyce M. Corker; Ann & Elmo Cross; Ricardo R. & Susan H. Dip. Hunter L. & Catherine Durvin; Ebenezer Baptist Church; Janet P. Farthing; First Baptist Church; Nancy Flippen; Foley Material Handling Co. Inc.; David & Judith Fuller.

GFWC-Ashcake Women’s Club; Rose & Raymond Gaines; The Greater Nazarene Baptist Church; Donald & JoAnne Hall; Clair G. & Gilbert Halasz; Hanover Chamber of Commerce.

Darrell R. Hornstra; Mary Hott; Junior Assembly Associates Inc.; Kathleen Noel Sunday School Class, Hopeful Baptist

Church; Michael & Carolyn Key; Knights of Columbus, Our Lady of Lourdes Council #9953.

Robert A. & Debra C. Lane; Daniel C. Lewis; Elizabeth C. Martin; Mechanicsville Chapter #5407 AARP; Mechanicsville Ruritan & Mechanicsville Rotary Club.

Kathy T. & Michael Natale; John D. Nelson; Mr. & Mrs. Wayne A. Pecht; Brenda S. Perry; Melissa & Christopher Roberts; Christina & M. Joshua Robertson Jr.; Rockville Ruritan.

Barbara Sholley; Zachary M. & Jana Shook; Garry & Betty Stadnick; Margaret Stanley in memory of A. Wayland Stanley, from Margaret, Dyan Stanley & Jack; James Starkey.

Steven M. & Cheryl K. Thomas; June B. Thorpe; Mary Waddy for Gandy’s Class of 1961; Frank & Mary Wallmeyer; Joan M. Whitlock; Scott & Terri Wyatt; Connie H. Abrams.

Beverley Alred; W.B. Butterfield; Sarah & William L. Byrne Jr.; Evelyn D. Cage; Dr. & Mrs. Hill Carter; Rosaria Costanzo; Courthouse Ruritan Club; Randy & Vicki Crew; Judy T. Draucker.

Elmont Ruritan Club; Carrie Galeski;

William & Felicia Glave; Virginia Lee Hall; Hanover Sheriff ’s Office Motorist Assistance Unit & Court Service Division; Martha B. Houchins.

Just Give-Great Nonprofits; L. Wayne & Karen T. Kirby; James & Virginia Landes; Melody & Larue Levan; Joe Long; Stephanie S. & James A. Maloney Jr.; Sue B. Manhart.

Mechanicsville Drug Store, Pancake Supper; Men’s Four Sunday School Class; Metropolian Richmond Woman’s Club; Newfound River Garden Club; Dr. and Mrs. J.H. Piland Jr. Jackie C. Puryear; Elfren A. Quitiquit; Rockville Ruritan; Rick Ryan & Shannon Sale; Lindsay Ryland; Mark & Linda G. Saunders; Nancy B. Schroeder.

Diane & Thomas F. Spencer II; SS Constantine & Helen GOC Philoptochos Chapter 1097; Carol J. Stevens & Douglas Leake; Carolyn & James Sturgill II. Towne Bank; Ted & Susan Tussey; and Rene & Douglas Webb.

If you have not made your donation this year, please send it to Hanover Christmas Mother, P.O. Box 39, Doswell, VA 23047. Thank you again for your donations.

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Ashland-Hanover Local January 8, 2020 5

OPINION

LETTERS

| The Local Views

| Reader Views

From the managing editor

Twenty years later -- and we’re still here

By Melody Kinser Managing Editor

D

ec. 31, 1999, wasn’t an ordinary New Year’s Eve. It was ominous in that there were two looming scenarios: 1) the world was going to end, and 2) computer systems would crash, causing massive outages in how we operated, especially in our workplaces at that time. I don’t remember who came up with the term Y2K but it was probably the most used word of 1999.

I was already past the era of any big New Year’s Eve festivities attracting me out into the night to welcome another year.

But, as 2000 approached, there was an uneasiness about what would happen when the clock struck midnight.

The only preparations I made were workrelated with four copies of our system’s operations on either CDs or zip drives (remember those?).

The publisher, production manager, a safe deposit at the bank our newspaper company used, and I had those copies. Sidebar: They were updated when our country was attacked on Sept. 11, 2001.

I was editor of a daily newspaper 30 miles south of my hometown, so I told Mom I’d come spend the night with her -- and we’d see what, if anything, happened at midnight.

It didn’t seem like it had been that long that my party nights began between 10 and 11 p.m.

In 1999, it was a struggle to stay awake until midnight. But we were determined.

We watched one of the New Year’s Eve TV shows while listening to the hoopla heading into the ball drop countdown from New York City.

So here we were in the house in which I was raised waiting to see what the new year would bring. Or would it end?

Midnight comes and goes. We were still in her living room watching TV; the world had not ended; and there were no reports of major computer crashes.

Throughout 1999, the airwaves had brought Prince’s “1999” out so we could “party like it was 1999.” Actually, the lyrics follow the “end is near” theme. Nonetheless, the song, released in 1982, was an anthem of sorts -- or so it seemed.

New Year’s Eve is comical to family and friends in my age range. The joke going around heading into 2020 was “9 p.m. is the new midnight.” In my case, that was accurate.

Twenty years -- wow, and we’re still here. Make the most of this new decade.

Christmas memory: A hill and a sled I won’t forget

By Jim Ridolphi Contributing Columnist It’s funny how some memories of Christmas remain in our minds, crystal clear in its detail; while others fall into the category of who knows where I was or what I was doing. That doesn’t mean those occasions weren’t festive and rewarding, they just didn’t make that imprint in our psyche that some others did.

Throughout the years, I’ve written about many of those most memorable Christmas days of my life. Oddly, I’ve rarely described the Christmas that

I’ll remember for a lifetime, a memory that always makes me appreciate my family more at this time of year.

It’s a time of year that is always tinged with an unfilled void and a sense of sorrow not just for one of two seasons, but for a lifetime. Unfortunately, the holiday season also is a time of increased mortality and that group of survivors who have experienced a death in the family at Christmas are unwilling members of a lifelong society who will always see the holidays through a different lens.

But, for some unknown reason, this holiday

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Ashland-Hanover Local January 8, 2020

brought back memories of a different Christmas, one year after my father’s death. Our small family gathered up our presents and headed to Grandma’s house for the holiday. Realizing it would be a tough anniversary, all of us thought it best to be surrounded by the comfort of a loving family. So, we gathered in my Nannie’s house in Gaithersburg, Maryland, to endure our first Christmas without my dad.

It was a cold and gray Christmas Eve as I strolled around the large yards on all sides of the house. I poked my head in the many outbuildings, but one my see SLED, pg. 10

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‘Compromise’ involves both sides of issue In a recent letter to the editor, Pattie P. Bland mentions that “compromise” ought to be part of the discussion regarding the debate over firearms and sanctuary counties. Sure, I agree with those noble and lofty sentiments -- as do most other rational people. The problem, though, is that a true compromise involves two “sides” giving up something in order to make a deal that generally benefits everybody.

We on the pro-2nd Amendment side are always the ones who are expected to “give up” something to the anti-gun people every time something happens -- but they never give up anything at all.

First, it is scary-looking rifles and “ugly” accessories, then ordinary magazines that happen to hold more than 10 rounds and then they will want to eventually ban most semi-automatic pistols.

Down the road, they’ll go after leveraction rifles, shotguns and perhaps revolvers.

Of course, self-defense rights will be attacked and the leftists will demand that we “compromise” on places where concealed-carry is allowed -- even though people who have carry permits are among the most law-abiding citizens anywhere.

Furthermore, they will expect us to submit to mandatory registration schemes, while calling it a “universal” background check -- and we all know that criminals will never obey any such requirements.

Making instant felons out of fathers handing down to their sons an heirloom rifle or mothers passing on a self-defense pistol to their daughters is not compromise. It is tyrannical idiocy.

Compromise? Not at all, especially when the wannabe tyrants are not giving up anything at all -- while they inch us closer to their totalitarian objective of a disarmed citizenry. That is a one-way road that goes in the wrong direction.

Jeff Kleb Mechanicsville see LETTERS, pg. 10

CALENDAR

F

| News, Updates & Listings Saturday, Jan. 11 An All-You-Can- Eat Salt Fish Breakfast, hosted by the Independence Ruritan Club, will be held from 6:45 to 8:45 a.m. to benefit Ashland Christian Emergency Services (ACES). Breakfast includes: salt herring fillets, scrambled eggs, bacon, spiced apples, cornbread, grits, coffee and orange juice; only $9 for adults. The Ruritan Club Community House is located behind Independence Christian Church at 14033 Independence Rd. (off Route 54, west of Ashland). For more information, call 804798-6579.

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 804-2491845. The website is http:// www.mcshin.org.

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

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 AshlandHanover Local.

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 school students are welcome with parents’ permission. For more information, see EVENTS pg. 15

Ashland Museum Calendar Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com History Talks series picks up in the new year, co-sponsored by the Ashland Museum and the Hanover Arts and Activities Center.

7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 15 -- Stewart Roberson, Ph.D., former superintendent of Hanover County Public Schools, will discuss the value a strong public education system.

Free and open to the public, at The Center, 500 S. Center St. 7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 5 -- Cameron Patterson, Moton Museum, Farmville, will discuss Moton High School’s student-led fight for equal education and civil rights beginning in the 1950s. Free and open to the public, at The Center, 500 S. Center St. Untold Stories – Growing Up in Ashland/ Hanover, Black and White Experiences is

co-sponsored by The Center, The Hanover County Black Heritage Society, The Ashland Museum, and Downtown Ashland Association.

4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 23, at Patrick Henry High School. A program of oral histories with six Hanoverians sharing their stories about growing up in the county in the 1940s, ’50s and ’60s. Free and open to the public.

For more information on any of these programs, email ashlandmuseum@comcast. net or call 804-368-7314.

Worth Noting: In 2020, the Ashland Museum will celebrate: The 300th anniversary of Hanover County.

The 150th anniversary of Public School Education in Virginia.

The 100th anniversary of Women’s Suffrage and the 19th amendment.

Teen2Teen: Finding Ways Out of Depression discussion tonight at Montpelier Library Staff Report news@mechlocal.com MONTPELIER – Depression will be the topic of a program this evening 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.

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 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 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.

Hanover government offices and solid waste centers to close Jan. 17 and Jan. 20 HANOVER -- Hanover County government offices and solid waste centers will be closed on Friday, Jan. 17, for Lee-Jackson Day and on Monday, Jan. 20, for Martin Luther King Day.

Branches of the Pamunkey Regional Library will be open on both days.

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

Pamunkey Woman’s Club selling Historic Hanover calendar: County to celebrate 300th anniversary Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com MECHANICSVILLE -- The Pamunkey Woman’s Club’s 2020 Historic Hanover calendar is available for $10 each at the following locations: In Mechanicsville at Mechanicsville Drug and Colonial Pharmacy,

In Ashland at the Henry Clay Inn, In Montpelier at Montpelier Drug Store, and In theAirpark at GlassWorks by Alex.

According to Virginia Darnell, who has spearheaded the club’s scholarship fundraiser for decades, the calendar is celebrating Hanover County’s 300th anniversary in 2020 “so pick up your copy early before they sell out.”

Advertise in Ashland- Hanover Local Call 746-1235 for details.

Ashland-Hanover Local January 8, 2020 7

UPCOMING EVENTS

01

09 2020

Girls/boys basketball: Patrick Henry at Hanover 6:00 p.m./7:30 p.m.

01

11 2020

Men’s basketball: Ferrum at Randolph-Macon 2:00 p.m.

| Youth, High School, College, Recreational & Professional

Anthony buzzes competition, wins MVP

By Rob Witham and Dave Lawrence Ashland-Hanover Local ASHLAND – Is it court awareness? Or is it a sixth sense that makes Buzz Anthony the court general extraordinaire for the No. 7 Randolph-Macon men’s basketball team? His head coach, Josh Merkel, thinks it may be something else.

“He’s got great vision, and the ball is on a string, so he’s very confident,” Merkel said of the junior point guard. “He’s played a ton of basketball, and his whole career, he’s looked to get others involved.”

In the opening round of the Randolph-Macon Coaches Tourney, Anthony quietly led his band of Yellow Jackets while registering the second tripledouble in program history with 16 points, 10 assists and a career-high 11 rebounds in a 94-56 win over Lebanon Valley, a game controlled by RandolphMacon from the start. Anthony was one of five Yellow Jackets to score in double figures, as the team dished out 25 assists total and hit 19 3-point shots en route to their tenth straight win.

Anthony was in the thick of it again in the championship game against Rowan that Monday, scoring 26 points and getting six rebounds and six assists in a 73-66 victory over the Profs.

His presence – almost

8

always where the action is most intense – sometimes makes the extent of his contribution hard to notice until the final box score arrives. But it’s not something he forces, as in his tripledouble performance in Macon’s tournament opener.

“Yesterday was awesome.

My guys were shooting it great.

I was coming down the court and kicking it out every time, then they started making shots and I started making easy layups,” Anthony said. “Coach [Merkel] talks to me a lot, ‘Just try to let the game to you, don’t try to force too much.’ I think that’s definitely when I’m at my best. Just let the ball move – it’s fun. It’s a lot of fun to play when we’re in that mindset.”

It may have been fun, but it wasn’t easy. Rowan (5-6) led by as much as 9 in the first half before the Yellow Jackets closed the gap and finally took the lead with a second left in the first half on a 3-point shot by Josh Talbert.

Randolph-Macon could not keep the Profs down the second half. While the Yellow Jackets (11-0) led most of the half, Rowan stayed within striking distance and regained the lead 61-60 on a 3-pointer by Connor Dickerson with 3:07 left in the game. Anthony sank a pair of free throws with 2:19 left to put Randolph-Macon back on top, see ANTHONY, pg. 9

Ashland-Hanover Local January 8, 2020

Dave Lawrence/The Local

Randolph-Macon’s Josh Talbert (22) drives between a pair of Rowan defenders for a basket in the Yellow Jackets’ 73-66 comeback win over the Profs in the championship game of the R-MC Coaches Tournament at Crenshaw Gymnasium on Monday, Dec. 30.

R-MC women catch breath, beat Hornets

By Rob Witham for Ashland-Hanover Local ASHLAND – The Randolph-Macon women’s basketball team last left the court on Dec. 7, achingly close to an upset win at Christopher Newport. Their next game would not be for 27 days.

Thus began a holiday journey different from most, as in practice, by group text, and on their own, the team whose 2-6 record doesn’t reflect their assembled talent, began a corporate countdown to their Thursday night at Crenshaw Gymnasium. As their perennial Old Dominion Athletic Conference rival Lynchburg came to town, both teams needed a win in an ODAC race turned upside down so far this season.

“After we left CNU, we made that our turnaround point,” explained senior forward Michal Ross, who led Randolph-Macon with 22 points in its 75-53 win over the Hornets. “We have a mission in January to go undefeated, so we just take it one day at a time.

We’re not used to being 2-6.”

The Yellow Jackets took control early, scoring 8 of the game’s first 10 points, then weathering

ANTHONY Continued from pg. 8

but Austin Kearney’s layup at the 1:46 mark again put Rowan on top.

That lead would last just 21 seconds thanks to Corey Bays, who hit a jump shot to give the Yellow Jackets the lead for good.

He then got a steal and passed it to Miles Mallory, who hit the layup to give Randolph-Macon a 66-63 lead with 1:02 left.

The Profs began to foul, but Terry Woods and Ian

Dave Lawrence/The Local

Randolph-Macon’s Michal Ross (33) scores despite getting fouled in the Yellow Jackets’ 75-53 Old Dominion Athletic Conference win over rival Lynchburg at Crenshaw Gymnasium Thursday.

one of a few Lynchburg storms to lead 18-15 after a quarter.

In the second quarter, with Charlotte Woods saddled with two fouls, Ross was fouled with 4:20 left. She made a pair of free throws to begin a 9-2 run over

the next three minutes for a 36-24 advantage.

The Hornets caught fire just before halftime, cutting their deficit at halftime to nine at 38-29.

Midway through the third

period, on a play that was a microcosm of how well the Yellow Jackets played, Ross and senior Kelly Williams participated in a vintage give and go, Williams feeding Ross as she stormed to the hoop for 2

Robertson’s free-throw shooting kept the Yellow Jackets ahead.

Mallory finished with 10 points and six rebounds and Robertson finished with 9 points and seven rebounds in the tournament final.

Rowan was led by a double-double performance from Kearney, who finished with 14 points and 10 rebounds. Three other Profs finished in doublefigures. Dickerson topped the Profs with 15 points, while Jerry Price and Maliq Sanders finished with 10 apiece.

With Saturday’s 93-60 Old Dominion Athletic Conference (ODAC) win at Emory and Henry, the Yellow Jackets, now 4-0 in conference, 12-0 overall, turn their sights to Fredericksburg, and a nonconference test at an always tough Mary Washington on Wednesday night at 7 p.m.

Rob Witham can be reached at sports@mechlocal.com.

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

(At Crenshaw Gymnasium) Sunday, Dec. 29 LEBANON VALLEY (3-7) — Deihm 4, Baker 6, Tucker 14, L. Garcia 7, Covey 5, Singer 4, Green 3, Shouler 2, T. Garcia 0, Reichner 0, Wright 4, Catanzaro 0, Diehl 0, Jones 7, Hamilton 0, Hawthorne 0. Totals 20 11-14 56.

RANDOLPH-MACON (10-0) — Mallory 13, Robertson 12, Turner 6, Bays 12, Anthony 16, Morris 3, Fabiato 0, Woods 8, Thomasson 3, Lindsay 0, Kilgroe 4, Archambault 0, Talbert 14, Funderburg 2, Nworah 0.

Totals 37 1-3 94.

3-point goals — LV: Tucker 2, L. Garcia, Covey, Green; R-MC: Robertson 4, Bays 4, Turner 2, Anthony 2, Woods 2, Talbert 2, Morris, Thomasson, Kilgroe.

R-MC Coaches Tournament

points and a 50-37 lead.

Lynchburg never recovered.

Key to the victory were contributions up and down the roster, but perhaps none were more important than the play of sophomore guard Cheridan Hatfield. Her presence was everywhere, from leading the offense and spearheading perimeter defense to attacking the rim both offensively and for rebounding purposes.

Hatfield was a plus 25 for the game, finishing with 12 points, five rebounds, three steals and two assists in 34 minutes of play.

“This was Cheridan’s coming out party,” Ross said. “I told her before the game, just play the game you’re used to playing.

You got recruited to RandolphMacon for a reason. You are a starting point guard.

Head Coach Carroll LaHaye was pleased as well.

“I thought tonight was the best game I’ve seen her play in her two years here,” LaHaye said of Hatfield. “We knew what she was capable of doing it, but none of us had seen it. We’d been in her ear, trying to get this game in place for us. She was dialed in and knew exactly what she was capable of doing.”

Williams was a rebound shy of a double-double against

Halftime: 50-27.

Lynchburg with 17 points and nine rebounds. On Saturday, against surprising Hollins College, Williams got the double-double with 21 points and 11 rebounds, much needed in a nip-and-tuck 61-51 road win that places the Yellow Jackets at 3-2 in ODAC play and 4-6 overall.

Randolph-Macon looks at the conference standings, finds themselves in a four-way tie for fifth at with that 3-2 mark.

Guilford, also at 3-2, comes to Crenshaw Saturday for a 4:30 game. For Ross and her teammates, the quest for a perfect January continues.

“Our bench is stepping up.

Our starting five is stepping up.

We’re gelling,” Ross noted.

Rob Witham can be reached at sports@mechlocal.com.

LYNCHBURG (6-4, 3-2 ODAC) — Green 16, Oguich 0, Quarles 6, Smalls 0, Noe 12, Davis 15, Hall 0, Vetter 0, Johnson 1, Elliott 3, Chambers 0, Kelly 0. Totals 19 8-13 53.

RANDOLPH-MACON (3-6, 2-2) — Woods 2, Williams 17, Arrington 8, Conrad 4, Hatfield 12, Ross 22, Debell 6, De Guzman 2, Knobloch 0, Humphreys 0, Cornick 2. Totals 30 15-25 75.

Lynchburg 15 14 15 9 — 53 R-MC 18 20 20 17 — 75 3-point goals — LU: Noe 4, Green, Quarles, Elliott

Randolph-Macon

Saturday, Jan. 4 (At Emory & Henry) RANDOLPH-MACON (12Monday, Dec. 31 0, 4-0 ODAC) — Mallory 14, ROWAN (5-6) — Kearney Robertson 5, Turner 5, Bays 12, 14, Bah 8, Price 10, Dickerson 15, Anthony 10, Morris 8, Fabiato 0, O’Leary 4, Pantovic 2, Gordon 0, Woods 13, Thomasson 0, Lindsay 2, Green 0, Smith 3, Sanders 10. Totals Kilgroe 4, Talbert 16, Funderburg 4, 23 14-24 66.

Nworah 0. Totals 40 3-5 93.

RANDOLPH-MACON (11-0) EMORY & HENRY (3-9,0-3) — Mallory 10, Robertson 9, Turner — Catron 6, Rodriguez 6, Banks 0, Bays 8, Anthony 26, Morris 0, 9, Williams 4, Grant 5, Morgan 12, Woods 7, Kilgroe 2, Talbert 9, Clarke 12, Martin 6, Swann 0. Totals Funderburg 2, Nworah 0. Totals 25 21 7-11 60.

16-19 73.

3-point goals — R-MC: Bays 4, 3-point goals — RU: Kearney 2, Anthony 2, Turner, Morris, Woods, Sanders 2, O’Leary, Pantovic; R-MC: Talbert; E&H: Clarke 4, Catron 2, Anthony 5, Robertson, Talbert.

Morgan 2, Martin 2, Banks. Totals Halftime: Randolph-Macon 21 7-11 60.

39-38.

Halftime: Randolph-Macon 42-22.

Ashland-Hanover Local January 8, 2020

9

Hanover among counties to get funding for CampusRVA Staff Report news@mechlocal.com

R

ICHMOND — Gov. Ralph Northam recently announced more than $5.8 million in Growth and Opportunity for Virginia (GO Virginia) funding for nine regional projects, including $500,000 for Hanover, Chesterfield and Henrico counties and the City of Richmond for CampusRVA – Phase 2.

The local project is described as ChamberRVA developing a program to help area employers fill high-paying jobs with talent developed locally by promoting the Richmond region as a good place for young professionals, providing resources to move and assimilate to the region and implementing a job-matching platform.

The GO Virginia Board reviewed and approved seven grant requests and the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) reviewed and administratively approved two grant requests.

These grants will help strengthen and diversify regional economies, build a pipeline of workers

SLED Continued from pg. 6

grandmother called the meat house caught my attention. It had long since surrendered its meat-curing purpose and now housed an untidy collection of old furniture and trunks.

Hanging on one of those poorly lit walls, I glared at a familiar sight, the shape of a sled hanging on a wooden peg, probably resting there for decades when some other young boy hung it after a run on the hill at the high school.

I asked my Uncle about the sled, and he said it had been hanging out there as long as he could remember, but encouraged me to take it down and use it if and when the weather cooperated. I carried the musty smelling sled to the back porch that ran the length of the rear of the house, and wiped off years of dust with a damp cloth.

What lay beneath was a Flexible Flyer Americana, runners in perfect shape and the wood darkened and many times soaked with oil to preserve its integrity. It was as perfect as the one my father had given his kids not so many Christmases ago.

It somehow reminded me of him, of the many sledding adventures we had enjoyed,

10

to support targeted industry sectors, and encour- icy was developed in partnership with the age collaboration among local governments, Virginia Economic Development Partnership public sector partners, and private industry. (VEDP) and focuses GO Virginia invest“GO Virginia supports economic development ments on projects that will grow each regions’ projects that strengthen and grow our local targeted industry sectors, as well as support economies using an approach that is unique the state’s economic development objectives. to the Commonwealth,” the Governor said. “The range of economic development opportunities funded by these “With an emphasis on grants will have a treregional collaboration, “GO Virginia supports mendous impact on this successful program economic development Virginia,” said Secretary continues to encourage projects that strengthen of Commerce and communities to think and grow our local Trade Brian Ball. “As a creatively about how to economies using result of these projects, build talent pipelines an approach that is unique the Commonwealth in key industries, crewill have a more qualiate good-paying jobs, to the Commonwealth.” fied workforce and and drive positive, longRALPH NORTHAM resource-rich enviterm growth.”

Governor of Virginia ronment for both The GO Virginia start-up and existing Board, which includes key members of the Governor’s cabinet, the businesses, and the physical site and infraGeneral Assembly, and the business commu- structure investments to support new jobs.” nity, also approved a new policy that encour- The GO Virginia grants will be used to impleages GO Virginia regions to apply for future ment projects that align with each region’s funding for site development and infrastruc- Growth and Diversification Plan. These localture projects of regional significance. The pol- ly-developed plans identify priority industry

moments not realized at the time for their importance or fleeting nature.

The best thing about spending Christmas in Gaithersburg was the increased chance of waking up to about a foot of snow. The then small town was located in the notorious snow belt of western Maryland, a region that received record snows each winter.

And, that’s how it happened as I awoke the first Christmas morning following the saddest one of my life. As we opened gifts and enjoyed a big Christmas breakfast, I wasn’t thinking of all the nice gifts I had received, but instead wondering when I could excuse myself and give that Flexible Flyers a proper test.

My mother patiently clasped the seemingly endless clamps on black boots that smelled like retreads, made much more difficult by the endless number of socks she had required.

The new piece of rope provided sharp contrast to the darkened wood sled, and the Flexible Flyer logo barely visible under tons of lacquer and wood oil.

The hill at the high school was packed with kids trying out new toys just received, and the hill was smooth and fast coated with a tiny coat of ice on the surface. The

Ashland-Hanover Local January 8, 2020

old Flexi didn’t disappoint, and flying down that large hill somehow reminded, renewed and refreshed me. Somehow, that old sled made me feel like the kid who had just received the best gift ever.

It was almost dark as the flurries transformed to flakes. The walk home almost dream like with big Christmas lights reflecting off the white surface, and the snowy dark sky as a backdrop.

I walked down the unplowed streets, the sled following like a loyal dog and skimming across the quickly freezing snow with no effort.

As I climbed the hill to my grandmother’s house, I remember thinking what a great Christmas Day this had been.

And that old sled accompanied me on many runs in various locations, and always reminded me that some things in life have the power to provide joy if only in limited doses; but the impact they have last a lifetime.

Sixty years later, I still think of my Dad almost every day, and, Yes, Christmas Eve still makes me melancholy., but it only lasts a second as I remember what I had, what I have, and just what good fortune can come in the oddest of forms, like that old worn sled.

sectors and strategies based on each region’s assets. Initiatives that advance strategies developed through the planning process are key in strengthening each region’s economy and creating better career opportunities for Virginians.

The grant awards will leverage an additional $6.4 million in non-state resources to assist with economic diversification throughout Virginia.

“We are excited for this GO Virginia investment in Northern Virginia, especially towards the support of growing the computer science workforce pipeline and increasing technology business growth,” said Sen. Janet Howell, a GO Virginia board member. “The work the GO Virginia regions are doing throughout Virginia is increasing our workforce talent development, building stronger businesses, and encouraging new economic growth in all areas of the Commonwealth.”

Since the program inception in 2017, GO Virginia has funded 74 projects and awarded approximately $38 million to support regional economic development efforts.

Individuals interested in learning more about GO Virginia and activities in their region should visit the DHCD website.

LETTERS Continued from pg. 6

America needs a president for the people Let’s make America great again. It’s time to change that quote because those were the “good” old days. It’s like new parents saying we’ll be glad to get back to normal pre-pregnancy days. They will never get back to those days. They must make a new start to be responsible for the care, love and safety of their child for at least the next 18 years. It is a very difficult adjustment.

It’s likewise for the USA. A quote was “The Business of America is Business.” Now it should be “Wake up America.

The Business of America is its People.”

The USA is gazillions in debt, should declare bankruptcy. They must not lend or give

money to the rest of the world (that does need money) but should give that money to the people of the USA who also need money now: the homeless, those living below poverty, the hungry, health plans that give everyone on low incomes the basic need for health free or low cost.

Come on, America, wake up. Donald Trump has gotten fat and an orange face from tanning and hair that needs trimming in the back (front is OK). He is self-absorbed. We need a new president who has the interests of the people of America.

Joan Austen Mechanicsville

Growth at issue with longtime resident In

response

to

Karri

see LETTERS, pg. 12

Upcoming programs listed for Ashland area libraries Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com HANOVER – Librarian Carolyn Garner has announced upcoming programs for Ashland-area libraries in the Pamunkey Regional Library system.

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. 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 handsewers, 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, 1:30-2:30 p.m.

Welcome to the world of Toy Story. Celebrate some of your favorite Toy Story characters with Toy Story-themed 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 illness, 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, 12 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 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 Ashland Library.

Why Water, Not Wipes?: Wednesday, Jan. 22, 7-8:30 p.m. 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. 13, 20, & 27), Mother Goose, 10 a.m., and Family, 10:45 a.m.; Tuesdays (Jan. 14, 21, & 28), Toddler, 10 a.m., and Preschool, 10:45 a.m.

Hanover Branch Library For more information, call 804-365-6210 or visit the library at 7527 Library Drive.

OutBreak!: Saturday, Jan. 11, 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 804-883-7116 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 of Depression: Wednesday, Jan. 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.

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. 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 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 beginning readers as they read aloud to therapy dogs. Call or visit the library for more information or to register for this rewarding program. see LIBRARY, pg. 12

Ashland-Hanover Local January 8, 2020 11

Home Building Association of Richmond awards announced Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com FULTON – The first Annual RARE Awards (Richmond Awards for Remodeling Excellence), hosted by the Home Building Association of Richmond, was held on Nov. 14 at Triple Crossing Brewery in Fulton.

This new awards celebration recognized local, active remodelers who stand out among their peers on projects completed during Jan. 1, 2018, through July 1, 2019, within the Greater Richmond Area.

Award entries were judged by thirdparty industry professionals out of the Fredericksburg Area.

The winners were:

Best Kitchen

Under $40,000 -- Cava Capital

$40,000 - $70,000 – Maison Construction and Renovations $70,000 - $100,000 – Lane Homes & Remodeling Over $100,000 – HomeKeepers

Best Bathroom

$40,000 - $60,000 – Virginia Building & Remodeling $60,000 - $80,000 – Leo Lantz Construction Over $80,000 – Lane Homes & Remodeling

Best Addition

$200,000 - $500,0000 – Cava Capital Over $500,000 – Hampden Hill Custom Building

LIBRARY Continued from pg. 11

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, STEAM-centered pro-

12

Best Restoration

Under $100,000 – BK Martin Construction

Best General Renovation

$100,000 - $200,000 – Cava Capital Over $200,000 – Lane Homes & Remodeling

Best Whole House Renovation Under $200,000 – Cava Capital Over $500,000 – James River Construction

Best Outdoor Living Renovation $15,000 to $30,000 – Cava Capital

Best Exterior Renovation

Over $40,000 – Cava Capital

Best Detached Renovation

$20,000 -- $40,000 – Virginia Building & Remodeling Over $40,000 – Lane Homes & Remodeling

Whole House Renovation

Team Award o James River Construction -- Kem Felts Dana McKenna Designs Morris Tile Distributors of Richmond Inc. Brazilian Best Granite Ferguson Bath, Kitchen and Lighting Wellborn + Wright

Remodeler of the Year

Ed Lane, Lane Homes & Remodeling Leo Lantz Construction was the dinner sponsor.

For more information about HBAR, contact Jeana Schiffres at jschiffres@hbar.org.

gram. 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

Ashland-Hanover Local January 8, 2020

and authors. Join in book discussions and share your reading suggestions.

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 804746-3176.

Youth can apply for 2019 livestock exhibitor scholarships Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com DOSWELL —Youth who exhibited beef cattle, sheep, meat goats or swine in the 2019 State Fair of Virginia 4-H and FFA youth livestock program are eligible to apply for 12 scholarships offered by the State Fair.

Additionally, two other scholarship opportunities — worth a total of $3,500 — are open to any youth who exhibited during the 2019 fair.

Details and applications are available in the “Education” section of the fair’s website at StateFairVa.org.

Applications must be completed electronically and must be received by 5 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 17.

Funds allocated for the scholarships represent a portion of the proceeds from the annual Black Tie & Boots Scholarship Gala, which was held Sept. 26, and the fifth annual Youth Livestock Sale of Champions auction, which was held Oct. 5.

The 12 scholarships for

livestock exhibitors, totaling $19,640, will be offered in three age groups: Juniors (9-12), Intermediate (13-15) and Seniors (16 and older). Groups are based on exhibitors’ ages as of Sept. 30, 2019.

Since 2013, the State Fair has awarded 1,469 scholarships and has awarded over $500,000 to support youth education.

The fair offers youth more than $80,000 each year in scholarship funds through 4-H, FFA and vocational competitions and specific equine, fine arts and horticulture competitions.

The 2020 State Fair of Virginia will run from Sept. 25 through Oct. 4. Information is available at StateFairVa.org.

The State Fair is held each fall at its permanent home at The Meadow Event Park in Caroline County and attracts 250,000 fair-goers. The event celebrates the best of Virginia’s past, present and future through scholarship initiatives, creative programming and a focus on the commonwealth’s agriculture and natural resources industries.

Joe Herbert, Esq. joins law firm He continued his education at the T.C. Williams School of Law at the University of RICHMOND -- Zwerdling, Oppleman & Adams has wel- Richmond.

Herbert, an Airborne comed its newest Ranger in the U.S. attorney, Joe Herbert, Army, served two Esq., who was born combat deployments and raised in Hanover in Afghanistan.

County.

Zwerdling, OpplHerbert attended eman & Adams Patrick Henry High is located at 5020 School in Ashland.

Monument Ave. in He completed his Richmond. The law undergraduate studfirm refers to itself as ies at the University of “Attorneys that know Richmond, graduating HERBERT Hanover.” summa cum laude.

Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com

LETTERS Continued from pg. 10

Messina: I do absolutely agree with what she has said; however, I would like to point out I did not like it when Foxhead was erected taking up all that space adding tons more traffic to our area either.

I’ve had family here since the 1950s and we had Forest Lake Hills and that was all there was. Route 301 was a two-lane road I can go on and on.

I consider where you reside as a johnny-come-lately no different than this Wegmans thing.

I have never consumed space in a subdivision, but I have been here since 1962 when there was one traffic light in the entire county.

Hanover County is becoming a disaster area for development and the definition if anybody wants to know of progress is the absolute destruction of a lifestyle while the developers just run off with the money and laugh at us sitting in traffic.

I have spent decades watching it happen, and Foxhead is one of those devastations of a lifestyle. It’s not going to end, Ms. Messina.

Tax dollars are needed so we can build more schools and many other things because of so much influx of people. They come here and they expect the same services they see in Henrico and Chesterfield.

Our local job and our state leadership’s job is to bring tax dollars in from wherever they can find it.

We have one area that I find development a good idea that’s right along Route 1 and Interstate 95, and there was a lot of talk of doing an outlet store concept like is in North Carolina along I-95, but that has failed for the most part .

What was the internet and all so we welcome Wegmans not exactly in that area. I wish them to find a spot closer to 95 like in the area of Bass Pro Shops would be ideal. Then see LETTERS, pg. 16

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

Residential for Rent Apartment Referral Services Policy Apartment referral service companies sell lists of available apartments for rent in your area.

Please read contracts thoroughly to ensure that you understand and agree to all the terms and the cancellation policy of the contract.

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TOWN OF ASHLAND NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Please take notice that on the 21st day of January 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: 2040 TRANSPORTATION PLAN & COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT THE TRANSPORTATION PLAN FOR THE TOWN OF ASHLAND HAS BEEN SUBSTANTIALLY REVISED AND UPDATED AND THE NEW 2040 TRANSPORTATION PLAN WILL BE CONSIDERED FOR APPROVAL AND ADDITION TO THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN FOR THE TOWN OF ASHLAND. The purpose of this public hearing is to receive public input and all interested persons are encouraged to attend and express their views. Copies of documents related to this matter may be obtained by contacting Town Hall at 798-9219 (101 Thompson Street, Ashland, Virginia 23005) Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Written comments may be submitted to Bernadette Cornelius, Clerk of the Planning Commission, via email at planning@ashlandva.gov or through regular mail to Clerk of the Planning Commission, Town of Ashland, P.O. Box 1600, Ashland, VA 23005. Any person with a disability requiring assistance in order to participate in the public hearings is asked to contact Town Hall in advance so that appropriate arrangements may be made.

Growing CPA firm in King William looking to hire a data entry personnel for tax season. This is a seasonal position (Mid Jan-May) with the potential to grow into a full-time position, starting at an hourly rate of $16- $20+/hour depending on experience. Tax Preparation & QuickBooks experience a plus.

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Ashland-Hanover Local January 8, 2020 13

‘Organizing Your Year’ topic of talk

Married 50 years Marks Family Dentistry

Staff Report news@mechlocal.com

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1045776-01

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14

Conveniently located off I-295, Exit 41-A-Behind Wawa RT 301 / Chamberlayne Road at Atlee Station Road

The Mechanicsville Local

January 8, 2020

Photo submitted by Mandy Lambert

Jerry and Mandy Lambert will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on January 10. They met at Ft. Monroe, Virginia, when they were in the U.S. Army. The Lamberts have a daughter and two grandchildren. They said “It was love at first sight.” They also said a successful and happy marriage is based on “faith, family, love and patience.”

Local joins in trip to castle Photo submitted

by Hunter Worthington

The Mechanicsville Local is shown at Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria, Germany, on Dec. 26.

Shown are, from left, Florian Otto, Laura Lee (Hartle) Otto, Hunter Worthington, Joni Worthington, Patrick Tredway (holding 1-year-old James Tredway) and Danielle (Orr) Tredway.

Hunter said the experience is now a Christmas ornament and a wonderful memory.

MECHANICSVILLE – “Organizing Your Year” will be the topic of the Hanover Chamber of Commerce’s New Suite Luncheon, to be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 16, at 7240 Bell Creek Rd. in Mechanicsville.

Dani Washington will discuss “The Paper Diet & Organizing Your Year.”

Too much clutter = less productivity. The workshop will teach attendees how to de-clutter their desk, office and home, as well as where to take the excess.

The New Suite Luncheons provide interactive workshops and productive networking.

Those looking to boost their (new or experienced) business or get going as a new chamber member, this is the place to be.

Registration is $20 for members (early) or $35 for nonmembers. Lunch is provided.

Payments may be made online, with check or cash only being accepted on-site.

$7 Dinner Deal offered tomorrow Staff Report news@mechlocal.com AYLETT – The CornerStone Community Development Center will sponsor a $7 Dinner Deal, starting at 6 p.m., on Thursday, Jan. 9, at 8270 Richmond-Tappahannock Hwy. in Aylett.

Included in the dinner will be a crab cake sandwich with a choice of side and a soda.

To order ahead, call 804 769 2996 or email theccdc@gmail. com. Pick up dinners at 8270 Richmond-Tappahannock Hwy. in Aylett.

Proceeds will benefit food and free health clinic programs.

EVENTS Continued from pg. 7

visit www.hanoverconcertband.org or call 804-789-0536.

PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is hereby given that the Hanover County Planning Commission has set Thursday, January 16, 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 REZ2019-00015, CAPITAL UP INVESTMENTS, L.L.C. Request(s) to rezone from A-1, Agricultural District, and B-1(c), Neighborhood Business District with conditions, to B-2(c), Community Business District with conditions, on GPINs 7822-41-0443 and 7822-41-3393, consisting of approximately 9.67 acres, and located on the north line of Mountain Road (U.S. Route 33) across from Bethany Estates Way (state route pending). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Rural Village. The proposed zoning amendment would allow for development of a shopping center. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Beaverdam REZ2019-00028, NANCY ROBERTSON COMBS Request(s) to rezone from A-1, Agricultural District, to RS(c), Single Family Residential District with conditions, on GPIN 8706-06-6722, consisting of approximately 10.0 acres, and located on the north line of Combs Drive (State Route 2181) at its intersection with Cool Spring Road (State Route 652). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Suburban General (1.5-3.0 dwelling units per acre). The proposed zoning amendment would permit the creation of 25 building lots for a gross density of 2.5 units per acre. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Chickahominy REZ2019-00029, RIVA RIDGE DEVELOPMENT, L.L.C. Request(s) to rezone from A-1, Agricultural District to AR-6(c), Agricultural Residential District with conditions, on GPIN 7860-76-8346, consisting of approximately 53.23 acres, and located on the south line of West Patrick Henry Road (State Route 54) approximately 550 feet east of its intersection with Poplar Valley Place (state route pending). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Agricultural. The proposed zoning amendment would permit the creation of eight (8) building lots for a gross density of one (1) dwelling unit per 6.65 acres. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Beaverdam REZ2019-00031, TAYLOR FARM DEVELOPMENT COMPANY, ET AL., Request(s) an amendment to the conceptual plan and proffers approved with rezoning request C-34-15(c), Cool Springs Company, on GPINs 7796-68-2761, 7796-68-4579, 7796-68-4616, 7796-68-4633, 7796-68-4652, 7796-68-5506, 7796-68-5534, 7796-68-5543, 7796-68-5570, 7796-68-5699, 7796-68-5771, 7796-68-6408, 7796-68-6447, 7796-68-6466, 7796-68-6495, 7796-68-6617, 7796-68-6635, 7796-68-6880, 7796-68-7465, 7796-68-7479, 7796-68-7497, 7796-68-7643, 7796-68-7665, 7796-68-7677, 7796-68-7790, 7796-68-8419, 7796-68-8541, 7796-68-9941, 7796-69-7073, 7796-78-1943, 7796-78-1988, 7796-79-0013, 7796-79-0048, 7796-79-0173, 7796-79-0423, 7796-79-0499, 7796-79-0862, 7796-79-0941, 7796-79-1118, 7796-79-1243, 7796-79-1381, 7796-79-1430, 7796-79-1917, 7796-79-2013, 7796-79-2058, 7796-79-2183, 7796-79-2326, 7796-79-2498, 7796-79-2547, 7796-79-2960, 7796-79-3128, 7796-79-3253, 7796-79-3288, and 7797-70-2041, consisting of approximately 35.84 acres, zoned RS(c), Single-Family Residential District with conditions. The property located on the northwest line of Honey Meadows Road (State Route 2380) at its intersection with Atlee Station Road (State Route 637). 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 revise the approved elevations and proffers. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Chickahominy ORDINANCE AMENDMENT ORDINANCE 19-08, MULTIPLE PRESERVATION LOTS IN THE RC, RURAL CONSERVATION DISTRICT An Ordinance to amend the Hanover County Code, Chapter 26, Zoning Ordinance, Section 26-51, to provide that more than one preservation lot may be permitted in the RC, Rural Conservation District, under certain speciďŹ ed conditions. (PUBLIC HEARING) Copies of the above cases may be reviewed in the Planning OfďŹ ce, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

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 804-496-6093 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 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 804-675-4230.

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 Baptist Church in Ashland off of U.S. 54.

Barbara Boor is the president.

Doors are open to anyone who would like to attend.

Ashland-Hanover Local January 8, 2020 15

Nominations open for Hanover’s 2020 Spirit of Volunteerism Awards HANOVER -- Do you know someone who is making a difference in our community?

Hanover County is continuing its tradition of highlighting the contributions and dedication of local volunteers. The county needs your help to share their story.

Hanover’s 2020 Spirit of Volunteerism Award nomination process opened Jan. 2 and runs through March 16.

These awards allow the community to acknowledge the work of our local “unsung heroes” Anyone may nominate inspiring individuals or groups of any age in one of eight categories: Spirit of One (honoring an individual over 18); Spirit of Youth (honoring a youth age 18 or younger or still in high school); Spirit of Dedication (honoring an individual aged 60 or over); Spirit of Team (honoring two or more adult volunteers working toward a common cause); Spirit of Family (honoring two or more family members working together toward a common purpose); Spirit of Inspiration (honoring an individual who has volunteered 20 years or more for a specific organization); Commitment to Community (recognizing a Hanover business which has demonstrated a sustained commitment to supporting the community); and Spirit of Youth –Team (honoring an exceptional group of youth/club whose members are 18 years or younger or still attending high school).

Award recipients will be announced at the

Spirit of Volunteerism Celebration at 7 p.m. on Thursday, May 14, at the Hanover High School auditorium. All nominees will be recognized at the event and receive a nominee gift and a certificate from the Hanover County Board of Supervisors.

The celebration is free and open to the public.

The goal of the celebration is to pay tribute to all volunteers within the community, as well as honor award nominees and announce the 2020 award recipients.

Special plans are underway to help celebrate Hanover’s 300th birthday.

In honor of Hanover’s 300th Birthday, each of the Award Category Sponsors will be honoring the category’s award recipient by making a financial donation in the amount of up to $300 to the nonprofit/government program, school or organization designated on the honoree’s nomination form.

The Award recipient also will receive a plaque and the county will nominate the honorees for the statewide Governor’s Community Service and Volunteerism Awards at the end of the year.

The 2020 Spirit of Volunteerism Awards sponsors are: Ashland Walmart, Copy Cat Printing Inc., Covenant Woods, Grace Community Presbyterian Church, Virginia Credit Union, Rappahannock Electric Cooperative, and Hanover Association of Businesses and Chamber of Commerce.

Nomination forms, online submission information and other details are available at www. hanovervolunteers.org or by contacting the Hanover County Department of Community Resources at 804-365-4300.

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

Who inspires you?

Start you own business workshop offered Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com GLEN ALLEN -- Richmond SCORE is announcing the following workshop in January: How to Start Your Own Small Business – 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 9, at MassMutual Greater Richmond

16

at 100 Eastshore Drive, Suite 300, in Glen Allen.

The full-day interactive small business start-up workshop will be presented by SCORE. Local small business owners/experts teach you start-up basics: legal, bookkeeping, insurance, funding, internet

Ashland-Hanover Local January 8, 2020

marketing, business plan and more.

The program Includes workbook, peer networking and free follow-up coaching from experienced SCORE mentors.

Registration begins at 8:15 a.m. The fee is $90. To register, go to https://richmond.score. org/local-workshops-events.

LETTERS Continued from pg. 12

come on in; we need the taxes but not where this is.

It’s a disgrace to put Wegmans there but those that have moved here later after all this development got off the ground into one of these huge subdivisions causing more space to be taken up than Wegmans, well, really shouldn’t say a whole lot.

There was a time when almost all the students in the schools lived on a farm and that was the 1960s.

I do not think any large subdivision dwellers -although all of you are a wonderfully nice good people -should have any right to speak against anything similar to what you moved into, causing the same amount of damage or more.

Larry Johnson Mechanicsville

Happy to live near helpful, happy people My devotion this morning from Jesus Calling stated: “Every day I manifest My grace in countless places and situations, but the media take no notice.

I shower not only blessings but also outright miracles on your planet.”

I needed to write to you earlier, but then I thought for a new year this miracle may touch more people.

On Dec. 11, my husband and I lost both our dog and my husband’s wallet.

Having moved from a farm in Goochland County to an active senior community in Mechanicsville was difficult for our almost 9-year-old dog. She escaped once and Hanover Animal Control brought her home.

We thought maybe she was

trying to get back to her old home.

In our search for her, my husband lost his wallet.

Canceling credit cards is easy, but getting a new driver’s license can be a hassle.

We were fortunate to have an animal lover, Debbie Peak, drive down Bell Creek Road.

She saw our dog and knew the dog would probably get hit by the cars driving by.

She actually turned her car around and drove back.

She took our dog straight to Ashland to the animal shelter.

I had gone back home to call Animal Control and my call was forwarded to the shelter. As I was describing our runaway, the woman on the phone said, “I think your dog just came in.”

After I told her the dog’s name was Fancy, she confirmed they had our dog.

Debbie Peak even volunteered to bring her back to us.

When Debbie came into our home with Fancy, she would not even take a reward.

She opened her jacket to show she had on a “Tommie the dog” t-shirt.

You will recall Tommie was the dog terribly burned and killed.

Debbie has two cats -- not even a dog.

We were very grateful to this first angel of the day.

We went back through nearby neighborhoods to look for my husband’s wallet, to no avail. We then had to run an errand.

When we returned, there was a voicemail from our neighbor saying a gentleman had come knocking on our door looking for my husband.

Our neighbor said we obviously weren’t home and asked if he could be of help.

The gentleman said he had found my husband’s wallet and wanted to return it. He left the wallet and his card

with our neighbor.

My husband called our second angel, Christopher Verlander, who wouldn’t take a reward or even an offer for lunch or dinner.

Since he is a contractor, he asked that my husband give his name and number to anyone needing a general contractor. We can vouch for his honesty and hope people will consider him for a residential job.

We are so glad to be living in an area that has such helpful, honest people.

There are no coincidences.

God is at work through His people in the world, especially here in Mechanicsville.

Happy New Year!

Betsy and Preston Young Mechanicsville

Resident: tax base sellling off what’s special This past week, you published a very distressing letter from Karri Messina of Mechanicsville.

Distressing because what she says is so very important and which, in all likelihood, will be ignored by the very ones who should see it.

The way that Hanover County is being mutilated by those who profess to love and care for the county but who only see the tax base at the expense of so much else -the natural environment, the history and the beauty of this place is sickening.

For many years, one repeated phrase by the powers-that- be is “tax base”.

Yes, the tax base is vital to the county but the things that make Hanover so special are being sold off to the highest bidder -- and that breaks my heart.

Sandra Shirey Ashland