Skip to main content

Ashland-Hanover Local – 01/22/20

Page 1

PETS

ADVENTURE

Missy is in need of a forever home. Check out animals at the shelter.

Hanover Tavern offers escape room experience

PAGE

7

PAGE

16

Vol. 5 No. 19 | Richmond Suburban News | January 22, 2020

School board considers equity policy By Jim Ridolphi for Ashland-Hanover Local ASHLAND — The Hanover County School Board is considering adopting a new policy regarding equity and will take action on the proposal at next month’s meeting. Board members were briefed on that new policy at this month’s meeting by assistant superintendent Jennifer Greif, and a number of speakers addressed the issue during a public comment period. The draft document “recognizes that every child deserves an education based upon fundamental principles of equity.” The proposed policy commits to ensuring that equity applies to all Hanover students. “To that end, the division superintendent and all employees will create a barrier free educational experience for all students that accepts and acknowledges their individuality based on race, ethnicity, socio-economic status, cognitive/physical/emotional abilities, English language fluency, gender

Jim Ridolphi for Ashland-Hanover Local

Assistant superintendent Jennifer Greif presented a new equity policy for Hanover County School Board members to consider at their February meeting. Right: John Axselle has once again moved into the chairman’s seat of the Hanover County School Board. Ola Hawkins was elected vice chair.

religion, sexual orientation and gender identity, and other personal characteristics,” the proposal states. The new policy outlines guiding principles designed to embrace equity, includ-

ing classroom experiences that allow all students to have a clear path toward college or career with equitable resources and challenging curricula. All employees will promote a safe and welcoming environment and human resources will promote recruitment strategies that attract a diverse and highly qualified staff. Professional development will focus by providing information that assists developing strategies that support all learners. The document includes a commitment to promote funding strategies that provide additional resources to the neediest schools and students. The public will be able to see the results related to equity by postings on the Hanover County Public Schools’ website that will include data and findings as well as recommendations to promote “transparency, cultivate continuous improvement and build trust. see SCHOOL, pg. 8

Double support for R-MC

Joel Klein for Ashland-Hanover Local

These twins were sitting in the front row at the RandolphMacon College game on Saturday with their mother, who had been a member of the team. She graduated with the Class of 2008.

Bon Secours proposes hospital expansion plan at MRMC

Absentee voting starts for COPN application submitted to add additional 44 beds Dems’ Presidential Primary Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com MECHANICSVILLE – Bon Secours Memorial Regional Medical Center filed a Certificate of Public Need (COPN) application to expand its licensed 225 acute care bed capacity by 44 additional acute care beds, including 11 intensive care beds and 33 medical/surgical beds. The proposed project involves the expansion of the hospital’s bed capacity through new construction consisting of

a two-story vertical expansion located above emergency services and intensive care services. The hospital also will renovate selected existing areas of its facility to accommodate the connectivity and flow of patients, staff, support services and construction of the new two-story vertical expansion. Bon Secours Memorial Regional Medical Center is located in Hanover County, just one-half mile west of Interstate 295, which connects the larger regions of Hampton Roads, New Kent

County, Richmond and Henrico County. The proposed expansion directly addresses the fast growing demand for health care services from residents of the hospital’s service area, in particular Hanover County, eastern Henrico County and the Northern Neck. The proposed expansion will provide patients with increased access to the hospital’s innovative resources, outstanding clinical staff and exceptional patient care. see MRMC, pg. 12

Staff Report news@mechlocal.com HANOVER – Absentee voting for the March 3 Democratic Party Presidential Primary got underway on Thursday, Jan. 16. Teresa “Teri” Smithson, General Registrar/Director of Elections, said, “Virginia Republicans will choose delegates to their national con-

vention at a state convention. Therefore, no Republican candidates will appear on the ballot in the March 3 Democratic Party Presidential Primary.” She also pointed out that registered voters must meet one of the 20 eligibility requirements to vote absentee. The list of requirements can be found on the Virginia see PRIMARY, pg. 8


Ruritans to hear about ride service Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com MONTPELIER -- The Montpelier Ruritan Club will host a public meeting at 8 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 5, at the Montpelier Parks & Recreation Building located at 17203 Sycamore Tavern Lane in Montpelier. The purpose of the meeting is to provide information about the new countywide transportation system, Hanover DASH. The Hanover DASH Program provides transportation for Hanover County resi-

dents 60 years old or older or persons with a short-term or long-term disability. A participant can obtain a ride to hospitals, doctors’ offices and other locations in Hanover County and other designated areas. This is a door-to-door service or curb to curb service and the cost is only $6 one way. A member of Hanover Community Resources will address the service. Senior citizens and individuals with a disability are encouraged to attend. For more information, call Dan Johnson at 804-883-7249.

PLUMBING, HEATING & COOLING

Watkins accepts deputy chief position Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com

G

OOCHLAND -- After a highly competitive search, Goochland County and Chief Dillard Edward “Eddie� Ferguson Jr. have announced the selection of John Michael “Mike� Watkins as Goochland County’s new deputy chief of Fire-Rescue & Emergency Services. Watkins comes to Goochland County from Hanover County Fire-EMS, where he currently serves as an operations battalion chief. As deputy fire chief, he will focus on Fire-EMS operations, including overseeing the functions of administration, training, and emergency management. “We are super excited to have Chief Watkins join our team here in Goochland County. Mike has a stellar reputation and brings the skills, talents, and leadership abilities we need to continue the Fire-Rescue Department’s advancement, serving our citizens and meeting the future demands in our

jurisdiction,� Fire Chief Eddie Ferguson said. “I have known Mike for many years and worked with him on several regional/state committees and boards and look forward to his help here in Goochland County.� Watkins was challenged to service in high school by his father and has been part of fire and emergency services for over 28 years. During college, he volunteered with Forest View Rescue Squad and Blacksburg Rescue, worked for the Safety Department at Kings Dominion, and served in the Virginia Army National Guard. He started his career with Hanover County in December 1996 as one of two full-time field paramedics, and he has been part of Hanover County Fire-EMS for 23 years. He has served as a firefighter medic, EMS supervisor, fire company officer, and training officer, supervising EMS programs and the J. Sargeant Reynolds Paramedic Program. In 2014, he was promoted to battalion chief and led the Training Section, which

oversaw volunteer, career, and high school academies. Since May 2018, he has been serving as an operations battalion chief. Watkins obtained his paramedic certification from Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) in 1996 and completed his Bachelor’s of Nursing from VCU. He has also received his Masters of Public Administration from Virginia Tech. He is an EMS education coordinator, fire instructor II, registered nurse, and critical care nurse. Watkins was accepted into the National Fire Academy’s Executive Fire Officer Program and is on track to graduate in 2021. Over his career, Watkins has been part of starting or developing several programs, including serving as part of the initial flight crew for VCU LifeEvac, an early leader of the Hanover Technical Rescue Team, a writer of the Rapid-Sequence Intubation patient care guideline, and developer of the ALS Field Training Program. In addition, he serves on several state and regional committees. “I am very pleased to

WATKINS

welcome Chief Watkins to Goochland County and look forward to the contributions he brings to serve the citizens of Goochland and the career and volunteers of Goochland County Fire-Rescue & Emergency Services,� Goochland County Administrator John Budesky said. Watkins said his family -wife Ami and children Wyatt and Tess -- is excited about the future with Goochland County Fire-Rescue. He was selected after an extensive and competitive hiring process. He will officially start in his new role on Feb. 3.

New ride program starting for seniors, those with a disability

2

Ashland-Hanover Local January 22, 2020

HANOVER – Last month, Hanover County launched a new service for residents of Hanover who are 60+ years of age or who have a disability. Hanover DASH is a new specialized transportation program to help eligible residents travel to medical appointments, shopping, banking, and formal social activities. This pilot program is funded by a grant from the Department of Rail and Public Transit to help expand access and increase independence for older adults and persons with a disability. Riders can call 365-DASH (3274) to

apply for the program. Once enrolled, the rides, which will be a door-to-door service, will be coordinated by the county’s vendor, Roundtrip. Riders will be able to book rides online, use the Roundtrip Call

Center, or an app and have a driver pick them up. For a cost of $6 one-way or $12 round-

trip, the driver will take the resident to an appointment, grocery store or other allowable destination anywhere in Hanover or within seven miles of the county. A 10% discount is available if you book the ride online. The vendor, Roundtrip, does not take cash, only credit, pre-paid or debit cards. Rides will be available between 7:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Advance notice will not be required, see DASH, pg. 8


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

Driver did not report an accident with damages, $250, in the 10100 block of Lewistown Road, Ashland. Embezzlement, $200, was reported in the 6600 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville. Possession of marijuana, subsequent offense, was reported in the 100 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville. Petit larceny, $250 not from a person was reported in the 17000 block of Washington Highway, Doswell. Grand larceny building was reported in the 10000 block of Linderwood Drive, Mechanicsville. Threats of death or bodily injury by letter or electronic means were reported in the 10200 block of Berkeley Manor Drive, Mechanicsville.

Simple assault was reported in the 7100 block of Studley Drive, Mechanicsville. Possession of marijuana, subsequent offense, was reported in the 12400 block of West Patrick Henry Road, Ashland.

reported in the 6400 block of Camille Drive, Mechanicsville.

Identity theft financial loss, $200, was reported in the 11000 block of Linderwood Drive, Mechanicsville.

Failure to appear on felony charge was reported in the 7200 block of Courtland Farm Road, Hanover. Grand larceny, $500 or more not from a person, was reported in the 7100 block of Brandy Run Drive, Mechanicsville. Obtaining money or signature by false pretenses was

Concealment, altering price, $500, third offense, was reported in the 7200 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.

Uttering was reported in the 9500 block of Chamberlayne Road, Mechanicsville.

Breaking and entering to house to commit larceny and assault was reported in the 14000 block of Bethany Church Road, Montpelier.

Identity fraud use of identifying information to defraud was reported in the 7000 block of Simpkins Court, Mechanicsville.

Destruction of property, monument, was reported in the 7000 block of Daffodil Road, Mechanicsville.

Dec. 11

Concealment, altering price, $500, third offense, was reported in the 7400 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.

Mechanicsville.

Driver did not report an accident with damages, $1,000, in the 11000 block of Karen Drive/Old Elmont Road, Ashland. Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 9200 block of Hanover Crossings Drive, Mechanicsville. Driver did not report an accident with damages, $250, in the 6400 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike/ Compass Point Lane, Mechanicsville. Operating a motor vehicle, habitual offender, second subsequent offense, was reported in the 7400 block of Bell Creek Road,

Forging coin and bank notes was reported in the 7000 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville.

Jewelry that is unique and beautiful since 1977

G.I.A. GRADUATE GEMOLOGIST BILL FOREMAN ON SITE 1046162-01

Dec. 10

Craftsmanship at its finest. 10388 Leadbetter Rd. Located in the Hanover Air Park 2019 The Mechanicsville Local Ashland-Hanover Local

the

Locals ice

Ch

1st Place

WINNER

550-2505

EST. 1977

Possession of marijuana, subsequent offense, was reported in the 7400 block of Cold Harbor Road/East Boulevard, Mechanicsville.

State Police launches trooper recruitment website RICHMOND – The Virginia State Police is welcoming the New Year and a new decade with a new recruitment website. Located at www.vatrooper.com, the site is the first of its kind for the department and highlights the Virginia State Police mission, culture, Academy life and extensive career opportunities available to trooper-trainees. “This website has been a long-time coming and we recognize its vital importance towards attracting a new generation of diverse applicants to join the state police family,” said Colonel Gary T. Settle, Virginia State Police superintendent. “The site is mobile-friendly and highlights the multitude

of unique career opportunities the Virginia State Police has to offer those interested in a law enforcement career.” The new website, created in partnership with CapTech Consulting, provides a userfriendly, informative experience for those visiting the site. In an effort to reach a broader, more diverse population of applicants, the site provides a behind-the-scenes narrative of life as a trooper, the steps to becoming a Virginia trooper, training, career opportunities, benefits, Recruitment Unit contacts and direct access to an employment application. The mobile-friendly website will soon include video vignettes featuring state police personnel and their stories. “We, as a statewide law enforcement agency, must

reflect the populations we serve and protect across the Commonwealth,” said Colonel Settle. “Every trooper is held to an oath to perform his or her duties ‘… without fear, favor, or prejudice.’ This new recruitment website is specifically designed to reinforce our employees’ dedication to duty with each and every contact we have with the public. The Virginia State Police is fully committed to embrace inclusivity and diversity in all its forms, especially among its workforce.” “There are a host of best practices to advance workforce diversity and inclusion,” said Dr. Janice Underwood, Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer for the Commonwealth see TROOPER, pg. 4

Get Your Life Back

Now open in Ashland! Michael J. DePalma, MD President and Medical Director

vaispine.com | (804) 330-0303 100 Medical Drive, Ashland

1040967-01

Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com

Ashland-Hanover Local January 22, 2020 3


Ashland-area library programs listed Christmas Mother: 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 804-7984072 or visit the library at 201 S. Railroad Ave. Stitchin’ Time! -- Monday, Jan. 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. 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. Ashland Afternoon Bridge Club -- Friday, Jan. 24, 1-5 p.m. The Ashland Afternoon Bridge Club is open to up to 16 players with a familiarity and affinity for bridge. 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

TROOPER Continued from pg. 3

of Virginia. “This recruitment website is only one of those many tools and an important step in Virginia State Police’s overall commitment to diversifying its workforce. While we have much more to do, this step signals the state police’s continuing efforts to achieve a fundamental shift in its sworn workforce and the overall culture of the agency, so that it can more effectively serve and protect a diverse Commonwealth. I am looking forward to working

4

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 -- Monday (Jan. 27), Mother Goose, 10 a.m., and Family, 10:45 a.m.; Tuesdays (Jan. 21 & 28), Toddler, 10 a.m., and Preschool, 10:45 a.m.

Hanover Branch Library For more information, call 804-3656210 or visit the library at 7527 Library Drive. 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. 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. Lock & Talk Virginia: Lethal Means Safety -- Wednesday, Jan. 22, 6:30-7:30

together to further this important work, so that the agency becomes a national exemplar for issues relating to diversity, equity, and inclusion in law enforcement.” By the end of this year, the state police Recruitment Unit will have made contact with more than 2,300 Virginians and out-of-state residents in its ongoing efforts to build a more diversified workforce by attracting women and men of the highest quality and character. “Virginia’s robust economy makes for a very competitive field among all employers to attract and retain qualified

Ashland-Hanover Local January 22, 2020

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. 15, 22 & 29, 10 a.m.

Cochrane Rockville Branch Library For more information, call 804-7493146 or visit the library at 16600 Pouncey Tract Rd. 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 program. Refreshments 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 suggestions. Refreshments will be provided by the Friends of the Rockville Library. Family Storytimes -- Fridays, Jan 24 & 31, 10:30 a.m. Carolyn Garner may be contacted at cgarner@pamunkeylibrary.org or 804746-3176.

job seekers,” said Secretary of Public Safety and Homeland Security Brian Moran. “In an effort to help state police fill critical positions, Governor Northam committed this year to pay raises for all state employees and previously supported an increase in the starting salary for new state troopers. The launch of the state police recruitment website expands the Department’s reach and access to potential applicants.” Starting salary for a new trooper entering the Virginia State Police Academy is $44,290. Not only do troopertrainees earn a salary while

training at the Academy, but also receive benefits including life insurance, health insurance, sick leave and paid vacation. Twelve months following graduation from the State Police Academy, a new trooper’s annual salary increases to $48,719. Troopers assigned to the Northern Virginia region start at $55,340 upon graduation and then, 12 months after graduation, their annual salary increases to $60,874. For more information on salary, benefits, training, etc., go to www.vatrooper.com and contact a state police recruiter.

thanks for generosity Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com

The Hanover Christmas Mother would like to thank the following for their generous donations to the program: AARP Hanover Chapter No. 5335; John & Miriam Ahladas; Battlefield Post 9808 VFW; Patricia W. Blackwell; Faye Booker; Carolyn & Charles Bost; Carolyn & Joseph S. Bowles Jr. Mr. & Mrs. Ted Boyette; Elsa & Randall Brooks; Ben & Sheryl Burrell; Larry Caldwell; Jean Carter; Gay Cauthorn; Cold Harbor Bridge Group & Friends in honor of Gabie Crutchfield and Hilda Kelly. Bernard H. Cross; Sandra Cullen; Raymond Dorn; Ruth F. Duncan; The Joyful Readers’ Circle Fairfield Presbyterian Church; Friends Class, Fairmount Christian Church; Forever Young Club. Fairmount Christian Church; The Morning Friendship Circle, Fairmount Christian Church; James A. Foster; Jane & Arthur Flippo Foundation; Ardenar Giles; Mary & Robert Grattan III. Jean & Ernest Hall Jr.; Hanover Chamber of Commerce; Hanover Towne Garden Club; Carl & Judy Harrell; John N. & Beverly Hicks; Ralph Lett; David & Julie May. Lucille P. Midyette, John D. & Jo Mitchell; Montpelier Ruritan Club; Leah Moss; Frank T. Overbey; Patrick Henry NJROTC; Philip Morris & Altria Retirees Association. Ellen V. L. Pleasants in loving memory of Austin Brown Pleasants, Charles C. Pleasants, and Danna Singh; King’s

Chapel Presbyterian Women; William Putt; Sue Putze; Carolyn & J. Winston Robertson in honor of the Liz Jones & family and in honor of the Woody Robertson & family; Johnny W. Robinson; Richard & Joyce Rowe in memory of Raymond Pace. Gladys Seymour in honor of Broaddus Baptist Church Office; Judith A. Shortt; Helen & Harold Singleton; Lee & Amanda Sloppy; Ruth Smith; Georgie Stephens. J.C. Stiles III; Harold & Alma Stills; Mary Anna Sylvia; Edna C. Thompson; Andrew & Virginia Tilton; Towne Bank; Timothy Vanzile; M. D. Waddy; Gwen Weinberg; Robert & Janice White. Karon Wood; Carolyn S. & Lesley W. Wright Jr., Janet L. Adams; Richard & Sheryl Bankston; Beaverdam Ruritan Club; Jeffery M. Curran; Dominion Energy CyberGrants Inc. Fairfield Presbyterian Church, Joyful Readers Circle; Betty M. Guess; Mary Ann Hall; Michael & Lauri Harman; Henry Clay Woman’s Club; Patricia & David Hines; James River Nuseries Inc. Jerusalem Baptist Church; Kroger Stores; Elizabeth N. LaPlace; Piecemakers; Michael & Deborah Powell; Sue & Floyd W. Putze Jr. Janet S. Reid. St. James Baptist Church; John Patrick & Marjorie Lynn Stone; and Mr. & Mrs. John H. Woods. Those who would still like to donate may do so at Hanover Christmas Mother, P.O. BOX 39, Doswell VA. 23047. Organizers said, “We would like to thank all who have helped us in our endeavor this year.”


Hanover County Parks and Recreation now accepting applications summer camp staff

Ashland organization seeks input on Railroad Park plan Staff Report news@mechlocal.com

Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com

WINTER SALE Contributed photo

Hanover County Parks and Recreation is planning for summer camp and administrators are looking to welcome dynamic individuals to their seasonal summer camp staff.

camps. Recreation aides are the counselors that lead activities and work with the campers throughout the day. Therapeutic recreation aides offer support to campers with special needs who may need it throughout the exciting day of camp,” she added. Hanover’s camp lineup consists of the EPIC Elementary day camp, Mega Middle camps and Theme camps. EPIC Elementary is a traditional day camp offering for rising 1st to 5th graders. Mega Middle camp is geared for the tween population of rising 6th to 8th graders.

Theme camps are specialized camps, where elementary and middle school-aged youth experience adventure, mental stimulation and creative expression all based around specific themes, including Weird Science, Explore the Outdoors and Kidventures. Apply now, as interviews take place January through March. For more information and to apply for any of these summer positions, visit www. hanovercountyjobs.com or contact Hanover County Parks and Recreation with questions at 804-365-7150 or parksandrec@hanovercounty.gov.

THE ENTIRE STICKLEY LINE

40% OFF 10500 Patterson Avenue | 804-740-3124 1047119-01

ASHLAND -- It’s not too soon to start thinking about summer 2020. Hanover County Parks and Recreation is planning for summer camp and administrators are looking to welcome dynamic individuals to their seasonal summer camp staff. Positions of recreation supervisor, recreation aide, therapeutic recreation aide and volunteer leader-in-training are open and ready to be filled. “We are looking for energetic and passionate and college students, graduate student and teachers to fill the recreation supervisor, recreation aide therapeutic recreation aide positions,” Marcy G. Durrer, recreation program director of Parks & Rec, said. “Rising 9th and 10th graders who enjoy working with children and are looking for work experience are encouraged to apply for the volunteer Leader-in-Training position.” Camps staff are the foundation for Hanover County Parks and Recreation summer camps, according to Durrer. “They are the role models, activity leaders, craft experts, listeners and heart of our summer camps. As a summer staff member, you’ll lead crafts, sports/games, nature activities, music, supervise campers on field trips and enjoy special visitors to your camp. Join in the fun and make a difference in the life of a child in your community!” Recreation supervisors work in the winter months training and planning their

ASHLAND – The Downtown Ashland Association is seeking the community's input on the concept of a Railroad Park. Lorie Foley, president of the organization, said, “We invite you to a presentation and discussion on Thursday, Jan. 23, at 7 p.m. in Ashland Library. Please come to hear about our proposal and share your thoughts.” According to Foley the Downtown Ashland Association is suggesting “creating a permanent walking tour through Downtown

Ashland, presented as a series of small parks. Each park or exhibit would tell a piece of Ashland's railroad story, from the 1830s through today.” “The goal is for the Railroad Park to serve as an attraction and entertainment in Downtown Ashland, showcasing our town's unique story and increasing foot traffic to support local businesses,” she added. Residents’ opinions are requested, whether they are able to take part in the meeting. The online survey may be found at https:// www.surveymonkey.com/r/KZFD7QJ.

Mon & Fri 9am-8pm | Tues, Wed, Thurs & Sat 9am-6pm | Closed Sun

w w w.v a w a y s i d e . n e t Ashland-Hanover Local January 22, 2020 5


OPINION

LETTERS

| The Local Views

| Reader Views

From the managing editor

Thanks for supporting transplant efforts By Melody Kinser Managing Editor verwhelmed. That word best describes the response I received to last week’s column about a friend in need of a kidney transplant. Responses came in quickly via voicemail and emails. My heart was filled with the compassion and sincere attitudes of those who had benefited from transplants, as well as those -- like me -- have made the commitment to donate their organs when the end comes. I haven’t even talked to my friend about the column, but I will have called her by the time this appears in print. I will be seeking more information on

O

becoming a donor. One of the respondents reminded me that you may not be a match for one person but you are for another and the organs are, for lack of a better word, traded. That’s fine with me. Are you on a bone marrow transplant list? That’s been on my to-do list for too long. I must take action. As I’ve aged, the reality of what we can do beyond this life has become more important. It certainly became the case for me when I learned how dire my friend’s status is now. I am filled with pride to know that I live in a community that strongly supports the transplant process. To recipients and donors alike, God bless you for sharing your stories.

Yes, I will be following up with those folks who are willing to talk about their experience. It will comes down to saving a life. And, as in my situation, it’s the life of a very dear friend. She lives in West Virginia, so I don’t get to see her as often as I’d like, but the bond of friendship is unbreakable. And, as I said last week, I know her husband is providing the best care possible for her. To those who reached out, thank you. I will be contacting you about your story. Transplants save lives, and we should all make arrangements to become donors. It’s as simple as a check mark on your driver’s license. You never know when you or a loved one may be the one in need.

Gordon Ramsay puts his touch on a favorite eatery By Jim Ridolphi Contributing Columnist Gordon Ramsay brought his unique brand of obnoxious behavior to Tappahannock recently in an effort to revive and reboot a Virginia institution. Lowery’s has been around as long as I can remember. In fact, I can remember when there were two restaurants — one on each side of the Rappahannock River. I’m not sure of the story surrounding that arrangement, but the

landmark location in the small town has been the stalwart of the operation for many years. There’s no doubt Lowery’s has stood the test of time, and many a Virginia family has assembled for special occasions or reunions at the landmark on the river. Like many eateries, Lowery’s has experienced challenges in recent years with an aging customer base and a menu that hasn’t changed much in

Editorial & Business Office and Mailing Address: 8460 Times-Dispatch Blvd. Mechanicsville, VA 23116 Phone – (804) 746-1235 Toll free – (877) 888-0449 Fax – (804) 730-0476 Online: www.mechlocal.com

Publisher Managing Editor Production Manager Sports Editor Sales Representative Classifieds

6

Joy Monopoli

jmonopoli@rsnva.com

Melody Kinser

mkinser@mechlocal.com

Denine D’Angelo

ddangelo@mechlocal.com

David Lawrence

dlawrence@mechlocal.com

Tom Haynie

thaynie@mechlocal.com

Cindy Adams

cadams@mechlocal.com

Ashland-Hanover Local January 22, 2020

decades. Ramsay thought it was the perfect mark for his set of skills, and he arrived to revamp the once thriving location. Now, I am assuming that every restaurant owner is fully aware that inviting Ramsay’s crew for a makeover is risky business, and there’s rarely an episode where someone isn’t verbally whacked by his heavily-accented tirades. Add to that the fact that the tactless

host showed up incognito and exposed inadequacies that included less than fresh seafood being served to customers. There wasn’t much that Gordon did like in the landmark eatery. He immediately reduced the number of items on the expansive menu, and reorganized the kitchen staff and spiced up the familiar but outdated and tired decor. see RAMSAY, pg. 16

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 © 2020 by Richmond Suburban Newspapers. All advertising and editorial matter is fully protected and may not be reproduced in any manner without the permission of the publisher. CAC Audited Circulation: 13,776.

Outright ban on owning firearms unconstitutional “Paranoia strikes deep in the heartland.” This was my first thought after letter-writer Jeff Kleb said that those wanting sensible gun regulations are “wannabe tyrants” who will “inch us closer to their totalitarian objective of a disarmed citizenry.” I’m getting tired of hearing such uninformed rants. The Supreme Court decision McDonald v. City of Chicago (passed in 2010 during Obama’s presidency) made it clear that an outright ban on ownership of all kinds of firearms would be unconstitutional. Why don’t the Jeff Klebs out there stop pretending it’s not the law or that it’s only a worthless, unenforceable interpretation of the Constitution? It is not. What is allowable under the Constitution are laws that have been passed and found constitutional at the state and local level, which (1) prevent persons with no legal right to own firearms to purchase them from “private sellers” without having their backgrounds checked, (2) prevent citizens from firing dozens of high-velocity bullets in seconds, (3) prevent someone to fire those bullets in urban areas where they can pass through walls and across streets, and (4) prevent an individual in severe crisis to remain armed until after he takes his own life or the lives of others. These laws are considered “sensible regulations” to the majority of American citizens and their passage will not occur without the intense scrutiny of pro-gun advocates. I’m hoping anxious pro-gun folks will cool their jets and will increasingly present themselves as knowledgeable about the law and less cynical about the agenda of those wanting more control over firearms. John Schuiteman Ashland see LETTERS, pg. 8


CALENDAR

F

ax submissions to calendar to 730-0476, email to events@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.

| News, Updates & Listings Wednesday, Feb. 5 The Montpelier Ruritan Club will host a public meeting at 8 p.m. at the Montpelier Parks & Recreation Building located at 17203 Sycamore Tavern Lane in Montpelier, during which information about the new countywide transportation system, Hanover DASH, will be discussed. The Hanover DASH Program provides transportation for Hanover County residents 60 years old or older or persons with a short-term or long-term disability. A participant can obtain a ride to hospitals, doctors’ offices and other locations in Hanover County and other designated areas. This is a door-to-door service or curb to curb service and the cost is only $6 one way. A member of Hanover Community Resources will

address the service. Senior citizens and individuals with a disability are encouraged to attend. For more information, call Dan Johnson at 804-8837249.

the lobby of the Pamunkey Regional Jail at 7240 Courtland Farm Rd. in Hanover. For more information, contact John Shinholser, McShin president, at 804-249-1845. The website is http://www.mcshin.org.

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.

Tuesdays

Sundays

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

Outside the Walls, a new Narcotics Anonymous group, has been organized and will meet from 6 to 7 p.m. in

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.

Activities Center at 500 S. Railroad Ave. in Ashland, just south of U.S. 54. Membership is open to anyone who can read music and play a non-string instrument. High school students are welcome with parents’ permission. For more information, visit www.hanoverconcertband.org or call 804-789-0536.

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 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.

HURRY - LIMITED TIME OFFER!

Pets of the Week Photos submitted by Andrew Hodnett

The Hanover County Pound, located at 12471 Taylor Complex Lane in Ashland, has wonderful pets available to a good home. Missy, Animal ID# 573115, is a 2-year-old female beagle/pitbull canine. She has had her first set of vaccines given and is Heartworm test negative. Missy is a very nice girl who has been at the shelter for a few weeks now. She came in as a stray. Missy is playful and sweet. She loves to talk to you when she wants your attention. Missy gets along well with other dogs too. She loves to run. Missy was more than likely an outdoor dog before, but she has adjusted well to her indoor kennel. She will be a good companion for any owner. Coconut, Animal ID# 573522, is a 3-year-old (estimated) female domestic shorthaired feline. She has had her first set of vaccines and is FELV/FIV test negative. Coconut is a sweetheart. She loves people. Coconut was a stray cat, but you can tell she was someone’s cat. She is well litter-trained. Coconut really likes to be held and pet. She seems to do well around other cats. She will make a good indoor companion. For more information on these great pets, as well as the many more still in need of homes at the Hanover County Pound Facility, call 804-365-6485 during the day. The hours are 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday. The facility is closed on Sunday and county holidays. You also can visit the website to see other animals available for adoption at http://hanovercounty.gov/Animals/Adopt-a-Pet/.

Foundation Repair Basement Waterproofing Crawl Space Encapsulation Concrete Lifting

Don’t Wait!

888-533-6922 * Valid on any one job of $3,000 or more. Coupon must be presented at time of inspection. May not combined with any other offer. Offer valid through 1/31/20.

Ashland-Hanover Local January 22, 2020 7


EQUITY Continued from pg. 1

If approved at next month’s meeting, staff will prepare an annual equity report that will include information on equitable opportunities, student achievement, discipline outcomes human resources and resource allocation. The Community Equity Board assisted in the preparation of the new policy, and will continue to meet and provide annual recommendations to the board. Finally, the division’s long-range plans will contain specific equity-related goals and methods to achieve them. Rachel Levy, representing Together Hanover, endorsed the new policy during a public comment period at last week’s meeting. “We would like to thank the Equity Committee for all of their work in general and in particular would like to voice our enthusiastic support for the full proposed equity policy that will be the subject of a first read on your agenda tonight,” Levy said. She indicated the new policy would result in a safer environment for students. “We have many members in our organization who identify as LGBTQ or who are allies of the LGBTQ community, and many of us have children who identify as

LBGTQ,” Levy said. “We are sometimes concerned about their safety in Hanover schools.” Levy said the new policy is a much needed step for Hanover schools. “ She said the new policy would help “Hanover County Public Schools to foster and nurture an equitable and safe educational experience for LGBTQ students that accepts and acknowledges those students’ identities.” “We urge the School Board to support this policy in its entirety,” Levy concluded. Also during the public comment period, two students made poignant presentations addressing their own brand of equity. A seventh-grader revealed her struggle with eating disorders and expressed a desire for Hanover schools to better inform and educate students and teachers regarding the problem. She suggested that at least one health class each year focus on eating disorders and each school have a point of contact for students struggling with the problem. The seventh-grader’s mother explained that children with eating disorders are 12 times as likely to commit suicide. Another parent and her son spoke in favor of inclusion in Hanover schools for students with special needs. Allison Thurman, chairman of the county Special Education Advisory

LETTERS Continued from pg. 6

All voters urged to take part in election process As the Presidential Primary election arrives on March 3, I just wanted to remind everyone that there will be a Democratic Primary; however, no Republican Primary will be held. I say this because I want to alleviate confusion and make sure Republican voters don't show up to the polls unless they choose to. I ask everyone who wants to vote in the Democratic Primary to do so even if they identify as a Republican. It is, in my opinion, voting for the candidate that most fits your view will result in better governance. Every election (even primaries) are extremely important and voting in them will result in better representation. I look forward to seeing each and every voter

8

Committee, said classroom inclusion plays a major role in determining the success of special needs children when they venture out into independent living situations. “You should be the same with me as you are with everybody else,” her son said. He expressed a desire to attend college and his love for Guitar Hero, not unlike many students in his age group. In other matters, the board announced a policy that would reward any employee that successfully recruits a school bus driver. Both the driver and the recruiter will receive $500 if the driver completes the entire year. The recent resignation of board chair Roger Bourassa and elevation of Sue Dibble to the Hanover County Board of Supervisors leaves the school board with only five members and required reorganization at last week’s meeting. John Axselle will serve as chair and Ola Hawkins will be vice chair for the remainder of the year. Another member will be appointed for the South Anna seat at a Board of Supervisors meeting later this month, and Bourassa’s vacancy will be filled next month. The annual budget process continues and a public hearing on the proposed document is scheduled for 7 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 28, at the Central Office.

at the polls. P.S. If you are interested in working the election, please reach out to your local registrar’s office. Alex Culp Mechanicsville

Resident says no compromise with NAACP The NAACP is a well-funded national organization that is clearly not interested in the betterment of humanity as a whole. They should be spending their money where it makes a difference like the inner cities of America, and of Richmond, just 10 miles away, where the very people they claim to advance are struggling with real life crises today. They should not be investing in cozenage away from reality here in Hanover County. Yet, instead they chose to spend their money on lawyers and apocryphal lawsuits bullying the citizens of Hanover County into demonizing

Ashland-Hanover Local January 22, 2020

DASH Continued from pg. 2

except for those needing a specialized vehicle such as a wheelchair van. Ambulatory riders will be served through nonshared passenger vehicles. This service is available to all income levels. Application forms are available at www.HanovereDash.org. The Department of Community Resources will manage the Hanover DASH program and will review your application and verify your eligibility.

PRIMARY Continued from pg. 1

Absentee Ballot Application or at vote.virginia.gov. “Virginia citizens who wish to vote absentee must be registered to vote. Citizens can register to vote online or by submitting a completed voter registration application

prominent Virginians. The lawsuit against the school system in Hanover County is sophistical, tyrannical, and propaganda in its simplest form. The NAACP is hoping for an easy victory in their credulous motives, with the citizens of Hanover County compromising outside of the court room -- a compromise that will be borne in monetary leverage by the NAACP and not in true bipartisanship with the Hanover County citizenry. Under the conditions premised by the NAACP, there can be no compromise. The citizens of Hanover County should stand up to the NAACP and expose this lawsuit for what it really is, the promotion of division, hate, and propaganda to push a political agenda of tyranny, selfishness, and fallacy. If the Hanover County School Board is fearful they do not have the monetary resources for defense in this lawsuit, I am confident there is support from the citizenry. All that needs to be done is ask. I am not talking about support from extreme organizations like Nazis or Unite the Right, but about support from legitimate, concerned everyday

“We believe that this new specialized transportation program will make a big difference for many of our residents, and we are grateful to the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation and the Board of Supervisors for making this possible,” said Deputy County Administrator Jim Taylor. “Hanover County has identified the need for specialized transportation for some time, and it’s exciting to see a new service taking shape.” Information submitted by Tom Harris, Hanover County public information officer. to our voter registration office,” Smithson said. “The last day to register or update your personal information to vote in the Democratic Party Primary is Monday, Feb. 10, 2020. Registrations must be received or postmarked by this date,” she added. see PRIMARY, pg. 7

people that want sanity, equality, and peace. Gregory A. Wetzel Mechanicsville

Reader defends Trump and his work with welfare Joan Austen ends her rhetoric in "America needs a President for the People" with "We need a President who has the interest of the people of America". And you say make America great again was in the past? Did you just land on Plymouth Rock? Or do you live in a vacuum? If you want to help the poor, homeless and hungry, start a soup kitchen, pay their medical and welcome them into your home. Because Trump has done more to get people off welfare than you can possibly imagine. And you say he's self-absorbed. He doesn't take a salary ... how's that for self-absorbed? John St George Mechanicsville


UPCOMING EVENTS

01

24 2020

Girls/boys basketball: Patrick Henry at Lee-Davis 6:00 p.m./7:30 p.m.

01

25 2020

Prep track: St. Christopher’s Indoor Invitational 10:00 a.m.

| Youth, High School, College, Recreational & Professional

Patriot girls stifle Raider offense in win By Rob Witham for Ashland-Hanover Local ASHLAND – After what could have been a soul-crushing loss last week to unbeaten Hanover, Patrick Henry girls basketball entered Friday’s home game against rival Atlee with two wins for the week, looking to make it three and jumpstart their Region 4B playoff hopes. On this night, it was the Patriots, and not their opponent, who clicked on all cylinders, playing perhaps their best half of basketball so far this season, building a 15-point halftime lead and holding it for a 48-33 victory over the Raiders to improve to 8-5. “We were prepared. We put the time in this week, we were focused, we had a game plan,” said Patrick Henry girls head coach Phillip Cobb. “We changed some things up to try to shake things up a little bit in practice, focus a little bit more, and it definitely proved beneficial tonight.” Defense was key. Patrick Henry committed to stopping Atlee guards Kayla Maxson and Kelly Ayer. Maxson went 0-for4 from the field in the first quarter as the Patriots built a 12-2 lead while the Raiders saw inside presence Grace Gulliford commit two fouls. T’Niyah Baylor scored 7 of her 10 points in that first

period. Ava Smith and Logan Nuckols combined for 17 firsthalf points. Meanwhile, Ayer scored her first and only points of the half with 4:32 left in the second to make it 19-8 Patriots, while Maxson scored her 5 first-half points in the final 2:44 even as Patrick Henry built its lead. The Patriot guards would hound Ayer and Maxson all game long. Maxson would pick up 8 points in the second half, but Atlee could never seriously threaten, as Patrick Henry’s defense turned in a standout perimeter performance. Smith led Patrick Henry with 7 points, while Nuckols had 10 and Jessica Osuanah added 8, all during the first half. Maxson led Atlee (10-4) with 13 points while Ava Kelvin scored 6. With Region 4B splitting their ten playoff spots into groups of five, one group for teams north of the Richmond area, the other for teams in the Richmond area, Patrick Henry fights with Hanover, perennial power Monacan, Huguenot and others for a playoff bid. Atlee, in Region 5B, is in good shape for now, but nothing is secured with 17 teams vying for 10 spots. The same is true for the boys, as Patrick Henry, who started the season 4-2, saw a see STIFLE, pg. 11

Rachel Witham for The Local

Atlee guard Khari Rucker (21) looks to grab possession from Patrick Henry’s Logan Nuckols (right) during the Patriots’ 48-33 victory Friday over the Raiders. Nuckols scored 10 points for the Patriots, who won their third consecutive game

Ashland-Hanover Local January 22, 2020

9


Yellow Jackets exact revenge against Quakers By Rob Witham For the Mechanicsville Local ASHLAND – Entering Saturday, Randolph-Macon senior Corey Bays had just 5 points in his last two games, shooting a combined 2-for-11 from the field. In two minutes against defending Old Dominion Athletic Conference champion Guilford, Bays erased that frustration, jumpstarting his Yellow Jackets with a personal 8-0 run as sixth-ranked RandolphMacon exacted some revenge for two painful losses to the Quakers last season with a 64-39 victory and holding Guilford to its+ lowest point output of the season. Ian Robertson, who led Randolph-Macon (15-1, 7-0) with 15 points, remembered the frustration well. “They were the only team in the ODAC we didn’t beat last year,” Robertson noted. “We were up by 15 at Guilford last year at halftime and we lost, and they beat us in the ODAC championship. They’re a tough team. We had to be the tougher team, and be more physical than them.” The Yellow Jackets did so in the interior, in spite of the presence of Kyler Gregory, a 6-foot-6 bruiser who led the Quakers with 11 points. But Randolph-Macon only allowed Guilford 12 points in the paint. That, combined with 24.5 percent shooting from the field, made for a long afternoon for the defending champs. Robertson helped put away the Quakers by hitting four of his five 3-pointers in the second half, one capping a 7-0 run to give Randolph-Macon a 44-27 lead with 12:04 to go. Later, another triple from the right side put a big smile on Robertson’s face. The final nail in the Quakers’

10

Joel Klein for The Local

Left, Randolph-Macon’s Charlotte Woods (15) grabs one of her game high 10 rebounds much to the chagrin of Roanoke’s Corinne McPadden (35) in the Yellow Jackets’ 76-69 loss to the visiting Maroons Saturday. Above, Randolph-Macon’s Josh Talbert (22) drives past Guilford’s Jaylen Gore (12) for 2 of his 8 points in the Yellow Jackets’ 64-39 victory over the rival Quakers Saturday.

coffin was a sequence with 9:31 to go where the Yellow Jackets missed on three shots inside, but rebounded at will. Miles Mallory finally sent the ball through the cylinder, sending

Ashland-Hanover Local January 22, 2020

the Quakers’ spirit to the showers. “He was awesome,” Randolph-Macon head coach Josh Merkel said of Robertson’s defensive work. “We challenged

them the past couple of days. Because (Ian) is high character, because all of these guys are coachable, they answered the challenge. He did it for his teammates.”

Bays ended with 11 points, while Mallory and Buzz Anthony each had 9. The Yellow Jackets dished out 23 assists and committed just six turnovers. Randolph-Macon heads to

Virginia Wesleyan Wednesday night, one of two teams at 6-1 in ODAC play, a game behind the 7-0 Yellow Jackets. The Marlins are 14-2 overall and will be a huge test. Before the men’s victory, the women celebrated “Back To The Hive”, a homecoming event seeing Crenshaw packed with past players rooting on this year’s Yellow Jacket squad. It ended in disappointing fashion as Roanoke used a 16-7 run in the middle of the second half to pull away for a 76-69 victory. Tied at 38 midway through the third period, RandolphMacon (6-8, 5-4), watched as the Maroons scored 12 of the game’s next 15 points. A Janelle De Guzman trey with 20 secsee REVENGE, pg. 11


Rogers picked as Hawks head football coach Hanover High School turned to a familiar face Wednesday when it named Sam Rogers its new football coach. A 2013 Hanover graduate, Rogers walked on at Virginia Tech before becoming a starter and scholarship player and being drafted into the NFL. He was taken by the Los Angeles Rams in the sixth round of the 2017 draft but never appeared in a regular-season game. Since leaving the pro ranks, he was an assistant coach at Benedictine in 2018 and Hanover’s offensive coordinator in 2019. He runs his own personal training business at Sports Reality Performance Training across the street from Hanover High. As a high schooler, Rogers was a quarterback and fierce rusher. He was the TimesDispatch offensive player of the year as a senior, and he graduated Hanover with school records in touchdowns (93), passing yards (3,778) and rushing yards (4,070). He also was a scholarathlete finalist, graduating with a 4.14 GPA. Coaching at his alma mater was something that has been in the back of his mind for awhile. Then when the job opened up, he felt he needed to apply. “It was something I felt called to do,” Rogers said. “I wanted to throw my hat in the ring and get Hanover back where it’s supposed to be.” Rogers replaces interim coach David Butler, who went 2-8 in 2019. Between 2007 and 2015, Hanover boasted one of the area’s top programs. It won nine games or more six times in that span and reached the state semifinals four times. But in the past four seasons, Hanover has struggled to win,

become rapid and the workload is increasing at a rate higher than the pay, coaches are being hired at younger and younger ages – especially if they have name recognition. Perry Jones, a University of Virginia grad, was hired last year by Glen Allen at age 28. He was one of 12 new coaches in the area in 2019. Phillip Sims, an alumnus of Alabama, Virginia and the NFL, was 24 when he was hired by John Marshall in 2017. There will be at least five new coaches in 2020. Meadowbrook hired Kevin Healy earlier this month, and there are openings at Varina, J.R. Tucker and Huguenot. Eric Kolenich can be reached at ekolenich@timesdispatch. com.

notching no more than three wins per season. The program has suffered declines in participation, as it must convince kids to play football in a community

where lacrosse is on the rise. Between 2012 and 2018, the number of players on the Hanover football roster dropped from 82 to 44, a

46 percent decline. Only two schools in the Richmond area have suffered steeper drops. Rogers said restocking the program starts with the kids

who are already on the team. He’ll have to build a culture the kids can believe in, and in turn, convince other players to join. “The best recruiters are the kids themselves,” Rogers said. In 2019, Hanover used a spread offense that utilized run-pass option and zoneread principles, contrasting the power running style Hanover often employed when Rogers was quarterback. He said he’ll continue to adapt the offense based on the players’ abilities. At age 24, Rogers becomes one of the youngest football coaches ever hired in the Richmond area. Not long ago, high school football coaches typically spent 5 or 10 years working their way up as assistants. Now, as turnover in high school football coaching has

STIFLE

remembered to play our style.” Tuesday was a 73-39 drubbing at Henrico. Friday, Atlee played deliberate basketball, never allowing Patrick Henry, now 4-5, to establish a sustained rhythm despite trailing most of the contest. Tysen Brown scored 8 points in the first half for the Patriots, but was held to 2 in the second. Myles Derricott scored all 10 of his points before intermission. Jayden Mines, who had 2 first-half points, led the Patriots in their frustrating second half with 6, finishing with 8. Atlee felt frustration, too. After taking the lead, two possessions were squandered. After a timeout, the Raiders scored

to up the lead to 3. With under a minute left, the Patriots had a chance to tie but missed a 3-pointer. Warren, who led Atlee with 21 points, hit two free throws with 30 seconds left to seal it. The Patriots will look to right the ship Friday at LeeDavis, while Atlee heads to Hanover, in a familiar position when it comes to postseason hopes. “We were in the same spot last year, so we talked about it,” Axselle explained. “We did it last year, and, we have to do it, or else we’re going to be out of the playoffs.” Rob Witham can be reached at sports@mechlocal.com.

Patrick Henry forward Tysen Brown (23) drives the baseline as Atlee’s Kemondre Claiborne (right) defends in the Raiders’ 4036 victory over the Patriots Friday night. Brown and teammate Myles Derricott each scored 10 points for Patrick Henry.

period saw the Maroons dominate again, a 10-3 run for a Continued from pg. 10 60-47 lead. Randolph-Macon responded with an 8-0 run onds left in the third period cut to cut the margin to 5 with 4 minutes left. Becca Arrington’s the deficit to 50-44. The first 3:23 of the fourth 3-pointer with 2:42 left got

Randolph-Macon within 4 at 64-60, but two empty possessions late allowed Roanoke to put it away at the free-throw line. Michal Ross and Kelly Williams each had 18 points for

the Yellow Jackets, now alone in sixth place in the conference as they prepare for a rematch with Hollins University at Crenshaw Gymnasium Saturday at 2 p.m. The Yellow Jackets defeated Hollins 61-51 on Jan. 4, and

By Eric Kolenich Richmond Times-Dispatch

Nick Liberante for The Local

Sam Rogers smiles during his last home game at Virginia Tech. The Hanover graduate was named the Hawks’ head football coach.

Continued from pg. 9

home win slip away late as Atlee came from behind late to steal a 40-36 victory Friday. While defense ruled, both offenses struggled to find footing as well. It wasn’t until Tyler Warren hit a jumper with 4:04 left in the game when Atlee (7-7) took the lead at 35-34. “We told them before the game this could be a 65-60 game, or we could win 40-38,” Atlee boys head coach Rally Axselle said, almost picking the final score exactly. “Tuesday did not go well for us. We regrouped Wednesday and Thursday and

REVENGE

Rachel Witham for The Local

now must collect as many victories as possible down the stretch to at least ensure a home game in the first round of the ODAC tournament on Feb. 24. Rob Witham can be reached at sports@mechlocal.com.

Ashland-Hanover Local January 22, 2020

11


Randolph-Macon announces schedule of upcoming programs Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com ASHLAND – The following programs are scheduled for the new year at Randolph-Macon College. 2 p.m. Feb. 9 -- Richmond Symphony Orchestra Metro Collection -- Pre-Doncert Lecture SunTrust Theater, Brock Commons at 304 Henry St. 3 p.m. Concert, Blackwell Auditorium, R-MC Center for the Performing Arts. Laura Jackson, conductor. Daisuke Yamamoto, violin. Molly Sharp, viola. Gabriela Lena Frank’s Concertina Cusqueño, Mozart’s Sinfonia concertante in E-flat Major. K. 364, Britten’s Variations on a Theme of Frank Bridge, Opus 10, Bartok’s Romanian Folk Dances. Contact: Richmond Symphony Box Office 804788-1212 Feb. 23-March 28 – 3 to 5 p.m. Opening Reception on Feb. 23; exhibit from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, Feb. 23 to March 28 at Flippo Gallery, Pace-Armistead Hall at 211 N. Center St. An invitational show of nationally recognized and emerging ceramic artists curated by Mike Jabbur and Birdie Boone. This exhibit includes works by Birdie Boone, Katie Fee,

MRMC Continued from pg. 1

“Bon Secours is committed to serving the health care needs of the residents of this growing area. The expansion of Memorial Regional will allow us to respond to the growing need for inpatient bed capacity due to increased complexity of inpatient services and population growth, especially growth in the population of ages 65 and older,” said Leigh Sewell, president, Bon Secours Memorial Regional Medical Center. The planned expansion will increase the hospital’s capacity to a total of 269 acute care beds and will include the following: Expansion of intensive care beds from 24 to 35 beds. Expansion of medical/ surgical beds from 185 to 218 beds.

12

Stuart Gair, Chris Gustin, Hiroe Hanazono, Mike Jabbur, Maggie Jaszczak, Candice Methe, Lindsay Oesterritter, Mark Pharis, Jane Shellenbarger, and Chris Staley and offers a deeper look into the artistic process and life of the ceramic vessel. 7 p.m. Feb. 26 -- Watkins Lecture Series: “An Evening with Bill Bryson” at Blackwell Auditorium, R-MC Center for the Performing Arts at 205 Henry St. Best-selling author Bill Bryson is one of the country’s most beloved and prolific commentators. Known for his quirky observations and comic sensibility, he has chronicled everything from hiking the Appalachian Trail in A Walk in the Woods (named one of TIME magazine's “All-TIME 100 Best Nonfiction Books”) to capturing the zeitgeist of the Roaring Twenties in One Summer: America 1927. With more than 20 books in circulation, Bryson charms audiences with the same warmth, goofy wit and self-effacing humor that has made his work so universally appealing. Bryson’s latest book is The Body: A Guide for Occupants. A Q&A and book signing will follow the lecture. 6 p.m. March 2-- “The Generation after Suffrage: Women in Party Politics in the mid20th Century” in the Dollar Tree Room, Brock

The vertical expansion will be consistent with the current design of the hospital building.. The accommodations will allow for a smooth transition between the current footprint and the expanded floors, as well as added parking. As part of the COPN application review process, Bon Secours seeks letters and written comments of support for the expansion. Members of the community who wish to share their experiences and support for the project are asked to address their letters to Leigh Sewell, President, Memorial Regional Medical Center, 8260 Atlee Rd., Mechanicsville VA 23116. An email copy of letters also may be sent to Meredith White at MEREDITH_ WHITE@bshsi.org. (note the “_” between Meredith and White).

Ashland-Hanover Local January 22, 2020

Commons at 304 Henry St. One century after American women obtained the vote, they are still finding their footing in politics. Melissa Estes Blair, associate professor of contemporary U.S. history at Auburn University, will discuss beliefs about female citizenship within the presidential administrations of the mid-20th century. Estes Blair paints a compelling portrait of a tradeoff women faced in national politics in the generation after suffrage. 7:30 p.m. March 5 -- Phi Beta Kappa Visiting Scholar in the SunTrust Theater, Brock Commons at 304 Henry St. Stacey Sinclair, professor of psychology and public affairs at Princeton University, will deliver a lecture sponsored by Phi Beta Kappa. Sinclair’s research examines how interpersonal interactions translate culturally held prejudices into individual thoughts and actions, and investigates the ramifications for the health and intellectual performance of members of stigmatized groups. 7 p.m. March 10 -- “A Conversation with Kevin Young” in the Dalton Room, Birdsong Hall at106 E. Patrick St. New Yorker poetry editor Kevin Young is the author of 11 books of poetry and the non-fiction work Bunk: The Rise of Hoaxes, Humbug, Plagiarists, Phonies,

Richweb and Pixel Factory present Business After Hours tomorrow Staff Report news@mechlocal.com ASHLAND – Richweb and Pixel Factory will host Business After Hours from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 23, at 9680 Atlee Commons Drive in Ashland. According to the Hanover Chamber of Commerce, Richweb specializes in Cloud, Managed Services and Web with its own Data center that delivers high quality engineered solutions for small to medium businesses.

With the Business After Hours series, Chamber members tour the county and visit 10 Hanover companies. The events are described as relaxing while offering an opportunity for networking. Guests or a customer are invited to attend with a member. Registration is $20 for members (early) or $35 for non-members. Nibbles and beverages will be provided. Payment online; check or cash only on-site.

Costa Rica field trip discussion set Feb 1 Staff Report news@mechlocal.com MECHANICSVILLE -- Local Hanover teachers are taking students – ages 14 and up -- on a field trip to Costa Rica in July 2020. A meeting to discuss the trip will be held from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 1, at the Mechanicsville

Public Library at 7461 Sherwood Drive in Mechanicsville. Parents/guardians/friends can travel too. The trip is being coordinated with the company “Education First.” In addition to learning about the trip, free pizza will be available (while supplies last).

Post-Facts, and Fake News. In 2019, Young was named a TIME Magazine Champion of Culture. 7 p.m. March 11-14 – Base in the Cobb Theatre at the R-MC Center for the Performing Arts at 205 Henry St.; conceived by Alexander Dotson, Class of 2020. Devised through a collaborative effort, using an ensemble approach toward performance and directing, Base is a vaguely sci-fi story set in a near or alternative future, following a free clinic in the poorest part of the city and the doctor who runs it. Tickets: Free for R-MC students, faculty and staff; $5 for general public. Box Office: 804-752-7316. 7 p.m. March 17 -- “Parent-Child Separation on the Border: Child Rights, Foster Care and Adoption” in the Dollar Tree Room, Brock Commons at304 Henry St. Thousands of children and their families have been detained on the U.S. Southwestern border. Some youth have been detained in facilities, while other children have entered the foster care and adoption system. Karen Smith Rotabi, professor of social work at California State University, will give an update on the circumstances of children in these conditions. Information submitted by Kathryn DiPasqua, marketing generalist, Randolph-Macon College.

PRIMARY Continued from pg. 8

In-person absentee voting started on Thursday, Jan. 16, and will continue until Saturday, Feb. 29. Smithson’s office hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday. The deadline to request an absentee ballot by mail is 5 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 25. Smithson recommended applying as early as possible to avoid delays in mail delivery. Absentee ballots returned by mail must be received in her office by 7 p.m. on Election Day, SMITHSON March 3. Voters can request an absentee ballot online at vote.virginia.gov. Virginia law requires voters to present an acceptable photo ID when voting in-person. For a list of acceptable forms of photo identification or to find out how to obtain a free Virginia Voter Photo ID Card, visit vote.virginia. gov. Voters also can find information about the upcoming election and check their registration status on the site. For more information, contact Smithson’s office at 804-365-6080.


Youth can apply for livestock exhibitor scholarships Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com

Registration is open for K9 Heroes Day, featuring Pooch Pursuit 5K/2K MECHANICSVILLE -- Hanover County Parks and Recreation invites runners, joggers and walkers, with and without their canine companions, to register for the Pooch Pursuit 5K-2K on Saturday, April 18, 2020 starting at 9:30 a.m., at Pole Green Park at 8996 Pole Green Park Lane in Mechanicsville. The deadline to register is Wednesday, April 15, but don’t delay as the first 100 registered participants will receive a t-shirt and pet friendly goodie bag. Registration fees are $30 for each 5K runner/walker and $15 for each 2K jogger/walker. Runners, joggers and walkers are

welcome to participate with their canine companion at no additional cost. Pre-registration is required and can be done online by visiting www. hanoverparksrec.com. Awards will be presented to 5K runners in overall team (runner and canine) and individual (runner only) and age categories. Everyone, including runners, joggers and walkers are encouraged to stay for this special event honoring our K9 heroes and companions. The event will highlight a variety of pet-friendly vendors, amazing demonstrations and K9 Fun Zone filled with activities and games.

K9 Heroes Day, featuring Pooch Pursuit 5K-2K will be held on Saturday, April 18, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Pole Green Park. The event is free to attend and is family friendly. All dogs must remain on a secure lease and have current license and rabies vaccination. For more information, contact Hanover County Parks and Recreation, at 804-365-7150 or parksandrec@ hanovercounty.gov. Information submitted by Marcy G. Durrer, recreation program director, Hanover County Parks and Recreation.

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.

The Iron Giant’ to be presented Jan. 25 as part of ‘Ausome Movies’ series at Ashland Theatre Staff Report news@mechlocal.com ASHLAND – “The Iron Giant” will get underway at noon on Saturday, Jan. 25, at the Ashland Theatre at 205 England St. in Ashland as part of the “Ausome Movies” series. Ausome Movies, which is presented by the Ashland Theatre and Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation, is a free monthly sensory-friendly film series for children with special sensory needs and their families. The program creates an inclusive space for families with children on the autism spectrum to enjoy a stress-free show at Ashland Theatre. There is no need to be concerned if a child talks, yells, dances,

sings, or strolls. It is all acceptable and welcome at Ausome Movies. Ausome Movies is a yearlong program that will offer frequency and repetition to allow children with ASD to strengthen their social skills. Additional features are: For children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other developmental disabilities. Phone reservation is required to attend each showing. Movie starts at a precise time (no trailers are shown). Lights are dim, not totally dark. Sound is lowered. Allocated floor space is available for children who prefer to watch from the ground instead of a chair.

Outside snacks and drinks permitted. Trained volunteers on site to assist. Supervised activities offered in lobby if child needs a safe space to take a break from the show. To secure your free seats, call 804-401-7007, extension 210. Leave a voicemail reservation with your name, phone number, and number of people in your party (up to four per family), as seating is limited. An Ashland Theatre staff person will call back to confirm the reservation. To learn more about the series, go to www. ashlandtheatre.org or contact: Maggie Latimer at 804-401-7007, extension 202, or maggie@ashlandtheatre.org or Susan Cantrell at susancantrell730@ gmail.com.

Submitted Logo

Ashland-Hanover Local January 22, 2020 13


FOR YOUR ENTERTAINMENT

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

1/22-1/23

FOOD SERVICE WORD SEARCH

HOROSCOPES

14

50. Wipe out 55. Invests in little enterprises 56. Waste 57. Resembles a large shrimp 59. Derogatory name for rural resident 60. Menswear accessory 61. Tropical American tree 62. Pitching statistic 63. Camera type 64. Cardinal number that is the sum of five and one CLUES DOWN 1. Surgical procedure of the heart (abbr.) 2. Northern Scandinavia indigenous person 3. Evergreen trees and shrubs 4. Meat from a domestic hog 5. State of insensibility 6. Herb 7. Annuity 8. San Diego-based ballplayer 9. Members of a Semitic people 10. Any physical damage 12. Woolen rug 14. Alsos Mission leader 19. Aromatic plant used as

culinary herb 23. Where you sleep 24. Ruled Russia 25. Indicates density of data (abbr.) 26. Sea eagle 27. Type of light bulb 28. Wreath 29. Graduate with a degree 34. What thespians do 35. ‘Orange is the New Black’ character 36. Comedienne Gasteyer 37. Romanian monetary unit 39. People treated as a group 40. Small European plant 41. First responder group 42. A person’s head 44. Giggle 45. Bura-__: Chadic language 46. Snout moth genus 47. Body part 48. Inspirational Wimbledon champ 51. Revolutions per minute 52. American software developer 53. Ancient Greek city 54. Female sheep 58. ‘The Science Guy’

Ashland-Hanover Local January 22, 2020

TAURUS • Apr 21/May 21 Taurus, now is the time to institute a change to your daily routine if that’s been on your mind. Planetary energy is pushing you on a course of selfdiscovery. GEMINI • May 22/Jun 21 Gemini, small influencers in your life may be imperceptible, but they are slowly turning the wheels of change and you’ll soon be able to realize what is in store.

CANCER • Jun 22/Jul 22 Connect with your spiritual foundations, Cancer. They will be your guide through a week that figures to have its share of ups and downs. Faith will help you ride it out.

LIBRA • Sept 23/Oct 23 Libra, as the days unfold, you may find yourself feeling more creative and perhaps a bit more rebellious in your thinking. It is okay to want to set out on a new path.

CAPRICORN • Dec 22/Jan 20 Good times with the ones you love do not have to take a back seat to professional goals, Capricorn. Find a way to strike a balance, even if it means delegating more often.

LEO • Jul 23/Aug 23 The week ahead should be fairly positive for you, Leo. This lifting of weight will inspire newfound freedom to embark on interesting projects or pursue new interests.

SCORPIO • Oct 24/Nov 22 Oftentimes you are a master of taking a difficult situation and turning it on its head immediately, Scorpio. Those unique skills may be put to the test this week.

AQUARIUS • Jan 21/Feb 18 Even if you have a mind to help the ones you love, those people have to be receptive to your assistance, Aquarius. Give them a chance to come around.

VIRGO • Aug 24/Sept 22 You may be looking for fulfillment in your love life or your career this week, Virgo. Some measure of liberation will occur in the days ahead.

SAGITTARIUS • Nov 23/Dec 21 A reorganization will occur in your life. This may involve physically moving things around the house or an intellectual reorganization that produces a new perspective.

PISCES • Feb 19/Mar 20 Don’t let others talk you into something you don’t want to be involved with, Pisces. Stand your ground or walk away.

THIS WEEK’S ANSWERS

CLUES ACROSS 1. Fall down 5. American TV company (abbr.) 8. Exclamation that denotes disgust 11. Gallantry 13. Chinese word signifying ‘doctrine’ 14. Prefix meaning ‘beside’ 15. Act of imitating 16. Tall, rounded vase 17. Sixth month of Jewish civil calendar 18. Rural Iranian village 20. Time zone 21. Military weapon (abbr.) 22. Gets rid of 25. Aggressive 30. Addressed one’s appearance 31. Affirmative 32. Denoting IndoEuropean languages 33. French noble family 38. Shock therapy 41. Having characteristics of both sexes 43. Large suitcase 45. One who identifies God with the universe 48. Swiss river 49. Frequently

ARIES • Mar 21/Apr 20 Aries, a budding relationship appears to be on the cusp of taking the next step. Your relationships are your own, so don’t be afraid to slow down if things feel like they’re going too fast.


2

LEGAL DISPLAY ADS

GENERAL

GENERAL

GENERAL

Heart Havens Open Interview Day Wednesday, January 29th 11am-1pm and 3-5pm Ashland Branch Library, 201 S. Railroad Ave, Ashland, VA 23005 Open your heart and help adults with developmental disabilities to live full and happy lives as a direct support professional, starting pay is $12.00 per hour. We also have an opening for a Lead as well. Heart Havens offers a sign-on bonus, competitive benefits package and training. You must be 21, with a valid driver’s license and high school diploma or GED.

Visit www.hearthavens.org to learn more.

Business & Service Directory HAULING Junk Removal Will clean junk from attics, basements, garages, hauling brush piles, furniture & appliances. 804-514-2938

Merchandise MISC. ITEMS WANTED BUYING ALL U.S. GOLD OR SILVER Coins & Collections, Bullion Gold & Silver, Jewelry, Diamonds, Gold Watched, Broken or Scrap Gold, Sterling Silver Sets. For Collections, House Calls Made! $$Cash Paid$$ 804-218-9233

Advertise with Ashland-Hanover Local Call 746-1235 for more details!

FLOORS

GENERAL CONTRACTORS

Asphalt Paving

804-536-3196 HenrysAsphaltPavingVA.com Paving, Sealcoating, Repairs, New Installation, Resurfacing, Rip-Outs, Patch Work, Driveways, Parking Lots, Private Roads. Residential/Commercial. Licensed/Insured. Over 30 years of experience. State of the art machinery being used to install work. Free Estimates. Discounts for seniors, military, family & first responders. Family owned & operated.

Advertise your business

Call 804-746-1235 today for more details.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ASHLAND TOWN COUNCIL Please take notice that on February 4, 2020 at 7:00PM, the Ashland Town Council will conduct a public hearing at Ashland Town Hall, 101 Thompson Street, Ashland, Virginia on the following: ORDINANCE NO. 2020-01 ORDINANCE NO. 2020-01 REVISES AND UPDATES CHAPTER 5, “EROSION & SEDIMENT CONTROL” OF THE ASHLAND TOWN CODE FOR CONSISTENCY WITH STATE LAWS AND REGULATIONS. The purpose of this public hearing is to receive 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 7989219 (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 Matt Reynal, Clerk of Council, via email at mreynal@ashlandva.gov or through regular mail to Clerk of Council, Town of Ashland, P.O. Box 1600, Ashland, VA 23005. Any person with a disability requiring assistance in order to participate in the public hearings is asked to contact Town Hall in advance so that appropriate arrangements may be made.

HOME IMPROVEMENT SPECIALISTS J.A.W. Flooring Installation, Repairs, Sand & Refinish Joe Woody, Owner / Operator Licensed / Insured 804-714-4016

Henry’s

LEGAL DISPLAY ADS

Purcell Construction Custom Builder Hunter Purcell 804972-2215 www.Purcell Construction.Biz Historical Renovations ∂ Custom Homes built on your land ∂ Insurance Claims ∂ Additions ∂ Barns ∂ Siding & Replacement Windows ∂ Sunrooms ∂ Decks ∂ Porches ∂ Inter/Exter Renova∂ tions ∂ Tenant Build Outs Kitchen & Bath Remodels ∂ Handicap Ramps ∂ Termite Damage Rehab ∂ Lic/Ins Res/Comm ∂ 36 yrs exp ∂ A+ Rating with the BBB & Angie’s List ∂ Senior Citizens Discount Dont Move....Improve!

PLUMBING

TREE SERVICE

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 SERVICE

Tree & Shrub Pruning, Removals, Stump Grinding. Health/Risk Assessments. Insured. Free Estimates. 804-779-2170 Certified Arborist and MD LTE

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

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

Advertise with Ashland-Hanover Local Call 746-1235 tohearaboutupcomingadvertisingopportunities!

Ashland-Hanover Local January 22, 2020 15


Hanover Tavern creates an escape room adventure Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com HANOVER –Hanover Tavern Foundation is offering a new public program “cadaver” an escape room adventure. Participants investigate one of the post-Civil War Tavern rooms in an attempt to uncover clues related to recent missing persons’ reports in the area. This challenging and fun experience will test participants’ ability to solve puzzles, discover clues, and accomplish tasks in order to find proof of foul play and escape the Tavern. The escape room is open on select dates in January and February. To see a full list of dates, visit HanoverTaver.org. For more information and

Metro Creative

group reservations, contact Kendrick Gibbs at 804-5375050, extension 21. Individual tickets may be purchased at HanoverTavern. org. Reservations are required. Proceeds from this event

RAMSAY Continued from pg. 6

But, he quickly recognized that the problem at Lowery’s was more detailed than a shrinking customer base, an overabundance of deep fried entries and a less than enthusiastic staff. What most of us didn’t realize as we waited for a table at the popular restaurant in past years was a brewing internal battle involving the two brothers who own and run the restaurant. The pair has gradually grown apart, and the rift has left employees shaking their heads at the lack of leadership and passion, clearly the result of the family squabble. Ramsay revamped the over-fried menu and replaced tired items with spiced up and more health conscious choices. The new menu features a familiar Hell and Back theme — pan seared. The comments since Ramsay exited Tappahannock are generally good, and long-time devotees of the restaurant have expressed their approval of the new menu. Many others are just glad that an obviously quickly sinking standby is taking steps to ensure its survival, and keep a Virginia tradition alive. Of course, some of the locals are not as pleased with the new selections, or the prices, but the owners have displayed a willingness to change,

16

benefit Hanover Tavern Foundation with a mission is to preserve, interpret, and utilize Historic Hanover Tavern as an historic, educational, community, and cultural resource center for the enjoyment of all.

even when the inspiration comes from an overenergized celebrity chef. And loyal customers have vowed to continue their pilgrimages to the tiny hamlet on the river that always includes a lunch at Lowery’s. After I watched the show, I wasn’t convinced that Ramsay’s style or palate are precisely suited for Central Virginia and less sure that the new changes would succeed. Honestly, It’s probably a sense of nostalgia that makes me remorseful of the absence of the large barrel where children would fish for prizes. But, after watching the show, I’m less nostalgic about the strange smell in the dining room. But, don’t get me wrong. I hope Lowery’s makes a fantastic comeback and continues to make memories for Virginia families, and I’ll surely make a trip down Route 360 to sample the new fare. Knowing the realities of what goes on behind the scenes sometimes presents a clear case of too much information, and I’m not sure the show will hurt or help in the long run. But, if Gordon Ramsay can mend a broken relationship between brothers and offer their parents the hope of a secure future from the restaurant they started in 1938, more power to him; but, please, keep him away from my kitchen.

Ashland-Hanover Local January 22, 2020

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?

WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED! With over 44,000 newspapers circulated every week throughout Hanover County, The Mechanicsville Local and Ashland-Hanover Local are your sources for your news and sports.


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook