Ashland-Hanover Local – 02/12/20

BUSINESS Hundreds turn out to discuss Wegmans’ plans for distribution center

ON THE TRAIL . . .

Ashland to Petersburg trail study wraps up PAGE

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Vol. 5 No. 22 | Richmond Suburban News | February 12, 2020

Vendors, sponsors wanted for New ABC facility will Ashland Strawberry Faire keep state ‘on cutting edge’ ASHLAND – The 39th Annual Ashland Strawberry Faire is rolling onto the Randolph-Macon College campus on Saturday, June 6.

The Faire is made possible through an ongoing partnership with the Kiwanis Club of Ashland.

Vendor sign-ups are underway for arts & crafts, Hanover County businesses, non-profits, government services, and animal groups. Don’t delay! The early bird discount ends April 15.

Sponsorship applications also are open. As an incentive this year, $1,000 sponsorships receive a free 10x10 booth space; $500 sponsorships get half-off a 10x10 booth space. It’s great publicity for a great cause!

By Dave Lawrence Richmond Suburban News

Photos submitted by Lorie Foley

Johnson Family Funnel Cakes are among the favorite booths at the Ashland Strawberry Faire. This year’s event is scheduled for Saturday, June 6, on the campus of Randolph-Macon College.

New this year!

The Faire is one of the Signature Events for Hanover

County’s 300th Birthday.

Hanover County businesses see FAIRE, pg. 2

MECHANICSVILLE – While construction work on the site proceeded in the background, Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam cited the economic importance of the Virginia Alcohol Beverage Control Authority as he and others officially broke ground on the new VABC headquarters and distribution center off Pole Green Road.

The new facility, which will replace an outdated property near The Diamond in Richmond, will allow VABC to improve its ability to supply nearly 400 stores throughout the state.

“We’ve had the building in Richmond for a number of years,” Northam said. “It’s outdated. In order to keep up with this business, you’ve got to stay on the cutting edge. You Dave Lawrence/Ashland-Hanover Local have to use the latest technology. This new Gov. Ralph Northam took part in last week’s building in Hanover County will enable us to groundbreaking ceremony of the new Virginia Alcohol Beverage Control Authority do just that.” headquarters and distribution center in

see VABC, pg. 1 Mechanicsville.

Sing with the Community Gospel Chorus for Untold Stories program Feb. 23 Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com ASHLAND -- The Community Gospel Chorus will conclude the Untold Stories program at 4 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 23, at 4 p.m.

Members of the public are invited to take part in the chorus.

Leslie Perry from First Baptist Church Elmont will be the director.

The next rehearsal will be held: 3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 23, at Patrick Henry High School, Ashland, before the program.

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

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

Untold Stories 2020 Untold Stories will be presented at 4 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 23, at Patrick Henry High School in Ashland.

Storytellers will be Anna Belle Ambrosen, Esther Gordon Davis, Beatrice Johnson, Billy

Martin, Ernest Mason, and James Quash Jr. Anthony Keitt will be the MC. This is the seventh installment of the program of oral histories about growing up in Ashland and Hanover County during the 1940s, 1950s and 1960s.

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

Untold Stories is sponsored jointly by: The Center (The Hanover Arts & Activities Center) hanoverarts.org; The Hanover County Black Heritage Society Inc. hanoverbhs.org; The Ashland Museum (Preserving the

History and Culture of Ashland, Virginia) ashlandmuseum.org; and Downtown Ashland Association ashlandvirginia.com.

Additional information may be obtained by contacting the Ashland Museum at ashlandmuseum@comcast.net or 804-368-7314.

Wegmans’ distribution center plan draws hundreds to meeting

By Jim Ridolphi for The Mechanicsville Local MECHANICSVILLE -- More than 800 Hanover County residents packed the lunchroom at Oak Knoll Middle School Thursday evening for a community meeting regarding the proposed 1.1 million-squarefoot Wegmans Distribution Center near Sliding Hill and New Ashcake Roads just east of the Hanover County Airport.

Representatives from Wegmans and county offi-

FAIRE Continued from pg. 1

and non-profits are encouraged to share their history on Faire day. What is your unique story?

cials fielded questions from residents of several neighborhoods located close to the proposed development regarding traffic, safety property values, and quality of life.

The Hanover County Planning Commission will hear Wegmans’ application for an adjustment of proffers later this month. The 217-acre site was zoned M-1 in 1995. “The takeaway for us is that there are a couple of dozen key concerns that were documented that we are going to sit down and address and try to

make this a project that’s better for everybody,� said Dan Aken, director of real estate and site development for Wegmans, following the meeting.

Aken explained the company’s decision to locate a new warehouse facility at the Hanover location.

The Rochester, New Yorkbased company currently operates 101 stores, the majority located in the Northeast corridor.

The proximity to Interstate 95 and the fact that the property was “already zoned� were

As part of the birthday extravaganza, a “Celebration of Hanoverians� Parade will kick off the Faire. The parade is open to all ages. Dress up as your favorite Hanoverian, walk in the parade with Patrick

Henry, and then enjoy cookies and cupcakes with the other parade participants.

The traditional “Youth Strawberry Pageant� is evolving into a parade of amazing “Strawberry Kids� of all ages.

Everyone is a “kid� on Faire day – adults, too! The Strawberry Kids will walk in the parade with the Hanoverians. After the parade, the 2020 “Spirit of the Faire� will be chosen. So start planning your strawberry outfits, hats, and accessories!

Kids and adults can signup for the Celebration of Hanoverians or the Strawberry Kids online at www.

AshlandStrawberryFaire.com.

Where do profits from the Faire go?

2

Ashland-Hanover Local February 12, 2020

The Faire gives back to the community by awarding 10 local scholarships each year. “In 2019, the board offered $6,000 in scholarship funds to graduating seniors from Hanover County Public Schools, the Hanover County Center for Trades & Technology, and one in honor of former Mayor Dick Gillis, to a Randolph-Macon College student majoring in political science,� Betty LaPlace, direc-

Jim Ridolphi/The Local

Hundreds filled the lunchroom at Oak Knoll Middle School last week to offer their opinions about Wegmans’ plan to build a distribution center near Sliding Hill and Ashcake Roads.

major factors in the company’s decision to locate in Hanover.

Recently opened stores in

Maryland and Virginia are indicative of the company’s move to the Southern market,

and the new facility will supsee WEGMANS, pg. 3

Photo submitted by Lorie Foley

The non-profit Bikers Against Child Abuse takes part in the Ashland Strawberry Faire.

tor of Scholarships, said.

The Faire also contributes funds to non-profit groups in a Grants-for-Work program in trade for their volunteer hours running the Faire (i.e., set-up, cleanup, vendor and/or visitor support). In 2019, the Faire awarded $8,300 in Grants-forWork to area non-profits.

The Kid Zone is run by volunteer “Hanover Kids� and non-profit volunteers through a Grants-for-Work program.

Volunteers are always needed (two volunteers for each game). All profits from the Kid Zone are donated to Comfort Zone Camps.

Non-profit organizations are offered free booth spaces for visibility (non-profits pay an administrative fee or they can volunteer two hours to setup for the Faire). Booth spaces also are available to non-profits for fundraising.

In addition, all commercial

food vendors that participate each year are required to sponsor and give a percentage of profits to a non-profit of their choice.

That’s a “berry� good thing!

For more information, visit www.AshlandStrawberryFaire. com and ashlandvakiwanis.org for more information.

Both the Ashland Strawberry Faire and the Ashland Kiwanis Club are 501(c)(3) organizations.

Make this Valentine’s Day One She’ll Remember!

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

Non-criminal report was reported in the 7100 block of Brandy Hill Terrace, Mechanicsville.

Petit larceny from auto was reported in the 8900 block of Pole Green Park Lane, Mechanicsville.

Driver did not report an accident with damages, $250, in the 9300 block of Atlee Road, Mechanicsville.

ID theft ID to defraud, $200, was reported in the 8300 block of Plum Grove Drive, Mechanicsville.

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

Failure to stop for school bus with flashing lights was reported in the 13700 block of Mountain Road/ Chriswood Road, Glen Allen.

Simple assault was reported in the 8300 block of Wetherden Drive, Mechanicsville.

Concealment, price altering merchandise, was reported in the 7300 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.

Grand larceny, $500 or more not from a person, was reported in the 6300 block of Power Road, Mechanicsville.

Driver did not report an accident with damages, $250, in the 10400 block of Atlee Station Road, Ashland.

Simple assault was

Simple assault was reported in the 7400 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.

Non-criminal report was reported in the 13400 block of Liberty School Road, Ashland.

DWI: first offense was reported in the 100 block of Sliding Hill westbound to Interstate 95, Ashland.

Petit larceny, $500 not from a person, was reported in the 10200 block of Kings Dominion Boulevard, Doswell.

DWI, second offense in five years, was reported in the 8200 block of Atlee Road, Mechanicsville.

Jan. 14

Brandishing a firearm was reported in the 10300 block of Old Keeton Road, Ashland.

Damage to a vehicle, boat or aircraft was reported in the 7100 block of Brandy Hill Terrace, Mechanicsville.

Grand larceny, auto theft, was reported in the 7100 block of Brandy Hill Terrace, Mechanicsville.

Obtaining money or signature by false pretenses was reported in the 7300 block of Kevin Wanda Road, Mechanicsville.

Grand larceny from auto was reported in the 11400 block of Air Park Road, Ashland.

WEGMANS Continued from pg. 2

ply existing stores in that region, as well as new stores opening at a rate of two to three per year.

Wegmans currently operates ware-

Simple assault was reported in the 8100 block of Bultaco Trail, Mechanicsville.

Destruction of property, monument, was reported in the 7300 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.

first offense, was reported in the 8000 block of Elm Drive/Stonewall Parkway, Mechanicsville.

Perjury was reported in the 7500 block of County Complex Road, Hanover.

Petit larceny, $500 not from a person, was reported in the 11000 block of Patjay Lane, Glen Allen.

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

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

Grand larceny building was reported in the 7000 block of Covenant Woods Drive, Mechanicsville.

Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 8200 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike/Henrico County, Mechanicsville.

Assault on law enforcement, court, doctor, fire, medical was reported in the 9000 block of Brigadier Road, Mechanicsville.

Driver did not report an accident with damages, $1,000, in the 12300 block of Hanover Courthouse Road, Hanover.

Petit larceny shoplifting was reported in the 16600 block of Mountain Road, Montpelier.

Cause computer malfunction was reported in the 8200 block of Perryville Court, Mechanicsville.

Destruction of property, monument, was reported in the 16600 block of Mountain Road, Montpelier.

Driving after forfeiture of license was reported in the 37 block of Interstate 295 North, Mechanicsville.

Destruction of property, monument, was reported in the 16600 block of Mountain Road, Montpelier.

Tracking device, unauthorized use, was reported in the 8200 block of Perryville Court, Mechanicsville.

Petit larceny building was reported in the 6300 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville.

Jan. 15

Simple assault was reported in the 10000 block of Learning Lane, Mechanicsville.

Failure to stop for school bus with flashing lights was reported in the 10000 block of Ashcake Road/ Lewistown Road, Ashland.

Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 500 block of South Washington Highway, Ashland.

Possession of marijuana,

house facilities in Rochester and Pottsville, Pennsylvania. When opened in 2022, the Hanover facility will service about 44 stores, some of them yet to be built.

More than two dozen speakers patiently waited a turn to express their concerns with the project, some questioning the

decision to locate in what they considered a residential area. The proposed site along Sliding Hill Road is close to several neighborhoods, including Somerset and Milestone.

“We don’t want you here,” one attendee see WEGMANS, pg. 4

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Nominations being accepted for R.E.B. Awards for Teaching Excellence ASHLAND – Nominations are now being accepted for the R.E.B. Awards for Teaching Excellence.

Parents, students, educators, and the community-at-large are invited to nominate an outstanding teacher by visiting http://www.tcfrichmond.org/reb.

Nominations will be accepted through Feb. 24.

The R.E.B. Awards recognize public school teachers in the metropolitan Richmond area who have distinguished themselves by their inspiring classroom performance.

Grants ranging from $4,000 to $12,000 each will be given to about 15 teachers to support professional development activities.

Recipients will be required to share educational ideas and experiences with fellow teachers.

Eligibility for the award is limited to full-time classroom teachers in grades K-12 who have completed a minimum of three years of full-time service and are employed by the public school divisions of the City of Richmond, counties of Chesterfield, Hanover, and Henrico, and the Department of Juvenile Justice.

The program was developed by The Community Foundation and is funded by the R.E.B. Foundation. Since its inception, nearly $4 million has been awarded to over 800 public school instructors. Numerous Hanover County Public Schools teachers have received this distinguished award, including three recipients in Photo submitted by Dale Hargrove Alderman 2019.

Nuria Keel, left, and Ansleigh Toone, right, are serving as pages for Del. Buddy Fowler, (center) Information submitted by Chris R. Whitley, R-55, during the 2020 session of the Virginia General Assembly.

Hanover County Public Schools public information officer.

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Toone, Keel serve as pages for Del. Fowler Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com RICHMOND -- Ansleigh Toone, 13, of Rockville and Nuria Keel, 14, of Ashland, were selected by the Speaker of the Virginia House of Delegates to serves as pages from the 55th Legislative District during the 2020 General Assembly in Richmond. Del. Buddy Fowler represents the 55th district.

Ansleigh, the daughter of Candance and Roy Toone, is a student at Liberty Middle School in Ashland. She enjoys swimming, playing tennis and reading.

Nuria is the daughter of Abigail and Bill Holiday and is a student at Chickahominy Middle School in Mechanicsville. She enjoys singing in the choir and dancing.

Pages in the House of Delegate assist members of the House of Delegates and their staff with their daily duties during the legislative session. The pages live downtown in the Omni Hotel and are paid a stipend for their service.

Students chosen from around the state must excel academically. Their principals must recommend them for this position. Each page is required to keep up on his or her studies during the session.

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Ashland-Hanover Local February 12, 2020

WEGMANS Continued from pg. 3

shouted.

Some speakers identified other sites more suitable, in their opinion, for the facility, and a majority expressed concerns regarding truck traffic on an already hazardous road.

Wegmans has agreed to fund upgrades to the intersection and road improvements, but neighboring residents said it would not alleviate delays and accidents.

Aken said the company explored about 15 sites in Virginia and North Carolina, but ultimately decided Hanover “was the best location” to make

the $175 million investment, including about $6 million in local and state enticements.

Plans for the facility include two buildings occupying about 1.1 million square feet of space.

Some speakers questioned the wisdom of spending taxpayer money as an incentive to lure Wegmans to Hanover, but County Administrator Rhu Harris said the agreement is guided by a performance agreement that requires the company to meet certain requirements prior to that funding being released.

Harris said annual tax revenue from the 700-employee facility amounted to about $1.5 million annually and noted the

county’s contribution would be recouped in about three and a half years.

Other speakers asked why residents were not informed earlier when negotiations began months ago. Harris said the county signed a non-disclosure agreement with the search firm representing Wegmans and could not discuss ongoing talks, a practice described as normal when large companies explore options in localities.

If the county chose not to enter the NDA, Harris said Hanover would not have been considered for the new facility.

Planning director David Maloney said the site received see WEGMANS, pg. 5

VABC Continued from pg. 1

VABC CEO Travis Hill touted the development potential the new facility brings. He praised Hanover County for its willingness to be a part of the authority’s future. “We’re marking the beginning of changing where we work and how we work. This facility is the key to us continuing to grow revenue for the commonwealth,�

Hill said. “We’re thrilled to be calling Hanover County home soon.

We plan to be here for HILL decades and will be a partner with the county going forward.�

Northam said the authority brings critical

WEGMANS Continued from pg. 4

special zoning in 1995, but noted proffers issued at the time are not “outdated� and the revised proffers are an attempt to “enhance those requirements.�

An attorney representing Wegmans said the applicant is requesting two changes to the more than a dozen existing proffers, including one to increase height on light poles and the other permitting a fence around the property.

Economic development director Linwood Thomas said the Wegmans project is a major get for the county in more ways than one. “The Wegmans project is a generational opportunity for Hanover County,� Thomas said. “They will create jobs on average that are 18% above Hanover’s median average wage and be one of our largest taxpayers at full build-out.

There were many localities along the Eastern Seaboard that competed for this project.�

But Anita Philp said she felt a “sense of betrayal� regarding the deal. “We’re giving them $6 million to ruin our way of life. I’m outraged,� Philp said.

revenues to the state coffers – more than $2 billion over the past five years, according to VABC – which benefits education, transportation, public safety, and more. “ABC operates 386 stores and is on track to open one store a month over the coming year to provide excellent service and selection to consumers while generating revenues that support programs that benefit all of us,� he said. “This new facility will give ABC the space it needs to continue to operate as a modern retailer.�

According to VABC, the Richmond facility, which opened in 1971, is now operating at 100 percent capacity, shipping as much as 30,000 or more cases of distilled spirits a day.

The Hanover facility, which is constructed on a 40-acre site, will house a headquarters building and a warehouse.

In addition to an entrance off Pole Green Road, another road will be built to connect the facility to AMF Drive.

“What your are proposing is inconsistent with the plan. I’m not saying not in my backyard.

I’m saying not in anybody’s backyard.� She estimated that there are 5,000 residential homes near the proposed site. “We understand and respect there are some citizens that are upset due to the proximity to residential developments but the property has been zoned, marketed, and shown in our comprehensive plan for economic development for over 20 years,� Thomas said in response to questions after the meeting.

Chickahominy District supervisor Angela KellyWiecek and Ashland District representative Faye Prichard hosted the informational meeting, but most board members attended in addition to other officials from the Planning Commission and other boards.

When Henry District supervisor Sean Davis was confronted by one speaker asking what the board was prepared to do to protect residents from large development like Wegmans, he didn’t underestimate the importance of the project and the challenges it presents. “The matter before the cur-

rent board is one that presents a very unique opportunity to reduce the allowable uses from the 1995 zoning,� Davis said. “If the board can negotiate with Wegmans to implement new preferred conditions that will substantially reduce the allowable use, it will be a huge reduction on what is allowed and also substantially improve traffic impacts.�

He said his presence at the meeting illustrated his desire to make the project better with additional public input and discussion. “If these negotiations are unsuccessful, then the land use allowances from the 1995 zoning will stand,� Davis said.

Reinforcing those outdated proffers also allows additional review of a project that could proceed with no adjustments. “Wegmans could develop the property today based on the current zoning but has taken the recommendation of the board of supervisors, county staff, and citizens to go through a public rezoning and proffer amendments that will make this a better project and includes increased buffers and transportation improvement as the proffers from 1995 would

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Ashland-Hanover Local February 12, 2020 5

OPINION

LETTERS

| The Local Views

| Reader Views

From the managing editor

Just when you think you’ve heard it all

By Melody Kinser Managing Editor

W

hen it comes to West Virginia politics, nothing surprises me.

Well, that was until Gov. Jim Justice and Liberty University President Jerry Falwell Jr. invited Virginia counties that are against proposed gun laws to secede and become part of the Mountain State.

Without having done any polling, I’m pretty confident that Democrats taking control of our state sparked some outrage in other states. There was a time, however, when Democrat was “the” party of West Virginia.

I was born and raised in West Virginia and remained there until I was almost 49. Democrats were in control when I headed to Virginia.

The tide turned in 2016 when Donald Trump

rolled through the Mountain State to victory.

At the time, coal miners wanted to believe the industry could be revived (still hasn’t happened), so they put their trust in Trump.

So, let’s get back to the secession proposal.

With a Republican-led Legislature (House of Delegates and Senate) in Charleston and Falwell leading a university based in Lynchburg, Justice and Liberty’s leader put out the welcome mat for Virginians, especially those with concerns about the Second Amendment and pro-lifers.

I am not anti-gun. As I’ve written before, I grew up in a house with handguns and rifles. My father was a decorated marksman in the military.

Yet, the discussion about making Virginia safer merits our attention. Too many innocent children are being killed.

Contact your senators and delegates, as well as the governor, with your opinions.

Maybe I’m too optimistic, but I try to look toward compromise.

It seems Frederick County found its way onto the radar, but apparently there was no enthusiasm for becoming part of West Virginia.

Having worked at The Winchester Star for three years before arriving in Hanover County, I’m very familiar with Frederick County.

I don’t see any benefit for that county to head into West Virginia territory.

I’ll admit West Virginia was an OK place to grow up -- but that has changed significantly.

Crime, drug use, unemployment, illiteracy. I could go on regarding the sad aspects of life in West Virginia.

The reality is that Virginia is a better state with development and opportunities. As a matter of fact, Hanover County is a shining example of those positives.

In the cold days of winter, my mind wanders south

By Jim Ridolphi Contributing Columnist Daphne Du Maurier once wrote, “We can never go back again, that much is certain.”

The obscure quote immediately jars memories of the places, people or things to which I’ve pledged a return, a promise mostly unfulfilled as a lifetime

passed and presented new challenges.

How many times have you been in the perfect spot on the perfect vacation and thought to yourself “I’d like to return to this place someday’. At the moment of utterance, it seemed impossible that you could live decades and not return to that location that provided respite, peace, tranquility that

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Ashland-Hanover Local February 12, 2020

represented an escape from the rigors of everyday life.

But, how many of those places got that return visit, and how many of those memories are just reminders of a place or time when life seemed almost perfect?

In actuality, most of these experiences are one offs, and a second trip to

your most beloved spots or moments is usually more akin to a dream, or a slot on the proverbial bucket list.

So, given the opportunity, what place or time would you revisit if given the opportunity? Can you remember that one moment, or day, that captured perfection and filled one with a joy or see SOUTH, pg. 12

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

Send letters to: The Ashland-Hanover Local 8460 Times-Dispatch Blvd. Mechanicsville, Va. 23116 Fax: 344-8746 E-mail: editor@mechlocal.com © 2020 by Richmond Suburban Newspapers. All advertising and editorial matter is fully protected and may not be reproduced in any manner without the permission of the publisher.

CAC Audited Circulation: 13,776.

Inclusion should be simple Contributing Columnist Jim Ridolphi wrote an excellent editorial on inclusion (1/29/2020) at a time when Hanover County needs to hear the message. His discussion of the research as well as his personal story about the benefits of inclusive education should be received as what is achievable when inclusion is a mindset and not a place.

If I had to challenge Jim, it would be his statement that "... the real benefits of the innovative programs are the students who leave school with a better understanding of how the world actually works ...."

Inclusive education is not a program. We cannot buy an inclusion package and have all students leave our schools better citizens. "Inclusion is simple" (and right) in concept, yes, but our culture of education is such that it is far from simply existing in our schools, and, therefore, our communities.

I am the parent of a student with a disability who sometimes exhibits challenging behaviors. I also am employed in the county as a substitute teacher and instructional assistant.

I understand the concerns that teachers and parents of students in this county are witnessing in some classroom environments. I have seen them first-hand.

But, because all behavior is communication of some sort, I also know that not all students are fully understood either (whether disabled, dealing with mental health issues, trauma, bullying, challenging home environments, etc.). How are we investing in these young lives that are going to allow them to see their skills, their abilities, their value?

We learn from being in community with one another -- not segregated into special places of education. Yes, specialized instruction see LETTERS, pg. 8

CALENDAR | News, Updates & Listings Church of the Redeemer, located at 8275 Meadowbridge Rd. in Mechanicsville, is hosting a Casino Night. The Redeemer Royale will have professional game tables, stage prizes, door prizes, photo booth, and silent auctions.

The night will begin with a cocktail hour at 6 p.m. and gaming from 7:30 to 10 p.m.

Visit www.churchredeemer. org to purchase tickets online.

Tickets are $30 per person.

Beaverdam American Legion Post 90 Riders will hold its second annual Valentine’s Day Spaghetti Dinner from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Post at 17662 Beaverdam Rd. Dinner will consist of spaghetti, the Legion's special sauce, a dinner roll and drink, plus dessert which will cost $10 per person. Proceeds from the dinner will be used by the Legion Riders to assist their many youth and community service activities. All are invited to this special event.

Sunday, Feb. 23 Untold Stories – Growing Up in Ashland/Hanover, Black and White Experiences will be presented at 4 p.m. at Patrick Henry High School in Ashland. The program provides oral histories about life in the 1940s, 1950s and 1960s. Untold Stories is sponsored jointly by The Center, The Hanover County Black Heritage Society, Ashland Museum, and Downtown Ashland Association. This is event is free and open to the public.

Saturday, May 16 The Highland Springs High School Class of 1970 will hold its 50th Reunion at the Hill Building at Sandston Pool, located at 501 Beulah Rd. in

Sandston. Music will be by DJ Dalton Beagle. Dinner, drinks and dessert will be provided

by Champagne Taste Catering.

Bring your own mixers and alcohol. Small coolers are welcome. The doors will open at 4 p.m.; cocktails at 5 p.m.; dinner at 6 p.m.; and cleanup will be at 10 p.m. Cost is $45 per person until March 1, after which the cost is $50 per person. For invitations, contact Bill Brooks at 1970HSHS@gmail.com.

Ongoing Families Anonymous Support Group meets from 7 to 8:30 p.m. every Monday at the Episcopal Church of the Creator at 7159 Mechanicsville Turnpike in Mechanicsville.

The group is a self-help fellowship for the friends and family members of addicts who are in need of understanding and healing themselves. For details, call Sandy at 804-7304812 or email sandy.leigh@ verizon.net.

Overcomers Outreach and Women’s Codependency, a Christ-centered anonymous support program offering hope and healing for recovering alcoholics, addicts and their families meet every Monday at 7 p.m. at the Mechanicsville Christian Center at 8061 Shady Grove Road in Mechanicsville.

For more information, call 804366-9645 or email kjfaith1@ gmail.com.

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.

Community Services Board meets at 6:30 p.m. at 12300 Washington Hwy. in Ashland.

Sundays Outside the Walls, a new Narcotics Anonymous group, has been organized and will meet from 6 to 7 p.m. in the lobby of the Pamunkey Regional Jail at 7240 Courtland Farm Rd. in Hanover. For more information, contact John Shinholser, McShin president, at 804-249-1845. The website is http://www.mcshin.org.

Tuesdays A Commanders Coffee is held from 10 a.m. to about 11 a.m. at the Beaverdam Post at 17662 Beaver Dam Rd. in Beaverdam. Members discuss issues of interest/befits of the American Legion. There also will be donuts. Eugene Truitt is the Post commander. He can be contacted at 804-746-4734.

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.

F

For more information, contact Kathy Redfearn, LCSW at 804675-4230.

information, visit http://www. hanoverhistorical.org/index. html.

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

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.

Gooding Construction

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

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Thursdays The Rotary Club of Ashland meets at noon for lunch at the Iron Horse Restaurant at 100 S. Railroad Ave. in in Ashland.

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ax submissions to calendar to 344-8746, email to mkinser@mechlocal.com, or mail to 8460 Times-Dispatch Blvd., Mechanicsville VA 23116. Deadline is 1 p.m. Thursday for the following week’s issue. Calendar announcements cannot be taken by phone. We reserve the right to edit all items submitted to The Ashland-Hanover Local.

Ashland-Hanover Local February 12, 2020 7

Hanover teachers achieve National Board Certification Educators meet highest standards of the profession

A

SHLAND – Seven Hanover County Public Schools (HCPS) educators recently achieved National Board Certification, meeting the highest standards established for the profession. Two additional teachers also renewed their certifications.

HCPS employs eighty National Board Certified Teachers, which represents 5.5% of all Hanover educators. The national average is less than three percent.

“I congratulate our teachers on their significant accomplishment and commitment to achieving the most rigorous standards of our profession. Their efforts will directly impact and benefit our students, and I am grateful for their dedication,” said Dr. Michael Gill, superintendent of Schools.

The following teachers attained certification: Mike Diebold, Stonewall Jackson Middle School Allison Fleming, Lee-Davis High School

Photo submitted by Chris R. Whitley

Dr. Michael Gill, superintendent of Hanover County Public Schools, joined in celebrating the accomplishments of seven educators in the division who recently achieved National Board Certification, meeting the highest standards established for the profession. Two additional teachers also renewed their certifications. Shown are, from left, front row, Shannon Floyd, Chickahominy Middle School;Jana Leonard, Hanover High School; and Stacey Lowery, LeeDavis High School; and, back row, Jeanine Schenack, Stonewall Jackson Middle School; Jamie Pocta, Laurel Meadow Elementary School; Stephen Salvato, Lee-Davis High School; Dr. Gill; Mike Diebold, Stonewall Jackson Middle School; Allison Fleming, Lee-Davis High School; and Joy DeNoon, Stonewall Jackson Middle School.

VDOT completes Ashland to Petersburg Trail study Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com SOUTH CHESTERFIELD – The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has concluded the Ashland to Petersburg (ATP) Trail Study, which culminated from extensive technical planning efforts, as well as agency and public involvement.

The Ashland to Petersburg Trail Study documents the identification of a preferred multi-use trail corridor, which would extend approximately 43 miles.

The trail would accommodate bicyclists, pedestrians and other active transportation users through Chesterfield, Hanover and Henrico counties, as well the cities of Colonial Heights, Petersburg and Richmond, and the Town of Ashland.

If constructed, the preferred cor-

8

ridor would provide a low-traffic stress level facility with safe separation from motorized transportation uses to accommodate users of all ages and abilities and provide connection to a variety of destination points, including Carter Park, Bryan Park, Virginia Union University, the Virginia Capitol, Tredegar Iron Works, Historic Manchester and Brown’s Island, Virginia State University, and Petersburg Old Town Historic District.

The completion of the study process sets the stage for VDOT, working with localities and regional planning organizations, to move forward with the identification of future funding opportunities for designing, building, operating, and maintaining the trail improvements.

Additional information about the Ashland to Petersburg Trail Study is available online at www.ATPTrailStudy.org.

Ashland-Hanover Local February 12, 2020

Shannon Floyd, Chickahominy Middle School Jana Leonard, Hanover High School Stacey Lowery, Lee-Davis High School Jamie Pocta, Laurel Meadow Elementary School Stephen Salvato, Lee-Davis High School The following teachers achieved renewal of certifications: Joy DeNoon, Stonewall Jackson Middle School Jeanine Schenack, Stonewall Jackson Middle School The educators were recognized during a recent pinning ceremony at VCU's Sonia Vlahcevic Concert Hall, along with teachers from the Counties of Chesterfield and Henrico, and the City of Richmond.

Earning National Board Certification is a rigorous process that increases the effectiveness of teachers. Through the systematic examination of their teaching practices, educators deepen their knowledge of subject matter and become more skilled in daily classroom instruction and student assessment. Certification lasts for five years and must be subsequently renewed by completing a similar, but shorter, process.

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

LETTER Continued from pg. 6

and support are required, and that will require thinking and implementation beyond the established norms for how we run education.

In his piece, "The Need to Belong: Rediscovering Maslow's Hierachy of Needs," Norman Kunc writes, "[Inclusive education is] the valuing of diversity within the human community ... We

begin to look beyond typical ways of becoming valued members of the community, and in doing so, begin to realize the achievable goal of providing all children with an authentic sense of belonging."

My daughter is always saying, "We're all in this together."

Despite her challenges and her being misunderstood, she knows this to be true. She's right, too.

Sue Jeantheau Mechanicsville

Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/ Ashland-hanoverlocal Map courtesy of Virginia Department of Transportation

UPCOMING EVENTS

02

14 2020

Region 4B swim championships at SwimRVA 5:00 p.m.

02

15 2020

Region 4B track championships at Woodberry Forest 9:00 a.m.

| Youth, High School, College, Recreational & Professional

R-MC women prove mettle in comeback

By Rob Witham for Ashland-Hanover Local ASHLAND – In a long basketball season, there are seemingly countless hours of conditioning, drills, and practice. There are also a few select moments of truth, moments that define your season and your legacy.

No matter what happens the rest of the way, RandolphMacon women’s basketball can look back to 14 and a half minutes of their game Saturday as a defining moment. Down 49-38 to Old Dominion Athletic Conference leader Washington and Lee, the Yellow Jackets clamped down defensively, attacked the rim, and shut down the Generals with an incredible 33-7 run to take a 71-56 victory at Crenshaw Gymnasium.

The loss ended a 10-game winning streak for the Generals, who defeated Randolph-Macon 84-53 back on November 19.

“They’re the number one team in the conference, and every single one of us wanted to beat them,” noted senior center Kelly Williams, who scored 22 points and grabbed 18 rebounds. “Becca [Arrington] took over with big points to help ignite us. I wish we’d play like that every single time, but maybe we can take that run and carry it on for the rest of the year.”

The Generals (15-7, 12-3

Swimmers finish third

By Dave Lawrence Sports Editor

John Beebe for the Local

Randolph-Macon’s Becca Arrington (4) drives between Washington & Lee defenders as the Yellow Jackets defeated the visiting Generals 71-56 in Crenshaw Gymnasium Saturday. Arrington shot 7-of-15 and 2-of-6 from 3-point land.

ODAC) showed no signs of collapsing, even in the third period, as Erin Addison’s layup with 4:32 left gave Washington and Lee the 49-38 lead. Arrington helped keep the Yellow Jackets (11-9, 9-5) within striking distance, scoring seven of her 10 third-quarter points in a oneminute stretch just a minute earlier.

After a timeout, the onslaught began. Williams kick started it with two trips to the free throw line, going 3 for 4.

Addison made one free throw to make it 50-45 with 2:02 left in the third. Washington and Lee wouldn’t score again until a Megan Horn free throw nearly six minutes later. By then, Randolph-Macon had scored

16 unanswered points.

One play that helped deflate the Generals came just as the horn sounded to end the third period as Cheridan Hatfield raced to the front court, feeding Charlotte Woods, whose layup just beat the buzzer, cutting the Washington and Lee lead to one at 50-49. Woods scored 20 seconds into the fourth

period, and the lead was with Randolph-Macon’s for good.

Defensively, the Yellow Jackets denied penetration into the paint which would allow the Generals to feed their 3-point shooters. After making 4 of 14 shots from beyond the arc in the first half, the

GREENSBORO, N.C. – Randolph-Macon’s men’s and women’s swim teams each finished third in the Old Dominion Athletic Conference swim championships. The four-daylong meet wrapped up Sunday.

Victor Kontopanos led the Yellow Jackets with a record-breaking win in the men’s 200-yard butterfly.

His time of 1:51.27 broke program, meet and ODAC records. He also finished second in the 100 butterfly.

Joe Stephens finished second in the 100 backstroke and 200 back.

The Yellow Jacket women were led by their relay teams. Kelsey Craighead, Lauren Simonson, Kacey Pool and Lacey Kramer finished second in the women’s 800 freestyle relay. Maggie Cooke, Becca Lazerson, Emma Kate Russell and Kramer finished second in the women’s 200 medley relay.

see METTLE, pg. 11

Ashland-Hanover Local February 12, 2020

9

Randolph-Macon lacrosse returns with win

By Rob Witham for Ashland-Hanover Local ASHLAND – After setting a school record with 13 victories a season ago, Randolph-Macon men’s lacrosse team picked up where it left off Saturday in its 2020 season opener against Methodist.

A first period hat trick from Brendan Markovic fueled what eventually became a 9-0 run by the Yellow Jackets, as they cruised to a 19-5 victory over Methodist University, the team’s third win in four meetings with the Monarchs.

Success started in the center of the field. The Yellow Jackets won 13 of 16 faceoffs in the first half, helping to dominate possession, feeding an offense that, at times, looked in midseason form with crisp passing and timely assists.

“We’re proud of that, giving us possession. Early in the season, you might make some mistakes, throw a ball away here or there,” said Randolph-Macon head coach J.B. Sheridan, who is beginning his 10th season.

“Jack Silvernale has put a ton of work in the weight room. Joe Moranto and Dan Muller did a great job ... giving us opportunities to work on our game.”

After the teams split scores in the first 3:04 of the contest, Markovic scored his second goal on a man advantage to give Randolph-Macon a lead it wouldn’t relinquish. Feeding off faceoff victories, Markovic scored again a minute later unassisted, Derek Marsilio fired a shot home with 1:40 left in the first, and Colin DiSesa (Hanover) registered the first of his game-high five goals with six seconds left for a 5-1 Yellow Jacket lead.

Randolph-Macon added four more before Methodist finally ended the run with a

10

goal from Mark Chatt with 5:25 left in the first half, ending a scoring drought that lasted just over 21 minutes. The Yellow Jacket defense swarmed in the first half, limiting shot opportunities.

The Yellow Jackets had 24 ground balls in the first half, finishing with 35. The Monarchs, by contrast, had just seven by intermission. Randolph-Macon won all seven faceoffs in the first period, and 19 of 28 for the game. In all, nine different players scored, including two from Tom Prusak, who scored his first goal since 2018 late in the first half.

Marsilio and Andrew Tiffey each had a pair of goals, while Jimmy Hasemann, seeing his first action in two years, scored unassisted for the game’s last goal with 6:42 remaining.

Freshman Duncan O’Brien scored his first collegiate goal just two minutes earlier.

These Yellow Jackets will consistently have three to five players in the offensive zone who can score at all times and will make opposing defenses pick their poison when choosing to double team.

“We saw it develop the back half of last year, that balance,” Sheridan opined. “That’s the way it goes when we have guys who can all shoot, all break down a defense, and all distribute the ball when they see a double coming.”

Randolph-Macon returns to action Saturday in Washington, D.C. at Catholic, who opened their season Tuesday at Southern Virginia.

The match was the unofficial kickoff on campus of spring sports for the Yellow Jackets. Women’s lacrosse will, too, begin their season with the Monarchs, traveling to Kenny Moore for The Local

see LACROSSE, pg. 11

Ashland-Hanover Local February 12, 2020

Randolph-Macon’s Brendan Markovic (38) winds up for a powerful shot and a score in the Yellow Jackets win over Methodist.

Robertson draws blood, gets bloodied in win

career-high 18 points, one of six Randolph-Macon players in double figures. He was followed by Buzz Anthony with 17 points, Corey Bays with 14, David Funderberg with 13, Terry Woods with 11 and Miles Mallory with 10.

“That’s one thing we take pride in, is a lot of people on our team scoring,” Robertson said.

“I feel like we’re pretty hard to stop because you if you take one person away, we still have four or five others that can score,

too.”

But Lynchburg had a couple who could score, too, and the pair kept the Hornets (13-9, 8-5 ODAC) in the game. T.C. Thacker scored a game-high 30 points – along with 13 rebounds.

Tharon Suggs scored 21.

“They were hitting some tough shots,” Robertson said.

“They were hitting shots over two or three people sometimes at the end of the game. We were throwing bodies at them and they were still scoring.”

Another thing the Hornets did well was rebound. They outrebounded Randolph-Macon 51-29.

“While we might be as tall, I think those guys have some weight, some pounds on us and also their system is geared to keeping guys closer to the basket and in great rebounding position,” said RandolphMacon head coach Josh Merkel.

“On top of that, all season long they’re out-rebounding teams by about 10 a game. They get

14 offense the rebounds a game, so it’s clearly something they’re great at.”

While the Yellow Jackets (211,13-0) have a well-timed bye week, Merkel has some work for the team to do and that includes rebounding.

“It’s something that we’re going to be working on all week,” he said. “We didn’t necessarily expect to out-rebound them – that’s something that they’re great at – but we can’t [allow] that much of a difference.”

Merkel and Robertson admitted a bit of dismay after the referee added 0.3 seconds to the clock after Robertson’s shot. Robertson had to sit out the fraction of a second that was left. And when the game did officially end, his gash was still causing problems.

“I was bleeding all over the place,” he said. “I was giving everyone on the sideline highfives and our trainer was chasing after me. It was probably pretty funny to watch.

“Our trainer was, like, ‘Ian, I’ve got to clean you up.’ And I was, like, ‘No, it’s fine. It’s just a little cut.’ Then I got into the locker room and I saw it and said, ‘Oh!’ I was bleeding pretty bad. … It was pretty funny.”

Dave Lawrence can be reached at dlawrence@mechlocal.com

Elicia Wells, a First Team All-ODAC selection in 2019, returns in goal for her senior season. Seniors Mary Castle and Julia Bain help anchor the attack. Castle scored 31 goals a season ago.

Second Team All-ODAC midfielder Kaylyn Hewes is back, joined by Natalie Webster, Kendall Griffis and Jordan Dudley. Senior Olivia Cheezum and junior Sarah DeFazio will lead the Yellow Jacket defensive

effort, looking to improve on their 10.68 goals allowed averaged in 2019, good for second in the ODAC. Women’s lacrosse will have their home opener Saturday Feb. 22 against Meredith at 1 p.m.

Meanwhile, Yellow Jacket softball awaits the beginning of their season. Randolph-Macon earned the No. 10 ranking in the preseason National Fastpitch Coaches Association Top 25

released Wednesday. Later that day, the Yellow Jackets were picked to finish fourth in the ODAC preseason poll behind Virginia Wesleyan, Emory and Henry and Lynchburg.

Replacing the program’s all-time winningest pitcher, Candace Whittemore, is a top priority for head coach Kevin Proffitt. Juniors Ali Celiberti, who made the All-Tournament Team at the 2019 College World Series, and Madie Rhoads both

return.

The infield is strong with second baseman Maddie Stone (.373 average, 14 stolen bases) and third baseman Taylor Sutherland (Atlee, .402 average, 22 RBI) both back. There will be senior leadership up the middle with catcher Sami Davidson (.988 career fielding percentage) and center fielder Shelby Hill, the Most Valuable Player at the Newport News Super Regional last year.

By Dave Lawrence Sports Editor ASHLAND – RandolphMacon forward Ian Robertson literally bled for his team – or, more accurately, from his team – but the small gash on his neck is worth it.

Robertson got mobbed by his teammates when, with time running out, he hit a 3-pointer in overtime to put the Yellow Jackets ahead of a scrappy Lynchburg team for a 85-82 Old Dominion Athletic Conference victory Saturday at Crenshaw Gymnasium.

In the ensuing celebration – they thought the game was over – he ended up in the middle of a happy pile. Maybe a bit too happy, as someone’s fingernail caught him in the neck and cut him.

The celebration, however, was a bit premature – 0.3 seconds premature. While his teammates took the floor without him, the Hornets had another shot at tying the game, but the shot was out of time and off the mark, leaving the Yellow Jackets undefeated in ODAC play.

“It was a fun one, a lot of fun. It definitely was stressful,” Robertson said of the game. “It wouldn’t have been as fun if [my] shot hadn’t gone in.”

The 6-foot-7 sophomore finished with a team- and

LACROSSE Continued from pg. 10

Fayetteville, North Carolina, Sunday for a 2 p.m. match.

Randolph-Macon went 12-7 overall a year ago, 8-1 in Old Dominion Athletic Conference play, falling to Washington and Lee in the ODAC championship, the fifth straight season that the Yellow Jackets were runners-up to the Generals.

Kenny Moore for The Local

The Randolph-Macon defense, with Daniel Funderberg (center), Buzz Anthony (5), Kent Kilgroe (20) and Miles Mallory (20), thwart a Lyncburg player’s attemp to score in the Yellow Jackets’ 85-82 Old Dominion Athletic Conference win over the visiting Hornets in Crenshaw Gymnasium Saturday. The Yellow Jackets remain undefeated in ODAC play at 13-0.

METTLE Continued from pg. 9

Generals made just 2 of 13 after intermission.

“I told them let’s keep fighting, let’s keep fighting, and I’m so proud that they did that,” said Yellow Jackets head coach Carroll LaHaye. “We valued each possession tonight. We haven’t always taken care of the ball.”

The Yellow Jackets committed just 10 turnovers on the evening, while 11 of their 15 assists came during the second half. The Generals made one shot from the field in the final period, a Kate Groninger 3-pointer with 4:17 remaining, scoring 6 points overall.

Randolph-Macon sits in sixth place in the ODAC standings with four games remaining. The Yellow Jackets go to Ferrum Saturday, then return to Crenshaw Gymnasium on Tuesday night against Shenandoah, which currently sits in fourth. It is sure to be an emotional night, as the program salutes Woods, Williams and Michal Ross, who scored 10 points Saturday. Williams wants that 33-7 run to permeate everything ahead of her as she sees her career wind down, one where a devastating knee injury cost her most of her junior season.

“I told Coach LaHaye, it’s a gratitude thing,” Williams said.

“I’m just glad to be back on the court again.

The 2020 season begins Wednesday February 26 with a home doubleheader against Mary Washington, then will play four games in two days at the Triangle Grand Slam Classic in Raleigh, North Carolina, facing Piedmont (Georgia) and Kean Saturday February 29, McDaniel and William Peace on Sunday March 1.

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

Ashland-Hanover Local February 12, 2020

11

Librarian announces upcoming Ashland-area programs HANOVER – Librarian Carolyn Garner has announced the upcoming programs at Ashlandarea libraries

Richard S. Gillis Jr./Ashland Branch Library For more information, call 804-798-4072 or visit the library at 201 S. Railroad Ave. Chess Club -- Thursday, Feb. 13, 20 & 27, 4:305:30 p.m. for ages 5 to 18. Do you like to play chess?

Play a few games with the chess club. Refreshments will be provided by Friends of the Ashland Library.

Ashland Afternoon Bridge Club -- Friday, Feb. 21. 1-4 p.m. Members should have basic bridge knowledge and skill.

Hanover Master Gardeners Series -- Saturday, Feb. 22, 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 we will present a new topic, each designed to beautify your yard and enrich your gardening experience.

Your specific gardening questions will be welcome.

Must Love Words -- Tuesday, Feb. 25, 7-8:30 p.m. Writers, are you looking for inspiration? Need readers with a discerning eye? Join in a constructive feedback and discussion about the craft of writing.

Step Out of the Box with Blocks! -Wednesday, Feb. 12, 7-8:30 p.m. This session will take you outside the boundaries of typical block play and show you how it supports

SOUTH Continued from pg. 6

tranquility that for the years that followed, seemed illusive or lost.

Most of those memories for me involve years past when the Florida Keys provided that lost sense of paradise for me and many others who made the trek down the Overseas Highway. I was hooked on my first visit in 1975, and, from that day forward, my mind lazily wanders down those tiny islands when the cold winds of winter blow in Richmond.

I made an annual journey to the end of Route 1 for years as life became more routine in the North, noting the changes in the tiny community with each trip, and finding fewer and fewer of the old friends I’d met still hanging around the old Navy town.

12

brain development. Be prepared to explore and play! All Virginia Infant and Toddler Specialist Network Trainings are geared for those who care for children from birth to 36 months.

American Red Cross Blood Pressure Clinic -- Friday, Feb. 14, 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.

Let’s Build Jelly Bean Structures -- Saturday, Feb. 15, 11 a.m.-noon. Do you like to design, create and build with jellybeans? Platforms, jellybeans, toothpicks and examples provided with a special sharing time at the end. Snacks will provided by the Friends of the Ashland Library.

Afternoon Book Club -- Monday, Feb. 17, 1-2 p.m. Read the library’s 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.

Ashland Evening Book Club -- Tuesday, Feb. 18, 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.

Learning Microsoft Word -- Wednesday, Feb. 19, 4-6 p.m. Learn how to complete basic tasks in Microsoft Word 2010, like editing and saving a document, how to add formatting, and more.

But, I kept going back, even when the Conch Republic became a destination for global visitors, and tourism assumed its role as the main source of income for the island. I returned even when the huge cruise ships dropped thousands of tourists daily for their Key West experience.

When I got the surprising news that we were expecting twins, it was the dead of winter, and, while searching for a response to the stunning announcement, a vision of swaying palms, warm evening breezes and grapefruit-laced shots of vodka danced in my head.

So, our first act of preparation for a momentous event in the lives of any couple, was to pack up our 2-year old daughter and head for Key West. We spent a lazy week relaxing by the pool, and evenings were filled with long hunched over strolls up and down the long wooden planked floors teaching

Ashland-Hanover Local February 12, 2020

Morning Book Club – Friday, Feb. 21, 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.

Birthday Party for Dr. Seuss! -- Saturday, Feb. 29, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Celebrate Dr. Seuss’s birthday with stories read by the Cat in the Hat, a scavenger hunt, games, and crafts. Refreshments will be provided by the Henry Clay Woman’s Club of Ashland.

Storytimes -- Mondays (Feb. 17 & 24) -- Mother Goose, 10 a.m.; Family, 10:45 a.m.; Tuesdays (Feb. 18 & 25); Toddler, 10 a.m.; Preschool, 10:45 a.m.

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

Homeschool Math Mania -- Friday, Feb. 28, 1:30-2:30 p.m. Explore the world of math through books, games and lots of hands on fun.

Genealogy Class -- Thursday, Feb. 20, 2:30-4:30 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.

Storytimes -- Fridays (Feb. 14, 21 & 28) – Family, 10:45 a.m.

Lois Wickham Jones/Montpelier

Sophia how to walk in the lobby of the hotel that Flagler built, finally restored in all of its splendor.

After a few days of total relaxation, I contacted a friend who came to Key West and didn’t leave, and had spent the past two decades of his life living the dream of many who couldn’t muster the courage to do what their heart instructed.

We had a few beers at the Green Parrot, unchanged since my first visit in the 1970s. The crowd, sadly, did not have the same connection with the past. A corner open air bar once filled with locals was now a tourist haven, with patrons scrambling to buy a t-shirt or obtain a stack of plastic cups with the logo emblazoned so everyone would know immediately that “I’ve been to Key West, and you haven’t.”

I confided in my friend that somehow I knew this would be my last trip

Branch Library For more information, call 804-883-7116 or visit the library at 17205 Sycamore Tavern Lane.

Paws to READ -- Wednesday, Feb. 12, 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.

Family Storytimes -- Wednesday, Feb 12, 19 & 26, 10 a.m.

Cochrane Rockville Branch Library For more information, call 804-749-3146 or visit the library at 16600 Pouncey Tract Road.

LEGOs! -- Saturday, Feb. 15, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. for ages 5 to 12. Use your engineering skills to create a LEGO design all your own. Snacks will be provided by the Friends of the Rockville Library.

Read 2 Rover -- Monday, Feb. 17, 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.

Rockville Book Club -- Tuesday, Feb. 25, 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, Feb. 14, 21 & 28, 10:30 a.m.

to the Keys. The impending responsibility of three small children didn’t include Pirate Punch at Captain Tony’s.

To my surprise, he was spending his last season in Key West and was selling his small condo and heading North.

He explained that the sleepy, Southern fishing village to which he had escaped was only a memory and the island had sold its collective evil and eclectic soul to the devil in the form of wealthy investors who snatched up every piece of available property and built luxury accommodations for a new breed of Conchs.

It was my last visit to the a string of islands still close to my heart and vivid in my mind, and my Florida excursions are now centered around Tampa with relatives. Although the sun is warm and the water crystal clear, I see few reminders of my days on the

Keys. The days are shorter, and the nights are tame and early ending, the lines on my face much deeper.

And maybe Du Marnier was right.

You can never go back.

What’s left is only a memory and a word to the wise for those who, as we speak, sit on a bar stool in Captain Tony’s Saloon sipping Pirate Punch under a hanging tree and pledging eternal returns to the once unique hole in the wall watering hole ... and to anyone else willing to listen.

Savor the moment …. of that first rush of ocean air, that sunset in Negril, that hike in the Tetons, or that special beach with pink sand, or whatever is your moment in time, slice of Nirvana in a place to which you unfaithfully pledged a return.Live it like it may be your only opportunity for Nirvana, for the truth reveals that, in many cases, once is indeed enough.

PUBLIC NOTICE

Business & Service Directory DRIVEWAYS ASPHALT PAVING Gravelwork, Driveways, also concrete driveways.

ROC Construction 804-615-3699

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Notice is hereby given that the Hanover County Board of Supervisors has set Wednesday, February 26, 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 REZ2019-00031, TAYLOR FARM DEVELOPMENT COMPANY, ET AL., Request(s) an amendment to the conceptual plan and proffers approved with rezoning request C-34-15(c),CoolSpringsCompany,onGPINs7796-68-2761,7796-68-4579,7796-68-4616, 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 specified conditions. (PUBLIC HEARING) Copies of the above case may be reviewed in the Planning Office, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

Ashland-Hanover Local February 12, 2020 13

PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is hereby given that the Hanover County Planning Commission has set Thursday, February 20, 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 REZ2019-00029, 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 786076-8346, 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 REZ2019-00036, PENCE HOLDINGS, INC. Request(s) to rezone from B-3(c), General Business District with conditions, to M-2(c), Light Industrial District with conditions, on GPIN 7788-06-7720, consisting of approximately 9.44 acres, and located on the north line of Vermeer Place (State route pending) at its intersection with Washington Highway (U.S. Route 1). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Business-Industrial. The proposed zoning amendment would allow for various M-2, Light Industrial District uses including a recreational vehicle storage site. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: South Anna REZ2019-00037, AIR PARK ASSOCIATES, L.P. Request(s) an amendment to the proers approved with rezoning request C-13-94(c), Air Park Associates, on GPINs 7798-44-0937, 7798-44-0663, 7798-44-2350, 7798-33-3765, 7798-34-2121, 7798-24-8382, 7798-24-6569, 7798-24-4811, 7798-25-1001, 779835-3160, 7798-35-4750, 7798-35-0225, 7798-25-6471, 7798-45-3554, 7798-54-5903, 7798-33-9427, 7798-43-4904, 7798-434481, 7798-43-8505, 7798-53-1614, and 7798-35-1840, consisting of approximately 217.34 acres, zoned M-2(c), Light Industrial District with conditions. The property is located on the west line of Sliding Hill Road (State Route 656) approximately 1000 feet south of its intersection with Ashcake Road (State Route 657) and on the south line of Ashcake Road (State Route 657) approximately 800 feet west of its intersection with Sliding Hill Road (State Route 656). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Limited Industrial. The proposed zoning amendment would permit the development of a warehouse/ distribution facility. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Ashland CONDITIONAL USE PERMITS CUP2019-00010, MEGAWASH, L.L.C. Request(s) a Conditional Use Permit in accordance with Section 26-174.2 of the Hanover County Zoning Ordinance to permit a vehicle washing facility on GPIN 7788-06-7720(part), consisting of approximately 2.81 acres, zoned B-3(c), General Business District with conditions (rezoning to M-2(c), Light Industrial District pending with REZ2019-00036), and located on the north line of Vermeer Place (State route pending) at its intersection with Washington Highway (U.S. Route 1). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Business-Industrial. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: South Anna CUP2019-00011, COMPASS CHRISTIAN CHURCH Request(s) an amendment to a Conditional Use Permit (CUP-3-80, AM. 1-09) in accordance with Section 26-20.21 of the Hanover County Zoning Ordinance to permit a church expansion and its related uses on GPINs 8725-31-9218, 8725-30-8257, 8725-40-1234, 8725-40-2226 and 8725-40-1473, consisting of approximately 17.57 acres. The property is zoned A-1, Agricultural District, and located at the terminus of Liberty Circle (private road) north of its intersection with Mechanicsville Turnpike (U.S. Route 360).

The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Commercial and Suburban High (3-7 Dwelling Units per Acre). (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Henry Copies of the above cases may be reviewed in the Planning OďŹƒce, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

14

Ashland-Hanover Local February 12, 2020

Hometown Realty setting up headquarters at Oaklawn

By Jim Ridolphi for Ashland-Hanover Local HANOVER -- An iconic residence in Hanover County is getting a second life thanks to the approval of rezoning and Conditional Use Permit applications approved last month by the Hanover County Board of Supervisors.

Hometown Realty applied for the adjustments to transform a residence commonly known as Oaklawn, the Patrick Family homestead located off Shady Grove Road, to the local company’s Hanover headquarters.

The applicants had hoped the approval also would permit the company to operate an event venue on the 13-acre site,

but residents from neighboring Garrison Manor expressed concerns regarding the event venue portion of the application.

The applicants planned to offer the property for special events like weddings and community events at night and on weekends, hosting up to 250 guests with live music in the rear portion of the property Todd Rogers, co-owner of Hometown Realty, said he heard the collective objections from those neighbors and asked board members to approve only the portions of the application that would permit the operation of an office for the second largest realty company in Central Virginia.

“The thought we had was

taking the existing structure and modifying it slightly so we could use it as an office space,” Rogers told the board during a public hearing last month. “We’ve had several conversations with neighbors and it seems like we’re butting our heads a lot with the venue space.”

Residents of the neighboring community expressed a number of concerns at a November community meeting, citing excessive noise, operating hours, light spillage, use of alcohol, and number of events.

Following that meeting, the applicant offered proffers addressing those issues that included limiting the number of events and hours operation and

Jim Ridolphi/The Local

Hometown Realty will be moving into Oaklawn, above, located off Studley Road in Mechanicsville. Todd Rogers, co-owner, addressed the Hanover County Board of Supervisors about his company’s plans.

LEGAL DISPLAY ADS

LEGAL DISPLAY ADS

LEGAL DISPLAY ADS

PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is hereby given that the Hanover County Board of Supervisors will hold a regular Board Meeting on Wednesday, February 26, 2020, at 3:00 p.m. in the Board Room of the Hanover County Administration Building, 7516 County Complex Road, Hanover Courthouse, Hanover Virginia. This is a change from the previously published notice.

If you need further information, please call the

1061893-01

County Administrator’s Office at 365-6005.

Cecil R. Harris, Jr., County Administrator

banning amplified music after 8 p.m. during the week.

Even with the concessions, adjoining neighbors said the event venue would have a drastic effect on the lives of their families with many of their bedrooms adjacent to the Oaklawn rear yard.

Emily Davis, a mother of two and Garrison Manor resident, said she had no issue with the office use.

“Our issue with the CUP is the event space,” Davis said.

“The events that are being applied for are at the core of this.

We are just concerned parents who are trying to protect the well-being of our children.”

She expressed her appreciation for Hometown’s desire to preserve the property, but added, “There are other options for this property that would not be so intrusive for our family and children.”

The Planning Commission recommended approval of the CUP and rezoning requests regarding office use, but denied the venue application.

“Moving forward, we’d certainly like to get the office space going,” Rogers said after several neighbors expressed concerns regarding the venue space.

“We’re thinking about the venue space now, because we’re trying to be a good neighbor and good business partner.”

Rogers said Hometown is willing to take another look at the venue proposal and offer more conditions followed by a second review by the Planning Commission “if we decide to pursue that.”

“Our intent is to try and do something unique with this property — not to tear down the house and build who knows how many houses there,” Rogers said. “We’ve been a community partner for 31 years and Hanover County is our home base and we want to make that our headquarters.”

While he said he’s committed to the possibility of making further adjustments in order to make the event venue more palatable, Rogers conceded there seem to be challenges that can’t be resolved.

“With what I’ve heard in the community meetings and what I’ve heard from Garrison Manor residents, I think -- no matter where we put it -- it’s not going to be a satisfactory situation,” Rogers said. “We’ve thought about it a lot over the

past 60 days and I just don’t know -- other than not doing it at all -- what’s going to make a satisfactory neighbor there as far as the venue space goes.”

When asked by Ashland District supervisor Faye Prichard if a deferral would accommodate further negotiations regarding the space being used for weddings and social gatherings, Rogers said he would be frank in his answer.

“At this point, if we don’t get the venue space (approved) with very reasonable conditions, then we’re just going to let it go,” Rogers said.

The board approved both applications regarding the rezoning and office use, but rereferred the venue space portion of the request.

Chickahominy District supervisor Angela Kelly-Wiecek encouraged continued negotiations with Garrison Manor residents regarding the event venue, and suggested the panel defer action on the matter until the Planning Commission can consider a revamped plan.

County attorney Dennis Walter said the board could approve the rezoning request and approve the office use portion of the CUP, while re-referring the event venue request back to the Planning Commission.

The board approved that amended motion.

Ashland-Hanover Local February 12, 2020 15

Upcoming Randolph-Macon College entertainment events set ASHLAND – The following programs are scheduled for the new year at RandolphMacon College.

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 invita-

tional show of nationally recognized and emerging ceramic artists curated by Mike Jabbur and Birdie Boone. This exhibit includes works by Birdie Boone, Katie Fee, Stuart Gair, Chris Gustin, Hiroe Hanazono, Mike Jabbur, Maggie Jaszczak, Candice Methe, Lindsay Oesterritter, Mark Pharis, Jane Shellenbarger, and Chris Staley

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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 mid-20th Century” in the Dollar Tree Room, Brock 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

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HANOVER – The schedule for the Hanover Home Gardening Series Winter 2020 has been released by the Virginia Cooperative Extension of Virginia Tech and Virginia State University.

Topics, dates scheduled, locations,

WEGMANS

1061778-01

Continued from pg. 5

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Ashland-Hanover Local February 12, 2020

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.

Winter gardening series to feature growing tomatoes

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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 nonfiction work Bunk: The Rise of Hoaxes, Humbug, Plagiarists, Phonies, 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

be less restrictive in some regards,” Thomas said regarding the application.

Speakers at the less than cordial gathering also cited concerns regarding property values and the negative effect a

and presenters are as follow: z 9:30 a.m. Feb. 15 – Mechanicsville Library – Growing Tomatoes in the Home Garden, Ed Wall. z 9:30 a.m. Feb. 22 – Ashland Library – Pruning Basics, Doris Gullotta. z 9:30 a.m. Feb. 29 – Mechanicsville Library – Organic Gardening, Ed Wall. z 9:30 a.m. March 7 – Mechanicsville Library – Native & Honey

warehouse facility could present, but company officials said studies in Rochester indicate no such trend.

Aken said property values in those surrounding neighborhoods had increased 2 percent a year, a normal growth rate for residential housing.

One audience member

Bees, Brenda Burke. z 10:15 a.m. March 21 – Atlee Library – How to Plant a Tree So It Gets a Fighting Chance at Survival, Elizabeth Karalius. z 9:30 a.m. March 28 – Ashland Library – Birds, Becky Watson.

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

shouted, “I’ll bet our assessments don’t go down.”

Concerned residents have requested further meetings with Wegmans to address concerns, and many asked for a deferral to allow more time to identify options. A flyer passed out by project opponents at the meeting stated, “Work with

Us, Wegmans!” and listed a number of requests, including further traffic studies, lighting surveys, and increased buffers.

The Planning Commission will consider the case at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 20. At that time, the panel could recommend approval, denial or defer the request.