DEVELOPMENT
ELECTION
Supervisors vote 4-3 to approve Wegmans’ plan despite opposition
Smithson and staff ready for Ashland’s council election
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Vol. 5 No. 35 | Richmond Suburban News | May 13, 2020
Council candidates explain why they should be elected General Election voting to be held Tuesday, May 19, in Ashland Town Hall Council Chambers, as well as curbside
HCPS has 3 graduation celebrations in the works Staff Report news@mechlocal.com
ABBOTT
BARNHART
GOLDSTEIN
HARE
TRIVETT
KATHY ABBOTT
ANITA BARNHART
DAVID GOLDSTEIN
STEPHANIE HARE
STEVE TRIVETT
Kathy Abbott said she moved to Ashland in 2003 with her husband and three children, because she was “drawn to the town’s sense of community and its eclectic mix of people, businesses and events.” A four–year member of Ashland Town Council, she said, “Council’s role in the present and future Ashland extends far beyond attending a couple of meetings each month to discuss town business,” she said. “It’s taken nearly two decades for me to really get to know the people I now serve, to listen to their
Anita Barnhart said she decided to run for Ashland Town Council “to protect what makes Ashland special.” She is a lifelong educator who dedicated most of her 30 years in Hanover County Public Schools to working with the students and their parents at Liberty Middle School and Patrick Henry High School. She said the skills she learned as an educator prepared her well to continue serving Ashland on town council. As a classroom teacher, track coach, librarian, and International Baccalaureate
Having lived in many areas of the United States, David Goldstein said he wants to use knowledge gained “to leverage great ideas I’ve seen elsewhere” on Ashland Town Council. Goldstein volunteers with many organizations, including numerous non-profits. His education includes attending on scholarships: Temple University, the University of Pennsylvania, and University of Texas at Arlington (for his PhD). “I have written many books, magazine articles, and scientific publications. I was a professor at North Carolina AT&T
“All of our worlds were different,” Stephanie Hare said when referring to when she decided to run for Ashland Town Council. “Our lives were different, because we are different. I know that each one of us is going through so much uncertainty with the COVID-19 virus. For some of us, this may be a much needed ‘rest’, while many others can’t rest,” she said. “For many of us, we are scared not knowing how we will make our ends meet. We should all always be in this together. I believe in the phrase ‘We should care before it hits
Steve Trivett has been a member of Ashland Town Council since 2012, and is in his second year as mayor. He has been a resident of the town since 1983. “I’ve served our community as a volunteer fireman, on Hanover’s Family Life Education Team, with Hanover Habitat, on Hanover’s Community Services Board, on Ashland’s Board of Zoning Appeals, on Ashland’s Planning Commission, on Hanover’s Planning Commission for the Ashland District,” he said. “I’ve worked with elected officials, town and county staff,
see ABBOTT, pg. 1
see BARNHART, pg. 9
see GOLDSTEIN, pg. 9
see HARE, pg. 1
see TRIVETT, pg. 9
ASHLAND -- Hanover County Public Schools has been working to develop “a comprehensive graduation plan” that will honor and recognize seniors “in the most meaningful and memorable way possible under such extraordinary circumstances.” Dr. Michael Gill, superintendent; Jennifer Greif, assistant superintendent of instruction and chief academic officer; Dr. Robert Staley, director of
Metro Creative Services
Secondary Education; Christopher Martinez, principal, Patrick Henry High School; Kristina Reece, principal, Hanover High School; Charles Stevens principal, LeeDavis High School; and Dr. John Wheeler, principal, see GRADUATION, pg. 2
HCBOS votes 4-3 to approve Wegmans’ plan By Jim Ridolphi for Ashland-Hanover Local HANOVER — The Hanover County Board of Supervisors approved proffer amendments requested by Wegmans in a 4-3 vote early last Thursday morning, clearing the legislative path for the Rochester, New York-based grocer to construct a $175 million distribution center near the intersection of Ashcake and Sliding Hill Road. Angela Kelly-Wiecek, Faye Prichard and Sue Dibble voted against the amendments, opting for maintaining proffer guidelines approved in 1995. The vote followed a marathon meeting that extended past midnight as opponents of the project expressed concerns that centered on traffic, process, safety, noise, and quality of life issues. More than 50 citizens provided either live testimony or email comments objecting to the project and its loca-
GRADUATION Continued from pg. 1
Atlee High School; announced this morning plans “to celebrate [students’] remarkable accomplishments over the past 13 years.” Due to the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) public health concerns and uncertainty moving forward, it was agreed that it is not realistic or responsible to hold the traditional commencement
tion in close proximity to several established Hanover neighborhoods. Many more attended the meeting and listened remotely from outside the meeting room. WiFi also was available in the parking lot where opponents beeped horns and blinked lights in support of their efforts. Prichard moved to deny the request, essentially leaving the 1995 proffers in place, in a motion seconded by KellyWiecek but voted down in a 4-3 vote. Canova Peterson moved for approval of the Wegmans’ request that included two applications, both passing by a 4-3 vote. Anti-Wegmans protesters confronted board members as they entered the building for the afternoon session, and showed up for the evening public hearing en masse. Deputies with the Hanover County Sheriff ’s Office and Fire-EMS officials closely
monitored entry to the building restricted to five speakers at a time, but Governor Northam’s crowd limitations often fell by the wayside with press, speakers, staff, and board members. An attorney representing Wegmans told board members they were faced with a binary choice regarding the project. “The only question is — Is this is a better case for the county, the community and for Wegmans under 1995 proffers or the 2020 proffers?’ ” attorney Andy Condlin said. “We think we are doing something that will benefit the county benefits the community as well as providing a more efficient layout for the property itself,” he added. Condlin said building under the 1995 proffers would allow a more than 2 millionsquare-foot facility and eliminate increased buffering and open space, but, either way, Wegmans plans to build the facility.
ceremonies at the VCU Siegel Center on Saturday, June 13. However, the school leaders, along with the feedback received from students, families, principals, faculty, staff, senior class officers, and others who helped in the decisionmaking process, are offering three unique ways to celebrate the Class of 2020: individually, virtually, and in-person. Details follow: Celebration 1: Individual Graduation Experience
(early June) z High school staff will schedule appointments with all seniors to arrange for an individual graduation experience with up to five family members or special guests. The appointments will take place within the first two weeks of June. z Each senior will be called by name to walk the stage in a cap and gown to receive a diploma. z Staff will be on-hand to take keepsake pictures of seniors with their guests. Seniors also will receive a gift. z Staff and guests are required to follow all official social distancing and related guidance. z Each high school principal will communicate more specific details and instructions soon.
PLUMBING, HEATING & COOLING
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Ashland-Hanover Local May 13, 2020
Jim Ridolphi/The Local
Kathryn Renick, left, from Fox Head, Lori O’Toole from Ashcreek and Betsy Guthrie from Somerset positioned themselves in front of the Hanover County Administration Building to express their opposition to the Wegmans’ planned distribution center project.
“Since the property is already zoned for its use, M-2, Wegmans can and will build. The question is whether it’s under the current 1995 proffers or under the 2020 prof-
fers,” Condlin said. But many speakers who expressed opposition said they wished to maintain the 1995 proffers, and voiced sentiments that placed doubt on
that commitment. Weedon Cloe, a resident of an adjacent neighborhood, said, “Citizens have been told repeatedly that the 1995 prof-
Celebration 2: Virtual Graduation (June 13) z On June 13, each high school will release a graduation video that will include remarks from the principal, the superintendent, the valedictorian and salutatorian, as well as a photomontage of the graduating class. z The videos will follow a consistent format. Each high school also will include its own unique touches to make the experience more personable and memorable. z Each high school graduation team will share further details regarding the graduation video. Celebration 3: In-Person Graduation (Aug. 8) z If permitted by officials, HCPS is actively planning to hold modified in-
person graduation ceremonies on Saturday, Aug. 8, at The Meadow Event Park located in Doswell. z The ceremonies will be live-streamed and recorded for those who are unable to attend. z This plan is fluid and may change due to the unpredictability of COVID-19. z The ceremonies will follow the most up-to-date COVID-19 health and safety guidance provided by local, state, and federal officials, including limiting the number of attendees to ensure appropriate social distancing. z Each high school principal will communicate more specific details and instructions in the coming weeks and months. z The graduation ceremonies will be held as follows: 9 a.m. — Hanover
High School 12 p.m. — Patrick Henry High School 3 p.m. — Atlee High School 6 p.m. — Lee-Davis High School “In the meantime, significant work is still underway,” Dr. Gill said. “Our team will continue to work with great care and compassion to finalize our plans.” He also said that principals will share more details in the coming weeks as they become available. Questions about Celebration 1 and Celebration 2 may be directed to the student’s principal. For more information about Celebration 3, contact Dr. Robert Staley, director of Secondary Education, at rstaley@hcps.us.
see WEGMANS, pg. 4
SHERIFF’S REPORTS | Crime, Accidents, Fire & Rescue stop, and attempt to escape/ elude were reported in the 92 block of Interstate 95 South, Ashland.
March 17
Credit card theft was reported in the 10000 block of Buck Trail, Mechanicsville.
A missing person was reported in the 9200 block of Mars Drive, Mechanicsville.
Assault and battery on a family member was reported in the 7900 block of Colony Drive, Mechanicsville. Receiving goods from credit card fraud, $200, was reported in the 11000 block of Air Park Road, Ashland. Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 7000 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville. Possession of Schedule I and II controlled substance was reported in the 8100 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville.
Uttering was reported in the 10300 block of Nassawadox Way, Ashland.
Petit larceny shoplifting was reported in the 7200 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.
Obtaining money or signature by false pretenses was reported in the 8100 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville. Obtaining money by false pretenses, $200, was reported in the 8100 block of Saddle Crest Drive, Mechanicsville.
Forging was reported in the 11100 block of Air Park Road, Ashland.
Possession of marijuana, subsequent offense, was reported in the 92 block of Interstate 95 South, Ashland.
Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 8100 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville. Eluding police, failure to
Driving after forfeiture of license was reported in the 36 block of Interstate 295 South, Mechanicsville. Driver did not report an accident with damages, $250, in the 8100 block of Crown Colony Parkway, Mechanicsville. Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 7500 block of Mechanicsville Bypass/ Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville. Destruction of property, monument, was reported in the 6300 block of Empresstree Lane, Mechanicsville. Manufacture, sale and possession of a controlled substance, Schedule I and II, were reported in the 8100 block of Atlee Road/North Mayfield Lane, Mechanicsville.
Driver did not report an accident with damages, $250, in the 10100 block of Ashcake Road, Ashland.
Grand larceny, $500 or more not from a person, was reported in the 9500 block of Sliding Hill Road, Ashland.
Possession of marijuana, subsequent offense, was reported in the 94 block of Interstate 95 North, Ashland.
Dumping trash on highway or private property was reported in the 8800 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville. Larceny or theft, third or subsequent offense, was reported in the 7200
ID theft to obtain ID to avoid arrest, second offense, was reported in the 10100 block of Telegraph Road/Kings Acres Road, Glen Allen. Obtaining money or signature by false pretenses was reported in the 8300 block of Lee-Davis Road, Mechanicsville. Concealment, price altering merchandise, $500, was reported in the 7400 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville. ID theft to obtain ID to avoid arrest was reported in the 14700 block of Mountain Road/Palmers Way, Glen Allen. Possession of marijuana, subsequent offense, was reported in the 94 block of Interstate 95 North, Doswell. Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 17400 block of Tyler Station Road, Beaverdam.
March 21
Possession of marijuana, subsequent offense, was reported in the 200 block of Bruton Parrish Drive/Brigade Court, Ashland.
Possession of Schedule I and II controlled substance was reported in the 12400 block of Greenwood Road, Mechanicsville.
Possession of Schedule I and II controlled substance was reported in the 5300 block of Pole Green Road/Williamsville Road, Mechanicsville.
March 20
March 18
Possession of Schedule I and II controlled substance was reported in the 7500 block of Mechanicsville Bypass/ Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville.
block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.
Concealment, price altering merchandise, $500, was reported in the 6600 block of Cold Harbor Road, Mechanicsville. Profane and threatening language was reported over a public airway in the 6400 block of Lantana Lane, Mechanicsville.
March 22
Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 7100 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville.
Petit larceny from auto was reported in the 13500 block of Thomaswoods Lane, Ashland.
Destruction of property, monument, value $1,000, was reported in the 15500 block of Scotchtown Road, Montpelier.
Destruction of property, monument, was reported in the 16600 block of Mountain Road, Montpelier.
Trespassing after being forbidden to do so was reported in the 4200 block of Rockhill Road, Mechanicsville.
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Entering property with the intent to damage was reported in the 8100 block of Signal Hill Road, Mechanicsville.
March 23
Threats of death or bodily injury by letter or electronic means were reported in the 7200 block of Cold Harbor Road, Mechanicsville.
Damaging public buildings, library matter, $1,000, was reported in the 9900 block of Honey Meadows Road, Mechanicsville.
Larceny of certain animals was reported in the 16000 block of Beaverdam School Road, Beaverdam.
Obtaining money or signature by false pretenses was reported in the 14300 block of Clazemont Road, Montpelier.
Sale and distribution of marijuana, ½-ounce to 5 pounds, was reported in the 7100 block of Brooking Way/Hyacinth Court, Mechanicsville.
Download and watch at home through May 17
see INCIDENTS, pg. 15
Ashland-Hanover Local May 13, 2020 3
WEGMANS Continued from pg. 2
fers are not as protective as the changes proposed this evening, and that Wegmans could build today using those proffers . . . We believe that this is not the case.” “I’m here tonight to voice opposition to the adoption of amended proffers to facilitate the development of the proposed Wegmans‘ Distribution Center,” he told board members during the public hearing. Cloe noted the numerous letters, emails and phone calls sent during the past month by concerned citizens to their representatives and Wegmans’ officials. “Citizens have consistently and intelligently advocated for measures to balance the immense size and significant local impact of this proposed distribution center with the surrounding farms, neighborhoods and businesses.” He said the response has been inadequate. “Residents have been told and assured the proffer amendments under consideration tonight are in the best interest of the community, and, without them, the project would proceed to the detriment of the area. In truth, we have only been presented with superficial design compromises crafted to placate dissent.” The 217-acre site was zoned M-2, light industrial with conditions, in 1995 with a list of proffers that included height restrictions, traffic guidelines and other restrictions but the current designation does allow warehouse facilities. Both applications were recommended for approval by the Planning Commission and Planning staff. Wegmans‘ officials submitted amended proffers that addressed transportation improvements, landscape buffers, height of the parking lot lighting, storage and cultural resources. Some of those amend-
4
ments were offered as late as the day of the meeting, but Condlin said the late additions were an attempt to address the concerns of some residents and board members. The 217-acre site is located within the Sliding Hill Road Economic (EDZ) Development Zone. “EDZs are areas targeted for economic development for the purpose of expanding the county’s tax base,” Hanover Planning Director David Maloney said during the hearing, adding that the Wegmans’ project clearly qualifies. Wegmans’ conceptual plan outlines a 1.8 million-squarefoot office warehouse facility with an expansion site of more than 200,000 square feet. The site also contains another 400,000 square feet of building space. The primary entrance will be located on Sliding Hill Road with an employee only entrance located on Ashcake Road. While the 1995 proffers required a 25-foot buffer around the site, Wegmans has proffered 75-foot buffers along Ashcake Road and a 50-foot buffer along a section of Sliding Hill Road. The amended proffers also included transportation improvements, including a left and right lane entrance lane at the Sliding Hill entrance as well as an acceleration lane for trucks exiting the facility. Improvements at the intersection of Sliding Hill and New Ashcake Road include a continuous green “T” signal and funding for future road improvements also were proffered in the amended request. For most of the dozens who showed up to express their displeasure with the project, it simply wasn’t enough. Many of the more than two dozen who spoke in opposition cited traffic and noise concerns, while others lamented at the perceived secrecy surrounding the project.
Ashland-Hanover Local May 13, 2020
County officials were limited in what they could disclose during the negotiations due to a non-disclosure agreement with the applicant until the project was announced in December. Several others expressed concerns regarding wetlands locating on the property. Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) officials are deciding whether or not to hold a public hearing regarding the delineations, and opponents are actively pursuing that avenue. A group of Fox Head opponents organized a Facebook page regarding the project that now boasts more than 1,300 members. Some have pledged to continue the fight in the legal system following last week’s vote, and funds are being collected to bolster those efforts. “It was closer than I thought,” one opponent said. referring to the 4-3 vote approving the amendments. Wegmans’ site development director Dan Aken also was surprised by the close vote. “I was surprised by the outcome, only receiving four votes in favor, but pleased to receive approval and thank the board for their efforts in reviewing and approving our project,” Aken said. “Our team has worked nonstop over the last several months to address the comments and requests we have heard from the citizens, staff, and board of supervisors. We feel like we presented a plan and proffers that were much improved from the 1995 proposal. We were hopeful the entire board would see that effort and vote in favor,” he added. As for a timeline going forward, Aken said, “We would like to be in the ground as soon as possible, but still need approvals from the State DEQ and Army Corps of Engineers before we can determine an exact schedule. I would like to think we can obtain those approvals in time to be in the ground this summer.”
Hanover Economic Director Linwood Thomas, who has been the target of many of the anti-Wegmans attacks, said he was pleased with the vote last week. “I commend the board of supervisors, Planning Commission and Economic Development Authority for their support of the Wegmans‘ project,” Thomas said. “I do understand and recognize citizen concerns and believe the updated proffers approved by the Board on May 6 will go a long way to making the project better for the entire community.” Only three speakers voiced support for the project during the public hearing, but one of them carried a very recognizable Richmond name and face. “There are many regions and localities that would be very excited for Wegmans to make such a huge investment in their communities,” said Bobby Ukrop. “Knowing what a fine citizen Wegmans has been in other communities, and, given that Wegmans will become Hanover County’s third largest taxpayer once the facility is up and running, I encourage you to approve this project,” he concluded. Reaction to the decision was somewhat predictable and many opponents said the outcome was not unexpected and stated this was the just the first step in a long process. Others took a more humorous approach to future actions on the Fox Head website as one post read, Quoting The Godfather, “Now we go to the mattresses”. Chris French has been an active participant in the opposition efforts, and spoke during the public hearing regarding noise concerns associated with the massive project. Following the decision, French outlined other concerns with the application and the review process. “Unfortunately, the outcome was not unexpected,”
Jim Ridolphi/The Local
Bobby Ukrop, whose family is among Richmond’s most prominent, addressed the Hanover County Board of Supervisors to express his support for the Wegmans’ distribution center.
French said. “I appreciate that Sue Dibble listened to citizens and joined Faye Prichard and Angela Kelly-Weicek in opposing Wegmans’ request. It is disappointing the remaining supervisors voted for the amended proffers despite overwhelming evidence the people who will be most impacted by their decision wanted the opposite,” he added. He said the decision represented an unwillingness on the part of local government to hear concerns of its citizens. “The board’s mandate is to serve the people they have been elected to represent, not to ensure economic development at all costs,” French said. “With the board chair [Bucky Stanley] publicly stating 24 hours prior to the vote that he expected the supervisors to pass Wegmans’ requested proffer changes and special exemption, it became clear the public hearing had a predetermined outcome.” French also questioned the process by which the application was considered. “Moreover, I’m deeply considered about how the hearing was conducted. Citizens did not have equal access to
their elected officials,” he said. “The county did not provide adequate facilities to those who were literally left locked out in the cold, where many were unable to access the WiFi that the county touted as the solution to make this hearing ‘public’ due to infrastructure capacity issues. The opponents have not announced what the next step might be, but most vowed to continue the protests. “Considering how strongly the community feels about the outcome, it would not be surprising to me if there is legal action. At this stage, I would expect it,” French said. Prichard held up a stack of citizens’ responses to the application as she moved for denial. “It is very clear to me that my citizens want to retain the 1995 proffers, and my job is to represent my citizens,” Prichard said. Vice chair Sean Davis said
Jim Ridolphi/The Local
Chris French has actively opposed the construction of the distribution center, citing noise concerns. He also spoke out about the application and review process.
he wanted to confirm that opponents did, in fact, prefer the 1995 proffers to the amended version presented by Wegmans. “The 1995 buffers are less than what is proposed under the 2020 buffers, correct?” Davis asked. “Some of the see WEGMANS, pg. 15
COVID-19 leads to revisions in FY 2021 budget By Jim Ridolphi for Ashland-Hanover Local HANOVER — Following an assessment by County Administrator Rhu Harris that outlined more than $10 million in cuts to his proposed FY21
Jim Ridolphi/The Local
County Administrator Rhu Harris presented some revisions to the FY 2021 budget due to the impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19).
budget, the Hanover County Board of Supervisors approved the revised budget by a unanimous vote last week. Harris highlighted a list of cost-cutting measures to compensate for lost revenues during COVID-19, including hiring freezes, delays in some projects, and the elimination of proposed merit increases for school and county employees. “When I stood up here in February, I know you thought this was the last budget presentation that I would have to make,” Harris said. “This truly
was a project that we had to start all over again,” he added as he acknowledged the hard work of his staff in preparing adjusted figures. “A lot has changed in the world and the economy since Feb. 12.” The result is a 10.2 percent decrease from Harris’ proposed budget presented in February. Supervisors approved a $478.2 million revised all funds budget that includes no real estate tax increase and no layoffs for current employees. More than $6 million allotted for new parks, IT upgrades and improved lighting have been removed from this year’s proposed budget. “Business closures and restrictions on travel and gatherings in response to COVID19 has an immediate impact on the state and local economies,” Harris said. The budget for Hanover County Public Schools is directly affected by the reduced projections. Teachers will not receive raises and pay scale adjustments eliminated for this year. Any adjustments to the school budget, including how those cuts will be absorbed, rests with the Hanover County School Board. They will consider those revisions and act at their next meeting. “We all understand the reality of the situation, and, while those priorities that were presented back a few months ago still remain priorities for the school division, we also have to adjust to the reality of the current situation,” school superintendent Michael Gill said following the meeting. “The school board will be
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Ashland-Hanover Local May 13, 2020 5
OPINION
LETTERS
| The Local Views
| Reader Views
From the managing editor
Life in quarantine has had some benefits By Melody Kinser Managing Editor
W
hile the past few months have seem interminable in some ways, they also have proven to provide time to catch up with family and friends. Who isn’t guilty of “I’ll call this weekend”? During this stay-at-home guideline, I’ve found myself better utilizing time than I would have in a “normal” routine. Of course, work remains a top priority, with my day starting at a desk that belonged to my maternal grandfather. Our company has graciously accommodated us with all the equipment that we need to continue our duties as if we were on-site in the office.
Optimism goes a long way in the world of unknowns today. Faith has meant the most as the numbers of coronavirus (COVID-19) deaths and cases rise. I consider myself a woman of strong faith -- and believe in the power of prayer. As I’ve previously said, I will continue to wear a mask and gloves beyond the determined date to adhere to usage. In the over 60 age category, I am at-risk for the virus. Fortunately, with limited outside activity, I have not experienced any symptoms. I need to clarify a point from last week’s column. The masks and gloves are protective in two ways: We aren’t spreading any germs and we aren’t susceptible to being targeted. I don’t -- and won’t -- understand why some
people act as if this is infringing on some constitutional right. The life you save could be your own -- or a loved one. The only inconvenience I have encountered is fogging up my glasses when I wear a fabric mask. I can deal with that. Like you, I am eager to return to some normalcy on Friday, as Gov. Ralph Northam said last week that he would be reopening some businesses. As always, let’s “Shop local.” In the meantime, I encourage you to take advantage of the days left to call a loved one or continue working on your flowers or gardens. But, please, continue to be mindful of the warnings of our governmental leaders. This isn’t about politics, folks, it’s about safety.
The Tiger King: A saga that just can’t be made up By Jim Ridolphi Contributing Columnist It’s less than easy to find yourself spending way too much time in front of a television set during these unusual times of quarantine and social distancing. Even with an abbreviated routine of sorts, I seem to have an abundance of free time on my hands these days, and I’ll admit to watching more than my normal amount of television. I now realize that I was prob-
ably one of the last viewing age Americans to watch the Netflix series Tiger King. Before watching it, I had limited knowledge of the series, only slightly noticing it as I scrolled through movie options on another stuck-at-home evening. My interest was teased when I kept seeing or hearing references to the show’s star, a gun-toting zookeeper named Joseph Schreibvogel, better known as Joe Exotic, The Tiger King. There was little indication of just how bizarre a story surrounded that
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zookeeper and a cast of characters seemingly plucked from a Hunter Thompson expose. Limitations of space prevent me from providing all the details of the twisted tale here, but, suffice it to say, it’s a case where truth is indeed stranger than fiction. In addition, if you haven’t seen the series and are planning to watch it, consider this a spoiler alert and stop reading. Exotic ran a big cat zoo in Wynnewood, Oklahoma, caring
for and displaying more than 200 lions, tigers, leopards and hybrids. Tour guides led groups of visitors through the maze of wild animals, allowing an up-close and personal interaction with some of the most exotic creatures on the planet. In addition to the income from what opponents called cub petting, Exotic also bred big cats and sold cubs to small zoos across the nation. The trouble began when another heavyweight in the big cat reserve see TIGER, pg. 7
WE WANT TO PUBLISH YOUR ISSUE-DRIVEN LETTERS The Local welcomes your signed letters to the editor on topics of interest to Hanover residents. Letters must include your address and a daytime telephone number. We reserve the right to edit letters. We do not guarantee that every letter received will be published. Letters reflect the opinions and positions of the writers and not The Ashland-Hanover Local. Send letters to: The Ashland-Hanover Local 8460 Times-Dispatch Blvd. Mechanicsville, Va. 23116 Fax: 344-8746 E-mail: editor@mechlocal.com © 2020 by Richmond Suburban Newspapers. All advertising and editorial matter is fully protected and may not be reproduced in any manner without the permission of the publisher. CAC Audited Circulation: 13,776.
Responding to impact of Wegmans’ plan In response to Arhur Smith’s letter, “Questioning uproar about Wegmans plan”. Mr. Smith’s letter was remarkable for his superficial understanding of the issues surrounding the proposal. First of all, Hanover County and the state are giving this billion dollar corporation $6.5 million tax dollars, money we don’t currently have. The budget for schools is being cut $5.5 million and we are facing a $35 million shortfall. Why are we giving a New Yorkbased company corporate welfare under these circumstances? It also is essential to understand that Wegmans needs this parcel to be rezoned to meet their needs. If they were willing to adhere to the conditions that are attached to the 1995 rezoning, from A-1 Agricultural to M-2(c) Light Industrial with conditions (that what the “c” stands for), we wouldn’t be in an “uproar”. The letter’s assertion that all the residents living in Fox Head, Kings Charter, Milestone and Ashcreek should live elsewhere: “Living Where? Who Cares?! We would have farmland and wooded acreage and none of you” is incongruous with the “Welcome Wegmans” that he extends. Mr. Smith sounds angry at the thousands of people who live in the Atlee area for buying homes, paying taxes, raising families, and supporting schools that are excellent. This doesn’t support building a 1.7 million-squarefoot facility with non-stop hours, it’s just mean-spirited venting. The impact of this proposal, should it go through, will be felt all over this county, for years to come. Sorry you don’t like us, Mr. Smith, but, realize it or not, we’re fighting for you too. Anita Philp Mechanicsville see LETTERS, pg. 8
CALENDAR | News, Updates & Listings Saturday, Sept. 19 Rescheduled The Highland Springs High School Class of 1970 will now hold its 50th Reunion at the Hill Building at Sandston Pool, located at 501 Beulah Rd. in Sandston. Music will be presented 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. The cost is $45 per person. Those who may have recently paid $50 after March 1 have been refunded $5. No tickets will be sold at the door. For invitations or more information, 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
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world began actively attempting to shut down Exotic’s traveling big cat display complete with cub petting. Carole Baskin owns and operates Big Cat Rescue in Tampa, Florida, where lions and tigers that cannot longer be cared for in homes or small shows come to spend their final years. Baskin equated Exotic’s treatment of big cats to animal cruelty, and legal battles began and continued for years. Joe Exotic didn’t back down, routinely attacking Baskin on his nightly webcast with crude displays and violent depictions of what could happen to his rival. Exotic eventually packed
addicts who are in need of understanding and healing themselves. For details, call Sandy at 804-730-4812 or email sandy.leigh@verizon.net. Overcomers Outreach and Women’s Codependency, a Christcentered 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 804-366-9645 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 804270-9626.
Sundays Outside the Walls, a new Narcotics
up his two husbands and a less-than-well-groomed mullet and left the zoo. Lest I forget, he also ran for president in 2016 and followed that with a run for governor of Oklahoma the following year, all the while engaged in a fierce and bitter legal battle with Baskin and her husband. Exotic publicly accused Baskin of killing her second husband, Don Lewis, and inheriting his multimilliondollar estate that included the cats and the reserve. Now, Joe is not the only one pointing the finger at Baskin, who was penniless when she married Lewis, and his family members and friends have indicated the wheeling and dealing millionaire was murdered and
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 804746-4734. The Hanover Concert Band rehearses from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. every Tuesday, mid-January through mid December, at the Hanover Arts and Activities Center at 500 S. Railroad Ave. in Ashland, just south of U.S. 54. Membership is open to anyone who can read music and play a non-string instrument. High school students are welcome with parents’ permission.
fed to Baskin’s lions. The courts finally ruled in Baskin’s favor and essentially shut down Exotic’s operation, a less than smooth process that involves several colorful exotic animal lovers who stepped in to seemingly save Joe and the zoo. Apparently, Exotic’s contempt for Baskin took a turn toward murderous sometime after courts ordered the nowdefunct zookeeper to pay Baskin $1 million in damages. The Feds stepped in, arrested Exotic and charged him with solicitation of murder for hire and a number of exotic animal offenses, including killing tigers. I’ll stop before I spoil the entire series, but, suffice it to say, you can’t make this
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ax submissions to calendar to 344-8746, 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.
For more information, visit www. hanoverconcertband.org or call 804789-0536.
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 804-496-6093 or sandrdunham@ yahoo.com.
Third Mondays The Hanover County Community Services Board meets at 6:30 p.m. at 12300 Washington Hwy. in Ashland.
Second Tuesdays Hanover Family Support Group, a support group for family members of a loved one with a mental illness, meets from 7 to 8:30 p.m. the second Tuesday evening of each month at the Ashland office of Hanover Community Services locat-
stuff up. Point is, the nation has been mystified by the series, and the emancipation of Joe Exotic has become somewhat of a national cause. I’m not sure if the stayat-home orders helped or hindered the success of the project, but I suspect boredom might have contributed to the overwhelming success of the series. And, sadly, a man who spent a lifetime trying to place his face in front of a camera cannot enjoy his nationwide popularity propelling him to the celebrity status he’s aways sought. Unfortunately or maybe thankfully, the federal prison where Exotic is housed does not have Netflix. Who said there’s no justice in this world?
ed at 12300 Washington Highway in Ashland. Attendees support one another, share experiences, challenges and resources and to advocate for their loved ones. For more information, contact Kathy Redfearn, LCSW at 804-675-4230. The Hanover County Historical Society will be conducting free tours of the Old Hanover Courthouse on the Historic Courthouse Green from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every second Tuesday through December. The address is 13182 Hanover Courthouse Road in Hanover. For more information, visit http://www.hanoverhistorical.org/index.html. The Clay Spring Garden Club in Ashland meets at 1 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month (except for the month of July at the First Baptist Church in Ashland off of U.S. 54. Barbara Boor is the president. Doors are open to anyone who would like to attend.
Voter registrar explains council voting procedures HANOVER – Voting for next Tuesday’s Ashland Town Council General Election will be available in person in Council Chambers at Ashland Town Hall, as well as curbside along Thompson and Henry streets. Teresa F. “Teri” Smithson, General Registrar/Director of Elections, and her office realize the issues involved with the coronavirus (COVID-19) and are committed to help all eligible registered voters maintain the ability to cast a ballot safely. “Signs will show you where you may cast your ballot from the safety of your vehicle,” Smithson said. “There will be social distancing marks along the sidewalk leading into the
Town Hall if you wish to cast your ballot in person.” “Only six voters allowed inside the chambers at a time,” she added. “Please be patient and have your photo ID ready.” “We want to remind you to wear your protective mask. Hand sanitizer will be available for your use inside the polling place. We will be sanitizing all surfaces between voters,” Smithson said. For more information, call 804-365-6080 or email hanovervoting@hanovercounty.gov or visit www.hanovercounty.gov/365/voting. The last day to vote an in-person absentee ballot is Saturday, May 16.
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HSPS meal service continues ASHLAND -- Hanover County Public Schools has consolidated student meal service to three days per week — Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays — as of Monday, April 13, at all five locations to help limit in-person contacts. Staff will prepare and serve additional meals to provide students with nutrition seven days a week. Children do not need to be present to receive meals. Grab-and-go breakfasts and lunches will be served curbside from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, to all children 18 years of age or younger on a firstcome, first-served basis. On Mondays and Wednesdays, staff will serve twice the number of meals to ensure students have nutrition on Tuesdays and Thursdays. On Fridays, staff will serve triple the number of meals to ensure students have nutrition on Saturdays and Sundays. The schools serving meals are:
Battlefield Park Elementary School, 5501 Mechanicsville Tpk., Mechanicsville. Beaverdam Elementary School, 15485 Beaverdam School Rd., Beaverdam. John M. Gandy Elementary School, 201 Archie Cannon Drive, Ashland. Mechanicsville Elementary School, 7425 Mechanicsville Elementary Drive, Mechanicsville. South Anna Elementary School, 13122 Walton’s Tavern Rd., Montpelier. The meals provided will be the same for all children regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability, and there will be no discrimination in the course of the meal service. For more information about this program, contact HCPS Food Services at 804365-4566. Information submitted by Chris R. Whitley, Hanover County Public Schools public information officer.
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Quarantine offers different view of contact My grandmother was a shuffleboard pilot. Also known as Women’s Air Raid Defense, she and her friends plotted the positions of airplanes in Oahu after the attack on Pearl Harbor. With a bulky headset on and plotting rake in hand, they sat at a huge map and waited. Anticipating the still experimental radar system, they moved the little planes around. When one went out, another would take its place. But she had only a tiny periscope view of the big fights far away. It was four months before she knew that her husband was safe.
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Photos submitted by Chris R. Whitley
Hanover County Public Schools has been honored as a “Best Community for Music Education” for the eighth year in a row by the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) Foundation.
Hanover schools get national recognition for music program ASHLAND – The National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) Foundation has named Hanover County Public Schools (HCPS) as a “Best Community for Music Education” for the eighth year in a row. Hanover County is one of only 21 school divisions in Virginia to achieve this coveted status. There are 132 school divisions in the Commonwealth. “The arts are vital to cultivating our minds and play an important role in every community. I am grateful once again for the exceptional efforts of our accomplished and passionate music educators who work tirelessly to provide our students with a well-rounded education. I
The morning of Dec. 7, 1941, she had assumed the warning siren was just practice, grabbing only her hot rollers and wedding album. But, once outside, she could see with her own eyes the profiles of Japanese pilots, flying low. She was evacuated and confined to barracks. Some nights she heard a strange tap-tapping, eventually recorded by a solider positioned in a closet by her bed. She woke him with a string that tied them together, by jiggling her big toe. What it was, she never found out. She also heard rumors, never confirmed, of an American military uniform, washed up on the beaches of Oahu on Dec. 8. My grandfather’s cruiser, USS Boise, had left too late for Midway, having just missed Pearl Harbor. It was six months before he knew she was safe.
Ashland-Hanover Local May 13, 2020
look forward to when we can assemble once again and enjoy the many student performances that we offer each year,” said Dr. Michael Gill, superintendent. The NAMM Foundation awards this designation to divisions and schools that demonstrate an exceptionally high commitment to offering comprehensive music education to all students. It further serves to recognize the outstanding efforts of teachers, administrators, parents, students, and community leaders who have made music education part of the curriculum. Barry Flowe, Performing Arts curriculum specialist, said, “I am incredibly proud of everyone in our school system
But the ship sailed on to surprise a Japanese warship north of Guadalcanal’s Cape Esperance. It covered the landing of Marine reinforcements. But the Boise was badly damaged. ‘ My grandfather saw her again when the Boise limped back into port for repairs in November 1942. My mother was born the next year, but too late to remember him. My grandmother kept her chin up, only cried quietly, and, at night, so not to bother anyone, her friends wrote. She had been an actress before her marriage, even then she was gutsy and a looker. (Fabulous gams, someone said.) To me, she would say that having an enemy in common brings people together -- eventually. On the back of a photo I found her handwriting, “Rejoice brothers and sisters. Be of one mind and be at peace.” (2
and community for receiving this honor for the eighth year in a row! Hanover County values music education and supports our teachers as they coordinate thriving and robust music programs.” The NAMM Foundation is a nonprofit organization that serves to advance music education and participation around the world. For more information about the “Best Community for Music Education” program, visit https://www.nammfoundation.org/what-we-do/best-communitiesmusic-education. Information submitted by Chris R. Whitley, Hanover County Public Schools public information officer.
Corinthians 13:11) Nearly 80 years later, it must be my husband’s nearly matching headset that reminds me of her. But we are safe together, here in the confinement of our house. For now, my husband works in the dining room. He works at a double screen so he can move his people around; when one goes out, someone else steps in. Becket Franklin Ashland
‘Lock it’ is not that difficult to understand What part of "Lock it" don't you understand? Just read an alert from the Hanover County Sheriff ’s Office about cars
being broken into. Guess what? Many were unlocked. That's right, unlocked. Those owners I hope placed a note on the windshield: "My car is unlocked and please take anything and whatever you want. Please leave your mailing address so I can send you a Thank You note. Since you have my mailing address from the ‘return address sticker’, please let me know how much you are enjoying my laptop, money that I obviously did not need and anything else you found enjoyable." Ladies and gentlemen, there are those who are just itching to pass a law that if someone is killed by a gun stolen from your car, you can be sued or other legal actions taken. As a car owner, you are required to secure your property. Be a responsible car owner and citizen, Lock it!!! Dan Johnson Montpelier
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concerns and ideas.” Before seeking a seat on council, Abbott was involved with the Ashland Community Theatre Foundation, Hanover Arts and Activities Center, the Ashland Museum, Main Street Ashland Association (now Downtown Ashland Association), the Ashland Museum, Train Day, Ashland Musical Variety Show, and countless years on the PTA. She graduated from the Ashland Citizen’s Academy in 2016 before joining council, which “has given me a solid
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and Advance Placement coordinator, she developed and balanced budgets, created strategic plans, modeled leadership and worked collaboratively with diverse people of varying opinions and experiences to reach common goals. As a long-time resident and community volunteer at the Ashland Theatre, Barnhart said she understands Ashland is a unique combination of distinctive neighborhoods, each with its
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University, owned a multi-million-dollar government ‘think tank’, and am a retired artificial intelligence consultant,” he said. “I adore Ashland for its quaintness. Even though I live in the poor area of town, I can walk to the library and bike to the YMCA. I like working with people,” he continued. “But I am running because Mayor Steve Trivett convinced me to run while we donated blood prior to my playing with the Hannover Concert Band at
foundation in understanding how Ashland functions, and all of the decisions and considerations that come into play when determining how to move forward with any initiative.” She acknowledges the fiscal responsibility, economic development and preservation of the small-town character, “but those are things that the town has prioritized since I moved here, and I’m so impressed with our staff for their creativity and initiative to keep that momentum.” She praised civic participation, noting, “Ashland has been blessed with an extraor-
dinary level of civic participation in recent years. Now is the time to harness that energy and work together to create more communitybuilding events, build bridges across neighborhoods and organizations, continue to find new and creative ways to help our disadvantaged families, struggling businesses and neglected spaces, and fulfill Ashland’s potential as a great regional and tourist destination.” Council has moved quickly “to adjust its budget in anticipation of the economic fallout we may face in coming years” due to COVID-19.
own history and character that deserves respect. She said she appreciates Ashland’s strong town government, outstanding services, and government officials and employees who are truly interested in serving the citizens. She added that she is ready to face the budgetary and other challenges caused by the current COVID-19 crisis. Barnhart said the surrounding community is changing, but she wants “to keep the best interests of Ashland the main focus.” She said she will work to
continue the existing partnerships with local businesses and support them in their recovery from the effects of the current pandemic crisis. She said she values the town’s relationships with Randolph-Macon College and with Hanover County and wants “to strengthen those relationships to make our community even better.” Her goal serving on council comes from her benefiting “from a tradition of wise and responsible leadership from our town government.” She also said she is dedicated to preserving that tradition of excellent local government.”
the Arts Center.” Goldstein’s platform includes: Smarter development for Ashlanders. “We need to revitalize shopping centers with low occupancy more than having new construction, not more traffic and unsightly development for small economic gains.” “I want every socioeconomic group helped. We need to improve homelessness, poverty and multiculturalism. The ‘Arts District’ and ‘Main Street’ should be economic catalysts that improve the daily lives of
our less affluent area of town and enrich our businesses.” “We need smarter expenditures. Ashland could get more results on town expenditures. I would leverage my government grants and fundraising experience to bring more dollars back to Ashland.” Goldstein concluded by saying, “Ashland is a great place to live. We do many things well, but it could be improved with more creativity. I want to leverage great ideas from around the country to Ashland to make this an even more awesome place!”
Steven Scanlon appointed to West Point
STEVEN SCANLON
HARE Continued from pg. 1
our own yards, or we will just have a lot of messed up yards.’ ” “We have taught our children that representation matters,” she said. “This is so very important in local government as well. I strongly believe that our differences are what make the difference. Government is not a building. Government is ‘us’. Good people, from all different walks of life, who come
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and citizens to accomplish community goals,” he said. If re-elected, Trivett said his first goal would be to help citizens, businesses, and the town recover economically from the COVID-19 challenge. “I'll continue to ensure we equitably serve all the town, continue striving to enhance quality of life, continue excellent services, and limit taxation while keeping it all sustainable,” he said. Trivett also said that he will “remain a guard over Ashland’s unique qualities, the basis for our great quality of life.” “And, once beyond these virus days and we return to Ashland’s pre-outbreak upward economic trajectory, I’d like
MECHANICSVILLE -Steven Scanlon has accepted an appointment to the United States Military Academy at West Point. On April 14, U.S. Rep. Rob Wittman, R-1, called Steven to offer him the prestigious appointment. Steven began the application process last summer, and had been awarded a congressional nomination by Wittman earlier this year. The nomination allowed him to continue the application process.
He will report to West Point on June 29 (R-Day) in West Point, New York. West Point is located about 50 miles outside New York City. He is a senior at Atlee High School, varsity wrestler and varsity lacrosse player. Steven is the son of Bob and Erica Scanlon of Mechanicsville. “We couldn't be more proud of all his hard work and dedication,” his parents said.
together, talk to each other, listen to its community, advocate on its behalf, and work hard.” “I am running to be a voice for my neighbors,” Hare said. “I am running so that our local body of government is made up of people from all walks of life. I am running to represent my community to the very best of my ability so that we all have a voice at the table. I want to work hard to make sure that my neighbors, friends, and
family feel they have someone who will have their best interest at heart -- always.” She said the Ashland Citizen’s Leadership Academy influenced her. She has been recording town meetings for five years, which “helped put a love and appreciation for local government in my heart as well.” Hare co-founded a local 501(c)(3) non-profit, Friends for Awareness.
to explore ways to potentially lower business taxes recognizing our business community for keeping our residential taxes stable many years.” He has a goal of increasing “Town Council Community meetings, in frequency and locations as possible, to reach people at deeper levels of civic engagement, to listen, respond, and encourage community participation whether individuals decide to volunteer, apply for town committee appointments or seek elected office.” “Above all,” Trivett said, “I enjoy being real with people and have them know I respect each and every one.” He has been married for 40 years, is a father of two adult children and a grandfather of three.
“I enjoyed the great outdoors 30 years as a carpenter before turning to human services work. I’m currently a Workforce Development program hanager with Church Hill Activities & Tutoring, teaching inner-city youth woodworking and entrepreneurial skills.” Trivett’s educational roots run deep in Hanover County, with him having attended grades 1 through 12. He received a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration. “I’ve furthered my education through Hanover’s Citizens’ Planning Academy, and Virginia Certified Programs for Boards of Zoning Appeals, for Planning Commissioners, for the Virginia Mayors' Institute and many similar training conferences,” Trivett said.
Ashland-Hanover Local May 13, 2020 9
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| Youth, High School, College, Recreational & Professional
Mathews: Time for a new challenge Long-time Lee-Davis track coach leaves for Atlee
It’s official: VHSL nixes spring season By Tim Pearrell Richmond Times-Dispatch
By Dave Lawrence Sports Editor MECHANICSVILLE — After 15 years building of building the Lee-Davis cross country and track and field teams into one of the region’s best athletics programs, Lee-Davis head coach Neil Mathews announced this spring that he is leaving the Confederates to take over at a crosstown rival: Atlee. “I just felt like I needed a change,” Mathews said. “I felt the program needed a change. I was looking for something new — a new challenge, a new chapter and a change of scenery. “I had considered a move a few years ago when the opportunity might have been there and the timing wasn’t right for me and my family to make such a change after I had been so established at Lee-Davis. . . . This time, when the opportunity came about, the situation
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Dave Lawrence/The Local
Neil Mathews (right), former head track and cross country coach at Lee-Davis, is presented with a state championship right by Lee-Davis principal Charles Stevens (center) on Dec. 16, 2014, after Mathews led the Confederate boys to the 2014 Virginia High School League state outdoor track and field championships earlier that year. After the 2019-2020 indoor track and field season concluded, Mathews announced he was leaving Lee-Davis to take the helm of Atlee’s cross country and track and field programs.
was different.” Mathews replaces Tyler Busch, who left at the end of 2019 to take a job in his native Midwest. But Mathews has even bigger shoes to fill given the tremendous Atlee history forged by the Raiders’ first head track and field and cross country
Ashland-Hanover Local May 13, 2020
coach, Jim Triemplar. “I think we’ll be able to put together a successful run and continue the success from the program,” Mathews said. “And, hopefully, improve in some areas.” Mathews said his biggest challenges is recruiting his coaching staff. He expects some
of the staff will be returning, such as assistant Scott Crow and Bill Chapman. Crow will be especially invaluable. “We were actually high school teammates before Atlee opened, and then he went to Atlee and I stayed at Lee-Davis,” Mathews said. “We actually had
some good high school battles on cross country and track when we were in high school. “We were friends and competitors then, and now we’re going to have the opportunity to work together.” Dave Lawrence can be reached at dlawrence@mechlocal.com.
With the Virginia High School League executive committee making a foregone conclusion official on Thursday by voting to cancel all spring sports and activities for the remainder of the school year, attention turns to fall sports and COVID-19 concerns. VHSL executive director Billy Haun said the league is adopting another wait-and-see approach, and any contingency plan if the season can’t begin on time is speculative at this point. He asked the executive committee to reconvene in June to discuss the fall season and to make a decision about July’s outof-season practices. Teams are permitted to practice during the summer after a dead period from June 28 to July 4 this see VHSL, pg. 11
NASCAR cancels spring races at Richmond
fied Richmond Raceway, Chicagoland Speedway and California road course Sonoma Raceway as the three tracks that would each cede a 2020 event as the tour is realigned. Unlike Richmond, the Sonoma and Chicagoland tracks do not have second Cup tour events. The Cup tour is not shrinking — at least so far. NASCAR has made it clear that it expects to run a full 36-race schedule, and that it intends to finish the season with its 10-race playoff
schedule intact. The series went on an eightrace hiatus after its fourth event, the March 8 race at Phoenix Raceway. NASCAR, moving to re-package the schedule, will reopen the tour with Cup races May 17 and May 20 at Darlington Raceway in South Carolina, followed by events May 24 and May 27 at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Those races give Charlotte one event and Darlington two events that were not on the original 2020 schedule — hence
the need to delete races from other tracks. Virginia is the only state with four annual Cup Series events on the usual schedule — two each at the Richmond track and Martinsville Speedway — and as such the state seemed a logical candidate to have a race removed. NASCAR, in adding extra events at its two tracks in the Carolinas, made a point of placing races at tracks relatively close to the Charlotte area, where most of the Cup teams
are based, to cut highway time and travel expenses. The fourplus-hour drive from Charlotte to Richmond is nearly twice as long as the drive to Martinsville. Martinsville also had a Cup race postponed during the shutdown. NASCAR has not announced plans for that event. The fall races at both the Richmond and Martinsville tracks are part of NASCAR’s playoff schedule. That makes it problematic to run either a weekend Cup Series doubleheader or a midweek back-toback event at either track. Such an added event would interrupt the 10-race playoff run with its three-race elimination rounds leading to the championshipdeciding finale. NASCAR designated the two added Darlington races as replacements for the Richmond and Chicagoland events. NASCAR owns and operates all three of those tracks. The added Charlotte race replaces the Sonoma race, NASCAR said. Both Sonoma Raceway and Charlotte Motor
an interview with The TimesDispatch on Wednesday. “We just really need to wait and see. I think we can get a much more informed decision that will be good for everyone if we wait a couple of weeks and see what’s going to play out.” Northam announced a phased reopening of the state starting on May 15, if current trends on COVID-19 hold. Phase one could last “two to four weeks, or longer” and still will carry public restrictions. Social gatherings will be limited to 10 or fewer people, masks will be recommended in public, and social distancing and teleworking for nonessential employees will be encouraged. Phase two, which could last two to four weeks, will limit
social gatherings to 50 or fewer people and will carry a stay-athome directive for vulnerable populations. Restrictions on businesses will be eased further, and masks, social distancing and teleworking will continue to be encouraged. Phase three, which will start if COVID-19 cases do not rebound in Virginia, will have no bans on social gatherings for the broader public but will carry a “safer at home” recommendation for vulnerable populations. Haun said one of the things the VHSL has to think about in its discussions is “there are a whole lot of athletic departments that depend on gate receipts from football and basketball to run the rest of the
athletic department.” “People have talked a little bit about the possibility of playing games with no one in the stands,” he said. “That’s where we vary a lot from colleges because colleges have TV contracts. They’re still going to have some income. In high school, if you play in a stadium with no fans in there, that’s going to create a financial situation, not just for football but all sports. “It’s just going to take a lot of discussion. Once we know what cards we’re dealt, then we need to sit down to the table and figure out how we work it out.” The executive committee decided in late March to hold off until this month a decision about extending spring sports. That came after Northam
ordered all Virginia schools remain closed for the rest of the academic year. Haun said in a release Thursday that “any options for the spring sports season would require that COVID-19 no longer be a threat and pose no health risks to our student-athletes or to the public. Sadly, the situation has not changed and has made it impossible to have a spring season without putting people at risk. “While we recognize the importance sports has on our students and communities, we need to follow all the regulations and recommendations from the governor, the Virginia Department of Health, and the CDC. Every decision we make, and will make looking forward,
By Randy Hallman For the Times-Dispatch NASCAR plucked one 2020 Cup Series race away from Richmond Raceway with its announcement Friday regarding a realignment of this season’s schedule. NASCAR canceled the track’s April 19 race, which had already been postponed as part of a shutdown because of the coronavirus. The Richmond track’s second Cup race — set for Sept. 12 as part of the series playoffs — is still on the NASCAR schedule. NASCAR said it will announce further schedule adjustments in the near future. In a statement released by the track, Richmond Raceway President Dennis Bickmeier looked ahead to “brighter and healthier days ahead in the greater Richmond region” and the Cup tour’s return to the track in September. NASCAR’s announcement Friday did not detail coming schedule changes, but identi-
VHSL Continued from pg. 10
year. The first day of in-season football practice can begin as early as July 30, with most other fall sports having an Aug. 3 date for first practices. Decisions, Haun said, will continue to be governed by directives from Gov. Ralph Northam, the Virginia Department of Health, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “A lot of decisions will influence what we do because if you can’t open a building and have kids back in school, you certainly are not going to be able to have athletic and academic activities,” Haun said in
Dave Lawrence/ The Local
This scene from last years’ Toyota Owners 400 will not be repeated this spring. NASCAR officials announced Friday that the 2020 spring race in Richmond has been cancelled.
Speedway are owned by Charlotte-based Speedway Motorsports LLC. The Richmond track is among those with the longest tradition as a NASCAR Cup Series venue. It was first added to the schedule for NASCAR’s premier series in 1953, with one race that year and single events in the 1955-58 seasons. The track has had two annual events on the top series’ schedule every year since 1959 — first as a halfmile dirt track, then a half-mile paved oval, and since 1988 in its current ¾-mile D-shaped configuration. In a posting on Richmond Raceway’s website, the track said ticketholders for the cancelled race have until June 10 to ask for a refund or elect to apply 120 percent of their ticket cost toward tickets for a future event in 2020 or 2021. The credit offer is good for Richmond or any other NASCAR-owned track. Details are available at the track’s website, RichmondRaceway.com.
will be in the best interest of our student-athletes and the public. Safety will always be our number one priority.” Haun said the “extremely difficult decision was made knowing the great disappointment our student-athletes, academic activity participants, coaches, administrators, parents, and their communities will experience. We share those same feelings as well.” “We especially grieve with those senior athletes and activity participants who will not have an opportunity to represent their school or wear their school jersey one final time after years of hard work and dedication,” he said. Tim Pearrell can be reached at tpearrell@timesdispatch.com.
Ashland-Hanover Local May 13, 2020
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Notice is herewith given that all first half 2020 Hanover County real estate taxes are due and payable on or before June 5, 2020. Anyone owning property who has not received a bill and whose real estate taxes are not processed by their Mortgage Company may go on-line to https://taxes.hanovercounty.gov to pay, review and/ or print their bill(s), or may call the Hanover County Treasurer’s Office at 804-365-6050 or 804-730-6050.
M. Scott Miller, Treasurer Hanover County
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If you are 65 years old or over, or are permanently disabled, you may qualify for real estate Tax Relief. There are very specific criteria which must be met, including residing on the property for which you are applying. You must apply for tax relief each year between January 1 and March 1 with the Commissioner of the Revenue’s office. For questions, phone 804-365-6128 or 804-730-6128.
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Ashland-Hanover Local May 13, 2020
Notice is hereby given that the Hanover County Board of Supervisors has set Wednesday, May 27, 2020, at 7:00 p.m., in the Board Room of the Hanover County Administration Building, 7516 County Complex Road, at Hanover Courthouse, Hanover, Virginia, as the time, date and place for a public hearing on the appointment of a school board member for the Ashland and Chickahominy Magisterial Districts, in accordance with Section 22.129.1 of the Code of Virginia.
All persons desiring to nominate or support candidates for this position may appear at the above time and place. Cecil R. Harris, Jr., County Administrator
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PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is hereby given that the Hanover County Board of Supervisors has set Wednesday, May 27, 2020, at 7:00 P.M., in the Board Room of the Hanover County Government Building at Hanover Courthouse, Hanover, Virginia, as the day, date, time, and place for a public hearing to consider the following cases, at which public comments will be accepted: REZONINGS REZ2019-00015, CAPITAL UP INVESTMENTS, L.L.C. Request(s) to rezone from A-1, Agricultural District, and B-1(c), Neighborhood Business District with conditions, to B-2(c), Community Business District with conditions, on GPINs 7822-41-0443 and 7822-41-3393, consisting of approximately 9.67 acres, and located on the north line of Mountain Road (U.S. Route 33) across from Bethany Estates Way (State Route pending). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Rural Village. The proposed zoning amendment would allow for development of a shopping center. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Beaverdam REZ2019-00028, NANCY ROBERTSON COMBS Request(s) to rezone from A-1, Agricultural District, to RS(c), Single Family Residential District with conditions, on GPIN 8706-06-6722, consisting of approximately 10.0 acres, and located on the north line of Combs Drive (State Route 2181) at its intersection with Cool Spring Road (State Route 652). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Suburban General (1.5-3.0 dwelling units per acre). The proposed zoning amendment would permit the creation of 22 building lots for a gross density of 2.2 units per acre. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Chickahominy REZ2019-00035, LEBER ESTATES, L.L.C. Request(s) to rezone from A-1, Agricultural District to AR-6(c), Agricultural Residential District with conditions, on GPINs 8753-03-8159 and 8753-11-5909, consisting of approximately 120.65 acres, and located on the west line of McClellan Road (State Route 628) at its intersection with Peace Road (State Route 616) and located on the east line of Market Road (State Route 630) approximately 900 feet south of its intersection with Falling View Lane (private road). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Agricultural. The proposed zoning amendment would permit the creation of 19 building lots for a gross density of one dwelling unit per 6.35 acres. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Cold Harbor REZ2020-00004, ROBERT J. TUCK, III AND HANKY, L.L.C. Request(s) an amendment to the conceptual plan approved with rezoning request C-1-19(c), Robert J. Tuck, III, et al., on GPINs 8724-14-6338(part), 8724-24-0545, 8724-14-5371 and 8724-14-6103, consisting of approximately 8.6 acres, zoned RS(c) Single-Family Residential District with conditions, and to rezone approximately 0.02 acres zoned RS(c) Single-Family Residential District with conditions to A-1, Agricultural District, located on the south line of Walnut Grove Road (State Route 636) approximately 500 feet east of its intersection with Cold Harbor Road (State Route 156). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Suburban General (1.5-3.0 dwelling units per acre). The proposed amendment would allow a minor property line adjustment and would change the gross density from 2.16 dwelling units per acre to 2.21 dwelling units per acre. No new lots are being proposed. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Cold Harbor REZ2020-00006, WILLIAM CALL Request(s) to rezone from A-1, Agricultural District, to AR-6(c), Agricultural Residential District with conditions, on GPIN 6799-41-7871, consisting of approximately 4.28 acres, and located on the west line of Pinhook Road (State Route 617) approximately 315 feet south of its intersection with Explorer Ridge Road (private road). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Agricultural. The proposed zoning amendment would permit the creation of one additional building lot for a gross density of one (1) dwelling unit per 2.14 acres. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: South Anna REZ2020-00007, KAY AND GEORGE FEARNOW Request(s) to rezone from R-1, Single-Family Residential District, to B-1(c), Neighborhood Business District with conditions, on GPINs 8705-74-4832 and 8705-74-6956, consisting of approximately 4.23 acres, and located on the north line of Pleasant Grove Road (State Route 1401) approximately 360 feet north of its intersection with Meadowbridge Road (State Route 627). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Commercial. The proposed zoning amendment would allow for development of medical offices. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Chickahominy REZ2020-00008, DAVID FRANKLIN VAUGHAN Request(s) to rezone from A-1, Agricultural District to AR-6(c), Agricultural Residential District with conditions on GPIN 7871-42-1720, consisting of approximately 20.06 acres, and located on the south line of Blunts Bridge Road (State Route 667) at its intersection with Cross Corner Road (State Route 641). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Agricultural. The proposed zoning amendment would permit the creation of three (3) building lot for a gross density of one dwelling unit per 6.69 acres. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Beaverdam CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT CUP2020-00001, HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS (FIRE/EMS) Request(s) an amendment to a Conditional Use Permit (CUP-24-83, Am. 1-05) in accordance with Sections 26-20.11 of the Hanover County Zoning Ordinance to permit a new fire training building at the existing fire training facility and its related uses on GPINs 7850-98-3275 and 7860-09-5200(part), consisting of approximately 259.85 acres; the area of the CUP is approximately 23.12 acres. The property is zoned A-1, Agricultural District, and is located on the north line of Winston Road (State Route 696) approximately 3,200 feet west of its intersection with Blanton Road (State Route 666). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Agricultural. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Beaverdam SPECIAL EXCEPTIONS SE2020-00001, HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS (FIRE/EMS) Request(s) a Special Exception Permit in accordance with Section 26-336 of the Hanover County Zoning Ordinance to allow a building height taller than permitted on GPIN 7860-09-5200, consisting of approximately 254.1 acres, zoned A-1, Agricultural District, and located on the north line of Winston Road (State Route 696) approximately 3,200 feet west of its intersection with Blanton Road (State Route 666). (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Beaverdam SE2020-00004, FANNIE BARRETT Request(s) a Special Exception Permit in accordance with Section 26-21.18 of the Hanover County Zoning Ordinance to permit a contractor’s equipment storage yard on GPINs 7719-93-2318 and 7719-93-2287, consisting of approximately 3.80 acres, zoned A-1, Agricultural District, and located on the west line of Walnut Hill Drive (State Route 622) at its intersection with Harris Estates Lane (private road). (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: South Anna SE2020-00007, TRUSTEES OF MECHANICSVILLE CHURCH OF CHRIST Request(s) a Special Exception Permit in accordance with Section 3.6.1(i) of the Hanover County Zoning Ordinance (Repealed R-1 District) to permit one (1) temporary modular classroom trailer on GPIN 8705-50-5896, consisting of approximately 9.57 acres, zoned R-1, Single Family Residential District, and located on the south line of Atlee Road (State Route 638) at its intersection with Carter Lane (State Route 1419). (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Mechanicsville SE2020-00008, TARA AND URIAH THESSEN Request(s) a Special Exception Permit in accordance with Section 26-21.17.b of the Hanover County Zoning Ordinance to permit a manufactured home in a medical hardship case on GPIN 6789-86-8107, consisting of approximately 5.0 acres, zoned A-1, Agricultural District, and located at the terminus of Spur Lane (private road), approximately 455 feet south of its intersection with Feather Drive (private road). (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: South Anna SE2020-00009, KAREN L. AND GARY R. MALTBY Request(s) a Special Exception Permit in accordance with Section 26-21.25 of the Hanover County Zoning Ordinance to permit an accessory family housing unit on GPIN 7820-14-7523, consisting of approximately 6.2 acres, zoned A-1, Agricultural District, and located on the north line of Estate Lane (private road) approximately 0.37 miles north of its intersection with St. Peters Church Road (State Route 611). (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: South Anna 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 May 13, 2020 13
PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is hereby given that the Hanover County Planning Commission has set Thursday, May 21, 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 REZ2019-00033, COMMONWEALTH LANDS, L.L.C. Request(s) an amendment to the proffers and a portion of the conceptual plan approved with rezoning request C-34-02(c), Am.1-11, Commonwealth Lands, L.L.C., on GPIN 7797-70-5645(part), consisting of approximately 2.4 acres, zoned RS(c), Single-Family Residential District with conditions; and to rezone GPIN 7796-79-5932, consisting of 4.0 acres, from A-1, Agricultural District to RS(c), Single-Family Residential District with conditions. The property is located on the west line of Honey Meadows Road (State Route 2380) at its intersection with Meadow Pond Drive (state route pending). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Suburban General (1.5-3 dwelling units per acre). The proposed zoning amendment would permit a reconfiguration of the previously approved conceptual plan and add nine (9) new building lots. The overall density of the Honey Meadows Subdivision with the amended plan is 2.01 units per gross acre. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Chickahominy REZ2020-00002, PRESBYTERY OF THE JAMES, INC. ET AL. Request(s) an amendment to the conceptual plan and proffers approved with rezoning request C-1-16(c), GIO and Sons, L.L.C., on GPIN 8707-81-3475, zoned RS(c), Single-Family Residential District with conditions, and to rezone GPINs 8707-71-5125(part), 8707-71-6684, 8707-71-8651 and 8707-81-7683 from A-1, Agricultural District, to RS(c), Single-Family Residential District with conditions, and B-1(c), Neighborhood Business District with conditions, consisting of approximately 52.11 acres. The subject property is located on the south line of Rural Point Road (State Route 643) approximately 1,000 feet east of its intersection with Chamberlayne Road (U.S. Route 301) and designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Suburban General (1.5-3.0 dwelling units per acre) and Multi-Use. The proposed amendment would permit a total of 144 lots, including 63 townhouse units and 81 single-family detached units, at a gross density of 2.8 dwelling units per acre. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Henry REZ2020-00010, JACK B. LAWSON, ET AL. Request(s) an amendment to the proffers and conceptual plan for C-14-09(c), Sandra and Jack Lawson, on GPINs 8726-69-7681 and 8726-79-1433, consisting of approximately 14.08 acres, zoned AR-6(c) Agricultural Residential District with conditions. The property is located at the end of a private access road off Buck Trail (private road) approximately 3,000 feet from Studley Road (State Route 606). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Agricultural. The proposed zoning amendment would permit the creation of one (1) additional lot for a family member, for a total of three (3) lots, at a density of one lot per 4.69 acres. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Henry REZ2020-00011, ORANE C. HOLSTEIN Request(s) to rezone from A-1, Agricultural District, to M-2(c), Light Industrial District with conditions, on GPINs 7797-08-6638 and 7797-08-7738, consisting of approximately 2.0 acres, and located on the west line of Sliding Hill Road (State Route 656) at its intersection with Totopotomoy Trail (State Route 1265). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Industrial. The proposed zoning amendment would allow for development of flex space and offices. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Ashland CONDITIONAL USE PERMITS CUP2019-00006, WOODSIDE FARMS OF VA, L.L.C. Request(s) a Conditional Use Permit in accordance with Section 26-20.14 of the Hanover County Zoning Ordinance to permit a recreation facility/events venue on GPIN 7787-06-9949, consisting of approximately 10.0 acres, zoned A-1, Agricultural District, and located on the south line of Cedar Lane (State Route 623) at its intersection with Woodside Farms Drive (State Route number pending). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Suburban General (1.5 – 3 dwelling units per acre). (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: South Anna CUP2020-00005, TRUSTEES OF THE PRESBYTERY OF THE JAMES Request(s) an amendment to Conditional Use Permit, CUP-31-89, in accordance with Section 26-20.21 of the Hanover County Zoning Ordinance that permits a church and its related uses on GPIN 8707-71-5125, consisting of approximately 33.36 acres. The property is zoned A-1, Agricultural District, and located on the east line of Chamberlayne Road (U.S. Route 301) approximately 600 feet south of its intersection with Rural Point Road (State Route 643). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Multi-Use. The amendment would revise the conditions and reduce the size of the CUP area from 33.36 acres to 6.01 acres. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Henry Copies of the above cases may be reviewed in the Planning Office, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.
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Ashland-Hanover Local May 13, 2020
LEGAL DISPLAY ADS
LEGAL DISPLAY ADS
TOWN OF ASHLAND NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Please take notice that on the 19th day of May 2020 at 7:00 p.m. at the Ashland Town Hall, 101 Thompson Street, Ashland, VA, the Ashland Town Council will conduct a public hearing for the purpose of receiving input and may take action on the following applications:
CUP20-0221 VALLEY PROTEINS CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT ROGER VOGLER, THE APPLICANT ON BEHALF OF THE OWNER, CONTINENTAL-ASHLAND, ASSOCIATES LLC, IS REQUESTING APPROVAL OF A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT TO CONSTRUCT A FUELING STATION AND TO PROCESS FOOD BYPRODUCTS ON PROPERTY LOCATED ON QUARLES ROAD (GPIN 7880-14-8504), ADJACENT TO 309 QUARLES ROAD. THE PROPERTY IS ZONED M-1 AND FUELING STATIONS (ARTICLE XIII, SECTION 21-119 (W)), AND THE PROCESSING OF MEAT, FISH, YEAST, OR THE REFINING OF FATS (ARTICLE XIII, SECTION 21-119 (AF)) REQUIRES A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT. THE PROPERTY IS 14 ACRES IN SIZE AND HAS A FUTURE LAND USE DESIGNATION OF OFFICE/INDUSTRIAL AND INTERSTATE COMMERCIAL.
REZ20-0303 & ORD2020-03 205 HOWARD STREET REZONING ZACH AND MARTHA MILLER, THE APPLICANTS ON BEHALF OF THE OWNERS GENE E LUCK, ESTATE, ARE REQUESTING TO REZONE THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 205 HOWARD STREET (GPIN 7779-59-9485) FROM R-1, RESIDENTIAL RESTRICTED, TO R-2, RESIDENTIAL LIMITED WITH PROFFERS. THE PROPERTY IS 0.65 ACRES IN SIZE (APPROXIMATELY 28,000 SF) AND HAS A FUTURE LAND USE DESIGNATION OF TRADITIONAL NEIGHBORHOOD (1-4 UNITS/ACRE). Copies of the requests may be obtained by contacting Town Hall at (804) 798-1073. Written comments may be submitted to planning@ ashlandva.gov or Town of Ashland, P.O. Box 1600, Ashland, VA 23005. All interested persons may attend and express their views, however the number of people admitted to Town Hall is being limited in accordance with CDC Guidelines. Citizens are encouraged to participate electronically; please contact the Planning Department to make those arrangements. Any person with a disability requiring assistance in order to participate in this public hearing is asked to contact Town Hall in advance so that appropriate arrangements can be made.
Artist’s pandemic perspective Bon Secours joins plasma program Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com RICHMOND -– Bon Secours announced it has joined the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) national Expanded Access Program
(EAP) for Convalescent Plasma as a treatment protocol for COVID-19. Convalescent plasma is collected from individuals who have recovered from the virus, and it is administered to the
patients with COVID-19 who are at high risk of progression to a severe or life-threatening stage of the disease. Convalescent plasma has been safely collected and used see PLASMA, pg. 16
WEGMANS Continued from pg. 4
Image courtesy of Helene Ruiz
Helene Ruiz has expressed herself in this painting during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. She said it is an acrylic on canvas 16x10 that she completed on March 26. She also shares her artist’s statement: "This painting is intended to help remind us of the priorities and perhaps the image will make the reality more apparent to make the small sacrifice to stay home and save lives a lot easier if we think of all those on the front lines. So the next time you complain about being stuck inside, just think about all the first responders sacrificing their lives and the lives of their own loved ones while they are on the battlefield to save lives which is why you are safe at home! Next time you complain and go out because you are bored think about how much tougher their battle to help save lives becomes. It is not much to do in comparison to those out there face to face every second of the day with a deadly virus. If anyone who is feeling carefree and not respecting the importance of this deadly virus and is carrying this virus and because they feel fine and may be asymptomatic, go out and spread to others who then in turn can get extremely ill and even die because someone else was too selfish to think of the next person. Our sacrifice is a small one. Stay home! Easy! We get to turn off the TVs and the radio and can choose not to read the papers. The first responders do not have this option. Stop complaining and make the simple sacrifice to help save lives. Just stay home! Stay safe and be mindful of the lives of others. Every time you are frustrated, think of the first responders putting their lives on the line for the rest of us. Please, stay home. Make the sacrifice and be strong. We are in this together and we all must do our part."
Parsons’ Cause free performances announced Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com HANOVER -- The Parsons’ Cause Foundation Inc. is announcing its Summer 2020 program of free performances at the Historic Hanover Courthouse. At this time, Virginia laws, due to the COVID-19 virus, prohibit gatherings of ten or more. Foundation members said they hope the virus will subside and those restrictions will be lifted in
time for the summer series. For updates, visit the website, parsonscause.org. General Benjamin Butler – 9:30 and 11 a.m. June 27. The Music of World War II -- 9:30 and 11 a.m. July 4. (Bonus: A Reading of the Declaration of Independence.) Patrick Henry & Thomas Jefferson -- 9:30 and 11 a.m. July 11. Martha Jefferson -- 9:30 and 11 a.m. July 18.
Harriet Tubman 9:30 and 11 a.m. July 25. Colonel John Chiswell -9:30 and 11 a.m. Aug. 1. Richard Henry Lee -- 9:30 and 11 a.m. Aug. 8. Eliza Poe -- 9:30 and 11 a.m. Aug. 15. Audie Murphy 9:30 and 11 a.m. Aug. 22. The Parsons’ Cause Trial – 10 a.m. Aug. 29. For more information, go to parsonscause.org.
things people have asked for are in the 2020 proffers. At the end of the day I know folks don’t want it here and I get that, but if they are coming under 1995 with no protections or coming under 2020 with protections, overwhelmingly, this stack (comments received) says that people want protection.” Prichard’s motion to deny was defeated by a 4-3 vote, followed by a motion by Peterson to approve the 2020 proffers. Stanley said he would support the Wegmans‘ request, citing his commitment to keep taxes low in Hanover County. “I’m a no tax individual,” Stanley said. “Businesses come in and help us with this. Economic development is a big tool. If you like to put taxes on somebody, then vote this down and we’ll move on and raise taxes. The county needs these jobs.” In an interview late last week, Davis said the result does offer citizens enhanced protec-
Jim Ridolphi/The Local
Sean Davis, left, vice chair, Henry District, and Aubrey “Bucky” Stanley, chair, Beaverdam District, listen as supporters and opponents make their case concerning the proposed Wegmans’ distribution center in the area of Sliding Hill Road and Ashcake Road. The supervisors voted 4-3 to approve new proffers.
tions when compared to the 1995 version. Regarding the vote, Davis said, “I am thankful the board was presented with an opportunity to increase the protection for the citizens,” he said. “Allowing the property to retain the allowable 1995 uses would have been terrible for the surrounding area.”
reported in the 7000 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville.
INCIDENTS Continued from pg. 3
Computer fraud to obtain services, $500, was reported in the 8200 block of North Mayfield Lane, Mechanicsville. Obtaining money or signature by false pretenses was reported in the 11100 block of Mount Hope Church Road, Doswell. Credit card theft was
The vice chair noted some of those differences. “We were able to reduce traffic by 85 percent, increase buffers, mandate major road improvements, and decrease the building size. Wegmans was going to build under the 1995 zoning and I am glad we were able to get these substantial protections in place.”
Concealment, price altering merchandise, $500, was reported in the 7400 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.
Contributing to the delinquency of a minor was reported in the 11000 block of Verdon Road, Doswell.
Possession of marijuana, first
offense, was reported in the 8100 block of Mechanicsville Bypass/Elm Drive, Mechanicsville.
DWI, first offense, was reported in the 17300 block of Mountain Road/Burnham Davis Road, Montpelier.
Possession of Schedule I and II controlled substance was reported in the 10000 block of Sliding Hill Road, Ashland.
Ashland-Hanover Local May 13, 2020 15
Habitat executive director pleads to be able to complete houses (Editor’s note: The following was submitted by Linda Tiller, executive director of Hanover Habitat for Humanity.) MECHANICSVILLE -- In January, three families were watching construction of their homes with excitement. Excited because spring would not only bring new life in the landscape all around them, but also a new life for their families -- a new safe, stable roof of their own; their new home. Although the excitement of a spring move-in date has faded, they hang onto hope. Hope that construction will resume soon. Volunteers complete approximately 85% of the construction of a Hanover Habitat home. At this point, we cannot have groups of volunteers on the work site until further notice. Most of our staff have been furloughed, but our construction supervisor and his subcontractors, where
PLASMA Continued from pg. 15
at various times over the past century to treat polio, measles, hepatitis B, influenza, Ebola, and other pathogens. The FDA designated the Mayo Clinic as the lead institution for the program. Due to the unprecedented need for an enhanced response to the pandemic, the expanded access to the program includes registered health care providers across the country. “In our ongoing effort to care for our communities, Bon Secours is facilitating access to investigational convalescent
COVID-19 Continued from pg. 5
considering any appropriations made and they will consider how to go about making specific cuts with the money that was appropriated,” Gill added. Harris said projected revenues have been drastically reduced since the crisis began. Reductions in sales tax accounts for the largest decline, followed closely by real and personal property reductions.
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Photos courtesy of Habitat for Humanity
Amanda was so excited to see her house, at left, coming together, but construction slowing down so dramatically is discouraging. Rebekah’s house, at right, has the most construction to be completed and, unfortunately, will take even longer to complete.
appropriate, will keep plugging along with the construction already underway. Your continued support is appreciated not only for Amanda and Rebekah, and for the future of Hanover Habitat, but mostly for all the families who are patiently waiting for their homes to be finished. We recognize that those families are among the most vulnerable and we want them in
plasma through participation in the National Expanded Access Treatment Protocol,” said John McCurley, M.D., chief clinical officer for Bon Secours Richmond. “We have established a network of participating blood suppliers that will work at the local level to supply hospitals with convalescent plasma. The key to the success of this program is the donor population.” Qualifying donors are people who have had COVID19 and are symptom-free for 28 days or longer. They can donate blood through their local American Red Cross
Blood Donation Center or they can donate at other participat-
With hotels in the area remaining closed, or mostly vacant, lodging taxes also have taken a hit. “We have estimated that sales tax will be reduced by 10.2 percent or $2.6 million,” Harris told board members. Harris instituted a hiring freeze in recent weeks, and also requested that each department adjust its budget projections and request downward by 5 percent to compensate for the loss. Cuts to the school budget
resulted in a loss of more than $5 million in funding for its operating budget. Adding to the challenge is an anticipated cut in state aid due to lowered sales tax figures and an increase in the county’s contribution to the state’s Virginia Retirement System (VRS) fund. Harris said he depended on his staff ’s experience navigating the 2008 recession and relying on lessons learned from those difficult times. In addition, the finance team col-
Ashland-Hanover Local May 13, 2020
safe affordable housing as soon as possible. At present, I am working with our Board of Directors to use the limited financial resources we have now to do as much work as we can on our construction projects and to position us to rebound in a strong way when this is over. I look forward to the day you and I can celebrate Amanda and Rebekah's home dedications.
P.S. Your gift today will ensure Amanda and Rebekah have an affordable roof over their heads as soon as possible. To make a gift online click www.hanoverhfh.org/champion. To mail a check, please make the check payable to Hanover Habitat for Humanity and send to Post Office Box 2604, Mechanicsville, VA 23116.
ing blood donation centers found on Bon Secours’ website.
Before donated blood can be used, it is tested for safety. Then it goes through a process to separate the blood cells so that all that is left is the plasma with the antibodies. A single plasma donation has the potential to help up to four patients with COVID-19. Investigative convalescent plasma used within the guidelines of the EAP is different from antibody testing, which also is referred to as serologic testing for COVID-19. While both programs use antibodies found in a person’s blood, investigative convalescent plasma is a treatment
for patients with COVID-19 who are at high risk of progression to a severe or lifethreatening stage of the disease. In comparison, serologic testing is a new laboratory blood test developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to assist with efforts to determine how much of the U.S. population has been exposed to the virus that causes COVID-19. For more information, and to find a list of local blood donation centers participating in the expanded access investigative convalescent plasma program, visit: www.bonsecours.com or call 888-700-9011.
laborated with health officials and the governor’s office to make adjustments to the proposed budget. The team attempted to gauge future impacts and how long a recovery might take. “With information changing almost daily, this was certainly a moving target,” Harris said. A lower volume of home sales and construction prompted a reduction in real property revenues and forced the team to lower the county’s growth projection from more
than 3 percent to 2 percent, accounting for about a $1 million change from the February document. Reductions in car sales have resulted in a reduction in personal property revenues, resulting in a $2.4 million decrease. “All of this adds up to $8.9 million in decreases to ongoing revenue,” Harris said. “With that, this FY21 budget is $10.2 million or 3.7 percent less than the budget I originally proposed in February.”
With personnel representing the largest portion of the operating budget, it was obvious previous plans would require adjustment. “We knew right away that we would no longer be able to fund new positions or the planned merit increases for county and school workforce,” Harris said. Harris said the revised budget not only accounts for anticipated economic recovery, it also factors in the possibility that things could get worse.
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