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COMMUNITY Teen starts yard signs fundraiser for frontline workers PAGE

POLITICS Fowler named to JamestownYorktown, Veterans Services boards

PAGE

Vol. 5 No. 37 | Richmond Suburban News | May 27, 2020

Petrus and Oakcrum lead HHS as valedictorian and salutatorian By Melody Kinser Managing Editor

ECHANICSVILLE – With a grade point average of 4.54, Wyley Petrus has attained the rank of valedictorian for the Hanover High School Class of 2020. Serving as salutatorian is Deysia Oakcrum, who wraps up her public education with a 4.51 GPA. Wyley is the son of Marc and Colonie Petrus of Mechanicsville. He was a member of the Hanover High School Marching Band his freshman, sophomore, junior and senior years. He also was a member of the Hanover Drumline his sophomore, junior and senior

WYLEY PETRUS

DEYSIA OAKCRUM

Valedictorian

Salutatorian

years. In addition to his involvement with the band, he was a member of the Debate Team in grades 10-12, having served as captain his senior year.

During his junior and senior years, he also was a member of the Trivia Team, Beta Club, National Honor Society and Latin Honors Society. Wyley took part in the

Hawks and Knights unite program, where select high school students mentor Oak Knoll Middle School students. In the fall, he plans to attend the University of Virginia College of Arts and Sciences, with the goal of applying to the McIntire School of Commerce. As for his years at Hanover High, Wyley said, “Words can’t describe how grateful I am to the faculty, staff, and fellow classmates who supported me along my high school career. I am grateful that I knew them and saddened to leave them as I go off to college. I can only hope that someday I will be able to repay them.” Although my high school see HANOVER, pg. 3

Parsons’ Cause Foundation cancels 2020 Summer Series Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com HANOVER -- The Board of Directors of the Parsons' Cause Foundation Inc. has made the difficult decision to cancel the 2020 Summer Series. Members of the board released the following statement on Monday, May 18, concerning their actions. We know this development is a disappointment for many of you, our loyal patrons. It is a disappointment for us too. However, after considering Virginia's phased

re-entry guidelines, social distancing standards, and the compactness of the Historic Hanover Courthouse, canceling the Series is the only feasible and responsible conclusion. We thank you for your past support of The Foundation's programs and we hope to see you at programs in the future. In the meantime, take care, stay safe, and may God bless.

File photo

Due to the coronavirus (COVID-19), The Parsons’ Cause Foundation Inc. Board of Directors has decided to cancel the The Board of Directors 2020 Summer of The Parsons' Cause Foundation Inc. Series.

BARNHART

ABBOTT

TRIVETT

Barnhart joins Abbott and Trivett on council By Melody Kinser Managing Editor ASHLAND – Anita Barnhart’s first venture into the world of politics proved quite successful, with the newcomer bringing in the most votes in last week’s Town of Ashland General Election. Incumbents Kathy Abbott and Steve Trivett, the current mayor, will be returning to Ashland Town Council.

Three seats were available on the May 19 ballot. Barnhart tallied 386 votes, 27.18%; followed by Abbott, 368, 25.92%; and Trivett, 363, 25.56%. Also on the ballot for Ashland voters were Stephanie Renee Hare, 149 votes, 10.49%; David G. Goldstein, 101, 7.11%; D.A. Wooten, who came in with 46 votes, 3.24%; and write-in, see COUNCIL, pg. 5

Kindergarten registration for 2020-2021 school year underway ASHLAND -- Hanover County Public Schools is accepting kindergarten registrations for the 2020-2021 school year. Children must be 5 years old on or before Sept. 30 to be eligible. Parents and guardians may locate the school their child will attend at http://bit. ly/AttendanceZone. Parents and guardians of eligible kindergarten students may register their child as follows: 1. Complete the pre-registration form at https://register. hcps.page. Individuals without internet access or a device may skip this step. 2. Access, complete, and return an Enrollment Form. Print the form online: https://enrollment.hcps.page. Pick up a form at any of the 15 elementary schools’ exterior Kindergarten Welcome Centers.

FISH DAY!

Pick up a form from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on May 6 or 8 at one of the five meal service sites (Battlefield Park Elementary School, Beaverdam Elementary School, John M. Gandy Elementary School, Mechanicsville Elementary School, and South Anna Elementary School). Return completed Enrollment Form by the U.S. Postal Service to the child’s school or place the form in a collection bin at one of the five meal service sites from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays, or Fridays. 3. Upon receipt of a completed Enrollment Form, the school registrar will contact parents and guardians to schedule an in-person appointment to review the following required documents: Child’s Birth Certificate (official or certified copy). Photo ID of parent or

Photo submitted by Chris R. Whitley

Hanover County Public Schools is holding kindergarten registration for the term that begins in the fall. Participation during book reading time keeps all the youngsters engaged.

legal guardian. Proof of residency is required. This includes providing one of the following documents, which must

reflect the resident’s name and physical address: Deed. Current mortgage statement from the lender.

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Playgrounds, skate park open ASHLAND -- In conjunction with the executive orders of Governor Ralph Northam implementing Phase I of the Forward Virginia plan, which went into effect on Friday, May 15, the park playgrounds and Pole Green skate park are open. Be advised that amenities throughout the parks are not sanitized, so use with caution

PLUMBING, HEATING & COOLING

Ashland-Hanover Local May 27, 2020

and follow the CDC health and safety guidelines. “We reiterate the critical importance of flowing physical distancing guidelines and avoidance of gatherings and group activities,” said Marcy G. Durrer, recreation program director for Hanover County Parks and Recreation. “At this time, all permitted use of athletic fields, picnic shelters and historic sites remain cancelled and all department-sponsored programs and activities are cancelled. These cancellations include Taylor’s Pirate Fishing FUN and Taylor’s Neon Night Bike Ride, both scheduled in June,” she said. “As the state continues to

transition through reopening phases, the department will make decisions regarding future programs, events, and the use of park athletic fields,” Durrer continued. “We understand the importance of the park system to our residents and will continue to re-evaluate the need for closures and cancellations as this unprecedented situation evolves. Please stay up-to-date with COVID19 facts through the CDC and Virginia Department of Health,” she said. For more information, contact Hanover County Parks and Recreation at parksandrec@hanovercounty.gov or 804-365-7150.

Current lease (signed). Sales contract for the purchase of the residence (signed by seller and purchaser). Two of the following also are required and must reflect the resident’s name and physical address: Current landline telephone, cable, internet, satellite, water, gas/oil, or electricity service bill. Voter registration card. Current DMV issued vehicle registration. W-2 tax document for the most recent tax year. Combined bill and receipt for personal property taxes (paid within the current year). Bank statement, medical bill, or official correspondence from a governmental agency dated within the last two months. Registration is not final until the in-person appoint-

ment occurs and the registrar receives all of the required documentation. In-person appointments for this purpose are permissible under current guidance provided by state officials. All staff and guests are expected to follow all official social distancing and related guidance issued by Governor Northam, the Virginia Department of Health, and the Centers for Disease Control. A School Entrance Health Form and immunization record also is required before the start of school. For more information, parents can email the principal at their child’s assigned school or visit http://hcps.us/ parents_students/student_ enrollment. Information submitted by Chris R. Whitley, Hanover County Public Schools public information officer.

Spanish and French students need host families

SHERIFF’S REPORTS | Crime, Accidents, Fire & Rescue value, not from a person, were reported in the 16500 block of Old Ridge Road, Beaverdam.

April 11

Petit larceny shoplifting was reported in the 7400 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.

Threat to extort money was reported in the 8100 block of Bridle Creek Trail, Mechanicsville.

Firearms, regardless of value, not from a person, were reported in the 10200 block of Lakeridge Parkway, Ashland.

Accusing a person of an offense and intimidating for money was reported in the 8000 block of Peaks Road, Hanover.

Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 7000 block of Pimlico Drive, Mechanicsville.

Grand larceny, $500 or more not from a person, was reported in the 9000 block of Pole Green Park Lane, Mechanicsville.

Credit card fraud, $200 in six months, was reported in the 10100 block of Lewistown Road, Ashland. Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 4500 block of Mechanicsville. DWI, first offense, was reported in the 2200 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville.

DWI, first offense, was reported in the 6200 block of River Road, Mechanicsville. Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 12300 block of Yowell Road, Ashland.

Possession of marijuana, subsequent offense, was reported in the 6315 block of Midnight Drive, Mechanicsville.

April 13

Credit card theft was reported in the 7900 block of Arnoka Road, Mechanicsville.

Firearms, regardless of

Computer invasion of privacy

HANOVER Continued from pg. 1

career may be ending abruptly due to the current situation [schools closed due to the coronavirus pandemic], I am and always will be proud to be a Hanover Hawk,” he added. Deysia’s parents are Shawn and Tracie Oakcrum of Mechanicsville. She has served as president of the School Council, senior captain of the Varsity Competition and Sideline Cheerleading, and secretary of the Beta Club. She also was a member of the National Honor Society, Varsity Indoor and Outdoor Track and Field, and Peers Helping Peers.

Deysia portrayed Gabriella Montez in the school theater production of “High School Musical”. In her community she served as a student representative with the Virginia PTA. She will be attending the University of Virginia as an Echols Scholar, with the intent of majoring in Neuroscience (pre-med) and minoring in Spanish. The high school experience, she said, was memorable as she was able to become involved in a variety of different activities, which “allowed me to create amazing connections with both teachers and students, which is what helped me build such a positive high school experience.”

Make a family memory! Have an amazing experience this examine information was summer! Host a student from reported in the 16200 block Spain or France (ages 13 to 17) of Chiswell Lane, Beaverdam. in your home for three to four weeks. Learn about their culture Robbery on or near street while he or she learns about livwas reported in the 7500 ing in an American family. block of Cold Harbor Road, Mechanicsville. These students are coming to practice their English and be April 14 a part of your American family doing what you do and going Possession of Schedule I where you go. and II controlled substance Imagine their excitement of was reported in the 10000

eating a hamburger at the world famous McDonald’s or touring Walmart and your local mall. You might even cook an authentic Thanksgiving meal for them to sample or they cook food from their country's cuisine. There are a variety of programs that suit working and non-working families. You can choose an independent stay program where the students just live with you, or the academic

block of Doe Run Place, Mechanicsville.

Simple assault was reported in the 4400 block of Rockhill Road, Mechanicsville.

Credit card fraud, $200 in six months, was reported in the 10100 block of Suzanne Drive, Mechanicsville.

CLOG-FREE GUT TERS

Possession of Schedule I and II controlled substance was reported in the 7200 block of Edgeworth Road, Mechanicsville.

Grand larceny, $500 or more not from a person, was reported in the 10300 block of Wood Park Court/Fox Cross Road, Ashland.

Deysia said, “I have always been very future-oriented and academically focused, so I want to thank the teachers that made it possible for me to achieve both my academic and extracurricular goals simultaneously. My class rank is a representation of the hard work I exerted, my rigorous course selection, and the extra time spent outside of class meeting with my teachers to ensure that I understood the curriculum.” “I am excited to see what the future holds for me as I continue my academic path to being a psychiatrist, while continuing to explore the things I am passionate about such as music, exercise and nutrition, and politics,” she said.

program where they are gone during the workday and spend time with families nights and weekends. Families receive stipends to help with expenses and the students bring spending money for recreation activities. Transportation or vacation concerns can be resolved. For more information, contact Debbie Hardy 804-909-3190 or debbiehardy2003@yahoo. com.

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Ashland-Hanover Local May 27, 2020 3

Fowler named to Jamestown-Yorktown, Veterans Services boards represents the 55th Legislative District (Hanover, Caroline and Spotsylvania counties), has been appointed by the Speaker of the House of Delegates Eileen FillerCorn to the Board of Trustees of the Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation and to the Virginia Board of Veteran Services. “I am proud to be a part of the Board of Trustees that over-

55th District delegate appointed by Speaker of the House to serve in 2 prominent posts Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com

FOWLER

ASHLAND – Del. Hyland F. “Buddy” Fowler Jr., who

sees one of the most significant museums and parks dedicated to telling the story of our early founding and colonization in America. It is also a real privilege to work with the Yorktown Museum highlighting Virginia’s part in breaking free from Great Britain and ending the American Revolution,” Fowler said. The Board of Veteran Services

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Ashland-Hanover Local May 27, 2020

works with the Department of Veteran Service’s (DVS) whom provide numerous services such as benefits, family support, veteran’s education, and employment to Virginia’s veterans and their families. The DVS also coordinates with the Virginia War Memorial and several veteran care centers. “I look forward to be an

advocate for veterans on the Board of Veterans Services and as well as continuing my service honoring veterans through the Virginia War Memorial Board.” Fowler noted. The Virginia War Memorial is a monument to honor the memory of those that fought and made the “ultimate sacrifice” from World War II to the present”.

Teen starts fundraiser for frontline workers By Melody Kinser Managing Editor MECHANICSVILLE – A 16-year-old from Mechanicsville is spearheading a project to thank local frontline workers, as well as provide meals, supplies, and more. Reilly Egan has started a Lawn Sign Fundraiser, which can be purchased at Venmo@ reillyegansigns. The cost is $15 and a description and address of where the sign will be delivered are needed. “We deliver your sign straight to your lawn,” she said. The sign measures 18” x 24”. All profits are being donated to Tunnel To Towers, which provides meals for frontline workers and personal protective equipment. Also, if a health care worker loses his/her life to COVID-19, the organization will provide financial relief through mortgage payments on their family’s home. “Volunteering has always been an important aspect of my life. Whether I’m doing something small to help a neighbor or something big, I live to serve others,” Reilly said. “When COVID-19 struck, the volunteering options I had were taken away. I wanted to do something to make a positive impact on those around me. I chose the foundation Tunnel To Towers because

Submitted photo

Reilly Egan is shown with one of the signs she is selling to help Tunnel To Towers. The signs cost $15.

they support medical providers and first responders. This foundation is special to me and my family since my father is a retired fire chief,” she continued. “This organization provides necessary supplies and so much more for frontline workers and their families.” Reilly asks that members of the community purchase the signs for their neighbors, family, and friends to show their support for those risking their lives to keep us safe.

For those who don’t have venmo, email reillyegansigns@ gmail.com. Reilly’s fundraiser is being held in conjunction with Richmond Tunnel To Towers. In closing, she said, “hope to inspire others to make a difference, big or small, in their community. Please consider buying a sign, making a donation or spreading the word about these signs to your friends and family.” For more information, go to tunnel2towers.org.

COUNCIL Continued from pg. 1

7, 0.49%. The election, originally scheduled for May 6, was delayed two weeks by order of Governor Ralph Northam due to the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Barnhart, who said in an article that appeared in this publication on May 13, said she decided to run for Ashland Town Council “to protect what makes Ashland special.” The day after her victory, she extended her thanks to “all of the people at the Hanover County Board of Elections and Ashland Town Hall for all their time and efforts to offer a variety of voting methods and do everything possible to ensure the safety of the voters. The poll workers did a great job!” She also thanked “the voters of Ashland for making the effort to get out and vote in person, or to vote absentee ballot. As an Ashlander, I was very proud of our turnout.” Barnhart said she is “honored” to have been “chosen by the people to serve as a member of Ashland Town Council, and I look forward to working with the other council members and the great staff of our town government.” She said her campaign promise was “to work to protect what makes Ashland special and that’s what I plan to do.” A lifelong educator who spent most of her 30 years in Hanover County Public Schools, Barnhart said those skills prepared her well to serve on town council. She is a community volunteer at the Ashland Theatre and said she understands the town’s unique combination of distinctive neighborhoods. As she prepared to take a seat at the council table, Barnhart expressed an appreciation for Ashland’s strong government, outstanding services, and government officials and employees who are truly inter-

Official Results Tally

Active Registered:

5/19/2020

Provisionals 3 seats open for Town Council Provisionals

801 CAP

4,162 13%

0110 Town

Total

D. A. Wooten

Stephanie Renee Hare

149

David G. Goldstein

101

Steven Trivett

180

181

363

Kathy Abbott

182

184

368

Anita Barnhart

194

190

386

Write-Ins

Over Votes:

Under Votes:

137

203

Total Votes:

729

891

1626

divid by 3:

243

297

curbside voters:

CUFF

542 45% by absentee 55% in the polls (28% curbside)

Provisional

G.I.A. GRADUATE GEMOLOGIST BILL FOREMAN ON SITE

Non-Registered (1,2)

Craftsmanship at its finest.

No ID

10388 Leadbetter Rd. Located in the Hanover Air Park

Other (3,4,5,6)

2019 The Mechanicsville Local Ashland-Hanover Local

the

Locals ice

1st Place

Total Votes:

WINNER

EST. 1977

550-2505

Information submitted by Teresa Smith

This chart shows the results of the May 19 Town of Ashland General Election. Voters decided three Ashland Town Council seats.

ested in serving the citizens. Abbott said of her reelection: “I’m so touched by the outpouring of support for my candidacy and the vote of confidence in re-electing me to town council. I’m excited to continue to build on the foundation and initiatives that council and staff have worked on tirelessly in recent years.” She noted, “We’ve been sidetracked by this truly unprecedented moment [COVID-19] in history, and, for the immediate future, our focus will be on recovery and trying to maintain the high level of service we all have come to rely on. And of course, assisting those residents and businesses left most vulnerable by this pandemic.” Abbott is, however, “confident that Ashland will emerge on the other side of this stronger, closer, and more determined than ever to shine like the diamond we are.” She extended congratulations to Mayor Steven Trivett on his re-election, and wel-

comes Anita Barnhart to town council “A big thank you to candidates Stephanie Renee Hare, David Goldstein for stepping up to serve,” Abbott added. She also offered “a special, heartfelt nod to the Hanover County Voter Registration & Elections Office that went above and beyond to plan and arrange a safe voting experience for our residents.” Abbott became an Ashland resident in 2003, because, she said, she was “drawn to the town’s sense of community and its eclectic mix of people, businesses and events.” Her community involvement is extensive, including 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. The four-year member of

town council recognizes 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.” As he looks to his next term on council, Trivett said, “Obviously, we have goals and responsibilities that pre-date COVID-19 and will be attended to in due time. But, for now, a number of initiatives need to be ‘on hold’ while we look over our community and see what we can do to help.” He described Election Day as “cool, breezy, and occasionally rainy -- not to mention COVID-19. But democracy proved stronger than the virus!” “An amazing number of absentee ballots were mailed in,” Trivett said. He also praised “an excellent team of Election Officials and see COUNCIL, pg. 11

Approximately 14,000 cars drive by our theatre on England Street each day. Make sure everyone in town sees your personalized message!

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Ashland-Hanover Local May 27, 2020 5

OPINION

LETTERS

| The Local Views

| Reader Views

From the managing editor

Love certainly makes adapting easier By Melody Kinser Managing Editor hen Mom put her house on the market, sold most of the furnishings, and packed to move here in 2009, my sister and I were so proud of her as she took charge of the next chapter in her life. Leaving wasn’t easy -- she had lived in the same area for almost 79 years. And the house she sold within a year of leaving it had been the first and only home she and Dad owned. They bought it in July 1961, just days before my 5th birthday. Mom still has a lot of sentimentality about that neighborhood and the friends she made during all those years. It was the same neighborhood her parents settled in after leaving the farming life in eastern Kentucky for Grandpa’s 40-year career in the coal mines. As I’ve said before, I arrived in Winchester, Virginia, in the spring of 2005 because I knew I

needed to get closer to my sister, whose health was rapidly declining. The goal was to find employment in Richmond. I do appreciate the opportunity the Byrd family gave me by opening the door to Virginia with a copy editor’s job at The Winchester Star. But the focus remained on getting to Richmond. Fortunately, the editor’s job opened at The Mechanicsville Local and I was blessed to start there in July 2008. Mom made the move here in September 2009. Sometimes I forget that leaving Logan, West Virginia, was a lifetime of change for my mother. Despite being very well traveled, that was home. And, to her, it still is. She enjoys life in Mechanicsville and all that living in the Greater Richmond area provides. But she maintains that the small city in a valley between hills and a river is her home. When I moved out on my own in 1976, I was like “free at last.” Young and carefree best

described many years of my life. In 1991, I started moving with my career -- never thinking that Dad would suddenly die a year later. Mom retired when they had planned and was content in their house. We almost lost my sister in July 2004, that’s when I knew I had to move to Virginia. I was confident that if I got here Mom would soon follow. She did spend at least a month every summer and most of the winter with me in Winchester. We both knew I wasn’t staying there though, so her moving wasn’t an issue then. We recently celebrated our 8th anniversary in a lovely house in a wonderful retirement community. Our neighbors are kind and caring. I often forget what Mom gave me to join her daughters, but I know she’d do it again. That’s the thing about love: it supercedes all other aspects of life. She is a blessing and I thank God every day when I hear her say, “Good morning.”

Memorial Day message is not quarantined By Jim Ridolphi Contributing Columnist As a child, we celebrated Memorial Day in much the same way we recognized other summer holidays — by decorating our bikes and staging a parade. I guess anyone from that generation will recall the importance of bicycles in

our daily existence. A pile of bicycles hastily parked beside a playground was a regular sight in our neighborhood. Our bikes became a mystical vehicle that could take us anywhere. If you were playing Cowboys and Indians, the horse below us had two wheels and spokes. On other occasions, the bikes became ships on open water preparing to do battle.

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Ashland-Hanover Local May 27, 2020

And when Memorial Day rolled around, these same bikes became our floats for a neighborhood organized parade. It would be the finale in a day of cookouts, badminton games and runs though the sprinkler. Any backyard would do serving as a prep area, filled with colorful streamers and homemade signs hung from wagons that would be pulled by the

little ones who hadn’t crossed the line to two-wheelers. We unwound rolls of red, white and blue crepe paper, and entwined it meticulously in the spokes of our wheels. A clothespin and playing card strategically attached to a fender support see MESSAGE, pg. 11

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.

Pandemic’s ‘freedom protestors’ Look, I’ll begin with a short background to set y’all “freedom protesters” on the correct and “truthful” path. I was in the USNR (United States Navy Reserve) for 28 months in the first year of the 1980s. When I graduated with a degree, I thought “with being a reservist and a mechanic with a degree” maybe I could get a commission in the USN (United States Navy).” I was wrong. Not good enough. So I went to the U.S. Army (apparently they’ll commission anyone with a pulse). I spent 22 years there with an active duty slot at the end. Got shown the door (as I was walking into my lieutenant colonel job) because I pissed off the wrong little jerk (done that a few times in my life ... I regret this now). You know what they say in Texas ... “oil well.” You cannot change yesterday, just today. You can only hope (and plan for tomorrow). This brings me to the subject of this letter. These “freedom rallies” are disguised. They’re very well disguised as “practice drills” for a race war. Why, for instance, is there a Republican legislator in Michigan’s legislature with a battle-flag mask on their face (during session)? Why are there Nazi flags present at these rallies? Why are there little punks with long rifles in the capital building? Why are there Gadsden flags being perverted at these rallies? Why did Trump first say, “I alone will decide when to reopen the states?” Then walk it back. By the way, leaders make tactical decisions then stand by these decisions because they’re leaders and that’s what leaders do. By the way, walking back (everything) isn’t a leader’s behavior. It is a behavior of one who isn’t consistent in leadership. It’s a symptom of cowardice (as dodging the draft five times). see LETTERS, pg. 11

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 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 Christ-centered anonymous support program offering hope and healing for recovering alcoholics, addicts and their families meet every Monday at 7 p.m. at the Mechanicsville Christian Center at 8061 Shady Grove Road in Mechanicsville. For more information, call 804-

366-9645 or email kjfaith1@ gmail.com.

at 804-249-1845. The website is http://www.mcshin.org.

Saturdays

Tuesdays

Trinity Lutheran Church, Ashland Campus, located at 11515 Ashcake Road in Ashland two miles west of U.S. 1, holds it church service at 5 p.m. with Pastor Roy Minnix, senior pastor, and Nycholas Greig, associate pastor. For more information, visit www. trinityrichmond.net or call 804-270-9626.

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

Sundays Outside the Walls, a new Narcotics Anonymous group, has been organized and will meet from 6 to 7 p.m. in the lobby of the Pamunkey Regional Jail at 7240 Courtland Farm Rd. in Hanover. For more information, contact John Shinholser, McShin president,

will be donuts. Eugene Truitt is the Post commander. He can be contacted at 804-746-4734. The Hanover Concert Band rehearses from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. every Tuesday, mid-January through mid

December, at the Hanover Arts and Activities Center at 500 S. Railroad Ave. in Ashland, just south of U.S. 54. Membership is open to anyone who can read music and play see CALENDAR, pg. 12

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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.

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WE NEED YOUR HELP With the pandemic-related cancellations and delays, we could use your story ideas.

Contact Dave Lawrence at dlawrence@mechlocal.com with your suggestions.

For more information go to www.mechlocal.com

| Youth, High School, College, Recreational & Professional

Guidance issued for sports’ return in fall contact between participants, including basketball, field hockey and volleyball. The third phase allows for modified practices for sports with sustained contact, including football. The NFHS also recommends limited travel so social distancing can be maintained in buses, cars and vans. Spectators By Eric Kolenich would not be allowed to attend Richmond Times-Dispatch events until state health departThe National Federation of ments lift restrictions on mass High Schools has released sug- gatherings. gestions for how state associaPhase 1 tions could restart high school athletics in phases. The Virginia • Practices cannot involve a ball that is passed between High School League, which players, and contact between governs public school sports in players is not allowed. All Virginia, is a member of the individuals would have to NFHS. maintain a 6-foot distance The NFHS formed a at all times. 15-member advisory committee, which implemented • Coaches and students would be screened, includthese guidelines. The commiting having their temperatee includes medical doctors, tures taken, prior to workathletic trainers, high school outs. coaches and officials, research specialists and state association • Gatherings would be limited to 10 or fewer people. executives. The committee suggests • Workouts would be conducted in pods of the same athletics resume in three phases 5-10 students always workwhich correspond to the phases ing out together to limit outlined in the White House/ exposure if someone develCenters for Disease Control ops an infection. and Prevention “Opening up America again” plan. The first • Locker rooms would not be used. Players would arrive phase of the NFHS plan allows wearing their athletic gear for modified workouts and Joel Klein for The Local and return home to shower practices. The second phase It may be awhile before football returns to area high schools according to a phased restart plan recommended by the National allows for practice and comFederation of High School Associations on May 19. Higher risk sports such as football would not be allowed to resume practice petition of sports with limited see RETURN, pg. 9 and competition until the area met Phase 3 criteria for opening as described by the White House’s “Opening Up America” plan.

National group suggests phased start to prep season

Ashland-Hanover Local May 27, 2020

RETURN Continued from pg. 8

and change. • There would be no shared athletic equipment, including towels, clothes, shoes or sports-specific equipment. • Weightlifting that requires a spotter cannot be conducted because it would not honor social-distancing regulations. • All equipment would be cleaned during and after use. Phase 2 • Low-risk sports can resume practice and competition. These are sports that involve no contact, including individual running in track and field, swimming and golf. • Moderate-risk sports may have modified practices. These are sports with sustained contact, but they are either sports that have protective equipment that reduces respiratory particle transmission, sports that have only intermittent contact or sports that use equipment that can’t be cleaned between participants, including basketball, volleyball, baseball, softball, soccer, gymnastics, field hockey, tennis, girls lacrosse, high jump, long jump and pole vault. • Indoor gatherings would be limited to 10 people. Outdoor gatherings would be limited to 50. • Locker rooms can be used, but individuals must keep a 6-foot distance from one another. • Spotters can be used for weightlifting if they stand at the edges of the bar. Phase 3 • Moderate-risk sports can resume practice and competition. These sports involve close, sustained contact and lack of significant protective barriers for respiratory

Dave Lawrence/The Local

Low-risk sports in which social distancing could be maintained, such as golf or cross country, would be able to resume competition in Phase 2 of the NFHS plan.

particle transmission. They include football, wrestling and boys lacrosse. • Modified practice can begin for high-risk sports. These sports would need to continue screening before practices, while lower-risk sports can discontinue screening. • Leagues would reassess epidemiology data and the success of other levels of competition when determining if they can bring back normal practices and competition in high-risk sports. • Gatherings would be limited to 50 people indoors or outdoors. • Individuals would keep a distance of 3 to 6 feet apart. The VHSL will follow the NFHS guidelines. The timing for the rollout of the reopening plan in Virginia will be determined by the VHSL in consultation with Gov. Ralph Northam, the Virginia Department of Education, the

Virginia Department of Health and the CDC. “What we have been doing and will continue to do, is to strongly advocate for our student-athletes for a reopening of fall sports and activities. We know much has been taken away from our students by the COVID-19 pandemic. We will continue to advocate for them and the return of high school athletics and activities,” said VHSL Executive Director Dr. John W. “Billy” Haun. “It is important to say, and many already have, as we develop plans there are more questions than answers. Because of that, we cannot put a timeline on when decisions will be completed and announced to the public until many of those questions become answerable. “We continue to fully support our Governor’s directives, work with advisory groups, government agencies, other states, and medical experts to

come up with a safe and sound Ashland-Hanover Local Eric Kolenich can be reached plan to implement sports and sports editor Dave Lawrence at ekolenich@timesdispatch. activities for the fall.” contributed to this report. com.

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Ashland-Hanover Local May 27, 2020

LEGAL NOTICES

Residential for Rent Apartment Referral Services Policy Apartment referral service companies sell lists of available apartments for rent in your area. Please read contracts thoroughly to ensure that you understand and agree to all the terms and the cancellation policy of the contract.

APARTMENTS UNFURN. 1 and 2 bedroom apartments available to qualified applicants. Conveniently located in the heart of Ashland. From $600. Contact Brothers Realty 804-798-5752

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TOWN OF ASHLAND PUBLIC NOTICE Please take notice that on the 10th day of June, 2020, at 7:00 p.m. at the regular monthly meeting of the Ashland Planning Commission, at the Ashland Town Hall, 101 Thompson Street, Ashland, VA, the Planning Commission will conduct a joint public hearing with the Ashland Town Council on: ORDINANCE NO. 2020-06 ORDINANCE NO. 2020-06 AMENDS THE ASHLAND TOWN CODE BY MODIFYING ARTICLE XIII, "LIMITED INDUSTRIAL DISTRICT M-1," SECTION 21-119, "PERMITTED USES," AND ADDING ARTICLE XV, "INDUSTRIAL DISTRICT M-2," SEC. 21-134, "STATEMENT OF INTENT," SEC. 21-135, "PERMITTED USES," SEC. 21136, "REQUIREMENTS FOR PERMITTED USES," SEC. 21-137, "AREA REGULATIONS," SEC. 21-138, "FRONTAGE REGULATIONS," SEC. 21-139, "SETBACK REGULATIONS," SEC. 21-140, "YARD REGULATIONS," SEC. 21-140.1, "HEIGHT REGULATIONS," SEC. 21-140.2, "UTILITIES," SEC. 21-140.3, "SITE PLAN REQUIRED," SEC. 21-140.4, "LANDSCAPE PLAN: LANDSCAPING, TREES, BUFFERS AND SCREENING," AND SEC. 21-140.5, "PARKING LOT CONNECTIVITY." ORDINANCE NO. 2020-06 IS CONSIDERED PURSUANT TO THE GRANTS OF AUTHORITY CONTAINED IN VA. CODE §§ 15.2-2200, 15.2-2240, 15.2-2280, 15.2-2285, AND 15.2-2286. A copy of Ordinance No. 2020-06 may be obtained by contacting Town Hall at (804) 798-1073, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Written comments may be submitted to the Planning Department via e-mail at planning@ ashlandva.gov or through regular mail to Town of Ashland, PO 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 Matt Reynal, mreynal@ashlandva.gov, 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 of the public hearing so that appropriate arrangements may be made. Following the joint public hearing, the Ashland Town Council may take action on Ordinance No. 202006. By Order of the Ashland Planning Commission & the Ashland Town Council

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MESSAGE Continued from pg. 6

provided the roar of a real engine. We placed colorful streamers in the ends of our handlebars, and attached pinwheels to our forks. In a simple truth that becomes apparent to all as years pass, the real fun of the parade was the preparation. The rewards of sharing a common goal with friends, working together and seeing a project through from start to finish are what I remember most about those days. The parade was somewhat anticlimactic, and, by the next day, the bikes had returned to their utilitarian origins, complete with torn seats and rusty fenders. As we prepare to honor those who served on this Memorial Day, an absence of parades is just one of the things that will seem decidedly different from past years. The coronavirus has taken a tremendous toll on aging veterans, and any consideration of large gatherings for this high-risk group was quickly deemed not possible. But, even in this unusual year of unprecedented challenges, the meaning of Memorial Day remains, and the sacrifice of those who gave their lives for their country are no less appreciated and honored. Perhaps this crisis intensifies our focus and appreciation of those unselfish enough to risk life and limb on unknown soil to preserve our way of life.

LETTERS Continued from pg. 6

All truth! Apparently someone told him he should allow the governors to take individual charge over their individual states (remember “States’ Rights”). So he “proclaimed” (as practicing dictators do) he’d “allow” the governors to decide for themselves. Then ... He and Steve Bannon, and Steven Miller, and Jared/ Ivanka, and Richard Spencer, et al. would get certain “orga-

This virus has caused our nation unimaginable harm and forced us to re-examine things we once took for granted. Making sacrifices has become a daily routine as we struggle to return to some time of normalcy. But, it does not affect our ability to remember and honor those who made sacrifice a way of life in defense of their nation. Do not allow our compassion and respect for our national heroes to be quarantined. We should remember that never have so few sacrificed so much for so many, and unforeseen circumstances shouldn’t dampen our commitment to their memory. So, even minus the parades and memorial services, all of us can take a moment to honor men and women who placed service above personal safety and left their blood on foreign soils across the globe. And, honestly, the message of Memorial Day is expressed in many ways. Marching bands with fancy floats and marching soldiers are certainly appropriate methods to show our appreciation, and we’ll await their return when better days return. But, thinking back, that dog riding in a wagon decorated with an American flag pulled by a kid with a homemade patriotic hat delivered the same message. “Thank You” to those who served and sacrificed. nizers” to organize these “freedom rallies” in each state with a strategic manner. These rallies are flowing along perfectly now. Mission accomplished! However, these rallies are not meant to gain “freedoms.” These rallies (again for clarity) are meant to “stir the bucket.” These rallies are meant to incite. These rallies are meant to further divide this nation I defended for 28 years (if you count the four years as a cop). Divide our nation. Us. We the People. Their mission: divide. This kills three birds with one stone.

COUNCIL Continued from pg. 5

volunteers, (thank you Hanover County Registrar Teri Smithson), worked the drive-up voting flawlessly, and other citizens walked in to vote to all together.” He said the turnout was “greater than I expected.” “As a candidate, the day starts at 6 a.m. and runs to 7 p.m. But, it moved along just fine talking with old and new friends and the other candidates. We’re competitors on the ballot but on the same team in wanting to serve our community,” Trivett said.” My hat is off to Stephanie Hare, D. A. Wooten and David Goldstein and their zeal to serve. I congratulate Kathy Abbott on her re-election! Glad she and I can serve together another term.” In congratulating Anita Barnhart, he said the retired teacher and librarian “taught a course” on campaigning. “For me, I’m truly honored to have another opportunity to serve. But, celebration is temporary as I expect individuals, families, and businesses impacted by the pandemic are not as concerned about who is on council, but on how council can support all of Ashland in surviving and once again thriving as a community,” he added. “We will continue looking for each and every avenue that serves to get our lives and our community back on an upward trajectory -- together!” Trivett said. He has served on town council since 2012 and is in his second year as mayor.

1). Deflect attention away from Trump’s many shortcomings. 2). Divide the masses over the same reoccurring nightmare: “racism.” 3). Protect Trump’s re-election chances. Remember what Jesus said in Mark 3:25 that Abe Lincoln borrowed in his Gettysburg Address (y’all have gotta look it up). Donald John Trump has divided and back-stabbed for five decades. His dark and cowardly and divisive history is too long for me to make this

His community services includes: volunteer fireman, Hanover’s Family Life Education Team, Hanover Habitat for Humanity, Hanover County Community Services Board, Ashland’s Board of Zoning Appeals, Ashland’s Planning Commission, and Hanover County’s Planning Commission for the Ashland District. In returning to council, Trivett’s goals are to help citizens, businesses and the town recover economically from the effects of COVID-19. He also said that he would “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.” “And, once beyond these virus days and we return to Ashland’s pre-outbreak upward economic trajectory, I’d like to explore ways to potentially lower business taxes recognizing our business community for keeping our residential taxes stable many years,” Trivett said. Last Wednesday, Teresa F. “Teri” Smithson, General Registrar/Director of Elections for Hanover County, said, “Yesterday was our test run on how we operate in a pandemic. We partnered with our Fire/EMS to get all the PPE (disinfectants, hand sanitizer, gowns, face shields, gloves and face masks) and the Department of Elections sent one-use ink pens and security folders for the ballots.” Smithson pointed out that a representative of the Virginia Medical Reserve Corps and the Virginia Department of Health had volunteers from the (MRC) on-site at the precinct all day.

into a long letter. I know plenty of decent folks in New York City (I was forward liaison officer on 9/11 while on active duty). I made friends while there. I’ve heard dozens of other people at other times since 2017 tell me how evil Trump is (no, I do not suffer from TDS – Trump Derangement Syndrome). I’ll stop now by begging folks to stay home during this pandemic and listen to the doctors/nurses/scientists. This is not a conspiracy set in motion by scientists to take down the king. This is not a

“These volunteers can assist with coaching on PPE (personal protective equipment) and PPE fit testing, monitoring proper social distancing measures and assistance with ensuring proper sanitization on Election Day,” she said. In preparing for Election Day while being mindful of COVID-19, Smithson and her staff “developed an action plan in partnership with Matt Reynal, assistant town manager, that outlined the precautions we took and the implementation of expanding the curbside (drive-up) voting.” Eighty-two voters cast their ballot from their vehicle, Smithson said, and 215 inside the precinct, which means 28% of in-person voters stayed in their vehicles, and voted curbside. “Our Officers of Elections were happy with our plan and executed it very well. It took extra time to implement on top of the normal activities they do to open the polls,” she added. “One of the biggest takeaways from yesterday, we need more Officers of Elections to service the curbside voters. Normally, curbside voting is time-consuming but we mitigated that by providing 2-way radios to the Officers. One Officer greets the voter at their vehicle and calls into the poll book attendant to check the voter in on the electronic poll book and another Officer takes them the ballot,” Smithson explained. The May 19 election saw 542 voters casting a ballot for a 13% voter turnout. As for Smithson, she and her staff are already looking forward to the June 23 dual party primary.

conspiracy set up by doctors and nurses because they don’t like the emperor. Trump is scared he’s going to lose the election in November so he is pitting us against each other to benefit himself. That’s all (that’s enough). It’s not just the flu, the annual flu that killed 80,000 people last year. It’s a “novel virusm” which has killed 85,000 people in less than three months. Truth. Truth! When Jesus began many of His parables as He was giving His sermons in-person,

He would usually begin His statements with, “I tell you the truth ...” I’m powerless as I watch this draft-dodging coward (five times) destroy our nation. His first uttering that gave me pause was the insults he hurled at Capt. (Sen.) John McCain, USN in July 2015 when he said, “I don’t think people who were captured should be labeled as a “hero” (in the same war of these five deferments). That’s what did it for me. That was all it took. Dr. Richard Ryder Mechanicsville

Ashland-Hanover Local May 27, 2020 11

Nonprofit moving ahead with site improvements and renovations Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com MECHANICSVILLE -Most days at Hanover Adult Center, the participants enjoy a welcome routine. In the adult day health services program, music from several decades plays unobtrusively. A whiteboard notes all the day’s activities, including exercise, games, reminiscing, a hot lunch, and several hydration breaks. Program coordinators laugh with participants and listen to stories they may have heard a few times before. Social, medical, and nutritional needs for adults are met during operating hours while family members are working or enjoying a much-needed respite. Memory and cognitive changes do not diminish the spirit of success here. A failure-free philosophy is all in a day’s work. In an adjoining section, a group of community engagement participants in the center’s Linking Lives program prepare for a day out in the community. The buzz is palpable. Participants with intellectual or developmental differences are eager to help with grocery and supply shopping for the center. A yoga class at nearby First Shiloh Baptist Church may be on the agenda, or some time in community helping with Meals on Wheels deliveries. Others will stay in the center today, doing math skill building or learning more about their nutritional needs. Conversations are open for guests and other participants. Families, sports, news and friends are frequent topics in Linking Lives. There are no strangers here, only new friends. That’s exactly what the staff wants to continue.

Photo submitted by Diane Dillard

A day in the life -- A volunteer and a participant gathered at the Hanover Adult Center for an afternoon round of putting practice as others continued in conversation near a garden window.

An independent nonprofit agency, Hanover Adult Center has been helping families and caregivers for over 40 years. The services have delayed and prevented many hundreds of institutionalizations. Professional care for adults during the day has been a game changer for families who were stretched too thin trying to do it all. In those past four decades, there’s never been a time like this. The days of early March of this year were an anxious time. As COVID-19 became a bigger threat, staff doubled down on already rigorous cleaning, sanitation, and protective procedures. Executive Director Diane Dillard, HR and Finance Director Cindy Dunnivan, and a volunteer board of directors saw the only way to be good stewards of the participant’s health was to do the unavoid-

Ashland-Hanover Local May 27, 2020

Photo submitted by Diane Dillard

Space has been opened up to allow more natural light into the Linking Lives program at Hanover Adult Center. Participants will return to fewer walls, fresh paint, and cherished friendships.

able: temporarily suspend services. Staff contacted every family member or caregiver to discuss the decision with referrals

ready for other services such as food pantries and in-home care. Closing was a tough call, but has helped ensure the health and safety of staff and participants. But two months has been a long time for this family to be apart. Phone calls, emails, texts, and video conferences have been helpful for staff and participants, but what if they could really benefit from this time of closure? Hanover Adult Center’s space in the Cold Harbor Business Center has been used nonstop since the 1990s. This uncomfortable downtime had one big upside. A plan for a light renovation to optimize the space and bring in more natural light was developed and is now underway. Quick collaboration between staff, the board of directors, and the property manager has allowed all of this to happen at surprisingly quick speed. Hammers and saws have replaced the sounds of oldies music and board games. Staff stops in with masks and keeps their distance while calling participants and snapping photos of the changes here. Floorplans cover the tables where lunches were served. Door monitors chirp as workers file in and out with supplies and ladders. Volunteers, anxious to return to doing what they love, stop in and call to check on progress. The mood is brighter now. From those dark days in March when so much was uncertain the Hanover Adult Center sees itself in a great position to open back up as soon as it is safe and ethical to do so. Fresh paint, a brighter look, and familiar routines will welcome staff and participants back to a community that always felt like home.

Sisters rolling on

Photo submitted by Tammie Luck

Coraline Hollywood, 8, and her 6-year-old sister Emery entered their 5th year of skating with Ashland Artistic Figure Skating Team, but all competitions came to a quick halt with a pandemic, which resulted in Virginia’s executive order. In turn, their mom, Brittany Hollywood, started looking for alternative ways for the girls to continue skating and practicing their routines. By using roller skating classes live on Instagram with Roller Fit, the family has been able to practice new innovative jumps, spins and figures. This journey led them to excessive purchases for skates and protective gear. The girls and their mom have continued training with a simple wheel change from inside to outside use. Brittany, Coraline and Emery practice daily in their driveway and garage, as well as going to local parks. Brittany extended thanks to the Town of Ashland and Hanover County for accepting roller skaters. The Hollywoods are on Instagram at @hollywoodroolersisterz.

CALENDAR Continued from pg. 7

a non-string instrument. High school students are welcome with parents’ permission. For more information, visit www. hanoverconcertband.org or call 804-789-0536.

Thursdays The Rotary Club of Ashland meets at noon for lunch at the Iron Horse Restaurant at 100 S. Railroad Ave. in in Ashland. For more information, contact Steve Dunham at 804-496-6093 or sandrdunham@yahoo.com.

Third Mondays The Hanover County Community Services Board

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

Second Tuesdays Hanover Family Support Group, a support group for family members of a loved one with a mental illness, meets from 7 to 8:30 p.m. the second Tuesday evening of each month at the Ashland office of Hanover Community Services located at 12300 Washington Highway in Ashland. Attendees support one another, share experiences, challenges and resources and to advocate for their loved ones. For more information, contact Kathy Redfearn, LCSW at 804-6754230.