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COVID-19 $$ Small business relief included in CARES spending from board of supervisors
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Vol. 5 No. 42 | Richmond Suburban News | July 1, 2020
School board takes no Hudley and Hawkins returning action on name changes as members of the school board By Jim Ridolphi for Ashland-Hanover Local
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ASHLAND -After a two-hour closed session meeting, the Hanover County School Board returned to open session Tuesday, June 23, and abruptly adjourned without taking action on the school name change issue. Shortly before returning to public session, an announcement was made to phone listeners that the board would return to open session and amend the agenda to take action “regarding the school name
Jim Ridolphi/Ashland Hanover-Local
Robert Barnette, president of the local chapter of the NAACP, addressed the Hanover County School Board in this file photo.
changes.” Technical difficulties delayed that open session by about 30 minutes as officials attempted to re-establish
contact with board members Kelly Evko and Sterling Daniel. After several unsuccessful attempts, chair John Axselle gaveled the panel consisting of five members, back into open session. When the chair began discussing amending the agenda, Daniel and Evko reconnected, and Daniel moved for adjournment. George Sutton and Norman Sulser voted against the motion to adjourn, which passed 5-2. Sulser questioned the reasoning for the abrupt adjournment motion, but see NAME, pg. 3
By Jim Ridolphi for Ashland-Hanover Local
HANOVER -- Two Hanover County School Board members will be returning to their posts after the Hanover County Board of Supervisors reappointed them at last week’s regular meeting. Chickahominy representative Bob Hundley and Ashland representative Ola Hawkins will continue their service on the seven-member appointed board. The Ashland seat was uncontested, while Dr. Jerome Ross expressed his desire to serve in the Chickahominy District. But supervisor Angela Kelly-Wiecek said experience at this critical stage is important and, with two new members recently seated, she noted Hundley’s long service and expertise are Jim Ridolphi/Ashland-Hanover Local particularly needed during this crucial period. Bob Hundley and Ola Hawkins were “The school board has several very impor- reappointed last week to the Hanover County tant and weighty issues being considered at this School Board to represent the Chickahominy see BOARD, pg. 5
and Ashland districts, respectively.
Gade opposes Warner; Rashid challenges Wittman By Melody Kinser Managing Editor HANOVER – With 208,738, 67.40%, of the vote in the June 23 Primary Election, Republican Daniel M. Gade will challenge incumbent Democrat Mark R. Warner for the United States Senate seat the latter has held since first being elected in 2008. Warner, who served as Virginia’s governor from 20022006, ran unopposed in last week’s election.
Gade retired from the U.S. Army as a lieutenant colonel in 2017. Qasim Rashid celebrated victory in defeating Lavangeline A. Williams for the Democratic nomination for the 1st District in the U.S. House of Representatives. Rashid will face Republican incumbent Rob Wittman, who has held the seat since 2007. Wittman was unopposed last week. Total votes for Hanover County’s 37 precincts for the
Democrats for the 1st District were: Rashid, 2,297, 53.88%, and Williams, 1,966, 46.12%. The Republican ballot for Senate also included: Thomas A. Speciale II, 934, 13.44%, and Alissa A. Baldwin, 754, 10.85%. Dr. Daniel W. McGraw, chair of the Hanover County Democratic Committee, said, “Democrats had two wonderful candidates running in the Congressional Primary this year -- Qasim Rashid and Vangie Williams. The vote was
close, but Qasim won.” “We thank Vangie for laying the groundwork two years ago that will help our candidate, Qasim Rashid, in November,” he said. “We are united in working for a change in Washington. Qasim is that change!” McGraw added, “In a time when citizens are seeking comfort and unity, Qasim Rashid is the best candidate to lead us. His ‘Compassion through see GADE, pg. 15
Teresa F. “Teri” Smithson, Hanover County’s Director of Elections and General Registrar, took time Tuesday morning, June 23, after the polls opened to show the availability of curbside voting for today’s Primary Election. Constance Lynn is the Chief Officer of Elections at the Totopotomoy Precinct, which is located at Eastern Hanover Fire Station #3. Lynn is ready for the curbside voters to come on through to vote.
Small business relief included in CARES spending By Jim Ridolphi for Ashland-Hanover Local HANOVER – The Hanover County Board of Supervisors approved a plan last week that allots more than $9 million in CARES relief funds to a number of county agencies that must be spent by the end of the year. The federal funds are designated as assistance to be used for coronavirus mitigation or COVID-19 related projects such as installing sneeze guards or altering public spaces to allow social distancing. Finance director Jacob
Sumner presented a plan that provided those physical updates, but also allots more than $6 million to Hanover County schools for their mitigation efforts. The bulk of those funds will be used to purchase laptop devices for all students from third grade up to high school. Plans to distribute those devices during the next two years have been accelerated, highlighted by the need for remote learning highlighted during the recent crisis. Sumner’s plan included $450,000 for school facilities improvement, including in class
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Ashland-Hanover Local July 1, 2020
feeding, mobile food carts and sanitizing stations. Installing mobile hot spots and supplying those student devices accounts for $3.6 million and the Sheriff’s Office will receive $130,000 for partitions and other necessary improvements. Personal protection equipment and communication backup and improvements will cost about $575,000. Two new ambulances also are included at a cost of $720,000 to ensure coverage when other units are not in service due to disinfection requirements. A reimbursement for the county’s increased personnel costs due to the pandemic, and funds for Ashland’s mitigation efforts are included in the package. More than $950,000 is allotted for county facility improvements, including sneeze guards and disinfecting machines and more than $2 million will be used to improve digital submission systems and supply tablets to appraisers. The funds also will allow funds for sheriff ’s deputies to unitize an e-citation program that eliminates the need for paper transfers. Sumner’s initial presented plan did not include funding for small business relief, but Chickahominy supervisor Angela Kelly-Wiecek and Ashland supervisor Faye Prichard asked to see the alternate plan that did include $300,000 in relief funding for the county’s small businesses. Businesses must apply for the funding and a random selection process will be employed if requests exceed the allotted funding. The relief money cannot be used to replace lost revenue, and the program will be administered through the Economic Development Office. A number of small business owners and citizens spoke in
Jim Ridolphi/Ashland-Hanover Local
Jacob Sumner, Hanover County finance director, addressed the Hanover County Board of Supervisors about CARES relief funds.
favor of the additional funding, and supervisors agreed that the assistance should be included. Cuts to funds allocated for food services and personnel reimbursements will partially fund the relief efforts, and the adjustment does not require major changes in the funding’s disbursement plan. Supervisors unanimously approved the plan, and Sumner said his department would recalculate the allotment amounts reflecting the small business relief funding. Some supervisors lamented the fact that state officials decided to distribute 50 percent of the federal funds to localities, and retained more than $9 million of what some considered the county’s money. As for the possibility of those dollars coming to Hanover, Mechanicsville supervisor Canova Peterson said, “We’re not getting that other $9 million. I don’t think we’ll ever get a penny of it.” Vice chair Sean Davis, Henry District, also voiced concerns regarding the additional money, and said the allotted $9 million would not rectify losses
incurred by the county during the pandemic. In other matters, the Virginia Department of Transportation will have the final say as to whether four Hanover roadways will be restricted for thru-truck travel. County supervisors approved a resolution making a formal request to VDOT to exclude the roads from tractortrailers, dump trucks and other large commercial vehicles. Supervisors held a public hearing last week to gather input before voting to approve the request. Director of Public Works Mike Flagg said interest in restricting truck traffic on those roads is a result of the Wegmans’ project. The roads involved in the discussion include sections of Ashcake, New Ashcake, Atlee Station and Peaks Roads. “We have received numerous citizen concerns related to safety and well-being primarily around the zoning activity related to Wegmans,” Flagg said last month when he asked supervisors to schedule a public hearing. Flagg listed a myriad of concerns raised by citizens regarding increased truck traffic on those roads, including the large number of school bus stops on those sections, pedestrian access, cyclist safety and the possibility of trucks delaying EMS vehicles. Citizens also have expressed concerns regarding the residential nature of the areas and the hazards of all-hour operations. In order to restrict trucks, Flagg said VDOT requires that a reasonable alternate route is available for trucks to reach their destination. In addition, the truck traffic must be shown to not be compatible with the affected area. Roads considered must be
classified as residential or must be considered a local collector route in order to be considered, and Flagg presented drawings of alternate routes that must accompany any application to VDOT. A transcript of the public hearing and comments collected also will be forwarded to VDOT. Kathy Woodcock was one of several residents who spoke in favor of the restrictions. “Living on Ashcake Road, I’ve had the unenviable position of following many 18-wheelers as I travel to my home,” Woodcock said. “I can sit in my home and watch the 18-wheelers go by and the spray of water coming up. It is not safe at the current level of traffic we have today for these large trucks.” Woodcock said those trucks come to a complete stop when approaching each other from opposite directions due to the lack of adequate shoulders and narrow pavement. “They endanger those who live there. They endanger school children and school bus drivers who are nervous,” Woodcock said. “These are residential communities and additional trucks would disrupt the quality of life.” Board members voted unanimously to submit a formal request to VDOT to restrict traffic on all of four roads that include: Ashcake Road from the intersection of Peaks and Mount Hermon with Sliding Hill and Georgetown Roads. (1.7 miles). Atlee Station Road between Sliding Hill Road and Route 301. (3.7 miles). New Ashcake Road from Sliding Hill Road to Route 301. (3.4 miles). Peaks Road, (2.8 miles).
SHERIFF’S REPORTS | Crime, Accidents, Fire & Rescue May 23
Driver did not report an accident with damages, $1,000, in the 7200 block of Pole Green Road, Mechanicsville. Bomb/burn threat accused, 15, was reported in the 11200 block of Air Park Road, Ashland. Computer fraud to obtain services, $500, was reported in the 3400 block of Parsleys Mill Road, Mechanicsville. Concealment, price altering, $500, third offense, was reported in the 7400 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.
NAME Continued from pg. 1
board attorney Lisa Seward informed the chair that policy does stipulate that adjournment requests be acted upon without discussion. “I thought we were here to vote,” Sulser said. “We’ve got an important decision to make tonight. Someone has to tell me why we are adjourning and not going to make the vote.” No one did, and the board adjourned until its regular July 14 meeting. Local NAACP president Robert Barnette said the inaction was disappointing but would not deter his efforts to force a change in the names and mascots. “I am disappointed in the inaction of the school board not voting to change the names of Lee-Davis High School and Stonewall Jackson Middle School,” Barnette said. “It’s also disappointing to see the Hanover School Board disregard the Virginia PTA guidance where they said “The Virginia PTA supports renaming school facilities and
Concealment, price altering, merchandise, $500, was reported in the 7400 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.
reported in the 7200 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville.
Possession of Schedule I and II controlled substance was reported in the 37 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville.
Concealment, price altering, merchandise, $500, was reported in the 7400 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.
Convicted felon (nonviolent) possessed a firearm in the 98 block of Kings Dominion Boulevard, Doswell.
Sale and distribution of marijuana, ½-ounce, was reported in the 8000 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville.
Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 8200 block of Atlee Road, Mechanicsville.
Simple assault was reported in the 9100 block of Pembridge Drive, Mechanicsville.
Possession of marijuana, subsequent offense, was
Simple assault was reported in the 7100 block of Garden Park Lane, Mechanicsville.
mascots that are based on Confederate leaders, culturally insensitive depictions of indigenous people as well as other themes, images and iconography that fails to respect, honor and celebrate the diversity of our school communities.’” The NAACP has announced its decision to appeal a recent decision by federal Judge Robert Payne dismissing the organization’s suit against the Hanover County School Board regarding the names and mascots. The week before, several protests at various locations throughout the county were held to voice support for the name changes, and Barnette said the message should be clear to school officials that it’s time for a change. “Finally, if the Hanover County School Board truly cared about addressing institutional racism for all people of color and marginalized communities, then they need to change these school names,” Barnette said. “We have seen other jurisdictions in Virginia
and throughout the country do the right thing by removing symbols of a racist past and Hanover School Board needs to follow their example.” Rachel Levy is an educational activist, teacher and member of Together Hanover, a group that organized two of the recent rallies. She said the inaction by the board sends the wrong message to a public that is keenly watching their actions. “It undermines more than ever public confidence in the school board as a body to be decisive and make the best decisions, especially in this moment,” Levy said after the meeting. “I see it as a huge failure as a governing body to do the right thing. This is not the right time on such a basic thing like changing the names and mascots which are demeaning.” Levy said the decision won’t get any easier for the appointed school board, and said the recent non-action projects an image of a board that has a “crisis of legitimacy.”
Simple assault was reported in the 8200 block of Oak Street, Mechanicsville.
Simple assault was reported in the 10200 block of Sycamore Drive, Ashland.
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Drew Newman
Chelsea M. Rose
YORK, Pennsylvania -- Drew Newman of Ashland, a senior Mechanical Engineering major at York College of Pennsylvania, has been named to the Dean's List for the Spring 2020 semester. To be eligible for this honor, a student must be registered for at least 12 academic credit hours and earn a semester GPA of 3.50 or higher.
CLEMSON, South Carolina -- Chelsea M. Rose of Mechanicsville graduated from Clemson University with a Master of Engineering degree in Biomedical Engineering. Rose was among more than 4,007 students who received degrees awarded in May.
Jessica Fulwider Andrew Joyce TUSCALOOSA, Alabama -- The University of Alabama awarded some 6,326 degrees this spring. Among the graduates were: Jessica Fulwider of Mechanicsville, who received a Bachelor of Arts, and Andrew Joyce of Montpelier, who received a Bachelor of Arts in Communication & Information Sciences.
Andrea Martin IOWA CITY, Iowa -- More than 5,700 University of Iowa undergraduate, graduate, and professional students graduated this spring under extraordinary circumstances. Andrea Martin of Beaverdam was among the students conferred their degrees. Martin was student in the Graduate College whose program of study was Library and Information Science. The degree awarded was a Master of Arts.
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gram: “No Co-Pay Period”: Hanover DASH is waiving the $6 trip fee on all trips requested and taking place between June 12 and Sept 30. Expanded hours of operation: 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Employment Transportation is now an eligible Trip Type. Service Srea now includes medical facilities at Stony Point. For more information, contact Hanover DASH at 804-365-3274 or visit www. HanoverDASH.org. Photo submitted by Tom Harris Information submitted by Susan Richards, left, Hanover Senior Services specialist, is Tom Harris, Hanover County shown with Geri Hall, Hanover DASH manager and Community Outreach specialist for United Health Care. public information officer.
HANOVER -- All Hanover County government offices will be County closed on Friday, July 3, in observance of the Independence Day holiday. Hanover’s trash and recycling centers and the U.S. 301 Transfer lists holiday Station will be open on July 3 but will be closed on Saturday, July 4. Information submitted by Tom Harris, Hanover County public inforclosings mation officer.
BOARD Continued from pg. 1
moment. I know the benefit of new energy but at this time we have two members of our board who are brand new,” the Chickahominy supervisor said. Kelly-Wiecek acknowledged Ross’ long list of qualifications, and pledged to find a suitable role for him on future boards or commissions. “Dr. Ross is an exceptional candidate, and it is with a heavy heart that I have to make this choice. Quite frankly, his voice is important and needs to be at the table,” she said. “I’m committed to find the right place where we can benefit from his wisdom and experience.” “The desire for more diversity has not fallen on deaf ears,” she said. “While I believe my appointments as a whole offer a range of voices and perspectives, and especially at this moment, we need to be attuned to that feedback from our constituents and do more wherever possible.” “It is very difficult when you have two very well qualified individuals but only one appointment to offer. I carefully and prayerfully considered the emails and discussions I had during this process and as well as those I’ve had for the last eight years,” Kelly-Wiecek said. “I’d like to thank Ms. KellyWiecek for the confidence she has expressed in me. It has been a pleasure for me to serve on the board since 2004,” Hundley said as he accepted the appointment. “I continue to be energized every day by this position and the opportunity. It is a great privilege and honor to serve the county
and the community, but most importantly, to serve the students.” Faye Prichard, Ashland representative, noted Hawkins’ commitment and passion of her work as she moved for her reappointment. “I thank you for the opportunity to reappoint my school board member, Ola Hawkins, who joined me four years ago,” Prichard said. “She has been a faithful and devoted member of the school board and puts in an inordinate amount of time and puts our students first in our system. She thinks very much about how the entire system works for the students and the people who work there.” Hawkins thanked the supervisors for allowing her to serve a second term. “I thank you for yet another opportunity to serve the children, the community of Hanover County. It is more than my pleasure and honor to serve,” Hawkins said. During its afternoon session, the board also heard a presentation from deputy county administrator Frank Harksen that provided a scorecard on FY20 goals and initiatives and a list of FY21 initiatives for board consideration and approval. Harksen listed projects like the renovation of the General District Court and the establishment of a transportation system that serves the community (DASH) as completed from the FY2020 wish list. Airport improvements on the east side of the facility continue and the historic clerk’s office renovation also are completed. The board also met its goal
of increasing school security by adding two new School Resource Officers in this year’s budget. And, in an effort to increase broadband coverage in problem areas of the county, a broadband committee was formed and has met twice, members’ schedule interrupted by the coronavirus pandemic. Board initiatives for the upcoming year include providing laptops for all Hanover County students and the widening of Sliding Hill Road. Bids are out for a new airport terminal at the Hanover Airport. Harksen said the county received four bids this month and there is “strong interest” in the project from contractors. Construction should begin by October. The board also is spending $8 million for the Montpelier Park Community Center that includes a new gymnasium, library and community center in Beaverdam. The new history and culture museum is slated for a soft opening in October, another item on the county’s to-do list. Another initiative of the board in the upcoming year will be ongoing fiscal assessment due to the pandemic and the negative financial impact it has caused. A survey sent to Hanover residents has been delayed by one year due to the pandemic, but will be distributed next year. Harksen said the county wants to be prepared for anything and the current five-year financial plan provides those options. “We are prepared for an economic pause or a downturn if necessary,” he said.
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OPINION
LETTERS
| The Local Views
| Reader Views
From the managing editor
No sarcasm: What is significance of names? By Melody Kinser Managing Editor fter we posted a photo and a brief synopsis of the Friday, June 19, march from the Mechanicsville Library to Stonewall Jackson Middle School and Lee-Davis Middle School, our Facebook pages, especially The Mechanicsville Local, blew up with support and controversy. I’m all about free speech, but keep it clean on our social media sites. If you have a “potty mouth,” you can expect that your comment will be deleted. If the behavior persists, we will certainly consider banning further posts. That is, to say the least, our last option. It seems like the Lee-Davis/Stonewall Jackson name issue has been in the forefront for some time. But, with the vocal and, sadly, violent protests about equal rights, this has become a firestorm, with clashes with law enforcement and statues being toppled. As a transplant, I do consider the Greater Richmond area to be home. Granted, I have never been an avid reader of the Civil War and the
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revered military minds who led and served. In the fifth and eighth grades, we studied in West Virginia’s history, focusing on seceding from Virginia and becoming the 35th state on June 20, 1863. We did not delve into the debate of slavery, but did learn about the Emancipation Proclamation. President Abraham Lincoln was larger than life in our discussions. This may be a surprise to some of you, but there were many Confederate officers and soldiers from my home area. One of the most famous (or infamous) was Devil Anse Hatfield, the leader of the Hatfield family in its feud with the McCoys. He served as a captain in the Confederate Army. During my sister’s research into our families’ genealogy, I don’t think she discovered anyone serving in the military for either side. Our ancestors were farmers, who probably worked the land to make a living and survive. So, here’s where I want to ask -- in all seriousness -- why is keeping the names so important to some L-DHS graduates and former students at SJMS? I’ve seen comments about the heritage, which comes to down to: How do you want this community to be remembered?
Has anyone who favors retaining the names given any thought to what might be deep scars because of those Confederate leaders to students, administrators and staff of color? Again, I’m seeking clarity on this seemingly impenetrable issue. I’m not trying to stir up any debate or, as we said in the hills, “add fuel to the fire,” but I find it imperative to gain a better understanding. Yes, I have my own opinions, but this is your opportunity to enlighten me from both sides. I welcome your input. I don’t want to think that those who support the names are racists, nor do I point a finger at blacks for their concern as to how history is portrayed and observed. Is there any common ground without vile, ugly language and abusive acts? I welcome your feedback (but keep it clean). Pro or con, tell me how you feel about changing the names of the two local schools. Send your responses to mkinser@mechlocal. com. I’ll definitely be following up. In the meantime, let’s see when or if the Hanover County School Board is going to take action. The next meeting is July 14.
Was I a fortunate son? With uncles filling in, you bet By Jim Ridolphi Contributing Columnist All of us have only one father, but many of us have multiple role models who filled that void in the years that
passed since our natural dads have passed. Sometimes, you can pack a lot of life in a short period of time. I only had my dad for 10 short years, but it was ample time for him to instill
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Ashland-Hanover Local July 1, 2020
the sense of values I carry with me to this day. And during that decade, I can’t think of a day apart from him, excepting the rare trips home to visit relatives in Montgomery, Alabama, when
my mother, sister and I would take the train down several weeks before he arrived. Even during those times, there were always plenty of his brothers see SON 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.
Robert E. Lee statue should be removed In regard to Charles B. Nunn Jr. letter, Robert E. Lee was not a gentleman. He stood behind slavery. If the South had won the war, slavery would have continued while Lily White Lee walked away, having done his job to preserve it. Yes, let’s not forget history, but leaving a statue that glorifies what the South stood for has no right to be displayed in a country that is trying desperately to unite. Carole Olsen Mechanicsville
Questioning how sins linger or overlooked I need some help. I have watched, listened to, and read about the protests, demonstrations, and violence, going on within our country against racism. Yet, 90 percent of the protestors and demonstrators will go to the polls in November and vote for a Democrat. The Democrats who gave us the Ku Klux Klan, and the Jim Crow laws, which were enacted to disenfranchise and remove political and economic gains made by blacks during the Reconstruction period. Many African Americans have the false belief that the Democrat Party was responsible for the passage of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, but the truth is that better than 30 percent on the Democrats in the House and the Senate voted against it. If it hadn’t been for the Republicans coming alongside the Democrats who did support it, the bill would have failed. I need help in understanding how the sins of the past of some are condemned and the sins of others are overlooked. Earl Acors Mechanicsville see LETTERS, pg. 16
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PUBLIC NOTICE Please take notice that on the 8th day of July, 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 public hearings on: REZ20-0616 & ORD2020-08 JOHNSON ROAD INDUSTRIAL REZONING Michael Bradley, the applicant on behalf of MIG Ashland I, LLC, and the property owner, EC Real Estate, LLC, is requesting to rezone the property at 1115 Johnson Road (GPINS 7779-90-4407 and 7789-00-1636) from M-1, Limited Industrial, to M-2, Industrial. The applicant intends to develop the property for warehousing and manufacturing uses. The property is approximately 90 acres in size and has a future land use designation of Industrial. ORDINANCE NO. 2020-10 Ordinance No. 2020-10 amends the Ashland Town Code by modifying Article I, “In General,” Section 21-3, “Definitions,” and Article XIII, “Limited Industrial District M-1,” Section 21-119, “Permitted Uses,” Section 21-120, “Requirements for Permitted Uses,” and Article XV, “Industrial District M-2,” Section 21-136, “Requirements for Permitted Uses.” Ordinance No. 2020-10 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 REZ20-0616 & ORD2020-08 and Ordinance No. 2020-10 may be obtained by contacting Town Hall at (804) 798-1073, Monday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 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 Bernadette Cornelius, bcornelius@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.
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Ashland-Hanover Local July 1, 2020
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Ashland-Hanover Local July 1, 2020 9
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VHSL calls timeout on fall restart decision By Tim Pearrell Richmond Times-Dispatch RICHMOND – The Virginia High School League wants to buy more time before deciding whether sports can be played this fall. During a special session of the league’s executive committee on Thursday, VHSL executive director Billy Haun said the league needs to continue to take a wait-and-see approach because of unknowns about COVID-19 data, social distancing measures, how schools will open and other issues. Haun said while the VHSL wants to reopen sports “in a safe and reasonable way,” the league can make a more informed decision in four to eight weeks when it has more data. The committee will meet again in July and August. “There’s still two months before we reach Labor Day,” Haun said. “It’s very possible Virginia’s health data will continue to be good and show decreases as it has each of the last couple of governor’s meetings. “But the other side is it may go up. We have states that are spiking. We just don’t know exactly where we’re going to be.” Gov. Ralph Northam announced Tuesday that on July 1 the state will ease some
Joel Klein for The Local
The VHSL is taking a wait-and-see approach before deciding whether sports like football should return in the fall. Uncertainty in the trajectory of the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly given its resurgence in many states, has school and athletic officials desiring more data before approving a resumption of activities.
restrictions and move into the third phase of gradual reopening from the pandemic. The measures provided little insight into what that means for school sports — the league is hoping to get some clarity soon — but they did include a section for indoor and outdoor recreational activities, among them: players, spectators and instructors are expected to maintain 10 feet of distance; and the total number of people who can attend increased from 50 to 250 people per field, or the lesser of 50% of occupancy
load or 250 people. “While we’re in Phase Three, we’re still talking about social distancing,” Haun said. “I don’t understand how you think about playing team sports while you’re social distancing. It doesn’t seem to add up to me that you can do that.” He added: “If we had to make that decision today, getting ready to go into Phase Three with the social distancing we would have to vote, I think that we would have no sports because you can’t play sports with social distancing.”
Haun also said he didn’t know “how some school divisions can do social distancing, staggered schedules, and not think there’s going to be an equity issue about who gets to practice every day if you try to do team sports.” “If the A kids are here on Tuesday and Wednesday, and the B kids are here on ThursdayFriday, well, while the B kids are here on Thursday-Friday, how are the A kids going to get to practice [those days] because they weren’t in the building [those days]? In some locations,
that wouldn’t be an issue, kids might have cars, parents could bring them, they can walk. In many of our school divisions, that’s going to be a huge issue.” With the 250-person limit per field, Haun said “one of the things we have to acknowledge is that how much can we afford a full slate of athletic activities if we don’t have all those gate receipts.” “I think there’s a lot of issues to be determined,” he added. “I hate to disappoint people who are expecting us to come out today at the end of this meet-
ing and here’s the schedules for the fall … here’s when football starts, here’s when golf starts, here’s when cross country starts … I don’t think we’re there yet.” At this point, VHSL teams only have the go-ahead for limited offseason practice conditioning and drills during the summer (once they get approval from the Department of Education for plans to mitigate the spread of the virus). If fall sports can’t start, Haun said the league might consider models that would move the fall, winter and spring seasons. Winter sports might start in mid-December and run through late February. Fall sports, including football, might start in mid-February and run through early May. Spring sports might start in mid-April and run through late June. “Obviously you’d be talking about a reduced number of games, reduced schedules,” said Haun, emphasizing the model was just an example. The committee also unanimously approved a budget for the 2021 fiscal year that could potentially result in more than a $564,000 deficit but would keep VHSL staff members from furloughs. The budget could change, the league said, and is subject to quarterly reviews by several committees. Tim Pearrell can be reached at tpearrell@timesdispatch.com.
Ashland-Hanover Local July 1, 2020
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LEGAL DISPLAY ADS
LEGAL DISPLAY ADS
LEGAL DISPLAY ADS
PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is hereby given that the Hanover County Board of Zoning Appeals has set Tuesday, July 14, 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 case, at which public comments will be accepted: VAR2020-00006, WOODY HALL, Requests a variance from Section 3.8 1. (d) of the Hanover County Zoning Ordinance, which specifies that dwellings in the former R-1, Single-Family Residential Zoning District, when located on an fifty (50) foot ultimate right-of-way shall have a minimum front-yard setback of forty-five (45) feet. The requested Variance is for (9.4) feet, which would allow a building lot to have a front yard setback of 35.6 feet. The request is made for GPIN 8716-32-0502 consisting of approximately .88 acres, located on the south line of Pembridge Drive (State Route 1716) at its intersection with Avondale Drive (State Route 1715). (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Chickahominy VAR2020-00007, KAREN BURKE, Requests a variance from Section 26-26. 1. (b) of the Hanover County Zoning Ordinance, which specifies that dwellings in the A-1, Agricultural District, when located on an eighty (80) foot ultimate right-of-way shall have a minimum front yard setback of (100) feet. The request is for a 74.4 foot front yard variance, which would allow a building lot to have a front yard setback of 25.6 feet. The property is identified as GPIN 8725-07-6532, consisting of approximately .784 acre, zoned A-1, Agricultural District, and located on the south line of Pole Green Road (State Route 627) approximately 100 feet west of Janice Avenue (State Route Number Pending). (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Henry Copies of the above cases may be reviewed in the Planning Office any regular business day, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p. m. C. Jason Hazelwood Code Compliance Supervisor
TOWN OF ASHLAND PUBLIC NOTICE Please take notice that on the 10th day of July, 2020, at 7:00 p.m. at the regular monthly meeting of the Ashland Planning Commission, they will conduct a public hearing and may take action on ORD2020-09. Also take notice that on the 21st day of July, 2020, at 7:00 p.m. at the regular monthly meeting of the Town Council, they will conduct a public hearing and may take action on ORD2020-09. Both public hearings will be held at the Ashland Town Hall, 101 Thompson Street, Ashland, VA. ORDINANCE NO. 2020-09 ORDINANCE NO. 2020-09 IS AN ORDINANCE TO UPDATE THE FEE SCHEDULE FOR LAND USE AND ZONING EFFECTIVE AUGUST 1, 2020. Type of Fee BZA Appeal Special Exception (BZA) Conditional Use Permit Rezoning Plus per acre Right of Way Permit Text Amendment Deferral Request (Applicant) Comprehensive Plan Amendment Zoning Compliance Determination Zoning Permit Short Term Rental Permit Minor Subdivision Site Plan Plus per acre Resubmittal
Amendment (After Approval) Land Disturbance Plan Review E & S/Storm water Plan Review Land Disturbing Permit (12 mo.) Single Family Commercial/Residential Land Disturbing Permit (60 day) Residential Annual Renewal (Active Site) Annual Renewal (Dormant Site) Reinspection Fee
Current Fee $250 $0 $1,100 $50 $40 $250 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $200 $800 $50 $200 $0 $0 $0 $200 $0
Proposed 7-1-20 Fee $800 $800 $1,500 (commercial) $1,500 $50-$100 +$30 $100 $500 $250 $500 $25 $25 $25 $300 $800 $75 $200 (1st) $300 (2nd) $400 (3rd) $50 per page ($300 max) $0 $300
Change +$550 +$800 +$1,500 +$400 +Variable +$60 +$250 +$250 +$500 +$25 +$25 +$25 +$100 None +Variable None +$100 +$200 +Variable -$200 +$300
$0 $0
$300 $300 + $50 per acre
+$300 +Variable
$0 $0 $0 $0
$150 Same as original fee 50% original fee $100
+$150 +Variable +Variable +$100
ORDINANCE NO. 2020-09 IS CONSIDERED PURSUANT TO THE GRANT OF AUTHORITY CONTAINED IN VA CODE §§ 15.2-2286, 15.2-2241 & 15.2-2311. A copy of Ordinance No. 2020-09 may be obtained by contacting Town Hall at (804) 798-1073, Monday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Written comments may be submitted to the Planning Department via e-mail at planning@ashlandva.org 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 Bernadette Cornelius, bcornelius@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.
Ashland-Hanover Local July 1, 2020 13
PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is hereby given that the Hanover County Planning Commission has set Thursday, July 16, 2020, at 7:00 P.M., in the Board Room of the Hanover County Government Building at Hanover Courthouse, Hanover, Virginia, as the day, date, time, and place for a public hearing to consider the following cases, at which public comments will be accepted: REZONINGS REZ2019-00019, HICKORY HILL II, L.L.C. Request(s) to rezone from A-1, Agricultural District, to MX(c), Mixed Use District with conditions, and B-2(c), Community Business District with conditions, on GPINs 7880-92-1335 and 7880-81-6802, consisting of approximately 51.5 acres, and located on the north line of East Patrick Henry Road (State Route 54) at its intersection with Providence Church Road (State Route 662). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Planned Business and Commercial. The proposed zoning amendment would allow 42.33 acres to be rezoned to MX(c) for development of a mix of commercial (retail, office and restaurant) uses and residential uses (100 townhome units) at a density of 2.36 dwelling units per gross acre, and 9.17 acres to be rezoned to B-2(c) for a mix of commercial that may include a convenience store and a fast food restaurant with drive-through. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Beaverdam REZ2020-00009, GREGORY C. BENTLEY Request(s) to rezone from A-1, Agricultural District, to AR-6(c), Agricultural Residential District with conditions, on GPIN 7708-08-5310, consisting of approximately 10.0 acres, and located on the west line of Watkins Road (State Route 721) approximately 0.53 miles north of its intersection with Dogwood Trail Road (State Route 620). 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 family member for a gross density of one (1) dwelling unit per 5.0 acres. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: South Anna REZ2020-00013, SPROUSES CORNER, L.L.C. Request(s) to rezone from A-1, Agricultural District to AR-6(c), Agricultural Residential District with conditions, on GPINs 6798-48-4568 and 6799-30-3160, consisting of approximately 41.06 acres, and located on the west line of Pinhook Road (State Route 617) at its intersection with Oilville Manor Court (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 six (6) building lots for a gross density of one (1) dwelling unit per 6.84 acres. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: South Anna REZ2020-00014, GIAMBANCO INVESTMENTS, L.L.C. Request(s) to rezone from A-1, Agricultural District, to B-1(c), Neighborhood Business District with conditions, on GPIN 8724-18-4699, consisting of approximately 0.44 acres, and located on the west line of Jackson Arch Drive (State Route 770) approximately 225’ south of its intersection with Mechanicsville Turnpike (U.S. Route 360). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Suburban General and Commercial. The proposed zoning amendment would allow for retail and other neighborhood business uses. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Mechanicsville REZ2020-00015, EDDIE A. BLUNT, ET AL. Request(s) to rezone from A-1, Agricultural District, to RS(c), Single-Family Residential District with conditions on GPIN 7778-55-9634, consisting of approximately 17.53 acres, and located on the north line of Cobbs Road (State Route 801) approximately 780 feet west of its intersection with Old Scotland Road (State Route 2259). 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 42 building lots for a gross density of 2.4 dwelling units per acre. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: South Anna REZ2020-00023, RCI BUILDERS, L.L.C. (GUM TREE WOODS SUBDIVISION) Request(s) an amendment to the proffers approved with rezoning request C-55-05(c), Judson T. Vaughan, Jr., on GPIN 7872-64-4185, zoned AR-6(c), Agricultural Residential District with conditions, and located on the north line of Old Ridge Road (State Route 738) approximately 1,900 feet west of its intersection with Breedens Road (State Route 694). The proposed zoning amendment would amend the cash proffer. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Beaverdam CONDITIONAL USE PERMITS CUP2020-00006, HANOVER COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD Request(s) an amendment to a Conditional Use Permit in accordance with Section 26-20.11 of the Hanover County Zoning Ordinance to permit the installation of accessory freestanding solar panels at an existing school on GPIN 8707-42-2766, consisting of approximately 39.96 acres. The property is zoned A-1, Agricultural District, and located on the north line of New Ashcake Road (State Route 643) at its intersection with Seminole Road (State Route 1211). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Suburban General (1.5-3.0 dwelling units per acre). (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Beaverdam CUP2020-00007, HANOVER COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD Request(s) an amendment to a Conditional Use Permit in accordance with Section 26-20.11 of the Hanover County Zoning Ordinance to permit the installation of accessory freestanding solar panels at an existing school, which is located on GPINs 8707-46-1121, 8707-47-3113, 8707-47-3460, and 8707-47-6789, consisting of approximately 50.1 acres. The property is zoned A-1, Agricultural District, and located at the terminus of Learning Lane (private road) approximately 1,725 feet south of its intersection with Whippoorwill Road (State Route 653). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Suburban General (1.5-3.0 dwelling units per acre). (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Beaverdam 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 July 1, 2020
Padgett moves, says thanks to those who included him (Editor’s note: The following, entitled “Thank you, Hanover County,” was submitted by former Hanover County resident Harold Padgett, who now makes his home in Summerville, South Carolina.) I’d like to thank the many friends, associates and family who made my more than 23 years in Hanover among the best of my life. You never know what paths life will take you, but two early decisions I made started me on a wonderful journey. First was the decision to join the Mechanicsville Rotary Club and the other was to get involved with governance of Ash Creek, then a new development. Through both organizations I got to know many fellow citizens, as well as the movers and shakers in the community. I learned through a couple of proposals for Ash Creek to the county that if you make a convincing case, and ask intelligently, things can be accomplished. I was inspired to attend the Citizens Planning Academy and Citizens Police Academy. I had never heard of such things elsewhere and found both to be interesting and informative, helping to build trust and partnership with the community. I met Bob Setliff through my Ash Creek involvement, and, when he decided to relinquish his Hanover County Planning Commission seat to run for the Hanover County Board of Supervisors, I was honored by his asking me to be his campaign co-manager. Upon his election, he asked if there was any position of interest to me. Having completed the planning academy, I replied that “Yes, his old position sounded very interesting.” He and outgoing supervisor Tom Giles made that happen. I held this position for 12 years, like he also had, having been reappointed by Angela Kelly-Wiecek, his successor. This was a truly great experience, one that I will never forget. After a couple of years of county “retirement”, Angela asked me to serve on the Hanover County Board of Zoning Appeals,
GADE Continued from pg. 1
Action’ campaign is just one of the many examples of how he will engage with the constituents.” “He has shown grace to everyone. A few months ago, he encouraged his Twitter followers to help a husband and wife who were swamped with medical expenses. Within a few days, his supporters raised over $19,000 for the couple. His story made it onto the nightly news,” McGraw continued. “Qasim has been a champion for human causes his entire life. We look forward to supporting Qasim Rashid for the U.S. 1st Congressional District.” McGraw said absentee voting played a major role in the Congressional Primary this year. “Nearly 32% or 2,000 votes were cast by absentee ballot . . . a huge number compared
Photo submitted by Harold Padgett
Harold Padgett and his wife Betty Ann have moved from Hanover County after making their home here for over 23 years. They have returned to South Carolina.
which I did for my final two years in Hanover. I met Jim Kickler, commander of American Legion Post 175, when the post application to build the impressive new building on Bell Creek Road came before the Planning Commission in 2010. Having been a veteran, I asked him after the meeting what one had to do to join. He promptly pulled out an application and had me sign it. Jim never let me feel idle while a member, nor did his succes-
with past years.” “Many people were concerned about their safety in relation to the coronavirus, and, therefore, chose to vote absentee rather than coming to vote in person at the precinct as they have done in the past,” he said. McGraw extended the committee’s thanks “to Registrar Theresa Smithson for all she and her staff did to show care and concern for all of the voters --Democratic and Republican -- by making absentee voting easy through curbside absentee voting, by internet, absentee by mail or absentee in person.” He concluded by saying, “We think absentee voting will be even more important in November as health officials are predicting that the coronavirus will be on the upswing, even more than it is now. Thanks to all in the Registrar’s Office for making sure every vote counted in the June Congressional Primary.”
sor, Jim Legg. This is a great organization with patriotic members serving the community as well as veterans. Mechanicsville Rotary Club is an organization with far more accomplishments than its membership numbers would seem possible. I was honored to hold all leadership positions in the club and became a Paul Harris Fellow, as did all members of this “Triple Crown Club” one year. Along with the Mechanicsville Ruritan Club, the Rotarians have sponsored the annual Mechanicsville Christmas Parade. The Rotarians also have held annual “Casino Night” events, with Hanover Safe Place always as the principal beneficiary. Both events have been held for more than 20 years, attesting to the club’s dedicated longevity. This club has always seemed like family to me. Many have been members for a long time, but new young members also have been recruited. I have to mention my two famous mentees, Kevin Smyth and Steve Harda, both of whom I recruited and am very proud of. They picked up leadership positions early on and became real Rotarians. We also are proud of Karlis Graubics, who became district governor and prevented me from being the oldest member of the club for many years. Finally, I want to mention the family I left behind: our daughter, Cathy Whitener, along with spouse Berk, and our grandkids and great-grandkids, Anna Arvai (Scott) and little Ava and Austin Whitener (LeeAnne) and little Bea. We moved to Hanover from the Charleston, South Carolina, area to see our grandkids grow up. I had no other specific plans at that time. But what a journey it turned out to be! I love you all and wish you the best. Maybe you don’t realize it, but Hanover is one of the best places to ever be. Now, in the twilight of my years, like the old salmon, I return to my roots. God bless you all!
On June 23, Dale Hargrove Alderman, chair of the Hanover County Republican Party, said, “I would like to congratulate Daniel Gade on his decisive victory in today’s Republican Primary. I look forward to welcoming Gade back to Hanover County.” Alderman said it is the Republican Party’s plan “to turn out the vote in Hanover County, one of the top Republican counties in the Commonwealth, this November for President Donald Trump, Congressman Rob Wittman and Daniel Gade to ensure a huge Republican win this November.”
Dave Lawrence/Ashland-Hanover Local
This young Hanover County family took a moment to pose for the camera while casting their ballots in the Tuesday, June 23, Primary Election. The couple and their children vote at the Atlee High School precinct.
Ashland-Hanover Local July 1, 2020 15
LETTERS Continued from pg. 6
Difficult to list all that is wrong with Trump Empire There is so much wrong with our nation under this Trump Empire that I can’t even list it all even in bullet points. But here’s some: Trump drives all the people out of government who know anything or care about anything other than themselves. Reason and rationality are pointless. We’ve almost come to the point of violence. Oh, wait, we have. George Floyd, to name but many. Your tax dollars going right into the hands of the super-rich. This $1,200 people are getting? Peanuts! The “connected” are getting millions! But the little red fools don’t see it, so it doesn’t exist. The federal debt is growing under every “Republican” administrator. You know – the party that claims to be “fiscally responsible”? I’ll go into more detail another time. Bottom line? You and each citizen owe about $77,000. “Oh, hogwash. I don’t believe that – no how!” Yeah, that’s why you owe so much. Right-wing thugs are at it again, infiltrating the protests. Remember the rioters at the Dade County Courthouse in 2000 to stop the election recount? They were brought in by right-wing money that wanted Bush installed for: The Republicans’ big Bush tax give-
SON Continued from pg. 6
around to fill in until he arrived, and I viewed my uncles as an extension of my dad. He had eight brothers and they watched each other’s kids like they were their own, a double-edged sword at times for sure. It was almost culture shock when we left Alabama and headed to Maryland to visit my mother’s family in Gaithersburg, but, in fact, the family component remained the same. My mother had four brothers, and they provided the same type of support I enjoyed from my father’s brothers. None of those relatives could predict the cruel turns our lives would
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away to the rich; Cutting the leash that keeps big business as honest as we can; Lowering of taxes, but only for the rich and corporations! How’s the thuggery work? A platoon of on-hand, enthusiastic, fascist troublemakers are sent to a hot spot by rightwing money, put in nice motels, and fed well. The mission: spark furious people into physical violence, and, if arrested, claim to be leftists. Pope Trump the First (and last!); Get those scumbags out of my way; I want a photo op over there. Just shoot ’em or gas ’em, Bill. I don’t care. My Baptist friend, in the 1980s, listened to a preacher on “Family Radio” who claimed that 1994 would be the end of the world. I countered and argued with my friend. They based all their cryptic calculations on 1948 and other typical misunderstandings -- and guess what? False gospel. Now, in 2020, we have this trite, petty, moron rich boy with a team of slicksters that want the Trump Gravy Train to continue. Miraculously, it seems, this totally unqualified “person” became President of our nation. Then, he dodges every snare, which life and man put to him, including the draft. This consummate loser makes it to our highest office and goes to Vietnam in Air Force One with the top Russian! And his fans see nothing wrong with that! So, anyway, people said he’s the AntiChrist and I said, “Nah, he’s just an insignificant weasel whose 15 are way into overtime.” But he escapes more prosecutions as, incredibly, “American” officials take, and they grieved with my family when my father went to an early grave, dying suddenly from a heart attack when I was in the fourth grade. My mother worried that a son who was not yet a man would have difficulty dealing with such a terrible loss at a formative time in his life. Her concerns were warranted, and I found myself with many unanswered questions in those difficult months following my dad’s death. But, thanks to those family connections I was never alone, or in lack of the wisdom that only a father can provide. One uncle from each of those geographical regions assumed that role and never wavered in their commitment to my well-being.
Ashland-Hanover Local July 1, 2020
lie under oath and aid his treachery! But I still say, “Nah.” But today ... Trump is shown holding a Bible in two photo ops he created himself. In both photos, he is seen holding the Bible backwards. Then, if you notice the spine of the book, it proves he’s holding the Bible upside down. This seems trivial, but I believe it is very significant. Many know that a meme of Satanism is to post the crucifix upside down. Did Trump did this on purpose, or was he given to do this as a sign to us, like, “Wake up!”? What if these two photos are Relevation’s two witnesses speaking in the street that nobody can shut up? Finally, I hate looters more than I can state here. I also hate the right-wing thugs that encourage looting and stir angry protesters to violence for political gain. But most will not hear the anarchist voices and will remain peaceful. Yet, our fascist government sneers at their supporters. They are “MightMakes-Right” Neanderthals, as are their supporters.They care nothing for egg-head Libtard laws. “Call out the guns and dogs! Strength wins! Blut und Eisen.” Don Ducote Mechanicsville
Sincere thanks given to a friendly patriot I was waiting on the takeout line at Uncle Deafy made frequent trips to Richmond from Montgomery just to come spend time with me, and provide answers to some of those pesky questions. If there were problems, a call to him meant his arrival was only a day away. Uncle Dudley, my mother’s brother, was even more involved, and assumed a role I can only describe as a second father to me. I sat in Griffith Stadium in Washington watching the Senators take on the mighty Yankees sitting beside him. He taught me how to keep score at a baseball game, introduced me to The Washington Post and taught me how to drive with my knees, no-hands style. While Deafy took me to University
the Peking Restaurant in Mechanicsville. A woman in front of me asked if she could get to her without losing her place in line. I nodded my head and she went to her car. She returned shortly, said thanks, and asked if I had served in the U.S. Army. My Army shirt and hat must have been a giveaway. I said, “Yes”, and she responded with the five works all us vets love to hear: “Thank you for your service”. I responded, as usual, with, “It was an honor and a pleasure”. She went to the window to pick up her order and I said goodbye as I moved to get my order. I asked how much and the gentleman said that my $30 order had been paid by the woman that was in front of me. I turned to thank her but she had already reached her car. I always try to do the same when I am at a fast food place, but rarely need to spend more than $10. I got into my car and caught her at the light where I had the opportunity to sincerely thank her. She was driving a late model Camry with a Wounded Warriors Project License plate holder, in case you know her. She was attractive, slim, with grey hair, and I want to publicly thank her again and thank any citizen that takes the time to help support a member of the Armed Forces. God Bless. Bob Corson Mechanicsville of Alabama football games, Dudley drove slowly along a country road while I skipped through ditches picking up bottles, getting rich 2 cents at a time. They were as different as night and day — Deafy neatly dressed in a business suit and Dudley more comfortable in aged khakis and aged tennis shoes. But, to me, they were very much the same. I now understand why they took the time, traveled countless miles to offer a word of advice or encouragement to a kid that often seemed unappreciative of their efforts. They knew the importance of a father, and how seriously my father took that responsibility. And I now know that
Kiwanis Club collecting new toys for students at local elementary schools Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com ASHLAND -- The Kiwanis Club of Ashland is collecting new toys for students at Henry Clay Elementary and Gandy Elementary School in Ashland and hopes to expand to other schools in the county at a later date. The toy drive is to help families with children cope with the financial and psychological stress of COVID19. The toys will be distributed from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, July 10, at Pufferbelly Park in Ashland. The best way to help is to purchase a toy at Ashland Ace Hardware or Tiny Tim’s Toys in Ashland and deposit it in the toys for kids container in the store. Ashland Ace hardware is offering 25% off toys and games for this drive and Tiny Tim’s is matching in-store toy purchases up to $1,000. For more information or interview opportunities, contact Kiwanian Art Bykonen, 804-247-4261, Spacesaver Storage Solutions, 10040 Whitesel Rd., Ashland,VA 23005, art@spacesaverva.com. they contributed more than I realized to who I am today. My father taught me to how to play football, baseball and Parcheesi. He schooled me on how to behave in public, how to treat other people and when to keep my mouth shut. For 10 years of my life, he never provided bad advice or made me feel less than special. I was lucky, almost a fortunate son, to have a man like that for those short years we were together. He established a path for me to achieve the things that are now important in my life, and began a process by which I left boyhood behind. Uncle Deafy and Uncle Dudley took me the rest of the way.