HISTORY
INSIDE:
Parsons’ Cause Foundation presenting life and work of leading state suffragette
First-hand knowledge: USPS delivers. PAGE
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Vol. 5 No. 51 | Richmond Suburban News | August 26, 2020
Holiday parade canceled due to coronavirus By Melody Kinser Managing Editor
By Melody Kinser Managing Editor
M
ECHANICSVILLE – In 2013, Ronnie Planz of the Mechanicsville Rotary Club was tasked with deciding whether to have the annual Mechanicsville Rotary/ Ruritan Christmas Parade due to impending inclement weather. On Dec. 6, the following announcement appeared on The Local’s social media sites: “Due to the upcoming weather forecast for Sunday and our huge concern for the safety of all our participants and the overall public, we regret that we will have to cancel this year's Mechanicsville Rotary/Ruritan Christmas Parade. There is no rain date and we look forward to seeing everyone again next year. Have a Very Merry Christmas
Council OKs rezoning status for Johnson Road acreage
Joel Klein/file photo
The Flag Corps of the Hanover High School Marching Band performed at last year’s Mechanicsville Rotary/Ruritan Christmas Parade in the Village of Mechanicsville. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, organizers decided to cancel the holiday tradition. Plans are being made for the 2021 parade.
and a Happy New Year.” Planz did not take the responsibility of making the decision lightly. This year, Dave Fuller and Bret Atwood,
co-chairs, found themselves in the same predicament. Unlike Planz’s situation with wintry weather concerns, Fuller and Atwood had
to take into account the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. see PARADE, pg. 4
ASHLAND – Ninety acres in the Johnson Road/ Washington Highway area were approved for rezoning status from M-1 to M-2 during the Aug. 18 regular meeting of Ashland Town Council. In presenting the Ashland Planning Commission’s recommendation, Nora Amos, director of Planning & Community Development, said the applicant – Michael Bradley on behalf of MIG Ashland I LLC -- and property owner – EC Real Estate LLC -- plan to develop a warehouse distribution facility, with a speculative building under review at the plan site process. She noted there was an existing building, which had been used as a concrete plant, on the site. “A lot was zoned as agricultural; it had been used
as M1 when the property was annexed.” M-1, according to the Town of Ashland website, means the land is available for a limited industrial purpose and is “intended for a variety of commercial businesses serving local and regional customers. Located particularly along m a j o r t h o r oughfares where a CONDLIN mixture of commercial activity now exists, but not characterized by extensive warehousing, frequent heavy trucking.” M-2 status is specifically designated for industrial usage. see COUNCIL, pg. 8
Town seeks CDBG to help businesses through COVID-19 losses By Melody Kinser Managing Editor
AMOS
ASHLAND – The Town of Ashland is pursuing funding opportunities to assist businesses that have been financially set back by COVID-19. During last week’s regular Ashland Town Council meeting, members unanimously agreed to seek a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Virginia Funding Opportunities for
COVID-19 Response. The Ashland Planning Commission had held a public hearing on the application on Aug. 12. Council’s action took place on Aug. 18. Nora Amos, director of Planning & Community Development, appeared before town council to request public comment in the second of two hearings. She said the application is being sought to aid in long-term business goals for businesses affected by COVID-19. Among
programs included in the grant proposal are: z A proposed safety enhancement grant that the Economic Development Authority (EDA) created earlier this year. “And we have had over 45 applications and almost $6,000 in that program. We will have to limit to funds to $2,000 just because of the amount of money that we had.” She also said that the town “would like to touch as many as possible. Some of those businesses have had to invest a little
more than $2,000.” z Business rental assistance. Amos said the grant would help with paying rent. She also said that the town has been trying to work with larger property owners, delaying rents if possible. But, she added, they had not been very successful with that plan. The goal was to cover rent for up to six months for town businesses. z Technical training program in see CDBG, pg. 5
Storytime @ Home returns Sept. 8 Staff Report news@mechlocal.com HANOVER – Storytime @ Home will get underway on Tuesday, Sept. 8, and continue through Saturday, Dec. 5. According to Librarian Carolyn Garner of the Pamunkey Regional Library, a daily online Storytime will be posted to the system’s website at https:// tinyurl.com/prlstor ytime at 10 a.m. Monday through Saturday Monday-Saturday
and on the Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/ PamunkeyLibrary/) at 11 a.m. Each Storytime features stories, songs, and fun, ageappropriate learning activities. Check the calendar at https://pamunkeylibrar y.libcal.com/ to see more virtual programs for all ages this fall. For more information, call your local branch library or email ask@pamunkeylibrary.org.
PLUMBING, HEATING & COOLING
Parsons’ Cause Foundation presenting life and work of leading state suffragette Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com
H
ANOVER -- Learn about Nora Houston (1883-1942), Richmond artist, art teacher, and activist. This is the latest in the online presentations of The Parsons’ Cause Foundation. Miss Houston, the niece of Major James Dooley, was a leading suffragette in Virginia and a founding member of The Equal Suffrage League of Virginia. She also was a leading voice for racial reconciliation and children's rights. John Tucker, the president of The Nora Houston Foundation, speaks of Miss Houston's life and work, as well as the work of the Foundation to preserve many of Miss Houston paintings.
Submitted photo
The life and work of artist/art teacher/ activist Nora Houston is online, thanks to The Parsons’ Cause Foundation.
On Tuesday, Aug. 18, the Foundation dedicated a grave marker at Miss Houston's previously unmarked grave in Shockoe Hill Cemetery in Richmond. Aug. 18 was chosen as the date for the dedication because it was the 100th anniversary of the ratification of the 19th Amendment, expanding the right to vote to women. The Parsons' Cause Foundation is pleased to work with The Nora Houston Foundation and St. John's Church Foundation in presenting this program. Thanks also go to The Friends of Shockoe Hill Cemetery and The Catholic Woman's Club of Richmond (of which Miss Houston was the president from 1934 to 1936). To view the program, go to https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=bTjGHZraD6A.
OBITUARIES | Death Notices & Funerals
ROY VIRGINIA MOYLAN AULT
ROY VIRGINIA MOYLAN “KELLY” AULT AULT, Roy Virginia Moylan "Kelly," 76, died peacefully August 21, 2020, after a period of decline. She was born May 12, 1944, in Norfolk, Virginia, to James S. and Virginia Clarke Kelly. She had
Tap Takeover to be held at Tavern 2
Ashland-Hanover Local August 26, 2020
fond memories of her childhood growing up in Thalia, Virginia Beach. After graduating from Princess Anne High School, 1962, Kelly got married while attending Old Dominion University. She stopped school to raise her three sons and later graduated from VCU with a degree in Interior Design. She had a long career in Richmond as an interior designer, including running her own design company. Kelly traveled extensively in Europe and Asia, visiting more than 20 countries. She lived in Mumbai, India and Dublin, Ireland. A devoted mother and grandmother, she loved helping care for her grandchildren. She also loved her many years teaching English as a Second Language for Henrico County Adult Education and being a living-history docent at Meadow Farm Museum in Henrico. She was predeceased by her
Staff Report news@mechlocal.com HANOVER – Tap Takeover will be held from 5 to 9 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 4, at
parents; and her sister and best friend, Sharon Umbarger. She is survived by her sons, Rob Ault (Suzy), Jeff Ault (Dawn) and Andy Ault (Emily); her two brothers, Jim Kelly (Dee) and Chris Kelly (Barb); her grandchildren, Catherine, Madelyn, Bowen, Carly, Mitch and Will; her brother-in-law, Bob Umbarger; her nephews, Shane Umbarger (Melissa) and Christopher Kelly; and her niece, Megan Deyncourt (Billy). The family thanks the Imperial Plaza Assisted Living third floor staff and Heartland Hospice for their kind and excellent care. Kelly will be buried with her parents at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Norfolk. The family will gather later to celebrate her life. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to "Meadow Farm Kitchen," care of the Henrico County Historical Society, P.O. Box 90775, Henrico, Va. 23273.
the Hanover Tavern, located at 13181 Hanover Courthouse Rd. in Hanover. The evening will include pub foods, Midnight Brewery
Beer, and music on the patio. Reservations are recommended. For more information, call 804-537-5050 or visit Hanovertavern.org.
SHERIFF’S REPORTS | Crime, Accidents, Fire & Rescue June 21
Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 2200 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville. Credit card theft was reported in the 7400 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.
Simple assault was reported in the 11300 block of Mount Hope Church Road, Doswell.
Grand larceny, auto theft, was reported in the 11500 block of Sun Shade Lane, Ashland.
Grand larceny building was reported in the 8200 block of Richfood Road, Mechanicsville. Larceny of certain animals was reported in the 11200 block of Old Ridge Road, Doswell.
Destruction of property, monument, was reported in the 4100 block of Range Road, Mechanicsville.
Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 37 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville.
June 22
Possession of Schedule I and II controlled substance was reported in the 7200 block of Courtland Farm Road, Hanover. Petit larceny from auto was reported in the 10400 block of Lakeridge Parkway, Ashland. Profane, threatening language over public airway was reported in the 8200 block of Meadowbridge Road, Mechanicsville. Obtaining money by false pretenses, $200, was reported in the 6700 block of Gardenbrook Way, Mechanicsville.
June 24
June 23
Simple assault was reported in the 6300 block of Puller Drive, Mechanicsville.
Grand larceny, $500 or more not from a person, was reported in the 6100 block of Winding Hills Drive, Mechanicsville.
Possession of Schedule I and II controlled substance was reported in the 300 block of Junction Drive/ South Hill Carter Parkway, Ashland.
was reported in the 14400 block of Canterbury Road, Montpelier.
Damage to vehicle, boat or aircraft was reported in the 14100 block of Elletts Crossing Road, Ashland. Failure to appear on felony charge was reported in the 7500 block of County Complex Road, Hanover. Petit larceny, $500 not from a person, was reported in the 7900 block of Arnoka Road, Mechanicsville. Failure to appear on felony charge was reported in the 7500 block of County Complex Road, Hanover. Failure to appear on felony charge was reported in the 7500 block of County Complex Road, Hanover. Disseminating videographic still image to harass was reported in the 20800 block of Beaver Dam Road, Mechanicsville. Driver did not report an accident with damages, $250, in the 7400 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville. Possession of Schedule I and II controlled substance was reported in the 100 block of North Washington Highway, Ashland.
Grand larceny auto theft
Manufacture, sale and possession of controlled substance, Schedule I and II, was reported in the 7400 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.
Brandishing firearm was reported in the 10200 block of Kings Dominion Boulevard, Doswell.
Eluding police, endangering persons or police car, was reported in the 10100 block of Telegraph Road/Kings Acres Road, Glen Allen.
Forging instruments: make/ possess was reported in the 9400 block of Assembly Way, Mechanicsville.
Simple assault was reported in the 16200 block of West Patrick Henry Road, Montpelier.
DWI, second offense in five years, was reported in the 14000 block of North Washington Highway/ The Vitamin Shoppe Way, Ashland.
Uttering was reported in the 6400 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville.
As COVID-19 continues to spread, Humana is here for you and your Medicare needs. We can still accommodate customer service questions, answer member questions, review Medicare coverage and help with enrollments over the phone.
Call a licensed sales agent Keith Mayo Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Applicable to H6622-004. At Humana, it is important you are treated fairly. Humana Inc. and its subsidiaries comply with applicable Federal civil rights laws and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or religion. English: ATTENTION: If you do not speak English, language assistance services, free of charge, are available to you. Call 1-877-320-1235 (TTY: 711). Espanol (Spanish): (Chinese):
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Threats of death or bodily injury by letter or electronic means were reported in the 8500 block of Peaks Road, Ashland.
Friday, Aug. 28,
June 25
Identity fraud use of identifying information to defraud was reported in the 6000 block of Homehills Road, Mechanicsville.
Fraudulent use of birth certificate for driver’s license was reported in the 9100 block of Stephens Manor Drive, Mechanicsville.
If you have Medicare questions, I can still help!
Unlawful import/transport/ possession of tobacco products was reported in the 10200 block of North Washington Highway, Ashland. see SHERIFF’s, pg. 5
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Ashland-Hanover Local August 26, 2020 3
HCA Virginia Hospitals earn 13 top awards from Healthgrades for women’s care Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com
R
ICHMOND — HCA Virginia's Henrico Doctors’ Hospital, Chippenham and Johnston-Willis Hospitals have been recognized for multiple achievements in women's care by Healthgrades, the leading online resource for information about physicians and hospitals. All of the hospitals received accolades in Obstetrics and Gynecology, as well as Labor and Delivery, including:
Obstetrics and Gynecology Recipient of the Healthgrades 2020 Obstetrics and Gynecology Excellence Award™ Recognized by Healthgrades in 2020 for Superior Performance in Obstetrics and Gynecology Among the Top 10 Percent of Hospitals Evaluated for Obstetrics and Gynecology in 2020 Labor and Delivery Recipient of the Healthgrades 2020 Labor and Delivery Excellence Award™ Recognized by Healthgrades
in 2020 for Superior Performance in Labor and Delivery Among the Top Five Percent of Hospitals Evaluated for Labor and Delivery in 2020 Among the Top Ten Percent of Hospitals Evaluated for Labor and Delivery in 2020 Five-Star Recipient for Vaginal Delivery Five-Star Recipient for C-Section Delivery Henrico Doctors’ Hospital also garnered awards for GYN Surgery including:
Hanover County Public Schools ADULT EDUCATION 2020-2021 Fall Semester: September 14, 2020 – December 18, 2020 Spring Semester: January 4, 2021 – May 28, 2021
Year: $60.00 (includes textbooks) Fall Only: $35.00 (includes textbooks) Spring Only: $35.00 (includes textbooks) Registration by appointment - call 804-723-3471
GED® Preparation – Provides targeted instruction to help students prepare for the official GED® exams English Class – Understand American culture while learning to speak, write, and read English Conversational English – An advanced level class for the experienced English language learner
GED® Preparation
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The Georgetown School T/Th 8:30-11:00 a.m.
The Georgetown School M/W 8:30-11:00 a.m.
The Georgetown School M/W 5:30-8:00 p.m.
Henry Clay Elementary School 310 South James Street Ashland, VA 23005 M/W 6:00-8:30 p.m.
Conversational English $20.00 per semester The Georgetown School Th 6:00-8:00 p.m. *Minimum scores required to participate
*Distance education options available; minimum scores required
Registration – Registration and testing begin promptly at the specified time. Students must bring a photo ID and class fees (cash or check).
The Georgetown School
August 27 @ 5:30 p.m. September 3 @ 5:30 p.m.
English Class and Conversational English Registration The Georgetown School September 3 @ 10:00 a.m.
English Class Registration Henry Clay Elementary School August 26 @ 5:30 p.m. September 2 @ 5:30 p.m.
The Georgetown School 10000 Learning Lane, Mechanicsville, VA 804-723-3471 | www.hcps.us/georgetown | adulted@hanover.k12.va.us
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Ashland-Hanover Local August 26, 2020
"Year after year, Healthgrades has recognized our women's care team for their exceptional efforts in providing industry leading, patient-centered care," said Ryan Jensen, chief executive officer of Henrico Doctors' Hospitals. "Through this exceptional work, we have developed a reputation for excellence in our community, and strive to exceed expectations as we achieve our mission of caring for and improving human life.”
SCORE Richmond webinar set Tuesday, Sept 1. Staff Report news@mechlocal.com RICHMOND -- SCORE Richmond has scheduled the workshop, “The Great Balance: Entrepreneurism and Parenting in Crisis”. Organizers said, “Small Business sustainability during a pandemic is challenging enough. With the current school and daycare crisis
PARADE
CLASSES
GED® Preparation Registration
GYN Surgery Recipient of the Healthgrades Gynecologic Surgery Excellence Award™ for Two Years in a Row (2019-2020) Recognized by Healthgrades for Superior Performance in Gynecologic Surgery for Two Years in a Row (2019-2020) Among the Top Ten Percent of Hospitals Evaluated for Gynecologic Surgery for Two Years in a Row (2019-2020) Five-Star Recipient for Hysterectomy in 2020
Continued from pg. 1
In a press release sent to The Local just before press time on Monday, Aug. 17, the two addressed “the difficult decision,” pointing out the cancellation was “due to the uncertainty and risk of potential spread of COVID-19,” as well as “the organization’s concern for the health and safety of our loyal participants, attendees, vendors and volunteers.” “We did not come to this decision lightly,” Fuller and Atwood continued. “We as volunteers spend countless hours planning, staging and working this large-scale, free community event. It is a labor of love.” Joining with the Ruritan Club of Mechanicsville, the Rotary helps to raise funds for the Hanover Christmas Mother. “Please take a moment of your time to donate to this amazing organization in the
impacting working parents – how does one stay above water and remain profitable?” The Zoom webinar will be offered from 7 to 9 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 1. The registration fee is $25. To register, go to https://score.tfaforms. net/17?EventID=a100b000004O5Ee. For more information, call 804-350-3569 or visit www.Richmond.Score.org.
amount (or more) that you would have spent on concessions during the parade,” Fuller and Atwood said. Donations may be sent to: Hanover Christmas Mother, P.O. Box 39, Doswell VA 23047. Knowing that the community as a whole would be disappointed, Fuller and Atwood closed by saying, “Thank you for your understanding.” They are, however, already making plans for next year’s parade, which will be held on Dec. 5, 2021. John Clodfelter started the Mechanicsville Christmas Parade in the mid-1980s. It was a small holiday observance at the EVB Windmill Bank in the Village. Since that time, the parade has become one of Mechanicsville’s biggest annual events. A few years ago, as he was preparing to return as Santa Claus, he told The Local that Mechanicsville should have a celebration for Christmas –
“that it would be good for the community.” With his wife Gloria and some friends, they started making arrangements. A Christmas tree was wrapped by Hill Electrical, which used a bucket truck. Local Girl Scouts created decorations for the tree. That first parade had about 32 participants. Through the years, it has grown to where there usually is a cutoff of 100 entries. The parade has always wrapped up with a tree lighting at the Windmill Bank. That time is special to Clodfelter, who, as Santa, greets all the little boys and girls. Clodfelter told The Local that an advantage of the event is the fact that “just about everybody knows everybody in the town of Mechanicsville.” The incentive for the parade remains the same after all these years. As Clodfelter said, it’s all about the kids. And that will be the case next year.
A decade of service
MEMORIES ARE FOREVER
Submitted photo
The congregation of the Northside Baptist Church, located at 7600 Studley Rd. in Mechanicsville, congratulated Dr. Jeffery W. Scott and his wife, Debbie Ann Scott, for 10 years of service. The Scotts were celebrated on Sunday, Aug. 23, with a special event at the church.
of North Rinker Court, Mechanicsville.
SHERIFF’s Continued from pg. 3
Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 260 block of North Washington Highway/ Caroline Street, Ashland.
Destruction of property, monument, was reported in the 7100 block of Ellerson Mill Road, Mechanicsville.
Identity fraud use of identifying information to defraud was reported in the 9200 block of Kings Charter Drive, Mechanicsville.
Petit larceny from auto was reported in the 9200 block of Rutlandshire Drive, Mechanicsville. Driver did not report an accident with damages, $250, in the 10000 block
Larceny of bank notes and checks was reported in the 15100 block of Clazemont
public hearing. Amos said the application Continued from pg. 1 has been written and council partnership with Dominion members will be receiving a Innovation Center, which is a copy. Council member Kathy service provided to town businesses. Abbott noted that In 1988, the “these programs will town had applied be hugely benefifor CDBG fundcial.” ing, which, Amos Trivett asked continued, “usually about the technical goes to low-income training aspect of neighborhoods, the grant. Amos said water, sewer, and that the Downtown infrastructure. This Ashland Association is a different type and Dominion ABBOTT of CDBG program Innovation Center pushing these fedinclude mentors and eral funds through.” advisors and experts that basiShe said the town can apply cally pivot a business and how for up to $400,000, and be it is being marketed. reimbursed up to that amount “How do you bring in new to cover the three programs. customers? How are you proMayor Steve Trivett called moting your business? How for any comments, which there are you making those conwere none, and then closed the nections?” were among the
CDBG
Road, Montpelier.
Driving after forfeiture of license was reported in the 11500 block of Cedar Lane, Ashland.
Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 10000 block of Sliding Hill Road, Ashland.
Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 98 block of Kings see SHERIFF’s, pg. 15
questions Amos provided in responding to the mayor. She also said that many people have received federal funds and there is the question of how they are leveraged. “How do you account for them?” she said. Amos said Virginia has placed new regulations on safety and workplace requirements. Abbott noted that town businesses “are so different and they have different needs at this point. How do I survive? The rental assistance program would be terrific for people who are trying to get through this.” Amos pointed out that the town “does have some businesses that are thriving and doing better than last year, but how do they keep that going? We have a full spectrum of businesses.”
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OPINION
LETTERS
| The Local Views
| Reader Views
From the managing editor
Don’t dismiss seriousness of COVID-19 By Melody Kinser Managing Editor
H
er voice was punctuated by the sounds of someone who had been crying; the tears coming across the miles through the telephone. I feared more bad news about her and her husband, victims of the all-too-familiar term COVID-19. Linda and I went to high school together, but our friendship really developed through reunions, as well as on social media. She and Larry are one of those couples that, if you think of one, you think of the other. Linda and Larry roll out like one name. Everybody in my hometown knows them. He is a well-respected court reporter and she is Super Mom. Their partnership is strong and full of love for their children, grandchildren and greatgranddaughter. When I first learned that she was at home alone per doctor’s orders and Larry had been
admitted to the main hospital on a floor set up for COVID-19 patients only, I called her, leaving a voicemail that she didn’t need to call back because I knew she had a lot going on -- but I wanted her to know that I was praying for them and I loved her. Within minutes, the phone rang; it was her. Understandably, she was on an emotional roller coaster. So many unknowns and being separated from her “Lar,” as she calls him, was almost too much to bear. And she was pacing around their large house, unable to welcome any family or friends inside. We talked about their situations and caught up on our lives in general. I hoped the distraction would give her a brief moment from her thoughts. One of my best friends lives in California. I called to update her on the status. We are calling Linda every other day or so. And I have emphasized to Linda that she can call any time. While there are still naysayers about wearing a mask, Linda is emphatic about the importance of
protective equipment. This is not about politics. It truly is a life or death situation. A woman I have known all of her life (she was born a few years after me) lost her battle against the coronavirus on Tuesday, Aug. 18. She literally struggled to breathe, with doctors, nurses and hospital personnel doing all they could to help her. COVID-19 is running rampant through my home county, so, if you believe in the power of prayer, I ask that you remember the folks in Logan, West Virginia. I’ve been praying more often than usual. Linda and Larry are Christians, so that brings her peace. Please, for your safety and for those around you, wear the mask and gloves. On Thursday, Aug. 20, Linda received the news that she had tested negative. She called filled with hope and now waits to be reunited with her Lar at home. As tears fill my eyes, the solace I do find is knowing that it’s in God’s hands.
First-hand knowledge: the post office delivers By Jim Ridolphi Contributing Columnist You don’t have to search far to find a negative comment regarding the United States Postal Service, and the latest efforts to reform the agency have evoked severe criticism from both sides of the political aisle.
I get it. It’s easy to complain about the Post Office and it’s often the butt of jokes comparing it to the Department of Motor Vehicles or other perceived government agencies that seem to miss the mark when it comes to efficiency. For many years of my life, I joined in the criticism and embraced a view
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Ashland-Hanover Local August 26, 2020
that somehow disparaged the tens of thousands of employees who report to work at a post office each day. That all changed when I accepted a job at the Post Office as a rural carrier when I graduated from college. The job paid almost twice as much as any journalism position for which I had applied. In addition, I had this
image of an easy gig in my mind, and joked with my friends that riding around delivering mail for a couple of hours a day seemed like an easy way to make a living. It didn’t take long to dispel those unsubstantiated assumptions, and I see DELIVERS, pg. 8
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.
Face-to-face return to class in Trump hubs “Outline and refine face-to-face return to school” was the headline in today’s (Aug. 18, 2020) Mechanicsville Local. Just so happens that today also was the annual “in-service” meetings for all HCPS (Hanover County Public Schools) support personnel (school bus drivers, automobile drivers, and drivers for vans), as well as peripheral folks/managers/directors. These in-service meetings are conducted twice a year. These are conducted so as to allow the school staff (from the superintendent’s office all the way down through the individual school’s staff [principal, vice principal, and a teacher every now and then] and other various individuals) who all have the exact same mission-in-life: to plan for and provide our children with as much of an enrichment in education as can humanly, and possibly be put forth. Every effort imaginable. Every parent should be proud of all these exceptional professionals. I was in the military and I was a police officer for a local jurisdiction. I have never ever seen as much professionalism as within the Hanover County Public Schools as I have with either the military or the police department. Military, police agencies, EMT, medical professionals (doctors, nurses) and education professionals are always on the front lines to keep our society functioning properly and safely. That said, the only two districts in all of Central Virginia going back to a face-to-face regular schedule as if nothing went wrong (with a 100-year pandemic that, incidentally, Mr. Trump said “would be gone in about 15 days” way back in March) are Hanover County schools and Colonial Heights schools. It’s very interesting and ironic that these two districts are “Trump see LETTERS, pg. 8
CALENDAR | News, Updates & Listings L-DHS Class of ’80 Rescheduled The Reunion Committee for the Lee-Davis High School Class of 1980 has decided to postpone the reunion from June 20 to sometime in September due to the COVID-19 situation. More details will be released by the committee as soon as they have been finalized.
Saturday, May 15, 2021 Rescheduled The Highland Springs High School Class of 1970 has had to postpone its 50th reunion again. The new date is Saturday, May 15, 2021. All other previous information is correct, including the location at the Hill Building at Sandston Pool 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 804366-9645 or email kjfaith1@ gmail.com.
Saturdays Trinity Lutheran Church, Ashland Campus, located at 11515 Ashcake Road in Ashland two miles west of U.S. 1, holds it church service at 5 p.m. with Pastor Roy Minnix, senior pastor, and Nycholas Greig, associate pastor. For more information, visit www. trinityrichmond.net or call 804270-9626.
Sundays Outside the Walls, a new Narcotics Anonymous group, has been organized and will meet from 6 to 7 p.m. in the lobby of the Pamunkey Regional Jail at 7240 Courtland Farm Rd. in Hanover. For more information, contact John Shinholser, McShin president, at 804-249-1845. The website is http://www.mcshin.org.
Tuesdays A Commanders Coffee is held from 10 a.m. to about 11 a.m. at the Beaverdam Post at 17662 Beaver Dam Rd. in Beaverdam. Members discuss issues of interest/befits of the American Legion. There also will be donuts. Eugene Truitt is the Post commander. He can be contacted at 804-746-4734. The Hanover Concert Band rehearses from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. every Tuesday, mid-January
through mid December, at the Hanover Arts and Activities Center at 500 S. Railroad Ave. in Ashland, just south of U.S. 54. Membership is open to anyone who can read music and play a non-string instrument. High school students are welcome with parents’ permission. For more information, visit www.hanoverconcertband.org or call 804-789-0536.
RELIABILITY is a cornerstone of everything we do.
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 804675-4230. The Hanover County Historical Society will be conducting free tours of the Old Hanover Courthouse on the Historic Courthouse Green from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every second Tuesday through December. The address is 13182 Hanover Courthouse see CALENDAR, pg. 8
Before the wind blows, a storm hits, or a tree falls, Rappahannock Electric Cooperative is already working to keep your power on. www.myrec.coop 1-800-552-3904 Ashland-Hanover Local August 26, 2020 7
Virginia residents should report unsolicited seed packages directly to USDA Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com Virginia residents who have received unsolicited packages containing seeds should file a report with the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) using the online Unsolicited Seed SelfReporting Form. When completing the report, residents will receive instructions on how and where to mail the seeds and all packaging material to USDA’s APHIS. Additional information and frequently asked questions regarding unsolicited packages containing seeds can be found
CALENDAR Continued from pg. 7
Road in Hanover. For more information, visit http://www. hanoverhistorical.org/index. html. The Clay Spring Garden
HCBOS Continued from pg. 1
“An M-1 zoning district is reserved for less intensive uses, and uses that are more compatible with the office park,” Amos continued. “The industrial use is more of an intensive industrial use. The Comprehensive Plan calls for this area to be industrial: manufacturing, truck terminals, warehouse – more truck intensive type uses.” The front part of the site, Amos said, was rezoned to M-1 in 2013. She said it “should be designed to ensure compatibility with less intense uses.”
8
DELIVERS Continued from pg. 6
Club in Ashland meets at 1 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month (except for the month of July at the First Baptist Church in Ashland off of U.S. 54. Barbara Boor is the president. Doors are open to anyone who would like to attend.
quickly learned that delivering the U.S. Mail is serious business, and most of the people who make that daily sacrifice perform that function with commitment and dedication. More than half of my coworkers were veterans, and the majority of the remaining employees were hard working average Americans who didn’t shy away from work that often seemed overwhelming. The waste and inefficiency I’d heard about all my life were hard to detect, and I often witnessed employees going above and beyond the call of duty to ensure every piece of mail was delivered. Through some of the hottest summers on record and winters with numerous snowfalls, we sorted, stacked and delivered mail. When schools and other businesses closed, the Post Office remained open and, often, routes that were meant to be mobile were carried on foot. So, I’ve listened with interest to recent discussions regarding the Postal Service and some politicians’ intent to dismantle and even privatize
She also said that the Comprehensive Plan “speaks about industrial properties throughout, and talks more about the use and the feel and how it blends into our community.” The Comp Plan encourages “the location of high quality commercial uses while maintaining an atmosphere of maintaining our current ones.” Amos said the Planning Department is “trying to get together large parts of land with cohesive landscaping.” A technology zone had been adopted by town council, she added, “as an incentive to bring in more technology and
green type of businesses,” starting with the Dominion Energy Center.” Andy Condlin, an attorney with Roth Jackson, appeared on behalf of the applicant. He said he wanted to “stress that this is 90 acres – a substantial amount put together. In March of this year, we had actually started our site plan for one 200,000-square-foot building. There is maximum potential for the other building.” Condlin said the applicant has a “commitment to Johnson Road.” He noted that the site will attract the “type of businesses that are going to create jobs, generate tax revenue.”
at USDA’s Unsolicited Seeds webpage. Residents should not open the seed packets or plant the seeds. The types of seeds in the packages are unknown at this time and may be invasive plant species. Invasive species wreak havoc on the environment, displace or destroy native plants and insects and severely damage crops. Taking steps to prevent their introduction is the most effective method of reducing both the risk of invasive species infestations and the cost to control and mitigate those infestations.
Ashland-Hanover Local August 26, 2020
the agency. While I accept the idea that reform and redirection are necessary in any operation, I strongly reject the notion of downsizing or eliminating the Postal Service, or not providing the amount of funding it needs to survive and flourish. And surveys that quizzed citizens on that very question always illustrate an overwhelming majority of Americans support the Post Office. Many find it difficult to imagine a world without mail delivery – packages and envelopes that contain vital medicines, pension and Social Security checks or other critical correspondence. As my mailman approached my door last week as temperatures soared in the mid-90s, he looked tired and bewildered. I grabbed a cold water from the refrigerator and handed it to him and ask how things were going at the Post Office. He said the recent controversy regarding the service has severely affected morale at his branch, and many of his co-workers are worried about their job security. While talks of privatization and downsizing have occurred for decades,
he said this time seems more real. I didn’t keep him long, realizing that minutes count for every mail carrier and there are few spare ones in a long day, but I thought about what he said as I sat in an air conditioned room and enjoyed a cold ice tea. I thought about how many times I had heard people say, “I mailed it yesterday, but who knows when it will get to you. You know how the mail is.” The truth is most of us actually do know how the mail is, and the one word that comes to my mind is dependable. As I considered a lifetime of receiving or mailing letters, I could think of only one example of a piece going missing or being lost in delivery. As a child, I never received a birthday card with the money removed. Come to think of it, none of my children have either. I tried to think of another service that had caused me so little irritation over a lifetime, but I came up short. I also thought back to the past several months. In those first weeks of quarantine, a time when there was no traffic or activity on the streets, the only
LETTERS
close proximity of all students and staff. I see where the wearing of a mask has become so politicized that strangers are fighting at grocery stores over people not wearing the masks (it’s so simple, just wear the dang thing). We all recently could see where there were 250,000 folks in the 80th annual rally in Sturgis, South Dakota, without regard for the virus. Can you say “Mega-SuperSpreader?” I don’t care about folks partying in a small town in South Dakota. I care about my community and my fellow school support staff (and all my children).
Continued from pg. 6
hubs” where the support for such a reckless buffoon is so abnormally high. How tragic! Puzzling to say the least. There are about 17,000 students in 25 schools in Hanover County. There are hundreds of teachers and bus drivers. There also are thousands of parents who need some type of normalcy in their lives (which includes the kids in school). I know this because I am a bus driver in HCPS. I also know that if even one child, one teacher or one driver gets sick from the pandemic, there could be an explosion of health issues because of the
vehicle entering my complex was a postal truck. I’m not sure if politicians understand that Americans won’t allow a dismantling of the Postal Service, or its importance to our everyday lives. For most of us, it’s an agency worth saving, and funding properly. Questioning if this agency can handle millions of mailin ballots during the election process is an inquiry valid only to those who don’t appreciate or understand what U.S. Postal workers do on a daily basis. Get ballots to them on time and have citizens return them without delay, and the Postal Service will do the rest. And to the people who still get up at the crack of dawn and stand in front of cases sorting mail long before most of us hit the snooze button, our national disdain should be replaced with a message of thanks. I find it very suspicious that it’s only Trump hubs sending their babies into a meat grinder with a wartime-leveled biological hazard waiting in the hallways and in the buses just to mandate normalcy. Why can’t we all work together in the same direction? I am a nobody and a nothing except a cog in a machine. I am a worker in the trenches. I wish I could wave a magic wand and change the minds of those who make these kinds of decisions (glad I’m not in such a mega-important decisionmaking process position, by the way) because I would be so inclined as to anger those see LETTERS, pg. 9
LETTERS Continued from pg. 8
who want normalcy instead of safety for our kids. I will yield to “the powersthat-be” and the decisions they must make. But as I do, I want all to know that another issue occurred today: one of the best bus drivers in all of HCPS told our transportation staff that he is tenuring his resignation immediately because he is concerned about the health of his wife (with a pre-existing condition) by him being exposed to and maybe bringing home COVID-19. Why don’t I do the same? Good question. I’m certain there are many, many school support staff/educators/directors who may feel the same way. It’s an unnecessary burden to place these situations on people. I pray to Jesus Christ in Heaven we all get through this in a safe manner and come out on the other side all the better. UNC today (after beginning fall semester only last week) announced that it was going to “all virtual classes immediately.” They’ve got over 130 positive cases since opening. “Better safe than sorry” has never meant so much. Time will tell (it always does). Dr. Richard Ryder, PhD Mechanicsville
Look to future not past as success model Michael Reardon’s question to Melody Kinser, “Who are you, coming from West Virginia, to tell us what to do?” What is that supposed to mean? West Virginians come from a state that ditched Virginia in 1861 (which included Hanover County), a move we made because of Virginia’s poor decision-making back then and it continues
today. Independent people from West Virginia without a dog in the fight have a clearer more fair insight into matters of public opinion such as politics and the past. The attitudes of many who think they deserve special attention or compensation because of past accomplishments of others, past mistakes of others or DNA associations of past ancestors is the reason we can’t get out of this predicament peacefully. My life doesn’t revolve around anything from the past, although some of it is interesting, the times, tools available and situations dictated how things were handled back then, sometimes right sometimes wrong, just like today. The past is done and over with. If people would spend as much time planning for the future as they do wasting time in the past they may end up being one of the millions of highly intelligent, highly successful people of color, including white, who have proven that using the past as a motivator instead of an agitator is smart, beneficial and profitable. Ted Mentz Old Church
The other worldwide pandemic I have been a resident of Hanover County, Virginia, for over 20 years, and have had first-hand experience of being rejected as the only family of color in the neighborhood. However, over the years we proved that we are peaceable, responsible, neighborly, property owners. I also have had personal experience with the Hanover County Public Schools division from Pre-K through (AP) high school graduations. They attended four school buildings, over a
16-year period. I do not have any known ancestors who fought in the Civil War, deserving statues or other landmarks to be named after them. However, I had ancestors who owned land, farms and other business undertakings in Hanover. Although my grandfather grew vegetables and raised poultry for sale, he was not allowed to join white farmers inside the now redesigned and abandoned 6th Street Marketplace. White farmers with their family farm names painted on their truck doors could set up and display their produce inside. My grandfather had to stay on the outside sidewalk to sell his produce out of his truck, with no farm names painted on the side. The next family generation members did not allow selfappointed, racially superior persons, in power, to limit or dictate their standard of entrepreneurship; they decided to bypass the Marketplace and drove through neighborhoods selling their produce from the back of un-named trucks. Repeat, multi-racial customers trusted and supported them as their major source for fresh and quality produce, resulting in a profitable income. Like my ancestors’ customers, when I enrolled my kids in the Hanover school system, I did not really care what names were placed on school buildings; I expected my kids to receive unbiased, equal and quality education. I was more interested in the atmosphere inside the buildings. I expected my kids to be protected, not bullied or mistreated by other students because of their skin color. I was surprised to learn from my kids of the limitations and assumptions spoken about non-white students, by the teaching staff. I felt compelled
to meet with the staff when my kids received contrasting discipline for like issues in the same classroom or on the same school bus. There was concern when I learned of teachers who openly supported belittling and negative comments, about nonwhite students, and general people of color, during class. I, in no way, at any time, supported negative behavior or conduct in school, or any other walk of life by my kids. Likewise, I, in no way, support
the recent protesters who acted under the covering of addressing injustices, then changed into violent, destructive riots against humanity in general. Still, the current mindset of many people of color, and their supporters, will no longer accept the current racial “backpeddling” words and actions of co-workers, neighbors, those in power at companies and businesses, or government elected and employed persons. A few of the white, publicly outspoken persons have
been used as sacrificial lambs to give the appearance of racial repair, equality, recanting and repentance such as, our President, Papa John Pizza founder John Schnatter, Los Angeles Clippers’ former owner Donald Sterling, TV show host Paula Dean, actor Michael Richards, and TV personality Roseanne Barr, to list a few. It is astounding, to me, that the patterns of discrimination see LETTERS pg. 15
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| Youth, High School, College, Recreational & Professional
Rogers brings strength(s) back to Hanover By Mike Barber Richmond Times-Dispatch As Hanover High School’s football program built itself from a winless start-up to a title contender more than a decade ago, much of the foundation for that turnaround took root in the team’s weight room. That’s where assistant coach Jake Just would put the players through grueling workouts, the kind that young athletes simultaneously crave and dread. So before each workout, Sam Rogers — the program’s do-everything star from 2010 to 2013 — would check in with Just, to see what the coach had in store for that day. “I remember coming up to Coach Jake before each workout and saying, ‘What do we have today, man?’” Rogers recalled. “He’d be like, ‘Sam, don’t worry about it. It’s going to be an easy day.’ And it became a thing.” For Just, it was a way to take some of the edge off what was about to happen, what he was about to ask of his athletes. “That was kind of our tagline,” said Just, who said he picked up the slogan from another former coach at Hanover. “I would just repeat that phrase over and over and over. Just get it in their heads that it was an easy day.” Now, that story is the inspiration for Rogers’ adult workout program, EZDay, which he runs
10
ner and team exercises, while still maintaining COVID-19 social distancing. Rogers will pair the members of the class with partners who line up across the facility from each other. They “meet in the middle,” though still at least 15 feet apart, then one runs back to their workout mat and does an assigned exercise. When the first person completes that, they run back to the middle, at which point the partner runs to their mat to complete the exercise. They try to repeat this as many times as possible in the time Rogers has allotted for the particular drill. The workouts always conclude with a “circuit.” The class splits in half and each half is a team. With members starting at their mats, they run essentially a workout relay race. “You’re not just there for yourself,” said Ellis Whitshire, a 37-year-old from Rockville who is a member of the program. “You’re there to push and challenge everybody else you’re working out with. It’s a great culture.” For Rogers, his passion for the program is about that as James Wallace/Times-Dispatch much as it is the exercise. Sam Rogers, former star and current head football coach at Hanover High School, leads students through a workout at Sports “There’s a certain group that Reality in July. Rogers is bringing the strength and other training techniques he learned at Hanover and Virginia Tech to the Hawks. wants to work out at 5 a.m., a Rogers, who starred at in November, then launched it that, like those from his high certain type of person,” Rogers every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 5 a.m. at Sports Reality Virginia Tech and spent a officially at the Sports Reality school days, are anything but said with a laugh. “But it’s also people that just want to be in Mechanicsville, across the year on the L.A. Rams’ prac- facility in January. Now, he has easy. They are high-intensity carstreet from Hanover High, tice squad, began the work- about 40 dedicated members where he is the football coach. out program with a test run enduring his “EZ” workouts dio sessions that focus on partsee ROGERS, pg. 11
Ashland-Hanover Local August 26, 2020
Kickers win third straight Staff reports sports@mechlocal.com The Richmond earned their third straight win — this time on the road — with a 2-1 victory over the New England Revolution II in Foxborough, Massachusetts. After a scoreless first half, Emiliano Terzaghi broke
through in the 54th minute. Teammate Scott Thomsen snagged a loose ball and fed it to Matt Bolduc. Bolduc slipped it through the crowd to Terzaghi, who found the back of the net for his fourth goal in five games. New England’s Mayele Malango equalized the score off a corner in the 71st minute. Richmond kept the pressure
up, and got the winning goal in the 82nd minute. Victor Falck fed the ball to Ian Antley, who in turn placed a perfect pass to Ryley Kraft on a far post run. Kraft slid the ball in for his first goal for the Kickers. The Kickers return home to City Stadium Saturday as they host league-leading Greenville Triumph SC at 6:30 p.m.
James Wallace/ Times-Dispatch
Sam Rogers, former football star at Hanover High School and Virginia Tech, brings the skills and techniques he learned under former head coach Josh Just back to Hanover as he tries to rebuild the Hawks’ football program as its new head coach.
ROGERS Continued from pg. 10
around a community that want to build each other up. The mission of EZday is to build a community of people who go beyond themselves to encourage others.” That’s where Rogers sees the most overlap between football — one of the most team-oriented of sports — and his EZDay program. And it’s worked. Rogers said that while people are often apprehensive about committing to the earlymorning schedule, most who give it a try end up hooked. He’s expanded the program to have an online offering, a TuesdayThursday program called PreGame, that emphasizes stretching and is designed to be a warm-up for the day, and afternoon program for aspiring college athletes.
That overlaps with his other job, coaching his alma mater. At Hanover, Rogers set school records for touchdowns, passing yards and rushing yards and led the Hawks to the state playoffs all four years. He walked on at Virginia Tech, won the starting fullback job as a true freshman and quickly earned a scholarship. His coaches lauded his work ethic and study habits. Former Hokies running backs coach Shane Beamer would get to his office early in the morning and often see Rogers already running on the team’s practice fields. Former Tech offensive coordinator Scot Loeffler dubbed him “the machine.” He amassed 1,494 yards rushing and receiving and scored 11 touchdowns. And Rogers was a fan favorite. Among those in the stands cheering for him was Whitshire,
a Hokies season-ticket holder at the time. “You could be in the stands and see, he gave it his all every play,” Whitshire said. “And from what I see, it’s extended way beyond his football career. Every morning, he’s pumped up motivated ready to go. Ready to go. You walk in and he’s got a smile on his face, ready to tackle the world and get the best out of everybody.” Last week, when Just — who now lives in Western Pennsylvania — was back in town visiting family, Rogers persuaded him to come to the facility for a few days of the EZDay workouts he helped inspire. “It was kind of a changing of the guard, because I had to do what he wanted me to do,” Just said. “I did it. I struggled through it, but it was amazing.” Mike Barber can be reached at mbarber@timesdispatch.com.
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Inspection of this property will begin at 9:30 a.m. on the day of the sale. Full payment (cash or check) is expected the day of sale. Photo identification is required to bid. All property is sold as is with no warranty implied or expressed and must be removed from the auction site the day of the sale. Vehicles have keys and purchaser will be provided documentation to obtain a title with the Virginia DMV. Said property may be removed from sale without prior notice as needed. Please direct any questions regarding this sale to the Hanover County Treasurer’s Office at 1-804-365-6145 or collections@hanovercounty.gov
TOWN OF ASHLAND PUBLIC NOTICE
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ORDINANCE NO. 2020-12 GRANTS A NON-EXCLUSIVE TELEPHONE UTILITY FRANCHISE TO LEVEL 3 COMMUNICATIONS OF VIRGINIA, INC. IN THE TOWN OF ASHLAND; THE FRANCHISE INCLUDES THE NON-EXCLUSIVE PRIVILEGE TO INSTALL, MAINTAIN AND OPERATE UNDERGROUND WIRES, AND UNDERGROUND CIRCUITS NECESSARY TO SUPPLY TELECOMMUNICATIONS SERVICES. A copy of Ordinance No. 2020-12 may be obtained by contacting Town Hall at (804) 798-9219, Monday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Written comments may be submitted to Matt Reynal via e-mail at mreynal@ashlandva.gov or through regular mail to Matt Reynal, 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 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 public hearing, the Ashland Town Council may take action on Ordinance No. 2020-12 By Order of the Ashland Town Council
PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is hereby given that the Hanover County Board of Supervisors has set Wednesday, September 9, 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: SPECIAL EXCEPTIONS SE2020-00010, TUCKERKIPLING, L.L.C., ET AL. Request(s) a Special Exception Permit in accordance with Section 26-21.6 of the Hanover County Zoning Ordinance to permit an equestrian facility on GPINs 7769-10-5661, 7769-21-4146, 7769-20-0391, and 7769-20-6798, consisting of approximately 40.05 acres, zoned A-1, Agricultural District, and located at the terminus of Whisana Lane (private road) approximately 1,200 feet east of its intersection with Cedar Lane (State Route 623). (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: South Anna SE2020-00012, TRACIE M. PALMER Request(s) a Special Exception Permit in accordance with Section 26-21.19 of the Hanover County Zoning Ordinance to permit a home occupation in an accessory building on GPIN 8800-81-9869, consisting of approximately 6.9 acres, zoned A-1, Agricultural District, and located on the north line of Depot Road (State Route 1001) approximately 0.43 miles west of its intersection with Hanover Courthouse Road (U.S. Route 301). (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Beaverdam SE2020-00016, THERESA W. AND CHARLES J. BLAIR, IV Request(s) to rescind a Special Exception for a commercial greenhouse that was permitted in accordance with Section 3.6.2(c) of the Repealed Zoning Districts in the Hanover County Zoning Ordinance on GPIN 7779-27-9672, consisting of approximately 16.7 acres. The property is zoned R-1, Single Family Residential District, and is located on the northeast quadrant of the intersection of Elmont Road (State Route 626) and Ashcake Road (State Route 657). (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: South Anna
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TOWN OF ASHLAND NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Please take notice that on the 9th day of September 2020 at 7:00 p.m. at the Ashland Town Hall, 101 Thompson Street, Ashland, VA, the Ashland Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing for the purpose of receiving input and may make a recommendation on the following application: CUP20-0729, 301 Caroline Street Paul Davies, the applicant on behalf of Randolph-Macon College (R-MC), is requesting approval of a conditional use permit (CUP) to change the use of the home at 301 Caroline Street (GPIN 7870-82-9155) from residential to an office use. Section 21-40(l), Use Regulations, permits offices associated with a college or university in the R-2 district with a CUP. The property is zoned R-2, is 0.54 acres in size, and has a future land use designation of Traditional Neighborhood (1-4 units/acre). ORD2020-13 Residential Monument Sign Amendment Town of Ashland is requesting to revise Sec. 21-207.1, General Provisions Definitions and Sec. 21-208 (a) (b) (c), and (d) Signs Permitted, to limit the number of monument and freestanding signs in residential districts. Any person requesting copies of the application or has questions about the request can contact Bernadette Cornelius at bcornelius@ashlandva.gov or (804) 798-1073. All interested persons may attend the public hearing 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 submit comments electronically or by mail. Written comments may be submitted to planning@ashlandva.gov or Town of Ashland, P.O. Box 1600, Ashland, VA 23005. Any person with a disability requiring assistance in order to participate in this public hearing is asked to contact Town Hall in advance so that appropriate arrangements can be made.
SE2020-00019, DONNA ANTHONY (COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL) Request(s) a Special Exception Permit in accordance with Section 26-21.14 of the Hanover County Zoning Ordinance to permit a child day care center at the Chapel Church of Christ on GPIN 7823-34-8553, consisting of approximately 1.98 acres, zoned A-1, Agricultural District, and located on the west line of Woodman Hall Road (State Route 674) approximately 300 feet north of its intersection with Parrish Farm Road (State Route 761). (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Beaverdam SE2020-00022, NANCY ANNE EVANS Request(s) a Special Exception Permit in accordance with Section 26-21.17(b) of the Hanover County Zoning Ordinance to permit a manufactured home in the case of a medical hardship on GPIN 7748-89-1221, consisting of approximately 1.64 acres, zoned A-1, Agricultural District, and located on the west line of Mountain Road (U.S. Route 33) approximately 1,600 feet north of its intersection with Gordons Lane (State Route 730). (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: South Anna Copies of the above case may be reviewed in the Planning Office, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Ashland-Hanover Local August 26, 2020 13
Voter registrar staff ready for Nov. 3 election Staff Report news@mechlocal.com HANOVER – Hanover County Director of Elections/General Registrar Teresa F. “Teri” Smithson and her staff are prepared to help all eligible registered voters maintain the ability to cast a ballot in the Nov. 3 General Election. In their commitment to serving the voters, she said, “For your safety and to minimize risk of exposure to COVID-19, you are encouraged to request a ballot and vote by mail.” Smithson provided information for various
aspects of the voting process. They are:
Voter Registration Deadline to register to vote, or update an existing registration is Tuesday, Oct. 13. You may go online to vote.virginia.gov and click Registration; request an application by calling/ emailing our office or visit us in the office.
Early Voting Virginia no longer requires a reason to vote
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PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is hereby given that the Hanover County Board of Zoning Appeals has set Tuesday, September 8, 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: VAR2020-00008, DAVE LOCKS 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 80-foot ultimate right-of-way shall have a minimum front yard setback of 100 feet. The request is for a 70.5-foot front yard variance, which would allow a building lot to have a front yard setback of 29.5 feet. The property is identified as GPIN 8708-17-3126, consisting of approximately 2.12 acres, zoned A-1, Agricultural District, and located on the south line of Peaks Road (State Route 657) approximately 487 feet east of its intersection with Stumpy Road (State Route 654). (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Beaverdam 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 14
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absentee. Starting on Sept. 18, you can cast your ballot in person by visiting our office. We will be open for in-person voting from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, as well as from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 24 and 31. Oct. 31 is the last day to vote early.
Vote by Mail You can visit vote.elections.virginia.gov/ VoterInformation to apply online or request an application by calling/emailing or visit us. We will begin to mail the ballots starting on Sept. 18. Friday, Oct. 23, by 5 p.m. is the deadline to request a vote by mail ballot to be mailed to you. Monday, Nov, 2, at 2 p.m. is the cut-off for voting an emergency-only ballot in the Voter
Registration and Elections Office. The Hanover County Voter Registration and Elections Office is located in the Wickham Building, Room 119, of the Hanover County Government Complex. SMITHSON The phone number is 804-365-6080. The e-mail address is hanovervoting@hanovercounty.gov “Want to help us make history?” Smithson asked. “Apply today to become an Officer of Elections by visiting the county’s website under I WANT TO and click Jobs at hanovercounty. gov.
Central Virginia Transportation Authority meeting set Aug. 27 Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com RICHMOND -- The inaugural meeting of the Central Virginia Transportation Authority (CVTA) will be held from 11 a.m. until about 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 27, at the Greater Richmond Convention Center with physical distancing and proper safety procedures in place; a virtual participation option is available. In order to promote health
and safety for all participants, virtual attendance is encouraged for members of the public who wish to view the meeting. Due to physical distancing, space will be limited. While registration is not required, those who plan to attend in person are asked to indicate such by emailing nmueller@PlanRVA.org so planning may be made to assure adequate seating for all attendees. Authority members also should indicate if they have dietary restrictions.
The agenda packet and associated meeting materials are available for review at the following location: Central Virginia Transportation Authority Meeting Materials: Click on August 27, 2020 Agenda link to download the materials. If you have any questions, contact Chet Parsons at cparsons@planrva. org. To help shape the future of transportation in our region, visit www.connectrva2045. org.
Post 175 Community Breakfast Saturday MECHANICSVILLE — American Legion Post 175 will sponsor a Community Breakfast from 7:30 to 10 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 29, in the Main Hall of the Post located at 8700 Bell Creek Drive in Mechanicsville. Diners must wear face masks in the building and maintain social distancing.
Masks may be removed while eating. Diners may choose from a hearty buffet, which will include scrambled eggs, plain or blueberry pancakes, biscuits, sausage gravy, bacon, breakfast potatoes, grits, fried apples, coffee, tea and juice. The cost is $8 per person. Proceeds will go toward
the many projects American Legion has for veterans and the youth of the community. Youth programs include Boy’s State, Girl’s State, American Legion Baseball, JROTC sponsorships, Boy Scouts, Cub Scouts, Oratorical Contests, Essay Contests, and Junior Law Cadet Program. The public is welcome.
EPA approves Virginia’s plan to improve water quality PHILADELPHIA – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recently announced it has approved Virginia’s plan for $659 million in water infrastructure improvements for Fiscal Year 2020 that includes $32.5 million in EPA funding. Funds will provide low interest loans to communities for about 25 projects statewide, including construction of stormwater and wastewater treatment facilities and other projects vital to protecting and improving water quality in rivers, lakes and streams for drinking water, recreation and natural habitat. Altogether, the funding includes the $32,521,000 grant from EPA’s Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF), $6.5 million state matching funds, repayments from prior CWSRF loans, and interest earnings. “The revolving fund program is essential to providing all Americans the clean and safe water they deserve,” said EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Cosmo Servidio. “EPA is proud to support Virginia’s plan and remains committed to
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by today’s insensitive, self-appointed superior race members still attempt to catalog racial words, actions and general disrespect as unintentional, unaware, unseen or unknown. Many members of the selfappointed superior race, openly admit, believe and defend their ingrained racist opinions and actions. Too many racially-based acts have continued over the years with no accountability and no penalty after inhumane treatment of others because of their skin color. Take a survey of your environments: Review the ratio of whites versus non-whites in your neighborhood, on your campus, at your place of employment, your place of worship, places of business you support and in organizations of which you are a proud member. The time of indifference, blind and silent acceptance of racism, disrespect and injustice is over! Equal, respectful and humane justice for all is no longer expected, but demanded. Racism is the other worldwide pandemic; to heal and survive, this land must sincerely change how we
helping communities with infrastructure improvements that protect their water resources” Some of the projects targeted for funding include: $179 million to the Hampton Roads Sanitation District to upgrade sewer lines and equipment at wastewater treatment plants to support an innovative Sustainable Water Infrastructure for Tomorrow (SWIFT) system that takes highly-treated water that would otherwise be discharged into the Elizabeth, James or York rivers and puts it through additional advanced water treatment to meet drinking water quality standards. $9 million to the City of Norfolk for multiple projects including replacement of sewer infrastructure and related operating equipment. $719,937 to the Wise County Public Service Authority for extension of the sewer system to include the community of Glamorgan, Wise County. $10.9 million to the Town of Richlands, Tazewell County, to rehabilitate and upgrade its 4.0 MGD
relate to one another! “If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray, and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land”. 2 Chronicles 7:14 M. Laverne Wright Branch Mechanicsville
Scout discusses NSA, surveillance in badge pursuit Hello, I am Matthew Bowles. I am a 14-year-old resident of Hanover County and I am a Boy Scout from troop 706 in Montpelier, Virginia. As part of the Communications merit badge, I am required to write to a local newspaper about a national issue that interests me. I am writing to you to share my opinion about the national issue that I have chosen, which is the National Security Agency (NSA) and the domestic surveillance of United States citizens. I have decided on this topic because of the values that I hold dear, because of my involvement in the Boy Scouts of America (BSA), and simply
wastewater treatment plant. $27.8 million to the Upper Occoquan Service Authority to upgrade the Millard H. Robbins Jr. water reclamation facility with ozone and new electrical work and piping. $12 million to the City of Norfolk for construction of four shoreline sites around Norfolk, the design and build of two stormwater wetlands and other improvements to better control stormwater runoff. A full list of the 2020 CWSRF projects being considered for funding can be found at: http s : / / w w w. d e q. v i rg i n i a . gov / Pro g r ams / Wat e r / C l e a n Wat e r F i n a n c i n g As s i s t a n c e / FY2018AnnualSolicitation.aspx The loans help communities keep water and sewer rates more affordable while addressing local water quality problems. For more information about EPA’s Clean Water State Revolving Fund Program: https://www.epa. gov/cwsrf.
because of the active roles I have in my community. I believe that freedom is at the true heart of America and it should continue to be. I hold a number of values close to my heart, but none as close as freedom. I understand that for a variety of reasons there are laws or acts put in place to protect American citizens, but are we so fearful that, as U.S. citizens, we are willing to dispense with any thought of freedom? The very ideals that this country was founded upon are now in debate. I see in the laws and acts enacted that there is little thought given to what freedom remains. In my opinion, there is little to life without freedom. This issue sits close to me because of its effects on this nation and the privacy of its people. The NSA’s domestic surveillance is at the source of this issue. From an agency founded by the U.S. Constitution that states “We the people of the United States, in order to form a more perfect union, establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.” There
is evidence that the very same agency that was created to protect our freedoms is violating them. As a student, athlete, Boy Scout, role model, public speaker, committee leader, assistant student coach, Boy Scout Buckskin Staff member, and school sports captain, I see our government, which was made to establish and uphold freedom, taking away those very freedoms. The FISA (Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act) amendment is used by the NSA to conduct surveillance on foreign targets overseas. While this allows the NSA to intercept communications of those foreign targets, it gives the meaning and justification of the term “foreign target” a wide application, meaning many foreign communications are intercepted. Allowing these communications to be intercepted does not mean the American people are protected. It is my understanding that contact between Americans and foreign “targets” can be collected as deemed necessary by the NSA and held indefinitely if the communications are found to hold vital information. Additionally, without such evidence, the communications can be held for a five-year period. This does not protect the privacy of the
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Dominion Boulevard, Doswell.
Grand larceny auto theft was reported in the 7200 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.
Petit larceny parts were reported in the 8200 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike/Henrico County, Mechanicsville.
Firearms, regardless of value, not from a person, were reported in the 10100 block of Lakeridge Parkway, Ashland.
Simple assault was reported in the 6500 block of Pole Green Road/Janice Avenue, Mechanicsville.
Grand larceny, $500 or more not from a person, was reported in the 5100 block of Mantilo Creek Road, Mechanicsville.
U.S. citizens. Furthermore, international communications between American citizens and foreign individuals that have previously taken place can put the U.S. citizen at risk for further monitoring of their communications. There are multiple ways for American citizens to have their privacy stripped away. One way privacy is being stripped away is in a case where an identified target for surveillance has been mentioned or talked about even without direct contact. Those communications can then be swept up by the NSA during what is called a “dragnet” surveillance. This type of surveillance completely undermines the NSA’s commitment to not monitoring overseas American communications. In other words, the communication filter would kick in to keep that American’s communications if the topic is mentioned. This is a violation of that American’s freedoms and privacy. A nation with no privacy is a nation with no freedom. Thank you for your time and dedication to informing the people of Hanover County. Matthew Bowles Troop 706 Scout
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Virginia Cooperative Extension helps get food from the field to the table during COVID-19 Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com ASHLAND -Virginia Cooperative Extension agents have long supported the agriculture community by helping producers address whatever issues arise. Now, Extension is continuing that history of helping by creating innovative solutions and digital tools designed to help farmers adapt to the unique agricultural challenges created by COVID-19. Those issues range from disruptions to their normal markets, labor force, and overall business plan, and Extension is helping by facilitating new connections, providing online tools, and offering online education. “Farmers who had contracts with restaurants, schools, or universities have had to shift their focus from those institutional market channels to directto-consumer sales with online eCommerce software, drive-thru and curbside service, and modified community-supported agriculture models,” said Eric Bendfeldt, Extension specialist and associate director for the Center for Food Systems and Community Transformation. “Virginia food banks and pantries are also reporting a large increase in participation and increasing demand for fresh produce and shelf-stable meat sources.” Extension is working to facilitate coordination among Virginia farmers and help them adapt to new or changing markets. “We heard that two nonprofit members of the Mid-Atlantic Food Resilience and Access Coalition, DC Central Kitchen and Dreaming Out Loud, were having trouble sourcing protein to meet demand in the communities they serve,” Bendfeldt said. Extension reached out to the Virginia Poultry Federation to inform their member organizations aware of this regional food security issue and are working to facilitate a connection between the Virginia Poultry Growers Cooperative and
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these other groups. “Farmers need very quick solutions to disruptions in the value chain,” said E. French Price, Extension value chain coordinator. “If a farmer had been supplying lettuce to the local school system when schools closed, they might have had a huge amount of lettuce. We can help farmers with that kind of problem and quickly find an alternate market for that lettuce.” Extension also is helping farmers by offering numerous webinar series, covering such topics as farm management during COVID-19, money management, purchasing, yield rates, and more. A recent webinar covered production strategies, such as optimizing cattle given low market prices. There are minimal costs associated with maintaining a herd – essentially postponing the sale. Through resources such as Virginia MarketMaker, Virginia Cooperative Extension is helping get food from the farm to the table. “Extension is working hard to leverage personal and institutional connections to help farmers to get by financially as best as possible.” said John Bovay, assistant professor in the Department of Agricultural and Applied Economics in the Virginia Tech College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. Bovay’s research involves economic analysis of policies and regulations affecting farmers and food consumers, including implications for markets, the environment, and human health. His department released a report that addressed various aspects of the COVID-19 pandemic on Virginia’s farm and agribusiness sector, including a general economic outlook, disruptions to the food supply chain, impacts on Virginia’s agricultural industries, and more. Bovay’s portion of the report that addresses disruptions to the food supply chain found that the shift in consumer demand, such as panic buying,
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might be giving the perception of supply chain disruptions, but it is rather a shift in demand. The U.S. agricultural system should be resilient enough to cope with any disruptions. What it can cause, Bovay said, is an incentive for farmers to waste food because of market disruptions, but in reality, it is just shifting where the food is lost or wasted. To help alleviate the financial burden, Price has focused on the Virginia MarketMaker website, a multistate effort to connect growers with the suppliers and markets they need to successfully produce and sell crops. “We’ve seen traffic on Virginia MarketMaker increase by 300% since stay-at-home orders were enacted in March,” Price said. “We’re seeing things like farmers whose normal seed supplier is out of stock looking for a local alternative or farmers who were left with a large amount of marketready produce looking for a new place to sell it. With MarketMaker, we have an index of growers and markets throughout the state and we’re able to help make new connections to solve some of those problems.” “We hope that the new relationships farmers are building and the increased attention to direct-to-consumer markets, like farmers markets or CSA, will continue beyond the pandemic,” Price said. “We hope these relationships born from necessity will continue and we will wind up with a more resilient food system.” In addition to facilitating connections that get food from the farm to the table, Extension also supports farmers by providing education and training critical for producing profit-
Photos courtesy of Virginia Cooperative Extension agents
Extension is working to facilitate coordination among Virginia farmers and help them adapt to new or changing markets.
able harvests. “Normally, at this time of year we would have a variety of in-person events for fruit growers, including meetings held at Extension’s agricultural research orchards,” said Mark Sutphin, an Extension agent in Frederick, Virginia’s top apple-producing county. For the past 100 years, Extension has supported Virginia’s fruit growers as they navigate these seasonal challenges. Sutphin, along with Extension specialists at the Alson H. Smith Jr. Agricultural Research and Extension Center, have been able to transition much of their normal training schedule online, and are taking advantage of already-established digital communication channels to provide vital information to growers that assist with timing for tree fruit, a high-value, high-input crop. The online training sessions help address yield-impacting issues for the current season as well as the yield for the following season. “Our Extension office has worked with local farms as they’ve passed from one generation to another. We’re continuing to provide resources, answer questions, and help growers get through the pandemic,” Sutphin said. Extension offers a variety of
resources for farmers, including: The Small Farm Outreach Program (SFOP), a part of Cooperative Extension at Virginia State University, educates and empowers small, limited-resource, socially disadvantaged, and veteran farmers and ranchers to own, operate, and sustain farms and ranches. Center for Food Systems and Community Transformation, including a variety of COVID-19 resources. Virginia Cooperative Extension COVID-19 resource library. “We are in a time of crisis. We’ve been working to give farmers, suppliers, and the public trustworthy information,” said Kim Niewolny, associate professor in the Department of Agricultural, Leadership, and Community Education and director of the Center for Food Systems and Community Transformation. “We’ve been holding online learning circles, bringing people together – virtually – to hold conversations around what is happening in our side of the food supply chain, and these are open to all who are interested. Right now, we have agents, students, faculty, and community members coming together to talk about the food system’s needs today and tomorrow.”