Ashland-Hanover Local – 09/23/20

INSIDE

RECREATION Taylor hosting drive-in movie, reverse trick-ortreating event PAGE 9

Vol. 6 No. 3 | Richmond Suburban News | September 23, 2020

Council delays storage ordinance; OKs fiber optic

By Melody Kinser Managing Editor

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SHLAND – An issue with outdoor storage in an ordinance pertaining to industrial site usage delayed action last week

by Ashland Town Council.

Town legal counsel Andrea Erard advised council to take not any action at the Tuesday, Sept. 15, regular meeting. Her

recommendation was that the Planning & Community Development staff revises the ordinance accordingly.

Nora Amos, director of that department, had presented council with two text amendments, representing M-1 and M-2.

She said they referred to outdoor storage uses in relation to the Comprehensive Plan.

She said there were additional supplemental sections for uses that have been added.

According to Amos, M-2 is industrial

in a more intensive type of use such as higher truck traffic and manufacturing truck terminals. She did note that areas designated as M-2 are not near residences but could be close to water and sewer.

The zoning component, she continued, is due to more regulations meeting the intent of the Comp Plan.

With M-1, the site is less intensive and the facility should be fully enclosed with no outside activities. Amos mentioned Hill

Carter Parkway as an example.

She said the Ashland Planning Commission had discussed what determined new uses as part of M-1 and M-2.

“Several deal with food and food processing,” she told council. A commercial kitchen could be added into the zoning ordinance.

Amos said a distribution center, similar to one on U.S. 301, could be added to a see COUNCIL, pg. 4

ERARD

How much do you know about the county? Railroad Park will bring new life, more

ASHLAND -- Get ready, the Historic Hanover Challenge is coming. Find out how well you know Hanover County through questions, GPS check-ins, and photos using the free mobile app (Scavify).

Starting on Saturday, Oct. 17, participants will have one week to complete the game to be entered into a prize drawing.

The player that completes the challenge in the fastest time also will win a prize. Free to play, but pre-registration is required.

For those wishing to participate, without downloading the see CHALLENGE, pg. 5

tourists into town with historic exhibits Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com

Photo submitted by Marcy G. Durrer

Will Patrick Henry’s home Scotchtown be among the clues offered in the Historic Hanover Challenge?

ASHLAND -- Picture this: A traveler on Interstate 95 passes a highway sign before the Ashland exit that reads “The Mid-Atlantic Railroad Park”. Whether it is because of genuine curiosity or the squirming children in the back seat, the traveler takes the Ashland exit and makes her way into the town.

As it’s envisioned, the Park will be hard to miss because its railroad history exhibits will create a walking tour through Downtown Ashland.

“Once completed, the Mid-Atlantic Railroad Park will welcome visitors to stroll through the

Image courtesy of Downtown Ashland Association

historic district and enjoy an exciting variety of sights and exhibits,” said Dan Bartges, a Downtown Ashland Association volunteer who see RAILROAD, pg. 10

Our vast selection is sure to please readers of all ages!

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School board takes no action on name changes

By Jim Ridolphi for Ashland-Hanover Local HANOVER — The names on the marquees in front of the formerly named Lee-Davis High School and Stonewall Jackson Middle School have been removed, but the controversy regarding the renaming of those two campuses continues.

Hanover County School Board members took no action at last week’s meeting and delayed a vote to rename the schools for 30 days to allow additional public comment.

The panel seemingly rejected recommendations submitted by a 30-person committee comprised last month to supply names for board consideration.

On Wednesday, Sept 16, the committee submitted Twin Rivers as its final selection for the former Lee-Davis campus and Mechanicsville for the middle school.

Board chairman John Axselle, Beaverdam District, said he could assure the public that Twin Rivers would not be one of the names considered

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Ashland-Hanover Local September 23, 2020

for the high school.

Dr. Carol Cash headed the committee and said student input was a large factor in the final recommendations, and current and future attendees did not want Mechanicsville as the new name for the high school.

Community input expressed in a survey clearly favored Mechanicsville and that option received the most votes for both schools.

Cold Harbor board member Norman Sulser moved to rename the high school Mechanicsville and delay a vote on a new middle school name, but his motion did not receive a second.

Mechanicsville school board representative Sterling Daniel questioned the lack of geographical or community references contained in the final list of names from which the winners were selected.

Submitted names like Bell Creek or Walnut Grove were not considered in the final decision.

“I was wondering if you could speak to some of the names that were high on the totals submitted by the community … that had that connection to the community but did not make it into any level of the polling,” Daniel said.

Cash said those geographical associated names were considered but the committee considered those designations too specific and feared including one community in the name might ignore another area that also attends the school.

“The students wanted to make sure the name represented the entire community,” Cash said.

Chickahominy representative Bob Hundley acknowledged that renaming a school “is a totally different ball game” from selecting a name for a

new campus.

He also asked about the reasoning utilized in suggesting Mechanicsville as the new middle school name while many in the community preferred it for the high school renaming.

“Mechanicsville was less liked by the students who were at the high school level and going into the high school, and most people would have rather seen it at the middle school,” Cash said.

The board’s discussion was preceded by a public comment period that featured a number of speakers who expressed displeasure with the committee selections.

Many cited a failure to include the community in the discussions and a final choice that seemed to them like the panel had not considered input received from citizens.

Cash said the committee was aware that Mechanicsville received the most submissions, but said the group was operating under the assumption that officials desired new names that were not currently in use in Hanover County.

Other speakers asked how the system could afford to change names during a period where budgets are tight, and Coronavirus issues are making balancing that spending plan even harder.

The committee formed to select names for board considerations consisted of students, parents, educators and community stakeholders and met in a series of meetings beginning last month.

After narrowing down the list of selections to 14, three were chosen as finalists for each school, and one finalist was selected from that group for each school.

Cash, a lifetime educator with a resume that includes

assignments as principal at Lee-Davis and Hanover high schools, said names were selected relying on dictates contained in the policy that stated potential names.

She said they should reference geographical locations, environmental features or historical considerations.

She praised the work of the committee. “Our discussions included a whole variety of viewpoints and that weren’t all in line with each other,” Cash said. “But, I have to tell you the level of civility that is rarely exhibited was shown in this particular situation and I really appreciated that. You just don’t see that level nowadays on Facebook and other social media.”

Cash said the rationale cited for the Twin Rivers name for the high school included several factors.

“It pays homage to the Pamunkey and Chickahominy rivers, which provide the natural boundaries for the school community,” Cash said. “It is a unique name that does not overlap with any existing HCPS (Hanover County Public Schools) school or any other high school in Virginia.”

She explained the choice of Mechanicsville for the middle school renaming “is easily identifiable to anyone in the Mechanicsville community.”

“The names submitted for the school board’s review bridged the work of the committee and the input received from the community,” Cash said. “Although Mechanicsville was the overall choice for both the middle and high schools … it was not the top choice for the committee because that choice was not in alignment in what we saw as the current tradition in our county where every school has its own

unique name.”

The committee chose Twin Rivers and Creek Run because they were the strongest choices. “Because of the committee’s acknowledgment of the survey results, it submitted Mechanicsville and Twin Rivers as the final choices,” Cash said.

She said some students on the committee were frustrated with the difficulty of balancing community input with the rationale of the committee.

“The students on the committee were eager to be a part of a new beginning for their school community and focused on bringing forth that perspective when they were deliberating,” Cash said. “They thought the renaming committee worked hard to select appropriate and inspirational names for the middle and high school, and they would resonate with their peers and be responsive to the community at large.”

While a majority of members on the board expressed appreciation for the committee’s work, it was evident the panel was not prepared to accept their final choices.

“Citizens are telling me that we ignored what the citizens wanted done,” Sulser said, noting the large differential in votes for Twin Rivers and Mechanicsville. “I think the way the committee voted is causing the community to lose even more confidence in us.

More than 1,400 citizens said they wanted Mechanicsville High School and the committee ignored them.”

Axselle was not ambiguous regarding his feelings about the recommended names, and suggested the board take more time to examine the issue and reach a decision at the October see SCHOOL pg. 9

SHERIFF’S REPORTS | Crime, Accidents, Fire & Rescue Aug. 22

DWI: 1st offense was reported in the 7200 block of Cold Harbor Road/Harbor Hill Drive, Mechanicsville.

False report to police or falsely summoning police was reported in the 18300 block of Dogwood Trail Road, Rockville.

Receiving goods from credit card fraud, $200, was reported in the 7400 block of Pebble Lake Drive, Mechanicsville.

DWI: 1st offense was reported in the 7000 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville.

DWI: 2nd within 5 years BAC .15 to .20% was reported in the 14200 block of Mountain Road, Glen Allen.

Petit larceny from auto was reported in the 7200 block of Courtland Farm Road, Hanover.

Hit and run, personal injury, was reported in the 7400 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.

DWI: 1st offense was reported in the 4400 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike/ New Bethesda Road, Mechanicsville.

Possession of Schedule I and II controlled substance was reported in the 7100 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville.

Driver did not report an accident with damages, $250, in the 9400 block of Atlee Station Road/Staple Lane, Mechanicsville.

Petit larceny from auto was reported in the 9200 block of Blacksmith Drive, Mechanicsville.

DWI: 1st offense was reported in the 16000 block of West Patrick Henry Road/Robert Terrell Road, Montpelier.

Aug. 24

Grand larceny auto theft was reported in the 7100 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville.

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

DWI: 1st offense was reported in the 16500 block of Mountain Road, Montpelier.

Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 9000 block of Shady Grove Road/Washington Henry Drive, Mechanicsville.

Driver did not report an accident with damages, $250, in the 11300 block of Caruthers Way, Glen Allen.

Petit larceny from auto was reported in the 7100 block of Pole Green Road, Mechanicsville.

Recovered property was reported in the 6500 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville.

Aug. 23

Possession of Schedule I and II controlled substance was reported in the 7500 block of Cold Harbor Road/ Fast Lane, Mechanicsville.

Petit larceny from auto was reported in the 8300 block of Old Cavalry Court, Mechanicsville.

Petit larceny from auto was reported in the 12400 block of Courtland Farm Road, Hanover.

Breaking and entering to commit larceny/assault and battery, etc., was reported in the 7000 block of Lee Park Road, Mechanicsville.

Recovered property was reported in the 11300 block of Caruthers Way, Glen Allen.

Destruction of property, monument, was reported in the 8300 block of Old Richfood Road, Mechanicsville.

Brandishing a machete was reported in the 8200 block of Skirmish Lane, Mechanicsville.

Driver did not report an accident with damages, $1,000, in the 14500 block of Scotchtown Road/ West Patrick Henry Road, Montpelier.

Grand larceny, auto theft, was reported in the 7100 block of Brook Way, Mechanicsville.

Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 8300 block of Hanover Grove Boulevard/ Hanover Grove Lane, Mechanicsville.

Aug. 25

Computer fraud to obtain services, $500, was reported in the 11200 block of Washington Highway, Ashland.

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.

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

Destruction of property, monument, was reported in 6500 block of Confederate Hill Drive, Mechanicsville.

Possession of Schedule I and II controlled substance was reported in the 7800 block of Compass Point Lane, Mechanicsville.

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Ashland-Hanover Local September 23, 2020 3A

obituaries

| Death Notices & Funerals Mary Louise Lankford LANKFORD, Mary Louise (Uhlman), 87, of Ashland, Va., passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 12, 2020.

Mary was born on August 6, 1933, in Charleston, West Virginia. She was the daughter of Alban Henry and Hilma L o u i s e (Hunter) Uhlman.

Mary was from a LANKFORD proud military family (USMC) and grew up in Havelock, North Carolina.

She graduated from New Bern High School, Class of 1951. Mary moved to Washington, D.C., to attend the Washington School for Secretaries, where she completed her associate's degree. Mary raised her family in the Alexandria, Va. area, retired to Lake Caroline, Va. and most recently resided in Ashland, Va. Mary enjoyed

COUNCIL Continued from pg. 1 

freestanding department. She said she “would love to have one” created with the definition.

Amos also said the ordinance needed to define medical office, as well as a repurposing center that could be used for recycling. With the latter, she said old car parts could be brought to the site, cleaned, and recycled out. It would be all interior work, which needs a definition.

With a medical office, it would be a stay that is no longer than 24 hours; a hospital would cover over 24 hours.

There is an existing definition for a truck terminal in M-2, but it needs to be updated.

Truck terminal would be clarified so there would not be any confusion with a distribution

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cooking, crafting, traveling, camping, sports, volunteering, spending time with beloved family and was a Rummikub champ.

Mary attended Braddock Baptist Church in Alexandria, Wright's Chapel United Methodist Church in Ladysmith and most recently Duncan Memorial United Methodist Church in Ashland.

Mary is survived by her four children, Cynthia Feist (John), Ralph Louis Diaz, Mary Ellen Diaz (Margaret Simpson), Tracy Hynes (Doug). She is also survived by her 10 grandchildren, Tanya Vanderheiden (Aaron), Chelsea Eddy (Mark), Josephine Preston (Cameron), Devyn Diaz, Dallas Diaz, Thea Jane Hunter Simpson, Henry Hunter Simpson, Cameron Louis Lankford Hynes, Zach Hynes and Jordan Hynes; in addition to her six great-grandchildren. Arrangements entrusted to Nelsen Funeral Home in Ashland, Va. Services will be held at a later date.

center.

Amos said the ordinance does not allow for chain link fencing.

The recommendation of the planning commission was to remove medical facilities to go with the definition of a hospital.

Vice Mayor John Hodges said he was “concerned as to what the Comp Plan says when it speaks of fully enclosed.” He questioned, “What is activity?”

He also noted that there was “some ambiguity there.”

As long as the property was properly screened, Hodges said, he said it met the intent of the Comp Plan.

He then asked about the limit on how much storage there would be for business.

That was followed by him proposing a Conditional Use Permit “for those businesses, offices or industrial businesses

Ashland-Hanover Local September 23, 2020

Atlee grad receives $2,500 scholarship from Comcast NBCUniversal program Staff Report news@mechlocal.com

RICHMOND – A 2020 graduate of Atlee High School has received a $2,500 scholarship from Comcast NBCUniversal.

Nicole Sullivan was among 28 Virginia students to share in $70,000 in scholarships for the 2020-2021 school year as part of Comcast NBCUniversal’s annual Leaders and Achievers® Scholarship Program.

Students are selected for their outstanding community service, academic performance, and leadership skills.

The award, funded by the Comcast NBCUniversal Foundation, is a one-time, $2,500 scholarship to be used toward undergraduate education-related expenses.

Since 2001, more than $34 million has been awarded to about 30,000 high school seniors across the country as part of the Leaders and Achievers program.

“All of us at Comcast are honored to recognize the amazing achievements of our Leaders and Achievers scholarship winners in Virginia,” said Mary McLaughlin, senior vice president of Comcast’s Beltway Region.

“These students excel in academics and are leaders in the community and among their

that have more than 51% of outdoor usage.” He said they could be flexible with the CUP. The views of the public and adjoining properties for the sites were discussed. Hodges said materials should be wood or vegetation since chain link fencing is not an option. “It may be a situation where we come up with a one size fits all,” the vice mayor added.

To maintain the intent of having an attractive office park, the layout and location of the fencing should be complimentary should there be additional landscaping.

A wood or vinyl fence, a 6-foot wall, unencumbered with no landscaping just a wall, could be erected.

Council member Kathy Abbott said, “It’s really about scale to make it pleasing.”

Hodges made a motion to

peers. They are a great representation of our future, and we are proud to help them further their education.”

“These students are a great representation of leadership, academic excellence and community service here in Virginia, and I am proud of each one for receiving a Leaders and Achievers scholarship,” said Charniele Herring, Majority Leader, Virginia House of Delegates. "Thank you, Comcast, for recognizing these students’ achievements and helping further their education."

The Comcast Leaders and Achievers Scholarship Program recognizes high school seniors for their community service, academic performance, and leadership skills.

These scholarships are provided to give young people the opportunity to continue their education to better compete in tomorrow’s workplace.

Applicants to the Comcast Leaders and Achievers Scholarship Program must demonstrate academic excellence, commitment to community service, and outstanding qualities in character, integrity, and leadership.

For more information, go to www.comcastcorporation.com or comcast.com/community.

approve the ordinance, 202010, with a modification to include a CUP that would be required with outdoor storage that makes up more than 50% of the developed area of the property. The motion was seconded by council member Daniel McGraw.

In other business, council unanimously approved a franchise agreement with Level 3 Communications of Virginia. Motions were made

by McGraw and Abbott.

Erard explained that the town was granting “an entity the ability to use public property in a particular way, usually in a way that all members of the public are not allowed to use it.”

“The General Assembly decided a long time ago this would be done as way of franchise,” she continued. “We say ‘All right, we’re going to have

Library system goes virtual with Storytime@Home Staff Report news@mechlocal.com HANOVER – Storytime@Home started on Tuesday, Sept. 8, and continues 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/prlstorytime 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, age-appropriate learning activities.

Check the calendar at https:// pamunkeylibrary.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.

this contract with you and here are the terms with which you are going to be able to use whatever the public thing it is in the town’.”

Level 3 Communications’ request involves placing a fiber optic wire underground to extend service to Walmart.

Erard said that is the “only location at this time that is anticipating installing wire.” She did note that the company is “open to other opportunities that may become available in the town.”

The ordinance brought before council denotes a nonexclusive franchise. However, members seemed agreeable to grant permission to other telecommunications operations.

What was approved last week allows Level 3 Communications “to install and maintain whatever they need.”

The initial term is 10 years and

two five-year renewals.

“At the end of the project, we will be provided with maps where everything is located,” Erard said.

She told council that the company has agreed to install an empty conduit to this wire so that town will have access should it want to install any fiber or line next to it.

“This is exciting to have happen during this time,” McGraw said.

Erard assured council that the company “has been very reasonable. I believe we’ll have a good relationship.”

Mayor Steve Trivett’s enthusiasm was summed up with, “It’s a big step – cool.”

Ashland Town Council’s next meeting will begin at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 6, at Ashland Town Hall, located at 101 Thompson St. in Ashland.

RELIABILITY is a cornerstone of everything we do.

Image submitted by George Gagnon

George Gagnon’s efforts to raise money in the fight to eliminate childhood cancer were recognized on a jumbotron in Times Square in New York City. He is still raising money for the Great Cycle Challenge.

Gagnon keeps pedaling to get funds to beat childhood cancer

By Melody Kinser Managing Editor MECHANICSVILLE – As the deadline nears for the Great Cycle Challenge #GCCUSA, Mechanicsville resident George Gagnon is determined to reach his goal of cycling 600 miles to raise money to fund cancer research and eradicate childhood cancer.

The Great Cycle Challenge also helps kids who are fighting cancer.

“I'm that guy you have seen riding a bright red bicycle with lights flashing around the neighborhood for what seems

CHALLENGE Continued from pg. 1

app, indicate that during preregistration.

Hanover County Parks and Recreation will share the “clue link” on Oct. 17. Note that only

like a very long time,” Gagnon said.

With his commitment of riding 600 miles – 1,200 laps around his neighborhood – he said he hopes to receive donations through his web page, https://greatcyclechallenge.com/ riders/georgethomasgagnon.

“I lost a son to cancer,” he said, “and this has just got to stop. Too many children are fighting cancer and not living a fun-filled live as they should.”

According to Gagnon, 15,700 children are diagnosed yearly and 38 die every week.

In asking his neighbors to

financially support his efforts, he also said, “If you are considering a donation, there is still time to ‘Kick Cancers Butt’.”

“Our fundraising effort does continue to the end of September. If you prefer donating by check make it payable to ‘Children’s Cancer Research Fund’ and drop it in the mail,” he added.

The address is 10139 Suzanne Dr., Mechanicsville VA 23116.

“I hope I can count on your support, and, if you see me out there, cheering me on is welcomed,” Gagnon said.

those that complete the challenge through Scavify, will be eligible for the special prize for being the first to complete the challenge.

To pre-register, visit https:// tinyurl.com/HanoverChallenge.

For more information, con-

tact Hanover County Parks and Recreation at 804-365-7150 or email parksandrec@hanovercounty.gov.

Information submitted by Marcy G. Durrer, recreation program director, Hanover County Parks and Recreation.

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 September 23, 2020 5A

OPINION

LETTERS

| The Local Views

| Reader Views

From the managing editor

Why would anyone say COVID is a hoax?

By Melody Kinser Managing Editor very day, Joyce was posting about her friend Randy and his battle with the coronavirus (COVID-19). There would be positive comments followed by those of great concern for him.

Sadly, the global pandemic recently took his life, leaving a huge void in his community outside of Huntington, West Virginia.

Joyce, like so many in Westmoreland, were devastated by the loss.

And, then, a week ago, his son Eddie took to social media to talk about Randy and the backlash the family faced over the illness that took their loved one.

He said he had taken a break from social media in the spring, but decided to resume posting when his father was hospitalized. He was providing updates on his dad’s status. After Randy passed away, Eddie chose to remain on the site “in hopes of seeing posts that might lift my spir-

E

its. Some posts included memories of my dad that made me smile. But, my joy would be shortlived and I find myself ready for another longer break.”

Eddie said he and his dad kept up with news about the virus from the time its existence became public through various news outlets. He said Randy often said, “People will take it seriously when someone they know or love dies from it.”

To Eddie’s dismay, that did not prove to be correct. “People that were close friends with my dad, people he loved, and even some family, post daily about COVID being fake, or that it is being blown out of proportion.”

While he expressed his thanks for the support the family received, he said he was baffled “as to how people that cared so deeply for my dad (who died from this beast of a virus) can turn around and act like it’s not a big deal. I know many people who have died from other health issues (cancer, heart disease, etc.) and never once have I said these diseases are fake or not a big deal.

“What makes this different? That you have to

actually sacrifice something small to help others by wearing a mask? Maybe it’s the fact that your child would have to take a year off of playing sports (which might not have had to happen had people taken it seriously early on)?

“What will it take to get you to realize the magnitude of this situation?!”

Eddie had minor symptoms of COVID and, at the time of his post, was still dealing with the after effects.

Because of the response of people he thought he knew, he said, “I’m heartbroken. I’m tired. I’m grieving. But, most of all, I’m angry. The ignorance and blindness to current events that I have seen, on this site in particular, have me at my breaking point. “ He offered apologies if he angered anyone, but, if that was the case, he asked those who became mad self-reflect.

Keep Eddie and his family, as well as the other thousands who have dealt with or continue to fight this horrible virus, in your prayers.

Perseverance paid off for a determined treasure hunter

By Jim Ridolphi Contributing Columnist There are thousands of stories about amazing people pursuing goals in their lives that seemed unobtainable and, to some, obsessive.

Tenacity, hard work and perseverance didn’t always guarantee

fairy tale endings to lives spent on a singular mission. They were often remembered for their efforts, while the results of their quest often fell well short of the mark.

But, for Mel Fisher, a transplanted chicken farmer from California who relocated his family to Key West,

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Ashland-Hanover Local September 23, 2020

Florida, to search for treasure in the treacherous waters surrounding the narrow strip of islands, the end justified the means -- but not without great personal sacrifice.

Fisher discovered documents of a long-forgotten shipwrecked Spanish galleon lost off Key West in a series

of hurricanes in 1622. After researching the disaster, Fisher discovered a manifest listing millions of dollars in gold, silver and jewels that had been loaded on the ship headed home from the New World.

Fisher and his sons began the see TREASURE pg. 16

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.

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Questions for and about our school board As a tax-paying citizen of Hanover County (migrated from Chesterfield County 23 years ago and will never go back) I’d love to get a few (just a few, wouldn’t want to confuse too many “important” folks) answers to some dire questions.

As an employee of Hanover County, I’ll keep this brief, cordial and to the point.

1) Why aren’t Hanover County School Board members selected during cyclical elections?

2) Why did the school board members vote to meet virtually and then vote to send children to face-to-face in-school classes when most other local jurisdictions stayed online (to ensure safety)?

3) What happened to the $800,000 PPE (personal protective equipment) allotment in the school budget?

4) (Again) why aren’t school board members selected during cyclical elections?

Dr. Richard Ryder Mechanicsville

Resident asks why majority is being ignored (Editor’s note: The following letter to the editor arrived too late to appear in last week’s edition. It was addressed to the Hanover County School Board, with a copy being sent to the Hanover County Board of Supervisors.)

A recent news article reported that your school renaming committee recommended that Lee-Davis High School be renamed to Twin Rivers.

First, the poll that was just conducted did not select Twin Rivers but chose Mechanicsville. Are you see LETTERS pg. 8A

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 COVID19 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 804-270-9626.

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.

F

ax submissions to calendar to 344-8746, email to events@ mechlocal.com, or mail to 8460 Times-Dispatch Blvd., Mechanicsville VA 23116. Deadline is 1 p.m.

Thursday for the following week’s issue. Calendar announcements cannot be taken by phone. We reserve the right to edit all items submitted to The AshlandHanover Local.

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.

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 804-4966093 or sandrdunham@yahoo. com.

Third Mondays The Hanover County Community Services Board meets at 6:30 p.m. at 12300 Washington Hwy. in Ashland.

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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, see CALENDAR, pg. 16

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Smithson answers questions as voting starts getting underway (Editor’s note: The following was submitted

by Teresa F. “Teri” Smithson, VREO, Director of Elections/General Registrar, Hanover County.)

Dear Hanover County Voters, Our office is getting a lot of calls asking questions about in-person absentee voting, voting an absentee by mail and Election Day. Please see this FAQ to help answer some of those questions: Q – Are the polling precincts going to be open on Election Day? A - Yes, all Hanover County polling precincts will

be open on Nov. 3 from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Q - Do absentee ballots get counted on Election Day? A - Yes, absentee ballots are counted in every election like any other polling precinct.

Q – Where do I go to vote in-person early? Will there be other places to vote early too?

A – The only place to vote early in-person absentee is from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday at the County Government Center in the Wickham Building at 7497 County Complex Rd. There are directional signs to let you know where to park and where to enter the building.

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Q – Has the COVID-19 pandemic caused more people to vote an absentee ballot by mail?

A – Yes, we will have over 10,000 absentee ballots to mail out on Friday, Sept. 18.

Q – Will you be open any Saturdays?

A – Yes, we will be open the two Saturdays before the election, Oct. 24 and 31 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 31, is the last day to early vote!

Q – What if I request an absentee ballot but then decide to go to the polls on Election Day? A – If you received your absentee ballot, just take it with you to the polls. You can surrender to the Chief Office of Elections and cast a normal ballot or you can drop off your marked ballot in the ballot drop bag the Chief has.

Q - If I go to the polls but don’t have my ballot because I lost it, will I still be able to vote?

A - You will be offered a Provisional Ballot that you can cast while at the polls. You will be given a written explanation letting you know why you cast a Provisional and the date, time and place the Electoral Board will meet to decide the status of the Provisional ballots to accept or reject them.

Q – When is the last day to register or update my voter registration?

LETTERS Continued from pg. 6

once again going to ignore the majority of respondents and do as you please?

Second, considering the Pamunkey and Chickahominy “twin” rivers is ridiculous.

Where the Chickahominy borders Hanover, it is a mere swamp. The Pamunkey is a tidal river as far inland as the Hanover Courthouse. No similarities!

Third, King William County has numerous businesses and organizations that have already coined the name Twin Rivers. They truly have two rivers that can be considered twins. Can we not have a name geographically unique to Hanover?

Lastly, it is probably fitting that you choose a name with “river” in it. Rivers have divided countries, cities, counties, landowners, families, etc., since the beginning of time.

What the committee considers

A – Tuesday, Oct. 13, in the office at 5 p.m. and online at 11:59 p.m.

Q – When is the last day that I can request an absentee ballot to be mailed to me?

A – Friday, Oct. SMITHSON 23. You can email, fax, online or hand carry to the General Registrar’s office. All requests must be received by 5 p.m.

Q – So we don’t need photo IDs to check into vote. What form of IDs will I be able to use? What if I don’t have an ID? A - You need to show your ID or sign an ID Confirmation Statement to vote in person in this election. You can use your voter card, Virginia DMV-issued driver’s license or ID card to name a few. For a full list of acceptable IDs, visit the Virginia Department of Elections website, https://www.elections.virginia.gov/.

We are here to assist you.

a “natural boundary” is still a division of counties. During this time of being “all inclusive,” why on God’s earth would you consider a name that is and has always been used as a division?

Then again, the school board has done nothing but divide here in Hanover County.

The division is probably greater now than ever. For once, do something the majority has voted to do.

Even though I would prefer leaving it Lee-Davis until a new school is built, Mechanicsville makes more sense than either of the other choices.

Arthur L. Smith Mechanicsville

Trump support: eyes closed to evidence I see the Trump signs going up again.

Supporting Trump means: z you are fine with calling service members “losers”;

z you support the continued forced separation of children from their parents; z you approve of more polluted air and water; z you are good with the unnecessarily high infection and death rates from COVID19; z an economy in shambles is just “great”; z you are good with a president using the justice department as his own personal lawyer; z you like to be lied to, over and over; z you think it’s OK for presidents to enrich themselves through official acts; z you like presidents who golf and watch TV to excess; z sexual assault is OK with you: z you are OK with racism and mocking the disabled; z you believe wild conspiracy theories and; z you keep your eyes firmly closed to the evidence.

JM Thomas Mechanicsville

Taylor hosting drive-in movie, reverse trick-or-treating event

A

SHLAND -- Taylor, Hanover County Parks and Recreation’s lovable mascot, is hosting a Spooky Fun drive-in movie and reverse trick or treating event.

Taylor also has invited some of his friends, including Nutzy & Nutasha from the Flying Squirrels and Princess Aurora and Princess Tiana to help with the trick or treating.

Decorate your vehicle for your chance to win prizes and be sure to wear your favorite costume.

Once parked, be sure to place your treat bucket outside your vehicle so that Taylor and his friends may deliver your treat while safely social distancing.

Before the drive-in showing of Hocus Pocus, enjoy the "at your vehicle" dance party hosted by Richmond Urban Dance group.

These are free event but reservations are

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required, as space is limited. Only one reservation needed per vehicle.

For more details, to pre-register and reserve your space, visit https://tinyurl.com/ SpookyFun2020.

Make plans to join Taylor and his friends on Friday, Oct. 16, at Poor Farm Park or Friday, Oct. 23, at Pole Green Park. Events begin at 6 p.m., with arrivals required between 5 and 5:30 p.m.

For more information, contact Hanover County Parks and Recreation at 804-365-7150 or email parksandrec@hanovercounty.gov.

Information submitted by Marcy G. Durrer, recreation program director, Hanover County Parks and Recreation.

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SCHOOL Continued from pg. 2

meeting.

“I think you are hearing us showing concern over the recommended names, and, while we thank the committee for everything you’ve done, I think there is hesitancy for us to seriously consider the Twin Rivers name,” Axselle said.

“We’re having grave concerns with that name.”

Some citizens have pointed out the name Twin Rivers is prevalently displayed throughout King William County and has no historical connection

with Hanover.

“Some names weren’t given the appropriate consideration because they weren’t there and I think the community ... might still stay with Mechanicsville and look at the middle school differently,” Axselle said.

Since the renaming discussion was included in the information section of the agenda, no action was required but the board reached consensus on a 30-day delay.

“I think we should vet this and really look hard it at it,” Axselle said. “We need to listen to this community. We are hearing your concern.”

In a related action, the board approved a budget amendment allotting $495,000 to be used in the renaming effort. That appropriation funds gym floor resurfacing, athletic uniforms, new signage and other adjustments necessitated by the renamings.

Assistant superintendent Terry Stone asked board members to approve a plan that transfers $280,000 from the contingency fund and moves funds from other categories to supply the remaining funds.

The board unanimously approved the request.

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RRT offers complimentary ‘RVA’ masks at visitor sites Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com

R

ICHMOND – Interested in adding to your personal mask collection? Richmond Region Tourism is giving away free “RVA” masks at its local Visitor Centers around the region.

RRT is currently operating two Visitor Centers at the VMFA Robinson House and the Richmond International Airport. Both locations are open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Visitor Centers are staffed with friendly and knowledgeable advisors who can provide complimentary maps, visitor guides, attraction information and ideas for authentic RVA experiences.

RRT has taken steps to ensure the health and safety of staff and guests at the centers, includ-

RAILROAD Continued from pg. 1

originally proposed the idea of creating the Park.

Exhibits will include a 1923 train station, an authentically restored 1926 red caboose, Hanover County Black Heritage Society exhibit, the Ashland Museum, America’s longest railroad mural, special presentations about major railroad inventions and innovations, and, of course, the more than 60 mighty freight and passenger trains traveling the East Coast's main rail artery through the heart of downtown.

Special exhibits will include 19th and 20th century advances in locomotive engines, Eli Janney’s knuckle coupler and the revolutionary wheel truck, or “bogie”.

Downtown Ashland, with its quaint and quirky charms, already draws visitors to stroll by the shops and restaurants along the railroad tracks and to cross over between the quaint railroad station and the swathe of green that begins RandolphMacon College’s campus. The Railroad Park project promises to enhance its setting, to spur

10A

ing hand sanitizer, sneeze guards and maskwearing policies. Pre-made bags with brochures are available to reduce guest touchpoints.

“Face masks are one of the most effective tools we have to protect one another from COVID-19,” said Jack Berry, Richmond Region Tourism CEO and president. “By wearing masks, we also support the economy by helping small businesses stay open. We’re encouraging people to stop by our Visitor Centers for a free mask and to learn new ideas as locals discover and rediscover all the rich experiences our region has to offer.”

As the region’s primary marketer, Richmond Region Tourism has focused on supporting businesses and cultural institutions throughout the pandemic.

RRT’s team recently launched TravelSafeRVA.com to keep visitors and part-

economic growth and vitality for the community, and to attract more boutiques, shops and restaurants.

“The important thing about the Railroad Park is that it be community-led,” said Maggie Longest, executive director of Downtown Ashland Association, the local nonprofit spearheading the project.

“The Community Stakeholder Committee responsible for development of the Park’s exhibits and content represents individuals from all segments of our town. The Park will share our local story alongside the legendary saga of America’s railroads, because the two are interlinked.”

“The project’s purpose is two-fold,” said Tom Wulf, a videographer and tireless Downtown Ashland Association volunteer who has spent many hours helping to develop the project. “First, it's intended to vividly portray the immense social and economic contributions of American railroads, both past and present, through the unique lens of Ashland’s extensive railroad history. And, second, to invite visitors and local residents to more

Ashland-Hanover Local September 23, 2020

ners informed about safety precautions. The organization also is actively working to rebook meetings, conventions and sporting events and helping clients implement safety protocols.

About Richmond Region Tourism Richmond Region Tourism is a private, not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting the Region to meeting, convention and sports event planners, tour operators and leisure travelers. Richmond Region Tourism operates Visitor Centers located in the Greater Richmond Convention Center downtown, the Robinson House at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, the Richmond International Airport and a Mobile Visitor Center.

Every year 7.7 million people visit the

Metro Creative Connection

Richmond Region, contributing $2.6 billion to the local economy. Tourism generates more than 24,000 jobs in the Richmond Region.

For more information, visit VisitRichmondVA.com.

Photo courtesy of Downtown Ashland Association

Ed Trask’s steam train mural is an homage to the significance of trains in Ashland. Coincidentally, a CSX locomotive was making its way through the town.

fully enjoy Downtown Ashland, to visit shops and restaurants, and to feel a sense of our unique community.”

The Mid-Atlantic Railroad Park’s eight exhibits will be located within easy walking distance of each other, mostly along Railroad Avenue and England Street. When it opens, the attraction will be managed

by the Town of Ashland, free to the public year-round and include interactive exhibits and an app to further enhance the tour.

Recently, the Mid-Atlantic Railroad Park project was offered a $50,000 matching grant from the Mary Morton Parsons Foundation to spur construction of the Park. The

Foundation will match donations from individuals, organizations and businesses up to $50,000, but only if Ashland raises the matching amount by Nov. 30, 2020.

"In a town with such a unique culture, bringing to life an important piece of our history can create a lasting attraction for everyone,” Longest added.

“And the key to making the Railroad Park a reality is for our community to match the grant.

Donations of any amount are welcome.”

To learn more about Ashland’s efforts to create the Mid-Atlantic Railroad Park and how individuals and businesses can help, go to ashlandvirginia. com/railroad.

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

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

For more information go to www.mechlocal.com

| Youth, High School, College, Recreational & Professional

Local runners get back on course in 5K VHSL approves playoff plans

By Tim Pearrell Richmond Times-Dispatch

Joel Klein for The Local

Bryce Lentz of Manassas, Virginia, leads the boys championship race field at the 1,000-meter mark of the Pole Green Lower Course 5K Saturday at Pole Green Park. Lentz would go on to win the event. Hanover County’s Trevor Mason finished fourth. Mechanicsville’s Alli Crytser finished third in the girls championship race.

By Dave Lawrence Sports Editor MECHANICSVILLE – Local high school runners have had a long time off, but that doesn’t mean they have spent the months in isolation as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic lounging around.

Many have kept up their train-

ing regimen, and finally got a chance to see what they could do Saturday at Pole Green Park.

Drawing participants from as far away as State College, Pennsylvania, and Raleigh, North Carolina, the Pole Green Lower Course 5K allowed youths running for clubs – or just running for themselves – to get back on course and com-

pete against other elite runners.

Against such elite competition, Hanover County residents fared well, with Alli Crytser, a student at Hanover High School, finishing third in the girls championship race and Trevor Mason, a student at Patrick Henry, finishing fourth in the boys championship race.

Crytser, running for the

Hanover Elite XC Club, wasn’t far off the winning pace. She finished in 18:27.70, just footsteps behind winner Kayla Werner of Lynchburg (18:23.70) and Carly Wilkes of Salem (18:24.50).

“It was really nice to compete again after so long,” said Crytser, whose last competitive race was at the VHSL Group

4 state indoor track and field championships last year. “I’ve been doing a few workouts a week and then a couple of runs – one long run – just basically normal training with a little bit less lower-intensity workouts.”

She said it was good to be competing.

The Virginia High School League’s executive committee unanimously approved a condensed calendar that has schools starting play in December and finishing in June.

The executive committee voted in late July not to play sports this fall because of the coronavirus pandemic, instead rearranging the three seasons to start with winter sports, followed by fall and spring.

On Thursday, it approved a plan it floated a few weeks ago to have teams play 60% of their normal regular-season games, have a shortened time frame for regional playoffs, and have two rounds of state playoffs. see VHSL, pg. 12

see RUNNERS, pg. 12

Ashland-Hanover Local September 23, 2020

11

RUNNERS Continued from pg. 11

“I really liked doing cross country, doing a race today, because it just helps keep your mind focused on racing,” she said. “You’re not just running miles for nothing.”

“This was an elite meet. We had five or six of the top 10 returners in Virginia running in that race,” said Rich Firth, coach of the Hanover Elite XC Club. “Alli ran great. She was with the leaders the whole way.

“The young woman who won had just moved to Virginia.

She’s from Maine. … It was a really, really good race, a really elite field.”

Crytser said she was a bit rusty. But Firth noted that her time Saturday was significantly faster than her time in her first race last year – a 18:59.00 in the Pole Green XC Classic, which was good for a third-place finish in that race.

Mason claimed a personal record of 16:02.00 in his fourthJoel Klein for The Local place finish in the boys cham- Lindsey Hester (23) of the Swamp XC club leads the field at the 1,000-meter mark in the Pole Green Lower Course 5K Saturday. pionship race. His improved performance was not unusuof COVID spread, each race al. Jeremy Dobrinski, one of was limited to 50 participants. the coaches of the West End In addition to the two champiRunning Club for which Mason onship races, there were A and ran, said that a number of his B races for both boys and girls.

The game, against Orlando home opener on Aug. 1.

Staff reports runners were so excited to be Mechanicsville Cross City B, was originally schedTonight’s makeup game sports@mechlocal.com competing again they likewise Country Club’s Josh Leonard uled for last Saturday night at will start at 6:30 p.m. The recorded personal bests. finished second in the boys A For the second time this City Stadium. The game will match will be broadcast on Firth noted that as well – race with a time of 17:04.60.

ESPN+ and on WTVR CBS season, the Richmond Kickers be made up at a later date. a bit of a surprise since the One teammate, Andre Chavez, The Kickers first post- 6.3 (Comcast 206, Verizon have had to postpone a home youths have not been practicfinished fourth in 17:09.10, and match because of a positive poned contest will made up FiOS 466). ing in an organized fashion another, Travis Albon, finished Richmond goes on the COVID-19 test of a member tonight at City Stadium. The since schools were closed in seventh in 17:24.30. of the opposing team’s orga- Kickers were to play Fort road to face Union Omaha the spring because of the panIn the Boys B race, Lauderdale in Richmond’s Saturday. nization. demic.

Mechanicsville Cross Country “We were shocked because Club’s Patrick Allen finished we’re not training,” Firth said. overall fitness.” high school last year, every one race last year – on the same second in 17:35.00. Sibyl “Our club team is really trying Harrell of the Hanover Elite XC Still, of the 10 Hanover Elite ran faster Saturday than they course at Pole Green Park. to get them to improve their XC participants who ran in did in their first high school In order to reduce the risk Club finished sixth in the girls

Richmond Kickers match postponed

been eliminated.

Under the VHSL’s Continued from pg. 11 “Championship + 1” format, teams that do not advance to Region playoffs in football will regional tournaments can have four teams; state quarter- schedule another game, as long final rounds in all sports have as it is completed by the dead-

VHSL

12

Ashland-Hanover Local September 23, 2020

line for region playoffs.

“The VHSL executive committee acknowledges that no plan is perfect,” VHSL executive director Billy Haun said in a statement. “We are in unprecedented times in which we have

been forced to create a temporary new normal. We understand this plan, or any plan, will not meet the expectations for those wanting a normal fall, winter, and spring sports season. This plan, however, will

allow student-athletes and academic activity participants the opportunity of having a season and playing for a state championship.”

Decisions to play or not play this fall have varied around

Nicholas Vandeloecht/Powhatan Today

Mechanicsville Cross Country Club runner Hannah Clarke sprints to the finish to take fifth with a time of 20:36 in the girls A race at the Pole Green Lower Course 5K Saturday.

B race in 22:03.00.

Running an event such as this was challenging, but Dobrinski said the race organizers – primarily meet director Tim Crytser – had a good plan in place. In addition to having no more than 50 competitors in each race, everyone had to wear facemasks, unless they were athletes running, warming up or cooling down. The number of supporters for each participant was limited, and the athletes and their supporters had to leave the site as soon as their race was completed.

“Everything in the world is different from what we’re used to,” Firth said. “ Powhatan Today sports editor Nicholas Vandeloecht contributed to this report.

Dave Lawrence can be reached at dlawrence@mechlocal.com.

the country. As of Sept. 17, 14 state high school associations were playing fall sports as normal, according to the National Federation of State High School see VHSL, pg. 13

format, but only one team will advance to the state semifinals in all sports.

Football generally has eightteam regionals, but teams can only play one game a week, and the plan has only two weekends to play games.

Football teams will have seven weeks to play six regularseason games, starting Feb. 22 and running through Friday, April 2. Regionals can begin on Wednesday, April 7, and run through Saturday, April 17. The state semifinals will be on April

24, with the championship games on May 1.

Basketball teams can start practice on Dec. 7 and start play on Dec. 21, with 14 regularseason games. Regional tournaments will run from Feb. 8-13.

The state semifinals are Feb. 16 with the finals Feb. 20.

Spring sports will start play April 21 or 26, with the state finals finished by June 26.

The VISAA, which conducts state championship events for private schools in Virginia, is not sanctioning any events this

fall.

Almost all private schools in the area are not playing football in the fall, although some are planning to have other sports such as cross country, tennis, field hockey and volleyball.

Life Christian, based in Chesterfield County, has said it will play at least four football games out of state. Some other private schools around the state have scheduled games as well.

Tim Pearrell can be reached at tpearrell@timesdispatch.com.

CLOG-FREE GUT TERS

OR YOUR MONEY BACK

GUARANTEED! Dave Lawrence/The Local

Last year, Patrick Henry was the only Hanover County football team to make the playoffs. For the 2020-21 season, fewer teams will make the playoffs under the new postseason plan

VHSL Continued from pg. 12

Associations.

Twenty-nine states were having modified fall seasons.

Seven states –Virginia, North Carolina, Maryland, Delaware, California, Oregon and Nevada -- plus the District of Columbia were not allowing fall competition (Delaware voted last week to resume fall sports but was awaiting approval from the Delaware Board of Education).

In 32 states, football was being played as normal or in modified seasons.

A “Let Them Play” rally seeking the return of high school sports in Virginia was held at the state capitol earlier this week, with about 50 players, parents and coaches attending.

The VHSL, though, issued a statement signaling its intention to stick with its plan to delay sports until December. Haun said it was done “through much collaboration.”

Thursday’s vote was 33-0.

adopted by the Virginia High School League, though teams that do not make the regionals will have the option to play an additional game after the regular season ends.

Haun said an online petition for the “Let Them Play” movement had about 5,000 signatures. He also said league staff and the executive committee had received “numerous emails,” the majority about football, from parents basically outlining four concerns: frustration that players have been participating in club sports during the summer but can’t play in the VHSL; mental and emotional strains for players not being on a team; missing out on scholarship opportunities; other states playing.

“Losing last spring’s season was very difficult, and now not having competitions in the fall is difficult,” he said. “We … are career educators. Along with parents, we want to do what’s best for our approximate 190,000 student-athletes, our 318 member schools who participate in our activities. … I just want everybody to understand … that we all feel the same way.”

The state is under Phase Three guidelines, which include physical distancing, enhanced

cleaning and disinfecting practices, and limiting attendance, among other things. Club sports have interpreted some of the guidelines differently than the VHSL, which has taken a more conservative approach with the state’s 132 school divisions operating in various ways.

Sixty-eight divisions are fully remote, according to the state Department of Education. Ten are in person; 25 are partial in person; 25 are all hybrid; and four are partial hybrid.

Haun has said the league doesn’t believe high-risk sports such as football and basketball can be played until the restrictions are loosened. He and VHSL associate director Tom Dolan talked with the governor’s office last Thursday, and “the information that was shared with us is there likely will be no change in Phase Three guidelines any time soon.”

Under the VHSL plan, region playoffs will be conducted in one week. For region playoffs except for football, each region will determine the number of qualifiers and the

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Ashland-Hanover Local September 23, 2020

13

CLASSIFIEDS Business & Service Directory CLEANING & HOUSEKEEPING Candy’s Home Cleaning A professional cleaning at an affordable rate. Openings available.

Please call Candy at 804-572-4924 L & L Cleaning Services - We create FREE TIME for busy people! wkly, bi-wkly, monthly, one-time clean Put down that mop! Call today to schedule! Bonded & Insured.

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CONCRETE WORK

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FULL-TIME: MANUFACTURING / ASSEMBLY PART-TIME: SEWING WILL TRAIN Music Industry’s leading case manufacturer needs highly-motivated and responsible team members with positive attitude.

TKL offers: • Fully-paid medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance • Paid vacation and holidays Located 10 minutes West of Innsbrook / Short Pump, off I-64 Oilville Exit 167, then 1/4 mile North on Route 617

Must have reliable transportation • Drug Testing Required

Bernard’s Concrete - sidewalks, cobblestones, retainer walls, patios, repair brick, References. Licensed. & insured.

Call 804-874-9184

TREE SERVICE Bernard’s Tree Service, stump grinder, mulch, landscaping, & more. Free estimates. References. Licensed. & insured. Call 804-874-9184

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2545 Turkey Creek Rd, Oilville, VA 23129 (804) 749-8300

Recruitment CONSTRUCTION & TRADES Brick Helpers Needed Starting Pay $15/hour . Valid license & dependable transportation required.

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Is a veteran owned and operated lawn management company that strives to provide an exceptional customer experience. We are looking for motivated individuals to join our team as IRRIGATION FOREMAN and CREW MEMBERS. We offer a great benefit package and competitive wages. Must have driver license and be willing to work long shifts in all weather conditions and be able to lift up to 60 pounds.

Advancement opportunities available.

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Ashland-Hanover Local September 23, 2020

(804) 746-1235 ext. 2

PLACE YOUR AD TODAY

FAX: (804) 344-8746 or classifieds@mechlocal.com

HOME IMPROVEMENT SPECIALISTS CONCRETE & BRICK Bernard’s Concrete Services Concrete, Retaining Walls, Pavers, Brick, Sidewalks. Install & repair.

Free Estimates. Licensed & Insured.

References. Please call 804-874-9184

DRIVEWAYS

PLUMBING

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-SEASON SPECIALLoad of Driveway Stone, delivered & tailgate spread, $275.

Screened Top Soil $275/ per load.

Also available driveway grading & bushogging. Call 804-400-9957

Full Service Tree Company.

(Removal, trimming, topping, stump grinding & firewood delivery) Offering free estimates and providing fully insured work.

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SHERRIF’s Continued from pg. 3

Lakeridge Parkway, Ashland.

Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 10100 block of Lakeridge Parkway, Ashland.

ID theft to obtain ID to avoid arrest was reported in the 8100 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville.

Forging coin and bank notes was reported in the 7200 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.

Possession of marijuana, subsequent offense, was reported in the 9100 block of Chamberlayne Road at Richfood Road, Mechanicsville.

Destruction of property, monument, value $1,000, was reported in the 7200 block of Courtland Farm Road, Hanover.

Destruction of property, monument, was reported in the 8200 block of North Mayfield Lane, Mechanicsville.

Grand larceny building was reported in the 9000 block of New Bethesda Road, Mechanicsville.

Reckless handling of a firearm was reported in the 9200 block of Swannanoa Trail, Mechanicsville.

Aug. 27

Obtaining money or signature by false pretenses was reported in the 7000 block of Sunnyside Drive, Mechanicsville.

Grand larceny building was reported in the 10500 block of Stony Bluff Drive, Ashland.

Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 8100 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike/Elm Drive, Mechanicsville.

Simple assault was reported in the 6500 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville.

Grand larceny building was see SHERIFF’S, pg. 16

Hanover Humane’s ‘Pool Paw-ty’ set Saturday Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com ASHLAND -- Hanover Humane will host its Fifth Annual “Pool Paw-ty” from noon until 3 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 26, at the AshCreek Subdivision.

The registration fee is $25 per dog and includes unlimited swim time for participating canines.

In addition to unlimited swim sessions, Pool Paw-ty 2020 will offer doggy treats, doggy nail trims, as well as microchip installation/ registration for participants.

Lifeguards will be onsite during the event.

Participants will be

expected to practice social distancing measures and wear protective face coverings as applicable.

All registration materials are available at www.hanoverhumanesociety.org.

Registration will be available the day of the event as well.

For more information about the event, email info@ hanoverhumanesociety.org.

The Hanover Humane Society is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit entity for IRS tax purposes.

All proceeds for this event will be used to support Hanover Humane's animal adoption, education, and prevention programs.

Hanover County Land Use program enrollment open HANOVER -- Hanover County offers a Land Use Taxation Program under which qualified landowners can have their property assessed at “use value”, which may be lower than market value and reduce taxes owed.

The application period for this program extends through Nov. 1, with an additional enrollment period Jan. 1 to Feb. 1, 2021.

Landowners who have kept their property in agricultural or horticultural use for at least five years can qualify for the land use program. The property kept in agricultural or horticultural use must be at least five acres in size.

Property that has been zoned Rural Conservation (RC) also can qualify for the Land Use program.

If the land use is changed,

the tax reduction must be repaid with simple interest for the current tax year and potentially up to the previous five tax years.

About 3,616 parcels and 157,848 acres are currently enrolled in Hanover County’s Land Use Taxation program.

This represents about 54% of the county’s total acreage.

The total tax deferral realized by these property owners is about $5.3 million.

For more information about the Land Use Program or other tax relief programs offered by Hanover County, call the Commissioner of the Revenue at 804-365-6125 or visit the Land Use page for the Commissioner of the Revenue at www.hanovercounty.gov.

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

VT Fall commencement to be held online Dec. 18 Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com BLACKSBURG Virginia Tech will host fall commencement exercises online. The December 2020 university-wide ceremony will be held online at 6 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 18.

During an online broadcast at vt.edu/ commencement, graduates will be honored, graduate and undergraduate degrees will be conferred, and special guests and student leaders will speak — plus there will be opportunities for friends and family to participate and offer well wishes.

Moving online will mitigate the risks presented by large gatherings, help slow the spread of COVID-19, and is in line with public health guidelines. On-campus instruction will also end at Thanksgiving break.

"Our lives have certainly been different this semester, with many events postponed or moved online," said Virginia Tech President Tim Sands. "I know this is disappointing for graduates who were hoping for an inperson experience, however everything we’ve learned about COVID-19 tells us it would not be wise to bring students back on campus for a large indoor gathering. The online ceremony will honor our graduates and celebrate their accomplishments, while keeping our students and community safe."

Virginia Tech held its first online commencement ceremony in the spring. More than 7,000 Hokies graduated and countless others watched online, rooting for the newest members of the Hokie alumni community.

The online ceremony provided a mean-

ingful opportunity for graduates, their friends and family, and alumni all over the world to come together for one large celebration, even if it wasn't the experience graduates were expecting.

A commencement committee, including graduating students, is preparing this fall’s ceremony and will create an experience for seniors that will be memorable, even if it cannot be in person.

The change to the fall ceremony will affect spring 2020 graduates who planned to participate in fall exercises. They will no longer have the option to participate in person in fall commencement, and earlier this month, the university announced that the fall celebration planned for spring 2020 graduates could not take place because of the impact of the pandemic on events.

Being able to recognize and celebrate all members of the Class of 2020 is important and details on future opportunities will be shared by email and online.

"We are looking forward to when the entire class of 2020 can come back to campus and celebrate our accomplishments together," said Gregory Klatt, president of the Class of 2020 and a spring graduate. "Even though our graduation wasn't in person, it was such a memorable experience and one that so many Hokies near and far shared. Congratulations to this fall's graduates. I know you'll feel the same support and pride of others in Hokie Nation as you mark your next chapter."

For the latest information on the university’s response to the coronavirus, visit vt.edu/ ready and for the latest details on commencement, visit vt.edu/commencement.

SCORE Richmond workshop set Sept. 29 Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com RICHMOND -- SCORE Richmond will present the workshop, “Digital Marketing II – Paid Search”, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 29.

The workshop will be shared via Zoom webinar, with an emphasis on building a beautiful website that no one visited. A digital marketing professional will offer tips on what it takes to get noticed.

Registration costs $25 and is available at www.Richmond.Score.org and 804-350-3569.

Ashland-Hanover Local September 23, 2020 15A

2020 drinking water testing clinic offered Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com ASHLAND -- What’s in your water? Did you know that private water supplies like wells and springs are unregulated? It is the responsibility of the homeowner to regularly test water quality, maintain the water system, and address any problems.

Affordable, confidential water testing and education will be offered through Virginia Cooperative Extension offices in Hanover County.

Pick up your kits at 6:30 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 21, at the Doswell Ruritan Club at 16433 Washington Hwy. in Doswell.

This year kits also can be picked up on Monday or Tuesday (Sept. 21 or 22) at the Hanover Extension office at 13015 Taylor Complex Lane in Ashland. Then Wednesday, Sept. 23, plan to drop off your samples on from 7 to 10 a.m. at the Hanover Virginia Cooperative Extension Office at 13015 Taylor Complex

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Lane in Ashland.

Participation is voluntary and confidential.

Water samples collected by participating homeowners will be analyzed for 14 parameters, including bacteria, metals, nitrate and hardness at a cost of $60.

Results and water system care and maintenance information will be shared at an information meeting.

All information is kept strictly confidential and results are reported only to the homeowner.

TREASURE Continued from pg. 6

search for the Neustra Senora de Atocha in the late 1970s, a mission that quickly became a family affair featuring Fisher’s sons and wife Delores.

Even when divers routinely returned to the surface with empty nets and daily expenses mounted, Fisher would famously exclaim, “Today is the day.”

The debts mounted and the leaky houseboat the Fishers called home almost sank, but the Fishers suffered the most severe loss when a son and daughter-in-law died when their boat sank near the search site in 1975.

The setbacks only bolstered Fisher’s determination to find the Atocha, and recover the millions in

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To register, contact Missy Johnson at mcjohnson@ vt.edu or 804-752-4310.

To ensure you receive a kit, pre-register by Sept. 9.

For more information about the Virginia Household Water Quality Program, as well as many resources relevant to private water systems, visit www.wellwater. bse.vt.edu.

Important dates – listed as event, date and time, and location – are: Pick up sample kit with physical distancing measures,

gold and jewels that lay undisturbed for 400 years.

There were teases of success as divers began finding single Spanish coins whose dates coincided with the Atocha, and eventually discovered two brass cannons clearly identified as from the treasure-laden ship.

As the bills mounted and the search intensified, Fisher relied on investors to provide the funding needed to continue the search.

Most were everyday Americans who shared in Fisher’s enthusiasm in the search for sunken treasure.

Fisher’s son Kane followed in his father’s footsteps and shared his passion for gold.

After years of searching, Kane discovered the Atocha in 1985. He radioed back to Fisher’s headquarters in Key West that he had found the

Ashland-Hanover Local September 23, 2020

8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday or Tuesday, Sept. 21-22, at Hanover’s VA Cooperative Extension Office at 13015 Taylor Complex Lane in Ashland.

Pick up sample kit with physical distancing measures, 6:30 to 8 p.m. Monday, Sept.

21, at the Doswell Ruritan Club at 16433 Washington Hwy. in Doswell.

Drop off samples with physical distancing measures, 7 to 10 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 23, at Hanover’s VA Cooperative Extension Office at 13015 Taylor Complex Lane in Ashland.

Results/interpretation information will be mailed or emailed on Wednesday, Oct. 21.

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, contact Laura Maxey-Nay at 804-7524310 during business hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event. *TDD number is (800) 828-1120.

mother lode.

It took months to retrieve the $400 million worth of perfect emeralds, gold bars and chains and blocks of silver from the decaying carcass.

The battles didn’t end there, as state and federal authorities attempted to claim the gold for themselves, but Fisher prevailed and paid the state of Florida one-fourth of the findings.

The rest was his, split between investors and family.

Many who had shared Fisher’s perseverance found themselves in a new tax bracket, and Mel became a Key West legend. He also was a millionaire several times over.

It’s a tale of perseverance and determination that defined Fisher’s life.

When a reporter asked him why he had displayed such stubborn pur-

Upcoming October SHERIFF’s Continued from pg. 15 Ashland meetings reported in the 9000 block of Knight Drive, Mechanicsville.

Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com ASHLAND – The Ashland Parks and Recreation Committee will meet at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 8, at Ashland Town Hall, located at 101 Thompson St. in Ashland.

The Planning Commission is scheduled to meet at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 14, at Town Hall.

All sessions are open to the public, with social distancing.

CALENDAR Continued from pg. 7

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

suit of a mission that many deemed futile from the start, Mel replied he’d done it for “the fun, the romance and the adventure.”

Fisher’s find forced state and federal officials to alter salvage law that now provides most of the things found under the sea belong to the state or federal government.

Wrecks discovered within three miles of the coastline now belong to the state.

It’s hard to imagine a treasure hunter like Fisher could prevail in today’s salvage environment, but the story of the Atocha is a fitting tribute to a time when a man’s dream could indeed determine his destiny.

Fisher’s tenacity and sacrifice paid off in the end, perhaps providing the inspiration for those who still seek that pot of gold at the end

Trespassing after being forbidden to do so was reported in the 12300 block of Greenwood Road, Glen Allen.

Grand larceny from auto was reported in the 8200 block of Atlee Road, Mechanicsville.

Profane and threatening language was reported over a public airway in the 6400 block of Gaines Mill Road/Cold Harbor Road, Mechanicsville.

December. The address is 13182 Hanover Courthouse Road in Hanover. For more information, visit http://www. hanoverhistorical.org/index. html.

The Clay Spring Garden Club in Ashland meets at 1 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month (except for the month of July at the First Baptist Church in Ashland off of U.S. 54. Barbara Boor is the president. Doors are open to anyone who would like to attend.

of the rainbow, or buried below the sands of the warm waters surrounding the Keys.

In 1998, Fisher died in Key West from complications from cancer.

His family continues salvage operations and searches for other wrecks in the area -- and thousands of tourists file through Fisher’s museum in Key West where gold chains, coins and jewels on display almost seem unreal in their natural beauty.

It’s one of thousands of stories of men who pursued their dreams.

Many succeeded while others failed, but Fisher’s tale of persistence and perseverance is a message that provides hope for those still searching for their own slice of personal treasure.

Some will find it, while others will discover the real treasure lies within the journey.

Outdoor Improvement 2020

A Special Supplement to

September 23, 2020

Your local guide to outdoor home improvement projects

OUTDOOR FALL HOME IMPROVEMENT

Signs your gutters are in need of repair all is a great time to tackle projects around the house. The weather each fall allows homeowners to make improvements to their homes’ exteriors without worrying about extreme heat or cold, while interior projects like painting are made easier because homeowners can open the windows to allow for proper ventilation.

Fall also marks a great time to prepare for upcoming projects that can make winter work that much easier. For example, fall is a great time to take stock of your gutters so you can address any issues before leaves begin to fall or the first snowstorm touches down. Compromised gutters can contribute to water issues in basements and adversely affect a home’s foundation if not addressed immediately, so it behooves homeowners to learn the signs that gutters are in need of repair or replacement.

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Gutters hanging off the home Gutters were once installed predominantly with spikes. However, many industry professionals now install gutters with hanger brackets. Why the change? Spikes loosen over time, leading to the gutters hanging off the home. That can contribute to serious issues if left untreated. Gutters hanging off the home need not necessarily be

replaced, but rather secured to the home, ideally with hanger brackets instead of spikes. Brackets hook into the front of the gutter and are then screwed into the fascia of a home. A professional who specializes in gutter repair can perform this task relatively quickly, and it’s an inexpensive yet highly effective solution.

Gutter separation Gutters that are no longer fastened together can leak and contribute to issues that affect the home’s foundation, siding and appearance. Clogs and the accumulation of debris can cause gutters to separate because they are not designed to hold too much weight. Replacement of separated gutters may or may not be necessary depending on how big the problem is and the condition of the existing gutters. If replacement is not necessary, separated gutters may be remedied by securing the joints, another relatively simple and inexpensive fix.

Peeling exterior paint: Paint that appears to be peeling off of your home may indicate that water is seeping over the edge of the gutter closest to your home. When that happens, water is coming down the side of the house, causing the paint to peel. In such instances, replacing the gutters is often necessary.

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Basement flooding

times allow water to leak near the foundation of a home, contributing to basement flooding.

Not all signs of deteriorating gutters are outside a home. Many a homeowner has been flumFall is an ideal time to inspect gutters and moxed by flooding in their basements, and such have any issues fixed before leaves begin to fall or flooding can be caused by aging, ineffective gut- harsh winter weather arrives. ters. That’s because deteriorating gutters some-Metro Creative Connection

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A Special Supplement to Ashland-Hanover Local September 23, 2020

OUTDOOR FALL HOME IMPROVEMENT

5 tips to prepare for window replacement

When it can be smart to hire a painting pro

inter is coming, and for millions of people who reside in areas of the country that see the mercury drop considerably between December and March, that means prioritizing staying warm. Inefficient or aging housing materials may compromise your ability to do just that.

Drafts from doors, poorly protected attics and basements and aging windows may force heating systems to work extra hard to maintain interior temperatures.

Replacing old windows can make a home quieter by blocking out exterior noises.

Consumer Reports also notes that new windows are often easier to clean and maintain than older varieties.

Many homeowners are interested in replacing their Do you discard of old windows, but may not know debris? where to start. These guidelines What is the protocol for can help the process along. installation during inclement weather?

ew things can revitalize a home more readily than a fresh coat of paint.

Thanks in part to the affordability of paint and its ease of application, painting is something that even novice DIYers can typically handle.

According to the marketing advice guru Brandon Gaille, it is estimated that residential interior paint only lasts around three years before it needs to be updated. Exterior paint can fade, chip and peel due to various environmental factors.

As a result, many homes can likely use a fresh coat of paint in at least one room.

As DIY-friendly as painting can be, when attempting to paint the interior or exterior of their homes, homeowners may learn that some painting projects are best left to the professionals. Painting requires skill, patience and a knowledge of how various paints Ñ including finishes for particular applications Ñ will hold up.

Novice painters may do more harm than good by dripping paint on expensive carpeting or floors or fail to recognize the nuances that indicate a spot-on painting job.

Professional painters have spent hours upon hours learning the ropes of what works Ñ and what does not. Painters often understand that painstaking preparatory work is crucial to getting pristine finished results. Walls and ceilings must be properly repaired

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W

Get several estimates. Ask for recommendations from neighbors or other people in your area on which companies they used to install their replacement windows. When you interview the prospects, ask several questions about how they go about installing the windows. Questions can include: How long will the project take?

Will I need to remain home during the process?

1

Research permits. Most home renovation projects need to be approved by the local municipality. Go to the permit office and find out the requirements. Some window contractors will include securing permits in the cost of the project. After the project is completed, an inspector will come by and ensure the work was done according to code.

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hardware you have around the home and other fixtures.

Choose windows that have locks or latches that can match those features for continuity of style. Think about choosing a different style or frame color of the window, or a different type of window to improve efficiency and function.

Research top window manufacturers. It’s tempting to purchase windows based on price alone, but replacement windows are often a decision that only has to be made once or twice for the life of the home. Invest in durable winChange up the appear- dows that will have staying ance. Look at the type of power. Consumer Reports

4

offers unbiased reviews on various window brands and can help homeowners make sound decisions.

Prepare for installation.

Clear pathways, remove window treatments and disconnect window alarm systems. Plan for one to two days of installation, advises Andersen Windows and Doors. Keep pets and children away from work areas.

Replacement windows can be a smart investment. New windows can improve the look of a home, reduce heating costs and can keep interior spaces comfortable.

-Metro Creative Connection

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Metro Creative Connection

and prepared even before a base coat is applied.

Professional painters also have an eye for details. And because professional painters make a business out of doing interior and exterior surfaces, they understand which techniques can improve efficiency.

That means a professional job can typically be completed much more quickly than a DIY project.

Even though some people think theyÕll save money by painting their own homes, thatÕs not necessarily true.

Professionals already have all the equipment necessary, unlike novices who may need to make repeated and potentially costly trips to the hardware store for supplies. Plus, if mistakes happen, DIYers have to spend additional time and money fixing them.

Safety can be a large motivator for turning painting over to a pro. Navigating exterior areas or tall interior ceilings can be challenging and may require scaffolding or tall ladders DIYers do not have.

Risk of falls or other injuries increase with lack of experience.

-Metro Creative Connection

A Special Supplement to Ashland-Hanover Local September 23, 2020

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2020 FALL HOME IMPROVEMENT It’s The Coolest Time To Spruce Up Your Home and Garden Family Owned and Operated Since 1974

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A Special Supplement to Ashland-Hanover Local September 23, 2020

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A Special Supplement to Ashland-Hanover Local September 23, 2020 5B

OUTDOOR FALL HOME IMPROVEMENT

Options abound when shopping for siding ome improvement projects run the gamut from minor repairs to complete overhauls. Replacing exterior siding is one of the most significant home improvement projects homeowners can undertake. Such a project can give homes a completely new look, which is why choice of siding is such an important decision.

Homeowners have many siding options to choose from, and the following guide can help them make the best choice for their homes.

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Vinyl siding Vinyl siding is easily maintained and among the more budgetfriendly siding options. According to the home improvement resource HomeAdvisor, vinyl siding is made from a PVC plastic that does not rot or flake. Siding professionals note that the technology used to create vinyl siding has changed considerably in recent years, making this option more diverse than traditional vinyl siding. So homeowners turned off by the potentially plastic look of vinyl siding might be surprised at how different modern vinyl siding looks compared to the vinyl siding of yesteryear.

Fiber-cement siding The home improvement television network HGTV notes that fiber-cement siding has grown in popularity among homeowners in recent years. This material does not require much maintenance and it’s non-flammable and resistant to termites. HomeAdvisor notes that fiber-cement siding can create the look of wood, stucco or masonry, making it a versatile option capable of creating various looks. In addition, fiber-cement siding is known for its durability, with some products coming with warranties lasting as long as 50 years.

Wood siding

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board siding is another popular option, though it tends to require more maintenance than cedar shingle siding. Homeowners who want wood siding should discuss their options with an experienced siding professional, as many factors, including the choice of wood, must be considered before making a final decision.

Stone and stone-veneer siding

Stone siding is durable, and there are many options, including solid stone and natural stone cladding, that make this an option capable of providing an array of looks. Stone-veneer siding is less expensive than natural stone and also comes in an array of styles.

As is the case with wood, stone siding options are so extensive that homeowners are urged to discuss each one with a siding professional before making their decisions.

Homeowners have many choices if they prefer wood siding on Many homeowners fall in love with the natural appeal of stone, These are just a handful of the many siding options homeowntheir homes. Cedar, cypress, fir, pine, and spruce are just a handful but the price tag, which tends to be costly, may not be as awe- ers can choose from. Siding can give homes a competely new look, of the many wood siding options homeowners can choose from.

HomeAdvisor notes that cedar shingle siding offers a natural look inspiring. HGTV notes that stone can be difficult to add to an making choice of siding a significant decision worthy of careful -Metro Creative Connection that blends well in wooded and waterfront landscapes. Wood clap- existing home, and doing so may drive the price up even further. consideration.

Common causes of house fires 6B

According to the Consumer Products Safety Commission, roughly 25,000 home fires causing more than 300 deaths occur in the United States each year. Homeowners can keep themselves and their families safe by being aware of the dangers around a home that can contribute to house fires and the preventive measures that can reduce the risk for such fires. According to the National Fire Protection Association, the following are the most common factors

that can lead to fires around the house.

Cooking accidents: It can take mere seconds for grease splatters or an overheated pan or pot to cause a fire. Stay in the kitchen at all times when cooking.

Heaters: Have furnaces and other heating appliances regularly inspected.

Keep portable heaters away from anything that can burn, including curtains and furniture. Do not leave portable heaters running while you are sleeping or out of the

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home.

Smoking: Smoking inside a home can lead to fires. Some people forget to extinguish the smoke or embers may fall, while butts may smoulder for hours before causing flames to form.

Washers and dryers: Between 2010 and 2014, American fire departments responded to an estimated 15,970 home fires involving clothes dryers or washing machines each year. Mechanical or electri-

cal failure or malfunction was involved in the vast majority of home fires involving washing machines. Failure to clean dryers also can cause fires to ignite.

Candles: Candles can add ambiance to a room and are commonly used in decorations, but they also can be a fire hazard. Candles easily can be knocked over by children, pets and others. Do not leave candles lit and unattended. -Metro Creative Connection

OUTDOOR FALL HOME IMPROVEMENT

Get ahead of chimney repair this season oodburning fireplaces or fuel stoves can add warmth and ambiance to a home. These appliances are particularly coveted in the cooler months when people spend more time indoors. Maintenance is necessary in order for fireplaces and stoves to function safely, and that upkeep must include paying close attention to the functionality of the chimney.

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Chimneys are designed to last for decades.

Cracks and spalling in brick chimneys are common concerns that can cause significant damage if left unchecked.

Chimney maintenance involves more than cleaning the flue. Rather than running the risk of costly repairs, which can cost several thousand dollars, homeowners can take some simple steps to keep their chimneys in tip-top shape. Certain components of chimney maintenance are do-ityourself tasks, while others may be better left to the professionals.

Start from the inside and ensure that dampers are working properly When using fireplaces and other appliances, dampers need to be open to allow smoke to vent outside; otherwise, smoke will be trapped in the home and could lead to carbon monoxide buildup. Dampers need to be fixed or replaced if they are not operational. Replacement fireplace dampers should be snug and not have any gaps, states Vertical Chimney Care.

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to water, weather and time. If enough of the chimney can prevent moisture from breaking Have the chimney swept material erodes, that erosion can adversely affect down the masonry.

Sweeping helps remove the soot and debris that the structural integrity of the chimney. Some clings to the inside of the flue, known as creosote. repairs can be made by patching up cracks or Inspect and replace the The amount of time the fireplace is used will deterreplacing missing bricks. Chimney tuckpointing mine how often the chimney must be cleaned. chimney cap if it is worn out is the process of repairing mortar.

Generally speaking, the chimney liner needs to be A chimney cap is a contraption that sits atop cleaned if it has 1Ăš8-inch or more of soot. the chimney to allow the smoke to vent while also Conduct a visual inspection Think about waterproofing Regular inspection and maintenance can help preventing critters and water from going inside the of the chimney to check for the chimney to prevent flue, helping to extend the flue life. The chimney keep a chimney working safely for decades. For cap attaches to the flue liner, so outside dimensions those who do not like working at such an elevaany cracks or spalling damage should be taken to ensure the cap is the right size tion, leave exterior chimney repair to a certified Spalling is the wearing away of masonry due A water sealant applied to the outside of the professional. for the chimney.

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OUTDOOR FALL HOME IMPROVEMENT

Steps for hanging holiday lights outdoors t begins to look a lot like Christmas when twinkling lights brighten up homes inside and out. Few things liven up the season more than holiday decorations, particularly clear and colored lights.

Prior to taking out the lights, ladder and thermos of coffee to get you through the job, it’s important to note that there are right and wrong ways to hang holiday lights.

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Sketch out your plan Start by taking a few photos of your home from various vantage points. Print out the photos on regular paper so that you can draw your lighting arrangement and decoration placement right on the photos to see how things will look.

Measure the area Use a measuring tape to roughly measure the width and height of eaves or other areas of the home where you plan to hang light strands. Calculate how much overall footage you will need so you can purchase all of the lights in one shopping trip.

Test the lights first

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Use plastic clips

Plug in the lights to be sure Plastic light clips hang strands all strands are operational. along eaves and gables.

They’re specially designed for hanging lights over the Begin where gutters. Some slip under the the lights will be edges of roof shingles. Lights can be hung without staples plugged in or nails, which can damage Start where the lights will be exterior surfaces. Plastic plugged in and then work your zip-ties or deck clips also can way around the house. attach lights along a handrail.

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Add to shrubs and trees

Exercise extreme Know the wattage Each outlet can genercaution

Lights also can adorn shrubs and trees. Lowes Home Improvement says a good rule of thumb is 100 lights for every 11.2-feet of tree or shrub to cover. A 6-foot evergreen needs at least 400 lights for a basic level of lighting.

Accidents can happen when stringing lights. While many professionals use harnesses, homeowners are not always so cautious. Utilize a spotter to hold the ladder and make sure things are safe. Never set foot on a wet or icy roof. Do not attempt to string lights in inclement weather.

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lights turn on and off even if homeowners forget.

ally hold about 17 amps or 1,870 watts if the lights are not Use only outdoor sharing a circuit with anoth- extension cords er outlet, says Parrish. Plan Be sure the extension cords accordingly to ensure you have you use are designed specifically enough power to handle your for outdoor use. lights.

Once lights have been safely strung, sit back and enjoy the Use a timer splendor of a well-decorated Timers can make sure the house. -Metro Creative Connection