COMMUNITY
EDUCATION
Macmurdo House added to Virginia Landmarks Register
HCPS counselor receives national recognition PAGE
2
PAGE
5
Vol. 6 No. 20 | Richmond Suburban News | January 13, 2021
Staffer explains procedures with getting vaccine
Chamber supports Christmas Mother
By Dave Lawrence Richmond Suburban News WARSAW – Thursday I got the jab – the first round, anyway. For those of you unfamiliar with British slang, what I mean to say is I got the first round of Moderna’s COVID19 vaccine. So far, other than a sore shoulder – that is much better as I write this Saturday – I feel fine. As an emergency medical technician who volunteers in King & Queen County, I was invited to join a throng of first responders from all across the
Metro Creative Connection
Three Rivers Health District – which includes Essex, Gloucester, King & Queen, King William, Lancaster, Mathews, Middlesex, Northumberland, Richmond and Westmoreland counties – who got the first of two shots needed to provide some immunity to COVID-19. see VACCINE, pg. 4
Photo submitted by Amanda Bosher Porcher
Chamber Nights at Illuminate, Dec. 8-10, was a safe and family-friendly way to celebrate the holiday season and give back to the community. Through the support of sponsors and those who purchased Illuminate tickets through the Hanover Chamber of Commerce, the organization presented the Hanover Christmas Mother with a check for $2,000 this year. The donation helped to provide toys, gifts, clothing and food to local families and seniors in need. Shown are 2020 Chamber Nights at Illuminate Sponsors: Ed Coleman and Tracy Haggerty of Cavalier Rifle & Pistol Club; Burnlie Montaigne the Hanover Christmas Mother; Kenny Janes of UBS Financial Services; Amanda Bosher Porch of Village Bank (Chamber Board president); and Tim Tsutsumi of Ai Technology Professionals. Fatmia Caldas of Fire Solutions also was involved in the event.
County Dems: Trump and Wittman need to resign after Capitol insurrection
Dave Lawrence, sports editor of The Mechanicsville Local and Ashland-Hanover Local and his security detail, Smoochie, sit in line in a drive-through COVID-19 vaccination clinic on Thursday, Jan. 7, at Richmond County EMS in Warsaw.
(Editor’s note: The following was submitted by Mary Anne Pugh, Ph.D., corresponding secretary, Hanover Democratic Committee.) The Hanover Democratic Committee adds its voice to those of Sen. Mark Warner and Sen. Tim Kaine along with many other Virginia leaders in asking for the removal of Donald Trump as President of the United States because of the insurrection in which he encouraged support-
Republican Party of Virginia chairman condemns actions at the U.S. Capitol. turn to page 4.
ers to carry out on Jan, 6. He invited his militant supporters to Washington, D.C., to block the Jan. 6 ceremonial counting of electoral votes certifying Joe Biden as the President-Elect of the United States and
Kamala Harris as Vice President-Elect. Donald Trump’s illegal and subversive actions in organizing a coup with extreme right-wing supporters such as the Proud Boys, whose sole purpose was to end democracy in the United States of America, proves that he is, in the words of the Declaration of Independence, “unfit to be the ruler of a free people.” This insur see RESIGN, pg. 4
Macmurdo House in Ashland added to state register
R
ICHMOND – The Macmurdo House, constructed by a railroad company treasurer in Historic Ashland, has been named to the Virginia Landmarks Register along with six other sites. In addition to the Macmurdo House, among those approved last month were two churches integral to Reconstruction-era Black settlements, the house of a James River canal lock builder, and a 1920s subdivision tied to the College of William & Mary. The commonwealth’s Board of Historic Resources approved the Virginia Landmarks Register (VLR) listings during its quarterly public meeting, which the Department of Historic Resources hosted but convened virtually due to the COVID pandemic. The VLR is the commonwealth’s official list of places of historic, architectural, archaeological, and cultural significance. When he was treasurer of the Richmond, Fredericksburg and Potomac Railroad Company as it developed Ashland, C.W. Macmurdo had a two-story, three-bay, frame house built on a 10-acre lot in 1858 to serve his extended family. The Macmurdo House remains one of the best examples of Greek Revival architecture — and one of the least altered mid-19th century
Submitted photo
The Macmurdo House in the historic district of the Town of Ashland has been added to the Virginia Landmarks Register.
dwellings — in Ashland. Among the earliest homes built in the new village, the Macmurdo House is one of the few Greek Revival residences standing in Ashland and Hanover County that was not “updated” with Italianate details after the Civil War. In 1937, the Macmurdo family sold the by-
Dehais named to McDaniel Dean's List WESTMINSTER, Maryland -- Madison Dehais of Montpelier has been recognized for outstanding academic achievement by being named to the McDaniel College Fall 2020 Dean's List with Highest Honors. Highest honors are
earned for a semester grade point average of 3.90 or higher, high honors for a grade point average of 3.70 to 3.89, and honors for a 3.50 to 3.69 grade point average. For more information about McDaniel College, visit www.mcdaniel.edu.
then two-thirds of an acre property. The original house, along with its late-19th century rear addition, a 1920s garage, and sensitive additions of modern mechanical systems, represent several generations of the Macmurdo family, who actively developed Ashland, witnessed the Civil War at their doorstep, and tran-
Tax Relief for elderly and disabled signup available
HANOVER -- Hanover County makes real estate tax relief available for residents who are elderly or permanently disabled and who have a net worth of $200,000 or less, and combined household gross income of $52,500 or less. The application period for the upcoming year begins Jan. 4, 2021. The deadline is March 1, 2021, for the relief to be applied to the tax bills due (first half) on Andrea Lindgren named to Dean's List June 5, 2021. Applicants must be 65 years old or ROME, Georgia -- demic average of 3.5 or better permanently disabled and must own or Andrea Lindgren of Ashland on a 4.0 scale while carrying partially own the property and have lived was named to the Fall 2020 a class load of at least 12 in it on Dec. 31. If the applicant is in a hours during the semester. Dean's List at Berry College. hospital or extended care facility, he or she For more information, The Dean's List honors may still qualify as long as the house is not students who posted an aca- visit www.berry.edu. rented or leased. The $200,000 net worth figure does not include the value of the house and up to 10 acres around it. ASHLAND – The County Social Services at The home’s owners can have a comHanover County Department 12304 Washington Hwy. in bined gross annual income of up to of Social Services will meet Ashland. $52,500 and still qualify. The income of The meeting is open to the relatives living in the home is counted at 3:30 p.m. on Jan. 26 in the Conference Room of Hanover public. except for the first $10,000 of the relative’s
Social Services meeting announced
2
Ashland-Hanover Local January 13, 2021
sitioned to the postwar Reconstruction Era and early 20 century modernization. The Department of Historic Resources will forward the documentation for these newly listed VLR sites to the National Park Service for nomination to the National Register of Historic Places. Listing a property in the state or national registers is honorary and sets no restrictions on what property owners may do with their property. The designation is foremost an invitation to learn about and experience authentic and significant places in Virginia’s history. Designating a property to the state or national registers — either individually or as a contributing building in a historic district — provides an owner the opportunity to pursue historic rehabilitation tax credit improvements to the building. Tax credit projects must comply with the Secretary of Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation. Virginia is a national leader among states in listing historic sites and districts on the National Register of Historic Places. The state also is a national leader for the number of federal tax credit rehabilitation projects proposed and completed each year.
income, which is exempted. If an applicant qualifies for 100% tax relief, they pay no real property taxes on that qualified parcel. The discount percentage is based on a sliding scale of the total income. About 1,276 households currently participate in Hanover County’s tax relief for the elderly and disabled program. The average tax savings is about $1,200 for those households; about 35% of the participating households pay no county real estate tax at all as a result of the program. Because of this program, qualifying Hanover County residents had their real estate taxes reduced by about $1.5 million last year. Disabled applicants must provide certification of disability. This can be a statement from the Social Security Administration, a statement from the Veterans Administration, a statement from the Railroad Retirement Board or a sworn affidavit from two (2) medical doctors. Once an application is on file, only
an affidavit is needed for the following two (2) years, unless there is a significant change in income or net worth. A new application is necessary only every third year. All information on the application is confidential and is not open to public inspection. Remember, applicants must sign up by March 1, 2021 for the relief to be applied to the real estate tax bills that will be sent out later this spring and which are due (first half) on June 5, 2021. “This is a great program designed to help those taxpayers who most need the help,” said Scott Harris, Hanover’s Commissioner of the Revenue. “We invite all residents who think they might qualify to call our office.” To apply, call the Commissioner of the Revenue at 804-365-6128. If you have computer access, application forms also can be downloaded from www.hanovercounty.gov. Information submitted by Tom Harris, Hanover County public information officer.
SHERIFF’S REPORTS | Crime, Accidents, Fire & Rescue Dec. 31
Destruction of property, monument, was reported in the 11600 block of Lakeridge Parkway, Ashland. Assault and battery of a family member was reported in the 7300 block of Jackson Arch Drive, Mechanicsville.
Simple assault was reported in the 16600 block of Mountain Road, Montpelier.
Grand larceny, $500 or more not from a person, was reported in the 8000 block of Antique Lane, Mechanicsville.
Assault and battery of a family member was reported in the 16800 block of Mountain Road, Montpelier.
Threat to extort money was reported in the 9000 block of Hopkins Branch Way, Mechanicsville.
Assault and battery of a family member was reported in the 7300 block of Harvest Lane, Mechanicsville.
Identity fraud use of identifying information to defraud was reported in the 16100 block of Point Beverly Court, Montpelier.
Petit larceny, $500 not from a person, was reported in the 19200 block of Landora Bridge Road, Ruther Glen.
Assault and battery of a family member was reported in the 8200 block of South Mayfield Lane, Mechanicsville.
Jan. 1
Stolen goods: Buy/ receive, larceny, $200, was reported in the 8500 block of Richfood Road/ Chamberlayne Road, Mechanicsville.
ID theft ID to defraud, $200, was reported in the 11200 block of Ashland Park Drive, Ashland.
DWI, 2nd offense in 5 years, was reported in the 9100 block of Old Oaklawn Drive/Studley Road, Mechanicsville.
Concealment, price altering merchandise, $500, was reported in the 10100 block of Lewistown Road, Ashland.
Concealment, price altering merchandise, $500, was reported in the 7400 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.
Reckless handling of firearm was reported in the 9100 block of Knight Drive, Mechanicsville. Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 5500 lock o Anderson-Wright Drive, Mechanicsville. Assault and battery of a family member was reported in the 8200 block of Carter Lane, Mechanicsville.
Jan. 2
Brandishing firearm was reported in the 7500 block of Mechanicsville Byway/ Cold Harbor Road to Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville. Driver did not report an accident with damages, $250, in the 10200 block of Washington Highway/ Sliding Hill Road, Glen Allen.
Petit larceny building was reported in the 6400 block of McCauley Lane, Mechanicsville.
Concealment, price altering merchandise, $500, was reported in the 7400 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.
Petit larceny shoplifting was reported in the 7400 block of Bell Creek Lane, Mechanicsville.
Embezzlement, $200, was reported in the 7400 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.
Petit larceny building was reported in the 7200 block of Fairview Drive, Mechanicsville.
Simple assault was reported in the 7400 block of Sandy Lane, Mechanicsville.
Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 7200 block of Battle hill Drive, Mechanicsville.
Assault and battery of a family member was reported in the 7300 block of Travelers Way, Mechanicsville.
Convenience centers offer Christmas tree recycling HANOVER -- Through Sunday, Jan. 31, Hanover County residents can recycle Christmas trees free of charge at any Hanover County Trash and Recycling Convenience Center during normal operat-
ing hours (7 a.m. to 7 p.m. each day except when the county is closed). All decorations and tree stands must be removed prior to recycling. The county’s solid waste
Jan. 3
Trespassing on private property was reported in the 8300 block of Eagle Drive, Mechanicsville.
Destruction of property, monument, was reported in the 5400 block of McClellan Road, Mechanicsville.
Concealment, price altering merchandise, $500, was reported in the 7400 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.
Assault and battery of a family member was reported in the 12100 block of Loblolly Lane, Rockville.
Unlawful bodily injury was reported in the 11300 block of Air Park Road, Ashland.
Assault and battery of a family member as reported in the 7200 block of Garden Park Lane, Mechanicsville.
746-5853 WE WANT TO BE YOUR PLUMBER
the
Locals h ice
C
VOTE NOW New this year... vote online! Richmond.com/The-Locals-Choice
If you have Medicare questions, I can still help! Through COVID-19 and beyond, meeting your Medicare needs is what drives us at Humana. We can answer your questions and review your Medicare coverage options with careful consideration. This can be done over the phone to help you stay healthy and safe.
Call a licensed sales agent
KEITH MAYO 804-349-4744 (TTY: 711) kmayo@humana.com Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
centers will be closed on Monday, Jan. 18, in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Information submitted by Tom Harris, Hanover County public information officer.
Ashland-Hanover Local January 13, 2021 3
Republican Party of Virginia chairman condemns actions (Editor’s note: The following was submitted on Wednesday, Jan. 6, by Richard L. Anderson, chairman, Republican Party of Virginia.) Today, the American people witnessed unspeakable, disturbing, and horrifying acts of violence at the seat of national government of the greatest nation the world has ever known. As chairman of the Republican Party of Virginia, I condemn in the strongest possible terms those who have today employed violence, breached the security of our nation’s capital, and defied our law enforcement heroes and others in positions of authority. They neither represent nor speak for the Republican Party of Virginia, our fellow citi-
zens, or any civilized people. They do not reflect our views, our values, or the Republican Creed. I and Virginia Republicans across our great Commonwealth condemn these despicable acts without reservation or hesitation. As one who was privileged to wear the Air Force uniform of a great nation for 30 years and witnessed firsthand the corrosive effects of acts of national violence in other countries, I am disturbed beyond measure by today’s events on Capitol Hill. The God-given and Constitutionally-protected right of peaceful assembly and protest must be preserved, protected, and defended at all costs — but we as free citizens must be equally quick to
condemn any and all acts of violence and hatred wherever and whenever they occur. We are a nation of laws, not of men. In that spirit, the Republican Party of Virginia calls on all citizens who are present on Capitol Hill to obey law enforcement personnel, respect the laws of our land, withdraw from Capitol Hill, and restore peace to the hallowed ground that is our nation’s capital. Today of all days is when we must answer to the better angels of our nature. Thank you to those law-abiding citizens who today respected the laws of our land, and may God bless and keep our brave law enforcement personnel who today defended the seat of our national legislature.
HANOVER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS
JOB FAIR! 4
Ashland-Hanover Local January 13, 2021
VACCINE Continued from pg. 1
When I got the invitation, I wasted no time RSVPing “Yes!” On the appointed day, I jumped in my car with my security detail (a mutt named “Smoochie”) and headed up to Warsaw where the drive-thru vaccination clinic was being held. Despite news reports of vaccine hesitation among health care workers – which is, unfortunately, a real phenomenon – I found a long line of vehicles – people – waiting to get vaccinated, many of them official vehicles representing the EMS and law enforcement organizations from the counties that comprise the Three Rivers District. Among them that day were at least two members of my rescue squad, including JJ, my driver for my shift later that evening. Prior to the event, I was sent a registration form and a pre-vaccination screening
form. I filled out both before I left, which sped up the process once I got near the front of the line. Given that the event was for first responders only, I was asked to present my credentials. I did not think to bring my rescue squad badge or identification card, but I did have my EMT credentials, which sufficed. The wait to get to the front of the line was long, but it was encouraging to see so many of my fellow first responders doing the right thing. The volunteers and staff were doing their best to keep the line moving, but it does help to be patient – a task easier for me than for my excited, whining co-pilot with the whipsawwagging tail. As I was about to reach the front, a Virginia Medical Reserve Corps volunteer took my paperwork, verified my identity and screening information. He filed the forms I brought and returned with a card containing my vaccina-
tion record. DO NOT LOSE THAT RECORD! The record is vital. Given that both the Moderna and Pfizer/BioNTech vaccines consist of a series of two shots, one will need the record of the first shot to get the second. The card lists the date of the vaccination(s), the type of vaccination – Moderna for me – and list the date the cardholder should return for the second round. The volunteer also offered information about v-safe, a post-vaccination health monitoring tool produced by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Given that the development of the COVID19 vaccines was expedited, the v-safe tool will provide the CDC valuable information about side effects. When it came time to get the shot, my biggest challenge was to relax my left arm – the see VACCINE, pg. 7
Substitute Teacher Substitute Instructional Assistant Substitute Nurse Wednesday, January 20, 2021 3PM - 5PM Cochrane Rockville Branch Library Rockville Meeting Room 16600 Pouncey Tract Road Rockville, VA 23146
For more information, please call 365-4500 or visit www.schooljobs.com/careers/hcps to view job descriptions and submit online applications
Hanover-Caroline SWCD offers 3 $5,000 scholarships Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com
Three 2021 scholarship opportunities are available to Hanover and Caroline County high school seniors through the Hanover-Caroline Soil and Water Conservation District and the Virginia Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts (VASWCD). The Hanover-Caroline SWCD announces three (3) $5,000 scholarships to be awarded to outstanding high school seniors in Hanover and Caroline counties. One scholarship will be awarded specifically to one outstanding senior
in Hanover County, one to an outstanding senior in Caroline County, and one scholarship is competitive between students in the two counties.
Applicants should demonstrate an interest in conservation issues, be college-bound, pursue a field of conservation-related study and rank in the top 20% of their class. The VA S WC D Educational Foundation
awards four (4) $1,000 scholarships on a statewide basis to aid students who wish to pursue studies in a conservation or an environmentally related field. An applicant may be either a graduating senior ranking in the top 20% of the class or a college freshman. Deadline for both scholarship submissions is Feb. 22. For instructions and applications for either or both of these scholarships, visit the District website at https://www.hanovercounty.gov/997/Forms-andPublications or contact Karen Fetty at kifetty@hanovercounty.gov.
HCPS counselor receives national recognition ASHLAND – Shannon Edwards, the career counselor at Atlee High School and Patrick Henry High School, has been recognized nationally by winning the 2020 Association for Career and Technical Education Counseling and Career Development School Counselor of the Year. The honor was announced at the National ACTE Vision Conference in December. The award recognizes school counselors and career development professionals who demonstrate a commitment to connecting students with opportunities for success while exhibiting innovation in career exploration and development, and advocate for career and technical education as a viable option for all students. Edwards co-facilitates the schools’ scholarship committee and also works every day to provide career counseling and job search coaching to students. She also coordinates higher education and military
Photo submitted by Chris R. Whitley
Shannon Edwards, the career counselor at Atlee High School and Patrick Henry High School, is the winner of the 2020 Association for Career and Technical Education Counseling and Career Development School Counselor of the Year.
visits to Atlee High School and Patrick Henry High School, connects students with internship opportunities, and helps students explore their career choices. “This is an incredible honor to me. Every day that I walk into Atlee and Patrick Henry
high schools I feel both blessed and tremendous gratitude to have the opportunity to support our wonderful students and families,” Edwards said. “As a school counselor/career counselor, I am beyond proud of this recognition. I am thankful to be a part of our amazing Hanover School counseling team and am fortunate to be surrounded by colleagues that inspire me to go above and beyond every day for our students.” “Shannon Edwards is a role model for what a school counselor should embody. Her creativity and dedication to her job takes her program to the next level,” said Karla Allen, HCPS coordinator of Counseling Services. “Shannon’s work with college and career opportunities for her students and community provides equity and access to all, especially in this current virtual environment. I could not be prouder of Shannon for this award that highlights see EDWARDS, pg. 9
Hanover Old Courthouse tours Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com HANOVER— "Hear Ye, Hear Ye ... the Hanover County Historical Society is pleased to announce that the Old Courthouse are open for tours from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. with Society Docents, and continue as originally scheduled for the second Tuesday of each month. Please come prepared and observe the protocols for facial coverings (masks) and social distancing. ... and just in time for the upcoming holiday season. Pass the word, join us, and welcome back!! See you there!"
P R I VAT E R E N TA L S A VA I L A B L E FOR SMALL GROUPS M O R E I N F O : 8 0 4 - 4 0 1-7 0 0 7
Advertise in Ashland-Hanover Local Call 746-1235 for details. Ashland-Hanover Local January 13, 2021 5
OPINION | The Local Views From the managing editor
Attack on U.S. Capitol sparks tears, fear and anger By Melody Kinser Managing Editor urreal. That was the word that kept running through my mind last Wednesday as I watched what will go down in history as one of our nation’s worst days ever. I felt paralyzed as I tried to absorb what I was seeing taking place. What has happened to the civility and decorum that we as Americans, as well as other countries, are accustomed to seeing? Appalled and heartbroken best described my feelings when people dressed like they were going to a football game to support their favorite team breached the security of those hallowed halls. That was not the United States
S
LETTERS | Reader Views
County Democrats: avalanche of emotions on Jan. 6 Jan. 6 brought an avalanche of emotions to Hanover Democrats: joy for the election of Georgians Raphael Warnock and Jon Ossoff to the U.S. Senate and hope for the return to the
of America that our Founding Fathers fought to establish. Incomprehensible. Can you imagine the fear of our elected officials as these out of control supporters of President Trump damaged the Capitol while they were sheltered in place? Wasn’t any consideration given to the families of the members of the U.S. Senate and U.S. House of Representatives? After the certification process for PresidentElect Joe Biden resumed, Sen. Mitt Romney, R-Utah, mentioned his grandchildren and their concerns for him. The same was true for all those members that had been hurried out of the chambers where they were doing the work of the people, as in us.
rule of law in a Biden/Harris administration. This was quickly followed by horror and despair at the loss of life and desecration of the Capitol by loyalists to Donald Trump. What we did not feel about the events in D.C. was surprise. Trump has a long history of dehumanizing those who disagree with him and inciting violence against them. He has told rally-goers that he would cover their legal expenses if they punched the press or protestors.
Editorial & Business Office and Mailing Address: 8460 Times-Dispatch Blvd. Mechanicsville, VA 23116 Phone – (804) 746-1235 Toll free – (877) 888-0449 Fax – (804) 344-8746 Online: www.mechlocal.com
Publisher Managing Editor Production Manager Sports Editor Sales Representative Classifieds
6
Joy Monopoli
jmonopoli@rsnva.com
Melody Kinser
mkinser@mechlocal.com
Denine D’Angelo
ddangelo@mechlocal.com
David Lawrence
dlawrence@mechlocal.com
Tom Haynie
thaynie@mechlocal.com
Cindy Adams
cadams@mechlocal.com
Ashland-Hanover Local January 13, 2021
A business call to a colleague started with her breaking down in tears when she heard my voice. I asked if she was OK -- not sure if she was ill or something happened to a family member. She responded through the pain, “I can’t believe what’s happening to our country.” I support peaceful protests, but what we saw last week took an ugly and dangerous turn. How disrespectful to have seen people smirking and behaving like adolescents in seats of honor for those selected by their fellow members. We’re better than this and, hopefully, while Biden and Vice President-Elect Kamala Harris face significant challenges as they assume the nation’s two top offices, I still have faith in the majority of our fellow Americans.
He encouraged law enforcement officers to mistreat citizens they had in custody and told the Neo-Fascist Proud Boys, “to stand back and stand by”. Simultaneously, he laid the foundation for the “Big Lie”. Even before his first election he posed the idea, contrary to all evidence, that if he lost it would be because of voter fraud. Well before any vote was cast in the November election he sowed doubt about election integrity and when he lost he escalated those complaints into
This is being written on Thursday and my heart hurts as I listen to the stories of what our leaders encountered. Allies on the global stage reacted and responded as they too watched what was happening in Washington, D.C. Their support is vital to our successful future. At some point Wednesday evening, the thought crossed my mind about the election that was held on Tuesday, Jan. 5, in Georgia. With Confederate-draped participants in the assault on the Capitol, I wondered if they were aware that a Black and a Jew were joining the U.S. Senate, which is now at 50/50 with Harris being the tie-breaker. Many prayers are being said, so I’ll close with God bless the USA.
contorted conspiracy theories. Trump-appointed judges laughed his cases out of their courts, Republican state officials certified their results as legitimate and Trump loyalist, then-Attorney General Bill Barr, among many others, said there was no evidence of widespread election fraud. In early December, Trump invited supporters who believed the Big Lie to come to Washington on the day Congress was to certify the Electoral College vote for Joe Biden saying, “Be there, will be wild.” He encouraged
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 © 2021 by Richmond Suburban Newspapers. All advertising and editorial matter is fully protected and may not be reproduced in any manner without the permission of the publisher. CAC Audited Circulation: 13,776.
them to be armed. They did show up, armed with pipe bombs, Molotov cocktails, guns, flex cuffs, and tear gas, at a rally on Wednesday where Rudy Giuliani said the country needs “trial by combat” and Trump harangued those who refused to buy the Big Lie, including Vice President Mike Pence. Trump lit the match by telling the group to march with him to the Capitol, saying, “We fight like hell, if you don’t fight like hell you’re not going have a country anymore”. For hours after the violence began, he refused to condemn it, refused to ask his mob to disperse, and rebuffed requests to call in the National Guard. When he did speak, he praised the insurrectionists. No, Hanover Democrats were not surprised at the violence Trump unleashed, but we are deeply disappointed by the behavior of our congressman, Rob Wittman (R-1). Our members have repeatedly asked him to speak out against Trump inciting violence against us. Wittman has refused, even going to great lengths to promote the Big see LETTERS, pg. 7
RESIGN Continued from pg. 1
rection resulted in the deaths of five people, including a U.S. Capitol policeman, endangered our elected lawmakers, destroyed property throughout the building, desecrated one of Democracy’s greatest symbols, and breached our national security. The mass hysteria of conspiracy theories with unsubstantiated claims of voter-fraud has led to confusion in and distrust of the democratic process. Through his actions,
VACCINE Continued from pg. 4
one about to receive the jab – while tensing my right arm as I tried to keep a very exited pit bull mix out of the way. Both the Moderna and Pfizer/BioNTech vaccines have been through Phase III trials and have been found to be both safe and effective, but, as with all pharmaceuticals, being safe does not mean zero risk of adverse effects. Among the more serious – but rare – effects are allergic reactions leading to anaphylactic shock. Providing accurate answers during screening and abiding by a requirement to stick around for 15 minutes after getting the shot minimize the chance of a serious allergic outcome. I took advantage of the wait to let Smoochie out of the car so that she could burn off some excess doggie energy.
LETTERS Continued from pg. 6
Lie through his signature on a Supreme Court case that, if successful, would have disenfranchised millions of voters, and his Quixotic challenge to other state’s certification of their election results. In contrast, we were impressed with U.S. Sen. Mitch Romney’s (R-Utah) speech on
Donald Trump has proven himself unable to serve. There also is concern about his judgment and ability to carry out the basic duties of the President. This country needs a peaceful transition of power at the inauguration of President-Elect Joe Biden on Jan. 20. In addition to the removal of Donald Trump, the Hanover Democratic Committee is calling for the resignation of First District Congressman Rob Wittman and all of those who made an effort to block the cer-
tification of Biden and Harris. This group of Congressmen aided in turning a largely ceremonial event into a catastrophe. The storming of the Capitol was a traitorous event that should never happen again. We feel unsafe with Trump in the White House, and we feel that our Congressman has not shown himself able to carry out the duties he swore to uphold. Our country deserves to have leaders who are willing to serve and protect us from insurrection, not promote it.
According to a November article in the journal Science, about 2% of vaccine recipients in vaccine trials developed severe fevers of 102 degrees or higher. Reported severe side effects of the Moderna vaccine include fatigue (9.7% of trial participants), muscle pain (8.9%), joint pain (5.2%), and headache (4.5%). Rates of severe side effects are a bit lower for the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine. The main effect I experienced was moderate soreness in my shoulder. It was noticeable, but not limiting. I also needed a catnap while at the rescue squad later that night – but the trigger for that was more likely my advancing age than the vaccine. As long as the virus is freely circulating in the population, it will have a chance to mutate into more infectious and/or
more virulent strains. We’re already seeing evidence of that with the more infectious strains that have emerged in the United Kingdom and in South Africa. The only way to contain the virus – and get our lives back to something approaching normal – we need to stop transmission of the virus, and the only way to reliably do that is to achieve a herd immunity of at least two-thirds of the population according to several recent studies. The safest way to achieve that, according to a study published in September in Nature Reviews Immunology, is with an effective vaccine like the two (so far in the U.S.) that we have now. Dave Lawrence is sports editor of The Mechanicsville Local and Ashland-Hanover Local. He can be reached at dlawrence@mechlocal.com.
Wednesday on the Senate floor when he said, “What happened here today was an insurrection, incited by the President of the United States. Those who choose to continue to support his dangerous gambit by objecting to the results of a legitimate, democratic election will forever be seen as being complicit in an unprecedented attack against our democracy.
They will be remembered for their role in this shameful episode in American history. That will be their legacy ... The best way we can show respect for the voters who are upset is by telling them the truth. That is the burden and duty of leadership.
We work to keep the power on, lend a hand where needed, care for the environment, and improve our neighborhoods. We’re wired to make a difference.
#WeAreREC
www.myrec.coop 1-800-552-3904
see LETTERS, pg. 8
Ashland-Hanover Local January 13, 2021 7
Town of Ashland celebrates ribbon cutting of new Tru Hotel by Hilton
Photos submitted by Joe Topham
Mural at the Tru Hotel by Hilton above ribbon cutting by at right.
Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com
A
SHLAND -- On Wednesday, Jan. 6, members of Ashland Town Council and the Town of Ashland Economic Development Authority (EDA) celebrated the ribbon cutting of the Ashland Tru Hotel by Hilton located at 101 North Carter Rd. This project was a partnership between the Ashland Town Council, EDA, and KM Hotels, who worked together to bring one of the first Tru Hotels to the region. “On behalf of the Town of Ashland and my fellow council members, I am very pleased to welcome Tru Hotel to our community”, said Ashland Mayor Steve Trivett. “This new hotel is a beautiful example of what can happen through partnership here in town and I am excited to see the impact this new hotel will have for our town. Many thanks to Mr. [Mayur] Patel and the team at KM Hotels for their investment in Ashland and best wishes for a great many happy guest
stays here at the Center of the Universe!” The addition of the 97-room hotel at the northwest corner of Interstate 95 and England Street (State Route 54) represents a dramatic shift in appearance of the site, which had previously housed a dilapidated vacant restaurant. In 2016, Ashland Town Council and the EDA decided to strategically target this area for redevelopment efforts and adopted a pair of incentive programs, which aimed to fill unused or underutilized spaces with new hotels or restaurants amidst competition from the north and south of greenfield sites. This project was the first to take advantage of the Town of Ashland EDA’s Interstate 95 Hotel Incentive policy, which provides up to $550,000 in shared Transient Occupancy Tax revenues over the course of 6 years to help offset the cost of acquisition and demolition on sites, which are underutilized at the Interstate 95 interchange. “As a town we have limited space in our interstate corridor and making the most of this space is a strategic goal of the Ashland EDA”,
said Tim Shelton, chair. “We were very pleased to have the opportunity to work with Mr. Patel and his team to bring this Tru Hotel to Ashland. This beautiful hotel serves as a new gateway that gives travelers another reason to stop, stay, shop and dine in our community, and transforms a vacant site into an active part of our local economy.” Hilton launched the Tru brand in 2016 with the promise of providing guests a simplified and spirited stay, rooted in value. The brand is modern and functional, offering social connectivity with reimagined public spaces, including an open lobby comprised of four areas where guests can work, play, lounge, and eat. Business
Virtual programs continue at Hanover area libraries Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com HANOVER – Librarian Carolyn Garner has released the list of upcoming virtual programs being offered at the Pamunkey Regional Library.
Virtual Programs on Zoom Atlee Virtual Book Club – 11 a.m. to noon Wednesday, Jan. 13. Join us to discuss "Map of the Heart" by Susan Wiggs. Stop by your local branch library to pick up a copy or place one on hold or download it from hoopla as an ebook or audiobook.
8
Registration is required at https://pamunkeylibrary.libcal.com/event/7342301. This program is hosted virtually through Zoom and the meeting link will be sent to the email registered one day before the event occurs. For more information or if you have a special physical or communication need, contact ask@pamunkeylibrary.org. Kids' Lego Club – 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 22, for grades K-5. Meet other Lego fans and talk about your current creations. You can show off what you’ve made and ask questions too. Registration required at https://pamunkeylibrary.libcal. com/event/7336663. This program is hosted
Ashland-Hanover Local January 13, 2021
and leisure travelers alike appreciate the smaller, more modern, and efficiently designed guestrooms with oversized windows for natural light. Tru is among the fastest growing hotel brands with only 210 open locations and another 280 hotels in the pipeline-- making the Tru by Hilton Ashland among the first in Virginia. "KM Hotels is proud to be part of the revitalization taking place in this corridor of Ashland”, said KM President and CEO Mayur Patel, “We would like to thank the Town of Ashland and the Economic Development Authority for their support and tireless efforts that made this day possible.”
LETTERS Continued from pg. 7
virtually through Zoom. For more information, or if you have a special physical or The truth is that Presidentcommunication need, contact ask@pamun- Elect Biden won this eleckeylibrary.org. tion.” Rob Wittman failed the Virtual Teen Cat Café – 4:30 to 5:30 burden of leadership. p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 26, for ages 11 to 18. The truth is that Joe Biden Hey, teens, show off your pets at our virtual won in a fair and democratcat café. Registration is required at https:// ic election and Trump and pamunkeylibrary.libcal.com/event/7336636. This virtual program is hosted through Wittman are abetting sediZoom and the meeting link will be sent to tion. Hanover Democratic the email registered one day before the event Committee occurs. For more information, or if you have Mary Anne Pugh, Ph.D. a special physical or communication need, Corresponding Secretary see LIBRARY, pg. 16
Intersection leads to alternate plan I reference the response to my letter of Nov. 11 from the Charles Waddell. The meeting I attended had more than a number of citizens! The turnout was more like 80 to 100 very concerned citizens. They were there because they all are impacted daily by see LETTERS, pg. 9
2020: Good, bad and . . . year By Jim Ridolphi Contributing Columnist Saying goodbye to 2020 might be the easiest task many of us have performed in months. Perhaps, a prolonged historical analysis will look back on the end of the second decade of the new millennium with more kindness than those who actually survived what some are calling the roughest year of their lives. I haven’t dived deep enough into my failing memory to decipher if that’s the case or not, but there’s no doubt that 75% of the year may be best not remembered, and few are lamenting the loss of another year on the calendar. It seemed like optimistic resolutions usually associated with the traditional ball drop were sadly missing in this year’s
EDWARDS Continued from pg. 5
her work and takes Hanover County Public Schools career programs to the national level for recognition.” Edwards, a Virginia Tech and Virginia Commonwealth University alumna, has served Hanover County students since 2017. She came to educa-
LETTERS Continued from pg. 8
the traffic from the Lee-Davis Road intersection to Creighton Road and beyond! To those in attendance, most find it difficult enough to avoid the area on the way to and from work. They use periphery and secondary roads -- a few I named in the Nov. 11 letter -- that are already overloaded and with the growth in King William County they say “Please, not
socially distanced celebrations. And, for many of us, staying up until midnight didn’t seem that important this year, opting instead for a good movie instead of watching network hosts trying much too hard to be funny and whimsical. It seemed as if the end of 2020 Saying goodbye to 2020 might be the easiest task many of us have performed in months. Perhaps, a prolonged historical analysis will look back on the end of the second decade of the new millennium with more kindness than those who actually survived what some are calling the roughest year of their lives. I haven’t dived deep enough into my failing memory to decipher if that’s the case or not, but there’s no doubt that 75% of the year may be best not remembered, and few are
lamenting the loss of another year on the calendar. It seemed like optimistic resolutions usually associated with the traditional ball drop were sadly missing in this year’s socially distanced celebrations. And, for many of us, staying up until midnight didn’t seem that important this year, opting instead for a good movie instead of watching network hosts trying much too hard to be funny and whimsical. It seemed as if the end of 2020 closely mirrored what came before, and closing the year with a bang seemed somehow inappropriate this year. A single bottle rocket that sounded as ill as our country marked midnight in our neighborhood, a barely heard whimper denoting the end of another orbit. I thought the
tion after a career as a pharmaceutical sales representative. She felt drawn to a job that allowed her to help others, particularly students. “School Counseling/Career Counseling is the perfect fit for me. It took me several years to discover this, which is why I feel drawn to helping students explore their interests early on,” Edwards said. “Although,
choosing a career field isn’t a perfect science, having information and knowledge about a particular career area allows you to make more well-informed decisions about your future.” The Virginia Chapter of ACTE nominated her for her career counseling work and for building a Counseling and Career Development Division with Virginia ACTE.
now, Hanover!” Well, Hanover has responded! Without economic lessons from Mr. Waddell on how developments are funded, facts of which our county is well aware of, they have decided to come up with an alternate decision! With hard work from Michael Herzberg, the Cold Harbor District supervisor, this plan is not going forward. He has met with the key people and the new plan will basically not add significant
traffic to an already loaded series of roads! I am sure if you haven’t already heard, Michael will be glad to share what the Hanover County Board of Supervisors will approve. Many thanks to all who attended and responded, and a special thanks to Larry Page of Mechanicsville Honda for his decision to hold a citizens meeting at his facility and not to move forward with his project. Paul Thiel Mechanicsville
H G U O , N E RE! A BIG SERVTE C O TO GH
OU N E LL SMA
O R P
E N PA
5 3 2 4-3 5 5 ) 4 0 (8
see 2020, pg. 15
Special Offer!
$25 OFF YOUR FIRST PROPANE DELIVERY* * Minimum of 150 gallons; Not valid with any other offer or on previous purchases.
CHECK OUT ANY ONE OF OUR 1000s OF ONLINE REVIEWS! O CONNECT:
VISIT:
WWW.ASKWOODFIN.COM/propane Ashland-Hanover Local January 13, 2021 9
Sports
UPCOMING EVENTS
01
13 2021
Boys basketball: Hanover at Atlee 7:15 p.m.
01
13 2021
Boys basketball: Patrick Henry at Mechanicsville 7:15 p.m.
| Youth, High School, College, Recreational & Professional
Old touch, new tech part of Raceway’s, fans’ future By Dave Lawrence Sports Editor MECHANICSVILLE – Heading into a new millennium, NASCAR was riding high. Attendance was growing, racetracks were increasing seating capacity, and the sky seemed to be the limit for growth as NASCAR made its bid to become America’s sport. The new millennium brought a massive recession that stalled what had been steady growth in the sports industry. New technologies became widespread, and a generation gap opened in the types of entertainment sports fans sought. Last year a pandemic swept the globe, making it even more of a challenge for those involved in the sports industry to put on a show. But, as Richmond Raceway celebrates its 75th anniversary this year, raceway President Dennis Bickmeier and his staff had learned and adapted – and are ready to continue to adapt – to the challenges. One of the recent innovations that became especially important last year was iRacing. While last year’s spring races
10
LOOKING FORWARD: Part two of a series.
at Richmond were cancelled because of the pandemic, the track was featured in an iRacing event that was broadcast on television. Such events help lure the gamer generation. “The Esports and the virtual racing has been a really good entree to attract and get in front of a younger audience,” Bickmeier said. “I think that’s definitely something that you’ve got to keep going, you know. You’re in that space and you’re starting to build a following in that space, and it’s important to keep that going.” Richmond Raceway held a number of virtual events to keep fans engaged during what would have been the spring race weekend. When it became evident that they would have to have real fall races, but without fans, they applied the lessons learned in the spring to include the fans in the fall events. Bickmeier and company are hoping that fans will be present Joel Klein for The Local
see RACEWAY, pg. 11
Ashland-Hanover Local January 13, 2021
Young stars like reigning Cup champion Chase Elliott draw younger fans to NASCAR, but new technologies will also help.
RACEWAY Continued from pg. 10
for the raceway’s 2021 events. “Our hope is that we can all get beyond this and start welcoming fans back,” Bickmeier said. “But it’s our job to plan, so we’re just looking at a lot of scenarios first and foremost because we’re hoping we can celebrate our 75th in person with our fans.” Whether they can welcome fans in person or not, social media will play a substantial role in the 75th anniversary celebration. “A lot of our efforts during our 75th will be generated through our social media channels,” Bickmeier said. “As we count down the 75 top moments in Richmond Raceway history, there will a lot of engagement through our social channels. As we ask fans to tell us stories, those stories will come in through our social channels.” A significant portion of NASCAR’s fans grew up in the times before cell phones. While many older Americans
have crossed the digital divide, Bickmeier and staff remain mindful of those still on the other side. “One of the really good advantages that we have is that over the years … we’ve gotten better at knowing our consumers – in some respects, knowing them personally, building relationships with them,” Bickmeier said. “We have opportunities to engage fans through the mail and the old-fashioned way – the telephone.” NASCAR and Richmond Raceway are trying to build its fan base in other ways – For example, NASCAR formed a partnership with WynnBET, a division of Wynn Resorts – to establish a sports betting partnership and are seeking a license to operate in Virginia. “It’s not for everybody, I understand that,” Bickmeier said. “But, overall as an industry just like other sports, it is an opportunity for a different kind of engagement with consumers.” Dave Lawrence can be reached at dlawrence@mechlocal.com.
Dave Lawrence/The Local
Richmond Raceway officials hope fans will be able to return to wander Pit Road and the midway for the track’s 75th anniversary.
Jenkins to VMI
Rice joins Keydets
Dave Lawrence/The Local
A throng of fans waits in line for a chance to get autographs from Richard Petty and Richard Petty Motorsports drivers Marcus Ambrose and Aric Almirola at Richmond Raceway on Friday, April 25, 2014. This is the kind of fan engagement raceway and NASCAR officials would like to get back to in 2021. Rob Witham for The Local
CORRECTION: A photo in the Dec. 30 edition of the Local, “Lutton to Radford,” incorrectly identified the sport Mechanicsville High
School senior Lilly Lutton will be playing at Radford University. Lutton will be playing women’s lacrosse, not softball. We regret the error.
Cole Jenkins (seated, center) commits to play baseball at Virginia Military Institute in a signing ceremony at Lee-Davis High School on Feb. 5. He is joined by (clockwise, from left): his grandmother, Sandra Crouch; his grandfather Smokey Crouch; his sisters Ashlyn and Gracie Jenkins; his cousin Gabe Jenkins; his aunt, Jeana Jenkins; his father, Keith Jenkins; and his mother, Jennifer Jenkins.
Rob Witham for The Local
Jack Rice (seated, second from left) commits to compete in track and field at Virginia Military Institute in a signing ceremony at Lee-Davis High School on Feb. 5. With him are (clockwise, from left): his mother, Yvonne Rice; Angela Walsh; his grandfather, Woody Rice; his brother, Tip Rice; Jordan Kirby; his sister, Tua Rice; and his father, Greg Rice.
Ashland-Hanover Local January 13, 2021 11
LEGAL DISPLAY ADS
Announcements GENERAL & SPECIAL NOTICES Rockville Renegades Baseball 9U Travel Ball Tryout Jan. 23, 2021 9AM-11AM Ashland Yard 109 South Washington St Ashland VA Rockvillerenegadesbaseball@gmail
Residential for Rent Apartment Referral Services Policy Apartment referral service companies sell lists of available apartments for rent in your area. Please read contracts thoroughly to ensure that you understand and agree to all the terms and the cancellation policy of the contract.
GENERAL CONTRACTORS Purcell Construction Custom Builder Hunter Purcell 804-972-2215 www.Purcell Construction.Biz www.PurcellConstruction.Biz Custom Renovations ∂ Historical Additions ∂ Sunrooms ∂ Decks ∂ Porches∂ Siding ∂ Replacement Windows ∂ Barns∂ Stamped Concrete ∂ Kitchens & Baths ∂ Handicap Ramps ∂ T e r m i t e Damage ∂ Insurance Claims ∂ Interior & Exterior Renovations ∂ Commercial Renovating & MORE! Class A License & Insured ∂ 37 yrs exp ∂ A+ Rating with the BBB & Angie’s List Don’t Move...Improve! Dont Move....Improve!
LAWN CARE Ground Keepers Lawn Care Your #1 Choice Grass Cutting • Trimming • Hedges Mulching • Aerating • Seeding • Snow Plowing • FREE Est. Reasonable Rates Rick Custalow, 804-517-3321
APARTMENTS UNFURN. 1 & 2 bedroom units available to qualified applicants. Safe, Quiet area near center of Ashland. Within walking distance of shopping and RandolphMacon College. Rates from $700. Security deposit and application fee required. Contact Brothers Realty 804-798-5752
PLUMBING Paul Brown Plumbing - in Business Since 1983. New Residential, Light Commercial, Renovations, Additions & Service. We do it all! Senior Citizen Discounts. For free estimate, 746-5030
TREE SERVICE
LEGAL DISPLAY ADS
LEGAL DISPLAY ADS
HANOVER COUNTY 2020 Personal Property Tax Notice Due February 5, 2021 Notice is herewith given that all 2020 Hanover County personal property taxes are due and payable on or before February 5, 2021. Anyone owning personal property that has not received a bill may go online to: https://taxes.hanovercounty.gov/ to pay, review and/or print their bill(s), or contact the Hanover County Treasurer’s Office at 804-365-6050 or 804-730-6050.
Full Service Tree Company. (Removal, trimming, topping & stump grinding ) Offering free estimates and providing fully insured work.
Failure to receive a bill does not relieve the owner of penalty and interest if payment is not made by the due date. If you have any questions concerning the items listed on your tax bill, contact the Commissioner of the Revenue at 804-365-6129 or 804-730-6129. M. Scott Miller, Treasurer Hanover County
Tree & Shrub Pruning, Removals, Stump Grinding. Health/Risk Assessments. Insured. Free Estimates. 804-779-2170 Certified Arborist and MD LTE
Trimming & Take Downs. Stump Grinding. If it’s tree work we do it! Insured. Free Est. BBB THANK YOU!!! MC/VISA/Discover.
Advertise withAshland-Hanover Local Call 746-1235 for more details!
PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is hereby given that Hanover County proposes to expand service hours of the Hanover DASH specialized transportation program initiated in December of 2019 in Hanover County, Virginia for the purpose of transporting non-driver older adults and individuals with disabilities. Funds are being requested from the Commonwealth of Virginia through the Federal Transit Administration Section 5310 – Enhanced Mobility for Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities. Hanover DASH contracts with Roundtrip to provide specialized transportation, including wheel chair vans, to this population for medical services, personal business, employment and formal social and recreational programs. Enhancing self-sufficiency, reducing social isolation and increasing citizen engagement through access to social and recreational opportunities will help ensure a more vibrant and inclusive quality of life for county residents and the community at large. We invite any interested party in the Hanover County area to comment on the proposed services by sending a written notice to Jim Taylor, Deputy County Administrator, Hanover County, PO Box 470, Hanover, VA 23069. John A. Budesky County Administrator
12
Ashland-Hanover Local January 13, 2021
LEGAL DISPLAY ADS
LEGAL DISPLAY ADS
LEGAL DISPLAY ADS
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS The Hanover County Board of Supervisors will hold a public hearing on Wednesday, January 27, 2021 at 7:00 p.m. in the Board meeting room at the Hanover County Administration Building, 7516 County Complex Road, at Hanover Courthouse, Hanover, Virginia, on the following ordinance being proposed for adoption: ORDINANCE NO. 20-13 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ORDINANCE 10-01, WHICH ESTABLISHED THE HANOVER COUNTY RECYCLING SERVICE DISTRICT PURSUANT TO VA. CODE SECTION 15.2-2400 AND FOLLOWING SECTIONS, BY THE ADDITION OF RUTLAND GROVE SUBDIVISION. THE DISTRICT IS ESTABLISHED TO PROVIDE FOR AN ASSESSMENT FOR FUNDING OF SOLID WASTE COLLECTION IN THE NATURE OF RECYCLING SERVICE. THE ANNUAL TAX ASSESSMENT IS THE AMOUNT NECESSARY TO FUND THE SERVICE, TO BE ESTABLISHED BY THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS IN THE SAME MANNER AS OTHER TAX LEVIES, PAYABLE BY EACH PROPERTY OWNER WITHIN THE DISTRICT, AND CONSTITUTING A LIEN ON EACH PROPERTY IN THE DISTRICT.
PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is hereby given that the Hanover County Planning Commission has set Thursday, January 21, 2021, at 7:00 P.M., in the Board Room of the Hanover County Government Building at Hanover Courthouse, Hanover, Virginia, as the day, date, time, and place for a public hearing to consider the following cases, at which public comments will be accepted: REZONINGS REZ2020-00021, ROSE STUBBS FLEMING, ET AL. Request(s) to rezone from B-3, General Business District, and R-1, Single-Family Residential District, to RM(c), Multi-Family Residential District with conditions and B-1(c), Neighborhood Business District with conditions, on GPINs 8705-83-4862, 8705-83-4904, 8705-84-6144, 8705-84-2275, 8705-84-3039, 8705-84-4273, and 8705-84-9046, consisting of approximately 8.5 acres, and located on the southeast quadrant of Meadowbridge Road (State Route 627) and Shady Grove Road (State Route 640). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Multi-Family. The proposed zoning amendment would permit the creation of 120 apartment units for a gross density of 15 dwelling units per acre and neighborhood business uses. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Chickahominy REZ2020-00042, CARTER OAKS, L.L.C. AND W.L. STINSON, INC. Request(s) an amendment to the proffers approved with rezoning request C-17-05(c), Carter Oaks, L.L.C. and W.P. Gilman, on GPINs 7831-95-8815, 7841-24-5738 and 7841-26-6624 (part), zoned AR-6(c), Agricultural Residential District with conditions, and located on the north line of Greenwood Church Road (State Route 657) at its intersection with Scotchtown Road (State Route 671). The proposed zoning amendment would eliminate the cash proffer. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: South Anna CONDITIONAL USE PERMITS CUP2020-00014, VFW POST #10657
A complete copy of the proposed ordinance and related information is available at the office of the County Administrator any regular working day between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. All persons wishing to comment on the proposal may appear at the stated time and place. _____________________________________________ John A. Budesky, County Administrator
Request(s) an amendment of its Conditional Use Permit in accordance with Section 26-20.10 of the Hanover County Zoning Ordinance to amend the approved sketch plan and conditions for GPIN 7778-14-3311, consisting of approximately 7.4 acres, currently zoned A-1, Agricultural District, located on the north line of Cedar Lane (State Route 623), approximately 1,150 feet east of Karen Drive (State Route 772). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Suburban General (1.5-3 dwelling units per acre). The proposed zoning amendment would allow a variety of activities previously not permitted. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: South Anna Copies of the above cases may be reviewed in the Planning Office, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Ashland-Hanover Local January 13, 2021 13
PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is hereby given that the Hanover County Board of Supervisors has set Wednesday, January 27, 2021 at 7:00 P.M., in the Board Room of the Hanover County Government Building at Hanover Courthouse, Hanover, Virginia, as the day, date, time, and place for a public hearing to consider the following cases, at which public comments will be accepted: CUP2020-00002, HEIDI M. AND LAMERRO L. MASON Request(s) a Conditional Use Permit in accordance with Section 26-20.14 of the Hanover County Zoning Ordinance to permit a recreational facility/event venue on GPIN 7861-31-5506, consisting of approximately 11.86 acres, zoned A-1, Agricultural District, and located on the east line of Horseshoe Bridge Road (State Route 686) approximately 300 feet north of its intersection with West Patrick Henry Road (State Route 54). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Agricultural. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Beaverdam SE2020-00029, GHOST DEVELOPMENT, L.L.C. Request(s) a Special Exception Permit in accordance with Section 26-184.3 of the Hanover County Zoning Ordinance to permit a fence taller than permitted on GPIN 7788-72-6194, consisting of approximately 2.56 acres, zoned M-3, Heavy Industrial District, and located on the north line of Whitesel Road (State Route 1263) approximately 840 feet west of its intersection with Leadbetter Road (State Route 1261). (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Ashland REZ2020-00039, LEWISTOWN COMMERCE CENTER, L.L.C. Request(s) an amendment to the proffers approved with rezoning request C-1-18(c), Lewistown Commerce Center, L.L.C., on GPIN 7788-66-1268, consisting of approximately 1.16 acres, zoned M-2(c), Light Industrial District with conditions. The property is located on the west line of Lakeridge Parkway (State Route 782) approximately 925 feet south of its intersection with Lewistown Road (State Route 802). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Multi-Use. The proffer amendment would adjust the phasing for construction of the proposed office building. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: South Anna SE2020-00027, SUSAN S. CARSON Request(s) a Special Exception Permit in accordance with Section 26-21.25 of the Hanover County Zoning Ordinance to permit an accessory family housing unit on GPIN 7799-53-3508, consisting of approximately 10 acres, zoned A-1, Agricultural District, and located at the terminus of Field Crest Lane (private road) approximately 1,000 feet south of its intersection with Mount Hermon Road (State Route 656). (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Beaverdam REZ2020-00040, JEAN W. AND WILLIAM D. BERRYHILL Request(s) to rezone from A-1, Agricultural District, to AR-6(c), Agricultural Residential District with conditions, on GPIN 6798-95-0863, consisting of approximately 10.25 acres, and located on the west line of Watkins Road (State Route 721) approximately 200 feet north of its intersection with Dogwood Trail Road (State Route 620). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Agricultural. The proposed zoning amendment would permit the creation of one additional building lot for a family member for a gross density of one (1) dwelling unit per 5.13 acres. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: South Anna REZ2019-00019, HICKORY HILL II, L.L.C. Request(s) to rezone from A-1, Agricultural District, to MX(c), Mixed Use District with conditions, and B-2(c), Community Business District with conditions, on GPINs 7880-92-1335 and 7880-81-6802, consisting of approximately 51.5 acres, and located on the north line of East Patrick Henry Road (State Route 54) at its intersection with Providence Church Road (State Route 662). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Planned Business and Commercial. The proposed zoning amendment would allow 42.33 acres to be rezoned to MX(c) for development of a mix of commercial (retail, office and restaurant) uses and residential uses (100 townhome units) at a density of 2.36 dwelling units per gross acre, and 9.17 acres to be rezoned to B-2(c) for a mix of commercial that may include a convenience store and a fast food restaurant with drive-through. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Beaverdam Copies of the above case may be reviewed in the Planning Office, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. 14
Ashland-Hanover Local January 13, 2021
LEGAL DISPLAY ADS
LEGAL DISPLAY ADS
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Notice is hereby given that the Hanover County School Board has set Tuesday, January 26, 2021 at 7:00PM in the School Board Administration Building, 200 Berkley Street, Ashland, Virginia, as a time and place for a Public Hearing inviting citizen input on the Superintendent’s Fiscal Year 2021-2022 Proposed Budget.
Live by these resolutions October Harvest Run/Walk to have a fraud-free 2021 raises funds for 3 non-profits Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com
RICHMOND -- Every year, millions of consumers fall prey to scams. Some lose money immediately, while others become the victims of identity theft that can lead to years of problems. Fortunately, there are practical resolutions you can make to help keep your wallet and identity safe in 2021. Add these must-dos to your New Year’s resolutions list. By taking just a few practical measures, you can help make the upcoming year fraud-free for you and your family. I resolve to be cautious with email. Be on guard if you receive unsolicited emails from a person or a company. Remember that scammers can make emails look like they are from a legitimate business, government agency, or reputable organization (even BBB!). Never click on links or open attachments in unsolicited emails. I resolve to never send money to strangers. If you haven’t met a person face-toface, don’t send them money. This is especially true if the person asks you to transfer funds using a prepaid debit card or CashApp. Money sent to strangers in this way is untraceable and once it is sent, there’s no getting it back. Scammers will try to trick you into panicking – so you’ll pay
up before you can think the situation through. Don’t fall for it! I resolve to do research before making online payments and purchases. When shopping online, or if you are asked to make a payment online, do your research before you enter your payment information. Ask yourself: Is this a person or business I know and trust? Do they have a working customer service number? Where is the company physically located? Would I be making payments through a secure server (https://....com)? Have I checked to see if others have complained? I resolve to use my best judgment when sharing my personal information. Sharing Sensitive personal information with scammers opens you up to ID theft. Never share your banking and credit card information, birthdate, address, Social Security/ Social Insurance number or Medicare number with someone who contacted you out of the blue. I resolve to be social media smart. Make use of privacy settings on social media and only connect with people you actually know. Be careful about including personal information in your profile and never reveal your address and other sensitive information – even in a “fun” quiz. Scammers may use this information to make
Government closings HANOVER -- Hanover County Government offices, solid waste centers and courts will be closed on Monday, Jan. 18, in observance of Martin Luther King Day. Branches of the Pamunkey Regional Library will be open on Jan. 18.
themselves pass as a friend or relative and earn your trust. Also, be careful when buying products you saw on social media. BBB Scam Tracker has received thousands of complaints about misleading Facebook and Instagram ads.
For More Information
Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com The GFWC Ashcake Woman’s Club, Inc. is excited to announce the proceeds from its annual October Harvest Run/Walk. Proceeds from this 2020 project will be shared with three Hanover County nonprofit organizations: The ARC of Hanover, Hanover Interfaith Clinics, and We Are Unique.
To learn more about scams, go to BBB.org/ScamTips. For more about avoiding scams, check out BBB.org/ AvoidScams. If you’ve been targeted by this scam, help others avoid the same problem by reporting your experience at BBB.org/ScamTracker. Continued from pg. 9 Stay up on the latest scams by subscribing to BBB Scam understated celebratory blast painted a perfect picture of Alerts emails. how most of us will remember 2020. About BBB: Even after shrugging off the BBB serving Central Virginia serves Richmond, haunts of 2020, New Year’s Day the Tri-Cities, Charlottesville, didn’t seem much better. The and Fredericksburg, as well as usual lineup of parades and 42 surrounding counties from football games were all altered Fauquier to Mecklenburg and or canceled due to the panNorthumberland to Amherst. demic. The granddaddy of all The nonprofit organization bowl games, the Rose Bowl, was established in 1954 to was moved from its traditional advance responsible, honest, Pasadena location to Texas. After days of negative and ethical business practices reflections expressed from and to promote customer connews anchors to movie stars fidence through self-regulation to the man on the street, I sat of business. Core services of down and did my own brand BBB include business profiles, of reflecting on the past several dispute resolution, truth-in weeks of 2020. advertising, scam warnings, On closer examination, I consumer and business educarealized 2020 in many ways tion, and charity review. was no different from the others in my life, a combination of ups and downs, triumphs and tragedies and victories and defeats. Don’t get me wrong. The ASHLAND – The of Hanover County Hanover County Social Services at 12304 year held its share of challenges Department of Social Washington Hwy. in for my family, including the postponement of a daughter’s Services will meet at Ashland. The meeting is open to 18th birthday celebration, my 3:30 p.m. on Jan. 26 in the Conference Room the public. twins’ 16th birthday party, and
Social Services meeting set for Jan. 26 in Ashland office
2020
Even though the actual race was canceled, members still received monetary support “from the wonderful Hanover community”. Through a Go Fund Me Facebook account and letters to previous sponsors and donors, the club was able to raise funds for those organizations. The club gratefully thanks all the contributors for their support. “We are my long awaited, or should I say dreaded, 70th celebration. I have friends I haven’t seen for months, and have covered more meetings and assignments via email or telephone than ones actually covered in person. No one would argue that the past nine months have been different. But, I’m not sure I agree with those who contend that 2020 is a year best forgotten. I think back to a wonderful gathering of my children for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Come to think of it, the laughs and hugs seemed equal to other years, and the appreciation of family was not missing but maybe even more prevalent than in past years. Like most Americans, I welcome 2021 with a new sense of optimism and hope for a better future for our country, but I’m not ready to dismiss 2020 as a total disaster. Perhaps, hindsight will expose the many valuable lessons learned by a nation challenged. I too will remember the empty shelves at the grocery store and the endless searches for toilet paper, bottled water and hand sanitizer. But, I’ll also remember the employees
proud of this caring and generous community,” the members said. “We plan to hold the race this year!” Julie Lefever, race co-chair, said. So, mark your calendars to sign up to run, walk, or just contribute. The date is Saturday, Oct. 16, 2021. For more information, go to AshlandHarvestRun. com. who remained at their posts, enabling the rest of us to at least search for those essential items. I also won’t forget the heath care workers and public safety employees who couldn’t stay home and quarantine, ensuring our daily lives maintained a semblance of normalcy. And, school teachers who pivoted from various instructional platforms to provide lessons to kids at home or in the classroom should never be forgotten. These are just a few reminders of the many heroes produced by a year of unexpected challenge, just a sampling of the many good things that occurred in 2020. Perspective is everything and I can certainly empathize with those most willing to bury 2020 in the annals of things best forgotten — the thousands of American families who lost loved ones to the virus. Their loss is real, a reminder that is not easily shelved or forgotten, and a message to all of us that life is fragile when exposed to a nondiscriminant pandemic that, unfortunately, has no regard for the calendar.
Ashland-Hanover Local January 13, 2021 15
The old and the new Photographer Joel Klein worked some magic in creating this panoramic photo of the old and new Ashland Town Halls. He said he merged about a dozen photos into one image.
LIBRARY Continued from pg. 8
contact ask@pamunkeylibrary.org. CoderDojo Workshop – 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 30, for ages 13 to 19. Join us and learn how to build a game, website, or program at a CoderDojo workshop. Go to https://pamunkeylibrary.libcal.com/ to fill out a survey form to sign up. This program is hosted on Discord. For more information, or if you have a special physical or communication need, contact ask@pamunkeylibrary.org.
On Demand Videos Storytime for Grown-ups -Premieres Wednesday, Jan. 13, for ages 18 and up. Storytime is not just for kids. If you like to be read to, join us for a reading of Where the Tides Ebb and Flow by Lord Dunsany. Starting Jan. 13, go to https://www.youtube.com/user/ pamunkeylibrary or https://tinyurl. com/prladults to see the video. For more information, or if you have a special physical or communication need, contact ask@pamunkeylibrary.org. Scarf Wearing Workshop -Premieres Saturday, Jan. 16, for ages 18 and up. Join us to explore fresh ways to wear scarves this winter. We'll show you how to dress up your winter wardrobe in a variety of ways. Starting Jan. 16,
16
go to https://www.youtube.com/user/ pamunkeylibrary or https://tinyurl. com/prladults to see the video. For more information, or if you have a special physical or communication need, contact ask@pamunkeylibrary.org.
included. Starting Jan. 22, stop by the Mechanicsville Branch Library at 7461 Sherwood Crossing Place to pick up your kit while supplies last. For more information, or if you have a special physical or communication need, contact ask@pamunkeylibrary.org.
Day in the Life: Librarians -Premieres Monday, Jan. 18, for all ages. Have you ever wondered what librarians do every day? Watch our first “Day in the Life” series episode to hear all about your librarians at Pamunkey Regional Library. Starting Jan. 18, go to https://www.youtube.com/user/ pamunkeylibrary or https://tinyurl. com/prlchildrens to see the video. For more information, or if you have a special physical or communication need, contact ask@pamunkeylibrary.org. Bullet Journaling -- Premieres Monday, Jan. 18. Start the New Year with a new tool. Learn the basics of bullet journaling to help you be creative and get organized. Starting Jan. 18, go to https://www.youtube.com/user/ pamunkeylibrary or https://tinyurl. com/prladults to see the video and get a list of resources with helpful tips and tricks. For more information, or if you have a special physical or communication need, contact ask@pamunkeylibrary.org. Jack & the Beanstalk -- Premieres
Ashland-Hanover Local January 13, 2021
Metro Creative Connection
Thursday, Jan. 28, for ages 5 to 10. Pick up your lima beans at the Mechanicsville Branch Library while supplies last during Jan. 25-28. Starting Jan. 28, go to https://www.youtube. com/user/pamunkeylibrary or https:// tinyurl.com/prlchildrens to see our read-along video and find out how to grow your own beans. For more information, or if you have a special physical or communication need, contact ask@pamunkeylibrary.org.
Take & Makes Take & Make: Coding Ciphers --
Pickup on Wednesday, Jan. 20, for grades K-5. Do you like cracking a secret code? How about creating one? Pick up your coding cipher kit from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 20, at the Mechanicsville Branch Library at 7461 Sherwood Crossing Place and give it a try. For more information, or if you have a special physical or communication need, contact ask@ pamunkeylibrary.org. Friday Arts & Crafts -- Pickup on Friday, Jan. 22. This month's take and make craft for adults is an origami gift card holder with detailed instructions
National Seed Swap Day -- Saturday Jan. 30. The Library and the Hanover Master Gardeners Association are partnering for National Seed Swap Day 2021. Please register at https://pamunkeylibrary.libcal.com/event/7342532 to reserve your Seed Swap Day kit, to be picked up on Jan. 30 at the Mechanicsville Branch Library. Kits include a Capital Region Native Plant Guide, a catalog from Southern Exposure Seed Exchange, Virginia Cooperative Extension publications on seeds and germination, a resource list of websites for information and supplies, and at least three packets of seeds per kit (vegetable and flower). For more information, or if you have a special physical or communication need, contact ask@pamunkeylibrary. org. Librarian Carolyn Garner may be contacted at cgarner@pamunkeylibrary.org or 804-365-6214.