Ashland-Hanover Local – 01/20/2021

COMMUNITY

CRIME

Everyday hero: local Boy Scout earns rare Honor Medal for saving a life

Mayor and police chief denounce those who left leaflets with swastikas on them at town businesses

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Vol. 6 No. 21 | Richmond Suburban News | January 20, 2021

More students want to resume face-to-face instruction

HCBOS,CHD join to distribute COVID vaccine

By Jim Ridolphi for Ashland-Hanover Local HANOVER -- With the second semester only weeks away, Hanover County Public Schools officials are scrambling to adjust to an anticipated increased number of students returning to classroom instruction.

When parents were given the option of returning students to in-face instruction in November, a substantial number of previously online students opted for face-to-face instruction.

More than 1,250 requests were received from families of students wishing to return to in-class instruction, while 179 requests asked to switch from face-to-face to online learning programs.

During the Tuesday, Jan. 12, meeting of the Hanover County School Board, Jennifer Greif, assistant superintendent in charge of instruction, said the increased number of returning students presented logistical challenges and required juggling some teacher positions, allowing the county to continue offering parents the choice of in-house versus online instruction.

“Parents were given the opportunity to request a learnsee STUDENTS, pg. 4

where those shots will be available for local residents.

Franck presented supervi(Editor’s note: This is an sors with an updated review of evolving story. Late last week, COVID infections across the Governor Northam announced nation, the state and Hanover that persons 65 years and older County, and provided informawith underlying medical condi- tion on the distribution of vactions will be included in Phase 1b cines in the county. that begins this week.

There were 91.6 That group was premillion cases and viously included in 1.9 million fatalities Group 1a.) reported worldwide HANOVER -on the day Franck Hanover County spoke. “The trend is citizens are asking going upon terms of the same question as percentages. It’s rathones being voiced in er alarming,” he said. communities across Regarding frethe nation: When quency and number can I get my vaccine DR. FRANCK of cases reported, for COVID-19?

Franck described County officials Virginia as a mixed announced last week that a double-barreled initiative to picture with some areas with distribute the vaccine to coun- severe rates of infections while ty residents will utilize efforts other portions of the state currently promoted by the record relatively low numbers.

“In general, I’d say Virginia Chickahominy Health District and provide local clinics to bol- is right in the middle,” Franck said as he recited recent state ster those efforts.

Chickahominy Health numbers. Almost 408,000 District director Dr. Thomas cases have been reported in the Franck provided important Commonwealth, with more vaccine information to the than 19,000 of those illnesses Hanover County Board of requiring hospitalization. More Supervisors at last Wednesday’s than 5,400 Virginians have meeting, specifically when and see VACCINE, pg. 5

By Jim Ridolphi for Ashland-Hanover Local

Photo submitted by Sara Hunt

Some Hanover County employees are shown at the Historic Hanover Courthouse, displaying their excitement about the #HereinHanoverVA campaign to extend the 300th birthday celebration into 2021. They are, from left, Sandra Moore, Conner Moncure, Gretchen Biernot and Harold Stills.

#HereinHanoverVA boosts celebrating 300th birthday Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com

H

ANOVER – As each new year offers new opportunities, Hanover County officials are promoting #HereinHanoverVA, a campaign to honor the county’s recent 300th birthday by engaging the community, the greater Richmond Region and the Commonwealth in an extended celebration of the county’s vibrant past, present and future.

Established in November 1720, Hanover County had planned a number of events to recognize the tricentennial throughout 2020 with a grand culmination in the fall, but all of the festivities had to be canceled when the pandemic prevented large gatherings of people.

“I consider 2021 as the jumping off point for a celebration of Hanover County as it is today and looking forward into the future as well as remembering our see 300TH, pg. 7

Council updated on managing during a pandemic

By Melody Kinser Managing Editor ASHLAND – “How Do We Manage During a Pandemic?” was the focus of an update by two representatives of Richmond Region Tourism to Ashland Town Council.

During the Jan. 5 meeting, Jack Berry, president and CEO, and Katherine O’Donnell, executive vice president, talked about the challenges and impact of COVID-19 on the organization, which has a mission to “Grow the economy of the Richmond Region by

attracting conventions, meetings, and visitors and ensuring that all have a great experience”.

Berry said that visitor spending in 2019 in the Richmond area was $2.7 billion, with 24,782 jobs filled at the time.

With the arrival of the coronavirus in early 2020, he said April was the worst month for the Richmond-Petersburg area.

Improvements were noted as the year passed and, as of November, occupancy in hotels and motels had risen to 47%. “Ashland does better because of interstate [I-95] travel,” he said.

“For Ashland April again was hugely

CARES Act housing and food resources available HANOVER -- Limited funds still remain to assist Hanover residents who are facing challenges with mortgage, rent, utility or food expenses due to the coronavirus national emergency.

This assistance is available through the end of February or until funds are depleted.

Hanover County has received an extension to utilize the remaining funds from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act and is continuing the partnership with United Way of Greater Richmond & Petersburg.

United Way has distributed the funding to community partners to provide direct assistance to those in need.

The following Hanover community partners will be managing this assistance: Ashland Christian Emergency Services; ACES (food, rent, mortgage, utilities); 798-2784; www.aceshanover.org HumanKind (food, mortgage, rent, utilities); 461-3585; https:// w w w. h u m a n k i n d . o r g / hanover-cares-act-relief/ Western Hanover

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Emergency Action Team; WHEAT (food, rent, mortgage and utilities) 877-5594328; www.wheathelp.org Funds also were provided to FeedMore to support the services of local food banks and Meals on Wheels. United Way will work with Hanover County Government to ensure that the funds are spent appropriately in order to maximize their benefit to the intended population.

The Hanover County Board of Supervisors made the funds available from the county’s Coronavirus Relief Funds under the CARES Act. Those in need of assistance must apply to one of the listed organizations.

Organizations will be assisting Hanover residents based upon availability of funding.

For more information, contact the United Way of Greater Richmond & Petersburg (customerservice@yourunitedway.org) or the Hanover Department of Community Resources at volunteer@hanovercounty. gov or 804-365-4300.

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

Ashland-Hanover Local January 20, 2021

adversely affected, but in November it wasn’t so bad. Family and friends are traveling here, and it’s the interstate travel that is coming.”

At the first meeting of the new year, Berry said the numbers for December were not available at that time.

“When do we see some light at the end of the tunnel?” he asked. With the COVID-19 vaccine being distributed, Berry added, “We see things changing.”

Looking ahead, he said July, August and September, the third quarter of the year, should provide “a little bit better security, with

people feeling a little better.” At this point, he said, “We’re still holding on to March business.”

Mayor Steve Trivett had opened the meeting with a moment of silence, acknowledging the significance of the word resolute, which is “admirably purposeful, determined and unwavering.”

He said council members were resolute “in our commitment to do things for our own health, other peoples’ health, but also to promote other peoples’ well-being with attitude, support and compassion.”

Everyday hero: local Boy Scout earns rare Honor Medal for saving a life Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com For 11-year-old Nathan Nyalko, "Do A Good Turn Daily" is more than just a motto; it's a way of life. One summer afternoon in 2019, he showed tremendous confidence and bravery when a normal day at the pool turned into an emergency.

Nate and his older brother, Michael, had spent the day boating with grandparents and decided to swim in their local unguarded community pool as they had many times before. On most summer days, they are the only children at the pool; however, on June 30, 2019, they were joined by a 5-year-old boy.

"I noticed he couldn't swim that well," Nate said. "I noticed he was under the water, so I watched him for about 10 seconds to see if he would come up. When he didn't, I knew he was drowning. I dove into the pool down to the bottom, grabbed him up, and swam him to the shallow water."

"Nate, being a Scout who has learned how to react in emergencies, didn't panic, but very calmly jumped into the pool and saved his life. He pulled him from the bottom of the pool and swam him to safety, which was, at the time, shocking, but not very surprising," proud mom Rebekah said. "It was natural for him to have done that."

At the time of the rescue, Nate was an Arrow of Light with Cub Scout Pack 521, sponsored by Cool Spring Baptist Church

Scout Oath seriously, which includes duty in Mechanicsville. Some of his proudest Scouting moments include joining his to his country and a promise to help other Den in leading the Pledge of Allegiance people at all times.

Nate credits having earned the Spirit at the Toyota Owners 400 at Richmond Raceway for thousands of NASCAR fans, of the Water adventure belt loop and winning the annual Pack Pinewood Derby Aquanaut adventure pin for his actions that day, but his famRaces three years in a row, ily and peers know this and working diligently to won't be the last time complete 62 loops and Nate goes above and pins throughout his Cub beyond the normal call Scouting career. to action. That's just the He bridged into Scouts kind of person he is.

BSA Troop 521 this sum"I want to teach the boy mer, most recently earnhow to swim so he's safe ing his Tenderfoot rank in the water," said Nate. and working hard to With the support of the complete merit badges Battlefield District in in the hopes he can earn the Heart of Virginia more than Michael, a Life Council, and on behalf of Scout with Troop 521.

NATHAN NYALKO the Boy Scouts of America Scouting is a family affair for National Office, Nate was Nate. He comes from a long line of proud Scouters. One grandfather presented with the Honor Medal, Honor is an Eagle Scout, and another served in Medal Award Knot, and special certificate, Cub Scout leadership for many years. Both a rare award bestowed to brave and selfof his parents have served in Cub Scout less Scouts at the approval of the National leadership roles. His father, Mike, was an Court of Honor.

Director of Field Services Bill Givler and Assistant Den Leader and treasurer for many years, and his mother, Rebekah, was Heart of Virginia Council Commissioner Tom Wood awarded him for his bravery, a den leader and Cubmaster for Pack 521.

He also is no stranger to service. All quick-thinking, and empathy on Dec. 30, branches of his family tree are filled with 2020.

When asked what his goals are in outdoorsmen and women, many of whom have proudly served our country in the Scouting, Nate shared, "I want to earn my United States Armed Forces. He takes his Eagle."

SHERIFF’S REPORTS | Crime, Accidents, Fire & Rescue 8100 block of Atlee Road, Mechanicsville.

Jan. 4

Simple assault was reported in the 16000 block of Theme Park Way, Doswell.

Grand larceny parts were reported in the 10300 block of Sliding Hill Road/ Washington Highway, Ashland.

Grand larceny, $500 or more not from a person, was reported in the 16600 block of Mountain Road, Montpelier.

Simple assault was reported in the 6600 block of Cold Harbor Road, Mechanicsville.

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

Obtaining money by false pretenses, $200, was reported in the 7100 block of Autumn Ridge Lane, Mechanicsville.

Trespassing after being forbidden to do so was reported in the 6000 block of Turkey Hollow Place, Mechanicsville.

Assault and battery of a family member was reported in the 7200 block of Carolyn Lane, Mechanicsville.

Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 9000 block of Giles Farm Road/Atlee Station Road, Mechanicsville.

Possession of Schedule I and II controlled substance was reported in the 14400 block of Ashland Road/ Cauthorne Road, Glen Allen.

Jan. 5

Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 7200 block of Garden Park Lane, Mechanicsville.

Forging coin and bank notes was reported in the

block of Chamberlayne Road, Mechanicsville.

Obtaining money by false pretenses, $200, was reported in the 4200 block of Studley Road, Mechanicsville.

Sale and distribution of marijuana, ½ ounce, were reported in the 8100 block of Elm Drive/ Mechanicsville Byway, Mechanicsville.

Jan. 6

Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 7300 block of Bell Creek Road/Battle Hill Drive, Mechanicsville.

Assault and battery of a family member was reported in the 21000 block of Green Bay Road, Beaverdam.

Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 7300 block of Roosevelt Avenue, Mechanicsville.

ID theft ID to defraud, $200, was reported in the 7100 block of Mill Valley Road, Mechanicsville.

Drugs: Possession of Schedule III was reported in the 3700 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville.

Forging was reported in the 1000 block of Buck Trail, Mechanicsville.

Assault and battery of a family member was reported in the 3100 block of Westwood Road, Mechanicsville.

Assault and battery of a family member was reported in the 7400 block of Seven Springs Road, Mechanicsville.

Petit larceny building was reported in the 7300 block of Addie Drive, Mechanicsville.

Obtaining money or signature by false pretenses was reported in the 9500

Drinking while operating a motor vehicle was reported in the 7400 block of Beulah Church Road/Sandy Valley Road, Mechanicsville.

DWI: 1st offense was reported in the 3500 block of Spring Run Road/ Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville.

Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 7600 block of Walnut Grove Road, Mechanicsville.

DWI, BAC .15 to .20, 1st offense, was reported in the 8400 block of Retreat Farm Lane, Mechanicsville.

Grand larceny parts were reported in the 11400 block of Washington Highway, Ashland.

Petit larceny, $500 not from a person, was reported in the 6400 block of Cold Harbor Road, Mechanicsville.

Jan. 7

Falsely identifying self to law enforcement was reported in the 8100 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike/ Elm Drive, Mechanicsville.

Grand larceny parts were reported in the 15400 block of Pouncey Tract Road, Glen Allen.

Identity fraud use of identifying information to defraud was reported in the 9000 block of Brigadier Road, Mechanicsville.

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

Simple assault was reported in the 7200 block of Courtland Farm Road, Hanover.

Grand larceny building was reported in the 13000 block of Hill Club Lane, Ashland.

Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 8000 block of Elm Drive, Mechanicsville.

Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 3700 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville.

Threats in writing were reported in the 10200 block of Buckeye Road, Mechanicsville.

Grand larceny parts were reported in the 10200 block of Timber Ridge Drive, Ashland.

Possession of Schedule I and II controlled substance was reported in the 3700 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville.

Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 10200 block of Kestrel Drive, Ashland.

Larceny of bank notes and checks was reported in the 7900 block of Elliott Drive, Mechanicsville.

Carrying concealed weapon first offense was reported in the 8100 block of Elm Drive/ Mechanicsville Byway, Mechanicsville.

Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 7500 block of Mechanicsville Byway/ Mechanicsville Turnpike eastbound to Cold Harbor Road, Mechanicsville.

Simple assault was reported in the 7800 block of Compass Point Lane, Mechanicsville.

Concealment, price altering merchandise, $500, was reported in the 7400 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.

see SHERIFF’s, pg. 15

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OBITUARIES | Death Notices & Funerals

BEVERLY HAILE

HAILE, Beverly Stone, passed away on January 9, 2021, peacefully at home. She was born on November 21, 1935 in Ashland, Virginia. She is survived by her husband, Hudson C. Haile; her son, Gregory C. Haile (Bonnie); her daughter, Claire Haile Packer (Bruce); granddaughter, Alisha Michelle Haga; grandsons, Derek Eugene Haile and Andrew Hudson Haile (Spencer); and great-grandsons, Riley Hudson Haile and Rowan James Haile. Beverly was predeceased by her parents, Evelyn Rennie Stone and James Minor Stone Jr.; and her brothers, James Minor Stone III and Gordon Rennie Stone.

Beverly graduated from Henry Clay High School in Ashland in 1952 and was valedictorian of her class. She went on to Mary Washington College in Fredericksburg, Virginia. After one year, she met Hudson on a blind date arranged by her high school classmate and Hudson's workmate and their lifelong friend, Bill Babcock. She left Mary Washington College,

decided she would be a secretary and subsequently graduated from secretarial school in Richmond. After a two year courtship, Hudson and Bev were married on August 27, 1955. In 1958, they moved to Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, Virginia, for Hudson to finish his engineering bachelor's degree. Bev became a secretary to one of the professors at Virginia Tech and because of her secretarial ability and willingness to help any and all she was soon loved by numerous professors who appreciated her no-nonsense approach to written work and correct English language. Upon Hudson's graduation they awarded Bev with her "PHT degree"...for Putting Hubby Through. Their daughter, Claire, was born in nearby Radford, Virginia, in 1961. Their son, Greg, was born in 1963 in Newport News, where Hudson worked. In 1966, Hudson decided he had to join the race for the moon and moved back to his home in Florida and accepted a job at KSC. Since Bev and son and daughter were true Virginians, it was a difficult transition for Bev. After a few weeks of warm balmy weather and sunshine she decided Florida was OK after all. The family settled in Titusville to live their lives and raise their children. Bev became a teacher's aide in her children's schools and proceeded to endear herself and talents to her teachers and staff.

Upon the children's graduation from high school, Bev went to work at Brevard Community College (now Eastern Florida State College), Titusville campus, as the faculty secretary, where she soon became the one to consult about anything on campus. Her office became the "hangout" on campus where everybody came to discuss their problems or just to cry on Bev's shoulder.

She was loved by all. In 1997, Bev and Hudson retired and realized their dream of touring the country and its great National Parks. Their favorite became Alaska and its beautiful parks. In her later years, Bev loved spending time with her family and listening to stories about their adventures. They all adored her and never failed to visit "Mamaw" when they could. They, like so many others, knew what she was about and that was love and giving of herself. Bev's funeral will be held at First United Methodist Church in Titusville, Florida, on Wednesday, January 20, 2021, at 10 a.m. (social distancing and masks are required). A graveside service for family only will be held at Oaklawn Memorial Gardens in Titusville, Florida. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Ronald McDonald House and/or Hospice of St. Francis in Bev's memory.

Condolences may be shared at www.northbrevardfuneralhome.com.

OBITUARY SUBMISSIONS Call 804-643-4414, ext. 3 email: paidnotices@timesdispatch.com Deadline is noon Friday for the following week’s issue.

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Ashland-Hanover Local January 20, 2021

STUDENTS Continued from pg. 1

ing setting change back in November . . . and we did have to look at reallocation of resources,” Greif said.

“We’re not going to sugarcoat this,” she continued. “This was difficult work and it is work that is impacting human beings and we acknowledge when we do that there are some bumps in the road and things we are still working to solve.”

Realizing these decisions would not please everyone, Greif said officials granted requests for identified at-risk groups first. Younger students and those not thriving in their current model also were prioritized.

“We definitely wanted to hit our vulnerable population as much as possible and get them in to a learning setting where they would be most successful,” Greif said.

Requests for ELS students, disabled learners and Pre-K-3 learners were considered first, followed by attention to students who are struggling academically “in their current settings” or students who are having technological problems that have not currently been solved.

While adjusting class sizes online or transferring teachers from one model to another is burdensome but doable, Greif said accommodating students wishing to return to campus presents brick and mortar challenges.

Social distancing requirements have limited occupancy levels at all county campuses, and space limitations impacted some of the requests. Greif said the goal was to grant as many of the requests to return as possible given those and other limitations.

Of the 560 requests received for elementary students to transition from online to in-class instruction, about 75 percent were granted, while officials were able to approve 95 per-

cent of middle school requests and 100 percent of the requests to return to high school campuses.

“High school is a little easier due to the block scheduling and because of the 4x4 schedule that we implemented this year,” Greif said.

Each of those elementary requests requires an actual classroom seat.

“We’ve made what we believe to be the best decisions and we will continue to support all of the students and the teachers through the transition phase,” Greif said.

Nineteen of those teachers requested a return to face-toface instruction from online learning in the county’s elementary schools. Greif said 65 teachers in total were impacted by the changes, representing about 16 percent of the county’s teaching force.

She acknowledged the number of elementary teachers expressing a desire to return to the classroom outweighed available positions.

The reallocations will require some teachers to provide both online and in-class instruction in some cases, and the exit of teachers from online to face-to-face should not increase class sizes in the online school. Some parents have expressed concern that those classes are too large and Greif said efforts were made to resolve those issues as well.

“They may teach a morning class virtually, and they may teach face-to-face in the afternoon,” Greif said.

She said most of the decisions regarding second semester have been made and officials are not focused on continuing social and emotional challenges facing students and teachers.

“We realize that with this additional transition that is unusual for any school division, that this causes concern in our families and for our

teachers and students. We want to make sure we are prepared to support them through that transition,” Greif said.

Schedule changes approved by the school board last month added an additional three days of planning prior to the second semester start on Feb. 3. Greif said those days allow opportunities for family and student activities.

The system’s Social and Emotional Learning team meets weekly and a newlyacquired screening tool allows officials to gauge the status of students during these difficult times.

Greif said screenings conducted in the fall will be compared to results obtained during the second semester to provide further insight on students’ well-being. “We want to see what’s changed — where have we gotten better and where we are experiencing new pain points that we need to address for our students and how best we can support them in the upcoming months,” the assistant superintendent said.

In other matters, school board members return to the Central Office for two more meetings in as many weeks as the panel considers the superintendent’s 2022 proposed budget at 6 p.m. on Jan. 19.

A public hearing on the budget is scheduled for Jan. 26, and board members will consider the proposed budget for approval on Feb. 9 at their regular business meeting.

Superintendent Michael Gill’s comments regarding the upcoming budget were tinged with an ample amount of caution as he reviewed the upcoming budget schedule.

“I use this term with cautious optimism, but I am hopeful that this budget is going to bring good news,” Gill said.

“We all know we could use some good news and do a lot of good for our students and staff alike.”

Hanover Tavern Foundation needs Annual Giving Fund contributions Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com HANOVER -- The year 2020 will go down as one of the most challenging years in modern history. Those challenges did not escape the Hanover Tavern.

The staff and volunteers managed to continue to provide programs and events despite the challenges since early last year. However, Hanover Tavern Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, has been financially impacted because of the restrictions imposed by the pandemic, which is why the board is asking for help.

VACCINE Continued from pg. 1

passed away due to COVID. “The last time I talked to you in the springtime, we were looking at the epidemic curve and thought it was looking bad back in April, May and June,” Franck said.

After a slight decline that provided a false sense of optimism, Franck said “since November it’s really taken off and we are at an all-time high.”

The effects locally are similar to those being experienced statewide.

“Not only in Virginia are we at an all-time high in Hanover County, we’re at an all-time high in terms of number of COVID cases, incidence rates and cases per 100,000 in population,” Franck said. Currently, Hanover is experiencing about 75 cases per 100,000 residents.

Another marker showing troubling signs in the county is the percent of positivity. While Hanover County enjoyed low rates, under 5 percent, for the early months of the pandemic, those numbers have increased significantly in recent weeks.

“For much of the year, Hanover County was below 5 percent . . . but we finally crossed the threshold and we are currently at 14.1 percent for tests being run,” the director told supervisors.

“We are in a pandemic that is at its worst ever,” he added.

Solutions for mitigating the upward trend lie in familiar methods that include social distancing, wearing masks and PPE (personal protective equipment), limiting large gatherings

Members are requesting tax-deductible contributions to their Annual Giving Fund.

Some of the community outreach made possible by donors includes: z Teaching American history to more than 4,000 students each year through inclassroom programming, as well as “History in the Heart of Virginia” field trips enjoyed by public, private, and homeschooled children from Hanover, Chesterfield, City of Richmond, Henrico, Goochland, Louisa, Fredericksburg, and Spotsylvania. z Delivering cultural arts through live music

and other measures outlined last week

by Franck.

But the real game-changer in that mitigation tool box is the introduction of two vaccines to Virginia. “We finally have a tool that has given me the greatest hope I’ve had since the beginning of this pandemic, and that’s the vaccines,” Franck said.

The local health district utilizes Virginia Department of Health and CHD guidelines in prioritizing who gets the vaccine first. In essence, the population is grouped in four groups, 1a, 1b, and 1c, and 2.

During the current Phase 1a distribution, health care workers who are most at risk receive the vaccine and long-term facility staff and residents are targeted.

“This is the top priority group that we need to get vaccinated,” Franck said. “They need this vaccine more than anyone else in this county.”

Franck said there is some flexibility built in the prioritization process.

For example, law enforcement officers who respond to medical emergencies could be classified as 1a.

Phase 1b is expected to begin this week and includes persons aged 75 years or older, frontline essential workers.

“The decision we’re all going through in the Commonwealth is -when do -- we open it up to 1b,” Franck said.

The answer to that question relies on the amount of vaccine available, whether all persons in Phase 1a have been served and the demand must be less than the vaccination capacity.

“Are we ready to go to Phase 1b yet? I think we are,” Franck said.

and performances in our one-of-a-kind theater. z Offering free family-oriented programs and events throughout the year. z Creating and delivering continuing education summer learning programs for teachers. z Operating an onsite restaurant offering lunch and dinner, company outings, private events, weddings, and receptions. z Donating use of facilities for nonprofit meetings, civic events, and programs.

In addition to these and other programs, the Foundation is committed to preserving the national historic landmark – that members call “The Tavern” – for generations to come.

As of Franck’s presentation last week, 216,000 doses of the vaccine had been administered in Virginia, about a fourth of the 904,000 doses received by the state at that point.

Franck said the remainder of that first allocation “will go really fast.”

Franck said Hanover compares favorably with Richmond and Henrico in the number of vaccinations administered with more than 2,800 doses given in Hanover.

Franck estimates there are about 10,000 people in Group 1a and the CHD has reached out to 95 percent of that population.

Mechanicsville District supervisor Canova Peterson said his constituents are expressing a desire for more information regarding the 1b vaccinations and when they might be available.

“They understand the priorities but what they don’t understand is the complete silence in the community as to what they can plan for. They want to know when it’s going to be available and what do I have to do,” Peterson said.

Franck said those residents can contact the CHD Hotline or go online to determine what group applies to their specific case. The website is linked on the VDH site.

A press release issued last week by several area health districts outlined a plan to begin Phase 1b this week, but Franck said the initial offering will be limited to police, fire and Hazmat, Corrections and Homeless Shelter workers and teachers and school staff.

Phase 1c includes vaccinations for those over 65 years of age, and those over 16 with serious medical conditions.

Mass vaccination events are

The community is asked to support the mission “to preserve, interpret, and utilize Hanover Tavern as an historical, educational, community and cultural resource for the enjoy of all” by making a tax-deductible contribution today.

To make a donation, go to https://hanovertavern.org/annual-fund/.

planned in the metro area and details should be released this week, according to Franck.

Those efforts could be greatly expanded by a program introduced

by County Administrator John Budesky at last week’s meeting.

Plans include opening local COVID vaccine sites staffed by county employees that could enhance access to the shots. The effort is being headed by Chief Jethro Piland and Fire/EMS assisted

by Deputy County Administrator Jim Taylor. Economic Development Director Linwood Thomas also is providing support in acquiring sites for the clinic sites.

Budesky said those details are being finalized, and said he expects the effort to continue for at least 90 days. A call center where residents can receive updated information on times and places also is included in the plan.

Unfortunately, stable timetables associated with the plan as to when and where the shots will be available are not yet available. The county administrator said the goal is to get through the first three phases and enter Phase 2, which includes the general public.

Budesky said the project seeks to assist the CHD in administering the vaccines, getting as many shots in as many arms as fast as possible.

“This is a dynamic process,” Budesky said. “We believe this is a process we need to commit to.”

The effort also will include partnered regional events like the one at the raceway, but the county is planning on going a step further.

“Our goal is to work with the Health Department to ramp up to at least 1,000 vaccinations a day,” Budesky said. “We are going to ramp up. We’re looking at locations right now to be able to do this and we need to work with the Health Department on the shots,” he continued.

The effort will require about 10 county employees and the county administrator indicated extended hours will be needed to accommodate the estimated 70 percent of county residents expected to receive the vaccine.

“Our goal is not to stop until every resident who wants a shot can get a shot,” Budesky said. “We have to make sure we can do this.”

He projected a start date for the project of Feb. 1.

“We have important work that we do on behalf of our citizens every day,” Budesky said. “But, is there anything more important right now that getting to those who want vaccines?”

In other business from the Jan. 13 meeting, Henry District supervisor Sean Davis was elected chairman for the upcoming term and Chickahominy District supervisor Angela Kelly-Wiecek was elected vice chair. Both votes were unanimous.

Outgoing chair Bucky Stanley was recognized for his leadership during the past 12 months and the Beaverdam District supervisor thanked his colleagues for their support.

As he passed the gavel to Davis, Stanley remarked in a familiar style, “I’ve been here so long because I’m not a politician. I’m a public servant.”

Ashland-Hanover Local January 20, 2021 5

OPINION | The Local Views From the managing editor

And so it begins -- preparing for No. 65

By Melody Kinser Managing Editor

S

eems like AARP started contacting me about membership when I was in my late 40s. I hadn’t been giving much thought to heading into the senior citizen years at that point, so I delayed becoming a dues-paying member for a year or so. And, now, here we are with a very significant birthday on the horizon: No. 65.

These days, the United States Postal Service and my personal email inbox are reminding me often that I need to enroll for Medicare. Yes, Medicare!

I have been more diligent in recent years to watch retirement investments and planning for the day when employment is in the rear view mir-

ror of life. But, that’s not on the discussion lineup today. My goal is more time in this position, as well as spending the rest of my time on this earth here.

There are those days when I, like I would think many others, go through the chapters in my mind and wonder what I may have done differently. Or would I? I’ve been fortunate because, as I’ve mentioned before, I didn’t have a plan for the future when I graduated from high school all those years ago.

The world of newspapers beckoned a year later and a career launched, filled with opportunities just any job would not provide. I’ve met and interviewed celebrities and national political figures. It was a special moment when I was the only female reporter covering Chuck Norris at

his karate studio in Huntington, West Virginia. I didn’t know a thing about his movies (he was preparing to film Missing in Action 2), but he was so gracious. Autographed photos of him are among some of my work-related memories.

Nostalgia comes in waves as I reminisce about a full life and rewarding job. And here we are preparing for the official senior citizen age.

I often listen to oldies music while working and find myself strolling down memory lane and smiling along the way. Music always holds a special place in my day-to-day life.

As the calendar continues into 2021, I’ll hold to the knowledge that I will soon qualify for senior citizen discounts. You see, there’s always a silver lining.

Medicare, here I come . . .

Assault on Capitol was the opposite of winning

By Jim Ridolphi Contributing Columnist If you live long enough on this planet, you’re likely to see almost everything and anything. Life experience provides a certain perspective that prepares one for the most unexpected occurrences, and, as life progresses, it’s easy to embrace a belief that you’ve seen it all.

And for those of a certain gen-

eration called Baby Boomers, we have witnessed extraordinary events, a timeline of history that bolsters the belief that nothing could surprise or shock us. After all, it’s the generation that experienced the assassination of a president, men walking on the moon, terrorist attacks on soil we considered sacred and technological advances that have changed the way we live our everyday lives. We’ve lived and learned that the old adage never

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Ashland-Hanover Local January 20, 2021

say never is fair warning for a world whose future never ceases to amaze.

As I watched a group of unruly protesters transform to a band of domestic terrorists last week in Washington, D.C., I quickly realized I was witnessing something unique: one of those events that mark our history with an asterisk and receive a bold black headline on the nation’s timeline.

Several days earlier, I engaged in a

normal Facebook conversation with some friends. Like everything in life today, the discussion quickly assumed a political tone. It was the usual back and forth regarding the recent election, but one post seemed more ominous than the others.

“You’ll find out what’s really happening on Jan. 6. You can bet on it,” the post read.

Now, I’m not a security expert but see OPPOSITE, pg. 8

WE WANT TO PUBLISH YOUR ISSUE-DRIVEN LETTERS The Local welcomes your signed letters to the editor on topics of interest to Hanover residents. Letters must include your address and a daytime telephone number. We reserve the right to edit letters. We do not guarantee that every letter received will be published. Letters reflect the opinions and positions of the writers and not The Ashland-Hanover Local.

Send letters to: The Ashland-Hanover Local 8460 Times-Dispatch Blvd. Mechanicsville, Va. 23116 Fax: 344-8746 E-mail: editor@mechlocal.com © 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.

LETTERS | Reader Views

Solar power facility prompts concern in Montpelier area (Editor’s note: The following was submitted to “Dear Hanover County Board of Supervisors”:) The purpose of this email is to update you regarding the status of my concerns regarding the proposed solar power generating facility in Montpelier -- CUP2020-00017. My earlier email is copied below.

Last Thursday, EDF Renewables conducted a video conference to go over the planned solar facility and answer questions from the local residents.

The information conveyed by EDF did not address the main concerns of local residents and did not change anyone’s opinion that this industrial facility should not be constructed at the proposed site. The two main concerns still exist: 1. The Hanover County Comprehensive Plan (“Plan”) does not address the construction of solar (industrial) facilities. Before any large scale solar facility is approved, the county needs to evaluate on a generic basis where these facilities should be built and what special requirements need to be imposed.

The plan also should make it clear that appropriate zoning changes must be approved as part of the project approval process. These facilities should not be built on land zoned A1 using a condition use permit process.

2. The proposed facility, which includes 15,600 solar modules connected to inverters and transformers, should not be built at this Montpelier location, which is surrounded by single family homes.

There are no commercial or industrial sites anywhere near the prosee LETTERS, pg. 7

Mayor: Town will not tolerate ‘extremisms that desire power’

300TH Continued from pg. 1

past,” said Hanover County Administrator John A. Budesky. “We are proud of our county and are eager to invite the community to share in our excitement through all of the platforms available to them.”

He said #HereinHanoverVA offers a fun, interactive way for Hanoverians to showcase achievements of the past, the vitality of the present and the promises of a bright future as Hanover County looks ahead to the next 300 years.

around 6:40 a.m. Sunday.

There were no other reports of vandalism or criminal behavASHLAND – ior, police said in a The Ashland Police news release.

Department is "I want to reply investigating after to those who littered several businesses our town: We will along Railroad pick up the trash Avenue were littered you dropped," said with leaflets displayAshland Mayor ing a swastika and Steve Trivett in the text stating “We are release. "Ashlanders Continued from pg. 6 everywhere." will never be intimiTRIVETT Officers patroldated or influ- posed location. ling the area made The county’s General enced by any of the discovery Land Use Plan describes see MAYOR, pg. 8 the goal of maintaining the independent but harmonious balance between the suburban and rural areas of the county. This is achieved by directing higher residential densities and more intensive non-residential uses to the designated Suburban Service Area (SSA) while encouraging uses intended to maintain the character and agricultural integrity into the rural area.

Constructing this facility at the Montpelier site is not consistent with this goal.

I also want to thank Sue Dibble for meeting with local residents at the proposed site to discuss the project.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Photo courtesy of Ashland Theatre Thomas Hicks In preparation for the Monday, Jan. 18, observance of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, the Ashland Theatre posted Montpelier

By Ali Rockett Richmond Times-Dispatch

LETTERS

Remembering MLK

the quote, “Make a career of humanity. Commit yourself to the noble struggle for equal rights”, on the marquee.

Despite the distancing issues and dependence on virtual events, many will remember MLK Day as the man who led this country in the fight for civil rights. His involvement began in 1955 and continued until his assassination in 1968.

Durnig the Aug. 28, 1963, march on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, King delivered to over 250,000 supporters from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial one of the most stirring speeches -- and a defining moment in the civil rghts movement. He opened “I Have a Dream” with a reference to the Emancipation Proclamation,” which declared millions of slaves free in 1863.

Trump has had three strikes, now he is out Strike three and you are out.

President Donald Trump has had his three strikes and many more in his attempt

“We invite county employees, residents, individuals, businesses, organizations, educators and students to introduce the world to Hanover County using the HereinHanoverVA hashtag, starting now!”

Over the coming months, the #HereinHanoverVA campaign in the media and on the dedicated Facebook page, Hanover County’s 300th Birthday Celebration, will spotlight faces and places in the county and will provide opportunities for people to

post about the special aspects of living and working in Hanover County, along with sharing photos and videos of their favorite spots – old and new – in the county. There’s even a Here in Hanover VA app that conveniently lists everything about Hanover County’s many features for easy access on mobile devices.

“Hanover County is more than historic locations and landmarks, great restaurants and family-friendly entertainment venues,” said Aubrey M. Stanley, chairman of the

Hanover County Board of Supervisors. “All these things are very important, but we are also home to a diverse, vibrant and growing community of innovative entrepreneurs and businesses that contribute to Virginia’s economic prosperity.”

For information on upcoming activities related to Hanover County’s 300th birthday recognition and #HereinHanoverVA, “Like” the 300th birthday Facebook page, download the app or contact hanover300@hanovercounty.gov.

for four more years as acting President of the USA, including: 1) Failure to eliminate Joe Biden from running for President.

2) Failure to admit that COVID was more than a hoax.

3) Failure to pull off a coup d’état.

Trump is as Trump does, and, unlike on the golf course where I understand he is apt to take less strikes than he gets, has taken more than his share of strikes at life.

I am guessing a failure at business is the reason he ran for President in the first place, and someone close to him was smart enough to figure being President with pardoning power would protect him and others from being prosecuted for all his and their past shady business deals.

Money is not the final scale of being a good, smart of successful businessperson.

If that were the case, we would have to add Pablo Escobar, the drug lord, who was reportedly worth $30 billion in 1993, to the list.

At any rate, Trump finally struck out with another failure in his attempt at a coup d’état.

I keep hearing about 74 million Trump followers, which I refuse to believe.

I am thinking maybe 73,900,000 are decent reg-

istered Republicans, and the balance being his destructive followers consisting of about 99,700 (2,000 in each state), with an additional 300 intimidated deteriorating Republican senators, governors, etc.

The coup d’état on Jan. 6 was not the work of or approved by the entire Republican Party.

The quote “Free at Last, Free at Last, Thank, God Almighty, Free at Last” should mean a lot more now that we were, as the saying goes, “inches away from a dictatorship.”

I have in the past always voted Republican except this time. Trump made my choice easy shortly after he too office with, “My way or the highway attitude”.

Maybe you are one of the 150+ million who have heard Trump say, “Biden is going to destroy the economy and the world,” and you may be one of the believers.

If you are a believer and with the election over and Trump sure to be gone soon, you may be depressed, drinking more and thinking there is nothing more to live for.

Here is how I intend to handle it – if it proves to be true. I will simply continue to do what I have done since 1953 through every good or bad President.

Keep working, make money, and survive. It worked for me without ever a personal contact from or to the President.

One success Trump will surely be remembered for is Destroying the Republican Party for Years!

Ted Mentz Old Church

Thanks for help in publicizing Fill-the-Van Just a note to thank you so much for helping us out with publicizing the “Fill-theVan” event at New Hanover Presbyterian Church in midDecember.

The van, plus a car or two, were filled completely and there was great rejoicing by the givers and the International Rescue Organization/Re-Establish Richmond groups.

Some folks mentioned seeing the article in The Mechanicsville Local so you certainly were a force for good!

With all good wishes for the New Year.

Thank you again.

Janice Reagan New Hanover Presbyterian Church Mechanicsville

Ashland-Hanover Local January 20, 2021 7

MAYOR Continued from pg. 7

the sour and sick extremisms that desire power yet deserve none. In Ashland we reserve our ‘extremisms’ for compassion, fellowship, and respect for others."

Ashland police shared the incident with state and federal law enforcement partner "in case this incident has connections to recent regional events," according to the release.

“This action is despicable," said Ashland Police Chief Doug Goodman in the release. "This brand of hate and division has no place in Ashland or anywhere else. We will continue to investigate this case and pursue enforcement actions as allowed by the Code of Virginia.”

Surveillance footage captured several people "lurking around the downtown corridor just after 3 a.m.," police said. The department is asking any business downtown with a surveillance system to review it between the hours of 3 and 4 a.m. and to turn it over to police, if "of value to this investigation."

Anyone with information about this incident should contact the Ashland Police Department at 804-365-6140 or leave a tip at https://www. ashlandva.gov/224/Crime-Tips.

Anyone providing crime tip information can remain anonymous.

OPPOSITE Continued from pg. 6

the warning seems serious. I got the feeling that many knew more than me regarding the planned rally in Washington on the same day Congress planned to certify results from the recent presidential election.

Weeks ago, I had stopped trying to convince friends that Joe Biden has received the majority of votes in November, and I realized they were responding with a certain brand of confidence that

8

Covid-19 vaccines are on the way...so are the scams Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com RICHMOND -- With the United States having approved a COVID-19 vaccine, government officials expect scams to emerge as distribution begins.

Watch out for everything from phony treatments to phishing messages.

“Even though these vaccines are to meet a critical healthcare crisis, including life and death concerns, sadly it won’t deter scammers and thieves from doing evil to the innocent, so consumers must remain ever vigilant,” said Barry N. Moore, president & CEO of the BBB serving Central Virginia.

the vaccine release.

Watch out for phishing messages attempting to trick you into sharing your passwords and personal information.

Con artists have already impersonated the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) in phishing emails that claim to have news about the disease.

BBB also has seen an increase in

Check with your doctor: If you want a vaccine early, reach out to your healthcare provider about your options. If you don't have a primary care physician, check out the official website of your local health department for more information

Ignore calls for immediate action.

While you may want to be first in line for the vaccine, don’t let that sense of urgency cloud your judgment.

What to expect from scammers: Government officials have already been cracking down on phony COVID testing kits and treatments. Now, they are ramping up efforts to prevent the sale of fake vaccines.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is working with the drug companies developing the vaccines to stop the sale and distribution of phony versions.

Also, the Federal Trade Commission issued warning letters to several companies claiming they had a product to cure or prevent the virus.

Selling fake vaccines and other treatments is likely only one of many ways scammers will try to cash in on assured this result would be overturned. Their beliefs were reinforced by a chorus of politicians who presented volumes of supposed and untested evidence that election fraud was really the reason for Biden’s victory.

My own limited investigation did not confirm this.

I searched for names of thousands of voters who had allegedly voted illegally in Georgia as one affidavit stated citing all of the votes were submitted by underage voters.

After hours of research I found none. I found the complaints

Ashland-Hanover Local January 20, 2021

For more information Read more about coronavirus scams on the Federal Trade Commission’s website. Learn more about the disease at the CDC’s FAQ page. Also, the FDA is updating this page about its progress in developing a treatment for coronavirus.

BBB has identified many ways in which scammers are cashing in the COVID-19 pandemic. Learn more about clinical trial scams, contract tracing cons, counterfeit face masks, and government agency imposters.

If you’ve spotted a scam (whether or not you’ve lost money), report it to BBB Scam Tracker. Your report can help others avoid falling victim to scams. Sign up for BBB Scam Alerts to receive weekly notices of emerging scams to avoid.

About BBB: Metro Creative Connection

scams using robocalls to impersonate government officials.

How to spot a coronavirus vaccine con: Research carefully: Scammers are very creative, so be skeptical of anything that seems too good -- or crazy -- to be true. Double check any information about the vaccine with official news sources. And be aware that none of the vaccines can be currently purchased online or in stores.

that claimed to provide lists of illegal voters and their names, but could not find a single example.

It was enough to convince me that ongoing legal challenges to the election would not succeed. A sense of naiveté led me to believe that a majority of voters would eventually accept the results. After all, I’d heard the same rhetoric from Hillary supporters who claimed irregularities in her 2016 defeat, but then, as now, I considered the complaints a clear case of sour grapes.

But, the past week has shat-

Scammers try to get you to act before you think. Don't fall for it.

Think the link may be real? Double check the URL. Scammers often buy official-looking URLs to use in their cons. Be careful that the link is really what it pretends to be. If the message alleges to come from the local government, make sure the URL ends in .gov (for the United States). When in doubt, do a separate internet search for the website.

tered some long-held beliefs that truth always prevails, especially when the conversation is political. But, those years of perspective that allowed me to accept the fact that each election has a winner and a loser. If the core foundation of our democracy, our elections, cannot be accepted or trusted, it’s hard to imagine a future for representative democracy.

It’s also certain that when all the votes are counted in every election across the country, someone walks away disappointed.

In the end, I suppose it’s

BBB serving Central Virginia serves Richmond, the Tri-Cities, Charlottesville, and Fredericksburg, as well as 42 surrounding counties from Fauquier to Mecklenburg and Northumberland to Amherst. The nonprofit organization was established in 1954 to advance responsible, honest, and ethical business practices and to promote customer confidence through self-regulation of business. Core services of BBB include business profiles, dispute resolution, truth-in advertising, scam warnings, consumer and business education, and charity review.

reassuring that our system survived the challenge, and, when other institutions have faltered in the face of authoritarian demands, our electoral system, the stalwart of our democracy, stood fast to the onslaught.

I, like many, have remaining questions regarding how such an event could occur at our Capitol Building, and how warnings that were clear to even a seasoned, some would say pickled, reporter could have gone unnoticed or worse, unprepared for.

And if Americans are willing to revel and celebrate their

political victories, we also must be open to be open to the possibility of losing. Remember, candidates win only half the time.

Building, and how warnings that were clear to even a seasoned, some would say pickled, reporter could have gone unnoticed or worse, unprepared for.

And if Americans are willing to revel and celebrate their political victories, we also must be open to be open to the possibility of losing. Remember, candidates win only half the time.

Hanover-Caroline SWCD offers 3 2021-2022 Hanover County $5,000 scholarship opportunities school calendar announced 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 conservationrelated 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.

Driver privilege cards available in state RICHMOND – Eligible Virginians may now apply for a driver privilege card at the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

Applications will be accepted by appointment only; appointments can be made at dmvNOW. com/appt.

This change in Virginia law, authorized by the Virginia General Assembly, creates a driving credential for individuals who are non-U.S. citizens and cannot meet Virginia’s legal presence requirements, making them ineligible to receive a standard or REAL ID-compliant driver’s license in Virginia.

Customers may be eligible to obtain a driver privilege card if they meet the following criteria: are a non-U.S. citizen who is a resident of Virginia. have reported income from Virginia sources or are claimed as a dependent on a tax return filed in Virginia in the past 12 months. do not have a driving privilege that is currently suspended or revoked in Virginia or any other state, to include insurance-related infractions.

“Now is the time to prepare for your visit to DMV to obtain this new credential. Gather necessary documents, make an appointment and study for any applicable testing,” said DMV Commissioner Richard D. Holcomb. “Preparation is key to a successful visit and we have many resources available to assist at dmvNOW.com/ dpc. We look forward to serving you.”

In order to obtain a driver privilege card in Virginia, the following documents must be provided: Two proofs of identity (e.g., foreign passport and Consular identification document issued by country of citizenship) Two proofs of Virginia residency (e.g., monthly mortgage statement and utility bill) Proof of Social Security number (if one has been issued) or the individual’s taxpayer identification number (e.g., W-2 form or ITIN letter) Tax return documentation (e.g. Virginia Resident Form, Virginia Part-Year Resident Income Tax Return Form or Virginia Nonresident Income Tax Return Form, filed in the past 12 months) All documents must be originals and are subject to verification; however, printouts of approved online residency documents may be accepted.

The steps to obtain a driver privilege card vary based on a customer’s licensed driving history. DMV encourages those eligible to make an appointment, study and prepare for applicable tests at dmvNOW.com, and organize the documents necessary to obtain a driver privilege card. An interactive document guide, available on DMV’s website, helps to prepare customers for their visit.

For more information, visit dmvNOW.com/ dpc.

(Editor’s note: The following was submitted by Hanover County Public Schools.)

ASHLAND -- The Hanover County School Board recently approved the 20212022 school year calendar.

The calendar can be found at http://hcps. us/UserFiles/Servers/Server_1250983/File/ Events/Calendar/HCPS%202021-22%20 Adopted%20Calendar.pdf.

Note that the school year is slated to begin on Tuesday, Sept. 7. Similar to the start of this school year, the school district will limit attendance on the first day of school (Sept. 7) to pre-K, kindergarten, first grade, sixth grade, and ninth grade students to allow its newest learners and those facing the most significant transitions into its buildings first.

All other students will begin instruction on Wednesday, Sept. 8.

Here are other notable highlights that school leaders hope will be helpful as you begin planning for next school year.

Two full weeks for Winter Break Spring Break is the first full week in April Election Day is a student and teacher holiday Seventeen of our schools serve as voting precincts and experience hundreds of visitors on Election Day every November.

As a result, we are moving parent/teacher conferences to the day before the election (Monday, Nov. 1, 2021) in order to reduce traffic and increase safety at our schools.

Eliminated seven Early Closings to give much-needed professional learning and collaboration time to our educators. This also eliminates disruption to the school day and to student learning, as well as limits early closing-related logistical issues for families.

Added four Flexible Learning Days (more information below) to allow for inno-

vative instruction and additional planning time for educators, among other benefits. All four of these days are on Mondays.

What is a Flexible Learning Day? The Flexible Learning Day is an asynchronous learning day in which students will participate in carefully designed and meaningful learning activities from home.

The activities will be designed to be completed independently and will not require students to login to their class. The activities can be completed and turned in to be counted within two days of the Flexible Learning Day. The Flexible Learning Days will provide teachers with opportunities to collaborate within their content area, provide time to plan instruction, participate in professional learning activities, and assess individual needs of students.

Students will be provided activities prior to the day. Students who complete the activities will be counted as attending school for that day, allowing HCPS to maintain 180 days of learning.

More information regarding student learning opportunities and Flexible Learning Days will be shared in the coming months.

According to Michael Gill, superintendent of schools, the proposed calendars were developed by a committee of parents, teachers, support employees, and administrators and in coordination with the other major school divisions in the metro-Richmond area.

“Thank you to everyone who submitted questions or comments during the calendar planning process,” Gill added.

Information submitted by Chris R. Whitley, Hanover County Public Schools public information officer.

Christmas tree recycling continues at convenience centers through Jan. 31 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 operating 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 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 20, 2021 9

Sports

UPCOMING EVENTS

01

22 2021

Girls basketball: Hanover at Atlee 7:15 p.m.

01

22 2021

Girls basketball Patrick Henry at Mechanicsville 7:15 p.m.

| Youth, High School, College, Recreational & Professional

Mustang boys open new era with victories

By Rob Witham For the Mechanicsville Local

Dave Lawrence/The Local

Mechanicsville’s Wyatt Brown (4) doesn’t let Patrick Henry’s Jayden Mines (2) get in the way of a layup in the Mustangs’ 65-64 win.

10

Ashland-Hanover Local January 20, 2021

MECHANICSVILLE – Wyatt Brown will go down in history as scoring the first varsity boys basketball points for the renamed Mechanicsville Mustangs. But that wasn’t his most important play Wednesday night as the Mustangs hosted Patrick Henry in their longawaited season opener.

Trailing by 2 with two seconds remaining, Brown was given the task of finding a way to get the basketball down the length of the floor to give his team a prayer at victory, down 64-62.

“The play was to try to find a layup to tie the game,” Brown said when asked about the strategy behind the play.

“I looked down the court and Drew (Ware) was open. I knew if I could get it to him, we would have a shot at 3 and the win.”

Somehow, Brown’s pass found a leaping Ware, who caught the ball, and launched a turnaround jumper that hit nothing but net as time expired for an improbable 65-64 win over the Patriots.

Patrick Henry (0-1) jumped to an early lead thanks to a 9-0 run fueled by Jordan Morris, who scored 5 of his 11 points in the opening stanza to build a 19-11 lead. Camden Byrd, who led the Patriots with 18 points, scored 8 in the second period, and led the Patrick Henry defensive charge, holding the Mustangs to just 8 points for a 36-19 advantage at intermission.

What was missing from Patrick Henry in the second half was a combination of offensive efficiency and a killer instinct.

The shooting of Eli Lewis sparked the Mechanicsville comeback. Held to 1 point in the first half, Lewis hit three triples in the third period to get the Mustangs back within 9 points.

When Samuel Grubbs put back a missed free throw attempt with 5:35 left in the contest, the Mustangs were within 4 at 51-47. After two Byrd free throws, Christian Berry grabbed a key offensive rebound and scored, giving the Patriots an 8-point lead midway through the quarter.

But in the final 2:51, the Mustangs outscored the Patriots 14-3, the run capped by the Ware game-winner in a play reminiscent of Christian Laettner’s miracle turnaround jumper for Duke over Kentucky in 1992 in the NCAA East Region Final.

As if that wasn’t enough excitement, the Mustangs found themselves in a back-and-forth battle Friday night at Hanover, as the Hawks opened their season and new era with Michael Rohr now at the helm of the boys varsity squad after a successful run as girls varsity head coach.

Owen DeShazo scored 8 of his 11 points in the first period, helping Hanover take an early 10-8 advantage.

Lewis’ traditional 3-point play gave Mechanicsville an 18-16 see MUSTANGS, pg. 12

Court girls shake off rust as abbreviated season starts

By Dave Lawrence Sports Editor MECHANICSVILLE – On the court, some of the girls are showing a bit of rust. Some haven’t quite got their competition legs, but on the whole three of the county high schools’ girls basketball teams started their abbreviated 2020-2021 season.

They had little time for tryouts, less time for practice, but Wednesday night when Mechanicsville’s Mustangs tipped off with Patrick Henry for the county’s season opener, there was no lack of hustle.

“Some had a little slow start,”

said Patriots’ head coach Phillip Cobb after his team’s 64-31 win over Mechanicsville. “But then we picked it up.”

Guard Logan Nuckols showed no evidence of a slow start. She finished with 21 points, nine assists and four steals. T’Niyah Baylor finished with 18 points and four steals.

Jessica Osuanah and Ava Smith finished with seven rebounds apiece.

The Mustangs had their share of hustle, too. Bennett Carlton led Mechanicsville with 15 points and Madison Butler scored 12.

Hanover started its season

“You start to feel a little bit overwhelmed as a coach, and then you’re trying to relay all this information to teenagers. … I kept telling them, ‘I know it feels like you’re trying to drink from a fire hose right now, but just keep hanging in there.’ And I was saying that four or five times a day.”

When game time finally arrived, Butler said some on his team were so ready they could barely contain themselves.

“We had we had a few of them that were, I guess, shaking with anticipation,” Butler said.

“They kept moving around.

They wouldn’t sit still in the pre-game meeting. They were pacing, you know. So they were ready.”

Julia Mardigian certainly was. She led the Hawks with 27 points. Adrianna Jacobs finPatrick Henry vs. Mechanicsville, 5 ished with 11 and Hali Harris p.m. scored 10.

Friday at Mechanicsville with a 62-33 victory. Like the Patriots’ start, the Hawks were a little off pace, but Hawk head girls basketball coach Dave Butler was still pleased.

“I would categorize it as a success for us, considering all of the obstacles that have been in our way,” Butler said. “We started our basketball season later. We had one week to practice before our first game. And, when you have practices and you have all of the things you need to install – offensive plays, defensive plays, inbounds plays – you’re talking through all of these different scenarios.

Winter sports schedule Boys basketball (All games start at 7:15 p.m. unless noted.)

Wednesday, Jan. 20 Patrick Henry at Atlee Hanover at Mechanicsville Friday, Jan. 22 Atlee at Hanover Mechanicsville at Patrick Henry

Friday, Jan. 22 Hanover at Atlee Patrick Henry at Mechanicsville Monday, Jan. 25 Patrick Henry at Hanover Atlee at Mechanicsville Wednesday, Jan. 27 Patrick Henry at Atlee, 6 p.m.

Monday, Jan. 25 Mechanicsville at Atlee Hanover at Patrick Henry

Thursday, Jan. 28 Atlee at Hanover Mechanicsville at Patrick Henry

Wednesday, Jan. 27 Atlee at Patrick Henry, 6 p.m.

Monday, Feb. 1 Patrick Henry at Atlee Hanover at Mechanicsville

Thursday, Jan. 28 Hanover at Atlee Patrick Henry at Mechanicsville

Tuesday, Feb. 2 Atlee at Hanover

Monday, Feb. 1 Mechanicsville at Hanover Atlee at Patrick Henry

Thursday, Feb. 4 Mechanicsville at Atlee Hanover at Patrick Henry

Tuesday, Feb. 2 Hanover at Atlee

Gymnastics (All events start at 7 p.m. unless noted.)

Wednesday, Jan. 20 Multiple schools at Mechanicsville

Thursday, Feb. 4 Patrick Henry at Hanover Atlee at Mechanicsville Girls basketball (All games start at 7:15 p.m. unless noted.)

Wednesday, Jan. 20 Mechanicsville at Hanover Atlee at Patrick Henry

Joel Klein for The Local

Mechanicsville’s Shay Bassett (left) and Patrick Henry’s Alicia Artis chase down a loose ball in the Patriot girls basketball’s 6431 opening night victory at Patrick Henry Wednesday.

Mechanicsville was led by reached at dlawrence@mechloMadison Butler with 21 points. cal.com.

Dave Lawrence can be

Saturday, Jan. 30 Patrick Henry vs. Hanover, 1 p.m.

Mechanicsville vs. Atlee, 5 p.m.

Indoor Track & Field (All events start at 5:45 p.m. unless noted.)

Thursday, Jan. 21 Patrick Henry at Hanover Atlee at Mechanicsville Tuesday, Jan. 26 Hanover at Atlee Patrick Henry at Mechanicsville Saturday, Jan. 30 Multiple Schools at Mechanicsville, 11 a.m.

Wrestling (All events start at 7 p.m. unless noted.)

Tuesday, Jan. 19 Dual: Patrick Henry at Atlee Dual: Hanover at Mechanicsville Saturday, Jan. 23 Quad at Atlee, 11 a.m.

Wednesday, Jan. 27 Multiple schools at Mechanicsville

Wednesday, Jan. 27 Dual: Atlee at

Swimming (All events at Burkwood Swim & Racquet Club) Saturday, Jan. 23 Hanover vs. Atlee, 1 p.m.

Dual: Mechanicsville at Patrick Henry

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Wednesday, Feb. 3 Tri at Patrick Henry, 6 p.m.

Ashland-Hanover Local January 20, 2021 11

County swimmers happy to go with the flow

By Dave Lawrence Sports Editor MECHANICSVILLE – When the Hanover and Mechanicsville swim teams assembled at Burkwood Swim & Racquet Club Saturday, they had to deal with an atypical amount of choreography so that they could maintain social distancing while warming up and competing.

Out of water, masks on.

Before entering the water, masks in Ziploc bags. In the water, stay in place (or lane within a lane).

But the swimmers were eager and, despite some rust on skills like turns, many turned in excellent times.

No matter how they finished, the most important part of the day was getting in the water – and actually competing.

“We started two months later than we normally do,” said Hanover head swim coach George Massey. “It was just like, ‘OK, finally we could do this.’ ” The meet was especially important for the seniors. No matter how different the environment is in this time of the COVID pandemic, they were raring to go.

“Everyone was very excited, you know,” Massey said. “We’ve been practicing, been working

MUSTANGS Continued from pg. 10

lead after a quarter. The lead changed all night long, with neither team up by more than 6 points.

Ware completed an “andone” with 12 seconds left in the first half to put Mechanicsville up 32-31 at the break. Hanover scored the final 4 points of the third period for a 45-43 lead.

A Kwadell McQueen steal and

Dave Lawrence/The Local

Mechanicsville High School’s Logan Deal puts his fierce face on as he swims to victory in the boys 100-yard butterfly in a meet against Hanover at Burkwood Swim & Racquet Club Saturday. Deal reached the finish in 54.09, besting his seed time by nearly two seconds and his competition by more than six seconds.

willing to do anything they can to make it happen,” said Atlee head swim coach Karen Seeber.

“They’ve been really good about following directions and doing what they need to do.

And it changes, like how we did relays and them staying in two

lanes and doing all that stuff – they adapt. They’ve adapted, and I’m really proud of them because they really have made it pretty easy to do.”

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

on these protocols. … They followed all the protocols to a T. They understand what’s necessary for us to be able to compete.”

This year, numbers were down for both Hanover and Mechanicsville, and the num-

bers worked to the Hawks’ advantage in terms of team scores. Ben Schoenwiesner and Morgan Pittman were among the multiple winners for the Hawk boys and girls, respectively, while Logan Deal was a multiple winner for the

Mustang boys.

The competitive environment was just as electric in the Patrick Henry versus Atlee meet at Burkwood earlier in the afternoon.

“The kids want to be back to some normalcy, so they’re

layup capped a 9-2 Mustangs run to begin the fourth for a 52-47 edge.

Back came the Hawks, as Charlie Rohr, who led Hanover with 19 points, scored to tie the game at 55 with 3:12 remaining. But McQueen would be the hero, hitting a jumper in the lane with 12 seconds left for the 61-60 win to put Mechanicsville at 2-0 with a pair of thrilling 1-point wins. Rohr fought to the glass to try to give Hanover the victory, but his shot fell

short and, while bodies hit the floor, no foul was called.

“Great game by both teams.

Hats off to Mechanicsville”, Coach Rohr noted after the contest on Twitter. “Proud of my guys for battling and giving themselves a chance to win.”

Brown noted the victories were early dividends of the hard work, both physically and mentally, by a team toughened by eighteen months of adversity.

“I think it speaks volumes about our desire to win,” Brown

said. “Coming off a season with only two wins and with all of the changes we have faced with our school name, we wanted to approach this season as a new beginning all the way around.

So far, we have been in sync with each other, and really playing team basketball.”

That season continues with a return match with the Hawks, this time at home, Wednesday Dave Lawrence/The Local at 7:15 p.m.

Patrick Henry’s Jayden Mines (center) battles Mechanicsville’s Rob Witham can be reached Eli Lewis (3) and Jordan Callahan (10) for a rebound in the at sports@mechlocal.com.

Mustangs’ 65-64 win over the Patriots Wednesday.

Ashland-Hanover Local January 20, 2021 12

LEGAL DISPLAY ADS GENERAL

Announcements GENERAL & SPECIAL NOTICES

FT Factory Help Wanted Mechanicsville area. Call 746-5238 between 1:00 - 4:00 PM

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.

Rockville Renegades Baseball 9U Travel Ball Tryout Jan. 23, 2021 9AM-11AM Ashland Yard 109 South Washington St Ashland VA Rockvillerenegadesbaseball@gmail

Merchandise MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE Local "Handpainted by Audrey" Gift Shop Closing - items starting at $1.

Call for an appt 804-749-3675 For Sale : Beauty Shop Equipment: station with built in sink & styling chair, 2-dryer chairs. All for $300.

Call 804-749-3675.

Recruitment AUTO REPAIR/PARTS AUTO DETAILER: Clean and wash customers cars after repair has been completed. Need to be familiar with vehicles that have fresh paint; able to vacuum interior polish, buff, vehicles. Full time work with vacation, health insurance, 401K retirement. Must have good eye for detail and good work ethic.

Hours Monday to Friday 8 AM to 5PM. AUTO BODY TECHNICIAN: Experienced Body Technician. We are a busy shop with multiple DRP’S. repairing wrecked damaged vehicles. We do not do rust repair or restoration work and try to avoid "train wrecks". Benefits are: Paid Vacations, Health insurance, 401K retirement program. Commission pay; $65 K To $90K depending on how proficient you are in your work.

We have weekly pay period, every Friday.

Call COLONIAL BODY & PAINT SHOP 804 746-2590 TO SCHEDULE FOR INTERVIEW OR email resume to: paul@colonialgroupltd.com

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Cabinet Helper/ Carpentry Driver’s lisc & clean record a must.

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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

Tree & Shrub Pruning, Removals, Stump Grinding. Health/Risk Assessments. Insured. Free Estimates.

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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.

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PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE HANOVER COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS

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APARTMENTS UNFURN.

GENERAL CONTRACTORS

LEGAL DISPLAY ADS

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.

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Ashland-Hanover Local January 20, 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 20, 2021

Mechanicsville AARP Tax-Aide opens Feb. 3 MECHANICSVILLE -The Mechanicsville AARP Tax-Aide site will be open in the Mechanicsville Library again this tax season. The library is located at 7461 Sherwood Crossing Place.

Tax-Aide offers free tax preparation and filing to older or low-income taxpayers.

Many individuals miss out on credits and deductions they’ve earned because they can’t afford to pay for professional tax preparation; Tax-Aide can help.

The AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program i s the nation’s largest free, volunteerrun tax assistance service. It is sponsored by AARP and the IRS. It is now in its 52nd year.

There are nine Tax-Aide offices i n the Richmond area.

The volunteers all have extensive tax training and most have experience in tax preparation.

The Mechanicsville site will be open on Wednesdays and Thursdays just like last year, but the hours will be from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. this year. Their first open day will be Wednesday, Feb. 3. Tax returns will be prepared by appointment this year.

The procedure will be somewhat different to accommodate the fears of COVID. Beginning in January, those interested in having their tax returns done by TaxAide volunteers may pick up a packet of the forms and information they need at the library.

All forms must be filled out before an appointment is made. If you've used TaxAide's service before, you'll be familiar with most of the

forms, but anyone that needs help with the forms may call 804-537-0662 or email MechTaxAide@gmail.com.

Appointments may be made by phone or online at the online address found in the forms packet.

When coming in for a tax session, you must bring: a photo ID for both taxpayer and spouse, a Social Security card for everyone on the tax return (dependents included), all tax forms received such as W-2s and 1099s, health form 1095-A (if you received one), and any other “Important Tax Information” you received i n the mail.

If you want your refund directly deposited into your bank account, you must bring a check with the account and routing number on it. Also, bringing a copy of last year’s tax return with supporting documents is helpful in the preparation of this year’s return.

For anyone interested in becoming a volunteer tax return preparer, training for the current filing season i s complete, but the program is always looking for new volunteers. If interested i n volunteering for the 2021 filing season a year from now, you may apply at the website: TaxAide@AARP.org.

More information about Tax-Aide may be obtained at: 888-687-2277 or TaxAide@ AARP.org.

Last season was cut short due to COVID, so the volunteers at the Mechanicsville site are excited to be open this year and are looking forward to doing tax returns for local folks.

Human Services Network Partners/Community list contacts Staff Report news@mechlocal.com ASHLAND – Lisa Adkins, MSW, administrator of the Hanover County Department of Community Services, has released the following to “Human Services Network Partners/Community Contacts”.

In updates and reminders, Adkins included: Hanover CARES Act Funds: Funds are still available through various not for profit community partners.

We hope that all funding can be provided to individuals and families in need of food, rent, mortgage or utility support.

There are still partners that can assist clients prior to the Dec. 30 deadline. We have posted the updated United Way flyers in Spanish and English https:// www.hanovercounty.gov/363/ Community-Resources Hanover Human Services Network Meeting: We hope you will join us for our first meeting of 2021 from 3 to

4:30 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 7.

As always, this is a vital meeting to share program details, seek partner supports and make connections in service to our community. Register at https://www.surveymonkey. com/r/HanoverNetwork12021

by Jan. 6. We will send the Webex Meeting invite and agenda after registration closes.

Hanover’s PPE Community Care Kits: We have completed processing many of the partner requests for kits to provide to clients and community members. We are still working through our request list and will be making contacts for pickups later in January.

“We wish you peace, health, and happiness this holiday season. Be safe and spread infectious kindness!” Adkins added.

The Hanover County Department of Community Services is located at 12310 Washington Hwy. in Ashland.

The phone number is 804-3654302 and the website is www.

HanoverVolunteers.org.

FACTS. STORIES. NEWS. Real

Real

Real

Journalism you can depend on.

Sign-up period begins for Hanover Tax Relief for elderly and disabled 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 June 5, 2021.

Applicants must be 65 years old or permanently disabled and must own or partially own the property and have lived in it on Dec. 31. If the applicant is in a hospital or extended care facility, he or she may still qualify as long as the house is not rented or leased.

The $200,000 net worth figure does not include the value of the house and up to 10 acres around it.

The home’s owners can have a combined gross annual income of up to $52,500 and still qualify. The income of relatives living in the home is counted except for the first $10,000 of the relative’s 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.

$1,000, in the 16600 block of Mountain Road, Montpelier.

SHERIFF’s Continued from pg. 3

Jan. 8

DWI: 1st offense was reported in the 7200 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike/Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.

Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 7100 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike/Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.

Assault and battery of a family member was reported in the 7000 block of Evergreen Lane, Mechanicsville.

Possession of Schedule I and II controlled substance was reported in the 9800 block of Interstate 95 North, Doswell.

Simple assault was reported in the 8100 block of Studley Road/Ruth Wood Court, Mechanicsville.

Petit larceny parts were reported in the 11200 block of Hopson Road, Ashland.

Simple assault was reported in the 6600 block of Cold Harbor Road, Mechanicsville.

Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 3700 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville.

DWI: 1st offense was reported in the 8200 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike/Henrico County, Mechanicsville.

Jan. 9

Concealment, price altering merchandise, $500, was reported in the 7400 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.

Obstructing justice no force was reported in the 7100 block of Aquarius Drive, Mechanicsville.

Larceny or theft, 3rd or subsequent offense, was reported in the 7400 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.

Destruction of property, monument, was reported in the 10000 block of Lickinghole Road, Ashland.

Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 7300 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.

Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 3700 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville.

Possession of Schedule I and II controlled substance was reported in the 12300 block of Mount Hermon Road, Ashland.

DWI: 1st offense was

Driver did not report an accident with damages, $1,000, in the 15000 block of Coatesville Road, Beaverdam.

Driver did not report an accident with damags, $1,000, in the 8500 block of East Patrick Henry Road/ Wickham Manor Way, Ashland.

Possession of marijuana, subsequent offense, was reported in the 10000 block of Hanover Courthouse Road/East Patrick Henry Road, Ashland.

Lost firearm was reported in the 7000 block of Walgrove Court, Mechanicsville.

Obtaining money or signature by false pretenses was reported in the 7300 block of Brandy Creek Drive, Mechanicsville.

DWI, 3rd offense in 10 years, was reported in the 3700 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville.

Cause computer malfunction was reported in the 7400 block of Ambrose Drive, Mechanicsville.

Simple assault was reported in the 9900 block of Lickinghole Road, Ashland.

Driver did not report an accident with damages,

see SHERIFF’s, pg. 16

Ashland-Hanover Local January 20, 2021 15

Hanover County’s Chickahominy Falls awarded Virginia’s 2020 Community of Year Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com

A

SHLAND -- What started five years ago at Cornerstone Homes with an idea, plenty of research, inspiration and good old-fashioned hard work, reached back around full circle to meet the highest aspiration.

The local homebuilder recently was awarded Virginia’s Community of the Year at the Home Builders Association of Virginia’s 2020 Housing Excellence Awards for its unique 55+ agri-community, Chickahominy Falls.

Roger Glover, Cornerstone Homes founder and owner, said he knows success doesn’t grow overnight.

Through a thoughtful, 55+ persona driven approach, Glover has taken his 25 years of experience to perfect the lifestyle first formula that is getting the attention from both a local and national scale. From following the broad reaching national active adult trends to conducting market surveys for a finer, more local focus, Glover has found that the secret is going beyond typical home and community design.

It happens when that focus shifts to creating unique and rewarding lifestyle experiences.

“The heart and soul of Chickahominy Falls lives in the experiences we have tried to create here,” said Glover. “Of course it happens in the homes, but it also exists in the fields of Woodside Farms, at community gatherings in The Barn and at our Farm Stands where that original imagination and vision for Chickahominy Falls comes to life and will be extended and enhanced further as we complete our five-star clubhouse, exercise facilities, resort style pool, wildflower meadows, and walking trails through those meadows and along the river.”

The unique spirit of Chickahominy Falls’ lifestyle forward design has attracted local support from the very beginning.

Working hand-in-hand in collaboration with the Hanover County

16

Planning Commission, the Hanover County Board of Supervisors and oneon-one meetings with local residents back in 2015, two years later, a unanimous County project approval set the development of this one-of-a-kind agricommunity into motion.

“This development is truly unique, a blend of healthy living combined with fabulous site amenities creates a one of a kind experience that all of us appreciate and are most proud of,” said Sue Dibble, South Anna District supervi-

Association of Richmond. “This simple concept has an abundance of benefits, from health and nutrition to bringing the community together, which sets them apart.”

Besides the working farm, The Barn and the community health and wellness events, Chickahominy Falls continues to add to its list of lifestyle-forward amenities.

The highly anticipated Farmhouse, the five-star community clubhouse will begin construction in early 2021, total-

“

This development is truly unique, a blend of healthy living combined with fabulous site amenities creates a one of a kind experience that all of us appreciate and are most proud of.

SUE DIBBLE, SOUTH ANNA DISTRICT SUPERVISOR.

sor. “Chickahominy Falls clearly reflects Hanover County’s vision to create a premier community for people and businesses to achieve their full potential and I am proud to work with Roger Glover and Cornerstone Homes to continue to grow this magnificent environment.”

The current board of supervisors and the planning commission recently provided additional approvals that allow Woodside Farms, the 10-acre heart and soul of Chickahominy Falls, for hosting special, small to medium sized events. Every Saturday, The Farm Stand will continue to welcome other small local businesses and county residents to reap the benefits by heaps and mounds or by the share. Now the Red Barn, at Woodside Farms, also can serve as a hub for the health and wellness gatherings for residents of Chickahominy Falls and as a public special events venue for the greater Richmond community.

“Cornerstone Homes takes amenity considerations to a new level with lifestyle innovations such as the agri-hood development,” said Danna Markland, chief executive officer of Home Building

Ashland-Hanover Local January 20, 2021

“

ing over 16,400 square feet of thoughtful indoor and outdoor recreation.

Inside “The Farmhouse”, residents will enjoy a large club room, entertaining kitchen, billiards and meeting rooms, a fitness center with cardio and weight equipment and a classroom and yoga studio. Outdoors, an extensive network of outdoor patios and terraces overlook the pond and pool and will include a firepit and grill station.

Continued development of a scenic overlook will eventually become a new focal point at the pond, and more walking trails, wildflower meadows, pocket parks and bark parks are underway.

The Crescent Group, Cornerstone Homes’ sister company and developer of Chickahominy Falls, also is in the early planning stages for a fishing pier at the pond and a multi-court facility, including pickle ball, complete with an outdoor pavilion with a fireplace.

“We still have so much to look forward to at Chickahominy Falls,” said Glover. “We recently introduced our new and innovative Tapestry Collection of homes that focus on providing special in-home living experiences, not

just floor plans and room dimensions.

Every day, we continue to welcome new folks to the community and we’re always building up our repertoire of amenities that complete our vision.”

Over 180 residents now call Chickahominy Falls home and will continue to welcome over 220 more over the coming years. As support for this experiential destination continues, so too does the attention to detail to fulfilling the original vision for Chickahominy Falls. It is in this collaboration, belief and nurturing that goodness grows and Chickahominy Falls will continue to thrive.

Located in Hanover County, about 20 minutes from downtown Richmond, Chickahominy Falls is situated on 180 acres abutting Cedar Lane, Holly Hill Road, and the Chickahominy River. It is the first and only “Agri-Community” in the Greater Richmond area blending age-qualified residences, amenities, orchards and a working farm.

Over 73 of the community’s 180 acres will be dedicated to common space for all to enjoy with an elaborate network of walking trails winding throughout the community connecting nature and neighbors, pocket gardens, open natural spaces with wild flower meadows and groves of mature trees, a large stocked neighborhood pond and the Chickahominy River.

Anchoring the recreation, health and wellness amenities will be “The Farmhouse,” a clubhouse, fitness and wellness center, and resort style pool with scenic views overlooking the pond, and outdoor recreation and relaxing pavilions.

Chickahominy Falls has been recognized as Virginia’s 2020 Community of The Year by the Home Builders Association of Virginia, voted in the top 100 planned communities by Ideal Living Magazine and as the “crown jewel” of Hanover County by the Richmond Tourism Bureau.

For more information about Chickahominy Falls, and to register for early information about future home releases, visit ChickahominyFalls.com.

SHERIFF’s Continued from pg. 15

reported in the 8000 block of Lee Avenue/Jackson Avenue, Mechanicsville.

Jan. 10

Simple assault was reported in the 11000 block of Chamberlayne Road, Hanover.

Driver did not report an accident with damages, $250, in the 7700 block of Sporting Lane, Mechanicsville.

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

Possession of Schedule I and II controlled substance was reported in the 14100 block of Washington Highway/Elletts Crossing Road, Ashland.

Violation of a protective order (general) was reported in the 9100 block of Chamberlayne Road, Mechanicsville.

Destruction of property, monument, was reported in the 7200 block of Jackson Avenue, Mechanicsville.

Sale and distribution of marijuana, ½ ounce to 5 pounds, were reported in the 9100 block of Chamberlayne Road, Mechanicsville.

Simple assault was reported in the 7200 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville.

Simple assault was reported in the 6000 block of Billingswood Drive, Mechanicsville.

DWI: 1st offense was reported in the 10000 block of Cedar Lane/Washington Highway, Glen Allen.

Falsely identifying sale to law enforcement was reported in the 8400 block of Wyndale Drive, Mechanicsville.