Ashland-Hanover Local – 1/5/2022

ASTRONOMY NASA group works on planetary defense against asteroid strike

OPINION End of season provides lasting message PAGE

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Vol. 7 No. 19 | Richmond Suburban News | January 5, 2022

Final redistricting lines bring changes to county

By Laura McFarland Managing Editor POWHATAN – The Virginia Supreme Court last week finalized the state’s new redistricting maps, which will see Hanover County now split between two congressional districts, go from three to two different representatives in the State Senate, and see changes in the House of Delegates as well.

The court took over control of Virginia’s redistricting process after the Virginia Redistricting Commission, which was made up of citizens and legislators, got bogged down by partisan politics and failed to meet the deadline to come to an agreement on the state’s legislative and congressional districts.

Earlier in December 2021, the court reviewed maps prepared by two “special masters” – Bernard Grofman, nominated by Democratic legislators, and Sean Trende, nominated by Republican lawmakers. The final order on Tuesday, Dec. 28, 2021, adopted their redistricting

Longest serving Hanover Supervisor dies at 75 Bucky Stanley served Beaverdam District 38 years

By Jim Ridolphi For The Local Hanover County’s longest serving Board of Supervisors member and Beaverdam District representative Aubrey M. “Bucky” Stanley died peacefully on Friday.

Stanley, 75, was re-elected 10 times during his tenure.

STANLEY

First elected in 1983, he served for 38 years and was board chairman six times, the most see STANLEY, pg. 11

Council reviews legislative agenda with Del. Fowler

By Jim Ridolphi For The Local Map courtesy of Supreme Court of Virginia

Hanover is now split between Congressional Districts 10 (above) and 1.

maps for the Senate of Virginia, Virginia House of Delegates and Virginia’s representative to the U.S. House of Representatives.

The maps are effective immediately and will affect all regularly scheduled see REDISTRICTING, pg. 11

Prior to last week’s final Town Council meeting of the year, members met with Del. Hyland “Buddy” Fowler to review the Town’s 2022 Legislative Agenda.

“This is going to be an active General Assembly ses-

sion,” Fowler said. “It’s like everyone is trying to drink from a fire hose at one time,” he added describing the hectic atmosphere as delegates draft bills for the upcoming session.

Fowler said there’s no shortage of innovative ideas and programs to consider in the see AGENDA, pg. 2

NEIL SIMON'S

“...a delightful romantic comedy... pure, belly laughing comedy” – Julinda D. Lewis, RVArt

DEC 12 - JAN 16 HANOVER TAVERN VIRGINIAREP.ORG 804-282-2620

OBITUARIES DeWOOLFSON, Virginia Lee, of Vienna, Virginia, formerly of Chesterfield, Virginia, went to be home with her Lord December 21, 2021. Born October 26, 1943, "Vee" was preceded in death by her parents, Martha Williamson Carpenter and Uriah Burkholder Carpenter Jr. She knew her Mama and Daddy would welcome her VIRGINIA into Heaven and family who love her know she will not DEWOOLFSON be in pain. From childhood when she attended Immanuel Baptist Church, love for God and our world informed Vee's life.

AGENDA Continued from pg. 1

upcoming session, all considered with the mandate of a balanced budget. “That forces us to make tough choices. You have to say no to some really worthwhile projects.”

“Broadband is a big issue,” he said. “We’ve already stepped up getting more money in to the pipeline. In his proposed budget, the governor put more money in.”

Fowler, a member of the Finance Committee, said he’s concerned that last year’s broadband allocations have yet to enter the market, and providing another large lump sum raises concerns.

“I’m not sure we can swallow all that money at one time,” he said. He said he is committed to the state’s plan to provide broadband to underserved areas within the next three to five years.

Fowler highlighted a number of issues facing legislators when the General Assembly convenes.

“A big challenge we have is health care,” Fowler said. “One of the big things we’re worried about is Medicaid and its reimbursement rate for healthcare workers. They are just not paying enough,” Fowler said.

He focused on home health care workers whose compensation is, in his opinion, woefully

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She enjoyed family vacations at a cottage on the Potomac River near Edwardsville, Virginia and her school experiences. She was graduated from Thomas Dale High School in 1962. In that time, she was Key Club Sweetheart, Miss Thomas Dale, Homecoming Queen; and Santa's Snow Queen at a local shopping center. Early on she worked at Shell Oil; and in Washington, D.C. as a congressional administrative assistant. She loved watching and feeding the birds, caring for her potted plants and her Abyssinian kitties. Always generous, she sent flowers to friends in the Richmond area for special occasions using Swineford, a favorite florist. She hosted family members passing through from Canada to South Carolina, enjoying their company and providing respite in a long jour-

lacking. “We can either pay now and increase the pay for these folks, or the patients get sicker and go to the hospital, racking up tens of thousands of dollars in bills.”

Fowler said a key factor in maintaining vital programs is directly related to the state’s healthy business climate and its ability to attract and retain viable businesses.

He said efforts to attract those good businesses is highly competitive in this region.

“We are competing with states around us that are a little more attractive than we are,” Fowler said. “I don’t like coming in second or third place…. I want Virginia to be in first place.

So, we need to look at some things.”

One of those things is legislation passed last year that in Fowler’s estimation increases the cost of electrical power to customers in Virginia.

“One of the big things that attracts businesses to Virginia is No. 1, right to work law, and No. 2, cheap electricity. If we want to have less jobs, then we need to keep doing what we are doing.”

Ashland’s 2022 Legislative Agenda includes more than a dozen items and council members questioned Fowler on some of those issues including broadband, pending marijuana laws

Ashland-Hanover Local January 5, 2022

| Death Notices & Funerals ney. "Gram" gave and received pleasure keeping grandchildren overnight. She was "selfless" offering a "voice of reason countless times." She took comfort in sharing inspirational tidbits of her Christian Faith; especially with her sisters on social media. Those daily "sister chats" are already greatly missed. Her experience and knowledge helped her husband, Bruce to develop two businesses: Euclid Systems Corp. and ENVIPCO in northern Virginia. In recent years, Fellowship Baptist Church in Oakton, Virginia became her spiritual home, a blessing she and Bruce experienced by televised broadcast. Survivors are her husband of 43 years, Bruce DeWoolfson (who called her "Gini"); her daughter, Lisa S. Sembria (Erwin); and grandchildren Shaina Josephine

and the relationship between set up, it’s going to be an absolute disaster.” towns and counties.

Barnhart specifically ques“I do think one of the economic issues facing businesses tioned the regulatory authority who want to locate here is data of the Town to enforce ordinancaccess,” Council Member Daniel es since they are located within McGraw said. “Have you con- Hanover County.

“What we were looking sidered block grant funding for for is the difference localities that already between a referendum have plans in place?” in Hanover and a refFowler said erendum in Ashland there is money and whether or not we available for those are bound by what the grants, and “more county does,” Mayor is on the way,” but Steve Trivett said. cited the challenges “We gotta get that involved in providstraight so people ing universal broadFOWLER know what the rules band coverage for the are,” Town Manager Commonwealth. He said the diversity of the state Josh Farrar said.

The mayor said the current and its regional differences, rural vs. urban, present unique chal- law does not address the many lenges. In some portions of the issues associated with the passtate, there are only three or four sage and needs to be more thorhomes per mile, according to ough.

Fowler also had concerns Fowler.

Council Member Anita with the current law and its stagBarnhart questioned Fowler gered implementation during regarding marijuana laws and the next three years.

“I think it guarantees that we how the Town could enforce will have a thriving black market those regulations.

“My hope is that we revisit in marijuana,” Fowler said.

Farrar also questioned the the original law that was passed, because I have to tell you, I think availability of training for officers it’s a huge mess,” Fowler said, who must deal with impaired noting that he voted against the drivers due to marijuana use. legalization measures passed last Driving under the influence of year. “We have to go back and drugs “is a completely differlook at some things. The way it’s ent thing and requires different

Sembria and Kyle Burke Sembria. She is survived by her brothers-in-law, Gary and Wayne; stepchildren, Randy (Michelle) and Nicole; and stepgrandchildren, Emily, Ashley and Kinder Mae; Sara and Ryan. Survivors also include her siblings, Jerry M. Carpenter Sr. (Virginia), Beth C. Benoit (Ron) and Jackie C. Mills (Wayne); and nieces and nephews, including grand, greatgrand and even a great-great-grandniece. Our families are especially grateful for the support of each other. Contributions are welcome to the Fellowship Baptist Church, 11032 Oakton Rd., Oakton, Va. 22124; or the Bible Broadcasting Network (BBN), P.O. Box 7300, Charlotte N.C. 28241. A Celebration of Life service is planned for the spring.

training,” he said.

Vice Mayor John Hodges asked Fowler to oppose the elimination of any funding sources that are vital to communities like Ashland. He said with pressing issues like COVID-19, it’s important to maintain a locality’s ability to raise revenues through measures like machine taxes.

Fowler said there is a need for tax reform in the Commonwealth. “Not all taxes have the desired effect we would like them to have,” Fowler said. “I think we need to have a comprehensive look at it.”

Council Member Kathy Abbott asked for clarification regarding the relationship of towns and counties and the unintended impacts of some legislation.

“Part of our legislative agenda is making sure that any laws created don’t create that conflict between county and town, and that it is clear what kind of voice we can have,” Abbott said.

Fowler said the Virginia Association of Counties and the Virginia Municipal League are tasked with researching bills that could impact localities, and “they do a great job of making everyone aware of what’s going on.”

Several members questioned the availability of beds and professional assistance for mental health patients and the need for

increased availability of beds for these patients.

Fowler conceded the issue represents a major challenge for legislators. “We do need to increase the number of beds, so I guarantee you that’s something the General Assembly will be looking at.”

Abbott also reiterated the town’s position in support of a high speed rail project, but clearly noted the desire for a twotrack system through Ashland.

“I have to bring that up because you’re here,” she said.

Trivett addressed the issue of local control regarding several issues including land use and right of way.

“We are hoping that representatives in the General Assembly will respect the integrity of the Town with the decisions and challenges that we make,” the mayor said.

“We’re not saying we want to have all the say so, but we do, at least, want to be heard and be considered in the discussions,” Trivett said.

Farrar summarized the council’s position regarding this year’s legislative agenda.

“Our main underlying message is let local officials make local decisions. The citizens will tell us if they don’t like what we’re doing and they’ll make it loud and clear,” he said.

SHERIFF’S REPORTS

Comments sought on school starting dates

| Crime, Accidents, Fire & Rescue Nov. 27

Destruction of property, monument was reported in the 16000th block of Theme Park Way, Doswell.

Nov. 28

Assault and battery on a family member was reported in the 8500th block of Peaks Road, Ashland.

Trespassing after being forbidden to do so was reported in the 15300th block of Burnham Davis Road, Montpelier.

Driver not reporting accident with damage less than $250 was reported in the 11900th block of Shamrock Farms Court, Glen Allen.

Identity theft with intent to defraud up to $200 was reported in the 8000th block of Peaks Road, Hanover.

Falsely identifying self to law enforcement was reported in the 15400th block of Hopeful Church Road, Montpelier.

Destruction of property, monument was reported in the 14300th block of Elletts Crossing Road, Ashland.

Petit larceny from an auto was reported in the 9500th block of Windsor Shade Drive, Ashland.

Grand larceny from an auto was reported in the 10400th block of Farm Glen Way, Glen Allen.

Violation of a protective order (general) was reported in the 15100th block of Taliaferro Lane, Doswell.

Dec. 1

Entering or setting in motion a vehicle was reported in the 10200th block of Lakeridge Square Court, Ashland.

Driver not reporting accident with damage less than $250 was reported in the 14400th block of Mountain Road, Glen Allen.

Dec. 9

Assault and battery on a family member was reported in the 16200th block of International Street, Doswell.

Destruction of property, monument was reported in the 11400th block of Governors Lane, Ashland.

Prisoner making, procuring or possessing unlawful chemical components was reported in the 7200th block of Courtland Farm Road, Hanover.

Theft of firearms, regardless of value, not from a person was reported in the 10200th block of Ibis Drive, Ashland.

Dec. 6

Assault and battery on a family member was reported in the 18400th block of Double Cedar Road, Montpelier.

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

Prisoner making, selling or possessing a Schedule I or II controlled substance or marijuana was reported in the 7200th block of Courtland Farm Road, Hanover.

Petit larceny, less than $500, not from a person was reported in the 15100th block of Washington Highway, Doswell.

Reckless handling of a firearm was reported in the 11300th block of Air Park Road, Ashland.

Simple assault was reported

Grand larceny from a building was reported in the 10300th block of Washington Highway, Ashland.

Assault and battery on a family member was reported in the 10200th block of Ashcake Road, Ashland.

Theft of firearms, regardless of value, not from a person was reported in the 16300th block of Green Acres Lane, Montpelier.

Petit larceny from an auto was reported in the 13400th block of Liberty School Road, Ashland.

Petit larceny, less than $500, not from a person was reported in the 11100th block of Progress Road, Ashland.

Dumping trash on a highway or private property was reported in the 12500th block of Harley Club Drive/ Northlake Park Drive, Ashland.

Conspiracy to obtain money, etc., by false pretenses, larceny up to $200 was reported in the 16500th block of Pouncey Tract Road, Rockville.

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

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Driver not reporting accident with damage up to $1,000 was reported in the 17000th block of Echo Meadows Road/Rockville Road, Rockville.

Dec. 11

Unauthorized use of a vehicle, boat or animal was reported in the 12300th block of Mechumps Creek Lane, Ashland.

Assault and battery on a family member was reported in the 12400th block of Cedar Lane, Ashland.

Destruction of property, monument was reported in the 17000th block of New Westridge Road, Montpelier.

Simple assault was reported in the 6100th block of Brashier Boulevard, Mechanicsville.

Driver not reporting accident with damage up to $1,000 was reported in the 8900th

Assault and battery on a family member was reported

asked to email comments or questions to hcpscalendarinput@hcps.us by Wednesday, Jan. 5.

You can access the proposed calendar and an FAQ document here: http://hcps.us/ events/calendar.

Submitted by Hanover County Public Schools.

Dec. 10

Identity theft with intent to defraud up to $200 was reported in the 13400th block of Deer Creek Road, Ashland.

Dec. 8

Bomb or burn threat, accused 15 or older was reported in the 13200th block of Mountain Road, Glen Allen.

Dec. 7

Brandishing a firearm was reported in the 11600th block of Lakeridge Parkway, Ashland.

Credit card fraud, less than $200 in six months was reported in the 10200th block of Lakeridge Square Court, Ashland.

in the 14200th block of Old Ridge Road, Beaverdam.

Dec. 5

Dec. 4

in the 16000th block of Theme Park Way, Doswell.

Failure to appear on a felony charge was reported in the 7200th block of Courtland Farm Road, Hanover.

Dec. 3

Nov. 30

Simple assault was reported in the 10100th block of Leadbetter Place, Ashland.

Dec. 2

Nov. 29

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

The proposed 2022-23 calendar, which includes a traditional post-Labor Day start, and the proposed pre-Labor Day start for the 2023-24 school year (starting on Aug. 21, 2023 and ending on May 31, 2024) are open for public comment. Parents, employees, and community members are

see SHERIFF’S, pg. 9

Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/Ashland-hanoverlocal Ashland-Hanover Local January 5, 2022 3

THE UNIVERSE FROM THE CENTER

NASA group works on planetary defense against asteroid strike

By Dr. George Spagna Special to The Local Note: The Keeble Observatory at RandolphMacon College will continue pandemic restrictions at the present time, with anticipated reopening for public viewing in the spring. Watch the web site (https://www.rmc.edu/keeble) for updates. Or call the Keeble Information line at 804-752-3210.

If you need to speak with someone immediately, please call Dr. Michael Rodruck at 804-752-7344.

Is NASA throwing darts at space rocks? Not really, but they did launch a space craft known as

DART on Nov. 24. DART, as with many things NASA is an acronym – in this case the Double Asteroid Redirection Test. You will recall a flurry of movies and television stories about saving the world from giant comets, with the typical story line requiring Bruce Willis to blow it up with nuclear bombs. Not only a bad idea, but one not likely to work anyway.

Believe it or not, NASA has a group working on planetary defense, and this mission is to test a way to deflect a potentially dangerous asteroid so that it won’t hit us. The idea being tested is known as kinetic impact – basically hitting

Hanover County Public Schools ADULT EDUCATION 2022 Spring Semester: January 10, 2022 - May 27, 2022

Spring: $35.00 (includes textbooks) Conversational English: $20

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Please call to register: 804-723-3471 The Georgetown School 10000 Learning Lane, Mechanicsville, VA 804-723-3471 / www.hcps.us/georgetown / adulted@hanover.k12.va.us

4

Ashland-Hanover Local January 5, 2022

the asteroid with a high-speed projectile and nudging it into a safe trajectory. If you can do this when the asteroid is far away, even a small change would suffice.

Rather than wait for a real threat, DART will try this out on a non-threatening target.

Didymos/Dimorphos is a double system that is reasonably close but not on an orbit that will intercept Earth. Didymos is the larger of the two at about 780 meters in diameter. Dimorphos is only about 160 meters across and it orbits Didymos with a 12 hour period. The idea is to slam the DART spacecraft into Dimorphos at about 4 miles per second and see if that changes the orbital period by a few minutes. Intercept is expected in late September or early October.

Lunar phases for January: New Moon on the 2nd, at 1:35 p.m.; First Quarter on the 9th, at 1:13 p.m.; Full Moon on the 17th, at 6:51 p.m.; and Last Quarter on the 25th, at 8:42 a.m. All times are Eastern Standard.

Mercury is still visible at evening dusk but will be lost in the sun’s glare after mid-month.

Venus is also moving closer to the sun’s position in the sky and will move into the morning sky after Jan. 9. Similarly, Saturn will disappear from early evening skies after Jan. 20. Jupiter remains in the western skies until about 8:30 p.m. Mars is a predawn object, rising about two hours before sunrise.

Looking overhead about two hours after sunset, you will find the constellation Perseus at

zenith. Its two brightest stars are Mirphak and Algol. The latter is a multi-star system whose third component was discovered by my undergraduate advisor, Dr. Alan Meltzer. He had a wry sense of humor, and his joke on this was especially witty for those Latin students who have read Caesar’s commentaries on the gallic wars – “Algol is divided into three parts.” Ask a Latin teacher if you don’t get it!

That bright star to the east of zenith is Capella, in the constellation Auriga. It’s the sixth brightest star as seen from Earth. Below zenith and to the southeast we have a wonderful alignment. Sweeping your attention downward, you’ll find the Pleiades, then the constellation Taurus, with its brightest star Aldebaran as the heart of the Lion. Below Taurus, Orion is rising. Gemini is to the east, with Castor above Pollux its two brightest stars. Cygnus is setting to the northwest, in an orientation that makes clear why it is known as the Northern Cross.

The Quadrantid meteor shower peaked overnight on the 3rd and into the 4th. Those interested needed to get away from city lights for a good view.

If readers have questions about astronomy in particular (or science in general) that you would like covered in one of these columns, feel free to contact me at gspagna@rmc.edu. (I have retired from Randolph-Macon College, but will continue these columns and use of this email address for the foreseeable future.)

Lecture explores natural approach to fibromyalgia Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com Kimberly Jenkins Boehm, FDN, HHP and a member of the American Association of Drugless Practitioner, will hold a free lecture on “Functional Fibromyalgia: A natural approach.”

The lecture, which is part of the “Be Healthier Seminars,” will be held from 7 to 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 6 at Pamunkey Regional Library, Ashland Branch, 201 S. Railroad Ave. Boehm is a retired nurse and now the health director of Functional Health Group in Hanover County. She’s a popular writer for Reader’s Digest and expert panel guest for podcasts and live events.

She is the author of “Til Death Do We Part,” which can be found on Amazon as well as Barnes Noble.

Boehm’s mission is to help people find the missing pieces to their health puzzle by offering them access to functional lab testing and other resources that identify malfunction in their hor-

mone, immune, digestion, detoxification, energy and nervous systems then address those healing opportunities with a drugfree protocol of self care.

Boehm said she is knowledgeable and passionate about health and sets an example for clients. For more information contact Kimberly Jenkins Boehm, BOEHM FDN at 804-928-6002 or email info@functionalhealthgroup. org or www.functionalhealthgroup.org.

Registration required. Face coverings must be worn at all times during the program unless you have a medical/religious exemption. For more information or questions about this program or if you have a special physical or communication need, contact ask@pamunkeylibrary.org or call the Ashland Branch at 804-798-4072.

CALENDAR | News, Updates & Listings Fax submissions to calendar to 344-8746, email to events@mechlocal.com, or mail to 8460 Times-Dispatch Blvd., Mechanicsville VA 23116. Deadline is 1 p.m. Thursday for the following week’s issue. Calendar announcements cannot be taken by phone. We reserve the right to edit all items submitted to Ashland-Hanover Local.

Wednesday, Jan. 5 It’s Brunswick Stew Time!!

The men of Mechanicsville United Methodist Church will be preparing and selling Brunswick stew again this year!

For $9. a quart you will enjoy some of the most delicious Brunswick stew in the area.

We strongly encourage you to preorder your stew by calling the church office at 746-5118 starting today. Church office hours are Tuesday - Thursday, 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Pick-up will be on Saturday, February 12th from 8 to 10 a.m. Stew not sold in the pre-orders will be available for purchase on Saturday morning. And what is stew without something sweet? No worries, the women of the church will also be selling their fabulous baked goods on Saturday morning! If you

have any questions, please contact the church office.

Saturday, Jan. 8 A Community Salt Fish Breakfast is scheduled from 8 to 10 a.m. at Enon United Methodist Church, 6156 Studley Road in Mechanicsville. A buffet menu including salt fish, scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, gravy, biscuits hash rounds, grits, apples, corn cakes, waffles and beverage. Admission is $10 for adults and children 7 and under, free. Carry out is available. Sponsored by Enon United Methodist Church. All profits go to the missions.

For those who do not know what to do with their Christmas tree after the holidays, the Atlee High School

Band Boosters can help.

Tree pickup will be provided for the following subdivisions: AshCreek, Atlee Ridge, Castlewood, Chickahominy Oaks, Cool Spring Village, Giles, Green Ridge, Honey Meadows, Kings Charter, Madison Springs, Milestone, Rutland, Summer Duck and Taylor Farm. On Jan. 8, those wishing to have their tree picked up need to: put your tree(s) near the curb in front of your house by 9 a.m. and put a check in the amount of $10 per tree made payable to Atlee Band Boosters (ABB) in an envelope and place it in your paper box or taped under your mailbox. The trees will be disposed of properly and a local organization – the Atlee High School Band – has been supsee CALENDAR pg. 6

Hanover farmer re-elected to Farm Bureau board Hanover County grain and hay producer Leigh H. Pemberton of Doswell was elected Dec. 1 to a third threeyear term on the Virginia Farm Bureau Federation board of directors.

Elections of officers and directors were held at the VFBF 2021 Annual Convention in Williamsburg.

As a board member, Pemberton will represent Farm Bureau producer members in Albemarle, Fluvanna, Goochland, Greene, Hanover, Henrico and Louisa counties.

He chairs the VFBF Dairy Advisory Committee and VFBF board of directors Governance Committee, and is vice chairman of the organization’s Legislative Advisory

Committee.

A third-generation farmer, Pemberton is president of Hanover County Farm Bureau and a member of the Virginia Agribusiness Council and U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. He also is chairman of the HanoverCaroline Soil and Water Conservation District board.

With 132,000 members in 88 county Farm Bureaus, VFBF is Virginia’s largest farm-

ers’ advocacy group. Farm Bureau is a non-governmental, nonpartisan, voluntary organization committed to supporting Virginia’s agriculture industry. View more convention news as it becomes available at vafb.com/convention, and follow us on social media via #VFBFannualmtg21.

Submitted by the Virginia Farm Bureau Federation.

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OPINION | The Local Views

End of season provides lasting message

By Jim Ridolphi Contributing Columnist

Editorial & Business Office and Mailing Address: 8460 Times-Dispatch Blvd. Mechanicsville, VA 23116 Phone – (804) 746-1235 Toll free – (877) 888-0449 Fax – (804) 344-8746 Online: www.mechlocal.com

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Ashland-Hanover Local January 5, 2022

| Reader Views

Readers support equal rights for all students

I

t would be futile to ignore those feelings of warmth and belonging that accompany the holiday season. The joy of reuniting with family or gathering for that special reunion are seasonable reminders of the things that are really important in our lives and the importance of connecting with family and friends.

I’m not sure why these feelings are so closely associated with Christmas and why many of us feel the need to be close to those they love at this time of year. It’s also a mystery how those who so diligently observe every civility during the few days surrounding the holiday can return to lives that often do not include those simple acts of contrition or compassion.

Through decades of celebration I’ve learned the true happiness of the season resides in those simple things that make the holiday special.

Ornaments hung on trees from decades of memories reveal histories of Christmas past, or remember those who are no longer here to celebrate with us.

With each passing year, the most well-worn of those ornaments are the ones closest to my heart — that heart shaped Christmas tree with a baby’s photo in the center or a battered badge denoting baby’s first Christmas.

What they lack in luster, they more than compensate for with meaning, and their frayed edges tell the story of a family.

With passing years, the excitement of Christmas morning has waned for me, and the real joy of the season is experiencing that same excitement by the ones you love; and those Christmas traditions that somehow seemed burdensome in your younger days become the staples of the celebration.

For example, a simple drive through the city to observe decorations is no longer a mission to find the tackiest lights or the most bizarre displays of Christmas cheer, and is now highlighted with the joy of a simply decorated tree sitting on a solitary hill.

While we rode through the Fan District admiring the large variety of decorations and endless streams of lights, I took particular notice of the front windows of the historic homes.

The sight of a beautifully decorated Christmas tree sitting in the liv-

LETTERS

Metro Creative Connection

ing room filled with family and friends provided me with the spirit of the season. The warmth of a crackling fire and dimly lit bulbs provided a form of decoration that evokes the Christmas spirit for me. While my children marveled at the unique collection of lights and inflatables, I searched for that uniting bowl of egg nog and the warmth of a family gathered to celebrate the season.

It’s the warmth of the celebrations, the sense of unity and the promise of the season that make it special, and for two weeks of the year, all of us take a minute to reflect and remember.

As we prepare for a new year filled with uncertainty and challenges, paying that Christmas spirit forward could make that journey more palatable.

Placing all of those special ornaments in old worn boxes and returning them to storage should not represent the end of a season of caring and compassion, but should, more importantly, remind of us of the things are truly important in our lives and provide inspiration for the upcoming months.

Caring for the less fortunate, addressing confrontation with compassion or understanding a different point of view are seasonal messages that serve all of us well for the months that follow, and adhering to and maintaining the promise that makes Christmas a magical time of year is perhaps the most sincere celebration of the season.

Dear Editor, My partner and I would like to express our support for Ms. Merrill, and her efforts to ensure that Hanover schools include and accept all students equally. We would like her, her son, and all families in Hanover to know that, while we do not have school-age children, we fully endorse and support the rights of all to self-identify and be recognized however they choose.

We would also like the Hanover School Board to know that we support these basic human rights of all students. Just because a loud minority pays too much attention to other peoples’ personal lives does not mean that restricting self-identity is “the will” of Hanover County as a whole. We may remain mostly silent, but know that everyone we interact with in Hanover County, whether parents or not, feels the same way.

Love is Love. The freedom to pursue life, liberty, and happiness must apply to all Americans.

Regards, Jack Garrett and Quincy Sherry Mechanicsville

WE WANT TO PUBLISH YOUR ISSUE-DRIVEN LETTERS CALENDAR 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 © 2022 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.

Continued from pg. 6

ported. This year more than ever, your support is needed. For more information, email atleebandboosters@gmail. com.

Saturday, Jan. 15 The Doswell Ruritan Salt Fish Breakfast will be held from 6 to 9 a.m. at the Doswell Ruritan Club, 16433 N. see CALENDAR pg. 9

Sports

UPCOMING EVENTS

01

07 2022

Prep basketball: Hanover at Mechanicsville 6:00 p.m./7:30 p.m.

01

07 2022

Prep basketball: Atlee at Patrick Henry 6:00 p.m./7:30 p.m.

| Youth, High School, College, Recreational & Professional

Mallory, Talbot lead R-MC to tourney title

By Dave Lawrence Sports Editor ASHLAND — The COVID19 pandemic scrambled the holiday plans of the RandolphMacon men’s basketball team last year. It nearly did the same this year, but the Yellow Jackets, with a little help from some friends, made their holiday plans come to life.

The Yellow Jackets also made it worth their while, defeating Gettysburg, a lastminute invitee to the party, Wednesday, then knocked off Averett — which was on the original guest list — Friday to claim another Fink’s Jewelers Coaches Tournament championship.

The tournament was supposed to be a four-team affair but — given concerns over the spreading omicron variant of the coronavirus — two of the original four teams, Rosemont and The College of New Jersey dropped out. Averett stayed in, and Gettysburg, which was supposed to play in a tournament that was cancelled because of pandemic concerns, signed on.

“I appreciate both these teams for making it work, and the refs, and this administration,” said Randolph-Macon head men’s basketball coach Josh Merkel. “With everything going on, just anytime you can get a game and get to learn from this experience and have this memory, have this experience — it’s a good thing.”

The Yellow Jackets (101) had to get through its two games without the services of

Merkel said. “I’m a big value the ball guy, and so one thing that really bothers me is our inability to value the ball today.

“But I loved a lot of other things and I loved that other guys got the opportunity to step up and get these learning reps.

It was good for us.”

Merkel had a long list of younger players who deserved credit for stepping up.

I thought Lance (Johnson) was big [Wednesday] with two big 3s. I thought [Can Dalli], he hit two big 3s against the zone today,” Merkel said. “Noah (Lindsay) — four charges, two big layups — it was awesome to see him have some success today.

“Daniel (Mbangue) is emerging. He missed some free throws, but really did some good things on offense and defense that helped our team.

Fundy (David Funderburg) had a great double-double . . . two days ago. And then Josh (Talbert) and Miles (Mallory) have been there for us. And then (Will) Coble. Coble made 9 [points from] 3s, four assists and one turnover today. I thought he played really well.”

Gettysburg put up a fight in the tournament opener Wednesday, trailing the Yellow Jackets by only two points, 32-30 at halftime. But the Yellow Jackets, paced by 26 points from Talbert, 13 from Joel Klein for The Local Mallory, and Funderburg’s Randolph-Macon’s Josh Talbert drives past Gettysburg’s Carl Schaller en route to scoring two of his game-high 26 points in the double-double (11 points, 10 Yellow Jackets 77-57 victory over the Bullets on the first day of the Fink’s Jewelers Coaches Tournament on Dec. 29. rebounds) steadily pulled away two of its big guns: senior guard younger players got significant tion, which is challenging for Averett in the tournament clos- after imtermission.

Buzz Anthony and senior for- time, good for the team’s future, its present. Randolph-Macon er Friday. ward Iain Robertson. A lot of but sometimes lacked in execu- committed 19 turnovers against “It certainly was not pretty,” see TITLE, pg. 8

Ashland-Hanover Local January 5, 2022 7

TITLE

Joel Klein for The Local

Continued from pg. 7

Gettysburg was led by Carl Schaller with 12 points.

The Bullets (6-4) came out on top in the tournament’s second game, defeating Averett 63-49. Gettysburg’s 12-point halftime lead proved pivotal as the Cougars matched the Bullets nearly point-forpoint in the second half. Four Bullets scored in double figures: Rassoul Abakar scored 15, followed by Schaller with 14, Ryan McKeon with 13 and Elijah Williams with 10.

Corey Baldwin led Averett with a game-high 23 points and 13 rebounds. Jordan Lewis added 16 points.

In the tournament’s final game, the Yellow Jackets had to contend with a scrappy, physical Cougar team that forced 19 Randolph-Macon turnovers.

Averett held on until late in the second half when the Yellow Jackets began to pull away for good.

Mallory led all with 21 points and 10 rebounds. He also drew six Averett fouls.

Mbangue scored 11 points.

Averett (2-8) was led by Caleb Coleman with 18 points and Bryson McLaughlin with 11 points and nine rebounds.

Both Mallory and Talbert were named to the all-tournament team, with Mallory being named tournament MVP. Both, like their coach, were grateful to get the tournament in.

“We’re super blessed and fortunate to be able to take to the court today,” Talbert said. “A lot of teams this year have had to deal with cancellations. I’m truly glad we didn’t have to do that, that we had enough guys.

A lot of guys stepped up with big-time players out.”

Mallory offered a tip of the hat to those who had to step into the breach.

“I was just grateful to see other guys step up and get their opportunities, get some learning reps,” he said. “We did a

8

Ashland-Hanover Local January 5, 2022

Far left, RandolphMacon forward Miles Mallory (10) scores two of his 13 points in the Yellow Jackets’ 77-57 win over Gettysburg as Ryan McKeon (33) defends in the first game of the Fink’s Jewelers Coaches Tournament Wendesday. Mallory filed a double-double Friday — 21 points and 10 rebounds — against Averett en route to earning tournament MVP. Left, RandolphMacon forward Daniel Mbangue is fouled by Gettysburg’s Elijah Williams (2).

great job of just learning and next-player mentality. We knew we were going to make mistakes, but we were just leaning as we were going.”

It wasn’t just younger players having to step up. Mallory, a senior, and Talbert, a junior who has gotten significant time on the court every year, had to take on much of the responsibility for leadership. Teamwork helped them pull through.

“I just reached out to some of the guys to help me out,” Mallory said. “We still had Fundy in there to lean on and help me step up and still play my role and get some extra points. The older guys gave me advice.”

No matter how rough the team looked at times, the tournament was worth it.

“It wasn’t pretty, but we won two games, so I’m happy,” Talbert said.

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

24 5-12 57.

RANDOLPH-MACON (9-1) — Mallory 13, Mbangue 7, Funderburg 11, Morris 5, Talbert 26, Coble 3, Payne 0, Norton 6, Johnson 6. Totals 31 7-11 77.

3-point goals — GC: Rooney 2, Close, Williams, Schaffer; R-MC: Talbert 2, Norton 2, Johnson 2, Morris, Coble.

Half-time score: RandolphMacon 32-30.

Thursday, Dec. 30 Gettysburg 63, Averett 49 GETTYSBURG (6-4) — Schaller 14, McKeon 13, Williams 10, Rooney 5, Close 4, Abakar 15, Drury 2, Stafford 0, Joseph 0, Baggi 0. Totals 25 10-18 63.

AVERETT (2-7) — Baldwin 23, J. Lewis 16, K. Lewis 5, Lowrance 0, McLaughlin 0, Borbua-Watson 2, Rowell 2, Coleman 1, Carter 0. Totals 20 4-10 49.

3-point goals — GC: Schaller 2, Rooney. AU: Baldwin 2, J. Lewis 2, K. Lewis.

Half-time score: Gettysburg 32-20.

Friday, Dec. 31 Randolph-Macon 68, Averett 54 AVERETT (2-8) — McLaughlin 11, K. Lewis 1, J. Lewis 5, Lowrance 7, Coleman 18, Carter 3, Morrison 0, Rowell 9. Totals 19 11-17 54.

RANDOLPH-MACON (101) — Mallory 21, Mbangue 11, Fink’s Jewelers Coaches Funderburg 4, Norton 0, Talbert 8, Tournament Dalli 7, Ally 0, Coble 9, Lindsay 4, Johnson 2, Keasey 2. Totals 27 Wednesday, Dec. 29 8-16 68.

Randolph-Macon 77, 3-point goals — AU: J. Lewis, Gettysburg 57 Lowrance, Coleman, Rowell, Carter.

GETTYSBURG (5-4) — Close 7, R-MC: Coble 3, Dalli 2, Mallory.

McKeon 6, Williams 3, Schaller 12, Half-time score: RandolphFarrell 4, Joseph 4, Abakar 4, Rooney Macon 33-27.

8, Stafford 4, Baggi 0, Drury 5. Totals

CALENDAR Continued from pg. 6

Washington Hwy. The all-youcare-to-eat Salt Fish Breakfast will include scrambled eggs, bacon, hashbrown potatoes, spiced apples, biscuits, cornbread, coffee and juice. Takeouts available. Cost is $10 for adults and $4 for ages 4-10.

Proceeds support the Doswell Community Center.

Thursday, Jan. 19 Scams are a billion-dollar business, and falling for a fraudulent scheme could cost your life savings. To help you remain vigilant, Heritage Green and the Hanover County Sheriff ’s Office will provide a free presentation on scams at 2 p.m. at 7080 Brooks Farm Road in Mechanicsville. Deputy Evan Povar from the Hanover County Sheriff ’s Office will share the latest scams and fraudulent activity present in the community and ways you can reduce the opportunity to be conned by these individuals.

RSVP by Jan. 18 by calling 804746-7370.

SHERIFF’S Continued from pg. 3

block of Lewistown Road, Ashland.

Destruction of property, monument was reported in the 19100th block of Beaver Dam Road, Beaverdam.

Simple assault or battery by mob was reported in the 9500th block of Kings Charter Drive, Ashland.

Simple assault was reported in the 7100th block of Catlin Road, Mechanicsville.

Dec. 12

Assault and battery on a family member was reported in the 14400th block of Riverside Drive, Ashland.

Petit larceny, parts was reported in the 10100th block of Lewistown Road, Ashland.

LEGAL DISPLAY ADS

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TOWN OF ASHLAND NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Please take notice that on the 18th day of January 2022 at 7:00 p.m. at the Ashland Town Hall, 121 Thompson Street, Ashland, VA, the Ashland Town Council will conduct public hearings for the purpose of receiving input, and may take action on the following: REZ21-1103 & ORD2021-16, Haley Court Nick Vignone and Robert Hensley, on behalf of the property owner Albert Coleman, request to amend proffers accepted with REZ16-0609, Bulifant Homes, to construct ten single-family detached dwellings for a total density of 3.75 units/acre. The applicants propose to amend and add proffers regarding permitted uses and density. The property is +/- 2.6 acres and is located at the western end of Haley Court and southern end of Calley Street or identified as GPIN 7870-64-2555. The current zoning, R-3, residential medium, has a minimum lot size of 8,000 square feet. The Comprehensive Plan Future Land Use designates this property as traditional neighborhood (1-4 units/acre).

Copies of REZ21-1103 may be obtained by contacting Town Hall at (804) 798-1073. Written comments may be submitted to planning@ashlandva.gov or Town of Ashland, P.O. Box 1600, Ashland, VA 23005. All interested persons may attend and express their views. Any person with a disability requiring assistance to participate in this public hearing is asked to contact Town Hall in advance so that appropriate arrangements can be made.

By Order of the Ashland Town Council

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PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is hereby given that the Hanover County Planning Commission has set Thursday, January 20, 2022, at 6:00 P.M., in the Board Room of the Hanover County Government Building at Hanover Courthouse, Hanover, Virginia, as the day, date, time, and place for a public hearing to consider the following cases, at which public comments will be accepted: REZONINGS REZ2021-00022, JD GOODMAN BUILDERS, INC. Request(s) to rezone from A-1, Agricultural District to AR6(c), Agricultural Residential District with conditions on GPIN 7802-52-4105, consisting of approximately 20.96 acres, and located on the west line of Bourne Road (State Route 617) approximately 0.6 miles north of its intersection with Cattail Creek Lane (private road). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Agricultural. The proposed zoning amendment would permit the creation of three (3) building lots for a gross density of one (1) dwelling unit per 6.99 acres. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: South Anna

LEGAL DISPLAY ADS

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Town of Ashland Planning Commission Public Hearing The Ashland Planning Commission has scheduled a public hearing for Wednesday, January 12, 2022, at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers of the Town Hall at 121 Thompson Street, to accept comments from the public on the following: Capital Improvements Program FY 2022-2023 through 20262027: Review recommendations for amendments or revisions to The Capital Improvements Program (CIP). The CIP is a program that spans five (5) budget years. Non-recurring projects that are capital intensive are included in the CIP. The identified projects and assigned priorities are reviewed annually by the Planning Commission and the Town Council.

A copy of the proposed CIP is available for review in the Town Hall at 121 Thompson Street, Monday through Thursday from 7:30 a.m. until 6:00 p.m.

LEGAL DISPLAY ADS

LEGAL DISPLAY ADS

Public Notice Notice is hereby given that the Hanover County Board of Supervisors has set Wednesday, January 12, 2022 at 2:00 P.M., and Wednesday, January 26, 2022 at 6:00 P.M., in the Board Room of the Hanover County Administration Building at Hanover Courthouse, 7516 County Complex Road, Hanover, Virginia, as the day, date, time, and place for Regular Board Meetings.

Copies of the above cases may be reviewed in the Planning Office, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. please contact the Planning Office or you may also go to https:// www.hanovercounty.gov/696/Planning-Commission-Upcoming-andArchive for more information.

Ashland-Hanover Local January 5, 2022 9

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primaries and general elections moving forward, according to the court’s final order on Dec. 28.

How this will all impact the upcoming General Assembly session or potential elections in 2022 remains to be determined.

As of Dec. 27, Hanover County was represented in the Virginia Senate by three different senators: Ryan McDougle, R-4; Siobhan Dunnavant, R-12, Jennifer McClellan, D-9. In the Virginia House of Delegates, republican Buddy Fowler represented District 55 and republican Scott Wyatt represented District 97. Republican Rob Wittman represented all of Hanover in

Cumberland, Amelia, Goochland, Appomattox, Buckingham and Fluvanna counties and portions of Louisa and Prince Edward counties.

In the House of Delegates, Hanover will still have two representatives. Instead of being paired with parts of Caroline and Spotsylvania counties in the 55th District, Northern Hanover now falls into District 59, which includes parts of Louisa and Henrico counties.

Meanwhile, eastern Hanover, which used to be paired with New Kent and part of King William in the 97th District, now falls in District 60 with only parts of

In the memo about their maps that Grofman and Trende sent to the Chief Justice and Justices of the Supreme Court of Virginia on Dec. 27, they talked about the importance of the feedback they received from Virginia residents. They acknowledged that, “redistricting is a complex task, one that requires the balancing of multiple competing factors.

“Unfortunately, it simply was not possible to incorporate every request while remaining within the bounds of Virginia and federal law,” the pair wrote in the memo.

“Moreover, there are likely thousands of maps that accomplish certain goals of Map courtesy of Supreme Court of Virginia

New state redistricting maps now have Hanover in House of Delegates Districts 59 (above) and 60; State Senate Districts 26 (top right) and 10, and Congressional Districts 1 (right) and 10.

REDISTRICTING Continued from pg. 1

District 1 in the U.S. House of Representatives.

The sprawling 1st District will now extend from western Chesterfield, western Henrico and eastern Hanover County northeast to Westmoreland County on the Northern Neck and south to York County and Poquoson.

Meanwhile, Northern Hanover, as well as Louisa, Fluvanna, Goochland and Powhatan counties, move into Republican Rep. Bob Good’s 5th District, which extends southwest from Richmond’s outer suburbs to Pittsylvania County and Danville.

Hanover’s representation in the State Senate will now be split in two instead of three. Residents of eastern Hanover will now fall into District 26 along with New Kent, Gloucester and Mathews counties and parts of James City and King and Queen counties.

Northern Hanover will now fall in District 10 and be joined by all of Powhatan,

New Kent County.

‘Special masters’

redistricting that we did not accomplish, but they come at the expense of other goals we sought to achieve. We did,

however, read every comment and, where appropriate, explored ways to address the suggestion.”

In the same memo, Grofman and Trende pointed out that they have received a good amount of criticism for not paying enough attention to the residences of legislators, which “weakened several congressional incumbents and paired together multiple senators and delegates.”

“We believe that one reason for employing redistricting commissions, however, is to minimize the power of politicians over the drawing of lines, and a frequently voiced objection to partisan line drawing is that it ‘allows politicians to choose their voters, rather than allowing voters to choose the politicians,’ “they wrote in the memo, quoting a N.Y. Times article.

Grofman and Trende did point out that the new maps drastically cut down on the number of municipalities and counties that were split between districts.

The pair also noted that, what they sought to do with the new redistricting maps was undo “decades of convoluted line drawing,” and they shared the belief that “future remaps should not involve the same amount of disruption, since they would presumably be drawn in a fashion that permits population adjustments to existing districts without substantially affecting the preservation of cities and counties.”

The memo that Grofman and Trende sent to the court outlines a great deal of their reasoning in regard to partisan balance, population equality, splitting precincts and tradeoffs that were inevitable to meet the standards they set for themselves.

Mel Leonor contributed to this story.

Laura McFarland may be reached at Lmcfarland@powhatantoday.com

STANLEY Continued from pg. 1

recent in 2020.

He was a member of the Capital Airport Commission since 1986 and served as its chairman twice during his tenure, most recently in 201718. The Commission oversees Richmond International Airport.

He also represented the board on the 300th Birthday Celebration Committee, the Agricultural and Forestal Districts Advisory Committee, the Cannery Advisory Committee, the Facility Space Needs Committee and the Safety and Security Committee, as well as being an alternate member on the Finance Committee.

Educated in Hanover County Public Schools, Stanley graduated from Patrick Henry High School in 1962 before attending North Carolina State University for two years.

A longtime owner of Stanley Lumber, a family business, he later served as president of AMS Timber LLC, another lumber business.

An avid softball fan, Stanley managed and sponsored teams for a quarter century, traveling to distant cities to “play ball.”

He was also a lifetime member of the Virginia Jaycees.

When asked in an RTD candidate profile in 2017 if he would do anything differently regarding his tenure on the board if given the chance, Stanley replied, “Nothing.”

“I have enjoyed it. It’s a long 34 years and it’s a lot of people that you try to help and you do your very best,” he answered.

“A lot of people don’t like government. I’m sort of like that myself. ... I’m a conservative.

I think you should live within your means. I’m just that type of individual. I always did what I said I was going to do. If I tell you something, I usually do it. ... I think that’s why I get elected.”

Hanover County Administrator John Budesky issued the following statement regarding Stanley’s passing on Friday, Dec. 31, 2021.

“The Hanover County community lost a true champion today,” Budesky said. “Mr. Stanley was a voice for all of the citizens of his district and was one of the most committed citizen advocate Board members I have ever had the pleasure of serving. His loss will be felt well beyond Hanover to the Richmond Region and the broader Commonwealth.”

Hanover Board of Supervisors Chair Sean Davis said Stanley’s passing is a professional and personal loss for him.

“Bucky and I were close, both personally and professionally,” he said Friday. “We worked on many issues together and for that I am thankful.

He always put his constituents first.”

Davis said he admired Stanley’s ability to feel the pulse of his community and represent his district appropriately.

“On more than one occasion Bucky would end a conversation with someone who was asking for something that he couldn’t support by simply saying, ‘My folks won’t go for that,’ ” Davis said. “That meant the conversation was over.”

“I just know that I will miss my friend Bucky Stanley,” he concluded.

Vice chair Angela Kelly Wiecek described Stanley as a “a man of deep personal faith.”

“For 38 years, he sought to live that faith by serving his constituents with unwavering dedication. He was always willing to listen to citizens and give them an opportunity to be heard in the public forum,” she said.

Del. Scott Wyatt represents the 97th District in the Virginia General Assembly, which includes parts of Hanover see STANLEY, pg. 12

Ashland-Hanover Local January 5, 2022 11

January programs at Hanover area branch Pamunkey libraries Richard S. Gillis, Jr./ Ashland Branch Library In-Person Programs Instant Shakespeare at the Ashland Branch Library Saturday, Jan. 8, 10 a.m. 5:30 p.m.

A different way to approach Shakespeare! Join in a staged reading of a different Shakespeare play each month.

January's play is "Hamlet."

Meet at 10 a.m. to review edited scripts, decide who is playing which part, go over any important action, talk about how to handle some of the trickier language. Bring a bag lunch for break. At 3 p.m., we will begin reading the play out loud to each other, on foot, using supplied props, getting a feel for the story through the action. The plays run between one and two hours, so we will be done by 5 p.m.

Registration is required at https://pamunkeylibrary.libcal.com/event/8054640.

Call 804-798-4072 or visit the library at 201 S. Railroad Ave. for more information.

Must Love Words at the Ashland Branch Library Tuesdays, Jan. 11 and 25,

7 – 8:30 p.m.

Writers, are you looking for inspiration? Need readers with a discerning eye? Join us for constructive feedback and discussion about the craft of writing on each of this month.

Due to group resources, email and word processing are used to communicate outside of meetings. Access to email and familiarity with word processing is preferred. Registration is required at https://pamunkeylibrary.libcal.com/.

Call 804-798-4072 or visit the library at 201 S. Railroad Ave. for more information.

Heather Weidner Talks Mysteries at the Ashland Branch Library Monday, Jan. 10, 10:30 11:30 a.m.

Join mystery author Heather Weidner for an engaging talk on her love of mysteries and her work in the genre. She has written Vintage Trailers and Blackmailers (Jules Keene Glamping Mysteries), the “Delanie Fitzgerald” mystery series set in Virginia, and the upcoming “Mermaid Bay Christmas Shoppe Mysteries.”

Her short stories and novellas have appeared in several collections, including “Virginia is

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Ashland-Hanover Local January 5, 2022

for Mysteries,” “50 Shades of Cabernet,” “Deadly Southern Charm,” “Murder by the Glass,” and “Mutt Mysteries.”

Registration is required at https://pamunkeylibrary.libcal. com/.

Call 804-798-4072 or visit the library at 201 S. Railroad Ave. for more information.

Cosplay & COVID-19 at the Ashland Branch Library Wednesday, Jan. 12, 7-8 p.m.

COVID-19 has affected nearly every aspect of our daily lives, including cosplay. Come learn how the global pandemic has changed this vast category of hobbies as we know it. Get tips on how to safely and smartly plan for your next cosplay convention or event, how to incorporate health safety into a cosplay, and more.

Registration is required at https://pamunkeylibrary.libcal.com/.

Call 804-798-4072 or visit the library at 201 S. Railroad Ave. for more information.

Japanese Cooking for Manga Fans at the Ashland Branch Library Thursday, Jan. 13, 6 - 7 p.m.

For ages 12-18. Learn how

STANLEY Continued from pg. 11

County, but previously served on the county’s board of supervisors with Stanley.

“This is a huge loss for Hanover County,” Wyatt said. “I had the privilege of serving with Bucky for my four years on the board and he was always supportive and a strong advocate for his constituents.”

He said Stanley’s commitment to those constituents was a large factor in his long and successful career.

“It’s a position where citizen engagement is vital, and Bucky

to make Usagi Ringo, Tamago Tomodachi,Tako, Ika, and Kani--fabulously cute appetizers you've seen in manga. No food will be consumed during the program.

Registration is required at https://pamunkeylibrary.libcal.com/.

Call 804-798-4072 or visit the library at 201 S. Railroad Ave. for more information.

Navigating Medicare and Medicaid at the Ashland Branch Library Wednesday, Jan. 19, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Join us to learn more about Medicare enrollment, costs and coverage. Find out about programs available for eligible individuals to save on Medicare costs and where you can go to find the answers to your Medicare questions. Presented by Senior Connections VICAP Department.

Registration is required at https://pamunkeylibrary.libcal.com/.

Call 804-798-4072 or visit the library at 201 S. Railroad Ave. for more information.

Afternoon Book Club at the Ashland Branch Library Monday Jan. 17, 1 – 2 p.m.

Read our book of the month and engage in a lively discussion about it. Share views about the book and author and share reading recommendations. Registration is required at https://pamunkeylibrary.libcal.com/.

Call 804-798-4072 or visit the library at 201 S. Railroad Ave. for more information.

Evening Book Club at the Ashland Branch Library Tuesday, Jan. 18, 7 – 8 p.m.

Read our book of the month and engage in a lively discussion about it. Share views about the book and author and share reading recommendations. Registration is required at https://pamunkeylibrary.libcal.com/.

Call 804-798-4072 or visit the library at 201 S. Railroad Ave. for more information.

FAFSA Help Night at the Ashland Branch Library Thursday, Jan. 20, 6 - 8 p.m.

Stop by the library for free one-on-one assistance in completing the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) with ECMC’s The College Place - Richmond. Registration is required at https://pamunkey-

knew the community he served.

He’d start his day off at the Fas Mart drinking coffee with a lot of the local folks, then move on to churches to check on people,” Wyatt said. “He was genuinely engaged with the folks in his district.”

Wyatt said Stanley was instrumental in maintaining Hanover’s rural character and limiting high density growth in the county.

Former Hanover County supervisor Jack Ward served many years with Stanley and said they developed a personal friendship that endured after Ward departed public service.

“Bucky was a fine man.

I always thought he was the conscience of the board,” Ward said. He noted Stanley’s connection with his constituents and his strong will to adhere to his beliefs.

“In the 16 years I served with him, he never voted for a single tax increase,” Ward said. “Bucky was a man of the people.”

Del. Hyland “Buddy” Fowler Jr., R-55, said he knew Stanley for more than 30 years and worked on almost all of his campaigns, including serving as campaign manager a few of times.

“Bucky enjoyed great sup-

library.libcal.com/.

Call 804-798-4072 or visit the library at 201 S. Railroad Ave. for more information.

Morning Book Club at the Ashland Branch Library Friday, Jan. 21, 10 - 11 a.m.

Read our book of the month and engage in a lively discussion about it. Share views about the book and author and share reading recommendations. Registration is required at https://pamunkeylibrary.libcal.com/.

Call 804-798-4072 or visit the library at 201 S. Railroad Ave. for more information.

Hanover Branch Library Take & Make Programs Take and Make: New Year Nutrition Tips Starts Monday, Jan. 10 Stop by the Hanover Branch Library and pick up a packet with New Year nutrition tips to encourage better nutrition. Lots of information and healthy recipe ideas included.

Call 804-365-6210 or visit the library at 7527 Library Drive to sign up or for more information.

port from his constituents due to his neighborly approach to service. Bucky loved Beaverdam and Hanover County and was its greatest defender and cheerleader,” Fowler said. “I worked with Bucky on so many issues it would be hard to count, and it was always a pleasure. Bucky will be missed, but will also be remembered as the consummate public servant.”

In honor of Stanley, Budesky ordered county flags to be flown at half-mast until sundown the Sunday following the funeral services.

Funeral arrangements are pending.