HANOVER
ASTRONOMY
Pets of the week looking for a forever home
The Universe From The center: The exploration of the concept of time
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Vol. 7 No. 35 | Richmond Suburban News | May 4, 2022
Ashland Train Day returns as spring extravaganza By Christina Amano Dolan Editor Families and train enthusiasts from near and far flocked to Ashland Saturday to celebrate the return of the town’s beloved street festival. Hosted by the Downtown Ashland Association, Ashland Train Day kicked off for its 18th year on April 30 and drew together a crowd of thousands from across the county, region and even international visitors. “Ashland Train Day is the see TRAIN DAY, pg. 7
Washington Capitals help county celebrate Barton Rink rededication By Christina Amano Dolan Editor
Joel Klein for The Local
Two-year-old Remy and his father Julian of Richmond watch in amazement as a freight train passes the Ashland.
Christina Amano Dolan/The Local
Chair of the Hanover Board of Supervisors Angela Kelly-Wiecek drops a hockey puck while Trevor Barton, left, and Peter Robinson, right, performed a ceremonial ‘face off’ in order to honor the reopening of the Matthew and Daniel Barton Memorial Rink.
A crowd of excited commu- reopening and renovations. The Washington Capitals and Hanover County nity members gathered Sunday at the newly renovated Matthew Parks and Recreation hosted a rededication ceremony and Daniel Barton Memorial Rink on May 1, along with two street hockey clinics surto officially celebrate the facility’s see BARTON, pg. 15
Mechanicsville nine seek open school board appointment By Jim Ridolphi For The Mechanicsville Local Mechanicsville District supervisor Canova Peterson has until May 25 to decide which one of nine nominees will be appointed to serve on the county’s school board for a four-year term beginning in July.
After hearing from seven of those nominees and a number of their supporters during a public hearing last week, Peterson said the decision won’t be easy given the number of qualified candidates who presented themselves for consideration. “I don’t think I’ll come up with a bad decision because I’ve got a lot of
good options here tonight,” Peterson said. “I want to thank everybody for stepping up and everyone who has come here to support your friends. I’d like each of you to contact me so we can set up a time to have a one-on-one conversation. I want to hear with each of you has to say. This is all about what is best for Hanover County and Hanover
County schools.” Peterson alluded to the short time frame provided to make the final decision, but assured the audience that due diligence and a thorough vetting of all the nominees will be completed. He asked all the candidates to contact him as soon as possible to set up interviews see SCHOOL BOARD, pg. 5
CANOVA PETERSON
Richmond Family Magazine says "DELICIOUS"
APRIL 8 - MAY 15 Created by Larry Gallagher
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CALENDAR Thursday, May 5 The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) will hold a public hearing on the Fall Line Trail, a multi-use trail within Chesterfield, Hanover and Henrico counties, as well as the cities of Colonial Heights, Petersburg and Richmond and the Town of Ashland. The primary purpose of the meetings is to review the proposed location and alignment refinements to the corridor and receive feedback from citizens and stakeholders. The meeting will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. at Hilton Garden Inn, Southpark Capitol Ballroom, 800 Southpark Boulevard, Colonial Heights, VA 23834. The meeting will be held in an open-house style format with no formal presentation given. Attendees are encouraged to arrive at any
time during the open-house window. VDOT representatives will be present to discuss the alignment and answer any questions. Comments about the proposed location and alignment refinements may be submitted at the meeting or until May 15 by mailing them to the Virginia Department of Transportation, c/o Fall Line Trail Public Hearing, 2430 Pine Forest Drive, Colonial Heights, VA 23834-9002. Comments can also be emailed to FallLine@ VDOT.Virginia.gov. Reference “Fall Line Trail Public Hearing” in the subject line.
Thursday, May 5 and Thursday, May 12 The Ashland Museum will offer two guided walking tours of Woodland Cemetery in May.
Join Susan Tucker, Woodland Cemetery Administrator, for the look at history and stories found at Woodland. Members are free and non-members are $15. Reservations and information are available at ashlandmuseum.org.
Thursday, May 5 to Saturday, May 7 The Hanover Theatre Company will present “Our Town” for three nights at Hanover High School at 7 p.m. “Our Town” is a play that tells the story of two young Grover’s Corners neighbors, George Gibbs and Emily Webb, whose childhood friendship evolves into romance. It is told in three acts: daily life, love and marriage, and death, depicting the circle of life as a universal
Pets of the Week Photos submitted by Andrew Hodnett
The Hanover County Pound, located at 12471 Taylor Complex Lane in Ashland, has wonderful pets available to a good home. Chief, 58176, is a 2-year-old male Canine/Hound. He has had his first set of vaccines and is Heartworm test negative. Chief is a good ole country dog who loves to explore. He is used to being outdoors but is transitioning into a good indoor dog as well. Chief is very sociable. He seems to love being around people. Chief also has done really well around other dogs. He should adjust fine to any living situation, but he will benefit most with an active owner. Muffin, 549607, is a 1-year-old (estimated) neutered male domestic short-haired feline. Talk about a love bug! Muffin is a great cat. He came to the Shelter as a stray earlier this month. Muffin is very friendly around people. He loves to be held. Muffin is well litter trained and clean. He has lived mostly outdoors, but is very comfortable indoors. Muffin also is sociable around other cats. He’s the perfect kitty for anyone looking. For more information on these great pets, as well as the many more still in need of homes at the Hanover County Pound Facility, call 804-365-6485 during the day. The hours are 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday. The facility is closed on Sunday and county holidays. You also can visit the website to see other animals available for adoption at http://hanovercounty.gov/ Animals/Adopt-a-Pet/.
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Ashland-Hanover Local May 4, 2022
| News, Updates & Listings human experience.
Tuesday, May 10 The Hanover Republican Women’s Club will hold its monthly meeting at Anna’s Italian Kitchen, 7009 Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville, at 6 p.m. The guest speaker will be State Senator 12th District Dr. Siobhan Dunnavant. For additional information about the meeting or becoming a member of the HRWC, contact Nancy Russell, President at nsrussell29@yahoo.com or visit www.hrwomen.com. Mechanicsville AARP Chapter 5407 will be meeting from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Mechanicsville Library, located at 7461 Crossing Place, Mechanicsville. Contact
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 The Mechanicsville Local. President Ed Taylor with any questions: 804-398-3759.
Tuesday, May 17 Hanover AARP Chapter 5335 is holding a “Maryland Live Casino and Shopping” event. The bus will leave at 8 a.m. from the Food Lion parking lot, located at 253 N. Washington Highway, Ashland and will head to Maryland Live/ Arundel Mills Outlets. The bus returns at 8 p.m. The cost is $50 per person and is due no later than May 7. Call Kathy at 804-798-1613 and leave a message with a name and phone number.
Saturday, June 11 The Ashland Strawberry Faire will be held on the streets of Randolph-Macon College. Strawberries, food, entertainment, arts, crafts, and local business vendors make for a fantastic day! Free parking and free trolley service. Visit ww.ashlandstrawberryfaire. com for more information.
Ongoing Mechanicsville Churches Emergency Functions One Stop Shop (MCEF OSS) is open for food, clothing and linens from 9:30 to 11 a.m. on Monday, see CALENDAR, pg. 16
Hanover’s Day Health and Rehabilitation Program improving lives of individuals with disabilities It was an exciting day for the 27 program individuals served by the Community Service Board’s Day Health and Rehabilitation Program, as it was the opening of a new library. When the ribbon was cut, program individuals opened the door to a great treat: several shelves of new books and another wall dedicated to DVDs. Whether they chose a book to read or were more drawn to a movie, everyone was excited. The CSB’s Day Health and Rehabilitation program serves Hanover County residents who have varying degrees of intellectual and developmental disabilities and needs. Individuals can access a variety of offerings on a daily basis, work on skill building and take advantage of social interactions with their
peers. “I’ve come a long ways,” said Amy, who has been with the program for three years. She recently lost a close family member. “Just being around people…has helped me get over the sadness.” “I love helping my friends cut with the scissors,” Amy added. “I love helping with Meals on Wheels. I like going to the stores.” Justin is at the Center, which is located in the old Mechanicsville Library on Stonewall Parkway in Mechanicsville, five days a week. What does he love most? “Going out,” he replied. The Center has a pavilion with picnic tables where the clients can sit. “Shopping. Being outside.” He also loves to cook and staff helps him. The program sees that
individuals are given opportunities to enjoy getting out into the community, whether it’s simply walking over at the adjacent shopping center, participating in a book club at the local library, going to the gym, going to a museum or doing volunteer work. Some help with Meals on Wheels and they volunteer with CARITAS once a month as well providing bagging assistance to MCEF (Mechanicsville Churches Emergency Functions), which assists families in need. “Our biggest goal is that they interact with the community,” said Torrie R. Goodman, BSW, the program coordinator. She has been doing this for 24 years. “I tell people I started here when I was 12,” she joked. “The people that we serve see PROGRAM, pg. 4
Skeletal remains located in wooded area The Hanover County Sheriff ’s Office received a call at about 5:10 p.m. Friday, April 29 from a citizen regarding locating possible human skeletal remains. The remains were observed by citizens while collecting trash in a wooded area near the intersection of Atlee Station Road and Staple Lane. Deputies arrived on scene and observed the remains that were found. With the assistance of the Office of the Chief Medical
Examiner, the remains were confirmed to be human. Investigators have been able to make a probable identification. However, additional investigation and laboratory analysis will be required to confirm identity. At this time, this is being classified as a death investigation, not a homicide, as there were no signs or evidence of foul play. Anyone with further information about this case is asked to contact the Hanover
County Sheriff’s Office at (804) 365-6140 or the Metro Richmond Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. Citizens can also download the “P3 Tips” app for their mobile device to submit their tip. Both Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous. Information submitted by Lt. James Cooper, information officer for the Hanover County Sheriff’s Office.
The Hanover County Sheriff ’s Office says ‘gift cards are for gifts’ Contributed Report The Local The Hanover County Sheriff ’s Office advises the public to remain cautious with gift card purchases. The public should not use a gift card
for anything other than a gift, such as paying a utility bill. If someone asks for payment using any type of gift card, this is a scam. If this happens, contact the sheriff’s office immediately at 804-365-6140.
SHERIFF’S REPORTS | Crime, Accidents, Fire & Rescue March 23
Failure to appear on a felony charge was reported in the 7500th block of County Complex Road, Hanover. Grand larceny building was reported in the 10200th block of Kings Dominion BoulevaRoad, Doswell.
Simple assault was reported in the 13000th block of Deer Hollow Lane, Ashland. Coercing, intimidating or harassing a person by computer was reported in the 10300th block of Doswell Road, Doswell.
Theft of firearms, regardless of value, not from a person was reported in the 10200th block of Lakeridge Square Court, Ashland.
False alarm for ambulance or fire was reported in the 12400th block of W Patrick Henry Road, Ashland.
March 25
Credit card fraud, $200 or more in six months was reported in the 10100th block of Ambys Lane, Ashland. Annoying phone calls was reported in the 19400th block of Hartley Road, Beaverdam.
Obtaining money or signature by false pretenses was reported in the 16000th block of Brisbane Hill Lane, Rockville. Driver not reporting accident with damage less than $250 was reported in the 10200th block of Lewistown Road/Lakeridge Parkway, Ashland.
March 27
March 26
March 24
Forging coin and bank notes was reported in the 16100th block of Point Beverley Court, Montpelier.
Assault and battery on a family member was reported in the 10300th block of Sliding Hill Road, Ashland. Possession of a Schedule I or II controlled substance was reported in the 10100th block of Chamberlayne Road, Mechanicsville. Concealment of pricealtered merchandise, less than $500 was reported in the 6400th block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville. Assault and battery on a family member was reported in the 6300th block of Ridge Lane, Mechanicsville. DWI: BAC .15 to .20, first offense was reported in the 17600th block of Beaver Dam Road, Beaverdam.
Theft of firearms, regardless of value, not from a person was reported in the 20200th block of Beaver Dam Road, Beaverdam. Destruction of property, monument was reported in the 11100th block of Washington Highway/ Comanche Lane, Glen Allen. Assault and battery on a family member was reported in the 16000th block of Theme Park Way, Doswell. Assault and battery on a family member was reported in the 11200th block of Cobbs Road, Glen Allen.
Larceny of bank notes, checks was reported in the 6000th block of Mcclellan Road, Mechanicsville.
Driver not reporting accident with damage up to $1,000 was reported in the 11400th block of North Lakeridge Parkway/Sun Shade Lane, Ashland.
Threats in writing at school or a school event was reported in the 12400th block of W Patrick Henry Road, Ashland.
Driving without a license: second offense was reported in the 5200th block of Mechanicsville Turnpike/Orchard Lane, Mechanicsville.
Concealment of pricealtered merchandise, less than $500 was reported in the 16000th block of Theme Park Way, Doswell.
March 28
Petit larceny, less than $500, not from a person was reported in the 11500th block of North Lakeridge Parkway, Ashland. Assault and battery on a family member was reported in the 10300th block of Sliding Hill Road, Ashland.
Obtaining money by false pretenses less than $200 was reported in the 6600th block of Cold Harbor Road, Mechanicsville.
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March 29
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Assault and battery on a family member was reported in the 7400th block of Deborah Drive, Mechanicsville. Grand larceny, $500 or more, not from a person was reported in the 9000th block of Halifax Green Drive, Mechanicsville. Simple assault was reported in the 6200th block of Rimfire Road, Mechanicsville.
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Ashland-Hanover Local May 4, 2022 3
Hanover High School presents ‘Our Town’
Photo courtesy of the Hanover Theatre Company
Shown are cast members of Hanover High School’s upcoming play ‘Our Town’: Heather McKercher, Ainsley Lawhorn, Casey Leoni, Hayden Davis,Sophia Gurdin, Bailey Bergeron, Audrey Knight, Kylie Secore, Aidan Jacobs, Mason LaPenna, Rashaad Scott, Savannah Harper, Campbell Berry, Max Ford, Tyler Paquin, Dylan Page, James Woods, Ella Brant and Trevor Meyer.
POWERING
REAL LIFE
The Hanover Theatre Company of Hanover High School will present “Our Town,” a play by Thornton Wilder, on May 5 through May 7 at 7 p.m. in the Hanover High School auditorium. “Our Town” tells the story of two young Grover’s Corner neighbors,
PROGRAM Continued from pg. 2
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here deserve to lead full lives just like you and I,” Goodman said. “That’s why we are all here, to help them experience that.” The program operates Monday through Friday. During the remainder of the week, the individuals live at various residential settings. Each day starts with an 8:30 a.m. “coffee time” in which they can socialize with other members. Beginning at 9:30
George Gibbs and Emily Webb, whose childhood friendship evolves into romance. The play is told in three acts: daily life, love and marriage, and death, depicting the circle of life as a universal human experience. Tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for students.
a.m., they can get to other activities, such as catching up on the news and exercising. At 10:30 a.m., those who wish to do so can head out into the community with staff support. There is very little turnover with the individuals, Goodman said. Many have been with the program 20 years or more. Ages of those served currently ranges from the 20s to 70-plus. Goodman’s staff includes Pam Barrafato and Dorothy Gibson, training specialist supervisors; Kelly Blankenship; Shera Glasco; Veronica
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Ashland-Hanover Local May 4, 2022
DELIVER The Local or stop DELIVERY For information on circulation issues, call Michelle Wall at 804-775-2711 or email mwall@timesdispatch.com. If you miss an edition of The Ashland-Hanover Local, please contact her. She will assist you in ensuring you receive the weekly publication. We don’t want you to miss out on any news or sports in your community.
Gregory; Clarence Hart; Shavonne Jefferson; Patty Reel; Sharon Walker-Oliver, and Donnetta Whitfield. Gibson has been with the program for 32 years and Barrafato for 28 and a half years. It’s a great local government service and Hanover County was proud to recognize them during National Local Government Month, which is April. Information submitted by Tom Harris, information officer for the Hanover County Administrator’s Office.
OBITUARY SUBMISSIONS Call 804-643-4414, ext. 3 Email: paidnotices @timesdispatch.com Deadline is noon Friday for the following week’s issue.
JERRY MCCORMICK
KIM THURSTON
JOHNNY REDD
RYAN HUDSON
RYAN MARTIN
SARAH GRAGNANI BUTLER
Jim Ridolphi for The Local
Seven of the nine nominees for school board speak to the board of supervisors about why they should be chosen.
SCHOOL BOARD Continued from pg. 1
and requested detailed resumes from all those interested in the position. “You have given me a hard job to accomplish over the next few weeks, but we are going to do it together,” he said. That list of nominees includes Sterling Daniel, the current representative for Mechanicsville, who was appointed in 2020 to replace Roger Bourassa, who resigned abruptly after serving two years of his four-year term. Less than 48 hours after being appointed, Hanover County schools closed due to the pandemic, and the ensuing two years provided its fare share of challenges for Hanover schools. “I have no interest in driving a particular ideology. I’m just here to serve the students,” Daniel said as nominations were accepted at the April 26 board of supervisors meeting. “I’m simply a father of children in our schools with an extensive amount of knowledge and experience that is directly applicable to the operations of our school system.” Daniel served as a budget advisor for education and finance for three Virginia governors and currently serves as
associate dean of finance at the VCU School of Nursing. He provided his assessment regarding the current status of Hanover schools. “Today, our schools are filled with dedicated professionals educating our children. At the end of the day, when I see more than 95% of our students graduating on time, the majority with advanced diplomas from all different walks of life, you can call it equity, inclusiveness or whatever you want. I call it success,” he concluded. Mechanicsville businessman and CPA Johnny Redd was also nominated and said his previous service on the school board from 1980-84 and his deep roots with the Hanover community prepare him well for the pending appointment. “I served on the school board before some of these candidates here tonight were even born,” Redd said during the public hearing. “Our school board today faces issues
well beyond our imagination of what we would have been facing years ago.” Jerry McCormick also placed his name in nomination, but conceded he has little experience in the education field. “I’ve never been a teacher, a principal or part of any school administration. However, I am a parent and have been watching school board meetings from afar for the past two or three years,” McCormick, a relationship manager by trade, said. The father of two children in Hanover schools, one with special needs, said his experience with the system has prepared him to serve. “While I’ve never been a part of HCPS, you could say that we’ve had a relationship over the years,” McCormick said. Realtor Ryan Hudson was a nominee during the last round of nominations in 2020, and is again seeking the seat during the current appointment process. “I am humbled to have the
opportunity to stand before you as a nominee for the Hanover County School Board,” Hudson said during the public hearing. “We find ourselves at a pivotal time in the life of our community. Hanover County has become ground zero for national policy. Like school districts across the nation and particularly the Commonwealth, the sovereignty of the parent is front and center,” the father of three added. Kimberly Thurston is a Mechanicsville single mother of three who has been active in recent hot button issues at school board meetings and is seeking appointment to the Mechanicsville seat. “I’m here tonight to tell you why I am the most qualified candidate for the Mechanicsville seat on the school board,” Thurston said at last week’s meeting. “I am passionate about this county and I am passionate about our children’s education and well being. I am not here to play politics
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Ryan Martin is the vice president of a local company and has a lifelong relationship with Hanover County. The Virginia Tech graduate is seeking appointment as the Mechanicsville representative on the board, and said his business and leadership skills will well serve the board. Martin is also an Division I and Division III NCAA basketball official. “I am a Hanoverian to the core and a proud product of the Hanover County school system,” Martin said. “I love this county and the people in it. I’d be a good asset to the school board because I am an experienced leader. My colleagues would say that I am an effective leader because I am a good listener,” the father of three said. “If appointed, I will do just that. I will listen to stakeholders of the school system from all walks of life regardless of who they are,” Martin said. Hanover County is one of only 16 school districts with appointed school boards versus elected panels.
with our children. I am here to advocate for what is right for our community, and I will work tirelessly to do the right thing for the children who are in our schools,” she added. Paul Heizer was nominated but did not attend last week’s meeting. Heizer is a school administrator in Caroline County and has two children in HCPS. Chris Cray’s name was also placed in nomination by a supporter, but he was not present at the meeting. Mother of eight and businesswoman Sarah Gragnani Butler was also nominated to fill the seat beginning July 1. “The main reason I would appreciate the opportunity to sit on the school board is to be the voice for children, the voice they can’t be,” she said. “I believe … the firsthand knowledge of what my children experience every day will bring a different perspective to the board. I am determined and I know that I can be the voice for many children and make them proud.”
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Ashland-Hanover Local May 4, 2022 5
OPINION | The Local Views
LETTERS
From the editor
Stories of the railroad survived by the storytellers and listeners By Christina Amano Dolan Editor
I
t didn’t take long to take notice of the community’s passion for railroad history – especially in the weeks leading up to Ashland Train Day. This buzz surrounding the beloved street festival sparked a curiosity for the county’s extensive railroad history that began with my earliest excursions around Hanover County. In my first visit to the Ashland Visitor Center, while wandering around the historic train station, it was impossible not to marvel at the gallery of artifacts, including old conductors’ uniforms, photographs and even the original station benches. The visit offered great insight into the integral role that railroads played in shaping the county’s identity. Flipping through the Pamunkey Regional Library programs last month, I came across an intriguing calendar listing entitled “The AfricanAmerican Experience on the Railroad” that invited interested residents to hear the authentic stories of Donald Coles, a retired railroad worker, and how railroads and music have impacted his life. I attended the hour-long program to better understand this shared community passion for its railroads and discovered the compelling stories of those who have lived through its history. The modest library meeting room held a group of local history and railroad enthusiasts, who helped create a comfortable and interactive atmosphere throughout the evening. One of the most enjoyable features of the program was rooted in the various modes of storytell-
ing. Following in the footsteps of both his grandfather and father as a RF&P worker, Coles shared the multigenerational stories of how railroads have impacted his family’s life along with his own. Artwork, artifacts, instruments, video and narration were used to convey the experiences of Coles, his family and all who contributed to the region’s extensive network of railroads through the decades. He shared a video on the history of the Buckingham Lining Bar Gang, which was a group of retired railroad workers who reenacted the laborious days of lining tracks by hand before mechanization took over. The gang would travel the country offering demonstrations while singing the work songs of the track-liners, many of which were passed down through generations of workers. These songs helped crew members synchronize movements while also lifting spirits under extreme working conditions. Coles discussed the role that a love of music played in his own life – how he carried it with him throughout his days as a railroad worker. To help pass the time, he brought his guitar to work almost every single day and sang along with other crew members. With an accompanying background instrumental playing through speakers, he sat before the crowd with his guitar and harmonica and offered a memorable performance of “What a Wonderful World.” He summoned everyone to sing along, and the room swelled into an ensemble of music that seemed to transport listeners to a different setting entirely. The ending of the evening transitioned into
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Ashland-Hanover Local May 4, 2022
a more nostalgic note, as Coles and audience member James Stallworth, who worked alongside Coles, spoke of the ever-changing railroad industry with the advancement of technology. While Coles once stood in an over-crowded locker room of hundreds of railroad workers a few decades ago with a multitude of trades, Stallworth noted how the workforce continues to dramatically shrink. He said in just five years, most locomotives will require only a single engineer on board with the rise of cruise-controlled locomotives and other advancements. A train’s horn sounded distantly in the background as Stallworth spoke, and it seemed to offer a powerful message as the evening program came to a close. Despite technological advances changing the industry, the stories of those who contributed to the region’s extensive network of railroads and their experiences lives on through the storytellers themselves and those who eagerly listen. Coles ended the evening with a powerful performance of “A Change Is Gonna Come,” and a round of applause sounded throughout the room when he finished. When I talked to the talented gentleman after the program, he spoke of his love for sharing the stories of his railroad days with others, as it remains engrained in his family’s history. While I walked away far from an expert on the subject, it was a uniquely enlightening exploration of the region’s rich railroad history. I found that there is no true storyteller like those who have lived, and continue to live, through the stories themselves.
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 © 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.
| Reader Views
Reader offers rebuttal of remarks in Williamson letter It is very simple answer to your questions, sir. Biden, like George H. W. Bush, Jimmy Carter, Dubya, Reagan, Eisenhower, Kennedy, Ford, Nixon, Obama and even Clinton were all normal human beings who make mistakes like you and I and then admit it and try to change for the better. Trump is an evil anomaly who’s never uttered the words, “I apologize.” The very first thing he did was mock John McCain for his service in Vietnam while he gained five deferments because his fat cat daddy had hundreds of millions of dollars. This should’ve been enough for everyone who understands the extent of sacrifice given by all U.S. military service members and their families. Then he made fun of someone with a serious disability. This should’ve been enough. Bragging about grabbing women by their genitalia should’ve been enough. Misusing money from a veterans’ charity fund should’ve been enough. There were dozens and dozens of signals for everyone to see. However, some just don’t want to see. Finally, all White House documents are, and always have been, “the people’s property.” Why has Trump gone so far as to go to the Supreme Court to keep these items private? I’ve said enough because at this point: “To those who understand, no explanation is necessary. To those who will never understand, no expansion is possible.” MAJ US Army (ret) Richard Ryder, PhD Mechanicsville
Ashland Train Day returns as spring extravaganza
TRAIN DAY Continued from pg. 1
signature event for Downtown Ashland every year,” said Maggie Longest, executive director of the Downtown Ashland Association. “We are just so proud to welcome everybody in and celebrate our love for trains and really show everybody a good time with a street festival and rail fan extravaganza.” Longest said there was a “little extra excitement in the air” surrounding this year’s event after a two-year absence due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The event, which has Joel Klein for The Local Fun for all ages was had at the Ashland Train Day. Top left to right: 2-year-old Rajvir Bhardwaj of Chesterfield sits inside of Ashland previously been held in the fall, was reintroduced as a spring VFD Truck 401 at Ashland Train Day; 2 1/2-year-old Daphne Berg of Mechanicsville and mom Laurel Cummings enjoy a snapshot with Cinder and Tender taken by dad Scott, and a conductor waives to the crowd as Amtrak Northeast Regional travels through festival to kick off a return to Ashland at 10:30 a.m. Shown center from left, the Kiddie Train gives the little ones a slower and quieter ride in the Kid Zone; community unity and celebra4-year-old Nicholas Canfield of Chesterfield is mesmerized by a model train demonstration, and Roger Reynolds, the Singing tion. Conductor, entertains festivalgoers. Shown bottom, a southbound CSX is greeted by athrong of rail fans at Ashland Train Day.
All of Downtown Ashland and surrounding streets were immersed in the day’s festivities, which spanned from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Hundreds of volunteers, local businesses and residents pitched in this year to bring the event to life. “There’s a little something for everybody,” Longest said, describing how the free event aims to offer a variety of entertainment and attractions for visitors of all ages. This year honored the various upheld traditions of Train Day with an even greater vibrancy than previous years, as the event continues to grow in size since its very first celebration. Fifty-six vendors from local shops and others and nine food vendors were scattered throughout the festival, see TRAIN DAY, pg. 8
Ashland-Hanover Local May 4, 2022 7
Photos courtesy of Hanover County Public Schools
Two Hanover High Schools honored for financial literacy education Contributed Report news@mechocal.com Two high schools in Hanover County have been recognized as among the best in the country for financial literacy education. Working in Support of Education (W!se), a nonprofit organization based in New York City, announced recently that Atlee High School (AHS) and Patrick Henry High School (PHHS) have earned the distinction of being named a Blue Star School for their students’ outstanding performance on the 2020-2021 W!se Financial Literacy
TRAIN DAY Continued from pg. 7
along with an increase in the number of local businesses participating. A variety of attractions for rail enthusiasts were featured, including more than 12 fullyloaded CSX freight trains and Amtrak passenger trails passing through the center of the event. Twelve model trains of every size and scale, including LEGO and racing trains, along with four railroad historical exhibits, were on display at the Ashland Dance Academy, Ashland Train Station, Hanover Arts and Activities Center, The Depot, Ashland-Hanover Shopping Center and the Ashland Museum. Children swarmed the Richmond LEGO Users Group’s (RVA LUG) impressively large LEGO display of model trains weaving through a model city, which was housed in the Ashland Dance Academy along with various other
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Certification Test. To earn the coveted award, a school must have achieved an 80% passing rate on W!se’s Financial Literacy Certification Test and have either a majority of students on a given grade level receive personal finance instruction or a minimum 10% of a school’s enrollment taking the certification test. “When our students leave our school, it is extremely important for us to know that we have given them the tools for their toolbox to make sound financial decisions as adults,” said Dr. John Wheeler, Atlee High School Principal. “Receiving
this award demonstrates that our talented and dedicated staff members are delivering quality instruction and are equipping students with the knowledge and skills they need to manage money effectively.” “We are excited to celebrate our students and staff for their work to achieve this recognition,” said PHHS Principal Chris Martinez. “It is a testament to our students’ focus and our teachers who strive to provide them with relevant, meaningful and rigorous instruction.” In addition to AHS and PHHS receiving the Blue Star designation, seven Hanover teachers
earned Gold Star status in recognition of their students’ success on the W!se test. This distinction is given to a teacher with at least one class in which all students earned 93% or better on the test. The teachers recognized for their students’ performance are Julie Emerson of Atlee, Amber Haas of Patrick Henry, Sarah Huss of Patrick Henry, Tyler Kane of Hanover High School, Luke Kupscznk of Patrick Henry, Stephen Salvato of Mechanicsville High School and Steven Teator of Patrick Henry. Information courtesy of Chris Whitley, assistant superintendent of Hanover County Public Schools.
model train sets. “We enjoy bringing it out and sharing it with people… and it’s also a great opportunity for us all to get together and hang out,” said Ryan Slevin, a member of the RVA LUG group. “And the kids get so excited.” Three different historical societies brought Virginia’s railroad history to life by discussing the history of trains and how they have shaped the town and region over the years, including a table set up by the Richmond Fredericksburg and Potomac Railroad Historical Society. There were plenty of attractions for children to enjoy with Train Day’s Kid Zone, which was hosted by New Community Church and featured a bounce house, kiddie rides on a trackless train, obstacle course, cornhole game area, Kona Ice, face painting and musical performances by The Singing Conductor. Ashland Community Preschool also hosted a preschool playground and a meet-and-greet with chil-
dren’s book author Corinne Luck. Touch-A-Truck displays were also in attendance this year, with local companies, Hanover Fire-EMS, U.S. Marshals Service and others volunteering their time to display heavy equipment, a fire truck, ambulance, dump trucks and tractors for children to climb aboard and explore. Glen Allen Transmissions even featured a replica of the infamous Scooby Doo “Mystery Machine” van for families to take photographs with. “It’s a real treat to have all of these folks that are big-time rail fans come to Ashland and bring all of their equipment and everything,” Longest said. Organizers strived to keep in touch with the event’s nostalgia while introducing a new emphasis on arts and culture this year, including the incorporation of The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA) Artmobile parked outside the Hanover Arts and Activities Center, she
said. Attendees were able to step inside the trailer and tour the mobile gallery as if they were transported to the Richmond-based museum. In addition, The Ashland Theater hosted live theatre performances by Whistle Stop Theatre Company, with members singing a medley from the company’s first written musical in honor of their 10th anniversary in Ashland. Tim’s Trains and Toys invited Train Day participants to roam around the festival with a scavenger hunt ticket, collect stamps at each visited location and even win a special prize if all 16 locations were visited. This invited visitors to fully explore the plethora of attractions that the festival offered throughout the day. With children running around, laughter ringing in the air and a flood of community members roaming the streets of Ashland under the vibrant day’s sun, organizers said this year’s Train Day proved to be a great success for its first official debut as a spring festival.
Ashland-Hanover Local May 4, 2022
THE UNIVERSE FROM THE CENTER
The exploration of the concept of time By Dr. George Spagna Special to Ashland-Hanover Local Last month I threatened a rant about the silly notion of year-round daylight time to me. Before I get there, I’d like to take a few months talking about time, timekeeping and calendars. So this column will be about the nature of time and measuring it in years, days and hours. Next month we’ll get down to minutes and seconds and hopefully you’ll already see why I think daylight time is silly. What is time? Surprisingly, it’s hard to define – enough so that many books and treatises have tried. St. Augustine wrote in his “Confessions” that he knew perfectly well what time is until he was asked and at which point he had no idea. Isaac Newton postulated that time, whatever it is, is absolute and passes at the same rate everywhere in the Universe. He also postulated absolute universal, three-dimensional space. That’s the realm of classical physics and it works quite well for everyday mechanics. In the 20th century, Einstein’s Special and General Theories of Relativity merged space and time into a fourdimensional manifold which is neither universal nor absolute. Motion and gravity affect both the rate at which time passes
and the measurement of distances, with the speed of light the arbiter of both “length contraction” and “time dilation.” But we live neither at substantial fractions of light speed nor intense gravity, so let’s just work with regular perceptions of time. Earth and sky present us with discernible cycles of time: sunrise, sunset, swiftly flow the years. Humans evolved on a planet which rotates on its axis daily and revolves around the sun yearly. Because of the tilt of our axis and our elliptical path around the sun, days measured relative to the sun are not uniform in duration. During our northern hemisphere winter, we’re closer to the sun and moving a bit faster in orbit, which makes noon to noon a bit longer than during our summertime when further from the sun. The tilt of the axis makes the time from sunrise to sunset vary as well, but in the opposite direction. Times of daylight are shorter in the winter and longer in the summer. To accommodate these variations, we’ve come up with a “mean solar day” of 24 hours for civil time keeping. Astronomers measure something called a “mean sidereal, relative to the stars, day,” which is about four minutes shorter. And, of course, as we orbit the sun the constellations
MAY 13 - JUNE 12
change with the seasons, so which stars you use to measure the sidereal day will also change. Hours haven’t always been uniform either. Ancient Mediterranean civilizations, probably starting with Sumerian or Babylonian practice, divided the daylight time into 12 “hours” no matter the season, so a summer hour was longer than a winter hour. Night time was measured in “watches” – typically four watches from sunset to sunrise. The notion of a single length hour and a 24-hour day are a later invention. This then led to defining the hour as 1/24th of the “mean tropical day” for the year 1900. As noted above, our species evolved on this rotating planet. We’re not naturally nocturnal like owls, so until the invention of artificial lighting, starting with control of fire, our normal circadian rhythms were tied to sunrise and sunset. Years are their own special problem, since the time to complete a single orbit, relative to the stars, isn’t divisible into an integer number of days, neither solar nor sidereal. Our calendar year is 365 24-hour days except in leap years when we give it 366. And it’s not exactly a four-minute difference between solar and sidereal time so we have to skip the leap
years in century ending dates which are not divisible by 400. This is the Gregorian calendar reform. The addition of leap years was the Julian Calendar reform. Next month we’ll divide hours into minutes and seconds, and we’ll talk about precision timekeeping. Lunar phases for May: First Quarter on the May 8 at 8:21 p.m.; Full Moon on May 16 at 12:14 a.m. For time zones west of here, the moon is full on May 15, and this Full Moon will be accompanied by a total lunar eclipse; Last Quarter on May 22 at 2:43 p.m.; and New Moon on May 30 at 7 a.m. All times are Eastern Daylight. The Eta Aquarid meteor shower peaks on May 5 through 7, so the moon will be providing some interference. To get a better view, find a spot away from city or town lights and look after midnight. Mercury returns to evening twilight. Look about 30 degrees north of due west, low at about 10 degrees above the horizon. It sets by 9:30. Predawn is the time for planet watching, though these targets are also low in the sky. Venus, Mars, Saturn and Jupiter are all there to the east southeast in twilight. An uncluttered horizon will make it possible to see them. Our midmonth view at about three hours after sunset
finds the faint and likely unfamiliar constellation known as Canes Venatici, or “Hunting Dogs,” at zenith. This constellation was invented and named in 1687 by Hevelius, who mapped out what are now the official 88 constellations recognized by astronomers. In Ptolemy’s day, these stars were considered part of Ursa Major as noted in his great work the Almagest. Because the boundaries of the constellations were not official, some placed these stars in Bootes, the Herdsman, and they were known as the herdsman’s club. That name was mistranslated into Arabic where they became known as his “spear shaft with a hook.” Ironically, when the Arabic texts were translated into Latin, they were again mistranslated and became the “spear shaft with dogs.” The association with Bootes should take your eye to Arcturus to the southeast, about 65 degrees above the horizon. To the north you’ll see Ursa Major with the bowl of the “Big Dipper” inverted. The end of the Dipper’s handle is the star Alkaid, and it lies only 15 degrees from zenith. Mizar, the middle star in the handle is a binary with Alcor. If your eyes are sharp enough you should be able to resolve these without a telescope. A modest telescope will reveal
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both Mizar and Alcor as close binaries. This is actually a fourstar system. The co-called “pointer stars” at the end of the bowl, Merak and Dubhe, can be used to find Polaris. Just extend the imaginary line between them toward the horizon and it will pass very close to Polaris. If readers have questions about astronomy in particular or science in general that you would like covered in one of these columns, 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. For information about viewing opportunities at the Keeble Observatory, visit the website: 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.
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Ashland-Hanover Local May 4, 2022 9
Sports
UPCOMING EVENTS
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05 2022
Girls lacrosse: Patrick Henry at Atlee 7:30 p.m.
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05 2022
Boys lacrosse: Mechanicsville at Hanover 7:30 p.m.
| Youth, High School, College, Recreational & Professional
Mustangs, Patriots both get to celebrate Mechanicsville, Patrick Henry softball teams split twinbill By Dave Lawrence Sports Editor ASHLAND — So far, 2022 has been a growth year for both Mechanicsville’s and Patrick Henry’s softball teams. They’ve struggled in their contests with their more experienced crosscounty rivals, Hanover and Atlee. The two teams had a lot of pride on the line when they met for a doubleheader Friday night. They both left the softball diamond with a lot to celebrate: They split the twinbill, with the Patriots taking the opener 7-6 and the Mustangs winning the nightcap 9-6. The opener was a seesaw contest, with one team taking a lead, then the other coming back. The winner seemed determined more by timing than anything else. “I think it was the last group swinging, really,” said Patrick Henry head softball coach Lance LeSturgeon. “We scored some runs in five innings. . . . That’s the most runs we’ve scored in five innings all year. We were hitting, they were hitting. I think it was just whoever was hitting last.” Both teams had plenty of big hits. The Patriots had a pair
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Dave Lawrence/The Local
Mechanicsville third baseman Leanna Bartrug launches a rocket over the center field fence for a three-run home run in Patrick Henry’s 7-6 victory over the visiting Mustangs in the opener of a doubleheader at Patrick Henry Friday night. Mechanicsville won the nightcap 9-6.
of triples and a pair of doubles. Anna Niedermaier hit one of each; Lola Bradley hit the other triple and Kenzie Yates the other double. But Mechanicsville’s Leanna Bartrug had the big blast of the opener, a three-run home run to center field. Her teammate Cameron Christian hit a
Ashland-Hanover Local May 4, 2022
double. The nightcap — a makeup for a rainout at Mechanicsville — was equally hard fought. After Patrick Henry jumped to a 4-0 lead in the top of the third inning, the Mustangs responded with 6 runs in the bottom of the frame. The Patriots tied it up the next inning, but
Mechanicsville responded with three runs in the bottom of the fourth for the win. Again, the Mustangs had the big blast of the game, a two-run homer by Kiley Lambert in the fourth inning. She also hit a two-run single in the third. Bradley hit another triple for the Patriots and Yates hit
another double. The win was gratifying for Mechanicsville’s first-year coach Casey Caldwell. “We’ve got three seniors — we’ve definitely got a younger team,” Caldwell said. “We’re really excited about the future and growing Lee-Davis/ Mechanicsville back to how it
was.” Baseball: Mechanicsville 7 Patrick Henry 5 ASHLAND — Another scrappy contest was taking place on an adjacent diamond, as Mechanicsville took on a see CELEBRATE, pg. 12
Hanover takes two over arch-rival Raiders By Rob Witham for The Local MECHANICSVILLE — Hanover’s softball team won its ninth consecutive game Friday night, besting rival Atlee on the Raiders’ home field 2-0. The Hawks, since an opening shutout loss to Midlothian, have given up just four runs during the nine-game run. But head coach Tommy Evans offered interesting insight into where the Hawks were entering this showdown of the top two teams in Region 4B. “We had a conversation with the whole team. We’ve been in a bit of a lull, almost; a midseason type of funk,” Evans said. “Atlee’s been playing really well. I really tried to talk them up to not let them sneak up on us, don’t take for granted that we beat them last time.” Indeed, Hanover blew out Atlee 10-0 in their first meeting a month ago. Friday would be much different, as Carsen Sanders battled Julia Cuozzo batter for batter, pitch for pitch. Hanover struck in the top of the second as Beanie Acors singled, then advanced to second base as a strange fly ball to deep left by Cuozzo dropped suddenly, and Atlee left fielder Sierra Kegley was unable to make the catch. Senior Bri Michaels next roped a double to right center to score the only two runs of the contest. Savannah Nash was Atlee’s first base runner with an infield single to open the home half of the fourth, but she was stranded there. Two innings later, Kaitlyn Crenshaw opened the sixth with a single to left field, then stole second base. Caroline Tilley’s sacrifice bunt sent Crenshaw to third, but a groundout ended the threat. as second as Cuozzo finished shutout during the nine-game Nash singled again to open the night with 12 strikeouts, winning streak. the seventh, but only got as far earning Hanover its seventh Sanders, who struggled in
Joel Klein for The Local
Above, Hanover center fielder Kaileigh Byars beats the tag attempt by Atlee’s Kaitlyn Crenshaw to steal second base in the fifth inning of the Hawks’ 2-0 win over the Raiders Friday night. Left, Hanover pitcher Marcus Van Alstine held Atlee scoreless, striking out eight while giving up just four hits in the Hawks’ 7-0 baseball victory over the Raiders Friday night.
the March loss at Hanover, was a fighter in the circle on this night, fanning 10 Hawks batters. “The biggest thing we saw tonight to give us reason to believe is Carsen Sanders,” Atlee head coach Tom McIntyre said. “Last time, it wasn’t her night. Tonight, a 10-strikeout performance. She threw a gem. Now, we have to clean up the little things and work on our at-bats.” The Raiders own big victories over top Region 4B rivals Matoaca (15-3) and Dinwiddie (7-0), plus a shutout win over defending Class 6 state champion Cosby. At 8-2, they are primed for a playoff run, but their only two losses were both to the Hawks, who overtook
them for first place in the Region 4B standings. Atlee enters May looking to continue its improvement to peak late, and, maybe, force round three with its biggest rival. Hanover enters May looking to keep the streak alive, and, after this win, build on a new sense of purpose and desire. “(Atlee) showed it tonight. They played a really tough game and gave us everything we wanted,” Evans noted. “We were definitely in a lull, and they responded very well to us refocusing.” The Hawks will not be satisfied unless they return to the Class 4 state final and finish the job after their extra inning loss
to Amherst County in last June’s title game. Across the way at baseball, Hanover improved its record to 12-2, staying unbeaten on Virginia soil as it finally put away a gritty Atlee team late 7-0. As is a Hanover staple, pitching led the way with usual reliever Marcus Van Alstine getting the call to start, scattering four hits and striking out eight in five innings of work. After a leadoff single to Gunnar Stromberg in the Atlee half of the sixth, Charlie Rohr entered in relief, inducing a double play to end the inning. Hanover scratched one see TWO, pg. 12
Ashland-Hanover Local May 4, 2022 11
Mechanicsville sweeps PH By Dave Lawrence Sports Editor ASHLAND — Fans can expect plenty of action when Hanover County’s two oldest rivals, Mechanicsville and Patrick Henry, compete against one another. They were not disappointed with that Friday night on the Patriots’ pitch. Nevertheless, Patriot fans may have been disappointed in the final result, as the Mustang boys and girls both emerged victorious. Mechanicsville’s boys held off a furious Patrick Henry counterattack for a 2-0 win to close out the evening, while the Mustang girls dominated 4-1 in the middle game of a junior varsity/varsity tripleheader. Mechanicsville’s boys scored
on a pair of thrilling goals in the first half of their contest. Jake Owens opened the scoring in the 13th minute with a long ball from 30 yards out. It tracked just out of reach of the hands of Patrick Henry keeper Aiden Paynter high into the middle of the net. “He found himself a little bit free,” said Mechanicsville head boys soccer coach Josh Pagac. “He kicked it with his left foot. It was a good hit.” Owens played a role in the Mustangs’ second goal. He launched a free kick toward midfield, and Dale DiNapoli headed it in for a 2-0 Mechanicsville lead in the 19th minute. The key play of the game, however, may have been on the other end of the field.
“Patrick Henry was putting a lot of pressure on at the end of the first half and they were awarded a PK, rightfully so — the ball touched one of our players’ hands,” Pagac said. “My keeper, Austin Baker, he made the save.” Baker dove to his right, got the initial deflection of the kick, then scrambled on top of the loose ball to end the Patriot threat. Mackenzie Joly scored a pair of goals to lead the Mustang girls to victory. Bailey Altizer and Lindsey Schenack scored a goal apiece. “I have 14 freshmen and Continued from pg. 10 they’re progressing really well,” said Mechanicsville head girls soccer coach Paul Doss. “The stubborn Patrick Henry basenext year or two, they should be ball squad and eventually prea really dynamic team.” vailed with a 7-5 victory. Pitcher C.J. DiNapoli gave the Mustangs a strong start, giving up just three hits and four runs — all but one unearned — and striking out eight in earning the win. Ethan Serrano led the Mustangs offensively, going 3-of-4 for two RBIs and two
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Ashland-Hanover Local May 4, 2022
Dave Lawrence/ The Local
Mechanicsville’s Dale DiNapoli (21) wins a ball in a scrap with Patrick Henry’s Greyson Basso in the the Mustangs’ 2-0 win over the host Patriots Friday.
CELEBRATE
runs scored. Nathan Westfall went 2-of-3 with a double. “It was a good game,” said Mechanicsville head baseball coach Tyler Johnson. “Going over to Patrick Henry, it doesn’t matter how each team is doing — it’s always going to be a good game. They’re always scrappy. It’s a rivalry game and anything can happen. Those guys competed. Their pitcher threw well. “We had some big hits, some good at-bats at the right time, and our pitching came through at the end.”
Mustang Gavin Smith took over for DiNapoli in the fifth inning, getting out of a basesloaded jam without yielding a run. Dallas Hairfield closed out the last two innings for Mechanicsville, striking out three while giving up a run. Sam Kaczmarek led the Patriots, going 3-of-4 with a double, an RBI and three runs scored. Dave Lawrence can be reached at dlawrence@mechlocal.com.
TWO
the bottom of the frame, but Rohr struck out Chase Sanford, then got Landon Scott to ground into a fielder’s choice to end the game. Hanover head coach Tyler Kane sees the Van Alstine performance as another key element to the puzzle the Hawks are putting together for what they hope will be a championship run. “Our pitchers are doing a good job throwing multiple pitches for strikes,” Kane explained. “Marcus did a phenomenal job for us tonight. He’s pitched mostly in relief this year, and when his pitch count got higher than it’s been, it was a planned decision. We want to build him up slowly so he’s
feeling fresh at the end of the season.” Pitching, defense, and timely hitting have been the hallmark of Hanover baseball. This senior-laden team has something in common with its softball sisters: a drive to no less but the Class 4 state championship, which, if captured, would be the fourth all-time for the Hawk program, and first since 2016. But first, the Hawks host Mechanicsville Friday, then next Wednesday, have a scheduled game with private school power Benedictine, as they look to sharpen their iron for the playoffs which begin in three weeks. Rob Witham can be reached at sports@mechlocal.com.
Continued from pg. 11
across in the first inning off Atlee starter John Best thanks to an RBI double from Brett Alvis. The Hawks were kept off the board until the fourth when Best walked two batters and hit a third to load the bases. A Cole Elrod sacrifice fly scored Anthony Gabello, then Chase Hustead singled to center plating Nolan Williamson and Rohr for a 4-0 lead. The Hawks put it away with a run in the sixth, then two in the seventh when Gabello lined a single to left to score Seth Keller and Cannon Peebles. Atlee (4-7) loaded the bases in
PUBLIC NOTICE
Notice is hereby given that the Hanover County Planning Commission has set Thursday, May 19, 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: REZ2022-00011, EARL AND JANET BINNS, ET AL. Request(s) to rezone from A-1, Agricultural District to AR-6(c), Agricultural Residential District with conditions on GPINs 7728-28-1634 and 7728-18-9446, consisting of approximately 16.8 acres, and located on the south line of Pouncey Tract Road (State Route 271) approximately 1,500 feet east of its intersection with Rockhill Road (State Route 622). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Agricultural. The proposed zoning amendment would permit the creation of one (1) additional lot for a gross density of one (1) dwelling unit per 5.6 acres. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: South Anna REZ2022-00014, NICHOLAS G. JENNINGS Request(s) to rezone from A-1, Agricultural District to AR-6(c), Agricultural Residential District with conditions, on GPIN 7822-96-6649, consisting of approximately 9.43 acres, and located on the east line of Goshen Road (State Route 658) at its intersection with Geese Lake 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 one (1) additional building lot for a gross density of one dwelling unit per 4.72 acres. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Beaverdam REZ2022-00006, MWW REALTY CORP. Request(s) to rezone from M-2, Light Industrial District, to M-3(c), Heavy Industrial District with conditions, on GPIN 8705-21-7388, consisting of approximately 4.11 acres, and located on the north line of Meadowbridge Road (State Route 627) approximately 125 feet east of its intersection with Ellerson Station Drive (State Route 1485). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Industrial. The proposed zoning amendment would allow for the addition of two propane tanks to an existing industrial site. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Chickahominy CUP2022-00005, MWW REALTY CORP. Request(s) a Conditional Use Permit in accordance with Section 26-183.9 and 26-183.13 of the Hanover County Zoning Ordinance to permit petroleum storage and petroleum waste products, on GPIN 8705-21-7388, consisting of approximately 4.11 acres (CUP area limited to 1.62 acres), zoned M-2, Light Industrial District (pending rezoning application REZ2022-00006 to rezone to M-3(c), Heavy Industrial District with conditions), and located on the north line of Meadowbridge Road (State Route 627) approximately 125 feet east of its intersection with Ellerson Station Drive (State Route 1485). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Industrial. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Chickahominy
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REZ2021-00013, WILLSON FAMILY, L.L.C. Request(s) to rezone from A-1, Agricultural District to RS(c), Single-Family Residential District with conditions on GPINs 7768-32-5430, 7768-31-1504 (part), and 7767-39-7416 (part), consisting of approximately 155.1 acres, and located on the south line of Winns Church Road (State Route 660) approximately 1,500 feet west of its intersection with Greenwood Road (State Route 625). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Suburban General (1.6 to 3 dwelling units per acre). The proposed zoning amendment would permit the creation of 250 building lots for a gross density of 1.6 dwelling units per acre. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: South Anna
GENERAL & SPECIAL NOTICES
CUP2022-00001, ASHCAKE ROAD LANDFILL, INC. Request(s) to amend CUP-8-87, Am. 1-16, in accordance with Sections 26-20.15 and 26-20.26 of the Hanover County Zoning Ordinance, which permitted a construction debris landfill and borrow pit on GPINs 7798-08-2072, 7798-08-7416, 7798-18-4218, 7798-09-5472, and 7798-29-6304, consisting of approximately 232.45 acres, zoned A-1, Agricultural District, and located on the north line of Ashcake Road (State Route 657) at its intersection with Johnson Town Road (State Route 755). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Agricultural and Suburban General (1.5-3 dwelling units per acre). This amendment includes a plan to close the existing landfill area and convert the borrow pit area to a new landfill area. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Beaverdam
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REZ2022-00004, FRANK AND ANNA B. VOLO, TRUSTEES FOR REV TRUST Request(s) to amend the proffers accepted with rezoning, C-3-08(c), and to rezone from B-1(c), Neighborhood Business District with conditions, to B-3(c), General Business District with conditions, on GPIN 8725-93-1796, consisting of approximately 1.66 acres, and located on the north line of Mechanicsville Turnpike (U.S. Route 360) approximately 1,700 feet west of its intersection with Walnut Grove Road (State Route 615). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Commercial. The proposed zoning amendment would allow for development a variety of commercial uses. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Henry CUP2022-00004, NETWORK TOWERS II, L.L.C. Request(s) a Conditional Use Permit in accordance with Section 26-20.25 of the Hanover County Zoning Ordinance to permit a telecommunications tower and related facilities that exceed 140 feet in height, on GPIN 8724-87-4754(part), consisting of approximately 0.12 acres, zoned A-1, Agricultural District, and located on the north line of Walnut Grove Road (State Route 615) approximately 1,500 feet east of its intersection with Creighton Road (State Route 615). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan Map as Suburban General (1.5-3 dwelling units per acre). (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Cold Harbor 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-and-Archive for more information
Ashland-Hanover Local May 4, 2022 13
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Ashland-Hanover Local May 4, 2022
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TOWN OF ASHLAND NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Please take notice that on the 17th day of May 2022, at 7:00 p.m. the Ashland Town Hall, 121 Thompson Street, Ashland, VA, the Ashland Town Council will conduct public hearings pursuant to Virginia Code section 15.2-2204 for the purpose of receiving input, and may provide a recommendation on the following: Stuart Little of Sekiv Solutions, on behalf of the property owner Shree Sai Sagun LLC, is requesting approval of a conditional use permit (CUP) to allow for a fueling station pursuant to Sections 21-101(x) which permits fueling stations within the B-2 Highway Commercial district with issuance of a CUP. The site is located on the northwest corner of the intersection of Telcourt Road and East Patrick Henry Road (S.R. 54) (GPIN parcel 7880-42-6201). The site is within the B-2, Highway Commercial district. The future land use designation is Mixed Business.
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Copies of CUP22-0228 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.
Public Notice Notice is hereby given that the Hanover County Board of Supervisors has set Wednesday, May 11, 2022 at 2:00 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 a Regular Board Meeting.
Christina Amano Dolan/The Local
Community members gathered at the Matthew and Daniel Barton Memorial Rink, located at 7232 Courtland Farm Road in Hanover, to celebrate the combined efforts of The Washington Capitals, Barton family, county and community in refurbishing the beloved community rink. Shown clockwise from top left: Trevor, Douglas and Carol Barton cut the ceremonial ribbon during the rink’s rededication ceremony, which was followed by a spirited round of applause by attendees; Peter Robinson, director of Capitals’ Youth Hockey Development, offers remarks on behalf of his organization during the rink’s rededication ceremony, and Trevor Barton, the son of Douglas and Carol Barton, speaks on behalf of his family about his late brothers’ love for hockey.
BARTON Continued from pg. 1
rounding the ceremony that were open to both children and parents. Following the clinics, exhibition games were held with players from Richmond Roller Hockey League. The day celebrated the combined fundraising efforts led by the Barton family and Hanover County Parks and Recreation to save the beloved community rink. The day also honored the journey of the Barton family and their meaningful service to the community in the face of tragedy. “The Barton family has twice turned what many would have found to be an insurmountable family tragedy into a shining light of service for their community and a great example of partnership between local government and private industry,” said Angela Kelly-Wiecek, chair of the Hanover County Board of Supervisors, during the rededication ceremony. The original rink was built over 20 years ago in memory of Daniel and Matthew Barton, who tragically lost their lives due to disease at a young age. The two brothers shared a pas-
sion for hockey and began playing both inline and ice hockey at local facilities at a young age. “From childhood to the day we weren’t able to play together any longer, hockey has been a passion for me and my two older brothers,” said Trevor Barton, who spoke on behalf of his family during the rededication ceremony. “…Every time I skate on the rink, whether it’s ice hockey or roller hockey, I remember them and I play for them.” Douglas and Carol Barton set up community fundraising efforts to donate the rink to the county, which is now owned and operated by Hanover County Parks and Recreation. Over the years, the rink has served as a hub for local hockey enthusiasts of all ages to enjoy the game of inline hockey. The rink has also hosted middle school hockey, tournaments, pick-up hockey, fundraisers for several organizations and served other purposes over the years, marking its place as a staple to the Hanover community. “I know countless families whose lives have been enriched by the legacy of your two beautiful boys,” Kelly-Wiecek said. “This place, where friendships have been built, character and
Contributed photos by Marie D’Angelo
In addition to the ceremony, street hockey clinics and exhibition games were held. Above, hockey players and longtime friends Freddie D’Angelo, Andrew Taylor and Philip Beethoven-Wilson test out the rink that they have been playing hockey on together for over 20 years.
sportsmanship instilled, and of course, where laughter and friendly competition abound, is an incredible and an inspiring tribute.” In April 2020, the rink was deemed in critical need of repair and replacement and shut down as a result. The county advised the Bartons that it could take potentially three to four years to receive available funding. Determined to rescue the rink from closure, Carol created a GoFundMe page to save and restore the rink that has served the community for decades. Today, the page has accumulat-
ed over $20,000 in community donations. In addition, Doswell Energy Center contributed a $25,000 donation. In the spring of 2021, Peter Robinson, director of Capitals’ Youth Hockey Development, said he began receiving emails and tweets from community members regarding the Barton Rink’s need for refurbishing. After connecting with Dan Smith, the interim director for Hanover County Parks and Recreation, The Capitals Organization soon entered into an agreement with the county to fix up the rink. The Capitals Organization
made a combined $100,000 investment in the rink’s refurbishing, and renovations were officially finished in November 2021. It stands as the 14th rink that the organization has helped refurbish or build across Maryland, Virginia, Washington D.C. and West Virginia in an effort to invest in the growth of the sport. The Capitals Organization has since furnished, replaced and installed the street hockey rink as a donation to the county and provided all rink boards, goal frames, fencing and new plastic skating tiles, a new scoreboard and The Capitals logo
displayed throughout the rink. In addition, the organization will offer Hanover Parks and Recreation and all Hanover County Public elementary and middle schools new street hockey equipment and training. “We can feel the love and dedication to this rink and to the Barton family,” Robinson said during the rededication ceremony. “Thank you to the Barton family for your support. We really appreciate your love and dedication. And your sons are definitely not forgotten. They’re going to live on forever see BARTON, pg. 16
Ashland-Hanover Local May 4, 2022 15
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Community members gathered at the Matthew and Daniel Barton Memorial Rink, located at 7232 Courtland Farm Road, Hanover, to celebrate the combined efforts of The Washington Capitals, Barton family, county and community in refurbishing the beloved community rink.
BARTON Continued from pg. 15
at this rink.” “I’m inspired by Doswell Energy, a local company that always asks, ‘How can we help,’” said county administrator John Budesky. “I’m inspired by a major sports organization
CALENDAR Continued from pg. 2
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Trinity Lutheran Church, Ashland Campus, located at 11515 Ashcake Road in Ashland two miles west of U.S. 1, holds its church service at 5 p.m. with Pastor Rev. Dr. Roy Minnix For more information, visit www.trinityrichmond.net or call 804-270-9626.
Sundays All Souls Episcopal Church celebrates Holy Eucharist Rite II
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Ashland-Hanover Local May 4, 2022
that’s interested in helping our community and grow the sport of hockey. I’m inspired by the Barton family. Today, I thank all of you for your generous contributions to our county.” Thanks to the united efforts of both the county and community, the Matthew and Daniel Barton Memorial Rink will con-
tinue to honor the lives of the two boys while carrying on their legacy in the community. “Through all the support and your donations, both of my brothers’ passions for hockey can live on,” Trevor said. “With that said, my parents and I hope this rink will be utilized by groups of all ages.”
at 9:15 a.m. at Messiah Lutheran Church at 8154 Atlee Rd. in Mechanicsville. A nursery will be available for infants and toddlers. Katherine G. Dougherty is the Deacon in charge of All Souls. For more information, visit www.allsoulsva.org.
Outside the Walls, a Narcotics Anonymous group, meets from 6 to 7 p.m. in the lobby of the Pamunkey Regional Jail at 7240 Courtland Farm Rd. in Hanover. For more information, contact John Shinholser, McShin president, at 804-249-1845. The website is http://www.mcshin.org.
A Healing and Recovery SS Class meets at 9 a.m. at the Walnut Grove Baptist Church at 7046 Cold Harbor Rd. in Mechanicsville. The class is for adults 18 and over and is an extension of the NorthStar community that also meets at 6 p.m. Fridays at the church. The Christian 12 Steps and Biblical wisdom are the basis of study and discussion to learn about God’s place in our lives. All are welcome. For more information, call 804-746-5081 or contact Craig Simpson at craigwgbc@gmail.com.
Tuesdays The Hanover Concert Band rehearses from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. every Tuesday, mid-January through mid-December, at the Hanover Arts and Activities Center at 500 S. Railroad Ave. in Ashland, just south of U.S. 54. Membership is open to anyone who can read music and play a non-string instrument. High school students are welcome with parents’ permission. Visit www.hanoverconcertband.org or call 804-789-0536.