Ashland-Hanover Local – 10/12/2022

Clements named 2022 Hanover Christmas Mother

By Christina Amano Dolan Editor

TheDoswell Ruritan Club recently announced Michele Clements as this year’s Hanover Christmas Mother. With the holiday season just around the corner, Clements is already jumping into her new role in hopes of spreading holiday cheer to everyone in the community. The announcement came during the club’s

annual tea on Wednesday, Oct. 5, which was attended by club members, families and former Hanover Christmas Mothers.

Doswell Ruritan Franklin Jones presented the history of the Hanover Christmas Mother during the tea, which was a role that was first established by the Doswell Woman’s Club in 1949. Ruth Wickham Smith, the first ever Hanover Christmas Mother, helped raise over

‘Light Up the Tracks’ in Downtown Ashland with holiday fun

Contributed Report

Local

Beginning Saturday, Nov. 19, Downtown Ashland will transform into a vintage Christmas village with Light Up the Tracks, presented by Dominion Energy. A light display and special events will welcome visitors for a unique small town holiday experience.

“Light Up the Tracks invites visitors to enjoy the quaint setting of our historic downtown,” said Maggie Longest, executive director of Downtown Ashland Association. “Customers will find excellent shopping, dining, and entertainment with friendly, small town charm.”

Downtown buildings are outlined in twinkling white

Local Girl Scouts uplift the community with innovative projects

By Christina Amano Dolan Editor

For decades, Girl Scout Troops across the country have been uplifting communities with a steadfast devotion to making the world a better place. In Hanover County, there are young Girl Scouts who live out the role of a humanitarian every day,

empowering fellow females and uplifting the community with innovative service projects around every corner.

Hanover County celebrated Girl Scout Troop 5276 and their inspiring and special service project on Friday, Oct. 7. Ninth graders Lauren Hoehl, Katherine Alexander

BY ROBERTHARLING

Brewing to host ‘GrowlO-Ween’ dog event

Christina Amano Dolan/The Local Michele Clements of the Atlee Ruritan Club is this year’s Hanover Christmas Mother.

Hanover Tavern says thank you with ‘Coffee with Cops’

Christina Amano Dolan/The Local Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court Judge Shannon Hoehl and Hanover County Administrator John Budesky help Lauren Hoehl, Katherine Alexander and Ashley Godwin of Girl Scout Troop 5276 cut the ribbon to commemorate the troop’s completion of a warm and welcoming waiting room for children in court.

AcrosstheAisle:

HCPS graduation rate exceeds state average

Hanover County Public Schools (HCPS) announced last week an on-time graduation rate of 95.2% for the Class of 2022, the 10th straight year that Hanover’s graduation rate has exceeded 95%.

The rate is the fourth-highest on-time graduation rate in Virginia among the 15 largest school divisions in the state, according to new data from the Virginia Department of Education. Overall, Hanover’s graduation rate for students who entered the ninth grade during the 2018-19 school year continues to outpace the state’s, where 92.1% earned a Board of Education-approved diploma.

Additionally, more HCPS students are graduating with advanced diplomas, with 68.3% of 2022 graduates completing high school with the advanced diploma as compared with 67.2% for the Class of 2021. Graduates from all

four high schools earned a higher rate of advanced diplomas than the state average, including among economically disadvantaged students.

The county graduated 1,397 students this year with a 2.5% dropout rate, one of the four lowest dropout rates among the 15 largest school divisions in the state.

“We are incredibly proud of our members of the Class of 2022, both for their many accomplishments inside and outside the classroom as well as their resilience with a significant portion of their high school education being disrupted by the pandemic,” said Dr. Michael Gill, superintendent of schools. “Our students’ success also demonstrates the exhaustive efforts of our devoted educators and support staff through the most challenging times we have ever faced in modern history. They work each and every day to support each student and help ensure our Tradition of Excellence continues.”

Photo courtesy of Hanover County Public Schools Dr. Michael Gill, Superintendent of Schools, addresses the Class of 2022 with his keynote commencement speech, sharing with them the inspiring story of Derek Redmond and his father at the 1992 Olympics and encouraging graduates to rise when they fall, surround themselves with positive people and be the positive person for others.

Here are some quick facts on the Hanover County Public Schools Class of 2022: 1,397 graduates

95.2% on-time graduation rate

88.1% on-time graduation rate among economically disadvantaged students

68.3% Advanced Diploma

26.9% Standard and

Mechanicsville Library displaying sunflower paintings for Ukraine

The members of the Lee Artists Association have each taken a 4x4 section from a print of one of Van Gogh’s sunflower paintings to paint their own interpretation and develop a unique presentation of his masterpiece. As the sunflower symbolizes the strength and beauty of the Ukrainian people, it became the motivation for this project as well as an ongoing contribution of money from the members and visitors to help this worthy cause. The total was given to Mercy Partners for Ukraine. This beautiful work of art shows the talent of each of the artists in this group while attempting to visualize Van Gogh’s thought process and his unique style of painting. The painting can be seen at the Mechanicsville Library for the month of October and November and then will be given to Teressa Pearson in gratitude for the many hours she has served the Lee Artists Association and the Windemere Art Gallery.

Other Diploma 2.5% dropout rate

More information can be found in the Virginia Department of Education’s School Quality Profile for Hanover County Public Schools.

Information submitted by Chris Whitley, assistant superintendent for Hanover County Public Schools.

COTU Brewing to host ‘Growl-O-Ween’ dog event

Contributed Report

The Local

and runs from 2 to 5 p.m. Onsite parking will be available.

Humane Society.

Celebrate

the Halloween season by joining the Hanover Humane Society on Saturday, Oct. 22, for the eighth annual “GrowlO-Ween” dog event at Center of the Universe (COTU) Brewing Company, 11293 Air Park Road in the Ashland.

The event is free to the public

Dress up your favorite canine in his or her Halloween costume and enjoy an afternoon of various dog-related activities and contests, such as the Best Trick Contest and the Howling Contest. Listen to live entertainment, bid on silent auction items and enjoy food and golden beverages.

While cash is preferred, Paypal, Venmo, and all major credit cards will be accepted. All proceeds for this event will benefit the Hanover

For more information, visit GROWLOWEENVA.COM or contact COTU (info@cotubrewing.com) at 804-368-0299 and the Hanover Humane Society at info@ hanoverhumanesociety.org.

This event is sponsored by the following entities: Widespread Solutions (Platinum sponsor), Julie Whitaker-State Farm Insurance (Platinum sponsor), Stepping Stone Chiropractic (Platinum

sponsor), Rachel Koehler Dog Training (Platinum sponsor), Commonwealth Boat Brokers (Gold sponsor) and Airpark Auto (Silver sponsor).

The Hanover Humane Society is a 501( c) 3 nonprofit entity located in Ashland. The Hanover Humane Society provides animal adoption, education and prevention services for residents in Hanover County, Virginia and the surrounding counties.

Dr. Meck to profi le Enslaved Virginian for Ashland Museum HistoryTalks program

Contributed Report

The Local

Dr. Jan Meck, author of “The Life & Legacy of Enslaved Virginian Emily Winfree,” will be the guest speaker for the Ashland Museum’s HistoryTalks on Wednesday, Oct. 26.

Meck is a native Virginian and a long-time

resident of Richmond. In 2017, along with her friend and colleague, Virginia Refo, she began researching Emily Winfree. They tell the true story of an African American woman who lived through enslavement, the Civil War, Reconstruction and Jim Crow in Central Virginia. Their book was published in November 2021.

Join the museum to hear the remarkable story

at the SunTrust Theater at Brock Commons, 304 Henry Street on the Randolph-Macon College campus, Ashland, at 7 p.m. This is free and open to the public.

For information on this and other events, contact the Ashland Museum by email: ashlandmuseum@comcast.net, call 804-368-7314, or visit the website: ashlandmuseum.org.

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Photo courtesy of Jan Meck and VMHC Emily Winfree

OBITUARIES

| Death Notices & Funerals

Habitat announces upcoming Faith Build project

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The

Hanover and King William Habitat for Humanity is excited to announce their next project will be a Faith Build in partnership with faith-based organizations.

experience that will allow individuals to engage the people around them, live their faith and offer a unique opportunity to love their neighbor.

ANDERSON, Carolyn Ray Barnhill, 80, passed away Wednesday, October 5, 2022. She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 28 years, Donald Ross Anderson. She is survived by her devoted nephew, Wade Barnhill; along with nephews, Wess Barnhill and Warren Hale; nieces, Karen Holt, Theresa Abell and Wanda Griggs-Chalkley; stepdaughter, Bernice "Bernie" Marsh; and grandchildren, Ezra Marsh and Reva Marsh. Carolyn was a lifelong resident of Hanover County and a member of the Trinity Lutheran Church. She began her career by starting a hair salon in Ashland, Va. called "Chrissie and Friends." Eventually, she switched to her passion for quilting. She delighted family and friends with beautiful quilts, loved riding her bike and spending time with her cat, Sox. The family will receive friends on October 14, 2022, from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. at Bliley's Staples Mill, 8510 Staples Mill Road, with a service to follow at 1:30 p.m. Interment in Signal Hill Memorial Park.

LIGHT

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lights, along with historic homes and Randolph-Macon College. Ashland’s entire Center Street is illuminated, giving visitors a chance to step into a real-life holiday postcard. Plus, local merchants and community groups offer special events all season long.

“We are proud to be a part of this one-of-a-kind celebration in Ashland,” said Hunter A. Applewhite, president of the Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation. “It’s a great opportunity to support the community and spread holiday cheer.”

Visit Downtown Ashland throughout November and December for holiday events and specials. The calendar of events includes:

Light Up the Tracks Celebration on Saturday, Nov. 19 at 5 p.m.

Ashland Christmas Market on Saturday, Dec. 3 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Jolly Jaunt Bar Crawl on Saturday, Dec. 10 from 6 to 8 p.m.

Light the Way to 2022 on Friday, Dec. 31 at 6 p.m.

Stroll Ashland’s main street and enjoy an old fashioned holiday. Find handmade gifts and decor at local shops, and warm up with a glass of wine or hot chocolate at Downtown Ashland’s many restaurants.

“Whether it’s family fun or a grown-up getaway, Light Up the Tracks makes your holiday season merry and bright,” Longest said.

Faith Build is a partnership with local churches, faith-based organizations and businesses. Local churches and friends of the faith community will gather to help build and fund a home for a local family. Habitat is inviting area congregations to put their faith into action by getting involved in this local mission work.

Habitat is built on a foundation of faith. Its mission is to build safe, affordable housing with people in Hanover and King William counties, and that comes from a desire to put God’s Love into action. Habitat is offering a tangible

Habitat’s upcoming project is in Ashland and will be a Faith Build. Habitat’s goal is to have this home fully staffed and funded by the faith-based community.

Habitat wants faith-based organizations to choose a way to support Habitat - serve, pray, and/or give. Groups can volunteer to build or serve meals, pray over the new homeowners and/or help fund the construction of the home. Habitat seeks to raise $210,000, which is the estimated cost to build this home. The lot they are building on is from First Baptist, Ashland, so the church will be this homeowner’s new neighbor.

Consider how your congregation,

organization or business can help. Learn more at www.hkwhabitat.org/faithbuild/, see other resources created for this event and sign up to participate. Call Amanda Gunter at 804-569-6108 x104 with questions and to talk about joining Faith Build.

Hanover and King William Habitat for Humanity is a locally run, independent affiliate of Habitat International and is responsible for Hanover and King William Counties. For over 30 years, they built homes alongside families who pay an affordable mortgage. Habitat’s repair program addresses critical repairs around the home. With their help, and the help of the community, Habitat homeowners achieve the strength, stability and independence they need to build a better life for themselves and their families.

GIRL SCOUTS

Continued from pg. 1

and Ashley Godwin officially completed their project of creating a warm and welcoming environment for children testifying in Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court in the county.

Alongside the troop and Girl Scouts of the Commonwealth of Virginia, county officials helped unveil the new waiting room with a ribbon cutting ceremony. What was once an empty room is now adorned with an oceanthemed mural painted by the girls, television set, collection of movies, an easel for coloring and other décor bought by Troop 5276 using collected donations and contributions from the county.

Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court Judge Shannon Hoehl joined in the celebration alongside her daughter, Lauren, and thanked county administrator John Budesky for helping to facilitate the project. Hoehl was instrumental in identifying a need for a welcoming environ-

ment for children in the courts. Hoehl said attending court can be stressful for anyone but particularly children. Creating a child-friendly area in which to wait will instead lessen the trauma associated with a child’s appearance in court, she said.

“And so what these girls have done is going to go a great distance in helping those kids to feel comfortable when they have to come to court,” Hoehl said, commending the countless hours the girls spent fundraising for supplies and decorating the room.

“Lauren’s mom, Shannon, was the one that gave us the opportunity to paint and do something special for our kids,” said Godwin. “And really, the design is just to take them to a happy place, so the beach was our first idea.”

The project earned the three girls their Silver Award, which is awarded to Girl Scout Cadettes who successfully research an issue, develop a plan to address it, and take action to ultimately improve their communities.

They expressed their excitement for working toward their Gold Award, which is the highest award in Girl Scouts and is given to Seniors and Ambassadors who develop and carry out lasting solutions to issues in their neighborhoods and beyond.

These Girl Scouts are just one troop of many in Hanover communities that are venturing into their communities to instill important change. There are currently 16 troops in the Western Hanover Service Unit with around 100 scouts and 36 troops in the Chickahominy Service Unit with around 300 scouts.

Girl Scouts of the United States of America is the largest leadership organization for girls in the world and strives to build girls of courage, confidence, and character who make the world a better place. Founded in 1912 by Juliette Gordon Low, more than 50 million American women alive today participated in Girl Scouts growing up, according to a 2020 report by Girl Scouts of the USA.

Amy Buchanan, service unit director for Girl Scouts of the Commonwealth of Virginia, said they aim to encourage leadership among older Girl Scouts when planning service projects.

“One of the things that the Girl Scouts want to do is make sure as the girls are getting older in the scouting program, they are taking the lead in organizing these events versus the adults doing all the work,” she said, which in turn develops long-lasting skills for the young girls when entering college, a career and other paths.

Currently, Girl Scout troops across Hanover are getting ready to craft turkey box donations for Thanksgiving. This project will similarly challenge older scouts to take the lead in donating supplies to make turkey boxes, coordinating with counselors at Hanover County Public Schools to identify how many families are in need of a Thanksgiving meal, and assembling and decorating

ANDERSON

Important dates for Nov. 8 General Election

The Hanover County Office of Voter Registration and Elections is committed to helping all eligible registered voters maintain the ability to cast a ballot in the upcoming Nov. 8, 2022, General Election.

In-person absentee and vote by mail ballots became available beginning Sept. 23. You may request your vote by mail ballot or visit the Voter Registration and Elections Office in the Wickham Building at Hanover Courthouse from 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday – Friday. In addition, the office will be open on Sunday, Sept. 25 from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.; Saturday, Oct. 29 from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; and Saturday, Nov. 5 from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. to cast an in-person absentee ballot. Curbside voting is available during early voting hours.

Saturday, Nov. 5 is the last day to vote an inperson absentee ballot.

Monday, Oct. 17 is the deadline to register or make changes to your voter registration in time for the General Election. Check your voter registration to make sure it is correct.

Friday, Oct. 28 is the final day you can request an absentee ballot by mail. Your request must be received by your General Registrar by 5 p.m.

Monday, Nov. 7 at 2 p.m. is the cut-off for voting an emergency-only absentee ballot in the Voter Registration and Elections Office.

Tuesday, Nov. 8 is Election Day. Polling locations will be open from 6 a.m. until 7 p.m.

On Wednesday, Nov. 9 at 1 p.m. the Electoral Board will hold the canvass meeting to ascertain

GIRL SCOUTS

the boxes for the families.

Buchanan said there has been a loss of participation over the past two years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In an effort to reestablish the area as a robust Girl Scout network, they hope to bring more awareness to the program and its countless benefits for girls aged kindergarten through 12th grade.

In addition to service projects, every troop offers special experiences for their scouts throughout the year, such as organizing camping trips and

the election results and to rule on Provisional ballots cast. Monday, Nov. 14 at 12 p.m. (noon) is the deadline to cure your absentee ballot.

The Electoral Board will reconvene on Monday, Nov. 14 at 1 p.m.

You can register to vote, update your information, and request an absentee ballot online at www.elections.virginia.gov/citizen-portal/.

Ballot drop off stations:

Your ballots can be dropped off through Tuesday, Nov. 8 until 7 p.m. These ballot drop off stations are located at the Wickham building of the Hanover County Government Complex and on Election Day in all polling locations.

The Hanover County Voter Registration and Elections Office is in the Wickham Building, Room 119, of the Hanover County Government Complex. The phone number is (804) 365-6080. The e-mail address is hanovervoting@hanovercounty.gov.

Information submitted by Tom Harris, communications specialist for Hanover County.

other outdoor activities.

Most recently, the Girl Scouts hosted Camp Evening Shade for its 30th year in Hanover County in August. The camp invites scouts in the area to engage in a number of outdoor activities, such as scaling the camp’s new climbing tower, archery, canoeing, kayaking, paddle boarding, swimming and more.

Each Girl Scout troop additionally works on a number of badge and journey programs individually or in groups throughout the year.

Buchanan’s daughters in Troop 233 have been working on earning their safety badges.

The troop learned fire safety tips courtesy of a visit from Hanover Fire-EMS officers last month and even toured a firetruck and ambulance. Other safety lessons for the girls have included a visit from a local nurse to discuss medical safety and other necessary skills, such as learning their parents’ phone numbers in case of an emergency.

She said the diverse network of leaders within Girl Scouts enhance the experience for their troops.

“The only way we can have these troops is because of these

The fi rst Hanover Christmas Mother

By Christina Amano Dolan Editor

Reader Views

While

attending the Doswell Ruritan Club’s tea last week, I was recently awarded the opportunity to learn of a meaningful, long upheld Hanover tradition.

This was no ordinary luncheon, as the annual occurrence introduces the beloved Hanover Christmas Mother of the year.

Yes, this is officially the time of year when holiday excitement begins to seep into neighborhoods, grocery stores, restaurants and radio stations – with those familiar jolly tunes seeming to appear out of nowhere. Surely, many readers similarly experience a shock every year at the mention of Christmas, as the lingering summer heat always seems to trick us into forgetting winter is just around the corner.

But while this holiday season may bring excitement to some, it may place a solemn weight on others – whether due to financial strain, absence of family, grief over a loved one, or the dispiriting and lingering effects of the COVID19 pandemic.

Travelling back in time to 1949, this need for holiday cheer was just as crucial – if not more. But as Hanoverians do, it wasn’t long before a group of inspiring philanthropists found a remedy.

The Doswell Woman’s Club listened with empathy as Nancy Price, the supervisor of the Department of Public Welfare of Hanover County in 1949, spoke of the difficulty she and staff were having in spreading any sort of Christmas cheer to those on relief rolls. Price believed the Doswell Club could provide an invaluable service to indigent residents by sponsoring and carrying out a program that would give these families a

Christmas.

Ruth Wickham Smith, a member of the Doswell Club, soon became Hanover’s first ever Christmas Mother and the program was officially born.

Headquarters were set up in the county’s welfare office; 215 letters requesting contributions were mailed to all organized groups and businesses; the Herald-Progress and Richmond Times-Dispatch printed any publicity stories sent in; and community contributions began to trickle in slowly.

In the two weeks before Christmas, the Christmas Mother and her committee packed and hand-wrapped gifts filled with clothing items, toys for every child under 14, and food for every family in need to place under their trees. Three Hanover banks donated Christmas money

see FIRST, pg. 15

Voting is still important, but much easier

By Jim Ridolphi Contributing Columnist

Well, those midterm elections

heard about for the past two years are right around the corner, and early voting has begun in localities across the Commonwealth.

And right on cue, my absentee ballot showed up in the mail, a wel-

variation to my normal voting routine that began when I cast my first ballot in the 1968 presidential election.

In the years that followed, I never missed an election day at the polls, and I approached the process with utmost respect and responsibility. There was something about the atmosphere at the polls that rein-

forced my belief in the system.

I hope going to the polls still holds that intrigue for most Americans, but, honestly, I’ve found that absentee and early voting has a certain appeal, especially for those who no longer are enamored by the crowds and confusion of the polling place.

Early voting has gradually become the choice for many Americans, and

proponents of the process assert the relaxed voting schedule has opened the process to more Americans.

In fairness, there are many arguments both in favor of or against early voting and reformed absentee requirements, but it’s hard to dispute the convenience and ease the adjustments made to the system have

see VOTING pg. 15

WE WANT TO PUBLISH YOUR ISSUE-DRIVEN LETTERS

Reader believes Wittman is clear on Virginians’ priorities

Dear Editor:

Too often, people feel disconnected from their elected officials and the decisions they make in Washington. Now more than ever, we need strong leadership in Washington. That is why I am proud to support Congressman Rob Wittman in November as our representative for Virginia’s First District. Since coming to office, Rob has consistently displayed true commitment to serving his constituents, and we are lucky to have him as our advocate in Washington.

Rob has always put his constituents first, and when he isn’t in Washington, he can be found around the First District meeting with folks to hear their concerns and thoughts on how he can best represent them in Washington. Rob always advocates for policies that will help our families and businesses thrive in this hurting economy. Rob is also a strong advocate for our nation’s service members and veterans and works tirelessly to ensure they receive the benefits they deserve. Additionally, Rob has spent his entire career working to protect the environment, including preserving the health of the Chesapeake Bay - he recognizes that our waters, lands and natural resources must be properly managed and maintained to continue to serve the needs of Virginia and the nation. It’s clear that no matter the issue, Rob understands Virginians’ priorities and uses them to guide his actions in Washington.

Rob is an example of a leader that doesn’t just talk the talk, he walks the walk. I am proud to support him in November’s election, and I urge my neighbors to support him as well.

Daniel Baumann Mechanicsville

CHRISTMAS

Continued

$777 in donations to purchase presents, clothes and food for over 200 families in need.

Last year, the Hanover Christmas Mother program helped 497 families, 1,275 children and 76 senior citizens. This year, they plan to give each child a $75 gift card for toys and clothes, $50 to $100 food gift cards for families depending on the size, and each senior citizen a $75 gift card.

Betty Lee Stanley, 2010 Christmas Mother, introduced Clements to attendees and gave special recognition to the former Christmas Mothers in attendance, adding that she couldn’t “think of an experience that would be more valuable” than serving in the honorable role.

“And how you feel when you see that child with a toy, or a box of food, or some new clothes – it just warms your heart,” Stanley said.

Clements offered her own remarks to the crowd and thanked the Doswell Ruritan Club for their support.

“I am honored to be this year’s Christmas Mother,” she said to attendees. “I’m really looking forward to it and I’ve got a lot of big shoes to fill.”

Clements, who grew up in Chesterfield, has lived in the Central Virginia area her whole life. She attended Mary Baldwin University for biochemistry; went on to work in various banks throughout her career; and raised two children with her

husband, Bernard, in Hanover County. Today, the couple is blessed with two grandchildren.

Now a Hanover County resident of 22 years, Clements holds a special fondness for the area. Along with an extensive network of family members living in Hanover throughout her life, she attributes this fondness to the community’s philanthropic spirit.

“I think that Hanoverians don’t shy away from hard work,” she said. “Everybody is just so neighborly and everybody helps everybody, and you can’t help but get drawn into that.”

She didn’t waste time diving into this philanthropic spirit and joined the Atlee Ruritan Club shortly after her arrival. She has been a member for 22 years and has served as the club’s secretary for around 20 years.

The Atlee Ruritans organize a number of activities and fundraisers throughout the year, such as hosting a Brunswick stew sale twice a year to fund the club’s scholarship program. Each year, the club grants one to two scholarships to Atlee and Hanover High School students.

Clements’ unwavering passion for community service drove her to the Hanover Christmas Mother program many years ago. She fondly recalled the holidays she and her two children spent sorting cans for the program’s canned food drive.

“I wanted them to see that need in the community and try to understand that sometimes, this is all some people might

have for Christmas,” she said. “And I’ve always felt that everybody should have a little something under the tree.”

Now serving as the newest Christmas Mother, she said she most looks forward to spreading holiday cheer and “seeing the hope and joy that it might bring a family or a child.” She added this need for cheer is especially important now in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“You know, I’ve had such great Christmas memories myself, and it saddens me that everybody doesn’t have that,” Clements said. “And if I can help in any little way, I will.”

Clements is eager to begin her important work and is already making appearances at several Ruritan clubs and community organizations, including an upcoming visit to the Covenant Woods retirement community.

Her goal is to offer help wherever it is needed. She said if there are any community organizations that are interested in hosting the new Christmas Mother or need assistance in any way, she will be there.

“I know we can work together to bring a bit of joy and Christmas spirit to all who want and need it,” she said.

For more information on the Hanover Christmas Mother program or to donate to this year’s effort, visit the website: https:// www.hanoverchristmasmother.org/donations, or submit requests to Hanover Christmas Mother, P.O. Box 39, Doswell, VA 23047.

Glo Fiber expands fiber network in Hanover County and Ashland

Contributed Report

Ashland-Hanover Local

Glo Fiber, powered by Shenandoah

Telecommunications Company (“Shentel”) (Nasdaq: SHEN), announced that they have reached agreements with municipal officials to deploy next generation fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) broadband services to Hanover County and the town of Ashland.

Construction will begin in the second quarter of 2023, bringing a future-proof fiberto-the-home network to more than 20,000 homes and businesses throughout the county over a two-year construction timeline. To check the status of their neighborhood and receive updates, interested residents and businesses can pre-register at www.glofiber.com.

“Hanover County is pleased to welcome Glo Fiber to our community,” said Hanover County Administrator John A. Budesky. “This company has demonstrated a strong interest and commitment to high levels of customer service and support. Glo Fiber’s plans to expand their fiber network are also consistent with our Connect Hanover initiative and efforts to get the entire county covered in the next 36 months. Their high-quality internet service will provide additional options to our residents and support our overall goal of universal broadband to all of our residents.”

Assistant Town Manager of Ashland Matt Reynal said, “We have witnessed how important broadband service is for every household over

the last few years so we’re excited to welcome Glo Fiber to, as what we like to call, the Center of the Universe. Fiber services will provide Ashland residents with a diversity of options to access the internet and connect with the world.”

Glo Fiber provides unlimited multi-gigabit internet access with symmetrical upload and download speeds, streaming TV and phone services in the Mid-Atlantic region. Using Shentel’s 7,900-mile regional fiber network, Glo Fiber can ensure high speeds, low latency and fair pricing. The company has earned a reputation for providing superior local customer service across its markets, including the growing list of communities in Pennsylvania, Virginia, Maryland, West Virginia and Delaware.

“Greater Richmond is growing exponentially and we are proud to partner with both Ashland and Hanover County to assist in this growth with our fiber-tothe-home service,” said Chris Kyle, vice president of regulatory and industry affairs at Shentel. “Providing citizens with a competitive, all-fiber choice for their internet, TV, and phone will help them more easily work, learn, and play – and do so more reliably. This will also provide the municipalities with a strong economic development bargaining chip when discussing why companies and people should relocate to the area.”

In addition to Glo Fiber internet service, Glo TV service is delivered via an app

Photo by Christina Amano Dolan

Former Hanover Christmas Mothers joined the Doswell Ruritan Club in welcoming Michele Clements as the 2022 Christmas Mother. Pictured, from top left to bottom right, is Hilda Kelly (1987), Bonnie Smith (2005), Carolyn Swingle (2018), Ginger Stanley (2016), Kay Beasley (2015), Jeannie Rummel (2021), Gigi Foster (2009), Mary Wiblin (2000), Gabie Crutchfield (1995), Carolyn Bowles (2019), Cathy Hall (2007), Michele Clements (2022), Carmen Courtney (2004), Gay Mitchell (2003), and Betty Lee Stanley (2010).

Hanover holds off Mechanicsville, 39-12

By Dave Lawrence Sports Editor

MECHANICSVILLE —

Hanover struck early and often.

The Hawks, hosting the latest iteration of the Chick-fil-A Bowl, scored four unanswered touchdowns in the first half and held on in the second for a 39-12 win over visiting Mechanicsville Friday night.

Hanover was led by quarterback Beau Sahnow, who completed 10-of-18 passes for 165 yards and two touchdowns and ran 12 times for 67 yards and another TD.

The Hawks (5-1) could have taken their winless opponents lightly but, from the opening kickoff, it was clear they meant business.

“You watch them on film, they play hard,” Hanover head football coach Sam Rogers said of the Mustangs. “Obviously they’re in a tough situation this year. I respect those guys for coming out and competing every day. It’s not easy to have the public spectacle they had and still play hard every week. I really respect that about them.”

Rogers was referring to the brief suspension of the Mechanicsville football program during a hazing investigation at the beginning of the school year.

Sahnow was only one of a talented cadre of leaders who led the Hawks in their win. Thomas Wingfield Jr. led six Hanover rushers with 13 carries for 77 yards and a touchdown. Sahnow had five receivers to choose from and chose them

Above, Hanover quarterback Beau Sahnow (1) gets away from a Mechanicsville defender in the Hawks’ 39-12 win over the visiting Mustangs Friday. Sahnow led the Hanover offense, completing 10-of-18 passes for 165 yards and two touchdowns and rushing 12 times for 67 yards and an additional TD. Top right, Sahnow goes airborne to go airborne for a completion. Bottom right, Mustang Evan Buchanan (2) leaps into the arms of teammate Carter Winston (50) after Buchanan scored Mechanicsville’s first touchdown.

well.

Malachi Madden led the receiving corps with two receptions for 58 yards. Austin Howze had three catches for 46 yards and a touchdown — and one of his catches, which ended in a fumble at the Mechanicsville 10-yard line, ended up anoth-

er Hawk touchdown when Madden scooped it up and carried it across the goal line.

Peyton Seelman had two catches for 31 yards (he also scored a rushing TD) and Cole Elrod had a pair of receptions for 18 yards, one of them an 11-yard score. Zachary Tyler

had one catch for 12 yards.

Rogers praised his team leaders.

“They’re doing an awesome job. It’s fun to have those guys. You can do a lot of different things with them,” he said. “They’re all leaders, too. They all work really, really hard. So

those guys do a really good job.

“The offensive line does an awesome job, too. They’re the unsung heroes. I’m proud of those guys as well.”

Nevertheless, the Mechanicsville defense got some huge stops, picking up momentum as the first half

wore on. The Mustang defense was led by Colby Messe with eight tackles (seven solo, two assists). Yousef Murshed and Nathan Westfall had six solo tackles apiece, including one each for a loss. Chris Drozdowicz had five (two solo, six assists), and Aaron Maxie and Max Bidou were credited with four tackles apiece.

Offensively, Mechanicsville was led by quarterback Ben Payne, who went 13-of-21 for 143 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions. His touchdown tosses were to Evan

Dave Lawrence/The Local

Highland Springs easily puts away Patriots

By Tim Pearrell Richmond Times-Dispatch

HIGHLAND SPRINGS —

Their jersey numbers are 0, 1 and 2, but that wouldn’t necessarily be the finishing order in a footrace among Highland Springs’ Caron Ferguson (0), Jakyre Henley (1) and Takye Heath (2).

That depends on the day.

“We have our little competitions here and there,” Heath said. “Magician [Henley] has the edge sometimes, but everybody gets [their turn]. He has his days, I have mine. Then Caron will sneak in some days.”

All three receivers had their day on Friday, using their speed and big-play ability as No. 1 Highland Springs racked up another decisive win, this one 48-3 over visiting Patrick Henry.

Henley turned a short pass into a 22-yard touchdown and had a 57-yard TD run. Ferguson had a 44-yard TD on a reverse.

Heath took a short pass and generated a 50-yard TD, one of four receptions in a 127-yard night for the senior who has committed to Virginia Tech.

Exceptional speed is one thing all three have in common: They all cover the 40 in around 4.4 seconds.

Size is another: Ferguson, a senior, is 5-foot-7, 150 pounds; Henley, a junior, is 5-8, 170; and Heath is 5-9, 160.

And there’s something else: The feeling that something electric can happen anytime they get their hands on the ball. Heath says that’s more than a feeling.

“We feel like we can score on any down,” he said. “Any time the ball is in any one of our hands, it can go all the way for 6.”

Case in point: On Heath’s 50-yard TD, Highland Springs

was looking at third-and-31. He caught a pass on an out route with a few defenders in the vicinity, deked one along the sideline and outran the others.

“Those guys have been working extremely hard, doing everything they need to do,” Highland Springs coach Loren Johnson said. “Then you get results that seem magnificent,

but in all honesty, the guys are just putting in hard work and they made a play and got rewarded for the effort and the time they put in.”

It helps when you’ve got a quarterback who can zip the ball with authority and almost effortlessly flick bombs on the money. Junior Khristian Martin (6-4, 190) was 12 of 14

for 224 yards and three TDs. His third was a well-placed 37-yard throw to senior Braylon Johnson, a Virginia Tech recruit as a defensive back, near the goal-line flag.

Martin, Johnson and Heath are among several high-level recruits for the Springers (7-0), who are playing like a team intent on regaining a state title.

Joel Klein for The Local

After four consecutive state championships from 2015-18, Highland Springs has been unable to grab another the past three seasons. It did get to the title game in 2020, falling to Stone Bridge 13-10 in overtime.

The Springers’ only close game this season was a 26-20 season-opening victory over North Carolina power Julius

Chambers. West Virginia power Martinsburg went down 34-3. No one else has kept the margin under 40.

With all those skill players, a powerful running back in Aziz Foster-Powell (5-9, 215), an experienced line and plenty of depth, Highland Springs is averaging 48 points. The defense has allowed just 33 total.

Patrick Henry (4-2), though, trailed only 21-3 at halftime after giving the Springers some problems in the second quarter. The Patriots drove to the Highland Springs 22 before getting pushed back and punting. Their next possession reached the 9 before getting a 31-yard field goal from Richard Crabbe.

The second half was all Highland Springs.

‘We can’t get too happy,” Heath said. “We know what can happen. It’s happened to us the past two years where we lost in big games [in the state playoffs]. … We’re just going to keep rolling, keep our heads down and keep pushing every week.”

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

P. Henry 0 3 0 0 — 3

H. Springs 14 7 21 6 — 48

HS — Henley 22 pass from Martin (Anderson kick)

HS — Ferguson 44 run (Dent kick)

HS — Heath 50 pass from Martin (Anderson kick)

PH — FG Crabbe 31

HS — Martin 9 run (Dent kick)

HS — Bra. Johnson 37 pass from Martin (Anderson kick)

HS — Williams 8 run (Dent kick)

HS — Henley 57 run (kick failed)

RUSHING

PH: Ross 14-47, Johnson 12-27, Others 5-minus-18; HS: FosterPowell 9-68, Henley 2-59, Ferguson 1-44, Williams 4-16, Others 9-17.

PASSING

PH: Brown 7-12-93-1; HS: Martin 12-14-224-0, Henley 1-1-60, Bolar 1-1-5-0.

RECEIVING

PH: Ross 3-52, Grant 2-31, Roose 2-10; HS: Heath 4-127, Bra. Johnson 2-49, Henley 2-28, FosterPowell 1-15, Others 5-16.

Highland Springs running back Aziz Foster-Powell is brought down by Patrick Henry’s Edwin Henderson after a carry for firstdown yardage in the Springers’ 48-3 victory Friday night. Foster-Powell finished with nine carries for 68 yards.

Local earns ticket to the MLB World Series

By Dave Lawrence Sports Editor

MECHANICSVILLE — Camden Metzger is going to the World Series.

The eighth grader at Oak Knoll Middle School isn’t going because his parents, Tripp and Amy Metzger of Mechanicsville, had the cash to buy tickets.

Instead, he earned his own ticket. Camden won the regional MLB Pitch, Hit & Run competition at Nationals Park in Washington, D.C. His 1,600 points earned him a spot in the national Pitch, Hit & Run competition, which will follow Game Two of the 2022 World Series.

As a result Camden and a parent will fly out to the opening location of the World Series on Oct. 28, attend a watch party during Game One and attend the game in person during Game Two. The next day, while the teams are traveling to the next city, the national Pitch, Hit & Run championship will be held.

Camden, a veteran of Atlee Little League and a multi-sport athlete at Oak Knoll, said he was nervous when he stepped on the field at Nationals Park.

“It was a bit nerve-wracking at first,” Camden said. “But once I got the first competition over with — it was the pitching part — I was fine.”

The Pitch, Hit & Run competition consists of three tasks: throwing strikes from 45 feet, hitting off a tee for distance, and

HANOVER

Continued from pg. 8

Buchanan (three catches for 77 yards) and Messe (three catches for 20 yards). Josh Morris had three receptions for 28 yards.

Mustang head football coach

running the bases as quickly as possible. Camden began his trip to the World Series by

Shane Reynolds has worked hard to keep his team focused despite the distractions at the beginning of the season, which began with allegations of hazing, the suspension of the football program pending two parallel investigations, and transfer of players to other schools given

winning a local competition at Atlee Little League. That wasn’t enough, however, to qualify

doubts over resumption of the Mechanicsville season.

“We’re just trying to get our team better,” Reynolds said. “We’re trying to get better every week, trying to go out and win a football game.”

The Mustangs next host Henrico while Hanover trav-

for the regional competition at Nationals Park.

“His score got sent to the

Washington regional and then the Washington regional pulled the top four 13- and 14-year-old scores and his was one of the top four,” said Camden’s father, Tripp Metzger. “So he went to Washington Nationals Park and competed against the other three kids and he won that one.”

That victory wasn’t enough to automatically earn a bid to the national competition. Camden had to await the results of 16 other regional competitions before learning his fate.

“His score got submitted to MLB,” the elder Metzger said. “They pulled the top four and his was one of the top four of those [17]. So that qualified him for the World Series.”

Camden had to wait for an

email from MLB to learn he was headed for the national finals.

Camden and his family — including his sister, Chloe — were sitting at the dinner table when the message arrived. When his dad handed him a cell phone with the email, Camden first dropped the phone, then picked it up and read the message. He was initially speechless, mouth slightly open and a “Woah!” look on his face. He then looked around the table and read the e-mail aloud to his family. He then pumped his fists into the air.

“Let’s go!” he shouted. “We’re going to the World Series!”

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

Going for the kill

els to Highland Springs and Atlee to Varina on Friday night. Patrick Henry’s game at Armstrong was moved up to Thursday. All games start at 7 p.m.

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

Joel Klein for The Local

Patrick Henry’s Stephan Matthews (1) puts away a kill as Mechanicsville’s Ames Hargreaves (12) and Andrew Baker (14) attempt to block in the Patriots’ 3-0 win Thursday.

Courtesy of Tripp Metzger Oak Knoll eighth-grader Camden Metzger, son of Tripp and Amy Metzger of Mechanicsville, is all smiles after winning the regional MLB Pitch, Hit & Run competition at Nationals Park in August.

PUBLICNOTICE

NoticeisherebygiventhattheHanoverCountyBoardofSupervisorshasset Wednesday,October26,2022at6:00P.M., orassoonthereafterastheBoard’sconsideration oftheadministrativeagendapermits.IntheBoardRoomoftheHanoverCountyGovernmentBuildingatHanoverCourthouse,Hanover,Virginia,astheday,date,time,and placeforapublichearingtoconsiderthefollowingcases,atwhichpubliccommentswillbeaccepted:

REZ2022-00022,MARYHELENANDJEFFREYC.CROWDER

Request(s)torezonefromA-1,AgriculturalDistricttoRS(c),SingleFamilyResidentialDistrictwithconditionsonGPIN7768-45-3682,consistingofapproximately11.74acres, andlocatedonthenorthlineofRockyRidgeRoad(StateRoute648)atitsintersectionwithDoeCrossingLane(privateroad).ThesubjectpropertyisdesignatedontheGeneral LandUsePlanMapasSuburbanGeneral(1.5to3dwellingunitsperacre).Theproposedzoningamendmentwouldpermitthecreationofoneadditionalbuildinglotforfamily foragrossdensityofone(1)dwellingunitper5.87acres.(PUBLICHEARING) MagisterialDistrict:SouthAnna

CUP2022-00015,GAYLEANDJEFFSTONEMAN

Request(s)anamendmenttoCUP2020-00016,GayleandJeffStoneman,whichwaspermittedinaccordancewithSection26-20.14oftheHanoverCountyZoningOrdinance. ThepurposeoftherequestistoamendthesketchplantoincreasetheareaoftheConditionalUsePermitfortherecreationfacility/eventvenuetoincorporateanexisting structureandaddapaviliononGPIN7822-78-2097(part),consistingofapproximately90.9acres(CUPareawillbelimitedtoa5.29-acreportionofthesubjectparcel),zoned A-1,AgriculturalDistrict,andlocatedonthenorthlineofRobertTerrellRoad(StateRoute712)approximately1,750feetwestofitsintersectionwithWestPatrickHenryRoad (StateRoute54).ThesubjectpropertyisdesignatedontheGeneralLandUsePlanMapasAgricultural.(PUBLICHEARING) MagisterialDistrict:Beaverdam

CUP2022-00014,GENERATIONCHURCH

Request(s)aConditionalUsePermitinaccordancewithSection26-120.1oftheHanoverCountyZoningOrdinancetopermitaplaceofworshiponGPIN8714-87-6877(part), consistingofapproximately7.86acres(CUParealimitedto0.21acres),zonedB-3(c),GeneralBusinessDistrictwithconditions,andlocatedintheBrandyHillPlazaShopping CenteronthewestlineofLeeDavisRoad(StateRoute643)approximately550feetsouthofitsintersectionwithMechanicsvilleTurnpike(U.S.Route360).Thesubject propertyisdesignatedontheGeneralLandUsePlanMapasCommercial.(PUBLICHEARING) MagisterialDistrict:Mechanicsville

CUP2022-00013,WINDINGBROOKEATERIES,L.L.C.

Request(s)aConditionalUsePermitinaccordancewithSection26-174.1oftheHanoverCountyZoningOrdinancetopermitaprivatetennisfacilityonGPIN7788-63-3927, consistingofapproximately1.69acres,zonedM-2(c),LightIndustrialDistrictwithconditions,andlocatedonthewestlineofLakeridgeParkway(StateRoute782) approximately0.67milessouthofitsintersectionwithLewistownRoad(StateRoute802).ThesubjectpropertyisdesignatedontheGeneralLandUsePlanMapasDestination Commerce.(PUBLICHEARING) MagisterialDistrict:SouthAnna

REZ2022-00019,DAVIDN.HAMILTON,ETAL.

Request(s)torezonefromA-1,AgriculturalDistrictandAR-6(c),AgriculturalResidentialDistrictwithconditions,toAR-6(c),AgriculturalResidentialDistrictwithconditions onGPINs7871-10-9202,7871-02-8509,and7871-11-9890,consistingofapproximately170.81acres,andlocatedontheeastlineofIndependenceRoad(State Route669)approximately600feetsouthofitsintersectionwithBluntsRoad(StateRoute716).ThesubjectpropertyisdesignatedontheGeneralLandUsePlanMapas Agricultural.Theproposedzoningamendmentwouldpermitthecreationof27buildinglotsforagrossdensityofone(1)dwellingunitper6.33acres.(PUBLICHEARING) MagisterialDistrict:Beaverdam

CUP2022-00012,ORIANAHARGROVEALDERMAN

Request(s)aConditionalUsePermitinaccordancewithSection26-20.14oftheHanoverCountyZoningOrdinancetopermitaneventvenueonGPIN7853-77-7755, consistingofapproximately105.58acres,zonedA-1,AgriculturalDistrict,andlocatedonthesouthlineofOldRidgeRoad(StateRoute738)approximately0.47mileswest ofitsintersectionwithNewMarketMillRoad(StateRoute685).ThesubjectpropertyisdesignatedontheGeneralLandUsePlanMapasAgricultural.(PUBLICHEARING) MagisterialDistrict:Beaverdam

SE2022-00023,S&DINVESTMENTGROUP,L.L.C.

Request(s)aSpecialExceptionPermitinaccordancewithSection26-21.18oftheHanoverCountyZoningOrdinancetopermitacontractor’sequipmentstorageyardon GPIN7778-85-5167,consistingofapproximately18.08acres,zonedA-1,AgriculturalDistrict,andlocatedonthesouthlineofCobbsRoad(StateRoute801)approximately 900feeteastofOldScotlandRoad(StateRoute2259).(PUBLICHEARING) MagisterialDistrict:SouthAnna

CopiesoftheabovecasemaybereviewedinthePlanningOffice,MondaythroughFriday,betweenthehoursof8:30a.m.and5:00p.m.,pleasecontactthePlanningOffice oryoumayalsogotohttps://www.hanovercounty.gov/697/Board-of-Supervisors-Upcoming-and-Archivformoreinformation.

Ashland-Hanover Local

PUBLICNOTICE

NoticeisherebygiventhattheHanoverCountyPlanningCommissionhasset Thursday,October20,2022,at6:00P.M., inthe BoardRoomoftheHanoverCountyGovernmentBuildingatHanoverCourthouse,Hanover,Virginia,astheday,date,time,andplace forapublichearingtoconsiderthefollowingcases,atwhichpubliccommentswillbeaccepted:

REZ2022-00025,NORTHCROSSPROPERTIESGMLC(GREENTOPSPORTINGGOODS)

Request(s)anamendmenttotheproffersapprovedwithrezoningrequestC-2-04(c),CFInvestments,L.P.,etal.,on GPIN7787-545339,consistingofapproximately5.69acres,zonedB-3(c),GeneralBusinessDistrictwithconditions,andlocatedonthenorthline ofKingsAcresRoad(StateRoute835)approximately350feeteastofLakeridgeParkway(StateRoute782).Theproposedzoning amendmentwouldamendtheprofferrelatedtosignage.(PUBLICHEARING) MagisterialDistrict:SouthAnna

REZ2022-00009,ROSESTUBBSFLEMING,ETAL.

Request(s)torezonefromB-3,GeneralBusinessDistrict,andR-1,Single-FamilyResidentialDistrict,toRM(c),Multi-Family ResidentialDistrictwithconditions,onGPINs8705-84-2275,8705-84-4273,8705-84-6144,8705-84-3039,8705-83-4904, 8705-83-4862,and8705-84-9046,consistingofapproximately8.46acres,andlocatedonthesoutheastquadrantof MeadowbridgeRoad(StateRoute627)andShadyGroveRoad(StateRoute640).ThesubjectpropertyisdesignatedontheGeneral LandUsePlanMapasMulti-Family.Theproposedzoningamendmentwouldpermitthecreationof120apartmentunitsfora grossdensityof14.2dwellingunitsperacre.(PUBLICHEARING) MagisterialDistrict:Chickahominy

CUP2022-00016,HANOVERCOUNTYSCHOOLBOARD

Request(s)toamendCUP-5-06,inaccordancewithSection26-20.11oftheHanoverCountyZoningOrdinance,toreducethe areaoftheConditionalUsePermitfrom23.1acresto19.6acresonGPIN8725-04-0233(part),zonedA-1,AgriculturalDistrict, andlocatedontheeastlineofLee-DavisRoad(StateRoute643)atitsintersectionwithLaurelMeadowSchoolRoad(StateRoute 9239).ThesubjectpropertyisdesignatedontheGeneralLandUsePlanMapasSuburbanGeneral(1.5to3dwellingunitsperacre). (PUBLICHEARING) MagisterialDistrict:Henry

CUP2022-00017,HANOVERCOUNTYDEPARTMENTOFGENERALSERVICES

Request(s)aConditionalUsePermitinaccordancewithSection26-20.11oftheHanoverCountyZoningOrdinancetopermita firestationonGPIN8715-84-9477,consistingofapproximately3.49acres,zonedA-1,AgriculturalDistrict,andlocatedonthe eastlineofLee-DavisRoad(StateRoute643)atitsintersectionwithLaurelMeadowSchoolRoad(StateRoute9239).Thesubject propertyisdesignatedontheGeneralLandUsePlanMapasSuburbanGeneral(1.5to3dwellingunitsperacre).(PUBLICHEARING) MagisterialDistrict:Henry

ORDINANCE22-08,BATTERYENERGYSTORAGESYSTEMS

AnOrdinancetoamendtheHanoverCountyCode,Chapter26,ZoningOrdinance,Article5,SiteDesignRegulations,Division8, RegulationsforSpecificUses,andArticle3,DistrictRegulations,toaddprovisionsregulatingtheinstallationanduseofbattery energystoragesystems.(PUBLICHEARING)

CopiesoftheabovecasesmaybereviewedinthePlanningOffice,MondaythroughFriday,betweenthehoursof8:30a.m.and 5:00p.m.pleasecontactthePlanningOfficeoryoumayalsogotohttps://www.hanovercounty.gov/696/Planning-CommissionUpcoming-and-Archiveformoreinformation.

HCSO to host Civilian Response to an Active Shooter event

Contributed Report The Local

On Thursday, Oct. 27, the Hanover County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) will once again host a presentation in the Hanover County Board Room, located within the Administrative Building, where they will discuss “Civilian Response to an Active Shooter.”

This presentation has been presented to thousands of individuals within the community and region. The information that will be provided will assist community members in becoming better aware and prepared should an active shooter or any emergency event occur. Presenters will also focus on historical case studies and current best practices. This event is designed to provide important safety information to the community.

This presentation is for everyone. Join Hanover County Sheriff Hines and his team on Thursday, Oct. 27. The doors open at 6 p.m. for registration and the event will begin at 7 p.m. Seating is limited, so register to Kitami Newby by email at kanewby@hanovercounty.gov or by phone at 804-365-6324.

Information submitted by Lt. James Cooper, information officer for the Hanover County Sheriff’s Office.

Advertise in Ashland- Hanover Local Call 746-1235 for details.

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.

Thursday, Oct. 13

The Hanover NAACP will host a Citizens Community meeting with Hanover County Sheriff Hines at the Mechanicsville Branch Library from 6 to 7 p.m. All are welcomed at this event to ask questions of Hines and to get a better understanding of law enforcement in Hanover.

Friday, Oct. 14:

Registration for the 53rd Annual Ashland/Hanover Olde Time Holiday Parade closes. The parade will take place on Sunday, Nov. 20 at 2 p.m. Register online at: https:// www.surveymonkey.com/r/ Parade2022.

Saturday, Oct. 15

The Studley Ruritans, Salem Presbyterian Church and Enon Methodist Church present the Studley Community Festival will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Salem Presbyterian Church, 5394 Studley Road in Mechanisville. Enjoy a familyoriented festival for the Studley community to meet and have a good time. There will be local craft, food vendors, a bouncy house and hay rides to a pumpkin patch. A historical exhibit will be on display about the local history of Studley. Live music will also be provided and those who attend are invited to bring their own musical instrument and join the group!

It’s time for Woodside Farms Fall Fest! Crank up the oompah, loosen your lederhosen and get ready to guten appetit at the Woodside Farms Fall Fest on Oct. 15 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at 10455 Cedar Lane in Glen

Allen. Shop with Hedstrom’s Homegrown, Stained Glass by Rachel Anton, Parallel Nursery, Krystle’s Kreations, and of course Woodside Farms Farm Stand. You may also take a peek at The Farmhouse, Chickahominy Falls’ newest amenity, Tour our Award Winning Model Homes and Visit Esmerelda, the Horribly Wicked Witch! Join us as we clink steins with neighbors, support local makers, and take family pictures in front of the red tractor - come celebrate the season with us and Prost!

Walnut Grove Baptist Church Fall Festival will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 7046 Cold Harbor Road, Mechanicsville, VA 23111 and will feature the Carlisle Avenue Band, vendors, food trucks and a kids play area.

The Mechanicsville High School (MHS) Marching Band is hosting their annual Tournament of Champions Marching Band Competition at the MHS football stadium, located at 7052 Mechanicsville Turnpike. Gates open at 10 a.m. and performances will last from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Admission is $10 at the gate, which will cover expenses associated with the event and support the MHS Band Booster program.

Tuesday, Oct. 18

The Mechanicsville Tea Party will meet at at 7 p.m. at 6701 Cold Harbor Road in Mechanicsville It is directly across from Dollar General and close to the Creighton Road traffic circle. This month Rick Ryan will separate fact

from fiction on both sides of the global climate change. debate Meetings are open to everyone. If you have any questions, contact Glenn Baker at 804-752-8389. If he does not answer, leave a message and he will return your call.

Wednesday, Oct. 19

Heritage Green invites the community to its senior living community, located at 7080 Brooks Farm Road, for an evening filled with wonderful music by The Elderly Brothers quartet at 6 p.m. The Elderly Brothers are members of the Norfolk and Richmond Chapters of the Barbershop Harmony Society with a combined 160 years of experience. Seating is limited. RSVP by Oct. 17 and call: 804-746-7370.

Saturday, Oct. 22

The Hanover Humane Society’s eighth annual “GrowlO-Ween” Dog Halloween Event will be held from from 2 to 5 p.m. at Center of the Universe Brewing Company at 11293 Air Park Road in the Ashland Airpark. The event is free to the public. Onsite parking is available. Dress up as your favorite canine in his/ her Halloween costume and enjoy an afternoon with various dog-related activities and contests. Listen to live entertainment while bidding on silent auction items and enjoy food and golden beverages. For more information, visit GROWLOWEENVA.COM or contact COTU, info@cotubrewing.com at 804-368-0299 and the Hanover Humane Society info@hanoverhumanesociety.org.

PublicNotice

Noticeisherebygiventhat

theHanoverCountyBoardof

Supervisorshasset Wednesday, October26,2022at6:00P.M., inthe BoardRoomoftheHanoverCounty

AdministrationBuildingatHanover Courthouse,7516CountyComplex Road,Hanover,Virginia,astheday, date,time,andplacefora Regular BoardMeeting.

LEGALDISPLAYADS

HANOVERCOUNTY,VIRGINIA

Noticeisherebygiventhat,pursuanttoVirginiaCode Section15.2-2507,theHanoverCountyBoardof Supervisorswillholdapublichearingonanamendment totheFY23Budgetintheamountof$12,017,327. ThesefundswillbeusedbytheHanoverCountyDepartment ofPublicWorkstocompletetheRt.360/LeeDavisRd IntersectionProject.Thispublichearingwillbeheldon Wednesday,October26,2022at6:00p.m.intheBoard RoomoftheHanoverCountyAdministrationBuilding, 7516CountyComplexRoad,Hanover,Virginia.Atthattime, interestedpersonsmaypresentwrittenororalstatements andaskquestionsregardingtheproposedbudget amendment.Theoptionsavailableforprovidingwrittenor oralstatementsarepostedontheCountywebsite: www.hanovercounty.gov.

JohnA.Budesky,CountyAdministrator

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Continued from pg. 6

folders, and one containing a crisp $1 bill was sent to each senior, blind person or physically handicapped person named on the relief rolls.

Hanover’s first ever Christmas Mother Fund amounted to $777.21 in total cash contributions.

Price sent a letter of appreciation to the Doswell Woman’s Club – one that had been valued deeply and archived by club members who, surely, knew they made history.

“The Christmas Mother, the Committee, the members who volunteered time and effort in soliciting, purchasing and wrapping are to be congratulated for their splendid work,” Price wrote in the letter. “…Hanover can now look forward to a good Christmas program to aid the needy.”

“I should like to add my personal, heartfelt thanks to all of you for a grand job well done,” Price added in recognition of the Doswell Woman’s Club’s inspiring work. “We look forward to the pleasure of working with you again this year.”

But of course, it wasn’t just another year.

Seventy-three years later, Hanover Christmas Mothers throughout time welcomed Michele Clements to the meaningful role while reminiscing over their own joyous experiences.

Betty Lee Stanley, the 2010 Christmas Mother, said it was the most enjoyable and rewarding experience of her life.

This affection for the Christmas Mother seemed to envelope the room, as I watched Christmas Mothers stand, one-by-one, and proudly share the year they served. It could be felt in the surge of clapping as the room rejoiced over what was to come.

With the many neighborhoods, grocery stores, restaurants and radio stations beginning to jump into this holiday excitement, consider how the most powerful display of Christmas spirit is spreading it to those who need it the most. Consider the devotion of the Doswell Woman’s Club to this cause, and how their visionary program has changed countless lives through the decades and established a timeless, beloved Hanover tradition.

Most importantly, consider how you can help.

For more information on the Hanover Christmas Mother program or to donate to this year’s effort, visit the website, https:// www.hanoverchristmasmother.org/donations, or submit requests to Hanover Christmas Mother, P.O. Box 39, Doswell, VA 23047.

VOTING

produced.

Continued from pg. 6

And it’s also important to note that with record numbers of Americans taking part in the process, it’s hard to imagine just what polls would look like if all of us were required to show up in person.

Not surprisingly, the debate regarding extended early voting and no excuse absentee access is divided among party lines.

Some contend that voters who wait until Election Day to cast a ballot benefit from additional access to information regarding the can-

GLO FIBER

Continued

and is compatible with Apple TV, Amazon’s Fire Stick, and many smart TVs with embedded streaming software. Optional Wall-toWall WiFi is available, allowing customers to connect anywhere in their home or business. There are no contracts, and pricing is straightforward with affordable

GIRL SCOUTS

Continued from pg. 5

leaders that are willing to lead,” Buchanan said.

They are seeking willing adults in the community to become a troop leader in an existing troop or even start their own trip within their respective service unit, highlighting that Girl Scouts establishes long-lasting connections among leaders and participants.

“I think one big benefit, which is true for myself, is building out your network of other empowering females,” she said, adding that she has formed lifelong friendships with other troop leaders and parents along with making surprising connections with fellow former Girl Scouts.

Kay Godwin, leader of Troop 5276, founded her troop when her daughter, Ashley, was in kindergarten. She has fondly watched her daughter form lasting friendships with her fellow scouts over the years

didates. Those who oppose the expansion of early voting also point out the increased cost to campaigns when extended voting periods are available.

Supporters of expanded early voting point to clear indications that the process increases access for many groups of Americans and reduces congestion at the polls.

And few could refute the increased popularity of early and absentee voting. In 2020, more than 45% of Americans chose to vote either by mail or early at the polls, and experts predict that number will increase.

As one of millions of Americans who choose to access the absentee system, I submit the ben-

options for individuals and families relying on the internet for work, school, and play.

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and has remained in her leadership role since the beginning.

“The fun part is just working with the girls and watching them grow,” Godwin said. “And for us, it’s the friendships we’ve been able to form with other moms over the years.”

“It’s really a sisterhood,” said Lauren Hoehl. “You never really lose the friendships that you make, even when people leave.”

Buchanan said they are always open to new participants throughout the year and place girls based on troop size and age.

Those interested in becoming a troop leader, starting a troop, volunteering, joining Girl Scouts or more information in general can visit the website: https://www. comgirlscouts.org/; or contact Theresa Henderson, senior community engagement manager for Girl Scouts of the Commonwealth of Virginia, by email at thenderson@comgirlscouts.org or phone at 804-746-0590 x324.

efits outweigh the risks, a belief reinforced by the belief that the more citizens participate in the voting process, the more representative the outcome.

But I still recognize and remember the feeling of standing in line with neighbors at the local firehouse and feeling that immense pride that accompanies what seems like more than just a civic duty.

For those who have not registered or have not cast a ballot in years, make this the year you take that step to sign up and vote.

For early voting information, contact you county registrar for open dates and hours of operation.

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state-of-the-art cable and fiberoptic networks to customers in the Mid-Atlantic United States. The Company’s services include: broadband internet, video, and voice; fiber-optic Ethernet, wavelength and leasing; and tower colocation leasing. The Company owns an extensive regional network with over 7,900 route miles of fiber and over 220 macro cellular towers. For more information, visit www. shentel.com.

Christina Amano Dolan/The Local

Shown is the new warm and welcoming waiting room for children appearing in Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court, which was decorated and hand painted by Girl Scout Troop 5276.

Contributed photo courtesy of Amy Buchanan

The girls of Girl Scout Troop 362 have some fun during their trip to Shalom Farms.

becausereliability iseverything

Hanover Tavern says ‘Thank you’ with ‘Coffee with Cops’

Youdependonusto keepthelightson 24/7.That’swhy weworkaround theclocktosafely provideyouwith themost

reliable,affordable powerpossible. Lastyearalone, crewsclearedmore than 1,500miles of right-of-wayareas andremoved 27,000hazardtrees. Treemaintenance isongoingand crewscontinueto upgradeequipment inthepower deliverysystem.

Why?Becausereliabilityiseverything.

Photos courtesy of The Hanover Tavern The Hanover Tavern hosted their annual “Coffee with Cops” event last week, inviting community members to mingle with the Hanover County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) over a cup of coffee from The Local Cup coffee truck. The annual meet-and-greet aims to express the community’s appreciation for HCSO’s endless devotion to the safety and security of Hanover County while offering residents the chance to connect with their local law enforcement officers.