Ashland-Hanover Local – 12/14/2022

ASTRONOMY

Nativities display helps fund homes

CHRISTINA AMANO DOLAN Editor

The Catholic Church of the Redeemer’s annual No Room at the Inn event returned for its 15th year this holiday season, furthering the fundraiser’s mission of offering safe and stable housing to local and Haitian neighbors in need. With the end of the year fast approaching, the initiative will have raised over $325,000, provided dozens of local families with safe housing and built 31 homes in Haiti.

Over 400 attendees visited the church, which is located at 8275 Meadowbridge Road in Mechanicsville, on Dec. 2 through 4 to enjoy the weekend event’s impressive display of 233 nativities from all over the world.

raised more than $8,000. While overall funds raised are still being calculated, as the church accepts donations throughout the month of December, Otto estimates over $35,000 raised in donations so far this year.

Martha O’Keefe, who has been a committee member since the beginning, said she remembers when they raised $5,000 in donations the first year and the excitement they felt, as it was enough to construct a home in Haiti.

CodeBlue hosts Frosty Fest

DOLAN

Editor

CodeBlue Cares invited community members to the nonprofit’s first Frosty Fest last weekend to holiday shop for handmade gifts for the family while benefiting the foundation’s mission of serving underserved communities across Central Virginia and beyond through technology.

Held on Sunday, Dec. 11, at Center Oak Court in Mechanicsville, the free holiday event featured over 25 vendors from near and far with a variety of handmade items, food trucks and a raffle with do-

nated items from vendors perfect for special holiday gifts. The CodeBlue Cares gazebo additionally gift-wrapped items for visitors who donated toward the foundation’s mission.

The nonprofit formed four years ago out of CodeBlue Technology’s commitment to utilizing the company’s skills and resources to better the communities they serve.

Founded in 2003 by Trey Hayden, chief executive officer, CodeBlue Technology serves the computing and information technology needs of businesses throughout Central Virginia and has over 450 active

clients today.

“CodeBlue Technology has always had a focus on giving back in some way, shape or form,” Hayden said, adding that over the years, CodeBlue Technology has sponsored Little Leagues, charity events and utilized any opportunity to give back.

Hayden, who grew up in Hanover County, said he always found it important throughout his life to find ways to benefit his community.

“And so as a leadership team,

The Gala Preview held Friday, Dec. 2 invited registered adults to enjoy an evening of food prepared by the church’s kitchen staff, beverages, live and silent auctions and music. All ages were welcome on Saturday and Sunday to visit the exhibit and enjoy the children’s room, which included crafts, interactive nativities and games.

The event’s silent, live and online auctions returned this year with items donated by event sponsors, along with a Diamond Raffle that featured a diamond donated by Diamonds Direct and 100 chances at $25 apiece.

Paula Otto, member of the No Room at the Inn committee, said this year’s silent auction alone

O’Keefe said the idea for the annual event was “hatched in the living room of Nancy and Chris Maloney.” Nancy carried around a magazine clipping about a multi-church group in California that gathered every year around Christmas to raise money for people who found themselves homeless under the name, No Room at the Inn, “because there was no room at the inn for them either,” she said.

“So it fit right in with what we wanted to do as a parish and as a commitment to our neighbors in Haiti, as many of them live in terrible conditions,” O’Keefe said.

The church formed a relationship with a Haitian ministry over two decades ago, specifically partnering with a group of Haitian women who help further their mission abroad of providing safe housing to those in need.

“We became aware of the

CHRISTINA AMANO

CHRISTINA AMANO DOLAN/THE LOCAL

CodeBlue Cares founder Trey Hayden, operations manager Brittany King and volunteers stand at the foundation’s booth during the Dec. 11 Frosty Fest.

Homes

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housing crisis and just the extraordinary need for safe, stable housing,” Otto said.

The committee initially made the commitment to build at least one home in Haiti a year through the fundraiser, but that number has quickly climbed to transform the lives of dozens of families. This year’s proceeds will help build two more houses in Haiti, which are made from cinderblock to provide greater stability through frequent hurricanes and rain storms.

O’Keefe, who has visited Haiti to witness the construction of several homes, said many houses are held together with sticks and banana leaves, which often results in mudslides that devastate the mountainous area’s unstable homes.

“When the storms are coming, they gather all their neighbors – as many people as they can fit into a house – and they don’t mind being in cramped quarters because they can ride out the storm a lot better,” O’Keefe added.

Separate from the event, the church supports Haitian schools and even constructed and painted the current school they have partnered with.

“You know, the poverty is just almost unimaginable,” Otto said. “I can remember a few years ago, we learned that the school did not have enough spoons for each child to eat the meal that is provided to them, which is usually beans and rice, and they were sharing spoons. And so we had a spoon collection.”

“But we also always want to balance what we’re doing abroad in Haiti with local needs,” she added.

Since the first No Room

at the Inn event in 2008, the fundraiser has benefited Ashland Supportive Housing, Hanover Safe Place, Safe Harbor, Mechanicsville Churches Emergency Functions (MCEF), CARITAS and My Path Forward. Funds this year will benefit MCEF and My Path Forward.

Otto said she learned from Greta Harris of The Better Housing Coalition a quote that has stuck with her over the years in a powerful way: “If you don’t know where you’re going to lay your head at night, then it’s very challenging to meet your educational goals, to protect your family, to move forward.”

“We can’t forget that we have neighbors who have housing insecurity, and so being able to help our neighbors in Mechanicsville, it’s a blessing that we’re able to come together and do this in a very meaningful way,” she added.

O’Keefe said she has enjoyed seeing the new nativity displays every year, with many handmade by fourth grade students at Our Lady of Lourdes in Henrico County.

Every year, the students construct their own nativities with a shoebox and natural materials. Their families receive a ticket to come and view their work on display, which include cards that detail their construction method and what the nativity means to each student.

“It’s always wonderful to read descriptions and their feelings about the season and the nativities, and the pride that they have when they come in to the church hall and see the display,” Otto said.

In addition to the 28 student-made nativities, the exhibit featured hundreds of nativities from around the world that were loaned

by families.

“And that’s the most extraordinary thing – that we have nativities from all over the world and they are nativities that have special meaning to the people who loan them to us,” Otto said.

O’Keefe said they “take a lot of pride and care” in ensuring the safety of these prized nativities, with Knights of Columbus members even spending the night over the weekend so they’re “never left alone in the building.”

“The thing about the nativities is it’s a universal expression of joy in the birth of the Christ child, and it crosses all kinds of socio-economic groups,” she added.

“I think that’s true across many faiths and around the world. I mean, that’s the universal part, and I think one of the really neat things about the display is seeing the interpretation of the manger and the nativity that different countries bring,” Otto said.

Local churches across multiple denominations visit and offer their support every year. The event always features a centerpiece nativity donated by a local church, with this year’s donated by St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Richmond.

Otto said they look forward to seeing new faces and furthering the event’s important mission next year.

“You know, that excitement is contagious and it stays with you, and it’s some of the most rewarding work I think I’ve done,” O’Keefe said. “It’s very special.”

For more information on the annual event, how to donate or on the church in general, visit the website, www.churchredeemer.org/ no-room or call the church at (804) 746-4911, extension 222.

shown are shoebox nativities crafted by Our Lady of Lourdes four th grade students on display at the church of the redeemer’s 15th annual no room at the Inn exhibit.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS

Hundreds of residents visit the catholic church of the redeemer to see the many nativity displays from around the world during the no room at the Inn event.

Discussing the successful launch of Artemis I

DR. GEORGE SPAGNA Special to The Local

Artemis I successfully launched on Nov. 16. Some readers may recall that the long delay from the originally-scheduled debut of the Space Launch System (SLS) in August was due to a number of technical glitches and two hurricanes. There were some issues we might sympathize with, like the failure of a Wi-Fi connection. Range safety radar going off-line is perhaps less likely to gain our understanding. Hydrogen fuel leaks are dangerous and hard to rectify. (Hydrogen is the lightest element, and even in molecular form its molecules are smaller and lighter than the next lightest helium atoms).

The launch around 1 a.m. on Nov. 16 was saved by a “red team” of technicians who fixed one last hydrogen leak.

This mission carries no crew, although satirist Andy Borowitz wrote that the manikins in the Orion capsule were there to discover if the moon was safe for department stores. It’s an engineering test of all systems in a deep space environment before launching a human crew on Artemis II, which is planned for 2024. Artemis II will carry a fourperson crew on a repeat of this mission’s trajectory.

There have been a few things to work on. Com-

munications dropped out briefly but recovered quickly. Thruster firings apparently threw off the star tracking (navigation) system – also quickly recovered. And the launch of the most powerful rocket ever launched by NASA blew off the elevator doors at the launch pad.

Artemis I successfully inserted into an elliptical lunar orbit at 4:25 p.m. EDT on Nov. 25. This orbit is “retrograde,” or in the opposite direction from the moon’s orbital path. At its highest point (apolune), it is 92,000 km beyond the moon, making this the greatest distance a crewcapable vehicle has been from Earth. It held this orbit for about two weeks before returning to Earth on Dec. 11 when it splashed down in the Pacific off the California coast. This final phase tested the heat shield and

parachutes.

Lunar phases for December: Last Quarter on Dec. 16, at 3:56 a.m.; New Moon on Dec. 23, at 5:17 a.m.; and First Quarter on Dec. 29, at 8:20 p.m. All times are Eastern Standard.

Mars will be visible all night. Jupiter is to the south at sunset. It sets around midnight. Saturn is to the southwest at sunset and sets in the early evening. Mercury is visible to the southeast at dusk.

The midmonth view about three hours after sunset finds few bright stars near zenith. The An-

dromeda Galaxy is about 10 degrees to the southwest. About 2.2 million light years distant, this is the most distant object to be seen without telescope or binoculars. The Great Square of Pegasus lies below Andromeda. Turning to the southeast, you’ll notice the familiar “Subaru” asterism of the Pleiades about 60 degrees above the horizon, and above and to the right of Aldebaran in the constellation Taurus. It will be hard to miss Orion to the east, with the stars of the “belt” almost vertical above the horizon. To the north-

east you’ll notice Castor and Pollux trailing Orion. Turning to the northwest, Cygnus is moving closer to the horizon in the orientation that gives it the alternate name of the Northern Cross.

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

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

The Ashland Branch of Pamunkey Regional Library kicked off their ongoing Letters to Santa event on Thursday, Dec. 1 and invited children to write their letters to Santa throughout the day. The library encourages those who have not yet written a letter to Santa to stop by soon, as Santa himself will be arriving with his friend, Elsa, to collect the letters on Friday, Dec. 16 at 11 a.m. He will take a few minutes out of his busy schedule to chat with anyone who wants to see him or get a picture, and Elsa will be happy to take a photo and chat, too.

METRO CREATIVE CONNECTION

Hanover Emergency Communications re-accredited by international agency

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

The Hanover County Department of Emergency Communications has earned the unique honor of being re-accredited by the international organization that is the world’s premier standard-setting and certification organization for emergency communications centers.

Hanover became the first agency in Virginia to receive Triple Ace Accreditation, which means the department has been accredited in all three disciplines: Medical, Fire and Police. While Hanover was previously accredited in all three disciplines, this time the department submitted for all three re-accreditations at once.

Hanover County is the 16th agency in the world to receive the Triple Ace Ac-

creditation. It was the 14th in the world to receive the Fire Accreditation; the 16th

in the world to be accredited in Police; and the 123rd in the world to be accredited

County emergency communications officers have mastered the protocols in all three disciplines – Medical, Police and Fire.

“This is a tremendous accomplishment and one of which we are all proud,” said deputy county administrator Jim Taylor. “Nothing is more important to us than the safety of our residents, and I think this reinforces the fact that our emergency communications officers, who are the first of the first responders, are the best of the best.”

each time as proven by this honor.”

in Medical. The re-accreditations demonstrate that Hanover

“This re-accreditation is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff,” said Cheryl Buchanan, director of emergency communications. “They see people through their worst day and do so with professionalism and compassion

The International Academies of Emergency Dispatch (IAED) is the world’s premier standard-setting and certification organization for emergency communications centers, with over 66,000 members in 46 nations. More than 3,000 communication centers use IAED’s protocols and training—translated into 25 languages/dialects—for medical, fire, and police dispatching. The IAED protocols are scientifically validated, based on knowledge gleaned from millions of calls taken from around the world, and rooted in the expertise of industry professionals.

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

PHOTO COURTESY OF HANOVER COUNTY

The Hanover county depar tment of emergency communications received international accreditation in all three disciplines of medical, Fire and Police.

Frosty

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we were sitting around and thought it would make sense for us to try to formalize our charitable efforts so that we can multiply it and do more, and that’s where the CodeBlue Cares Foundation came from,” Hayden added.

Hayden said the foundation’s core principal is that “technology can be an equalizer.”

“If you’ve got the right technology with the right parameters in the hands of young people, what the young people can do with that technology is almost universal,” Hayden said.

He said they wanted to focus on areas where technology was underserved, whether in schools, businesses or communities

Over 25 vendors sold custom and handmade gifts at the first codeblue cares Frosty Fest to benefit the foundation’s mission.

that face obstacles due to technology needs.

One initiative of the foundation was building a school’s computer lab to be utilized as a community hub for needed computer access.

“And at the time, jobs

were harder to come by and the community needed a place to go with computer access simply to be able to search for jobs,” Hayden said. “There was no library in that community, there was no other place besides the school in or-

der to provide technology and a gateway to helping people be able to do the things they needed to do.”

Hayden said the COVID-19 pandemic presented various obstacles for the foundation in executing this project and others.

“It was a great project and we were really excited about it and sorry that too many obstacles got in the way for us to be able to execute it, but that’s an example of the type of opportunities we look for,” Hayden said.

Their search for similar opportunities begins “close to home” in the Central Virginia area and branches out as far as Southern Maryland and North Carolina, he added.

“It’s not a lack of funding in a particular community that could provide it

– it’s a true need,” he said. He said they have achieved smaller initiatives but hosted Frosty Fest as a pathway to “go bigger.”

“Frosty Fest is a reboot of sorts,” he said. “Let’s put a little more in the coffers. Hopefully, a lot of the challenges that have been around for any business over the last several years are mostly behind us, and we can start to focus on that part of us again.”

Brittany King, CodeBlue operations manager, said the Frosty Fest vendor fee was entirely donated to the foundation. Manning the CodeBlue gazebo, King and volunteers accepted monetary and any other donations throughout the event, including nonperishable food items to gift as Christmas presents to soldiers through United Service Organizations.

The foundation additionally donates discarded technology to troops every three months, with a majority donated by the local community.

“Our whole model is returning thanks,” King said. “The community has helped us so much in making CodeBlue Technology who we are today, so this is our way of saying, ‘Thank you,’ back to our community, and we’re going to do everything we can to give back.”

King said she hopes Frosty Fest will become an annual tradition of “returning thanks” to the community while furthering the foundation’s mission.

For more information on CodeBlue Cares or to donate, visit the website, https://codebluecares. org/.

CHRISTINA AMANO DOLAN/THE LOCAL

Fromtheeditor

OPINION

A beloved tradition through a judge’s eyes

The very first ‘marathon of mirth’ that brought holiday cheer to al l

A place for Christmas past

CHRISTINA AMANO DOLAN Editor

As the end of the year is fast approaching, perhaps there is nothing more appropriate than capping off my first year as editor with one of the very first local traditions that captured my anticipation from the very beginning: the beloved Rotary Club of Mechanicsville’s Christmas Parade.

By ChristinaAmano Dolan Editor

Festival and the Ashland Hanover Olde Time Holiday Parade.

On the sunny morning of Nov. 27,1924, children of New YorkCitylined the sidewalks of Manhattan’s Herald Square to catch a glimpse of the once-in-alifetime “marathon of mirth,” asadvertised by the booming Macy’s department store.

My curiosity for the longtime tradition was sparked on one of my first visits to the area amid the holiday season by speaking with oncestrangers about the annual spectacle that marks their calendars every year. This excitement elevated when parade co-chair Dave Fuller extended an invitation to judge in the upcoming parade at the start of the new year, and while this day felt eons away at the time, my anticipation grew with every discovery of the community’s many, many joyous traditions, such as The Ashland Fourth of July Parade, Hanover Tomato

Held to showcase the opening of the “World’s Largest Store,” with Macy’s flagship location in Herald Square expanding to cover an entire city block, and to garnerexcitement for the holiday shopping season, the “Macy’s Christmas Parade” delivered its promise of enveloping the cityin a mirthful morning of holiday spirit.

Spanning 6 miles, the parade route boasted nursery-rhyme themed floats of Mother Goose, the Old Woman Who Lived in a Shoe, LittleRedRiding Hood, and otherfavorites. Macy’s employeesdressed as clowns, cowboys and sword-wielding knights as they strolledalong the streets; anarray of bears, elephants,camels,monkeys and other Central Park Zoo animals offereda circus-like atmosphere asparadebands blared festive music. And of course, the rear of the parade featured the guest of honor, Santa Claus, who sat atop a mountain of ice inhis reindeer-driven sleigh.

But this year’s colorful holiday display held on the sunny afternoon of Dec. 4 exceeded all expectations. Appropriately themed “Christmas Through a Child’s Eyes,” the record number of parade units surely made every spectator feel the same childlike giddiness as the flocks of children dancing along the sidewalks with the marching bands and cheerleaders, excitedly giggling at every wave from another Grinch or Cindy-Lou Who cruising by, or gaping at the season’s first sight of snow that burst from the Blue Star Cowboys float, showering the pavements in a winter wonderland.

Ten thousandspectatorscheered asSanta descended from hissleigh asnoon rolled around, and the “once-in-a-lifetime” holiday paradecame to a close.

Ofcourse, as we allknow, thisparade would become something much more than a one-time occurrence. Despite the minimalnewspaper coverage of the novel performance, the paradecaptured the hearts of the community and, eventually, the country.

Macy’s released a newspaper advertisement as quickly as the following morning declaring that the parade would arrive again the followingyear

“How will we ever choose?” This wonderful dilemma hung over the judge’s platform throughout the two-hour long extravaganza, as I, along with fellow judges Laura McFarland and Denine D’Angelo, frantically scribbled down notes of praise with each passing

“We didnot dare dream its successes would be so great,” stated the advertisement.

And its successes would of course continue toclimb, as the parade becameknown as the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade– anannual occurrence that has become the beloved American tradition that we all know and love today.

unit. With the plethora of intricately-crafted Santa’s workshops, themed vehicles of every size driven by favorite Christmas characters, spirited cheers of costumed children and teens and more, one unit after the other rendered it seemingly impossible to select just nine winners.

Ofcourse, the parade would evolve overtime, as the parade route scaledback to a little over 2 milesinlength and helium-filled characterballoons replaced the zoo animals. But the spiritof the very first paradehas persisted for almost a century now, surviving even the most turbulent times to gift the American people what it had promisedfrom day one: “a marathonof mirth.”

titles, we were overwhelmed. How could we possibly choose just one unit for each category when we could list handfuls of worthy recipients? While we did ultimately finish the task of narrowing down our lists to the top choices in each category, participants should know it was an incredibly challenging decision because the bar was set so high this year.

JIM RIDOLPHI

own beloved traditions with local floats, marching bands,balloons and, of course, the guest of honor– Santa Claus

Contributing Columnist

Everything must evolve. And so it is with Christmas lights. It seems each year they become more brilliant and dazzling, filling all who pass by with a little hint of the season.

the years becoming more efficient and easy to install.

“I can leave these lights on all night and they don’t even get warm,” she explained.

Despite the stock marketcrash of 1929, the parade marched on without interruption throughout the 1930s. But itsfirst interruption would occur during World War II,as the paradewassuspended from 1942 to 1944 due to needed helium and rubber for the war effort.

In 1963, justsixdays after the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, Macy’s officials were facedwith a difficult decision. Despite somehesitation, they decided to host the parade that Thanksgiving morning inhopes that it would upliftthe dwindledAmerican spirit

Even the COVID-19pandemicfailed to dissuade the annualtradition,as Macy’s held an extravagant virtualcelebration following socialdistancing guidelines. With a return to its in-person festivitiesin2021, the beloved paradesurvived, proving that evenin the most turbulent times, its ability to bring holiday joy to the American masseshasdriven its unwavering popularity and, more importantly, necessity.

It was apparent that every participant and spectator celebrated the annual tradition in its fullest vibrancy, as even longtime paradegoers labeled the 2022 parade as one of the best of its kind. While I gazed at the parade through the eyes of a first-time judge and spectator, it seemed as if the community held the same gaze of wonder as they whistled and cheered at each exceptional display of holiday spirit. Surely, when the parade finale arrived carrying the famed Santa Claus atop his firetruck, I wasn’t the only spectator who felt a bitter-sweet longing for more.

Ofcourse thisholiday paradeis just one of thousands that capture the hearts of communitiesacross the country– all who bringa “marathon of mirth” amid even the bleakest of times.There are parades that have uplifted their own communitiesinto a jolly celebration over the years,developing their

Of course, when the decision came for who clinched the final nine

Driving home with the streets cleared and the sun long set, a comforting sense of fulfillment overcame me, as I recalled cruising through the same streets a year before adorned with the same remnants of parade confetti and cotton candy wrappers – just missing the spectacle by no more than an hour. This sense of fulfillment arrived with a delightful thought: perhaps there is nothing more appropriate than capping off my first year as a Hanoverian than finally, after much anticipation, joining in one of the most treasured celebrations of my new community.

But Hanover Countyis a vibrant community that brings “marathons of mirth” inallshapes and sizes throughout the year, as I have recently learned from attending the extravagant Ashland Fourth of July Parade that surprised mewith its grandeur As I have only attendeda handful of parades my whole life, or have watched the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade through our family’s television, learning of the beloved holiday traditions of the Ashland/HanoverOlde Time Holiday Parade and Mechanicsville Christmas Paradehasleft me waiting inexcited anticipation long before thisholiday season

For the past several years, a singularly decorated tree on a neighboring street has attracted increasing attention; and each year the owner adds another dimension from the latest technology, resulting in a display that seems almost magical.

I left with an even greater appreciation of her dedication and attention required to maintain an annual tradition.

Justas the Macy’s parade returned to the streets of New YorkCityin2021, the beloved Hanover celebrations returned lastwinter during a time of its necessity–a time when the COVID-19pandemiccontinued to rampage through communities, the world began to emerge from a dispiriting isolation, and holiday cheerwassparse.

The results are brilliant and attract a line of visitors who slow their cars to marvel at the tree. As I passed, the tree’s brilliance filled the car with the latest technologically correct illumination.

But evenin the most turbulent times, the Hanover spirit survived. Now in its 53rd year, the adored Ashland/Hanover Olde Time Holiday Paradeis only two weeks away, inviting the community to help kick off the Hanover holidays on Nov. 20 Followingclosely after will be the Mechanicsville Christmas Paradein its 24th year on Dec 4.

But, it didn’t take long for me to remember lights from another era when decorations didn’t go up until mid December.

Justas the beloved Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has persisted for almost a century, Hanover’s own parades continue to thrive and uplift its own community when it is most needed, emulating theirtrue purpose ofbringinga “marathon of mirth” to all anda truecelebrationof a united community’s perseverance.

I recently passed her house and noticed the owner was preparing the tree for this year’s debut, so I stopped and told her of my enduring appreciation of her work. She was happy to explain the history of her dedication to the decoration, a tradition started years ago when she became a widow. The lights made her feel better during a difficult time of year and served as sort of an annual memorial to her late husband.

For me, there’s something about a dimly lit street with porches adorned with dully colored bulbs or a lighted Santa Claus mounted on a wall that still evokes a sense of Christmas past — a simpler and perhaps less lustrous celebration.

For more information on the Ashland/HanoverOlde Time Holiday Parade, visit the website, https://ashlandvakiwanis. org/Page/31094 For more informationon the Mechanicsville Christmas Parade, visit the website, https://www.mechanicsvillerotar y.org/mechanicsville-christmas-parade.

She explained how the lights have evolved over

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There were fewer bulbs with less intensity, but

News tips, stor y ideas,communit y events, photos, birth announcements, Milestones anniversaries 40 years & above or 80 yrs. old birthday & above announcements can be emailed to cdolan@ mechlocal.com orcall 804-212-6266.

News tips, story ideas, community events, photos, birth announcements, milestones, anniversaries (40 years & above) or birthdays (80 yrs. old & above) can be emailed to cdolan@mechlocal.com or call 804-212-6266.

Ashland Museum offers options for holiday shoppers

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

The Ashland Museum will feature special Ashlandthemed gifts this holiday season. The museum has an Ashland tea towel and poster designed by Ashland artist Kate Melson that features downtown landmarks and the railroad tracks. For those looking for an Ashland ornament for the tree, see the Moravian stars handmade with train papers.

The museum has several books including “Ashland, Ashland” by Rosanne Shalf and the meticulously-researched book, “Leaving Neither Wife, Child Nor Father,” about the beginning of Woodland Cemetery. Author James Upton has recorded the first soldiers buried there and the ground-penetrating radar done in the oldest section. For anyone interested in the stories about Ashland, the yearbook “Ashland Virginia 150 Years” is a great collection of family histories along with the histories

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

The ashland museum is selling custom tea towels by artist Kate melson and moravian stars handmade with train papers.

of organizations, schools, churches and businesses.

Consider giving the gift of a museum membership or a gift certificate to be used at the museum. Contact the museum by emailing ashlandmuseum@ comcast.net or calling 804-368-7314 for help with

either of these gifts.

Take a break from holiday shopping and join the monthly Trivia Night on Thursday, Dec. 15, at 6 p.m. at Origin Beer Lab, 106 S. Railroad Avenue, Ashland. Fire pits will be going. MC Woody and DJ Brent are working on a set of festive questions for the evening. Then start the new year with a musical HistoryTalks. Singer-songwriter Glenn Birch will talk about events in history followed by a ballad about each on Thursday, Jan. 12, 2023, at 7 p.m. at Duncan Memorial United Methodist Church, 201 Henry St., Ashland. This is free and open to the public.

The Ashland Museum thanks the public for their support of their programming this year. Stop by the Ashland Museum at 105 Hanover Ave., Ashland on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Email ashlandmuseum@ comcast.net or call 804-3687314 with any questions.

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

Ninety-four residents flocked to the Hanover Branch Library’s annual Grinchmas program and enjoyed activities throughout the library inspired by the Christmas classic, “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” Students from Rural Point and Kersey Creek Elementary Schools also found their displayed artwork and proudly showed it off to their parents and siblings.

Children and adults

played Grinch Bingo and Pin the Heart on the Grinch; made “Grinch Dust” to sprinkle in their yard to keep the Grinch away from their house on Christmas Eve; and crafted ornaments and Grinch headbands while snacking on “Who-Hash.”

A holiday-themed scavenger hunt was wildly popular as children of all ages scoured the branch to find the 10 images hidden and earn a candy cane. There were Grinch trivia questions, along with a copy of

the book if anyone needed a hint. After all, a library is place to look up information if you don’t know it! At one point, a mom and her son were competing to see who could get the most answers right.

“It was a very festive and fun event and the Hanover Branch Library staff were delighted to have a full house as we shared a little Grinchmas cheer with the community,” said Cindy Hooper, Hanover Branch Library youth specialist.

CASA volunteers sworn in

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

Hanover County’s newest class of court appointed special advocates (CASA) was sworn in by Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court Judge Shannon O. Hoehl on Dec. 2.

The newest CASA members are Peggy Depew, Jayne Flowers and Gwen Green.

CASA volunteers meet oneon-one with abused and neglected children who are involved in cases being heard by the Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court. Last year, 34 children were served by volunteers who contributed nearly 1,600 hours of service to the youth served by the program. That represents $46,478 in valueadded benefit to the community, said Melanie Baker, CASA program coordinator.

“To me, CASA volunteers are the most admirable and respected people in our whole judicial system,” Hoehl told the new class members. “My role is hard, but I can’t imagine how much harder it would be to be hands-on with our children as you are. Sixteen hundred hours – that’s truly amazing!”

“I never miss reading a CASA report,” Hoehl added. “I find it the most important piece of evidence I read on a case.”

The volunteers were also thanked by Jim Taylor, deputy county administrator, as well as Baker.

“These CASA volunteers will use countless skills in advocating for what is in the best interest of every child to whom they are assigned,” Baker said. She noted that these volunteers had shown their commitment by completing intensive training sessions of about 43 hours, including two all-day Saturday trainings.

The training sessions included child welfare, the history of our laws as they pertain to abuse and neglect, poverty, mental illness, substance abuse, domestic violence, inequities that exist within systems, ad -

verse childhood experiences, conflict resolution, interviewing skills and how to write court reports, she said. They also learned about the Children’s Services Act, the role of the guardian ad litem, what it is like to be a CASA volunteer and services that are available at the Hanover Community Services Board.

“Hanover CASA exists to be a voice for abused and neglected children in court, to educate the community on child welfare issues, and to advocate for safe and permanent homes for all children,” Taylor said. “I, along with county administrator John

Budesky as well as the board of supervisors, support and endorse the Hanover County CASA Program. Congratulations to our new CASA training class on their achievement and their dedication to the children of Hanover County.”

For more information about Hanover’s CASA program, call Melanie Baker, coordinator, at 365-4296 or e-mail her at mdbaker@hanovercounty.gov. The CASA program is part of the Department of Community Resources.

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

Sheriff's office begins death investigation

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

The Hanover County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the death of a woman whose body was found at a local church.

On Wednesday, Dec. 7, at about 2:16 p.m., deputies responded to 8175 Pleasant Grove Road, Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, in reference to a body that was located by a citizen.

Once on scene, deputies located an adult black female, deceased, lying on the back patio of the church.

The female has been identified as Andrea Thompson-Lambert, 56, of Richmond. Although there were no signs of foul play located at the scene, investigators are working diligently to determine the circumstances surrounding Thompson-

Lambert’s death. Investigators are also working closely with the Medical Examiner’s Office to determine the actual cause of death.

The sheriff’s office extends their deepest condolences to the family of Andrea Thompson-Lambert during this difficult time.

Anyone with 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.

shown are the newest recruits that graduated from the Hanover county sheriff ’s Office academy on dec. 9.

HCSO recruits graduate

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

On Dec. 9, five of the Hanover County Sheriff’s Office’s newest recruits graduated from the Hanover County Criminal Justice Academy at a ceremony held at Life Church in Mechanicsville.

Col. David R. Hines delivered an address, as well as presented them with their certificates and awards.

All of the graduates will enter into their final phase of their training as patrol deputies where they will spend at least 15 weeks with a field training officer.

In addition to the five Hanover graduates, one recruit from the Ashland Police Department graduated from the Hanover County Sheriff’s

Office Criminal Justice Academy.

Over the past 22 weeks, each graduate successfully completed over 820 hours of instruction. In addition, the recruits were tested on over 1300 training objectives established by the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services.

Anyone interested in learning more about a career in law enforcement with the Hanover County Sheriff’s Office is encouraged to contact them at 804-365-HCSO or visit the website at https://vahanovercountysheriff.civicplus. com/174/Career-Opportunities.

Information submitted by Lt. James Cooper, information officer for Hanover County.

PHOTO COURTESY OF HANOVER COUNTY

Peggy depew, from left, Jayne Flowers and Gwen Green make up Hanover county’s newest class of court appointed special advocates (casa).

Ann Cuthbertson Conner

CONNER, Ann Cuthbertson, passed away december 7, 2022. she was born on april 21, 1924, in richmond, Va., to clarence Tyson cuthbertson and Lillian Indie saunders. she was preceded in death by her husband, William stewart conner. she is survived by two children, anne conner Leary (daniel) and elizabeth christian conner; three grandchildren, matthew stewart Leary, cristin Leary beach (matt) and Kathryn donnan Leary; three great-grandchildren, Gwendolyn Faye beach, conner ryan beach and William (Liam) edward beach; and a number of nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews. mrs conner was a longtime member of Ginter Park Presbyterian church, where she was active in Presbyterian Women, hospitality and card ministry. she worked as a fashion illustrator for miler

LOCAL CALENDAR

TUESDAY, DEC. 20

The m echanicsville Tea Party will hold its second annual christmas potluck dinner social at 7 p.m. at Freedom services and Training, 6701 cold Harbor road in mechanicsville. It is directly across from dollar General and next to the creighton road traffic circle. There will be no guest speaker this month. Interested community members are welcome to bring their favorite dish. Fried chicken, pizza and drinks will be provided. meetings are open to everyone. contact Glenn baker with any questions at 804-752-8389. If he does not answer, leave a message and he will return your call.

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 21

blue christmas ser vice will be held at 7 p.m. at mechanicsville United m ethodist c hurch, 7356 atlee road in mechanicsville. a service of light for those who are feeling blue, sad, grieving and experiencing loss this christmas season. This service occurs on the Winter solstice, the longest night of the year. Invite those who have experienced loss and grief this year. all are welcome. nursery provided for children 4 and under.

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, Tuesday and Thursday and from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday at 7235 stonewall Parkway in mechanicsville (rear parking lot). The shop is available for residents

& rhoads and Thalhimers and as an administrative bookkeeper at randolph macon college. she was an active member of the daughters of the american revolution (dar) scotchtown chapter, serving as treasurer, chapter regent and national pressbook historian. restoration and maintenance of church Quarter (1843 ante bellum log cabin) was accomplished during her time of membership. a graveside service for family and friends will be held at 3 p.m. Wednesday, december 14, in Forest Lawn cemetery. a memorial service for staff and friends at Westminster canterbury richmond will be held there in the montague chapel at 1 p.m. Friday, december 16. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Ginter Park Presbyterian church endowment Fund or scotchtown chapter, nsdar

in the 23111 and 23116 zip codes with identification and proof of residency.

Walnut Grove b aptist c hurch will be conducting Free adult english classes (esL) and citizenship classes (Passing the Test) Wednesday mornings with open enrollment through may 17, 2023. classes will meet from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at 7046 cold Harbor road, mechanicsville, Va 23111. For more information, contact the church office at (804) 746-5081 or contact Frank at wgbcinfo@comcast.net or (804) 4027701. The classes are free but students are asked to purchase the books required for the class.

SATURDAYS

Trinity Lutheran c hurch, ashland campus, located at 11515 ashcake road in ashland 2 miles west of U.s. 1, holds its church ser vice at 5 p.m. with Pastor rev dr roy minnix. Visit www.trinityrichmond. net or call 804-270-9626.

SUNDAYS

all souls episcopal church celebrates Holy eucharist rite II at 9:15 a.m. at m essiah L utheran c hurch 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. Visit www. allsoulsva.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. contac t 804-7465081 or contact craig simpson at craigwgbc@gmail.com.

Outside the Walls, a narcotics anonymous group, meets from 6 to 7 p.m. in the lobby of the Pamunkey regional Jail at 7240 cour tland Farm rd. in Hanover. contact John shinholser, mcshin president, at 804-249-1845. The website is http://www.mcshin.org.

TUESDAYS

The Hanover concer t 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.

The american Legion Post 175, located at 8700 bell creek road in mechanicsville, holds a “meet and Greet, coffee and d onut” event from 9-11 a.m. ev ery Tuesday for the community and perspective members to meet members and learn about what they do for the community. Visit http://www. post175.org/.

Please see CALENDAR, Page 16

Spor ts

Upcoming Events

Hosting Patrick Henry wins Patriot Revolution

Patrick Henr y rumblespastMechanicsville inhigh-scoring64th

ROBBY FLETCHER Sports Editor

As the host team of the Patriot Revolution wrestling tournament, there was a lot on the line for Patrick Henry as it took on a field of 12 teams invading its home gym on Saturday, Dec. 10.

By Adam Cheek for Richmond Times-Dispatch

With a chance to show their opponents who’s boss as the hosting school, the Patriots stepped up and did just that, finishing with 268.5 team points to win the tournament and hoist the trophy for an earlyseason tournament championship.

Arowdy Me ch anics vi lle crowd ontheopposite sideofthefield,plus anabnormallywar m November eveningat Patrick Henr y High School, didn’t stopthe Patriots from rolling over the Mustangs 48-27athome to close outthe regular season.

Patrick Henry was ahead of second place Goochland by 42.5 points and third place Varina by 47.5 points to take the victory. Rounding out the top-5 is Colgan in fourth place and Glen Allen in fifth place.

The64theditionofthe Tomato Bowlwas wagedmostly onthe ground. PH, 6-4headinginto next week’s Region 4B playoffs, recorded 366 rushing yards,20 more than Mechanicsvillehadpassingand rushing combined

Patrick Henry had two wrestlers finish in first place in their respective weight classes and seven more who finished within the top-3 to help the team gather enough team points for the win.

“Ialwayslike to run the ball, kind of see where we’re at,” Patrick Henr y coach Ken Wakefieldsaid. “We know thatthey’ve gotsome guysthatgotta play bothsidesof the ball,so you kindofleanonthem a littlebit.”

The two winners, 106-pound Ryan O’Keefe and 132-pound Dylan O’Keefe, were dominant in their championship runs.

After opening with a first-round bye, Ryan O’Keefe was a force on his home mat, winning both the quarterfinal and semifinal with first period pins. The first came against Goochland’s Camron Hardy, who he defeated by fall in just 90 seconds, while the semifinals victory came in just 1:59 against King William’s Haley Viars.

Onseniornight, it wasappropriatelytheseniorsthatshonethe brightest:both Gracyn Ross and Shamar Williams recordedtwo touchdowns apiece.

Rossandjuniorquar terback Grayson Johnson were explosive early, bothhittingthe100-yard rushingmark by theendof thefirst half— Rossat100 and Johnson at103.

round bye in his class and won his title with two pins and a tech fall.

Aftera three-and-outfrom Mechanicsville to start the game, Patrick Henry got goingimmediately with a rushing touchdown from Johnson,whose76-yard rumbleput the Patriotsontheboard with8:28 to play in theopeningquarter.

Caeden Waltershit Aaron Maxie

In the final bout against Varina’s Jayon Moore, O’Keefe didn’t win by pin this time, instead going the full three periods to demonstrate his dominance. The Patriots star wrestler won with a 19-2 tech fall victory to take the Patriot Revolution crown, setting the tone for the Patriots as Dylan O’Keefe soon stepped on the mat for his own first place run. Ryan now has a perfect 9-0 to start to his season.

Dylan also started off with a first

He opened with a quarterfinals win by fall over Colgan’s Macguire Leck in 1:33, then won the semifinals matchup against L.C. Bird’s Manny Evans with a 17-2 victory.

for a 65-yard Mechanicsvillescore, but the Patriots respondedless than a minute later with a 71-yard Ross touchdown run.

In his final, O’Keefe took on James River’s Sam Deyerle, who lasted just one period against the Patriots wrestler, who won with a pin in 1:28.

Both teamsputup 14 in the openingquar ter, Mechanicsville eveningthings up with a 2-yard Colby Messe touchdown run.

Another big showing came from 113-pound Blake Deschamps, who made it down to the first place

PH took control inthesecond

quarter on a pairoflongpass touchdowns,one a 47-yard bombfrom theirotherquar terback, Jayden Brown, to Cole Sylvia,andthe other from Johnson to Williams.

matchup, where he came up just short despite an excellent day of wrestling. Deschamps started things off with a convincing 21-6 tech fall victory in the quarterfinals over Glen Allen wrestler Thomas Stottemyer, and then booked his ticket to the first place game with a semifinals victory against Varina’s Trevon Rogers with a pin that occurred 10 seconds into the second period.

Eventhen,the Patriots’ groundand-pound offense ruled,and PH led28-14atthehalfwhilethepassing game put up just 63 yards.

In the final, Deschamps took on Mohammed Zanganeh from Glen Allen, who proved too much to

handle and ultimately took the title with a 19-7 major decision victory that ended Deschamps’ day with a second place finish.

Once thesecond half began, PH put together a series thatshaved nearly 5 minutesofftheclock,featuring a fourth-down conversion that eventuallyled to a Greg Foster Jr. touchdown.

Despite anothe r meticulous Mechanicsvillescoringdrive that tickedoff more than 7 minutes

Other notable third place finishes from Patrick Henry came from Landon Morris in the 120-pound class, Jeremy Paul in the 126-pound class, Daniel Harris in the 138-pound class, Chase Glenn in the 144-pound class, Michael Butcher in the 165-pound class and Jason Cooper in the 215-pound class.

Patrick Henry will hit the mats

and a successfulonsidekick, Patrick Henry’s defenseheldfast to force a punt.

once again when it goes to the Mechanicsville Holiday Classic, hosted by Mechanicsville High School. That tournament will take place on Dec. 16 and 17. After the way they played against some stiff competitors in the Patriot Revolution, the Patriots will enter the holiday classic with a lot of momentum and a chance to add another tournament title to their name.

After hisearlier visit to theend zone, Rosswassitting at 19 touchdowns ontheseason. Johnsonaired itout to Rossfor a passing touchdown andthe20-score milestone, making thelead 41-21

robby Fletcher can be reached at rfletcher@powhatantoday.com.

SHABAN ATHUMAN/TIMES-DISPATCH

PatrickHenry playersmaketheirway tothelocker roomduring a highschoolfootball game on Sept.1.

Hanover girls basketball v. Deep Run, dec. 15, 7:30

Mechanicsville Holiday Class Wrestling Tournament, dec. 16-17

PHOTO BY ROBBY FLETCHER

Patrick Henry’s dylan O’Keefe won the 132-pound class at the Patriot revolution wrestling tournament on dec. 10.

Mustangs stampede past Foxes, move to 3-0

NICK VANDELOECHT Special Correspondent

A phenomenal turnaround season last year is beginning to look like the central building block to a potential multi-year stretch of dominance, as Mechanicsville’s varsity girls basketball program is off to yet another fast, highscoring start to the winter.

The Mustangs improved to 3-0 on Tuesday, Dec. 6 with a dominant 54-20 rout of King George. As of Dec. 11, they were averaging 64 points per game and a winning margin of 44.3 points per game.

“The girls came into the gym all summer long, worked hard,” head coach Alvin Puller said after Tuesday’s victory. “They learned how to play together, complement each other, have each other’s back. It’s just awesome. They’re an awesome group.”

The Mustangs this year have the best of both worlds with experienced senior leadership showing the way and first-year freshmen immediately taking command of their roles on the court to help elevate their team.

Freshman Kedelin Santos was a central part of Mechanicsville’s versatile offense, lockdown defense and unselfish play against the Foxes as she contributed team-leading marks of 13 points, 10 steals, seven rebounds and six assists. She set the pace early on the rebounding side, with the Mustangs ultimately hauling in 25 boards and excelling at nabbing the missed shots off the glass on both ends of the court.

Santos, who shot 6-for-9 from the field, could find the net for the layup after converting on her rebounds and takeaways into fast breaks, but oftentimes, once she made it to the basket, the 5-foot-7 point guard would dish out a quick pass to a teammate in the post. Her teammates turned several of those chances into easy buckets.

Santos’ exceptional play beyond her years might be new to

the varsity court, but Puller, who coached Santos and her teammates in middle school, knew what he had coming. And while Santos led the way, her strengths extended to the rest of the team.

Mechanicsville had pressured King George relentlessly on defense, snatching 22 steals, and it also helped one another find the basket on 13 assists.

Senior captain Bennett Carlton showed leadership early and often on the floor, and she was a defensive menace to the Foxes at the apex of the perimeter, dis-

rupting their rhythm and forcing them into turnovers all game long. The senior point guard and captain, who has worked with coach Puller since sixth grade, poured in 12 points, hauled in five offensive rebounds, nabbed four steals, made three assists and added a block.

“She’s an awesome player. She believes in the team,” Puller said of Bennett Carlton. “She brings them together and makes them what they are. She’s a great leader.”

Another freshman, Carys

Khan, chipped in 10 points, netting six off of one of her two steals, an offensive rebound and an impressive layup where she looped the ball around and up through the hoop. Her other two shots came off assists from sophomore Elizabeth Hardwick, who netted six points, and sophomore Maddie Frantz, who made one of the team’s two 3-pointers on the night, with Santos landing the other.

Khan was laser-focused on the net as she shot 5-of-7 from the field.

Sophomore Kate Carlton contributed to the team’s depth on both sides of the ball with eight points, five steals and two rebounds.

Six-foot junior and captain Ashley Owens denied the Foxes’ offense on four blocks and made two points from the free-throw line.

Passing among the players was airtight, with Santos sprinkling in a couple of successful no-looks, and players were quick to jump on the ball and cover one another if a teammate made a mistake.

“They play well together and they love each other,” Puller said of the Mustangs’ players. “They complement each other and [they have each other’s backs]. The team’s together all the time and go out to eat all the time. It’s a family atmosphere. It’s awesome.”

Mechanicsville set its sights on improving to 5-0 with road games against Freeman and Godwin. Then, the Mustangs will host a holiday tournament on Wednesday, Dec. 28 and Thursday, Dec. 29. Mechanicsville’s first tournament game is tentatively set for 5:30 p.m. on Dec. 28 against King William.

PHOTO BY NICK VANDELOECHT

mechanicsville’s bennett carlton forces a steal in the mustangs’ home varsity girls basketball game versus King George on Tuesday, dec. 6, 2022.

PHOTO BY NICK VANDELOECHT carys Khan high-points the ball in mechanicsville’s home varsity girls basketball game versus King George.

ARIES • Mar 21/Apr 20

Aries, no matter how much you try to tip the odds in your favor, this week is much more about the luck of the draw. Keep a positive outlook and things may turn out in your favor.

TAURUS • Apr 21/May 21

Taurus, if winter’s chill is getting you down, you may want to plan a getaway to somewhere warmer. That may be just what you need to recharge.

GEMINI • May 22/Jun 21

The two sides of your personality are lately at odds with one another, Gemini. You have to make an important decision, so seek out a friend for advice.

CANCER • Jun 22/Jul 22

Cancer, you lean toward an optimistic view on most things, but it is alright to be realistic at some points along the way, or even slightly skeptical. Balance is key.

LEO • Jul 23/Aug 23

Leo, if you are feeling under the weather this week, you will have to put on a smile and push through. It is the holidays, after all. Seek as much help as others can muster.

VIRGO • Aug 24/Sept 22

Virgo, you are on borrowed time regarding your finances. Take a careful look at your budget this week and make the tweaks necessary to stay afloat if income wanes.

LIBRA • Sept 23/Oct 23

A companion animal in your life needs some attention, Libra. There may be some vet bills to contend with, but luckily you can handle that without much issue.

SCORPIO • Oct 24/Nov 22

The activity you have been turning to provide mental stimulation just may not be cutting it any longer. Start to explore some other options and see if there may be a better fit, Scorpio.

SAGITTARIUS • Nov 23/Dec 21

A health issue that has been getting the better of you for some time will be resolved for in the days to come, Sagittarius. It’ll be birthday good news. Start celebrating.

CAPRICORN • Dec 22/Jan 20

Capricorn, after a tumultuous few weeks, things in your life finally settle down. Embrace the opportunity to rest and do not take on any new projects until next year.

AQUARIUS • Jan 21/Feb 18

Aquarius, things may not be going completely according to plan on the professional front. But at home you have gotten into a solid groove. Use this win to boost your mood.

PISCES • Feb 19/Mar 20

There is much more to a situation than meets the eye, Pisces. Delve deeper to learn about a person’s true motivation.

Past

From 6

somehow the subtle aura of the mismatched lights signaled the true arrival of the season.

I similarly recall an excited visit to a small, usually empty lot now transformed with rows of light bulbs illuminating what seemed like an endless supply of Christmas trees. My sister and I watched with anticipation as my father searched for the perfect one, the selection always followed by a conversation just loud enough for us to overhear.

It was a conversation the attendant more than likely had with all the fathers – a sort of negotiation that always ended with a few dollars off the price and a continued assurance that our Dad had gotten the best deal possible.

When I look at the beautiful artificial trees available today, I think back to my first experience with non authentic variety now more popular than the original. It was what we called an aluminum tree – all silver with aluminum foil like tin-

sel. We marveled as we peered through a department store window on what resembled a space age version of an old familiar tradition.

The aluminum trees were usually decorated with balls of only one color – usually blue – and were further made unworldly by a small reflecting panel that sat on the floor near the tree. A light bulb placed behind the revolving wheel provided the illusion of changing colors, certainly impressive but never capable of evoking the sense of seasonal cheer provided by the smell of a fresh tree or warm cider.

Like the progression of lights experienced in years of Christmas seasons, we all evolve. Perhaps Christmas is the perfect opportunity to combine the spectacular brilliance of our present day holidays and the memory of those dimly lit porches that remain. Perhaps, Christmas is truly a time to appreciate the present but still maintain a healthy reverence for the past.

As Faulkner wrote, “The past is never dead. It’s not even past.”

UPCOMING PROGRAMS AT HANOVER AREA LIBRARIES

RICHARD S. GILLIS, JR./ ASHLAND BRANCH LIBRARY

s ew r eady to Learn at the ashland branch Library. Wednesday, dec. 14, 5 to 8 p.m. Join the Hanover sewing Group to work on various projects as a seasoned quilter talks about various quilting methods, ways to run a guild and combining quilting with other hobbies.

Hanover Quilting circle at the ashland branch Library. Wednesday, dec. 14, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Grab a sewing machine, supplies and current project. This group meets the second Wednesday of every month to share ideas, fabric, skills and stories. beginners, experienced quilters and those curious about the hobby are all welcome to drop in.

must Love Words at the ashland branch Library. Wednesday, dec. 14, 7 to 8:30 p.m. ages 18 and up. Join the library for constructive feedback and discussion about the craft of writing on each of this month. due to group resources, email and word processing are used to communicate outside of meetings. access to email and familiarity with word processing is preferred. among Us Game night at the

ashland branch Library. Thursday, dec. 15, 6:30 to 8 p.m. ages 12-18. Join the library for a few rounds of among Us. bring a smartphone, tablet or laptop and be ready to play. They recommend pre-installing the app before the event. registration required at https://pamunkeylibrary.libcal.com/. m orning b ook c lub at the ashland branch Library. Friday, dec. 16, 10:15 to 11:15 a.m. ages 18 and up. read the book of the month and engage in a lively discussion about it. s hare views about the book and author and share reading recommendations. afternoon book club at the ashland branch Library. monday, dec. 19, 1 to 2 p.m. ages 18 and up. read the book of the month and engage in a lively discussion about it. share views about the book and author and share reading recommendations. From the Heart stitchers at the ashland branch Library. Thursday, d ec. 22, noon to 4 p.m. From the Heart stitchers began in 2001 making chemo hats for the massey cancer center and today has over 1899 stitchers making 1000’s of items for service groups across the

commonwealth. sew, knit, crochet or loom anything from blankets to shawls and everything in between. bring a sewing machine, knitting needles, etc. and supplies, and make items for From the Heart every fourth Thursday. see https:// fromtheheartstichers.org/ for more information about this organization. call 804-798-4072 or visit the library at 201 s railroad ave for more information.

LOIS WICKHAM JONES/ MONTPELIER BRANCH LIBRARY

PUP readers at the montpelier branch Library. Wednesday, dec. 14, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Grades K-5. ready to transform from reluctant reader to ready reader? sign up for a 20-minute session with chrissie, a PUP readers reading education assistance dog.

Winter break movie at the montpelier branch Library. saturday, dec. 17, 11a.m. to 1 p.m. Winter break is a winter bore no more. meet up with friends for a matinee movie at the library. refreshments will be provided by Friends of the montpelier branch Library.

montpelier small business

n etwork at the m ontpelier b ranch Library. Friday, d ec. 30, 9 to 10 a.m.

The montpelier small business network meets monthly for brief updates from county agencies, representatives and small business specialists, followed by casual networking over coffee and donuts before the Friday workday begins. Follow the montpelier branch Library on Facebook for updates and a list of speakers. refreshments will be provided by Friends of the montpelier branch Library. call 804-883-7116 or visit the library at 17205 sycamore Tavern Lane for more information.

COCHRANE ROCKVILLE BRANCH LIBRARY

read 2 rover at the cochrane rockville branch Library. Thursday, dec. 15, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Grades K-2. read 2 rover provides comfort and motivation for beginning readers as they read aloud to colby or Pepper, the library’s therapy dogs. space is limited. registration required at https://pamunkeylibrary.libcal.com/event/9562747. call the rockville branch at 804-749-3146 or visit the library at 16600 Pouncey Tract road for more information.

From 11

WEDNESDAYS

Hanover rotary meets from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at roma’s restaurant at 7240 bell creek rd. in mechanicsville due to the pandemic, contact President Penny at pennyguiles43@gmail.com for current meeting at roma’s or Zoom connection information.

THURSDAYS

The ashland rotary club meets weekly at noon at the Iron Horse restaurant at 100 s railroad ave. in ashland. For more information, contact steve dunham at 804496-6093 or sandrdunham@yahoo.com.

Overcomers Outreach & Women’s codependency is a christ-centered anonymous support program offering hope and healing for recovering alcoholics, addicts and their families. meetings are held at 7 p.m. at shalom baptist church at 8116 Walnut Grove road mechanicsville. For more information, call 804-366-6524 or email mjfaith1@gmail.com.

new Highland baptist church hosts open

basketball gym time for adults in the christian Life center (cLc) starting at 7:30 Pm. The church is located at 9200 new ashcake road in mechanicsville. Use the side back entrance to enter. contact Jeff Fitzgerald at jkfitzgerald@comcast.net.

civil air Patrol, Hanover squadron, meets Thursdays, from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Fairfield Presbyterian church, 6930 cold Harbor road, in mechanicsville caP is an awesome program for youth, ages 12- 21, as well as for adults who care about young people and want to help train america’s next generation of Leaders. you’ll find cadet life exciting if you enjoy Flying, Leadership Training, model rocketry, earning rank & awards, and much more. Visit hanover.vawg.cap. gov or contact capt. James Wright at 804551-3354 or james.wright@vawg.cap.gov.

FRIDAYS

The building bridges group of narcotics anonymous is a fellowship of men and women for whom drugs had become a major problem. The group’s mission is to bring a message of hope and recovery to those suffering from addiction issues. They meet on Fridays from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. at mechanicsville United methodist church, 7356 atlee road in mechanicsville. Visit rvana.org.

SECOND MONDAYS

The Web of Hope meets from 10 a. m. to noon at the black creek baptist church at 6289 mcclellan road in mechanicsville. It is one of several groups in the richmond area that crochets, knits, sews, and quilts gifts for the american red cross to distributed to those in need. since its inception, the Web has donated over 153,000 gifts locally, nationally and globally. If you can make it, the Web can use it call Laurie Wagner at 804-781-0338.

THIRD MONDAYS

alzheimer’s/dementia support group for caregivers and others who want to help and encourage those who have loved ones with dementia illnesses meets at 7 p.m. on the third monday of each month on Zoom. contact Jennifer bean at 804-559-2805 or the church office at 804-746-9073.

The Hanover county community services board meets at 6:30 p.m. at 12300 Washington Hwy. in ashland.

FOURTH MONDAYS

The Feedmore mobile Food Pantry will be distributing food from 10 to 11 a.m. at the First s hiloh b aptist c hurch at 8150 Walnut Grove rd. in mechanicsville

contact Heather at hshaheen96@gmail. com.

The atlee r uritan c lub meets every fourth monday at Hillcrest baptist church on rt.301. meetings, that include dinner and a program, begin at 6:30 p.m. ruritan is a national community service organization dedicated to fellowship, goodwill, and community service. The atlee c lub welcomes both men and women. To learn more about the club’s mission and reserve your spot for dinner, call (804) 789-9365.

SECOND TUESDAYS

The m echanicsville Fellowship c lub meets each month (excluding July and aug.) at 10:30 a.m. in room G110 of shady Grove United methodist church at 8209 shady Grove rd. in mechanicsville bring a covered dish and join in with a group celebrating faith, fellowship, friends and fun. meetings are cancelled if Hanover county Public schools are two hours late or cancelled due to inclement weather. To register, call the church at 804-7469073. call Janet Lewis at 804-398-8947.

The Hanover count y Historical society will be conducting free tours of the Old Hanover courthouse on the Historic

courthouse Green from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every second Tuesday through december. The address is 13182 Hanover courthouse road in Hanover. Visit http://www. hanoverhistorical.org/index.

THIRD TUESDAYS

The Hanover r uritan c lub meets on the third Tuesday of each month, at Walnut Grove baptist church with dinner at 6.30 p.m. ruritan is a national organization dedicated to improving communities and building a better america through fellowship, goodwill and community service. The first ruritan club was chartered may 21, 1928, in Holland, Virginia. ruritan has grown throughout the United states of america, and in doing so has become. “america’s Leading community ser vice Organization”. m embership in r uritan is an honor and privilege. To learn more about ruritan, how to become a member, request a membership application or with questions, please call, 746-5728 or by letter to, Hanover r uritan, P. O. b ox 625, m echanicsville, Va 2 3111. To be a guest of the club, call the numbers listed above. The club welcomes both men and women.