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PRSRT. STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAID Mechanicsville, VA Permit No.141
Vol. 29, No. 39 | Richmond Suburban Newspapers | January 30, 2013
STOPS AT EVERY HOME IN TOWN
School Board asked to fight for funds By Jim Ridolphi for The Mechanicsville Local
Jim Ridolphi for The Local
The meeting room for the Jan. 22 public hearing on Hanover County Public Schools’ budget proposal was packed. Interest drew so many people that the meeting was standing room only, including the halls. A work session followed on Jan. 24; story on page 30.
Proposed school district cuts taken to supervisors County Board of Supervisors, the panel got an earful of comments on that very subject durWith more than a month ing a public comment period at remaining until County last Wednesday’s regular meetAdministrator Cecil R. “Rhu” ing. Harris Jr. presents his 2013see SUPERVISORS, pg. 4 2014 budget to the Hanover
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By Jim Ridolphi for The Mechanicsville Local
Hanover citizens had their first opportunity to comment on the school district’s proposed $188.7 million budget at a public hearing held last week in Ashland. More than 300 people attended the Jan. 22 meeting and many took advantage of that opportunity to voice concerns, support and opposition to the proposed spending plan for 2013-2014. The overflow audience, comprised of teachers, students, parents and interested citizens, voiced concern regarding some specifics contained in the document, but expressed overall support for the challenges addressed by superintendent Jamelle Wilson’s proposal. While some speakers lamented the absence
Jim Ridolphi for The Local
Parent Michelle Schmidt said she moved to Hanover County a year ago to access what she called the great schools. She said she’s worried continued cuts to the school budget will jeopardize that quality education. “You’ve cut through the muscle, and now you’re down to the bone,” she told School Board members see SCHOOL, pg. 7 at a public hearing last week.
Festival organizers seek memorabilia
T
his year the Hanover Tomato Festival will celebrate its 35th Anniversary and members of the Hanover Tomato Festival Committee are searching for memorabilia from years past. If you would like to share your event photos from over the last 35 years, the committee and
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staff welcomes the opportunity to display them in a special 35th Anniversary area at this year’s event. The search includes photos of the Miss Hanover Tomato Contest, to tomatoes and related items, event participation and vendors. see FESTIVAL, pg. 4
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