01/11/2012 by Mechanicsville-Ashland Local

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Vol. 28, No. 37 | Richmond Suburban Newspapers | January 11, 2012

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12 schools get Robotics race sparks state honors competitive edge Twelve Hanover County schools have been recognized by Gov. Bob McDonnell and the Virginia Board of Education as recipients of the 2012 Virginia Index of Performance (VIP) awards for advanced learning and achievement. They are: Cool Spring Elementary, Atlee High, Kersey Creek Elementary, Laurel Meadow Elementary, Mechanicsville Elementary, Pearson’s Corner Elementary, Pole Green Elementary, Rural Point Elementary, WashingtonHenry Elementary, Battlefield Park Elementary, Beaverdam Elementary and Hanover High. Jim Ridolphi for The Local

U.S. Rep. Eric Cantor, R-7, read to Battlefield Park Elementary students last week.

HONOREES: Cool Spring, Atlee, Kersey Creek, Laurel Meadow, Mechanicsville, Pearson’s Corner, Pole Green, Rural Point, Washington-Henry, Battlefield Park, Beaverdam and Hanover

In making the announcement on Thursday, McDonnell and the Board of Education said 447 schools and two school divisions earned the awards. The incentive program recognizes schools and divisions

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By Jim Ridolphi news@mechlocal.com More than 100 students gathered Saturday in the Hanover High School library, eagerly awaiting news regarding a highly-anticipated project. All eyes were turned to an onlinestreamed presentation that outlined the rules for this year’s FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics Competition. Teams from Hanover, Lee-Davis and Patrick Henry high schools listened intently to FIRST president Dean Kaman as he introduced this year’s challenge. Here’s how it works: Teams from around the world are presented with a

problem that requires a robot in the solution. FIRST sends each team a kit of materials needed to construct the basic model, but the final product requires more thought and material. For Hanover’s team mentor, physics teacher Dan Bartels, the kickoff is the beginning of a hectic six-week dash to complete, test and refine the final product, a task that often requires long hours and lastminute challenges. About 60 teams then com-

Jim Ridolphi for The Local

Hanover Robotics team member Casey Clark unpacks a kit from FIRST with the required parts for this year’s robot.

pete at the regional level at VCU, vying for a trip to the coveted FIRST see ROBOTICS, pg. 27

see SCHOOLS, pg. 4

Congressman takes time to read to BPES class By Jim Ridolphi news@mechlocal.com In a fast-paced and gadget-oriented world that sometimes moves at light speed, the simple act of writing a letter is becoming a lost art — in most places. That’s not the case in Pam Franklin’s fifth grade class at Battlefield Park Elementary School in Mechanicsville. Each year, for more than three decades, the teacher provides a list of notable names from which to choose, and each stu-

dent writes one of them a letter with an invitation to read to their class. Holly Beazley chose U.S. House Majority Leader Eric Cantor, R-7, as the recipient of her effort. The congressman answered the call, and stopped by the campus on Thursday to read to the class. Cantor chose “The Great Little Madison” by Jean Fritz for his selection to the class. It’s an account of the Constitutional Convention and ties in closely with the class’s history lessons. “That’s just a little excerpt of what

was going on back in 1787 after 100 days when 55 men got together to try and figure out the future of our country,” Cantor told the class after he finished his selection. Despite a busy schedule in Washington, the congressman appeared pleased to spend time with the students, and took time after the reading to answer questions. One student asked about Cantor’s leisure time and what he likes to do when he’s home in Henrico County. The representative said he likes to read, work out and spend time with

his family, often attending golf tournaments to watch his son play. “Those are things I like to do if there is leisure time,” he said. What does Cantor like least about his job in Washington? “I don’t get to live at home a lot.” He told the class the most rewarding part of his job is being able to help people. “As a congressman, you are elected to help people. That’s what government service is about,” see BPES, pg. 28

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The Mechanicsville Local

January 11, 2012

Photo submitted by Linda M. Scarborough

First place winners with their sponsors are, from left, Erin Sturgis, Oak Knoll Middle School sponsor; Hannah Sayles, Oak Knoll Middle School; Anna Holcomb, Oak Knoll Middle School; Jessica Dupont, Stonewall Jackson Middle School sponsor; Ryan Lucia, Stonewall Jackson Middle School; Cal Costic, Stonewall Jackson Middle School; Claire Jentheau, Chickahominy Middle School; and Suzanne Zulauf, Chickahominy Middle School sponsor. Joanne Astin is the Chickahominy Middle School sponsor.

Forensics Competition winners announced Forty Hanover County Public School students in grades six through eight competed for honors in the 28th Annual Forensics Competition. Students participated in the following categories: Serious Poetry, Humorous Poetry, Original Oratory, Storytelling/Oral Interpretation, and Impromptu Speech. The forensics meet was the culmination of a semester’s worth of activities in language arts classes. All participants were the top finishers in their individual school competitions. During the school level event, first place winners in each category were awarded trophies that will be displayed for one year. In addition, first, second and third place winners in the countywide meet received individual awards for their performances. The December winners are: Serious Poetry – first place, Claire Jentheau, Chickahominy Middle School; second place, Didi Andrews, Liberty Middle School; and third place, Georgia Geen, Oak Knoll Middle School.

Humorous Poetry – first place, Anna Holcomb, Oak Knoll Middle School; second place, Noah Campbell, Liberty Middle School; and third place, Libby Ryan, Oak Knoll Middle School. Original Oratory – first place, Ryan Lucia, Stonewall Jackson Middle School; second place, Natalie Willet, Oak Knoll Middle School; and third place, John Libby, Chickahominy Middle School. Storytelling/Oral Interpretation – first place, Hannah Sayles, Oak Knoll Middle School; second place, Andy Wright, Oak Knoll Middle School; and third place, Evan Hughes, Liberty Middle School. Impromptu Speech – first place, Cal Costic, Stonewall Jackson Middle School; second place, Peyton Gemmell, Liberty Middle School; and third place, Savannah Wilson, Chickahominy Middle School. Information submitted by Linda M. Scarborough, Hanover County Public Schools communications specialist.

9 COMMUNITY PHHS Soundsations perform for School Board.

35 SPORTS Athletes compete in special tournament at Lee-Davis.

ALSO… Incident Reports........3 Letters to the editor...6 Obituaries ..........10-12 Calendar ................. 17 Celebrations ........... 20 TV grids..............30-32 Church news .......... 39 Sports ................33-38 Classifieds .........40-43

CLARIFICATION An article that appeared on the Ashland/Western Hanover page in the Dec. 28, 2011, edition incorrectly identified Carsyn Manke as Carslyn Manke.

SHERIFF’S REPORTS

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Suspect was in possession of controlled substance on Greenwood Church Rd.

Suspect assaulted victim at location on Heflin Lane

Suspect assaulted victim at location on Sandy Lane.

Suspect assaulted victim at location on Princess Anne Dr.

December 25

Unknown suspect struck victim’s vehicle and fled the scene on Bell Creek Rd.

Unknown suspect struck victim’s vehicle and fled the scene on Mechanicsville Turnpike.

Unknown suspect struck victim’s vehicle and fled the scene on Tammy Lane.

Suspect struck victim’s vehicle and fled scene on Shady Grove Rd.

Suspect assaulted victim at location on Skirmish Lane.

Suspect assaulted victim at location on Princess Anne Dr.

Unknown suspect stole items from location on Highbury Dr.

Suspect assaulted victim at location on Westone Rd.

December 24 X

Unknown suspect struck victim’s vehicle and fled the scene on Mountain Rd. Unknown suspect damaged victim’s property on Mechanicsville Turnpike. Suspect recklessly handled a firearm at location on Fire House Rd.

Persons assaulted each other on Ashcake Rd.

Suspect assaulted victim at location on Peaks Rd.

Suspect was in possession of controlled substance on Cold Harbor Rd.

December 27

Suspect assaulted victim at location on Shady Grove Rd.

December 26

December 28

Suspect assaulted victim at location on Old Ridge Rd.

Unknown suspect struck victim’s vehicle and fled scene on Bell Creek Rd.

Suspect assaulted victim at location on Mechanicsville Turnpike.

Suspect stole items from location on Mount Hermon Rd.

Unknown suspect damaged victim’s property at location on Garden Park Lane. Suspect was in possession of controlled substance on Bell Creek Rd.

December 30 X

Suspect assaulted victim at location on Creighton Rd.

Teen erased video that may have helped his murder defense By Bill McKelway Media General News Service The 17-year-old charged with the slaying of a Lee-Davis High School classmate erased a cellphone video of what was going on seconds before he fatally shot Jyreffe Patrick Clark in the head last month. John Luxton, the lawyer for Franklin Eugene Robertson III, told a Hanover County juvenile court judge Thursday that Robertson, Clark and two other Lee-Davis students were playing, dancing and filming a video seconds before the shooting. “They were all having fun; they were friends,” Luxton

said, arguing unsuccessfully that because the shooting was an accident Robertson should be released on bail. Outside court, Luxton said that Robertson erased the video from his cellphone and that efforts are under way as part of the defense to try to recover the segment. Luxton said the footage could be critical in showing that there was no premeditation or anything willful about the shooting. “It was accidental or involuntary manslaughter,” Luxton said in court, describing how Robertson’s stepfather kept the semi-automatic pistol in the house but that Robertson and two other youths didn’t

realize the weapon was loaded when Robertson pulled the trigger. Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney Angela O’Connor successfully urged Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court Judge Shannon O. Hoehl to keep Robertson jailed without bail, saying she “adamantly opposed” his release and that the shooting of Clark was reckless and was followed by ruthless efforts to dispose of his body. “He’s a danger to the community,” O’Connor said of Robertson, whose family was in court. Hoehl set March 8 for a see VIDEO, pg. 39 `

Suspect was found in possession of controlled substance on Creighton Rd.

Person attempted to harm themselves at location on Castle Tower Rd.

Suspect stole items at location on Atlee Rd.

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Suspect was found in possession of controlled substance on Creighton Rd.

Unknown suspect(s) stole items at location on Bellspring Dr.

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Local men honored for heroism Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com

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For their efforts in rescuing a woman, two Hanover County men were recognized by the Carnegie Hero Fund Commission. Darryl F. Starnes and Curtis W. Combs Sr. were among 18 people cited for extraordinary acts of civilian heroism. According to William Jones, battalion chief of Hanover County Fire/EMS, Starnes and Combs rescued Kelley B. Peele on Feb. 15 from a burning vehicle in Mechanicsville. Peele remained in the driver’s seat of her sport utility vehicle after an accident where the vehicle left the roadway, struck

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that far exceed minimum state and federal accountability standards and achieve excellence goals established by the governor and the board. “I congratulate the educators in these schools and divisions for their unwavering commitment to academic excellence and to the success of their students,” McDonnell said. “They put students first and maintain high expectations for instruction, learning and student achievement.” “The criteria for these

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The Mechanicsville Local

January 11, 2012

a tree and burst into flames. Jones said she was awake but badly injured and trapped in the wreckage. Starnes, a retired insurance examiner, approached the scene in his vehicle and immediately stopped. He ran to the burning vehicle and tried to open the driver’s door, but found it was jammed. He extended his upper body through the window and he worked to release Peele’s safety belt. Combs, a collision technician, stopped at the scene and joined the rescue effort. After failing to open the doors, he entered the vehicle head first through the window of the front passenger door. Despite flames, Combs entered the

awards are becoming more challenging with the Board of Education’s increasing focus on college and career readiness,” Board of Education president Eleanor B. Saslaw said. “That so many schools earned VIP awards speaks to the capacity of most of Virginia’s public schools to accept new challenges.” “As we celebrate the successes of the 2012 VIP award winners, we must not lose sight of the schools in Virginia where students still struggle to achieve at grade level in reading and mathematics,” superintendent of Public Instruction Patricia I. Wright said. “Just as the Standards of Learning (SOL) provided the foundation for the excellence we recognize today,

vehicle and worked to free Peele, whose legs were trapped. Starnes then began to pull Peele through the window of the driver’s door as Combs withdrew from the SUV. The men took Peele to safety as flames grew quickly to engulf the interior of the vehicle. Peele sustained minor burns to her hands and required hospitalization for treatment of other injuries. Starnes and Combs were honored for their heroic act on Dec. 14 in Pittsburgh, Pa. “We are truly honored to have these gentlemen in our Hanover community,” Jones said.

maintaining the SOL program is essential to raising achievement in low-performing schools and closing the achievement gap.” Cool Spring Elementary has received the 2012 Governor’s Award for Educational Excellence. To qualify, schools and school divisions must meet all state and federal achievement benchmarks for at least two consecutive years and achieve all applicable excellence goals for elementary reading, enrollment in Algebra I by the eighth grade, enrollment in collegelevel courses, high school graduation, attainment of advanced diplomas, increased attainment of career and industry certifications, and participation in the Virginia Preschool Initiative.

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Schools and school divisions earn bonus points for other performance measures, including the Governor’s Nutrition and Physical Activity Scorecard. For the honor, Cool Spring Elementary will receive a display banner and a signed resolution of commendation from McDonnell. Atlee High, Kersey Creek Elementary, Laurel Meadow Elementary, Mechanicsville Elementary, Pearson’s Corner Elementary, Pole Green Elementary, Rural Point Elementary and WashingtonHenry Elementary earned the Board of Education Excellence Award, the second-tier honor in the VIP program. These schools also have met all state and federal accountability benchmarks for at least two consecutive years and have made significant progress toward goals for increased student achievement and expanded educational opportunities set by the board. Battlefield Park Elementary, Beaverdam Elementary and Hanover High earned the Board of Education Competence to Excellence Award by meeting all state and federal benchmarks for at least two consecutive years and made progress toward the goals of the governor and the board.

Signup period for tax relief for elderly, disabled starts Sunday

Photos submitted by Juliet Nisley

In preparation for the holidays, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Chip,â&#x20AC;? a former Hanover Humane Society pup, visited with the children at Hanover Academy and provided them with treat bags. During the visit, the children heard â&#x20AC;&#x153;Chipâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;sâ&#x20AC;? story of how he entered Hanover Humaneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s adoption program and how he and his siblings ultimately found a forever home. The children also learned about how Hanover Humane Society was founded and what its volunteers do to help homeless animals. In appreciation for the visit, the children organized a supply drive for the animals and presented â&#x20AC;&#x153;Chipâ&#x20AC;? with the items.

Hanover County makes real estate tax relief available for residents who are elderly or permanently disabled and who have a net worth of $200,000 or less. The application period for the upcoming year begins Jan. 15,. You must apply by March 1 for the relief to be applied to the tax bills sent out later this spring and due (first half) on June 5. Applicants must be 65 years old or permanently disabled and must own or partially own the property and have lived in it on Dec. 31. If the applicant is in a hospital or extended care facility, he or she may still qualify as long as the house is not rented or leased. The $200,000 net worth figure does not include the value

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The Mechanicsville Local

January 11, 2012

OPINION | The Local Views From the editor

Hanover’s new board of supervisors debuts A new day has dawned in Hanover County with a change in the makeup of the Board of Supervisors. The new board makes its debut at 2 p.m. today. Joining incumbents Aubrey M. “Bucky” Stanley, Beaverdam District; Elton J. Wade Sr., Cold Harbor; and G. Ed Via III, Ashland; are W. Canova Peterson IV, Mechanicsville; Sean M. Davis, Henry; Angela C. Kelly-Wiecek, Chickahominy; and Wayne T. Hazzard, South Anna. Will the “face” of the board change? How will the members organize their leadership positions? Will there be a split among the ranks? Will we see a more fiscally conservative operation? Oh, the list goes on and on. The bottom line to this board is the voters of Hanover County spoke in November. Apparently they wanted change — and that’s what we have gotten. This could be a very interesting time for our county, especially as these leaders — new and old — prepare for budget season. And, with the economic woes our nation continues to endure, there may be some belttightening coming up. We are fortunate to reside in a thriving, progressive and growing county. Hopefully our new board will be able to guide us through these troubling national times.

LETTERS

Etc. ☞ Ahh, election time. It would appear that political parties are in full swing for this year’s elections. On the local front, we have Mechanicsville residents Lt. Gov. Bill Bolling and Del. Chris Peace, R-97, playing key roles in the presidential campaign of Mitt Romney. County Democrats will be meeting at 10 a.m. Saturday at Ashland Coffee & Tea to talk about a candidate to challenge U.S. Rep. Eric Cantor, R-7. Whatever your political preference, 2012 is gearing up to be quite interesting. Melody Kinser

Editorial & Business Office: 6400 Mechanicsville Tnpk. Mechanicsville, VA 23111 Mailing Address: P.O. Box 1118 Mechanicsville, VA 23111 Phone – (804) 746-1235 Toll free – (877) 888-0449 Fax – (804) 730-0476

The Mechanicsville Local

Joy Monopoli Publisher Melody Kinser Editor Charlie Leffler Sports Editor Jim Fields Senior Staff Writer Pam Sanders Sales Manager Online: www.mechlocal.com For news: news@mechlocal.com For advertising: sales@mechlocal.com For classifieds: cgrant@mechlocal.com © 2012 by Richmond Suburban Newspapers. All advertising and editorial matter is fully protected and may not be reproduced in any manner without the permission of the publisher.

January 11, 2012

| Reader Views Lastly, let me thank the wonderful Fairmount Family. With more than 100 volunteers spread over 11 performances and many more volunteers in pre and post-production, it was a tremendous effort by our entire congregation. As the senior minister of the Fairmount Christian At the beginning of Dickens’ tale, the ghost of Jacob Church, I wanted to thank you and the staff of The Marley tells his old business partner, Scrooge, “At this time Mechanicsville Local for your inclusion of “Scrooge – the see LETTERS, pg. 8 Musical” in your “Local Pick” column earlier this month. Such positive coverage helped encourage almost 5,000 people to attend this lively retelling of Dickens’ classic story, “A Christmas Carol.” The Local welcomes your signed letters to the editor on topics of I also wanted to take this opportunity to thank the interest to Mechanicsville residents. Letters must include your Mechanicsville community – and communities beyond address and a daytime telephone number. We reserve the right to – for their enthusiastic response to the tale of redemption edit letters. We do not guarantee that every letter received will be that the story of Ebenezer Scrooge offers. published. Letters reflect the opinions and positions of the writers Scrooge’s tale points all of us to the need for redemption and not The Mechanicsville Local. – a second chance at life. Send letters to: What a joy it was for the Fairmount family to point so The Mechanicsville Local, 6400 Mechanicsville Turnpike, many of our fellow Central Virginians to the real giver of Mechanicsville, VA 23111 redemption – Jesus Christ – whose birth we celebrate at Fax: 730-0476 E-mail: mkinser@mechlocal.com Christmas.

Nearly 5,000 attend church’s retelling of Dickens’ classic

Letters to the Editor

The Mechanicsville Local

January 11, 2012

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LETTERS

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of the . . . year, I suffer most. Why did I walk through crowds of fellow-beings with my eyes turned down, and never raise them to that blessed Star which led the Wise Men to a poor abode!” With so many things pulling our eyes downward these days, it was our privilege to offer this free Christmas production to help keep our eyes focused in the right direction. Fairmount Christian Church takes very seriously our mission to “love God and love people.” “Scrooge” was a heartfelt gift to all those who live in our community – because we love you! Our hope is that all readers of The Mechanicsville Local know that there is a second chance through Christ. Thank you again – and Happy New Year and many

blessings in 2012! Rick Raines Senior minister Fairmount Christian Church Mechanicsville

Respect earned, not given In response to Mr. Melton’s letter to me: Yes, I am at times condescending. And I will continue to be. Condescension is what theists have shown those that don’t share their weakness for many centuries – what’s sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander. Likewise, fairness and politeness has rarely been shown to us. Assuming that fairness or politeness is deserved is ridiculous, an assumption based on the silly notion that the religious deserve respectful treatment merely because they believe. But respect is earned, not

given; ignoring reality, defending hypocrisy, promoting lies, and encouraging others to do the same does not earn respect in my book. Nor will I “shut up and go away.” If there was nothing to be argued but some people’s self-imposed ignorance and misguided faith, I wouldn’t bother. But there is much more at stake — for these people keep trying to politically impose their narrow-mindedness and hypocrisy on those of us who don’t share it. If I shut up and go away, they win – and I will not allow that while I have breath. As for Mr. Hansen’s comments: I’m not aware of any “literary conduct rules,” and if I broke such rules, [editor] Melody [Kinser] would edit as necessary or not print the letter at all (both of which she has done.) My previous letter addresses your other issues as they did the previous writer’s. Steve Sneed Mechanicsville see LETTERS, pg. 13

| Education, Business & Celebrations

‘Village’ concept focuses on service

Photos submitted by Liz Beatley

Pole Green Elementary School students shared some holiday cheer with Covenant Woods residents as part of a community service project.

fter learning about the “Village” concept at a professional development activity, the school counselor at Pole Green Elementary School (PGES), collaborated with other faculty members to pilot a version of the Villages at PGES. During the 2011-2012 school year, one class from each grade level is participating in the pilot. Older classes are paired with younger classes to com-

plete community service projects. The teachers of the classes serve as the Village leaders who guide and organize the students as they select and complete community service projects. The objectives of the Village projects are to help enhance the sense of unity amongst PGES students and to provide an opportunity for students to actively participate in community service projects that are see SERVICE, pg. 13

Patrick Henry Soundsations perform for School Board

Photos submitted by Linda M. Scarborough

The Patrick Henry High School Soundsations, under the direction of Stephanie Ransome, performed at the Dec. 13 meeting of the Hanover County School Board. Tricia Wiles and Morgaine Goettl-Meyer were among the students performing.

The Mechanicsville Local

January 11, 2012

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three brothers, Russell H. Douglas Jr. of Churchville, Richard E. Douglas of Richmond and Jon rial Park. Arrangements by P. Douglas of Matthews, N.C.; Monaghan Funeral Home. two sisters, Geri Lea Douglas of Powhatan and Vickie M. Douglas Robin Clapp, 55, of Meof Richmond. The family received chanicsville, was tragically taken from this world Dec. 24, 2011. She friends on Friday, Jan. 6, 2012 at is survived by her mother, Shirley the Nelsen Funeral Home-Reid Patterson; brother, Jayson Stevens; Chapel, 412 S. Washington Hwy., three sons and two grandchildren. Ashland, Va., where a memorial The family received visitors at the service followed. A graveside Mechanicsville Chapel of Bennett service was held Saturday, Jan. 7, 2012 at Hopewell United MethodFuneral Home, 8014 Lee-Davis ist Church, 6100 Courthouse Rd., Road, on Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2012. Chesterfield, Va. In lieu of flowers, In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Robin’s please make contributions to St. Andrew’s School, 227 S. Cherry minor son, Jeremiah Stevens. Donations accepted by the family. St., Richmond, Va. 23220.

Stephanie; his wife’s family and a host of nieces, nephews and extended family plus his beloved dachshund, Toby. Doug graduated from Hermitage High School and Virginia Tech. He joined the Henrico County Police Department in 1998 and proudly served in the Forensics Unit, where he was a 2006 graduate of the Virginia Division of Forensics Science Academy and the National Forensics Academy located at the University of Tennessee. Doug was a devoted family man, avid church softball player, musician, softball coach, RV motor king, and community leader who will be greatly missed. A Celebration of Life memorial service was held Douglas J. Hedrick, 44, on Tuesday, Jan. 10, 2012, at LakeRobert Carroll Douglas , side United Methodist Church, 65, of Beaverdam, died Saturday, of Glen Allen, passed away on Jan. 2333 Hilliard Road, Richmond, 6, 2012. He was preceded in death Dec. 31, 2011. He was preceded in Va. 23228. Light refreshments by his father, James E. Hedrick death by his father, Russell Hunter with family visitation followed Sr. He is survived by his mother, Douglas Sr. He is survived by his in the church fellowship hall. wife, Donna Thompson Douglas; Helen; his loving wife of 19 years, Graveside services were private. Ellen; his beautiful daughters, and one daughter, Erin Elizabeth In lieu of flowers, please send Erin Casey and Katie Marie; his Simcoe Douglas, of Richmond. financial support to “The Erin & brothers, Jimmy Jr. (Angela) and Others include his mother, VirKatie Hedrick Education Fund” Jeff (Sherri); a special cousin, ginia B. Douglas of Midlothian; at any Wells Fargo branch or mail to Wells Fargo Bank, c/o The Erin Financial Aid if Qualiﬁed & Katie Hedrick Education Fund, 10190 Staples Mill Road, Glen Allen, Va. 23060. see OBITUARIES, pg. 11 `

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Miller of Vienna; one sister, Robbin Wallace of Midland; one brother, Neal Miller of Vienna; a Carol Lee Holder, 61, of host of nieces, nephews, cousins, Ashland, passed peacefully Jan. other relatives and friends. Carol 3, 2012. Despite nearly six years attended University of Kentucky, and achieved Certified Property of illness, Carol never lost her Manager designation and worked zest for life or her love for her in Washington, D.C., northern family. Her love of gardening, Virginia, and Richmond managher roses, hours spent on their ing commercial property. The boat on Lake Anna with her children and grandchildren or her family wishes to thank the nurses of the 5th Floor Pulmonary ICU avid reading - she never stopped living life. Carol was the first born at Chippenham Hospital for their of Lois Miller and the late Robert unparalleled care and attention towards Carol. Carol loved W. Miller. She is survived by her her family and friends and we devoted husband, Jerry Holder; will miss her as a wife, mother, one daughter, Cory Lounsbury grandmother, sister, aunt and of Winchester; one son-in-law, friend in our lives. The service Kris Lounsbury of Winchester; was held Saturday, Jan. 7, two sons, Matthew and Michael 2012 at Cremation Society of Holder of Mechanicsville; four Virginia, 1927 Westmoreland grandchildren, Kyla, Jordan, Street, Richmond, Va. 23230. Danyle and Cara Lounsbury of Winchester; her mother, Lois see OBITUARIES, pg. 12 `

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Lehman, John III (Lara) Small, Phillip (Sharron) Vaughan, Continued from pg. 10 b Kathryn (Richard) Britton, Tina M. Henderson, 47, Christiane (Steve) Horton; and 11 great-grandchildren Alyson of Mechanicsville, went to be Small, Brandon, Jimmy and with the Lord Tuesday, Jan. Nathan Lehman, Raven and 3, 2012. She was preceded in Tyler Vaughan, Page, Isabelle and death by her parents, Clarence Connor Britton, Amber and Jake E. and Helena M. Wright. She is Horton. He was a retired sergeant survived by her husband of 29 in the Army National Guard and years, Gray C. Henderson; her daughter, Rachel Henderson; her a World War II veteran, having served over 23 years, he retired grandson, Parker Sandy and his father, David Sandy; a stepdaugh- from Union Envelope Co. and was a member of the Mechanicster, Jody Golden; and stepgrandson, Tyler Golden; her sister, Julia ville Church of Christ. The family received friends on Tuesday, Dec. M. Chenault (Keith); two broth27, 2011 at the Atlee Chapel of ers, Keith and Michael (Evelyn) Woody Funeral Home, Route 301 Wright; two nephews, Eric and Christopher Chenault. The family and Shady Grove Rd. Services received friends Thursday, Jan. 5, were held on Wednesday, Dec. 2012 at Bliley’s-Staples Mill, 8510 28, 2011 at the funeral home. Graveside services with military Staples Mill Rd. Funeral services honors followed at Greenwood were held Friday, Jan. 6, 2012 at Memorial Gardens. Condolences The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Mechanicsville. Graveside services were held Saturday, Jan. 7, 2012 at the Ferguson family cemetery in Roanoke.

OBITUARIES

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Wirt Kay Hogle, 87, of Mechanicsville, entered into eternal rest on Dec. 23, 2011. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Bernice Cutright Hogle, whom he loved dearly and was his devoted companion and best friend; daughter, Delores Small; stepdaughter, Edwina Hale; like a son he never had, John Small Jr.; grandchildren, Jennifer (Tripp)

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January 11, 2012

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OBITUARIES Continued from pg. 11 b

Anne Sparkman Huff, 94, went to be with her Lord, Dec. 23, 2011. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jimmy Huff; two sisters, Marie Hadden and Grace Trice; and one brother, Miles E. Sparkman Jr. She is survived by one sister, Xenia Brehmer; and many loving nieces, nephews and cousins.

Anne had resided at The Richmond Home for Ladies and in 2001 moved to the ladies new home, Covenant Woods. Her Covenant Woods family gave her much love, joy and care. She lived life to the fullest, laughed “heartily” and loved deeply. A memorial service was held at Covenant Woods, Jan. 6, 2012. Memorial donations may be made to The Covenant Fund, Covenant Woods, 7090 Covenant

Woods Dr., Mechanicsville, Kelly was married 47 years to Va. 23111. Rest in Peace, Aunt Dorothy Doyle Wall who died Annie, till we meet again. in 2004. He is survived by his sister, Kathleen Lambert of Glen Allen; and by his Gene Kelly Lambert, stepson, Lloyd E. Wall and 84, died on Dec. 14, 2011 at his wife, Carole; his sons, Bon Secours Hospice. Born Mark and Matt and his wife, in Beckley, W.Va., to Orwin Leslie; and children, Mathew, Kelly Lambert and Pina Strong Lambert, he moved to Audrey and Christian, all of the Petersburg area as a small Knoxville, Tenn.; and by two child and lived for many years nephews and their families. A memorial service was held at in Colonial Heights, movFirst Christian Church, 301 ing to Glen Allen a year ago.

S. Boulevard, Petersburg, on Saturday, Jan. 7, 2012.

Landra M. Lynn (Mike), of Gallipolis, Ohio; two sons, Gary C. Martin (Beckie) Mildred Mitchell Martin and Jerry W. Martin ( Lori); one son-in-law, Charles H. , 79, a retired homemaker “Chuck” Ellis, all of Mechanand Hanover County School bus driver, of Mechanicsville, icsville; 11 grandchildren, passed away on Saturday, Dec. four great-grandchildren, two stepgreat-grandchildren; one 31, 2011. She was preceded sister, Judy M. Bowles; one in death by her husband, brother, George D. Mitchell; Charles E. Martin; daughter, as well as a host of nieces, Bonnie M. Ellis; and grandnephews, great-nieces and son, Charles N. Martin. She is survived by one daughter, see OBITUARIES, pg. 39 `

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LETTERS Continued from pg. 8

U.S. unraveling at the seams If you feel like the America you love is unraveling at the seams, you are correct. Our Constitution is under vicious attack and is being systematically marginalized. If liberal

SERVICE Continued from pg. 9

meaningful to them. On Saturday, Dec. 17, 2011, one of the PGES Villages (Susan Angel’s kindergarten class and Sandy Cario’s third grade class), completed part

legal thinkers have their way, the Constitution will “evolve” to the point of being completely unrecognizable. A socialistic mandate is being enacted throughout our government. Political correctness has replaced the cherished values of our founding principles. We are being pushed toward becoming a Europeanstyle democracy with an allpowerful central government.

Right now, our beloved nation is at a crossroads. This is a call to active citizenship. We are called to influence civil government through prayer and action so that we can “lead quiet and peaceable lives in all godliness and reverence” (1 Timothy 2:2). We must advance. We cannot remain “status quo,” and by no means can we lose ground. As we enter 2012, we need

one of their Village activity. They visited Covenant Woods, a local nursing home facility, to spread holiday cheer. Accompanied by the piano playing of PGES music teacher Karen Gilbert, the students sang Christmas carols and handed out cards and flowers

to the residents of Covenant Woods. School counselor Liz Beatley said, “Everyone involved agreed that this was a wonderful way to begin winter break.” Information submitted by Liz Beatley.

providing recreation & leisure opportunities with a purpose.

to stop the anti-American policies we have witnessed over the past three years and restore the Constitution and adherence to the first principles that made America great.

The Declaration of Independence says …“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalien-

able Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” I am deeply thankful for the Founding Fathers who crafted see LETTERS, pg. 15

Living Well After Cancer Healthy ealth life fe resources esource for the communit co munity A series of three free seminars featuring VCU Massey Cancer Center experts on six ways to improve the well-being of patients, survivors or anyone affected by cancer. Come learn about the health beneﬁts of these activities and the community resources available to support them.

Science Museum of Virginia, Discovery Room 6-8 p.m. January 18 Healthy Eating with Diane B. Wilson, Ed.D., R.D. Yoga with Mary Shall, Ph.D., P.T.

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The Mechanicsville Local

January 11, 2012

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Va. president to address woman’s club Hope Royer, president of the GFWC Virginia Federation of Women’s Clubs, will address the Pamunkey Woman’s Club on Monday at the Enon United Methodist Church. A “Soup and Salad Supper” will begin

at 6 p.m. For information about becoming a member of the Pamunkey Woman’s Club, contact Barbara Jacks, membership chairman, at 746-3294 or visit the club’s website, www. PAMUNKEYWC.org.

Santa’s helper

Photo submitted by Jim Teichert

Kinley, a 2-year-old 126-pound Alaskan Malamute, set up Christmas for his four favorite children. The dog makes his home on Hillcrest Road in Mechanicsville.

Deadline for Citizens Planning Academy nears

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Friday, Jan. 20, is the deadline to apply for Hanover County’s Citizens Planning Academy, the first of its kind in Virginia. The 2012 Academy has five sessions, beginning Feb. 1. Each session will begin at 6:30 p.m. and last until about 9 p.m. Each participant selected must commit to all sessions. A fee of $30 per participant is required to cover the cost of

materials and refreshments. The Board of Supervisors will recognize all graduates during its March 14 meeting. This is an opportunity to learn more about the planning process, the rules and regulations governing zoning and subdivisions, the legal bases for planning, planning for capital improvements, and ethics in the see CITIZENS, pg. 24

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L-DHS students’ names omitted from Vantage Point

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The Mechanicsville Local

MEMORIAL REGIONAL

January 11, 2012

Good Help to Those in Need® |

S T. F R A N C I S

The list of Lee-Davis Hanover Scholars printed in the December Vantage Point omitted the following names: Ellen Marie O’Brien, Alexa Jodee Oswald, Akta A Patel, Samantha Dunaway Perkins, Lucas Hunter Powell, Rachel Layne Prestipino, Britni Nicole Purcell, Shayna Iman Purcell, Bethany Ann Pursel, Shane Austin Rodriguez, Chelsea

Nicole Shipp, Taylor Nicole Singleton and Jesse Darien Smith. Principal Carol Moore said, “We congratulate these students and regret the omission.” A complete list of Lee-Davis Hanover Scholars may be found in the Principal’s Blog on the Lee-Davis High School website, http://hcps2.hanover.k12.va.us/ ldhs/.

LETTERS Continued from pg. 13

these documents and for the millions who have fought and died for our liberties and freedom over the years. I will not allow a handful of people to rewrite the past in order to reduce our nation to being a small part of some ill-conceived global society. That is why the awakening of patriotic citizens across the nation will transform our nation’s political landscape. We must stand together now – and throughout 2012 – or we could lose our liberties for all time! Leslie Zodun Mechanicsville

Poll: best days behind us Had a person fallen asleep in 1960 — when there was prayer in the public schools, which set a nice tone for the day, Christian historical events were in the public school history textbooks, television started in the morning with religious shows on the

only three networks, and stores were closed on Sunday — and then awakened today, this is what they’d have found strikingly different in the United States: ● Doubled divorce rate. ● Tripled teen suicide. ● Quadrupled rate of reported violent crimes. ● Quintupled prison population. ● Sextupled percent of babies born to unmarried parents. ● Sevenfold increase in cohabitations (a predictor of future divorce). ● Soaring rate of depression to 10 times the pre-World War II level, by some estimates. Seems to explain why the vast majority of people polled think that America’s best days are behind us. What went wrong? Elmer Brown Mechanicsville

Over the past three years almost $6 trillion has been added to the national debt. The national debt now exceeds $15 trillion. One trillion is a 1 followed by 12 zeros. One trillion seconds equals 31,546 years, which means that it would take 473,190 years to click off 15 trillion seconds. This is dangerously irresponsible. LaToya Brown Mechanicsville

Connections to Virginia Tech

In their responses to my recent letter to The Mechanicsville Local criticizing Virginia Tech officials for their serial lapses of campus safety, both Michael Woods and Bob O’Neil state that I have no knowledge of Blacksburg or Virginia Tech and that I would not have made the statements I did had I ever visited either. Their advice is as unnecessary as their assumption is Somebody better “tap the false. I was a graduate student brakes.” at Virginia Tech for two years. I

‘Tap brakes’ on national debt

received an M.A. there in 2004. I was a resident of Blacksburg for the entire time. I even taught in the very same Norris Hall classroom — at the very same day and time — where SeungHui Cho’s rampage climaxed three years later. Indeed, had Cho snapped in his freshman instead of his senior year, it is all-too-conceivable that I would have been numbered among the dead in Norris Hall. So neither man is in any position to lecture me on the subject of Virginia Tech — whether in regard to its environs or to the failings of its administration. This is not the forum to recount the ways in which the university’s mishandling of Cho’s initial double homicide allowed that isolated event to spiral into a 55-casualty massacre. The families of those victims still litigating the case against Virginia Tech make that point far more eloquently than I can. But as to Woods and O’Neil’s defense of the latest indefensible lapse, I note again that a car

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This is an opportunity for you to learn more about the planning process, the rules and regulations governing zoning and subdivisions, the legal bases for planning, planning for capital improvements, and ethics in the planning process. The course will include an opportunity for each participant to discuss the County’s future. The class will be limited to no more than thirty (30) participants and will meet on the following dates, from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. February 1, 2012 February 7, 2012 February 14, 2012 February 16, 2012 February 21, 2012 March 14, 2012 Each participant selected must commit to attend all the sessions. There is a fee of $30 per adult participant, to cover the cost of materials and refreshments. In selecting participants for the class, an effort will be made to achieve a broad-based representation of the community. Applications will be accepted until 5:00 p.m. on Friday, January 20. 2012. Applicants selected to participate will be notified by the Hanover County Planning Office shortly thereafter. For additional information and to request an application form, contact: Sharlee K. D. Mills, Office Manager Hanover County Planning Office 7516 County Complex Road P.O. Box 470 Hanover Courthouse Hanover, Virginia 230669 365-6169 (Hanover, Doswell, Mechanicsville, Richmond) 227-3377 (Beaverdam, Montpelier) 798-6160 (Rockville) (Fax 804-365-6232) sdmills@co.hanover.va.us The Mechanicsville Local

January 11, 2012

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William and Lisa Coalson married on Dec. 9, 2011, in Las Vegas and took along a copy of The Mechanicsville Local. They exchanged vows at the Chapel of the Flowers on the Las Vegas strip. “It was a wonderful experience,” William said. The newlyweds stayed at the Luxor hotel casino.

Rabies vaccination clinic to be held at EHVRS Jan. 28 Hanover County Animal Control will hold Mechanicsville. its final rabies vaccination clinic of the fall/winA veterinarian will administer the vaccine for ter season from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, $7 per dog or cat. Jan. 28, at the East Hanover Volunteer Rescue All dogs and cats 4 months of age and older Squad building at 8105 Walnut Grove Road in see RABIES, pg. 24

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January 11, 2012

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CALENDAR | News, Updates & Listings Fax submissions to calendar to 730-0476, e-mail to events@mechlocal.com, or mail to 6400 Mechanicsville Tnpk., Mechanicsville VA 23111. Deadline is 3 p.m. Friday for the following week’s issue. Calendar announcements cannot be taken by phone. We reserve the right to edit all items submitted to The Local.

Wednesday, Jan. 11 Hanover Branch Library Friends Meeting: 5 p.m. – Please join our current members for our first meeting of the new year. Find out how the Friends are supporting the Pamunkey Regional Library and literacy in our community. Registration is now open for Dynamo Soccer Club’s Spring 2012 Recreation season. Come be a part of the Dynamo Recreation, register today at www.dynamosc.com. Early Registration deadline is Feb. 3 ($75). Final Registration deadline is Feb. 17 ($85). Please join us at Rural Point Baptist Church at 7 p.m. as the Proclaim Ministry Team from Pensacola Christian College, Pensacola, Fla., will provide a special program of music and/ or dramatic selections, a DVD presentation about the college, and a message from God’s Word. The event is located at 6548 Studley Rd. Please call 730 - 3226 for more information. Come and enjoy this special event with us.

Thursday, Jan. 12 The National Alliance on Mental Illness-Central Virginia Chapter (NAMI-CVA) will have their monthly meeting at 7 p.m. at the Weinstein JCC, 5403 Monument Ave. Mira Signer, Executive Director of NAMI-

Virginia will discuss Mental ciety.org for available animals Health Legislative Issues for and additional adoption infor2012. The meeting is free and mation. open to the public. For further information call 285-1749. Sunday, Jan. 15 Hanover Humane Society will hold a cat adoption stand Saturday, Jan. 14 Pamunkey River Garden at the Virginia Center PetSmart Club will meet at 10:30 a.m. store from 2-5 p.m. Please visit at the Mechanicsville Branch www.hanoverhumanesociety. Library, 7461 Sherwood org for available animals and Crossing Place, Mechanicsville, additional adoption informaVA. The speaker will be Jean tion. Ray. Jean is an accredited flower Gospel/Bluegrass Jam show judge and floral designer. The program will be “Simple at 3 p.m. at Prospect United Designs”. Anyone interested in Methodist Church located floral design and horticulture is at 2387 West Wood Rd., welcome to come visit with us. Mechanicsville, Va. All are welAny questions, please contact come. For more information Susan Blankinship, President at please call 781-0777. 932-3451.

Hanover Humane Society will hold a dog adoption stand at its facility at 12190 Washington Highway in Ashland from 9-12 p.m. Cat adoption stands will be held at the Mechanicsville and Virginia Center PetSmart stores from 11-3 p.m. Please visit www.hanoverhumaneso-

in racks and boxes at the following locations in Ashland, Hanover, King William and around Mechanicsville. MECHANICSVILLE 23111

MECHANICSVILLE 23116

HANOVER 23069

360 Coin Laundry & Cleaners 7040 Mechanicsville Tpke

301 BP 9159 Chamaberlayne Road

Han Co Admin Bldg 7516 County Complex Road

BB & T - Lee Davis 7016 Mechanicsville Tpke

Atlee Branch Library 9161 Atlee Road

Hanover Co Sheriff’s Office 7522 County Complex Road

BB & T - Mech 8074 Mechanicsville Tpke

EVB (Kings Charter) 9495 Charter Gate Drive

Houndstooth Restaurant 13271 Hanover Courthouse Rd

Covenant Woods 7090 Covenant Woods Dr.

Hogg Professional Building 9137 Chamberlayne Road

Pamunkey Regional Jail 7240 Courtland Farm Road

Colonial Pharmacy 7510 Mechanicsville Tpke.

La Bella Hair Design 9369 Atlee Road, Ste 3105

Wickham Bldg 7515 County Complex Road

EVB Bank (Mechanicsville) 8123 Mechanicsville Tpke.

Nacho Mamas 7610 Left Flank Road

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Tribute Celebration to be held at 12 p.m. at Blackwell Auditorium, R-MC Center for the Performing Arts. Randolph-Macon College will remember and honor the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. during a tribute celebration of the late civil rights leader’s birthday. Dr. Jamelle Wilson, Superintendent of Hanover County Public Schools, will be the guest speaker. This event is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Pam Cox at 752-3712.

EVB Bank (Old Church) 4241 Mechanicsville Tpke.

Owens and Minor 9120 Lockwood Blvd

Hanover Cleaners 8092 Mechanicsville Tpke.

Padows Deli 8161 Atlee Road

Hanover Health & Rehab 8139 Lee Davis Road

The Dance Company 8324 Bell Creek Road, Ste

Hometown Realty 7240 Lee Davis Rd, Suite 200

Valero (Atlee & Sliding Hill Rds.) 10030 Sliding Hill Road

Hope Royer, president of the GFWC Virginia Federation of Women’s Clubs, will address the Pamunkey Woman’s Club at the Enon United Methodist Church. A “Soup and Salad Supper” will get underway at 6 p.m., with the program following. For information about becoming a member of the Pamunkey Woman’s Club, contact Barbara Jacks, membership chairman, at 746-3294 or visit the club’s website, www.pamunkeywc.org.

Shoneys 7137 Mechanicsville Tpke.

Monday, Jan. 16 Shady Grove Coffeehouse continues its eleventh season with a concert by Richmond folk favorites Karen Trump, Jackie Frost, and Josh Bearman. The concert starts at 8 p.m. doors open at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $10 in advance; $12 at the door. Children 12 and under are admitted free of charge; teens 13-18 are admitted at half price. Net proceeds benefit UUCC. For advance tickets, or more information, call 323-4288, visit the Shady Grove web site at www.shadygrovecoffeehouse. com, or send e-mail to info@shadygrovecoffehouse.com. Shady Grove Coffeehouse is located at The Unitarian Universalist Community Church, 11105 Cauthorne Road, Glen Allen, Va. 23059.

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Long & Foster 6150 Mechanicsville Tpke Mechanicsville Drug 8077 Mechanicsville Tpke. Mech Local Lobby 6400 Mechanicsville Tpke

MANQUIN 23106 M & M Pizza - B&P Station 1418 Richmond-Tappahannock Hwy. 360 Hardware & Rental 625 Richmond-Tappahannock Hwy

KING WILLIAM 23086 Rennie’s Texaco/KWm 5033 Richmond-Tappahannock Hwy. Valero (King William) 12132 King William Road

UPS Store 8005 C Creighton Parkway

One Stop Market 2185 Richmond-Tappahannock Hwy.

Village Bank 6127 Mechanicsville Tpke.

Valero Atlee & Meadowbridge 8188 Atlee Road West Store 4225 Mechanicsville Tpke.

Cross Brothers Grocery 107 South Center Street

McLeans Restaurant 10372 Leadbetter Road Rite Aid 607 England Street Sheetz/Ashland 12341 N. Washington Hwy. Sheetz/Leadbetter Dr 10037 Sliding Hill Road

Martins 7324 Bell Creek Road

Village Bank (Old Mech) 8051 Mechanicsville Tpke.

Ashland Visitor Ctr 112 N. Washington Hwy.

Henry Clay Shopping Center Rt. 54

Parkway Restaurant 7211 Stonewall Parkway

Tropical Smoothie 7152 Mechanicsville Tpke.

Ashland Coffee & Tea 100 N Railroad Ave.

Han Community Svc 12300 Washington Hwy.

Lee Davis B & P 7051 Mechanicsville Tpke. Lee Davis Pharmacy 7023 Lee Park Road

ASHLAND 23005

Skateland 516 N. Washington Hwy.

GLEN ALLEN 23059 Green Top Sporting Goods 10193 Washinghton Highway Hill City Chop House 10099 Brook Road Bank Essex/Va Ctr 9951 Brook Road

STUDLEY 23162

Chic-fil-A 10176 Brook Road

Studley Store 5407 Studley Road

see CALENDAR, pg. 32 `

The Mechanicsville Local

January 11, 2012

PHHS junior’s commercial advances in contest A commercial created by Patrick Henry High School junior Schyler Neale has been chosen as a finalist by Fox 35 in the Fox 35 Lights, Camera, Take Action contest. The contest is aimed at stopping underage drinking. Neale’s commercial, “Don’t Believe the Hype,” was one of four commercials selected.

According to Fox officials, more than 80 entries were submitted. Neale recently was interviewed by Fox reporters about how she came up with the idea for the commercial. Her interview, as well as her commercial, will run several times on the Fox 35 network. Neale said she chose to shoot

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her commercial as a documentary and she feels students can relate to the message. “I think my commercial connects with students. It’s a serious message but portrayed in a humorous way. Don’t believe the hype; alcohol doesn’t make you feel good, it isn’t cool and you are definitely not in control.” “I rifled around several ideas before I came up with the idea Don’t Believe the Hype. It took about a day to film the commercial and about a week to edit it,” she added. Neale said she wanted to make a video that she thought would connect with the stuPhoto submitted by Michelle Gary dents. “I chose to go with a docu- Schyler Neale, a junior at Patrick Henry High School, shows her

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finished commercial to Dr. Jeffrey Crook, principal, and Michelle Gary, Mass Communication teacher. Shown are, from left, Jeff Crook, Neale and Gary.

mentary, because I felt students would really relate to it because it’s real but I also wanted to have a little bit of comedy in it with the situation the students are in.” Neale’s commercial was submitted by her Mass Communication teacher, Michelle Gary. For the last four

years, Gary has had a semifinalist in the Fox 35 contest. “When I saw Schyler’s commercial, I was impressed by her message that teenagers shouldn’t believe the hype when it comes to alcohol and the fact she was able to convey that in a 20-second commercial.” Dr. Jeffrey Crook, principal,

said he hopes Patrick Henry will bring home the award this year. “I’m proud that Schyler is continuing the tradition of excellence here at Patrick Henry by being selected as a finalist for this year’s competition.” The community is urged to help Neale with the Fox 35 contest. There are two ways to vote everyday: You can send a free text message to 67336 and type in FOXD or you can go to the Internet and log onto www.FOXRICHMOND.com select CONTEST at the top of the page and then select Lights Camera Take Action. You also can watch Neale’s commercial on the Fox website. “I hope my friends and peers will vote for me because they can relate to the commercial because it’s real,” Neale said. As a semifinalist Neale received a Samsung tablet. She and the other three finalists are competing for a trip for two to the 2012 Teen Choice Awards. The winner will be revealed on Wednesday, Jan. 18, during the season premiere of American Idol. Neale’s parents are Spencer and Linda Neale.

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The Mechanicsville Local

January 11, 2012

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of the house and up to 10 acres around it. The homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s owners can have a combined gross annual income of up to $50,000 and still qualify. The income of relatives living in the home is counted except for the first $10,000 of the relativeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s income, which is exempted. If an applicant qualifies for 100 percent tax relief, they pay no real property taxes on that qualified parcel. About 1,670 households currently participate in Hanover Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tax relief for the elderly and disabled program. The average tax savings for those households is about $1,070; about 40 percent of the par-

ticipating households pay no county real estate tax at all as a result of the program. Because of this program, qualifying Hanover County residents had their real estate taxes reduced by $1.7 million last year. Disabled applicants must provide certification of disability. This can be a statement from the Social Security Administration, a statement from the Veterans Administration, a statement from the Railroad Retirement Board or a sworn affidavit from two medical doctors. Once an application is on file, only an affidavit is needed for the following two years, unless there is a significant change in income or net worth. A new application is necessary only every third year. All infor-

mation on the application is confidential and is not open to public inspection. Applicants must sign up by March 1 for the relief to be applied to the real estate tax bills that will be sent out later this spring and are due (first half) on June 5. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is a great program designed to help those taxpayers who most need the help,â&#x20AC;? said Scott Harris, Hanoverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Commissioner of the Revenue. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We invite all residents who think they might qualify to call our office.â&#x20AC;? To apply, call the Commissioner of the Revenue at 365-6128. If you have computer access, application forms also can be downloaded from www.co.hanover.va.us/comrevnu/txrelief.htm.

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est murder at the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute. Yet the Continued from pg. 15 discovery prompted no notifiknown to have been stolen by cation by the university. an armed fugitive was discovThe Transportation Institute ered some hours before this lat- is not an abandoned build-

LETTERS

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The Mechanicsville Local

January 11, 2012

CELEBRATIONS | Births, Engagements, Weddings & Anniversaries

Barr-Wyatt celebrate engagement Faber-Lang announce wedding plans

Photo courtesy of Shawn Hubbard Photography

ANGELA FABER and DAVID LANG JR. to be married April 2012 Photo courtesy of Joelle Inge Photography

ANDREA RENAE BARR and WARREN WYATT III to be married February 2012

Mr. and Mrs. Gregg and Karen Barr of Mechanicsville, announce the engagement of their daughter, Miss Andrea Renae Barr, to Mr. Warren â&#x20AC;&#x153;Wrenâ&#x20AC;? Wyatt, III, son of Mr. Warren Wyatt, Jr. and Mrs. Sheryl Wyatt also of Mechanicsville. A February

2012 wedding is planned in Richmond. Miss Barr is a 2003 graduate from Atlee High School. She finished cum laude with a B.S. in Mass Communications at Virginia Commonwealth University and is an Account Manager

at Royall & Company. Mr. Wyatt is a 2002 graduate from Lee Davis High School. He received a B.A. in Foreign Affairs at the University of Virginia and is a Product Service Specialist at Electrical Equipment Company.

For information on Celebrations, or to place your anniversary, birth, engagement or wedding announcement please contact David Lint at 7461235, ext. 17. Or via email at dlint@mediageneral.com 20

The Mechanicsville Local

January 11, 2012

Mr. and Mrs. Michael Faber of Mechanicsville, are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter, Angela Faber, to David Lang Jr., son of Mr. and Mrs. David Lang Sr. of Dumont, N.J. Details of the engagement can be viewed at www.davelovesangie.com. Angela is a 2000 graduate of Lee-Davis High School and a 2004 graduate of Mary Baldwin College and is currently working for the Department of Defense. David is 2005 graduate of Loyola College and is currently working for the Baltimore Ravens. An April wedding is planned.

Long time Mechanicsville residents Shot and Gloria Magnum celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on December 16, 2011. In May their children gave them a surprised party inviting some of their friends. Their biggest event was a two-week trip out west to places like Mount Rushmore, Deadwood, S.D. and culminating with eight days in beautiful Grand Lake, Colo. The Mangums have five children, fourteen grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. The couple plans to spend the rest of their days in Hanover County.

SHOT and GLORIA MANGUM celebrated 50th Wedding Anniversary Dec. 16, 2011

LETTERS Continued from pg. 19

students and staff never visit it matters only if one is willing to disregard — as Woods and O’Neil apparently are — the safety of those who do. Both men would be well advised to read the name of the facility again before suggesting that Virginia Tech officials could not possibly be expected to have issued any sort of warning to students, faculty or staff

that a portion of Virginia Tech — however remote from the main campus — was an active crime scene involving a felon with a gun. Surely the body count at Virginia Tech has risen high enough in the past five years for the university to begin erring on the side of over-reaction. Further, Woods and O’Neil’s insistence that the Virginia Tech administration takes every reasonable precaution to protect its students and employees is a

proposition with which the U.S. Department of Education begs to differ. Hence its imposition of the highest fines ever handed down for the university’s prior failings — responsibility for which Tech officials were still attempting to evade in a hearing held not 24 hours before the murder of Officer Crouse. Ever since the 2007 shootings, university president Charles W. Steger has waged a campaign to equate criticism of his performance with criticism

Holding Back Considering all the Lord granted us in 2011 along with the unknown of 2012 looming ahead, we decided we needed a full night of seeking the Lord in prayer. We offered to our congregation the sanctuary for the night of New Year’s Eve dawning into the New Year.

of Virginia Tech itself, building a barricade around his office made of Hokie Pride and the blood of Cho’s victims. The kneejerk defense offered by Woods and O’Neil proves only that that is one task at which Dr. Steger has proved competent. The Richmond TimesDispatch stands by its reporting of the university’s prior knowledge of the threat posed by Officer Crouse’s killer. I stand by my condemnation of the

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Thankfully very soon direction came on seeking what God is feeling. He led us to Romans 2:4 and surrounding verses. “Or do you despise the riches of His goodness, forbearance and longsuffering, not knowing that the goodness of God leads you to repentance?”

This verse clearly says we are “unaware” of this. We need to BECOME aware of it. The verse also says we show contempt, disdain, despise, think little of the wealth being poured upon us in this continual sacrifice of the heart of God. We feel entitled without even realizing we are doing so. To Him, it is contempt toward His rich goodness. That night a picture developed of God’s “forbearance.” He is holding back on something huge. It has been warned about throughout Scripture. The verses following 2:4 reveal this era we are living will change. I see this huge “holding back” as no less than the walls of the Red Sea being held at bay for a full night. What exertion. What power. What Decision of deliverance! Unlike the hours of the Red Sea Exodus, this mighty holding back has gone on for centuries up to the present. This word made us ache for the heart of God and how we are responding to His benevolence. What does this do to the forecast for 2012? This was a very relational glimpse into the Father’s heart. We being “unaware” are now more aware. Can this be shared to make others aware, too? “What are You thinking? What are You feeling? I need to know.” On New Year’s Eve, He graciously gave us what we needed to know.

Open letter to constituents

PLAN NOW INSTEAD OF THE COURT DECIDING LATER

The personal quest of the night ahead came from lyrics of a song by Misty Edwards: “What are You thinking? What are You feeling? I need to know.”

Each word was revealing the heart of God: His goodness (causing ease in our movements), forbearance (Greek word: He is literally having to hold back, ana = up and back, echo = to have, to hold) and longsuffering (long temper). All three are generosities, which are at a cost to Him day after day on top of the ultimate Sacrifice He won for us at the Cross. These costs to Him ARE MEANT to lead us to repentance. When they come to us, they should translate into repentance.

begin the 2012 legislative sesuniversity’s inaction. Joseph Pierro sion, I hope you will take a few Mechanicsville moments to share with me your thoughts on some of the issues facing the General Assembly. Thank you in advance for taking the time to complete the legislative questionnaire. Please I am honored to have the do not hesitate to contact me if privilege of serving and working I may be of assistance to you or on behalf of the citizens of the your family. My annual legislative survey 97th House District. Working questions reference important together, we have accomplished public policy issues which may many things for our community see LETTERS, pg. 22 and our Commonwealth. As we

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The Mechanicsville Local

January 11, 2012

Garden club to meet Saturday The Pamunkey River Garden Club will meet at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 14, at the Mechanicsville Branch Library at 7461 Sherwood Crossing Place in Mechanicsville. The speaker will be Jean Ray, an accredited flower show judge and floral designer. Her program will be â&#x20AC;&#x153;Simple Designsâ&#x20AC;?. Anyone interested in floral design and horticulture is welcome to attend. For more information, call the president, Susan Blankinship, at 932-3451.

Holiday closings Hanover County Government offices will be closed on Friday, Jan. 13, for Lee-Jackson Day and Monday, Jan. 16, for Martin Luther Kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Birthday. The six Hanover branches of the Pamunkey Regional Library will be closed on both days as well as on Saturday, Jan. 14.

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Gardening seminar to feature Viette Andreâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Viette, author of The Mid-Atlantic Gardening Guide, will offer a seminar at the Virginia Home & Garden Show, scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 14-15, at The Meadow Event Park in Doswell. Viette will discuss â&#x20AC;&#x153;Gardening With Little or No Workâ&#x20AC;? at 2 p.m. on Saturday. The seminar will include tips on: Flower Gardening, Vegetables, Lawns and Fruit Trees; The Best Trees, Shrubs, Perennials and Annuals for Your Garden; Gardening Solutions for Insects, Diseases, Mites and Weeds; and Seeding Your Spring Lawn. Viette, the developer and owner of AndrĂŠ Viette Farm and Nursery in Fishersville, said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll discuss the stress winter has on plants, evergrowing deer problems, a new species of stink bug and the renewed popularity of backyard farming.â&#x20AC;? Viette grows more than 3,000 varieties of perennials. His radio show, â&#x20AC;&#x153;In the Garden,â&#x20AC;? is syndicated and

airs locally on WRVA, books and appearances throughout the country. The Virginia Home & Garden Show will be held from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Discounted tickets for the show can be purchased for $5 online at www. VAHomeAndGardenShow. com. Show prices are $8 for adults and children age 16 and under will be admitted free. Active and retired military, police and EMS also will be admitted free of charge with a valid ID. There is free parking onsite and those interested in attending the Virginia Home & Garden Show on multiple days should ask for free return passes, which will be available at the show office. Cash only will be accepted at the box office but there is an ATM on-site. For more information, visit www. VAHomeAndGardenShow. com or call 425-6556.

Auditions set Jan. 20-21 for â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Pilgrimâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Progressâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Giants, swamps, demons, swordfights, pretty damsels, talking trees and a heavenly city --these are some of the elements that propel forward the classic story of â&#x20AC;&#x153;Pilgrimâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Progressâ&#x20AC;? by John Bunyan. Ellen Judy and Kara Green Benham (d. 2005) created a musical adaptation of the story that will be performed May 3-6 at the Mechanicsville Christian Center. Auditions for youth ages 10 through18 will be held at 7 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 20, and at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 21, at the center. Callbacks are scheduled for Jan. 27 and 28. Actors will be expected to

make a priority commitment to Friday night and Saturday morning rehearsals from February through April, excluding Easter, April 6-8. Dress rehearsal is planned for May 2. In addition to the May 3-5 performances at the Mechanicsville Christian Center, a May 6 possible off-site performance is being considered. The last two weeks before performances will involve one or two additional weeknight or Sunday afternoon rehearsals. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Life Lessons that we can learn from Bunyanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;little bookâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; will help carry us through this life. It is my hope to intro-

duce young people to classic Christian literature which will help them face the huge and various challenges they face today,â&#x20AC;? Judy said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We plan to have about 30 youth from the Hanover and Richmond area come together to have a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;kingdomâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience of working together to share the Gospel with their families, friends and neighbors.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Karaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s music is show-quality excellent. Pastor Kim Taulbee of Third Presbyterian Church has created a superb sound track to accompany the show and Chris Hobart of Son Chaser Ministries will direct the new production,â&#x20AC;? she added.

Performance to celebrate MLK birthday Keeping the Dream Alive, a dramatic performance by Keith Smith, will be presented from 10 a.m. to noon on Monday, Jan. 16, at Hanover High School in Mechanicsville. The program centers on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., whose birthday will be celebrated that day.

Dr. A. Lincoln James Jr., pastor of Trinity Baptist Church in Richmond, will be the speaker. A special solo will be performed by Aubrey â&#x20AC;&#x153;Bubbaâ&#x20AC;? Johnson. For more information, call Rev. E. Richard Swan or Mary Esther Brooks at 746-3833.

Solid waste convenience centers to close for holidays MECHANICSVILLE, VA 4BR 3BA 3,294+/- sf. Built in 1992. Approx 2ac lot. Nominal Opening Bid: $50,000 1-4pm Sun Jan 8, 15 and 2 hours before auction.

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LETTERS Continued from pg. 21

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The Mechanicsville Local

Hanover Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s six solid closed on Friday, Jan. 13, in obser- Monday, Jan. 16, in observance of waste convenience centers will be vance of Lee-Jackson Day and Martin Luther Kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s birthday.

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January 11, 2012

be considered by the General Assembly during the 2012 Legislative Session. You may access the online survey via my website at www. chrispeace.com. If you do not have access to a computer or would prefer a hard copy of the survey, please call 804-698-1097 and

my office will mail you a copy along with a reply envelope for you to easily return the completed survey. Your opinion is very important to me, so please take a few moments to let me know where you stand on these important issues. If you are undecided on an issue, feel free to leave it blank. Should you have any ques-

tions or comments, please do not hesitate to contact me at the Capitol Office at 804-698-1097, via e-mail at DelCPeace@house. virginia.gov , on Facebook at Christopher K. Peace or on Twitter @DelCPeace. Thank you again for the honor of serving as your representative from the 97th District. Del. Christopher K. Peace 97th House District

Legislative ladies

Shop%Till You Drop OFF SALES GUIDE Alert your customers about after holiday bargains! Promote your sales for up to

DEADLINE: JAN 12 PUBLISH: JAN. 18

Photo submitted by Chris Peace

Ashley Peace, the wife of Del. Chris Peace. Rose Ann Janis, the wife of Del. Bill Janis; First Lady Maureen McDonnell; and Dottie Cox, the wife of Del. John Cox; take a moment to smile for the camera during a Christmas event at the Capitol.

Bonnie Chenault 730-7195

Mike Chenault 726-4532

Todd Rogers 730-7195

David Bremner 550-1900

Area 44 7338 Luck Avenue Rodney Chenault 249-2820

Deane Cheatham Cyndi Wyatt Blake 726-4533 730-7195

Heather Graves Shurm 730-7195

Marcia S. Thomas 730-7195 x 137

Teelo Rutledge 726-4525

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Call Cyndi Wyatt Blake 804-569-1529

2 lots available in cul-de-sac. $27,000 each.

C.B. Southward 730-7195

Gorgeous Colonial situated on a private 3 acre lot. This home offers almost 3500 finished sq ft with 5 bedrooms and 3.5 baths. The bedroom, bonus room with sink and cabinets, and full bath lends to all kinds of possibilities (in-law suite/ teenage hangout/etc.) The kitchen has ceramic tile floors and backsplash, granite counters, bar area, two pantries, lots of cabinets, eat-in area, and a gas fireplace. The cozy family room has wainscoting, ceiling fan, crown molding, new carpet, and built-in bookcases. Great location and schools!

Eugene Bordonie 730-7195

Pam Wood 513-8842

Call Pam Wood 513-8842

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Gorgeous custom built & maintained inside & out. Almost 3000 sq. ft. w/over 500 unfinshed. 4 bedrms on 2nd flr. 1st flr has formal rms w/hdwd flrs & ext trim work. Gourmet kitchen, w/ Butler’s Pantry. Family rm w/ h gas FP, surround sound, crown mldg & door to patio. Open staircase leading to 2nd floor. Master bedrm w/ sitting area, walk-in closet, & gorgeous private master bath. Too many amenities to list! $360,000.

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Hartford Oaks Subdivision Beautiful 5 bedroom Colonial with private cul-desac lot. Large kitchen that opens into vaulted family room/fireplace. Formal rooms and home office. Oversized garage, walk up attic, and vinyl siding. Too much to list! Hanover High School.

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Lot 38 $6000. Lot 39 $10,000. Harbor- Many amenities. Lot 51 $13,900 and Lot 52 $13,900 Pelican Way Montross in Glebe Harbor, pool, clubhouse, boat launch, private sandy beach and much more. Lots 51 and 52 together $10,000. Colonial Beach, public utilities, Potomac Beach in walking distance. King William 5+ acres Marl Hill, buildable, perked lot $50,000. Private, some lightly wooded. King William 2.97 acres Upshaw Rd. buildable, owner will perk $29,900. Call Donna Hines 804-317-8779

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Mechanicsville Office 730-7195 • Atlee Office 550-1900 • Chesterfield Office 520-7550 • Ashland Office 752-7585 Twin Hickory Office 747-9933 • Rockville Office 749-1906 • Tappahannock Office 1-800-443-4707 • Prince George Office 415-4119

The Mechanicsville Local

January 11, 2012

Relay For Life kickoﬀ to be held Jan. 18 The Relay For Life of Mechanicsville Kickoff will be held at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 18, at O’Banks Café and Grill at 10392 Leadbetter Rd. in Ashland. Light food and information about the Relay For Life of Mechanicsville, scheduled for May 5, are on the agenda for the evening. Organizers have a goal of making the 2012 event “Mechanicsville’s best Relay For Life yet.” They need committee members, team captains and participants. Every day, 1,500 people die of cancer. Every

day, families are told that their loved one is losing time. Every day, patients are struggling through rounds of chemotherapy. By becoming a part of Relay For Life, you will be celebrating survivorship, remembering loved ones you’ve lost, and helping current patients to fight back against a disease that has taken too many lives. For updates about meetings and the Relay For Life of Mechanicsville, “like” theFacebook page (“Relay For Life – Mechanicsville, Virginia”) or contact Ginny Wescott at 527-3712; ginny. wescott@cancer.org).

Funeral director recertified

Robert F. “Bud” Hazelgrove, CFSP, a licen’sed funeral director since 1970 and general manager with Woody Funeral Home’s Cremation Service in metro Richmond, recently qualified for recertification of the designation of Certified Funeral Service Practitioner (CFSP) by the Academy of Professional Funeral Service Practice. Hazelgrove, who lives in Mechanicsville, also is a Lifetime Member of the Academy. A number of professions grant special recognition to members upon completion of specified academic and professional programs and “CFSP”

is funeral service’s national individual recognition. A select few have distinguished themselves among their peers within the funeral service profession as they continue their education to exceed the highest standards of care. This achievement is considered especially notable because Hazelgrove has voluntarily elected to participate in quality educational and service opportunities that far surpass what the funeral service licensing board in Virginia requires. Since its 1876 founding, the Academy has had as its

goals: I) to recognize those practitioners who have voluntarily entered into a program of personal and professional growth, 2) to raise and improve the standards of funeral service and 3) to encourage practitioners to make continuing education a lifelong process in their own self-interst. the interest of the families they serve, and the community in which they serve. To initially receive this award, the practitioner must complete a 180-hour program of continuing education activities and events.

your pet inside. The vaccination is good up to three years. Animals who have been infected by rabies pose a health threat to Hanover County residents and their pets. So far this year, there have been 11 confirmed cases of animal rabies in

the county. For more information, call Hanover County Animal Control at 365-6485 or visit www.co.hanover.va.us/anmlctrl/rabiesct.htm. Information submitted by Tom Harris, Hanover County public information officer.

future. This is the 15th session of the Hanover County Citizens Continued from pg. 14 Planning Academy. More than planning process. The course will 280 citizens have graduated. include an opportunity for each For more information, or participant to discuss the county’s to get a registration form, call

Sharlee Mills, office manager, Planning Office, at 365-6169. Residents of Beaverdam and Montpelier should call 2273377 and residents of Rockville should call 798-6160.

RABIES Continued from pg. 16

must be vaccinated and have tags and a valid license proving the vaccination. The veterinarian will administer the shots at your vehicle without you having to bring

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The Mechanicsville Local

January 11, 2012

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New pizza restaurant to benefit Atlee Little League Stevi Bâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pizza will open its newest location on Thursday, Jan. 26, at 9158 Atlee Road in Mechanicsville. Father-son team Rick and Tim Collins, Richmond residents, are making their entry into the pizza category with Stevi Bâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, which was founded in Georgia in 1996. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I took an exhaustive look at the fast casual segment and specifically the highly competitive pizza category and agreed that Stevi Bâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s had the most business potential,â&#x20AC;? said Rick Collins, owner of the Mechanicsville

Special donation Photo submitted by Carmen Long

Stevi Bâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s location. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In addition to elevating the category with a better quality of food, I think Stevi Bâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s does an amazing job of endearing itself to the local community and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important to us.â&#x20AC;? In celebration of the Grand Opening, Stevi Bâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pizza will host a VIP fundraising event the day of the official grand opening to benefit Atlee Little League. Located in Mechanicsville, Atlee Little League is a nonprofit community baseball organi-

Madison Long, 10, recently donated her hair to Locks of Love and Pantene Beautiful Lengths. This was the third time in five years she has

New Arrivals for

the New Year

The 2012 Relay For Life will hold a team captain meeting at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 19, at the Ashland Fire Station at 501 Archie Cannon Road. New and returning team captains are encouraged to attend to

get information about the 2912 Relay For Life. The committee meeting starts at 6 p.m. For more information, e-mail Arlene Hayes at arehaze@aol.com, or visit www. RelayForLife.org/hanover.

given her hair to the organizations.

see ATLEE, pg. 29

Relay team captains to meet Jan. 19

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Open enrollment for land use program underway in county Hanover County landowners who use their property for agricultural, horticultural or forestal uses or keep it in open space are invited to enroll in the Land Use Taxation Program. Under the program, qualified landowners can have their property assessed at “use value,” which may be lower than market value and reduce their taxes. The application period for this program began Jan. 3 and ends Feb. 1. In order to qualify for the tax deduction, the property must be zoned for agricultural uses and have been in agricultural, horticultural, forest or open space uses for at least five years. Property that has been zoned Rural Conservation (RC) also can qualify for the Land Use program. The minimum qualifying acreages are five acres for agricultural, horticultural and open space and 20 acres for forest use. A one-acre house

site is allowed in all categories. Requirements and values are established by the State Land Evaluation Advisory Council. If the land use is changed, the tax reduction must be repaid with simple interest for the current tax year and a maximum of the previous five tax years. Participants with acreage or use changes must reapply and revalidate their eligibility. Revalidation also is required after six years even if there is no change in land use. There is no charge for this revalidation. A $10 filing fee is charged on each new application. Applications will not be accepted if there are any delinquent taxes on the property. About 3,322 parcels and 161,998 acres are currently enrolled in Hanover County’s Land Use Taxation program. This represents more than onehalf the county’s total acreage. The total tax deferral realized by these property owners is see ENROLLMENT, pg. 29

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ROBOTICS Continued from pg. 1

Robotics Competition in St. Louis in the spring. It’s a starstudded extravaganza that eventually crowns the top scholastic robotics teams in the world. While Hanover and Atlee have fielded robotics teams for years, Patrick Henry entered two years ago, and Lee-Davis is making its inaugural appearance this year. “We’ll be mentoring LeeDavis this year and helping their team get up and running,” Bartels said. Teams from across the globe come up with snappy, off-beat names for their teams. For Hanover, it’s Defenders of the Multiverse (DOTM) 1522. Rosie Easter is this year’s team co-leader with Sam Nowlin. She said she followed her brother’s path in to the club. Joey Easter was team captain in his senior year and eventually attended Virginia Tech and obtained his engineering degree. He now works at the Aberdeen Proving Grounds with the military. Rosie said robotics assisted in that success. “He decided to become an engineer because of robotics,” Rosie said. While most of the club members are engineeringminded individuals, the competition attracts students with

varying degree goals. “It’s not only for people who want to become scientists or engineers,” Rosie said. “I want to become a child psychologist. The experiences I’ve had here have really helped me grow from a quiet freshman who didn’t know what to do to who I am now. I’m not an engineer but I love this.” FIRST was formed by Dean Kaman to allow technologyminded students to enjoy the camaraderie of competition and the excitement of scientific challenges. Kaman said he started FIRST “to transform our culture by creating a world where science and technology are celebrated and where young people dream of becoming science and technology leaders.” Bartels said it’s the hands-on element that excites him and the 60 students who participate at Hanover. “Over the next six weeks, what Robotics teams around the country are going to do is take this problem and solve it with

a robot and all that goes along with that,” Bartels said. “In the same period, kids who aren’t doing FIRST will be solving problems on a worksheet and will generate a stack of worksheets in a six-week period. Which is better when it comes to creativity and innovation?” Bartels said the robotics project provides students a “cooperative and competitive” challenge and real world technology and engineering experience. After much anticipation, this year’s challenge was finally announced and the clock is ticking. While some team members studied rules and began sketches on the computer, others headed to VCU to pick up team packets and parts. Competing in robotics isn’t cheap or easy, and teams are required to raise funds for the expenses. Local sponsors support the effort and the Hanover team is backed by a dedicated group of boosters headed by president Gianna Clark. The Hanover County School Board

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also contributes to the effort. “We plan trips, prepare food, whatever they need,” Clark said. The efforts also include fundraising and attracting local sponsors. Each year, the competitions and project cost about $30,000, not including travel costs.” “We couldn’t do this without them,” Bartels said. One of those sponsors is Scott Staylor, owner of a high precision manufacturing company in Ashland called Sonic Tools. “We thought that extracurricular activities should include activities like this where they actually learn how to do something. This was a good fit for us,” he said. Staylor said the experience also introduces students to local engineering and manufacturing experts. “This a fun and exciting project and these students are our future creators and inventors. I’m working with my future see ROBOTICS, pg. 28

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The Mechanicsville Local

January 11, 2012

ROBOTICS

JOIN US FOR WORSHIP ON SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS

Continued from pg. 27

hires,” he said with a laugh. This year’s challenge involves a basketball-like court where robots will travel and attempt to shoot and make baskets. There is a barrier between the two sides of the court that robots will have to negotiate, and defense is allowed. Team mentor for Lee-Davis Tom Riley said the process

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seems daunting for his young team, dubbed the C_FEDS (Club for Engineering Droids). “It’s exciting but a little overwhelming,” Riley said. “We’ll have fun trying this and it will be a great experience for the kids,” the technical education teacher said as he sorted through his recently received rookie kit from FIRST. Patrick Henry mentor Les Cook said the project allows his

team members to work independently in a real world situation. “They do the whole thing,” Cook said. “They program the computers, and, if they have a problem, they look it up online. They construct the whole thing.” The Patrick Henry team or ORCA (Official Robotics Constructors of America) has about 16 members, but Cook

expects that number to grow as word spreads about the FIRST challenge. Rosie has her eyes set on a return trip — the second in a row — to St. Louis for DOTM. Last year’s event featured performances by the Black Eyed Peas and other groups. “It’s an exciting event that is so much fun with thousands of robotics kids gathered in one place,” Rosie said.

BPES principal Judith Bradley presented Cantor with a t-shirt making him an honorary “Bobcat” and thanked him for taking time from his busy schedule to read to the class. “I think it as great for the Majority Leader to come and

speak to our students and encourage reading and writing. I thought it was a wonderful event,” she said. Franklin said the visit made a definite impression on her students. “They were very excited and engaged with the visit,” she

said. And she plans to continue the exercise of challenging her students to write to community and state leaders with an invitation to read. “I’ve been teaching for 33 years and I’ve been doing this for 33 years.”

The Rev. Amelie Allen Wilmer, Vicar • 804-559-9302

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Continued from pg. 1

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January 11, 2012

$85 $100

Disaster Survivor Day slated Lee-Davis Band Boosters selling Brunswick Stew Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com Disaster Survivor Day will be held on Saturday, Jan. 14, at several locations throughout Central Firginia. “Learn to Be Prepared for Disasters” will be presented at City of Colonial Heights, Technical Center, 3451 Conduit Road, Colonial Heights; The Beacon Theater, 401 N. Main St., Hopewell; Linwood Holton Elementary School, 1600 W. Laburnum Ave., Richmond; George Wythe High School, 4314 Crutchfield St., Richmond; EanesPittman Public Safety Training Center, 6610 Public Safety Way, Chesterfield; Henrico County Public Safety Training Center, 7701 E. Parham Road, Henrico; and New Kent Middle School, 7501 Egypt Road, New Kent. To register, which is required, go to www. survivorday.com or call 2-1-1. A free survivor kit will be given to each family. Sgt. Chris R. Whitley of the Hanover County Sheriff ’s Office said the county has an ongoing initiative, “Are You Ready?,” that was started in 2010. The training program is a collaborative effort among Hanover County Fire/EMS, Hanover County Sheriff ’s Office, Chickahominy Health Department, Hanover Department of

The Lee-Davis High School their fundraising activities on The cost is $7 per quart and can Band Boosters will be sell- Saturday, Jan. 14. Proceeds ben- be picked up at Lee-Davis High Social Services, and Hanover Public Schools. ing Brunswick stew as part of efit the L-DHS Band program. School from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. According to Whitley, the goal of the training is to prepare people, families, businesses and organizations to have an awareness of what to the Land Use Program, or other co.hanover.va.us/comrevnu/ do and how to be informed about hazards and tax relief programs offered default.htm. emergencies that may affect them as a result of a Continued from pg. 26 by Hanover County, call the Information submitted by disaster (natural or man-made). Commissioner of the Revenue Tom Harris, Hanover County about $5.7 million. Whitley also said that the course, which is free For more information about at 365-6125 or visit www. public information officer. to the public, focuses on how they can become self-reliant for three days by getting a kit, making a plan, and staying informed. raiser event, on an ongoing basis Stevi B’s Pizza The first “Are You Ready?”was offered in will donate a percentage of sales to local school Continued from pg. 25 2010, with four more courses provided in 2011 groups, community and religious organizations, in all areas of the county. To date, more than 100 zation dedicated to enriching lives through youth local athletic teams and others.” individuals have completed the training. baseball. Specialty pizzas include the Loaded Baked “Are You Ready?” was originally developed The VIP fundraising event will take place Potato, Cheeseburger, Chicken Fajita, and pursuant to the county’s Public Safety Strategic from 6 to 9 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 26, with 25 Macaroni and Cheese. The restaurant also offers Plan. The committee assigned to this portion of percent of sales made during the event will ben- a fresh salad bar, pasta and desserts. the county’s strategic plan is in the planning stages efit Atlee Little League. Stevi B’s Pizza Buffet will be open from 11 for additional training dates/locations for 2012. Stevi B’s also will celebrate its grand opening a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 For more information on Hanover County’s at 11:30 a.m. on Jan. 26 with a ribbon cutting cer- a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. program, visit http://www.co.hanover.va.us/ emony by the Hanover Association of Businesses Stevi B’s Pizza is on Twitter at www.twitter. default_111006_Are_You_Ready_2011_Fall_ and Chamber of Commerce. com/stevibs and Facebook at www.facebook. “Stevi B’s has an unwavering commitment to com/stevibspizza. Class.pdf or go to the county’s website, http://www. For more information, visit www.SteviBs.com co.hanover.va.us, under the “Special Notices” the community it serves, a quality that further Section, titled “ Are You Ready?’ Community defines the brand,” Matthew Loney, president of or contact Stevi B’s by e-mail at info@SteviBs. Stevi B’s Pizza, said. “In addition to the VIP fund- com. Disaster Preparedness Presentation.”

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January 11, 2012

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