The Mechanicsville Local – 11/20/19 by Mechanicsville-Ashland Local

DELIVER TO: Postal Patron Mechanicsville, VA 23111

Vol. 36, No. 27 | Richmond Suburban News | November 20, 2019

STOPS AT EVERY HOME IN TOWN

Is NAACP settlement in sight? By Jim Ridolphi for The Mechanicsville Local ASHLAND -- A closed session meeting of the Hanover School Board scheduled for Friday, Nov. 22, could provide some finality in a lawsuit filed by the NAACP last August requesting the names of two Hanover County schools be changed. School board chair Roger Bourassa read a statement at last week’s regular meeting that some are describing as the writing on the wall regarding a possible settlement.

“If the school board decides to continue the litigation, the school board will incur hundreds of thousands of dollars in legal fees and costs defending the lawsuits.” ROGER BOURASSA Chair Hanover County School Board

The suit originally named both Hanover County and the

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school board as defendants, but a judge dismissed the county from the suit last month.

Veterans Day

“The school board is now the sole defendant in this case,” Bourassa said, reading from a prepared press release that was released simultaneously. Bourassa encouraged interested citizens to contact their school board members to express their input on the possible settlement. Bourassa listed several factors board members are considering regarding the upcoming meeting. Changing the names of see NAACP, pg. 3

Transgender students in schools talks continue By Jim Ridolphi for The Mechanicsville Local ASHLAND -- The discussion continued last week regarding the issue of transgender students in Hanover County Public Schools, and how current policy -- or lack of -- is addressing the issue. Speakers on both sides of the issue politely stated their positions in an hourlong public comment period at last Tuesday’s regularly scheduled Hanover County School Board meeting.

Kelly Merrill is a parent of two, one of whom is transgender, students in Hanover schools. “I’m commenting today to commend Hanover County schools for the way you have handled this situation in light of those rules that were mentioned last month at your school board meeting,” she said. Merrill said she was satisfied with the county’s efforts at inclusion regarding transgender students. “I have been very pleased with how our

situation is going in school so far,” she said. She also noted support in her community and the importance of a group of parents who are experiencing similar situations. “Having a transgender child is not something any family expects,” Merrill said. “We have found a community of other families who are committed to loving their children through their gender journeys.” Merrill said the stakes are high. “Living

Jim Ridolphi for The Local

Sgt. Taniki Richard, United States Marine Corps (retired), was the keynote speaker for the annual Veterans Day program at Hanover Wayside Park. For more on the event, as well as additional photos, turn to page 5.

see TRANSGENDER, pg. 4

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November 20, 2019

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Through a mobile interface, care teams can liaise in real time to analyze scans and decide on the most suitable course of treatment. “We are excited to be the first in Virginia to offer this new innovative technology

that will help save time and brain in our most vulnerable stroke patients,” said David Loy, M.D., Ph.D., neurointerventional surgeon and co-medical director of Bon Secours Comprehensive Stroke Center. “This groundbreaking artificial intelligence will transform the way Bon Secours delivers stroke care to our patients and our community, and we’re looking forward to seeing improved outcomes.” According to the American Heart Association/ American Stroke Association (AHA/ASA), stroke is the fifth leading cause of death in the U.S. and a leading cause of disability. Viz.ai’s technology can potentially save critical time in the triage, diagnosis and see STROKE pg. 12

14 COMMUNITY Mom explains Type 1 diabetes in daughter.

15 ASHLAND Apple butter is tradition for Ramsburgs’ reunions.

ALSO… Letters to the editor...6 Obituaries .........10 -11 Calendar ................. 18 TV grids..............19-21 Sports ................22-26

NAACP Continued from pg. 1

the schools and mascots at Lee-Davis High School and Stonewall Jackson Middle School will cost about $500,000. “If the school board decides to continue the litigation, the school board will incur hundreds of thousands of dollars in legal fees and costs defending the lawsuit,” Bourassa said. Litigation could last “a minimum of two years,” according to the news release. Bourassa also noted that if the NAACP prevails, the school board could be responsible for “several million dollars” of NAACP legal fees. The release did offer an ominous sign regarding maintaining the names of those schools no matter the outcome of the meeting or pending lawsuit. “Regardless of whether the lawsuit is resolved, Lee-Davis High School and Stonewall Jackson Middle School will eventually be replaced as part of the school board’s long-term

facilities planning, and they will be renamed pursuant to existing school board policy.” That policy requires schools be named according to geographical location, and not people. Hanover County NAACP president Robert Barnette issued the following statement regarding the upcoming meeting: “The Hanover County Chapter of the NAACP supports the Hanover County School Board’s proposal to resolve the open lawsuit quickly and efficiently and invest in a more equitable Hanover County Public Schools.” There are no current plans or timetable regarding when those two schools might be replaced, but no land has been acquired or funds budgeted for that process. Hanover County School Board members haven’t had a raise in 13 years, but, if the General Assembly concurs, that could change as early as January 2021. The Commonwealth’s leg-

islative body controls pay raises for appointed school boards, and an increase would require General Assembly approval. School attorney Yvonne Gibney explained the current $8,000 annual income cap was passed by the legislature in 2006, and any increases would require state approval of new guidelines. Under current state code, Hanover school board members could only consider a raise if 40 percent of their body was up for reappointment simultaneously. Since only two of the seven-member board are considered in any one year, it would be impossible for the local panel to meet those requirements. South Anna District representative Sue Dibble said, while she appreciated the need for an increase in compensation, she could not endorse a 50 percent raise. “Certainly I agree that a salary adjustment after all of these years is warranted,” Dibble said. “I have great con-

cerns about a 50 percent salary adjustment for anybody.” Dibble also said she couldn’t justify paying Planning Commission members $10,000 while school board members were receiving $12,000. Dibble noted that the school board’s current $8,000 annual compensation includes benefits such as health insurance enrollment options, and those “perks” are not available to Planning Commission members. She equated comparing salaries with larger and elected school boards like Chesterfield and Henrico as “apples and oranges,” and also said she was not comfortable with the lack of public input received on the subject. Gibney noted the $12,000 figure was a cap, not a required increase. Action on any increase would require school board approval, assuming the General Assembly allows the measure. “While I acknowledge there

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NAACP

TRANSGENDER

Continued from pg. 3

should be some movement, I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t support that much of a movement,â&#x20AC;? Dibble said before voting against the measure. Beaverdam representative John Axselle said he thought the increase was warranted and overdue. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know anyone who would stay on a job for 13 years without a raise; not saying we do it for the money, because we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t do it for the money,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ms. Dibble is moving on to supervisor where she makes a heck of a lot more than we do . . . $28,000, so I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have a concern if we were to vote for $12,000,â&#x20AC;? he continued. Dibble recently was elected to the Hanover County Board of Supervisors and will take office in January. She cast the only vote against the resolution. Gibney said a resolution and a bill would be forwarded to Hanoverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s legislative team, allowing them to proceed with an introduction in the upcoming yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s General Assembly.

Continued from pg. 1

with these children, it is clear to us that denying their expression is a matter of life and death.â&#x20AC;? Merrill said she knows of at least 10 other transgender students in Hanover, three of whom have opted out of public schools. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am certain they are not the only ones and certain they are not the first,â&#x20AC;? Merrill said during a public comment period. Citizens on both sides of the issue packed the school board meeting room last week to express their opinions on the issue. She urged school officials to continue a program of education regarding transgender issues and increased efforts to combat misconceptions. â&#x20AC;&#x153;So, thank you for your support that you have offered and please consider providing more with curriculum and a thoughtful gender affirming policy,â&#x20AC;? Merrill concluded. Rhonda Kelly, also the parent of a graduated transgender student in Hanover, also expressed thanks for the countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s policy.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;My son was encouraged to be who he is by everyone at his school and that made such a difference in his life,â&#x20AC;? Kelly said. Citizens on both sides of the issue packed the school board meeting room last week to express their opinions on the issue. Cold Harbor resident and parent Justin Rath repeated concerns he raised at last monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s meeting regarding policy currently being followed. Rath said he had reached out to multiple state representatives regarding his concerns, and found their responses in agreement with his position. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been met with nothing but total agreement,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Not a single one of them likes this any more than I do.â&#x20AC;? Rath said those who oppose the current policy would continue to organize and â&#x20AC;&#x153;fightâ&#x20AC;?. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re working on a solution and we will continue to fight to protect the innocence of these girls from the perversion of being forced to change their clothes in front of a boy,â&#x20AC;? Rath said. Whitney Cipriani said some of those girls are uncomfortable with the locker room situation and have spoken up, â&#x20AC;&#x153;but it has landed on deaf ears.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;They have been told itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not right to

feel the way they feel and if they have a problem they can dress out somewhere else,â&#x20AC;? Cipriani said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Do not dismiss dozens of young impressionable girls because you are too scared to speak up for them. They matter. Do better for these girls, not just one child.â&#x20AC;? Jeff Brauer of Beaverdam said current policy is akin to accommodating the exception and not the rule. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I trust that the current policy that requires middle school girls to change clothes in front of a biological male was established in an effort to foster feelings of comfort and well-being in a transgender student,â&#x20AC;? Brauer said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;That notion is commendable, but should not bring about policies that provide for one student while taking the same away from other students,â&#x20AC;? he continued. â&#x20AC;&#x153;A policy that places one studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s feelings above a number of others is an official endorsement of favoritism for the one, while, at the same time, demeaning the others.â&#x20AC;? Those expressing the need for a change in policy said they will continue to seek solutions at the local level, and one warned they would not hesitate to â&#x20AC;&#x153;move up the ladder until we get the answers we need.â&#x20AC;?

Singers invited to â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Light Up the Tracksâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; on Dec. 7 ASHLAND â&#x20AC;&#x201C; The invitation is being extended for those who like to sing. Anyone who would like to take part in the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Light Up the Tracksâ&#x20AC;? Community Chorus is welcome to do so. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Light Up the Tracks!â&#x20AC;? will kick off at 5 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 7, with the Grand Illumination following at 5:30 p.m. at the Hanover Arts & Activities Center, located at 500 S. Center St. in Ashland. There will only be one rehearsal, which is scheduled for 7 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 21, at the Ashland Christian Church at 301 S. James St. in Ashland. All ages â&#x20AC;&#x201C; kindergarten and up â&#x20AC;&#x201C; are invited. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Light Up the Tracksâ&#x20AC;? is powered by Dominion Energy. For more information, call Lorie Foley at 804-339-6175 or Sue Watson at 804-402-0296.

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HANOVER -- “Veterans Day is a bit unique in Hanover. We don’t just celebrate on Nov. 11,” Parks and Recreation director Greg Sager told a packed house at the Hanover Veterans Memorial last week. Remembering those who served and the heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice has become an important tradition in Hanover. That dedication is highlighted twice annually on Veterans and Memorial Day, but the sense of appreciation is present year-round. “It is Hanover’s tradition that we celebrate our veterans all year long and it is important to set aside specific time to come and reflect on the sacrifice of all of those who served and what they provide to our nation; and what their families give up when they are deployed,” Chickahominy supervisor Angela KellyWiecek said following a poignant Veterans Day Ceremony on Monday, Nov. 11. This year’s keynote speak-

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Henry District Supervisor Sean Davis, second from left, who served in the United States Marine Corps, joined in celebrating Veterans Day on Nov. 11 at the Hanover Wayside Park.

er told the assembly that she was an unlikely candidate to become a combat warrior, but joined the Marines to escape her surroundings and seek a better career path. “I knew we would go to war. I just didn’t know that I would be on the front line,”

said retired Marine Sgt. Taniki Richard, who relayed her experience with Wounded Warrior Project, a non-profit group that supports veterans who leave service with mental or other issues. When Richard got her orders to report to Iraq, she

assumed her role as a female would not include being in the line of fire service. On a night mission after she arrived, her unit was attacked by enemy fire and she found herself “with hot rounds flying around.” She returned home to a place that seemed distant. “I came back to a life that I didn’t remember, a son that

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OPINION | The Local Views

LETTERS

From the managing editor

Goodbye, Rhu -- we are going to miss you By Melody Kinser Managing Editor

hen I officially joined the staff of The Mechanicsville Local in July 2008, I had a “to-do” list for immediate, 30 days, 60 days, and 90 days. Publisher Joy Monopoli did request such a list, but I always prepared them before starting a new job, so it a relatively simple assignment. At the top was going out and meeting government, education, and business leaders. Movers and shakers, who are sometimes “hidden in the

bushes” as they make incredible differences in our community also were being sought. One of the first people that I knew I needed to meet as County Administrator Rhu Harris. It’s hard to believe that we first crossed paths 11 years ago. And now he has submitted his plans for retirement. Rhu has always been accessible -- even when he was on vacation. He has been kind and agreeable to our requests or questions. I was impressed to learn when I wrote

a story several years ago about some of the salaries of county leaders that he is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). From what I understand, it’s one of the toughest exams to achieve that title. He has admirably handled the day-to-day operations for Hanover County. Rhu has been a supporter of Richmond Suburban News and we thank him for that. Yes, he will be missed -- but we do wish him all the best in the next chapter of his life. Here’s to you, Rhu!

| Reader Views

Immigrants have always served the U.S.

I feel I must respond to the person who wrote an extremely long letter to the editor in the local issue on Nov. 6. The title of the letter was Trump defended after Army officer addresses Ukraine. Immigrants have served in our Armed Forces since the beginning of this nation’s history. Immigrants were drafted during the Vietnam War, World War 1 and World War 2. Why the letter-writer suggests the intentions of an immigrant, who came to this country when he was 3 years old, might only serve to prevent son became more commercial and my father would crawl into our attic deportation is absurd. I can’t imagine less reliant on calendars. and receive a large box of decorations, a 3-year-old having memories and I’m not sure when the season most of them in boxes reinforced with allegiance to the country where he became a multi-month celebration, Scotch Tape, each of them showing was born. I suppose if you had ancesbut I am convinced a fair number the wear and tear of years of unpack- tors in Italy, for example, someone of Americans would rather observe ing and packing. could accuse you of being loyal to the holiday in a more time sensitive A string of NOMA Mazda lights Italy. But you’d be laughed out of the manner. adorned our front door, accompanied room. There was a time when the earliest by two large candles that seemed as The original complaint came signs of the season arrived in the mail. tall as a yardstick strategically posi- from a whistleblower whose identity, The arrival of major department store tioned on each side of our porch. It so far, we don’t know. Christmas toy catalogs was an antici- was the same routine each year, but, There is no proof whatsoever on pated event at our home; and thumb- somehow, always provided a special any of the claims Trump is making ing through those pages provided the brand of excitement and anticipation about the phone call and his reafirst hint of the Christmas spirit for for my sister and me. sons for denying the aid Congress our family. see SOON, pg. 16 approved. It is a violation of the law Two weeks before Christmas Day, to ask or accept assistance form a foreign country to help with your WE WANT TO PUBLISH YOUR ISSUE-DRIVEN LETTERS campaign. Maybe the letter-writer has been watching too much of the The Local welcomes your signed letters to the editor on topics of interest to Fox Network. Let’s remember their Mechanicsville residents. Letters must include your address and a daytime teleevening shows aren’t news -- they’re phone number. We reserve the right to edit letters. We do not guarantee that every entertainment and the hosts offer letter received will be published. Letters reflect the opinions and positions of the their opinions, not facts. writers and not The Mechanicsville Local. If Trump is so concerned about corruption, he only needs to look in Send letters to: The Mechanicsville Local the mirror to see first-hand what cor8460 Times-Dispatch Blvd. Mechanicsville, Va. 23116 ruption looks like. Five witnesses have Fax: 730-0476 E-mail: editor@mechlocal.com come forward all saying the same © 2019 by Richmond Suburban Newspapers. All advertising and editorial matter is fully thing. Republicans complained about protected and may not be reproduced in any manner without the permission of the publisher.

Is it just too much too soon with the decorations? By Jim Ridolphi Contributing Columnist As I entered a local retail chain store last week to purchase printer ink, I noted that only days after Halloween, there wasn’t a hint of the recently celebrated holiday. I quickly realized that cheery background music was holiday-related, the large colorful spheres strategically hung from the ceiling were Christmas ornaments and a special aisle reserved for stocking stuffers were all sure signs the Christmas season was upon us. Could it be true that Christmas had arrived in Richmond two weeks

before Thanksgiving, a sure sign that something called Christmas Creep has taken on a new persona that more resembles a scene from “The Blob” than a subtle reminder that the holiday season is just around the corner. One lady exclaimed that the season seems to arrive earlier each year, and the decorations and trappings of the season are all “just too much.” It’s not a new complaint, and it seems consumers have long bemoaned about the seasonal starting date as it moved closer and closer to an October premiere. A little research reveals it’s a complaint that began almost as early as the Christmas sea-

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LETTERS Continued from pg. 6

a closed hearing demanding an open one. When the time came, they voted against holding an open impeachment inquiry. Anyone with sense should realize Republicans in Congress only care about and support the party not the people. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m not about to debate the issue on Trump and his administration or to the many other accusations made in the letter. History will no doubt have plenty to say about it and it will not be positive. Kevin Damian Mechanicsville

Voter: denied preferred candidate I would consider myself an Independent-minded voter. I was looking forward to casting my ballot in the Republican

Presidential Primary. As I was researching which candidate I wanted to vote for, I realized the Virginia Republican Party decided to close ranks and deny myself and all Republicans the right to vote in an open primary. They instead chose to hold a Presidential Preference Vote at the State Convention. The people of Virginia deserve to be able to vote for whomever they want to without having to jump through hoops or prove their allegiance to a political party. I call on both the Republican and Democrat Parties to stop holding conventions/firehouse primaries and give the power back to the people. If you want to vote in the primaries, I believe you should be able to vote for the candidate that best fits your views and convictions. Conventions trample on our right to choose because it gives power to the few instead of the whole. I wish parties didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t try to

protect their incumbents by using a convention and instead let the people make that decision on their own. Alex Culp Mechanicsville

School name issue needs to be examined In light of new information that the Hanover County School Board has disclosed, all of the taxpayers in Hanover should examine closely the renaming of schools. It will cost half a million dollars to change the names and the board will incur hundreds of thousands in legal fees. A million dollars of school money to change names of schools is not what parents want. The board is currently searching for land to build new schools within the decade and then the schools will be renamed. The NAACPâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s declaration that the current names violate

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the Constitutional Rights of African American students is far-reaching subjective nonsense. No one at any school in Hanover is â&#x20AC;&#x153;championing the legacy of segregation and oppression in order to participate in school activitiesâ&#x20AC;? (as stated by NAACP) I have attended Lee-Davis High School football games this year and befriended a woman and her mother and her two daughters, African American students, who perform in the band. I note African American cheerleaders, football players and dancers as well. They all look happy. I discussed the name issue with mom and grandma and they both shrugged â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it would be nice, they said, but their first priority is school excellence, which is why they live in Hanover. Neither has written letters or are involved in name change. They are satisfied with the education their girls are receiving and ignore the name. My African American neighbors all graduated from L-DHS and their rich legacy of education support in Hanover is well known. One was a Army Ranger in Vietnam, his son is a high ranking LEO, his daughter a teacher, and their children attend L-DHS and Stonewall Jackson Middle School. There are many more families like this one whose children have done well and do well at the schools. I have been a proponent of name change for L-DHS but when the cost that needs to go to uniforms, books, supplies, equipment will be spent on doing so outweighs the desire to do so, I take the position that needs are more important than wants and that waiting for the new schools and renaming then is the most judicious, reasonable, cost-effective path to take. If indeed black students were being harmed in any way by the school name, then it would be important to address see LETTERS, pg. 13

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The Hanover County Sheriff’s Office Honor Guard took part in the Veterans Day program.

SALUTES Continued from pg. 5

I wasn’t connected to with responsibilities that were withering away,” Richard said. She realized something was not exactly right after her deployment and became “more detached and nightmares starting happening.” She said she tried to bury the combat memories along with other difficult circumstances in her life and keep moving, but couldn’t rebound on her own. “I couldn’t keep pretending and putting on a face like nothing was wrong with me,” Richard said. She eventually attempted suicide and entered a mental facility. “I was missing something. I was missing the camaraderie,” Richard said. That’s where the Wounded Warrior Project entered the picture and provided the services and support she needed. “For the first time in a long time, I realized that was what I was missing — a place to belong, a place to be where I didn’t want to talk about what happened but I wanted someone to understand,” Richard said. Wounded Warrior helped Richard with her transition and gave her the resources needed

to help with her disability and begin her new journey. Kelly-Wiecek said Richard’s message was an important and timely reminder. “I would like everyone to know that today’s speaker’s remarks were very timely and very poignant to speak to other needs in our community, especially in terms of PTSD and mental health issues that we are seeing. I think that’s an important message and she is continuing to serve her nation in being so forthcoming about these issues,” Kelly-Wiecek said. The annual event was sponsored by the Hanover County Veterans Memorial Committee and Parks and Recreation and emceed by chairman Jim Kickler. The laying of the memorial wreath was conducted by Atlee High School JROTC Commander Col. Charles Schmetzer, USAF (Ret). He was escorted by American Legion Post 175 Commander Jim Legg and VFW Post 9808 Commander Ed Mann. The Hanover County Sheriff ’s Office provided an Honor Guard comprised of deputies who served in the Armed Forces. The Hanover Veterans Memorial is open 365 days a year.

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The Mechanicsville Local

November 20, 2019 9

OBITUARIES | Death Notices & Funerals L. Hughes Jr. and Vicki J. Hepper (David); greatgranddaughters, Madison Thacker and Vivienne Hepper; great-grandsons, Nigel Hughes, Patrick Hughes, Dalton Hepper and Dexter Hepper; sister, Brenda H. Ruffin (Fred); as well as many loving nieces, nephews and extended family. Vicki was a native of Hanover and was actively involved in several civic associations in the county. After retiring in 1990 from A.H. Robbins, she worked part-time as a communications operator for the Mechanicsville Walmart and also worked as a private investigator. All services will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to either the Gethsemane Church of Christ, the Virginia Cancer Foundation or the East Hanover Volunteer Rescue

DAVIS

DAVIS, Vilma Heath â&#x20AC;&#x153;Vicki,â&#x20AC;? of Mechanicsville, passed away Sunday, November 10, 2019. She was the daughter of the late Clifton F. Heath and Bernice Tucker Heath. She was preceded in death by her husband of 43 years, Robert B. Davis; and sister, Betty H. Abrams. She is survived by her daughters, Sandra Davis and Lisa Davis; three grandchildren, Christopher S. Thacker (Dawn), Gilbert

Squad. The family thanks Donna with hospice for all of her excellent care.

of Christ, which is now Compass Christian Church. The family received friends on Tuesday, November 19, from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. at the Mechanicsville Chapel of Bennett Funeral Home, 8014 Lee-Davis Rd., where services will be held on Wednesday, November 20, at 11 a.m. Interment will follow in Oakwood Cemetery.

DEAN

DEAN, Paul Eugene, 99, of Mechanicsville, passed from this life November 14, 2019. He was preceded in death by wife of 68 years, Dorothy Agee Dean. He is survived by his special niece and caregiver, Vivian Fritter; many other nieces and nephews; and his sidekick, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Stinkerâ&#x20AC;? the cat. He was a lifetime member of Pole Green Church

JEWELL

JEWELL, William â&#x20AC;&#x153;Billâ&#x20AC;? Leon III, 69, of Old Church,

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the vestry. He was predeceased by his parents, Mildred Younghaus and William Leon Jewell Jr.; and goddaughter, Meredith Adams. He is survived by his beloved wife, Kay Jewell; a son, William â&#x20AC;&#x153;Leeâ&#x20AC;? Leon Jewell IV, and his wife, Lucy, and their daughter, Britt, of Richmond; two daughters, Mary Elizabeth Jewell and her husband, Micah Gordon, of San Diego, Calif. and Claire Jewell of Louisa, Va. He is also survived by his sisters, Diane Jewell Huff of Nathalie, Va. and Linda Jewell of Berkeley, Calif.; a goddaughter, Lauren Adams of Baltimore, Md.; numerous nieces and nephews throughout the country; and his loving pup, Rosie. A Celebration of Life was held at 2 p.m. Saturday, November 16, 2019, at Immanuel Episcopal Church, 3263 Old Church Road, in Hanover County. A reception followed.

Burial was private. Memorial donations may be made to Immanuel Episcopal Church, with â&#x20AC;&#x153;Memorial Fundâ&#x20AC;? in the memo line or to the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, ATTN: Membership Department, 6 Herndon Ave., Annapolis, Md. 21403.

by her husband, Herman L. Johnston; children, Wesley E. Smith Jr. (Becky) and Lisa S. Nash (Melvin); nine grandchildren, Codie, Kyle, Josiah, Reid, Brayden, Colby, Tyler, Aaron and Levi; one great-granddaughter, Madison; brother, Jamie B. Collier; and sister, Beverly Dobrick; and many nieces and nephews. Gayle was a member of Tappahannock Seventh-day Adventist Church. She loved the Lord, her family and her animals. Her greatest joy was her time spent with her children and grandchildren. A graveside service was held 2 p.m. Tuesday, November 19, 2019, at Hanover Memorial Park.

JOHNSTON

JOHNSTON, Gayle Collier, of King and Queen Courthouse, Va., went to sleep in Jesus Wednesday, November 13, 2019, and awaits His second coming. She was preceded in death by her parents, Evelyn and Joseph Collier. She is survived

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MOONEY, Norma A., 92, of Mechanicsville, passed away November 9, 2019. She was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Norwood Mooney; daughter, Pat Coffman; parents, Isabelle and Ernest Murray; brother, Herbert Murray; and sister, June Murray. Norma is survived by four children, June Nolen, Lynn, Michael and Sherry Mooney; two grandchildren, Barry Dorn and Kelly Nolen; and three great-grandchildren. She was a 16-year-old war bride during WWII. Norma was a devoted daughter, wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, and was a member of Mechanicsville United Methodist Church. Burial and services will be private. Memorial contributions may be made to East Hanover Rescue Squad, P.O. Box 454, Mechanicsville, Va. 23111. bennettfuneralhomes. com.

In New England

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Gibson and Frances Fowler traveled to New England in September with Sunshine Tours. They visited the Red Lion Inn in Stockbridge, Massachusetts, as well as New Jersey, Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont. They took a copy of The Mechanicsville Local along on the trip.

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Pets of the Week Photos submitted by Andrew Hodnett

The Hanover County Pound, located at 12471 Taylor Complex Lane in Ashland, has wonderful pets available to a good home. Buddy, #565394, is a 5-year-old male domestic short-haired feline. He has had his first set of vaccines and is FELV/FIV test negative. Buddy is a sweet cat that has been in the shelter since early October. He was more than likely an outdoor cat before arriving. However, he has adjusted well to indoor life. He is well litter-trained and clean. Buddy also is very social. He loves human attention. He will make a great companion. Brody, # 556696, is a 1½-yearold neutered male pitbull mix. He has had his first set of vaccines and is Heartworm test negative. Brody is full of personality. He is an energetic, loveable dog. Brody has been in the shelter since July. He is very good on a leash. He will walk for hours if allowed. Brody is a good dog around people. He is still learning his commands. Brody does well with other dogs as well. He will be a good pet for an active owner. For more information on these great pets, as well as the many more still in need of homes at the Hanover County Pound Facility, call 804-365-6485 during the day. The hours are 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday. The facility is closed on Sunday and county holidays. You also can visit the website to see other animals available for adoption at http:// hanovercounty.gov/Animals/Adopt-a-Pet/.

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The Atlee High School Raider Players will present “The Seussification of Romeo and Juliet.” This familyfriendly comedy supposes what would happen if Dr. Seuss got hold of the Shakespearean Tragedy. Colorful characters, bumballoon fights, and lots of jokes are sure to occur. Two casts will perform the show on different dates: Cast A will perform at 7 p.m. on Thursday and Saturday, Nov. 21 and 23. Cast B will perform at 7 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 22, and at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 24. Tickets are $6 for students and $8 for adults. In this scene, Romeo (Connor McNulty) woos Juliet (Isabella Cipollina) in a Seussified take on the classic balcony scene.

STROKE Continued from pg. 2

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The Mechanicsville Local

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that issue, but from what I have seen and know that is not the case -- all children thrive in Hanover County Public Schools. Patsy Lassiter Mechanicsville

Questioning letter about call to Ukraine In responding to Martha Cole’s letter, I don’t know quite where to start. I would first ask if she actually read the “non-transcript/ transcript” of the phone call to the President of Ukraine released by the White House. It’s chilling. Not entirely sure why that “excellent” transcript alone is not enough to move forward with impeachment as the intent of the call has only been collaborated by testimony and

the President has even admitted as such: The President is illegally seeking to have foreign government interference in the election process of the United States and withholding military foreign aid if the interference is not forthcoming. As we’ve learned, it’s really not material that the foreign aid was ultimately provided; the solicitation for foreign interference is enough in and of itself. I’m not entirely sure why this doesn’t scare even the Trumplicans. That said, I’m going to take a wild guess and suggest that perhaps Ms. Cole has not served in the military. Lt. Col. Alexander Vindman came to the U.S. when he was 3 years old. He has served with dedication and honorably as many immigrants have. He also has been stationed where he can provide valuable assistance and input. For some reason, I’ll sus-

pect that Lt. Col. Vindman has passed some pretty exhaustive security checks. What sort of litmus test is Ms. Cole suggesting? Only domestic-born individuals should be allowed to serve in the military? What about second generation? Third? So, Timothy McVeigh is fine because he was born in the U.S.? Sure, let’s enlist more just like him. So, it’s all a matter of rooting out corruption? “Former corruption should be investigated and not be repeated.” Clearly, that’s a different sort of litmus test that apparently doesn’t apply to the administration’s dealing with Saudi Arabia, but I digress. Also ignoring the fact that no one has been able to provide a scintilla of evidence for corruption on behalf of the Biden family. And before you throw stones at the possibility of perhaps bad judgment, the President promised to drain

the Washington, D.C., swamp. Instead, he has surrounded himself with family members, appointees and advisers who’ve been accused of conflicts of interest, misuse of public funds, influence-peddling, self-enrichment, working for foreign governments, failure to disclose information and violating ethics rules. Some are under investigation or facing lawsuits, others have resigned, and five have either been convicted or pleaded guilty, including three for lying to government officials. Even the non-transcript/ transcript alludes to corruption by the Administration and a further violation of the Constitution in a statement attributed to President Zelensky. There is clearly a cult of personality for Trumplicans who seem to walk around with blinders.

The President’s actions, and of those on his behalf, would not be tolerated by anyone if they were conducted by someone else. Ronald Reagan was accused of being a Teflon President. Not sure how to describe the current administration. Rob Wittman: Seriously listen to the testimony. Yancey Bradshaw Mechanicsville

Rebuttal to Ms. Cole’s Nov. 6 letter OMG, lady. Are y’all Trump thumpers (as opposed to “Bible thumpers”) ever gonna stop worshipping lard-gawd, great leader Trump? see LETTERS, pg. 16

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Mom tells how family learns to deal with Type 1 Diabetes By Melody Kinser Managing Editor ECHANICSVILLE – Tara Gray is a mom on a mission: Her 10-year-old daughter Cassie was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes last month and she is determined to make people understand the differences between Type 1 and Type 2. The Oct. 20 diagnosis came as a shock to the family. As for any possible inherited conditions, Tara said, “No lupus, no autoimmune disorders – not that I know of.” She and her husband Paul noticed that Cassie “hadn’t been acting like herself. She wasn’t playing outside – we live in a great cul-de-sac with a whole bunch of kids. Normally, we’d have to drag her inside at night.” Cassie was, however, “drinking a lot more, then she started to not look very well and we’re saying to her, ‘Are you sure you’re feeling OK? You don’t look like yourself.’ She kept insisting she was fine.” A call to Cassie’s pediatrician led to a directive of “Take her to St. Mary’s [Hospital].” Tara said Cassie’s blood glucose reading was so high that it didn’t register on the monitor. Cassie’s parents were told by hospital staff, “We’re going to have to send it [her blood]

Photos submitted by Tara Gray

Cassie Gray, above, is proving that Type 1 Diabetes isn’t keeping her from the activities that she enjoys, including hiking. Shown in the photo at right are, Cassie’s brother-in-law Caleb; her mother Tara; sister Hailey; sister Corinne; Cassie; and her dad Paul.

to the lab, because it [the reading] was not showing because her number is too high.” “Within a matter of minutes,” Tara said, “four doctors told me, my husband and two daughters that she was being admitted to assisted care. I later found out the next day that the lab’s number was 729.” “It just happened so fast,

The Mechanicsville Local

November 20, 2019

and they said, ‘This is what we suspect that it is.’ ” The next day, Tara said, the diagnosis was confirmed: Cassie has Type 1 Diabetes. “We met the endocrinologist at St. Mary’s for pediatrics.” Diagrams were drawn on a white board showing the pancreas. “The endocrinologist start-

ed explaining to us that, even at the age of 10, her body had failed her and that for the rest of her life the insulin will act as her pancreas,” Tara said. Cassie spent a night in assisted care and one night on the pediatrics floor. She was able to go on the third day. “When we came home,” Tara said, “I probably felt

more nervous, sleepless, and sleep-deprived. We came home with a lot of literature, pamphlets, and books, and I had everything spread out on the dining room table. It looked like a nurses’ station.” “They give you all these things to prepare for your chronically ill child that you’re so overwhelmed and can’t

comprehend everything that you’re ready,” she added. The next step would be helping Cassie transition back to school. She is the only child in her elementary school with Type 1 Diabetes. To prepare Cassie and her family for this life-changing condition, the hospital sent see DIABETES, pg. 17

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Ramsburg family tradition continues with apple butter (Editor’s note: The following was submitted by Richard Ramsburg, who was among 69 cousins to attend the Ramsburg Family Reunion at Scotchtown in Beaverdam.) Stirring Up Memories: the Ramsburg Family stays connected through the years and across the miles with “Apple Butter Family Reunions” and the writings of Richard Ramsburg. Harry Butler of Doswell said his mother was a Ramsburg descended from German immigrants into the Shenandoah Valley just after the American Revolution. “We have spread out across the country, but use this family tradition to keep close. Richard goes into family history of our common grandparents in Clarke County, and how this reunion has evolved and ended up in Hanover County.” Roving interviewers at the reunion included: Abby Benson, 12; Kelley Berlin, 12; Lexi Gobbi, 6; and Morgan Messerle, 12. The scent of apples, cinnamon, and cloves filled the autumn air. Snatches of conversation were heard among the rhythmic sound of the stirring paddles scraping back and forth across the bubbling cauldrons. It was Columbus Day weekend in 2019. Time for another Ramsburg family reunion, and that meant apple butter. But this story actually begins with David L. Ramsburg and his wife, Laura, living in

Berryville, Virginia, in the 1930s. David and Laura had seven children (Generation 1) and their children had 14 children (Generation 2) and those children had 22 children (Generation 3, now living in 11 states across the U.S.). During the 1950s, the Generation 1 and Generation 2 clan would gather on Sunday afternoons in Berryville at David and Laura’s home for Sunday dinner. The adults would sit and visit while the kids played in the yard or they watched the traffic go by on busy Route 7 from the wraparound porch. These cousins became quite close over the years. Many of them were in school together at Clarke County and Handley High Schools. Each fall, Charles Ramsburg (Generation 1) and his wife Ruth made Apple Butter with their five sons using an old copper kettle from Ruth’s family and apples from local orchards. Many other Generation 1 and Generation 2 family members shared in the work and the bounty of this apple butter tradition. As Generation 2 moved away and started their families, the tradition died out in the 1960s. But, in1999, several Generation 2 and Generation 3 cousins decided to use Apple Butter as an “event” that would bring family members together. Ramsburg family members just completed their 12th Apple Butter Reunion. And

Photos submitted by Richard Ramsburg

Apple butter is a family tradition when the Ramsburgs get together for a reunion. Richard Ramsburg shares their story. These photos show the final product being scooped out of the cauldron and packaged in jars.

it’s been a very successful and fun way to stay in touch now that the family extends across 11 states from Virginia to California. We typically have 70 to 80 attendees at the reunion. The 2019 Ramsburg Apple Butter Reunion was held at Scotchtown, Patrick Henry’s home from 1771 to 1778, in historic Hanover County, near Beaverdam. Over Columbus Day weekend -- from 2 p.m. Friday until 4 p.m. Saturday, we peeled, cooked, stirred, and canned a lot of apple butter. We had plenty of time for visiting and potluck meals as well as family history stories, including a slideshow of our rich family history spanning almost 100 years through pictures, Bible records, and courthouse docu-

ments. Our “chief communicator,” Charles L. Ramsburg, along with a team of cousins, managed the many tasks that make the reunion possible. Venues for the reunion have changed over the years, but the main “host” and organizer has always been Harry “Spunky” Butler. The first Apple Butter Reunion was at Spunky’s horse “farmette” in Nokesville, Virginia. The 1999 event planning team of Spunky, Tom and Karen Berlin, and Richard and Lynn Ramsburg went all out, focusing on many activities for all ages and especially the younger generation. Young children (sometimes two and three together) giggled and bounced during horseback rides on Spunky’s big white

steed. Children also loved playing with Spunky’s bantam chickens, pulling each other on antique buggy rides, arts and crafts, and cookie decorating. This was all in addition to the Apple Butter making itself. Now, our event often includes farm animal petting opportunities, pony rides, and pick-up soccer/football games. According to many of the kids, the favorite activity this year (2019) was petting “Ray,” the stray gray cat that appeared each day and was showered with food and affection by the kids. We enlisted the help of some junior reporters this year to ask family members about our apple butter reunion. We really love the fellowship that happens around

the peeling tables and kettles, reconnecting to our family heritage, seeing changes in family members (this year we had two new children births/ arrivals). We love watching children grow into adults, celebrating marriages and milestones, and commiserating with family members dealing with loss (divorce and death). And, wow, do we ever enjoy the Saturday potluck lunch with many traditional Ramsburg family recipe items. Based on our poll at this year’s event, the average attendee made 2½ trips through the extensive food tables. We’re so glad that the apple butter tradition has been reignited in Ramsburg family Generations 3 and 4.

The Mechanicsville Local

November 20, 2019 15

see TRADITION, pg. 16

LETTERS Continued from pg. 16

During your (absolutely ridiculous) Nov. 6 Mechanicsville Local letter, you begin by: 1) insulting immigrants and 2) folks “with a military background” . . . and soooo close to Veterans Day to boot! Lt. Col. Alex Vindman was 3 when he came here. Three! He’s the very epitome of what this country is all about. Betcha the “Kohls of Germany” or the “Coles of Scotland” could tell you a similar story. He was injured defending your right of free speech (and free press as well [unfortunately]) and received the Purple Heart. Trump received five ille-

gal and fraudulent draft deferments in comparison (more “real validity”). Are y’all Trump thumpers so screwed up that you’re insulting “folks with military backgrounds” by inferring “these should have raised questions related to validity?” Do you know what valid is? Valid is the US Attorney’s Office in New York convicting the “Trump Mgt. Company” of discrimination in a housing scam against African descendants in 1973. Valid is the same charge being levied against the Trump Mgt. Company (again) in 1979. These illegal crimes began Trump’s mafia enterprises 46 years ago! There are dozens and doz-

ens, more and frankly, rebutting your letter filled with incorrect fabrications isn’t worth too much an effort on my part. I won’t go into the usual extended diatribe this time because after the upcoming live/public testimony (against more Trump crimes) given by a plethora of career professionals (of which most are Republicans) I’m sure y’all’s lard gawd will remain unscathed (or will he?). Yes: great leader could, in fact, shoot someone on 5th Avenue and this: your lard ’n’ saver, gawd Trump would get away with it. Simply pitiful. Dr. Richard Ryder Mechanicsville

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Graduate asks HCSB to value all students In light of the recent lawsuit filed by the local NAACP to force a name and mascot change for both Lee-0Davis High School and Stonewall Jackson Middle School, I urge the Hanover County School Board to reconsider the school board’s April 2018 decision. I was disheartened by last year’s decision not to rename the schools, and puzzled by reasoning that pointed back to the results of an online survey, claiming that the majority of residents prefer to keep the name the same. Civil rights movements and legislation have been necessary precisely because the majority opinion is not always sufficient to protect the rights and liberties of the entire population. Imagine if decisions on voting rights or school integration had been made solely according to the preferences of the

SOON Continued from pg. 6

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The Mechanicsville Local

November 20, 2019

I suppose it was Christmas on a smaller scale, compacted into two or three weeks in December, but more than enough to provide all of those memories that represent the season for many of us. The earlier arrival of Saint Nick, I fear, also is responsible for a level of angst and stress that also has become synonymous with the season. The pre-Halloween reminders that the holidays are right around the corner serve as warnings to overworked parents that the

majority. Let’s not add the names and mascots of these schools to the long list of civil rights issues that required court rulings to resolve. Instead, I hope the board will lead this change by choice and send a message to all students and alumni: “You are valued, and you are welcome.” Abigail Pittman Class of 2001

Concerned for lawsuit, impact on the county I am gravely concerned about what is going on in Hanover County. After reading the initial comments arising from the School Board’s email on the FB page, I felt that it is important to pray about this matter and to speak with my school board representative. I encourage you to do the same before the Nov. 22 meeting. But I had some thoughts: race is on and the clock is ticking. It won’t surprise you that I prefer a simpler version of our collective favorite holiday — a time when trees stayed decorated for days, not weeks or months. A more concentrated season could well restore the true spirit of the season, funneling all of our enthusiasm and good will into a shorter period of time. Or, a new generation will embrace the extended holiday season as a period of beauty and enchantment that should last more than just a few days.

TRADITION Continued from pg. 15

With each spoonful of apple butter that we eat between family reunions, we remember the fun of past reunions, and the connection and belonging we share as one big Ramsburg family.

1. The lawsuit must end - it is beginning to tear up our county. I believe the suit is frivolous but even if the County prevails, millions could be spent that needs to be spent in the classrooms. Even if the court forced Hanover to change school names at a cost of nearly $500,000, all that will do is breed even more resentment and even hatred. The NAACP may win but at what cost? Ironically, a less inclusive and welcoming Hanover. The loser will surely appeal and it might end up at the United States Supreme Court -- four or five years without any resolution or closure. All that time, this issue will fester in the community and spawn all sorts of hatefulness. 2. But to save face so that the NAACP dismisses the law suit, I would condition the dismissal on the school board setting up a commission that can listen to evidence and come up with a recommendation to the board in the matter. see LETTERS, pg. 17

Many consumers welcome the extra days of sales and specials and the beauty of twinkling outdoor lights well into January. I suppose the real importance of the timing involves that elusive feeling that accompanies the holiday season, a sense of good will and compassion that truly celebrates the season. Timing can’t change the true spirit of Christmas, or the special things that happen when families and friends gather to celebrate the holidays, whether it lasts a day or a year.

By the numbers: 20 bushels of apples; 240 quarts of apple butter canned; About 1,200 Stayman variety and 1,200 Roman variety from a Winchester orchard; Two large copper kettles for cooking; And eight hours of cooking time.

LETTERS Continued from pg. 16

3. This is my suggestion: Lee-Davis and Stonewall Jackson are campuses that will in the next several years need to be replaced with new campuses and I understand peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s names will not be used to rename them. So, that issue will be put away. But the mascots could be a start: I admit (and I am not a person given to change the names or the mascots as it smacks of political correctness and part of a deconstruction of U.S. history) when I heard the announcer at the recent Hanover/Lee-Davis football game say something like: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s another touchdown for the Confederatesâ&#x20AC;? I cringed a bit. I could see some non-African American students (say from the North) being unwilling to play for the Confederates. And we do not need to inadvertently encourage teen rebellion with a mas-

cot: Rebels. So, this might be a way for all sides to give a little to get a little: Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s change the Confederates to Defenders (I personally like the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Fighting Quakersâ&#x20AC;? with a nod to Robert Pleasants, the nearby visionary Revolutionary era Quaker leader who freed his slaves and started to pay them instead and urged Patrick Henry and others to end slavery as well.) and change Rebels to Cannons or Cavalry. The ambiguous mascots are certainly a nod to the Confederacy but also Defenders could honor our veterans, first responders or a public defender (my favorite as I was one for a few years earlier in my legal career) and either Cannons or Cavalry are a nod to the war as well but still ambiguous. Both sides used cannons and cavalry and our area did see action in the so-called Civil War. What I would ask the NAACP: The lawsuit must go. Nothing good can come of this. Win or lose. Millions

to defend or millions to pay lawyers. Or force the board to change names over 70% of the Hanoverians wanted to keep. The resentment caused by this could fester for a generation. All it will take is a raciallytinged incident in Hanover to be the spark. The well is in danger of being poisoned already. After the lawsuit is dismissed then the commission is set up, citizens appointed, and start listening to all sides. I also urge the school board to reach out to the NAACP and both sides can take the high road and stop division in our community but start a process that will start the healing over this issue. Contact your school board representative before the meeting on Friday [Nov. 22].

DIABETES Continued from pg. 14

her home with a backpack geared toward children. Tara said there was cookbook type information. â&#x20AC;&#x153;So, really, overnight the parents are expected to be an RN [registered nurse] and a dietician. I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t believe weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re being sent home alone with her and trying to make her comfortable at school,â&#x20AC;? she continued. Cassie missed a week of school. â&#x20AC;&#x153;She finally got comfortable enough to take the cookbook into the backpack and her counselor read it to the class,â&#x20AC;? Tara said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;That really calmed down the stigma.â&#x20AC;? Tara emphasizes that there was nothing Cassie did to end up with the diagnosis. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s literally, essentially, their pancreas has just stopped working. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an autoimmune disease. The pancreas is really no good Elwood Earl â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sandyâ&#x20AC;? to them anymore.â&#x20AC;? Sanders Jr. Cassie was a trooper on Mechanicsville Halloween, knowing she could

not enjoy the treats being handed out in her neighborhood. A neighbor put together a goody bag of sugar-free items for her. â&#x20AC;&#x153;You donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know what youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re doing, but youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re doing what you can to keep her alive,â&#x20AC;? Tara said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s very overwhelming, and we still donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know what weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re doing.â&#x20AC;? Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re all learning about counting carbohydrates. Cassie has been doing the finger prick to check her blood glucose levels. A plan was set up for her at school. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been struggling, but sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s starting to realize that she probably canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have a big cup of eggnog anymore,â&#x20AC;? her mom said. They are exploring recipe possibilities. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Even on the days she doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to accept it, I do want her to embrace it. This is just you, part of your life.â&#x20AC;? Tara and Paul ordered a medical ID bracelet for Cassie. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a really pretty bracelet â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the worst/best piece of jewelry that we ever purchased.â&#x20AC;?

With tears streaming down her face, Cassie said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I hope I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t give this to my kids.â&#x20AC;? Cassieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s parents told her: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got to accept this; this I part of you; and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re gonna have to put yourself first. This is kind of what it is. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got to make sure that she understands sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gonna have to accept that this is Cassieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life and our life.â&#x20AC;? Tara said she has been reading articles about statistics associated with being the parent of a Type 1 Diabetic. She did note that some parents become victims of PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder). She has joined a local Facebook group of moms with kids with Type 1 Diabetes. Support is important to the entire family. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am comforted by every prick, each finger prick that is good, and she eats a meal that she likes. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m taking it day-by-day, because it can be overwhelming if I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t do that,â&#x20AC;? Tara said. see DIABETES, pg. 21

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November 20, 2019 17

Luke Saunders goes from a Tiger to an Eagle in Boy Scout Troop 521 Photos submitted by David Saunders

Luke Saunders, a member of Boy Scout Troop 521, received his Eagle Scout Award on June 3. His project involved rebuilding a wheelchair ramp at Kenwood United Methodist Church in Elmont. Luke is the son of David and Olivia Saunders of Mechanicsville. He is a freshman at Hanover High School. The two joined photos show Luke when he was a Tiger, right, to becoming an Eagle. Shown in the group photos are, from left, back row, Tony Call, Troop 521; Dr. Clint Norris, Troop 521; Justin Crawford, Troop 521; Ellen Schmidt, Troop 521; Andrew Call, Troop 521; Jeff Ault, Troop 700; Ryan Call, Troop 521; Ken Jones, Troop 1853; Tristain Burton, Troop 521; David Saunders, Troop 521/Pack 521 (Luke’s dad); Luke Saunders, Eagle Scout, Troop 521; Lincoln, Bald Eagle from Busch Garden Eagle Ridge Reserve; Zac Gormley, Troop 521; Chuck Hurd, Troop 521; Mitch Ault, Troop 700; Walter Bogdan, Troop 709; Palmer Bogdan, Troop 709; Elon Harris, Troop 700; Daniel Blankenship, Troop 709; and Rex Harris, Troop 700; and, front, from right, Mike Hughes, Troop 793; Jonathan Blankenship, Troop 709; Liam Saunders, Pack 521 (Luke’s brother); Ryan White, Troop 521; John Weeks, Troop 521; Keir Burton, Troop 521/Pack 521; and Tim Swingle, Scoutmaster, Troop 521.

CALENDAR

| News, Updates & Listings Wednesday, Nov. 20 The Lee-Davis High School annual Horticulture Poinsettia Sale will be open to the public from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Monday and Tuesday, Nov. 25-26, and November 25-26, and Monday through Friday, Dec. 2-13, at the newly renovated school greenhouse. To

order, call 804-723-2245 to order. Payment may be made by cash or check. Bulk orders are welcome. Call for pricing.

Friday, Nov. 22 Historic Polegreen Church will hold its annual Holiday Illumination at 5:30 p.m. at 6411 Heatherwood Drive in

The Mechanicsville Local

Mechanicsville. The evening will feature Christmas carols and the lighting of the church to celebrate the season. Pole Green Elementary School Chorus and The Sounds of the Spirit Handbell Choir from Mechanicsville Baptist Church will perform. A Revolutionary encampment will be pro-

November 20, 2019

vided by the Henrico Minute Company before the program gets underway.

Saturday, Nov. 23 Church of the Redeemer will present its 38th Annual Craft Bazaar from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The church is located at 8275 Meadowbridge Rd. in

ax submissions to calendar to 730-0476, email to mkinser@mechlocal.com, or mail to 8460 TimesDispatch Blvd., Mechanicsville VA 23116. Deadline is 3 p.m. Wednesday 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.

Mechanicsville across from Memorial Regional Medical Center. The event will feature 120-plus craft vendors, a bake sale, Santa Claus, Santa Shop, $1 donation/door prize, and a raffle including a gift card

tree, quilt, and more. Bring a can of non-perishable food for a bonus door prize ticket. Breakfast and lunch will be served. see CALENDAR, pg. 21

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