04/17/19 by Mechanicsville-Ashland Local

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Vol. 35, No. 50 | Richmond Suburban News | April 17, 2019

Deputy exposed to possible opioid Sheriff: NARCAN revives officer who had administered chest compressions By Melody Kinser Managing Editor

Image courtesy of Sgt. James R. Cooper

This photo shows the label of NARCAN, which is carried in patrol vehicles, as well as by Fire-EMS personnel.

performing chest compressions during a cardiac event – became exposed to an opioid substance, which we believe was fentanyl or carfentanil,” Hines said. Due to privacy issues, Col. Hines chose not to identify any of the individuals involved in either incident. “Fortunately for the officer, his lieutenant was still there, along with officers and medical personnel,” the sheriff said. “They had to administer several doses

HANOVER – Col. David R. Hines and the Hanover County Sheriff ’s Office have experienced the reality of today’s growing opioid problem when two deputies fell victim to what was most likely fentanyl while on the job. As recent as Friday, April 5, an officer – “while responding to a cardiac call and

of NARCAN to revive the deputy. We don’t know how the exposure happened because he was the only deputy exposed to the substance.” “However,” Hines continued, “once we got him to the hospital, we had a conversation with the hospital staff about the other officers that had been on the scene. Their recommendation was to decontaminate

By Jim Ridolphi for The Mechanicsville Local

Jim Ridolphi for The Local

ASHLAND -- A children’s book describing the life of Harvey Milk, a San Francisco supervisor who championed LGBT rights, landed squarely in the center of controversy at one Hanover County elementary school late last month. According to reports, a second grade teacher at Henry Clay Elementary School read the book, “Pride: The story of Harvey Milk and

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Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com

the Rainbow Flag” by Rob Sanders aloud to her class about two weeks ago. A parent of a child in that class objected to what she considered controversial or sensitive material being read to her child without her knowledge. She contacted a local television reporter who aired a story on the parents’ complaints, alerting school officials to the problem. Principal Terri Keck immediately respondsee BOOK, pg. 18

see HERZBERG, pg. 4

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Herzberg seeks Cold Harbor seat ECHANICSVILLE -- Michael Herzberg is seeking the Republican nomination for the Hanover Board of Supervisors in the Cold Harbor District. “It’s clear Hanover is excited to support my message of strong, common-sense conservative leadership that will preserve our culture and history. The work of my volunteers and strong support led to us qualifying first for the HERZBERG ballot. I will work to keep tax rates

see OPIOID, pg. 4

Book about LGBT champion sparks parents’ concern, support

Michelle Blakey voiced her support for the Henry Clay Elementary School teacher who came under fire for sharing a children’s book describing the life of Harvey Milk, a San Francisco supervisor who championed LGBT rights.

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The Mechanicsville Local

April 17, 2019

OFFICE CANDIDATES Democratic Party Primary Member Senate of Virginia 12th District

9 HEALTH Do not eat Easter eggs that are left out overnight.

Veena Lothe Debra Rodman

Republican Party Primaries Board of Supervisors Beaverdam District Board of Supervisors Chickhominy District

Board of Supervisors Cold Harbor

Board of Supervisors Mechanicsville

Mechanicsville districts filed simultaneously. By drawing an egg with the candidate’s name inside out of the basket, it was determined that Tom Walsh will be first and then Angela Kelly-Wiecek on the ballot for board of supervisors in the Chickahominy District. In the primary for Mechanicsville District board of supervisors, the first name

Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com

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(Editor’s note: Canova Peterson’s name was inadvertently omitted from the chart that appeared in last week’s edition. We are publishing the article again in its entirety and printing the corrected chart. We do apologize to Mr. Peterson for the omission.) HANOVER – Candidate name placement for the June 11 Republican Party Primary ballot was determined on Tuesday, April 2, when the Hanover County Electoral Board gathered in the office of Teresa F. “Teri” Smithson, Director of Elections/General Registrar. According to Smithson, it is necessary when more than one candidate files their paperwork for the same office at the same time with the party chair. At noon on March 11, all Republican candidates met with Dale Taylor, Hanover Republican Committee chair, to submit their paperwork for candidacy. Of those that filed, the candidates for the Hanover County Board of Supervisors in the Chickahominy and the

2019 June 11th Primary Candidates

Andrew 'Andy' Schaeffer, Jr. Aubrey M. 'Bucky' Stanley, Jr. Tom Walsh Angela Kelly-Wiecek F. Michael Herzberg Sarah Richardson Via Paul D. Cash

14 COMMUNITY

W. Canova Peterson IV

Special exhibit to be featured on Ashland Tour.

Ryan M. Hudson

to appear on the ballot is W. Canova Peterson IV then Ryan M. Hudson. Absentee voting for the Primary Election starts on Friday, April 26. For more information, contact the Hanover County Voter Registration and Elections office at 804-3656080 or visit www.hanovercounty.gov/365/Voting.

Easter services continue at St. Paul Lutheran

Please call our office today. We look forward to meeting your dental health needs. 7516 Right Flank Rd., Mechanicsville, VA 23116 (804)-746-1300

INSIDE

The Local Pick:

MECHANICSVILLE – Rev. Rodney Bitely, pastor, has announced that St. Paul Lutheran Church at 8100 Shady Grove Rd. in Mechanicsville continues with its services heading into the Easter observance. They are: 7 p.m. today (Wednesday, April 17) –

Maundy Thursday worship service. 7 p.m. Friday, April 19 –Good Friday worship service. 7:30 a.m. Sunday, April 21 –Easter Indoor Sunrise Worship Service. 10 a.m. Sunday, April 21 -- Easter Celebration worship service. For more information, call the church at 804-427-7500.

16 ASHLAND Pufferbelly Park prepares for ribbon cutting event.

ALSO… Incident reports .........3 Letters to the editor...6 Obituaries ..........10-12 Calendar ................. 18 TV grids..............22-24 Sports ................25-29

SHERIFFâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S REPORTS | Crime, Accidents, Fire & Rescue March 29

Possession of marijuana, subsequent offense, was reported in the 8100 block of Mechanicsville Bypass/ Elm Drive, Mechanicsville. Petit larceny building was reported in the 7000 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville. Issuing bad checks, $200, was reported in the 8200 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville.

Simple assault was reported in the 7400 block of Eleanor Drive, Mechanicsville.

Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 9000 block of Peaks Road, Ashland.

Simple assault was reported in the 16000 block of Theme Park Way, Doswell.

Violation of a protective order was reported in the 7500 block of County Complex Road, Hanover.

Petit larceny, $200 not from a person, was reported in the 14300 block of Mill Creek Drive/Greenwood Church Road, Montpelier.

Robbery of a business was reported in the 11200 block of Elmont Road, Ashland.

Assault and battery of a family member was reported in the 19000 block of Double Cedar Road, Montpelier.

Assault and battery of a family member was reported in the 6000 block of Pond Place Way, Mechanicsville.

March 31

Petit larceny from auto was reported in the 6400 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville.

Simple assault was reported in the 8200 block of Lee-Davis Road, Mechanicsville.

Brandishing a firearm was reported in the 6200 block of Pole Green Road, Mechanicsville.

Concealment, price altering merchandise, was reported in the 7200 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.

Breaking and entering structure to commit larceny and assault was reported in the 6300 block of Morning Glory Road, Mechanicsville.

Driving under the influence of alcohol was reported in the 8600 block of Sliding Hill Road, Ashland. Issuing bad checks, $200, was reported in the 9300 block of Atlee Road, Mechanicsville. Grand larceny, $500 or more not from a person, was reported in the 9100 block of Linneys Court, Mechanicsville.

Identity fraud use of identifying information to defraud was reported in the

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Destruction of property, monument, was reported in the 7200 block of Edgeworth Road, Mechanicsville.

Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 7400 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.

Destruction of property, monument, was reported in the 12300 block of Hanover Courthouse Road, Hanover.

Destruction of property, monument, was reported in the 7900 block of Arnoka see SHERIFFâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S, pg. 4

Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 11000 block of Lakeridge Parkway, Ashland.

Assault and battery of a family member was reported in the 12000 block of Shortleaf Lane, Rockville.

March 30

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Driver did not report an accident with damages, $1,000, in the 6600 block of Cold Harbor Road/Creighton Road, Mechanicsville.

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Destruction of property, monument, was reported in the 9000 block of Pole Green Park Lane, Mechanicsville.

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Obstructing justice with force was reported in the 6300 block of Creekway Court, Mechanicsville.

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April 17, 2019

was reported in the 8300 block of Bink Place, Mechanicsville.

Grand larceny building was reported in the 7400 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.

Grand larceny, $500 or more not from a person, was reported in the 11500 block of Fox Cross Road, Ashland.

Driver did not report an accident with damages, $500, in the 9700 block of Sliding Hill Road, Ashland.

Forging coin and bank notes was reported in the 18100 block of Vontay Road, Rockville.

Assault and battery of a family member was reported in the 17100 block of Mallorys Lane, Montpelier.

Driving under the influence of alcohol was reported in the 9300 block of Atlee Station Road/Atlee Road, Mechanicsville.

Issuing bad checks, $200, was reported in the 9100 block of Epps Road, Mechanicsville.

Destruction of property, monument, was reported in the 13200 block of Winston Road, Ashland.

everyone that was there. This meant wiping down every Possession of Schedule I one’s equipment, having their and II controlled substance clothes washed, immediately was reported in the 8200 having them shower, and then block of Atlee Road, having them return to work Mechanicsville. after the decontamination.” Simple assault was The officer who was reported in the 8200 block exposed was transported to of Angela Nicole Lane, Memorial Regional Medical Mechanicsville. Center, where he was determined to have had a full recovApril 2 ery and was released. Possession of marijuana, “NARCAN has now become subsequent offense, was a piece of indispensable equipreported in the 7200 ment -- just as a bulletproof vest block of Mechanicsville has become a piece of required Turnpike/Bell Creek Road, equipment,” Hines said. Mechanicsville. He pointed out that the Driver did not report an quick actions of the lieutenant accident with damages, on the scene were instrumental $1,000, in the 7200 block in providing aid to the deputy of Bell Creek Road, who had been exposed to the Mechanicsville. potentially lethal drug. Obtaining money or “When he saw that the offisignature by false pretenses cer was having a reaction he was reported in the 8500 had to consider the officers block of Meadowbridge that had been there. Where Road, Mechanicsville. were they in their cycle? Were Petit larceny building was they driving down the road? reported in the 7000 block Were they on another call now? of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Responsibly, he got everyone Mechanicsville. back so everyone could be Assault and battery of observed and made sure that

SHERIFF’S Continued from pg. 3

Road, Mechanicsville.

Driving under the influence of alcohol was reported in the 7000 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike/Lee-Davis Road, Mechanicsville. Grand larceny, $500 or more not from a person, was reported in the 16000 block of Theme Park Way, Doswell.

Concealment, price altering, merchandise, was reported in the 7400 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.

Assault and battery of a family member was reported in the 7100 block of Ellerson Mill Circle, Mechanicsville.

Profane, threatening language over a public airway was reported in the 7100 block of Garden Park Lane, Mechanicsville.

April 1

Possession of marijuana, subsequent offense, was reported in the 11400 block of Verdon Road, Doswell. Identity fraud use of identifying information to defraud was reported in the 8800 block of Ringview Drive, Mechanicsville. Petit larceny building

Driver did not report an accident with damages, $1,000, was reported in the 7100 block of Garden Park Lane, Mechanicsville.

a family member was reported in the 7300 block of Barnette Avenue, Mechanicsville.

April 3

Receiving stolen goods was reported in the 9200 block of Hanover Crossings Drive, Mechanicsville.

Assault and battery of a family member was reported in the 3100 block of Westwood Road, Mechanicsville.

Reckless handling of a firearm was reported in the 10100 block of Lakeridge Parkway, Ashland.

Operating a motor vehicle, habitual offender, no endangerment, was reported in the 8200 block of Meadowbridge Road/ North Run Medical Drive,

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All are welcome! 4

The Mechanicsville Local

April 17, 2019

Assault and battery of a family member was reported in the 8100 block of Oak Street, Mechanicsville.

see SHERIFF’S, pg. 5

OPIOID Continued from pg. 1

HERZBERG Continued from pg. 1

low, manage growth, and protect rural Hanover. For more than 26-years I have lived in Mechanicsville with four years in Cold Harbor. I chose to do so because it’s the best place to work, live, and raise a family.” Herzberg said. As a member of the Hanover Republican Committee, Herzberg has worked as a volunteer for many Republican candidates who support conservative values and limited government. He said he is ready to work at a higher level for the county he loves and preserve what makes Hanover great. “For the past decade, I have

he had more NARCAN on hand,” he said. Since 2017, Hines added, his department has responded to over 110 opioid overdoses. “Now, that doesn’t count the number of just normal cardiac calls we may have responded to.” In 2002, the HCSO partnered with Hanover Fire-EMS to place AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators) in patrol cars “so when a cardiac call came in, we would be able to respond.” “If you fast forward, we looked at NARCAN back in 2015 and then in 2016. We were already seeing an increase in overdoses throughout the region and in Hanover County. We also started getting more information on the fact that heroin was being cut with fentanyl and a substance called carfentanil. Both of these substances are much more potent than heroin and these two substances can be absorbed not only through the nasal passage but also through the skin.” Hines said he and his administrative staff became “concerned about our officers responding to overdose calls and the possibility of an accidental exposure, so we

made a conscious effort to get NARCAN and to have NARCAN readily available for our officers in case of an accidental exposure.” He did say that they “recognize that we may also be able to save the life of someone else experiencing an opioid overdose. Instead of giving each officer NARCAN to carry on their person, we attached our NARCAN kits to our automatic defibrillators, knowing that when we went on the scene we would have not only the NARCAN but the defibrillators to assist with recovery.” The sheriff said it is their goal to “provide equipment hoping you never have to use it, and when we looked at our possible uses of NARCAN on our own people we always thought of it in the packaging of evidence because we’re required to package evidence and then we send it to the state laboratory for testing. “Two years ago during packaging of evidence we had exposure of one of our investigators to a substance he was packaging. We deployed NARCAN at that time and had

owned my own small business and I understand what it’s like to manage costs and budgets, and to work full-time for a living. As an HVAC business owner and Class A contractor, I have been servicing all areas of the county, and now I have the opportunity to serve and support other local businesses. It is my belief that government officials should treat taxpayers’ money better than they treat their own money. I will not waste Hanover residents’ money.” As an NRA member and concealed carry permit holder, Herzberg said he will always support Second Amendment rights. He also said that protecting the safety of Hanover residents and

their rights will be a top priority. He said he will support the Sheriff's Office and the Commonwealth Attorney's office to ensure public safety is of the most importance. “We must respect the rule of law and keep Hanover safe. I will always stand with the brave men and women of law enforcement and our first responders to ensure they have resources to do their job. Herzberg is a member of the Mechanicsville Ruritan Club and Mechanicsville Businessmen’s Association. For two years, he volunteered in the Riverside Regional Jail ministry program. For more information, email Press@ HerzbergforHanover.com.

see OPIOID, pg. 5

Continued from pg. 4

the officer sent directly to the hospital.” Before April 5, that had been the only exposure the HCSO had experienced and, as Hines said, it was “in a very controlled environment at the office.” “We’ve seen it across the region; we’ve heard about these incidents happening. Law enforcement does respond to calls for medical assistance. In fact, back in the mid-1990s we looked at our patrol areas. We recognized that we’re in the community during patrol and that many times a cardiac call

could come in and we could be the first responder on the scene -- because we were already in proximity of the call, so we made a conscious decision.” “This issue is not just here in Hanover -- this is a regional issue, this is a national issue. What I’ve been told, this is a national epidemic. We’re doing everything we can to protect our officers that are responding to calls of cardiac arrest.” Col. Hines attributed the addition of NARCAN to his office thanks to John Shinholser of the McShin Foundation. Shinholser was responsible for making the first donation. According to the website --

https://www.cdc.gov/drugoverdose/opioids/fentanyl.html -- for the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, “Pharmaceutical fentanyl is a synthetic opioid pain reliever, approved for treating severe pain, typically advanced cancer pain. It is 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine. It is prescribed in the form of transdermal patches or lozenges and can be diverted for misuse and abuse in the United States. “However, most recent cases of fentanyl-related harm, overdose, and death in the U.S. are linked to illegally made fentanyl. It is sold through illegal drug markets for its heroin-like

and II controlled substance was reported in the 7100 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike/Wynbrook Lane, Mechanicsville.

pretenses was reported in the 19000 block of Beaver Dam Road, Beaverdam.

SHERIFF’S Continued from pg. 4

Mechanicsville.

Fraudulent conversion, property removal, $200, was reported in the 7500 block of County Complex Road, Hanover.

Possession of Schedule I

ING3 N E O P RI L 2 AP

Assault and battery of a family member was reported in the 8400 block of Summer Walk Parkway, Mechanicsville. Obtaining money by false

Computer invasion of privacy to examine information was reported in the 11200 block of Cedarlea Park, Glen Allen. Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 9700 block of Sliding

effect. It is often mixed with heroin and/or cocaine as a combination product — with or without the user’s knowledge — to increase its euphoric effects.” The website also described carfentanil as the most potent fentanyl analog detected in the United States, and that it is responsible for the largest number of deaths. NARCAN nasal spray, according to https://www.narcan.com/, is the first and only FDA-approved nasal form of naloxone for the emergency treatment of a known or suspected opioid overdose. It counteracts the life-threatening effects of an opioid overdose.

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Destruction of property, monument, was reported in the 7300 block of Shannondale Road, Mechanicsville.

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Petit larceny building was reported in the 7300 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.

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The Mechanicsville Local

April 17, 2019

OPINION | The Local Views From the managing editor

LETTERS

What is the date and which state is this?

| Reader Views

By Melody Kinser Managing Editor

o start, let me point out that this is being written Thursday morning, the 11th. It’s significant to note the date because this evening should be filled with an enthusiasm that only appears during election season. A Mass Meeting of Hanover County Republicans was to be held that evening at Stonewall Jackson Middle School in Mechanicsville. And, the 97th District seat in the Virginia House of Delegates is taking center stage. Depending on who you talk to about the race, there are accusations of misinformation being spread, unfair and biased reporting (yeah, that’s directed at us), and a vote on Medicaid expansion in the commonwealth. Here’s where I consider myself a moderate: Why does there have to be a political affiliation when we’re talking about health care? This is a legitimate question about parties, as they say,

working across the aisle. Several years ago, I backed off from an emphasis driven by preferred political party. To me, it’s a matter of platforms, plans and philosophies. As a resident of the 97th District, I do have a keen interest in candidates Chris Peace and Scott Wyatt. The district includes parts of Hanover and King William counties and all of New Kent County. The Mass Meeting was being conducted to determine delegates and alternates to the May 4 Convention. Heading into that gathering was some back-and-forth disagreements about Wyatt having served on the county GOP’s Legislative Committee representing the 97th. Wyatt has maintained that he asked to be removed when he announced his candidacy for the office. Chairwoman Dale Taylor said she removed him from the position. We have received a mix of for and against in this ongoing saga. Keep up with the conversation

on our Facebook pages at www.facebook.com/ mechlocal and www.facebook.com/ashlandhanoverlocal. As we head into probably the most contested election since I arrived here in 2008, our goal is to provide complete coverage -- and, yes, unbiased. While the “Who will be on the ballot?” controversy continues, I’ve had flashbacks to my early years in covering elections. The stories you’ve heard about West Virginia politics are probably true. My first experience was eye-opening and that continued throughout my 30 years in that state. Offices being bought and sold; corruption running rampant. On a local level, I think the June 11 Primary will see a heavy turnout in voter participation, which is how it should be every election. I am curious as to whether any of the candidates will get down and dirty on the campaign trail. For the record, I don’t need any reminders of what I witnessed in West Virginia. But, as I said last week, it’s going to be interested. Stay tuned ...

Winter is here: Time to bring on Game of Thrones By Jim Ridolphi Contributing Columnist Winter is here, and by the time the real version of the cold dark season rolls around, we’ll have all of those pesky unanswered questions surrounding the hit HBO series Game

of Thrones. The anticipation among millions of loyal viewers is almost stifling as Season 8 promises the biggest and darkest of finales, filled with mammoth battle scenes, filled with the brand of blood and guts that made the

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series famous, and not to be missed for many. But, death and deceit have never had much value on any of the previous seven seasons, and the final six episodes which reunite the survivors, as it were, will be hard-pressed to

outdo the previous seven installments in the ghoulish category. For those of you who have no idea what I’m talking about, I get it. For the first seven seasons, I had no inkling of what the Game was about and less see THRONES, pg. 8

WE WANT TO PUBLISH YOUR ISSUE-DRIVEN LETTERS The Local welcomes your signed letters to the editor on topics of interest to Mechanicsville residents. Letters must include your address and a daytime telephone number. We reserve the right to edit letters. We do not guarantee that every letter received will be published. Letters reflect the opinions and positions of the writers and not The Mechanicsville Local. Send letters to: The Mechanicsville Local 8460 Times-Dispatch Blvd. Mechanicsville, Va. 23116 Fax: 730-0476 E-mail: editor@mechlocal.com © 2019 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. CAC Audited Circulation: 31,156.

Taxpayers do the funding, politicians take the credit Seeing the rush from political candidates to collect expense money to run for office has me wondering: What’s in it for me? What has any one of them -- local, state or federal -- done for me lately? I know most of us have water and sewer, we have police when needed, we have schools, we have EMS and fire if needed, we have lavish government buildings, we have parks, we have highways and we have numerous things provided by the government. And then I think, what do all these services and assets have in common? All are paid for by us, the taxpayers. Our tax dollars pay for everything that the government takes credit for giving and doing for us. Said another way, we are paying a lot and getting a small amount back. So, again, what does the average person get out of supporting or helping to elect anyone? Other than say contractors, realtors, investors, some businesses and others who may need a favor from an elected or government official and vice versa, why should we care who gets elected? We will continue to get what we’re getting now no matter who’s in office. We pay for it, they have to supply it. On the other hand, what does that elected person get? How about prestige, a good salary for the amount of time spent, what about good health insurance, what about good retirement, what about favors and perks, paid out-of-town retreats and favors for doing favors? And they expect us to pay their expenses to get them elected to these positions. Who profits from these positions? It’s certainly not the average taxpayer. I don’t think I’m interested in who is in office anymore. see LETTERS, pg. 8

The Mechanicsville Local

April 17, 2019

Mike Chenault

Todd Rogers

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90 Eula Ct Aylett, VA 23009 2123 Old Church RD • $399,950 7000 New Kent Hwy • $635,000 6 acres, 4,440 sq ft, Cape, Metal Roof, Stone Accents, 5 Bd, 3 Full Ba & 2 Half Ba, 2-car Gar, Additional Living Quarters David Berberich “BERB” 804-514-3135 • DavidB@HTRSI.com

9182 Pembridge Drive • $254,950 Avondale, $1,754 sq ft, 3 Bd, 2Ba, 2- Car Gar, .41 Acre Lot, Fenced Backyard, Hanover High School Danielle Berberich 804-363-5973 • danielleb@htrsi.com

10 ac., unique and tasteful home with a secluded wooded lot, stone fp, wood floors, granite top, Florida room, 2-car attached and 2-car detached garages. Nice home in historic Old Church.

Open floor plan, quiet cul-de-sac corner lot. Attached 2-car garage, beautifully landscaped, spacious rear deck for entertaining with hot tub. Hardwood floors throughout, bartop island kitchen, breakfast nook, vaulted ceilings, gas fireplace. $239,900

David Berberich “BERB” 804-514-3135 • DavidB@HTRSI.com

Jason Collier 804-912-3515 • agentcollier@gmail.com

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8209 Mt Storm Ct 7903 Trumpetvine 4 br, 2.5 bath, eat in kitchen, formal DR, FR with gas fireplace & new carpet, fresh paint, fenced yard, 2 car garage and just a 3 minute walk to the playground! This wont last. $299,950

A1578 sq. ft, 3 br, 2.5 ba, granite counters, hardwood floors downstairs, master bedroom w/master bath, patio, attached garage, next to clubhouse & pool. $229,950 Cyndi Wyatt Blake 804-569-1529 • cyndib@GoHtr.com

• Featured in Virginia Living Magazine • Master with walkout balcony •Back patio with Pizza Oven • Monticello style potting shed • Landscaped garden • Wine cellar

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10382 Avenel Place Mechanicsville, VA 23116 $435,000 • Ashcreek • Remodeled Bathrooms • Double sided fireplace • 9 ftoo Ceilings • Walkout basement • Walking distance to pool

Mike Chenault 804-726-4532 MikeC@GoHTR.com MikeSellsHouses.net

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7513 Old Estates Way, Mech. 23111 • $334,900 3173 Sq Ft, 5 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths, Finished 3rd Floor, Wraparound Porch, Corner Lot, Garage, HMS Warranty Donald Rozell 804-305-0894 DonaldR@HTRSI.com

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Formal living and dining rooms, three bedrooms, Master with full bath. Hardwoods. The kitchen is updated. The den has a large brick hearth and wood burning fireplace and new carpet. Newer windows, roof and HVAC, all systems are updated! There are 2 sheds, making for lots of storage.

Barbara Howell 804-852-1595 • barbarah@htrsi.com

WANTED: More Homes to Sell!

WANTED

The Mechanicsville Local

April 17, 2019

THRONES

We do the shopping. You do the savings.

Continued from pg. 6

about references to the series made in passing conversation. I had watched the first episode and decided it wasn’t for me. First, I’m not a fan of supernatural fiction. More importantly, the level of violence, although purposeful, was somehow disturbing to me. A bout last year with the flu changed all of that, and I began binge watching the series. It didn’t hook me immediately, but, as the episodes evolved, I began to look forward to the next one. I suppose I realized I might have a problem when I spent an entire Saturday watch-

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LETTERS Continued from pg. 6

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Since my first birthday there have been seven Democrat presidents, seven Republican presidents, and I can’t remember any one of them doing anything that personally benefited me. I’ve struggled during any hard times, coasted during any good times, paid for every thing I have by working for a living and I am still here regardless of who has been in office . The circus has finally made it to Washington, D.C., with real live clowns, vultures, side shows and things that would never been allowed by Barnum and Bailey. The Democrats will continue to try and ruin the Republicans and the

the dead is upon us, in mythical terms of course. Now, if you want odds on who will end up on the throne of Westeros or whether Winterfell will survive, there are polls and speculative odds available. And an expected 20 million viewers per episode will tune in to see what has been billed as one of the largest battle scenes ever filmed and witness what promises to be an epic ending. There are plenty of naysayers who view Game as an example of the further deterioration of viewing standards in America. In reality, the series and its appeal are as American as the final episode of MASH

or the conclusion of The Fugitive. According to pre-release information, episodes are expected to be movie length at 90 minutes and each episode reportedly cost $15 million. I won’t be rearranging my schedule to catch the final season, but I will be catching up On Demand. Like the other viewers who fear the impending winter, I’m anxious to see who sits on the throne. I’m also hoping for a better, or let’s say more defined, ending for Game than we got from The Sopranos. My years of dedication to that series were rewarded with an ending that left me to this day asking, what happened?

Republicans will continue to try and ruin the Democrats while both sides continue to get paid with our tax dollars. Anyone want my vote and donation? Here are a couple things I need: Get the law voided that says a homeowner’s property should be reassessed and taxed more because a house down the street (not your house) sold for more than yours is worth. Instead, if the government needs more budget money, raise the tax rate and quit lying that a reassessment is not a tax increase. Enact a law that would require teaching hunting dogs how to read a posted/no trespassing sign and only allow hunting with dogs if hunters have 1,000 or more contiguous acres of land to hunt. Get a law passed that says if

you live in a subdivision where hunting, barking dogs and discharging a firearm is illegal, you cannot take your barking dog and firearms to another area and disturb those property owners. Ted Mentz Old Church

campaign would have sued over this and the Republican Party would have stopped it? It is a false accusation designed to distract voters from Del. Peace’s voting record. It is as simple as that. The truth: Scott never voted for a convention! Another false claim is that the Wyatt campaign is engaging in “voter suppression.” Let’s look at the facts. On April 9 at the New Kent Mass Meeting, the Peace campaign controlled the meeting and promptly classified a majority of Scott’s delegates as alternates, which means they will unlikely get to vote. However, Peace’s campaign assigned all of their people as delegates insuring they all get to vote at the convention. Who is engaging in voter suppression? Now let’s talk about what is truly important in this race: the voting record of the candidates. As a supervisor, Scott has held the line on taxes and continued to support our schools by providing the resources needed to make Hanover County Public Schools some of the best in Virginia. At the same time, he helped keep our per student costs at some of the lowest

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The Mechanicsville Local

April 17, 2019

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ing episode after episode in an attempt to finally catch up. Trust me, I’m not an expert on the series and it’s plenty confusing trying to keep up with a cast of characters that comes and goes, in various ways. I’m pleased to report I have not taken advantage of the numerous Apps and websites that will catch one up on every detail of the series, so I’m still calling my dedication more of an obsession than an addiction. But, the days of wondering what will become of Tyrion, Sensa and Arya Stark, Brienne of Tart or that pesky Night King are quickly waning and the war between the living and

Serving Mechanicsville, VA Since 1992

It’s about the voting record in 97th District (Editor’s note: The following was addressed to “Dear Citizens of House District 97.”) If you have been paying any attention to the local news and social media you may have noticed that there has been a barrage of attacks on Scott Wyatt, Cold Harbor District representative on the Hanover County Board of Supervisors. This is the price you pay when you have the courage to take on an incumbent politician who knows you have him on the issues. The primary attack is on Scott’s integrity. His opponent is claiming he “rigged” the nomination process. If he “rigged” the process then don’t you think the Chris Peace

see LETTERS, pg. 13

Do not leave Easter eggs out overnight if you plan to eat them Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com RICHMOND -- A common question this time of year is: Is it safe to leave Easter eggs out overnight? The answer is no. Food safety experts at the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services say if you plan to eat the eggs after decorating, do not leave them out of refrigeration for more than two hours. Other tips for food safety with hard-cooked eggs: Refrigerate them at 40Â° F or colder in the main part of the refrigerator, not the door. Wash your hands thoroughly and make sure children wash theirs before and after handling uncooked shell eggs. After decorating eggs, return them to the refrigerator within two hours. If you have an egg hunt, remember the two-hour rule

Thursday, April 25 â&#x20AC;˘ 9am - Noon

Metro Creative Graphics

applies from the time you hide them until you return them to the refrigerator. Eat properly refrigerated hard-cooked eggs within seven days. When you hide dyed eggs for the kids, be sure the shells are unbroken. If you miss an egg or two during the hunt, definitely throw them out when found. Fun tip for easy-to-peel

eggs: steaming eggs instead of boiling them will produce a product that is much easier to peel. Place a steamer basket in a pot with an inch of water and bring to a boil. Turn off heat, add cold eggs, cover and cook for 12 minutes. Transfer immediately to an ice-water bath to cool them, and post-holiday, the shells will slip right off.

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The Mechanicsville Local

April 17, 2019

OBITUARIES | Death Notices & Funerals BUTLER, Kenneth Roger (â&#x20AC;&#x153;Kenâ&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Kennyâ&#x20AC;?), 81, of Mechanicsville passed away peacefully on April 4, 2019, at his home with his family at his side. He is preceded in death by his parents, Lloyd P. and Martha N. Butler BUTLER Sr.; brother, Lloyd P Butler Jr.(Estelle). He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, who were married on April 14, 1962, Rose Woodson Butler; precious daughter, Melisa Butler Whaley (Lee) ; sister, Shirley Sears; brothers, Harold

Butler (Judy), Rev. Dr. Henry Butler (Shirley), and Douglas Butler (Judy);and many specials nieces and nephews. Kenneth served in the U.S. Army National Guard, was manager of United Insurance Company of America, and owner of May Cleaners and Tuxedo, past member of Varina Lions Club, member of Mechanicsville United Methodist Church. Kenneth enjoyed spending time with his family, music, and hunting. He called Rose and Melisa his two girls, they were the love of his life. A special thanks to Dr. Jennifer Myers and Chelsea Moore at VCU. The family received friends on Monday, April 8, 2019, from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. at Bennett Funeral Home Mechanicsville Chapel, 8014 Lee Davis Rd., Mechanicsville,

VA 23111. Funeral services were conducted at 11 a.m. Tuesday April 9, 2019, at Mechanicsville United Methodist Church, 7356 Atlee Rd., Mechanicsville, VA 23111. Interment followed in Washington Memorial Park in the Mausoleum. Flowers are welcomed or contributions may be made to Mechanicsville United Methodist Church. CLARKE, Gordon Vernon â&#x20AC;&#x153;Punkyâ&#x20AC;?, born May 22, 1937, passed away peacefully with his family at his side Monday, April 8, 2019. Originally from King George County VA, he was the son of Inez Griffin Clarke and Gordon Webster Clarke. His mother nicknamed him Punky when he was barely a month old, and the name

A funeral service should be about memories, NOT HIGH PRICES.

stuck for his entire life. He is survived by his wife of nearly 60 years, June CLARKE Roberts Clarke from Alexandria, VA. They met as young coeds at the College of William and Mary. He is also survived by his sons, Victor Gordon Clarke (Robin) and Kevin Nevelle Clarke (Cheryl), and his most cherished grandchildren, Casey (Claire), Austin, Nick, Savannah and Colby. He also leaves one sister, Charlotte Ann Clarke; and nephew, Brian (Beth); and great-niece, Madyson. Punky graduated

from William and Mary in 1959 and started his teaching career at The Longfellow School for Boys in Bethesda, MD. From there, he moved into the Alexandria School System, where he held a variety of positions. He quickly rose from physical education teacher and coach to Assistant Principal and finally principal of John Adams Middle School. Along the way he earned his Masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Degree as well as his Doctorate Degree in Education from George Washington University. A note of pride for Punky was being the first boysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; gymnastics coach at GW High School in Alexandria, though his sons remember the pride he had in being the first driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s education teacher to have a student-driver rip a door off a parked car during instruc-

tion. Some of Punkyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best memories include coaching his eldest son Victorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s youth basketball team to a championship, as well as coaching his youngest son Kevinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s youth basketball team through a winless season. In one especially memorable game, the referees asked Coach Punky to control an especially rowdy fan (his wife June). Said Punky: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sir, honestly, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve never seen that woman in my life.â&#x20AC;? Punky left the education world to enter technology sales with Xerox Corporation. After enjoying his success with Xerox as one of the top salesmen in the country, earning the famous Bell Ringer Award, he moved on to work with a number of other corporations and technology products. Along the way, he see OBITUARIES, pg. 11

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The Mechanicsville Local

April 17, 2019

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OBITUARIES Continued from pg. 10

worked with many wonderful individuals that he’s remained in contact with throughout the years. After many years in sales, he decided to return to education as the Assistant Superintendent of Technology for Fairfax County Public Schools. Throughout his life, Punky was involved in a number of organizations. His favorite was the Alexandria Jaycees. Over the years, he held every leadership position: President, Senator, Key Man, and when he finally aged out of the Jaycees, the Exhausted Rooster. However, anyone that knows Punky, knows he didn’t age out quietly! For his next challenge, Punky decided he wanted to own his own business so he purchased a wholesale bakery named The World’s Best Cheesecake Company in Fairfax, VA. For nearly 20 years, Punky, with the support of his family and a dozen employees,

baked and sold a variety of cheesecakes to restaurants, grocery stores and school fundraising companies. In 2000 they relocated the business to Hanover County just north of Richmond, and in 2004 they sold the business to begin enjoying retirement. Of particular note, Punky took an interest in a special needs employee, Jerry Lindamood. He not only hired Jerry, he also continued to mentor him even after the bakery was sold. His greatest enjoyment in retirement came from watching his grandchildren participate in sports from their youth programs through high school and college careers. His other enjoyment came from spending time in North Myrtle Beach with his many friends and family, always finding the best cocktail happy hours and making new friends everywhere he went. Punky leaves us knowing that his sons are living happy and fulfilling lives, his grandchildren have grown into young adults

that he is very proud of, and his wife June that he loved with his very big heart is well cared for by all of his family. We’re sure he is enjoying the greatest happy hour of all now, while smiling down on each of us. In lieu of flowers please consider a contribution to LoveShriners.org. A service and reception will be held at noon Monday, April 22, 2019, at the Slash Christian Church in Ashland followed by a private family ceremony at the College of William & Mary Scatter Garden. A more raucous celebration of Punky’s life will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. on Saturday, May 18 at the Hilton Alexandria Mark Center in Alexandria. Bring your best memories of Punky to share with all. Joy shared is joy multiplied, and Punky couldn’t agree more. HODSON, Grace Ann, 84, of Mechanicsville, Va., went to be with the Lord April 7, 2019. She was preceded in death by her husband,

Church. The family received friends from 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, April 10, 2019, at Monaghan Funeral Home, 7300 Creighton Parkway, Mechanicsville, Va. A funeral service was held at 2 p.m. Thursday, April 11, 2019, at Shalom Baptist Church, 8116 Walnut Grove Road, Mechanicsville, Va. Interment followed in Washington Memorial Park. A reception was held at Shalom Baptist Church following interment. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Shalom Baptist Church.

William Arthur Hodson Jr.; son, William Arthur Hodson III; and five siblings. Grace is survived by four children, Karl Duane HODSON Hodson Sr. (Lisa), Tamela Hodson Pyles (Jeffrey), Darryl Lee Hodson (Terri), Kimberley Hodson Guyton (David); six grandchildren, Lisa Ann Hodson, Kelsey Lynn Hodson, Abigail Leigh Hodson, Karl Duane Hodson Jr., Davan William Guyton, Brooke Elizabeth Pyles; and three sisters. Grace graduated from Shenandoah College in 1955. She was a retired Henrico Police Crime Prevention Officer and Realtor. Grace was a member of Shalom Baptist Church and former member of Fairmount Baptist

SIMON, Kyle M., 24, of Mechanicsville, Va., departed this life Friday, March 29, 2019. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Jerry Simon Sr. and Judy Hailey. Kyle is survived by his beloved son, KJ Simon; mother, Deborah Granger (Mark); father, Jerry Simon Jr.; brother and best friend, Dylan Simon; grandparents, Vivian Simon, Linda Simon and James

Hailey; uncles, Ricky Hailey (Pam), Kenny Simon (Kelly) and RT Simon (Lillian); aunts, Joy Hazlegrove and Nicole Sawulski (Jeff); cousins, Cara, Nick, Brandon, Noah, Conner and Thomas; and many other family and friends. Kyle loved working with his hands and had a passion for landscaping. He was a hard SIMON worker and an avid body builder. He spent countless hours in the gym working hard to not only be good looking but healthy and physically fit. His strength and endurance allowed him to be a volunteer recruit trainer for the U.S. Marine Corps. He enjoyed challenging new recruits to push themselves to become see OBITUARIES, pg. 12

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atlraidernation.com/raider-royale-casino-night The Mechanicsville Local

April 17, 2019

OBITUARIES Continued from pg. 11

the best they could be. Kyle loved the beach and enjoyed many vacations there. He was a handsome guy with a bright smile and the biggest heart! He was always the first one to volunteer to help others in need. He deeply loved his family but his beautiful son, KJ, was the light of his life. The family hosted a private Celebration of Life at Monaghan Funeral Home, 7300 Creighton Pkwy., Mechanicsville, Va. 23111. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention at afsp.org. SMITH, Robert E. “Yogi”, 77, of Mechanicsville, passed away on April 5, 2019, from lengthy stroke-related health. Robert is survived by the love of his life of 59 years, Mary Ann Smith; two sons, Robert E. Smith Jr. (Cathy) and James Edward SMITH “Eddie” Smith, all of Mechanicsville, VA; three grandsons, James Edward Smith Jr. “Jay” (Kristin) of King William, VA, Christopher Edward Coates Smith “Chris” (Stephanie), Robert E. Smith, III, and “Robby” (fiance Kyla); stepgrandson, Kyle Hoban (Penni); three great-grandchildren, Mason and Morgan Smith of King William, and Shelby Nicole Smith (due in May); three stepgrandchildren, Savannah, Austin, and Hunter; sisters, Patti Ammons and Diana S. Smith (Ralph); brother-in-law, James Hampton Coates Jr. (Pat), all of Mechanicsville; sister-in-law, Brenda Smith

The Mechanicsville Local

April 17, 2019

of Florida; nieces and nephews, Cindy, Laurie, Jennifer, Shery, Kenneth, Wayne, Adam, Kevin, Jeremy, Cindy Coates Bowers, and Hampton Bowers. Robert was a Boy Scout, played youth baseball and was given the name “Yogi” by his coach; and it stuck for life. Robert loved baseball and managed and coached the Mechanicsville “Yankees” for many years. He and Mary Ann were always going to basketball, football games, etc., for their sons, and still found time to enjoy their RiVah home on the Rappahannock since 1972. Together, there wasn’t anything they couldn’t do and for those that remember the story of the removal of the Skateland building on Route 1 for I-295. They did it! Robert was born in Bluefield, WV and his parents moved to Virginia when he was 6 months old and later attended Richmond schools. In his early years, Robert enjoyed racing go-carts and motorcycles and Mary was always there. They traveled to Daytona for the annual National Motorcycle races for many years; even traveling by a Harley-Davidson Sportster one year. Great trip! Robert was a previous president of the East Gate Lions Club and represented the club as District Governor at the National Convention. Along with Mary Ann, Robert was the owner of Yogi’s Auto for 45 years until health issues. He was a nonveteran of the National Battle of the Bulge Association and local Chapter 43. Mary Ann is a member also and currently serves as the Chapter President. During all that time, they found time to travel from Canada to the Bahamas, and from the Atlantic to the California Pacific. Always together. He is prededed in death by his parents, Paul and Ruth Smith; brother, Charles Smith of Florida, brother-inlaw, Bill Ammons; and a very special daughter-in-law, Kim Rice Smith; who died August

2016 of gliobastoma, brain cancer. The family received friends on Thursday, April 11, 2019, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Bennett Funeral Home, 8014 Lee Davis Road, Mechanicsville VA 23111; with a service following at 1:30 p.m. Interment followed in Signal Hill Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Mechanicsville Rescue Squads, 8105 Walnut Grove Road, Mechanicsville VA 23111 and East Hanover Volunteer Fire Department, 8493 New Bethesda Road, Mechanicsville VA 23116. STROUD, James T. “Jimmy” Jr., 72, of Mechanicsville, passed away Saturday, April 13, 2019. He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Mary D. Stroud; and daughter, Elizabeth W. Stroud. Jimmy was a U.S. Navy Veteran and a member of Walnut Grove Baptist Church. He sang for 20 years STROUD in the All Saints Men and Boys Choir, for several years with the Richmond Symphony Choir, and loved singing in the choir of First Baptist Church. The family received friends from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, April 16, 2019, at the Mechanicsville Chapel of the Bennett Funeral Home, 8014 Lee-Davis Rd. Graveside services will be held 11 a.m. Wednesday, April 17, 2019 in the Walnut Grove Baptist Church Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Walnut Grove Baptist Church, 7046 Cold Harbor Rd, Mechanicsville, VA 23111 or Hanover Fire & EMS, 13326 see OBITUARIES, pg. 18

School division to honor military-bound ASHLAND – High school seniors who are enlisted in the military, have received an ROTC Scholarship, or an appointment at a military academy are invited to take

part in the 3rd Annual Hanover Salutes program. Hanover County Public Schools wants to honor those with career plans involving the military. Hanover Salutes is an evening to recognize students making a commitment to

serve in the United States Armed Forces after graduation. The program will be held on Friday, May 31, at Hanover High School, beginning with a reception (including a full dinner) at 5 p.m., followed by a ceremony at 6 p.m. in the auditorium.

Family-friendly communion experience set at Atlee

ECHANICSVILLE -- Atlee Church will host a “selfguided, family-friendly communion experience” from 5 to 8 p.m. on Friday, April 19, at 7171 Verdi Lane in Mechanicsville.

The service will reflect on the final hours in the life of Christ. This is a free family event. Members of the community also are invited to attend one of the church’s three Easter services: 7:30, 9 or 10:30 a.m. on Sunday, April 21. They are family-friendly and dress is casual.

Special recycling event to be held Saturday at center on Verdi Lane HANOVER -- During a special recycling cleaners, grease and rust removers, glues, mold event that will be held from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on and mildew removers, art and hobby supplies Saturday, April 20, at the Mechanicsville Trash and photographic chemicals. Mercury thermometers and switches and Recycling Center, Hanover County also will be accepted. residents can bring household hazardNo batteries, tube fluorescent light ous waste for free recycling and perbulbs, explosives or radioactive matesonal information or documents to rials will be accepted. be shredded. Up to four boxes (10” by 12” by For liquids, aerosols and solids 18”) of documents also will be accepted which are classified as household hazfor shredding. ardous wastes, there will be no charge Metro Creative Graphics This event is for Hanover County but a 5-gallon limit. These are based residents only (ID required). on container size. No businesses will be permitted. Examples of materials accepted include No out-of-county materials will be accepted. oil-based paints, flammables, organic liquids, The Mechanicsville Trash and Recycling aerosols, oxidizers pesticides, herbicides and corrosive liquids and solids including: pool, Center is located at 7427 Verdi Lane. Information submitted by Tom Harris, hot tub and spa chemicals, household cleaners, muriatic acid, acetic acid, drain openers, oven Hanover County public information officer.

LETTERS Continued from pg. 8

in Virginia and he continues to support our public safety officers with the resources they need to keep Hanover County one of the safest in Virginia. Del. Peace, on the other hand, has voted with the Democrats on issues that are important to you, such as pro-

tection of the unborn, out of control spending, and increasing welfare handouts. Many of you will claim these are lies, which tells me these issues are important to you. So, if you truly want to know the truth, I strongly suggest you go to our website (www.middlersolution.org) where we have laid out Del.

Peace’s votes. In closing, a 13-year incumbent politician complaining about a “rigged” process is an attempt to distract voters from his pattern of bad votes. In this election, I strongly urge everyone to support Scott Wyatt. Craig DiSesa President The Middle Resolution Ashland

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Bennett Funeral Home was established in 1897 to serve the needs of Richmond families. Since then, this locally owned and operated business has continued to serve the community with its unique combination of caring and convenience. This tradition of excellence can be seen in four beautiful chapels located throughout the Richmond area: centrally located on Cutshaw Avenue in the city, on Broad Street Road past Innsbrook, on Ashbrook Pkwy. in Chesterfield and serving the Hanover-Mechanicsville area on Lee-Davis Road. All four facilities are under the personal direction of Charles D. Morehead, President. In a time of need, you can turn to Bennett Funeral Home with trust and confidence. It serves families of all faiths with personal service – before, during and after. There is a long tradition of professionalism and caring. One way in which Bennett cares for families is by offering a convenient and personalized pre-need program. Through this program of pre-need planning, you can spare your loved ones the burden of making decisions at an emotional time. Call Bennett Funeral Home at 746-8665 to schedule a pre-planning consultation.

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Charles D. Morehead, President and General Manager, stands next to the portrait of Alphonso Winston Bennett, Founder-President 1897-1933. Now in its second Century, with 122 years of operation, Bennett Funeral Home continues its quality service in a compassionate local atmosphere.

The Mechanicsville Local

April 17, 2019

| Education, Business & Celebrations

Cowslip will have special role in Garden Week tour Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com

SHLAND -- In celebration of the House and Garden Tour hosted by the Ashland Garden Club as part of Historic Garden Week, the Ashland Museum has prepared a special exhibit, “The Jonquil Ladies.” The exhibit, which opens on Ashland Garden Day, Saturday, April 27, relates, how beginning in the spring

of 1918, a group of Ashland women, traveling by train, delivered flowers – mostly daffodils – to the wounded soldiers at Walter Reed General Hospital in Washington, D.C. After the war, the tradition continued annually through the late 1930s. Visitors are encouraged to stop by the museum to discover additional details and see photos depicting the ladies associated with this fascinating, but not well known, story

of the ladies’ efforts during and post-World War I. In addition to the exhibit, The Museum will have a limited number of Cowslip plants for sale for $5. Shared from the garden of QuarterBend Farm, once a part of the historic Horn Quarter property, the heirloom, “pass-along” plants are not normally seen in most retail nurseries. This will be a unique opportunity to add a special plant to your garden. While small and suf-

fering a bit from “transplant shock” these slips will grow into the beautiful plant shown in the accompanying photo. Hours for the museum are the same as for the tour, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. While everyone is encouraged to stop by the museum, located at 105 Hanover Ave., to view the exhibit, the Cowslips will only be sold to those displaying a ticket to Ashland Garden Day. Advanced tickets may

be purchased for $25 online at www.vagardenweek.org or in Ashland at Ashwood Gardens & Nursery, re-funkit, Ashland Meat Co @ Cross Bros. and in Atlee at Glass Works by Alex. On the day of the tour tickets may be purchased for $30 at 304 College Ave. or Tour Headquarters at the Ashland Christian Church at 301 S, James St. Available at the houses on tour will be a list of additional

Photo courtesy of Jen Chambers

activities sponsored by local organizations and businesses in support and concurrent with the Ashland Tour.

Local resident named Outstanding Adult Volunteer by Northam RICHMOND — A Mechanicsville resident has been named the recipient of the Outstanding Adult Volunteer for creating the volunteer-run KLM Scholarship Foundation. Gov. Ralph Northam recognized Kimberley L. Martin along with eight other honorees during a recent ceremony at the Executive Mansion in Richmond. Martin’s Foundation provides much-needed

funds for students to attend college and help pay for their costly textbooks through its Book Scholarship Program. Her volunteer efforts have resulted in more than $264,000 in scholarships, including a record $42,000 in book scholarships just last year. Martin joined Virginia Latino Higher Education Network in Weems, Outstanding Community Organization; Health Wagon in Wise, Outstanding Faith-Based Organization; Lowe’s Home

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The Mechanicsville Local

April 17, 2019

Improvement in Glen Allen, Outstanding Corporation; Averett University in Danville, Outstanding Education Organization; Virginia Beach Schools Federal Credit Union in Virginia Beach, Outstanding Small Business; Denise and Michael Forgione in Chantilly, Outstanding Volunteer Family; Dr. Lawrence Fleenor Jr. of Big Stone Gap, Outstanding Senior Volunteer/ and Shreyaa Venkat of Ashburn, Outstanding Youth Volunteer at the 2019 Governor’s Volunteerism and Community

Service Awards. The annual awards program spotlights the outstanding efforts that individual volunteers and organizations contribute on behalf of citizens throughout the Commonwealth. “Each year these awards highlight the selfless work and meaningful contributions of the remarkable individuals, organizations, and companies that serve their communities,” said Northam. “This year’s award recipients see VOLUNTEER, pg. 15

Books, Beads & More is more than a book store. We stock a great selection of used books, music, videos, jewelry and crafts, but there is also something more… Inspiration. Open: Monday - Friday 10am-7pm Saturday 10am-5pm | Sundays 12pm-5pm Closed major holidays.

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KUBOTA

HHEC heading to Nationals

RIDE & DRIVE EVENT THUR 4/25

FRI 4/26

SAT 4/27

Photo submitted by Kim Towne

Hanover Heritage Equestrian Center (HHEC) middle school IEA (Interscholastic Equestrian Association) team has qualified for Nationals, which will be held April 27-28 at the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex and Expo Center in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Kimmie Lawhorn, owner and trainer, and her team, Kendall Towne, Juliana Klapper, Haley Stitzer and Grace Stitzer, first qualified for Regionals on March 16 at The Barracks in Charlottesville. At Regionals, the team secured a spot to compete March 30 -31at Liberty University for Zones. States they competed against. Include Delaware, Maryland, Virginia and North Carolina. HHEC brought home Reserve Champion moving onto Nationals. Shown are, from left, Grace Stitzer, Kendall Towne, Kimmie Lawhorn, Juliana Klapper and Haley Stitzer.

VOLUNTEER Continued from pg. 14

set a powerful example of how each of us can give back, and embody the values and spirit of service that make Virginia stronger, healthier, and an even better place to live. It is my honor to recognize these awardees for the positive impact they have had in our Commonwealth and in the lives of their fellow Virginians.” “Volunteers build strong communities and have a lasting impact on the areas they serve,” said Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS) Commissioner Duke Storen. “For the families and individuals in need of assistance and support, these individuals and organizations are changing their lives for the better.”

“These nine award winners encompass more than two million Virginians who freely give their time and talents each year through volunteerism and service,” added Gail P. Harris, VDSS director of the Office on Volunteerism and Community Services. “The civic fabric of our communities is stronger because of their generosity.” The awards ceremony was

organized by the Office on Volunteerism and Community Services, in partnership with the Governor’s Advisory Board on Service and Volunteerism and the Virginia Service Foundation. These organizations are charged by the Governor with recognizing Virginians who have significantly contributed to the life and welfare of the Commonwealth and its citizens.

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The Mechanicsville Local

April 17, 2019

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Ribbon cutting for Pufferbelly additions set April 27 Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com ASHLAND -- The Kiwanis Club of Ashland and the Town of Ashland recently enhanced the Pufferbelly Park family recreational area by adding four new play stations and a permanent park bench. To celebrate the improvements and additions, a ribbon cutting ceremony will be held from noon to 1 p.m. on Saturday, April 27, at the park at 155 Randolph St. in Ashland. In the works since early 2018, Ashland’s Parks & Recreation Committee and the Kiwanis Club, working together, planned the addition of new play stations, geared toward children in the 5 to 12 age range. The process involved deciding upon the enhancements desired, costing, selecting the desired play station equipment, and securing the funding for the project. Pufferbelly Park, nestled

Joel Klein for The Local

John Hodges, vice mayor for the Town of Ashland, helped with the work at Pufferbelly Park, which will celebrate with a ribbon cutting on April 27.

along Randolph Street between Myrtle and England Streets in Ashland, was originally built by the Kiwanis Club of Ashland for the town in 1997 with $30,000 of its funds and 65 Kiwanians volunteering on Flag Day to provide the labor

required. The park’s name was selected by some of the area’s children. The project earned the club the distinguished service project award that year for the Kiwanis Capital District. In April 2012, the club provided sweat equity for a replacement play station in the park. Fifteen Kiwanians worked for two days to accomplish this. The town recently had the park enhancement area cleared, leveled, and, with the assistance of several Kiwanians, established the locations for the new equipment and prepared necessary concrete footings for the play stations. Ashland Kiwanians, joined by volunteers from the Tuckahoe and Richmond Young Professional Kiwanis Clubs, several Key Club members and friends also worked see PUFFERBELLY, pg. 17

Mack graduates from Grantham Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com LENEXA, Kansas -- Gregory Mack of Ashland recently graduated with an online AA Business Management degree from Grantham University, a 100% online university. "The Grantham family congratulates Gregory on this accomplishment!" Anthony Petroy, D.M., interim president and provost for Grantham University, said. "It gives us great pleasure for our graduates to embark on the next exciting chapter of their lives, with quality education that will help set them up for success." Grantham provides flexible, attainable online education options that allow students to complete their degree and graduate each week of the year. With one of the lowest tuition rates in the

The Mechanicsville Local

Gregory Mack of Ashland graduated with an online AA Business Management degree from Grantham University.

country, students may choose from more than 50 online undergraduate and graduate certificate and degree programs in today's top fields. Accredited since 1961 by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC), Grantham University has earned a distinguished record as a respected distance learning university. The online university offers more than 50 undergraduate and graduate certificate and degree programs.

April 17, 2019

Joel Klein for The Local

The Kiwanis Club of Ashland and the Town of Ashland recently partnered to enhance the Pufferbelly Park family recreational area. Four new play stations and a permanent park bench were added to the town-operated park.

Easter Egg Hunt to be held April 20 at Slash Christian ASHLAND – An Easter Egg Hunt will begin at 10 a.m. on Saturday, April 20 (weather permitting) at Slash Christian Church at 11353 Mount Hermon Rd. in Ashland. The annual communitywide event is sponsored by the Clay Springs Ruritan Club. Children ages 1 to 12 are invited to take part. Prizes will be awarded.

Ashland District of VDOT joins county in war on litter ASHLAND -- The Ashland District of the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) and Hanover County have announced a new cooperative approach to their war on litter. Starting July 1, businesses, groups or individuals can sponsor the collection of litter along both sides of a onemile section of highway. The focus of the program will be Hanover’s primary roads (Routes 1, 30, 33, 54, 156, 301, 360) and major secondary roads (627). The sponsor can select any

route that is available to have the contractor collect the litter. The cost to the sponsor will be approximately $200 annually per road for three years, and the contractor will pick up the litter four times a year. VDOT will install a sign recognizing the sponsoring business, group or individual. To take part, obtain an application for the new Sponsora-Highway program at the Hanover County Department of Public Works, 804-365-6181. The address is P.O. Box 470, Hanover VA 23069.

Local joins kids in NYC on Spring Break

Kennington Townhomes starting in the the$170â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s $150â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s starting in

Photo submitted by Kim Spangler

Elijah Davis, Cameron Spangler, Stella Spangler and Jeylin DeLeon took The Mechanicsville Local along with them when they toured the Statue of Liberty while visiting New York City. They were in the Big Apple during their Spring Break.

PUFFERBELLY Continued from pg. 16

for the better part of a day assembling and installing the new play stations. Kiwanian PJ Edmonds, his wife Ann and Kiwanianto-be Mac McManus provided volunteers hot breakfast and lunch at the work site. Ann Martin, former Parks & Recreation Committee member, and other members of the townâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s administration worked throughout the planning, funding and installation phases with Ashland Kiwanisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Ranny Robertson and Suz Morrison. Robertson said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;At the outset, our expectations were quite modest, considering the cost of play station equipment these days. However, in addition to our equipment and labor, the Town of Ashland provided $16,000 for the parkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s enhancement. The Ashland Kiwanis Charitable Foundation provided $10,000 towards the project, and the Capital District Kiwanis Foundation gave a grant of $5,000, which was

matched by a similar donation from an individual Kiwanian and other major contributions by another member and a former member. Additional contributions were made by several area businesses. We greatly appreciated all of these generous contributions, and, all in all, we realized approxi-

mately $70,000 for Pufferbellyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s enhancement. This enabled us to purchase four new play stations (traditional swings, a group swing, a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;ropesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; climbing station, and a rotating play station) and a bench.â&#x20AC;? The town has been spreading mulch and timber borders in the new play stationsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; area.

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CALENDAR | News, Updates & Listings Friday, April 19 Good Friday service, “Were You There?”, will begin at 6 p.m. at the Black Creek Baptist Church at 6289 McClellan Rd. in Mechanicsville. The drama combines music with a series of short monologues written from the point of view of characters who would have been witnesses to the last hours Christ’s life. For more information, call the church office at 804-781-0330.

Saturday, April 20 A Huge Easter Egg Hunt will get underway at 11 a.m. at Rural Point Baptist Church at 6548 Studley Rd. in Mechanicsville. The event, for ages 0 to sixsth grade, will include an egg hunt, activities, and lunch. For more inform-

OBITUARIES Continued from pg. 12

Hanover Courthouse Rd, Hanover, VA 23069. SULLIVAN, Jacob Reilly, 19, of Mechanicsville, Va., went to be with the Lord Monday, April 8, 2019. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandmother, Mary J. Stock; and his SULLIVAN paternal grandfather, William Sullivan. Jacob is survived by his loving and devoted parents, Kristi and Kevin Sullivan; his brother, Zachary “Zak” Sullivan; paternal grandmother, Frances Sullivan; and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. Jacob was a 2018

tion, call 804-730-3226 or visit www.ruralpointbaptist.com or www.facebook.com/RPBCVA.

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.

be closed on Easter. An All-You-Care-to-Eat Salt Fish Breakfast will be held from 6 to 9 a.m. at the Doswell Ruritan Club at 16433 N. Washington Hwy. in Doswell. The meal includes scrambled eggs, bacon, hashbrown potatoes, spiced apples, biscuits, cornbread, coffee, and juice. The cost is $9 for adults and $4 for ages 4 to 10. Take-outs will be available. Proceeds support the Doswell Community Center. This will the Ruritan Club’s last breakfast until September.

Sunday, April 21 Hanover County’s solid waste convenience centers will graduate of Lee Davis High School. He was always “the man with the plan!” He had tons of great ideas. He loved video games, landscaping, animals, woodworking and just tinkering with things. Jacob was known for his brilliant smile, kind, gentle soul and his huge heart. He was presented numerous challenges in his short life, all of which he conquered with grace and pride. His memory will live forever in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him. The family received friends Friday, April 12, 2019, from 2 to 4 p.m. at Monaghan Funeral Home, 7300 Creighton Pkwy., Mechanicsville, Va. 23111. A memorial service followed at 4 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Hanover County Humane Society. WINGFIELD, Dorothy Tate, 84, of Hanover, Va., departed this life Saturday, April 12, 2019. She was pre-

The Mechanicsville Local

April 17, 2019

The Black Creek Baptist Church will hold its annual Sunrise Service at 7 a.m. at Sweet’s Pond at 5463 McClellan Rd. in Mechanicsville. As the sun rises, the congregation will celebrate the Risen Son of God on Easter morning. Breakfast will follow in the Fellowship Hall. Sunday School (Bible Study) will follow at at 9:45 a.m., with Easter morning worship service beginning at at 11 a.m. at the church at 6289 McClellan Rd. For more information, call the church office at 804-781-0330.

Church will present an Easter Sunrise Service at 7 a.m. at 6411 Heatherwood Drive in Mechanicsville. Pastor Evan Wildhack will lead prayer and worship. Those planning to attend are encouraged to bring lawn chairs. Easter services will start at 9 a.m. with breakfast in the Fellowship Hall of Rural Point Baptist Church at 6548 Studley Rd. in Mechanicsville. The worship service begins at 11 a.m. For more informtion, call 804-730-3226 or visit www.ruralpointbaptist.com or www.facebook.com/RPBCVA.

Polegreen

see CALENDAR, pg. 24

ceded in death by her husband, William A. Wingfield Jr.; her daughter, Diane Wingfield; her grandson, Scott Wingfield; her parents, Jesse and Julia Tate; and seven siblings. Dorothy is survived by her children, Debra WINGFIELD N. Williams-Ramsey (Steve), Eddie Newbill, Lester Wingfield (Debbie), Donna Thornburg (Kelly); and many grandchildren, greatgrandchildren, nieces and nephews. Dorothy was a member of the Eastern Star and a charter member of Shalom Baptist Church. The family would like to express a special acknowledgement to her granddaughters, Lorrie W. Colbert and Nikki Williams,

for their exceptional care of their grandmother in her final days. The family will receive friends at 1 p.m. April 17, 2019, at Monaghan Funeral Home, 7300 Creighton Pkwy., 23111, with the funeral to follow at 2 p.m.

Historic

50th anniversary

WIGHTMAN, Mary Alice Shipley, 91, of Richmond, formerly of Mechanicsville, VA, went home to her Lord and Savior on Saturday, April 13, 2019. She was born May 20, 1927, in Richmond, VA. Mary Alice is preceded in death by her husband of 62 years, W.A. Wightman Jr.; sons Jeffrey S. Wightman and Cary A. Wightman; her parents, Mary F. and John A. Shipley; brother, Stuart A. Shipley. She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Janet W. and Bruce Eppers; daughterin-laws Jean M. Wightman and Cindee P. Wightman; three grandchildren Eric see OBITUARIES, pg. 35

Submitted photo

Black Creek Volunteer Fire Department, Station 12, will celebrate its 50th anniversary with an Open House from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, April 27, at 6397 McClellan Rd. in Mechanicsville. A ceremony and awards presentation will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. The event also will include tours of the station and equipment, as well as a fire safety area. Representatives of the Hanover County Sheriff’s Office will be joining in the celebration. Hamburgers and hot dogs will be served from noon to 2 p.m. For more information, call Station 12 at 804-781-0519.

BOOK Continued from pg. 1

ed to the complaint with a letter to all parents alerting them of the incident and explaining the county’s policy on controversial or sensitive material. That policy has been revised in recent years, but basically requires teachers to obtain pre-approval for supplementary lessons or materials that might be controversial or considered sensitive from the principal or a designee. If the lesson is approved, a letter is sent to parents making them aware of the impending presentation and allowing their children to opt for alternative assignments. The child’s mother cited religious reasons for her concern and stated that some of the artwork in the book confused her daughter. Hanover County Public Schools officials issued no opinion regarding the book, but the letter indicated the

county’s policy was not followed in this case. “In this case, the book, which tells the story of the rainbow flag becoming a symbol of equality for the LGBT community, was not vetted through the appropriate process at our school,” Keck wrote in the March 31 letter. “It is also not a part of our curriculum.” The letter also noted that parents were not pre-notified of the lesson as required by the policy. But some parents who also have children enrolled in the class objected to the sensitive or controversial label being applied to this selection, and they took advantage of a public comment period at last week’s Hanover County School Board meeting to express their concerns. Colleen Berry, the parent of a Hanover County graduate and one child still in the public school division, asked why the book in question would see BOOK, pg. 24

Supervisors OK budget $492.1 mil aids public safety, education and hikes pay By Jim Ridolphi for The Mechanicsville Local HANOVER -- After a long and detailed process that began in January, it almost seemed anti-climactic when the Hanover County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved the FY20 proposed budget without dissent or discussion at last weekâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s regular meeting. The now approved $492.1 million budget continues the countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s trend of strengthening public safety and education while providing a 3% salary increase for county employees. A strong economy with increased sales and personal property tax revenues, combined with bolstered real estate assessments, fueled the 6% increase over this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s budget, and there are no increases

in local real estate taxes included in the approved budget. Seven new deputies and one court services specialist are included in the approved budget, as well as six new FireEMS positions are approved, allowing full-time staffing at the Ashland station. Supervisors also approved a 2020-24 Capital Improvement Plan totaling $262.5 million over the next five years. Capital projects in this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s budget include a new terminal at the airport, a new burn building for Fire-EMS training and new air packs for firefighters. Supervisors seemed more willing to talk when it came to a resolution providing raises for board members for the next four years. State law forbids sitting

boards from providing raises for themselves, but allows increases for future boards when they are seated. â&#x20AC;&#x153;As you are aware, the Commonwealth of Virginia does not allow sitting boards to modify their salaries with pay raises for the term for which they are serving,â&#x20AC;? County Administrator Rhu Harris said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;That presents us with the problem of trying to address any of those potential items prior to the upcoming election.â&#x20AC;? Those adjustments must be made by July 1. Hanover County supervisors currently make $27,060 annually, with an additional $2,000 additional stipend for the chairman. The county administrator said thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not the highest

Jim Ridolphi for The Local

Supervisors Scott Wyatt, left, Canova Peterson, Sean Davis and Wayne Hazzard listen as they prepare to take action on the 2020 fiscal year budget for Hanover County.

in the region, or the lowest. Richmond Council members earn $25,000 annually, while Chesterfield supervisors earn $37,008. Supervisors in Henrico County receive $55,819 annually. Harris proposed a 2% raise for each of the upcoming four years, amounting to about a $600 increase annually. Chairman Canova Peterson

asked if the board had options pertaining to the raise, or an option to reject the increases. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The board has declined in years that the staff did not receive any raises, or has declined to a lower amount if the play raise was less than 2%,â&#x20AC;? Harris saidd. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They have that flexibility on a year-byyear basis â&#x20AC;&#x201D; to implement the 2% raise or not implement it.â&#x20AC;?

Cold Harbor supervisor Scott Wyatt is not running for re-election on the board so the raise would not affect his salary. But, he expressed resistance regarding the proposed increases in supervisor compensation. â&#x20AC;&#x153;When I began serving the Cold Harbor District, I truly got into it to serve the commusee BUDGET, pg. 20

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BUDGET Continued from pg. 19

nity and I still find that politics and service find you. You don’t seek it out as a position or a job. I chose to do this,” Wyatt said. “I struggle with receiving this additional compensation,” Wyatt continued. “I will be opposing this.” Peterson said he would never like to see the level of that compensation obtain a level where people could depend on it as a job. “That’s not what it’s all about. It’s about service,” he said. He did acknowledge the time required for the job and said it’s a good idea for board

compensation to “keep up with what is going on in the rest of the county.” South Anna supervisor Wayne Hazzard recommended passage thereby allowing future board members the option to either decline or accept the compensation. Wyatt was not swayed by the discussion and held his ground in a 4-2 vote to approve the resolution. Henry District supervisor Sean Davis cast the other dissenting vote, and Faye Prichard, Ashland District, was not present at last Wednesday’s meeting due to work obligations. The raises take effect Jan. 1, 2020.

Solid waste convenience centers closing for holiday

L-DHS PTSO sponsoring BJ’s membership fundraiser

HANOVER -- Hanover County’s solid waste convenience centers will be closed on Easter Sunday, April 21. They will reopen for regular business hours at 7 a.m. on Monday, April 22. The centers close at 7 p.m. Information submitted by Tom Harris, Hanover County public information officer.

MECHANICSVILLE -- Lee-Davis High School PTSO is sponsoring a spring BJs membership fundraiser from Monday, April 22, through Wednesday, May 1. Offers include a new membership for $25 (a $30

Staff Report news@mechlocal.com

savings) and 13-month renewal for $40. L-DHS PTSO will receive $5 for every membership sold through this special offer. Applications are available at the school. For additional assistance, contact ldhsptso@yahoo. com.

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‘The Crucible’ set MECHANICSVILLE –The Hanover Theatre Company is preparing to perform Arthur Miller’s classic play, “The Crucible.” Family, friends and members of the community are urged to “save the date.” “The Crucible” will be presented at 7 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday, May 2-4, at Hanover High School at 10307 Chamberlayne Rd. in Mechanicsville. Tickets are $8 each.

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Palmetto III

REALTY & BUILDERS

Like new almost 1700 sq.ft. rancher with huge family room w/hardwood floors, vaulted ceiling, spacious kitchen w/ hardwoods & custom cabinets w/granite counter tops. Also featuring 3 large bedrooms w/large master and large master bath, hall bath & utility room. Home also has 16’ × 16’ rear deck.

BarnesFamilyLaw.com

Taste the local ﬂavor, with expert tips to savor A portion of the ticket proceeds to beneﬁt:

Experience the best of Richmond’s dining scene in one delectable evening. Enjoy live cooking demos from local chefs and signature samples from the area’s top restaurants and food purveyors. Plus, enjoy wine, beer and spirits from favorites around the state and beyond.

Live Cooking Demos: • Cooking demonstration featuring Carlisle Bannister from Upper Shirley Vineyards • Cooking demonstration featuring Robert Nelson from The Boathouse • Cooking demonstration featuring Jasmine Bruckner from Casa del Barco • Cooking demonstration featuring Katherine Wenzel from ALDI

Featured Restaurants and Samples: • ALDI • Apple Spice Junction • Arc Angel’s Creations LLC/ Tommy’s Wicked Garden Salsas • AR’s Hot Southern Honey • Belle • Bottoms Up Pizza • Buz and Ned’s Real Barbecue • Capitol Waffle Shop • Casa del Barco • Chuy’s • Clark & Hopkins • Country Style Donuts • Dover Hall • Edwards Virginia Smokehouse • Empanadas Market • Espresso A Go Go Catering • Fleming’s Steakhouse • Four Brothers Bistro & Grill

• Gees Cakes • Good Run Research • Keep It Simple Syrup • Landcrafted Food • Les Crepes Gourmet • Metro Diner Texas de Brazil • MOTHER shrub • Mo’s Sweet Minis • Ms. Girlee’s Kitchen • Padow’s Hams & Deli • Poor Georgie’s Bake Shoppe • Salsas Don Sebastian • Sam Miller’s • Sauer’s • Simply Cheddar • The Boathouse • The Savory Grain & More to come

A Taste of Richmond Thursday, April 18, 6 to 9 p.m. Omni Richmond Hotel, 100 South 12th Street

General Admission presale: $45

VIP Experience: $75

Purchase tickets today at Richmond.com/Taste Presented by:

908014-01

Thank you to our sponsors:

The Mechanicsville Local

April 17, 2019

WEDNESDAY EVENING 4 PM 4:30 5 PM

5:30

COMCAST (ESPN)

High Noon

Question

(NBCSWSH) College Softball

6 PM