01/07/2015 by Mechanicsville-Ashland Local

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Vol. 31, No. 36 | Richmond Suburban News | January 7, 2015

STOPS AT EVERY HOME IN TOWN

Redrawing school attendance zones for some areas advised “Increasing enrollment at Hanover High School and Oak Knoll Middle School through programmatic offerings and attendance boundary adjustments should create better utilization of these two schools.” NORM SULSER Cold Harbor District Hanover County School Board

By Jim Ridolphi for The Mechanicsville Local

Good things come to those who wait. That sentiment describes the feelings of Norm Sulser, Cold Harbor District representative on the Hanover County School Board, after a preliminary Facilities Study confirmed something he’s been stating for more than a year. Sulser has urged fellow School Board members to consider adjusting student attendance zones to ensure efficiency and equity in Hanover County Public Schools. He has specifically pointed to near capacity student populations at Patrick Henry High School and Lee-Davis High School while

enrollments at Hanover hover around 75 percent capacity. “When I came on the board in July 2013 I immediately stated that we needed to look at the under-utilization of our physical resources versus capacity especially at our newest schools, Hanover High School and Oak Knoll Middle School, which have been under-utilized since they were built in 2001 (Oak Knoll Middle at 75 percent capacity) and 2003 (Hanover High at 74 percent capacity),” Sulser said Jim Ridolphi for The Local following a presentation earlier last month Dr. Charla Cordle, left, assistant superintendent of Human by David Myers, assistant superintendent Resources for Hanover County Public Schools, is presented of business and operations. with a Hanover County School Board resolution by chairman Bob Hundley in recognition of her service. She was recognized see ZONES, pg. 4 during the Dec. 9 regular meeting. Cordle retired last month.

Love for dogs leads to Volunteer of Year honor Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com

t’s all about the dogs (and cats), it would appear, for Hanover Humane’s Volunteer of the Year. The Hanover Humane Society, located at 12190 Washington Highway in Ashland, recently chose Dan Gavin as its “Volunteer of the Year.” Inspired by his love for his own dogs, Gavin conducted research regarding animal rescue groups in the Richmond metropolitan area and, after careful consideration, decided to begin volunteering with the Hanover Humane Society in

also finds time to help Hanover 2009. Humane with its many other group Initially, Gavin began volunteering as a dog-walker at Hanover activities and fundraisers. On an averHumane’s Inspired by his love age, Gavin facility, and, for his own dogs, Dan Gavin spends about ultimately, he conducted research 500 hours each has become regarding animal rescue year working one of the orgagroups in the Richmond with Hanover nizers of the metropolitan area and, Humane. group’s weekafter careful consideration, During his end Petsmart decided to begin time with the Dog Adoption volunteering with the organization, Stand. Hanover Humane Society Gavin has been In addition in 2009. able to bond to helping with with some of walking dogs at the more challenging animals and the facility and organizing/attendtrain them to leash and voice coming Dog Adoption Stands, Gavin

mands. Because of Gavin’s dedication, time, energy and patience, his effort resulted in several of the more challenging animals finding forever homes. The Board of Directors and volunteers said they feel very fortunate to have a volunteer like Gavin working with the organization in so many facets. Not only is he dedicated to the animals, he is considered a dependable volunteer that the other volunteers truly enjoy spending time with. As a show of appreciation, see DOGS, pg. 4

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Last month, work wrapped up on the Operation Hope Playground at Courthouse Park.

Operation Hope Playground completed at Courthouse Park On Dec. 13, volunteers put the final touches on the Operation Hope Playground at Courthouse Park. The crew worked by spreading mulch over the newest section of the playground surfacing. Operation Hope was established in 2004 by Nelson and Katie Stilwell. They recognized the need and had the vision of many children in the area to have a play area that they could share with their friends and interact with other children. Playground improvements that were added to the existing Courthouse Park playground include: five slides, seven hands-on interactive displays, six climbing structures, mulch and an expanded playground boundary. Operation Hope playgrounds now exist in east (Pole Green Park), west/central (Poor Farm Park) and now central (Courthouse Park) Hanover County. The last bit of funding was presented to

Operation Hope co-founder Dana Nelson earlier this year with a $30,000 check. This final check was given by the Greater Richmond Civitan Club. It has taken 10 years for the playgrounds to be completed and it is a true asset for the children of Hanover to have access to these amenities. On the Operation Hope Sponsor and Support web page, there are over 240 businesses, individuals and groups that donated money, gifts and volunteer hours to make the playgrounds of Hanover County enhanced to the level that they are. For more information, contact Hanover County Parks and Recreation at 804-3657150, visit hanvoercounty.gov or email parksandrec@hanovercounty.gov. Information submitted by Nikodemas Reikalas, Hanover County Parks and Recreation.

Coalition chair to address Democrats

BLAND

The Mechanicsville Local

January 7, 2015

Pattie Bland, the chair of the Coalition for Hanover’s Future (CHF), will be the guest speaker at the Hanover Democratic Committee Meeting at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 10, at Ashland Coffee & Tea. CHF is a citizen education and advocacy group that focuses on land

use, conservation and development issues in Hanover County. Bland, an urban conservationist on staff with the Hanover-Caroline Soil and Water Conservation District, will discuss development issues of concern to Hanover residents. The meeting is open to the public.

9 COMMUNITY Ella Young donates to Locks of Love.

16 ASHLAND

Police chief takes dance lessons for a good cause.

ALSO… Letters to the editor...6 Obituaries ..........10-12 Calendar ....................3 Celebrations ........... 21 TV grids..............25-27 Sports ................28-30 Classifieds .........33-35

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For more information or to join, contact Allison Christian at 804-227-3786 or christianfam@embarqmail.com. The 40th Annual Regional Legislative Reception will be presented from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. by the Greater Richmond Chamber at United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) at 700 North 4th St. in Richmond. Local elected and appointed officials will meet with Capital Region Legislators and appointed officials before the Virginia General Assembly session begins. Officials from City of Richmond and counties of Charles City, Chesterfield, Goochland, Hanover, Henrico, New Kent and Powhatan and the Town of Ashland are invited. The cost is $95 per

An opening reception for a show by Christaphora Robeers will be held from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at Gallery Flux in Ashland, with a talk by the artist at 6:30 p.m. Robeers, who will have more than 40 new works on display, is a native of the Netherlands who now lives in Virginia. Her work includes oil paintings, mixed media works, bronze sculptures and monotypes. The show will remain on display through Feb. 28. Gallery Flux is located at 307B England Street. For more information, call 804-752-3540 or visit www.galleryflux.com. The Hanover Towne Garden Club meets at 7 p.m. the second Thursday of each month at Hanover Evangelical Friends Church,

person for Chamber members and $105 for non-members. For more information, call the Chamber at 804-648-1234.

Saturday, Jan. 10 The Ashland Renegade Farmers Market will be open from 9 to 11 a.m. Items for sale will include fresh local produce, grass-fed meat, cage-free eggs, homemade breads, cookies and other baked goods, jams, jellies and pickles. The market is held behind town hall on Thompson Street, and will be open every other Saturday until May, when the Ashland Farmers Market will resume normal operation. For more information, visit the Ashland Farmers Market Facebook page. The Hanover Master

Gardeners will host a class, Garden Tools and More, from 9 to 11 a.m. The class is free, but registration is required by visiting www.hanovermastergardeners.org or calling 804752-4310. Participants who register will be told where class will be held. Family LEGO Racers will be held 2 to 3 p.m. for ages 5 and up at the Atlee Branch Library. Participants will build creative cars with LEGO bricks and put them on display. Refreshments will be provided. For more information, call 804-559-0654 or visit

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January 7, 2015

Fred Meyer Jewelers to open in Kroger Marketplace Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com Fred Meyer Jewelers will celebrate the grand opening of its fifth Virginia store, beginning Thursday, Jan. 8. Fred Meyer Jewelers opened three stores in Virginia during 2014: Henrico in April, Portsmouth in October and Suffolk in December. The new 1,300-square-foot store is located within the recently expanded Rutland Commons Kroger Marketplace at 9351 Atlee Road in Mechanicsville.

This opening marks the company’s 73rd store within a Kroger Marketplace location. To celebrate the occasion, the first 100 Fred Meyer Jewelers customers on Jan. 8 will receive a free six-piece freshwater pearl stretch bracelet set in champagne, purple, peacock, ocean blue, dark blue and white, valued at $65. In addition, shoppers can enter to win a pair of 1 carat total weight Kallati Princess Royale diamond earrings in 10K white gold, valued at $1,995. Fred Meyer Jewelers also will give free gift bags to the first 100 customers each day Jan. 8– 12, filled with mints, lip balm and shopping

ZONES

Continued from pg. 1

50% OFF Spays and Neuters 21-January - January 30,2011) 2015) (January1-March 31, for Dogs and Cats! (January (March 31,2010) Each year millions of pets are euthanized due to over population. Each year millions of pets are euthanized due to over population.

Our doctors at Hanover Green Veterinary Clinic believe that spaying or neutering your pet is one of the most Our doctors at Hanover Green Veterinary Clinic believe that spaying or important health choices you can make for your pet and neutering your pet is one of the most important health choices you can community. We recommend all pets be altered around make for your pet and your community. We recommend all pets be altered six months of age. around six months of age.

Benefits: •Benefits: Altered pets have twice the life expectancy • Altered pets have twice the life expectancy • ofReduces the risk of related un-altered pets cancers • Reduces the risks of related cancers • Less aggression, spraying • Less aggression, spraying and roaming and roaming Fees include complimentary Fees include: pre-anesthetic testing, surgery, pre-anesthetic blood work, IV over night hospitalization, complimentary nail catheter & fluids, overnight trim, fecal testing for parasites and a carrier for hospitalization, nail trim and cats if needed. a carrier for cats if needed. Fees not included: IV fluids, vaccines, deworming unusual circumstances such as Fees do or not include vaccines, uterine infection, retained testicles, circumin heat or deworming or unusual stances such as uterine infection, pregnant pets. retained testicles, in heat, or pregnant pets. Pets must be current with Rabies and Distemper vaccines.

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DOGS

7273 Hanover Green Dr • Mechanicsville, VA 23111 (804) 730-2565 phone • (804) 746-7805 fax Hours: Monday - Friday - 7:30am - 7pm Saturday - 8:30am - 1pm • Sunday - 4pm - 6pm (Boarding Only)

A study group comprised of about 40 members began a detailed study of the problem earlier last year, and that preliminary report comes to some clear, concise conclusions. “At present, there is an under-utilization of the available student capacity at Hanover High School and Oak Knoll Middle School compared with the other high and middle schools in the county. Increasing enrollment at Hanover High School and Oak Knoll Middle School through programmatic offerings and attendance boundary adjustments should create better utilization of these two schools,” Sulser said. He also noted that he feels vindicated. “These are the same ideas to accomplish this are basically the same as I have been saying since July 2013,” he recently said. Beth Givens has two

The Mechanicsville Local

January 7, 2015

Continued from pg. 1

Hanover Humane presented Mr. Gavin with a signature hat and sweatshirt bearing Hanover Humane’s logo.

pads. Through Wednesday, Jan. 14, customers will receive two times fuel points on all jewelry purchases (does not include gift card purchases). Shoppers can take advantage of savings on jewelry specials throughout the grand opening and complimentary jewelry cleaning. Fred Meyer Jewelers offers iPad technology to expand the customer’s selection of merchandise to over 3,000 items in addition to what is available in the store. “We’re delighted to continue our expansion in Virginia by offering the Mechanicsville area

quality jewelry at a great value, assisted by our highly knowledgeable staff. Shoppers will enjoy the convenience of fine jewelry in their neighborhood grocery store,” Peter Engel president of Fred Meyer Jewelers, said. This location is the first new store to open in 2015. Over 25 new Marketplace stores are slated to open in 2015. For more information on Fred Meyer Jewelers, visit FredMeyerJewelers.com. Fred Meyer Jewelers is on social media at Facebook.com/fredmeyerjeweler or at Twitter. com/fmjeweler.

children at Kersey Creek Elementary School and another at Chickahominy Middle School, and said she would not oppose realigning boundaries to achieve more efficiency. “I actually believe that redistricting might be the right thing, and this may be the right time for it,” Givens said. “I appreciate that the School Board is considering this and giving it due diligence and you are actually considering it in great detail.” She said most of the opposition has been based, in her opinion, “in social concerns and not in educational concerns.” Givens said not utilizing Hanover High School to it fullest is not good policy. “We have a beautiful, stateof-the-art, nearer school with fewer students. It makes little sense to not direct more students to Hanover High School,” Givens said. She said other residents join her in her support of the possible proposed boundary

changes. “Some of us are quieter and not used to attending meetings such as this, but there are those out there are not necessarily opposed to redistricting,” she concluded in urging the School Board to accept the recommendation of the study group. Myers said the group recommends examining readjustments of subdivisions that are already approved but not yet built in an effort to impact as few students as possible when considering boundary adjustments. The group also suggested a study of programmatic impacts on Hanover High School and its Specialty Center. Changes will be designed to ease overcrowding, and moves will be directed at students who are finishing at one school and preparing to advance to the next level. “If boundary adjustments are needed, we would like to look at transitioning students from one level to another,”

Myers said. “For example, we’d look at students that are leaving elementary school and then going to one specific middle school. We’d like to move them during that transition period,” he added. The facilities study group also recommended that the School Board monitor declining enrollment figures and adjust facilities when necessary. Myers said this month’s final report will contain a clearer understanding of a timeline, but Sulser said none of the adjustments would take place before the 2016 school year. Sulser said he’s pleased the panel verified his assertions that under-utilization of some schools causes system-wide inefficiencies. “I made these arguments monthly for 10 months,” Sulser said. “Some of my fellow board members felt there was no problem with overcrowding.”

The Hanover Humane Society is a recognized IRS nonprofit 501(c)(3) nonprofit entity located in Hanover County. Hanover Humane’s mission is to support animal wel-

fare through its animal adoption, education and prevention efforts in Hanover County and the surrounding Richmond metropolitan areas. For information regarding the Hanover Humane Society

and volunteer opportunities that are available, email to info@hanoverhumanesociety. org or review the materials on Hanover Humane’s website at www.hanoverhumansociety. org.

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The Mechanicsville Local went on a cruise to New England, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and the St. Lawrence Seaway with Don and Jean Fender, Jack and Lillian Earhart, Woody and Gloria Evans and Alan and Donna Fearnow on the Norweigian Dawn.

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The Mechanicsville Local

January 7, 2015

OPINION | The Local Views

Holiday season ends — needs don’t

From the editor

Life in Hanover County filled with partnerships A few months ago, Col. David R. Hines, sheriff of Hanover County, came by the office to talk about the partnerships his department has with the community and businesses they serve. Those partnerships help secure our safety in challenging times across the nation. When we published our first-ever Progress edition last month, Melissa Miller, executive director of the Hanover Association of Businesses and Chamber of Commerce, also spoke often about partnerships. With the start of a new year, the benefits of partnerships come to mind as we build on the positives and seek solutions to any negatives in the place we call home. We the people must take advantage of what is offered to us. Whether it’s a government, business or community issue, there are those who will help. All you have to do is reach out. As a Mechanicsville resident, this writer appreciates and respects the partnership attitude that surrounds our county. We’re fortunate to live in a county where those who can help are approachable and, most of all, ready and willing to assist. Don’t lose sight of that. Our future success depends on these partnerships and we feel it imperative to take note of them as we embark on a new and exciting 2015. Here’s to a county filled with successful partnerships.

We’re in this together Since arriving here in July 2008, one of the most impressive aspects of being part of this publication is the fact that you, our readers and business supporters, truly embrace The Mechanicsville Local as your own. And we wouldn’t have it any other way. Coming from paid subscription daily newspapers, yours truly wasn’t quite sure what to expect from the community. Well, you have exceeded any expectations or hopes — and I thank you for that. Melody Kinser

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

The Mechanicsville Local

Joy Monopoli Publisher Melody Kinser Managing Editor Denine D’Angelo Production Manager David Lawrence Sports Editor Jodi Deal News Editor Tom Haynie Sales Representative Sarah O. Suttles Sales Representative Online: www.mechlocal.com For news: editor@mechlocal.com For events: events@mechlocal.com For advertising: sales@mechlocal.com For classifieds: cgrant@mechlocal.com © 2015 by Richmond Suburban News. All advertising and editorial matter is fully protected and may not be reproduced in any manner without the permission of the publisher.

January 7, 2015

By Jodi Deal jdeal@mechlocal.com Every Christmas season, my heart is warmed by countless stories about acts of holiday generosity. From money and toys to pet supplies and food, people filled with the spirit of giving come out in force to make sure their neighbors have traditional meals on the table at Thanksgiving and Christmas. They pick out and wrap gifts to ensure that

both locals and people far, far away have something to open on Christmas morning. They donate coats, shoes, scarves and gloves to protect perfect strangers from winter’s bracing winds. All of this giving makes a huge difference in the lives of those in need, to be sure. That said, it’s important to remember that those needs exist all year long. When the Christmas tree is put

away and the leftovers are long gone, there will still be hungry families queuing up at local food pantries in an attempt to keep hunger pangs at bay on shoestring budgets. Children will still need coats, shoes and hats for winter’s harshest months, which arrive at the beginning of the year. Elderly people will face tough choices between the food and medication that sustain them and the electricity needsee NEEDS, pg. 8

LETTERS | Reader Views

Sheriff’s Office showed support to fallen officer As events transpire on the national stage, it’s important to note that each situation is unique and every challenge new. Our most positive endeavors will always be the ones where as a community, working together, we can achieve those goals that serve the needs of our citizens. I firmly believe that strong partnerships create safe communities. Just as our community partnerships are invaluable, the collaboration and networking with other law enforcement agencies throughout the nation enhance our effectiveness in our own community. The nature of the recent attack and murders of Officers Wenjian Liu and Rafael Ramos of the New York Police Department serve as a stark reminder of the risks faced by those in the law enforcement community. In honor of the sacrifice of Officers Liu and Ramos, representatives from the Hanover County Sheriff ’s Office attended Officer Ramos’s funeral to show our community support of these brave officers, their families and the communities they had served. This support is reflective of the partnerships we experience in Hanover County every day. Our Neighborhood, Business and Worship Watch programs and many other community partnerships express and demonstrate our resolve to work together and better serve the needs of our community. Recently, one such group gathered on the lawn of the Hanover Courthouse to express support for the Sheriff ’s Office. On behalf of all the members of the Sheriff ’s Office, I would like to thank our community for the continuing support we are privileged to have in Hanover County. We invite you to consider partnering with us through

programs such as our citizens, senior and youth police academies or volunteer opportunities. Hanover County is a community that cares, a community that is ready and willing to partner and a community that is truly making a difference. Col. David R. Hines Sheriff

Resident: vote qualifies county for reality show The “take another whack at it” subdivision vote is over, and, if the integrity and trust of our decision-makers was ever in doubt, I now rest my case. As always, good things normally come out of questionable situations and, as luck would have it, Hanover has now qualified to have its own reality TV show. The final step is to come up with a show title. The following were my choices but they are already taken: see LETTERS, pg. 8

Letters to the Editor 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, 6400 Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville, VA 23111 Fax: 730-0476 E-mail: mkinser@mechlocal.com

Church takes part in festival

Photos submitted by Dr. Jeff Scott

Dr. Jeff Scott, on the right in the photo above, pastor of the Northside Baptist Church in Mechanicsville, gets a smile out of a young visitor with the help of Cletus the Possum. The church took part in the Hanover County Sheriffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fall Festival.

2015

Staff Report news@mechlocal.com Four Hanover County residents recently were appointed to positions by Gov. Terry McAuliffe. John M. Quillin, PhD, MPH, MS, genetic counselor, assistant professor, Human and Molecular Genetics, Family Medicine and Population Health, Virginia

Commonwealth and Sherry

University, Compton,

Distance Education coordisee FOUR, pg. 13

Cyndi Wyatt Blake 569-1529 Todd Rogers 569-1534

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January 7, 2015

Continued from pg. 6

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Insideout ’70s, ’80s, ’90s

ed to keep them warm in their homes. Parents will struggle to purchase all of the items their children need for school, and homeless pets will keep turning up in the county in need of shelter, food and medical care. As we head into a new year, let’s try to do so with these never-ending needs in mind. Cleaning out a closet? There are several local charitable efforts that distribute clothes and household goods

LETTERS Continued from pg. 6

1) Are you smarter than a 5th grader? 2) Deal or no Deal 3) No Boundaries 4) Rookies 5) Bloopers Other than getting nationwide attention Hanover also will get paid. The money will come in handy for schools, salaries and additional employees. Everyone will now be celebrities and, to insure we don’t lose our reality show status when we lose a supervisor, we should consider electing professional reality celebrities such as Dan Quayle, Joe Biden or Al Gore. This is the chance of several life times, so, come on,

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The Mechanicsville Local

January 7, 2015

to people who are struggling. Spare canned goods, as long as they’re not out of date, will help replenish the picked-over shelves at local food distribution centers and can provide variety in otherwise limited diets. If your kitty doesn’t like her new bed or your dog turns his nose up at a different variety of canned food you picked up at the store, the Regional Animal Shelter is in constant need of supplies. If you have coupons that allow you to load up on cleaning supplies, personal hygiene

products, detergent and dish soap, plenty of local charities and outreach efforts would welcome your extras with open arms. Should your pocketbook remain a little depleted after holiday shopping, there are plenty of ways to offer your time and energy in lieu of donated money or goods. From boxing up food for families, walking homeless dogs to planning this summer’s Relay for Life, from helping take care of elderly people so their caregivers can have an afternoon

off to assisting with a local scout group, there’s plenty to do that won’t cost you a dime, but will leave you with a warm heart. The beginning of a new year provides an opportunity for a fresh start. Alongside new diets, exercise regimens and hobbies, consider taking up the charge of lending a regular helping hand in your community throughout the year.

Hanover, put your thinking cap on and suggest a name for our very own reality show. I’m kind of looking at “ ‘Who groped my vote?’ or ‘Whatever floats your vote’ or ‘Don’t rock my vote.’ ” Ted Mentz Old Church

Sheriff ’s Office go through on a daily basis. We were allowed to perform mock traffic stops, building searches, procedures for DUI field sobriety tests and many other aspects too numerous to mention. I have a son and nephew in the law enforcement business in another jurisdiction and have always respected and admired anyone willing to protect and serve. This class just raised our appreciation for our officers in Hanover. Hanover County is 472 square miles with a population of just over 100,000 citizens. Due to the expert supervision of our Sheriff ’s Office, this area is covered by a minimum number of deputies and we still enjoy a county with a relatively low crime rate. This program was started

by our former sheriff, V. Stuart Cook, and seeing the benefits has been continued by our sheriff, Col. David R. Hines. We are blessed to have men of this caliber to lead our Sheriff ’s Office and we are blessed to have wonderful men and women serve this department under their leadership. So many of the officers and deputies of the department gave of their time and talent to teach this class and we are truly grateful to each of those involved. Also, a special thanks needs to go to Lisa Hancock for handling all the organization for these classes. The next time you think we have too many deputies or that all they do is write tickets for trivial offenses, join the next

Academy experience My wife and I just completed the 26th Session of the Hanover Citizens Police Academy and what an enjoyable experience it was. This is a 10-week class that gives the citizens an inside look at our Sheriff ’s Office from every aspect. We saw first-hand what our men and women of the

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‘Spirit of Volunteerism’ nominations being accepted Nominations are now being accepted for Hanover’s 2015 Spirit of Volunteerism Awards. March 9 is the deadline to submit nominations recognizing outstanding volunteer service throughout our county. These awards allow the community to acknowledge the work for those whose efforts change the lives of many. Anyone may nominate inspiring individuals or groups of any age. Self-nominations also are welcomed.

Awards are granted in the following categories: Spirit of One (honoring an individual over 18); Spirit of Youth (honoring youth or youth group up to age 18 or still in high school); Spirit of Dedication (honoring an individual 60 and over); Spirit of Team (honoring two or more adult volunteers working toward a common cause); Spirit of Family (honoring two or more family

members working together toward a common purpose); Spirit of Inspiration (honoring an individual who has volunteered 20 years or more for a specific organization); and Commitment to Community (recognizing a Hanover business which has demonstrated a sustained commitment to supporting the community). Award recipients will be selected from each

category. All will receive an engraved plaque and a financial donation of up to $250 made in their honor to the tax-exempt organization designated on the honoree’s nomination form. The county also will nominate the award recipient for the statewide Governor’s Community Service and Volunteerism Awards. All nominees will be recognized and award see SPIRIT, pg. 20

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For the second year in a row, Girl Scout Troop 5293 volunteered at the NF Walk in support of Cameron Arnette. The girls performed the flag ceremony and the Pledge of Allegiance. They also ran a water station along the course. Shown are, from left, Lindsey DiNapoli, Valerie Tumlin, Cameron Arnette, Emily Fleming and Lorelai Brown.

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Ella Young, 7, of Mechanicsville, recently decided to cut her hair and donate it to Locks of Love. She said she wanted to “put a smile on another little girl who is suffering due to the loss of her hair.” Ella is a student at Laurel Meadow Elementary School.

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January 7, 2015

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AKINS, Edward Franklin 76, of Mechanicsville passed due to congestive heart failure on December 21, 2014. Edward was born in Huntsville, Alabama. He was married to Myrtle Loving Akins, who passed in 2004. Edward was a U.S. Marine and later worked in the plumbing supply field. He is survived by his loving siblings Billy R. Akins of Fayetteville, Tennessee, and Virginia Smith of Pottstown, Pennsylvania, his dear friend Helen Penakalski of Mechanicsville, and has several nieces and nephews. Friends were invited to visit with the family on Sunday, January 4 in the Mechanicsville Chapel of Bennett Funeral Home 8014 Lee Davis Rd. Graveside Service took take place in Signal Hill cemetery on Monday.

DeLois Baker BAKER, Mrs. DeLois Howard, 71, passed away peacefully Saturday, December 27, 2014 after a lengthy illness. She was preceded in death by her son, Darryl L. Brooks. She leaves to cherish her memories three grandchildren, one great-grandson, five sisters, one brother, one aunt and other relatives and friends. A viewing was held Friday, Jan. 2 at Wilson & Associates, 5008 Nine Mile Rd. Funeral services were be held Saturday, Jan. 3 at First Union Baptist Church, 6231 Pole Green Rd., Mechanicsville. Interment was at the church cemetery.

Stephen Barcena BARCENA, Stephen Jr., passed away peacefully at Bon Secours Regional Memorial Hospital in Mechanicsville on Sunday, December 28, 2014 at 1:25 p.m. Steve was born in Brooklyn, New York on May 13, 1930. Steve served in the U.S. Army in his younger years and later moved to Spartanburg,

The Mechanicsville Local

January 7, 2015

South Carolina, where he met and married the love of his life, Lois Westbrook in 1954. They later moved to Tampa, Florida and in 1976, moved to Mechanicsville, where he worked and retired from Joslyn Manufacturing and Supply Company. Steve is survived by his wife of 60 years, Lois Barcena; their four children, Stephen, Margaret, Phyllis and Tony. Other surviving family members include seven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren and four sisters. Steve was a family man who loved his family and friends and lived every moment with love and a passion for life. He enjoyed travel, reading, wine and creative people. He was an artist and jazz enthusiast who enjoyed painting, creating digital art, writing and gardening in his spare time. He loved making people laugh and never had a conversation without throwing in a joke or two. Steve was loved dearly and he made every person he met smile. He will be missed by so many. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date in 2015. Condolences may be sent to the Bennett Funeral Home, 8014 Lee-Davis Rd., or online at bennettfuneralhomes.com

Ben Cleary CLEARY, Ben Carlos Sr., 93, of Richmond, died unexpectedly on Christmas Eve, December 24, 2014, while visiting family in Irmo, South Carolina. Ben was the son of James Anderson (Pop) and Lillian Evelyn Oliver Cleary. Ben was predeceased by his parents; sister, Ellouise Blanche Cleary Jacques; brother, James Anderson Cleary Jr; and nephew, Herbert Donovan Jacques, Jr. He is survived by his loving wife, Vi Baffone Cleary; his son, Ben Carlos Cleary Jr. and his wife, Catherine, and their son, Alexander, of Mechanicsville. Ben is also survived by his nieces, Christine Jacques Gergely

(John) of Newport News and Anne Cleary Noll (Mark); a nephew, James Anderson Cleary III; and grandnieces, Christy Warren (Vince) and Terry Bailey (Dennis) and their families. He is also survived by his special friends, Bob and Kim Rice of Richmond and their family; and Sister Marie Kerns. Ben was very close to Vi’s family especially her niece, Pat Bezanson and her children, Shelly Kelly and Jeff Bezanson of South Carolina. Ben was born on September 5, 1921 in Louisville, Kentucky, where his father served as a field artillery officer in the U.S. Army. He grew up in Newport News. Ben was an outstanding athlete for the Newport News High School Typhoons. He is honored in the Lower Virginia Peninsula Sports Hall of Fame as the only high school football player to have been on the Virginia All-State Football Team as both an offensive and a defensive player. The Daily Press recognized him in 1993 on its all-time high school Dream Team as a running back. His love of football extended to his lifelong enjoyment of watching the NFL and College teams play. Following in the steps of his father, Ben was an avid golfer and long-time member of the Hermitage Country Club in the Richmond area. He won numerous golfing awards. Ben enlisted in the U.S. Army on February 3, 1941. He attended Officer Candidate School and rose to the rank of Captain. Ben served in the U.S. Army Air Corps in South America and on Ascension Island during WWII. Ben was a patriotic American who loved his country and a staunch Republican who daily followed world events. After his military service, Ben started and managed his successful industrial supply business, Cleary and Company, until his retirement in 1994. A faithful member of Saint Bridget Catholic Church, Ben

spent time serving his Lord by daily prayer time and the establishment of a church through the International Co-operating Ministries. Ben loved his family, his extended family and many friends. He especially loved the joy children brought into the world. The family received friends Friday, January 2, 2015, at the Parham Chapel of Woody Funeral Home, 1771 N. Parham Rd., Richmond, Va. A Funeral Mass was held on Saturday, January 3, 2015, at Saint Bridget Catholic Church, 6006 Three Chopt Rd., Richmond. Interment was at Westhampton Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Little Sisters of the Poor, St. Joseph’s Home, 1503 Michaels Rd., Richmond, Va. 23229. Condolences at woodyfuneralhomeparham.com.

Justin Dickerson DICKERSON, Justin Michael, 28, of Mechanicsville, went to be with the Lord Friday, January 2, 2015. Justin was a devoted father, son and brother. He is preceded in death by grandmother, Frances Adams; grandfather, William Brumfield; and aunt, Sherry Farrar. Justin is survived by his wife, Michelle Dickerson; son, Cayden Michael Dickerson; parents, Michael L. Dickerson and Mindy Brumfield Weaver; two sisters, Ashley Dickerson and Emily Szarzynski (Brent); grandmother Lucille Brumfield; nephews, Bradley and Lucas Szarzynski; aunts and uncles, Jerry Farrar, Wayne and Angie Bower, Bill and Mary K. Brumfield, Jack and Cindy Smith, June Arthur, Bea Johnson, Sue Cole, Lance and Joyce Earley; and many loving cousins. Justin was an avid fisherman, loved to work on cars and was a stranger to no one. The family received friends Sunday, January 4, at the Mechanicsville Chapel of the Bennett Funeral Home, 8014 Lee-Davis Rd., where a funeral

was held Tuesday, January 6, 2015. Interment followed at Hanover Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the VCU Massey Cancer Center in Justin’s honor.

Helen Hanna HANNA, Helen Jeter, of Williamsburg, died January 1, 2015. She was 88. Mrs. Hanna was born January 16, 1926 in Mechanicsville. She had resided at Spring Arbor of Williamsburg since 2008. She is survived by her daughters, Sherle Tallent, Sue Gerdelman (John) and Amy Hanna; grandchildren, Mark Gerdelman (Rebecca) and Emily Ridjaneck (Matthew); and relatives, Robert Jeter Jr., Samuel Jeter, Nancy Hylton, William Jeter and John T. Hanna; and her two special girls, Loretta Seredni and Annie Quinn. A celebration of life was held Sunday, January 4, 2015 at Bucktrout Funeral Home, 4124 Ironbound Rd., Williamsburg. Contributions in Mrs. Hanna’s memory may be made to the Heritage Humane Society or the Richmond SPCA.

Novella Hatcher HATCHER, Novella Davis, 91, of Richmond, passed away Wednesday, December 31, 2014. She was the widow of Samuel D. Hatcher and B. Fred Jones. She is survived by her children, David (Jane) Hatcher, Barbara (Charles) England, Will (Jane) Hatcher, Glenn (Christi) Hatcher, and Mary Kay Jones. She is also survived by her grandchildren Michelle (Jim) Morton, Amy England, Chip (Robin) England, Andy (Katy) England, Mandy (Mark) England Cole, Leanne Morris, Emily (John) Umphlett, and Troy, Lindsey, and Matt Hatcher. She is also survived by 23 great-grandchildren and five great-great-grandchildren. Her family was her greatest joy and she always had time see OBITUARIES, pg. 11

OBITUARIES Continued from pg. 10

to share conversation and love with family. She enjoyed traveling, especially her trips with her daughters and the annual family beach trip. A favorite place was enjoying the sun on the porch at the river. She was blessed to have shared loving marriage with two amazing men. She was a woman of deep faith and loved her church. Her family is thankful for the loving care she received from the staff of The Hermitage. Visitation was Friday, January 2. A funeral service was held Saturday, January 3 at Bennett Funeral Home in Mechanicsville. A graveside service followed in Forest Lawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made, in her honor, to the American Breast Cancer Foundation, 1220-B East Joppa Rd., Suite 332, Towson, Md. 21286 or a charity of your choice.

years of service. She was a member of the Union of Telephone Workers of America. The family received friends Monday at the Mechanicsville Chapel of Bennett Funeral Home, 8014 Lee-Davis Rd., where services were be held Tuesday, January 6, 2015. Interment followed at Signal Hill Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in memory of Doris E. Henshaw to Mechanicsville Christian Center, 8061 Shady Grove Rd., Mechanicsville, Va. 23111.

Anna Mae Morris MORRIS, Anna Mae Puller, 78, of Hanover, died Friday, 26 December 2014. The memorial service was held Saturday, January 3, 2015 at Brown Grove Baptist Church, 9328 Ashcake Rd., Ashland, Va. 23005. She is survived by her devoted hus-

band, Fleming L. Morris Jr.; and children. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Brown Grove Baptist Church building fund.

Mattie Mullins MULLINS, Mattie E. “Curly” Turpin, 95, passed away peacefully on December 30, 2014 at Autumn Care in Mechanicsville. She was born in Pulaski to Edgar and Lula Turpin. Mattie lived most of her life in McDowell County, West Virginia, but lived the last one and a half years at Autumn Care in Mechanicsville. She was preceded in death by her husband, Roy S. Mullins, Sr.; two sons, Jackson Lee and Michael David; her parents; 10 brothers and sisters; and four great grandchildren. She is survived by her dedicated and loving children, William C. Mullins, Kimball, West Virginia; Margaret

E. Underwood, Columbus, Ohio; Roy Samuel Mullins, Jr. (Nancy) Houston, Delaware; Zelda “Cissy” M. Hardy (Chip) Mechanicsvill; Keith A. Mullins (Kathy) Green River, Wyoming; sister, Grace Patton, Newport News; daughter-in-law, Judith Anderson Mullins, Kennesaw, GA; 15 adoring grandchildren; 29 great grandchildren; 13 greatgreat grandchildren; and a host of nieces and nephews. Mrs. Mullins was a cornerstone member of the Carswell Community Church and devoted her life to serving God, her family, her church and her community. She was a steadfast prayer warrior who lived a godly life, leaving a legacy of faith, kindness, grace and love to all who were touched by her. Her smile would light up a room and warm hearts. Everyone loved her and she loved everyone a “bushel and

a peck and a hug around the neck”. Proverbs 31:28 – Her children rise up and call her blessed. Special thanks to faithful nieces, Sue Wilson and Patty Faison; to caregiver Faye Roberts and the caregivers at Autumn Care of Mechanicsville (especially “her” Peggy). Pallbearers were grandsons Michael Keith Mullins, Dirk Allen Mullins, James Roy Mullins, Samuel Durant Mullins and great-grandsons Kenneth Levi Howell and Shane Nathaniel Durkin. Family received friends on Sunday, January, 2015 at Widener Funeral Home in Northfork, West Virginia. The funeral service was held at Carswell Community Church in Carswell Hollow, West Virginia on Monday, January 5, 2015. Graveside services followed at Woodlawn Cemetery in Bluewell, West Virginia. In lieu of flowers, donations in her

memory can be made to Carwell Community Church, P.O. Box 397, Kimball, WV, 24853.

Dean Stover STOVER, Dean B. Jr., 94, of Richmond, passed away Monday, December 29, 2014, following a brief illness. He was preceded in death by his wife of 56 years, Esther Lee Stover and is survived by his son, Dean B. Stover III (Christi); granddaughter, Kari S. Mitchell (Allan); grandson, Dean B. Stover IV (Amanda); and great-grandchildren, Tyler, Meghan and Jackson. Dean attended The McGuire School and North Carolina State University prior to serving in the U.S. Army during WWII. The family received friends Thursday at the Mechanicsville Chapel of Bennett Funeral Home, 8014 see OBITUARIES, pg. 12

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Doris Henshaw HENSHAW, Doris E., 83, of Mechanicsville, passed away December 30, 2014, and is resting peacefully. She was preceded in death by her husband of 59 years, Thomas W. Henshaw Sr.; parents, Annie T. and Thomas C. Ellington; sister, Betty E. Bowen and husband, Harold; brotherin-law, William R. Henshaw and wife, Joyce. Doris is survived by her son, Thomas W. Henshaw Jr. (Laurie); grandchildren, Holly M. Henshaw, Kristen H. Leigh (Stephen); great-grandchildren, Carter West Henshaw and Ryin N. Elliott; nieces, Lois B. Shelton (Wayne), Patricia B. Boles (Mark), Gladys Bowen, Marcia H. Powers (Ronnie); nephew, Matthew Henshaw (Vicki) and their families; brother-in-law, James E. Henshaw III (Bettie) and family; stepgrandchildren, Kerri M. Kyser, Matthew Myers, Billy Habansky, Bobby Habansky, and their families. A loyal employee of the C&P Telephone Company, Doris later retired from AT&T after 39

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The Mechanicsville Local

January 7, 2015

OBITUARIES Continued from pg. 11

Lee-Davis Rd., where services were held Friday, January 2, 2015. Interment was at Forest Lawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Operation Blessing International, P.O. Box 2636, Virginia Beach, Va. 23450 or a charity of your choice.

Esther Tomlin TOMLIN, Ester Mae “Mae,” 73, of Mechanicsville, went to join the Lord and her husband, Silas Tomlin Sr., in heaven on December 29, 2014. She was a strong, feisty woman that will greatly be missed. Mae is survived by her children, Jeffrey Tomlin Sr., Silas Tomlin Jr., Judy Ninio (Larry) and Bruce Collins; grandchildren, Tonya

Tomlin, Jeffrey Tomlin Jr. (Amanda), Nicole TomlinPuckett (Daniel), Rachael Geary (Tommy), Sarah Hogue (Jason), Thomas Woods (Erica) and Michael Woods; as well as great-grandchildren, Kenneth Scroggin, Kristin Scroggin, Jada Tomlin, Caleb Hogue, Rose Woods, Ella Woods, and Jacoby Woods. The family received friends Saturday, January 3,

2015, with a memorial service that followed at Bennett Funeral Home, 8014 Lee- Davis Rd., Mechanicsville, Va. 23111. Please make any donations in her name to the American Diabetes Association.

Frances Townsend TOWNSEND, Frances Richardson, aged 79, mostly recently of Richmond, passed

away on December 27, 2014. She was preceded in death by her parents, Nell Wadsworth and William W. Richardson. Mrs. Townsend was a devoted mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She is survived by seven children, George L. Townsend (Cindy) of Fishersville, Katherine M. Townsend (Tim Mitchell) of Richmond, Theresa T. Crane (Andy) of Mechanicsville,

Va., Elizabeth M. Townsend (Boyd Reamey) of Richmond, Paul W. Townsend (Anya) of Richmond and currently residing in the Philippines, Frances T. Pomerleau (Kevin) of Roanoke, and Sarah T. Warmbier (Ken) of Richmond. She is also survived by 17 grandchildren and a great-grandson, Meredith see OBITUARIES, pg. 27

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Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com With winter’s arrival, Virginia Blood Services could be facing an increased need and decreased donations, resulting in a blood shortage. Julie Moore, Virginia Blood Services’ executive director, said, “The spirit of the holidays always brings out a few, new faces to our blood drives, for which we’re grateful. But when the snow piles up and the thermometer drops, blood drives get canceled, and donors are stuck in their homes. It’s nearly impossible to re-coop those supplies.” Moore also said that last year’s “polar vortex” phenomenon is a prime example of how bad weather can impact the local blood supply.

LETTERS Continued from pg. 8

class and you will change your tune. Thanksgiving just passed, but I ask you to make every day a day of thanks for our outstanding sheriff and his entire department. God bless them and keep them safe. The next time you see a member of the Sheriff ’s Office remember to “Thank a cop.” Truly blessed, Sam and Sarah Dunn Mechanicsville

Delegate seeks survey input (Editor’s note: The following was submitted as an open letter to the constituents of Del. Chris Peace, R-97.) I am honored to have the privilege of serving and work-

One particularly bad week of snowy, arctic weather last January halted almost a dozen scheduled blood drives. The result was nearly a 10 percent drop in blood supplies. And it can often take a few weeks just to bring those levels back up. As the sole blood supplier to more than 20 Virginia hospitals, Moore said Virginia Blood Services knows how much Virginia weather can be a factor in maintaining a steady, local blood supply. That’s why she said they’re getting the word out now to potential donors to step up and help replenish the local blood supply this winter. “We’re in need of all blood types to assure that we maintain our blood supply for the ing on behalf of the citizens of the 97th House District. Working together, we have accomplished many things for our community and our Commonwealth. As we begin the 2015 legislative session, I hope you will take a few moments to share with me your thoughts on some of the issues facing the General Assembly. Thank you in advance for taking the time to complete the legislative questionnaire. Please do not hesitate to contact me if I may be of assistance to you or your family. My annual legislative survey questions reference important public policy issues which may be considered by the General Assembly during the 2015 Legislative Session. You may access the online survey via my website at www. chrispeace.com. If you do not have access to a computer or would pre-

hospital patients in our community,” Moore said. “That’s why we’re asking Virginians to help support local patients and respond by donating blood over the next few weeks.” Virginia Blood Services said that each unit of blood can help to support up to three lives. Donors must be at least 16 years old and in good health. The blood supplier offers nine convenient donor centers throughout central and western Virginia, as well as 20 bloodmobile teams that travel throughout those counties seven days a week. To schedule a blood drive or an appointment to donate, or to find the nearest blood donation centers and hours, call 800-989-4438, or visit www.vablood.org. fer a hard copy of the survey, please call 804-698-1097 and my office will mail you a copy along with a reply envelope for you to easily return the completed survey. Your opinion is very important to me, so please take a few moments to let me know where you stand on these important issues. If you are undecided on an issue, feel free to leave it blank. Should you have any questions or comments, please do not hesitate to contact me at the Capitol Office at 804-698-1097, via email at DelCPeace@house. virginia.gov , on Facebook at Christopher K. Peace or on Twitter @DelCPeace. Thank you again for the honor of serving as your representative from the 97th District. Del. Christopher K. Peace Virginia House of Delegates 97th District

Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com A Mechanicsville resident was among the 50 members of the 122nd Basic Session of the Virginia State Police. James Lloyd Cooper III has been assigned to Prince William. Coming to Hanover were Mark Edward Porter of Chesterfield and Byron Davis Spangler of Goochland

FOUR Continued from pg. 7

nator, J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College, join McAuliffe’s administration on the Advisory Board on Genetic Counseling. Quillin and Compton live in Mechanicsville. Travis Croxton and

County. On Friday, Nov. 21, the Department of State Police welcomed its latest generation of troopers during a graduation ceremony held at the State Police Training Academy located at 7700 Midlothian Turnpike in Chesterfield County. The new troopers received more than 1,600 hours of classroom and field instruction in

more than 100 different subjects, including defensive tactics, crime scene investigation, ethics and leadership, survival Spanish, police professionalism, firearms, judicial procedures, officer survival, cultural diversity and crisis management. Selected from a pool of more than 1,000 applicants, the

Spencer Neale, both of Hanover, have been named to the Commonwealth Council on Bridging the Nutritional Divide. According to the governor’s office, they will be focused on finding common ground with members of both parties on issues that will grow Virginia’s economy

and create more jobs across the Commonwealth. Croxton is an oyster farmer and restaurateur, Rappahannock Oyster Company. Neale serves as director of the Commodity Marketing Department, Virginia Farm Bureau, and chairman of the Virginia Food Systems Council.

see VSP’S, pg. 15

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The Mechanicsville Local

January 7, 2015

CALENDAR Continued from pg. 3

the library at 9161 Atlee Road. The Independence Ruritan Club, located behind Independence Christian Church, 14033 Independence Road (off Route 54, west of Ashland) will have a Benefit Breakfast from 6:45-8:45 a.m. The menu will include salt herring fillets, scrambled eggs, bacon, spiced apples, cornbread, grits, coffee and orange juice. The meal is all you can eat for a donation of $9 for adults. Proceeds from this event will go to the Ashland Christian Emergency Services. For information or carry out orders call (804) 798-6579. The Pamunkey River Garden Club will meet at 10:30 a.m. in rooms 111-113 of Shady Grove Methodist Church, which is located at the corner of Shady Grove and Meadowbridge Roads, just off of Interstate 295. This month, the group will learn how to

amend soils for plants to make them grow better. The speaker will be Walter Hemphfling, a Hanover Master Gardener. Attendees do not need to bring designs or specimens. For more information, contact Liz Martin, at 559-0898. Pattie Bland, the chair of the Coalition for Hanover’s Future, will be the guest speaker at the Hanover Democratic Committee Meeting at 10 a.m. at Ashland Coffee & Tea. CHF is a citizen education and advocacy group that focuses on land use, conservation and development issues in Hanover County. Bland, who is an urban conservationist with the Hanover-Caroline Soil and Water Conservation District, will discuss development issues The meeting is open to the public.

Sunday, Jan. 11 Bethel United Methodist Church will hold a Family Movie Night, starting with a 5 p.m. pot luck dinner followed by a 6 p.m. a movie. The church

is located at 17380 Dawn Road in Hanover. For more information, call 804-994-5344 or visit www.bethelumcva.com.

Monday, Jan. 12 Pajama Storytime will be held from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Atlee Branch Library. Children can bring a favorite snuggly friend, and are welcome to wear pajamas. Refreshments will be provided. For more information, call 804559-0654 or visit the library at 9161 Atlee Road. Hanover Safe Place will starts its January Volunteer Training session. Volunteers will be trained to become advocates for those experiencing domestic and/or sexual violence, within the hospital system through the RHART program, as well as the Greater Richmond Regional Hotline. Hanover Safe Place is also seeking volunteers to help with office projects and special events. For more information, contact Stacie at 804-752-2728.

Tuesday, Jan. 13 Mechanicsville Chess Club meets at 6 p.m. at the Eastern Hanover Volunteer Fire Department (Co. #3), 4428 Mechanicsville Turnpike. The group is an open chess club with no membership fees. All skill levels are welcome. Chess players under 18 years old must be accompanied by an adult. For more information, visit www. MechanicsvilleChessClub.org. Great Decisions, a group for discussing foreign policy issues, will hold its first meeting from 10 a.m. to noon in the Manor multi-purpose room at Covenant Woods. The group will hold eight sessions meeting every second and fourth Tuesday to discuss a challenge to U.S. policy. Participation costs $25. For more information or to join, call Walt Fadeley at 417-9101. The Greater Richmond Alzheimer’s Association and the Hanover Adult Center will host a caregiver support group from 9:30 to 11 a.m. the second Wednesday of each month at the Hanover Adult Center, 7231 Stonewall Parkway, Mechanicsville. The meet-

ings will allow caregivers to exchange coping skills and give mutual support. Co-facilitators are Vivian Bagby and Barbara Allen. For more information, call 967-2580. The Clay Spring Garden Club will hold their January monthly meeting at 1 p.m. at the First Baptist Church in Ashland. The guest speaker will be Jane Vandenburgh. She will be doing “Creative Designs”. Call Ricki Carson, at 804-7981782 for more information. The Hanover Book Club will meet from 1 to 2 p.m. at the Hanover Branch Library. Call or visit the library to find out the title to be discussed. Refreshments will be provided by the Hanover Branch Library Friends. For more information, call 804-365-6210 or visit the library at 7527 Library Drive. Mechanicsville AARP Chapter 5407 will meet from 10 a.m. to noon at Shalom Baptist Church, 6395 Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville. The guest speaker will be from teh Virginia Professional Hearing Aid Center. The public is welcome and refreshments will be provided. For more informa-

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tion, call Mrs. Larry Gross Jr. at 804-559-8010

Friday, Jan. 16 Winn’s Baptist Church will host a concert by the Just Us Country Gospel Band at 7 p.m. The church is located at 12320 Winns Church Road in Glen Allen. A love offering will be taken. For more information, call 798-5512, 798-5513, 798-6179 or Carlton at 6514544.

Saturday, Jan. 17 The Hanover Master Gardeners will host a class, Save Money and Eat Better with Homegrown Vegetables, from 9 to 11 a.m. The class is free and open to the public, but registration is required. To register, visit www.hanovermastergardeners.org or call 804-752-4310. Participants who register will be told where the class will be held. A “Kids Move” Zumba class will be held from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the Atlee Branch Library for children ages 3 to 10. Little ones can burn off some post-holiday energy at this class, which is just for kids. For more information, call 804-559-0654 or visit the library at 9161 Atlee Road. Art Studio @ 301 will host an opening reception from noon to 4 p.m. for a show by photographers Phyllis Faulkner and Michelle Vosper. The show will remain on display through Feb. 28. The gallery is located at 13297 Hanover Courthouse Road in Hanover. For more information, call 537-5238 or 347-5488. The Doswell Ruritan Club will host a Saltfish Breakfast from 6:30 to 9 a.m. The menu will include eggs, bacon, potatoes, spiced apples, biscuits, corn bread, juice and coffee. Take-outs will be available. Meals cost $9 for adults and $4.50 for children ages 4 through 10. The event will be held at 16433 N. Washington Highway in Doswell.

New VDOT signs help motorists plan travel time Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com To supplement motorist information displayed on overhead message boards and real-time traffic cameras, the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) now offers one more way for drivers to take control of their travel. As of Dec. 23, drivers along Interstate 295 and Interstate 64 see new roadside static signage that display dual travel times to both the Williamsburg and Virginia Beach areas.

Earlier last year, VDOT began displaying dual travel times to the Hampton Roads region on existing overhead message boards, which have proven successful for providing realtime traffic information to drivers. The data is provided by multiple technologies, including pavement sensors and Inrix data. Northbound I-295 travel times will be posted: Near mile marker 24 (just south of Pocahontas Parkway/Route 895 interchange) will display the travel

time to the Williamsburg area. Southbound I-295 travel times

will be posted: Near mile marker 40 (just south of Route 301 interchange) will display the travel time to the Virginia Beach

region. Near mile marker 36 (just south of Route 360 interchange) will display the travel time to the Williamsburg area. Eastbound I-64 travel times will be posted: Near mile marker 194 (west of Laburnum Avenue) will display the travel time to the Williamsburg area. “We’re showing drivers options for their travel,” Robb Alexander, regional operations director, said. “Updates in real time are invaluable when you’re

on the road and need to make decisions fast.” Drivers can expect travel times to be regularly displayed 24 hours a day, seven days a week. VDOT is evaluating further future expansion that will provide more localized travel information. To view real-time messages displayed on overhead signs, traffic camera images or road conditions, visit VDOT’s 24-hour traffic and travel information website, www.511Virginia.org.

Bon Secours, HealthFair join Virginia Dance Festival to benefit for neighborhood screenings Children’s Hospital Foundation Bon Secours has announced a partnership with HealthFair, a national testing provider that brings convenient and affordable health testing to community neighborhoods via its mobile screening buses. HealthFair is an ACRaccredited mobile screening company and is the only health care provider of its type. The Bon Secours HealthFair mobile screening bus debuted in Hampton Roads and began screening participants in

VSP’S Continued from pg. 13

members of the 122nd Basic Session began probating Feb. 25, followed by 26 weeks of academic, physical and practical training at the Academy since May 25. The probationary phase, which allows recruits to train in the field before attending the Academy, requires trainees to complete two and half weeks of introductory training at the Academy before being

Richmond in September. “This partnership will bring needed and affordable testing services to Richmond that are necessary and have not been easily available in the past,” said Peter J. Bernard, CEO, Bon Secours Virginia Health System. “We are committed to building healthier communities, and prevention and early detection with these screenings will support us in our quest.” The Bon Secours HealthFair bus will offer Richmond residents screening tests to assess their risk of heart attack, stroke, aneurysm and some cancers.

Basic and advanced packages are available as well as packages tailored to men and women, including gender specific screenings. The available screenings can identify hidden risk factors that may often go unnoticed with other testing. Participants are prescreened online, and testing is tailored to the needs of the individual. HealthFair screenings will be offered at various locations and times throughout the Richmond area.

assigned to a Field Training Officer (FTO). In June, the class assisted with VSP’s social media campaign to draw attention to Virginia’s first-ever “Move Over Awareness Month.” The 122nd Basic Session ended the daily Facebook posts with a photo, joined by Col. Steve Flaherty, superintendent, and his wife, to remind motorists about the state law. Prior to entering the Academy to begin their state police law enforcement

career, a number of the graduating troopers served with other law enforcement agencies and/or with a branch of the military. Collectively, the class encompasses more than 46 years of previous law enforcement and corrections experience, as well as almost 73 years of prior military service. Members of the 122nd Basic Session are from every corner of the Commonwealth, as well as Florida, Georgia,

Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com The 16th Annual Virginia Dance Festival to benefit Children’s Hospital Foundation will be held with two shows starting at 3 and 7 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 7, at the Altria Theater in Richmond. The event will feature over 300 dancers performing traditional and cultural dances as well as a silent auction. Tickets are $15 for adults (ages 12 and up) and $12 for children (ages 3 to 11). For those interested in attending both shows, the price will be discounted to $27.50 for adults and $18 for children. Tickets are for sale online through Altria

Theater (www.altriatheater.com) or you can call the box office at 800-514-3849. All proceeds will go to Children’s Hospital Foundation. In addition, there will be a silent auction in the main lobby of the Altria Theater during both shows. Businesses and organizations are encouraged to donate items for the silent auction. For more information about the event, becoming a sponsor or donating items, call Jessica Morgan at 804-739-7600. The Virginia Dance Festival is coordinated and founded by Jessica Morgan. Morgan coordinates the event each year see DANCE, pg. 17

see SCREENINGS, pg. 17

Illinois, Louisiana, Michigan, Nevada, New Jersey and New York. Many in the class said they sought out the Virginia State Police because “of their excellent reputation … the past has built a strong foundation, the present is upholding that foundation, and I want to be part of the future” and “for the various career paths offered throughout the organization.” On Nov. 24, the new troopers reported to their individual duty assignments across

Virginia for their final phase of training. Each trooper spends an

additional six weeks paired up with an FTO learning his or her new patrol area.

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ASHLAND/WESTERN HANOVER | Also serving the communities of Montpelier, Beaverdam, Rockville and Doswell

Today is the deadline to take part in variety show Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com

File photo/Melody Kinser

A highlight of the Ashland Musical Variety Show is a performance of the town’s “Ashland, Ashland.” The every other year production is scheduled for March 19, 20 and 21 with the theme, “Ashland, Our Valentine Town.”

Today (Wednesday, Jan. 7) is the deadline for those wishing to sign up to take part in the Ashland Musical Variety Show, “Ashland, Our Valentine Town. Sponsored by the Hanover Arts & Activities Center, organizers of the every other year production welcome those who want to take the stage to perform, as well as those who will work behind the scenes. The show features an evening of musical entertainment and community building. To take part, go online at www.hanoverarts.org or pick up sign-up forms at the Ashland Library, Cross Brothers, or the Hanover Arts and Activities Center at 500 S. Center St. in

Farmers market starts winter hours Saturday Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com Ashland Renegade Farmers Market, which is located behind Town Hall on Thompson Street, has announced open dates for the winter months. Hours are 9 to 11 a.m. Saturdays, with the following schedule: Jan. 10, Jan. 24, Feb. 7, Feb. 21, March 7, March 21, April 4 and April 18.

The market offers fresh local produce, grass-fed meat, cage-free eggs, homemade breads, cookies and other baked goods, jams, jellies and pickles this winter. To find out which vendors will be participating, visit the Ashland Farmers Market Facebook page. The winter market will be open every other Saturday until May when the Ashland Farmers Market will reopen.

Ashland. Rehearsals start next Wednesday, Jan. 14. Since 1982, the entertaining, family show traditionally features around 400 cast members ages kindergarten and up. It is presented at Blackwell Auditorium on the campus of R andolph-Macon College. Cast members usually rehearse each of their numbers one night a week for 30 minutes, and enjoy singing and dancing together for a good cause, the Hanover Arts and Activities Center. see DEADLINE, pg. 17

Police chief tackles dancing for Ball bet By Cindy Huang Richmond Times-Dispatch

“S Photo by Cindy Huang/Richmond Times-Dispatch

Ashland Police Chief Doug dances with his wife Shelly during a lesson. “That is not one of my skill sets,” he said.

low, quick, quick. Slow, quick, quick,” chanted dance instructor Brian Westerlund. Ashland Police Chief Doug Goodman and his wife Shelly moved in unison, dancing the foxtrot on a spotless wooden floor on a recent rainy Monday night. When they occasionally stepped off the beat, they would start over again.

Goodman is learning the foxtrot in preparation for the first Ashland Police Officers’ Ball on Saturday, Jan. 17. Organizers of the ball proposed the dance as a challenge to Goodman and the Town of Ashland. If 300 people buy tickets to the ball, then Goodman will do a spotlight dance with his wife during the event. see DANCING, pg. 17

Hanover Academy to host HABCC’s first Business After Hours social event for 2015 Hanover Academy at 115 Frances Rd. in Ashland will host the Hanover Association of Businesses and Chamber of Commerce’s first Business After Hours social for 2015 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 15.

The Mechanicsville Local

Business After Hours Series is an informal way for professionals to socialize and network while also visiting 12 different Hanover County businesses. Members are encouraged to invite a guest or

January 7, 2015

bring a valued customer. Tickets are $10 in advance for members, $15 late registration and non-members. Food and beverages will be provided. Online registration is available by paying in

advance by credit or PayPal. Checks and cash also are accepted with payment at the door. For more information, contact Marianne Powell at the HABCC office at 804-798-8130 or marianne@habcc.com.

Signup for elderly, disabled tax relief starts Jan. 15 Hanover County makes real estate tax relief available for residents who are elderly or permanently disabled and who have a net worth of $200,000 or less. The application period for the upcoming year begins on Thursday, Jan. 15. The deadline is March 1 for the relief to be applied to the tax bills due (first half) on June 5. Applicants must be 65 years old or permanently disabled and must own or partially own the property and have lived in it on Dec. 31. If the applicant is in a hospital or extended care

DANCE Continued from pg. 15

by gathering dance organizations throughout Virginia to showcase their unique dance styles and talents to benefit the Foundation. Since this event began 14 years ago, she said it has

SCREENINGS Continued from pg. 15

Dates and locations of HealthFair screenings can be found online at http://www. bonsecourshealthfair.com. Each test in the mobile screening bus is performed by

DANCING Continued from pg. 16

“That is not one of my skill sets,” Goodman said. Westerlund and fellow dance instructor Pam Bishop are giving six free lessons to the Goodmans at Off And Dancing!, a dance studio in Ashland.

DEADLINE Continued from pg. 16

There also is a Children’s Chorus that rehearses after school each Wednesday afternoon starting on Wednesday,

facility, he or she may still qualify as long as the house is not rented or leased. The $200,000 net worth figure does not include the value of the house and up to 10 acres around it. The home’s owners can have a combined gross annual income of up to $50,000 and still qualify. The income of relatives living in the home is counted except for the first $10,000 of the relative’s income, which is exempted. If an applicant qualifies for 100 percent tax relief, they pay no real property taxes on that

qualified parcel. About 1502 households currently participate in Hanover County’s tax relief for the elderly and disabled program. The average tax savings is about $940 for those households; about 35 percent of the participating households pay no county real estate tax at all as a result of the program. Because of this program, qualifying Hanover County residents had their real estate taxes reduced by about $1.4 million last year. Disabled applicants must provide certifica-

tion of disability. This can be a statement from the Social Security Administration, a statement from the Veterans Administration, a statement from the Railroad Retirement Board or a sworn affidavit from two (2) medical doctors. Once an application is on file, only an affidavit is needed for the following two (2) years, unless there is a significant change in income or net worth. A new application is necessary only every third year. All information on the application is confidential and is not open to public see TAX, pg. 20

generated “over $187,000 for Children’s Hospital Foundation through performances, ticket sales, generous sponsors and silent auction donations.” Morgan also said that the event “has grown to represent a wide range of dance styles and different cultures and is not only very entertaining,

but also offers an educational opportunity for guests as they learn more about different cultural dances.” The performances will consist of Irish, Bavarian, Latin, Ballroom, Filipino, Spanish, Chinese and much more. More than 30 pre-professional dance organizations will

be performing in this year’s event. For more information, visit www.virginiadancefestival. com. ----For more than 90 years, Children’s Hospital Foundation has been dedicated to funding and advocating for pediatric

initiatives that improve the status of health care and the quality of life for children in our region. It provides support for the programs and initiatives of Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU (CHoR) and the children it serves each year, as well as other pediat-

ric health care programs in the community. Children’s Hospital Foundation depends on the support of individuals, businesses and other organizations to help continue its mission of supporting excellence in health care for children. To learn more, visit www.chfrichmond.org.

specially trained staff, and the results are reviewed by boardcertified physicians. After the test is completed, participants receive a personalized printed copy of their results in the mail or can access results online through a secure portal.

Individuals identified to be at high risk will be contacted by Bon Secours staff to discuss and facilitate appropriate next steps. While insurance does not cover the screening tests, they are potentially reimbursable from a health savings account,

depending on the type of insurance coverage a person has. HealthFair offers four screening packages ranging from $179 to $347. The basic screening package of six tests includes an echocardiogram, carotid artery

ultrasound and peripheral arterial disease test. There also are packages specific to men and women that include more genderspecific testing such as, a prostate-specific antigen test for men and a thyroidstimulating hormone test for

women. Participants are encouraged to check with their insurance provider regarding reimbursement. For more information about HealthFair, visit http:// www.bonsecourshealthfair. com or call 855-755-8378.

The ball will recognize police officers for their achievement. The money from ticket sales will go toward the Ashland Police Foundation, an organization that supports officers and their families in times of crisis, Faye O. Prichard, a member of Ashland Town Council, said. “My officers take care of

this town and take care of me every day; this is one way I can take better care of them,” the police chief said. Prichard, a co-chair for the ball, said the town has an annual police banquet to honor police officers but the event hasn’t drawn large crowds. “We really needed to do

something so our folks can get recognition more publicly,” Prichard said. While fundraising and achievement recognition are the main goals of the event, Prichard said she hopes people will have fun and come back in the future. Lou Ann Z. Jewell, the other co-chair of the ball, said

the event to benefit the police department will ultimately benefit the whole town. “If you have a happy department, you have happy officers who go out and give to the Ashland community,” Jewell said. Prichard said she’s confident the organizers will sell 300 tickets and that those in atten-

dance will see the Goodmans do a spotlight dance. Goodman said he needs all the practice and instruction he can get. “Come on, more confidence, yes!” Bishop said during the recent lesson. “Steps now. Confidence later,” said a focused Goodman.

Feb. 4. Lorie Foley and Sue Watson, co-producers/directors, and Carter Flippo and Fred Horn, music directors, have planned musical numbers that will showcase many dif-

ferent kinds of music, talents, dancing, singing, comedy and people for three shows, starting at 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, March 19-21. Talent is not required, but appreciated. The only require-

ment is a smile and a desire to have fun together. Ashland residency also is not required. The cast traditionally comes from all over the Ashland/ Hanover/Greater Richmond area. Many new friendships

are formed each year during the rehearsals and the show. For more information, contact Sue Watson at 804798-5686, Lorie Foley at 804798-0704 or the Hanover Arts and Activities Center at 804-

798-2728. The Hanover Arts & Activities Center is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to promote arts, education and community building. www. hanoverarts.org.

The Mechanicsville Local

January 7, 2015

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Mechanicsville Elementary School fourth grade students recently enjoyed a family field trip to Carter Mountain Orchard in Charlottesville. They said they were impressed with the Blue Ridge Mountains in the distance as they picked one of Virginia’s yummy products: apples.

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Hanover Humane and Virginia School district welcomes input Diner join for first fundraiser on textbooks up for adoption Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com Hanover County Public Schools is seeking the public’s input on elementary social studies textbooks that are being considered for adoption. Chris R. Whitley, public information officer, said Hanover County residents are encouraged to examine textbooks from the publisher’s series and provide writ-

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Hanover Humane Society will be holding its first annual fundraiser with Virginia Diner. The sale, featuring a variety of products with a number of price points will conclude on Wednesday,

Jan. 21. A portion of the proceeds from the event will be retained by the Hanover Humane Society. For more information and to order products, email info@hanoverhumanesociety.org.

Laughter will be topic of meeting The importance of laughter will be addressed by Penny Eorschel at the Monday, Jan. 19, meeting of the Pamunkey Woman’s Club at the clubhouse at The Bluffs at Bell Creek in Mechanicsville. The meeting will get under-

way at 6:30 p.m. with a soup and salad supper. For more information about this meeting or becoming a member of the Pamunkey Woman’s Club, visit the club’s website, www. PAMUNKEYWC.org.

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MAME Continued from pg. 19

her performance as Daisy Hilton Side Show. Other original Broadway cast credits include “Jekyll and Hyde,” James Joyce’s “The Dead” (opposite Christopher Walken), “The Full Monty,” “Dinner at Eight” (Outer Critics Circle Nomination), as well as The Actors Fund productions of “The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas” and “Dreamgirls.” Recent starring roles include the Off-Broadway new musical “Inventing Mary Martin” and “Adelaide” in the world premiere of “The Great American Mousical” at Goodspeed’s Norma Terris Theatre under the direction of Dame Julie Andrews. Carnegie Hall appearances include singing with The New York Pops and the New York debut of Richard Thomas’ “Jerry Springer The Opera” (with Harvey Keitel).

SPIRIT Continued from pg. 9

Off-Broadway theatres include the Manhattan Theatre Club, WPA Theatre, Paramount Theater at Madison Square Garden, York Theatre, Playwrights Horizons and the Roundabout Theatre. Regionally, she has appeared in numerous leading roles at The Kennedy Center, Signature Theatre, Long Wharf Theatre, Hangar Theatre, Old Globe Theatre, Ford’s Theatre, McCarter Theatre, St. Louis MUNY, Goodspeed, Bucks County Playhouse, Lyric Theater of Oklahoma and TheatreVirginia. Skinner has a self-titled solo CD, as well as several cast recordings and audio books. Desiree Roots Centeio will play Mame’s bosom buddy, Vera Charles. Centeio recently was seen at Virginia Rep in the summer-hit musical, “The Color Purple,” in the role of Sofia. Other credits include “The Music Man” at Virginia Rep and “Dessa Rose” at

Firehouse Theatre Project. She is the recipient of the Theresa Pollack Award for vocal excellence in the arts. Her first Jazz CD, “Don’t Ever Stop Dreaming,” recently debuted. Jody Ashworth returns to the stage as Beau. He was last seen in “The Producers” (RTCC Award), “Sound of Music” and “Guys and Dolls” at Virginia Rep. Audra Honaker plays Agnes Gooch. Recent Virginia Rep credits include “Shrek, Fiddler on the Roof ” and “Charlotte’s Web.” Young Patrick will be played by sixth-grader Brandon McKinney. He made his Virginia Rep debut as Winthrop in “The Music Man. “ Alexander Sapp plays the role of older Patrick. Sapp was last seen in “Tartuffe” at Virginia Rep, “Good People” for Cadence Theatre in partnership with Virginia Rep and “Richard III” for Henley Street/Richmond Shakespeare.

Set designer is Ron Keller (“The Color Purple,” “To Kill A Mockingbird,” “White Christmas” at Virginia Rep), who is joined by lighting designer Lynn M. Hartman (“Other Desert Cities,” “Tartuffe,” “The Music Man,” “To Kill A Mockingbird” for Virginia Rep) and veteran costume designer, Sue Griffin (The Color Purple, Tartuffe, Fiddler on the Roof), round out the artistic team. Corporate sponsors Virginia Rep receives support from its Signature Season Sponsors: Altria and the E. Rhodes and Leona B. Carpenter Foundation. Additional funding is provided by the Shubert Foundation, Windsor Foundation, Virginia Commission for the Arts, the National Endowment for the Arts, The Richmond TimesDispatch, Richmond.com and Community Idea Stations. Ticket information The number for the Box Office is 804-282-2620.

Information also is available at www.virginiarep.org. Full price tickets are $48 to $60. Discounted group rates and rush tickets are available. U-Tix for college and high school students are $15. They are available by phone or in person on the day the of show only. A student ID is required. The Sara Belle and Neil November Theatre is equipped with a new state-of the-art induction loop hearing system that is compatible with all telecoil-equipped hearing aids and cochlear implants. A handheld receiver and headphone system also is available free of charge for anyone who is hearing impaired. Valet is available at all performances except the preview for $8. Free self-park is available at all performances within two blocks of the theatre. Evening performances begin at 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, 7 p.m. on select Wednesdays and all Thursdays. Matinee

performances start at 2 p.m. on Sunday and select Wednesdays and Saturdays. The cast includes: Mame, Emily Skinner; Vera, Desiree Roots Centeio; Beau, Jody Ashworth; Agnes, Audra Honaker; Young Patrick, Brandon McKinney; Patrick, Alexander Sapp; Ito, Ray Sheen; Lindsay, Thomas Nowlin; Dwight Babcock, Andy Boothby; Mrs. Upson/ Mame U.S./Ensemble, Susan Sanford; Pegeen, Libby Schneider; Gloria, Catherine Walker; Mother Burnside, Jody Strickler; Sally Cato, Nicole Oberleitner; Mr. Upson/ensemble, Frank Creasy; and Junior, Brent Gallahan. Ensemble includes: Anne Rose, Erica Mini, Megan Tatum, Cariel Hughes, Alana Thomas, Mallory Keene, Andrew Reid, Paul S. Major; Aza Raine, Brad Willcuts, Sam Elton, Steven Moeslein, Anthony Cosby-Knowles, Will Meredith and Reed Patterson.

recipients will be announced at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, May 12, at the Spirit of Volunteerism

Celebration at the Hanover High School auditorium. The event is free and open

to the public. The goal of the celebration is to pay tribute to all volun-

teers within the community, as well as honor award nominees and announce the 2015 award recipients. The 2015 Spirit of Volunteerism Awards sponsors are: Ashland Walmart Superstore, Battlefield Press Inc., Covenant Woods, Grace Community Presbyterian Church, Optimist Club of Hanover,RappahannockElectric Cooperative and Hanover

Association of Businesses and Chamber of Commerce. Nomination forms, online submission information and other details are available at www.hanovervolunteers.org or by contacting the Hanover County Department of Community Resources at 804365-4300. Information submitted by Tom Harris, Hanover County public information officer.

TAX

Commissioner of the Revenue, said. “We invite all residents who think they might qualify to call our office.” To apply, call the Commissioner of the Revenue at 804-365-6128. If you have computer access, application forms also can be downloaded from www. hanovercounty.gov. Information submitted by Tom Harris, Hanover County public information officer.

LET 2015 BE THE YEAR TO GET YOURSELF AND BUSINESS IN GEAR! Don’t put it off, don’t let it wait, let us help put your business in tip top shape! Sarah O. Suttles

Continued from pg. 17

Tom Haynie

the King William

The Mechanicsville Local

Cumberland Today

January 7, 2015

inspection. Remember, applicants must sign up by March 1 for the relief to be applied to the real estate tax bills that will be sent out later this spring and which are due (first half) on June 5. “This is a great program designed to help those taxpayers who most need the help,” Scott Harris, Hanover’s

CELEBRATIONS | Births, Engagements, Weddings & Anniversaries

Locks of Love

Visiting the U.K.

Married 50 years

Submitted photo

Emily Dunn recently donated her hair to Locks of Love. She is a third grade student at Cold Harbor Elementary School.

Photography show

Photo submitted by Judy Brown

Bill and Judy Brown celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on January 2, 2015. They have two sons and six grandchildren.

Storytime sessions oﬀered by Pamunkey area libraries Staff Report news@mechlocal.com Area branches of the Pamunkey Regional Library offer regularly occurring storytimes for young library patrons. The Atlee Branch will host two days of storytime sessions each week in of January. Each Wednesday, Mother Goose Storytime will begin at 10 a.m. for children 6 to

Photos submitted by JoAnn Lane

JoAnne Lane and her fiancé, Rick Atkins, recently visited the United Kingdom. They are shown Riding the Eye in London, above, and at the Cliffs of Moher near Shannon, Ireland. Joann said it was the “trip of a lifetime, as staying in friends’ homes allowed us to experience the customs/ culture of their countries.”

Photos submitted by Teressa Pearson

Art Studio @ 301 will present photography by Phyllis Faulkner and Michelle Vosper Jan. 17 through Feb. 28. A reception will be held from noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 17. The studio is located at 13297 Hanover Courthouse Road in Hanover. For more information, call 804-537-5238 or 804-347-5488.

24 months old and accompanied by a parent, followed by Toddler Storytime for 2-yearolds accompanied by a parent at 10:45 a.m., then Preschool Storytime for 3- to 5-year-olds at 11:15 a.m. On Thursdays, Mother The Clay Spring Garden Goose Storytime will be held at 10 a.m., Family Storytime for Club will meet at 1 p.m. all ages will start at 10:45 a.m., Tuesday, Jan. 13, at the First Baptist Church in Ashland. see STORYTIME, pg. 22 Jane Vandenburgh will

‘Creative Designs’ to be presented present a program on “Creative Designs.” For more information, call Ricki Carson, president, at 804798-1782.

The Mechanicsville Local

January 7, 2015

Low to moderate income taxpayers eligible for free AARP assistance Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com

Hair donation

or a retiree to use this service. AARP Foundation TaxAide has grown tremendously since its inaugural team of just four volunteers in 1968. In 2014, 35,000 compassionate volunteers at over 5,000 sites provided 2.6 million people with free tax help. Taxpayers who used AARP Foundation Tax-Aide received $1.3 billion in income tax refunds and more than $257 million in Earned Income Tax Credits (EITCs).

AARP Foundation is again providing free tax assistance and preparation for taxpayers with low to moderate income through the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program. AARP Foundation TaxAide, in its 46th year, is the nation’s largest free tax assistance and preparation service, giving special attention the older population. You do not need to be a member of AARP

see AARP, pg. 24

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The Mechanicsville Local

January 7, 2015

Photo submitted by Dana Hughes

Baylor Hughes donated 10 inches of her hair to Locks of Love. The daughter of David and Dana Hughes of Mechanicsville is a second grader at Laurel Meadow Elementary School. Her mother said Baylor decided about six months ago that she wanted to grow her hair a little longer so she could donate it to children in need. “We are so proud of her on making this big decision on her own and helping others in need,” Dana said. Baylor had her hair cut by Angie Helms with Angie H Hair.

STORYTIME Continued from pg. 21

and Preschool Storytime will begin at 11:30 a.m. For more information, call 804-559-0654 or visit the library at 9161 Atlee Road. The Hanover Branch Library will hold Family Storytime for all ages at 10:45 a.m. on Fridays.

For more information, call 804-365-6210 or visit the library at 7527 Library Drive. Storytimes will be held three days per week at the Mechanicsville Branch Library. On Tuesdays, , Mother Goose Storytime for children 6 to 24 months old and accompanied by a parent will begin at 10 a.m., followed by Preschool

Open enrollment for county land use program underway Hanover County offers a Supervisors modified the proLand Use Taxation Program gram to allow property rezoned under which qualified land- for specified, more intense, uses owners can have their property to remain eligible for land use. Under this change, properassessed at “use value,” which may be lower than market ty rezoned for manufacturing; transportation and warehousvalue and reduce taxes owed. The application period for ing; professional, scientific and this program began Jan. 2 and technical services; hotels and motels; and professional offices ends Feb. 1. Landowners who have kept can still be in the land use protheir property in agricultural, gram. Roll-back taxes would horticultural, forest or open not apply until the actual use space uses for at least five years is changed. can qualify for the land use About 3,561 parcels and program. The 162,028 acres minimum are enrolled For more information, qualifying in Hanover call the Commissioner acreages are County’sLand of the Revenue five acres for Use Taxation at 804-365-6125 agricultural, program. or visit horticultural www.hanovercounty.gov This repreand open sents about space and 20 acres for forest 56 percent of the county’s total use. acreage. The total tax deferral Property that has been realized by these property ownzoned Rural Conservation ers is about $5.2 million. (RC) also can qualify for the For more information about Land Use program. the Land Use Program or other If the land use is changed, tax relief programs offered the tax reduction must be by Hanover County, call the repaid with simple interest for Commissioner of the Revenue the current tax year and poten- at 804-365-6125 or visit www. tially up to the previous five hanovercounty.gov. tax years. Information submitted by In November 2013, the Tom Harris, Hanover County Hanover County Board of public information officer. Storytime for 3- to 5-year-olds at 10:45 a.m. and two Family Storytime sessions, for all ages, at 11:15 a.m. and 6:45 p.m. On Wednesdays, Toddler Storytime for 2-year-olds accompanied by a parent will begin at 10 a.m., followed by Preschool Storytime at 10:45 a.m. and Family Storytime at 11:15 a.m. On Thursdays, Toddler

Storytime will begin at 10 a.m., followed by Preschool Storytime at 10:45 a.m. and Family Storytime at 11:15 a.m. For more information, call 804-746-9615 or visit the library at 7461 Sherwood Crossing Place. To learn more about library programs, visit pamunkeylibrary.org.

Legislative reception set tomorrow Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com The 40th Annual Regional Legislative Reception will be presented by the Greater Richmond Chamber from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 8, at United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) at 700 North 4th St. in Richmond. Members and non-mem-

bers are invited to attend to meet with elected and appointed officials before the Virginia General Assembly session begins. The Chamber’s Board of Directors and Government Affairs Committee will welcome Capital Region legislators, as well as local elected officials from the City of

Richmond and counties of Charles City, Chesterfield, Goochland, Hanover, Henrico, New Kent and Powhatan and the Town of Ashland. The cost is $95 per person for Chamber members and $105 for non-members. Sponsors of the event will be Dominion, platinum;

Photo submitted by Theresa Price

David Price, the son of Michael and Theresa Price of Mechanicsville, achieved Dean’s List status for the fall semester at VCU School of the Arts and Design. David, a 2012 graduate of Atlee High School, is a junior majoring in kinetic imaging at VCU. He spent five weeks during the summer in Florence, Italy, with a group of 28 VCU art school students studying design.

VCU Dean’s List

see RECEPTION, pg. 24

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TO PROMOTE YOUR SERVICES IN THIS DIRECTORY, CALL 746-1235 X3 OR EMAIL: CLASSIFIEDS@ MECHLOCAL.COM The Mechanicsville Local

January 7, 2015

Community Drug Forum

‘Be Drug Free Like Me’

Photo submitted by Susan Robertson

Some 7th Ups are shown in the Chickahominy Middle School bus loop during the Red Ribbon Week observance. Students received stickers and were reminded to “Be Drug Free Like Me!” Shown above are Sarah Holzgrefe, Amanda Johnson, Ally Ledwith, Kat Vivaldi, Amanda Elrod, Joel Collins, Jordan Fox, Taylor Sanderford, Katlyn Richardson, Jake Bowen, Sterling Saunders, RADD sponsor Mary Ellen Colangelo, Claire Reagan and Rabia Alidost. Shown at right are, from left, Harini Moday, Drashty Mody and Colangelo.

Photo submitted by Susan Robertson

7th Up volunteers recently took part in a Community Drug Forum. Among those taking part in the drug forum were from left, front row, Rachel Nielsen, Drashty Mody and Sarah Ball, and, back row, Danielle Foley, Mallorie Fodill, Jordan Fox, Hannah Smith, Madeline White, Gabrielle Ringer, Sarsh Bashaw and Nikki Gooding. Bashaw and Gooding attend Hanover High School, while the others are students at Atlee High School.

Fire-EMS welcomes members, volunteers Hanover’s Fire-EMS is seeking new members. Those interested in becoming members will be able to engage in community service, public service, civic duty, learning opportunities and rewarding experiences. Members assist with the training needed to become an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) or earn Virginia Firefighter certifications. This volunteer commitment provides challenge, achievement, self satisfaction, teamwork, camaraderie and other benefits.

RECEPTION Continued from pg. 23

AARP Continued from pg. 22

Last year, 1,197 AARP Foundation Tax-Aide volunteers helped more than 79,256 people file their federal and

Persons who are dedicated, able to commit the time, and willing to learn will find Fire and Rescue to be “an excellent volunteer activity.” Hanover Fire-EMS welcomes ages 16 and up, teenagers to seniors and retirees. Administrative, “non-operational” positions and volunteers with the skills need to help “run a business” are invited to visit to learn more. To arrange a tour and introduction, call 804365- 6195.

Gilliam named to Fall Dean’s List at Louisburg

Altria and Richmond TimesDispatch, gold; Virginia Credit Union, silver; and Market

Christopher Gilliam of Mechanicsville was named Williams Mullen, bronze. to the Dean’s List for Fall For more information, call 2014 at Louisburg College in the Chamber at 804-648-1234. Louisburg, North Carolina.

To be named to the Dean’s List, a student must have completed at least 12 or more hours of college credit in a given semester and have a semester

grade point average between 3.50 and 4.00. For more information about Louisburg College, go to www.louisburg.edu.

state tax returns. The program is offered at approximately 77 sites in Virginia, including senior centers, libraries and other convenient locations. AARP Foundation Tax-Aide

thrives due to the remarkable efforts of its volunteer base. With nearly 50 million lowto moderate-income taxpayers helped and growing, there are always opportunities for new volunteers.

Lack of experience shouldn’t stop anyone from volunteering. Tax volunteers must complete a tax preparation workshop from the Internal Revenue Service prior to working with

taxpayers. There also is a need for grass-roots leadership on-site greeters, and those who can provide language assistance in Spanish, Mandarin or Cantonese.

For more information, visit www.aarp.org/taxaide or call 1-888-AARPNOW (1-888227-7669). AARP Foundation TaxAide is offered in conjunction with the IRS.

The Mechanicsville Local

January 7, 2015

WEDNESDAY EVENING 4 PM 4:30 5 PM

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