05/18/16 by Mechanicsville-Ashland Local

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Vol. 33, No. 2 | Richmond Suburban News | May 18, 2016

STOPS AT EVERY HOME IN TOWN

Birds and bees approved Ordinance change allows keeping both in some zones By Jim Ridolphi for The Mechanicsville Local

Jim Ridolphi for The Local

Hanover County residents — both young and old — lined up to tell the Hanover County Board of Supervisors the merits of backyard chickens. They supported an ordinance change that allows keeping up to six chickens in some residential zoning designations in the county.

Memorial Day 2016 File photo/Jim Ridolphi

Tradition will continue on Memorial Day when Hanover County presents the Hanover Memorial Day Program at 10 a.m. at the Hanover Veterans Memorial at Hanover Wayside Park on U.S. 301. Complete details can be found on page 4.

HANOVER — A growing number of Americans are questioning just how the food they eat is raised, and that movement is the driving factor behind a renewed interest in homeraised products. That issue arose in Hanover County when several residents requested a change in the ordinance that prohibits residents from keeping chickens at their residences in certain zones in the Suburban Service Area.

The Planning Commission recommended approval of an ordinance change that would allow limited keeping of chickens in single-family residential neighborhoods. Several citizens took advantage of a public hearing last week to express their opinions on the proposed changes. Ryan Boehmer of the Henry District said his chickens provide an 18-pack of healthy eggs for his teacher each week. “I feel that as a Hanover resident we should see BIRDS, pg. 7

Students’ revisions requests fall short By Jim Ridolphi for The Mechanicsville Local ASHLAND — After months of study and a few delays, an advisory committee has submitted a limited list of recommendations regarding changes to the county’s current sensitive and controversial material available to Hanover County Public Schools students in the classroom. Julie Tate, curriculum specialist for Library and Media Services, and Debbie Arco, director of Curriculum and

Instruction, presented the final recommendations to Hanover County School Board members at last week’s meeting, but it was just a first read and no action was required or taken on the issue. The school board is expected to consider the minor changes at next month’s meeting. In February, students presented proposed changes in language to the guidelines, and Dr. Michael Gill, superintendent of schools, reconvened the advisory committee to study and review those revi-

sions. The committee was initially formed in 2014 to recommend changes to the policy in place at that time. Changes were instituted, but some students said they felt the policy was still too restrictive, especially for subject matter in advanced classes that often teach college level material. The policy review panel provided two updates to the board, but was unable to issue recommendations due to ongoing

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Parks & Rec instructor proposals being accepted

SHLAND — Hanover Parks and Recreation strives to be a leader in the Hanover community in providing recreational experiences to people of all ages and abilities, according to Greg Sager, director. “We are currently seeking instructors who bring specialized talents to the community,” he said. “Become part of this dynamic team and provide an opportunity for people SAGER to grow and learn. “Many of our instructors have years of experience teaching, and enjoy the benefit of being able to offer classes. A recreational experience enables people an opportunity to learn a new hobby, skill, or participate in a

The Mechanicsville Local

May 18, 2016

physical activity,” Sager added. The department is accepting instructor proposals for those interested in teaching adult, youth, toddler, or activities specifically designed for individuals over the age of 50. Class and workshop proposals are being accepted for this fall, September to December, through Tuesday, May 31. To get a sampling of what other instructors are teaching though Parks and Recreation, view the latest issue of the Hanover Review, Discover Recreation guide or online at www.hanoverparksrec.com. For specifics on submitting a proposal, details and requirements, contact Hanover Parks & Recreation at 804-365-7150 or email: parksandrec@hanovercounty.gov. Information submitted by Nicodemas M. Reikalas, recreation coordinator, Hanover Parks & Recreation.

4 CRIME HCSO investigates robbery at local CVS.

9 COMMUNITY Hanover County honors ‘Spirit of Volunteerism.’

VCU Health System and Sheltering Arms Hospital form joint venture Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com RICHMOND – VCU Health System and Sheltering Arms Hospital recently announced that they have signed a definitive agreement to jointly address the need for comprehensive physical rehabilitative inpatient care

for individuals who have sustained a stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, and similar illnesses and injuries. In the near term, VCU Health System and Sheltering

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Arms Hospital will continue to provide inpatient services from their existing hospital campuses. Construction of a new rehabilitation hospital is being explored. All outpatient rehabilitation and other service lines will continue to operate independently. “Sheltering Arms Hospital and VCU Health System have collaborated on many fronts over the years in providing multidisciplinary treatment

programs for patients, conducting research, and training physical rehabilitation clinicians and leaders,” said Mary Zweifel, interim CEO of Sheltering Arms. “This joint venture will further enhance our progress in shaping physical rehabilitative care for the benefit of our patients.” Marsha Rappley, CEO of VCU Health System and vice president of VCU Health Sciences, said the joint venture “brings together the brand and clinical reputation of Sheltering Arms and the nationallyranked research, education and clinical care programs of the VCU Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation.” see VENTURE, pg. 4

16 ASHLAND Grant approved to renovate Ashland Theater.

ALSO… Incident Reports........3 Letters to the editor...6 Obituaries ..........10-15 TV grids..............35-37

By Melody Kinser Managing Editor HANOVER – A 33-year-old Montpelier woman was arrested last week and charged with five counts of cruelty to animals, five counts of inadequate care of animals and one count of sale of an unweaned animal. According to Sgt. James R. Cooper of the Hanover County Sheriff ’s Office, Stephanie M. Saunders of the 17000 block of Connie Hall Road was taken into custody last Wednesday. She was lodged in the Pamunkey Regional Jail with a $3,500 bond. On Tuesday, May 3, Hanover County Animal Control, with assistance from the Sheriff ’s Office, executed a search warrant at the residence. Cooper said the search warrant had been obtained concerning the well-being of the animals inside and outside the residence and their living conditions. As a result of the search warrant, 68 dogs – mostly puppies — were rescued. Cooper said they were living in unhealthy living conditions,

both inside and outside the residence. Cooper said the dogs – Labradors, St. Bernards, Golden Retrievers and a Boxer – were taken to several animal shelters for safekeeping and veterinary care. Hanover County Animal Control, in conjunction with the Sheriff ’s Office, coordinated with the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office to deterSAUNDERS mine charges against the owners of the dogs. “The Hanover County Sheriff ’s Office, on behalf of Hanover Animal Control, would like to extend its sincere appreciation to the public for the generous donations to the Hanover County Animal Shelter,” Cooper said, speaking on behalf of Col. David R. Hines, sheriff. “These donations will contribute to the overall care and well-being of the 68 dogs rescued during the course of this investigation.”

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SHERIFF’S REPORTS | Crime, Accidents, Fire & Rescue May 2

Suspect used victim’s information without permission on Lynnshire Court.

May 4

Suspect assaulted victim on West Patrick Henry Road.

Suspect was in possession of controlled substance on Mechanicsville Turnpike/ Interstate 295.

May 3

Suspect passed stopped school bus on Cedar Lane. Suspect stole items from listed location on Lynmar Lane. Suspect was in possession of listed items on Indianfield Drive. Suspect was in possession of controlled substance on Cold Harbor Road. Suspect fled scene of accident on Bell Creek Road/AMF Drive. Suspect was in possession of controlled substance on Mechanicsville Turnpike/ Henrico County Line.

Suspect obstructed justice on Ashcake Road.

Suspect stole items from listed location on Pinecote Lowmoor Lane. Suspect stole items from listed location on Mechanicsville Turnpike.

May 5

Suspect was in possession of controlled substance on Mechanicsville Turnpike/ Creighton Parkway.

May 6

Suspect stole items from

listed location on Bell Creek Road.

Suspect obtained items fraudulently on Wynbrook Lane.

Suspect passed counterfeit bills on Charter Gate Drive.

Suspect was in possession of controlled substance on Mechanicsville Turnpike/ Brandy Run Drive.

Suspect sent victim inappropriate picture on MLC Lane.

Suspect threatened victim on Stand Circle.

Suspect obtained items fraudulently on Whippoorwill Road.

Suspect used victim’s information without permission on Wynchwood Drive. see SHERIFF’S, pg. 5

The Mechanicsville Local

May 18, 2016

Local CVS targeted for Memorial Day Program robbery in the pharmacy to feature Col. Coleman By Melody Kinser Managing Editor

HANOVER – Around 2:20 a.m. Thursday, May 12, the Hanover County Sheriff ’s Office responded to the CVS Pharmacy located at 7048 Mechanicsville Tpk. in Mechanicsville for the report of a robbery. HENRICO COUNTY According South Laburnum Walgreens to Sgt. James R. Cooper, three male suspects entered the store and attempted to gain entry into the pharmacy. Once the pharmacy door alarm activated the suspects exited the store. Before exiting the store, one of the suspects brandished a firearm. The suspects were all wearing dark clothing and hoodies. They were

last seen running on foot towards Lee Davis Road. Just prior to the incident in Hanover County, at about 1:55 a.m., it is believed the same suspects robbed the Walgreens on South Laburnum Avenue in Henrico County. Anyone with information about this incident HANOVER COUNTY is asked to Mechanicsville Turnpike CVS contact the Hanover County Sheriff ’s Office at 804-365-6140 or the Metro Richmond Crime Stoppers at 804-7801000. Citizens also can text Crime Stoppers at 274637 (CRIMES), using the keyword “iTip” followed by their tip. Both Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.

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The Mechanicsville Local

HANOVER — Hanover’s six solid waste convenience centers and the U.S. 301 Transfer Station will be closed on Monday, May 30, in observance of Memorial Day. Hanover County government offices and branches of the Pamunkey Regional Library also will be closed on Monday, May 30. Information submitted by Tom Harris, Hanover County public information officer.

VENTURE Continued from pg. 2

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John Duval, vice president for clinical services and CEO of VCU Hospitals added, “This

ANOVER — The public is invited to attend the Hanover Memorial Day Program, which will get underway at 10 a.m. Monday, May 30, at the Hanover Veterans Memorial located at Hanover Wayside Park. Veterans who gave their life defending our country and those who are currently serving to ensure our freedom will be honored. Hanover resident Col.

Bryan Coleman, director, Joint Operations Command for the Virginia Army National Guard will be the honored guest speaker at the event. Other honored guests include: Daniel Johnson as Master of Ceremonies, the Hanover Concert Band, Rabbi Dovid S. Asher, MHC will offer the Invocation and Benediction, Honorable Charles McGee will sing the National Anthem and Glenn Hawkins will recite the

Pledge of Allegiance. Hanover Wayside Park is located on U.S. 301 about a mile north of Hanover High School. For more information about this ceremony or about the Hanover Veteran’s Memorial, call Hanover County Parks and Recreation at 804-365-7150 or visit www.hanovercounty.gov. Information submitted by Nicodemas M. Reikalas, recreation coordinator, Hanover County Parks & Recreation.

Stacey Adams honored as Supervisor of the Year HANOVER — Stacey Adams of Hanover County Emergency Communications has been honored by the Virginia Association of Public Safety Communications Officials (APCO) as 2015 Supervisor of the Year. Adams, a senior supervisor, was chosen because of her dedication in assisting personnel with improving their emergency dispatch scores by using creative lesson plans and scenarios for them to use in practice sessions. She received written commendations from Curtis J. Shaffer, director, for her part in the successful new Computer Aided Dispatch implementation project. Adams serves as a general instructor, CPR instructor, Virginia Criminal Information Network (VCIN) instructor, communications training officer and is the department’s only domestic violence instructor. partnership will make physical rehabilitative care in Virginia among the nation’s best.” Sheltering Arms has two hospitals and 11 outpatient centers, as well as communitybased programs that include

Adams was hired as a communications officer in August 2004 and was promoted to senior supervisor in operations in November 2007. She was assigned as the senior supervisor of quality assurance on Nov. 1, 2013. According to Deputy Director Charlie Udriet, “Stacey has always been one of the first members of the Hanover team to volunteer during times of crisis, severe weather, and generally anytime duty calls. She works long hours and extended shifts when operational requirements require additional staffing. She willingly takes on special assignments and projects. Stacy is truly a team player, working well with other agencies and represents our department in a professional manner at all times. She is always willing to fall back to her roots as a dispatcher and step in anytime the floor workload on the dispatch floor

recreational therapy and fitness. VCU Health System treats patients at several area locations, including its facilities at the VCU Medical Center in downtown Richmond, at Stony

see ADAMS, pg. 23

Point and at the VCU Sports Medicine Clinic adjacent to the Siegel Center. Developments and any other relevant updates will be provided as they become available.

Davis files suit against Style Weekly MECHANICSVILLE — Sean Davis, Henry District representative on the Hanover County Board of Supervisors, has filed a defamation lawsuit against Style Weekly, reporter Peter Galuszka and Landmark Media Enterprises. In the complaint, Davis requests “compensatory and punitive damages in an amount not less than $1,000,000.00, plus

SHERIFF’S

Suspect passed counterfeit bills on Bell Creek Road.

Suspect damaged victim’s property on Goddins Hill Road.

Continued from pg. 3

Suspect stole items from listed location on Black Creek Drive.

Suspect was in possession of controlled substance on Verdon Road. Suspect was in possession of controlled substance on Elm Drive/Oak Street. Suspect assaulted victim on Brandy Hill Trail.

Suspect stole items from listed location on Rocky Ford Road.

Suspect assaulted victim on Shady Grove Road.

Suspect was in possession of controlled substance on Sandy Lane.

Suspect stole items from listed location on Evergreen Lane.

Suspect damaged victim’s property on Mechanicsville Turnpike.

Suspect assaulted victim on Cut Lane.

Suspect stole items from listed location on Bell Creek Road.

May 7

DAVIS

May 9

prejudgment interest from December 8, 2015.” In the complaint, Davis takes exception with a Dec. 8, 2015, article by Galuszka entitled “Are politics threatening an open educational environment in Hanover?”

The complaint filed in Hanover District Court said the article “states, directly or indirectly implies, infers and insinuates that Mr. Davis abused his position as a Hanover County supervisor to have teachers suspended and fired and to have books banned from Hanover County public schools.” Davis, who serves as director of Operations for the Virginia Automobile

Suspect was driving after being declared a habitual offender on Bell Creek Road.

Suspect provided false information to law enforcement on Garden Park Lane.

Suspect stole items on Daffodil Road.

Suspect used victim’s information without permission on Orchard Meadow Road.

Suspect assaulted victim on Archie Cannon Drive.

Suspect stole items on Jennings Road.

Suspect violated a protective order on Castle Tower Road.

Suspect assaulted victim on Chamberlayne Road.

Suspect stole items on Holly Bluffs Drive.

Suspect stole items on Eagle Drive.

Suspect assaulted victim on Archie Cannon Drive.

Suspect used victim’s information without permission on Johnsonville Way.

Suspect resisted arrest on Sporting Lane.

Suspect assaulted victim on Memory Lane.

Suspect stole items on Bell Creek Road.

Suspect passed counterfeit bill on Bell Creek Road.

Suspect used victim’s vehicle without permission on Saddle Court.

Suspect was in possession of controlled substance on Mechanicsville Turnpike/ Pebblepath Parkway.

Suspect was in possession of stolen goods on Mechanicsville Turnpike/ Pole Green Road.

Suspect provided false information to law enforcement on Mechanicsville Turnpike.

Suspect stole items on Bell Creek Road.

Suspect threatened victim on Rie-Bob Lane.

Suspect was in possession of controlled substance on Mechanicsville Turnpike.

Suspect damaged victim’s property on Hanover Crossings Drive. Suspect was in possession of controlled substance on Mechanicsville Turnpike/ Walnut Grove Road.

Suspect stole items on Bell Creek Road.

May 10 Suspect fled scene of accident on Hopeful Church Road/Mountain Road.

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The Mechanicsville Local

May 18, 2016

OPINION | The Local Views From the news editor

So long, farewell, auf Wiedersehen, adieu After a little more than a year serving as your news editor, I am sad to announce that I will be departing the company in the near future and will be moving on to my next adventure. When I first accepted the position reporting on news in the Mechanicsville and Ashland areas, I must admit that, since I live in the City of Richmond, I had never been to either location. I quickly learned that, in both communities, everyone seems to know everyone, and I was a bit nervous that my outsider status would present a challenge when it came to connecting with the people, places and businesses that residents were already so familiar. I was pleasantly surprised when people from both localities welcomed me with open arms and were very receptive when I reached out for a story or comment. From the start, everyone I contacted was very gracious and in my first week here I even received a congratulations postcard from a local church – it was an encouraging gesture I never would have expected. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time working for both The Mechanicsville Local and The Hanover Local and have even more enjoyed the kindness and help that the citizens have offered to me day in and day out. I am moving to the big city of Pittsburgh, and, while I am excited to see what the future holds, I will certainly miss the “small town” feel that both Mechanicsville and Ashland provide. Before I began working for The Mechanicsville Local and The Hanover Local, I had worked from home for three years. I wrote content for an international website, and that position didn’t require me to contact anyone from any type of community, local or otherwise. Because of this, having to reach out to residents and local businesses and organizations seemed more daunting to me than I expected, even though I did conduct interviews while I was in college studying journalism. Thank you for making the transition into my first “office job” a more than satisfying experience. Meredith Rigsby

Editorial & Business Office: 8460 Times-Dispatch Blvd. Mechanicsville, VA23116 Mailing Address: 8460 Times-Dispatch Blvd. Mechanicsville, VA23116 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 Meredith Rigsby News Editor Tom Haynie Sales Representative Sarah 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 © 2016 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

May 18, 2016

A road trip with my mother By Jim Ridolphi Contributing Columnist As I stood and watched my mother standing in front of my father’s coffin on Christmas Day 1959, I couldn’t help but wonder, “What’s going to happen to us now?” Supported on each side by my father’s brothers, she looked small and devastated. In fact, it was the worst of situations for a 9-year—old boy who idolized his dad. My sister, mother and I depended on him for everything, and it all changed within a matter of hours. As a 9-year-old, I didn’t realize, or couldn’t recognize the strength that lay in that small frame, or the pure

grit and determination that drove her from that sad moment forward. For months, we huddled together and cried, and it surely seemed that nothing would ever return to normal. We missed him more each day. After months of misery, my mother awoke one day and announced she was going to work ... and she did. Starting as a secretary for the Defense Department, she worked her way up and eventually landed a job as a buyer. And, we did something else to end our period of isolation and confusion. We hit the road. A few years after she began work, she traded in our old 1955 Chevrolet on a new 1962 Bel Air and promptly packed up the car and headed to

Southern Florida to visit relatives and tour the area. She drove us all the way down and taxied us to all the attractions, including a newly formed theme park called Sea World. We visited Thomas Edison’s summer home in Fort Myers and glared with amazement through glass bottom boats at Silver Springs. We followed up that trip with a Christmas escape to Montgomery, Alabama, my hometown and a familiar respite for my sister and me. We spent the holidays with family, and remembered my father with his many relatives who lived there. Now, it may seem completely normal for a young mother to travel long see MOTHER, pg. 8

LETTERS | Reader Views

In gratitude for lacrosse and ‘getting no respect’ As part of my job description working for Del. Buddy Fowler, I was required to scan local newspapers, in his district, for citizen accomplishments worthy of recognition. I could always pick up and put down rapidly The Caroline Progress and The Herald Progress because — compared to The Mechanicsville Local — there has never even been a contest! Thank you, Melody [Kinser] and crew. I would, however, also like to thank Andy Proctor for finding a way to bring recognition to the lacrosse programs in Hanover County. They continue to be “underserved” in the sports section. I especially would like to add my thanks and gratitude to all the names on his list. On the eve of my third and final child graduating from Atlee High School, I am reminded to give thanks for many things, but here for the opportunity of two of my kids playing lacrosse. One was on the inaugural Atlee team and came to lacrosse as a junior. The other got her start with the fine program of Blackhawk Lacrosse and will finish her last regular season with a team final tally of 10 and 3 and a ranking of #5 in the region. As Andy notes, the excitement, opportunity and joy the

sport of lacrosse has brought to many in Hanover County also has only continued to grow. I (we) continue, however, to be disappointed that The Local barely covers it (exception this week). Every week sees whole and half pages covering baseball, softball, and, frequently, including Randolph-Macon College. Atlee High School also has a long history of success in boys and especially girls soccer in the region and no one hears about it. I don’t usually join the camps of “fairness” and “spread the wealth” but I do wish, although it’s too late for my daughters’ teams, to hear that lacrosse and other successful sports (field hockey?) in Hanover County 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, 8460 Times Dispatch Blvd. Mechanicsville, VA 23116 Fax: 730-0476 E-mail: mkinser@mechlocal.com

Continued from pg. 1

be able to have chickens as we want to become more self sufficient,” Boehmer said. The youth currently keeps six chickens in his residence. “Backyard chickens are, by far, the best pets. Their eggs are twice as healthy as store bought.” He also addressed concerns about chickens becoming loose and roaming subdivisions. “Ninety-nine percent of the time my chickens are in the coop. The other one percent they are snuggling with me.” The ordinance change would allow citizens to keep up to six chickens in the back yard of their property located in R-1, R-S, R-2 and R-3. About a dozen speakers expressed their support during a public hearing and repeatedly touted the benefits of backyard chickens and their benefits to sustainability. Many said the chickens had become part of their family and require less care than a dog or cat. The revised ordinance would allow up to six chickens be kept in an enclosed area with the coop requiring a 15-foot setback from the property line. Homeowners Association covenants that prohibit chickens would still be enforceable and would not be affected by the new ordinance. But, vice chair and Chickahominy District representative Angela Kelly-Wiecek said she still had reservations regarding the new policy. She described a scenario where neighbors could be divided over the issue, and a neighborhood’s ability to enforce covenants varies from subdivision to subdivision. One of two speakers who spoke in opposition to the ordinance change said the new ordinance could cause divisions in neighborhoods. “As this ordinance stands right now, you are changing what I moved to the Milestone subdivision for. I knew what

the rules were. These things can spiral and it becomes something that divides neighbors, especially in a neighborhood where there is only 75 feet between window to window,” Milestone resident Tim Brush said. He asked the board to include the portion of the proposed change that required a

Jim Ridolphi for The Local

Ryan Boehmer told the Hanover County Board of Supervisors he’s learned a lot about chickens since he began raising them and his chickens are just like pets.

.33-acre minimum lot size. Henry District supervisor Sean Davis joined Kelly-Wiecek in opposing the motion to approve the ordinance change without the minimum lot requirement. The final vote was 5-2. The board also approved a similar ordinance change that allows beekeeping in the county. Residents can now keep two colonies in their backyard, providing proper screening is provided. The board also received nominations for seats on the school board in the Chickahominy and Ashland districts. Ashland resident Kathy Abbott nominated VCU Marketing professor Dr. Brian Brown, a Milestone resident who has two children in Hanover County Public Schools. Prior to his academic career, Brown spent 15 years in corporate America, working in brand management disciplines, including a stint as brand manager for Coca Cola Classic. “Dr. Brown is deeply com-

mitted to community service,” Abbott said, listing a number of boards and committees on which Brown had served. “As an educator himself, he would be an excellent addition to the Hanover County School Board,” she concluded. Also nominated was Deborah S. Jones whose name was offered by Robert Barnett. “Ms. Jones’ background spans 11 years in administrative experience in elementary and secondary education,” Barnett said. “Her background also reflects over 20 years of teaching experience in English, Spanish, writing and reading with an emphasis on developing curriculum.” Barnett said Jones held previous teaching positions in Henrico and King and Queen counties and is currently a doctoral candidate in education leadership at Virginia Tech. In the Chickahominy District nominating process, Paul Bischoff tapped current board chairman Bob Hundley for another term on the board. Hundley was first appointed in 2004, and is currently president-elect of the Virginia Association of Counties. “I can’t think of anyone which whom I would have greater trust than Bob because of the honesty and integrity he’s demonstrated,” Bischoff said. Hundley is a Virginia Tech graduate who works for Resource International as a civil engineer. Hundley and his wife Nancy have three children, and the chairman is a product of Hanover County Public Schools, a graduate of LeeDavis High School. “I recognize the privilege to serve on the school board demands immense responsibility, and I vow to continue serving with that in mind, maintaining the excellence represented in Hanover County Public Schools requires nothing less,” Hundley said. Candidates will be considered and final decisions are due at the May 25 supervisors’ meeting.

Jim Ridolphi for The Hanover Local

Hanover County’s School Resource Officers and DARE Officers were recognized by the Hanover County School Board at the Tuesday, May 10, meeting. Shown are, from left, first row, Deputies Lowell Lantz, Mark Humphreys, Scott Spradlin and Bill Shaw, and, back row, Deputies Randy Jones, Jeff Cooper, Rick Chapman and Scott Bohannon. Cooper, Chapman, Bohannon are DARE officers, the other deputies are SROs.

REVISIONS Continued from pg. 1

activity at the General Assembly that could have affected the policies. That action included a bill that would have allowed parents of students to opt out of controversial assignments and required school systems to provide alternative assign-

ments. Gov. Terry McAuliffe vetoed that bill last month, clearing the way for the committee to issue its recommendations. “We did reconvene the committee in early February to look at and explore some recommendations for revisions to the three policies involving sensitive and controversial top-

ics,” Arco said. Arco said the three policies were considered as a group because they are interactive and “not mutually exclusive. They work in conjunction with each other.” The changes suggested were minor. Regarding the policy regarding teaching consee REVISIONS, pg. 25

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BIRDS

The Mechanicsville Local

May 18, 2016

MOTHER Continued from pg. 6

distances with children these days, but in the 1960s it was unusual. That began a long line of road trips with my mother. Trips to the New York World’s Fair, Long Island, Rock City and a list of other destinations too numerous to mention followed. Somewhere along the line I got to know a strong, independent woman who asked for nothing more than a fair shot at life. She made her own breaks, carved her own path,

and achieved her own goals. My mother finally retired from her job in 1981. She ended her career with a final road trip in a brand new Oldsmobile purchased shortly before her retirement. My sister had moved to New Orleans and was having her second baby. I never suspected that 1,500 miles could ever separate my mother from one of her grandchildren’s births, and I was right. She made the trip alone, stayed a month and helped with my niece Lauren, and then drove the return trip nonstop.

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I carried my mother out of the front door of her house for her final trip, an ambulance ride to the hospital. As I placed her on the stretcher and backed away so the attendants could care for her, she reached for my arm and motioned me back. “Another road trip,” she smiled. I’d like to think that’s what it was. One thing is for sure: What I know, what I accomplish or anything I achieve is probably due to some bit of information I gained from my mother. Much of it came on long trips in an old Chevrolet,

and some of the wisdom was accompanied with a swift kick in the pants. On this Mother’s Day, those road trips are special memories and remind me how lucky I was to be raised by such a dynamic, loving, compassionate individual. Her sacrifices were great but not unappreciated, and, somehow, I think she’d be pleased with the results witnessed in the lives of the children and grandchildren she loved unconditionally. Even though it’s a bit late, Happy Mother’s Day, and peace be the journey.

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can garner what? a 1/4 of a page and a small photo a few times during the season? The score outcomes and individual scores, please? Last week, finally, Andy’s article and a whole page for a lacrosse boys match! Absent: soccer, tennis, any girls’ lacrosse, but softball and baseball got their weekly (+) page. Atlee girls this week beat their nemesis Freeman in another exciting game. Rumor had it that Dave Lawrence showed for the longtime rival game of Atlee girls and Midlothian. Atlee girls defeated an undefeated Midlothian. Did we see it? No, it was superceded by Nascar — which, anyone who is interested could surely find in the Richmond TimesDispatch. (Insert sad face emojii here). If this is the only way to get coverage for the other sports teams, I will let the parents know. If the sports writers, who cannot understandably be cloned, would like help from parents for stats, information and pictures, just ask. Otherwise, thank you, coaches: Mac, Ollie, Tschantre, Dobson, Buyas, Karn (now Hanover), Anna and Winfrey(retired) for all you have done for my daughters and the great Atlee teams!! Danette Fulkz Mechanicsville

Governors on bathroom stand I would like to congratulate two great conservative Republican governors to the south of us who are more interested in protecting the welfare and safety of their citizens than in pushing a radical, leftist agenda as our governor increasingly is doing. Both Gov. Pat McCrory of North Carolina and Gov.

The Mechanicsville Local

May 18, 2016

Phil Bryant of Mississippi have signed a bill commonly called the Bathroom Bill that protects people, especially children, against confused and misguided individuals who are deceived by the devil to think that God made a mistake when He said that He made males and females not a possibility of a male or female depending on how you felt when you got up in the morning. These poor, confused people need Jesus Christ to save them and set them on the road to normalcy. According to the liberal thinking, if a male in this group wakes up one morning and feels like he is a woman he has the right to go into a women’s restroom or locker room where females are undressing or taking a shower. These two governors say “no way” is this going to happen in their state. I can’t think of anything more sick or disgusting than to know that one of my daughters or granddaughters or even grandsons could be exposed to such a perversion. And yet just recently a judge in Virginia ruled that a girl who thinks she’s a male could go into the boys’ bathroom and locker rooms and gawk at the boys taking a shower. OurradicalliberalDemocrat governor supports every antifamily, anti-Christian bill that comes along. He is a strong supporter of Hillary Clinton and once she receives the Democrat nomination for President will probably be spending Virginia taxpayers’ money and time campaigning for her. If she is elected President, we can expect the same radical, liberal policies at Terry McAuliffe, Barack Obama and the rest of the Democrat liberal ilk. McAuliffe recently expressed his teary-eyed concern that capital punishment against a death row murderer may be too cruel and heartless a punishment and yet no concern by the liberal Democrats see LETTERS, pg. 21

| Education, Business & Celebrations

County pays tribute to eďŹ&#x20AC;orts of volunteers

ECHANICSVILLE â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Every year, Hanover County recognizes a number of its most outstanding volunteers at its

advance a communication plan and support the strategic objective of home visiting in Hanover County. Smith has given selflessly to the community for many years as a member of Hanover Rotary

Hanover High School. Judges selected the following volunteers for a 2016 â&#x20AC;&#x153;Spirit of Volunteerismâ&#x20AC;? award: Brianna Grooms won

providing funding for services to families and sponsoring children during the holiday season. The categoryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sponsor, Covenant Woods represented by Elizabeth Pace, made a $250 contribution to

HALL FAMILY and LORETTA EL NAHEL

GLEN BIRCH and BRIANNA GROOMS

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Spirit of Volunteerismâ&#x20AC;? celebration. The 2016 celebration was held Tuesday, May 3, at

the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Spirit of Youthâ&#x20AC;? award. Brianna volunteers her time and energy to a wide variety

of programs, including Bright Beginnings, Hanover Parks and Recreation cheerleading, and Patrick Henry YMCA. Through the YMCA, Brianna has developed as a leader and has honed her skills through service since age 12 in Summer Camp and After School care programs, and as president of the Patrick Henry Leaders Club for the last two years. The categoryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sponsor, Virginia Credit Union repre-

sented by Glen Birch, made a $250 contribution to the Patrick Henry YMCA. Mike Smith, chair of the Hanover Early Childhood Council, received the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Spirit of Dedicationâ&#x20AC;? award â&#x20AC;&#x201C; given to a volunteer aged 60 or older. Even though Smithâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s background is as a CPA and not in the field of early childhood education, he willingly took a leadership role and used his organizational abilities to

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International, especially the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Shrimp and Sudsâ&#x20AC;? event that raises money for Hanover organizations serving struggling families. He also is involved in HCEF (Hanover Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Emergency Fund),

the Hanover Early Childhood Council. The Hall family received the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Spirit of Familyâ&#x20AC;? award. Tim and Brandy see VOLUNTEERS, pg. 19

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OBITUARIES | Death Notices & Funerals ALICE ALEXANDER Alice Terry Alexander, 101, formerly of Ashland, passed away Tuesday, May 10, 2016, at Heritage Green Assisted Living in Mechanicsville. She was preceded in death by her devoted husband Earl Douglas Alexander Sr.; sons, Earl Douglas Alexander Jr. and Baby Boy Alexander. She is survived by her daughter, Terry Alexander; grandchildren, Susan Pugh and Lisa DeHart (Wayne); and greatgrandchildren, Stephanie Robinson (Ronald), Jennifer DeHart and Alexander

DeHart. Mrs. Alexander was a wellknown artist who designALEXANDER ed the Ashland Town Seal in 1983, and was one of the principal artists of the painting “Old Ashland,” now hanging in the chambers of the Ashland Town Council. She gave art lessons to Ashland youngsters for several years, and was

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always proud of her two students who went on to become successful commercial artists. She loved to tell stories of her “very unladylike” tomboy experiences in her youth, and was often spotted mowing her lawn when she was well into her 90s. A Celebration of Life, followed by a reception featuring many of her paintings, was held at 1 p.m. Saturday, May 14, 2016, at Nelsen Funeral Home at 412 South Washington Highway in Ashland.

GERALD CHILDRESS Gerald Wayne Childress, 70, of Mechanicsville, passed away on Thursday, May 12, 2016. He was preceded in death by his parents, Otis Steele Childress Sr. and Katherine Isbell Childress. Left to cherish his memory are his brother, Otis Steele Childress Jr. (Nancy Stansell); nephews, Richard Otis Childress and Steven Martin Childress; and several aunts, uncles and cousins. Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, May 17, 2016, at Nelsen Funeral Home at 4650 South Laburnum Avenue in Richmond. Interment followed in Westhampton Memorial Park. Online condolences may be left at www. nelsencares.com.

FRANCIS GILMAN Francis Eugene Gilman, of Hanover, went to be with the Lord on May 5, 2016. He was preceded in death by his father and mother, Walter E. and Mary T. Gilman. He is survived by his daughter, Teresa L. Schmitt, and granddaughter, Lauren A. Schmitt. He also is survived by his dearly loved companion of many years, Shirley Callahan,

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The Mechanicsville Local

May 18, 2016

and his special friends, Jason Callahan, Michelle Callahan, Chris Callahan, Henry Callahan Jr., Kevin and Denise Engel and Casey and Savannah Engel. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy and was an avid lover of dogs and cats. A Celebration of Life was held at 12 p.m. Wednesday, May 11, 2016, at Bliley’s-Staples Mill Chapel, 8510 Staples Mill Road. Interment followed at Signal Hill Memorial Park. GILMAN In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the American Heart Association.

was an avid fisherman and enjoyed playing basketball. He is survived by his parents, Jenifer Apple Hinton and Daniel C. Hinton Jr. of Mechanicsville; his brothers, Patrick R. Hinton, age 18, and Thomas A. Hinton, age 15; his paternal grandparents, Daniel and Patricia Hinton, also of Mechanicsville; his maternal grandparents, Anne McGonigal of Richmond, Daniel and Sandra Apple of Bonita Springs, Florida; his Aunt Amy and Uncle Chip Pabst; cousins, Buzz and Danielle Pabst and a number of other loving relatives and friends. Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, May 10, 2016, at the Mechanicsville United Methodist Church at 7356 Atlee Road. A private family interment followed. Bliley’s Funeral Home at 8510 Staples Mill Road was in charge of arrangements.

ELLIOT HINTON Elliot Daniel Hinton went to be with the Lord on Saturday, April 23, 2016. He was only 22 and left us far too soon. Elliot was born on April 28, 1993, in Richmond, and was a lifelong resident of Mechanicsville. He was a fun-loving, gentle soul and enjoyed spending time with his friends and family. Elliot was a graduate HINTON of LeeDavis High School, where he was a standout for the track team. After graduation, he attended Radford University. Most recently, he was studying to become an electrician. Elliot

DR. JOHN KEIPER Dr. John Robert Keiper, M.D., May 15, 1950, to May 12, 2016, of Manakin-Sabot, departed this life peacefully on May 12, 2016. Adored son, brother, husband, father, grandfather and uncle, he was devoted to his wife, Martha Fitzgerald Keiper, for 40 years. He was preceded in death by his father, Edward Detweiler Keiper. He is survived by his mother, Elizabeth Haines Keiper; brother, Edward (Tillie); wife, Martha Fitzgerald Keiper; children, Brian (Jennifer) Keiper and Phillip (Catherine) Keiper; his precious grandchildren, Rose, Harper and Henry Keiper; and a loving extended family. Dr. Keiper was a graduate of Southern Methodist University and the University of Texas Medical School, and completed his residency at

St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Bridgeport, Connecticut. He was board certified in Internal Medicine and joined the Mechanicsville Medical Center Family Physicians in 1986. Dr. Keiper was a wellrespected member of the local medical community. He was an unwavering Philadelphia sports fan, a supporter of the student athletes at the University of Virginia and an avid reader. A Celtic memorial service was held at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, May 16, 2016, at Saint Stephen’s Episcopal Church. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Anna Julia Cooper Episcopal School.

DOROTHY MAUTTE Dorothy “Dori” Mautte, of Mechanicsville, passed away peacefully in her home on Tuesday, May 3, 2016, surrounded by her loved ones. Dori was born in New Haven, Connecticut, on April 28 MAUTTE 1934, to her parents, Alexander and Josephine Passick (Gemski). She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 59 years, Del Mautte, and a son, Greg Mautte. Dori is survived by her son, Marc Mautte, and his wife, Barbara, of Ashland. She also leaves a host of cousins from her mom’s family; as well as her sister-in-law and husband, Charles and Joan Spiegel. Dori had three grandchildren that she adored, Melissa Mohr and her husband, Brian, of Mechanicsville, Kevin Mautte and his wife, see OBITUARIES, pg. 11

OBITUARIES Continued from pg. 10

Johanna of Midlothian, Abby Champagne and her husband, Dennis of Honolulu, Hawaii. What Dori loved more than anything was to spend time with her six great-grandsons, Dylan, Emory, Cameron, Carter, Grayson and Lane, who made her laugh and smile which was a joy to see. Dori grew up in East Haven, Connecticut, where she met Del, her high school sweetheart, while attending East Haven High School. Upon graduating from Bridgeport University, she and Del married in 1955. Del served in the United States Marine Corps and, upon discharge, they moved to Branford, Connecticut, where they were residents for many years until moving to Virginia to be closer to family in 2011. When Del retired from teaching in the early 1990s, they loved spending the winter months in Jupiter, Florida. Many of those moments and memories in Florida were spent with their best friend, Kathi Sterling, whom they had known since 1953, when Del and Bob Sterling (deceased 1984) met and became friends (brothers) while attending New York University. Dori, Del and Kathi traveled together extensively to destinations such as Europe, Italy, Alaska and other exotic locations. Kathi’s children were like Dori’s own and they all loved her immensely. They are Kevin Sterling, Susan Van Vugt, Elizabeth Sterling and Amy Pentecost. Dori loved living close to the water while in Branford and looked forward every year to the family Outer Banks vacation when she moved to Virginia. She also loved her dog Clancy, trips to the lake house, being on the “party barge,” fishing, thunderstorms, Bruster’s ice cream, good restaurants, Hampden-Sydney - Macon

football games, playing canasta with her wonderful friends, and she never met a slot machine she didn’t like. A memorial service for Dori with family and friends will be held at from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, May 20, 2016, at Clancy’s Funeral Home in Branford, Connecticut. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Connecticut Children’s Medical Center by going to foundation@connecticut childrens.org.

BERTHA MORGAN Bertha V. Morgan, 88, passed away May 4, 2016 in Henrico. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ross L. Morgan; son, Ronald B. Morgan; and MORGAN son-inlaw, Robert T. Dawkins. She is survived by her daughter, Brenda M. Dawkins; son, Michael (Kathleen) Morgan; seven grandchildren, Brian, Michael Jr., Tien, Robin, Anthony, Tracy and Krystal; 17 great-grandchildren and many loyal family and friends. Bertha was born in Hanover and attended St. Paul’s College, where she met the man of her life. After marrying Ross, she threw her energies into raising their children. When Ross retired, they traveled to various destinations such as Africa, Asia, Alaska, Australia, Europe and South America, and cruised on 15 ships. In addition to Bertha’s travels, she was an avid craft maker, making hats and scarves for the homeless and exchanging homemade jewelry with her “Happy Hands” group. She will always be remembered as a loving mother and grandmother whose greatest passion

was helping others. Bertha touched the lives of many people with her smile and generosity. Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 14, 2016, at the Parham Chapel, Woody Funeral Home, at 1771 North Parham Road in Richmond. Interment followed at Westhampton Memorial & Cremation Park. Online condolences may be received at woodyfuneralhomeparham.com.

ANTHONY NIEMANN Anthony “Tony” Niemann, 59, of Hanover, passed away Wednesday, May 11, 2016. Tony served in the U.S. Air Force and was a volunteer firefighter in his early life. He was employed by The Thomas Jefferson Hotel and retired from Double Tree Hotel. Tony is survived by his sister, Cyra “CC” Niemann; brothers, William and Alan Niemann; sister-in-law, Joann Walls; nieces, Lona and Chloe Hill; girlfriend, Suzanne Clark, and her daughter, Courtney. The family received friends from 4 to 6 p.m. Sunday, May 15, 2016, at the Mechanicsville Chapel of the Bennett Funeral Home at 8014 LeeDavis Road. In lieu of flowers, contributions NIEMANN may be made to Suzanne Clark for the Anthony Niemann Memorial Fund at any Union Bank branch.

RONALD SMITH SR. Ronald J. Smith Sr., 73, of Mechanicsville, went into the arms of our Lord Jesus Christ on May 8, 2016. He was a born-again Christian, family see OBITUARIES, pg. 12

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OBITUARIES Continued from pg. 11

man, Retired Henrico Police Officer, and a life member of the Lakeside Volunteer Rescue Squad. RJ was preceded in death by his parents, Robert E. Smith Sr. and Lillian SmithFox; SMITH sister, Margaret S. Killian; nephew, David Killian; and grandchild, Chelsea Gregory. Surviving are his forever wife, Shirley

Sue of 53 years; children, Rhonda Yushchak (Dave), Ronnie Jr. and Renee Gregory (Jeff); eight grandchildren, two great-grandchildren; brother, Robert E. Smith Jr. (Vicki); and a host of relatives and friends. A Celebration of Life was held at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 14, 2016, at the Cool Spring Baptist Church at 9283 Atlee Station Road in Mechanicsville. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Henrico Police Foundation, P.O. Box 3165, Glen Allen, VA 23055 and/or Lakeside Volunteer Rescue Squad, 2007 Timberlake Ave., Richmond, VA 23228, in loving memory of RJ Smith Sr., and all that he did for

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May 18, 2016

MILDRED SPIGGLE Mildred Mitchell Spiggle, 74, of Ashland, passed away on May 10, 2016. She was preceded in death by her husband, Les Spiggle. She is survived by a son, Randy Spiggle; daughter-in-law, Sara Horton; and grandsons, Matthew Spiggle and Ryan Horton; as well as an aunt, Margaret Starette; brothers, Eugene, Robert and Bob Mitchell; and a sister, Brenda Philbin. She retired from Hanover Parks and Recreation, where she had many friends. Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Monday, May 16, 2016, at Bennett Funeral Home in Mechanicsville. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Bethel United Methodist Brick Fund, 17380 Dawn Blvd., Hanover, VA 23069.

Continued from pg. 11

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Charles Mack Southworth, passed away on May 11, 2016. He was born September 2, 1928, in Bumpass, to Walter Mack and Fannie Huddleston Southworth. Charles was an active member of the Sharon Christian Church and graduated as president of his class from Louisa County High School. SOUTHWORTH He served in the 37th Field Artillery of the U.S. Army as a Sergeant First Class in Korea and was awarded The Bronze Star Medal. Charles then began his career with Home Beneficial

Maribeth Southworth (Paul Huff) of Brielle, New Jersey and Stanford Southworth (Jennie) of Mechanicsville; his sister, Doris Akers of Culpeper; grandchildren, Neal Forrest Goldman (Anne), Emily Goldman Garibaldi (Peter), Peter Southworth Huff, Catherine Hubbard Huff, Gabriella Marie Southworth, Mack Fremont Southworth and Jackson Colville Southworth; and two great-grandsons, Tanner Allan Goldman and Duke Bernard Goldman. He was predeceased by a great-granddaughter, Lucille Elizabeth Garibaldi. Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, May 20, 2016, at Bliley’s-Central at 3801 Augusta Avenue in, Richmond. A memorial service will take place at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 21, 2016, at Overbrook Presbyterian Church at 2605 Dumbarton Road. Interment will follow at

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Life Insurance Company in Charlottesville, where he worked for over 30 years. He married his beloved Anne Hubbard on November 26, 1953, in Mineral. Charles was involved in his community and his children’s activities, serving the Boy Scouts as the Leader of Troop #734 and as a Merit Badge Counselor. He joined Overbrook Presbyterian Church in 1966 and during his 50 years as a member, he served as a Sunday School teacher, youth group leader, XYZ officer, deacon, elder and trustee. Charles’ faith was simple and strong. Early each morning, he spent quiet time on his front porch in prayer for each member of his extended family and quite a few friends. Charles is survived by his wife, Anne Hubbard Southworth; children, Sherri Goldman (Allan) of Norfolk, Scott Southworth (Donna) of McLean,

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Dealers Association, was first elected in 2011 and re-elected in 2015. Davis’ complaint contends that ”LME published the statements in the Style Weekly article with actual malice – that is, with knowledge that the statements were false or with reckless disregard of whether the statements were false or not.” The complaint plaint “Mr. Davis had absolutely nothing to do with the suspension or firing of any teacher or banning of any book.” Davis claims results from the article’s publication and republication have been “devastating, both emotionally and professionally. In addition to severe anxiety, stress, panic, sleeplessness, knotted muscles, and the sense of betrayal and deep dissee DAVIS, pg. 13

Woody Hogg continues tradition of supporting kids with MDA By Jim Ridolphi for The Mechanicsville Local M E C HA N IC S V I L L E — The Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) depends on community support to provide assistance to families and patients who suffer from MD and other progressive muscle

families and kids with MD. “It’s a great week for the kids,” Hogg said. He’s been associated with MDA for 37 years and this is the second annual spring event he’s hosted at his Chamberlayne Road office. He also sponsors an annual golf tournament to benefit

“It’s become a passion for us,” he said. “The community really backs us up on this.” “This allows us to send kids to camp for a week in Waverly. That costs about a $1,000 per child,” Hogg said. “The kids really love it and look forward to it, and it gives the parents a

said. That’s why he turned his office parking lot into a fun-filled playground with entertainment for kids of all ages. While a DJ blasted out an array of popular songs, adults enjoyed a corn hole tournament while kids enjoyed face painting, a moon bounce and a Jim Ridolphi for The Local wide selection of eatable good- Elizabeth Jacobsen transforms Bella Stevens, 5, at the face see MDA, pg. 14

painting tent.

Jennifer Fox has joined Barnes & Diehl at our Hanover location. We handle all areas of family law matters. Jim Ridolphi for The Local

Located at 301 N. and Atlee Station Rd.

The recent MDA fundraiser presented by ERA Woody Hogg attracted kids of all ages. Ava, left, Alexa and Stella enjoy a sampling of the wide variety of goodies available at the second annual A Day in May for MDA.

MDA, and is a regular visitor to Waverly once camp begins in June. Hogg supports numerous community efforts and other charitable causes, but MD has a special place in his heart.

break. We go down there and sponsor a day.” Funds raised from these local events stay in Central Virginia. “The money goes for ramps, wheelchairs and some of the doctor’s visits,” Hogg

DAVIS

Stephen Biss, filed the complaint on April 1 and Landmark responded late last month. In its response, Landmark claims it does not own, publish or distribute Style Weekly and states the alternative newspa-

per is published by Style LLC. In the response, Landmark notes the lack of malice or knowledge of any falsehoods when publishing the story and cites Freedom of Speech and Press statutes that are protective.

Continued from pg. 12

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As Tomato Festival nears, it’s time to say ‘Thanks’

ECHANICSVILLE — Can you believe that the Hanover Tomato Festival is less than two months away? The tomato vines are growing and Hanover’s famous fruit will soon be ready to showcase at the festival. The Hanover Tomato Festival, presented by Black Creek Volunteer Fire Department, the Herald Progress, The Mechanicsville Local and Hanover County Parks and Recreation would like to thank the sponsors who have committed to support this year’s event. Your contributions help to make this community-wide event a success and would not be possible without your support!

Gold sponsor: E.J Wade Foundation. Silver sponsors: CF Sauer / Duke’s, Meadow Event Park/State Fair of Virginia, Richmond Magazine, Verizon FiOS, Bronze sponsors: Hanover Emergency Center – HCA, Hanover Optimist Club, Harmony Senior Services Crossings at Hanover, Hoober, Inc., Le Bleu Ultra Pure Water, Mechanicsville Toyota, and The Game Patrol. Supporters: Carytown Burger & Fries, Covenant Woods, Julie Whitaker Insurance Agency Inc.- State Farm, KnowDifferent.net, Macaroni Kid: Richmond, Martin’s Food Markets, Papa John’s Pizza, Sweet Frog, and three one one productions.

Friends: Delegate Chris Peace, Dominion Green Power, Edible Arrangements, Kids Exchange RVA, Tractor Supply Company, and Walgreens. Vendors, booth spaces are still available. The fee is $175 until June 1. For more information, visit www.hanovertomatofestival.com. The Hanover Tomato Festival will take place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, July 9, at Pole Green Park 8996 Pole Green Park Ln. in Mechanicsville. For event questions, contact the Hanover Tomato Festival at hanovertomatofestival@hanovercounty.gov or call Hanover County Parks & Recreation at 804-365-7150. Information submitted by

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None of it would be possible without the help of Hogg’s co-workers, and he credits Savannah Wynne with organizing and managing the event. “She really puts a lot of hours into this and gets this whole event together. She really did a great job,” Hogg said. ERA is a national sponsor for MDA, but local representatives said it’s the local connection that makes the organization work for affected families. “They do a great job here,” said MDA administrative assistant Annette Anderson. “Savannah has been working on this all year. She is so passionate about this, and everyone here has been amazing.”

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Pole Green Park in Mechanicsville is the place to be the second Saturday in July when the Hanover Tomato Festival fills the grounds. With upwards of 42,000 people attending, it’s the place to be. This year’s festival is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. July 9.

Jim Ridolphi for The Local

ERA Woody Hogg continued his support for the Muscular Dystrophy Association on Saturday when he hosted an event at his Chamberlayne Avenue location. A family-friendly day included an inflatable dog.

Voting for a van

KCES welcomes assistant principal Staff Report news@mechlocal.com M E C HA N IC S V I L L E – Carrie Cicuto, an associate principal at Glen Allen Elementary School in Henrico County, will join the administration at Kersey Creek Elementary School as assistant principal on July 1. The announcement is being made by Lisa Thompson, KCES principal. Cicuto replaces Terri York who is retiring. A retirement celebration for York will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. June 9 in

the KCES cafeteria. “We encourage families to stop by and share your farewell wishes with Mrs. York as she finishes her tenure at Kersey Creek,” Thompson said. In addition to saying goodbye to York and welcoming Cicuto, Kersey Creek also has the following events planned: A 5th Grade Car Wash from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, May 21, in Milestone. Garden Volunteer Party from 6 to 7 p.m. May 26. 5th Grade Fun Day on June 10. End of the Year school

parties on June 13. 5th Grade Celebration on June 14. End of the Year Assembly on June 15. The last day of school for the 2015-2016 year is June 16. In PTA updates, it’s time to order school supply kits for next year. Go to www.shopttkits.com and enter account 24728. This is only open for a limited time so be sure to place your order. You will be able to pick up your order at Open House. A portion of the sales will be donated to Kersey Creek.

Spirit Night at Papa John’s is scheduled for May 24-26. Use Promo Code: KERSEY when checking out online. Papa John’s will donate a portion of the sales to Kersey Creek. This is an online fundraiser only. The PTA wants to hear from you. Fill in the annual KCES PTA Survey. Be sure to include your children’s classroom(s). The classroom with the most responses will win a ½-hour of extra recess. All responses are anonymous. The survey may be found at http://tinyurl.com/jugh2ey.

VOTING BEGINS MAY 25

the

File photo

Dana Nelson has entered a contest that needs votes from the community for him to win. According to his wife Lee, “His handicap van is not in the best shape so he would love to win this contest with Mobility Supercenter and get a new handicap van.” Voting will be underway through May 31. Lee said that after the link below is clicked, enter a username and password. “You can vote once every 24 hours. Please send the link to everyone you know!” she added. The link is http://www.mobilityawarenessmonth.com/entrant/dananelson-mechanicsville-va/.

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customers make meals that are easy, healthy and affordable. Recently named “America’s Favorite Supermarket” in a 2016 Market Force study of more than 10,000 consumers nationwide, Wegmans is a 100year-old family-owned company widely recognized for fresh, high-quality products, great tasting prepared foods, consis-

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The Mechanicsville Local

May 18, 2016

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

DHCD OKs IRF grant for Ashland Theater By Meredith Rigsby News Editor ASHLAND – The Town of Ashland received a letter from the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) committing its $500,000 Industrial Revitalization Fund Grant for the renovation of the Ashland Theater using a nonprofit business structure. Mayor George Spagna announced the news during Ashland Town Council’s regular meeting on Tuesday, May 10. Town staff and the DHCD have gone through several rounds of communication fol-

Meredith Rigsby/The Local

The Ashland Theater, left, will receive grant monies from the Department of Housing and Community Development for renovation purposes. Above, Town Manager Charles Hartgrove, left; Town Attorney Andrea Erard; council member James “Jim” Foley; Vice Mayor Ned Henson; Mayor George Spagna; council member Steve Trivett and council member James Murray; were taking care of business last week during Ashland Town Council’s regular meeting.

lowing town council’s decision to transition from its originally proposed for-profit revitalization plan for the Ashland Theater to a nonprofit plan in response to public comment and concern.

Photo submitted by Angie Sanders Deffenbaugh

Ashland resident Angie Sanders Deffenbaugh won a raffle drawing Saturday, May 7, at the Susan G. Komen Walk for the Cure event and received a 2016 Ford Focus donated by the Kodys, owners of Richmond Lincoln Ford. A breast cancer survivor, she said her car broke down the the night before. She also said she “is very grateful to receive this generous gift” during her time of need.

The Mechanicsville Local

communication between town staff and the DHCD, the nonprofit revitalization plan for the Ashland Theater has been accepted. The DHCD did place one “quite reasonable” condition on the grant award, Spagna said. The Ashland Theater Community Foundation,

Yard Sale and Youth Fundraiser to be held May 21

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Due to the shift in plan proposals, the DHCD previously harbored concerns that the nonprofit plan “[varied] significantly from the original application” and “[did] not meet the funding threshold,” according to a Dec. 28, 2015, letter sent to the town by the DHCD. As a result of effective

May 18, 2016

which committed in its proposal to raise additional money to redevelop the theater, must raise $75,000 before the DHCD will release any grant money. Over the last few years, the town has already raised $500,000 to match the IRF grant award. “I think we’re back in the driver’s seat on this process

again,” Spagna said. Going forward, Ashland will begin negotiating a final grant fund contract with the DHCD, Charles Hartgrove, town manager, said. In addition, in “a parallel but separate track,” the town will begin negotiating a comsee THEATER, pg. 17

St. James the Less Episcopal to celebrate Sesquicentennial

Staff Report news@mechlocal.com

Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com

GLEN ALLEN — A Yard Sale will be held from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, May 21, at the Biltmore Baptist Church at 1300 New York Ave. in Glen Allen. Food and baked items will be sold. A Youth Fundraiser also will be held at the Glen Allen Supermarket on Mountain Road in Glen Allen, featuring barbecued chicken with sides. Proceeds will go to the Youth Mission Trip this summer.

ASHLAND — St. James the Less Episcopal Church in Ashland will be observing its Sesquicentennial Sunday, May 22, with a big celebration. The festivities will begin at the 10 a.m. service with Holy Eucharist, a brass quintet, and guest preacher, the Rev. Canon Pat Wingo, Canon to the Ordinary of the Episcopal Diocese of Virginia. A catered luncheon will

immediately follow the service. Also planned are children’s activities, an historical display, and a video montage produced by youth group members featuring interviews of parishioners of all ages. All current and former priests, deacons, parishioners and friends of St. James the Less are invited. The date the Council of the Diocese of Virginia sanctioned the formation of a new congregation was May see EPISCOPAL, pg. 17

Donating cookie proceeds

Since 1976

Photo submitted by Marsha Bonds and Lisa Whitecotton

Girl Scout Troop 5283 donated a portion of their cookie proceeds to Hillcrest Baptist Church’s backpack program for local children in need. The girls also meet and help fill the backpacks once per month. The Troop would like to thank Dr. Clarke Hawkins, Hillcrest pastor, shown on the left in the back, and treasurer Jerry Edwards, on the right in the back, for allowing the girls the opportunity to serve their community, and learn about the program hands-on. A special thanks to Eileen Ward (not shown) for coordinating the monthly event, and for delivering the pack to the schools. The Girl Scouts are, from left, Katherine Bonds, Kylee Bonds, Ashley Adams, Morgan Whitecotton and Lauren Whitecotton.

Continued from pg. 16

bination of renovation, lease and performance agreements with The Ashland Community Theater Foundation. “Staff, along with the attorney, will be working with our wonderful volunteers to move forward as quickly as possible on both of those avenues so we can get to the point of starting to take action during this year,”

Hartgrove said. Prior to finalization of contract negotiations and agreements, the public will have an opportunity to review the plans and provide comment, according to Hartgrove. “We are very excited and grateful that the grant is moving forward,” Clark Mercer, a member of The Ashland Community Theatre Foundation, said. “I think we have seen over

EPISCOPAL Continued from pg. 16

18, 1866. The name for the parish, St. James the Less, came as a result of the link with St. James Episcopal Church in Richmond. At that time, Ashland was a small village where residents of Richmond spent their summers. A Facebook event page has been created with information about the celebration, including opportunities to support the event through the purchase of commemorative merchandise, 8x10” prints and

the past year with the theater being run in ‘pop-up’ mode that there is tremendous support [for the venue],” he added. The theater will continue to be run in pop-up mode until at least September, during which time the foundation will continue to raise funds in order to provide additional equity for the project, Mercer said in a post on the Ashland Theater’s Facebook page.

packets of note cards that incorporate a sketch of the church building, as well as commemorative cups. The church also is selling Snow White Inn Barbeque to help underwrite the cost of this special event. Sales are pre-sale only at $12 a pound, available through the church’s website, Facebook page, and at the church, with pick-up between 9 a.m. and noon Saturday, May 21. Complete information regarding the celebration is available at http://www.stjamestheless. com/content/st-james-the-less-sesquicentennial. RSVPs and questions may be directed to Margaret Rush at 804-798-6336.

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May 18, 2016

Megan Nixon wins Individual Performance in Critical Incident

Pet of the Week Photo submitted by Andrew Q. Hodnett

The Hanover County Pound, located at 12471 Taylor Complex Lane in Ashland, has a wonderful pet available to a good home. Henry, 435810, is a (estimated) 2-year-old male domestic shorthaired feline. He has had his first set of vaccines and is FELV/FIV test negative. Henry has been at the shelter for over a month. He has turned out to be very loving. He is a lounger. He loves to lay and watch his surroundings. He also is very well litter trained. Henry would make a great house cat. For more information on this great pet, as well as the many more still in need of homes at the Hanover County Pound Facility, call 804-365-6485 during the day. The hours are 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday. The facility is closed on Sunday and county holidays. You also can visit the website to see other animals available for adoption at http:// hanovercounty.gov/Animals/Adopt-a-Pet/.

HANOVER — Megan Nixon, a communications officer with Hanover County Emergency Communications, has been honored by the Virginia Association of Public Safety Communications Officials (APCO) as the recipient of their Individual Performance in a Critical Incident Award. On June 5, 2015, of last year, Nixon took a 911 hangup call from Pinhook Drive in the western Rockville area. The call involved a domestic assault that was in progress and eventually ended as a homicide. The caller was screamDoswell. The fundraiser benefits ing for help and dropped the phone while struggling with see SHRIMP, pg. 20 her attacker. Nixon remained

Shrimp & Suds 34th Annual Feast to be held tomorrow Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com DOSWELL — Shrimp &

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The Mechanicsville Local

May 18, 2016

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Photo submitted by Tom Harris

Megan Nixon, a communications officer with Hanover County Emergency Communications, was recognized by the Virginia Association of Public Safety Communications Officials (APCO) as the recipient of their Individual Performance in a Critical Incident Award.

calm and kept her composure, providing as much informa-

tion as she could to assist the see NIXON, pg. 20

VOLUNTEERS Continued from pg. 9

Hall are active contributors to the community through Beaverdam Fire Department, Beaverdam Youth League, Zion Christian Church, and Beaverdam Elementary School. They are known for their skill, strong work ethic, and their dependability as volunteers and leaders. Tim’s mother Linda has been a

Volunteer Fire Company. Even though the Hall family is busy with four children, the whole family continues to work as a team to serve others in the community. The category’s sponsor, Ashland Walmart represented by Loretta El Nahel, made a $250 contribution to the Beaverdam Volunteer Fire Company. Cool Spring Challenger Sports Leadership Team won the “Spirit of Team”

CLINT DOWDA and PATRICIA N. RUDOLPH

LARRY SCHOOLS and BETTY JANE HUGHES (above) LARRY SCHOOLS and JULIE HENDRICKS (below)

member of the Beaverdam Fire Company Auxiliary for decades. Tim is the current captain and Brandy is the president at Beaverdam

award. These volunteers plan and manage a sports program for children and teens with special needs. This involves recruiting, training,

and supervising community volunteers, most of which are teens, for two eight-week seasons of soccer in the fall and basketball in the winter. In their seventh year, the Challenger Sports program has over 50 children playing basketball and 40 playing soccer this year. The team’s impact extends beyond these 90 children to include training buddies for each athlete. This team has truly created a supportive community for athletes, families and volunteers. The category’s sponsor, Danny Redford of Battlefield Press, made a $250 contribution to Cool Spring Challenger Sports. There were two “Spirit of One” winners, Betty Jane “BJ” Hughes and Julie Hendricks. Hughes is the dedicated president for over 125 Hanover Master Gardeners. She saw the program needs and has worked hard to fill in the gaps, including creating a handbook for all Master Gardeners. In addition to her leadership duties, she also volunteers to educate county

citizens by teaching topics such as food preservation, youth gardening, and healthy eating. Her leadership extends to connecting the organization countywide through her membership on the Hanover Food Resource Collaborative and work with 4-H. Hendricks has been involved in a multitude of activities as a parent volunteer at Kersey Creek Elementary School since 2006; over the last 10 years she has volunteered over 10,000 hours. Among Julie’s many volunteer roles at the schools has been a “Garden Program Coordinator.” Under her tutelage, the garden has become so successful that extra produce is donated weekly to ACES Food Pantry. Julie worked with other Garden Coordinators to film and edit two videos for the Scotties “Trees Rock” contest, which won over $14,000 to support the school and community. Rappahannock Electric Cooperative, represented by Larry Schools, made a $250 contribution to Hanover Master Gardeners and to

Kersey Creek Elementary School in honor of each of the recipients. Patricia N. “Tricia” Rudolph received the “Spirit of Inspiration” award. Tricia has worked tirelessly for 25 years within the PTA organizations at all levels, including units at Washington-Henry Elementary School, Stonewall Jackson Middle School, Chickahominy Middle School, Hanover County Council, Richmond District, and Virginia PTA levels. She has served energetically in many roles, including committee chairs, president, treasurer, and legislative chairperson. She created two programs that still define Hanover County Council PTA: the Certificate of Excellence program recognizing exemplary PTA units and the Senior Scholarship program recognizing one

Pizza has served the communities of Ashland and Beaverdam by volunteering, donating pizzas, sponsoring teams, hosting pizza nights at Ashland Towne Square Apartments every month, and hosting Spirit Nights for local organizations in their pizza shop. Their contributions have been appreciated by such events and organizations as Market Ashland Partnership, Ashland Train Day, Ashland Theater, Ashland Police Foundation, Shop with a Cop, Rockville Little League, Beaverdam Youth League, BARK, and countless others. They have even made unique contributions such as donating over 1,000 eggs to local churches and food banks. Melissa Miller, representing the Hanover Chamber of Commerce, presented a $250 check to the Beaverdam

PEPICELLI’S PIZZA

senior from each Hanover County high school each year. Award sponsor Grace Community Presbyterian Church, represented by Pastor Clint Dowda, made a $250 contribution to the Hanover County Council of PTA’s. Pepicelli’s Pizza received the “Commitment to Community” Award, which honors a Hanover business that exemplifies strong community values and a sustained commitment to supporting the community. Pepicelli’s

Ruritan Club. Last year, volunteers in Hanover collectively contributed 462,746 hours of service. That total reflects the reported work of over 20,000 volunteers. These hours of service are calculated to have had a value of over $11.5 million! Aubrey M. “Bucky” Stanley, chairman and Beaverdam District representative on the Hanover County Board of Supervisors, welcomed attendees to the event.

The Mechanicsville Local

see VOLUNTEERS, pg. 23

May 18, 2016

NIXON

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Continued from pg. 18

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responding units. Although she could do nothing but listen and document the situation, her actions in keeping a detailed CAD record provided critical information to the responders and played a key role in the eventual capture of the assailant, who is currently awaiting trial. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Meganâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ability to remain focused and professional during and after this horrid incident speaks volumes regarding her strength as a person and as an emergency communications officer,â&#x20AC;? said Deputy Director Charlie Udriet.

SHRIMP Continued from pg. 18

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;While calls like this are a part of the job, these types of calls are very difficult to handle,â&#x20AC;? Udriet added. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This type of call is one that is rarely received, but is one that will remain on the mind of communications officer Nixon for the rest of her life. She is commended for her ability to handle something as tragic as this and yet remain calm and composed.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;I love this job because every day is different,â&#x20AC;? Nixon said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;No call is ever the same. Every time we answer the call, we have the unknown of whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on the other end.â&#x20AC;? Nixon was hired as a communications officer with

Hanover on June 16, 2010, after four years in the Hanover County Public Schools system. A certified Emergency Medical Technician who is married to a Hanover firefighter, she received the rank of Communications Officer II on July 1, 2011. APCO is the largest network of public safety communications professionals in the world and has chapters and affiliates in all 50 states plus Australia, Canada, the Caribbean and the United Kingdom. The Virginia Chapter lists more than 16,000 members. Information submitted by Tom Harris, Hanover County public information officer.

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Continued from pg. 8

for the victims of these terrible crimes or concern for the millions of completely innocent babies that they regularly vote to kill through their backing of every abortion bill that comes down the pike! Wake up, Virginia voters, and realize that voting for any liberal Democrat — whether it be Terry McAuliffe, Time Kaine, Mark Warner or Hillary Clinton or any other — is voting for the destruction of our families, our state and our nation! Ken Cuccinelli would have made a great governor and still can be but one prominent so-called conservative Republican who was more interested in his own selfish interests than in the good of Virginia torpedoed the Cuccinelli campaign. Bill Bolling, a former lieutenant governor from Hanover County, because he didn’t get his way in the nominating process, decided to do all he could to hurt Cuccinelli and helped in a big way to elect Terry McAuliffe, one of the most radical liberal governors in Virginia history. Donald Trump reminds me a lot of Bolling, who whines and complains when things don’t go his way. Trump, like Bolling did, will probably do everything he can to destroy the Republican Party and eventually help elect the Democrat, Hillary Clinton, to the Presidency if he is not the Republican nominee. If the voters of Virginia and the rest of the country are smart and care about the survival of our beloved country, they will vote for the only true Christian conservative in the bunch and that is Sen. Ted Cruz. Hillary Clinton would be a disaster as would Donald Trump. Ted Cruz would bring a Ronald Reagan toughness

back to our foreign policy, both in regard to immigration and our enemies both overseas and in our own country. Can you imagine what Reagan or Cruz would have done when these Russian planes flew dangerously close to one of our ships in our own water? Donald Trump says he admires Vladimir Putin, the Russian thug leader who ordered his planes to harass our ship. Reagan and Cruz would have shot them out of the sky. In so many ways and for so many reasons we need Ted Cruz to be our next President. He is a God-fearing Christian man who would bring sanity, morality, strength and a brilliant conservative leadership back to our country and would put country first above politics and ego. (Editor’s note: After recent losses in Republican primaries, Ted Cruz dropped out of the Republican race for president.) Raymond C. Germeroth Mechanicsville

Former Ashland rep speaks out (Editor’s note: The following was submitted by Hank Lowry with the title, “As I Exit the Boardroom.”) As I step down from four years of service on the Hanover County School Board, I can reflect on some remarkable experiences working in support of any number of tremendous teachers, skilled administrators, and energetic and talented students and their parents. I also can reflect on leading the discussion for a few changes and program initiatives in areas such as technology, budget transparency, and Career & Technical Education (CTE). I believe that the budget work will probably facilitate the initiatives we sought to bring forward. I also have learned a great deal over these four years, however, not all of the lessons were encouraging for the future. The role of a school board

is to lead our division forward in achieving our established goals and furthering our vision for our students and families in Hanover. To be successful in this role, teamwork and a shared vision for the future are critical. Additionally, we need leadership on this board which will drive the wagon forward. New ideas and strategies for the future must replace the “old ways” and the “way we’ve always done it.” And it is on this last point that I’ve learned the hardest lessons. Board members who view their appointments as carrying lifetime tenure are most vulnerable to the belief that nothing needs to change and hinder the progress which education by its very definition demands. I sit here with four “new” members and I am confident that we are as far as the Hanover school system has ever been towards excellence. By no measure am I indicating that the job of those

before me was less powerful as an education force than it is now. I do, however, believe that stale people create a stale and unchanging environment, and am not even aware that it is occurring. This position is one which deserves young fresh ideas from individuals who are in the present. When did we lose sight of the irrelevance of personal ambition and longevity as a measure of public service? There must always be opportunities for a range of citizens to serve on all boards, and especially the school board, to bring fresh perspectives and challenging ideas to the boardroom. True leadership, would focus on our community, our students, and our staff. Such leadership must require that we engage in (and with our) public through transparent discussions about the issues we face. Spoon-feeding the board on critical issues in public, with an emphasis on keeping

controversial topics behind closed doors, negates any commitment to transparency. We have opened and effectively utilized direct communication with the Hanover County Board of Supervisors, which now must remain open and be valued and honored as part of our public service. For such discussions to be vilified by certain groups, as occurred last fall in references to the Joint Education Committee, displays ignorance of the public role which we all play. When elected officials have the very important responsibility of committing public funds in service to public education, all governing authorities have a right to fully understand how those dollars will be spent. Our citizens have an equal right to know and understand how their dollars are being spent. And our board chair has the obligation to ensure that we respect this process and consee LETTERS, pg. 23

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VOLUNTEERS Continued from pg. 19

Lane Casadonte, sports director for WTVR-6, was the guest host for the event. Attendees also were entertained by solo performances by Hanover Junior Idol winner Anisah Adullah and reign-

LETTERS Continued from pg. 21

tinue the dialog and exchange of information, and not merely respond to a few dissenting voices on the board. The school division’s administration has an equal obligation to be responsive to the goals and initiatives brought forward by the school board. Several critical and very successful initiatives (Governor’s Regional Program for Gifted CTE students, the ACA, etc.) over the last two years required far more prodding and pressure than seems necessary

ing Hanover Idol Raelyn McMillion, as well as the Hanover High School String Orchestra and Jazz Ensemble and the Hanover Concert Band. Miracles in Motion gave a special performance. Information submitted by Tom Harris, Hanover County public information officer.

ADAMS

(including with some board members). Administrators in other divisions earn state (and sometimes national) recognition for encouraging boards to chart an innovative path for the future. This should be a critical expectation by this board of the administrators in Hanover. Don’t stand still on past accomplishments, don’t tell us that “this worked just fine in the past;” lead us strategically and skillfully towards the future. In the area of instruction, our administration must be prepared to encourage the

board to tackle some very well-entrenched and obstructive ideas. The limitation of SOLs (Standards of Learning) as a measure of student progress has become increasingly obvious. An over-focus on memorization with the consequent deemphasis of critical thinking, problem-solving and reasoning skills is a travesty. Whether required at the federal or state level, an active and engaged board and administration can take the lead on behalf of our students and parents to push back in this discussion.

Continued from pg. 4

becomes busy.” “My heart will always be with dispatching,” said Adams, a Brooklyn native who began her career in New York City 911 center. “I love working the phones and the chance of picking up the phone at any time and it being something completely

unexpected.” Udriet said that Adams “has proven on multiple occasions that she is a valuable asset to Hanover Emergency Communications and the citizens of Hanover County. Her compassion, professionalism and dedicated service to emergency communications and others has proven invaluable to the department.” “Stacey’s professionalism, loyalty, per-

We should be advocating consistently and aggressively with our elected officials in the General Assembly to push back as well, especially when we enjoy the vocal support of our board of supervisors on this topic. Public education is too important to our community of Hanover County, and our Commonwealth of Virginia and to this great nation, to be anything other than fully engaged with all stakeholders on topics of substance and principle. It’s not, nor should it ever be about our longevity as board members, or our own progres-

sonal dedication to duty and real love of the emergency communication profession reflect great credit upon herself, emergency communications and Hanover County – and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the public safety emergency communications profession,” Udriet said. APCO is the largest network of public

sion on our personal pathways to advancement. The same can be and should be said about our administrators. The issues and concerns are real, and our parent and student community deserves our very best. It’s time for our board to set aside personal agendas and historical perspectives and embrace the challenge of leading looking to the future and not to the past. Having said all of the above, let me reiterate what a pleasure it has been for me to be a part of this organization. I served with many of the

see ADAMS, pg. 28

greatest people I have ever met. The staff of Hanover County Public Schools is the finest in the nation. The people sitting here before me pour their hearts, souls and energy into serving the staff, students and parents of Hanover County. I thank you all for having had the opportunity to work with you and I stand ready to continue to assist you in any way you might need. Keep the faith, energy and vision which you need for this task. Hank Lowry Ashland

Tour of Homes May 21-22, 12-5pm 7 Homes Open

Tour 7 homes including our newest model located on The Island fitness center - 4 lakes - pool - clubhouse - trails - parks - dock year round activities - adjacent to Brookwoods Golf Course New Homes from the $290s

I-64 to Bottom’s Bridge, Exit 205. Left on Rt. 60.

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The Mechanicsville Local

May 18, 2016

VOLUNTEERS Continued from pg. 19

Lane Casadonte, sports director for WTVR-6, was the guest host for the event. Attendees also were entertained by solo performances by Hanover Junior Idol winner Anisah Adullah and reign-

LETTERS Continued from pg. 21

ADAMS

Continued from pg. 4

see ADAMS, pg. 28

Tour of Homes May 21-22, 12-5pm 7 Homes Open

I-64 to Bottom’s Bridge, Exit 205. Left on Rt. 60.

patriots-landing.com

The Mechanicsville Local

May 18, 2016

CALENDAR | News, Updates & Listings Wednesday, May 18 The Stonewall Jackson Middle School PTA is sponsoring a BBQ Sale, with pickup scheduled for Monday, May 23. BBQ is being prepared by Curbside Creations. It can be ordered frozen by the pound. Pickup time is between 5 and 7 p.m. May 23. The Curbside Creations truck will be parked in front of the building. Order forms are available in the office, on the SJMS website or from your student’s Flex teacher. For more information, contact Nancy Disharoon at ndisharoon@hcps.us. Members and guests of the Ostomy Association of Greater Richmond, a support group for individuals who depend on ostomy products, will gather for their monthly meeting at 7:30 p.m. at Henrico Doctors Hospital at 1602 Skipwith Rd. (corner of Skipwith and Forest) in Richmond, VA. Dr. Sharon Patterson, PhD, will talk about conquering post-surgical anxiety through a technique called “Mindfulness.” The group meets in Williamsburg-A, located near the main entrance to the hospital. For more information, call Mike Rollston at 804-232-1961.

Thursday, May 19 A planning meeting for the 50-year reunion of the Class of 1967 of the Maggie L. Walker High School will be held at 1 p.m. at the Fifth Baptist Church at 1415 W. Cary St. in Richmond. For more information, call Marvin Harris at 804-240-1418.

Friday, May 20 Winn’s Baptist Church will be host for a gospel music concert at 7 p.m., ministering with their music will be Master’s Hand Quartet. Winn’s

is located at 12320 Winns Church Road in Glen Allen. A love offering will be taken. For more information, call 804-798-5512, 804-798-5513, 804-798-6179 or Carlton at 805-651-4544.

Saturday, May 21 Raider Royale, hosted by Center of the Universe Brewing Co. at 11293 Air Park Rd. in Ashland, will benefit Atlee High School Athletics. The event is being presented by Atlee High School Athletic Boosters. For more information, or to sponsor a table, or to purchase tickets, visit www. goatlee.com. Annual Fish Fry will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Enon United Methodist Church, featuring fried or baked fish, cole slaw, baked beans, hush puppies, dessert and drink. The cost is $10 for adults and $5 for children. For more information, call Michael at 804-3149437.

Sunday, May 22 St. James the Less Episcopal Church in Ashland will be observing its Sesquicentennial with a big celebration. The festivities will begin at the 10 a.m. service with Holy Eucharist, a brass quintet, and guest preacher, the Rev. Canon Pat Wingo, Canon to the Ordinary of the Episcopal Diocese of Virginia. A catered luncheon will immediately follow the service. Also planned are children’s activities, an historical display, and a video montage produced by youth group members featuring interviews of parishioners of all ages. All current and former priests, deacons, parishioners and friends of St. James the Less are invited. The date the Council of the Diocese of Virginia sanctioned the forma-

The Mechanicsville Local

May 18, 2016

tion of a new congregation was May 18, 1866. The name for the parish, St. James the Less, came as a result of the link with St. James Episcopal Church in Richmond. At that time, Ashland was a small village where residents of Richmond spent their summers. A Facebook event page has been created with information about the celebration, including opportunities to support the event through the purchase of commemorative merchandise, 8x10” prints and packets of note cards that incorporate a sketch of the church building, as well as commemorative cups. The church also is selling Snow White Inn Barbeque to help underwrite the cost of this special event. Sales are pre-sale only at $12 a pound, available through the church’s website, Facebook page, and at the church, with pick-up between 9 a.m. and noon Saturday, May 21. Complete information regarding the celebration is available at http://www. stjamestheless.com/content/stjames-the-less-sesquicentennial. RSVPs and questions may be directed to Margaret Rush at 804-798-6336.

Wednesday, May 25 Atlee High School Band Spirit Night will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Chick-fil-A on Brook Road in Glen Allen. Chick-fil-A will donate part of the proceeds to the band to help purchase new instruments and other much needed equipment when customers mention they are with the band.

Tuesday, May 31 Early Bird tickets will be available for $40 per person for members of the Lee-Davis High School Class of 1991 who will be celebrating their 25th reunion from 7 p.m. to

2 a.m. Saturday, July 16, at the Redwood Grill in Manquin. Beginning June 1, tickets will then be sold for $50 per person. Tickets will be sold at the door on the evening of the event for $50 per person. To receive an invitation containing the important details of the event, send an email to ldhsclassof91@gmail.com.

Saturday, June 4 Black Creek Baptist Church will host a free community block party from 3 to 5 p.m. at the Black Creek Fellowship Center at 6229 McClellan Road in Mechanicsville. There will be inflatables, music, hot dogs, snow cones, popcorn, homemade goodies, corn hole games, and raffle baskets. For more information, call the church office at 804-781-0330. The Christian Village Tenant Association will sponsor a Bake, Craft, & Yard Sale from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Christian Village Apartments at 7105 Brooks Farm Rd. off Lee-Davis Road in the Bosher Center. Grilled hot dogs will be sold.

Friday, June 10 The Oak Knoll 8th grade dance will take place from 6 to 8 p.m. It is customary to dress up for this special occasion. Ladies wear dresses or dress pants (no midriffs showing and no completely backless dresses-spaghetti straps and strapless dresses are permitted). Gentlemen usually wear dress pants and a nice shirt. Students are required to adhere to the dress code in order to attend the dance.

Monday, June 20 The Hanover Education Foundation will host its 19th Annual Golf Tournament at

ax submissions to calendar to 804-730-0476, email to mkinser@mechlocal.com or mail to 8460 TimesDispatch, Mechanicsville VA 23116. Deadline is 3 p.m. Wednesday for the following week’s issue. Calendar announcements cannot be taken by phone. We reserve the right to edit all items submitted to The Local.

the Hanover Country Club in Ashland. Proceeds will support educational initiatives of Hanover County Public Schools. Participation will make a difference to thousands of children influenced by Hanover educators. There will be two flights: 8 a.m. (registration begins at 6:30 a.m.) and 1:30 p.m. (registration begins at noon) shotguns. Breakfast and lunch are included. For more information, go to hefhanover.com or call 804-3654560.

Saturday, June 25 Fun Dance Night will be held from 8 to 10 a.m. at American Legion Post 175 at 8700 Bell Creek Rd. in Mechanicsville. Fun Dance Night provides different types of dancing, including Western square dance, line dance, and other dance styles all at a beginner’s level. Singles, couples, and families are invited. The dress is casual, and the cost is $5 per person age 10 and older. Light (non-alcoholic) refreshments will be served. A variety of music and different dance styles will be offered throughout the evening. For more information, call Betty at 434-242-0502 or Chris at 804-426-6995, email tuckahoesquares@gmail.com, or visit www.tuckahoesquaredanceclub.com.

county.gov.

Thursday, Oct. 6 The next quarterly Human Services Network Meeting will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. at the Hanover Human Services Meeting Room at 12304 Washington Hwy. in Ashland. For more information, contact Lisa Adkins at 804-365-4302 or email ldadkins@hanovercounty.gov.

Ongoing Families Anonymous Support Group meets from 7 to 8:30 p.m. every Monday at the Episcopal Church of the Creator at 7159 Mechanicsville Turnpike in Mechanicsville. The group is a self-help fellowship for the friends and family members of addicts who are in need of understanding and healing themselves. For details, call Sandy at 804-730-4812 or email sandy.leigh@verizon.net. Overcomers Outreach and Women’s Codependency, a Christ-centered anonymous support program offering hope and healing for recovering alcoholics, addicts and their families meet every Monday at 7 p.m., at the Mechanicsville Christian Center at 8061 Shady Grove Road in Mechanicsville. For more information, call 804366-9645 or email kjfaith1@ gmail.com.

Thursday, July 7

Tuesdays

The next quarterly Human Services Network Meeting will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. at the Hanover Human Services Meeting Room at 12304 Washington Hwy. in Ashland. For more information, contact Lisa Adkins at 804-365-4302 or email ldadkins@hanover-

General cancer support group meets from 9:30 to 11 a.m. in the Cancer Resource Center in Medical Office Building 1 on the hallway leading to VCU Massey Radiation Oncology. The group is cofacilitated by an oncology see CALENDAR, pg. 26

REVISIONS Continued from pg. 7

troversial subject matter, the committee suggested changing the word dispassionate to unbiased. “That is our only recommendation for change to that policy,” Tate said. They also suggested a clarification on the use of fulllength films in the classroom. The new wording requires a rating on films shown in their entirety in the classroom. Regarding the rating system currently in effect that allows only PG rated films in high school classrooms, no changes were offered. “It is our recommendation that the guidelines not be changed,” Tate said. No changes were recommended for the policy involving instructional materials and learning resources. The panel did recommend including a statement in the current handbook that sufficiently advises students and parents that college level material is covered in advanced classes. Students had expressed opposition to the current policy at previous board meetings citing the need for controversial material in advanced high school courses. Last year, members of Hanover Students for Freedom of Information and Learning summoned the board to revise policies regarding controversial material and also urged the board to protect teachers who violated the policy. The students submitted proposed language changes in February, but none of those recommendations were suggested by the policy review committee. In other matters, Hanover County school officials approved a plan that revises the county’s current Report Card format. The goal of the report committee was to pro-

vide the most “effective, efficient and meaningful” way to provide parents with information regarding their child’s progress. There were 24 members of the Report Card committee and principals throughout the

“It is our recommendation that the guidelines not be changed.” JULIE TATE Curriculum specialist for Library and Media Services

county reviewed their input. The new plan removes or reduces many descriptors under graded categories on the current report card. “Writing is now one of the graded content areas on all report cards,” said Miller, director of elementary education, said as she outlined the changes. The grade of O (Outstanding) was removed from third and fifth grade report cards in the areas of Health, PE, Art, Music and Library education. There are also changes to

DATION PROBLEMS? CRACKE ED BRICKS? UNEVEN FLOORS the county’s current grading OUND policy. The policy was revised RACK KED DRY WALL? MUSTY SMELLLS? LS? STIC STICK CKING DOORS? to coincide with the county’s current 8-block system and includes changes to facilitate the latest report card revisions. The board also approved adoption of a new high school math textbook and okayed a motion to purchase 7,000 textbooks. Owned & Operated by The committee researched utilizing e-books, but decided Professional Engineers the county’s Internet service Jesse Waltz, PE & Stella Waltz, Owners was not ready for that transMELLS? STICKING DOORS? BOUNCY FLOORS? STICKING WINformation. The textbooks cost about OWS? NASTY STY CRAW CRAWLSP PACE? ACE? W WET ET B BASEMENT? ASEMENT? MO OLD LD & FUN$100 each, compared to US? TERMITES, MIITES, BUGS, BUGS, RO ODENTS? DENTS? FFOUNDATION OUNDATION PROB BLEMS? L approximately 25 percent less RACKED BRICKS? RICKS? UNE UNEVEN FLOORS? FLOORS? CRACKED CRACKED DRY DRY W WALL? for e-books. “At the moment we areMUSTY SMELLS? ELLLS? STICKIN STICKING DOORS? DOORS? BOUNCY BOUNCY FLOORS? FLOORS? STICKworking toward our future,” WS S? NASTY NASTY CRA CRAWLLSPACE? SPACE? W WET ET B BASEMENT? ASEMENT? MOLD Marla Coleman said. She NG WINDOWS? served as board representative FUNGUS? TERMITES, TERMITES, BUGS, RODE RODENTS? FOUNDATION P PRO OBon the Math Textbook Review EMS? MS? C CRACKED RACKED BRICKS? BRICKS? UN UNEVEN EN FLOORS? F CRACKED DR RY project. The board also recognizedWA ALLL G DOORS? BOUNCY FLOORS? the county’s School Resource CK NT? Officers and DARE Officers, TIC recognized All Virginia BandMO OLLD N and Chorus members from OB ED Hanover schools. Members of RO Career and Education Student RY YW Organizations who won state LO OO O honors were also recognized, SEMEN ? along with the winner of the AS Crime Stoppers Poster Contest.

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Senior Travel Program plans October trip to West Virginia ASHLAND — The Hanover County Parks and Recreation Senior Travel Program is heading to West Virginia. Even though summer hasn’t arrived, plans are being made for October. With the trip being made in the middle of October, travelers will see

r Ou g ! n i r rat ea leb 9th Y e C 11

the amazing autumn colors nature provides in Virginia’s neighboring state. Adventure is everywhere and senior travelers are invited to embark on a tailored one-of-a-kind trip. The group will be traveling to Elkins, West Virginia, Oct. 13-14. Venturing through the

A 119 Year Tradition of Caring

Appalachian and Allegheny Mountains and the Monongahela and George Washington National Forests, travelers will be impressed. After stopping for lunch, the group will continue on the winding mountain roads where they will find the Isaac Jackson Hotel. Upon arriving at the hotel, enjoy

CALENDAR Continued from pg. 24

social work navigator, registered nurse navigator and survivorship nurse practitioner.

Second Mondays

8014 Lee-Davis Road, Mechanicsville • 746-8665 www.bennettfuneralhomes.com Bennett Funeral Home was established in 1897 to serve the needs of Richmond families. Since then, this locally owned and operated business has continued to serve the community with its unique combination of caring and convenience. This tradition of excellence can be seen in four beautiful chapels located throughout the Richmond area: centrally located on Cutshaw Avenue in the city, on Broad Street Road past Innsbrook, on Ashbrook Pkwy. in Chesterfield and serving the Hanover-Mechanicsville area on Lee-Davis Road. All four facilities are under the personal direction of Charles D. Morehead, President. In a time of need, you can turn to Bennett Funeral Home with trust and confidence. It serves families of all faiths with personal service – before, during and after. There is a long tradition of professionalism and caring. One way in which Bennett cares for families is by offering a convenient and personalized pre-need program. Through this program of pre-need planning, you can spare your loved ones the burden of making decisions at an emotional time. Call Bennett Funeral Home at 746-8665 to schedule a preplanning consultation.

The WEB of Hope meets from 10 a.m. to noon the second Monday of each month (May 9, June 13, July 11, Aug. 8, Sept. 12, Oct. 10, Nov. 14 and Dec. 12) at the Black Creek Baptist Church at 6289 McClellan Road in Mechanicsville. The WEB of Hope group, an extension of the American Red Cross, meets to knit, crochet, sew and quilt for those that need assistance. Gifts are distributed to such groups as the Pregnancy Resource Center, MCEF, Bless the Children, various Native American Reservations, etc. Participants will learn how to knit and crochet if they don’t know how. For more information, Laurie Wagner at 804781-0338.

free time for rest and relaxation before a buffet dinner at the 1863 Grill. After dinner, it’s show time at the American Mountain Theater, West Virginia’s first and only “Branson Style” familyfriendly music and comedy variety show. The morning will begin with an enhanced continental breakfast at

Alzheimer’s/Dementia support group for caregivers and others who want to help and encourage those who have loved ones with dementia illnesses meets at 2 p.m. on the second Monday of each month and at 7 p.m. the third Monday in Room E106 at Shady Grove United Methodist Church at 8209 Shady Grove Rd. in Mechanicsville. For more information, contact Janet Lewis at 804-398-8947, Mark Elliott at 804-746-8288 or the church office at 804-746-9073.

Second Tuesdays Hanover Family Support Group, a support group for family members of a loved one with a mental illness, meets from 7 to 8:30 p.m. the second Tuesday evening of each month at the Ashland office of Hanover Community Services located at 12300 Washington Highway in Ashland. Attendees support one another, share experiences, challenges and

257152-01

A friendly face and a helpful attitude in your time of need. Louise Dement, Bennett’s receptionist, greets and answers questions regarding services. The Bennett Funeral Home, now with four locations throughout the Richmond area, continues its tradition of excellence.

The Mechanicsville Local

May 18, 2016

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the hotel followed by check-out and departure for the American Mountain Theater. Experience a trip down memory lane as you witness the “History of American Music!” After the show, it is just a short walk to the Durbin & Greenbrier

resources and to advocate for their loved ones. For more information, contact Jennifer K. Edelman, LCSW, at 804365-4145. The Hanover County Historical Society will be conducting free tours of the Old Hanover Courthouse on the Historic Courthouse Green from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every second Tuesday through December. The address is 13182 Hanover Courthouse Road in Hanover. For more information, visit http://www.hanoverhistorical.org/index.html.

Second Wednesday 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 at 7231 Stonewall Parkway in Mechanicsville. The meetings will provide an opportunity for caregivers of people with Alzheimer’s to exchange coping skills and give mutual support. Co-facilitators are Vivian Bagby and Barbara Allen. For more information, call the Greater Richmond Alzheimer’s Association chapter at 9672580.

Third Wednesday The Mechanicsville Lions Club meets at 6 p.m. at Calabash and the first Wednesday of the month as a volunteer opportunity to help with a bingo game for the veterans at McGuire

see SENIOR, pg. 30

Medical Center. For more information, contact Pam Bartle at 804-730-0427 or Rick Starling at 804-550-1112.

First Thursday Hillcrest Baptist Church will host First Thursday Hymn Sing at 10 a.m. on the corner of U.S. 301 and Hillcrest Road. The morning will include the singing of old hymns and a snack lunch. For more information, call 804-730-1500.

Second Thursday If gardening is your passion or hobby, consider attending the Hanover Towne Gardening Club. The Hanover Towne Garden Club meets the second Thursday at 7 p.m. at the Hanover Evangelical Friends Church at 6420 Mechanicsville Tpk. (back entrance) in Mechanicsville. Educational programs on a variety of gardening topics are presented monthly. Guests are welcome to attend. For more information, contact hanovertownegc2@ gmail.com.

Thursdays GriefShare, a Christ-centered support group to help those who have lost a loved one, will meet at 6:30 p.m. on Thursdays through Nov. 12 at the New Highland Baptist Church at 9200 New Ashcake Rd. in Mechanicsville. Participants do not have to attend every meeting; people can drop in at any time. For more information, call 804550-9601.

Everleigh Reese Ruppert Submitted photo

Patricia and Brian Ruppert are proud to announce the arrival of their daughter, Everleigh Reese, weighing 7 pounds and 5 ounces. She was 21 inches long. Everleigh was born at 7:08 a.m. February 28, 2016, at VCU Health Systems. Proud grandparents are Theresa Stuckey and Ronald Stuckey of Upper Marlboro, Maryland, and Debra and Peter Ruppert of Quinton. Great-grandparents are Stanley Souder of Catonsville, Maryland, and Joan and Pat Ruppert of Satellite Beach, Florida. Everleigh was welcomed home by her big sister, Isabelle, and the family dogs, Oliver and Dodger.

L-DHS Class of 1991 to celebrate 25th reunion at the Redwood Grill Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com MANQUIN — The Lee-Davis High School Class of 1991 will celebrate its 25th reunion from 7 p.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, July 16, at the Redwood Grill in Manquin.

Early Bird tickets are available now until May 31 for $40 per person. Beginning June 1, tickets will then be sold for $50 per person. Tickets will be sold at the door on the evesee 25TH, pg. 28

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May 18, 2016

5th Annual ‘Flea’ Market and Yard Sale set Saturday Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com MECHANICSVILLE — Has spring cleaning left you with lots of things you don’t want or need anymore, but are just too nice to throw away? Then turn your trash into treasure by selling these items at the Friends of Hanover Dog Parks flea market and yard sale on Saturday, May 21, at the VFW Post 9808 at 7168 Flag Need more info? Call 804-775-4622.

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Lane in Mechanicsville. Rent a space for $15 each. Proceeds benefit the two Hanover County dog parks. The flea market and yard sale will be open to the public from 8 a.m. to noon. Sellers may arrive to set up at 7 a.m. Those interested in reserving a space are asked to call Sheila Wactor at 804-467-6615. The first “Flea Market & Yard Sale” was held in May 2012 when several regular

patrons of the Taylor Dog Park in Ashland combined their efforts to form a nonprofit entity to improve and support dog parks in Hanover County. Friends of Hanover Dog Parks was incorporated in April 2013 and is an IRS approved 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Substantial business and individual donations allowed the Friends to construct and

ASHLAND — Throughout Hanover County lie dozens of state historic markers and historic sites that have been preserved to tell the stories of the earliest Native American inhabitants, the rich colonial history, the struggle for religious freedom, and the fight for independence from the

British crown. Hanover also has been the site of a number of Civil War battles, including The Seven Days Battles of the Peninsula Campaign and Gaines’ Mill, Battle of Cold Harbor, Battle of North Anna and the Battle of Haw’s Shop. From battlefields, churchHome • Auto • Commercial • Life

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es, homesteads, farms, and, of course, the well-known Hanover Courthouse, Hanover has something for everyone, from the casual visitor to the avid American history buff. With so much history, Hanover Parks & Recreation extends an invitation for those interested to explore the county and learn what makes Hanover so historically significant and special. The department is offering tours of Hanover County that are supported by the Richmond Region Tourism office and Hanover County. Each tour includes a boxed lunch, snacks and water. Transportation for the day will be via chartered bus and tours are led by Richmond Discoveries. When registering for tours, be sure to

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the North Gate. Patrons who are less mobile will have easier access to shade in this area. Four new benches will replace those of “vintage” design also at Taylor. And, in response to patron requests, the Annex at Pole Green Dog Park will be completed. Attached to the larger park, the Annex is intended for dogs who are older, who may have physical limitations or are of a quieter, more timid

nature. For more information about Friend of Hanover Dog Parks, visit the Facebook page or email FriendsofHDP@ gmail.com. Donations may be made by visiting www.FriendsofHDP. org. Alternatively, donations may be mailed directly to P.O. Box 573, Ashland, VA 23005. Information submitted by Caroline Cooke.

Hanover Historic Bus Tours booking for May 21

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equip Pole Green Dog Park. The Grand Opening in September 2015 also recognized three Eagle Scout projects that were contributed: construction and installation of agility equipment, a covered bench and a kiosk. Three specific improvement projects will benefit from Flea Market proceeds. Through an Eagle Scout project, Taylor Dog Park will soon see a covered bench near

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safety communications professionals in the world and has chapters and affiliates in all 50 states plus Australia, Canada, the Caribbean and the United Kingdom. The Virginia Chapter lists more than 16,000 members. Information submitted by Tom Harris, Hanover County public information officer.

note any special dietary needs on your registration form. The next historic tours are from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, May 21, and are $20 per person. You’ll be boarding the bus at the Hanover County Government Complex at, 7497 County Government Complex in Hanover. There are two tours to choose from include: Towns of Eastern Hanover: This tour will take you back to a time from the early colonial days to the Civil War. Learn about the townships of Hanovertown and Newcastle, both of which have disappeared from the banks of the Pamunkey River. Learn about the settling of Old Church before its Civil War history, and how Mechanicsville got its name. Tour Ashland and learn about the development of the town with the railroad and the college. Meet Judith McGuire, a Civil War refugee, and hear

25TH Continued from pg. 27

ning of the event for $50 per person. To receive an invitation containing the important details of the event, send an email to ldhsclassof91@gmail.com.

about her time in Ashland during the Civil War, including the excitement which occurred when Union troops set fire to the train depot. Towns of Western Hanover: Many of the towns of western Hanover developed around the railroads as settlers move away from the rivers. Explore the development from the mid19th through early 20th centuries of Doswell, Beaverdam, Montpelier, Negrofoot, Ashland and Atlee with your costumed guide. Visits Pop’s Country Store (Beaverdam), Sycamore Tavern (Montpelier) and other key sites in Doswell and Ashland. Meet Judith McGuire, a Civil War refugee, and hear about her time in Ashland during the Civil War, including the excitement which occurred when Union troops set fire to the train depot. Come by yourself or bring a family member or friend. Trips typically fill quickly, so early registration is encouraged. Questions can be directed to Hanover County Parks and Recreation at 804-365-7150, parksandrec@hanovercounty. gov and trip details and registration may be completed at www.hanoverparksrec.com. Information submitted by Nicodemas M. Reikalas, recreation coordinator, Hanover County Parks & Recreation.

New photography studio to host ribbon cutting and open house Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com ASHLAND — Locally owned Kristie Bradley Photography will host a Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at 5 p.m. Friday, May 20, at 305 Ashcake Rd., Suite J, in Ashland. The ribbon cutting begins at 5 p.m., with the open house being held from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Bradley said she specializes in modern high

Silver Awards

school senior/teen and family portraits and will be expanding her offerings to commercial and head shoot work. An open house will follow the ribbon cutting ceremony. Refreshments will be provided. For more information, call 571-236-6288 or email info@kristiebradleyphotography.com. Kristie Bradley Photography’s website is http://kristiebradleyphotography.com.

Quarterly siren test scheduled today Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com RICHMOND – State and local officials will test the early warning siren system around the North Anna Power Station at about 11:10 a.m. today (Wednesday, May 18). A steady three-minute tone will be sounded by 68 sirens in Caroline, Hanover, Louisa,

Orange and Spotsylvania counties. The sirens are located within a 10-mile radius of the plant. Siren tests take place quarterly on the third Wednesday of February, May, August and November. The Virginia Department of Emergency Management, Dominion Virginia Power and

the localities where the sirens are located participate in the quarterly tests. If there were an actual emergency at North Anna Power Station, residents would hear four separate three-minute activations, each separated by a one-minute silent interval. Total elapsed time for actu-

Photo submitted by Amy Curnutt

Members of Mechanicsville Girl Scout Troop 543 recently received their Silver Awards for outstanding community service work. Each girl spent a minimum of 20 hours on community service work. Service work ranged from having a book drive and donating all books to a nonprofit school in Richmond, as well as car washes and hours working at local churches in the area. All money raised was used to obtain hygiene and food items for the homeless. Each girl learned valuable lessons in giving to others who are less fortunate. Shown are, from left, Hannah Parker, Madison Carr, Paige Cecil , Brooke Curnutt and Tasia Gilreath. All girls attend Stonewall Jackson Middle School in Hanover County. They were sent a message of “Congratulations, girls, on a job well done.”

see SIREN, pg. 37

Pebble Lake is a conveniently located community in the heart of Mechanicsville.

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May 18, 2016

Adams addresses Tea Party Photo submitted by Larnie Allgood

John Adams, candidate for Virginia Attorney General, spoke at the April 26 meeting of the Mechanicsville Tea Party. He said he believes that “our current Attorney General, Mr. [Mark] Herring is not doing his job representing the citizens of Virginia.” Adams also said he thinks Herring “should be voted out of office.” Larnie Allgood of the Mechanicsville Tea Party said the organization “is in total agreement that Mr. Herring should be voted out of office.”

Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com

Water testing kits oﬀered by Cooperative Extension HANOVER — What’s in

Cold Harbor Ruritan, Hanover Adult Center host shrimp event

your water? Did you know that

MECHANICSVILLE – The Cold Harbor Ruritan Club and Hanover Adult Center will present the Shrimp Festival from 4 to 8:30 p.m. Saturday, June 4 (rain or shine) at the HanoverCold Harbor Ruritan Park at 8147 Walnut Grove Rd. in Mechanicsville. The event will feature spiced shrimp, fried fish, coleslaw, hush puppies, Cold Harbor Ruritan’s own award-winning Brunswick Stew, and choice of golden beverages. Food will be served from 5 to 8 p.m. Live entertainment will be provided by Jackson Ward and infinite monkey theorem.

private water supplies like wells and springs are unregulated? It is the responsibility of the Submitted photo homeowner to regularly test Jackson Ward, above, and infinite water quality, maintain the monkey theorem will provide the musical water system, and address any see RURITAN, pg. 37 entertainment at the Shrimp Festival. My Business” problems. our“Your HomeHome is MyisBusiness” Affordable, confidential water testing and education onboard the train. transportation, overnight P.O. Box 67 O. Box 67 will be offered through Virginia On the way back to Virginia, hotel accommodations, bagPowhatan, VA 23139 whatan, VA 23139 Continued from pg. 26 Cooperative Extension offices enjoy a home-cooked dinner gage handling (one large bag Bruce Blackwell bruce@thehousegeek.com uce@thehousegeek.com in Hanover County. at Mrs. Rowe’s Restaurant in per person), one continental Valley Railroad Station. Climb State Certiﬁed www.thehousegeek.com ww.thehousegeek.com Home Inspector Pick up your kits at 6:30 aboard the New Tygart Flyer, Staunton, Virginia. breakfast, one enhanced con921-8367 04)(804) 921-8367 #3380 000220 The $567 single occupancy tinental breakfast, two lunches, which will take you on a foursee WATER, pg. 37 hour, 46-mile round-trip fee or $495 double occupancy two full course dinners, history of American Music Show, excursion through the moun- fee of the trip includes: Round-trip motor coach American Mountain Theater tains. Lunch will be included Production, four-hour train ride aboard the New Tygart Flyer, driver gratuity, refreshments on board motor coach. The registration deadline is Sept. 1 or as space permits. The deposit is 50 percent and due at the time of registration by credit or debit card. The balance is due by credit or debit card on Sept. 1. Spaces do fill quickly, so don’t delay in registering. Call your sales rep today • 746-1235 For more trip details or itineraries, contact Bill D’Surney • Ballerina Princess Camp with Hanover Senior Travel Springtime is Students 2½ and up Commission at 804-798-0215. • Broadway Bound Dance here and it’s time To register, visit www. • Ballet • Jazz • Tap & Theatre Camp hanoverparksrec.com or to get out and • Hip Hop • Contemporary contact Hanover Parks & enjoy the great • Dance Team Camp & More! Recreation at 804-365-7150 outdoors! or email us at parksandrec@ hanovercounty.gov. Information submitted by 8910 Burge Avenue Nicodemas M. Reikalas, recN. Chesterfield, VA 23237 10402 Leadbetter Rd. | Ashland, VA 23005 reation coordinator, Hanover www.haydensrvs.net Parks & Recreation.

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Leash law for dogs continues in county through June 30 (Editor’s note: The leash law is not new; it happens every year at this time. This article was submitted by Tom Harris, Hanover County public information officer, as a reminder.) Every year, beginning April 1 through June 30, it is unlawful for dogs anywhere in Hanover County to be running off their property without being leashed.

The county’s “leash law” applies throughout the year in the suburban area. Between April 1 and June 30, it is extended to the rural areas as well because the births of vulnerable livestock, such as baby lambs and calves, tend to take place during this period. Wildlife activity and rabies cases also generally increase in the April 1-June 30 time frame.

Any dogs caught running off their owner’s property will be impounded. Impoundment fees are $25 for the first violation and an additional $10 for each subsequent violation within a 12-month period, including a $5 per day boarding fee. Violations also can result in uniform summons or a written warning being issued. Each instance of a dog belonging

to a particular owner running atlarge is a separate violation, and an additional penalty will apply regardless of whether or not the same dog is involved. If you see a dog running at large, call Hanover County Emergency Communications at 804-365-6140. Any dangerous animal can be reported by dialing 911 for immediate assis-

tance, 24/7. For more information about Hanover County’s running at-large laws, call Animal Control at 804-365-6485. Dogs cannot run off of their owner’s property at any time of year without a current county license tag affixed to their collar. Information submitted by Tom Harris, Hanover County public information officer.

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Tractor Supply, 4-H spring fundraiser bests 2015 total BRENTWOOD, Tennessee – Tractor Supply Company, in partnership with the National 4-H Council, recently announced the record-breaking fundraising results of its spring 2016 Paper Clover Campaign. Tractor Supply Company and Del’s Feed and Farm Supply, the largest retail farm and ranch supply store chain

W ! N E I NG T S LI

in the United States, raised $935,351 during the 12-day national in-store fundraiser. Over the course of the seven-year partnership, Tractor Supply has raised more than $9.2 million for 4-H programs across the country through Paper Clover Campaigns in both the fall and spring season. “This spring’s Paper

Ribbon cuttings

Clover Campaign was a huge success thanks to our dedicated customers,” said Christi Korzekwa, senior vice president of marketing at Tractor Supply. “We exceeded our goal, and we couldn’t have done it without them. These campaigns give us the opportunity to enhance our store’s communities and provide support to see TRACTOR, pg. 33

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Ribbon cutting ceremonies recently were held at, above, Hanover Sports Park and, below, Red Poppy Pickin’. Hanover Sports Park is owned by Mary and Kory Hummer. It is located at 11000 Washington Hwy. in Glen Allen. Chelsea Hopper operates Red Poppy Pickin’ at 8167 Mechanicsville Tpk., Suite H, in Mechanicsville.

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May 18, 2016

HRWC oﬀering $1,000 scholarship Staff Report news@mechlocal.com Once again, the Hanover Republican Women’s Club will offer a scholarship to an eligible high school senior in Hanover County.

This year, the scholarship has been increased to $1,000. Megan Sheffield, HRWC scholarship chair, said, “f you know of a female student that meets the criteria and has political experience, please encour-

age them to apply. The application consists of short answer questions as well as a brief essay, and it can be found on our website, hrwomen.com.” For more information, contact Sheffield at 804-559-8902.

Atlee Kroger to become ClickList online location RICHMOND — The second Richmond-area ClickList location opened Thursday, May 12, at 3001 Polo Parkway in Midlothian. Starting Thursday, Midlothian shoppers can visit www.kroger.com/onlineshopping, create an account and then select the ClickList location. The online-ordering service was first launched at the Chester Kroger Marketplace in March.

TRACTOR Continued from pg. 32

our valued partner in National 4-H Council and its local programs.” Shoppers at Tractor Supply Company and Del’s Feed and Food Supply stores had the opportunity to purchase paper clovers between April 13-24 for $1 or more during checkout. The effort has provided direct support for local camps, after-school programs and other activities, and has granted scholarships to these events so that youth can explore their interests in everything from animal science to robotics. “It is extremely gratifying to witness the significant and consistent growth in the Paper Clover Campaign,” said Jennifer Sirangelo, president & CEO, National 4-H Council. “We are proud of this important partnership with Tractor Supply Company, which raises resources to help support 4H positive youth development programs in local communities across the United States.” Seventy percent of the funds raised benefit state and local 4H youth development program activities, such as local camps and after-school programs, and granted scholarships for

The Kroger Marketplace at 9351 Atlee Rd. in Mechanicsville is on the list of the 11 Richmond-area Kroger stores that will offer ClickList. In addition, Kroger will open its third ClickList location in mid-June at its Short Pump store at 11895 West Broad St. At this time, Kroger is planning a total of 11 ClickList locations throughout Richmond to open in 2016. Opening schedules are subject to change. The other Richmond-area

Kroger stores that will offer ClickList include: • Kroger Marketplace – 10800 Iron Bridge Rd., Chester, VA 23831 (opened in March) • Kroger - 3001 Polo Parkway Midlothian, VA 23113 (opening in May) • Kroger - 11895 West Broad St., Henrico, VA 23233 (opening in June) • Kroger - 14101 Midlothian Tpk., Midlothian, VA 23113 • Kroger - 13201 Rittenhouse Drive, Midlothian,

4-H youth in the communities where Tractor Supply and Del’s stores are located. Thirty percent of the total funds are donated to National 4-H Council to help connect more young people across America to high-quality 4-H youth development programs.

Supply, access the website at www.TractorSupply.com.

Tractor Supply Company Tractor Supply Company operates more than 1,500 stores in 49 states. Located in the outlying towns in major metropolitan markets and in rural communities, Tractor Supply Company stores are focused on supplying the lifestyle needs of recreational farmers and ranchers and others who enjoy the rural lifestyle, as well as tradesmen and small businesses. The company offers a comprehensive selection of merchandise for the health, care, growth and containment of horses, livestock and pets including select Purina and Nutrena brand feeds; hardware, truck, towing and tool products; and seasonal products, including heating, lawn and garden items, power equipment, gifts and toys. In addition, the Company sells work/recreational clothing and footwear for the entire family and maintenance products for agricultural and rural use. For more information on Tractor

ABOUT 4-H 4-H, the nation’s largest youth development organization, grows confident young people who are empowered for life today and prepared for career tomorrow. 4-H programs empower nearly six million young people across the U.S. through experiences that develop critical life skills. 4-H is the youth development program of our nation’s Cooperative Extension System and USDA, and serves every county and parish in the U.S. through a network of 110 public universities and more than 3000 local Extension offices. Globally, 4-H collaborates with independent programs to empower one million youth in 50 countries. The researchbacked 4-H experience grows young people who are four times more likely to contribute to their communities; two times more likely to make healthier choices; two times more likely to be civically active; and two times more likely to participate in STEM programs. Learn more about 4-H at www.4-H.org, find us on Facebook at www.facebook. com/4-H and on Twitter at https://twitter.com/4H.

VA 23112 • Kroger Marketplace 7000 Tim Price Way, North Chesterfield, VA 23225 • Kroger Marketplace – 9000 Staples Mill Rd., Henrico, VA 23228 • Kroger - 12726 Jefferson Davis Hwy., Chester, VA 23831 • Kroger - 1510 Eastridge Rd., Richmond, VA 23229

• Kroger - 3507 W. Cary St., Richmond, VA 23221 At each opening, Kroger will offer an introductory special and waive the online shopping fee of $4.95 for a customer’s first three orders. Each ClickList location offers more than 40,000 items, including fresh meat and produce, with new items added every week.

“We are excited to announce the next ClickList location and the remaining seven that will open in the Richmond market,” said Anne Jenkins, spokesperson for Kroger’s Mid-Atlantic Division. “Our customers tell us how something as simple as online grocery shopping has transformed their daily life. see KROGER, pg. 34

COLD HARBOR RURITAN CLUB & HANOVER ADULT CENTER PRESENT

Sat., June 4 • 4-8:30 PM Rain or Shine

Cold Harbor Ruritan Park • 8147 Walnut Grove Road Mechanicsville, Va 23111 Tickets $30.00

Featuring • Spiced Shrimp • Fried Fish • Cole Slaw • Hush Puppies • Cold Harbor Ruritan’s Own Award Winning Brunswick Stew Limited • Choice of Golden Beverages

Tickets Available

Food Served 5-6 p.m. Tickets Available April 18 From: (Group Discounts Available)

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302142-01

Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com

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The Mechanicsville Local

May 18, 2016

WEGMANS Continued from pg. 15

tent low prices and customer service. Richmond-area shoppers are described as being eager for the new store to open. According to Wegmans, nearly 24,000 customers have gone online already to sign up in advance for a Wegmans Shoppers Club card. The new 115,000-squarefoot supermarket features The Pub by Wegmans, a popular full-service family restaurant located within the store. There’s also fresh pro-

duce, bakery, cheese shop, deli and charcuterie, meat and seafood, a wine and beer shop, and all the traditional grocery, dairy and frozen food offerings. The store’s Market Café, with seating for more than 250 people, includes a coffee shop, pizza, subs, fresh sushi prepared on-site, and a variety of self-serve food bars. There are more than 60,000 product choices throughout the store; more than 3,000 are organic. Wegmans offers conventional sizes and also offers family-pack as a way to save on the

products families buy most … and there’s a mobile app that helps shoppers to plan meals and build a shopping list that sorts by aisle to save time. “The excitement of seeing customers walk into the store for the first time, smelling the bread baking and seeing the smiling employee faces ready to greet them, never gets old,” Shelly said. “We know that the customer experience, the product selection and the tools we provide to help shoppers prepare easy, healthy meals are truly unique to Wegmans and we’re excited to share our love of food with the Midlothian

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May 18, 2016

community.” Shelly grew up near Niagara Falls in the town of Niagara, New York. After several years working in the restaurant industry, Wegmans hired him as a management trainee in 1989. He started in the produce department at a store in Buffalo, later becoming the department manager and gradually working his way up to perishable area manager. Eventually Shelly became a Wegmans store manager in Pennsylvania, and most recently managed the Malvern store near Philadelphia. “This is the first time since I became a store manager that I’ve opened a new store for Wegmans, and I’m really excited to bring a new shopping

experience to the Richmond area,” he said. Haines shares his store manager’s enthusiasm for all things Wegmans and a passion for innovative and delicious food, even when he’s not on the clock. “My home kitchen often turns into a test kitchen,” said Haines. “At Wegmans we want to help our customers love their veggies, so for three months, I prepared only vegetarian meals at home to increase my focus on them.” “If someone has a question about preparing a menu selection, our entire culinary team will be available to help,” Haines says. “This is our passion. We’ll demonstrate healthy cooking techniques like how to pan-sear tilapia, roast Brussels

sprouts, or make cod al forno so that it comes out perfect every time.” Midlothian is Wegmans’ 89th store, and the 8th in Virginia. The company’s first Virginia store opened in 2004 in Sterling (Dulles). Today, Wegmans has more than 4,300 employees in the state, with that number continuing to grow as stores open in Short Pump and Charlottesville later this year. “Our people are the true point of differentiation at Wegmans,” said Shelly. “We’re proud of what we’ve built here and excited to welcome customers into our store – and demonstrate what sets us apart as a new neighbor in the community. Opening day can’t get here fast enough!”

KROGER

include:

able, store associates will offer a substitution to the customer, which the customer may accept or decline. • Pharmacy prescriptions are not included in the program.

Continued from pg. 33

That feedback is what keeps us wanting to innovate and bring solutions to our shoppers’ everyday lives.” To use the ClickList service, the customer logs in to their account, creates their shopping list, selects a pick-up time and then places an order. Once an order is placed, a Kroger store associate shops the store to fulfill the order and stores it in temperature-appropriate zones until the customer arrives. When the customer arrives to the designated pick-up area a store associate loads the order into the customer’s car. Additional ClickList details

• Customers will visit Kroger.com/onlineshopping • A service charge of $4.95 is added to the total • Hours are from 7 a.m. – 8 p.m. daily • Orders placed before midnight are available for pick-up the next day at a specific time chosen by the customer. • Payment is made at time of pick-up, right from the customer’s car. • Coupons electronically linked to a customer’s loyalty card will automatically redeem to reduce the cost of the order. • Paper coupons will be deducted at time of pick up. • f an item is not avail-

VOTING BEGINS MAY 25

the

Locals h ice

Call your sales rep today • 746-1235

About Kroger’s Mid-Atlantic Division: The Mid-Atlantic Division operates 120 stores, 115 pharmacies and 86 fuel centers in Virginia, West Virginia, North Carolina and the eastern portions of Tennessee, Kentucky and Ohio. Headquartered in Roanoke, the Mid-Atlantic Division is dedicated to making a difference in the communities it serves by supporting hunger relief, women’s health, our troops and their families, local schools and grassroots organizations. Kroger is also a strong supporter of the Salvation Army, American Red Cross and organizations that promote the advancement of women and minorities. Last year, Kroger’s Mid-Atlantic Division contributed nearly $13 million to communities served. For more information, visit www.kroger.com.

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