The Mechanicsville Local – 10/02/19 by Mechanicsville-Ashland Local

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Vol. 36, No. 20 | Richmond Suburban News | October 2, 2019

STOPS AT EVERY HOME IN TOWN

ABC grant targets vaping dangers YADAPP is a peer leadership program that begins each summer when high schools and community groups send teams of four students, assisted by an adult sponsor, to a five-day kick-off conference. Teams broaden their knowledge of substance use prevention and work together to create the strategic prevention plans, Strategies to Act Now (STAN) Plans, to be implemented during the following school year. The Hanover County team, the Hanover Cares coalition dubbed Teens Care Too, advocated for local school policy changes to stem growing numbers of teens who vape. The coalition will use the grant money to further its e-cigarette prevention efforts

Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com RICHMOND – An anti-vaping effort aimed at educating teens and parents in Hanover County about the dangers of electronic cigarette use has been awarded a $500 grant from the Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority (ABC). The Wheeler Award, given annually to a school or organization participating in Virginia ABC’s Youth Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention Project (YADAPP), rewards ingenuity and successful completion of plans developed by student teams from all over the state who participate in the year-long YADAPP program.

Atlee High senior among National Merit semifinalists By Melody Kinser Managing Editor

continue in the competition for some 7,600 National Merit Scholarships worth more than MECHANICSVILLE – $31 million that A senior at Atlee will be offered High School has next spring. been named a semiWith Nick finalist for a 2020 having advanced National Merit to the semifinalist Scholarship. status in the scholNicholas E. arship program, Bannon is among he already has a 16,000 semifinalists list of universities in the 65th annual he is interested in program. BANNON attending, includThe Evanston, ing Northwestern, Illinois-based National Merit Duke, Princeton, George Scholarship Corporation Mason, and VCU. He did point selected the semifinalists who out that “nothing is final.” are described as academically When he heads to college, talented high school seniors that have an opportunity to see ATLEE pg. 13

Metro Creative Services

see VAPING, pg. 21

Photo submitted by Debbie Nininger

Debbie and Scott Nininger are shown with their daughter Haley. Once again, Scott finds himself in need of a kidney. Debbie is utilizing the media -- print and social -- in trying to find a donor. She gave him a kidney 21 years ago.

Lee-Davis Bands hosting Tournament of Champions Need for a kidney donor increases for local man Staff Report news@mechlocal.com

MECHANICSVILLE – Lee-Davis Bands will be presented the 24th Annual Tournament of Champions on Saturday, Oct. 19, with 30 bands from around the commonwealth competing in different classes for top honors in music, visual effects, percussion, and auxiliary. The competition is tentatively scheduled to begin at 10:30 a.m., with gates opening at 10 a.m. There will not be any parking in the Lee-Davis High School parking lots, and traffic may be heavy around the area

By Melody Kinser Managing Editor

Image courtesy of L-DHS Bands

throughout the day. Admission prices are $10 and $5 for students. The Lee-Davis Marching Band will be performing at 8:30 p.m. Concessions will be available for purchase throughout the event.

MECHANICSVILLE – The need for a kidney donor becomes increasingly dire with each day for Mechanicsville resident Scott Nininger. His wife Debbie has been using social media in her quest for a candidate whose kidney will be a match for Scott. An article appeared in the Sept. 11 edition of The Local as she continues to plead for a donor. Sadly, since last month’s

story, Scott’s kidney function is dropping. Debbie said they were going to be attending classes for peritoneal dialysis. “I have continued posting on Facebook, asking for prayer requests, and trying to put up postcards in order to continue my outreach,” she said. “Unfortunately, a lot of businesses will not allow me to put up any form of living donor request as they consider it ‘personally bensee KIDNEY, pg. 21

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MECHANICSVILLE -- The Atlee High School Marching Band is once again selling Spirit Cards, which offer discounts to many Mechanicsville area restaurants and businesses. The cards cost $10 each and the money raised will support the band.

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14 COMMUNITY

To purchase Spirit Cards, reach out to a Marching Band student, email atleebandboosters@ gmail.com or message Atlee Band Boosters on Facebook.

Vendors on this year’s Spirit Card include: Brunetti’s Express, Domino’s Pizza, Don Pedro II, For Posh Sake. Giovanni’s, Glassworks by Alex, Hanover Cleaners – Atlee, Industrial Tap House, Kreggers. Marty’s Grill, Mi Jalisco, Red Rooster Country Store, The Salty Pig, Stevi B’s, Subway. Tropical Smoothie, Zheng, and 301 Auto. To purchase Spirit Cards, reach out to a Marching Band student, email atleebandboosters@gmail.com, or message Atlee Band Boosters on Facebook. Shannon Broskie, speaking on behalf of the band, said, “Thank you in advance for your support of the Atlee Band programs.”

Town gets ready to roll with Train Day 2019.

Photo submitted by Pam Mentz

A watermelon carving contest recently was held at Black Creek, with a variety of creative entries competing.

16 KING WILLIAM Regional Animal Shelter has animals for adoption.

Heritage Green to celebrate 20 years Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com MECHANICSVILLE — Heritage Green Assisted Living and Memory Care is celebrating 20 years of providing care to seniors. In observance of the anniversary, festivities are scheduled from 4:30 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 17, at 7080 Brooks Farm Rd. in Mechanicsville

Residents, their families, and staff will be taking part in the 20-year commemoration. Musical entertainment will be provided by the Hanchin Jazz Trio. The event also will include hors d’oeuvres and beverages, with a champagne toast at 6 p.m. This event is free and open to the public. RSVPs are required by Monday, Oct. 14; call 804-746-7370.

ALSO… Incident Reports........3 Letters to the editor...6 Obituaries ..........10-11 Calendar ................. 20 TV grids..............22-24 Sports ................25-28 Church directory .... 29 Classifieds .........30-32

Absentee ballots available; registration deadline to vote nears (Editor’s note: The press release received from Hanover County listed the incorrect hours for Saturday voting. We published 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. when it is 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Also, Teresa Smithson, voter registrar, and her office did not submit the original article.) HANOVER -- If you qualify to

vote by absentee, you can obtain your ballot from the Voter Registration and Elections Office in the Wickham Building at Hanover Courthouse from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday in addition to Saturday on Oct. 26 and Nov. 2 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 15, is the deadline

to register or make changes to your voter registration in time for the Nov. 5 General Election. Check your voter registration to make sure it is correct. The Voter Registration and Elections Office will have special Saturday hours on Oct. 26 and Nov. 2 (8 a.m. to 4 p.m.) for In-Person

Absentee voting. Saturday, Nov. 2, will be the last day you can vote In-person absentee. Wednesday, Oct. 30, is the final day you can request an absentee ballot by mail. Monday, Nov. 4, at 2 p.m. is the cutoff for voting an emergency-

only absentee ballot in the Voter Registration and Elections Office. When going to the polls on Nov. 5, be sure to bring a photo ID. You can register to vote, update your information and request an Absentee Ballot online at www.vote. virginia.gov.

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

Shooting or throwing missiles at occupied vehicles was reported in the 8100 block of Woodbridge Road/Sussex Road, Mechanicsville. Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 7600 block of Mechanicsville Byway, Mechanicsville. Possession of marijuana, subsequent offense, was reported in the 7200 block of Trimiew Estate Lane/Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville. Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 11000 block of Washington Highway,

block of Washington Highway/Knotty Pine Lane, Glen Allen.

Road, Ashland.

Simple assault was reported in the 9500 block of Kings Charter Drive, Ashland.

Grand larceny, $500 or more not from a person, was reported in the 10400 block of Ashcake Road, Ashland.

Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 10100 block of Lewistown Road, Ashland. Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 7900 block of Colony Drive, Mechanicsville.

Simple assault was reported in the 7300 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.

Forging was reported in the 11600 block of Lakeridge Parkway, Ashland.

Driver did not report an accident with damages, $250, in the 17000 block of Tyler Station Road/ Woodsons Mill Road, Beaverdam.

Concealment, price altering merchandise, $500, was reported in the 7100 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville.

Possession of Schedule I and II controlled substance was reported in the 11000

Sept. 5

Obtaining money or signature by false pretenses was reported in the 6300 block of Dahlia Court, Mechanicsville.

Hit and run, personal injury,

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Operating a vehicle without ignition interlock was reported in the 800 block of England Street/South Hill Carter Parkway, Ashland.

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

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Grand larceny building was reported in the 2300 see SHERIFF’S, pg. 4

Studley Ruritan Club’s

First Annual Antique Car Show and Brunswick Stew Sale Saturday, October 12 10 AM to 2 PM Enon United Methodist Church 6156 Studley Road, Mechanicsville, VA

Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

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Grand larceny, auto theft, was reported in the 8200 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.

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Driver did not report an accident with damages, $1,000, in the 12000 block of West Patrick Henry

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was reported in the 8500 block of Shady Grove Road, Mechanicsville.

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Join us as local chefs will be preparing the stew for sale at $8 a quart to raise funds for presenting college scholarships to Hanover High students. The car show will feature cars made in 1985 or before. A trophy will be awarded to the most crowd-pleasing car. For more information, contact Tom Foster at (804) 789-9365.

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The Mechanicsville Local

October 2, 2019 3

Vendors needed for Craft Fair Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com MECHANICSVILLE – The Mechanicsville United Methodist Church will host a Craft Fair from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 14. Organizers are seeking vendors to take part in the event. The Craft Fair is a venue for

holiday shopping with a selection of local artisans and local small business. A “Reindeer Shop” for children ages 4 to 10 to shop for their families will be available, with each child being assisted by a helper assigned to them to help with their shopping needs see VENDORS, pg. 8

was reported in the 7100 block of Bridle Path, Mechanicsville.

SHERIFF’S Continued from pg. 3

block of Westwood Road, Mechanicsville.

Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 86 block of Sliding Hill Road, Ashalnd. Passing a stopped school bus loading or unloading was reported in the 10100 block of Cool Spring Road/New Ashcake Road, Mechanicsville. Possession of Schedule I and II controlled substance

Concealment, price altering merchandise, $500, was reported in the 7400 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.

Driving after forfeiture of license third in 10 years was reported in the 11200 block of Washington Highway/ Lewistown Road, Ashland.

Identity fraud use of identifying information to defraud was reported in the 6200 block of McClellan Road, Mechanicsville.

Little Bean Coffee Company opening soon By Melody Kinser Managing Editor MECHANICSVILLE – Brothers Jett and Micah Odle are living the American dream right here in Mechanicsville. This month, they’ll be opening Little Bean Coffee Company at 7032 Mechanicsville Tpk. As owners and founders, Jett and Micah have established themselves and Little Bean with a coffee cart at the main entrance of Memorial Regional Medical Center. “We are now opening a brick and mortar café on [U.S.] 360, across the street from Lee-Davis High School by A.C. Moore and CVS,” Jett said. The Odle brothers came to Mechanicsville from Colorado. Jett married local native Morgan Carlton, who graduated from Lee-Davis

in 2011. Jett and Morgan decided to settle in her hometown after they married. His brother Micah followed after graduating from Colorado State University. That’s when they decided to start Little Bean. According to Jett, his love for coffee started when he purchased a home coffee roaster. And how did Jett and Micah come up with the name Little Bean Coffee Company? Jett said he and Morgan called their daughter that before they agreed on a name. As for MRMC, Morgan is employed there and her and Jett’s daughter was born at the local hospital. Jett noted some highlights from the hospital location. He said they created the “I

Appreciate You a Latte” program with hospital leadership, where any Bon Secours employee can recognize their peers for lending a helping hand by entering them into a drawing to get a free coffee. They also served as a host business for one of VCU’s Project SEARCH participants. In addition to coffee, Jett said, “We will be proudly serving Williams Bakery baked goods.” The Odle brothers are working with local businesses as much as possible as they prepare for the opening on U.S. 360. “We are working with Graybeale Construction, a Mechanicsville-based business that does absolutely incredible work,” Jett said. He praised the relationship he has established with

cordially invites you to join us at our

20th Anniversary Celebrat atiti Thursday, October 17th at 4:30- 7:00pm m Enjoy elegant cocktails, hors d’oeuvres & jazz music by The Russ Hanchin Trio. Kindly RSVP by October 14th by calling 804-723-1336 7080 Brooks Farm Road, Mechanicsville, VA 23111 • www.heritagegreenhanover.com 4

The Mechanicsville Local

October 2, 2019

Ryan Bradley of Graybeale, saying he “is a great guy who is deeply involved in the community. I can’t say enough good things about him and his company.” “We are committing a percentage of our profits back to the community through our Monthly Giveback program. Each month, on a rotating basis, one employee will pick any cause that they would like to give a donation,” Jett said. “We are not going to limit it to non-profits, instead leaving it almost entirely up to the employee where the money goes. We firmly believe that the people most primed to do good in the community are those who live, work, and attend school here, so we will be putting few limitations on how the money can be spent.”

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OPINION | The Local Views

LETTERS

From the managing editor

| Reader Views

Conversation remains best way to communicate

Resident offers suggestion on identifying schools

By Melody Kinser Managing Editor he conversation lasted about 20 minutes, and we covered a number of topics. But the caller has something significant in common with me. We’re both high school graduates of the Class of 1974. Her alma mater is Lee-Davis High School and she and her classmates are preparing for a 45-year reunion this month. We have publicized it frequently, because, as we all know, the best “word of mouth” comes in print. She called to talk about some last-minute publicity as they’re trying to get as many L-DHS ’74

grads to attend. Unfortunately, I told her, I wasn’t able to get back to West Virginia for my reunion, which was held in July. The conversation then turned to previous reunions and the amount of time involved in planning one. That’s why it is imperative for classmates to submit their registration in advance. There is so much planning to do to coordinate a successful event, and have time to be able to visit and catch up with one another. We also got to talking about music and what a major influence the sounds of that era still have on us today. There is very little I could tell you about music from the 21st century. For those who know me well, it’s no secret that

I am a talker. And I do enjoy chatting with new people, gaining their perspectives and learning about their lives in Hanover County. That’s how the conversation on Thursday, Sept. 19, went. We just talked and talked and talked. And I thoroughly enjoyed it. Since I couldn’t attend my reunion, I joked that I might crash the L-DHS 1974 event. She welcomed me, and I know she was sincere. While I appreciate the invitation, I’ll sit this one out and send best wishes for a wonderful night of reminiscing and catching up. Hey, but don’t forget about me when the 50th reunion comes up.

Tradition continues: It’s State Fair time in Virginia By Jim Ridolphi Contributing Columnist Just when you feel that first chill in the air, it’s a good reminder that the State Fair of Virginia is just around the corner. It’s a tradition Virginians have enjoyed for many years. The location and attractions may have changed over the years as it moved from Henrico County to its current Caroline County location, but the fun and excitement of a day at the fair have not.

When I began attending, the State Fair was a big deal, worthy of a halfday off from school and a free ticket handed out by the teacher. We called it School Day at the fair, and many of my friends would make it a point to attend on that day so we could all frolic and explore together. The fair was a different place then, a bit seedier with more strange attractions. The freak shows, burlesque tents, and other oddities were things you saw only when the fair came to town. It brought with it a strange cast

Editorial & Business Office and Mailing Address: 8460 Times-Dispatch Blvd. Mechanicsville, VA 23116 Phone – (804) 746-1235 Toll free – (877) 888-0449 Fax – (804) 730-0476 Online: www.mechlocal.com

Publisher Managing Editor Production Manager Sports Editor Sales Representative Classifieds

Joy Monopoli

jmonopoli@RSNVA.com

Melody Kinser

mkinser@mechlocal.com

Denine D’Angelo

ddangelo@mechlocal.com

David Lawrence

Dlawrence@mechlocal.com

Tom Haynie

thaynie@mechlocal.com

Cindy Adams

cadams@mechlocal.com

of characters that introduced you to a strange but intriguing world outside of our comfort zones. The State Fair of Virginia is now a well-run professionally-operated display of agriculture, crafts, and manufactured goods combined with carnival rides and well-produced stage shows. It has regained its family-friendly image as it begins its run at Meadow Park. The smells are the same, and there are still plenty of school children who visit the fair daily.

But the fair is more than a display of the latest rides and the world’s unhealthiest foods. It’s an educational wonderland where the possibilities are endless, and it gives kids of all ages an opportunity to glance into the world of agriculture in Virginia. There are hundreds of prize-winning animals to inspect, enough informational booths to satisfy anyone’s curiosity about just about any subject and a glimpse back to a simpler time in Virginia. see FAIR, pg. 8

WE WANT TO PUBLISH YOUR ISSUE-DRIVEN LETTERS The Local welcomes your signed letters to the editor on topics of interest to Mechanicsville residents. Letters must include your address and a daytime telephone number. We reserve the right to edit letters. We do not guarantee that every letter received will be published. Letters reflect the opinions and positions of the writers and not The Mechanicsville Local. Send letters to: The Mechanicsville Local 8460 Times-Dispatch Blvd. Mechanicsville, Va. 23116 Fax: 730-0476 E-mail: editor@mechlocal.com © 2019 by Richmond Suburban Newspapers. All advertising and editorial matter is fully protected and may not be reproduced in any manner without the permission of the publisher. CAC Audited Circulation: 31,156.

I appreciate the strongly felt citizen angst on both sides concerning our school names. To help resolve this, I propose that we implement a national government school identifier code. The ID convention would be GS-State Code-County Code-School Level code-Identifier. For example, Virginia’s code might be 46; Hanover County’s code might be 42; the code for School Level might be H (High School); the Identifier for Atlee might be 1. Given this example, Atlee High School would become GS-46-42-H-1. I can hear the fans in the stadium chanting wildly: "Go GS-46-42-H-1 –ers! Fight! Fight! Fight!” I’ll admit, however, that this gives me pause as I contemplate what the school song might have to be. I hope that this helps. Tom Mulvehill Mechanicsville

Voter will be writing in Peace for House seat In response to the letter from Nick Colette, Hanover Republican Committee chairman, regarding the write-in idea. As a citizen of Hanover County, I take my responsibility to vote when needed to vote very strongly. Prior to the so called “convention of The Republican Party,” I was informed by the media this convention was going to be held at Hanover High School as opposed to a voting primary. Then we were told this convention was cancelled. No further mass notice was given to “now we are having this convensee LETTERS, pg. 8

The Mechanicsville Local

October 2, 2019

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The Mechanicsville Local

October 2, 2019

LETTERS Continued from pg. 6

tion at Atlee High School”. Had I know in advance I would have been there. I personally went by Atlee High School for another matter when this “convention” was taking place. My thoughts were “What was happening at the school?” Little did I know that Chris Peace voters were being

denied their right to support him. Yes, Mr. Colette, Chris Peace was “thrown under the bus.” If you doubted that, just look at the turnout of voters at the firehouse election. I was in that line that wrapped around the building. I take offense at the notion Chris Peace has let the citizens of Hanover County down. If this county was so bad under all those years, why is this county so desirable? My response: Because of Chris

ur O g in a r ! rat d Ye b le n Ce 1 22

A 122 Year Tradition of Caring

Peace. Maybe all his voting did not make all citizens happy, but no one can do that. I have indicated on the Scott Wyatt website and Facebook page that I could not give my vote to a candidate that won by such a one-sided practice as I witnessed. I will be one of the voters writing in my vote for Chris Peace. I can only hope others will follow. Our voters need to be heard and have a fair convention or primary. Faye Smith Mechanicsville

Robocall didn’t include Peace in voter options I recently received a Robocall for a survey regard-

ing the upcoming election for the 97th District of the Virginia House of Delegates. There were four options: 1. Vote for Republican Scott Wyatt. 2. Vote for Democrat Kevin Washington 3. Undecided. 4. Not voting. As it happens, none of those options apply to me. I tried to get through to a person to explain my intention to write-in the incumbent, Republican Chris Peace, with my vote, but was locked into those four options. So I hung up without answering. I didn’t have the presence of mind at the beginning of the call to write down the name of the polling organization, but I sure wish I had. Any pollster for this district that does not acknowledge the possibility of a write-in decision

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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 pre-planning consultation.

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The Mechanicsville Local

October 2, 2019

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is either ignorant of the facts on the ground or intentionally trying to manipulate the results by forcing a binary decision. The facts are: (1) Scott Wyatt received roughly 245 votes at the convention held on May 4th. (2) Chris Peace received 2,271 votes in the firehouse primary held on June 1st. (3) Even though Del. Peace chose to concede to the results of the May 4th convention rather than engage in protracted legal proceedings, there are many of the 2,271 June 1st voters who are disappointed with his decision and are actively promoting Peace as a write-in candidate. It is disingenuous of any political entity to acknowledge only the first fact and ignore the other two. A good poll should measure the actual inclinations of the participants of the poll. It should not try to force a particular result. This was not a good poll. Geoff Johnson Mechanicsville

FAIR Continued from pg. 6

Even with the improved facilities and expanded attractions, the essence of the fair remains the same. Children still wait in line to climb in a state trooper’s car or climb gleefully on shiny new tractors, and the magic of animals and agriculture still capture the attention of the most devoted city dwellers. The excitement of the midway, the insistence of barkers

VENDORS Continued from pg. 4

from start to finish. The children will have the opportunity to purchase gifts for the whole family and friends. The gifts will be boxed or bagged and wrapped before they leave the reindeer shop

L-DHS ’74 class reunion set Oct. 19 Staff Report news@mechlocal.com MECHANICSVILLE – Members of the Lee-Davis-High School Class of 1974 are reminded to get their tickets for the 45th class reunion, which will be held from 5 to 9 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 19, at Creamfield Farm at 10572 Summer Hill Rd. in Studley. The evening will include food and drink (BYOB), entertainment provided by the band MOZO, 50/50, a silent auction, and catching up with classmates. Tickets are $50 per person and available at the Mechanicsville Drug Store or by mailing your checks to L-D Class of 1974 Reunion, Mechanicsville Drug Store, P.O. Box 7, Mechanicsville VA 23111 (make checks payable to L-D Class of ‘74). enticing customers to sample their goods or the smell of freshly fried onion rings is a combination that’s hard to beat. There’s something for everyone at the State Fair, whether it’s a prize-winning watermelon the size of a Volkswagen, or just appreciating the skill it requires to make a homemade quilt. And for people watchers, it’s an event that has no equal. It all began on Friday, Sept. 27. Trust me, you’ll feel better with a little sawdust under your feet. area so that there is no peeking. For vendor registration, or more information, go to www. mechumc.org and select the community tab. More information also may be obtained by calling the church office at 804-7465118 or emailing Nancy Reid at nbreid@comcast.net.

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The Mechanicsville Local

October 2, 2019

OBITUARIES | Death Notices & Funerals

BALDWIN

BALDWIN, A. Bruce, 71, of Mechanicsville, Va., passed away Thursday, September 26, 2019. He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Marion Baldwin. Bruce is survived by his loving wife,

Annette Baldwin; his son, Casey Baldwin (Tabitha); his daughters, Jennifer Lopez (Steve) and Darbi Fretwell; his brother, Bobby Baldwin (Betty); his sister, Judy Christopher (Barry); eight grandchildren and his beloved dog, Ozzy. Bruce went to Lee-Davis High School. After graduation, he served our country in the United States Navy. He went on to work for Verizon for 31 years. After a brief retirement, he came back to work for them as a contractor for another 12 years. The family received friends Tuesday,

October 8, 2019, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Monaghan Funeral Home, 7300 Creighton Pkwy., Mechanicsville, Va. 23111. A graveside service will be held Wednesday, October 9, 2019, at 1 p.m. at Signal Hill Memorial Park.

CARR, Jean Swingle, 75, of Studley, Va., passed away on September 14, 2019. She is survived by her loving husband of 52 years, Thomas Hawkins Carr Sr.; her three children, Stacey Carr Leber,

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Thomas Hawkins Carr Jr. and Frank Clifton Carr; and nine grandchildren. Jean loved being outdoors, camping, traveling and exploring any beach she could find. She loved taking care of others, both at work and volunteering in the community. She was a registered nurse for over 41 years in local hospitalsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; operating rooms. She was an adult leader in the Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts (while her children participated for years after). She loved to sing in the choir at Battery Park Christian Church, where she also taught Sunday school and served on multiple boards. Services will be private. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to an Alzheimerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s research group near you in the hopes of finding a cure for this terrible disease.

LEBER

LEBER, Clara Barker â&#x20AC;&#x153;Bitsy,â&#x20AC;? joined her family on the other side of the veil September 23, 2019. She was preceded in death by her husband, Lewis T. Leber Sr.; and a son, Walter S. Leber. She is survived by four children, Lewis T. Leber Jr. (Vickie), Mary L. DeAtley (Robert), Debra L. Dalton (Hal) and Charles G. Leber (Stacey); 12 grandchildren, Tammy L. Cheek (Ryan),

Jessica L. Lafferty (Jarrett), Jason K. Leber, Robert L. DeAtley (Logan), Brian A. DeAtley (Nikki), Carrington L. DeAtley, Joseph H. Dalton Jr. (Marie), Jonathan T. Dalton (Nan), Madison N. Dalton, Julia H. Leber, Kellie L. Bohanan (Ben) and Samantha F. Leber; and 12 great-grandchildren. Bitsy worked for Hanover County and retired from driving a school bus and working in the cafeteria. She was a devoted member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She served in many capacities, but her love of temple work and genealogy became her passion. Eighteen years of service in the Washington, D.C., Temple, that she and friends traveled to every Tuesday from Mechanicville, was a testimony of faith see OBITUARIES, pg. 11

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Alzheimerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s warning signs to be addressed at PWC MECHANICSVILLE â&#x20AC;&#x201C; The â&#x20AC;&#x153;10 Warning Signs of Alzheimerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Diseaseâ&#x20AC;? will be addressed at the Pamunkey Womanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Club at 6 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 21, at the Mechanicsville Baptist Church. Tina Thomas, director of Programs and Services for the Alzheimerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Association, will be

OBITUARIES Continued from pg. 11

and love for her Savior Jesus Christ. Bitsy was an example to her family, friends and fellow church members. The memory of her unfiltered wit, wisdom and love will live long in our hearts, as she will be sorely missed by all. The family received friends Sunday, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Mechanicsville Chapel of Bennett Funeral Home, 8014 Lee-Davis Road. Funeral services were held 11:30 a.m. Monday, September 30, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 8005 Atlee Road, Mechanicsville, Va.

the keynote speaker. For more information about the meeting, or becoming a club member, contact Peggy Arnold, club membership chairman, at 804-723-4156 or check out the club on Facebook at facebook. com/pamunkeywc.

23111, with interment following in Signal Hill Memorial Park.

RAINES

RAINES, Charles â&#x20AC;&#x153;Buddyâ&#x20AC;? R., 76, of Richmond, went to be with the Lord September 24, 2019.

He is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Sarah Raines; daughter, Pattie Weber (Geoff Prather); grandson, A.J. Weber; friend, Justin Weber; brother, Bill Raines (Jessie); three nieces, Trisha Bell, Pam Elliott and Sarah Lyons; and two nephews, Herbie Raines and Ted Lyons. The family received friends 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, at the Mechanicsville Chapel of Bennett Funeral Home, 8014 Lee-Davis Road. Graveside services were held 11 a.m. Tuesday, October 1, in Washington Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Hanover Humane Society.

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Superintendent, retired employees Spring Classic Car Cruise In set leader discuss working together Saturday at Bass Pro in Ashland Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com

ASHLAND -Dr. Michael Gill, superintendent of Hanover County Public Schools, recently met with Deborah Roane, president of the Hanover Retired School Employees Association (HRSEA), to discuss ways her organization can help support the needs of the school system by volunteering their time. The HRSEA will hold its fall meeting at 1 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 10, at The Hanover Center for Trades and Technology (THCTT) at 10002 Learning Lane in Mechanicsville. The association enjoys light refreshments that are prepared and served by the THCTT Culinary Students. Retired Hanover County Public School employees, old and new, are invited to come

Submitted photo

Deborah Roane, left, president of the Hanover Retired School Employees Association (HRSEA), recently met with Dr. Michael Gill, superintendent of Hanover County Public Schools.

out to meet old friends and make new friends. Among the topics addressed at HRSEA meetings are the Virginia Retirement System (VRS), healthcare, insurance, travel, technology and more. In the past they have supported HCPS with Back to

School Supplies, the Food Bank, and the American Red Cross monetary donations for disaster relief. Members, guests and those interested in joining the Hanover Retired School Employees Association (HRSEA) are invited to attend the fall meeting.

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

SHLAND -- Hanover County Parks and Recreation will be hosting the spring Classic Car Cruise In from 4 to 7 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 5, at Bass Pro at 11550 Lakeridge Pkwy. in Ashland. Marcy G. Durrer, recreation program director of Hanover County Parks and Recreation, said, “Beautiful classic automobiles (pre-1994) will be showcased while sounds of the ’50s, ’60s and ’70s play in the background. This free event is open to the public and is a sure hit for the whole family.” Sponsored goodie bags will be given to those that drive their classics to cruise in. For those who are classic automobile owners, claim dibs on your space for the Cruise In. Online registration is available at https://tinyurl.com/CruiseInFall2019, or you may register at the event,

“Food trucks will be serving up delicious Cruise In favorite dishes, including the ever-popular cheeseburger and fries! Come hungry and make an entire evening of this great event.” MARCY G. DURRER Hanover County Parks & Rec

but spaces do fill up. Door prize drawings will presented throughout the evening for all registered owners. “Food trucks will be serving up delicious Cruise In favorite dishes, including the everpopular cheeseburger and fries! Come hungry and make an entire evening of this great event,” Durrer added. For more information, contact Hanover Parks & Recreation at 804-365-7150 parksandrec@hanovercounty.gov.

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ATLEE Continued from pg. 1

he said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I plan to major in both Computer Science and Musical Theatre. However, I may decide to minor in Musical Theatre rather than major, depending on the school I attend.â&#x20AC;? Music already has a strong influence in his extracurricular activities. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am active in theatre and music within my school and community, including activities such as show choir, plays, musicals, vocal concerts, the International Thespian Society, and my schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s resident improv [improvisation] team.â&#x20AC;? He did offer some advice for students pursuing such a prestigious scholarship: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Work and study hard, but leave yourself time to relax. Find a hobby that you truly enjoy and dive into that world. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t live your life

trying to participate in activities that support your image; follow your interests; learn what interests you, and you will find that you become excited about learning. If you ever begin to struggle, there is nothing wrong with asking for help. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t let confusion hold you back; let it motivate you to learn and master.â&#x20AC;? To be considered for a Merit ScholarshipÂŽ award, semifinalists must fulfill several requirements to advance to the finalist level of the competition. Over 90 percent of the semifinalists are expected to attain finalist standing, and about half of the finalists will win a National Merit Scholarship, earning the Merit ScholarÂŽ title. NMSC, a not-for-profit organization that operates without government assistance, was established in 1955 specifically to conduct the annual National Merit

Scholarship Program. Scholarships are underwritten by NMSC with its own funds and by about 400 business organizations and higher education institutions that share NMSCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s goals of honoring the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s scholastic champions and encouraging the pursuit of academic excellence. Over 1.5 million juniors in about 21,000 high schools entered the 2020 National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the 2018 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQTÂŽ), which served as an initial screen of program entrants. The nationwide pool of semifinalists, representing less than one percent of U.S. high school seniors, includes the highest-scoring entrants in each state. The number of semifinalists in a state is

proportional to the stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s percentage of the national total of graduating seniors. To become a finalist, the semifinalist and a high school official must submit a detailed scholarship application, in which they provide information about the semifinalistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s academic record, participation in school and community activities, demonstrated leadership abilities, employment, and honors and awards received. A semifinalist must have an outstanding academic record throughout high school, be endorsed and recommended by a high school official, write an essay, and earn SATÂŽ or ACTÂŽ scores that confirm the

studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s earlier performance on the qualifying test. From the nearly 16,000 semifinalists, about 15,000 are expected to advance to the finalist level, and in February they will be notified of this designation. All National Merit Scholarship winners will be selected from this group of finalists. Merit Scholar designees are selected on the basis of their skills, accomplishments, and potential for success in rigorous college studies, without regard to gender, race, ethnic origin, or religious preference. For more information about the competition, visit NMSCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website at www. nationalmerit.org.

Costume Party Bingo set today MECHANICSVILLE â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Heritage Green Assisted Living and Memory Care is calling all goblins, ghouls, and seniors to dig out their best disguise for a game of Costume Party Bingo at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 9, at 7080 Brooks Farm Rd. in Mechanicsville Play a few rounds of bingo for your chance to win some mystery prizes, including the grand prize: dinner and movie tickets. Prizes will be awarded for attendees wearing the most original, best, and funniest costume, and more.

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| Education, Business & Celebrations

Zeiglers share experience of a safari in East Africa

Photo submitted by Jim Zeigler

Marlene and Jim Zeigler are shown with a copy of The Mechanicsville Local during their safari, which included this scene near the Mara River and Kenya border in the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania.

(Editor’s note: The following was submitted by James P. Zeigler, Ph.D., of Mechanicsville, who shared the experience he and his wife Marlene had on a safari in East Africa. He is a retired principal investigator at the DuPont Spruance Plant.) A common image of Africa is the umbrella tree. These trees have a flat top and branched high above the ground, out of the reach of elephants and the tallest giraffe. These trees are the iconic image of the Serengeti Plain of Tanzania where we were recently fortunate to visit. Tanzania was formed from the merger of Zanzibar and Tanganyika lies in 1964. It is located on the Indian Ocean in

East Africa between Kenya to the north and Mozambique to the south and Lake Victoria to the west. The northern border falls just south of the equator but the weather in the Serengeti and major northern game parks is surprisingly mild. Arusha, which is the hub of the game viewing tourism, lies at 4,600 feet. This results in a much milder climate than you would expect that close to the equator. Early morning lows are in the 60s and midafternoon highs in the low to mid-80s, then rapid cooling after sunset. They only have a wet and a dry season with little variation in temperature. While Arusha has a region-

The Mechanicsville Local

October 2, 2019

al airport from which flights radiate to the various unpaved air fields spread across the Tanzania, international traveler arrive at Mt. Kilimanjaro International Airport at the base of, you guessed it, 19,000foot Mt. Kilimanjaro. There are a number of accommodations ranging in price and quality in Arusha and the Kilimanjaro region to serve those who plan to trek Africa’s tallest mountain, plan to visit the parks and game preserves around Arusha or prepare for extended travel to distance game reserves and parks. Our plan was to visit several of the more famous and popular parks in northern Tanzania. After arriving at Kilimanjaro International Airport, we spent the first night at the base of 15,000-foot Mount Meru close to Arusha. The guest house was located in a coffee plantation, one of the export crops for which this area is famous. Our itinerary included several days at tented camps in Tarangire National Park and near the Mara River and Kenya border in northern Serengeti Conservation Area. This was “glamping” not camping. The tents at both camps were fitted with queen size beds, electrical light, carpets floors, showers and flush toilets. The meals where interesting compositions of Middle Eastern,

Photo submitted by Jim Zeigler

Among the animals Marlene and Jim Zeigler saw during their safari were top, hippomatuses, below left, an elephant, and, below right, a lioness with her cub.

European and African cuisine. Each sundown was celebrated with libations and mornings started with fresh coffee. Our routine at these safari camps consisted of early morning and late afternoon game drives. We left at sunrise in the morning and returned at sunset. Like the animals we came to see we rested during the hot-

test time of day. We traveled by safari car. These are modified Toyota Land Cruisers fitted with multiple rows of bucket seats and open tops. Each vehicle was driven by a trained guide who has extensive knowledge of the animals, their behavior and the local area. The rangers took us close to the animals, but had strict

rules to protect us from the animals. At night, camp personnel maintained guard against dangerous animals near the tents. It was common to see see SAFARI, pg. 19

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

Train Day rolling into town Nov. 2 Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com

Joel Klein for The Local (file photo)

The Hanover Arts & Activities Center was represented in the 2018 Olde Time Holiday Parade in Ashland.

Kiwanis Club gears up for holiday parade Staff Report news@mechlocal.com ASHLAND — For the 50th year, Santa Claus will be making an early visit to the Town of Ashland on the Sunday before Thanksgiving to take part in the Olde Time Holiday Parade. The 2019 parade is scheduled to kick off at 2 p.m.

on Nov. 24. Tradition continues with the Kiwanis Club of Ashland once again organizing the event. About 100 entries normally make their way along the parade route. In order for the Kiwanis see PARADE, pg. 17

MAP, Kiwanis partner to present Casino Royale Staff Report news@mechlocal.com GLEN ALLEN – Market Ashland Partnership (MAP) and the Kiwanis Club of Ashland will present the 6th Annual Casino Royale will be held from 6:30 to 11 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 5, at The Federal Golf Club at 13450 Palmers Way in Glen Allen. All proceeds support Hanover County Public Schools for scholarships and supplies.

ASHLAND – Ashland Train Day, a signature event of Downtown Ashland Association now in its 17th year, is set to take place in the heart of historic downtown Ashland from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 2. Ashland Train Day is a free and family-friendly event. With a list of activities and attractions that continues to grow each year, Ashland Train Day brings thousands of families and railfans into downtown each November to share in Ashland’s love of trains. “This November we will host all of the Ashland Train Day favorites -- live CSX and Amtrak trains rolling right through the middle of our event, real railroad equipment, model trains, touch-a-truck, live music, food, and more,” said Maggie Longest, executive director of Downtown Ashland Association. “New this year, thanks to a grant from American Evolution as part of the 2019 Commemoration, we are excited to partner with

Joel Klein for The Local (file photo)

The Rappahannock Model Railroaders model train display attracted railroad fans young and old alike at the 2018 Train Day.

Ashland Museum and The Hanover County Black Heritage Society to present a scavenger hunt and new exhibits to take visitors on the journey of building Virginia’s railroads and the communities like Ashland that were shaped and impacted,” Longest added.

2019 ASHLAND TRAIN DAY HIGHLIGHTS

LOCOMOTIVES: Up to 18 CSX freight trains and Amtrak passenger trains will pass through the center of the event. RAILROAD HISTORY & LORE: Two museums, three storytellers,

and a 10-stop scavenger hunt bring Virginia’s railroad history to life. (Sponsored by the 2019 Commemoration). MODEL TRAINS: 17 model trains on display— every size and scale, including Lego and racing trains. Plus, vintage railroad equipment see TRAIN, pg. 17

‘Yoga and Your Health’ to be presented Oct. 23 Staff Report news@mechlocal.com

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Tickets may be purchased at www.ashlandvakiwanis.org.

ASHLAND – “Yoga and Your Health” will be the keynote program for the At Home in Ashland Educational Series, which will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 23, at the Ashland Branch Library Multi-purpose Room at 201 S. Railroad Ave. in Ashland. Rachel Machacek, LWS, MSW, a social worker in Palliative Medicine at Bon Secours Mercy Health, will deliver the

address starting at 2 p.m. A meeting will begin at 3 p.m. with Beth Harrison, chair, and Jerry Shalf, M.D., treasurer. The wrap-up and close are schedMACHACEK uled for 4 p.m. Registration and refreshments will be available at 1:30 p.m.

The event is presented free of charge and is open to the public. ----At Home In Ashland (AHA) is a volunteer 501(c)(3) organization committed to helping seniors age in place in Ashland; offering events, education, and other resources. The Educational Series is held quarterly to bring AHA members and the public together to learn about health and wellness innovations offered by educational partner, Bon Secours Medical Group as part of Bon Secours Mercy Health.

The Mechanicsville Local

October 2, 2019 15

KING WILLIAM COUNTY | Serving the communities of Aylett, King William, Manquin, Mangohick and Walkerton

Strong Men and Women exhibition to open Sunday Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com SALUDA -- The Middlesex County Museum and Historical Society Inc. will host the 2019 Strong Men and Women in Virginia History traveling exhibition from Oct. 2 through Nov. 6. Bessida White said the annual program recognizes African Americans, past and present, that have made noteworthy contributions to the commonwealth. The 2019 Strong Men and Women honorees

are Lawrence A. Davies, minister and civic leader, Fredericksburg; Fannie W. Fitzgerald, educator and elementary school supervisor, Prince William County. Gladys B. West, mathematician and technology pioneer, King George County; William T. Stone, judge and civic leader, Williamsburg; Andrew Jackson White Sr., minister and community activist, Petersburg. Kwame Alexander, writer and youth advocate, Fairfax County; and Deanna Reed, mayor and mentor, Harrisonburg.

Riverside offering flu shots in region

This exhibition from the Library of Virginia is made possible with support from Dominion Energy. The exhibition opening program will be held at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 6, at the Antioch Baptist Church at 159 Oakes Landing Rd. in Saluda. The Rev. White, a King and Queen native, preacher, community activist, and Strong Men and Women honoree, will be the keynote speaker. A highlight of the program will be the presentation of the 2019 Middlesex Museum Preservation Award, a recognition given annu-

ally for efforts to document and preserve the history of Middlesex County. This year’s award will be presented to the Reverend Robert D. Brown and the Reverend Fred D. Holmes Jr. as representatives and only surviving members of the Black Church Cultural Affairs Committee. In 1994, this group published what remains the only comprehensive history of African Americans in Middlesex County. Deceased members of the committee

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Hospital – 9 a.m. to noon Thursday, Oct. 24, in the first floor lobby at 618 Hospital Rd. in Tappahannock.

Library programs for October listed Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com HANOVER – Librarian Carolyn Garner has announced the programs for October at the Upper King William Branch Library at 694-J Sharon Rd. in King William. Yoga for Seniors -Tuesday, Oct. 8, 15, 22 and 29,

11 to noon. Pull up a chair and learn some yoga moves from a certified yoga instructor. For more information, call 804769-3731 or visit the library. Make a Scare Crow -- Tuesday, Oct. 8, 6:15 to 7:15 p.m. Make ’n’ take your own personally designed Scare

The Mechanicsville Local

see LIBRARY, pg. 17

October 2, 2019

Third Union Baptist hosting Men’s Day event Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com

Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com As part of its commitment to building a healthier community, Riverside Health System will administer free flu shots throughout the regions it serves in Gloucester and Tappahannock. Free flu shots will be available for ages 14 and up while supplies last. Riverside Walter Reed Hospital – 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 24, in the Conference Room at 7519 Hospital Dr. in Gloucester. Riverside Tappahannock

see STRONG, pg. 17

Photos submitted by Regional Animal Shelter

The Regional Animal Shelter has healthy dogs, puppies, cats and kittens available for adoption like those seen here. For more information, call 804-769-4983. The shelter is located at 20201 King William Rd. in King William.

KING WILLIAM – Third Union Baptist Church, located at 452 Walkerton Rd. in King William County, will host its Annual Men’s Day Celebration on Sunday, Oct. 13. The Rev. Dr. Wilbert D. Talley, pastor, will preach the morning service at 11 a.m. Dinner will be served at 1 p.m. At 3 p.m., a 100 Men in Black service will be held as part of Men’s Day. “Men on a Mission for Christ” is the theme, with the scripture reference coming from Matthew 28:19-20. The Guest Preacher for the afternoon will be Rev. Dr. A. Lincoln James Jr., pastor of the Trinity Baptist Church of Richmond. He will be accompanied by his choir, ushers and entire congregation. In addition, the Jerusalem Baptist Church Men’s Chorus of Westmoreland and the ushers of the Fifth Baptist Church of Richmond will be special guest. For more information, call the church office at 804-769-3123 or visit www. ThirdUnionBaptistChurch.com.

STRONG Continued from pg. 16

will be acknowledged. Following the program at Antioch there will be an opportunity to view the exhibition and to have refreshments at the Middlesex County Museum at 777 General Puller Hwy. in

LIBRARY Continued from pg. 16

Crow. Supplies will be provided. Call 804-769-3731 or visit the library or go to the online calendar to sign up. Pumpkin Decorating Contest -- Wednesday, Oct. 16, 6 to 7 p.m. Get into the Halloween spirit by decorating a pumpkin. Call 804-769-3731 or go to the online calendar to sign up.

Continued from pg. 15

and a red caboose! TOUCH-A-TRUCK: Gear heads of all ages will be amazed at the display of heavy equipment, fire truck and ambulance, dump trucks and tractors. (Sponsored by RCI Builders). KID ZONE: A world of fun with a bouncy house,

Saluda. This program is free and open to the public. It is co-sponsored by Middlesex County NAACP Unit 7091 and Middle Peninsula African-American Genealogical and Historical Society. For more information about the exhibition and program, call 804-758-5163 or visit www.middlesexmuseum.com. Crafting Hour -Saturday, Oct. 26, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Visit the library and unleash your creativity. Supplies will be provided. Call 804-769-3731 or visit the library. Family Storytimes – Wednesdays, Oct. 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30, 10:30 a.m. Call 804769-3731 or visit the library. Carolyn Garner may be contacted at 804-746-3176 or cgarner@pamunkeylibrary.org.

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obstacle course, and games. (Sponsored by McKinney & Company.) LIVE MUSIC STAGE: Bluegrass, country, and oldtime musicians take center stage. (Sponsored by CSX). CHILDREN’S TRAIN RIDES: Two kiddie trains invite families to tour the festivities. All aboard! (Sponsored by Carey Construction Services). ASHLAND TRAIN

DAY AMBASSADORS: Cinder and Tinder, the lovable train engineer bears will be on hand for hugs and photos. VIRTUAL RAILFAN: 7 million viewers tune in every month to watch trains live-streamed and Ashland is one of the site’s most popular locations. Wave to thousands watching on Train Day! HEADQUARTERS: More than 100 community

volunteers make the event possible, along with first responders from Ashland, Hanover, Randolph-Macon College, and CSX. (Sponsored by Wawa) For more details about Ashland Train Day, visit ashlandtrainday.com. A detailed schedule, map (including parking and trolley pick-up locations), and full list of vendors will be made available closer to the event.

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and ends at Archie Canon Boulevard. Organizations that have not participated in the past but would like to be consider for this year’s parade may apply at https://www.surveymonkey. com/r/AshlandParade. Adding entries after the lineup has been established is difficult and may prove impossible. For more information, email ashlandkiwanis@gmail. com.

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The Mechanicsville Local

October 2, 2019

Continued from pg. 14

giraffes, buffalo, zebra, elephant, and many species of antelopes and gazelles grazing in these parks. In the trees and overhead, multiple bird species were visible whether they were foraging, scavenging or preying on other animals. Lions and leopards required the special knowledge of the guides to locate. With the help of our guide at our first camp, we were able to watch a young lioness move her three young cubs, one at a time, from one burrow to another, over a quarter mile away. At our last camp, our guide placed us in position to watch a pride of lions awake from their afternoon naps, gather together and begin their evening hunt. We visited two significant geographic locations – each special for different reasons. Ngorongoro Crater is the world’s largest, intact, unfilled volcanic caldera measuring 10 by 12 miles across. The rim rises 2,000 feet above the crater floor. It is a unique microenvironment with damp weather on the east side and dry weather on the west side. It is densely populated with large game animals, including buffalo, elephants, hippopotamuses, zebra, antelope, baboons, lions, leopards, hyena, jackals and rhinoceros. The crater floor is open for visitation during daylight – visitors climb the rim for

overnight accommodations. Oldupai Gorge is north of Ngorongoro Crater on the south eastern edge of the Serengeti Plain. It is significant for scientific reasons. Incorrectly named Olduvai by the early German explorers, the gorge serendipitously formed over the location of an ancient lakeshore. The eroded banks of the gorge provide anthropologists with the fossils from multiple generations of early hominids, their tools and the animals on which they fed. Louis and Mary Leakey spent their professional careers working in this gorge, which is still an active, international anthropological excavation. A world-class museum on the banks of the gorge interprets the significance of this location in understanding the origins and development of mankind. The Serengeti Plains begins north of the Ngorongoro Crater and stretch north and west across the border into the Maasai Mara Reserve in Kenya. The plain is relatively flat, crisscrossed by dry ravines that are filled in the rainy season. The few trees are found along these dry creek beds. This is where you see the umbrella trees that are the iconic image of Tanzania. In the north, rocky hills called kopjes, jut up from the landscape. These provide great cover for lions, leopards and cheetahs and other animals and were featured in the

movie “The Lion King.” The “Great Migration” occurs within the boundaries of the Serengeti. Annually, 1.7 million wildebeest, a quartermillion zebra and almost a halfmillion antelope migrate from north to south and back based on the wet and dry seasons. Two rivers cross the migration path – the Grumeti in the west and the wider Mara in the north near the Kenya border. The rivers contain crocodiles that prey on the crossing animals. As a defense, the animals cross in very large groups, making a frantic, thrashing mass trying to cross the river at the same time. A few animals do not make it across, but the vast majority survives. Hippopotamus are often seen in mid-stream below the crossing points and there are reports that the hippos have helped struggling wildebeest along the way. In our experience it was not the gory, gruesome spectacle sensationalized on television. It was instead, an amazing example of the animal drive and fight for survival. On our final day we awakened to the rising sun flooding into the open end of our tent overlooking the Serengeti Plain. We watched several hundred wildebeest gather nearby as we ate breakfast. see SAFARI, pg. 24

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR Beth Macy is the author of the widely acclaimed and bestselling books Truevine and Factory Man. Based in Roanoke, Virginia, for three decades, her reporting has won more than a dozen national awards, including a Nieman Fellowship for Journalism at Harvard.

The Mechanicsville Local

October 2, 2019 19

The Universe from the Center: Sgr A* suddenly brightened By Dr. George Spagna Special to Ashland-Hanover Local We’ve been discussing black holes for a couple of months, and you may recall that we mentioned a super-massive black hole at the center of our own Milky Way Galaxy. Known as Sgr A* (“Sagittarius A-star”), this behemoth is roughly 4 million times the mass of our Sun. Remember that you cannot directly “see” the black hole, because not even light can escape its “event horizon.” However, matter falling into the black hole will convert gravitational potential energy to heat before crossing the event horizon, and that hot matter will radiate copiously across the spectrum. Visible light is blocked by dust in the intervening interstellar medium, but short wavelengths like x-rays, or long wavelengths like infrared and radio can be detected. In the Sept. 11 Astrophysical Journal Letters UCLA astronomer Tuan Do and his colleagues report observations from last March of a sudden brightening of Sgr A* in the near infrared. This flaring event was at least twice as bright as the brightest event seen in the last 20 years. It was

also of short duration, fading from its peak by a factor of 75 in just 2 hours. (We should note that the black hole is about 25 thousand light years away, so this event happened 25 thousand years ago, and we’re just receiving the light now.) What happened? Apparently something increased the rate of matter falling into the black hole, but what? It’s uncertain, but we have two primary candidates. A star orbiting the black hole, designated S2, passed close to the black hole in 2018. (We can relatively easily track these stars in the infrared. In fact, we use their orbital parameters to measure the mass of Sgr A*.) S2 may have disrupted the flow of gas and dust from the accretion disk, leading some of it to “pile up” and then fall in all at once. An alternative is an object known as G2, which is thought to be

a binary star system surrounded by a gas cloud. It passed the black hole in 2014, and observers were hoping to see the gas disrupted and cause a flare event which was not seen. According to UCLA’s Do, “maybe the fireworks were delayed.” Lunar phases for October: First Quarter on the 5th, at 12:47 p.m.; Full Moon on the 13th, at 5:08 p.m.; Last Quarter on the 22nd, at 8:39 a.m.; New Moon on the 27th, at 11:38 p.m. All times are Eastern Daylight Time. Watch for return to Standard Time Metro Creative Services on the first Sunday of November. Mercury returns to evening twilight midand late October. And, Venus will again be visible in evening twilight late in the month. Mars rises around 6 a.m. – you might catch it to the east before sunrise. Jupiter and Saturn are visible to the southwest and south southwest

CALENDAR

| News, Updates & Listings Thursday, Oct. 3 Hanover Human Services Network Meeting will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. in the large Conference Room behind Hanover Human Services Complex (follow facility signs to back parking area) at 12310 Washington Hwy. in Ashland. Updates will be presented on programs and services. To RSVP, go to https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/networkmtg102019.

Saturday, Oct. 5 Enon UMC will kick off the community’s Salt Fish Breakfast Buffet from 8 to 9:30 a.m. at the church at 6156 Studley Rd. in Mechanicsville. The menu includes salt fish, scrambled eggs, bacon, biscuits, sausage gravy, corn cakes, hash browns, apples, waffles, and beverage for $8. Ages 6 and under eat free. Proceeds benefit Heart

Havens the Men’s Ministry.

Sunday, Oct. 7 The 16th Annual Blessing of The Animals will be presented at 2 p.m. by All Souls Episcopal Church at Rutland Shopping Center in the grassy area in front of Lidia’s Italian Restaurant. Congregants are encouraged to bring their pets and invite friends and neighbors to the event. Pet blessings honor St. Francis of Assisi, canonized on July 16, 1228. Each October, many animals the world over are blessed on his feast day. For more information, visit www.allsoulsva. org.

Tuesday, Oct. 8 The Mechanicsville AARP Chapter 5407 will meet from 10 a.m. to noon at the First Union Baptist Church at 6231 Pole Green Rd, in Mechanicsville. Danny Corker

The Mechanicsville Local

October 2, 2019

respectively. Jupiter sets around 9 p.m., Saturn around 1. Our midmonth view about three hours after sunset finds the unfamiliar and faint constellation Lacerta at zenith. Your eyes will be drawn west to the familiar Summer Triangle. Deneb in Cygnus is high to the west, about 76 degrees above the horizon. Below Deneb, facing to the west, you’ll find Vega, the brightest of the three at about 55 degrees. A bit further south but at about the same altitude you will find Altair. If you face the southwest horizon and sweep your eyes up to Deneb, you can see why Cygnus (the Swan) is also known as the “Northern Cross.” The Big Dipper is low to the north, just above the horizon. The “house” shape of Cepheus is inverted above the north star, Polaris. The tipped W shape of Cassiopeia is to the northeast. A turn to the east finds the Pleiades rising, anticipating their return to winter skies. If readers have questions about astronomy or science in general that you would like to see covered in one of these columns, please feel free to contact me at gspagna@rmc.edu.

from the Senior Solutions of Virginia will discuss any changes to health insurance for next year. Open enrollment runs from Oct. 15 to Dec. 7. Lunch will be served. All national members of AARP are invited to be our guests. For more information, call Larry Gooss at 804-8392347.

Wednesday, Oct. 9 Business After Hours will be held from 3 to 5:30 p.m. at the Cavalier Rifle & Pistol Club at 14151 Boondock Lane in Montpelier. Ranges will be open to register Hanover Chamber of Commerce membrs and guests. Instructors will be present on every open range; guests can bring their personal equipmemt or use available firearms (with supervision by instructors). Ranges will close at 5:30 p.m. as the reception and networking time

get underway. Food will be provided by Edwards Catering. Registration is $20 for members (early) or $35 for nonmembers. Payment is available online, with only cash or cash on-site.

Saturday, Oct. 12 The Studley Ruritan Club will be hosting its first annual antique car show in conjunction with a Brunswick stew sale from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Enon United Methodist Church at 6156 Studley Rd. Mechanicsville. Local chefs will be preparing the stew for sale at $8 a quart to raise funds for college scholarships. The car show will feature cars made in 1985 or before. A trophy will be awarded to the most crowd-pleaser car. Preorders for Brunswick Stew will be available for pickup between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. at

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

the church at 6156 Studley Rd. in Mechanicsville. For more information, call Tom Foster at 804-789-9365.

Sunday, Oct 13 A Fall Family Festival will be held from 2 to 5 p.m. at Broadus Church at 5351 Pole Green Rd. in Mechanicsville. The event, which is being presented free of charge, will feature food, games, bounce house, petting zoo, door prizes, face painting, fun bus, obstacle course, and pony rides. Those planning to attend are asked not to bring pets.

Tuesday and Wednesday, Oct. 15-16, and Friday and Saturday,

Oct. 18-19 D onat ions for Mechanicsville Kids Clothes Swap will be accepted from 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday and from 9 a.m. to noon Friday at the Fairfield Presbyterian Church at 6930 Cold Harbor Rd. in Mechanicsville. Swap Day will be held from 8 to 11 a.m. Saturday for swappers and from 11 to 11:30 a.m. to the community that may need clothing (non-swappers).

Saturday, Oct. 19 Hanover Tavern Foundation will host the 4th annual Hanover AutumnFest, featuring live music, food, craft beer, local wine, and activities see CALENDAR, pg. 24

KIDNEY

Introducing . . .

Continued from pg. 1

eficialâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;,â&#x20AC;? she added. Her goal is to get the word out in as many forums as possible. After the article was published in The Local, Debbie said she had â&#x20AC;&#x153;heard from a few people about their stories, but the transplant center will not divulge much due to privacy issues for the donors. I only wish they could publicly advertise better for the purpose of living donors, as I am only one person and can only do so much.â&#x20AC;? The Local first learned about Debbieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s search for a suitable donor when she posted Scottâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s condition on the social networking site Nextdoor. In the subsequent article, she said that her husband is O+, but any blood type can be used through cross-pairing. Debbie proved her devotion to her ailing husband 21 years ago when she gave him

Photo submitted by Tara Johnson

Introducing Beckett William Johnson, born August 22, 2019, at 9:34 p.m., weighing 6 pounds and seven ounces. He was 19 inches long. He is welcomed by his parents, Brady and Tara Johnson; his big sister; Riley; and loving family and friends.

one of her kidneys. The transplant became necessary after they were told after a biopsy that he had severe scarring. She said doctors did not know what caused the loss of kidney function. In 1997, Scottâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s blood pressure rose, and, even with medication, it did not go down. He asked for blood work and found out about the kidney failure. Scott and Debbie were told in January 1998 that he would need to start dialysis. They decided to pursue a transplant. Scottâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s parents, brother and Debbie were tested, with his wife being the only blood match. Over time, Debbie said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;The immunosuppressive drugs that keep the organ

from rejecting can actually work on the kidney.â&#x20AC;? Debbie continues to post on Facebook for a donor. She also planned to check with the National Kidney Foundation. She asks that people visit Henrico Doctors Hospital living donor site at www. Henricodoctors.com to gain more insight and information into the procedure. For those who may be interested in being tested as a possible match, go to https:// henricodoctors.com/service/ transplant-services. To learn about eligibility and qualifications, visit www.henricodoctors.com/signmeup. Potential donors also may call Melissa Van-Syckle at 804289-4941.

VAPING Continued from pg. 1

during this school year. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The youth understand strategic planning, and they get excited to learn and see their projects come to fruition at YADAPP and to implement that project once they are back in the community,â&#x20AC;? said Octavia Marsh, Hanover Cares executive director. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is always a pleasure to train these young leaders and integrate their STAN Plan into the coalitionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work throughout the year. That truly is what youth engagement is about, and I am so proud of this group.â&#x20AC;? The Wheeler Award, established in 1986, honors Morris see VAPING, pg. 24

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