40 minute read
Letters to the editor
Just when you think you’ve heard it all From the managing editor
By Melody Kinser Managing Editor hen it comes to West Virginia politics, nothing surprises me. Well, that was until Gov. Jim Justice and Liberty University President Jerry Falwell Jr. invited Virginia counties that are against proposed gun laws to secede and become part of the Mountain State.
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Without having done any polling, I’m pretty confident that Democrats taking control of our state sparked some outrage in other states. There was a time, however, when Democrat was “the” party of West Virginia.
I was born and raised in West Virginia and remained there until I was almost 49. Democrats were in control when I headed to Virginia.
The tide turned in 2016 when Donald Trump W
rolled through the Mountain State to victory. At the time, coal miners wanted to believe the industry could be revived (still hasn’t happened), so they put their trust in Trump.
So, let’s get back to the secession proposal. With a Republican-led Legislature (House of Delegates and Senate) in Charleston and Falwell leading a university based in Lynchburg, Justice and Liberty’s leader put out the welcome mat for Virginians, especially those with concerns about the Second Amendment and pro-lifers.
I am not anti-gun. As I’ve written before, I grew up in a house with handguns and rifles. My father was a decorated marksman in the military.
Yet, the discussion about making Virginia safer merits our attention. Too many innocent children are being killed.
Contact your senators and delegates, as well as the governor, with your opinions. Maybe I’m too optimistic, but I try to look toward compromise.
It seems Frederick County found its way onto the radar, but apparently there was no enthusiasm for becoming part of West Virginia.
Having worked at The Winchester Star for three years before arriving in Hanover County, I’m very familiar with Frederick County.
I don’t see any benefit for that county to head into West Virginia territory.
I’ll admit West Virginia was an OK place to grow up -- but that has changed significantly.
Crime, drug use, unemployment, illiteracy. I could go on regarding the sad aspects of life in West Virginia.
The reality is that Virginia is a better state with development and opportunities. As a matter of fact, Hanover County is a shining example of those positives.
In the cold days of winter, my mind wanders south
By Jim Ridolphi Contributing Columnist Daphne Du Maurier once wrote, “We can never go back again, that much is certain.”
The obscure quote immediately jars memories of the places, people or things to which I’ve pledged a return, a promise mostly unfulfilled as a lifetime passed and presented new challenges. How many times have you been in the perfect spot on the perfect vacation and thought: “I’d like to return to this place someday”. At the moment of utterance, it seemed impossible that you could live decades and not return to that location that provided respite, peace, tranquility that represented an escape from the rigors of everyday life. But, how many of those places
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Publisher Joy Monopoli jmonopoli@RSNVA.com
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Classifieds Cindy Adams cadams@mechlocal.com got that return visit, and how many of those memories are just reminders of a place or time when life seemed almost perfect?
In actuality, most of these experiences are one offs, and a second trip to your most beloved spots or moments is usually more akin to a dream, or a slot on the proverbial bucket list.
So, given the opportunity, what place or time would you revisit if given the opportunity? Can you remember that one moment, or day, that captured perfection and filled one with a joy or tranquility that for the years that followed, seemed illusive or lost.
Most of those memories for me involve years past when the Florida Keys provided that lost sense of para
see SOUTH, pg. 8
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LETTERS | Reader Views Inclusion education should be simple in our schools
Contributing Columnist Jim Ridolphi wrote an excellent editorial on inclusion (1/29/2020) at a time when Hanover County needs to hear the message. His discussion of the research as well as his personal story about the benefits of inclusive education should be received as what is achievable when inclusion is a mindset and not a place.
If I had to challenge Jim, it would be his statement that “... the real benefits of the innovative programs are the students who leave school with a better understanding of how the world actually works ....”
Inclusive education is not a program. We cannot buy an inclusion package and have all students leave our schools better citizens. “Inclusion is simple” (and right) in concept, yes, but our culture of education is such that it is far from simply existing in our schools, and, therefore, our communities.
I am the parent of a student with a disability who sometimes exhibits challenging behaviors. I also am employed in the county as a substitute teacher and instructional assistant.
I understand the concerns that teachers and parents of students in this county are witnessing in some classroom environments. I have seen them first-hand.
But, because all behavior is communication of some sort, I also know that not all students are fully understood either (whether disabled, dealing with mental health issues, trauma, bullying, challenging home environments, etc.). How are we investing in these young lives that are going to allow them to see their skills, their abilities, their value?
We learn from being in commu
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dise for me and many others who made the trek down the Overseas Highway. I was hooked on my first visit in 1975, and, from that day forward, my mind lazily wanders down those tiny islands when the cold winds of winter blow in Richmond.
I made an annual journey to the end of Route 1 for years as life became more routine in the North, noting the changes in the tiny community with each trip, and finding fewer and fewer of the old friends I’d met still hanging around the old Navy town.
But, I kept going back, even when the Conch Republic became a destination for global visitors, and tourism assumed its role as the main source of income for the island. I returned even when the huge cruise ships dropped thousands of tourists daily for their Key West experience.
When I got the surprising news that we were expecting twins, it was the dead of winter, and, while searching for a response to the stunning announcement, a vision of swaying palms, warm evening breezes and grapefruit-laced shots of vodka danced in my head.
So, our first act of preparation for a momentous event in the lives of any couple, was to pack up our 2-year old daughter and head for Key West. We spent a lazy week relaxing by the pool, and evenings were filled with long hunched over strolls up and down the long wooden planked floors teaching Sophia how to walk in the lobby of the hotel that Flagler built, finally restored in all of its splendor.
After a few days of total relaxation, I contacted a friend who came to Key West and didn’t leave, and had spent the past two decades of his life living the dream of many who couldn’t muster the courage to do what their heart instructed. We had a few beers at the Green Parrot, unchanged since my first visit in the 1970s. The crowd, sadly, did not have the same connection with the past. A corner open air bar once filled with locals was now a tourist haven, with patrons scrambling to buy a t-shirt or obtain a stack of plastic cups with the logo emblazoned so everyone would know immediately that “I’ve been to Key West, and you haven’t.”
I confided in my friend that somehow I knew this would be my last trip to the Keys. The impending responsibility of three small children didn’t include Pirate Punch at Captain Tony’s.
To my surprise, he was spending his last season in Key West and was selling his small condo and heading North.
He explained that the sleepy, Southern fishing village to which he had escaped was only a memory and the island had sold its collective evil and eclectic soul to the devil in the form of wealthy investors who snatched up every piece of available property and built luxury accommodations for a new breed of Conchs.
It was my last visit to the a string of islands still close to my heart and vivid in my mind, and my Florida excursions are now centered around Tampa with relatives. Although the sun is warm and the water crystal clear, I see few reminders of my days on the Keys. The days are shorter, and the nights are tame and early ending, the lines on my face much deeper.
And maybe Du Marnier was right. You can never go back. What’s left is only a memory and a word to the wise for those who, as we speak, sit on a bar stool in Captain Tony’s Saloon sipping Pirate Punch under a hanging tree and pledging eternal returns to the once unique hole in the wall watering hole ... and to anyone else willing to listen.
Savor the moment …. of that first rush of ocean air, that sunset in Negril, that hike in the Tetons, or that special beach with pink sand, or whatever is your moment in time, slice of Nirvana in a place to which you unfaithfully pledged a return. Live it like it may be your only opportunity for Nirvana, for the truth reveals that, in many cases, once is indeed enough.
Continued from pg. 6 LETTERS
nity with one another -- not segregated into special places of education.
Yes, specialized instruction and support are required, and that will require thinking and implementation beyond the established norms for how we run education.
In his piece, “The Need to Belong: Rediscovering Maslow’s Hierachy of Needs,” Norman Kunc writes, “[Inclusive education is] the valuing of diversity within the human community ... We begin to look beyond typical ways of becoming valued members of the community, and in doing so, begin to realize the achievable goal of providing all children with an authentic sense of belonging.” My daughter is always saying, “We’re all in this together.”
Despite her challenges and her being misunderstood, she knows this to be true. She’s right, too.
Sue Jeantheau Mechanicsville
Wegmans’ site decision baffl es local reader
With abundant acresee LETTERS, pg. 13
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ECHANICSVILLE – Mary Fisher was enjoying life as an Atlee High School student, especially her French class and playing violin in the orchestra, but that changed in January 2019 when she started falling and fainting.
After extensive medical tests, it was determined that Mary suffers from Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS).
According to the Cleveland Clinic website, https:// my.clevelandclinic.org/health/ diseases/16560-postural-orthostatic-tachycardia-syndromepots, “POTS is a condition that affects circulation (blood flow). POTS is a form of orthostatic intolerance, the development of symptoms that come on when By Melody Kinser Managing Editor M
standing up from a reclining position, and that may be relieved by sitting or lying back down. The primary symptom of an orthostatic intolerance is lightheadedness, fainting, and an uncomfortable, rapid increase in heartbeat.”
“She has a version of generalized hyper-mobility,” Joy said. “Her joints pop out of place.” The dislocations are usually partial; most people with this [POTS] get those more often than full dislocations.” Mary said she experiences joint and muscle pain. “For Mary,” Joy said, “it means that her heart rate was really high and blood pressure was super low.”
Mary’s diagnosis took months to determine. Joy said they “went to every kind of doctor through VCU [Health System].’ Dr. Laura Burijon at MRMC (Memorial Regional Medical Center) coordinated the appointments. “I can’t say enough good things about her,” Joy added. Dr. Burijon practices family medicine. Mary was seen by rheumatologists and cardiologists and underwent x-rays, CT scans, MRIs and an echocardiogram. She then was sent to Dr. Dominic Sica, a nephrologist at VCU. Joy said POTS can attack the kidneys, so balancing salt and water is imperative.
There is no cure for POTS, which means this is a lifelong condition for Mary – but she will be able to manage with medications.
While Mary has adjusted to the changes in her life, she has added a loving and faithful friend she named Frankie Lou. The docile and welltrained golden retriever is a service dog.
If Mary’s heart rate starts to rise, Frankie Lou, who is 8 months old today, will comfort her by placing her head on her lap. Mary celebrated her 18th birthday on Thursday, with a promise from her mom that she could do whatever she wanted.
By April 2019, Mary and her parents, Thomas and Joy, along with Atlee administration, agreed the best way for her to continue her education would be to become a homebound student. She gets headaches and her energy level decreases, with her needing to rest. Mary is a senior and will graduate with her class on June 13.
The Fisher family attends Mechanicsville Baptist Church. Mary tries to go as often as possible based on whether she has the stamina. Joy praised the support of guidance counselor Amy Couillard, homebound coordinator Phillip Reynolds
Illustrations submitted by Mary Fisher Mary Fisher digitally created these images of dogs to raise money to help with her therapy dog Frankie Lou. She sells them for $25. She can be contacted at Violin Artlover14 [violinartistgurl@gmail.com].
and math teacher Andrew Nicholas.
Therapy dogs are expensive, so, to help get Frankie Lou, Mary digitally started drawing portraits of pets, charging $25 each.
A reminder to those who want to approach or pet Frankie Lou, service dogs are not to be distracted when they’re wearing the vest.
When she graduates, Mary plans to take a gap year and continue training with Frankie Lou.
Help us bring more faith-based care to Hanover County
Since 1998, Bon Secours Memorial Regional Medical Center has been committed to meeting the diverse health care needs of Hanover County. As the county and surrounding areas continue to grow, we are conscious of the need to increase the number of available beds to better serve our community.
And we need your help to do it.
As part of the Certificate of Public Need (COPN) process, we are asking Hanover and surrounding area residents to voice your support of this expansion. With your help, we can continue to pursue our mission of bringing compassionate care to our community.
How you can help:
1. Write a letter of support addressed to: Leigh Sewell, President Memorial Regional Medical Center 8260 Atlee Road, Suite 1203 Mechanicsville, Virginia 23116
2. Email a letter of support to leigh_sewell@bshsi.org.
3. Sign the petition at www.change.org/BonSecours_MRMC
*Please include the COPN numberVA-8482 with all correspondence.
OBITUARIES | Death Notices & Funerals
DAVIS, Frances “Fran” Dirks, 66, of Mechanicsville, Va., went to be with the Lord Tuesday, February 4, 2020. She was preceded in death by her father, George H. Dirks; father-in-law, Robert “Bob” E. Davis; mother-in-law, Doris R. Davis; aunt, Virginia Austin; and uncle, Jimmy Ingram. Fran is survived by her devoted husband of 40 years, Craig Davis; son, Randy Davis; daughter, Kristin Hazelwood (Jason); grandchildren, Lucy and Lane Hazelwood; mother,
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Mary Frances Dirks; brother, George Dirks (Cathy); sistersin-law, DeeDee Uminski (Alex), Michele Taylor (Buddy) and Betty Pennell (Roger); and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Fran graduated from Radford University in 1975 and worked for Henrico County Public Schools until she retired after 23 years of faithful service. She was an avid reader and crafter, who loved
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her yearly trips to Myrtle Beach and making memories on the Rappahannock River. She was a loving and dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend, who would do anything for those she loved. She also enjoyed volunteering in her granddaughter’s school library. Fran valiantly fought a 17-year battle with ovarian cancer, with bravery and courage, until she was peacefully released while surrounded by her beloved family. A Celebration of Life service will be held 2 p.m. Saturday, February 8, 2020, at Monaghan Funeral Home, 7300 Creighton Pkwy., Mechanicsville, Va. 23111, with a visitation/ reception to immediately follow in the funeral home lounge. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Men in Ministry, 8016 Atlee Rd., Mechanicsville, Va. 23111.
EDWARDS, Marceline Fox “Mickey,” 87, of Mechanicsville, went to be with the Lord Friday, February 7, 2020. One of 12 children born and raised in King William to the late Frank and Carrie Fox; she was also preceded in death by her husband, Warren B. Edwards Sr. Mickey is survived by her children, Judy Huband (Greg) and Warren B. “Benny” Edwards Jr.; granddaughter, Amber Jackson; as well as numerous beloved nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family members. Family and friends will be received from 11 a.m. to noon with services beginning at noon Monday, February 10, 2020, at Sharon Baptist Church. Interment will follow in the church cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Shalom Baptist Church, 8116 Walnut Grove Rd., Mechanicsville, Va. 23111 or Sharon Baptist Church, 901 Sharon Rd., King William, Va. 23086.
MARTIN
MARTIN, Dawn Renee “DeDawn,” of Mechanicsville, went to be with the Lord Tuesday, February 4, 2020. She is survived by her parents, John and Jean Martin; sister, Gigi Martin; nephew, Joseph Ryan (Anna); niece, Megan Crowder; and great-nephew, John Robert Ryan. Dawn was employed for over 30 years as an underwriter with Markel Insurance. The family will receive friends from 4 to 6 p.m. with a memorial service beginning at 6 p.m. Friday, February 7, 2020, at the Mechanicsville Chapel of the Bennett Funeral Home, 8014 Lee-Davis Rd. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association, 870 Greenbrier Cir. #404, Chesapeake, Virginia 23320, or the animal control shelter of your choice.
NUCKOLS, Harriet Julease, 81, of Mechanicsville, went to Heaven on Tuesday, February 4, 2020. Preceded in death by her husband, Thomas L. Nuckols; her parents, Mary Bess and Hollis Maye; her brothers, Julian and Michael Maye; her sisters, Mildred Jones, Nancy Arnold and Bettyjo Coates. She is survived by her devoted daughters, Kathleen S. Booth and Pamela D. Allen (Sonny); her especially devoted son, Antonio “Tony” S. Nuckols; her grandchildren, Heather B. Simmons (Tyler), Katelyn L. Walker (Jared), Kristen “Kodie” Allen and Christopher M. Booth; her great-grandchildren, Ava, Leo, Josie and soon to be born, Eliana; her sister, Mary Poole (George); and many nieces, nephews; and friends, including her close friends, Annie Waller, Skip McManamay, Barbara Kendig and Barbara Gammon. The family received friends from 2 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, February 9, 2020, at the Mechanicsville Chapel of the Bennett Funeral Home, 8014 Lee-Davis Road, where funeral services were held 2 p.m. Monday, February 10, 2020. Interment followed in Signal Hill Memorial Park. The family would like to thank all the nurses in the CCU at MRMC with a special thank you to Howard, Kevin and Mac. Thank you also to all the nurses and staff in the Hospice Care Unit who helped make her so comfortable as she entered into Heaven.
PAYNE, Dean Reavis, 82, of Mechanicsville, Va., joined the Lord and the love of her life in Heaven Thursday, February 6, 2020. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 53 years, Edmond “Jack” Payne; a sister, Ruth Lyle; niece, Patricia L. Pike;
Photos submitted by Andrew Hodnett The Hanover County Pound, located at 12471 Taylor Complex Lane in Ashland, has wonderful pets available to a good home. Goofy, Animal ID #572946, is a 5-year-old (estimated) male canine hound. He has had his fi rst set of vaccines and is Heartworm test negative. Goofy is a character. He is just like his name says. He loves to run and play. He gets along great with other dogs. He always wants to get other dogs to run around with him. Goofy is also very sweet with people. He will be a perfect fi t for someone with a big yard where he can run and play. Whiskers, Animal ID #573798, is a 1-year-old domestic short-haired male feline. He has had his fi rst set of vaccines and is FELV/FIV test negative. Whiskers is a super sweet boy who was surrendered earlier this month. He is a very nice cat who gets along well with every person he meets. He seems to be a laid-back kind of cat. Whiskers is litter trained and keeps his cage clean. He will do best as an indoor cat. For more information on these great pets, as well as the many more still in need of homes at the Hanover County Pound Facility, call 804-365-6485 during the day. The hours are 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday. The facility is closed on Sunday and county holidays. You also can visit the website to see other animals available for adoption at http://hanovercounty.gov/Animals/Adopt-a-Pet/.
Continued from pg. 10 OBITUARIES
and her parents. She is survived by her children, Cindy (Mike), Glenn, Kathy (Matt) and Gary (Joanne); five grandchildren, Caleb, Kate, Justin, Courtney and Catherine; niece and nephew, Linda and
gardener and the Hallmark Channel’s greatest fan. She was an awesome cook and her delicious cakes are legendary in the community. She will be greatly missed. The family received friends Sunday, February 16, 2020, from 2 to 3 p.m. at Monaghan Funeral Home, 7300 Creighton Pkwy., Mechanicsville, Va. 23111, with a memorial service following at 3 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the East Hanover Rescue Squad.
PAYNE
Ricky; and many other special friends and family. Dean loved spending time at the “Rivah” with the Grey’s Point Gang or visiting her childhood friends. She was an avid reader, terrific
WETZLER, Carol Loftis, 82, of Mechanicsville, Va., born in Reidsville, N.C., went to be with the Lord February 2, 2020. She is survived by her daughter, Carol Martin (Billy); her three grandchildren, Adam Ikenberry (Brittany), Jacob Martin (Lindsey) and Savannah Baldwin (Jacob);
WETZLER
and her great-grandson, Brayden Ikenberry. A memorial service will be held 1 p.m. February 15, 2020, at Fairmount Christian Church, 6502 Creighton Rd., Mechanicsville, Va. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Fairmount Christian Church Children’s Ministries, P.O. Box 788, Mechanicsville, Va. 23111. The family would like to thank Heartland Hospice and Heritage Green Assisted Living Community for all their support during this difficult time.
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Submitted photo Mr. and Mrs. William R Rice of Mechanicsville will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on February 14, 2020. They have three children, seven grandchildren, and four greatgrandchildren.
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Recently opened stores in Maryland and Virginia are indicative of the company’s move to the Southern market, and the new facility will supply existing stores in that region, as well as new stores opening at a rate of two to three per year.
Wegmans currently operates warehouse facilities in Rochester and Pottsville, Pennsylvania. When opened in 2022, the Hanover facility will service about 44 stores, some of them yet to be built. More than two dozen speakers patiently waited a turn to express their concerns with the project, some questioning the decision to locate in what they considered a residential area. The proposed site along Sliding Hill Road is close to several neighborhoods, including Somerset and Milestone.
“We don’t want you here,” one attendee shouted.
Some speakers identified other sites more suitable, in
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their opinion, for the facility, and a majority expressed concerns regarding truck traffic on an already hazardous road. Wegmans has agreed to fund upgrades to the intersection and road improvements, but neighboring residents said it would not alleviate delays and accidents.
Aken said the company explored about 15 sites in Virginia and North Carolina, but ultimately decided Hanover “was the best location” to make the $175 million investment, including about $6 million in local and state enticements. Plans for the facility include two buildings occupying about 1.1 million square feet of space.
Some speakers questioned the wisdom of spending taxpayer money as an incentive to lure Wegmans to Hanover, but County Administrator Rhu Harris said the agreement is guided by a performance agreement that requires the company to meet certain requirements prior to that funding being released.
Harris said annual tax revenue from the 700-employee facility amounted to about $1.5 million annually and noted the county’s contribution would be recouped in about three and a half years.
Other speakers asked why residents were not informed earlier when negotiations began months ago. Harris said the county signed a non-disclosure agreement with the search firm representing Wegmans and could not discuss ongoing talks, a practice described as normal when large companies explore options in localities.
If the county chose not to enter the NDA, Harris said Hanover would not have been considered for the new facility. Planning director David Maloney said the site received special zoning in 1995, but noted proffers issued at the time are not “outdated” and the revised proffers are an attempt to “enhance those requirements.” An attorney representing Wegmans said the applicant is requesting two changes to the more than a dozen existing proffers, including one to increase height on light poles and the other permitting a fence around the property.
Economic development director Linwood Thomas said the Wegmans project is a major get for the county in more ways than one.
“The Wegmans project is a generational opportunity for Hanover County,” Thomas said. “They will create jobs on average that are 18% above Hanover’s median average wage and be one of our largest taxpayers at full build-out. There were many localities along the Eastern Seaboard that competed for this project.” But Anita Philp said she felt a “sense of betrayal” regarding the deal. “We’re giving them $6 million to ruin our way of life. I’m outraged,” Philp said. “What your are proposing is inconsistent with the plan. I’m not saying not in my backyard. I’m saying not in anybody’s backyard.” She estimated that there are 5,000 residential homes near the proposed site. “We understand and respect there are some citizens that are upset due to the proximity to residential developments but the property has been zoned, marketed, and shown in our comprehensive plan for economic development for over 20 years,” Thomas said in response to questions after the meeting.
Chickahominy District supervisor Angela KellyWiecek and Ashland District representative Faye Prichard hosted the informational meeting, but most board members attended in addition to other officials from the Planning Commission and other boards. When Henry District supervisor Sean Davis was confronted by one speaker asking what the board was prepared to do to protect residents from large development like Wegmans, he didn’t underestimate the importance of the project and the challenges it presents.
“The matter before the current board is one that presents a very unique opportunity to reduce the allowable uses from the 1995 zoning,” Davis said. “If the board can negotiate with Wegmans to implement new preferred conditions that will substantially reduce the allowable use, it will be a huge reduction on what is allowed and also substantially improve traffic impacts.”
He said his presence at the meeting illustrated his desire to make the project better with additional public input and discussion. “If these negotiations are unsuccessful, then the land use allowances from the 1995 zoning will stand,” Davis said. Reinforcing those outdated proffers also allows additional review of a project that could proceed with no adjustments. “Wegmans could develop the property today based on the current zoning but has taken the recommendation of the board of supervisors, county staff, and citizens to go through a public rezoning and proffer amendments that will make this a better project and includes increased buffers and transportation improvement as the proffers from 1995 would be less restrictive in some regards,” Thomas said regarding the application.
Speakers at the less than cordial gathering also cited concerns regarding property values and the negative effect a warehouse facility could present, but company officials said studies in Rochester indicate no such trend.
Aken said property values in those surrounding neighborhoods had increased 2 percent a year, a normal growth rate for residential housing.
One audience member shouted, “I’ll bet our assessments don’t go down.”
Concerned residents have
HANOVER -- The 4 p.m. Burning Law goes into effect on Friday, Feb. 15, across the Commonwealth and remains in effect until April 30.
Battalion Chief Greg Martin, speaking on behalf of Hanover Fire-EMS Chief Jethro Piland, said, “Open burning is prohibited between the hours of midnight and 4 p.m. each day; fires lit after 4 p.m. and before midnight are allowed as long as no other local prohibitions exist.”
Fires may smolder after midnight, but no new material shall be added to the fire after midnight. It also is recommend that burning not occur when low humidity, increased wind, or other adverse weather conditions exist that could result in fires becoming uncontrolled. Citizens are reminded that violations of this law carry the possibility of penalties and in the event a fire damages property could result in liability for the cost suppressing the fire and damage done.
“Please refer to the below links for more information on the burn regulations and remember that we all have a responsibility in keeping Hanover Safe,” Martin added. Contact Information Any related questions should be directed to the Office of the Fire Marshal:
During normal business hours: Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. (excluding holidays) 804-365-6195
see BURNING, pg. 17
Continued from pg. 12 WEGMANS
requested further meetings with Wegmans to address concerns, and many asked for a deferral to allow more time to identify options.
A flyer passed out by project opponents at the meeting stated, “Work with Us, Wegmans!” and listed a number of requests, including further traffic studies, lighting surveys, and increased buffers. The Planning Commission will consider the case at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 20. At that time, the panel could recommend approval, denial or defer the request. “With what I’ve heard in the community meetings and what I’ve heard from Garrison Manor residents, I think -- no matter where we put it -- it’s not going to be a satisfactory situation,” Rogers said. “We’ve thought about it a lot over the past 60 days and I just don’t know -- other than not doing it at all -- what’s going to make a satisfactory neighbor there as far as the venue space goes.” When asked by Ashland District supervisor Faye Prichard if a deferral would accommodate further negotiations regarding the space being used for weddings and social gatherings, Rogers said he would be frank in his answer.
Congratulations Ming Chin
Continued from pg. 8 LETTERS
age even closer to I-95 just three miles north of the Atlee/ Elmont exit (which is free of churches and communities) if baffles me as to why Wegmans has elected to locate their warehouse off of Sliding Hill Road. Realizing that the Hanover County Board of Supervisors had no power so stop this sale I would hope they at least tried to stand up for the residents of the area and talked to Wegmans about purchasing a more isolated plot of land.
However, noting the board’s desire for unbridled growth and moreover, additional revenue for the county, I doubt this talk ever occurred.
This current batch of supervisors doesn’t seem to have the word “No” in their vocabulary. It has failed in its duties to serve the county’s residents by falling short of retaining the county’s rural-like atmosphere and allowing exponential growth. The time has come to relieve all of them from their duties next election.
Ken Essigman Mechanicsville
‘Go Fund Me’ proposed to buy properties
Sorry to say that the letter from Karri Messina and others on this subject are wasting good time and energy.
There is a simple solution to help with the growth problem and it is not tying to change minds of the people who have an interest in the outcome.
In case you haven’t noticed the “Go Fund Me” idea works very well. Why not do something similar to get money to buy up these properties?
These developers are not normally one man operations. They are a group of investors pooling their money and making big profits.
My idea is to get 200 to 300 people and just contribute $10 to $20 a week each, and after a year or two there would be enough money to start the buying process.
Buy land and sell it off in 25 acre lots, making a profit and with stipulations what it can be used for.
The counties and cities operate on the same principal. They want to buy or build something they just simply raise taxes by way of reassessments and like magic they have the money.
We allow others to forcibly take our money and profit from it so why not do it our self voluntarily.
No need to complain, it’s not going to change a thing. Action on the people’s part will get things done.
I will be a contributor if someone will get it going.
Not only can we protect the land we don’t want big business on but it will eventually be a profitable venture.
Ted Mentz Old Church
January SALESPERSON OF THE MONTH! Council of Sales Leadership Gold Member Ming Chin thanks all his valued customers for contributing to his success over the years. “I look forward to the opportunity of helping our customers in the future.”
MECHANICSVILLE
1060925-01
HONDA 417-3008 393-0996 6530 Mech. Pike Mechanicsville mingchin3@yahoo.com
“At this point, if we don’t get the venue space (approved) with very reasonable conditions, then we’re just going to let it go,” Rogers said.
The board approved both applications regarding the rezoning and office use, but rereferred the venue space portion of the request.
Chickahominy District supervisor Angela KellyWiecek encouraged continued negotiations with Garrison Manor residents regarding the event venue, and suggested the panel defer action on the matter until the Planning Commission can consider a revamped plan. County attorney Dennis Walter said the board could approve the rezoning request and approve the office use portion of the CUP, while re-referring the event venue request back to the Planning Commission.
The board approved that amended motion. A 123 Year Tradition of Caring Celebrating Our 123rd Year!
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. 8014 Lee-Davis Road, Mechanicsville • 746-8665 www.bennettfuneralhomes.com
884287-01
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.
| Education, Business & Celebrations
ASHLAND – Seven Hanover County Public Schools (HCPS) educators recently achieved National Board Certification, meeting the highest standards established for the profession. Two additional teachers also renewed their certifications.
HCPS employs eighty National Board Certified Teachers, which represents 5.5% of all Hanover educators. The national average is less than three percent.
“I congratulate our teachers on their significant accomplishment and commitment to achieving the most rigorous standards of our profession. Their efforts will directly impact and benefit our students, and I am grateful for their dedication,” said Dr. Michael Gill, superintendent of Schools.
The following teachers attained certification: Mike Diebold, Stonewall Jackson Middle School Allison Fleming, Lee-Davis High School Shannon Floyd, Chickahominy Middle School Jana Leonard, Hanover High School Stacey Lowery, Lee-Davis High School Jamie Pocta, Laurel Meadow Elementary School Stephen Salvato, Lee-Davis High School The following teachers achieved renewal of certifications: Joy DeNoon, Stonewall Jackson Middle School Jeanine Schenack, Stonewall Jackson Middle School
The educators were recognized during a recent pinning ceremony at VCU's Sonia Vlahcevic Concert Hall, along with teachers from the Counties of Chesterfield and Henrico, and the City of Richmond.
Earning National Board Certification is a rigorous process that increases the effectiveness of teachers.
Through the systematic examination of their teaching practices, educators deepen their knowledge of subject matter and become more skilled in daily classroom instruction and student assessment. Certification lasts for five years and must be subsequently renewed by completing a similar, but shorter, process.
Information submitted by Chris R. Witley, Hanover County Public Schools public information officer.
Photo submitted by Chris R. Whitley Dr. Michael Gill, superintendent of Hanover County Public Schools, joined in celebrating the accomplishments of seven educators in the division who recently achieved National Board Certifi cation, meeting the highest standards established for the profession. Two additional teachers also renewed their certifi cations. Shown are, from left, front row, Shannon Floyd, Chickahominy Middle School;Jana Leonard, Hanover High School; and Stacey Lowery, LeeDavis High School; and, back row, Jeanine Schenack, Stonewall Jackson Middle School; Jamie Pocta, Laurel Meadow Elementary School; Stephen Salvato, Lee-Davis High School; Dr. Gill; Mike Diebold, Stonewall Jackson Middle School; Allison Fleming, Lee-Davis High School; and Joy DeNoon, Stonewall Jackson Middle School.
‘Engaging Brain Changes’ to be addressed at Hanover Adult Center
ECHANICSVILLE -- “Engaging Brain Changes: Positive Physical Approach™ & Hand Under Hand™” will be presented by Missy Harden, a certified Positive Approach to Care (Teepa Snow’s Program) Independent Consultant and Trainer, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 18, at the Hanover Adult Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com M
Center at 7231 Stonewall Parkway in the Cold Harbor Business Center near Hanover Fire EMS Station 7.
Seeking to improve care and quality of life for older adults, Harden has partnered with Hanover Adult Center to offer a series of trainings that will educate and equip care partners on how to recognize signals of unmet needs and distress in the person they are caring for.
Harden will teach how to respond in a
way that reduces anxiety and improves quality of life.
Hanover Adult Center has been providing services to meet a wide variety of needs for differently abled individuals and their care partners in the Greater Richmond Metro area, for over 43 years.
Centrally located near Interstate 295 in Mechanicsville, the center provides adult day health services (licensed by the Department of Social Services) and day support (licensed by the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services).
The staff at Hanover Adult Center provides day-time, person-centered care, education, and respite so families can thrive, remaining together, in their own homes.
All are welcome to take part in the free training.
Light refreshments will be available. For more information, call the Hanover Adult Center at 804-746-0743.
ASHLAND/WESTERN HANOVER | Also serving the communities of Montpelier, Beaverdam, Rockville and Doswell Ashland to Petersburg trail study wraps up
SOUTH CHESTERFIELD – The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has concluded the Ashland to Petersburg (ATP) Trail Study, which culminated from extensive technical planning efforts, as well as agency and public involvement.
The Ashland to Petersburg Trail Study documents the identification of a preferred multi-use trail corridor, which would extend approximately 43 miles. The trail would accommodate bicyclists, pedestrians and other active transportation users through Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com
Chesterfield, Hanover and Henrico counties, as well the cities of Colonial Heights, Petersburg and Richmond, and the Town of Ashland.
If constructed, the preferred corridor would provide a low-traffic stress level facility with safe
The Ashland to Petersburg Trail Study documents the identification of a preferred multi-use trail corridor, which would extend approximately 43 miles.
separation from motorized transportation uses to accommodate users of all ages and abilities and provide connection to a variety of destination
points, including Carter Park, Bryan Park, Virginia Union University, the Virginia Capitol, Tredegar Iron Works, Historic Manchester and Brown’s Island, Virginia State University, and Petersburg Old Town Historic District.
The completion of the study process sets the stage for VDOT, working with localities and regional planning organizations, to move forward with the identification of future funding opportunities for designing, building, operating, and maintaining the trail improvements.
Additional information about the Ashland to Petersburg Trail Study is available online at www. ATPTrailStudy.org.
Photos submitted by Lorie Foley Johnson Family Funnel Cakes, left, and Bikers Against Child Abuse are among the participants in the Ashland Strawberry Faire. All-call for vendors and sponsors for Ashland Strawberry Faire
ASHLAND – The 39th Annual Ashland Strawberry Faire is rolling onto the RandolphMacon College campus on Saturday, June 6.
The Faire is made possible through an ongoing partnership with the Kiwanis Club of Ashland. Vendor sign-ups are underway for arts & crafts, Hanover County businesses, non-profits, government services, and animal groups. Don’t delay! The early bird discount ends April 15. Sponsorship applications also are open. As an incentive this year, $1,000 sponsorships receive a free 10x10 booth space; $500 sponsorships get half-off a 10x10 booth space. It’s great publicity for a great cause!
New this year! The Faire is one of the Signature Events for Hanover County’s 300th Birthday. Hanover County businesses and non-profits are encouraged to share their history on Faire day. What is your unique story?
As part of the birthday extravaganza, a “Celebration of Hanoverians” Parade will kick off the Faire. The parade is open to all ages. Dress up as your favorite Hanoverian, walk in the parade with Patrick Henry, and then enjoy cookies and cupcakes with the other parade participants. The traditional “Youth Strawberry Pageant” is evolving into a parade of amazing “Strawberry Kids” of all ages. Everyone is a “kid” on Faire day – adults, too! The Strawberry Kids will walk in the parade with the Hanoverians. After the parade, the 2020 “Spirit of the Faire” will be chosen. So start planning your strawberry outfits, hats, and accessories!
Kids and adults can sign-up for the Celebration of Hanoverians or the Strawberry Kids online at www.AshlandStrawberryFaire.com.
Where do profits from the Faire go? The Faire gives back to the community by awarding 10 local scholarships each year. “In 2019, the board offered $6,000 in scholarship funds to graduating seniors from Hanover County Public Schools, the Hanover County Center for Trades & Technology, and one in honor of former Mayor Dick Gillis, to a Randolph-Macon College student majoring in political science,” Betty LaPlace, director of Scholarships, said.
The Faire also contributes funds to nonprofit groups in a Grants-for-Work program in trade for their volunteer hours running the
