The Mechanicsville Local – 01/29/2020 by Mechanicsville-Ashland Local

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Vol. 36, No. 37 | Richmond Suburban News | January 29, 2020

‘Dishevel’ brings Pay hike included in HCPS budget victory to Skinner By Jim Ridolphi for The Mechanicsville Local

ASHLAND – After nine rounds, Dalton Skinner, a seventh grade student at Chickahominy Middle School, won the Hanover County Public Schools’ 2019-2020 Division Spelling Bee. The winning word was “dishevel.” Gracie Antill, a fifth-grade student at Mechanicsville Elementary School, was the runner-up. The competition was held at the Hanover County School Board Office on Wednesday, Jan. 15, and is the second of four levels of the National Spelling Bee. As the division champion, Dalton will represent Hanover County Public Schools in the Richmond Times-Dispatch Regional Spelling Bee on Saturday, March 21, at the Library of Virginia. Hanover County Public Schools also congratulates each of the 18 winners of the elementary and middle school level spelling competitions who competed in the Division Spelling Bee: They are: z Battlefield Park Elementary School -- Hank Smith -- Grade 5 z Beaverdam Elementary School -- Harper Evans -Grade 5 z Chickahominy Middle School -- Dalton Skimmer --

Photo submitted by Chris R. Whitley

Dalton Skinner, a seventhgrader at Chickahominy Middle School, won the Hanover County Public Schools 2019-2020 Division Spelling Bee.

Grade 7 z Cold Harbor Elementary School -- Draven Chesworth -- Grade 4 z Cool Spring Elementary School -- Ava Fenderson -Grade 4 z Elmont Elementary School -- Ava Wilson -- Grade 4 z John M. Gandy Elementary School -- Lyla Patterson -- Grade 5 z Kersey Creek Elementary School -- Olivia Hussey -- Grade 5 z Laurel Meadow Elementary School -- Gianna Strattman-Lassiter -- Grade 5 see SKINNER, pg. 4

ASHLAND -- Despite a foreboding list of challenges and needs and a decrease in state funding, Hanover County Public Schools superintendent Michael Gill last week unveiled a 2021 budget that, in his words, “places the highest priority on meeting our complex needs and advancing education in Hanover County.” Gill’s proposed $199.4 million (an increase of 2.7 percent from last year’s budget) operating budget proposal provides a 2 percent raise for all employees effective July 1, increases salaries for bus driv-

Jim Ridolphi for The Local

Michael Gill, superintendent of Hanover County Public Schools, has proposed a $199.4 million operating budget that includes a 2 percent pay increase for all employees.

ers, and funds the continuation of the five-year technol-

ogy plan. In addition, the proposed

budget outlines new positions that include six behavioral support employees, two school counselors, a Positive Intervention System coordinator, and one clinic assistant at Lee-Davis High School. Those positions will be funded by “refocusing existing resources” and do not require additional funding by the 2021 budget. Gill said that some positions are eliminated while others are created to address needs in other areas, including mental health and behavioral issues. All of the proposed positions are budget neutral with the exception of the clinic assistant. “Each budget year presents see PAY, pg. 5

Harris lists initiatives; Evko joins HCSB By Jim Ridolphi for The Mechanicsville Local HANOVER -- County Administrator Rhu Harris presented his proposed 20121 Fiscal Year Initiatives last week to the Hanover County Board of Supervisors. With his retirement looming months away, it was Harris’ final presentation of the annual wish HARRIS list, and he asked supervisors to delay a decision on the priorities until

after his budget is unveiled next month. “Each year at this time, we are pleased to bring forward a discussion on our initiatives for the upcoming year. Tonight I’d like to offer several proposed initiatives for your consideration,” Harris said. “These initiatives will be funded through the budget process, so we respectfully request that you defer any consideration on these initiatives until after we finish the budget process in April.” The first initiative involves continued support for the newly-formed Broadband Advisory Committee and its efforts to discover methods to supply broadband to underserved areas of the county. “This is a citizen-led committee whose goal is to analyze the existing maps to determine what infrastructure currently

exists and how it can be leveraged to expand and improve service … and hopefully provide solutions” Harris said. The county administrator listed the continuation of the school’s technology plan that supplies laptops to all middle school students this fall. “We have partnered with the schools to include 440,000 for this initiative ... providing all middle school students these devices for the first time.” The county also envisions the completion of the Sliding Hill Road project in its proposed initiatives for 2021. The project is complete from Kings Charter to Atlee Station Road, but Harris said there’s still “work to be done” and he suggested including the completion by the end of see HARRIS, pg. 16

Cybersecurity competition offers opportunity for high school girls Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com RICHMOND – The Virginia Information Technologies Agency (VITA) announced that registration is open for the 2020 Girls Go CyberStart program, which aims to support and inspire high school girls across Virginia to explore careers in cybersecurity and computer science. “Virginia is national leader in the cybersecurity industry and VITA is excited to be

a part of the 2020 Girls Go CyberStart program and continue the momentum from last year’s contest,” said Chief Information Officer of the Commonwealth Nelson Moe. “More than 800 young women from 88 Virginia high schools participated in the 2019 program and $10,600 in cash prizes and scholarships were awarded to Virginia schools and students. Additionally, 12 students each received a $500 scholarship.” see GIRLS, pg. 4

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January 29, 2020

INSIDE

The Local Pick:

Foley and Wilson honored as Hanover HEROs by Habitat Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com ECHANICSVILLE – Jim Foley and Dr. Jamelle S. Wilson have been recognized by Hanover Habitat for Humanity as 2020 Hanover HEROs. Hanover Habitat defines a HERO “as a person who demonstrates the spirit of Helping Encourage Real Opportunities for our neighbors and Community members.” Foley is director of pricing with Hunton FOLEY Andrews Kurth, a renowned international law firm with over 1,000 lawyers, while Wilson serves as dean of the School of Professional and Continuing Studies at the University of Richmond. Foley is originally from New York City, but has called Ashland WILSON home for more than 20 years. He has served two terms as a member of Ashland Town Council. He served as mayor of the “Center of the Universe” for one of those year. Foley said he and his family have found their “forever home and community” in Ashland. Upon accepting the nomination as a Hanover HERO, he said, “Hanover Habitat is one of my favorite organizations. I love their mission and want to do my part to help in the community.” Foley received his MBA in Finance from George Mason University. He also is a former certified public accountant. He is married to Lorie Foley and together they are very active in the Ashland community through their work with the Ashland Theater, Strawberry Faire, Train Day and the Ashland Musical Variety Show. They

enjoy their family, which includes children, Amanda, Jimmy and Nora; son-in-law Steven; and two grandchildren, Dani-Alexis and Ven. When asked what Foley considers his greatest achievement, he said,“It’s to be determined!” Wilson serves as the fifth dean of the School of Professional and Continuing Studies (SPCS) at the University of Richmond. Prior to her appointment as dean, she served as superintendent of Hanover County Public Schools from 2011-2015. Before her appointment as superintendent, Wilson worked in HCPS as a classroom teacher, a lead teacher, an assistant principal, a principal and an assistant superintendent. In 2015, Wilson was named Region 1 Superintendent of the Year, having been selected for this honor by her colleagues in the region. In February 2017, Wilson was appointed by Gov. Terry McAuliffe to the Virginia Board of Education. Her involvement with the University of Richmond’s School of Professional and Continuing Studies began through her work as member and chair of the governance board of Partners in the Arts, an entity which seeks to integrate arts education across PreK12 education. Wilson is a professor in the school’s Educational Leadership and Policy Studies graduate program. In addition, she taught in an adjunct role for the University of Virginia and for Virginia Commonwealth University prior to serving as Dean. As a career educator who recognizes the importance of effective leadership at all levels of an organization, Wilson holds a special interest in the area of developing and supporting building and division level leaders. To this end she studies school leadership and serves as an executive coach for new and early tenure building and school division leaders. Wilson is active in service to the Richmond community and beyond, currently as a member of the Board of see HABITAT, pg. 4

5 PETS Victory needs a home. Can you help?

13 COMMUNITY Native receives presidential military promotion.

15 ASHLAND Learning about the hexagonal moon craters.

ALSO… Incident Reports........3 Obituaries ..........10-11 Calendar ................. 16 TV grids..............17-19

SHERIFF’S REPORTS

Gentle Foot Care

| Crime, Accidents, Fire & Rescue the 13400 block of Liberty School Road, Ashland.

Jan. 6

Larceny of bank notes and check was reported in the 18400 block of Woodson Mill Road, Beaverdam. Petit larceny, $500 not from a person, was reported in the 9700 block of Atlee Commons Drive, Ashland.

Possession of marijuana, subsequent offense, was reported in the 7400 block of Hunter Drive, Mechanicsville.

Uttering was reported in the 9700 block of Sliding Hill Road, Ashland.

Petit larceny, $500 not from a person, was reported in the 7500 block of Verdi Lane, Mechanicsville.

Driver did not report an accident with damages, $1,000, in the 10100 block of East Patrick Henry Road/ Providence Church Road, Ashland. Firearm purchase or dealer violation was reported in the 10100 block of Lakeridge Parkway, Ashland.

Jan. 7

Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 8100 block of Elm Drive/Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville. Credit card theft was reported in the 5000 block of Sandy Valley Road, Mechanicsville. Destruction of property, monument, was reported in the 7100 block of Flag Lane, Mechanicsville.

Uttering was reported in the 9700 block of Sliding Hill Road, Ashland. Assault on law enforcement, court, doctor, fire or medical personnel was reported in the 7000 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville. Grand larceny building was reported in the 13400 block of Mountain Road, Glen Allen. Grand larceny pickpocket was reported in the 10100 block of Whitesel Road, Ashland. Petit larceny, $500 not from a person, was reported in the 8000 block of Lee-Davis Road, Mechanicsville. Driver did not report an accident with damages, $1,000, in the 7200 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike/Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.

Petit larceny, $500 not from a person, was reported in the 8200 block of Meadowbridge Road, Mechanicsville. Credit card theft was reported in the 7400 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville. Issuing bad checks, $200, was reported in the 7500 block of Deborah Drive, Mechanicsville.

Simple assault was reported in the 10100 block of Lewistown Road, Ashland.

Possession of Schedule I and II controlled substance was reported in the 7200 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville.

DWI, first offense, was reported in the 13000 block of Howards Mill Road/ St. Peters Church Road, Montpelier.

Simple assault was reported in the 8300 block of Richfood Road, Mechanicsville.

Grand larceny from auto was reported in the 7500 block of Overlook Drive, Mechanicsville.

Possession of Schedule I and II controlled substance was reported in the 8100 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike/Elm Drive, Mechanicsville.

Grand larceny shoplifting was reported in the 7800 block of Compass Point Lane, Mechanicsville.

Unlawful purchase or possession of alcoholic beverage was reported in

Callahan named to Dean’s List at University of Iowa

IOWA CITY, Iowa -- Emily Callahan, a University of Iowa student from Mechanicsville, 23116, has been named to the Dean’s List for the recently-

Obtaining money, etc., by false pretenses, larceny, $200 conspiracy, was reported in the 7500 block of County Complex Road, Hanover. Possession of marijuana, subsequent offense, was reported in the 7500 block of Mechanicsville Bypass/Cold Harbor Road, Mechanicsville. Possession of marijuana, first offense, was reported in the 700 block of England Street, Ashland.

Grand larceny from auto was reported in the 8800 block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.

For Children, Adults And Seniors

Driving after forfeiture of license, third in 10 years, was reported in the 100 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville.

Credit card fraud, $200 in six months, in was reported in the 11500 block of Lakeridge Parkway, Ashland.

Jan. 9

Possession of marijuana, subsequent offense, was reported in the 13000 block of Mountain Road, Montpelier.

Failure to appear on a felony charge was reported in the 7500 block of County Complex Road, Hanover.

Profane and threatening language over a public airway was reported in the 6300 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville.

Jan. 8

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Destruction of property, monument, was reported in the 12100 block of Loblolly Lane, Rockville.

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Simple assault was reported in the 200 block of Archie Cannon Drive, Ashland.

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January 29, 2020

science teachers in the United States,â&#x20AC;? said Commonwealth Information Security Officer Michael Watson. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This resource dubbed â&#x20AC;&#x153;Cyber Encounters,â&#x20AC;? supports both national and state Computer Science Teachers Associations and provides computer science teachers continuing development to learn about and gain confidence in introducing cybersecurity to their students.â&#x20AC;? In 2019, more than 10,000 high school girls across the country participated. Twenty Virginia high schools won licenses to the game, making it available to the entire student body. Four Virginia high schools qualified for the national championship competition. For 2020, the three high schools in Virginia with the most participants will receive awards of $1,000, $750 and $500. High schools with at least five girls who complete six or more challenges earn the right for both boys and girls to use the CyberStart game for the remainder of the school year. Registration for Girls Go CyberStart is now open until Friday, Jan. 31, with online gaming commencing on Feb. 10. Additional details can be found at www.girlsgocyberstart.org.

GIRLS Continued from pg. 2

Students complete immersion training in an online game environment in key areas of cybersecurity. They pass challenging certification exams as they gain the knowledge, tools and techniques needed to launch a career in cybersecurity as they explore relevant and exciting topics such as cryptography and digital forensics. At the end of each course, they will earn certifications that identify their skill sets and cyber workforceready students will be introduced to select employers for internships and employment opportunities. The program is completely free and open to girls in grades nine through 12. Students can participate at both home and school, or wherever an Internet connection is available. Participating students (and their teachers) do not need knowledge or experience in IT or cybersecurity to participate. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In an attempt to increase participation this year, the National Science Foundation has announced a grant to enable Girls Go CyberStart to become a resource for all 11,000 computer

HABITAT Continued from pg. 2

Governors of the International Baccalaureate Organization, the Board of Directors of Community Foundation of Richmond, the Board of Communities in Schools, the Leadership Council of Bridging Richmond, the Memorial Regional Medical Center Community Advisory Board, and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. She also has served as chair of the Association Board of Directors of the YMCA of Greater Richmond. Other recent community service has included membership on the Curry School of Education Foundation Board. Foley and Wilson are described by Hanover Habitat as â&#x20AC;&#x153;community-minded and passionate honorees that are each challenged to raise $5,000. These funds help deserving families in our neighborhood with a real opportunity to build strength and stability through shelter.â&#x20AC;? To learn more about the Hanover HERO program, visit https://www.hanoverhfh.org/ hanoverhero/.

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In other Habitat news, construction is in full swing at Hanover Cove, and volunteers are needed on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays now through the end of 2020. Groups of 12 are welcome, and Habitat may even be able to do groups up to 24. Volunteers must be 16 or older. Individuals are encouraged to jump in as well. Habitat representative Amanda Gunter said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Please consider working in winter -- it may be cold, but our houses still need to be built! We have a lot to accomplish in a short period of time! If you can give us a day, or come out regularly, let us know!â&#x20AC;? In addition, Habitat has a repair program that offers repairs to local, very low-income homeowners to make their houses accessible, livable, energy efficient, and safe. Gunter said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are currently accepting applications for critical exterior repairs. If you are interested, visit our website, https://www. habitat.org/, for more details and an application.â&#x20AC;?

A Special Alzheimerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Association Presentation

SKINNER Continued from pg. 1

z Liberty Middle School -Hannah Rice -- Grade 8 z Mechanicsville Elementary School -- Gracie Antill -- Grade 5 z Oak Knoll Middle School -Lucy Jurista -- Grade 6 z Pearsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Corner Elementary School -- Noah Hetrick -- Grade 5 z Pole Green Elementary School -- Evan Luck -- Grade 5 z Rural Point Elementary School -- Alden Croxton -- Grade 4 z South Anna Elementary School -- Miles Noah -- Grade 5 z Stonewall Jackson Middle School -- Connor Wilborne -- Grade 8 z Washington-Henry Elementary School -- A.J. Lopez -- Grade 5 Information submitted by Chris R. Whitley, Hanover County Public Schools public information officer. Join in the conversation: Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re on Facebook at www.facebook.com/mechlocal. We welcome and invite you to participate in topics of interest in our county.

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7080 Brooks Farm Road, Mechanicsville, VA 23111

PAY

Pets of the Week

Continued from pg. 1

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. Beth, Animal ID# 569229, is a 3-year-old (estimated) female domestic short-haired feline. She has had her first set of vaccines and is FELV/FIV test negative. Beth is a sweet little girl. She came into the shelter as a stray. Beth is super-friendly and loves people. She is a good lap cat. Beth also seems to be well litter trained. She will be most suitable for someone looking for a house cat. Victor, Animal ID# 573746, is a 4-year-old neutered male pitbull/hound mix canine. He has had his first set of vaccines and is Heartworm test negative. Victor was turned into the shelter two weeks ago. He is a nice boy. Victor does really well with people. He seems to be house-trained and knows several commands. Victor also does well on a leash. He more than likely was a house dog at his last residence, so he will fit in great with an indoor living condition. 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 804365-6485 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/.

unique challenges,” Gill told the Hanover County School Board. “Speaking candidly, this was probably the most difficult budget to get to a place where we felt good about what we are going to propose to you tonight,” he continued before revealing the figures. There were several factors cited by Gill that made this year’s balancing act more challenging. Gov. Ralph Northam’s budget released in December does not provide salary increases for teachers for the first year of its two-year cycle. The 3 percent increase proposed in the governor’s budget would take effect in July 2021. The state share also was reduced by $1.9 million due to Hanover’s third consecutive increase on the Local Composite Index scale, a system that compares the Commonwealth’s localities ability to pay. Add to that a decline in

enrollment that also resulted in reduced revenues, rising healthcare costs and an increased contribution to the VRS (Virginia Retirement System) retirement fund, and the difficulty in budgeting this year’s budget seems clear. Gill said that decreased enrollment does not equate to a reduction in needs that the system is encountering. “While our enrollment is not increasing, our needs most certainly are,” Gill said. He listed some of those needs, many addressing behavioral and mental health issues at county schools. Last year, school officials conducted 218 suicide assessments, with 42 of them deemed critical; and the system is experiencing a “stark” increase in the number of students who come from economically-challenged families. The superintendent said addressing student behavior issues is an “utmost priority.” see PAY, pg. 16

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 number VA-8482 with all correspondence.

13563RICADV (1-20)

The Mechanicsville Local

January 29, 2020

OPINION | The Local Views From the managing editor

LETTERS

Growth necessary to provide quality services

| Reader Views

By Melody Kinser Managing Editor \evelopment. To some in our county, it’s almost viewed as a dirty word, but the reality is growth is the only way for us to remain on the path of success -personally and professionally. And let’s not lose sight of what happens to our county-operated services. I know there are many who scream about taxes -- but how else do we fund much-needed services? Hanover County Public Schools is a shining example of what attracts new residents to the county. We also boast exceptional public safety departments: Hanover County Sheriff ’s Office,

Hanover Fire-EMS, and Hanover Emergency Communications. I wonder if some folks forget about the importance of these extraordinary county-funded agencies. During a conversation with a member of one of the county’s long-time businesses, we agreed on the significance of development. As a parent, she has seen first-hand the benefits of the education system offered here. As I’ve said in the past, I have never lived in a rural area, so I won’t say every open parcel must be utilized. To compete, however, we have to “open our doors” as it were to new businesses and industries. I don’t reside in the area where Wegmans is

constructing a distribution center, but I’m confident the company name will draw other businesses to the county. I do sympathize with those residents who have shared their opinions on these pages about the traffic issue they anticipate they will face with the addition of the center. Yet, the benefit of additional tax dollars means so much to the future. Kudos to the Hanover County Board of Supervisor, County Administrator Rhu Harris and Economic Development Director Linwood Thomas for making all this happen. C’mon, Hanover, let’s grow, let’s prosper, let’s be the best county in the commonwealth.

Inclusion is simple: It’s about educating all students By Jim Ridolphi Contributing Columnist What does the word inclusion mean to you? As I sat at a recent school board meeting in a metro Richmond county, that question was on the mind of everyone who listened to poignant stories from students who are well acquainted with the term. For some students, the issue of inclusion is real, and just being part of our everyday educational routine is a

daily challenge. Whether it’s a noticeable physical disability, or something better hidden to the novice eye, classrooms of today seek to include everyone and prepare all students for careers, college or whatever follows graduation. Students with handicaps, conditions and disabilities are making tremendous strides on campuses across the nation and the belief that they are best served by special programs is quietly being dispelled. There are longstanding beliefs

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from some parents that including special needs children in mainstream classrooms somehow diminishes the ability of other students to learn because those students require special attention. The outdated theory contends that time spent on one child with special needs reduces learning time for the majority of students in the class. That position dictated policy for years, but, slowly but surely, the education community has realized that including as many students as possi-

ble in classrooms provides benefits for all — special needs and mainstream students alike. Studies indicate that students educated in inclusive classrooms achieve similar results as those involved in non-inclusive settings. To the contrary, a policy that includes all students being mainstreamed provides life experiences that enhance education and better prepares our students for the challenges of the real world. see INCLUSION, 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: (804) 344-8746 E-mail: editor@mechlocal.com © 2020 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.

Sliding Hill Road motorists seek solution Wegmans Distribution Center article, and recent letters, begs a workable solution for us daily users of Sliding Hill Road. The Hanover County Board of Supervisors (HCBOS) needs a “Lesson Learned” from the recent Cedar Lane construction project. HCBOS’ very own appointed planning commissioners changed their minds, and overruled a second entryway, at U.S. 1.Traffic nightmares occur when the HCBOS, and its own planning commissioners, limit large developments to just one entryway. Sliding Hill Road is a two-lane winding country road with sharp curves leading towards the Askcake Road intersection. Solution? The HCBOS requires that the Wegmans’ main entryway be at the four-lane intersection of Sliding Hill and New Ashcake roads. That four-lane road directly connects to what is right now being expanded as a four-lane road all the way westward to Interstate 95. Donald E. White Ashland

Impeachment impact on 2020 election When the notion to impeach Donald Trump first gained traction in the Democrat-controlled House of Representatives, Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-CA, appeared hesitant to launch the all-out assault in the game of political chess. Eventually, she climbed on board with the clique that wanted to checkmate the 45th President for alleged High Crimes related to pressuring Ukraine to investigate political rival Joe Biden. The Articles of Impeachment that see LETTERS, pg. 8

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LETTERS Continued from pg. 6

ensued caused Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-KY, to declare the House action a political process aimed at undoing a national election, not a judicial one. If Trump is cleared, which seems likely in the Republicancontrolled Senate, the

impeachment will have little effect on voters who faithfully endorse Trump or those who passionately despise him. As for the voters on the fence who will decide the 2020 election, most have experienced significant prosperity during Trump’s time in office. To sway these folks, Democrats need to lengthen the drama as long as possible with the hope that will destroy Trump’s cred-

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ibility in the court of public opinion. Instead of processing the Articles of Impeachment immediately, Pelosi held them longer than expected. And Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-NY, began to beat the drum for new witness testimony during the trial. McConnell resisted that idea, while reprimanding Democrats in the House for not gathering sufficient evidence in their investigation. McConnell, who acknowledged he is not an impartial juror, appears determined the Senate procedure will be a formality to clear Trump. In an interview with Sean Hannity, McConnell stated he would coordinate the trial with White House counsel, which drew outrage from Democrats and a few Republicans. The informed electorate understands politicians are merely people and thus are capable of using public office for personal gain. Although Trump would not be the first

president to do so, proving that he committed High Crimes is an entirely different matter. And similarly, Biden, who was once recorded as one of the least wealthy senators, also is capable of wrongdoings. If more witnesses are called, Biden and his son Hunter would probably be on the list. The senior Biden is apparently uncomfortable about testifying, but he should not be blamed for avoiding the center stage of a grueling political interrogation. At the very least, this kind of witch hunt often publicly damages an individual’s veracity, not ideal for a presidential hopeful at this stage of his campaign. Whatever the outcome of the trial, the impeachment process has likely raised the stakes in this year’s election. If Trump survives in the Senate, the failed maneuver could actually bolster his chance for re-election and the position of the GOP in other races, which some have presee LETTERS, pg. 12

INCLUSION Continued from pg. 6

Often, these special needs children inspire and motivate their fellow students and confirm the old adage that a book shouldn’t be judged by its cover. It also allows our children to learn the important lessons of equity, empathy and compassion. Special education is not what it once represented, and now offers special needs children the opportunity to receive the same education in the same setting as their peers. That’s not to say those special students do not receive the individualized attention or care necessitated by their conditions. Educators do not just lump students together in an effort to mainstream, but carefully plan classrooms so services are available but not segregated in a special setting. As school systems across the nation relinquish old beliefs regarding the education of disabled or special needs children, non-disabled

classmates are learning the benefits of inclusion and realizing every student has something to offer. And many educators are declaring that inclusive classrooms are the least expensive and best way to educate our children. It’s a measure whose success can be clearly measured by the results: test date, etc. But the real benefits of the innovative programs are the students who leave school with a better understanding of how the world actually works and a respect for people with disabilities or special needs. That produces better citizens and a better world for everyone. As a parent of a disabled child, I don’t need to look far for the positive results of my son being included in mainstream classrooms. I hear the phone calls from his friends and hear conversations that offer no hint of bias or dismay, or reluctance to treat Jack as a fellow student no different see INCLUSION, pg. 12

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January 29, 2020

OBITUARIES | Death Notices & Funerals

BALDUCCI

BALDUCCI, Carl Baldo “Fluffo,” age 89, of Mechanicsville, Virginia, passed into God’s loving arms peacefully on Tuesday, January 7, 2020. He was preceded in

death by siblings Albertina Francioni, Rina Ball, Elda Corso, Umberto Balducci, Elfo Balducci, Celia Stepanian, Giotto Balducci, Vienna Loving, Bianca Moore and Rino Balducci. He is survived by his devoted wife, Myrna; faithful daughter, Renee Lacy; granddaughter, Lara (Bill); and great-grandchildren, Julianna and William; close sister, Aida Balducci Keller; and 24 caring nieces and nephews, extended family and countless friends. Born in 1930, Carl was the youngest of 12 children. Overcoming a number of impediments in life,

he enjoyed a long, successful career in the field of engineering and in real estate investment. Known for his intelligence, photographic memory, direct style and ability to assess people, Carl often evoked and aggrandized seemingly irrelevant events, changing them into long, spellbinding stories. Those closest to this wonder of God valued time with him and will miss him. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the funeral Mass at the Church of the Redeemer, 8275 Meadowbridge Rd., Mechanicsville, Virginia. Mass will begin at 10:30 a.m.

on February 5, 2020. Carl’s ashes will be interred with his mother and father in Holy Cross Cemetery, 1st Avenue, Richmond, Virginia, at a later date. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Giuseppi Verdi Lodge in Mechanicsville, Virginia. Online condolences at woodyfuneralhomeatlee.com.

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CHENAULT, M. Steven, 72, of Mechanicsville, Va., went to be with the Lord Friday, January 24, 2020. He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister. Steven is survived by his devoted wife of 53 years, Deborah; two children, Kimberley Henretty (Rick) and Bryan Chenault Sr. (Shannon); seven grandchildren, Nicholas, Jacob, Chloe, Cassidy, Tessa, Bryan Jr. and Grace; two brothers, Bill (Sally) and John Chenault; and many other beloved family and friends. Steven was a member of Truth Baptist Church, and had spent 43 years in faithful Christian service. He was devoted to his Savior and his family and will be greatly missed. The family will receive friends Thursday, January 30, 2020, from 5 to 8 p.m. and again from 11 to 11:30 a.m. Friday, January 31, at Monaghan Funeral Home, 7300 Creighton Pkwy., Mechanicsville, Va. 23111. A

funeral service will be held at 11:30 a.m. Friday, January 31, at the funeral home with interment to follow in Washington Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Truth Baptist Church Missions Fund.

COMPSTON

COMPSTON, Frederick Gene, 85, of Mechanicsville, Va., formerly of Ironton, Ohio, went to be with the Lord Sunday, January 19, 2020. see OBITUARIES, pg. 11

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OBITUARIES Continued from pg. 10

He was preceded in death by his wife of 59 years, Joyce Compston; and is survived by three children, Melissa Startley (Tim), Scott Compston (Lisa) and Melinda Gragg (Jeff); 10 grandchildren, nine greatgrandchildren; two sisters, Reva Ruthruff and Bernadine Compston; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Fred was a U.S. Air Force Korean War veteran and retired after 32 years of service with CSX Transportation. A memorial service will be held 11 a.m. Saturday, February 1, 2020, at Fairmount Christian Church, 6502 Creighton Rd. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions be made to City Welfare Mission, 710 N. Fifth St., Ironton, Ohio 45638. bennettfuneralhomes.com

ber of the Hanover Ruritan Club. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Jeffrey Doggett; and nephew, Donald Bray Jr. He is survived by Diane Doggett; daughter, Rachel Doggett; son, Josh Doggett; sisters, Fredericka Pendergraph, Rebecca Bray (Donald); and many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. The family received friends Tuesday, January 14, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Mechanicsville Chapel of Bennett Funeral Home. His memorial service was held 11 a.m. Wednesday, January 15, at Mechanicsville Baptist Church, 8016 Atlee Rd. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to Mechanicsville Baptist Church or a charity in honor of Rick.

for the State of Virginia at the Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired, for 24 years, first as a teacher and then an administrator. Don’s hobbies were coaching little league baseball, golfing, surf fishing and sharing his knowledge of history and politics. The family will receive friends 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, February 1, 2020, at the Mechanicsville Chapel of Bennett Funeral Home, 8014 Lee-Davis Road, with his memorial service following. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions be made to the Hanover County Sheriff ’s Office Foundation, P.O. Box 40, Hanover, Va. 23069, in Don’s memory.

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DOGGETT, Frederick “Rick” Elmer Jr., 57, went to be with the Lord January 9, 2020, after a long battle with cancer. Born in Mechanicsville, Rick was the youngest child of Fred Sr. and Anne Doggett. Rick was a 1980 graduate of Lee-Davis High School and received his bachelor’s degree in economics from HampdenSydney College in 1984, after which he enjoyed careers in the Floor Covering and Financial Services industries. Rick loved nature and enjoyed hunting and fishing. He was particularly fond of vicariously living life through his children’s eyes enjoying their activities and accomplishments. Rick was a member of Mechanicsville Baptist Church and past mem-

KINDER, Donald Richard, 78, of Richmond, Virginia, passed away January 17, 2020. He was preceded in death by his parents, Hollis and Hazel Kinder; brothers, Gene, Harold and Jerry. Don is survived by his wife, Gail Pearsall Kinder; sons, Douglas R. Kinder (Heather), Darin R. Kinder (Heather); six grandchildren and one great-grandchild; brother, Kenneth Kinder; and the mother of his sons, Donna R. Kinder. Don graduated from Carson-Newman College with a B.A. in government and received a M.A. in government from East Tennessee State University. Don taught in the Henry County Virginia Public Schools. After teaching, he was a claims investigator for Liberty Mutual Insurance Company, then he worked

WILLIAMS, John S. “Jack,” left this world and graduated to Heaven on Saturday, January 18, 2020. Jack was born on June 17, 1931. Jack is in Heaven with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, where he is also joined with his wife, Virginia; along with his mother and father, Mary and Edgar. Jack also joins his three brothers, Emory, Buddy and Forrest. He leaves behind his sons, Jay (Jackie) and Tom (Sue and Cody LaRue). He also leaves behind his devoted friend and partner, Estrella Fears and her daughter, Angela, who became his only grandchild. The family wishes to thank both Estrella and Angela for all the love and care they shared with him during his last years. Jack also is survived by many nieces, nephews; and most especially, his sister-in-law, Betty Williams. Jack met his wife, see OBITUARIES, pg. 31

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Madlinger receives Master’s in Teaching degree from VCU Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com RICHMOND -- Christina Madlinger graduated from the VCU School of Education on Dec. 14, 2019, with her

r Ou g ! tin ar brard Ye e l Ce 123

Master’s in Teaching degree. She focused on Interdisciplinary studies in Early/Elementary education and achieved Magna Cum Laude honors status.

A 123 Year Tradition of Caring

LETTERS Continued from pg. 8

dicted. On the other hand, if the unprecedented happens and he is removed from office, the GOP will be in chaos with November rapidly approaching, and the harmful fallout may extend beyond that. Daniel Corso Mechanicsville

Christina is the granddaughter of Melvin and Nancy Longest of King William, and the daughter of Michelle Nguyen of Mechanicsville, and On Nguyen of Richmond. “Way to go Christina! We are so proud of your accomplishments!” her mother said.

Parents urged to pay heed to internet use

Photo submitted by Michelle Nguyen

Christina Madlinger is shown on her graduation day in December from VCU.

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January 29, 2020

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

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want your child to commit suicide and they are doing a good job as hundreds of kids have died. Kids are enticed to make money, accept The Blue Whale Challenge (that gives the kids 50 challenges for 50 days). The predators ask children to cut a letter or number in their arm. They warn the child that parents and siblings will be harmed if they do not comply. The last challenge is to jump off a high building. There is the Choking Challenge, where kids are asked to tie a belt around their throats tight enough for them to pass out. There is the Fire Challenge, where kids are asked to pour alcohol on the back of their hands and set it on fire. Parents: Protect your child now before it is too late. Federal Law says no child under 13 should have a smartphone. All computers and smartphones should be removed over night from the child’s bedroom. Kids claim they do homework but they only do 10 minutes homework and then go online for hours. All app stores should be closed. Hashtags should be viewed before they are open to children.Talk to your kids and access phones and computers. Notify other parents to these dangers. Joan Austen Mechanicsville

Continued from pg. 8

from any other. As I wrote this column, a pair of tenth-graders knocked on my door. “Is Jack here?” they asked. As they entered, they explained that they are fellow students in Jack’s science class, were in the neighborhood, and just wanted to stop by and say hello to their friend. Just a small reminder that inclusion is not only the best way to educate all students, it’s the right way to raise our children.

| Education, Business & Celebrations

Barricks to share story

President promotes Smith

Submitted photo

Mother-daughter team Linda and Jen Barrick will appear at 10:15 a.m. on Sunday, Feb. 9, at Northside Baptist Church at 7600 Studley Rd. in Mechanicsville. Nationally known for their message of hope even in the midst of diversity, they have a profoundly moving story of faith, hope and forgiveness. Jen suffered a traumatic brain injury over a decade ago in Lynchburg, when her family’s van was struck head-on by a drunk driver going 80 miles per hour. Even though Jen still suffers from vision impairment and memory loss, she knows there is no limit to what God can accomplish through her life. She tours the country speaking and recently published her first book for young women, Priceless: Who I Am When I Feel …The event is free and open to the public. For more information, contact the church at 804-746-4952. Dr. Jeff Scott is the senior pastor.

‘The Science and Beauty of Botanical Art’ to be presented at VNPS meeting Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com RICHMOND – Join the Pocahontas Chapter of the Virginia Native Plant Society on Thursday, Feb. 6, to hear “The Science and Beauty of Botanical Art” by botanical artist and illustrator Judy Thomas. Thomas will describe the scientific aspects of botanical illustration, as well as its many requirements, and how it differs from botanical art. She will discuss the history of botanical art, including early botanical herbals, floras, and florilegiums. She also will discuss contemporary botanical art and trends, with an emphasis on native plants. This free meeting is open to the public and takes place in the Education and Library Complex of the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden at 1800 Lakeside Ave. in Richmond. Start time is 7 p.m., but the room is available

at 6:30 p.m. so you can come early and get to know others with similar interests. A short business meeting will follow the presentation. Thomas is a retired assistant professor of social work from Virginia Commonwealth University. She received her botanical illustration certificate from Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, where she now teaches. She is the co-founder of the Plants of the James River Project, founder of the Chickahominy Colored Pencil Artists, and is currently a director on the Board of Directors of the American Society of Botanical Artists. She has exhibited regionally and her work was widely seen in the national, juried, traveling exhibit “Following in the Bartram’s Footsteps” hosted by the American Society Botanical Artists. The Pocahontas Chapter is one of 12 see BOTANICAL, pg. 16

Photo submitted by Shirley Smith Lauterbach

President Donald J. Trump recently promoted Chief Warrant Officer 4 Ronald J. Smith Jr. to Chief Warrant Officer 5. The promotion was based on Trump’s “special trust and confidence in the patriotism, valor, fidelity, and abilities” of Smith. “In view of these qualities and his demonstrated potential for increased responsibility,” he was promoted on Sept. 12, 2019. The document was signed by Joseph L. Lengyel, General, United States Air Force, Chief, National Guard Bureau. Smith is the son of Shirley Smith Lauterbach and the late R.J. Smith Sr.

DivorceCare readies new 13-week seminar Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com MECHANICSVILLE -- If you are currently separated, going through divorce, or have experienced divorce, then DivorceCare is for you. DivorceCare is a friendly, caring group of people who will walk alongside you

through one of life’s most difficult experiences. Come find help, hope, and healing in a group led by those who understand and have experienced what you are going through. DivorceCare features nationally recognized experts on divorce and recovery. The 13-week semi-

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nar sessions include topics like “Facing My Anger,” “Facing My Loneliness,” “New Relationships,” “KidCare” and “Forgiveness.” You will learn how to heal from the deep hurt of divorce and discover hope for your future. see SEMINAR, pg. 16

January 29, 2020

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

Auditions for 8th Hanover Idol Competition scheduled on Feb. 8 Contributed Report news@mechlocal.com

SHLAND -- Do you like to sing at church, in the shower, on stage? Auditions for the 8th Hanover Idol Competition will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 8, at the Hanover Arts & Activities Center at 500 S. Center St. in Ashland. Auditions are open to Hanover County residents only. Auditions are a capella. Since 2007, 2008 and every even year since, the Center has sponsored the Hanover Idols competition, produced by Lorie Foley and Sue Watson, with

Illustration submitted by Lorie Foley

Fred Horn as music director. The goal of the competition is to showcase the talented singers in Hanover County and to inspire the finalists with affirmative and supportive coaching. The 2018 crowns went to Hanover Junior Idol Madison

Cox and Hanover Idol Jason Call. Younger kids (10 to 15 years old as of Jan. 1, 2020) may audition for the Hanover Junior Idol Competition. The Hanover Idol auditions are open to people16 years old and older (as of Jan. 1, 2020).

Previous runners-up are allowed to audition; Junior Idol winners may audition for Hanover Idol. The Hanover Idol Competitions will be held at 3:30 p.m. (Junior Idols) and 7 p.m. (Idols) on Sunday, March 8, at the newly renovated Ashland Theatre. If you’re interested, sign up online for an audition slot at www.hanoverarts.org. Proceeds from the Hanover Idol Competition go to the Hanover Arts & Activities Center, a non-profit organization. For more information, call 804-798-2728.

Moton Museum

Photo submitted by Betsy Hodge

The Ashland Museum History Talk series will continue at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 5, 7at The Center (Hanover Arts and Activities Center), located at 500 S. Center St. in Ashland. Cameron Patterson, shown above, managing director of the Moton Museum, will discuss events in Farmville and Moton High School in the 1950s. Students went on strike to protest their overcrowded and inadequate facilities. The resulting court case became part of the Brown v. Board of Education decision in 1954. This is event is free and open to the public.

The Universe from the Center: Moon has number of hexagonal craters Dr. George Spagna Special to The Mechanicsville Local Note: Public viewing at the Keeble Observatory at Randolph-Macon College will resume in January on a different night and time. We will open, weather permitting, on Tuesday evenings, 7-9:30 p.m. Scheduled sessions are Feb. 11, 18 and 25. Watch the website (https:// www.rmc.edu/keeble) for updates. Or, call the Keeble Information line at 804-752-3210. Last month’s column included a tease for February: hexagons! So, what does a six-sided regular polygon have to do with astronomy? It turns out that the shape is neither rare nor well explained. Starting close to home, there are a number of craters on the Moon that are distinctly hexagonal. The image here shows a crater named Cantor on the lunar far side. It’s not the only one! How did it get that shape, when we expect impact craters to be round? One theory dates the craters to a very young Moon, when the crust was only 10 to 50 km thick over a mostly molten interior. Modelling suggests that the

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basalts forming the crust would form hexagonal pillars as the crust cools and shrinks a little. The impacting meteorite would preserve the overall pattern as the pillars are shoved away from the CANTOR point of impact. However, that doesn’t explain hexagonal craters on Earth, nor on many moons in the outer solar system and on several large asteroids. Saturn has a north polar vortex – think jet stream – which is in the shape of a hexagon. The structure, which contains a churning storm at its center, is about 20,000 miles (32,000 kilometers) wide, and thermal images show that it reaches roughly 60 miles (100 km) down into Saturn’s atmosphere. This link will show that vortex in motion (image from NASA’s Cassini mission): https:// solarsystem.nasa.gov/missions/cassini/science/ saturn/hexagon-in-motion/ The sides of the hexagon are about 14,500 km long (about 9,000 miles) which is greater than the

January 29, 2020

Earth’s diameter (about 8,000 miles). How did it form? Why this shape? Why does the jet stream “turn a corner” every sixth of the way around the pole? We don’t know, but it’s fun to be challenged to explain the surprises nature sets before us. NASA’s Juno probe recently detected a new storm near Jupiter’s south pole. It joins five other storms to mark out the vertices of, you guessed it, a hexagon! Again, we have no idea why this pattern. The accompanying image from the Juno website is in the infrared, so the storms are probably not visible in the part of the spectrum our eyes respond to. The arrow indicates the new storm. Lunar phases for February: First Quarter on the 1st, at 8:42 p.m.; Full Moon on the 9th, at 2:33 a.m.; Last Quarter on the 15th, at 5:17 p.m.; New Moon on the 23rd, at 10:32 a.m. All times are Eastern Standard. Mercury is visible in evening twilight through midmonth. Venus sets around 9 p.m. – It will be very bright to the southeast. Mars rises at 4 a.m., so you should see it to the southeast in predawn twilight. Jupiter and Saturn rise at 5 and 6 a.m., respectively, below and to the left of Mars once they clear the horizon.

Our overhead view in the middle of February, about two hours after sunset, finds the constellation Auriga (the Charioteer) at zenith. Its brightest star, Capella, lies about 10 degrees north of zenith. The bright star at 10 degrees south of zenith is Elnath, which is in the constellation Taurus. Facing east and casting our vision down from zenith, we encounter the HEXAGON bright pair of Castor and Pollux in Gemini, about 60 degrees above the horizon. About 10 degrees lower, in the constellation Cancer, you can find the Beehive Cluster, which makes a nice target for binoculars. Leo is rising, and you’ll see bright Regulus about 20 degrees above the horizon. Unmistakable to the south is the familiar and magnificent Orion. The bright red star on Orion’s “shoulder” is Betelgeuse, which is not only bright but fairly close at 643 light years. It has been fading in recent years, leading some to speculate it’s nearing the end of its life and getsee CRATERS, pg. 15

HANOVER -- The Hanover Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Program is accepting applications for the next volunteer training scheduled to begin Feb. 25. The Hanover CASA program trains, recruits, and supervises volunteers to advo-

cate for the best interests of abused and neglected children involved in the Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court process. No special experience is required to become a CASA volunteer – just a desire to advocate for children in our community.

CRATERS Continued from pg. 14

ting ready to become a Type II supernova. That bright blue star to the left of Orion is Sirius, the “dog star” and the brightest star visible other than the Sun. Above and to the right of Orion, the bright star

BOTANICAL Continued from pg. 13

Virginia Native Plant Society chapters, and serves the counties of Amelia, Charles City, Chesterfield, Goochland, Hanover, Henrico, King William, New Kent, Powhatan, Prince George, and the cities

Potential volunteers have extensive preparation for their role through a 40-hour training program. CASA volunteers are appointed by the juvenile court judge and spend an average of 10 to 15 hours a month working on a case. The Hanover CASA Program

is Aldebaran, in Taurus. Following a line from Betelgeuse through Aldebaran will bring you to the familiar asterism of the Pleiades, another nice binocular target. Turning to the northwest we see the familiar shape of Cassiopeia, here tipped to look like an upper case Greek letter sigma. With binoculars, if you follow the imagi-

of Colonial Heights, Hopewell, Petersburg, and Richmond. In addition to the monthly meetings, the chapter conducts field trips, hosts wildflower walks, and sends a monthly newsletter. Membership in a chapter is available to anyone who joins the Virginia Native Plant Society.

serves the Juvenile and Domestic Relations Courts in both Hanover and Caroline counties. For more information, contact Melanie Baker at 804-3654300 or at mdbaker@hanovercounty.gov. Applications are being accepted until Feb. 18.

nary line through the upper pair of stars back toward the west, you should find the Andromeda galaxy, the nearest large spiral to our own home Galaxy, the Milky Way. 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.

VNPS members enjoy the natural world and support efforts to preserve Virginia’s native plants. Ranging in age from students to seniors, members are professionals, knowledgeable amateurs and many who are just beginning to learn about our flora.

While some members join enthusiastically in activities, others help out occasionally or support the society solely with their memberships and their interest. All are welcome. For more information, visit the chapter and state websites: http://vnps.org/pocahontas/.

SEMINAR Continued from pg. 13

DivorceCare is a Christcentered, video-based, Divorce/ Separation Recovery Program. Atlee Church will begin a new 13-week DivorceCare group on Feb. 11. The group meets each Tuesday from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the church, located at 7171 Verdi Lane in Mechanicsville. A Kickoff Dinner will be

held from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 4. There is no charge to attend the dinner and children are invited. You will learn how the program works and meet the group leaders. “We know it's hard to take this first step towards healing but just know that we have been there. We want to show you that you can get through this and have hope for the future,” organizers said.

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January 29, 2020

CALENDAR | News, Updates & Listings Saturday, Feb. 1 The Studley Ruritan Club’s famous “Super Bowl Chili” will be available for pick-up at the Studley Store/Post Office (on the corner of Studley Road and Williamsville Road) between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. Order early before it sells out, and stock up your freezer for the cold winter ahead. The price is $8 a quart. Proceeds go to benefit the community. For more information, or to place an order, call Douglas Newcomb at 804-730-0570 or any Studley Ruritan Club member. Enon UMC at 6156 Studley Rd. in Mechanicsville will sponsor a Salt Fish Breakfast from 8 to 9:30 a.m. The meal

HARRIS Continued from pg. 1

this calendar year as one of his suggested board initiatives. Also included is the final design for a new terminal on the east side of the county’s airport. “We expect to complete this design this spring, and total cost for this building will be approximately $3.7 million including site improvement,” Harris said. Once the design is complete, the county can apply to the Department of Aviation for construction funds (80 percent) for the project. Montpelier residents were pleased to learn that the Montpelier Park, Community Center and Library also are on the list of 2021 initiatives. The county has committed to building a $5.4 million, 20,000-square- foot two-story facility, including a gym, with construction beginning in 2022. Since 2005, the county has attempted to gauge its performance by submitting citizen surveys to a portion of its population every three years. “We propose to survey 1,700 house-

will include salt fish, scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage gravy, biscuits, corn cakes, hash browns, grits, apples, waffles, and beverage for $8; age 6 and under are admitted free of charges. Proceeds benefit Heart Havens and the church’s Men’s Ministry.

Wednesday, Feb. 5 The Montpelier Ruritan Club will host a public meeting at 8 p.m. at the Montpelier Parks & Recreation Building located at 17203 Sycamore Tavern Lane in Montpelier, during which information about the new countywide transportation system, Hanover DASH, will be discussed. The Hanover DASH Program provides trans-

portation for Hanover County residents 60 years old or older or persons with a short-term or long-term disability. A participant can obtain a ride to hospitals, doctors’ offices and other locations in Hanover County and other designated areas. This is a door-to-door service or curb to curb service and the cost is only $6 one way. A member of Hanover Community Resources will address the service. Senior citizens and individuals with a disability are encouraged to attend. For more information, call Dan Johnson at 804-883-7249.

Saturday, Feb. 8 An All-You-Can-Eat Salt

holds … and have had a very ing retirement, supervisors high participation rate from held a special workshop sesour surveys in recent years,” sion earlier that day to gather Harris said. Those surveys, if information on the process approved by the board, will be from an outside firm hired to mailed in August with results assist the county in finding a expected by the end of this new county administrator. Representatives calendar year. of the Berkley Finally, in coorGroup updated dination with the supervisors and said county’s upcomthey are receiving ing 300th Birthday inquiries and appliCelebration, Harris cations and phone listed the opening of interviews will the Hanover County begin next month. Museum as one of In other news, his initiatives for newly-elected South 2021. EVKO Anna supervisor “As part of the Sue Dibble tapped culmination ceremony of the county’s 300th Kelly Evko, one of four candibirthday, we’re proposing to dates nominated, to replace her open the Hanover Museum of on the Hanover County School History and Culture,” Harris Board. “I would like to thank all said. The museum will be dedicated on Oct. 17 as part of the four of our nominees,” Dibble countywide celebration com- said. “I think we had an excelmemorating three centuries lent slate of nominees and I’ve of history. The museum will met with each of them and be housed in the old Clerk’s asked questions and I think we Office, and a part-time direc- had an extremely strong pool tor has been hired to oversee of candidates.” Before announcing her the project. In regards to Harris’ pendsee HARRIS, pg. 19

The Mechanicsville Local

January 29, 2020

Fish Breakfast, hosted by Independence Ruritan Club, will be held from 6:45 to 8:45 a.m. to benefit The Arc of Hanover. Breakfast includes: salt herring fillets, scrambled eggs, bacon, spiced apples, cornbread, grits, coffee and orange juice. The cost is $9 for adults. The Ruritan Club Community House is located behind Independence Christian Church at 14033 Independence Rd. (off Route 54, west of Ashland). For more information, call 804-798-6579.

Saturday, Feb. 15 Church of the Redeemer, located at 8275 Meadowbridge Rd. in Mechanicsville, is hosting a Casino Night on Saturday,

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.

Feb. 15. The Redeemer Royale will have professional game tables, stage prizes, door prizes, photo booth, and silent auctions. The night will begin with a cocktail hour at 6 p.m. and gaming from 7:30 to 10 p.m. Visit www.churchredeemer. org to purchase tickets online. Tickets are $30 per person.

Sunday, Feb. 23 Untold Stories – Growing Up in Ashland/Hanover, Black and White Experiences will be presented at 4 p.m. at Patrick Henry High School in Ashland. The program provides oral his-

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“One of the changes we’ve seen is behaviors that are more complex and more intense specifically at a younger level,” Gill said. “This represents an evolving need. We certainly want our teachers and administrators to be able to respond appropriately, and we do believe strongly that actions deserve consequences; but we don’t believe that discipline alone is the sole answer.” The superintendent also noted increased demand for services in Special Education and English Language Learners. Even with the decrease in LCI and enrollment allotments from the state, the Commonwealth’s share increased $219,000 from last year’s budget. But, a major portion of that more than $5 million increase in this year’s budget is being absorbed by local funding. Local dollars are the major source of revenue for Hanover schools and increased from last year. Local dollars also fund the system’s Capital Improvement Plan, a five-year projection for school spending on major projects and acquisitions. This year’s proposed CIP provides almost $88 million slated to fund future projects like the construction of a new elementary school in 2023 to replace John Gandy and Henry Clay elementary schools. Funds also are included for land acquisition for a new secondary school in the plan. The 2021 CIP continues funding for the five-year technology plan. Students at Stonewall Jackson Middle School are enrolled in a pilot

tories about life in the 1940s, 1950s and 1960s. Untold Stories is sponsored jointly by The Center, The Hanover County Black Heritage Society, Ashland Museum, and Downtown Ashland Association. This is event is free and open to the public.

Saturday, May 16 The Highland Springs High School Class of 1970 will hold its 50th Reunion at the Hill Building at Sandston Pool, located at 501 Beulah Rd. in see CALENDAR, pg. 19

program testing ChromeBooks for distribution this fall to all middle-schoolers. Laptops for high school students will follow the next year. “These computers will not simply serve as a replacement for traditional educational materials such as textbooks,”Gill said. “Rather we will use them as a transformative educational tool to unlock learning possibilities that would otherwise not be possible.” Construction costs for safety vestibules at 17 county schools also are included in the proposed CIP, a measure that will ensure all visitors to schools are directed to the office. Terry Stone, assistant superintendent for STONE Finance, noted that the school is in year four of the five-year tech plan. “The fact that we’ve been able to remain on budget and keep moving forward every year has certainly been exciting,” Stone said. Gill summed it up similarly, describing the current status of the plan as “ahead of schedule and under budget.” Stone also presented Nutrition, the third leg of the budget stool, and told board members the cost actually decreased by about one percent. Total cost for all funds for this year’s proposed budget is $219.7 million including the operating, nutrition and CIP components, an increase of 5.9 percent over last year’s budget.

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