The Mechanicsville Local – 12/07/2022

By Christina Amano Dolan Editor

The Mechanicsville Christmas Parade returned this year like never before, offering a vibrant and festive afternoon with the annual spectacle’s largest lineup of participants to date. Spectators lined the streets to catch a glimpse at “Christmas through a Child’s Eyes,” the theme for this year’s parade, through a record number of 96 units.

The first place winner of the Best

By Christina Amano Dolan Editor

Church of the Redeemer’s Craft Bazaar recently returned for its 41st year, drawing a crowd of almost 2,000 visitors and families throughout the day to holiday shop for handmade

By Christina Amano Dolan Editor

Residents from the local community and beyond visited the 20th annual Deck the Halls fundraising event last weekend to craft fresh holiday arrangements with friends and family while benefiting Hanover Safe Place.

The annual event was held Sunday, Dec. 4 at the home of Carolyn and Jerry Peart, who have been holding Deck the Halls on the family’s historic Pine Grove Farm since 2002. With a single exception in 2006, the Pearts have dedicated the past 20 years to hosting the fundraising holiday event every year following Thanksgiving.

Deck The Halls sees visitors who sign up for specific time slots to select up to three wreath forms and three premade bows to craft custom decorations for their homes, offices and more using fresh greenery such as fir, cedar, holly, boxwood, pine and more supplied by Hickory Hill, Winterberry, Maplewood, and

Claybrooke Farms. Participants are also offered wire, clippers, and all-natural decorations such as pine cones, holly berries, beauty berries, winterberries and more.

Volunteer “coaches”

Christina Amano Dolan/The Local Visitors at the Deck the Halls event craft customized arrangements at the various stations around the family farm using fresh greenery, ribbon, and other all-natural decorations including pine cones and winterberries.

Joel Klein for The Local Truth Baptist Church of Mechanicsville won first Place Best in Keeping With The Theme. More photos on page 13 and 23.

fromVCUSchoolofDentistry.Hethenwenton tocompleteaone-yearAEGDresidencyatEast CarolinaUniversityandiscurrentlypursuinga fellowshipintheAcademyofGeneralDentistry. Heenjoyscooking,fishing,spendingtimeatthe beach,andtravelingwithhiswife.

HCPS annual holiday Poinsettia Sale returns

By Christina Amano Dolan Editor

Hanover County Public Schools Horticultural Science and Greenhouse Plant Production and Management students are racing to fill orders for their annual poinsettia sales, crafting handmade arrangements in the spirit of the holiday season.

c a l e d e r s, e al s

The Horticultural Science course prepares students in grades nine to 12 for postsecondary educational career programs and entry-level positions in the horticulture industry. Instruction includes safety in the horticulture industry, the science of horticulture and nursery plant production, greenhouse operation and management, landscape design, and turf management. Through hands-on activities, students identify and manage plant-growing substrates and propagate and grow horticultural plants in the greenhouse and

land laboratory. Greenhouse Plant Production and Management students are prepared for postsecondary

Christina Amano Dolan/The Local Shown is an assortment of poinsettias growing in Mechanicsville High School’s greenhouse before being made into holiday arrangements. Below, Mechanicsville High School freshman Chris Ferris and junior Cameron Lomb help make ribbon arrangements to fill poinsettia orders as part of the school’s Horticultural Science and Greenhouse Plant Production and Management course.

educational career programs and entry-level positions in the greenhouse plant production and management

see POINSETTIA, pg. 7

Richmond National Battlefield Park announced last month that the Cold Harbor Battlefield Visitor Center (5515 Anderson Wright Drive) closed for the winter season on Thursday, Dec. 1. It will reopen on Wednesday, March 1, 2023. Trails and the park’s driving tour will remain open and accessible to the public daily from sunrise to sunset.

The park’s visitor center at Chimborazo Medical Museum (3215 E Broad Street) remains

open Wednesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and the park’s contact station at Tredegar (500 Tredegar Street) remains open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site Visitor Center is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. All sites will be closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.

For more information about the park, visit Richmond National Battlefield Park online at www.nps.gov/rich or on Facebook at www. Facebook.com/RichmondNPS.

Aug. 4

Destruction of property, monument was reported in the 11500th block of Sun Shade Lane, Ashland.

Grand larceny, building was reported in the 8000th block of Beatties Mill Road, Mechanicsville.

Concealment of pricealtered merchandise, less than $500 was reported in the 7400th block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.

DWI: BAC over .20, first offense was reported in the 14700th block of Scotchtown Road/Three Oaks Lane, Montpelier.

Petit larceny, less than $500 not from a person was reported in the 11800th block of North Lakeridge Parkway, Ashland.

Identity theft with intention to defraud, up to $200 was reported in the 8100th block of Elvira Court, Mechanicsville.

Identity theft with intention to defraud, up to $200 was reported in the 7100th block of Cold Harbor Road, Mechanicsville.

Driver not reporting accident with damage less than $250 was reported in the 8000th block of Woodbridge Road, Mechanicsville.

Concealment of pricealtered merchandise, less than $500 was reported in the 7400th block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.

Issuing bad checks, $200 or more was reported in the 15100th block of Blunts Bridge Road, Doswell.

Aug. 5

Trespassing after being forbidden to do so was reported in the 10100th block of Kings Dominion

Boulevard, Doswell.

Grand larceny, parts was reported in the 11000th block of Cobbs Road, Glen Allen.

Identity theft with intention to defraud, up to $200 was reported in the 8000th block of St Pauls Church Road, Hanover.

Defrauding hotels, motels, less than $200 was reported in the 7000th block of Sandy Lane, Mechanicsville.

Conspiracy to obtain money, etc., by false pretenses; larceny, $200 was reported in the 10300th block of Holly Hill Road, Glen Allen.

Identity theft, obtaining ID to avoid arrest, two or more offenses was reported in the 3700th block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville.

DWI: First offense was reported in the 9400th block of Deer Stream Drive, Mechanicsville.

Aug. 6

Driver not reporting accident with damage up to $1,000 was reported in the 9000th block of Mcclellan Rd/Old Church Road, Mechanicsville.

Destruction of property, monument was reported in the 9500th block of Fawn Park Lane, Mechanicsville.

Assault and battery on a family member was reported in the 11000th block of Mount Hope Church Road, Doswell.

Driver not reporting accident with damage up to $1,000 was reported in the 14100th block of Hanover Courthouse Road/Caroline County, Hanover.

Violating a preliminary protective order was reported in the 7200th block of Snaffle Lane,

Mechanicsville.

Concealment of pricealtered merchandise, less than $500 was reported in the 7400th block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.

Carrying a concealed

weapon, first offense was reported in the 7200th block of Ann Cabell Lane, Mechanicsville.

Aug. 7

Making threats to extort money was reported in the 9300th block of Marlbourne

Way, Mechanicsville.

Manufacturing/distributing Schedule 6 Controlled Substance was reported in the 7300th block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.

Destruction of property,

monument was reported in the 9100th block of Shakopee Trail, Mechanicsville.

Petit larceny, less than $500 not from a person was reported in the 10000th

Saturday, Dec. 10

Trinity Lutheran Church – Ashland Campus, located at 11515 Ashcake Road, Ashland will hold its annual Homemade Cookie Sale from 9 a.m. to noon. There will be lots of homemaker cookies – fill your own box –as well as other tasty holiday items for eating and gift-giving including baked goods, jam, relish, apple butter, fudge, buckeye candy and more. Cash or check only. For further information, contact Ellen at 804-798-6937.

The Independence Ruritan Club will host an all-you-can-eat Salt Fish Breakfast from 6:45 to 8:45 a.m. to benefit the Western Hanover Emergency Action Team (W.H.E.A.T). Breakfast includes: salt herring fillets, scrambled eggs, bacon, spiced apples, cornbread, grits, coffee and orange juice. Cost is $11 for adults. The Ruritan Building

CALENDAR

is located behind Independence Christian Church, 14033 Independence Road (off Route 54, west of Ashland). For more information, call 804-7985171 or contact Dave at e-mail wdtoney@mindspring.com.

Books, Beads & More, located at 8106 Mechanicsville Turnpike in Mechanicsville, has invited former Navy Chaplain and Grace Christian School teacher, David Reid Brown, to conduct a Christmas book signing event at their store on from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Brown will be signing copies of his devotional book, “Lost Summer,” as well as his seafaring personal journal series, “Spirit Soundings.” These inspirational stories were born out of his global experiences in naval chaplaincy, spanning twenty-one years of peace, war, and three overseas deployments. If you have any questions about

this event, contact Erin at 804730-2665.

Sunday, Dec. 11

The first ever “Frosty Fest” will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 9204 Center Oak Court in Mechanicsville. Frosty Fest is a shop local event that will benefit CodeBlue Cares Foundation in their mission to provide technology to schools, libraries and rural communities. Over 20 artisans and businesses will be set up in The Rutland Center along with local food vendors, gift wrapping and more. The event is open and free to the public. For more information, visit www.codebluecares.org or email donate@codebluecares.org.

Church of the Redeemer, located at 8275 Meadowbridge Road in Mechanicsville, invites all to its annual Advent/ Christmas Concert at 3 p.m.

This concert will feature Redeemer’s 35+ member Adult Choir, Redeemer Ringers-a 3 octave handbell choir, talented instrumentalists, and the Youth/Children’s Choir. You’ll hear seasonal favorites and new choral pieces, sing-alongs and more! The concert is free to attend but we will take up a free-will offering toward the purchase of acoustic panels to enhance the quality of sound in our Worship Space. Reception to follow. For more information check out www.facebook.com/ RedeemerMusicMInistry or call (804) 746-4911.

Tuesday, Dec. 13

The Hanover Concert Band is presenting a Christmas Pops Concert at the Hanover Arts and Activities Center at 500 South Center Street in Ashland from 7 to 8 p.m. All are welcome to hear the band play sea-

| News, Updates & Listings

Fax submissions to calendar to 344-8746, email to events@mechlocal. com, or mail to 8460 Times-Dispatch Blvd., Mechanicsville VA 23116. Deadline is 1 p.m. Thursday for the following week’s issue. Calendar announcements cannot be taken by phone. We reserve the right to edit all items submitted to The Mechanicsville Local.

sonal favorites. Mechanicsville AARP Chapter 5407 will be meeting from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at First Union Baptist Church, 6231 Pole Green Rd. in Mechanicsville. The Hanover Christmas Mother, a person from Senior Connection will be the guest speakers, election of officers and board members, and any committee chairpersons positions.

Wednesday, Dec. 21

Blue Christmas Service will be held at 7 p.m. at Mechanicsville United Methodist Church, 7356 Atlee Road in Mechanicsville. A service of light for those who are feeling blue, sad, grieving and

experiencing loss this Christmas season. This service occurs on the Winter Solstice, the longest night of the year. Invite those who have experienced loss and grief this year. All are welcome. Nursery provided for children 4 and under.

Ongoing

Mechanicsville Churches Emergency Functions One Stop Shop (MCEF OSS) is open for food, clothing and linens from 9:30 to 11 a.m. on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday and from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday at 7235 Stonewall Parkway in Mechanicsville (rear parking lot). The shop is available for

see CALENDAR, pg. 7

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From the editor

OPINION | The Local Views

The family who gives the gift of giving back

By Christina Amano Dolan Editor

Growing up in a modest colonial town in New England, Carolyn Peart developed a different view of the world as a young girl – one that still inspires the restless philanthropist to never slow down, even in the middle of an ice storm.

Peart, who has been an Ashland resident for over 20 years now, has carried the powerful lessons of her parents to a community that proves their validity every day.

Planning ahead for the family’ annual Deck the Halls fundraising event, Peart’s spirits were hopeful despite the usual hiccups that always seem to occur at the last minute. With rain showers occurring the day before the Dec. 4 event, she knew she and the volunteers would have to scramble to set up in the early morning.

But as the fundraising event has been

held every year since it was established 20 years ago – with a single exception – rain or shine, blizzard or a ferocious pandemic, it was nothing the family couldn’t handle. Even a nasty ice storm in 2013 couldn’t dissuade Peart or the near-200 attendees that day, with many even taking to foot with the streets coated in ice. Community members from near and far flocked to the family’s farm, adorned in spectacular holiday decorations, to carry on her family’s tradition of crafting holiday assortments in all shapes and sizes – all while benefiting the meaningful cause of Hanover Safe Place.

“It’s so touching to this day when people tell me, ‘This is our family tradition,’ ” Peart said as she reminisced over decorating the Christmas tree with her family. As she fondly shared her memories with me in the days leading up to the event, a wave of nostalgia seemed to overcome her during our phone conversation. Recalling my own beloved

memories of long upheld family traditions, such as the many festive evenings spent decorating our childhood home with handmade ornaments, I thought how special it would be to share my family’s fondest holiday memories with families from afar.

Because as Peart has powerfully shown, another kind of family can be found even far beyond the bounds of one’s childhood home, as she strives to spread these joyous memories to her new family every year.

Reader thanks local ‘unsung heroes’

Dear Editor,

I would like to thank a group of unsung heroes in our Mechanicsville Community. These unsung heroes are a group of gentlemen who grew up in Hanover, graduated from the former Washington Henry and Battlefield Park High School and continue to give back to our community. These men ask for nothing in return and never want to be named or praised. They give from their hearts.

Since 2012, these men have donated over $50,000 to families at Christmas time. The donations have gone each year to buy gift cards for families in need so children can wake up on Christmas morning with presents and be filled with joy and hope. They have truly saved Christmas for families year after year.

I want to say thank you for continuing to give back to our community, thank you for your endless generosity and thank you for inspiring me personally to give back. You all have brought joy to hundreds of kids in Mechanicsville.

LETTERS | Reader Views see

Sincerely, Jackie McCaleb Mechanicsville

Donald McEachin gave his all to constituents as long as he could

By Jim Ridolphi Contributing Columnist

meetings and an endless stream of buffet dinners.

As I covered local government for years, I never encountered a person more suited to meet those challenges than Donald McEachin.

The congressman lost his decade-long battle with cancer last week, leaving a void in the state political landscape that will be difficult, maybe

even impossible, to fill. Respected by both parties for an unwavering work ethic and sense of fairness that appealed to both sides of the aisle, McEachin will be most sorely missed by a group of constituents who formed a bond of trust through his years of dedicated service.

I’ve also spent a few hours at those com-

Publisher Joy Monopoli

Managing Editor Laura McFarland ....................lmcfarland@powhatantoday.com Editor Christina Amano Dolan........................cdolan@mechlocal.com Sports Editor Robby Fletcher.............................rfletcher@powhatantoday.com

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The Mechanicsville Local December 7, 2022

Over those years, I developed a respect for a politician that, in my estimation, did what most of us expect from our elected leaders. I also admired his tenacious and dedicated willingness to listen to constituents, meet with reporters and make transparency a staple in his repertoire.

Like many who knew him during this time, I watched as he changed physically as he relentlessly battled cancer, never short of energy or enthusiasm or too busy to meet with a line of constituents. No dinner or

see MCEACHIN, pg. 7

CALENDAR

Continued from pg. 4

residents in the 23111 and 23116 zip codes with identification and proof of residency.

Walnut Grove Baptist Church will be conducting Free Adult English Classes (ESL) and Citizenship Classes (Passing the Test) Wednesday mornings with open enrollment through May 17, 2023. Classes will meet from 9 to 10:30 a.m at 7046 Cold Harbor Road, Mechanicsville, VA 23111. For more information, contact the church office at (804) 746-5081 or contact Frank at wgbcinfo@comcast.net or (804) 402-7701. The classes are free but students are asked to purchase the books required for the class.

Saturdays

Trinity Lutheran Church, Ashland Campus, located at 11515 Ashcake Road in Ashland 2 miles west of U.S. 1, holds its church service at 5 p.m. with

see CALENDAR, pg. 12

Hudson announces candidacy for Mechanicsville District Supervisor

MCEACHIN

Continued from pg. 6

meeting was too small for Don, and no issue too insignificant to consider.

Prior to his election to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2016, McEachin served in both houses of the Virginia General Assembly, and also was a founding partner in McEachin and Gee Law Firm.

POINSETTIA

Continued from pg. 2

industry. Instruction includes industry safety in greenhouse plant production, development of plant production facilities, greenhouse management and operations, plant identification, the science of plant production, business management and marketing skills.

Poinsettia sales help to fund leadership opportunities and programming within the courses throughout the year.

The Mechanicsville High School (MHS) program preordered around 420 poinsettias from a local nursery to grow in the school’s spacious greenhouse. Churches, businesses, clubs and more began preordering mass orders three weeks before sales officially opened last week, with the handmade arrangements

already flying off the shelves as students work diligently after school to keep up with heavy demand.

At MHS, students from Horticultural Science and Greenhouse Plant Production

Contributed Report

The Local

Editor’s note: Ryan Hudson announced his candidacy for Mechanicsville District Supervisor in a Nov. 30 press release. He offered the following message in the release: I am pleased and honored to announce my candidacy for Mechanicsville District Supervisor. Our work from

2019 is not done.

I pledge to bring a sense of community, business experience, sound judgement and know-how to office.

The primary role for the supervisor should be to serve as an advocate and be the voice for the people.

There are many issues that will come before us, which include: responsible growth, empowering education in the classroom, fighting against the

constant “drip campaign” from the Left, and unwavering, visible support for public safety (Sheriff’s department, Fire and EMS).

My background in healthcare has taught me compassion. In my role as a long-time business owner, I am constantly in touch with both citizens and business owners, gaining a real-time understanding of their needs.

As a firm believer in civil

discourse, we should work to seek common ground in order to forge a way forward for a better good.

I look forward to this campaign season. I will be taking the message to the citizens of the Mechanicsville District and providing them with the context to understand how we got where we are as a community.

Learn more about the campaign by visiting www. RyanforHanover.com.

Throughout his career McEachin was known for his unwavering dedication to equal rights and environmental justice and served on the House Committee on Energy and Commerce (E&C), the House Committee on Natural Resources (Natural Resources), and the Select Committee on the Climate Crisis.

A graduate of St. Christopher’s School in Richmond, McEachin was

the son of an Army veteran and a public school teacher, and never forgot his local roots when representing his constituents.

He graduated from American University in Washington and obtained his law degree from the University of Virginia. McEachin also held a master’s degree in divinity from the The Samuel DeWitt Proctor School of Theology

online product reservation form, conducted a product photo opportunity and created worker shifts.

Cindy Green, the school’s agriculture teacher, said hands-on student involvement throughout the process is a priority for her.

“I know it’s supposed to be a student-based enterprise, so I want them to feel the business aspect as much as possible,” Green said. “They pretty much do everything except ordering the plants.”

at Virginia Union University.

A special election will be scheduled to fill the seat won by McEachin in November but no timeline has been announced by the governor.

Rep. Bobby Scott of Virginia fought back tears as he remembered his friend and colleague on the floor of the House last week.

“May we all seek to honor Donald’s life and legacy by working to build a future in

He added he also enjoys connecting with fellow plantlovers through the program.

“It’s the best,” he said. “It’s like a tiny little family.”

MHS junior Cameron Lomb said he selected the course because of his longtime love for agriculture and enjoys the hands-on nature of the program.

which everyone has access to clean air, water and soil,” Scott said. “Madam Speaker, this body has lost one of its most dedicated public servants and fiercest advocates for justice and equality, and he will be deeply missed.”

That loss will be felt hardest by those who benefitted the most from his life of dedication and commitment — his constituents and those who knew and loved him.

sumer of horticultural products,” Green said.

The MHS Poinsettia Sale will remain open while supplies last. The sale’s hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 4 to 5:30 p.m. Those interested in ordering any special arrangements can call 723-2245.

and Management took the lead in key decision-making processes for the sale. Student volunteers in grades nine through 11 conducted a market analysis, determined product pricing, designed an

MHS junior Lee Vaughn, who has been in the program for two years, said he enjoys the chance to give back to the community by using his passion for horticulture and “anything plant-related.”

“Giving back to teachers, workers, you know, just everybody within the community to show them how much we appreciate them,” Vaughn said.

“I tell my students every year that are in horticulture, ‘I’m not expecting you to go out and enter the industry… I want you to either become interested in horticulture for a career or be a responsible con-

For more information about products, pricing and bulk ordering, visit the Mechanicsville High School Agriculture Facebook page or https://forms.gle/ n9HVqrPnsggqevyMA to place an order.

Contributed photo Ryan Hudson announced he is a candidate for the Mechanicsville District Supervisor.

Christina Amano Dolan/The Local

An assortment of poinsettias have been growing in Mechanicsville High School’s greenhouse before being made into holiday arrangements.

SANTA RUN 2022 SCHEDULES

Ashland Volunteer Fire Company

This year’s Santa Run for Ashland Volunteer Fire Company Station 1 has released the following schedule for December. The streets listed below are the basic order they will be following each night. The station will have a makeup night on Wednesday, Dec. 14 at 6:30 p.m. if they are unable to keep the listed schedule.

The trucks are large, so they will stick to main thoroughfares. They will be unable to drive down cul-de-sacs or side streets. The station requests that spectators do not approach the moving units. They should hear them coming, as the station will give a notice with sirens.

The station thanks the community for their tremendous support and hopes all families will come out to see Santa. For updates on routes and changes, visit the Ashland Residents Page on Facebook.

Tuesday, Dec. 6, beginning by 6:30 p.m.

Oakhill Estates Subdivision, Fox Mill Run, Melton Road, Ashland Heights Road, Ashglade Court, Cheroy Road, Cheroy Woods Subdivision, Mount Herman Farms, North Woods Subdivision, Country Club Hills & River Run Subdivisions, Stanley Park Drive, Ashland Park Drive, Carters Hill Subdivision.

Wednesday, Dec. 7, beginning by 6:30 p.m.

Jamestown Road, Woodside Lane, Providence Subdivision, Woodside Estates Subdivision, Wintercrest Subdivision, Omni Park Place, Omni Apartments, Slash Cottage Subdivision, Lance & Bridle Subdivision.

Thursday, Dec. 8, beginning by 6:30 p.m.

S. Center Street (SE Side), Virginia Street, E. Francis Street, 1000 Block of Maple Street, Kilby Station Road, 100 & 200 Block of New Street, MacMurdo Street, Arlington Street & Mist Pines Apartments, Maiden Lane, Lee Street, 100 & 200 Block of Robinson Street, Sedgefield Subdivision, Palm Leaf Subdivision, 500 Block of Pleasant Street, Myrtle Street,

Short Street, Randolph Street, Henry Clay Apartments, 300 Block of Robinson Street, S. Taylor Street, 300 Block of New Street, Arlington Square Apartments.

Sunday, Dec. 11, beginning at 6:30 p.m.

College Avenue, Caroline Street, N. Taylor Street, Calhoun Street, Louisiana Street, Macon Circle, Henry Place, N. Cottage Green Drive, Trotter Mill Close Apartments, Hanover Apartments, Laurel Woods Apartments, Vaughan Road, Ashland Towne Square, Smithtown Road.

Monday, Dec. 12, beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Dale Ave, S. James Street, Duncan Street, Early Street, S. Center Street (SW side), Oaks Apartments, Ashland Manor Apartments, Cox Lane, Stebbins Street, Race Course Street, W. Francis Street, Hanover Avenue, S. Snead Street, Beverly Road, Lee Avenue, Cubs Lane, Thompson Street (Southern side), Kenton Ridge.

Tuesday, Dec. 13, beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Henry Street (North of RMC), Berkley Woods Subdivision, A & B Streets, 100 Block of Berkley Street, 500 & 600 Block of N. Center Street East, Henry Apartments, NW Henry Lane, 200 Block of Berkley Street, Burruss Apartments, N. Center Street (West Side), W. Patrick Street, N. James Street (N. Snead to Thompson), Mullen Drive, N. Snead Street, Wesley Street, John Street, Henry Clay Road, Thompson Street (North Side), Chapman Street, Cross Road, Clover Hill Drive, Elm Avenue, Park Avenue, Linden Street, N. Macon Terrace Subdivision, Lauradel and Luck Brothers Drive.

Chickahominy Volunteer Fire Department

This year’s Santa Run for Chickahominy Volunteer Fire Department Station 10 has released the following schedule for December. The neighborhoods this year are reversed from

8 The Mechanicsville Local December 7, 2022

years past due to activities in King’s Charter. The neighborhoods listed are not necessarily in the order that they will follow.

Due to staffing and available resources, Santa is no longer able to go down every street as in years past. His routes have been changed to travel down the primary roads in the neighborhoods in order to see the most people. Take a look at Santa’s travel plans on his website at https://cvfd10.ort/santa and follow his progress on both Facebook (@ChickahominyVFD. Station10) and Twitter (@HanoverFire_10).

If Santa is unable to make it on the scheduled day for weather or other reasons, the make-up day will be on Sunday, Dec. 11.

Note: Station 10 Santa Runs took place on Saturday, Dec. 3, which occurred before press time. The following neighborhoods visited were: Charleston Ridge, Atlee Ridge, Green Ridge, Hickory Ridge, Beechwood Farms, Summer Duck Farm, Chickahominy Oaks, Madison Springs, Honey Meadows, Taylor Farms, Kings Charter II, Stephens Manor, Ivy Banks, Castlewood, Kingswood Court, Rapidan Woods, Kings Charter I, Charter Creek Apartments.

Saturday, Dec. 10, 12 to 6 p.m.

Totopotomoy, Milestone, Ashcreek, Ashcake Station, Forest Lake Hills, Fox Head, Somerset, Colonial Estates, Chickahominy Falls, Elmont Woods, Stony Run Estates, Cedar Lea Park, Kosmo Village, Telegraph Road, Lakeridge Apartments, Americamps

Hanover Courthouse

Volunteer Fire Company

This year’s Santa Run for Hanover Courthouse Volunteer Fire Company Station 5 has released the following schedule for December. If Santa and the crew must stop the Santa Runa for weather, the make-up date will be Dec. 17. Follow the station for updates on Santa Runs or to learn more about volunteering by searching the Facebook page: @hcvfc.

The station will end every run by driving through the County Courthouse Complex and the last stop is the Courthouse entrance loop, in case residents missed Santa.

Thursday, Dec. 15, beginning around 6:30 p.m.

Route 54 (between 301 and the Taylor Complex): Liberty Oaks Lane, Depot Road, St. Pauls Church Road, 301 (between Depot Road and Route 54), Hickory Hill subdivision, Jennings Road, Mount Hernon Road, Goddins Hill Road, Mount Eagle Subdivision.

Begin on 54 West, turn on Liberty Oaks, left on Depot, right on St. Paul’s Church Road, right onto 301, Right on Depot Road, Left on Liberty Oaks, left onto 54 going West. Turn right into Wickham Manor Way travel throughout the subdivision. Come back out Wickham Manor Way turn right onto Route 54 to Haley Farm Subdivision, right on Haley Farm then to Taylor complex and tum around. Turn left on east Route 54, turn Right on Goddins Hill Road, right on Jennings- Road to the End. Turn Left on Mount Hermon Road, Left on Goddins Hill Road then Right on Mount Eagle Road. Turn around and proceed back on Mount Eagle Road turn left on Goddins Hill Road then turn left on Mount Hermon Road end at Stumpy Road, then return to Courthouse Complex ending in front of Courthouse Building.

Friday, Dec. 16, beginning around 6:30 p.m.

301 (between Norman Bridge Road and Hill Crest Road): Cady’s Mill Road, Peaks Road (between 301 and Mount Hermon Road), Hill Crest Road, Glebe Hill Subdivision, Chestnut Church Road, Foxal Road, Georgetown Road (between 301 and Chestnut Church Road).

301 South towards Cady’s Mill Road. Right on Cady’s Mill Road, right on Peaks Road, right on Stumpy Road to Mount Hermon Road. Turn left continue at stop sign then left on Peaks Road turn right on 301 right on Hill Crest Road to Hillcrest Baptist Church. Hillcrest Road then right on Peaks Road cross over 301 to Georgetown Road. Georgetown Road then turn left on Chestnut Church Road. Chestnut Church Road and into Glebe Hill subdivision through the Glebe Hill area, exit back out Chestnut Church Right on Georgetown Road, turn Right on Foxal Road to the dead-end, tum around, right on Georgetown, right on 301 north, return to Courthouse Complex ending in front of Courthouse Building.

Editors note: More 2022 Santa Run fire station schedules will be printed in future editions as they become available.

Metro Creative Graphics

assist crafters with the various wreath forms, with many being local gardening experts from the Ashland Garden Club and others. In addition, decorations premade by Hanover Safe Place volunteers and area garden clubs are sold at low prices throughout the event, including wreaths, swags, table toppers and more.

All proceeds raised from the event directly support Hanover Safe Place, which is the only nonprofit organization in Hanover County that provides assistance to victims of domestic and sexual violence.

According to Carolyn, they have reached up to $20,000 in donations in a single year prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. While she didn’t know the donation total at press time, she said there were over 300 visitors, up from 156 visitors in 2021.

Carolyn said she chose to partner with Hanover Safe Place in 2013, recognizing the organization’s important mission because of her own childhood experiences. Throughout Carolyn’s childhood, her parents offered their home as a safe haven to children and women that had been removed from their homes due to dangerous circumstances.

“Is someone going to not eat or get sick or maybe even die if I don’t help them? Is it life or death? Those are the missions my husband and I have really focused on,” Carolyn said.

Stacie Francis, Hanover Safe Place director of devel-

opment and communications, said they were thrilled when the Pearts reached out about the partnership.

“We had been wanting to be involved in the event for a while,” Francis said. “It’s a great event and it was a great opportunity for us to reach more people and let them know about our services.”

Francis said it is a “true organizational-wide effort,” as volunteers and staff are very hands-on throughout the planning process in decorating the farm, assisting visitors with crafting, manning different stations, and even baking a large assortment of warm Christmas treats and beverages to offer to guests from inside the barn.

“It’s a great kickoff to the holiday season,” Francis said. “It’s something that our staff always looks forward to because they get to come and enjoy it as well.”

The Pearts always offer Deck the Halls volunteers warm meals and beverages in their home throughout the

SANTA RUNS

Continued from pg. 8

Saturday, Dec. 17, beginning around 6:30 p.m.

301 (between the Caroline County Line and River Road): River Road (between Williamsville Road and 301),

event.

“Give your volunteers the most exquisite, fun, happy event you can give them -- not just your patrons -- and you know they will come back,” Carolyn said.

“I think it’s just a great kickoff to the holiday season,” Francis said. “It’s so fun and magical, really, the way everything comes together. We play holiday music, we’ve got sweet treats and warm drinks in the barn, we have food for volunteers in the house… It’s just so fun.”

Kristi McCullough, a Powhatan resident, said she has been coming to Deck the Halls for 12 years. She enjoys making beautiful holiday décor for friends, family and her own home. She also loves how the selection of fresh greenery varies every year.

“It’s a way of doing good and spreading joy at the same time,” McCullough said, adding that she most appreciates the event’s charitable nature. “They’re letting us help in a

County Courthouse Complex, Normans Bridge Road, Hanover Quarter Road, Fire House Road.

301 South, turn Left onto River Road right Into Dundee estates, through subdivision, back out entrance and right on River Road to the county line. River Road to 301, turn Right onto 301 north, tum right onto Firehouse Road, turn

way that doesn’t feel like just donating but building a community.”

The Garcia family travelled from their different homes around Virginia to bond over their love of crafting.

“This year we thought, ‘You know, let’s do something for Christmas where we actually spend time together instead of just buying all the gifts,” said Adele Garcia, who brought her two daughters along for the first time.

“It’s such a blessing to do this event,” Peart said. “It's nothing but joy; you know, that feeling inside when you think it might be heaven on earth.”

Peart said they can always use more volunteers and welcomes any interested community members to reach out to her with inquiries at carolyn. peart@verizon.net or Hanover Safe Place by visiting the website, https://www.hanoversafeplace.com/. For more information on Deck the Halls, visit the website, www.deckthehallsva. org.

Right on to Normans Bridge Road, turn left onto Hanover Quarter Road, and head back to Normans Bridge Road turn Right, back to 301, north to Caroline/ Hanover County Line. Turn around at the boat ramp, head back to 301 South to the County Courthouse complex, ending in front of the Courthouse Building.

Christina Amano Dolan/The Local

Community members from near and far visited Pine Grove Farm in Ashland for the Peart family’s 20th annual Deck the Halls fundraising event to benefit Hanover Safe Place on Dec. 4. Premade wreaths and other fresh holiday arrangements for sale adorn the Pine Grove Farm’s historic shed.

CARTER, Lisa S., 58, of Mechanicsville, Va., went to be with her Father in Heaven, Wednesday, Nov. 30, 2022. She was preceded in death by her grandmother, Ann Jane Petruce. Lisa is survived by her beloved husband of 41 years, Dwayne Carter; four children, Morgan Carter, Courtney Butler (Patrick), Heather Alvis (Larry) and Sloan Carter; five grandchildren; her mother, Rita Moseley; a brother,

John Sadovszky (Mary); and a sister, Elaina Turner. Lisa worked in the banking industry for over 25 years. She loved to dance, enjoyed gardening and was a talented seamstress. She was dedicated to her beloved family. The family received friends from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 6, at Monaghan Funeral Home, 7300 Creighton Pkwy., Mechanicsville, Va. 23111. A funeral Mass will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Dec.7, at the Catholic Church of the Redeemer, 8275 Meadowbridge Rd., Mechanicsville, Va. 23116. Interment will follow in Hanover Memorial Park. Donations in Lisa's memory can be made to the Catholic Church of the Redeemer.

DONITHAN DONITHAN, Kyler H. Jr., 77, of Mechanicsville, died Thursday, Nov. 24, 2022. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ernestine and Kyler Donithan Sr.; and one grandson, Marcus Smith Jr. He is survived by his wife, Jo Ann; two daughters, Stacy and Robin; three grandchildren, Anthony, Devin and Kiarra; eight great-grandchildren; two brothers, Raymond and Ernest (Charlotte); several nieces and nephews; one aunt, Lillie; two stepdaughters, Michele and Cindy; four step-grandchildren and three stepgreat-grandchildren. Kyler retired from the U. S. Postal Service, and was a Deacon at Northside Baptist Church. He served in the United States Army and had a tour of duty in Vietnam. The family received friends Sunday, Dec. 4, at the Atlee Chapel, Woody Funeral Home, 9271 Shady Grove Rd., Mechanicsville, where a funer-

al service was conducted at 11 a.m. Monday. Interment followed at 1 p.m. in Greenwood Memorial Gardens on Patterson Ave. Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association and online condolences at woodyfuneralhomeatlee.com.

DUFFER

DUFFER, Erma Jane Wilmouth, 84, of Mechanicsville, was reunited with her husband, Percy Duffer Jr., family and Lord in Heaven on Nov. 27, 2022. She is survived by her daughter, Jennifer Jane Wright and her husband, Tommy; grandchildren, Andrew Thomas and his wife, Janey, Sarah Jane and her partner, Evan Finlay; great-grandchild, Penelope Jane; brother, Jimmy Wilmouth and his wife, Brenda; and a host of nieces and nephews. Erma had a long career with Rite Aid that she deeply enjoyed. Her passions were her family, work and cutting the grass. The family received friends from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 2 at the Mechanicsville Chapel of Bennett Funeral Homes, 8014 Lee Davis Rd., where a funeral service was held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 3. Interment fol-

lowed in Hanover Memorial Park. Online condolences may be registered at bennettfuneralhomes.com.

HARDING, Richard A., 89, of Chesterfield, Va., went home to be with the Lord, Nov. 29, 2022. A native of Detroit, Michigan, he was the son of the late Petronella "Pet" Hardin and John "Jack" Hardin. He was also preceded in death by his beloved wife of 54 years, Elizabeth "Betty" Burns Harding; and his sister, Joan Ellen Bedford. He was a resident of Hanover County for 42 years and Chesterfield County for the past nine years. A 1966 graduate of the Detroit Institute of Technology, he was employed in Human Relations at the Ethyl Corporation for 40 years. He was involved in various local churches and Christian ministries throughout his life. He was

also an avid bowler and woodworker. He is survived by his six children, Lynn (Carter) Crafford of Fairfax, Patricia "Patty" (Ben) Beasley of Lovettsville, Wendy Oswald of Omaha, Neb., Daniel "Danny" (Tracy) Harding of Bridgewater, Sally (Mark) Weber of Naperville, Ill. and Karen (Mac) Hutton of Midlothian; 24 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. A visitation will be held 2 to 4 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 8, at Bliley's Chippenham, 6900 Hull Street Rd., Richmond, Va. Interment will be private in Cherry Grove Cemetery in Clare, Mich. In lieu of flowers, send memorial contributions to Gideons International or Brandermill Woods Foundation and arrangements by Bliley's Chippenham.

JOHNSON, Elizabeth Doane, our loving Betty, left us on Tuesday, Nov. 29, 2022. She was recently preceded in death by her husband of 66 years, Woodrow "Woody" Johnson Jr. She is survived by her son, David (Lisa); daughter, Karen Anderson (Robert); six grandchildren, Michael, Jon, Jami, Samantha, Katy and John Wayne; and three greatgrandchildren. She was an active member of Carlisle Ave. Baptist Church, serving as a deacon, Sunday school teacher to the Dorcas Class, a member of the finance and communion committees. She will be greatly missed by family, friends and

Chloe, her Boston Terrier. The family received friends from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 4 at the Mechanicsville chapel of the Bennett Funeral Home, 8014 Lee Davis Rd., where a service was held at 11 a.m. on Monday, Dec. 5, with interment following in Washington Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Carlisle Ave. Baptist Church, 2010 Carlisle Ave., Richmond, Va. 23231; or American Heart Association, 4217 Park Pl. Ct., Glen Allen, Va. 23060.

KELLEY

KELLEY, Calvin Eugene "Buddy," of Mechanicsville, Va., went to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Thursday, Nov. 10, 2022. Buddy was born at home in Ellerson (now Mechanicsville) on March 20, 1938, the youngest child of the late James A. Kelley Sr. and Edna Z. Kelley. He was preceded in death by his parents; his daughter, Kim Kelley Young; brothers, James A. Kelley Jr. and Charles B. Kelley Sr.; and sister, Carolyn K. Brown. Buddy is survived by his son, Warren E. Kelley; grandchildren; sister-inlaw, Evelyn B. Kelley; along with numerous nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, Dec. 10, at 1 p.m. at Carlisle Avenue Gospel Chapel, 2506 Carlisle Avenue, Richmond, Va. 23231. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Bible Broadcasting Network at BBNradio.org or Leading the Way at LTW.org.

Lipford; and his daughter, Jackie Elaine Lipford. He is survived by his son, Brandon Craig Lipford (Cameron Neilands); his brother, Ralph Lipford (Heidi); and his fiancée, Rose Hunt. Alan is also survived by numerous nieces, a nephew and numerous cousins. Alan retired from Firestone after 37 years of service. He was blessed to have retired in 2012 and was able to enjoy his final years in traveling and spending time with his family and friends. His funeral service will be held Dec. 10, 2022, at Woody Funeral Home, Atlee Chapel, 9271 Shady Grove Road, Mechanicsville, Va. The family will have visitation from 10 to 11 a.m., with a service at 11 a.m. at the funeral home. Immediately following the service, interment will be in Washington Memorial Park, Sandston, Va. In lieu of flowers, Alan and his daughter, Jackie, would have wished for you to make a contribution to your local ASPCA. Online condolences can be made at www. woodyfuneralhomeatlee.com.

friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 7, 2022, at the Mechanicsville Chapel of the Bennett Funeral Home, 8014 Lee-Davis Rd., where services will be held 11 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 8. Following a 2 p.m. interment in Green Lawn Cemetery, Bowling Green, a reception will be held at 4 p.m. at Richmond East Moose Lodge, 7167 Flag Ln., Mechanicsville.

LIPFORD, Alan Craig, passed peacefully away Nov. 25, 2022. He was 68 years old and was predeceased by his parents, Gladys and Randolph

LOVING, Isaac Lee "Ike," 75, of Mechanicsville, passed away Thursday, Dec. 1, 2022. He is survived by his companion of 20 years, Jean Brooks; as well as other family, friends and his Grey's Point "Rivah" family. Ike was proud to have been a Sergeant in the U.S. Marine Corps and a Vietnam veteran. The family will receive

POWELL, Wanda Stout, 85, of Mechanicsville passed away peacefully on December 1, 2022. Wanda was preceded in death by both parents, seven siblings and her husband, James “Jimmy” Powell. She is survived by her sister, Charlotte Stout; her son, Cory Powell (Merideth); and granddaughters, Abby and Maddie, whom she loved more than anything. A graveside service will be held at Forest Lawn Cemetery, 4000 Pilots Lane, Richmond Va. 23222 on Thursday, December 8 at 3 p.m. and officiated by family friend Dan McFaden. In lieu of flowers, memorials made to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America would be greatly appreciated.

The Mechanicsville Local December

REID, Betty Thompson, of Mechanicsville, went to be with the Lord on Nov. 29, 2022. In life, she was a devoted Christian, wife, mother, grandmother, friend, worker and a model American lady. She was graceful, patient, humble and kind. She is survived by her son, Jason Edward Reid; three grandchildren, Kayla, Dylan and Joslynne; and many extended family and countless friends whom all were very special to her in life. The family will receive friends at Bennett Funeral Homes, Mechanicsville Chapel, 8014

Lee-Davis Rd., on Saturday, Dec. 10 from 1 to 3 p.m., followed by a service at 3 p.m. All friends and loved ones are invited to come celebrate her life.

SEWARD, Joseph Coke, 89, originally from King and Queen Court House, Va., peacefully passed away on Tuesday, Nov. 29, 2022. He was preceded in death by his parents, Wilton W. and Polly C. Seward; siblings, Seden, Welford, Charlie, Bernard, Roland, Thelma, Gladys, Helen; and his wife, Jane Garnett Seward. He is survived by his loving daughter, Tracy

Seward Fitzgerald (Dave); and one sister, Grace Seward Wills (Billy). He is also survived by many nieces, nephews; and two stepsons, Michael and David Powell. Joe was the ninth of 10 children. Four of his brothers served in the U.S. Army, encompassing two wars. Joe enlisted in the U.S. Coast Guard with his two best friends after high school and served on the Icebreaker, the Eastwind. He graduated from Smithdeal Massey Business College in 1957 and received his associate's degree from University of Richmond by taking night classes for many years. He pursued a career as an Accountant for Meyers Meat Packing Company and Reliance Marine. He then went on to finish his career in insurance sales for Home Beneficial and AIG. He had a passion for hunting over the years with his friends, Ernest and C.C., walking the land, uncovering birds in King and Queen County. He was an avid reader and held many roles at

Mattaponi Baptist Church and the King and Queen Ruritan Club. Joe valued his many friendships and was always easy to talk with especially over a table of steamed crabs or his legendary homemade ice cream. Joe was a lover of life, but even more, his impact on others, both young and old, will forever be his amazing legacy. A visitation was held from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 1, at the B.W. White Funeral Home at Aylett, Va. A funeral service was held at 2 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 2, at the Mattaponi Baptist Church, King and Queen Court House, Va. Interment followed in the church cemetery.

SHABAN, Abdul Kareem "A.K. " age 76, passed away on Monday, Nov. 28, 2022, surrounded by his family. He was born on Dec. 11, 1945, in Btebyat, Lebanon. At age 9, he moved to the United States, where his family sought a new life and opportunity in Hopewell, Virginia. At age 18, he met his beautiful wife of 53 years, Kay Robinson Shaban, at a local Richmond hangout where they grew to know each other over sandwiches and sodas. A.K. was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and uncle. He was a dedicated police officer, a veteran, a community leader and a coach. A.K. began his career in law enforcement in Henrico County, Va. and then moved to the Virginia State Police Department. He finished his career of 26 years with the Hanover County

Sheriff's department, where he retired as a Lieutenant. He served in many capacities within the police force; however, his time was best spent serving the youth. He started the D.A.R.E. program in Hanover County, where he spent countless years educating the youth on the dangers of drugs. He worked after hours at the local football games, at school dances and at Skate America, where he kept a close eye on all the teenagers, including his own. He spent many nights and weekends coaching his daughters, Adell and Tammy, and son, Jimmie, in the Mechanicsville Little League program and he had countless athletes over the years who have shared fond memories of their "Favorite Coach." To best support his family, A.K. also served for 26 years in the Army Reserves, retiring as a Captain in 1992. He was so proud of his service in all of his different capacities. A.K. truly loved the simple pleasures of life - chatting with all of those around him, reminiscing and telling stories of his friendships on the police force and savoring the joys of his family and his heritage. He is survived by his wife, Kay; their three children, Adell Sargent (Tony), Tammy Payne (Scott) and Jimmie Shaban (Karin); their beloved grandchildren, Anthony, Matthew, Rachel, Lily, Olivia, Christian and Pearl; their black Labrador, whom he loved like a grandchild, as well as his brothers, nieces and nephews and cousins. Family, friends and others whose lives have been touched by A.K. were invited to the Bennett Funeral Home located at 8014 Lee Davis Rd., Mechanicsville, Va. 23111, on Friday, Dec. 2, at 11 a.m. to celebrate his life. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in A.K.'s honor to: Fraternal Order of Police at HCFOP#38, P.O. Box 1054, Mechanicsville, Va. 23111.

Continued from pg. 7

Pastor Rev. Dr. Roy Minnix. Visit www.trinityrichmond.net or call 804-270-9626.

Sundays

All Souls Episcopal Church celebrates Holy Eucharist Rite II at 9:15 a.m. at Messiah Lutheran Church at 8154 Atlee Rd. in Mechanicsville. A nursery will be available for infants and toddlers. Katherine G. Dougherty is the Deacon in charge of All Souls. Visit www. allsoulsva.org.

A Healing and Recovery SS Class meets at 9 a.m. at the Walnut Grove Baptist Church at 7046 Cold Harbor Rd. in Mechanicsville. The class is for adults 18 and over and is an extension of the NorthStar community that also meets at 6 p.m. Fridays at the church. The Christian 12 Steps and Biblical wisdom are the basis of study and discussion to learn about God’s place in our lives. All are welcome. Contact 804-7465081 or contact Craig Simpson at craigwgbc@gmail.com.

Outside the Walls, a Narcotics Anonymous group, meets from 6 to 7 p.m. in the lobby of the Pamunkey Regional Jail at 7240 Courtland Farm Rd. in Hanover. Contact John Shinholser, McShin president, at 804-249-1845. The website is http://www.mcshin.org.

Tuesdays

The Hanover Concert Band rehearses from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. every Tuesday, mid-January through mid-December, at the Hanover Arts and Activities Center at 500 S. Railroad Ave. in Ashland, just south of U.S. 54. Membership is open to anyone who can read music and play a non-string instrument. High school students are welcome with parents’ permission.

The Mechanicsville Local December 7, 2022

SEWARD

SHABAN

Photos by Joel Klein For The Local

River City C&F Mortgage Corporation took home the title of Best Small Motorized (Commercial).

The 2022 Hanover Christmas Mother, Michele Clements, waves to the parade crowd.

This year’s Judge's Pick winner was Blue Star Cowboys Football & Cheer with their float that blasted fake snow.

ASHLAND/ WESTERN HANOVER

Also

Ashland Garden Club celebrates 100 years

Contributed Report

The Local

The Ashland Garden Club (AGC), founded on Oct. 12, 1922, is celebrating its Centennial anniversary. Club members took a photo in September at Rhodeen on the campus of Randolph-Macon College. Mary McDermott Beirne, founding member and first president of the AGC, lived at Rhodeen and many of her white daffodils can still be seen blooming in the spring near the house.

On the anniversary date, the club hosted its Fall Fantasy fundraising event. Nancy Hugo gave an exceptional program on “The Extraordinary Osage Orange.” Fall Fantasy proceeds are used to fund scholarships for students to attend events such as Camp Bloom and 4-H Camp, as well as a $2,000 scholarship for a Patrick Henry High School senior who plans to study horticulture, agriculture, botany or environmental

studies. The Ashland Museum opened a new exhibit about the AGC that will run through January 2023.

Additionally, club members are planting 525 daffodil bulbs in public spaces around Ashland this fall as

The Parsons’ Cause Foundation seeking donations for summer 2023 programs

Contributed Report

The Local

After a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Parsons’ Cause Foundation was pleased to present shows during the summer of 2022. In all, 741 people attended a show this past summer.

The foundation is now setting their sights on bringing a superb lineup of performers to the Historic Hanover Courthouse in the summer of 2023. To do so, they

are requesting assistance from the community and ask that residents consider the foundation for their end of the year charitable contributions.

Tax deductible donations can be sent to the foundation at the following address: The Parsons' Cause Foundation, Inc., P.O. Box 364, Mechanicsville, VA 23111-0364.

The Parsons’ Cause Foundation Board of Directors thanks the community for their support and consideration and wishes all a Merry Christmas and a prosperous 2023.

The Mechanicsville Local December 7, 2022

a cheery springtime gift to the town for years to come. Areas planted to date include

the Ashland Train Station, Ashland Library, Hanover Arts & Activities Center, the

Ashland Police Station, Henry Clay Elementary School and the town parks.

Upcoming programs at Ashland branch library

Richard

S.

Gillis, Jr./ Ashland Branch Library

A Royal Storytime at the Ashland Branch Library. Thursday, Dec. 8, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Calling all Princess and Princesses for a Royal Storyime. Dress in your best royal outfit and join the library for stories and crafts befitting your highnesses. Register for a reminder at https:// pamunkeylibrary.libcal.com/.

Mad about Mahjong! at the Ashland Branch Library. Fridays, Dec. 9, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Looking for experienced players to play with? Join other Mahjong enthusiasts in

playing the cultural tile game at the Ashland Library.

Santa’s Workshop Family Escape Room at the Ashland Branch Library. Saturday, Dec. 10, 11 a.m. to noon, 1 to 2p.m., 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. Jack Frost is trying to ruin the holidays by hiding Santa’s magic sleigh key. Can your family figure out the clues to find the key and save the holidays? Register for a time slot at https://pamunkeylibrary. libcal.com/.

3 Rivers Livestock Club at the Ashland Branch Library. Tuesday, Dec. 13, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Ages 5-18. Would you like to participate in

planning community service events and hone your expressive arts skills? At the library’s meetings, learn how to get involved in community and public affairs, how to be a good role model, how to give back to your community, and how to use time management skills to enjoy every part of life.

Sew Ready to Learn at the Ashland Branch Library. Wednesday, Dec. 14, 5 to 8 p.m. Join the Hanover Sewing Group to work on various projects as a seasoned quilter talks about various quilting methods, ways to run a guild and combining quilting with other hobbies.

|

serving the communities of Montpelier, Beaverdam, Rockville and Doswell

Contributed photos

Above, Members of the The Ashland Garden Club mark their Centennial by planting daffodils in public spaces around Ashland.Members of The Ashland Garden Club, September 2022 in front of Rhodeen.

BAZAAR

crafts from over 120 vendors.

In addition to its abundance of family attractions, such as a special visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus along with exciting raffle prizes, the annual fair serves as one of the church’s largest fundraising events of the year. This year’s event was held on Saturday, Nov. 19 at the church, located at located at 8275 Meadowbridge Road in Mechanicsville.

While admission was free, the church requested a $1 donation at the door that was rewarded with a door prize ticket, with this year’s door prizes including Santa Claus cookie jars, Enamel pie plates, mugs and more. Visitors who brought a nonperishable food item for the church’s food bank received an additional door prize ticket.

According to event co-chairs Terry and Dave Worland, they drew in around $1,700 in door donations alone and filled the church’s shelves in donated canned goods.

“We were packing bags all the way

down the hall,” Dave said, adding that they could fill multiple shopping carts to the brim with the collected canned goods.

“This is the fundraiser that keeps the lights on that allows all of the other fundraisers to all the other ministries do their work and benefit the community,” Terry said.

Dave and Terry, who have helped to organize the event for the past five years, said the Craft Bazaar continues to grow in size and prominence as they continue to draw in more vendors every year, with some even traveling from out-of-state.

“It always draws a big crowd,” Dave said. “I think a lot of the community looks forward to it every year. We see a lot of the same people and a lot of new people come in every year.”

One of the features of the annual fair is the requirement that all items sold by vendors are handmade, offering one-of-a-kind holiday gifts at reasonable prices.

It’s a requirement the vendors really appreciate because they’re not competing with large direct sales companies, Terry said, adding that

they “do a lot of work to keep the vendors happy.”

Bazaar volunteers assist vendors with unloading and loading their items, placing them on carts, and wheeling them to their assigned spaces. The church’s youth volunteers even collect lunch orders from the vendors and place them on their behalf to the church’s kitchen, which serves breakfast and lunch to visitors throughout the event.

“We try to make it easy for the vendors, because if we don’t have crafters, we don’t have a craft fair,” Dave said.

This year’s large assortment of handcrafted items included handsewn items, such as towels and bags, along with jewelry, crocheted items, pottery, local honey, jellies, soaps, candles and more.

The Bazaar additionally featured a Santa Shop with an abundance of small, inexpensive gift items that were primarily donated by church members. With the help of a few of Santa’s elves, children shopped around for gifts for their family while parents waited outside.

In addition, the Bazaar featured its annual raffle with impressive prizes such as the Oculus Quest 2 VR, gift card trees worth over $300, a TV and more. In previous years, they have featured items such as a Nintendo Switch, the newest Play Station and even a drone.

“It takes a lot of organizing but the day of the Bazaar, it’s almost like it runs itself,” Dave said. “It takes a lot of hard work to get to that point, but when you get there, you see all the people enjoying themselves and getting their Christmas shopping done, and it’s just fun to sit back and watch.”

He added that it takes a “huge amount of volunteers,” with the church’s staff, members, youth, Boy Scout troops, American Heritage troops, and even local schools pitching in to bring the annual fair to life. Many parishioners donate items for the Santa Shop, bake sale, refreshment spread and raffles.

“It’s a good opportunity for everyone at church to be involved in this, and we’re very thankful because Redeemer is a very active parish,”

Terry said.

Terry and Dave said they always enjoy helping to organize the annual event, as it helps them stay connected with the community and the parish and offers the chance for their own families to join in the day’s festivities.

Dave said he enjoyed watching his granddaughters, Lilly and Cora Wilcox, sit on Santa’s lap and share what they wanted for Christmas.

“We’re surrounded by some really good people,” he added. “We’ve got a terrific committee that puts this on, and the staff is very helpful. It’s just kind of one of those things of if you surround yourself with good people, a lot of good things tend to happen.”

They said they have already drawn in a number of vendor applications for next year’s Craft Bazaar and predict the return of around 70% of this year’s vendors.

Open registration for the 2023 Craft Bazaar begins Feb. 1, 2023. To submit a vendor application or for more information on the annual event, visit https://www.churchredeemer.org/craft.

Photos courtesy of the Church of the Redeemer

Volunteers Eileen Falcone and Chris Stilwell assist shoppers while manning the Craft Bazaar’s bake sale booth.

Craft Bazaar co-chairs Dave and Terry Worland pose with the event’s featured guests, Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus.

Volunteers Debbie Ward, Ciara Kocik and Mike Bonelli greet Craft Bazaar visitors at the information desk while waiting to assist vendors with loading and unloading.

Gail Robertson was among the 120 plus vendors at this year’s Craft Bazaar and sold her handmade Zodiac Rocks.

New era dawning for Mustangs basketball

By Rob Witham Special Correspondent

From the moment you entered the Mechanicsville High School gym Friday night, you could feel a difference.

As the boys junior varsity basketball team sewed up a 49-45 win over King William on Dec. 2, one could immediately sense a new standard of pride and confidence from players, fans, even the student section. And it only grew in intensity when varsity hit the floor.

The Mustangs led from the opening tip to the final horn with an impressive performance, knocking off the Cavaliers 72-39 to even their season record at 1-1.

For a team who has already dealt with a rash of injuries and illnesses, it was a fine showing of their developing chemistry in spite of the obstacles.

“The team has a tremendous chemistry, better than I’ve seen since I’ve been here,” noted Mechanicsville head coach Gene Foley. “The kids truly like each other. They’re friends on and off the court, and it shows.”

Nine different Mustangs scored during the contest, the accelerator belonging to guard Joe Evans. His 10 first quarter points helped Mechanicsville (1-1) begin the game on a 7-0 run, grabbing a quick 21-9 lead after the first eight minutes.

King William’s Tre Robinson did his best to keep the Cavaliers within striking distance, scoring 14 points in the first half, but the Mustang defense clamped down on the senior, as he scored just five points in the second half to finish with 19.

Robinson’s work helped the Cavaliers prevent the Mustangs from running away with the game in the first half, going to the locker room

down 33-20. Mechanicsville’s attack offensively would prove to be too much for King William, slowly wearing the Cavs down while continuing to extend their lead.

It was an unusual game in that, in a matchup of two schools who have become on-court rivals over the past several years, there was never a definitive momentum swing. The Mustangs were in control the whole way.

Caden Frise scored all seven of his points in the final period, while Santino Moore (16 points) and Jamil Mashore (17 points to lead the Mustangs) each scored six in the final stanza.

The most critical element to Mechanicsville’s success came on the glass, limiting King William to one shot per possession the majority of the night.

“Rebounding is one of our important areas to focus on this year,” Foley explained. “Last year, we didn’t do very well with that, and you pay the price when you don’t rebound on both ends of the floor.”

Two good tests lie ahead as Mills Godwin comes to Mechanicsville Dec. 13, followed by a trip to Maggie Walker Governor’s School on Dec. 15 before preparing to host their

annual holiday tournament just after Christmas.

Evans believes this Mustang team has the right formula for a successful season: offense feeding defensive intensity, and a fan base best described as a “sixth player.”

“The Stampede is great,” Evans said of the student section. “They cheer us on and they’re great fans. We definitely love it.”

Youth, High School, College, Recreational & Professional

Jamil Mashore (#11, right) drives past King William's Emmett Short (#4, left) for two of his 17 points during Mechanicsville's 72-39 victory over the Cavaliers on Friday night. Mashore scored 10 of his points in the second half.

Young Patriots stay motivated, focused on positives through season-opening setbacks

By Nick Vandeloecht For The Local

Featuring a new, young team and a new coaching staff led by Summer Price, Patrick Henry’s girls basketball team faced two tough season-opening matchups with the goal of keeping their heads high.

They did just that.

While the Patriots will continue to battle for their first season win following opening-week setbacks to Mills Godwin (48-18) on Tuesday, Nov. 29 and Glen Allen (5925) in Thursday’s home opener on Dec. 1, Price was proud of their performance against the Jaguars on Thursday.

“Our team didn’t play like we were losing, ever,” Price said, “which means, going forward, no matter what team we play, we’re not playing like we’re down. We’re going to play like we’re winning, no matter

what the score is, and that’s all a coach can ask for.”

After the Patriots battled nervousness in Tuesday’s season opener against Godwin, Price on Thursday praised the team’s energy and saw the players keep their heads up all game against Glen Allen.

“Going forward, I hope we can work on rebounding some a little better, fight a little more in there,” Price said. “Otherwise, like I told [our players], it’s only up from here.”

In Thursday’s game, senior Alicia Artis and junior Maddie Just each scored nine points for the Patriots. They executed several clean plays as Just drove the lane for a swift layup in the first quarter and also made an airtight pass to Artis in the paint in the fourth, with Artis putting away the bucket off of Just’s assist.

Each of the Patriots’ two

3-pointers in Thursday’s game was scored by the lone seniors on the team: Artis in the fourth quarter and Julia Dull in the second. The two seniors’ leadership has been valued not only by the players, but also by Price as a new coach.

“They know what the system was for a lot of thingsstarting out a game, warmups and everything like that - and I know the girls definitely look to them just because they’re young, this is a new season for them, too,” Price said. “With [Artis and Dull] having that experience, it’s a calming thing out there for other girls on the court.”

Following a Tuesday home matchup against Varina that was slated to end after press time, the Patriots host Hermitage on Wednesday, Dec. 7, at 7:15 p.m. and will head to Henrico for a 7 p.m. contest on Monday, Dec. 12.

Nick Vandeloecht for The Local

Patrick Henry head girls basketball coach Summer Price talks to the players prior to the start of the Patriots’ home opener versus Glen Allen on Dec. 1 at Patrick Henry High School. Junior Maddie Just (left) attempts to block a shot by Glen Allen in Patrick Henry’s 2022-23 home opener.

“That’s my philosophy –gather together, break bread together, tell stories together and that’s how you change the world,” she said.

And she never ceases to find new ways to change the world, as her parents powerfully taught her as a young girl – a lesson she will never forget.

“Mom and Dad always said, ‘Everybody wants to help, but there aren’t enough opportunities to give back,’” she said. “When you ask them to help, you’re giving them a gift.”

As Peart has learned since moving to Hanover County, every opportunity to give back is met with more enthusiasm than she could have dreamed of, reminding her of the philanthropic spirit that

surrounded her childhood home every day, whether from housing children who were orphaned or displaced from turbulent homes, Cambodian refugees, disadvantaged pregnant women, and anyone else in need of a safe place and helping hand.

“I was brought up in a tradition of be present, give back,” Peart said. “Is someone going to not eat or get sick or maybe even die if I don’t help them? Is it life or death? It’s as simple as that.”

This message has driven Peart’s determination over the years to never give up – even when faced with an ice storm and a family tragedy. Just two months prior to the 2013 Deck The Halls event, Peart’s husband underwent brain surgery after an impossible diagnosis. Now 10 years cancer-free, Peart’s husband is one of the

few people in the world to survive this particular cancer.

With only a month to plan for the grand annual event and a bleak weather forecast, Peart was faced with an impossible challenge that she championed with this determination.

“For nonprofit events, it’s all about, ‘Keep going,’” she said. “Is someone going to be harmed if you don’t do this? You’ve got to keep going. I don’t even think twice about it.”

While trying times have come and gone over the last 20 years since the first Deck the Halls event, this determination to keep going has never ceased. Even amid the COVID-19 pandemic when the world had closed its doors, cars lined up on her family farm to safely grab their holiday décor kits to-go. Even as attendance and donations

have slowed as the world still feels the pandemic’s devastating effects, every dollar given has offered her immeasurable joy and fondness for the community that gives.

Peart was left speechless when Ashland Town Councilmember Dan McGraw handed her a check made out to Hanover Safe Place on behalf of the Kiwanis Club of Ashland last week. Regardless of the value, it was the gesture of kindness alone that nearly brought her to tears.

“We all help each other all the time,” she said fondly. “Oh, it’s such a wonderful thing.”

After listening to Peart’s recollection of the event over the years with the same nostalgic air as when she reminisced over family memories, her parents’ notion of a philanthropic spirit in all of us seemed to echo in my mind

throughout the day. It’s no wonder that Peart holds such fond memories of this community joining hands to prove the validity of these words, as from covering an endless stream of charity efforts since arriving to the county, I can confidently say they ring true in the hearts of countless Hanoverians.

Peart invites any interested community members to join the annual fundraising efforts of the beloved “Deck the Halls,” whether by volunteering, offering sponsorship, or simply bringing the family for a day of fun and philanthropy.

For more information on how to join the annual effort, contact Peart at carolyn. peart@verizon.net or Hanover Safe Place by visiting the website, https://www.hanoversafeplace.com/.

CALENDAR

Continued from pg. 12

Visit www.hanoverconcertband.org or call 804-789-0536.

The American Legion Post 175, located at 8700 Bell Creek Road in Mechanicsville, holds a “Meet and Greet, Coffee and Donut” event from 9-11 a.m. every Tuesday for the community and perspective members to meet members and learn about what they do for the community. Visit http://www. post175.org/.

Wednesdays

Hanover Rotary meets from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Roma’s Restaurant at 7240 Bell Creek Rd. in Mechanicsville. Due to the pandemic, contact President Penny at pennyguiles43@gmail.com for cur-

HanoverEvangelicalFriends 6420MechTrnpk.804-730-9512, friendlychurch.org Worship:Sun.10:30AM SundaySchool@9:15AM

AdventCommunityChurch Mechanicsville,8079StudleyRd, (804)746.0895or746.0279 Worship/Children’schurch10am adventcommunitychurch.com

FairmountChristianChurch, 559-8070

6502CreightonRd. SundayAMWorshipTraditional 8:00&10:15,Contemporary9:00, Modern11:15,BibleSchoolat 9:00,10:15,&11:15.

RickRaines,SeniorMinister; ChrisSantasiere,AssociateMinister;SethWortman,Associate Minister;TracyThomas,Worship &MusicMinister;BillNicol,AssociateWorshipMinister;Davis Ellenberger,YouthMinister; AshleySears,Children’sDirector fairmountcc.org

GethsemaneChurchofChrist 5146MechanicsvilleTurnpike SundayAMWorshipServices (Checkwebsitefortimes) 804-779-2044 BillWines,SeniorMinister www.gethsemanechristians.org

StPaulLutheranChurch(LCMS) 427-7500 ∂ 8100ShadyGroveRd, saintpaul-lcms.com Rev.RodneyBitely,Pastor;Sun. Sch.9:15am,Worship10:30am

HOPECOMMUNITYCHURCH HomeofAtleeChristianAcademy&HopeNowCounseling. info&more:www.hopenow.cc

FairfieldPresbyterianChurch 6930ColdHarborRd.,23111 8:45&11:00amservices www.fairfieldpcusa.org

MeadowbridgeSeventh-Day

AdventistChurch 7400AntiqueLaneMech., SaturdayServices: SabbathSchool,9:45am. WorshipService,11am. WednesdayeveningPrayer Meeting,6:30pm. Churchphone:746-2788 meadowbridgesda.org meadowbridgesdachurch@gmai l.com

BlackCreekBaptistChurch, 6289McClellanRoad SundaySchool-9:00a.m. SundayWorship-10:15a.m. AdultBibleStudy&YouthGroup Wed.nightsat6:00p.m. Pastor,StephenKendrick www.blackcreek.org orcall(804)781-0330

BroadusMemorialBaptist 804-779-2700 www.BroadusChurch.org

1Churchin2Locations

WorshippingonSundays! In-person&onFacebook!

5351PoleGreenRd. Mechanicsville,23116 PhilPeacock,Pastor SundaySchool9a.m. Worship10a.m. 3407KingWilliamRd. Aylett,23009 JeffPoythress,Pastor Worship9:30a.m. SundaySchool10:30a.m.

Makingeachoneawitness!

CoolSpringBaptistChurch 9283AtleeStationRd. Forinfo,activities&worship timesvisit www.coolspring.org orcall746-0800

FellowshipCommunityChurchof Mechanicsville After10yearsatHanoverHigh Schoolwehavepurchasedour ownbuilding.Wecontinueto teachtheWordofGodand watchforthemiraculous. JoinusSundaymornings9:45am at8505BellCreekRoad,SuiteK. www.fellowshipcc.com

GraceUnitedFamilyChurch "WhereGraceUnitesUs"

7252BeulahChurchRoad (HistoricBeulahChurch) Mechanicsville,23111

Sundays,10:30AM& Wed.Dinner,Study,Prayer: 6:00-8:00p.m. Forinfo,call335-6728 "LoveGod,Learn theBible,CareforPeople"

GlennHawkins,Pastor

MechanicsvilleBaptistChurch 8016 AtleeRd. Office:746.7253

Worshipinperson andLiveStreamedonYouTube &Facebook onSundaysat8:30&11:00a.m. WednesdayNightSuppersat 5:00p.m. andBibleStudyat6:00p.m. Findusonthewebat mechanicsvillebaptist.org

NewBethesdaBaptistChurch 9019NewBethesdaRd.779-2101 CalebBittler,Minister SundaySchool9:30AM, Worship10:45AM BibleStudy/Prayer Youth&Childrenactivities 6:30pm,Wednesday www.newbethesda.org

NewHighlandBaptistChurch 550-9601,9200NewAshcakeRd newhighland.org,9:15AMBible Study,10:30AMWorshipInPerson&online.Rev.LarryFrakes

ShalomBaptistChurch 8116WalnutGroveRd. Office:746.7737 Worshipinperson andLiveStreamedonYouTube &Facebook onSundaysat8:30&11:00a.m WednesdayNightSuppersat 5:30p.m. andBibleStudyat6:15p.m. Findusonthewebat shalombaptist.net

WalnutGroveBaptistisaChurch committedtofollowingJesus& lovingpeople.Youcanfindusat wgva.church7046ColdHarborrd

LebanonUnitedMethodist Church 8492PeaksRoad,746-0980 SarahSealand,Pastor WorshipInPersonandon FacebookLive: 10:00ameachSunday www.facebook.com/LebUMC 9:00amSundaySchool Formoreinfo,checkusoutat www.lebanonumc.org

MechanicsvilleUnitedMethodist Church 7356AtleeRoad746-5118

ReverendAmyDunn,pastor 10aminpersonworshipor Facebooklive@MechUMC ChildrensandYouthPrograms CubScoutsPack517 www.mechumc.org

ShadyGroveUnitedMethodist 8209ShadyGroveRd. atthecornerofMeadowbridge Rd.,Mechanicsville,804-746-9073 shadygroveumc.org

In-personWorshipSundaysat 8:15,9:45,&11:15a.m., Onlineat9:45a.m. Programsforallages. Rev.WayneSnead,Pastor info@shadygroveumc.org

ChurchoftheRedeemer

TruthBaptistChurch,627-2170

COME&SEE! Allinfoat: www.truthbaptistchurch.com

8275MeadowbridgeRoad 746-4911 www.churchredeemer.org Masscelebratedon Saturday5:30PM Sunday8:00&10:00AM

CALENDAR

Continued from pg. 18

rent meeting at Roma’s or Zoom connection information.

Thursdays

The Ashland Rotary Club meets weekly at noon at the Iron Horse Restaurant at 100 S. Railroad Ave. in Ashland. For more information, contact Steve Dunham at 804-496-6093 or sandrdunham@yahoo.com.

Overcomers Outreach & Women’s Codependency is a Christ-centered anonymous support program offering hope and healing for recovering alcoholics, addicts and their families. Meetings are held at 7 p.m. at Shalom

Baptist Church at 8116 Walnut Grove Road Mechanicsville. For more information, call 804-366-6524 or email mjfaith1@gmail.com.

New Highland Baptist Church hosts open basketball gym time for adults in the Christian Life Center (CLC) starting at 7:30 PM. The church is located at 9200 New Ashcake Road in Mechanicsville. Use the side back entrance to enter. Contact Jeff Fitzgerald at jkfitzgerald@comcast.net.

Civil Air Patrol, Hanover Squadron, meets Thursdays, from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Fairfield Presbyterian Church, 6930 Cold Harbor Road, in Mechanicsville. CAP is an awesome program for youth, ages 12- 21, as well as for adults who care about young people and want to

help train America’s next generation of Leaders. You’ll find cadet life exciting if you enjoy Flying, Leadership Training, Model Rocketry, Earning Rank & Awards, and much more. Visit hanover.vawg.cap.gov or contact Capt James Wright at 804-551-3354 or james.wright@vawg.cap.gov.

Fridays

The Building Bridges group of Narcotics Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women for whom drugs had become a major problem. The group’s mission is to bring a message of hope and recovery to those suffering from addiction issues. They meet on Fridays from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Mechanicsville United Methodist Church, 7356 Atlee Road in Mechanicsville. Visit rvana. org.

Second Mondays

The WEB of Hope meets from 10 a. m. to noon at the Black Creek Baptist Church at 6289 McClellan Road in Mechanicsville. It is one of several groups in the Richmond area that crochets, knits, sews, and quilts gifts for the American Red Cross to distributed to those in need. Since its inception, the WEB has donated over 153,000 gifts locally, nationally and globally. If you can make it, the WEB can use it. Call Laurie Wagner at 804-781-0338.

Third Mondays

Alzheimer’s/Dementia support group for caregivers and others who want to help and encourage those who have loved ones with dementia illnesses meets at 7 p.m. on the third Monday

of each month on Zoom. Contact Jennifer Bean at 804-559-2805 or the church office at 804-746-9073.

The Hanover County Community Services Board meets at 6:30 p.m. at 12300 Washington Hwy. in Ashland.

Fourth Mondays

The FeedMore Mobile Food Pantry will be distributing food from 10 to 11 a.m. at the First Shiloh Baptist Church at 8150 Walnut Grove Rd. in Mechanicsville. Contact Heather at hshaheen96@gmail.com.

The Atlee Ruritan Club meets every fourth Monday at Hillcrest Baptist Church on Rt.301. Meetings, that include dinner and a program, begin at

see CALENDAR, pg. 21

ShalomBaptistChurchof 8116WalnutGroveislookingto growandhireaChildren’s MinistryDirectorandYouth Minster.BothareFTpositions. Pleasesubmityourresumeto https://shalombaptist.net/empl oyment

HillElectrical,Incishiring Electricians&Helpers. DriversLicense&own TransportationRequired. Call804-746-3122

CALENDAR

Continued from pg. 19

6:30 p.m. Ruritan is a national community service organization dedicated to fellowship, goodwill, and community service. The Atlee Club welcomes both men and women. To learn more about the club’s mission and reserve your spot for dinner, call (804) 789-9365.

Second Tuesdays

The Mechanicsville Fellowship Club meets each month (excluding July and Aug.) at 10:30 a.m. in Room G110 of Shady Grove United Methodist Church at 8209 Shady Grove Rd. in Mechanicsville. Bring a covered dish and join in with a group celebrating faith, fellowship, friends and fun. Meetings are cancelled if Hanover County Public Schools are two hours late or cancelled due to inclement weather. To register, call the church at 804-746-9073. Call Janet Lewis at 804-398-8947.

The Hanover County Historical Society will be conducting free tours of the Old Hanover Courthouse on the Historic Courthouse Green from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every second Tuesday through December.

REPORTS

Continued from pg. 3

block of Sliding Hill Road, Ashland.

Petit larceny from auto was reported in the 6400th block of Diamond Court, Mechanicsville.

Assault and battery on a family member, third offense was reported in the 15200th block of Fountain Road, Ashland.

Simple assault was reported in the 16000th block of Theme Park Way, Doswell.

Petit larceny, less than $500 not from a person was reported in the 16000th block of Theme Park Way, Doswell.

Assault and battery on a family

PARADE

The address is 13182 Hanover Courthouse Road in Hanover. Visit http://www. hanoverhistorical.org/index.

Third Tuesdays

The Hanover Ruritan Club meets on the third Tuesday of each month, at Walnut Grove Baptist Church with dinner at 6.30 p.m. Ruritan is a national organization dedicated to improving communities and building a better America through fellowship, goodwill and community service. The first Ruritan Club was chartered May 21, 1928, in Holland, Virginia. Ruritan has grown throughout the United States of America, and in doing so has become. “America’s Leading Community Service Organization”. Membership in Ruritan is an honor and privilege. To learn more about Ruritan, how to become a member, request a membership application or with questions, please call, 746-5728 or by letter to, Hanover Ruritan, P. O. Box 625, Mechanicsville, VA 23111. To be a guest of the club, call the numbers listed above. The club welcomes both men and women.

Second Wednesday

Hanover Community Services Board

says if you are a family member or friend of someone who has a mental illness, you are not alone. There is support. Hanover Community Services Board offers a family support group on the second Wednesday of every month from 7p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Bell Creek location, 8475 Bell Creek Road in Mechanicsville. Facilitators Rebecca Strader and Heidi Brown invite you to attend this group that follows NAMI principles of confidentiality, respect, empathy and support to one another. No sign up or registration is required. Contact Rebecca at 804-365-6746 or Heidi at 804-365-6769.

Second Thursday

The Hanover-Ashland TRIAD meets the second Thursday of each month at 1:30 p.m. at the new Atlee Library, 9212 Rutlandshire Drive, Mechanicsville. The Hanover-Ashland TRIAD is a program that focuses on providing information to seniors to improve their quality of life. The Hanover-Ashland TRIAD is a joint venture involving the Hanover County Sheriff’s Office, Ashland Police Department, AARP, Hanover County governmental agencies, human services agencies, civic groups and seniors themselves.

LegalNotices

LEGALNOTICES

Call746-1235tofindout aboutupcoming

advertisewithTheLocal

LEGALDISPLAYADS LEGALDISPLAYADS

PublicNotice

member was reported in the 7100th block of Senn Way, Mechanicsville.

Unlawful purchase or possession of alcohol, under 21 was reported in the 7000th block of Dodsworth Lane/ Harbor Hill Drive, Mechanicsville.

Aug. 8

Petit larceny, parts was reported in the 10400th block of Design Road, Ashland.

Petit larceny, parts was reported in the 6500th block of Creighton Road, Mechanicsville.

Grand larceny, $500 or more not from a person was reported in the 8400th block of Erle Road, Mechanicsville.

Dumping trash on highway or

Continued from pg. 1

in Keeping with the Theme category was Unit #38, Truth Baptist Church of Mechanicsville, and second place was Unit #79, the Zehringer Family Float. Also recognized for their entries were:

Best Motorized Categories: Large

Non-commercial – Unit #60, River City Wranglers; Small Non-commercial –Unit #86, Old Coots on Scoots; Large Commercial – Unit #81, Aaron’s Towing; and Small Commercial – Unit #21, C&F Mortgage Corporation.

Judges Pick: Unit #84, Blue Star Cowboys Football and Cheer.

Best Boy Scout Unit: Unit #35, Cub Scout Pack 502.

private property was reported in the 8000th block of Dunwoody Road, Mechanicsville.

Driver not reporting accident with damage less than $250 was reported in the 8100th block of Atlee Road, Mechanicsville.

Obtaining money by false pretenses, less than $200 was reported in the 3000th block of Michael Ann Court, Mechanicsville.

Destruction of property, monument was reported in the 10000th block of Poplar Hall Court, Mechanicsville.

Conspiracy, breaking and entering a building to commit larceny, assault and battery, etc. was reported in the 7300th block of Atlee Road, Mechanicsville.

Best Musical (Non Band): Unit #45, Ashland Dance Company/Jump Start Dance.

The parade’s judging portion did not include the Best Girl Scout Unit category this year.

The Grand Marshal this year was Amera Hudson, a second grade student in Hanover County who loves playing

see PARADE, pg. 22

TheHanoverCountyBoardofSupervisors willconductaComprehensivePlan Workshopon Wednesday,December 14,2022from12:00–2:00P.M. This workshopwillbeheldintheBoardofSupervisors’ ConferenceRoomintheHanoverCounty AdministrationBuildingatHanoverCourthouse, 7516CountyComplexRoad,Hanover,Virginia. Discussionwillincludeconceptsrelatedtoland usepolicies,alongwithupdatesforeconomic developmentandhistoricresources.This meetingwillbeopentothepublicbutitisnot anticipatedthatpubliccommentwillbetakenat theworkshop.

LEGALDISPLAYADS LEGALDISPLAYADS

PublicNotice

Noticeisherebygiventhat theHanoverCountyBoardof Supervisorshasset Wednesday, December14,2022at2:00P.M., intheBoardRoomoftheHanover CountyAdministrationBuildingat HanoverCourthouse,7516County ComplexRoad,Hanover,Virginia, astheday,date,time,andplacefora RegularBoardMeeting.

PUBLICNOTICE

NoticeisherebygiventhattheHanoverCountyBoardofSupervisorshasset Wednesday,December14,2022 at6:00P.M., orassoonthereafterastheBoard’sconsiderationoftheadministrativeagendapermits.IntheBoard RoomoftheHanoverCountyGovernmentBuildingatHanoverCourthouse,Hanover,Virginia,astheday,date,time, andplaceforapublichearingtoconsiderthefollowingcases,atwhichpubliccommentswillbeaccepted:

REZ2022-00029,HELLENIC,L.L.C.

Request(s)anamendmenttotheproffersapprovedwithrezoningrequest,C-39-02(c),FrankandAnnaVolo,onGPIN 8724-49-0864,consistingofapproximately1.0acre,zonedB-2(c),CommunityBusinessDistrictwithconditions.The propertyislocatedonthesouthlineofMechanicsvilleTurnpike(U.S.Route360)westofitsintersectionwithBrashier Boulevard(privateroad).ThesubjectpropertyisdesignatedontheGeneralLandUsePlanMapasCommercial. (PUBLICHEARING) MagisterialDistrict:Mechanicsville

REZ2022-00024,JUDSONT.VAUGHAN,IIIANDGREGORYW.VAUGHAN

Request(s)torezonefromA-1,AgriculturalDistrict,toAR-6(c),AgriculturalResidentialDistrictwithconditions,on GPIN7789-73-4998,consistingofapproximately25.2acres.ThepropertyislocatedontheeastlineofCheroyRoad (StateRoute659)approximately250feetnorthofitsintersectionwithCheroyWoodsLane(StateRoute270).The subjectpropertyisdesignatedontheGeneralLandUsePlanMapasAgricultural.Theproposedzoningamendment wouldpermitthecreationoffour(4)buildinglotsforagrossdensityofone(1)dwellingunitper6.3acres.(PUBLIC HEARING) MagisterialDistrict:Beaverdam

REZ2022-00007,HOPKINSPROPERTIESII,L.L.C.,ETAL.

Request(s)anamendmenttotheproffersandconceptualplanapprovedwithrezoningrequestC-9-07(c),Am. 1-09,HopkinsProperties,L.C.,etal.,onGPINs7787-35-4726,7787-35-6891,7787-36-4155,7787-36-4548,and 7787-36-1918,consistingofapproximately22.6acres,zonedB-3(c),GeneralBusinessDistrictwithconditions.The propertyislocatedonthenortheastquadrantoftheintersectionofWashingtonHighway(U.S.Route1)andSliding HillRoad(StateRoute656).ThesubjectpropertyisdesignatedontheGeneralLandUsePlanMapasCommercial. Theproposedzoningamendmentwouldpermittwoadditionalentrancesandmodifytheroadwayimprovements shownontheconceptualplan.(PUBLICHEARING) MagisterialDistrict:SouthAnna

SE2022-00024,HOPKINSPROPERTIESII,L.L.C.,ETAL.

Request(s)aSpecialExceptionPermitinaccordancewithSection26-199oftheHanoverCountyZoningOrdinance, topermitanexceptionforloadingspacesintherequiredfrontyardandSection26-337toreducethethoroughfare bufferwidthonGPINs7787-35-4726,7787-35-6891,7787-36-4155,7787-36-4548,and7787-36-1918,consisting ofapproximately22.6acres,zonedB-3(c),GeneralBusinessDistrictwithconditions.Thepropertyislocatedonthe northeastquadrantoftheintersectionofWashingtonHighway(U.S.Route1)andSlidingHillRoad(StateRoute656).

(PUBLICHEARING) MagisterialDistrict:SouthAnna

CopiesoftheabovecasemaybereviewedinthePlanningOffice,MondaythroughFriday,between thehoursof8:30a.m.and5:00p.m.,pleasecontactthePlanningOfficeoryoumayalsogoto https://www.hanovercounty.gov/697/Board-of-Supervisors-Upcoming-and-Archivformoreinformation.

22 The Mechanicsville Local December 7, 2022

with friends, all things pink, her big brothers, basketball and gymnastics.

David Fuller, co-chair of the parade, said this year yielded the longest lineup of parade participants yet, with several units arriving in large numbers, such as the River City Wranglers and their display of dozens of holiday-themed Jeeps.

“We enjoyed every minute of it,” Fuller said, adding that the sunny weather added to the success of this year’s parade.

“We are so grateful for the people who participate in the parade,” Fuller said. “A number of folks return from year to year, and there’s always some new faces, too.”

Various spectators had a few parade favorites in mind when eagerly waiting for the start of the parade, which stepped off at 2 p.m. at Hanover Green Drive and Signal Hill.

The Gage family has visited the parade through multiple generations, with Nikki Gage recalling even participating in the lineup when she was in high school. Her favorites of the parade are the impressive and lively performances by several area marching bands, while her daughter, Catherine’s, favorite part is always “when all of the cheerleaders come,” Catherine said.

Laura McFarland, Denine D’Angelo and Christina Amano Dolan, representatives of Richmond Suburban News, which includes The Mechanicsville Local and Ashland-Hanover Local, served as judges.

The Mechanicsville Christmas Parade is sponsored by The Rotary Club of Mechanicsville.

2022 Mechanicsville Christmas Parade

The Mechanicsville Local December

Photos by Joel Klein For The Local

Hanover Sheriff David Hines and Fire and EMS Chief Jethro Piland wave to the crowd.

Children enjoy the moment during the parade while catching a front row glimpse on the sidewalk.

Operation Purple Heart Truck is greeted by flag waving Mechanicsville Rotary-Ruritan Christmas Parade goers.

The Veterans of Foreign Affairs Battlefield Post 9808 kicks off the parade with the Hanover County Sheriff’s Office following.

ACCA Shriners race down the parade streets on their bikes.

Congressman Rob Wittman gives a thumbs up to the crowd.

Del. Scott Wyatt hands out American flags.

Children watch the parade from their van’s trunk.