The Mechanicsville Local – 01/25/2023

MECHANICSVILLE – Michele Clements can’t believe it’s

Hanover County Public Schools’ superintendent Michael Gill presented the division’s initial proposed budget for fiscal year 2024 on Jan. 17, kicking off the annual round of presentations, meetings, public hearings and discussions that determines how the needs of the school division will be funded.

Hanover County residents will have several opportunities to offer feedback on the spending plan, which, at $309,703,130, represents a $32,129,62, or 11%, increase over the fiscal year 2023 plan.

“This is really a 12-month a year process,” Gill said, noting that work on the budget typically begins in October with the gath-

ering of input from school administrators, teachers and staff.

The school board is expected to vote on adoption on the plan on Feb. 14, and it will be presented to the Hanover County Board of Supervisors on Feb. 22. That presentation will be followed be the opportunity for more community input.

Even after supervisors make a final decision on the plan in April, Gill noted, what happens in the General Assembly could still impact funding.

Gill said the final plan should be in place by May.

Before launching into his proposal, Gill took a few moments to highlight some of the many significant milestones achieved by

ROSLYN RYAN Richmond Suburban News

LAURA MCFARLAND Managing Editor

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Mechanicsville

Crews work multiple Beaverdam area fires

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

On the morning of Jan. 16, Hanover Fire-EMS reported that crews had responded to two separate fires in the Beaverdam district of the county since the previous evening. The first fire occurred on Jan. 15 at approximately 8:50 p.m. on Belsches Road. This fire involved a detached garage, which was a complete loss. There was a threat of spreading to the residence, which was avoided through quick action taken by crews on scene.

The second fire occurred Jan. 16 at approximately

5:45 a.m. on Shiloh Church Road. This fire was contained to a single residential structure. There was a partial roof collapse, which required additional efforts by crews on scene to extinguish all areas of the fire.

Both of these fires required a rural water operation to be utilized, involving multiple high-capacity tankers. There were no injuries reported at these structure fires, and the Office of the Fire Marshal is leading the investigation into both.

Submitted by David “DJ” Johnston, battalion chief, public information officer.

Overheight vehicle detection system added

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) recently installed overheight vehicle detection systems on five interstate segments approaching the cities of Richmond, Colonial Heights and Petersburg. The systems were installed primarily to help prevent damage to interstate overpasses with a short vertical height clearance in the cities by alerting overheight vehicles before they reach the bridge. Visible alerts now signal drivers to pull over in designated areas to make

alternate plans and prevent bridge strikes.

A new detection systems will flag overheight vehicles on I-95 south mile marker 88.7 (just south of Lewistown Road) in Hanover County.

“Until the bridges can be replaced and the vertical height clearance raised, these warning systems will ideally reduce bridge strikes and costly damage to VDOT infrastructure and our trucking partners’ equipment,” said Robb Alexander, PE, Richmond District Traffic Operations Director.

DO YOU WANT TO BE A SNOWMAN?

MECHANICSVILLE — ASHAND LOCAL PICK UP LOCATIONS

Mechanicsville — 23111

360 Coin Laundry & Cleaners , 7040 Mechanicsville Tpke.

Truist — Lee davis, 7016 Mechanicsville Tpke.

Books Beads & More, 8106 Mechanicsville Tpke.

Colonial Pharmacy, 7510 Mechanicsville Tpke.

dorns Body & Paint, 8190 Mechanicsville Tpke.

essex Bank, 6316 Mechanicsville Tpke.

FCL Favor Christian Life, 6501 Mech Tpke, ste 101

Gus’ Italian Café, 7358 Bell Creek road

Hanover Cleaners, 8092 Mechanicsville Tpke.

HealthLink Chiropractic Center, 7347 Bell Creek road

Hometown realty, 7240 Lee davis rd, suite 200

Kroger, 6335 Mechanicsville Tpke.

Lee davis B & P, 7051 Mechanicsville Tpke.

Lee davis Pharmacy, 7016 Lee Park road

Little Bean Coffee Co., 7032 Mechanicsville Tpke.

Mechanicsville drug store, 8077 Mechanicsville Tpke.

Mechanicsville Library, 7461 sherwood Crossing Place

Primis Bank (Mechanicsville), 8123 Mechanicsville Tpke.

TGI Friday’s, 8100 Creighton Parkway

The Ville, 7526 Mechanicsville Tpke.

Treats and Treasures, 5912 Cold Harbor road

Village Bank (Old Mech), 8051 Mechanicsville Tpke.

West store, 4225 Mechanicsville Tpke.

Mechanicsville — 23116

atlee Branch Library, 9212 rutlandshire drive

Balducci realty & Builders, 10173 Chamberlayne road

Bell Creek Vet., 8310 Bell Creek road

dominion Women’s Health, 8239 Meadowbridge road

Hogg Professional Building, 9137 Chamberlayne road

KidMed, 8356 Bell Creek road

Owens and Minor, 9120 Lockwood Blvd

Progressive dental, 8417 n run Medical drive

Pulmonar y assoc. richmond, 7497 right Flank road

Primis Bank (Kings Charter), 9495 Charter Gate drive

Valero (atlee & sliding Hill rds.), 10030 sliding Hill road

Ashland- 23005

ashland Library, 201 s railroad ave.

ashland Police dept., 601 england street

ashland Town Hall, 101 Thompson street ashland Visitor Center,112 n railroad ave.

Cross Brothers Grocery, 107 south Center street

Hanover Community service, 12300 Washington Hwy. Hanover Parks and rec, 13015 Taylor Complex Lane

Henr y Clay shopping Center, rt. 54

rise n shine diner, 10372 Leadbetter road sheetz/ashland, 12341 n. Washington Hwy. sheetz/Leadbetter dr, 10037 sliding Hill road skateland, 516 n. Washington Hwy. Village Bank, 10035 sliding Hill road, #101 Ashland — 23059

aw shucks Country store, 6100 Pouncey Tract road

Montpelier — 23192

Fas Mart, 16575 Mountain road

Food Lion, 16615 Mountain road

Montpelier Library, 17205 sycamore Tavern Lane

Montpelier Pharmacy, 17128 Mountain road

Virginia Family Practice, 15028 Brown Pleasants road Glen Allen — 23059

aw shucks Country store, 6100 Pouncey Tract road

essex Bank /Va Center, 9951 Brook road

Aylett — 23009

Primis Bank- Central Garage, 20 Commerce Lane

Hanover — 23069

Hanover County admin Bldg, 7516 County Complex road

Hanover Co sheriff’s Office, 7522 County Complex road

Hanover Branch Library, 7527 Library drive

Hanover Post Office, 13228 Hanover Courthouse rd

Pamunkey regional Jail, 7240 Courtland Farm road

Wickham Bldg., 7515 County Complex road

King William — 23086

Citgo route 360 and 30, 5033 richmond-Tappahannock Hwy.

Valero (King William), 12132 King William road

One stop Market, 2185 richmond-Tappahannock Hwy.

Manquin — 23106

Manquin Post Office, 2171 richmond Tappahannock

M & M Pizza — B&P station, 1418 richmond-Tappahannock Hwy.

Studley — 23162

studley store, 5407 studley road

PHOTO COURTESY OF HANOVER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

What would you do? Kim Baer’s second graders at Mechanicsville elementary school wrote about all of the fun activities they would do if they were a snowman at night, such as go ice skating, play snow football and eat snow ice cream.

Ashland Police report increase in crimes, arrests

LAURA MCFARLAND Managing Editor

ASHLAND– The Town of Ashland experienced an 18.4% increase in certain crimes in 2022 over the previous year, according to a report Chief A. Troy Aron halt gave the Ashland Town Council last week.

During a presentation on Tuesday, Jan. 17, Aronhalt talked about the increase in Part 1 crimes from 174 offenses in 2021 to 206 in 2022.

The bulk of these inci dents were made up of 149 larcenies, which was up by 21 from the previous year, with predominantly larce nies from unlocked vehicles and a rash of shoplifting at the end of the year. Other types of crimes on this list were aggravated assaults (30), burglaries (9), auto thefts (12), robberies (3), rape offense (2) and homi cide (1).

“With that increase though it wasn’t as if the

SHERIFF’S REPORTS

Jan. 3

Simple Assault was re ported in the 200 block of Archie Cannon Drive.

Fail to appear on felony charge was reported in the 7500 block of County Com plex Road.

Marijuana on school grounds was reported in the 9400 block of Atlee Station Road.

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

Marijuana, possession/ consumed above 18 was re ported in the 10300 block of Chamberlayne Road.

Driver no reporting ac

police officers were sitting on their laurels because we did have a 24% increase in arrests over last year as well. So we were actively pursu ing prosecution to bringing those people to justice,” he said.

Aronhalt’s report noted that in the past 20 years, the highest level of Part I offenses was in 2002 (367).

On a better note, the chief reported a 21.3% decrease in motor vehicle crashes, with 100 reportable crashes in 2022 (down from 127 in 2021) and 13 DUI arrests (up from 10 in 2021).

One figure Aronhalt said he was proud to present was the 23,290 property checks conducted by his officers, especially facing the staffi ing shortages his office had in 2022.

“I am proud of the offi cers that they took the time to get out and do that. It is very telling of their dedica tion,” he said.

Aronhalt said he will give

a more detailed presenta tion to the council as part of the budget meetings.

In his monthly report for December 2022, Aronhalt highlighted both excit ing and concerning news: the Shop the Cop program served 36 children from 12 families; a “swatting” call from a subject outside of Ashland about a bomb threat has been referred to the FBI; investigators ob tained two reckless han dling of a firearm warrants on two subjects for their role in a shooting incident that occurred in June of 2022 in the Laurel Woods Apartment complex; a ho micide on Dec. 24 in Ash land Woods has been turned over to the Hanover County Sheriff’s Office; a distracted driving initiative was held in conjunction with the holi day season; and a busy New Year’s Eve resulted in five arrests, 12 criminal warrants being obtained and one re covered stolen vehicle.

cident with damage above $1000 was reported in the 8200 block of Meadow bridge Road.

Larceny of bank notes, checks was reported in the 11000 block of Washington Highway.

Credit card fraud above $200 in 6 months was re ported in the 8200 block of Soft Wind Drive.

Credit card theft was re ported in the 7100 block of Brandy Hill Trace.

Obtaining money by false pretenses above $200 was reported in the 9200 block of Charlotte Court.

DWI, 1st Offense, was re ported in the 7200 block of

Mechanicsville Turnpike.

Threats in writing at school/school event were reported in the 10300 block of Chamberlayne Road.

Jan. 4

Driver did not reported accident; damage above $250 was reported in the 11600 block of Cedar Lane.

Operate Vehicle Without Ignition Interlock System was reported in the 12300 block of Washington High way.

Accident Driver did not report, W/ Damage above =$1000 was reported in the 12600 block of Mount

Budget

From 1

the school division over the past year, including the fact that 10 Hanover County schools are designated as Blue Ribbon Schools by the U.S. Department of Education. Gill also noted that the division has 87 National Board Certified teachers and numerous programs that have been honored on a state or national level.

“The accolades are plentiful,” Gill said, “but we share these because we want you to see the fruits of the labor. We want you to see what this funding provides, because it would not be possible without the budget.”

Looking back on the first half of the current school year, Gill said that this year has marked the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic began over three years ago that the school environment felt as it once had.

“This year felt like a return to normalcy,” Gill said. “I had not felt that for at least three years, and I’m happy to report that this has continued. This is thanks to our students, our staff, our parents and our greater community, because this does not happen by accident.”

What follows are some of the key points from Gill’s presentation, the audio of which is available at the Hanover County Public Schools’ school board website (https://www.hcps.us/ about_us/school_board).

„ Gill noted that HCPS has been able to maintain a graduation rate exceeding

95% for the past decade, and currently ranks fourth among the state’s 15 largest school divisions when it comes to getting students all the way through senior year. While the number is impressive, Gill said, “as we say every year, until that dropout rate hits 0.0, there is still more work to be done.”

„ When it comes to recruitment, retention and professional development, Gill said that the pandemic had served to underscore how critical it remains that the school division make every effort to create a positive, supportive work environment and to make sure that teachers and staff receive competitive compensation and benefits.

“We know that when we take care of our staff, they are better able to take care of our students,” said Gill, praising the efforts of the 3,900 full- and part-time employees of HCPS. “Every single position is absolutely crucial to the success of our students, our school division and our greater community,” he continued.

Gill said that, prior to the pandemic, the nation was already grappling with 100,000 teacher vacancies, and that this number has skyrocketed over the past three years. While Hanover remains in a strong position with regard to staffing, “We are not immune,” Gill said. “We need to recognize that and put efforts in place.”

Hanover County Public Schools had just four teacher vacancies at the start of the current school year, which was “impressive,” Gill said,

“but that took an impressive effort from an increasingly shallow pool, and that is something we need to be keenly aware of as we move forward.”

While the division’s custodial team is now fully staffed, a significant number of positions remain open for bus drivers. Gill noted that the division started the year with 55 open bus driver jobs and has now whittled that number down to 39.

“We have made headway,” he said, “but there is still much work to do.”

„ When it comes to supporting current staff and remaining competitive with regard to compensation, Gill noted that the division has worked to provide salary increases of between 7.5% and 11.5% for all employees over the past two budget cycles. And while health care costs have risen, Gill said, employees’ required contributions have not. Gill pointed out that no employee of the school division is currently making less than $15 an hour, and that referral incentives are awarded to those who recommend qualified personnel to fill hard-to-fill vacancies.

„ When it comes to this year’s proposed budget, the schools will be requesting a 5% salary increase for all employees, as well as funding to cover 100% of the increase in healthcare premiums for calendar year 2023. Salary enhancements will also be aimed at increasing recruitment and retention for certain positions, including senior teachers, assistant principals, student activity

directors, transportation support personnel, maintenance employees and social workers. The division is also looking to increase stipends for teacher mentors from $225 to $500 and provide improved incentives for career switchers. New requested positions include 13 additional special education teachers and two additional English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) teachers.

„ The following are key dates for the 2024 budget process:

Jan. 31 – School board work session, which will include a discussion of the superintendent’s budget (if needed).

Feb. 14 – School board meeting, during which school board will vote on the FY2024 approved budget.

Feb. 15 – Board of supervisors meeting, which will include the county administrator’s budget presentation to supervisors.

Feb. 22 – Board of supervisors meeting, during which the school board’s approved budget will be presented to supervisors.

Feb. 24 – The HCPS Teacher Advisory Council and Classified Advisory Council will present the school board’s approved budget.

April 5 – Board of supervisors public hearing on the proposed FY2024 budget.

April 12 – Board of supervisors meeting, during which the board will adopt the FY24 Budget.

May 9 – School board meeting, during which the school board will vote on the FY2024 adopted budget.

Road.

Hermon Road.

Identity theft, financial loss up to $200 was reported in the 7100 block of Brooks Farm

fail to appear on felony charge was reported in the 7500 block of County Complex Road.

Driver did not report damage up to $250 was reported in the 5500 block of Mechanic-

sville Tp/Walnut Grove Road. Firearms, regardless of value, not from person was reported in the 3400 block of Old Church Road.

Assault and battery on a family member was reported in the 17300 block of Rocky

Ford Road.

Obtaining money by false pretenses above $200 was reported in the 6100 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike.

Hit and run -personal injury was reported in the 11400 block of Washington Highway.

She had a huge calendar of commitments but said she didn’t look ahead too much to avoid feeling overwhelmed. She took each day on its own and tried to have the most fun in the role she could, savoring the experiences as a privilege and not a chore and never wanting to give the impression that an invite was just another event to be checked off a list.

She was helped in that goal by the way she was always greeted warmly and openly by the people waiting to hear her talk about one of the most well-known programs in Hanover County, including its rich history and why, 74 years after it was started, it is still a vital and vibrant part of the community.

“It just tells the story of how hardworking women started this program to help people who were less fortunate and it continues because of all of the hardworking people that find it important,” said Clements, who recently sat down with The Local to share her impressions of an amazing 2022 holiday season unlike any she had experienced before.

Clements said she embraced the role of Christmas Mother because she loves the community and her neighbors in it. She understands the need for the Hanover Christmas Mother program because of those families and seniors who need an extra helping hand around the holiday season. It is a mission and a role she will always treasure.

“I had the time and this was my way of returning the favor to a county that has given me and my family so much happiness. I am proud to live in Hanover and will cherish my Christmas

Mother memories,” she said.

Narrowing down a list of the highlights of her time as Christmas Mother was extremely difficult as there were so many great moments, Clements said.

If one experience were to get an award for “Best in Community Spirit,” it would go to the annual Christmas Tree Lighting at the Doswell Community Center. The sheer volume of families there together having fun, singing Christmas carols, playing games and drinking hot cider took her breath away.

“They illuminated the Christmas tree and Santa arrived. It felt like a Hallmark moment,” she said.

“The community center was full. I didn’t know what to expect when I went there for a tree lighting inside of a building. I was very surprised and you really felt like they captured the Christmas spirit. Everybody was involved.”

The Hanover Chamber of Commerce’s Celebrate Hanover party at Oakdale was a wonderful, well-attended event that brought plenty of festive spirit, she said. She loved having the chance to speak with the commu-

nity business leaders who are such an integral part of supporting the Christmas Mother program.

One of the last events she served as Christmas Mother was a pancake supper held at the Mechanicsville Drug Store.

“The community came in, ate pancakes, listened to music, sang along and made donations into a Christmas stocking. They were just very community oriented – all of these things,” Clements said.

Being a special guest in not one but three holiday parades was amazing, she added. She rode in the Ashland Olde Time Holiday Parade, the Mechanicsville Christmas Parade and the Dominion Energy Christmas Parade in Richmond.

“I guess I hadn’t been to a parade in so long I didn’t know how well it would be attended. The Ashland parade, as far as you could see they were lined up on the road. From the children to the older people in their lawn chairs, so many people showed up,” she said.

Taking on the role of Christmas Mother, Clements said she was surprised that so many people did not know about the program,

which is why her job raising money and awareness is important. On the flip side of that, she was also amazed how incredibly generous the Hanover community continues to be to the program and its mission.

“I just feel like I fell in love with Hanover County

because there were so many places I hadn’t been and I met so many people and everybody was so nice and thankful. I think that is the biggest thing,” she said.

Clements added that she was incredibly impressed with the work done by the volunteers who work tirelessly behind the scenes to make the Hanover Christmas Mother program work.

Betty Lee Stanley, a former Christmas Mother and member of the Doswell Ruritan Club that runs the program, said the program is a success primarily because of the “citizens of Hanover County who generously open their pocketbooks to those less fortunate than themselves.”

“Because of the generosity of Hanover citizens, we brought in $127,000,” she said, adding that the funds were once again distributed to eligible families and seniors with gift cards, a practice adopted during

the COVID-19 pandemic that seems to be working well.

However, sharing that message and raising awareness of the program continues to be important, and she praised the wonderful job Clements did in the 2022 Christmas season. She recalled how excited Clements was when she and fellow Ruritan Franklin Jones went to the former’s house to ask her to be the Christmas Mother.

“She was so excited and so enthusiastic and she just ran with the ball. She did everything she could possibly do to make the program a success,” Stanley said of Clements.

For more information about the Hanover Christmas Mother program or to donate, visit https://www. hanoverchristmasmother. org/.

Laura McFarland may be reached at Lmcfarland@ powhatantoday.com.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

The Montpelier ruritan Club Christmas dinner included a donation to the Hanover Christmas program, which Michele Clements accepted.

Fromtheeditor

FROM THE EDITOR

To the people who help create the mosaic of me

The immeasurable va lue of than king ou r vetera ns

LAURA MCFARLAND Managing Editor

By ChristinaAmano Dolan Editor

My personality, like my life, is what I like to call eclectic.

Between a job that covers such a wide scope of life in the community, friends with some similar and some widely differing interests, and my own penchant for switching back and forth between hobbies and activities instead of devoting myself entirely to one, it does seem like an appropriate description.

rowing up outside of Washington, D.C., visiting its plethora of museums and memorials was a common occurrence throughout my childhood through school field trips and family visits

sophomore year roommate, who forcibly introduced me to MTV, VH1 and a whole new world of music that went beyond the country and Christian pop dominant in my house growing up.

But those visits to the national war memorialsalwayscarried their own significance, as even before truly learning of theirnature as a child, seeing them through my relatives’ eyes gave me another snapshot of the past– the relatives who would pause at a namewritten on the wall and remembera fallen friend

But as much as I like to think of myself as unique, I do appreciate that who I am is not only a reflection of who I am deep inside but also the people who have been part of my life, in big and small ways.

Before my grandfatherpassed away, my father and uncle took him to the World War II Memorial for the first time. This visit has been recounted by my father throughout my life, as he fondly remembers the array of strangers thatapproached hisfather, asked for hisstory and thanked him for his service

Above all, he remembers the glint of excitement inhis father’s eyes, who servedin the U.S. Marine Corps throughout

World War II. Evendecades after his servicein a vastly different world,a simple “thank you” from a passing stranger lifted his spirits beyond recognition.

Similarly, I gained a deep appreciation for classic films from sitting with my grandparents on their living room couch watching everything from westerns to musicals to silly romantic comedies from the 1940s and 50s.

time on the count of three – I loved it and she hated it.

I discovered a passion for board games in my 30s because a couple who has since moved away invited me over for a Sunday afternoon game day, showing me that there really was more to them than Monopoly.

First encounter leaves lasting impression

lowed the veterans throughout theirjourney– whetherin the form of a Virginia State Police escort to their first destination or in the hand-bakedcookies provided by Covenant Woods.

JIM RIDOLPHI Contributing columnist

Thismemory came to mind whenspeaking with Steve Combs of Old Dominion Honor Flight (ODHF), one of the many Honor Flight Network “Hubs” across the country that honor the nation’s veterans with an all-expenses paidtrip to Washington, D.C. As Combs spoke of hispassion for the nonprofit’s mission of saying “thank you” in powerful ways, I began to recall my parents’ teachings of “the why” behind these memorials’ existence.

A recent announcement from Rome conveyed the sad news that Italian movie star Gina Lollobrigida passed quietly last week at age 95.

Rusthadnever seen anything like it – particularly after serving in a war that was widely condemned by the American public at the time. His return home was a period deprived of the welcomehome parades and gratitude ofprevious generations

often spoke her name around our house, and our small television was always tuned to any show the featured the Italian actress on its guest list.

Speaking with Ronnie Rust,a Vietnam War veteran and participant of the ODHF trip, offered an especially powerful snapshot of “the why.”

Occasionally, I find myself saying “my dear” to someone in just a certain way that reminds me of a friend who I lost touch with because she lived a world away and when I reached out to reconnect was incredibly saddened to learn she had passed away.

I learned that sometimes there are two types of people in the world – those who listen and those who wait to talk –from a relative who made me feel like everything I said was a jumping off topic for something she wanted to say. She made me want to be a person who listens.

Rust’s enthusiasm for the day was apparent, as he affectionately recalled the warmththat enveloped the trip, with communitymembers, the Hanover County Sheriff’s Office, Hanover Fire-EMS and more offering a heartfelt “farewell” and “welcome back” display to the buses.The word “celebrity” even came to hismind, as showers of people saying “thank you” fol-

I didn’t take note of the announcement due to any allegiance to the international superstar who captured the hearts of returning GIs following World War II, my father being one of them. I had a different reason for noting her death.

But thisday brought instances of appreciation in every shape and size. Upon boarding the bus for their journey back home, Rust was handed an envelope reminiscent of hisdaysin the service whenletters sent from back home were like a “pot of gold” to a homesick soldier

As a small child, the name didn’t mean much and I had no fascination with the foreign film star, but that changed when Lollobrigida appeared in an obscure film called Trapeze with Burt Lancaster and Tony Curtis in 1956.

Uponreturning home after histrip, Rust opened the envelope to findhandwritten thank you notes from children across the country for his service

“I just couldn’t believe it,” Rust said, adding that evensmall tokens of appreciation hold an immeasurablevalue – one that brought the comforting reminder that the world has changed

Above all, these tokens of gratitude and appreciation

Social media can be annoying, dreadful and a black hole of wasting time, but occasionally you see little nuggets of wisdom that hit home and stick in ways you didn’t expect. I read recently where someone described themselves as a “mosaic of everyone I’ve ever loved, even for a heartbeat.” It made me sit back and reflect a little on how who I have known has shaped me, even in small or seemingly insignificant ways.

By Jim Ridolphi Contributing Columnist

You hear it all the time. It’s thelittle things that have the biggestinfluence on our lives. I’m not sure that worksall the time, butone certainly can’t discount the impact of seemingly insignificant eventsin our lives. Perhaps it’s that philosophy that

I love music videos as a form of storytelling because of my

A listening ear with no drive to “fix” things can make an incredible difference in someone’s ability to cope with a bad situation – a lesson truly brought home during a late night talk with a girl going through a breakup who I haven’t spoken to in 20 years.

prompted someone to say, “it’s the smallstuff that counts and it’s all smallstuff.”

One fictional example that comes to mind seems seasonally appropriate –a frightful broadcast that debuted on October30,1938,capturinga nation and evoking fears that sent some seeking professional help.

I discovered how much I adore Brussel sprouts when a friend’s aunt living in England made them for dinner while we were visiting. The friend and I each tried a sprout for the first

Orson Welles’ radiodramatiza-

The number of my habits, phrases, preferences and idiosyncrasies tied to people throughout my life is endless, and there are probably so many I don’t even notice about myself, much less the influence someone else had on my life to help form them.

But when I think about all of those people, whether gone, forgotten or still very much a part of my life, helping create the mosaic that is me, for better or worse, I can only feel grateful and blessed.

Laura McFarland may be reached at Lmcfarland@powhatantoday. com.

tion of “War of the Worlds” relayed a tale of horror involvingan attack of alienkillermachines that seemed by allindications primed to destroy our planet. While the best and latest weaponry had noeffect on the invading machines, the smallestdetail eventually thwarted the invasion It seems the killermachineshad an immunity to the smallest form of

Crowned Miss Italia in 1947, Lollobrigida made her American debut on the big screen in 1953 acting alongside Humphrey Bogart and Jennifer Jones. But those accomplishments had absolutely nothing to do with my association with the superstar. As mentioned earlier, my father

Shortly after its premiere in Richmond, my father packed up the family in our 1955 Chevrolet Biscayne and headed out to the to see the movie. My mother voiced her immediate concern that the movie’s theme was too mature for my sister and I, but her concerns eased as we noticed a number of families with children strolling

Unintended consequences sometimes have the greatest impact

bacteria, and the invading microbes eventually destroyed the menace the smallest of earth’s inhabitants destroying its largestenemy.

Notice of change

The Mechanicsville Local and the ashland-Hanover Local are merging to become one combined newspaper serving all Hanover communities beginning with the Feb. 1 edition. The publication will be called the Mechanicsville-ashland Local.

A recent story remindedme of justhow important the things we take for granted are to our futures; and how eventshappening many miles away can impact all of us.

you can read each week’s entire edition of the Mechanicsville-ashland Local for free at https://issuu.com/mechlocal. That website also has years’ worth of past editions available of The Mechanicsville Local.

Expertsin CentralFlorida are

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scrambling to rescue orreplacemillions of honey bees destroyed or displaced by Hurricane Ida. Oneexpert surmised thousands of hives were lost in the storm and resulting flooding, threatening many of the state’s crops. According to the University of Florida, more than 380,000 registered bee hives were destroyed either by hurricane strength winds or the floods that followed.

Surviving bees are now starving due to the lack of vegetation in the area, much of it blown away from the winds. Somegroups in the state are providing containers of syrup for beekeepers to distributeto assist the displacedhoney bees

So, how does the lack of honey bees in CentralFlorida affect a semi-retired columnistin Virginia? It’s no mystery that the lack of beesequates to aloss of harvest for farmers which leads to higher prices for all of us at the grocery

Dunlop appointed Hanover’s director of communications

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

County Administrator John A. Budesky announced the appointment of Kristin Smith director of cations and ommunity engagement for Hanover County.

Dunlop, a veteran journalist who most recently worked for Henrico County Public Relations,

During her four years as a public relations specialist, Dunlop enhanced Henrico’s social media presence, including adding that county to platforms such as Instagram and Nextdoor. She also hosted Henrico’s news show and podcast.

In addition to writing news releases and feature stories for the web, Dunlop

specialized in media relations and served as the media liaison for the mass vaccination efforts at Richmond Raceway.

Before getting into public relations, Dunlop had an award-winning career in television news, including five years at WRIC-TV. Well-known for her storytelling abilities, her work appeared on NBC, ABC, CNN, HGTV and VH1.

“My entire career has focused on sharing information that impacts people,” Dunlop said. “I believe clear, honest and transparent communication is essential to build trust, solid relationships and a better future for Hanover County.”

“We are excited to add Kristin to our team,” Budesky said. “Communication and engagement with our citizens are among our very top priorities and having a person with Kristin’s

skills and experience at the head of this department will greatly enhance our efforts.”

A graduate of the University of Missouri, Dunlop earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism. Prior to coming to the Richmond area, she worked as a broadcast journalist in Tucson, Cleveland and Detroit.

She looks forward to connecting with the Hanover County community.

“I see so much untapped potential,” she said. “To be able to join the team and build upon it is a tremendous opportunity. I want to give Hanover residents and businesses reason to be proud, but I also think it’s important we share what makes Hanover so special with people throughout central Virginia.”

Submitted by Saundra Martin, Hanover County Administration Executive Administrative Assistant.

SATURDAY, JAN. 28

Come experience an inspirational and educational history lesson with nathan M. richardson performing as Frederick douglass in a living history performance in which he captures completely the physical and spiritual essence of the former slave, writer, orator and abolitionist. This living history series has produced film credits with the national Park service, alabama Public Television and Irish Public service Television. you can find more about nathan richardson and his work at www.scpublishing.com.

The event will be held at 1 p.m. at First union Baptist Church, 6231 Pole Green road, Mechanicsville Va 23116. It is sponsored by the Hanover Branch of the naaCP (https:// www.hcbnaacp.org/).

The american Legion Post 175 hosts a “Community Breakfast” from 7:30 to 10 a.m. in the Main Hall of the Post, located at 8700 Bell Creek drive in Mechanicsville.

The breakfast will feature scrambled eggs, plain or blueberry pancakes, biscuits, sausage gravy, bacon, breakfast potatoes, grits, fried apples, coffee, tea and juice. The breakfast is open to the public. The cost is $10 per person and all proceeds will go toward the many projects american Legion provides for veterans and the youth of the community.

Hanover Museum History & Culture will host “The Life and Times of d olley Madison” program at 11 a.m., with tours of the Museum at 10 a.m. and noon at Historic Hanover Courthouse, 7496 County Complex road in Hanover. The program is presented by dale sayers. a native Virginian, sayers is a retired elementary teacher. she graduated from James Madison university (then Madison College) with a B. s. in early childhood education. However, history has always been her great academic love. she began researching her family history

over 40 years ago and has written two books, “The Haynies of northumberland” and “allied Families and The Tucker Family of Campbell and Charlotte Counties.” she resides with her husband at Hanover Courthouse. Parking available at County Complex. The event is free. For more information, call 804-365-3385.

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 1

The Hanover County Board of supervisors has extended the informal assessment review period until Feb. 1, 2023. Previously, the assessor’s Office had been available to discuss individual property assessments with the property owner through Jan. 20. The strong real estate market in Hanover has led to increases of value for homes throughout the county this year. Members of the Hanover Board of supervisors thought that

Dunlop

News tip, story idea, community events, photos, birth announcements, 40th anniversaries & above or 80-year-old birthday and above announcements submissions can be emailed to events@mechlocal.com.

Trad ition ofCaring

BRAXTON, James A. “Jim” Jr., 89, of Mechanicsville, went to be with the Lord, Thursday, January 12, 2023. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 52 years, Margaret eaton Braxton; parents, James a . Braxton sr. and elizabeth George Tucker Braxton; and sister, edith B. Williams. Jim is survived by his children, david Braxton (Lori) and Laura Foster (Orland); four grandchildren, Landen (Patrice), Hayden (sujana), emma and Maddie; and a niece, Linda Golub. He was a u s navy veteran and retired after 35 years of service with aT&T. The family received friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, January 17 at the Mechanicsville Chapel of the Bennett Funeral Home, 8014 Lee-davis rd. Graveside services were held 11 a.m. Wednesday, January 18, 2023, at signal Hill Memorial Park.

BennettFuneralHomewasestablishedin1897toservetheneedsof Richmondfamilies.Sincethen,thislocallyownedandoperatedbusiness hascontinuedtoservethecommunitywithitsuniquecombinationof caringandconvenience.

Thistraditionofexcellencecanbeseeninfourbeautifulchapels locatedthroughouttheRichmondarea:centrallylocatedonCutshaw Avenueinthecity,onBroadStreetRoadpastInnsbrook,onAshbrook Pkwy.inChesterfieldandservingtheHanover-Mechanicsvilleareaon Lee-DavisRoad.Allfourfacilitiesareunderthepersonaldirectionof CharlesD.Morehead,President.

Inatimeofneed,youcanturntoBennettFuneralHomewithtrustand confidence.Itservesfamiliesofallfaithswithpersonalservice–before, duringandafter.Thereisalongtraditionofprofessionalismandcaring.

OnewayinwhichBennettcaresforfamiliesisbyofferingaconvenient andpersonalizedpre-needprogram.Throughthisprogramofpre-need planning,youcanspareyourlovedonestheburdenofmakingdecisions atanemotionaltime.

CallBennettFuneralHomeat746-8665toscheduleapre-planning consultation.

PITTMAN, Betty Baker, 85, of Mechanicsville, passed away January 14, 2023. she was preceded in death by her husband of 63 years, russell M. Pittman; and son, russell M. “rusty” Pittman Jr. Betty is survived by her son, daniel C. “danny” Pittman; two granddaughters, Kristin n. Pittman (Mike Wallace) and Kerri M. Pittman; great-grandson, Kolton B. Wallace; sister, rosalie Packett; as well as nieces, nephews and extended family. Graveside services will be be held at 2 p.m. sunday, January 29, at Bethel uMC Cemetery, Lively. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Moose Charities, 155 s. International dr., Mooseheart, Ill. 60539 or the charity of your choice. bennettfuneralhomes.com

David C. Campbell

CAMPBELL, David C., 73, of Mechanicsville, Virginia, passed away on december 28, 2022, at the age of 73. He is survived by his devoted wife of 45 years, Beth; his loving children, Jennifer ellett (Blake) and Laura Pinckney (Lucas); five grandchildren, Kaleb, Beckett, Colin, Jacob and Hannah; and his siblings, stephen and donald (Patricia); cousin, Tom Wilson (Linda); as well as loving nephews, nieces and friends. dave was a hardworking and deeply loving husband, father, grandfather and friend, and he will be missed by all. The family will receive friends at a memorial service held at 2 p.m. on april 29, 2023, at shady Grove united Methodist Church, 8209 shady Grove road, Mechanicsville, Va. 23111.

DOYLE, Mrs. Helen, “Virgie,” 88, passed away peacefully in her home in Covington, Va., on saturday, January 15, 2023. Helen was born July 27, 1934, in Keeseville, n.y., and devoted her life to her beloved husband of 58 years and to raising their four children. she also took care of children in her Mechanicsville, Va., home for many years, where she resided until 2011. Helen was preceded in death by her mother, Mildred Bezio; husband, rolland P. doyle Jr.; son, Mark doyle; three sisters and one brother; father-in-law, rolland P. doyle sr.; and mother-in-law, ethel doyle. Helen is survived by her children, rolland P. “Bobby” doyle III (susan), dawn doyle roberson (allen) and Barbara doyle; seven grandchildren, Penny roberson Green, rolland P. doyle IV, Tiffany roberson Grambo, robert “Curtis” doyle, Jeffrey doyle, andrea doyle Wheeler and Joshua doyle; 12 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Helen will be laid to rest at a grave-side service on Friday, January 27, 2 p.m. at signal Hill Memorial Park, 12360 Hanover Courthouse road, Beaverdam Va. 23069.

Wedding announcement and engagement submissions

For information on submitting an engagement or wedding, contact Cindy Adams at 804-775-4616 or email: cadams@mechlocal.com

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TURNER, Mr. Steven Edward, of Mechanicsville, Va., passed away on Monday, January 16, 2023, at the age of 71. He was born in richmond, Va., to Waverly edward Turner Jr. and Ida ruth Kemp Turner on October 30, 1951. He retired from ryder Truck rental as a diesel mechanic. steve enjoyed working on cars and trucks, mowing grass, listening to In Touch ministries and spent lots of time with his faithful dog, Billy, until he passed in 2017. steve is survived by his wife, Lynn sullivan Turner; son, steven Mark Turner; sisters, dian Turner Thompson, Faye Turner Miles (Gary) and Laura Turner, all of Mechanicsville; brothers-in-law, James Thomas sullivan and John edward sullivan of Boydton, Va.; as well as a niece and nephews. In addition to his parents; steve was predeceased by a brother-in-law, edgar Herbert Thompson. Graveside services were held at Fields united Methodist Church Cemetery on Friday, January 20, 2023, at 2 p.m. with the reverend Jim Fry officiating. steve requested that any attendees be comfortable in casual attire. The family requests in lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Fields united Methodist Church, P.O. Box 87, Clarksville, Va. 23927 or Henry Volunteer Fire department, 9634 Chamberlayne rd., Mechanicsville, Va. 23116. Watkins Cooper Lyon Funeral Home is honored to serve the Turner family and offers online condolences as well as many other resources by visiting their website, www.watkinscooperlyon.com or by going to their Facebook page.

Obituary submissiOns

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E-mail Christina Amano Dolan at cdolan@mechlocal.com

Steven Edward Turner

Helen “Virgie” Doyle

James A. “Jim” Braxton Jr.

Betty Baker Pittman

providing additional time for citizens to discuss their assessments would be appropriate. The board unanimously extended the informal review period through Feb. 1. any resident is invited to contact the assessor’s Office at 804-365-6029 with concerns about the assessed value given to their property.

SATURDAY, FEB. 4

Free COVId-19 vaccines will be available to all from 10 a .m. to 2 p.m. at First union Baptist Church, 6231 Pole Green road, Mechanicsville, Va 23116. The event is sponsored in partnership with The Hanover County naaCP, Chickahominy Health district and First union Baptist Church.

The Hanover County naaCP is sponsoring an ongoing free Black History Film Festival throughout the month of February in local libraries. The festival will included: Feb. 4, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Mechanicsville Library, “The Color of Friendship” (G-rated); Feb. 9, 6 p.m. at Mechanicsville Library, “Tulsa, the Fire & The Forgotten”; Feb. 20, 6 p.m. at atlee Library, “do the right Thing”; and Feb. 25, 1:30 p.m. at ashland Library, “King a Filmed record.”

Glowing smiles dentistry, located at 9097 atlee station road, suite 120 in Mechanicsville, is hosting its second annual Give Kids a smile event from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is offering free dental care for children of low-income families. Call 804-559-3250 with any questions.

SUNDAY, FEB. 5

s hared e xperiences from the Civil rights era is the theme for this year’s untold stories. This annual program of oral histories about growing up in a s hland and Hanover County will be sunday, Feb. 5 at 4 p.m. at the Patrick Henry High school, ashland. This year’s storytellers will be rebecca doggett Bray, Mary Jane Ghee, Trisha Leonard Higgins, Matt “Moto” Lewis, Ollie Lewis and steve Trivett. The moderator will be anthony Keitt, and dr. Jamelle Wilson will be the wrap-up speaker. The Community Gospel Choir, led by Tyler spurlock, will close out the program. The program is free and open to the public. Come listen to the stories shared and continue the conversation. Visit ashlandmuseum. org or call 804-368-7314.

SATURDAY, FEB. 11

The men of Mechanicsville united Methodist Church will be preparing and selling Brunswick stew again this year. For $10 a quart, enjoy some of the most delicious Brunswick stew in the area. The group strongly encourages those interested to preorder their stew, which became available on Jan. 9, by calling the church office at 804746-5118, emailing mechumc@ comcast.net or placing your order through the website, mechumc.org. Include name, phone number and number of desired quarts. Prepayment is required for all orders over 6 quarts. Church office hours are Tuesday — Thursday, 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Pick-up will be on saturday, Feb. 11 from 8 to 10 a.m. stew not sold in the preorders will be available for purchase on saturday morning. The women of the church will also be selling their fabulous baked goods on saturday morning. Contact the church office with any questions.

The studley ruritan Club’s famous “super Bowl Chili” will be available for pick up at the studley store/Post Office (on the corner of studley and Williamsville roads) starting at 9 a.m. on saturday, Feb. 11. Order early before it sells out, and stock up your freezer for the cold winter ahead. The price is $9 per quart. Proceeds go to benefit the community. Call douglas newcomb at 804-730-0570 or any studley ruritan member.

ONGOING

Hanover County is working with residents, businesses, landowners and other community members to update its Comprehensive Plan. Called “ e nvision Hanover,” the plan is the county’s long-range vision of Hanover over the next 25 years, addressing land use, housing, economic development and natural resources. It also provides guidance on where growth may be appropriate throughout the county and what that growth should look like. Hanover residents’ feedback will shape the Comprehensive Plan and decisions regarding growth, preservation and public investment for years to come. Based upon the feedback received, the project team has been working to identify key concepts related to land use, economic development and historic resources. These preliminary ideas will be introduced at a series of events scheduled in January and February. residents will be able to share their ideas by participating

with an in-person meeting or webinar, depending upon their schedules. The public participation inperson meetings (presentation + open house, all from 6 to 7:30 p.m.): Thursday, Jan. 26, Montpelier Center for arts and education; Monday, Jan. 30, red Barn at Chickahominy Falls; Thursday, Feb. 2, Mechanicsville Library; Thursday, Feb. 9, Berea Baptist Church (rockville). Webinar only: Monday, Feb. 6, (6 to 7 p.m.) — log-in information to be posted. The county will also offer these “stop and chat” events in which community members can informally chat with project team members on the following days, locations and times: Wednesday, Feb. 1, (11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.), atlee Library; Tuesday, Feb. 7, (11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.), ashland Library; and Thursday, Feb. 9, (3:30 to 5 p.m.), rock ville Library. The Hanover Board of supervisors will hold public work sessions on the Comprehensive Plan on March 8, May 10 and July 26. The current schedule calls for the Planning Commission to hold a public hearing on the proposed update in august, with the board’s public hearing to take place a month later. For information on the planning process, and how you can participate, visit www. envisionhanover.com. you can also follow the process on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

The Hanover County sheriff’s Office will be hosting its 14th annual senior Citizens Police academy. The senior Citizens Police academy will take place april 11 to June 20. The academy will be held every Tuesday between the hours of 9 a.m. and 12 p.m. at The Montpelier Community Center, located at 17203 sycamore Tavern Lane, Montpelier, Va 23192. There will be no cost for the participants. Class size will be limited to the first 30 seniors who register. The program will be available to people 55 years of age or older who are residents, business owners or county employees. applicants must also be willing to submit to a background check. This academy is designed to give participants an inside look into law enforcement with the Hanover County sheriff’s Office. Interested seniors are urged to download an application at http://www.hanoversheriff. com/199/senior-Citizens-Policeacademy or contact deputy evan Povar at (804) 365-3363 for an application or additional information. also, the application needs to be notarized. The deadline to apply is March 10, 2023.

Dental legacy continues with new owner

LAURA MCFARLAND Managing Editor

MECHANICSVILLE –

When Dr. Marcel Lambrechts agreed to take over the longtime Mechanicsville dentistry practice of Dr. Jerry Posenau, he knew he wanted to bring some new additions to the business, but one thing he didn’t need to change – the standard of care.

“I felt like Dr. Jerry is one of my colleagues. I always knew he was a good dentist and I wasn’t going to have an issue. His standard of care and our standard of care are very similar,” Lambrechts said of his agreement to take over the practice.

Lambrechts officially bought the solo dental practice in late 2022 and Posenau retired on Dec. 2, 2022. The office is Lambrechts’ third, joining the two existing locations in Sandston and Henrico that already made up Seven Pines Dental Group.

The dental group honored Posenau earlier this month with a party that both celebrated his retirement and showcased the newly renovated and upgraded offices at 7575 Cold Harbor Road in Mechanicsville. About 90 people attended the event.

In the more than four decades that Posenau was a dentist in Mechanicsville he served countless patients, experiencing everything from routine to emergency needs.

Regardless of what upgrades or improvements he

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

shown at the retirement par ty of dr. Jerry Posenau, right, are dr. Behnaz Movahed, the new dentist in the practice, and Marcel Lambrechts, who bought the Mechanicsville practice.

made to the office, the most important factor Lambrechts committed to bringing was “continuity of excellent care.”

“For me it is important for my patients to know they aren’t just going to Seven Pines Dental, they are continuing the great care of Dr. Jerry Posenau. And new patients are always welcome,” he said.

Beyond the standard of care, Lambrechts said the two biggest assets patients can expect with the Mechanicsville office now part of Seven Pines Dental Group are the upgraded capabilities of its technologies and the benefits of having a multi-group practice that has dentists with different specialties. Dr. Behnaz Movahed will be the doctor at the Mechanicsville location, but patients have easy access to the other offices with a combined total

of six dentists, he said.

“We had been wanting to have a multi-group practice for lots of different reasons. One is the ability to provide more services for the patients because when you bring in different dentists they have different skillsets. … Where one person might be strong in one aspect of dentistry another might be strong in another type of dentistry. We can internally refer so a patient doesn’t have to drive all over to get the services they need,” Lambrechts said.

Lambrechts said his family lived in Mechanicsville from 1995 to 2012, with him and his wife raising their children here. He always wanted to have a practice here as well, so when Posenau approached him and they found out it would be a good fit, he was thrilled.

Posenau, who became a dentist 43 years ago, said he knew Lambrechts when he was a “young pup” starting out in dentistry and then reconnected with him when the other dentist formed a monthly dental study group. Something clicked, and he knew Lambrechts would be a good fit to take over the office he ran for 41 years.

“I think he has a personality like me to tell the truth. I think he is a bit of a wise guy,” Posenau said with a laugh.

When asked what legacy he hoped he left behind with his four-decade career, Posenau said he wanted people

to know he cared for them equally in a fair manner to the best of his abilities. He said that running the business was the hard part of having a practice, and where he thrived was his interactions with people.

“The nature of the people in the area made it easy to communicate with them,” he added.

While he is enjoying retirement, Posenau said he misses his patients, many of whom came to him for years, just like their parents before him. He recalled in one family he served four generations as patients.

“I was discarding charts and someone was born in the 1800s who came here. They had to have been in their 80s or 90s when they came here,” he said.

There were plenty of ups and downs in such a long career, with the most vivid triumph in the latter part being his office surviving the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic – being shut down for weeks and not knowing what would happen next.

“I was so happy when we started back,” he said.

Other than his career, Posenau said he is most proud of his son, Trevor, whom he raised with his wife of 41 years, Linda.

“My son’s value to society is my reward in life. He’s an interventional cardiologist with VCS in Richmond,” Posenau said.

Hanover Museum of History & Culture will host ‘The Life and Times of Dolley Madison’

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

The Hanover Museum of History & Culture will host a program “The Life and Times of Dolley Madison” Jan. 28 at the Hanover Courthouse. The program will highlight “The Life and Times of Dolley Madison,” presented by Dale Sayers. A native Virginian, Sayers is a retired elementary teacher. She graduated from James Madison University (then Madison College) with a B.S. in early childhood education. However, history has always been her great academic love. She began researching her family history over 40 years ago, and has written two books, “The Haynies of Northumberland and Allied Families” and “The Tucker Family of Campbell and Charlotte Counties.” She resides with her husband at Hanover Courthouse and has two grown children and three grandsons. Since the colonial/

revolutionary period is of special interest to Sayers, she became fascinated with “America’s first First Lady,” Dolley Madison. Madison was poised to witness historic events and personally knew all the movers and shakers of that era. Married to James Madison, an intellectual giant and the Father of the Constitution, she was his partner in both marriage and politics. Come to hear a firsthand account of events that shaped the iconic personality she became.

The program will take place at the Historic Hanover Courthouse, 7496 County Complex Road, Hanover VA 23069 (parking at County Complex). The program time is 11 a.m. with tours of the museum at 10 a.m. and noon. It is free and open to the public.

Submitted by Jaime R. Fawcett, executive director of Hanover Museum of History & Culture.

Ashland Musical Variety Show: We’re back on track

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

The producers, directors and music directors of the Ashland Music Variety Show, sponsored by the Hanover Arts & Activities Center, have announced that the next show will take place on March 23, 24 and 25 at Randolph-Macon College’s newly renovated Blackwell Auditorium.

No talent is required to be in the show. Participants just need the desire to have a good time, build community and showcase the best little town/county there ever was. There are many volunteer positions available as well.

Rehearsal information and times: Expect to rehearse once a week (sometimes less) for each act you participate in. Rehearsals will take place Monday to Thursday between 5 and 9 p.m. at 500 South Center St., Ashland. Rehearsal schedules are posted on the center’s website and social media pages. Rehearsal times will also be emailed to participants.

About the Show: The Ashland Musical Variety Show has been a Hanover tradition since 1982, 1983 and every odd year since. For 20 shows, AMVS has

The Ashland Music Variety Show, sponsored by the Hanover Arts & Activities Center, will take place March 23, 24 and 25 at Randolph-Macon College’s newly renovated Blackwell Auditorium. Organizers are currently looking for participants.

been bringing the community together as a cast, a crew and an audience. Participants have shared so many wonderful memories together and built relationships through what director Sue Watson coined as “Community Building through the Arts.” This is the most important feature of

the show. The Ashland Musical Variety Show is a FUN-draiser for the Hanover Arts & Activities Center. The show brings the community together and supports the center’s programs.

Details and sign-up can be found at https://www.hanoverarts.net/ashland-musical-variety-show.

The leadership team of the Ashland Musical Variety Show appreciates how the faculty, staff and administration at Randolph-Macon College have generously worked with the show since 1982—making it possible for over 400 people to participate in each show. Organizers are thrilled to be back at R-MC for the 20th show! It would be impossible to do this show without the support and generosity of the college and Duncan Memorial United Methodist Church, which provides the backstage space for the large cast.

The Ashland Musical Variety Show is an important fundraiser for the Hanover Arts & Activities Center.

Submitted by Sara WrightHolloway, executive director of the Hanover Arts & Activities Center.

UPCOMING PROGRAMS AT HANOVER LIBRARIES

Richard S. Gillis, Jr./Ashland Branch Library

Call 804-798-4072 or visit the library at 201 S. Railroad Ave. for more information.

Mother Goose Storytime at the Ashland Branch Library. Mondays, Jan. 30, Feb. 6, 13, 20, and 27, 10:30 to 11 a.m. Mother Goose is a Storytime for children age 6 to 24 months and their caregivers. Have fun with nursery rhymes, singing and reading.

Toddler/Preschool Storytime at the Ashland Branch Library. Tuesdays, Jan. 24 and 31, Feb. 7, 14, 21, and 28, 10:30 to 11 a.m. Enjoy a Storytime of books, music and fun for toddlers ages 2-3 and their caregivers.

Family Storytime at the Ashland Branch Library. Tuesdays, Jan. 24 and 31, Feb. 7, 14, 21, and 28, 11:30 a.m. to noon. Enjoy a fun time with books, signing, rhymes and more. Family Storytime is for children ages 0-5 and their caregivers.

Reading Olympians Game Night at the Ashland Branch Library. Wednesday, Jan. 25, 5 to 6 p.m. Reading Olympian Teens, come on down to create your own board game. This fun activity will help students prepare for their reading competition. Snacks will be provided.

From the Heart Stitchers at the Ashland Branch Library. Thursdays, Jan. 26 and Feb. 23, noon to 4 p.m. From the Heart Stitch-

ers began in 2001 making chemo hats for the Massey Cancer Center and today has over 1,899 stitchers making thousands of items for service groups across the Commonwealth. Sew, knit, crochet or loom anything from blankets to shawls and everything in between. Bring a sewing machine, knitting needles, etc. and supplies, and make items for From the Heart every fourth Thursday. See https://fromtheheartstichers.org/ for more information about this organization.

Witch, Wizard, Warlock Wand Workshop at the Ashland Branch Library. Saturday, Jan. 28, 4 to 5:30 p.m. Ages 18 and up. Join the library to make your very own wand to take home. All supplies will be provided.

Play and Learn at the Ashland Branch Library. Monday, Jan. 30, 11 to 11:30 a.m. Ages 0-3. Enjoy Mother Goose Storytime then stay and play with toys and friends.

Uncovering the History of the Hickory Hill Slave and AfricanAmerican Cemetery at the Ashland Branch Library. Tuesday, Jan. 31, 7 to 8 p.m. Join the library to welcome Jean Folly, chairperson of the Hickory Hill Slave and African-American Cemetery Organization, and listen and glean words of wisdom from

Community Gospel Choir to perform at Untold Stories

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

Join the Community Gospel Choir when they perform at the end of Untold Stories on Sunday, Feb. 5. Tyler Spurlock will direct the choir. There are two remaining rehearsals. The next one is Monday, Jan. 30 at 7 p.m. at Shiloh Baptist Church, 106 S. James St., Ashland. There will be a final rehearsal on Sunday, Feb. 5 at 3 p.m. at Patrick Henry High School. The group will perform at the end of

Untold Stories on Feb. 5.

Untold Stories is an annual program of oral histories about growing up in Ashland and Hanover County. The theme for the 2023 program is Shared Experiences from the Civil Rights Era. Join us on Sunday, Feb. 5 at 4 p.m. at Patrick Henry High School when storytellers Rebecca Doggett Bray, Mary Jane Ghee, Trisha Leonard Higgins, Matt “Moto” Lewis, Ollie Lewis and Steve Trivett

will share their experiences. The moderator will be Anthony Keitt, and Dr. Jamelle Wilson will be the wrap-up speaker. The Community Gospel Choir will end the program

Since 2014, Untold Stories has been sponsored jointly by The Center, The Hanover County Black Heritage Society, the Ashland Museum and Downtown Ashland Association. The program is free and open to the public. Come listen to the stories and join in the music. For more information, visit ashlandmuseum.org or call 804-368-7314.

Atlee Branch Library

Call 804-559-0654 or visit the library at 9212 Rutlandshire Drive for more information.

Atlee Bridge Group at the Atlee Branch Library. Tuesday, Jan. 24, Feb. 7, 14, 21, and 28, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Ages 18 and up. Every Tuesday the Atlee Bridge Group meets to play Social Rubber Bridge. All levels welcome, from beginner to expert.

Mother Goose Storytime at the Atlee Branch Library. Tuesdays, Jan. 24 and 31, Feb. 7, 14, 21 and 28, 10:30 to 11 a.m. Wednesdays, Jan. 18 and 25, Feb. 1, 8, 15 and 22,

LIBRARIES

10:15 to 10:45 a.m. Mother Goose is a Storytime for children age 6 to 24 months and their caregivers. Have fun with nursery rhymes, singing and reading.

Toddler Storytime at the Atlee Branch Library. Tuesdays, Jan. 24 and 31, Feb. 7, 14, 21, and 28, 11 to 11:30 a.m. Wednesdays, Jan. 11, 18 and 25, Feb. 1, 8, 15, and 22, 11 to 11:30 a.m. Enjoy a Storytime of books, music and fun for toddlers ages 2-3 and their caregivers.

Reading Olympics Jeopardy at the Atlee Branch

Please see MECHANICSVILLE, Page 19

Ruritans present check to sheriff

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

The Mechanicsville Ruritans presented Colonel Hines of the Hanover County Sheriff Office a check for Project Lifesaver at their first monthly breakfast meeting of 2023.

In 2003, the Hanover County Sheriff’s Office became the first agency in the state to join Project Lifesaver International. The program offers the ability for the Hanover County Sheriff’s Office to locate loved ones and family members who wander due to cognitive disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease, Autism, and Down syndrome.

The Mechanicsville ruritans present Col. david Hines of the Hanover County sheriff’s Office a check for Project Lifesaver at their first monthly breakfast meeting of 2023.

As a free service to the community, the Hanover County Sheriff’s Office will outfit a client with a watchsized transmitter. The trans-

mitter enables the client to be tracked should the individual wander.

The Mechanicsville Ruritans’ recent raffle for a Green-

top commemorative shot gun and their annual Golf tournament, held in October, helped raise money for this Hanover County Service.”

Residents encouraged to participate in comp plan events

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

Hanover County is working with residents, businesses, landowners and other community members to update its Comprehensive Plan. Called “Envision Hanover,” the plan is the county’s longrange vision of Hanover over the next 25 years, addressing land use, housing, economic

development and natural resources. It also provides guidance on where growth may be appropriate throughout the county and what that growth should look like.

Hanover residents’ feedback will shape the Comprehensive Plan and decisions regarding growth, preservation and public investment

for years to come! Based upon the feedback received, the project team has been working to identify key concepts related to land use, economic development and historic resources. These preliminary ideas will be introduced at a series of events scheduled in January and February. Residents will be able to share their ideas by participating with an in-person meeting or webinar, depending upon their schedules.

The public participation events are:

In-person meetings (presentation + open house)

Thursday, Jan. 26 (6 to 7:30 p.m.) — Montpelier Center for Arts and Education

Monday, Jan. 30 (6 to 7:30 p.m.) — Red Barn at Chickahominy Falls

Thursday, Feb. 2 (6 to 7:30 p.m.) — Mechanicsville Library

Thursday, Feb. 9 (6 to 7:30 p.m.) — Berea Baptist Church (Rockville) Webinar

Monday, Feb. 6, (6 to

Encounter

From 6

toward the theater.

That was my first exposure to Gina. I was too young to appreciate the finer points of the Italian actress, but the movie contained just enough action and circus scenes to capture the attention of an easily distracted 6-year-old.

The movie featured fantastic circus acts, and trapeze

scenes that were breathtaking and kept the audience on the edge of their seats.

I was less concerned with the real storyline, a love triangle amongst three members of a trapeze team, as the plot thickened by the challenge to perform a daring triple somersault, a feat only accomplished by a few select experts.

That’s the part that kept me watching as Lollobrigida played both men and eventu-

7 p.m.) — Log-In Information to Be Posted

The county will also offer these “stop and chat” events in which community members can informally chat with project team members on the following days, locations and times:

Wednesday, Feb. 1, (11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.) — Atlee Library

Tuesday, Feb. 7, (11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.) — Ashland Library

Thursday, Feb. 9, (3:30 to 5 p.m.) — Rockville Library

The Hanover Board of

ally ended up with Lancaster after Curtis successfully completed the triple jump.

Now, my father was always a perfect gentleman to my mother, and he would never be so crass or inconsiderate as to comment on Lollobrigida’s obvious good looks. But, he was obviously pleased with the production as we exited the theater.

The movie also made a lasting impression my sister and I, and we begged for

Supervisors will hold public work sessions on the Comprehensive Plan on March 8, May 10 and July 26. The current schedule calls for the Planning Commission to hold a public hearing on the proposed update in August, with the board’s public hearing to take place a month later.

For information on the planning process, and how you can participate, visit www.envisionhanover.com. You can also follow the process on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

weeks for our father to install a trapeze like swing on an old oak tree in our backyard. We spent hours swinging on the makeshift trapeze, pretending we were prepping for the triple somersault.

Throughout a lifetime, hearing the word trapeze immediately takes my mind back to the evening at the movies, and although I don’t recall seeing Lollobrigida in any additional movies, I still remember her name.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Spor ts

Upcoming Events

Jan. 27

Hanoverfootball v. Eastern View 7 p.m.

Hanover boys basketball v. atlee, 7:30 p.m.

11 11 2022

Jan. 25 atlee track meet v. Mechanicsville, 5:30 p.m.

RandolphMaconfootball v. Hampden-Sydney 1 p.m.

Youth, High School,College, Recreational& Professional

Hawks handle Patriots in hoops doubleheader

Patrick Henr y rumblespastMechanicsville inhigh-scoring64th matoBowl

ROB WITHAM For The Local

As the calendar deceptively creeps closer to February, high school basketball teams are battling for postseason berths. On Friday, Jan. 20 at Hanover High School, while the host Hawks fought for playoff position, the Patrick Henry Patriots were fighting for their playoff lives.

By AdamCheek for Richmond Times-Dispatch

Arowdy Me ch anics vi lle crowd ontheopposite sideofthefield,plus anabnormallywar m November eveningat Patrick Henr y High School, didn’t stopthe Patriots from rolling over the Mustangs 48-27athome to close outthe regular season.

In both the girls and boys contests, Hanover produced big first half runs to secure wins, as the girls triumphed 68-44 over the Patriots, while the boys were victorious 60-42.

Teams love to profess possession of chemistry and rhythm. Hanover girls basketball proves they have both. After a hard fought 59-50 win Tuesday over Henrico, Hanover (10-5) quickly attacked the Patriots with a 14-2 run to conclude the first period to seize a 22-12 advantage.

The64theditionofthe Tomato Bowlwas wagedmostly onthe ground. PH, 6-4headinginto next week’s Region 4B playoffs, recorded 366 rushing yards,20 more than Mechanicsvillehad passingand rushing combined

“I always like to run the ball, kind of see where we’re at,” Patrick Henr y coach Ken Wakefieldsaid. “We know thatthey’ve gotsome guysthatgottaplay bothsidesofthe ball,so you kindofleanonthem a littlebit.”

Junior guard Hali Harris, who led the Hawks with 14 points, loves the fact her team doesn’t have to be built around one person carrying the offensive load.

10 different players scored in the contest. Izzy Murphy had eight points, Meredith Atkinson and Jada Oakcrum each added seven, while Jolena Goldkuhle had six.

head coach David Butler.

Onseniornight,itwasappropriatelytheseniorsthatshonethe brightest:both Gracyn Rossand Shamar Williams recordedtwo touchdowns apiece.

“It makes me feel more comfortable to do what I want to do, and still be able to pass the ball and work together with my teammates,” Harris explained. “We work together fast and make sure we stay focused on our goals.”

For Patrick Henry (2-10), Julia Dull led all scorers with 15 points, while Alicia Artis added 12 and Kenzie Holloway had seven. The Patriots are a young team, and the athleticism is present, but their depth did not match the depth of the Hawks.

The Hanover boys are not as blessed in the depth department, but when you have a one-two punch like Beau Sahnow and Will Hopkins, you always have a chance to win. Despite falling behind 13-9 after a period, the Hawks stayed within themselves, played their game, and took off in the second quarter, using a 16-3 run in less than four minutes to take a 25-16 advantage.

It also helps when you have a hot hand shooting from beyond the arc, as Emma Slutzah hit a pair of treys en route to a 12-point first half performance, helping Hanover take a 45-20 lead to intermission.

Rossandjuniorquar terback Grayson Johnson were explosive early, bothhittingthe100-yard rushingmark by theendofthefirst half— Rossat100and Johnson at103.

The record may not reflect it, but the rebuild under former Patrick Henry great and firstyear head coach Summer Price is underway, and pieces are coming to fruition.

The rhythm didn’t change after halftime with Kaycee Doughty hitting two quick buckets in the first minute of the third period. Proving the versatility of the Hawk offense,

Aftera three-and-outfrom Mechanicsville to start the game, Patrick Henry got going immediately with a rushing touchdown from Johnson,whose76-yard rumbleput the Patriotsontheboard with8:28 to play intheopeningquarter.

Caeden Waltershit Aaron Maxie

for a 65-yard Mechanicsvillescore, but the Patriots respondedless than a minute later with a 71-yard Ross touchdown run.

Entering this week, Hanover is in seventh place in Class 4, Region B, where the top-12 teams make the playoffs. The Patriots are in the 14th position.

Sahnow, who led all scorers with 26 points, hit three of his six 3-pointers in the first half, building the halftime advantage to 11 points. Hopkins provided even scoring with seven points in both halves to finish with 14.

quarter on a pairoflongpass touchdowns,one a 47-yard bombfrom theirotherquar terback, Jayden Brown, to Cole Sylvia,andthe other from Johnson to Williams.

Patrick Henry guard alicia artis (no. 15, center) is surrounded by Izzy Murphy (no. 3, left) and Meredith atkinson (no. 4, right) in the first half of the Hawks’ 68-44 win over the Patriots on Jan. 20. Hanover held Patrick Henry to just 20 points in the first half, building a 25-point halftime advantage.

ATHUMAN/TIMES-DISPATCH

Both teamsputup 14inthe openingquar ter, Mechanicsville eveningthings up with a 2-yard Colby Messe touchdown run.

“Selfishly, I think we have the hardest schedule in the greater Richmond area,” said Hanover

PH took control inthesecond

Hanover (9-7) never allowed Patrick Henry (3-10) to mount a serious comeback down the stretch, as Sahnow sealed it with a steal near midcourt and a basket for a 52-34 lead with 4:47 left

Eventhen,the Patriots’ groundand-pound offense ruled,and PH led28-14atthehalfwhilethepassing game putup just63 yards.

Oncethe secondhalf began, PH put together a series thatshaved nearly 5 minutesofftheclock,featuring a fourth-down conversion that eventuallyled to a Greg Foster Jr touchdown

and a successfulonsidekick, Patrick Henry’s defenseheldfast to force a punt.

in the contest.

The Hawks are currently eighth in Region 4B while Patrick Henry is in 14th place.

Hanover celebrates Senior

Despite anothe r meticulous Mechanicsvillescoringdrive that tickedoff more than 7 minutes

After hisearlier visit to theend zone, Rosswassitting at 19 touchdowns ontheseason. Johnson aired itout to Rossfor a passing touchdown andthe20-score milestone, making thelead 41-21

Night this Friday, Jan. 27 when they host Atlee for a varsity doubleheader, while Patrick Henry hosts Mechanicsville. Both doubleheaders begin at 6 p.m.

SHABAN

PatrickHenry playersmaketheirway tothelocker roomduring a highschoolfootball game on Sept.1.

Beau sahnow shoots a 3-pointer during a 26-point performance Jan. 20 in Hanover’s 60-42 victory over rival Patrick Henry to improve to 9-7 on the season.

PHOTOS BY ROB WITHAM

Atlee track team impresses at the VA Showcase

ROBBY FLETCHER Sports Editor

It’s a daunting task for anyone trying to stand out at a track meet as anticipated and nationally recognized as the VA Showcase, which was held for the third straight year in the Virginia Beach Sports Center from Jan. 13 to 15.

Featuring some of the best running talent the nation has to offer, the Atlee Raiders came into the meet up for the task, seeing a handful of runners set personal records and impress on a major stage.

One such record-breaker was Patrick Allen, who set a personal best in the 1-mile run with a blazing time of 4:22.10, which placed him fifth among 55 runners.

Allen’s personal record was just one of many highlights for the junior standout, who also competed in the 1600 and 1500-meter runs. Allen placed fifth again when he ran the 1600, this time against a field of 54 runners, with a finish of 4:20.77. He then finished off his excellent showing in Virginia Beach with a sixth place mark in the 1500, finishing the race in 4:05.12.

Allen’s teammate Andre Chavez also had a season-best showing in the 1600, finishing in 13th with a time of 4:31.80.

The other most notable finishes from the Raiders came from both 4x800 relay teams. The girls team featuring Sarah Bland, Teagan Gilhooly, Courtney Mudd and Amelia Waggoner worked together to put up an outstanding sub-10 minute result that placed them in fourth place out of 25 teams with a 9:52.04 mark. That time not only gave them a top-5 finish in the VA Showcase, but also qualified them for nationals.

Waggoner later had the girls team’s best performance in the 1600 run, placing 13th with a time of 5:22.16.

The boys team was also at its best, placing second with a time of 8:08.36 that was only behind a 7:59 mark set by South County High School.

The team later competed in

another highly-anticipated meet on Jan. 21 at the Walt Cormack Memorial held at VMI’s Corps Physical Training Facility.

There were more notable running highlights from the Raiders, including Chavez getting sixth place finish in the 1000-meter run in 2:39.99, Gilhooly placing eighth in the 1600 with a 5:21.45 mark and Allen placing second with teammate Travis Albon taking fifth in the 3200. Allen recorded a time of 9:34.48 while Albon finished in 9:57.81.

In the 55-meter hurdles, sophomore Tori Goodson finished in second place for the Raiders, nearly winning the race with a time of 8.81 seconds.

In the pole vault, it was also a great day for Raiders senior R.K. Gathje, who placed fourth with a best result of 12 feet, 6 inches.

Then in the shot put, junior Brock Taylor placed third with a throw of 46-4, giving Atlee another terrific result.

Atlee will compete again in a meet hosted by St. Christopher’s indoor track on Jan. 28.

atlee’s Patrick allen set a personal best in the 1-mile run with a time of 4:22.10 at the Va showcase at the Virginia Beach sports Center from Jan. 13 to 15.

Hanover hosts senior night quad meet

Hanover played host to Atlee, Mechanicsville and Patrick Henry’s wrestling teams on Jan. 18 and had every team’s seniors honored in a collective senior night filled with exciting battles on the mat between four tough teams.

Hanover’s senior class consisting of Mason Clements and Jacob Epperly was honored in its home gym with a walk on the primary mat with their parents. Atlee’s senior class features Tyler Bosher, Eric Ludwig and Benji Collawn, while Patrick Henry’s seniors are Sara Forsyth, Blake Deschamps, Elias Sotos, Dylan O’Keefe and Jason Cooper. Lastly, the Mechanicsville Mustangs honored seniors Ryan Magill, Chris Drozdowicz, Kevin Bagby, Drew Kozubal and Joe Elaal.

Hanover had a strong day on their home mats, winning matches against Atlee (55-21), Mechanicsville (51-30) and Patrick Henry (46-27).

On his senior day, Clements had a strong performance against Patrick Henry’s Jack Martin, winning in an 8-0 major decision capped off by a late third period near fall. Epperly also earned a win against Patrick Henry, winning by pin against Cooper in 1:23.

Mechanicsville’s Elaal, a four-

year starter and team captain holding a perfect record this season, continued his dominant senior season with his 100th career win. Fellow captain Kozubal also reached the century mark for his Mustangs wrestling career.

Elaal made quick work of his opponents, including a fast pin when the Mustangs faced the Patriots that showcased the strength, speed and discipline that makes him one of the toughest wrestlers in the state.

The Mustangs also handed a loss to the Raiders in a 47-24 final, taking control through the majority of the matchup, though the Raiders were able to end on a high note with a pin in the final dual.

The Patriots, who had a tough 43-42 loss against Atlee but had a win over Mechanicsville, saw pins from Forsyth and Collin Adams solidify the win late against the Mustangs. Forsyth needed a little more than a minute to get the job done against her opponent, while Adams won in just 20 seconds to give the Patriots a much-needed victory.

With the region tournament quickly approaching, the senior night quad meet was one of the last tune-up meets for all four teams as they look to compete for a region title and find themselves with a chance at a state tournament appearance.

ROBBY FLETCHER Sports Editor

PHOTO BY ROBBY FLETCHER

Mechanicsville’s Joe elaal earned his 100th career win on his senior night at a Hanover-hosted quad meet on Jan. 18.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS

amelia Waggoner, from left, Teagan Gilhooly, sarah Bland and Courtney Mudd qualified for nationals after their fourth place mark in the 4x800 relay at the Va showcase.

CLASSIFIEDS

Libraries help promote Reading Olympics

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

Hanover County Public Schools’ Reading Olympics is a program that aims to promote a lifelong love of reading and appreciation of literature by introducing students to diverse genres of quality literature while promoting teamwork within a spirited competition.

Not only does it help students build their reading skills (including comprehension, critical thinking and oratory), the program also promotes teamwork and self-confidence by helping students – in a collaborative environment – achieve a level of expertise where reading is second nature.

Students in fourth and fifth grades can choose to participate in the elementary program. Stu-

dents in all four middle school grades six to eight may choose to participate in the middle school program. HCPS is fortunate to have a strong partnership with Pamunkey Regional Library.

The libraries provide the public library with a list of the books for each year’s competition and, historically, the library has purchased additional copies of those books to be available at the various branches. Check library listings.

The top scoring teams from each middle school advance to the county competition.

There are 30 elementary books and 30 middle school books on the Reading Olympics list. Teams meet periodically throughout the school year to discuss what they are reading. During the competi-

tion, there are three rounds where there is one question from each of the books in each round. Teams work together to answer the questions in a live competition. Total points from each round are tabulated to get a combined score.

Based on these scores teams are recognized in first (gold), second (silver), and bronze (third) place. Other teams are recognized as honorable mention. In middle school the top teams advance to the county competition. There is an awards ceremony on each competition day and there is also an awards ceremony at the middle school county competition.

The Hanover Education Foundation sponsors Reading Olympics and provides the middle schools with copies of each book

for the teams. The HEF also sponsors Reading Olympics teams at the elementary level.

Reading Olympics is completely run by the librarians at HCPS schools. Books are available in both print and ebook format through the school library and the librarians oversee the teams and the competitions. Librarians work collaboratively to read and write questions for the books on the list each year.

HCPS is fortunate to have a strong partnership with Pamunkey Regional Library. The libraries provide the public library with a list of the books for each year’s competition. The library will offer the following events this month to help students participating in Reading Olympics in Hanover

MECHANICSVILLECHURCHES

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

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

BroadusMemorialBaptist

804-779-2700 www.BroadusChurch.org 1Churchin2Locations

WorshippingonSundays! In-person&onFacebook!

5351PoleGreenRd. Mechanicsville,23116 PhilPeacock,Pastor SundaySchool9a.m. Worship10a.m.

GraceUnitedFamilyChurch "WhereGraceUnitesUs" 7252BeulahChurchRoad (HistoricBeulahChurch) Mechanicsville,23111

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

County:

Reading Olympics Jeopardy at the Atlee Branch Library. Tuesday, Jan. 24, 4 to 5 p.m. Compete in this fun game and test your knowledge, featuring questions from “Honeybee: The Busy Life of Apis Mellifera” in the Children’s Programming Room. This program is for participants in Hanover County Public Schools Reading Olympics.

Reading Olympics Review at the Hanover Branch Library. Wednesday, Jan. 25, 7 to 8 p.m. Grades 4-5 for participants in Hanover County Public Schools’ Reading Olympics. Review the following books in preparation for the Hanover County Reading Olympics

TruthBaptistChurch,627-2170

COME&SEE!

Allinfoat: www.truthbaptistchurch.com

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

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

"LoveGod,Learn theBible,CareforPeople"

GlennHawkins,Pastor

MechanicsvilleBaptistChurch 8016AtleeRd. Office:804.746.7253

Worshipinperson andLiveStreamedonYouTube &Facebook onSundaysat8:30&11:00a.m. SundaySchool9:45a.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

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 8275MeadowbridgeRoad 746-4911 www.churchredeemer.org

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

Masscelebratedon Saturday5:30PM Sunday8:00&10:00AM

PRESBYTERIAN

UNITEDMETHODIST

UNITEDMETHODIST

LUTHERAN EVANGELICALFRIENDS

INDEPENDENT BAPTIST

INDEPENDENTCHRISTIAN NAZARENE

ROMAN CATHOLIC

SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST

SOUTHERN BAPTIST

SOUTHERN BAPTIST SOUTHERN BAPTIST

SOUTHERN BAPTIST

Arrest made in train crash case

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

ASHLAND – The Ashland Police Department charged a woman Thursday in connection with an incident where a train hit an abandoned vehicle left on the railroad tracks in Ashland.

On Thursday, Jan. 19, Ashland police investigators charged Lizzeth Calderon Henriquez with misdemeanor hit and run, operating a vehicle without a driver’s license, and operating a vehicle without insurance for the accidental collision with a CSX train at the England Street crossing occurring on Sunday, Jan. 15.

Surveillance camera footage showed that the vehicle in -

volved was traveling westbound when it proceeded through the railroad crossing as the crossing arms were coming down. The driver was able to exit the vehicle before a train travelling southbound struck the vehicle. The driver fled the scene on foot westbound on Thompson Street.

Subsequent to an investigation, it was determined that there was no intentional effort on the part of the driver to damage or interfere with train operations or critical infrastructure.

Submitted by Officer Chip Watts, public information and community policing for the Ashland Police Department.

Reading

From 15

competition: “Scarlet Stockings Spy” and “The Brave Cyclist.” Reading Olympics Jeopardy at the Atlee Branch Library. Thursday, Jan. 26, 4 to 5 p.m. Grades 4-5 for participants in Hanover County Public Schools Reading Olympics. Compete in this fun game and test your knowledge, featuring questions from “Nanny X” by Madelyn Rosenburg in the Children’s Programming Room.

Reading Olympics Jeopardy at the Atlee Branch Library, Friday, Feb. 3, 4 — 5 p.m. Grades 4-5. For participants in Hanover County School’s Reading Olympics. Atlee presents Jeopardy: Reading Olympics featuring questions from “Butterfly

for a King: Saving Hawaii’s Kamehameha Butterflies.” Come one and all to compete in this fun game and test your knowledge. Meeting in the Children’s Programming Room. Registration required at https://pamunkeylibrary.libcal. com/event/9996762.

Reading Olympics at the Cochrane Rockville Branch Library, Saturday, Feb. 11, 2 — 3 p.m. Grades four and five. For participants in Hanover County School’s Reading Olympics. Practice your knowledge of “The Wild Robot and The Last Human” through trivia and games! Together we’ll prep for the upcoming Reading Olympics Competition or just test your knowledge.

Reading Olympics at the Montpelier Branch Library, Wednesday, Feb. 15, 6 — 7 p.m. Grades four and five. For participants in Hanover County

Schools Reading Olympics. Prepare for your upcoming competition. Join us as we discuss the story “Wedgie and Gizmo” by Suzanne Selfors.

Reading Olympics Game Play at the Ashland Branch Library, Thursday, Feb. 16, 3:30 — 4:30 p.m. Grades 4-5. For participants in Hanover County Schools Reading Olympics. Practice your knowledge of When Life Gives You O.J. with a challenging game. Come alone or bring your team.

For participants in Hanover County Schools Reading Olympics. For more information, check local library calendars.

Information courtesy of Chris Whitley, assistant superintendent of community engagement and legislative affairs for HCPs, and Pamunkey regional Library.

NOTICEOFDELINQUENT TAXESAND JUDICIALSALEOFREALPROPERTY

On March1,2023,orassoonthereafterasmaybeeffected, actionswillbecommencedundertheauthorityof VirginiaCode §58.1-3965, etseq.,to beginproceedings tosellthe followingparcels of realestate forthepaymentofCountyofHanoverdelinquent realestatetaxes:

Name TaxMapNo. AccountNo. TACSNo. Nichols,WandaLee7870-90-946810160603830113

Henley-Litak,Gladys K8714-18-012410160828830115

JWBardenLLC7813-19-657910205976583752

Stanley,DeborahSue7835-46-875010165924838122

Stanley,DeborahSue Adams,HarleyChristian 7855-92-826710183951838122

Gresham,LisaAnn Turner,LakeshaMonique 6798-46-5765*10163403216228

*Thisparcelislocated inbothHanoverCounty andGoochlandCounty

Propertiessubjecttodelinquent realestatetaxesmayberedeemed by payingallaccumulatedtaxes,penalties,interest,costsandfees. Paymentsshouldbemadepayableto CountyofHanover and mailedto Taxing AuthorityConsultingServicesPC,PostOfficeBox 31800,Henrico, Virginia,23294.Interestedbiddersandinquiries regardingthe above-listedpropertiesshouldbedirectedto TACS at (804)545-2500,taxsales@taxva.comorwww.taxva.com.

|Andrew M.Neville,Esq.|

Re:HanoverCountyDelinquentRE Taxes Taxing AuthorityConsultingServices,PC PostOfficeBox31800,Henrico,VA23294

PublicNotice

Noticeisherebygiventhat theHanoverCountyBoardof Supervisorshasset Wednesday, February8,2023at2:00 P.M. astheday,date,andtimefor a RegularMeeting.Themeetingwill beheldintheBoardRoomofthe HanoverCountyAdministration BuildingatHanoverCourthouse, 7516 County Complex Road, Hanover,Virginia.

PublicNotice

Noticeisherebygiventhat theHanoverCountyBoardof Supervisorshasset Wednesday, January25,2023at6:00 P.M. astheday,date,andtimefor aRegularBoardMeeting.The meetingwillbeheldintheBoard RoomoftheHanoverCounty AdministrationBuildingatHanover Courthouse,7516CountyComplex Road,Hanover,Virginia.

VIRGINIA:

INTHECIRCUITCOURTFORTHECOUNTYOF HANOVER

GEORGINAAPPIAH, Plaintiff, v. CaseNo.CL22-003855-00

MAXIKWADWOAPPIAH, Defendant.

ORDEROFPUBLICATION

Theobjectoftheabove-styledsuitisforGeorginaAppiah,Plaintiff,toobtain adivorcefrom thebondofmatrimonyfromMaxiKwadwo Appiah,Defendant,onthegroundsthatPlaintiffandDefendanthavelivedseparateand apartwithoutcohabitationandwithoutinterruptionforoneyearpursuanttosection2091(A)(9)(a)oftheCodeofVirginia,1950,as amended.

ItappearinguntotheCourt,byaffidavitfiled accordingtolawbycounselforPlaintiff,AubreyH.BrownIII,Esquire,thatDefendantisa nonresidentindividual,otherthan anonresidentindividualfiduciarywhohasappointeda statutoryagentunder §64.2-1426pursuantto section8.01-316(A)(1)(a)(iii)oftheCodeofVirginia,1950,asamended.

Itis,therefore,ORDEREDthattheDefendant, MaxiKwadwoAppiah,appearbeforetheCircuitCourtfortheCountyofHanover,Virginia onorbeforeFebruary15,2023at9am,anddo whatisnecessarytoprotecthisinterests.

ENTER:12/21/2022

PatriciaKelly, Judge

IASKFORTHIS:

AubreyH.BrownIII,Esq.(VSB#80175) PARKER,POLLARD,WILTON&PEADEN,P.C. 6802ParagonPlace,Suite205 Richmond,Virginia23230-1655 (804)262-3600-telephone (804)627-0286-facsimile

VIRGINIA:

INTHECIRCUITCOURTOFTHECOUNTYOF HANOVER

INRE:STEPHANIEBALLARD DETERMINATIONOFDEATH OFMICHAELHENLEYBALLARD CaseNo.:CL22002790-00

NOTICEOFORDEROFPUBLICATION

TheobjectofthissuitistohavethisCourt makeajudicialdeterminationthatalegalpresumptionofdeathforMichaelHenleyBallard isapplicable,andifsodetermined,thatthe CourtenteranorderinaccordancewithVa. CodeAnn.64.2-2305.

ItisORDEREDthattheNoticeandOrderbe publishedonce aweekfortwoconsecutive weeks,onJanuary18th,2023andJanuary25th, 2023intheMechanicsvilleLocal, anewspaper havinggeneralcirculationthroughouttheHanoverCountyArea.

AnditisfurtherORDEREDthatMichaelHenley Ballard,thepresumeddecedent,oranyperson forhim,producetotheCourtsatisfactoryevidencethatthepresumeddecedentisalive withintwoweeksfromthedateofthelast publication.Ifnosatisfactoryevidenceisproducedwithinthisperiod,theCourtshallenter anorderinaccordancewithVa.Ann64.2-2305.

Afinalhearingwillbeheld forthismatteron February23,2023.

Enter:1/10/2023 J.OvertonHarris,Judge

Iaskforthis:

JasonL.Shaber,EsquireVSB#96186 Dankos,Gordon&Tucker,P.C. 1360E.ParhamRoad,Suite200 Richmond,Virginia23228 Telephone:(804)377-7427 Facsimile:(804)262-8088 Email:jshaber@dankosgordon.com CounselforPetitioner

Libraries

rytime is for children ages 0-5 and their caregivers.

hearing personal encounters of the discovery of African-American cemeteries and the historical journeys of recognizing and preserving them.

Beginning Chair Yoga at the Ashland Branch Library, Thursdays, Feb. 2, 9, 16, and 23, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. Chair yoga is a gentle form of yoga which is done with the assistance of a chair for those with physical challenges or adults who don’t want the rigor of a typical yoga session. Attendees should wear loose clothing and bring a small blanket. Space is limited.

Hanover Branch Library

Call 804-365-6210 or visit the library at 7527 Library Drive for more information.

Family Storytime at the Hanover Branch Library. Fridays, Jan. 27, Feb. 3, 10, 17, and 24, 10:45 to 11:15 a.m. Enjoy a fun time with books, signing, rhymes and more. Family Sto-

Reading Olympics Review at the Hanover Branch Library. Wednesday, Jan. 25, 7 to 8 p.m. Grades 4-5 for participants in Hanover County Public Schools’ Reading Olympics. Review the following books in preparation for the Hanover County Reading Olympics competition: “Scarlet Stockings Spy” and “The Brave Cyclist.”

Make Your Own Valentines at the Hanover Branch Library, Wednesday, Feb. 1, 4-5 p.m., Hey kids! Get creative and share a little love as you make your own handcrafted cards.,

DIY Heart Sharpie Mugs at the Hanover Branch Library, Wednesday, Feb. 1, 7 — 8 p.m., Ages 18 and up. Decorate a mug! This makes a great gift! Bring a friend to join in the fun! Registration required at https://pamunkeylibrary.libcal. com/event/10064751.

Hanover Playgroup at the Hanover Branch Library, Tuesday, Feb. 7, 10:30 a.m. — 11:30 p.m. Moms, dads, grandparents, and caregivers!

Mechanicsville

From 12

Library. Tuesday, Jan. 24, 4 to 5 p.m. Compete in this fun game and test your knowledge, featuring questions from “Honeybee: The Busy Life of Apis Mellifera” in the Children’s Programming Room. This program is for participants in Hanover County Public Schools Reading Olympics.

Virtual Trivia Night! (virtual program). Tuesday, Jan. 24, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. All ages. Test your knowledge and impress friends at a fun evening answering general knowledge questions on topics of geography, animals, books, space and more using Zoom and Kahoot!

Registration required at https:// pamunkeylibrary.libcal.com/ event/9748772. This program is hosted virtually through Zoom and the Kahoot app. See “More Information” at the link above on how the game will be set up. The Zoom meeting link will be sent to the email registered before the event occurs. Contact the Atlee Branch if you do not receive this email.

Reading Olympics Jeopardy at the Atlee Branch Library. Thursday, Jan. 26, 4 to 5 p.m. Grades 4-5 for participants in Hanover County Public Schools Reading Olympics. Compete in this fun game and test your knowledge, featuring questions from “Nanny X” by Madelyn Rosenburg in the Children’s Programming Room.

CrafterNoon for Teens at the Atlee Branch Library. Saturday, Jan. 28, 3 to 4 p.m. Ages 12-18. Create your very own handmade journal.

Fun and Games at the Atlee Branch Library, Wednesdays, Feb. 1 and 15, 1 – 4 p.m. Ages 18 and up. Meet up with friends and have a great time with card and board games.

Reading Olympics Jeopardy at the Atlee Branch Library, Friday, Feb. 3, 4 — 5 p.m. Grades 4-5. For participants in Hanover County School’s Reading Olympics. Atlee presents Jeopardy: Reading Olympics featuring questions from “Butterfly for a King: Saving Hawaii’s Kamehameha Butterflies.” Come one and all to compete in this fun game and test your knowledge. Meeting in the Children’s Pro-

Socialize with other adults while your children make new friends at our Tuesday Playgroup, held the first Tuesday of every month at the Hanover Library. All ages are welcome. Refreshments will be provided.

chrane Rockville Branch Library. Fridays, Jan. 27, Feb. 3, 10, 17, and 24, 10:30 to 11 a.m. Enjoy a fun time with books, singing, rhymes and more. Family Storytime is for children ages 0-5 and their caregivers.

Gay of Boomer Insurance.

Lois

Wickham

Jones/ Montpelier Branch Library

Call 804-883-7116 or visit the library at 17205 Sycamore Tavern Lane for more information.

Family Storytime at the Montpelier Branch Library. Thursdays, Jan. 26, Feb. 2, 9, 16, and 23, 4 to 4:30 p.m. Enjoy a fun time with books, signing, rhymes and more.

Family Storytime is for children ages 0-5 and their caregivers.

Cochrane Rockville Branch Library

Call 804-749-3146 or visit the library at 16600 Pouncey Tract Road for more information.

Family Storytime at the Co-

First Friday Films at the Cochrane Rockville Branch Library, Friday, Feb. 3, 4 — 6 p.m. Round up the neighborhood crew and catch a full-length feature film the first Friday of every month!

Reading Olympics at the Cochrane Rockville Branch Library, Saturday, Feb. 11, 2 — 3 p.m. Grades four and five. For participants in Hanover County School’s Reading Olympics. Practice your knowledge of “The Wild Robot and The Last Human” through trivia and games! Together we’ll prep for the upcoming Reading Olympics Competition or just test your knowledge.

Avoiding the Pitfalls of Medicare at the Cochrane Rockville Branch Library, Wednesday, Feb. 15, 6 — 7 p.m. Medicare is confusing! Join us to learn how to simplify the decision making process with Bryan

Read 2 Rover at the Cochrane Rockville Branch Library, Thursday, Feb. 16, 4:30 — 5:30 p.m. Grades K-2. Read 2 Rover provides comfort and motivation for beginning readers as they read aloud to Colby or Pepper, our therapy dogs. Space is limited. Call the Rockville Branch at 804-749-3146 or visit the library for more information to register for this rewarding program!

Virginia is Bear Country! at the Cochrane Rockville Branch Library, Tuesday, Feb. 21, 7 — 8 p.m. Ages 18 and up. If you live in Virginia, you live in bear country. Have you been visited by one of these fascinating creatures — yet? Learn about our Virginia bears, some of their natural history, why and when you might see one, and how to protect your property from their antics. Presented by the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources and the Riverine Chapter of Virginia Master Naturalists.

Submitted by Carolyn Garner, adult public services coordinator.

gramming Room. Registration required at https://pamunkeylibrary. libcal.com/event/9996762.

Hanover Master Gardeners’ Home Gardening Series at the Atlee Branch Library, Saturday, Feb. 4, 10:30 a.m. — 1 p.m. Learn about a variety of home gardening topics from Virginia Cooperative Extension’s Master Gardeners. This session’s topic is “Pruning.”

Pine Cone Hearts at the Atlee Branch Library, Saturday, Feb. 4, 3 — 4 p.m. Ages 18 and up. Create a valentine heart from natural and craft materials. Spaces are limited, registration required at https://pamunkeylibrary.libcal. com/event/9742946.

Preschool Storytime at the Atlee Branch Library, Mondays, Feb. 6, 13, 20, and 27, 10:30 — 11 a.m. Enjoy a Storytime of books, music, and fun for preschoolers 3-5 years old and their caregivers.

Maker’s Monday: Custom Greeting Cards at the Atlee Branch Library, Monday, Feb. 6, 1 — 2 p.m. Sending a card is a great way to show that you care about someone! Feb. 7 is National Send a Card to a Friend Day, so join us for “Maker’s

Monday” to create your own custom cards to send to friends! Enjoy expressing yourself through art and words with a variety of craft materials!

Atlee Book Group at the Atlee Branch Library, Wednesday, Feb. 8, 11 a.m. – noon. Join us in-person or on Zoom for a lively book discussion. We will be reading “George Washington’s Secret Six” by Brian Kilmeade. You can pick up a copy of the book at the Atlee Branch Library Circulation Desk while supplies last. Registration is required at https://pamunkeylibrary.libcal. com/event/9742333. This program is presented in-person and hosted virtually through Zoom. The meeting link will be sent to the email registered one day before the event occurs. If you don’t receive your reminder email, contact the library.

PJ Storytime (virtual program), Thursday, Feb. 9, 7 — 7:30 p.m. Ages: 0-7. Get ready for bedtime with PJ Storytime. Songs, rhymes, and bedtime stories. Registration required at https://pamunkeylibrary.libcal.com/event/9743227. This program is hosted virtually

through Zoom. The Zoom meeting link will be sent to the email registered before the event occurs. Contact the Atlee Branch if you do not receive this email.

Chickahominy Colored Pencil Artists at the Atlee Branch Library, Friday, Feb. 10, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Ages 18 and up. Join the Chickahominy Colored Pencil Artists at a monthly meeting to share ideas, techniques and skills in using colored pencils. Bring your own individual supplies and projects and enjoy a time to sketch and make new friends. This is not an instructional class.

Saturday Family Storytime at the Atlee Branch Library, Saturday, Feb. 11, 11 — 11:30 a.m. Enjoy a fun time with books, signing, rhymes, and much more! Family Storytime is for children ages 0-5 and their caregivers.

Atlee Lego Club at the Atlee Branch Library, Saturday, Feb. 11, 3 — 4 p.m. For Grades K-5. Join us at our Lego Club to meet and talk with other kids and builds some fantastic Lego creations! Located in the Children’s Programing Room upstairs.