Mechanicsville-Ashland Local Spring Home Improvement I– 03/08/2023

They’re back!

Variety show makes comeback

LAURA MCFARLAND

Managing Editor

ASHLAND – After several years on hiatus, hundreds of residents from around Hanover County and beyond are ready to join together to

make the Ashland Musical Variety Show’s 20th show a comeback to remember. Three nights of music, dancing and laughter will mark the return of the beloved community event at 7:30 p.m. March 23, 24 and

25 in Blackwell Auditorium on the campus of Randolph-Macon College. The full event hasn’t been held since 2017.

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

The short drive from home to the office gives first-generation farmer Kevin Engel just enough time to start his day.

“I talk to the Lord on the way here every morning,” he says. “I give thanks for a lot of stuff and put in a few requests, too.”

Upon arrival the hustle begins. The Hanover-based operation stretches across 23,000 acres and grows corn, soybeans, milo, rapeseed and wheat with a focus on producing high-quality grain for premium prices. The

PHOTO BY CAROLYN PEART

Brenda Gilman, Ajena Rogers, Nancy Hugo and Sue Watson rehearse the iconic audience favorite “Stop in the Name of Love” for the Ashland Musical Variety Show.

PHOTO COURTESY OF JAYSON RIVAS , JHR PHOTOGRAPHY

The Engel family of Hanover was recently honored in Nashville as a finalist for Farm Journal’s 2023 Top Producer of the Year award.

American Legion now accepting Girls State applications

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

MECHANICSVILLE-

Applications for scholarships to The American Legion Auxiliary Girls State are being accepted through March 17.

Young ladies who have completed their junior year of high school and have at least one semester of high school remaining are eligible to participate.

Private and and homeschooled young ladies may also apply. The teaching parent must be educating under the Commonwealth of Virginia Guidelines for homeschooling.

Girls State will be held Sunday, June 18 to Saturday, June 24 at Longwood University in Farmville. Applications need to plan to attend the full program.

The American Legion Auxiliary Girls State is among the most respected

educational programs of government instruction for high school students in the country. The training is objective and practical where each participant becomes a part of their local, county and state government operated by the students elected to the various offices.

Girls State is a non-partisan program to develop civic leadership and pride in American citizenship and arouse a keen interest in the detailed study of our government. Girls State strives to develop in the citizens a determination to maintain our form of government, primarily by bringing them to the realization of how great it is to be an American and inculcate a sense of individual obligation to the Community, State and Nation.

205 England Street Ashland,VA 23005

Champions

UpcomingEvents:

A9 COMMUNITY

Social services seeks foster parents

FOOTBALL TEAM HELPS COOL SPRING STUDENTS

CELEBRATE NATIONAL READ ACROSS AMERICA DAY

Members of the atlee high school football team visited cool spring elementary school last week to celebrate national read across america day The football team read to first and fourth grade dolphins�

Mechanicsville — Ashland

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

Giveusacall: (804)401-7007

March9 & March10 at 7pm

March11 at 2pm & 7pm

March12 at 12pm

March15-March17 at 7pm

March23 at 7pm

Aheartwarmingstoryofaformer basketball coachwhois courtorderedtomanageateam ofplayerswith intellectual disabilities.

10AM ToddlerTakeover!

March11 at 10am (FreeEvent)

Forages 1monthto6years, wewillshow 1hour ofcartoons& familyfriendly fare!

BalsamRange

March24 at 8pm

BalsamRangeareall acoustic musicians and singersfromwesternNorthCarolina.

Purchasetickets&seeupcomingeventsat: ashlandtheatre.org

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 char ter), 9495 char ter 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

A12 COMMUNITY

HCSS holding Miss Hanover Abilities Pageant

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

henry 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 cour thouse rd

Pamunkey regional Jail, 7240 cour tland 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

A15 SPORTS

Two Hanover athletes win state titles at Liberty ALSO sheriff’s repor ts a3 calendar… ��������������������� a4 Opinion… a6 Obituaries ������������� …a10-11 sports… a14-15 classifieds… ������������ a16-22

PHOTO COURTESY OF HANOVER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Ashland PD seeks help with cold case homicide

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

The Ashland Police Department is seeking any information that may lead to the arrest of the individual or individuals responsible for the murder of Truman Stanley.

Between approximately 10:30 p.m., Monday, Feb. 25, 2002, and 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, Feb. 26, 2002, Stanley was killed in his residence in the 500 block of North James Street in Ashland.

SHERIFF’S REPORTS

FEB. 6

„ Breaking and entering house to commit larceny, assault was reported on the 14300 block of Bethany church road.

„ accident: driver not report, w/ damage less than or equal to $1000 was reported on the 11300 block of Lucas road/Old ridge road.

„ assault and battery on a family member was reported on the 16700 block of Mountain road.

FEB. 7

„ assault and battery on a family member was reported on the 9000 block of Pine hill drive.

„ assault and battery on a family member was reported on the 10200 block of Penningcroft Lane.

„ Petit larceny of parts was reported on the 8200 block of christopher Paul drive.

„ d efrauding hotels, motels less than or equal to $200 was reported on the 7300 block of Bell creek road.

„ Identity theft less than or equal to $200 was reported on the 7300 block of Bell creek road.

„ Marijuana school grounds was reported on the 10300 block of chamberlayne road.

„ concealment, price alter merchandise over or equal to $500 was reported on the 11500 block of Lakeridge Park.

„ accuse person of an offense, intimidation for money was reported on the 8100 block of Oak street.

Arrests made for possession of child pornography

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

“We are looking for anyone that may have information about Mr. Stanley’s tragic murder. Mr. Stanley’s family has waited over 20 years and still has not been able to receive the justice they deserve. We ask anybody with information to

contact us immediately,” said Ashland Police Chief Troy Aronhalt.

Anyone with information is asked to call Captain Marie Kemp at (804) 412-0610, Crime Stoppers at (804) 7801000 or submit a tip at www. ashlandpolice.us. Callers can remain anonymous. Information submitted by Officer Chip Watts, Ashland Police Department Public Information and Community Policing.

HANOVER – In January 2023, information was received from the Arlington Police Department in Texas, regarding the online solicitation of juvenile females by a Mechanicsville resident. As a result of their investigation, detectives with the Arlington Police Department obtained felony arrest warrants for Eric Michael Thomas, 46, of Mechanicsville. He was arrested by investigators from the Hanover County Sheriff’s Office on Jan. 12. As a result of the infor-

mation received from the Arlington Police Department, and statements made by Thomas, Hanover investigators obtained a search warrant for his residence. On Friday, Feb. 10, the search warrant was executed at Thomas’ residence in the 10000 block of Still Creek Lane. As a result of a thorough investigation and evidence collected,

Thomas was charged with 10 counts of Possession of Child Pornography (F).

Thomas is currently incarcerated at Pamunkey Regional Jail.

Anyone with further information about this case is asked to contact the Hanover County Sheriff’s Office at (804) 365-6140 or the Metro Richmond Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. Citizens can also download the “P3 Tips” app for their mobile device to submit their tip. Both Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.

„ accident: driver not report, w/ damage less than or equal to $1000 was reported on the 14000 block of West Patrick henry road/King road.

FEB. 8

„ Petit larceny of parts was reported on the 10200 block of Kings dominion Boulevard.

„ driver did not report accident; damage over or equal to $250 was reported on the 10200 block of still creek Lane.

„ Identity theft, financial loss over or equal to $500 was reported on the 9300 block of Braxton Way.

„ Obtaining money or signature by false pretenses was reported on the 9100 block of caleb drive.

„ Identity fraud-financial loss more than $200 was reported on the 6300 block of camille drive.

„ d river did not report accident; damage over or equal to $250 was reported on the 9900 block of honey Meadows road.

„ Grand larceny of parts was reported on the 12500 block of harley club drive.

„ a simple assault was reported on the 13400 block of Liberty school road.

„ Petit larceny in a building was reported on the 19100 block of Beaver dam road.

„ dWI: First offense was reported on the 10200 block of Lakeridge Park.

„ a simple assault was reported on the 11300 block of doswell road.

FEB. 9

„ entering or setting in motion a vehicle was reported on the 5200 block of summer Plains drive.

„ Vandalism was reported on the 8100 block of Pleasant Grove road.

„ Petit larceny in a building was reported on the 7000 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike.

„ Identity theft, obtain Identification to avoid arrest, two plus offenses was reported on the 7300 block of Bell creek road.

„ Marijuana on school grounds was reported on the 7000 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike.

„ Failure to appear on felony charge was reported on the 7500 block of county complex road.

„ Vandalism was reported on the 7000 block of antique Lane.

„ a simple assault was reported on the 7100 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike/Old hickory drive.

„ Trespass after being forbidden to do so was reported on the 12000 block of cedar Lane

„ driver did not report accident; damage over or equal to $250 was reported on the 12100 block of West Patrick henry road.

„ Fraudulent conversion, removal leased property over or equal to $200 was reported on the 8300 block of richfood road.

„ no endangerment — driving with revoked license was reported

Please see REPORTS, Page A11

Stanley

Thomas

Tickets are $20 for the show, which is a longtime fundraiser for the Hanover Arts and Activities Center in Ashland.

Founder, producer and director Sue Watson promised a special year for visitors who come to see the show, with about 450 people over the course of the three nights creating an extravaganza that both celebrates the show’s rich history and offers some new highlights.

Started in 1982 as fundraiser for the center, the variety show has been held in the odd years for most of its history, Watson said. Seeing it come back so strong with so many people wanting to be involved and dedicate their time to weekly rehearsals from January to March has been thrilling for her.

“It is not just a generic talent show where people show up do their talent and go away. We believe very strongly – and it is proven to be true – that the process of being involved in the show is as important as the bottom line. We call it community building through the arts,” she said.

It is also an especially poignant experience for

Watson, who will step down from her leadership role after this year. She said she might come back to participate in a few numbers as part of the ensemble in the future, but after 40 years of being at the helm, she is ready to relinquish the heavy responsibility and let someone else take over.

Watson said she has loved bringing people together for all these decades and is grateful not only for the support of all of the casts and crews through the years but her family, who were also incredibly supportive and involved, especially her husband.

“I can’t talk about it without crying. It is rewarding

to be able to do something that has a positive effect for people in the community. People look forward to it. You run into somebody you haven’t seen that grew up in the show. That is good for people to have a positive attitude,” she said.

For those who are unfamiliar with the talent show, it is not a centerpiece for one or two stars, said show chair Carolyn Peart, who has been involved for 10 years. Performers may sing and dance in a group of six or a group of 35 to 40 people with the chance to have a targeted solo, but it is very much a communal experience.

“Whatever number they are in they rehearse once a week,” she said. “When you see the show it is almost unbelievable that these people that are not professionals made this rehearsing one night a week for half an hour.

It is amazing.”

Even before opening night, the memories the cast members make as they rehearse together are their own special experience, Peart added.

She also praised Fred Horn and Carter Flippo, the two music directors, for helping create that atmosphere.

“The cast is very diverse and we make friends we might not have made otherwise. When you sing and dance together, it makes a

bond that you would not necessarily have in your work or domestic life and that is exciting. It is not just small town Ashland; anybody who wants to be in the show can participate,” she said.

Some of the highlights

Peart and Watson are excited about for this year’s show include the show starting off with “Hi neighbor” and then going into “Another Opening, Another Show,” just like it did at the first show in 1982. The Extremes will once again be joining together –literally – in an expandable dress to perform “Stop in the Name of Love.” There will be selections of ABBA, patriotic songs, poignant numbers and Vaudeville-style theatrics.

“People will think we lost our minds. A lot of it is silliness,” Watson said with a grin.

“We do some serious things because we are honoring what this does for our community,” Peart added.

As a way of involving more of the community, the show will recognize Patrick Henry High Schools’ volleyball team, which has won seven straight state championships, and RandolphMacon’s NCAA Division 3 national championship basketball team.

Students from local elementary schools will participate in a children’s choir for two of the nights and the Patrick Henry High School Show Choir will open one night. The Patrick Henry Jazz Band will also play preshow jazz music.

“It is nice because people get to play for a full house and not just to their parents and friends,” Peart said.

Tickets are available at www.hanoverarts.org or in person at Princess Cleaners in Ashland and The Caboose Market and Café in Ashland. For more information, contact Carolyn Peart at 804-543-5765.

LOCAL CALENDAR

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 8

This March the Pocahontas chapter of the Virginia native Plant society is moving the meeting date to accommodate a very talented traveling guest, alonso abugattas. The chapter meeting will take place at 7 p.m. March 8 at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden in the robbins auditorium. abugattas will present “ethnobotany, Floral Folklore and Gardening for Wildlife.” ethnobotany is the study of how people relate to and use plants in their lives, be it food, medicine, tools, and so many other ways. Learn about plant folklore and how people used locally native and commonly available plants in their lives and historically. The natural history of various plants will be discussed, along with some additional references to find out more about the various native plants that will be the focus of this presentation. how these and many other plants can be used in our gardens and landscapes, and how they relate to wildlife will be discussed, with time for questions. a Zoom meet and greet and Lewis Ginter gathering starts at 6:30 p.m. a short business meeting will follow the speaker. For more information, visit the state website, http://vnps.org/.

THURSDAY, MARCH 9

“Living With Black Bears in Virginia” presented by Virginia Master naturalists, riverine chapter partnered with the Virginia dept. of Wildlife resources and hosted by doswell ruritan club will be held 7 p.m. at 16433 Washington highway in doswell. dWr receives a high number of “nuisance” calls from Virginia residents regarding problems with black bears. This free educational program provides information on how to prevent negative encounters and property damage due to black bears.

SATURDAY, MARCH 11

The Independence ruritan club will be hosting an all-you-can-eat Benefit Breakfast, from 6:45 to 9 a.m., for hanover safe Place at The ruritan Building, located behind Independence christian church, 14033 Independence road (off route 54, west of ashland). Breakfast includes: salt herring fillets, scrambled eggs, bacon, spiced apples, cornbread, grits, coffee and orange juice, just $11. for adults. For more information call 804-798-5171 or contact dave at e-mail: wdtoney@mindspring.com.

The shady Grove United Women in Faith annual yard sale will be held from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 8209 s hady Grove road in Mechanicsville. There will be furniture, clothes, electronics, toys, kitchen items and much more. Be sure to stop by the Bake sale tables to pick up homemade fudge, pies, cakes and cookies. Breakfast and lunch items will also be available. This is the event you want to attend because there is always something for everyone!

SUNDAY, MARCH 12

a Blood drive will be held at from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at shady Grove United Methodist church located at 8209 shady Grove road in Mechanicsville. you must schedule an appointment with the red cross at redcrossBlood.org.

TUESDAY, MARCH 14

Mechanicsville aar P c hapter 5407 will meet from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at First Union Baptist church, 6231 Pole Green road, Mechanicsville, Va 23111. rachel Lawson with alzheimer’s association Greater richmond chapter will be the speaker.

a Blood drive will be held at from 1 to 5 p.m. at Gethsemane church of christ located at 5146 Mechanicsville Turnpike in Mechanicsville. you must schedule an appointment with the red cross at redcrossBlood.org.

THURSDAY, MARCH 16

a monthly Blood drive will be held at from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) located at 7168 Flag Lane in Mechanicsville. you must schedule an appointment with the red cross at redcrossBlood.org.

MONDAY, MARCH 20

The community senior citizen Meeting known as — studley seniors will meet at 10:30 a.m. at enon UMc, 6156 studley road in Mechanicsville. They will share fellowship, a business session and a program. For more information call 804-746-4719.

THURSDAY, MARCH 23

civil air Patrol, hanover squadron, is hosting an Open house from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Fairfield Presbyterian church, 6930 cold harbor road in Mechanicsville explore what caP’s fantastic program has to offer for youths, ages 12 — 21 in the cadet program; as well as for adults who care about

Please see CALENDAR, Page A10

PHOTO BY CAROLYN PEART

Ladies rehearse dolly Parton’s exuberant women’s anthem “9-5” for the ashland Musical Variety show.

UPCOMING PROGRAMS AT MECHANICSVILLE LIBRARIES

ATLEE BRANCH LIBRARY

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

Mother Goose storytime at the atlee Br anch Library. Wednesday, March 8, 15 and 22, 10:15 to 10:45 a.m. Tuesdays, Feb. 28, March 7, 14, 21 and 28, 10:30 — 11 a.m.

Mother Goose is a stor ytime for children age 6 to 24 months and their caregivers. have fun with nursery rhymes, singing and reading.

atlee Book Group at the atlee Branch Library, Wednesday, March 8, 11 a.m. — noon. Join us in-person or on Zoom for a lively book discussion. We will be reading “Gray Mountain” by John Grisham. 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/9742334. 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.

dnd heist at the atlee Branch Library, Thursday, March 9, 5 — 7 p.m. ages 12-18. celebrate the new dnd movie with a fun heist adventure. Bring your level 3 character. register at https://pamunkeylibrary. libcal.com/event/9743470.

c hickahominy colored Pencil artists at the atlee Branch Library, Friday, March 10, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. ages 18 and up. Join the c hickahominy 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 stor ytime at the atlee Branch Library, saturday, March 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 c lub at the a tlee Branch Library, saturday, March 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.

Preschool storytime at the atlee Branch Library, Mondays, March 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.

Toddler stor ytime at the atlee Branch Library. Tuesdays, March 14, 21 and 28, 11 – 11:30 a.m. Wednesdays, Feb. 22, March 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.

atlee Bridge Group at the atlee Branch Library. Tuesdays, March 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.

Paint night at the atlee Branch Library, Tuesday, March 14, 7- 8 p.m. ages 18 and up. Grab your friends or come solo and create your very own floral masterpiece! all materials included and instructions provided. register at https://pamunkeylibrary.libcal.com/event/9749626.

hula dancing class at the atlee Branch Library, Wednesday, March 15, 10:30 a.m. — noon, ages 18 and up. Join us to exercise your brain and body as you learn about hula dancing and culture at the atlee Branch Library.

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

Page Turners Book club at the atlee Branch Library, Thursday, March 16, 3:30 — 4:30 p.m. ages 18 and up. Join us for an in-person, lively book discussion! We will be reading “a Man called Ove” by Fredrik Backman. you can place the book on hold and pick it up at the atlee Branch Library. new members always welcome!

atlee anime club at the atlee Branch Library, Thursday, March 16, 7:30 — 8:30 p.m. ages 12-18. Join the atlee Library anime club! Meet teens with similar interests and watch cool shows.

h anover Master Gardeners’ home Gardening series at the atlee Branch Library, saturday, March 18, 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 “reasons to avoid Pesticides in your Landscape.” Topics change each session.

PJ storytime (virtual program), Thursday, March 21, 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/9743250.

This program is hosted virtually through Zoom. The Zoom meeting link will be sent to the email registered before the event occurs. Please contact the atlee Branch if you do not receive this email. dance Party at the atlee Branch Library, Friday, March 24, 4 — 5 p.m. ages 8-12. Get your grove on at the atlee dance Party. Fun, music, and snacks will be provided.

Plant swap on the Patio at the at lee Branch Library, s a turday, March 25, 11 a.m. — 1 p.m. Meet us on the patio at atlee for a plant swap! Bring your extra cuttings or plant divisions to share and get some new ones for your home or garden.

crafternoon for Teens: space coasters at the atlee Branch Library, s aturday, March 25, 3 — 4 p.m. ages 12-18. Go far beyond infinity with this fun space coasters craft! register at https://pamunkeylibrary.libcal.com/event/9743197.

MECHANICSVILLE BRANCH

LIBRARY

Call 804-746-9615 or visit the library at 7461 Sherwood Crossing Place for more information.

Preschool storytime at the Mechanicsville Branch Library, Thursdays, March 9, 16 and 23, 10:30 — 11 a.m. enjoy books, music, fingerplays, and much more at preschool storytime! For ages 3-5 with a caregiver.

senior Bingo at the Mechanicsville Branch Library, Friday, March 10, 11 a.m. — 12:30 p.m., ages 55 and up. need to get out and do something that’s both fun and relaxing? stop by the library for a game of themed Bingo for seniors! Presented by shanna Beaumont, Membership Growth consultant at Jencare senior Medical center. Philosophy in Film night at the Mechanicsville Branch Library, Monday, March 13, 6:30 — 7:30 p.m., ages 18 and up. Put your thinking caps on as we watch a short film from 1984 about a dog brought back to life and have a short philosophical discussion about the movie afterwards!

hula dancing class at the Mechanicsville Branch Library, Mondays, March 13, 20 and 27, 10:30 a.m. – noon. ages 16 and up

Page A23

OPINION

Warning: Are we getting just a little too cautious?

ROSLYN RYAN Richmond Suburban News

“Is that…safe?” a friend asked me the other day, as she watched me poke a lit match into a hole on the side of my gas grill.

She was over for a visit, and we had decided to take advantage of the unseasonably warm weather by barbecuing some chicken for dinner.

I promised her the match maneuver was totally safe — that all I was doing was circumventing the grill’s busted igniter—but something told me that she wasn’t quite

convinced. My friend, to be fair, tends to do things by the book. She always drives the speed limit and always wears her seatbelt. She abides by expiration dates. She doesn’t stand on the top step of a ladder or eat unwashed fruit.

To say that we are opposites when it comes to all of these things would be fair. And while I am no daredevil by any stretch, I do enjoy a somewhat casual relationship with safety protocols from time to time.

But I might also note—with a hint of dismay—that our modern world has become a place where

being careful is stressed at every turn, so much so that we are rarely given the opportunity for plain old common sense to develop.

Don’t get me wrong, most of these safety warnings are a good thing. Anything that aims to keep children safe, for example, is worth noting no matter how obvious it might seem. But there are some warnings that just seem to take it too far.

From the minute I wake up I am being told what not to do. My hairdryer warns me not to throw it in the bathtub. My car reminds me that I need to put my seatbelt on.

My drive-thru coffee order warns me on the cup that it is hot (isn’t that what I wanted?).

I don’t ever remember seeing any warning labels about the big stuff over the years, nothing about picking the wrong college major, lending your car to your least responsible roommate or marrying someone you met on a beach three days earlier. But the bag of chips I ate with lunch today had four separate allergy warnings and my washing machine has a sticker that reminds me not to put people in it.

I’m not anti-helmet or in favor

of taking the warnings off dangerous products. But do I need to be told that the sleep aid in my medicine cabinet may cause drowsiness? Apparently I do.

I mentioned all of this to my friend the other night as we cooked our dinner. Satisfied that the chicken had reached a safe internal temperature (it was printed on the pack), and that the grill had been turned off (I double checked), I handed her a plate and warned her that it might be a little spicy.

After all, you can never be too careful.

A story of power, privilege and greed in the Low Country

JIM RIDOLPHI

Contributing Columnist

It’s anybody’s guess what motivates a nation to become enamored with a certain trial, but there’s no doubt that every couple of years, one comes along that captures the attention of a nation.

In a small corner of South Carolina kindly described as the Low Country, a small courtroom became the center of national attention for several weeks as a

well-heeled Gamecock aristocrat stood trial for the brutal murder of his wife and son in the culmination of a saga that defies logical explanation.

It’s a crime that is incomprehensible to most of us and represents acts that have no apparent reasonable explanation. For the past six weeks, attorneys in the case have attempted to provide reasonable explanations for irrational acts. In the process, a story

of power and wealth has emerged that sometimes seems to overshadow the cruel brutality of the crime.

Faced with impending financial doom, prominent attorney Alex Murdaugh is accused of murdering his wife and son in an attempt to distract investigations underway regarding his financial dealings. Much of the testimony in the trial centered around those financial misgivings and how they

could have forced Murdaugh to resort to such an unthinkable act. Believing that it was done as a distraction is a journey too far for many watching the trial, covered almost gavel to gavel on several internet and streaming media sources.

By Murdaugh’s own admission, he’s swindled hundreds of thousands of dollars from his clients in his role as an attorney for the past decade or so. After obtain-

WE WANT TO PUBLISH YOUR ISSUE-DRIVEN LETTERS

ing large settlements for many of these dirt poor clients, Murdaugh kept most of the generous settlements awarded by what outsiders describe as a friendly legal system infested with a good ole boy factor that dominated the system in this economically depressed section of the state.

Having watched little of the actual testimony, I couldn’t predict

Please see POWER, Page A8

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Clay Spring Garden Club embraces Valentine’s Day

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

The Clay Spring Garden Club of Ashland held their monthly meeting and celebrated Valentine’s Day on Tuesday, Feb. 14.

Everyone was in a festive mood as they displayed their Valentine-themed floral designs and enjoyed the sweet treats and savory goodies supplied by members Laura Follo and Mary Wiblin.

The two floral design exhibit themes, specifically chosen for the holiday, were “Black, White and Red All Over,” a creative line mass design and “Be My Valentine,” a design using hearts. A floral design exhibit Bestin-Show award tie does not happen very often but it happened on Valentine’s Day! The two winners were Barbara Boor and Karen Fritter. They both created dazzling black, white and red designs! Dale Cannon won a horticulture BestIn-Show for her tiny, perfect crocus.

A fun workshop was lead by Joan Corfield. She instructed members on how to create mini greenhouses out of milk jugs — handy for

Skunk tests positive for the rabies virus in Ashland

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

The Chickahominy Health District would like to notify the residents in the area of Woodstock Heights Subdivision and Cedar Lane in Ashland, Virginia 23005 that a skunk has tested positive for the rabies virus. The skunk is deceased. Anyone having information regarding any exposure to this animal in the days leading up to Feb. 28, 2023, (bite, scratch or contact with saliva by open wound

or eyes, nose, mouth) should contact the Hanover Health Department at (804) 365-4313. Exposures also include direct contact between your pet and the rabid animal. After hours, contact the Hanover County Animal Control at (804) 365-6140.

Rabies is a fatal, but preventable, disease carried by mammals that is endemic to the area.

The District would like to remind all citizens to follow

these three important rabies prevention guidelines:

„ Vaccinate your pets.

„ Report all exposures to animals (usually bites and scratches) to your doctor and the local health department.

„ Enjoy wildlife from a distance – do not feed or encourage wild animals such as raccoons, skunks, or foxes to visit your premises. submitted by the c hickahominy health district.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Tied winners of Best-In-show for floral design were from left, Karen Fritter and Barbara Boor. dale cannon won horticulture Best-In-show for her crocus.

starting seedlings.

The next meeting will be held on March 14 at the First Baptist Church in Ashland and will feature a “Duo Design” demonstration by Joann McNab. Anyone who loves gardening, horticul-

ture and floral design and is interested in joining the Clay Spring Garden Club is invited to contact the membership committee chairperson, Laura Follo, at (203) 687-0196 for more information.

Ashland woman dies after single-vehicle crash

CONTRINUTED REPORT

An Ashland woman died this weekend due to injuries sustained in a single-vehicle crash.

On Sunday, March 5, at approximately 11:07 p.m., Hanover deputies responded to the 7200 block of Brooking Way for a single-vehicle crash.

The preliminary investigation revealed that a 2008 Mazda four-door sedan was

traveling on Brooking Way when it left the roadway and collided head on into a tree.

The driver and sole occupant of the vehicle, Cassie Theresa Sampson, 39, of Ashland, was transported by Hanover Fire-EMS to VCU Medical Center. Due to her injuries, Sampson was pronounced deceased at the hospital.

Investigators are still col-

lecting information to determine the circumstances that led to this crash.

The Hanover County Sheriff’s Office extends its deepest condolences to the family of Cassie Theresa Sampson during this difficult time.

Information submitted by Lt. James r. cooper, hanover county sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer.

carr ying a firearm is an incredible responsibility – one that the hanover county sherriff’s Office does not take lightly. recruits from Le 23-01 recently completed an intense six days of firearms training. This is the first portion of firearms training they will receive in the academy. at the end of each day, their fingers hurt from loading all the magazines, their hands hurt from gripping their firearm and their legs hurt from standing, walking (tactically of course), running and squatting. The days were long and the training was intense but Le 2301 did exceptional. They continue to come together as a team.

PHOTO COURTESY OF HANOVER COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

SHERIFF’S OFFICE RECRUITS WILLING TO PUT IN THE WORK

Farmer

operation works with 200plus landlords in 19 counties in Virginia and three counties in North Carolina.

“Growing, harvesting and trucking to mills feeding poultry, pork and even people is no easy task,” Engel says. “We don’t hunt. We don’t fish. We farm. Seven days a week most of the time. Almost year round.”

Engel’s hard work hasn’t gone unnoticed. He was recently honored in Nashville as a finalist for Farm Journal’s annual Top Producer of the Year award.

Sponsored by BASF, Case IH and Rabo AgriFinance, the Top Producer of the Year award is in its 23rd year and represents the best in the business of farming. Three finalists are chosen from numerous applications by a panel of judges based on entrepreneurial originality, financial and business progress and industry and community leadership.

Finalists for the Top Producer of the Year award represent the best in the business of farming, specifically entrepreneurial originality; financial and business progress; and industry and community leadership. This is not an award about size or scope. Instead, it focuses on professionalism, sophistication and innovation. The Engel family was recognized at a ceremony held Feb. 24 during Top Producer Summit in Nashville.

Engel’s work ethic was learned from his mentor, his father, Carol, who moved to Virginia from Illinois to be a farm manager. His father’s passion has bled across generations. Watching his father live and breathe farming, Engel developed his own interests in the business.

“I don’t know if it’s a genetic thing or not, but I think it might be because I’m the same way. You know, people ask me what I do for a hobby, and I say farm because I love it,” Engel says.

Today, his family loves farming as well. All three of his kids work in the operation.

Chris runs logistics, managing trucks, deliveries, farm crews and everything in between.

“When it’s harvest, I ask Chris, ‘Where do you want me to go today? Where do you need me today?’ I don’t go until Chris says this is what I’m going to do today,” Engel says.

Casey handles the technology and precision side of the operation.

“Technology changes every day in agriculture. It can get rather overwhelming, so somebody has to stay on top of it. That’s Casey’s job,” Engel says.

Daughter Savannah keeps the office, partnerships and paperwork in line.

“I’m so grateful to have them because I wouldn’t want to do it without them,” he says.

Together, Engel Family Farms delivers grain to some of the biggest agribusinesses

interest.

on the East coast, including Perdue, Tyson, Smithfield and Byrd Mills.

“Some farmers have a tendency to think they are the customer when they’re buying equipment, fertilizer and seed. Then when they sell their grain, they think they’re the customer,” Engel says. “In my opinion, you can’t be the customer coming and going. Our customers are the grain buyers.”

Close ties to their customers and proximity to Chesapeake Bay is why they planted some 16,000 acres of cover crops this year via airplane. Preserving the land and its rich history is important.

A house on one of the farms the family rents in Henrico County has cannonballs lodged in the side of it from the war. When Engel started farming, one of the first pieces of land he rented was part of the farm that Secretariat, a American Triple Crown winner, was born and raised.

A hard-charging horse with a big heart fits well among the Engels as they pursue each day. A farm where everyone is family.

“When you can get your people to say they enjoy what they’re doing, they’ve got to feel like family,” Engel says. “I want that culture to continue.”

A culture of hard work, respect and pure joy from farming.

“God’s promised us all increase if we work hard and do our part. Boy, He’s certainly fulfilled His promise to me and my family,” Engel says.

named Mallory Beach.

an outcome and I had even less inclination as to Murdaugh’s guilt or innocence. But, several chapters of the confused, misguided story have tweaked my

It seemed odd to me that all of these financial misdeeds were undetected for years until local media began digging after Murdaugh’s son and victim, Paul, was charged in a 2019 boat wreck that claimed the life of a 19-year old woman

Many of the duped clients were unaware that any deception had occurred, clueless to the amount of the awards and funds that were supposed to be paid to them.

Social services seeks foster parents

Hanover County’s Department of Social Services (DSS) is in need of foster parents following a significant increase in children entering foster care.

“We now have our largest pool of children in foster care that I’ve seen in my 14 years doing child welfare in Hanover,” said family services specialist Matthew Eakin.

Eakin said this increase can be attributed to the financial and emotional stressors brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as increases in substance use in families.

Recently, DSS has been challenged with finding homes for older children entering foster care.

“We can often find that it’s no trouble getting a home for an adorable little baby,” Eakin said. “But, we have a lot of preteens and teenagers who have been through a lot and need stability just as much as our younger kids do.”

DSS is offering PRIDE

(Parent Resources for Information, Development and Education) trainings in March and April to those wishing to serve as foster parents. The trainings focus on five categories: protecting and nurturing children, meeting children’s developmental needs and addressing developmental delays, supporting children’s relationships with their birth families, connecting children to safe, nurturing relationships intended to last a lifetime and working as a member of a professional team.

“Whether you are new to parenting, whether you are a seasoned parent or whether you have fostered before, the training really provides upto-date information,” Eakin said. “Laws and policies change all the time and we want to make sure that people are as equipped as they can be to be foster parents.”

Those interested in becoming a foster parent are encouraged to join the Virginia

Faster Families Highway by visiting https://app.familymatch.org/my/recruit. This portal created by the state department of social services is a way for prospective foster parents to provide personal information, complete selfassessments and learn more about what it means to be a foster parent.

“Being a foster parent might be the most rewarding, challenging – sometimes frustrating – but worthwhile experience that someone with a passion for children could have,” Eakin said. “Being a foster parent is a unique way to serve not only children, but to help heal an entire family.”

For more information or to sign up for a training session, contact Devon S. Parham at 804-365-4135 or dsparham@ hanovercounty.gov.

submitted by Kristin smith dunlop, hanover county director of communications and community engagement.

Benchmark Physical Therapy opens outpatient clinic

CONTRIBUED REPORT

MECHANICSVILLE –

BenchMark Physical Therapy opened an outpatient clinic on Feb. 27 at 600 Mechanicsville Turnpike, Suite K. The clinic is open 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. To make an appointment, call 804-443-9307 or visit benchmarkpt.com.

BenchMark offers access to care within 24 hours and works with all insurance types.

BenchMark provides in-

becausereliability iseverything

Youdependonus to keepthelightson 24/7.That’s why weworkaround theclock to safely provide youwith themost

reliable, affordable powerpossible.

Viken

clinic and telehealth options for outpatient orthopedic physical therapy, including manual therapy, injury prevention, return to performance, total joint replacement, concussion management and vestibular rehabilitation programs.

Clinic director Kevin Viken

earned a doctor of physical therapy degree from Lynchburg College. Viken, who is certified in dry needling and CPR, has clinical interests in functional capacity evaluations, post-operative orthopedics and sports/work-related injuries.

BenchMark and sister company Drayer Physical Therapy, each part of the Upstream Rehabilitation family of clinical care, operate approximately 20 outpatient clinics in Virginia.

Halotherapy business opens in Mechanicsville

Relax, Release, Renew Salt Cave will be opening its doors for the first time on March 18 at 7282 Hanover Green Drive- 2nd Fl

in old town Mechanicsville. The surrounding communities are invited to celebrate the occasion by experiencing firsthand the many

benefits of dry salt therapy, also known as halotherapy. The grand opening includes

Please see HALOTHERAPY, Page A23

Lastyearalone, crews clearedmore than 1,500miles of right-of-way areas and removed 27,000hazard trees. Treemaintenance isongoingand crewscontinue to upgradeequipment inthepower delivery system.

Why? Because reliabilityis everything.

Mary Frances Greenwood Coleman

COLEMAN, Mrs. Mary Frances Greenwood, 94, a resident of the the Masonic home of Virginia, died saturday, March 4, 2023. she is survived by two daughters, christie c . Tyler (John) of Warrenton, Va. and Wendy L. coleman (Jay epperley) of hanover, Va.; two grandchildren, Keith Tyler (Jaclyn) of Loveland, Ohio and courtney Tyler (ciara Lascano) of arlington, Va.; and two great-grandchildren, charlotte Tyler and alexandria Tyler. Mrs. coleman was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 59 years, edward s coleman Jr.; parents, Walter Thomas Greenwood and Bernice Moring Greenwood; and a special “sister of the heart,” norma Klebert. she was a lifetime member of Fairmount christian church, where she was a sunday school teacher, a member of the Tuesday Morning circle, prepared meals for a homeless shelter and had many rich and enduring friendships. a memorial service will be held Wednesday, March 8, 2023, at 1 p.m. at Fairmount christian church, 6502 creighton rd., Mechanicsville, Va. a reception will follow at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Fairmount christian church or the Masonic home of Virginia.

Marcia Reeves Kirby

KIRBY, Marcia Reeves, 68, of Mechanicsville, went to be with her Lord after a courageous five-year battle with cancer, on March 4, 2023. she was preceded in death by her parents, Tazwell ellis and Lois reeves Kirby; brother-in-law, chuck rao. she is survived by her loving husband, ray “seabird” heath; stepson, ray Jr. (Karen); granddaughter, elizabeth; sisters, rebecca rao and Ginger redmond (Jimbo); nieces, sara rao and carla smith (ryan); nephews, Thomas rao (Julie) and Jason Lewis; great-nieces, samantha and Kinley; great-nephews, Jacob, Tristan, cameron (elizabeth), Billy, Branden, Baylor and Miles; great-great-nephew, cameron Jr. Marcia retired from c&P / Verizon Telephone company. she was an active member of the hanover ruitan club. she loved gardening and spending time with her family. a celebration of Life will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, March 10 at the Mechanicsville chapel of the Bennett Funeral home, 8014 Lee-davis rd. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to hanover ruitan club, P.O. Box 625, Mechanicsville, Va. 23111. Online condolences may be registered at www.bennettfuneralhomes.com.

Calendar

From A4

Servingallfaithssince1897 CharlesD.Morehead,president

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Karen J. Harley

HARLEY, Karen J., 72 of Mechanicsville, Va., gained her heavenly wings Tuesday, February 21, 2023. she was preceded in death by her parents, helen and Franklin P. Jones Jr. she is survived by her beloved husband of 54 years, Walter L. harley III; two children, Wendy hale (randy) and Jeff harley (Michelle); five grandchildren, Kayla Faulkner (hunter), Kyle harley, Jacob hale, emily hale and Kasey harley; two greatgrandchildren, William and adela Faulkner; and many other family and friends. Karen was a graduate of Braxton Business school. In her younger days, she enjoyed playing on the church softball team. she was an avid elvis fan and was blessed to see him in concert three times. she enjoyed reading, shopping and talking to friends and family on the phone. her greatest joy was found in the times she shared with her family at White Lake. Karen was a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother and will be greatly missed. The family received friends from 2 to 3 p.m., sunday, February 26, 2023, at Monaghan Funeral home, 7300 creighton Pkwy., Mechanicsville, Va. 23111, with a memorial service following at 3 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations in honor of her 12 years of dialysis can be made to the national Kidney a ssociation, 30 east 33rd street, new york, n y. 10016.

Chesterfield (OffWinterpockRoad) 14301AshbrookPkwy 639-4975

america and want to serve in training the next generation of Leaders for america. Observe and participate in honor guard and color guard, aerospace, search and rescue, drill, and Leadership demonstrations, with many hands-on activities for all ages. come out and see for yourself how you, too, can be a part of the Us air Force auxiliary, c i vil a i r Patrol. For more information, contact Lt. Brandy Lambert-stevens at brandy.lambert-stevers@vawg.cap.gov, visit https://vawg.cap.gov/units/hanover or on Facebook (hanover composite squadron-civil air Patrol).

UPCOMING

SATURDAY, APRIL 1

The Mechanicsville United Methodist church easter egg hunt will be held at 11 a.m. at 7356 atlee road in Mechanicsville. There will be candy-filled eggs for the children to hunt and prizes for all! children up through fifth grade are welcome. This is a free event. If it rains, this event will be canceled.

SATURDAY, APRIL 15

a ‘decade of the 60’s reunion’ for all alumni of hermitage high school for the classes of 1960 through 1969 will be held from 4 to 9 p.m. at richmond east Moose Lodge Ballroom, 7167 Flag Lane in Mechanicsville. Music, food, plenty of tables, chairs, memories and old friends. cash bar, casual attire. The event is limited to 400 attendees. The cost is $25 per person. To reserve your spot, make out your check to hhs 60’s reunion and mail to: hhs 60’s reunion, 7330 staples Mill rd. #249, henrico, Va 23228. Include your full name and address and which year you graduated. For more information, contact sue halsey cox (class of 1966) 804-387-9182 or suecox3@ yahoo.com. Or contact dale Morris (class of 1964) at 804-897-7452 or brendale68@yahoo.com.

SATURDAY, APRIL 22

Bring your family and join us as we celebrate spring, the shearing of the sheep and fiber production at Patrick henry’s scotchtown! The program is growing and this year organizers have so much more to enjoy! The festival will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at scotchtown, located at 16120 c hiswell Lane, Beaverdam. activities to enjoy throughout the day will include

a ribbon cutting and presentation of the new floorcloth for the manor house hall; sheep shearer dave from delly’s delights Farms will be here answering all your questions; members from clothos handspinners guild will be on-site demonstrating the process of wool production; antique carriage and wagon display; rMc archaeology active dig; sheepdog herding demonstrations; open house tours; a children’s activities area; demonstrations in the hearth kitchen featuring scotchtown’s spring garden; over 40 local crafters, vendors and community organizations; and food trucks. The open-house tour and fiber festival programs are both included at $10 for students, $12 for senior/aaa/Military, and $15 for General admission. Preservation Virginia members are $12 and children 6 and under are free. Purchase tickets at https://www.eventbrite. com/e/scotchtown-fiber-festivaltickets-494234557867.

THURSDAY, APRIL 27

a monthly Blood drive will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) located at 7168 Flag Lane in Mechanicsville. additional dates are May 23, June 20, July 27, aug. 24, sept. 26, Oct.

19, nov. 24 and dec. 26. you must schedule an appointment with the red cross at redcrossBlood.org.

FRIDAY APRIL 28 & SATURDAY, APRIL 29

st . Paul Lutheran c hurch will sponsor its “ everything for $1” two-day yard sale, from 7 a.m. to noon at 8100 shady Grove rd. in Mechanicsville. The inside/outside rain or shine event will include linens, kitchen, home décor, clothes (children and adult), books, toys, lawn and garden, furniture and much more. For more information, call 804-427-7500.

SATURDAY, APRIL 29

VFW Post 9808 will hold a shredIt event on from 9 a.m. to noon at 7168 Flag Lane in Mechanicsville. This event is for members and community residents. come and share the date with your family and friends. note that no binders or boxes are allowed.

ONGOING

hanover county is working with residents, businesses, landowners and other community members to update its comprehensive Plan. called “envision hanover,” the plan

Please see CALENDAR, Page A16

DOING THE MATH WITH A SWEET REWARD

Fifth grade students at cold harbor elementary school recently enjoyed a hot chocolate bar as they created tree diagrams in order to figure out how many topping combinations they could make.

of Mechanicsville Turnpike.

„ Petit larceny in a building was reported on the 7000 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike.

on the 7500 block of cold h arbor road.

„ a simple assault was reported on the 7000 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike.

„ a simple assault was reported on the 7000 block of Mechanicsville Turnpike.

„ Identity theft less than or equal to $200 was reported on the 7100 block of. road

„ assault and battery on a family member was reported on the 9000 block of Peaks road.

„ driver did not report accident; damage over or equal to $250 was reported on the 9500 block of Kings char ter drive.

„ a simple assault was reported on the 7400 block of Brook Way cour t.

FEB. 10

„ Threaten school employee was reported on the 7400 block of Mechanicsville elementary drive.

„ Obtain money/etc. by false pretense, larceny=$200 conspiracy was reported on the 7000 block

„ hit and run — personal injury was reported on the 8100 block of atlee road/Meadowbridge road.

„ Petit larceny in a building was reported on the 7300 block of Bell creek road.

„ Petit larceny in a building was reported on the 8000 block of atlee road.

„ assault and battery on a family member was reported on the 10200 block of c hamb erlayne road.

„ destruction of property, monument was reported on the 8700 block of hughesland road.

„ assault and battery on a family member was reported on the 6200 block of Banshire drive.

„ assault and battery on a family member was reported on the 8400 block of Walnut Grove road.

„ Failure to stop for school bus flashing lights was reported on the16400 block of Pinecote Lowmoor Lane.

„ Grand larceny at a building was reported on the 1900 block of retreat drive.

PHOTO COURTESY OF HANOVER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

MECHANICSVILLE-ASHLAND LOCAL

HCSS to hold fifth annual Miss Hanover Abilities Pageant

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

MECHANICSVILLE –Hanover Community Support Services (HCSS) presents the fifth annual Miss Hanover Abilities Pageant sponsored by RBI Services, LLC. The event will be held on Saturday, March 11 at 6 p.m. in the auditorium of Mechanicsville High School.

The organization is extremely excited about the addition of the Junior Miss age division this year. The pageant will feature 11 Miss contestants and eight Junior Miss contestants from Hanover and the surrounding areas, all of whom have a developmental disability. The contestants will compete for the titles in a series of four areas of competition: Interview, Casual Wear, Talent and Evening Gown. The winner will receive a bouquet of roses, a crown and sash, along with many other gifts from the community such as a portrait package sponsored by Jessica Robertson Photographic Artistry.

Miss Hanover Abilities 2022, Savannah Liggan, has had a memorable reign representing the Hanover community. Savannah made

many appearances throughout her year, including both the Ashland and Mechanicsville Christmas parades. Additionally, Savannah read

MISS CONTESTANTS

JUNIOR MISS CONTESTANTS

Ashley d’Evegnee

Amber Gillend

Brenna Fennelly

Brianna Daniel Candace Wright Cassie Rodriguez

Cricket Clarke

Julia Klauer

Keely Moran

Mackenzie Webb Morgan McCullough

Olivia Collins Rosie Patrick

Ruby Patrick Sarah Olin

Serenity Conyers Shannon Selfe

Amera Hudson Ayla Campbell

Elmont Elementary students look for a cold snap

PHOTOS COURTESY OF HANOVER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

No snow? No problem for these Elmont Elementary

School students! Emma Oliver’s pre-kindergarten class recently decided to make some of their own snow.

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.

hanover Quilting circle at the ashland Branch Library, Wednesday, March 8, 5:30 — 8:30 p.m. Grab your sewing machine, supplies and current project! This group meets the second Wednesday of every month to share ideas, fabric, skills and stories! Beginners, experienced quilters and those curious about the hobby are all welcome to drop in.

Must Love Words at the ashland Branch Library, Wednesday, March 8, 7 – 8:30 p.m. ages 18 and up. Writers, are you looking for inspiration? need readers with a discerning eye? Join us for constructive feedback and discussion about the craft of writing on each of this month. due to group resources, email and word processing are used to communicate outside of

meetings. access to email and familiarity with word processing is preferred.

Virginia native Plants for a small Garden at the ashland Branch Library, saturday, March 11, 11 a.m. — 12:30 p.m. Many people would like to plant native plants in their yards, but don’t have a lot of space. This presentation, by a certified Virginia Master naturalist, will highlight Virginia native plants that stay small and spread slowly. Includes mostly perennial flowers, with some grasses, ferns and shrubs.

Play & Learn at the a shland Branch Library, Monday, March 11 — 11:30 a.m. ages Birth-3. enjoy Mother Goose stor ytime at 10 a.m., then stay and play with toys and friends.

Mother Goose storytime at the ashland Branch Library. Mondays, March 13, 20 and 27, 10:30 to 11 a.m. Mother Goose is a stor ytime 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, March 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, March 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.

3 rivers Livestock c lub at the ashland Branch Library, Tuesday, March 14, 6:30 — 8:30 p.m. ages 5-18. Would you like to participate in planning community service events and hone your expressive arts skills? at our meetings, you can learn how to get involved in community and public affairs, how to be a good role model, how to give back to your community, and how

to use time management skills to enjoy every part of your life.

a night for swing at the ashland Branch Library, Wednesday, March 15, 7 — 8:30 p.m. “swing dancing” is an umbrella term for the many styles of dance that developed in response to the exciting new swing music of the 1920s and 30s. The “Lindy hop,” “Balboa,” “collegiate shag,” and “charleston” are a few of the more popular swing dances. Join an instructor from rVa swing to learn about the history of swing dancing and to learn a few basic steps. Be prepared to learn, dance, and have fun!

summer camp Fair at the ashland Branch Library, s aturday, March 18, 1 – 3 p.m. It’s not too early to begin planning for summer! stop by the library to meet with representatives and learn about unique summer camps and activities in ashland, hanover county and beyond. From arts and crafts

to dance to sports, there will be something to interest everyone!

a fternoon Book c lub at the ashland Branch Library, Monday, March 20, 1– 2 p.m. ages 18 and up. read our book of the month and engage in a lively discussion about it. share views about the book and author and share reading recommendations.

so you Want Fresh eggs? at the ashland Branch Library, Wednesday, March 22, 6:30 — 7:30 p.m. Learn the basics of raising chickens at home, including the best variety of chickens to choose, providing adequate housing, good nutrition and hydration, how to protect your brood, and what you need to know to be compliant in your area.

From the heart stitchers at the ashland Branch Library. Thursdays, March 23, noon to 4 p.m. From the heart stitchers 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. hanover county history 18601980 at the ashland Branch Library, Thursday, March 23, 7- 8:30 p.m. Through the presentation of images of historic plats, court orders, pleadings, exhibits and other documents filed in hanover county from its earliest days in the 1700s to the time immediately preceding the civil War, circuit cour t clerk Frank d hargrove Jr. provide unique insight into the early history of

Please see LIBRARIES, Page A23

MECHANICSVILLE-ASHLAND LOCAL

SPORTS

Two Hanover athletes win state titles at Liberty

ROBBY FLETCHER Sports Editor

The competition was fierce, the talent level was high and the stakes were higher than they’ve been all season for the competing athletes at the VHSL Class 4 Indoor Track and Field State Championships held at Liberty University.

As iron sharpens iron, the expectation was that the results would be the best we’ve seen all year from the stars of Hanover, Atlee, Mechanicsville and Patrick Henry. With multiple state title winners and top-5 placers, the competition served the local athletes well and helped Hanover place fourth in the girls standings and fifth in the boys, while Atlee placed eighth in the boys competition and 11th in the girls finals. Mechanicsville also placed within the top-10 in the boys standings.

Hanover saw its stars step up and deliver against the best athletes in the state, with decorated runner Allie Crytser winning a state title in the 3200-meter run with an excellent 10:42.73 mark. She was nearly three seconds ahead of the second place finisher, Tuscarora High School’s M ichaela Workman, and finished off her senior season with yet another exclamation point to a legendary athletic career at Hanover. Crytser wasn’t done yet though, also placing second in the 1600 (4:52.95) and finishing third in the 4x800 relay (9:38.31) along with Sibyl Harrell, Ellie Agustin and Hannah Clarke.

Hanover pole vaulter Todd Benhase also left a winner, taking the title with a 14-foot, 10-inch mark that left all other competitors in the dust. The closest finishers were three 13-6

marks, one of which came from Luke Benhase to finish off his season for the Hawks.

Other notable finishes from the Hawks include three strong results from sophomore Jaelynn Joiner, who took third place in the long jump (17-5.75), fifth in the 55-meter dash (7.31) and sixth in the 300 run (41.39). On the boys side, senior Deonte Harris showed off his versatility as well, finishing in second in the

55 hurdles (7.74), seventh in the high jump (5-10), fourth in the long jump (21-3.5) and seventh in the triple jump (43-9).

For Atlee, all eyes were on what junior Patrick Allen would do after winning region titles in the 1600 and 3200 runs as well as the 4x800 relay weeks ago. Consistency has always followed the excellence behind Allen’s running success, and that consistency was very much on dis -

play again at the state level, as he finished second in the 1600 with a time of 4:17.68 while helping the 4x800 relay team featuring Carson Echard, Andre Chavez and Travis Albon also take the silver medal with a final run of 7:53.64.

It was also a good day from pole vaulter R.K. Gathje, who placed fifth (13-0) after taking second at regions. Shot put thrower Brock Taylor also had a

good finish, earning fourth place with a 49-0.5 mark.

On the girls side, the Raiders had superb efforts from its 4x800 and 4x200 relay teams, with the former including Sarah Bland, Courtney Mudd, Amelia Waggoner and Ashley Bedford placing fourth (9:39.49) and the latter involving Tori Goodson, Josie Rempe, Camdyn Metts and MacKenzie Gathers placing third (1:46.34).

For Mechanicsville, who only had members of the boys team compete at states, it was the efforts of senior Blake Moody that stood out the most. Moody built off a region title in the 500-meter dash and a silver medal finish in the 300 with a state title to his name after winning the 500 with a 1:04.11 finish. He also placed third in the 300, running it in 34.97 seconds. Moody was in a tight race with Henrico senior Dallas Gardner in the 500, but was able to pull away and take home the gold for the Mustangs.

The team’s next best result was a fifth place mark in the 4x800 relay, with Moody, Carter Smith, Jack Standridge and Josh Gray combining for a 8:07.09 time.

Patrick Henry also traveled with just its roster of boys athletes, and the Patriots that impressed the most were seniors Andrew Senfield and Shamar Williams. Senfield placed fourth in the 1600 (4:19.86) and seventh in the 3200 (9:37.68) while Williams placed sixth in the 55-meter dash with a time of 6.59 seconds.

There will be more to come for the athletes getting a chance to compete at nationals, but with the state championship in the books, a lot of the focus will now shift to the outdoor track and field season.

FILE PHOTO

hanover’s allie crytser came away victorious at the class 4 Indoor Track and Field state championships with a gold medal performance in the 3200-meter run on Feb. 27-28.

Defense dominates in Yellow Jackets’ weekend sweep

ROB WITHAM

Special Correspondent

When your basketball program is built on fundamentals and defense, you should win a lot of games. The formula is certainly working for RandolphMacon men’s basketball team.

The Yellow Jackets used that defense to dispense of their first two opponents in the NCAA Division III Men’s Basketball Championship, defeating Wilson College 73-36 on Friday, March 3 in their opener, followed by a 63-41 triumph over the University of Scranton on Saturday to advance to their fourth consecutive round of 16.

For comparison, Scranton entered the second round affair averaging 76 points per contest and was one of the best 3-point shooting teams in Division III. The Yellow Jackets held two opponents over 80 minutes to just 77 points combined.

“Excited to be playing another 40 minutes next week. Proud of the guys’ defensive effort. It was awesome,” noted Randolph-Macon head coach Josh Merkel.

The impressive defensive effort began from the opening tip Friday as the Yellow Jackets kept Wilson off the scoreboard over their first 18 possessions.

The Phoenix didn’t score until 8:33 left in the first half. By then, RandolphMacon (29-1) led 22-2. The halftime score was 44-8.

“They play together. They play fundamental basketball,” explained

Hanover girls to face Hampton in Class 4 quarterfinals

shoot them.”

The Fairfax native is making a lot more of those shots during this postseason run, an appreciated bonus to the Yellow Jacket effort. He was the first player to receive a standing ovation from the sold out Crenshaw Gymnasium crowd when he headed to the bench late in the contest.

Friday’s win set a new NCAA Division III record for most consecutive home wins at 63, besting the mark held for 35 years by North Park.

MELANIE MARTINEZ-LOPEZ Richmond Times-Dispatch

The season started off slow for the Hanover girls team, but coach Dave Butler said that a grueling schedule was lined up to prevent a repeat of last year’s state-quarterfinal loss.

ern View.

The Hawks dropped the region title game to Matoaca and will face Hampton on Friday at 7 p.m. at Bethel High School in Hampton in the Class 4 quarterfinals.

Wilson Phoenix head coach Mark Seidenburg. “They don’t overdribble. They don’t take bad shots. They make tough shots, and the energy on their team is unmatched.”

Josh Talbert led the Yellow Jackets in the first round victory with 15 points, while fellow senior Miles Mallory had the first of his two double-doubles on the weekend with 14 points and 10 rebounds.

Saturday’s matchup started differently, as the Royals’ standout graduate senior Jackson Danzig drained a pair of 3-pointers for an early 6-2 lead. He wouldn’t make another until 5:27 left in the game.

The Yellow Jackets held the Royals to 32.6%shooting from the floor, and just 17.6% from beyond the arc.

Randolph-Macon outscored Scranton 28-8 after the Royals’ early 6-2 advantage. Mallory nearly had his 11th double-dou -

ble of the year in the first half alone.

The best defense played on the weekend, perhaps, was early in the second half, when the Yellow Jackets went cold from the outside, only scoring four points in the first seven and a half minutes of play. But Scranton couldn’t take advantage on the other end, only scoring six points of their own.

Daniel Mbangue’s bucket with 12:28 left restarted the Yellow Jacket offense, beginning a 17-5 run in less than six minutes that ended any Royals hope for a comeback. The junior led RandolphMacon with 16 points, shooting seven-of-eight from the floor.

“I knew they were going to wall up and make me shoot over a body,” Mbangue noted. “We can’t make those inside passes (outside) all the time, so at some point, you have to

Up next for RandolphMacon is Oswego State, the champions of the State University of New York Athletic Conference, who defeated both Marymount and John Carroll to set up a game between the Lakers, who are 27-2 and riding a 23-game winning streak, and the Yellow Jackets, who have won 27 straight.

“We’ll watch film, close some gaps, as we call it,” Merkel said. “These guys have been awesome about learning, a growth mindset.”

More improvement from this defense will make life very difficult for opponents down the road, but the Yellow Jackets will need improved offense in their quest to repeat as national champions.

The Yellow Jackets play again on Friday, March 10 in a matchup against Oswego State at 7 p.m. The winner advances on as one of the last eight teams remaining in the tournament and plays again on Saturday.

“We told the girls that we had purposefully gone out and tried to find and make the hardest schedule we could this year, because last year we were the No. 2 seed and got bounced in the quarterfinals,” Butler said. “It was important to us to go out and play some of the best teams in Richmond.”

Due to the initial losses, the Hawks ended up drawing the No. 5 seed in the region, but that did not stop them from believing in themselves and what they were capable of.

“I knew we had the potential to get this far,” junior guard Emma Slutzah said. “We proved ourselves and we fought hard, we worked hard and did everything that we could to get through each game.”

Hanover rose to the challenge and delivered, defeating No. 1 Eastern View in the Region 4B semifinals 70-67.

Slutzah delivered the game-winning basket for the Hawks in overtime.

“I was nervous, but it was a really big moment, and I had to have the confidence in myself that I could make that,” she said.

Butler said he was proud of the confidence that the girls played with at East -

The region final against Matoaca was a rematch — the Hawks got the better of the Chiefs in the regular season.

“We were up at halftime, and that was a good feeling, but we knew we had to keep pushing, and we kept pushing until the end,” Slutzah said. “It didn’t end up going the way we wanted to, but we kept pushing.”

Despite the loss, Hanover quickly had to shake it off and get ready for the Crabbers on Friday.

“The loss hurt us, but we knew that we had to keep moving forward and try to focus on the next game, because we are still in it,” junior Hali Harris said.

Harris also said that as they move further into the postseason, the team needs to continue to be true to themselves and play their game.

Butler said that mentality is about having confidence and believing they are good.

“We know we’re tough, we know that we can run, we know that we can shoot, we know we can defend, we just have to go out there and put it all together,” he said.

“When you’re one of the last eight, there is no ifs, ands, or buts, you just to go out and do it.”

PHOTO BY JOEL KLEIN

scranton’s stephen Braunstein is in disbelief after being charged with a foul and turnover while randolph-Macon’s Will coble celebrates on the floor and his yellow Jacket teammates agree with the referee’s call.

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Calendar

From A10

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 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.

Please see CALENDAR, Page A18

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE HANOVER COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

Mechanicsville-ashland local

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NOTE:ObjectionstotheissuanceofthislicensemustbesubmittedtoABCnolaterthan 30daysfromthepublishingdateofthefirstof tworequirednewspaperlegalnotices.Objectionsshouldberegisteredatwww.abc.virginia .govor(800)552-3200.

PUBLICNOTICE

Notice is hereby given that the Hanover County Planning Commission hasset Thursday,March16,2023,at6:00 P.M., intheBoardRoom oftheHanoverCountyGovernmentBuildingatHanoverCourthouse, Hanover,Virginia,astheday,date,time,andplacefor apublichearing toconsiderthefollowingcases,atwhichpubliccommentswillbe accepted:

REZ2022-00034,DIANEC.ANDALPHEUSKAYKIRBY Request(s)to rezonefromA-1,AgriculturalDistrict,to AR-6(c),AgriculturalResidentialDistrictwithconditions,onGPIN 8726-98-0237,consistingofapproximately52.40acres,andlocated attheterminusof aproposed road,whichintersectswithWilliamsville Road(StateRoute615),approximately1,000feetnorthofits intersectionwithPineSlashRoad(private road)andwestoftheRainier EstatesSubdivision.ThesubjectpropertyisdesignatedontheGeneral LandUsePlanMapasAgricultural.Theproposedzoningamendment wouldpermitthecreationof asix(6)buildinglotsfor agrossdensityof one(1)dwellingunitper8.73acres.(PUBLICHEARING) Magisterial District:Henry

REZ2022-00026,GRANDMAMITCHELL’SPLACE,L.L.C. Request(s)anamendmenttotheconceptualplanandproffersapproved with rezoning requestREZ2020-00019,GrandmaMitchell’sPlace, L.L.C.,onGPINs7884-10-0166and7884-10-6499(part),consisting ofapproximately13.5acres,zonedM-2(c),LightIndustrialDistrict withconditions.Thepropertyislocatedonthesouthwestquadrant oftheintersectionof VerdonRoad(StateRoute684)and Washington Highway(U.S.Route1).Thesubjectpropertyisdesignatedonthe GeneralLandUsePlanMapasIndustrial.Theproposedzoning amendmentwouldallowforself-storagewarehousesandvehicle storage.(PUBLICHEARING) MagisterialDistrict:Beaverdam

Copiesoftheabovecasesmaybe reviewedinthePlanningOffice, MondaythroughFriday,betweenthehoursof8:30a.m.and 5:00p.m.pleasecontactthePlanningOfficeoryoumayalsogoto https://www.hanovercounty.gov/696/Planning-CommissionUpcoming-and-Archiveformoreinformation

PUBLICNOTICE

NoticeisherebygiventhattheHanoverCountyBoardofSupervisorshasset Wednesday, March22,2023at6:00 P.M., orassoonthereafterasthe Board’sconsiderationoftheadministrative agendapermits,intheBoardRoomoftheHanoverCountyGovernmentBuilding at HanoverCourthouse, Hanover,Virginia,astheday,date,time,andplacefor apublichearingtoconsiderthefollowingcases,atwhichpubliccommentswillbeaccepted:

SE2023-00003,ROPERGLOVERHOLDINGS,L.L.C.

Calendar

From A16

envisionhanover.com. you can also follow the process on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

Request(s) aSpecialException

PermitinaccordancewithSection26-335oftheHanoverCountyZoningOrdinancetopermit areductioninthe 200-footlotwidthrequirementtoallowa185-footlotwidth,locatedonGPIN8706-40-0363,consistingof approximately1.7acres,zonedR-1, Single-FamilyResidentialDistrict,andlocatedonthenorthlineofAtleeRoad(StateRoute638) approximately60feeteastofitsintersectionwith RollinsLane(StateRoute1252).(PUBLICHEARING) MagisterialDistrict:Chickahominy

SE2023-00002,JAMONTBRAY

Request(s) aSpecialException PermitinaccordancewithSection26-21.18oftheHanoverCountyZoningOrdinancetopermit acontractor’s equipmentstorage yardonGPIN8708-68-7842,consistingof approximately2.0acres,zonedA-1,AgriculturalDistrict,andlocatedon thenorthlineof PeaksRoad(StateRoute657) approximately1,275feetwestofHillcrestRoad(StateRoute649).(PUBLICHEARING) MagisterialDistrict:Beaverdam

CUP2022-00021,GWATHMEYBAPTISTCHURCH

Request(s)toamendthe approvedsketchplan approvedwithCUP-3-17,GwathmeyBaptistChurch,inaccordancewithSection26-20.21of theHanoverCountyZoningOrdinance,whichpermitted achurchonGPINs7779-52-5865and7779-52-5429,consistingof approximately 3.5acres,zonedA-1,AgriculturalDistrict,andlocatedonthenortheastquadrantoftheintersectionofCenterStreetRoad(StateRoute663)and GwathmeyChurchRoad(StateRoute707).ThesubjectpropertyisdesignatedontheGeneralLandUsePlanasSuburbanGeneral(1.5to 3dwelling unitsperacre).The proposedamendmentwouldallowfor achurchbuildingexpansion.(PUBLICHEARING) MagisterialDistrict:SouthAnna

CUP2022-00023,MEADOWBRIDGESDACHURCH

Request(s) aConditionalUse PermitinaccordancewithSection26-20.21oftheHanoverCountyZoningOrdinancetopermit achurchexpansion onGPIN8715-25-1826,consistingof approximately10.45acres,zonedA-1,AgriculturalDistrict,andlocatedonthenorthlineof PoleGreenRoad (StateRoute627) approximately575feeteastofitsintersectionwithAntiqueLane(StateRoute305).Thesubjectpropertyisdesignatedonthe GeneralLandUsePlanMapasMulti-Use.(PUBLICHEARING) MagisterialDistrict:Henry

REZ2022-00031,RICHARDANDANITAWARD

Request(s)torezonefromA-1,AgriculturalDistrict,toAR-6(c),AgriculturalResidentialDistrictwithconditionsonGPIN7830-11-3705,consistingof approximately8.44acres,andlocatedontheeastlineofSt. PetersChurchRoad(StateRoute611) approximately0.2milesnorthofitsintersection withAuburnMillRoad(StateRoute675).ThesubjectpropertyisdesignatedontheGeneralLandUsePlanMapasAgricultural.Theproposed zoning amendment would permit the creation of one (1) building lot for agross density of one (1) dwelling unit per 4.22 acres. (PUBLIC HEARING) MagisterialDistrict:SouthAnna

REZ2021-00013,WILLSON FAMILY, L.L.C.

Request(s)torezonefromA-1, Agricultural DistricttoRS(c),Single-FamilyResidentialDistrictwithconditions onGPINs 7768-32-5430,7768-31-1504 (part),and7767-39-7416(part),consistingof approximately161.1acres,andlocatedonthesouthlineofWinnsChurchRoad(StateRoute660) approximately1,500feetwestofitsintersectionwithGreenwoodRoad(StateRoute625).ThesubjectpropertyisdesignatedontheGeneralLand UsePlanMapasSuburbanGeneral(1.5to 3dwellingunitsperacre).Theproposedzoningamendmentwouldpermitthecreationof176building lotsfor agrossdensityof1.1dwellingunitsperacre.(PUBLICHEARING) MagisterialDistrict:SouthAnna

ORDINANCE22-07,ZONINGPERFORMANCEAGREEMENTSANDBONDING

AnOrdinancetoamendtheHanoverCountyCode,Chapter26,ZoningOrdinance,Sections26-68,26-78,and26-96,tomodifytherequirements intheRSSingle-FamilyResidentialDistrict,theRMMulti-FamilyResidentialDistrict,andtheMXMixedUseDistrictregardingthetimingofthe installationofstreettrees,pedestrianpaths,andsidewalkswithinthesezoningdistricts.(PUBLICHEARING)

CopiesoftheabovecasemaybereviewedinthePlanningOffice,Mondaythrough Friday,betweenthehoursof8:30a.m.and5:00p.m.,pleasecontact thePlanningOfficeoryoumayalsogotohttps://www.hanovercounty.gov/697/Board-of-Supervisors-Upcoming-and-Archivformoreinformation.

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-Police-academy 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.

Mechanicsville churches emergency Functions One stop shop (MceF Oss) is open for food, clothing and linens from 9:30 to 11 a.m. on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday and from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday at 7235 stonewall Parkway in Mechanicsville (rear parking lot). The shop is available for residents in the 23111 and 23116 zip codes with identification and proof of residency.

Walnut Grove Baptist church will be conducting Free a dult english c lasses (esL) and citizenship c lasses (P assing the Test) Wednesday mornings with open enrollment through May 17, 2023. classes will meet from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at 7046 cold harbor road, Mechanicsville, Va 23111. For more information, contact the church office at (804) 746-5081 or contact Frank at wgbcinfo@ comcast.net or (804) 402-7701. The classes are free but students are asked to purchase the books required for the class.

Please see CALENDAR, Page A21

PUBLICNOTICE

NoticeisherebygiventhattheHanoverCounty BoardofSupervisorshasset Wednesday, March22,2023, at 6:00 p.m.intheBoardRoomofthe HanoverCounty AdministrationBuilding,7516CountyComplexRoad, HanoverCourthouse,Hanover, Virginia, asthetime,date andplace forapublichearingconcerningthecreationof aTourismImprovementDistrict.

Allpersonsdesiringtobeheardonthe abovemay appear at the abovetimeandplace.Acopyofthe ResolutionofIntentiononthecreationof aTourism ImprovementDistrictinHanoverCountyis availablefor inspectionintheCountyAdministrator’sOffice,County AdministrationBuilding,duringthe regular business hoursof8:30a.m.-5:00 p.m.,Mondaythrough Friday.

CountyAdministrator/DeputyCounty Administrator

RESOLUTION

ARESOLUTIONOFTHEBOARDOFSUPERVISORS OFTHECOUNTYOFHANOVER(1)DECLARINGITS INTENTION TO FORM ATOURISMIMPROVEMENT DISTRICT(TID),(2)FIXINGTHETIMEANDPLACE OF APUBLICHEARING TO CONSIDERFORMATION OFTHEDISTRICT,AND(3) AUTHORIZING ADVERTISEMENTOFTHEPUBLICHEARING

WHEREAS, the TourismImprovementDistricts Law(TIDLaw),Codeof VirginiaTitle15.2,Chapter24, Article3,authorizestheCountyofHanover(County)to form tourismimprovementdistricts forthepurposesof providingspecificbenefitstopayors by fundingtourism promotionefforts forlodging businessespayingtheTID businessfee;and

WHEREAS, theRichmondMetropolitan Conventionand VisitorsBureau,dbaRichmondRegion Tourism(RRT),Hanoverlodging businesses,and representativesfromtheCountyhave mettoconsiderthe formationoftheTID;and

WHEREAS, RRTandHanoverlodging business ownershave drafted atourismimprovementdistrictplan (Plan) whichsets forththeproposedboundaryofthe TID,aserviceplanand budget, aproposedmeansof governance,andallotherelementsas required by §15.22413.2.oftheTIDLaw;and

WHEREAS, lodging businesses whowillpay morethan fiftypercent(50%)ofthe businessfeeproposed tobechargedundertheTIDhave petitionedtheBoardof Supervisorsto form theTID.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORSTHAT:

1.TheBoardofSupervisors findsthatlodging businessesthatwillpaymorethan fiftypercent(50%) ofthe businessfeeproposedinthePlanhave signedand submittedpetitionsinsupportofthe formationofthe TID.TheBoardofSupervisorsacceptsthepetitionsand adoptsthis ResolutionofIntentionto(a) form theTID and(b)levy abusinessfeeoncertainlodging businesses withintheTIDboundaries,inaccordancewiththeTID Law.

2.TheBoardofSupervisors findsthatthePlan satisfiesall requirementsoftheTIDLaw. ThePlanis includedhereinasExhibitA.

3.TheBoardofSupervisors declaresitsintention to(a) form theTIDand(b)levyandcollect businessfees fromalllodgingbusinesses,existingandinthefuture, with forty-one(41)ormorerooms,locatedwithinthe boundariesoftheCountypursuanttotheTIDLaw.

4.Thenameofthedistrictshallbethe Tourism ImprovementDistrict(TID).

5.Theannual businessfee rateistwopercent (2%)ofgrossshort-ter mroom rental revenue,tobepaid monthly.Feeswillnotbecollectedonstaysofmorethan thirty (30)consecutive days.Additionally, chargesmade directlyto, andpaiddirectlyby, thefederalgovernment, areexemptfromthefee.

6.The businessfeeslevied fortheTIDshallbe appliedtoward sales,marketing,promotions, andspecial eventsprogramstomarketpayinglodgingbusinesses inHanoverastourist,meeting,and eventdestinations, asdescribedinthePlan.Funds remaining at theendof anyyearmaybeusedinsubsequent yearsin whichTID businessfeesareleviedaslongastheyareusedconsistent withthe requirementsofthis ResolutionandthePlan.

7.TheTIDwill expireten(10) yearsafterits creationon July 1,2023, whicheverislater,unless terminatedearlieror renewedpursuanttotheTIDLaw.

8.BondsshallnotbeissuedaspartoftheTID.

9.Thetimeandplace forthepublichearingto form theTIDandthelevyof businessfeesisset for March22,2023, at 6:00PM,orassoonthereafterasthe mattermaybeheard, at theBoardRoomlocated at 7516 CountyComplexRoad,Hanover, VA 23069.TheCounty Administratorisdirectedtoprovidenoticeofthispublic hearingtothelodging businessessubjectto businessfee andtoothersas required by theTIDLaw.

10.Anybusiness owner whoistobechargeda feeunderthePlan whoobjectstothePlan must filean objectionwiththeCountyAdministratorwithin30days oftheconclusionofthepublichearingon(a) formsmade availablebytheCountyAdministrator,or(b)in amanner directed by theCountyAdministrator.

11.Noearlierthanthirty (30)daysafterthe publichearingdescribed above, theBoardshallmakea determination regardingthe formationoftheTID.If all findingsaremet in thepositive,asrequired by the TIDLawforTID formation,theBoardmay adoptan ordinanceestablishingtheTID.

12.ThecompletePlanison filewiththeCounty Administrator forpublicinspection.

13.IftheCountydeterminesthatitisinthepublic interestthatanadditionalplaceofinspectionisnecessary ordesirable,thecompletePlanmayalsobeinspectedin advanceofthehearing by contacting:

Richmond Regional Tourism 401 N. 3rdSt Richmond,Virginia23219 (800)370-9004

14.This Resolutionshalltakeeffectimmediately uponitsadoption by theBoardofSupervisors.

IHEREBYCERTIFY thatthe foregoing Resolution ofIntention wasintroducedandadopted at aregular meetingoftheBoardofSupervisorsonthe22nddayof February2023 by the following vote:

Vote:

W. CanovaPeterson –Chair Aye

Susan P. Dibble–Vice-Chair Aye

SeanM.Davis Aye

F. MichaelHerzberg,IV Aye

Angela Kelly-Wiecek Aye

J. RobertMonolo Aye

Faye O. PrichardAye

Dated: February22,2023

JohnA.Budesky CountyAdministrator /Clerk,HanoverCounty BoardofSupervisors

EMERGENCYPRECINCT RELOCATION

105BerkleyPrecinct

March28,2023SpecialElection

DuetotheconstructionattheJohnM.Gandy

ElementarySchoollocatedat201Archie CannonDr.Ashland, VA 23005, VotingPrecinct

105Berkleywillbe relocatedtotheAshland

FireStation#1locatedat501ArchieCannon Dr.,Ashland, VA 23005.

March28,2023SpecialElection

ONLYPrecincts101Ashland,105Berkley, 210OakHilland704Elmont

ImportantDatestoRemember

We arecurrentlyInPerson VotingandmailingAbsenteeballots. Youmay requestyourvotebymailballotorvisitthe VoterRegistrationandElections OfficeintheWickhamBuildingatHanoverCourthousefrom8:30a.m.-5p.m. Monday-Fridayinaddition, Saturday,March18th and Saturday,March 25th from9a.m.-5p.m.tocastanIn-personabsenteeballot.Curbside votingisavailableforhandicappedandvotersovertheageof65during earlyvotinghours.

Saturday,March25th isthelastdaytovoteanIn-personabsenteeballot.

Tuesday,March21st isthedeadlineto registerormakechangestoyour voter registrationintimefortheSpecialElection.Pleasecheckyourvoter registrationtomakesureitiscorrectbyvisitingwww.elections.virginia.gov/ citizen-portal/

Friday,March17th isthe finaldayyoucan requestanabsenteeballotby mail. Your requestmustbe receivedbyyourGeneralRegistrarby5:00p.m.

Monday,March27that 2p.m. isthecut-offforvotinganemergency-only absenteeballotinthe VoterRegistrationandElectionsOffice.

Tuesday,March28th ElectionDayONLYpollinglocations:101Ashland, 105Berkley,210OakHilland704Elmontwillbeopenfrom6:00a.m.until 7:00p.m.

Wednesday,March29that1:00p.m. theElectoralBoardwillholdthe canvassmeetingtoascertaintheelection resultsandtoruleonProvisional ballotscast. Friday,March31stat12:00p.m.(noon) thedeadlinetocure yourAbsenteeBallot.

PleasecontactbyvisitingtheHanoverCounty

VoterRegistrationandElectionsOfficelocated 7497CountyComplexRd,call(804)365-6080 ore-mailhanovervoting@hanovercounty.gov formoreclarification.

Friday,March31stat1:00p.m. theElectoralBoardwill reconvene. Youcan registertovote,updateyourinformationand requestanAbsentee Ballotonlineatwww.elections.virginia.gov/citizen-portal/ BALLOTDROPOFFSTATION

Isavailableuntil Tuesday,March28that7:00p.m.locatedattheWickham buildingoftheHanoverCountyGovernmentComplex and onElectionDay inthepollinglocations.

TheHanoverCounty VoterRegistrationandElectionsOfficeisinthe WickhamBuilding,Room119,oftheHanoverCountyGovernment Complex.Thephonenumberis(804)365-6080.

Thee-mailaddressishanovervoting@hanovercounty.gov

Power

From A8

That was partially due to the prominent nature of the Murdaugh family, who possessed a position as Low Country royalty with a history of public service. Both Alex’s father and grandfather had served as solicitor general for the district, and their descendant served in the same role as a volunteer assistant.

Yes, it’s a convoluted tale of greed, wealth and privilege in a state where politics are notoriously corrupt. It has cap-

Calendar

From A18

CLASSIFIEDS

tured the latest attention of court watchers probably still catching their breath after the Johnny Depp trial. Who knows what’s next.

But, for Alex Murdaugh, after six weeks of testimony, three documentaries, numerous television specials and hours of news coverage, the jury gave the final verdict, finding him guilty of the heinous crime of double murder. He has now been sentenced to consecutive life sentences without parole.

Even if he hadn’t been found guilty, Murdaugh still faced more than 90 financial

fraud charges and an insurance fraud case. Shortly after the murders of his family, he attempted to hire a man to shoot him so the surviving son would receive a huge death benefit.

It leaves the rest of us asking how could this type of corruption go on for years with no one noticing or maybe not even realizing the sleazy nature of the participants.

I have no answer for that convoluted question, but there’s no doubt the whole episode gives new meaning to the term low country.

ShortonCash?

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SATURDAYS

Trinity Lutheran c hurch, ashland campus, located at 11515 ashcake road in ashland 2 miles west of U.s. 1, holds its church service at 5 p.m. with Pastor rev. dr. roy

Minnix. Visit www.trinityrichmond. net or call 804-270-9626.

SUNDAYS

all souls episcopal church celebrates holy eucharist rite II at 9:15 a.m. at Messiah Lutheran church at 8154 atlee rd. in Mechanicsville. a nursery will be available for infants and toddlers. Katherine G. dougherty is the deacon in charge of all souls.

Visit www.allsoulsva.org. a healing and recovery ss class meets at 9 a.m. at the Walnut Grove Baptist church at 7046 cold harbor rd. in Mechanicsville. The class is for adults 18 and over and is an extension of the northstar community that also meets at 6 p.m. Fridays at

Please see CALENDAR, Page A23

TOWNOFASHLANDNOTICEOFPUBLICHEARING

Pleasetakenoticethatonthe21stdayofMarch,2023, at 6:30 p.m. at theAshland TownHall,121 ThompsonStreet,Ashland, VA,theAshland TownCouncilwillconductpublichearings forthe purposeof receivinginput,andmayprovide recommendationsonthe following:

CPA2022-06IRONHORSE BUSINESS PARK

Property owner,TradeportAshlandLandLLC, by letterof attorney,requests acomprehensive plan amendmenttothefuturelandusemaptochangethefuturelanduseclassificationsfromInterstate Commercial, TraditionalNeighborhood, TownEdge,andOpenSpacetoInterstateCommercial, Office/IndustrialandOpenSpace.Thepropertyiscommonlyknownas“EastAshland”andislocated alongthesouthernlineofEast PatrickHenry Road(State Route54), approximately700feet west ofitsintersectionwith WoodsideLane(GPINparcels7880-61-7681,7880-61-4768,7880-60-4701, 7880-61-6987,7880-72-0523,7880-60-1053,and7880-60-4343).Thepropertyincludes existing zoningofPlannedUnitDevelopment(PUD),PlanningShoppingCenter(PSC),Highway Commercial(B-2)and RuralResidential(RR-1).The existinguseofthepropertyissingle-family residential,farmland,andopenspace.

CopiesofCPA2022-06maybeobtained by contacting TownHall at (804)798-1073,Mondaythrough Thursday, 7:30a.m.to6:00 p.m. Writtencommentsmaybesubmittedtoplanning@ashlandva.gov ormailedto TownofAshland,POBox1600,Ashland, VA 23005.Allinterestedpersonsmayattend and expresstheirviews.Any personwith adisability requiringassistanceinordertoparticipatein thispublichearingisaskedtocontact TownHallinadvance,sothatappropriatearrangementscan bemade.

$1,800 per month

Allyouneedis adependablevehicleand avalidVirginiadriver’s license for consideration.

Signingbonusisfor alimitedtime,sodon’tmissout. Contact us NOW at Richmond.com/Carriers or (804)649-6872tolear nmore.

Business& ServiceDirectory

CNA -Igiveprofessional,dependable, qualitycare,etc.Formoreinformation &availablehours,call804-321-2024.

L&LCleaningServices-Wecreate FREETIMEforbusypeople! Recurringservice,deepcleans, movingcleans&one-timecleans Calltodaytoschedule! Bonded&Insured. AccreditedA+RatingBBB! 804-305-4068LLCleans.com

Announcements

Multifamilyindoor/outdooryardsale. Saturday,March18from8to12at 3534DavisMillRoad,Goochland23063. Teachingaids,furniture,records,baskets,dolls,books,householditems, collectibles,vintageitems,etc.

Pets &Animals

GermanShepherdPuppies -Females DOB12/2/2022,AKCRegistered. ChampionBloodLine,Multi-Vaccine, VetChecked,Hip &ElbowOFA,DM Clear.Beautiful &goodtemperment. Healthguaranteed.FamilyRaised. Call804-516-5155

Recruitment

MechanicsvilleBaptistChurchis seekingapart-timeofficeadministrator.15hoursperweek. Sendinquiries/resumestopersonnel@ mechanicsvillebaptist.org.

Comebe apartofourgrowingteam! L&MCarpetOneislookingtofillthe followingpositions:InstallerApprentice,OfficeAssistant,andAccountsReceivable(PartTime).VisitL&MCarpet One’sIndeedplatformtoapply.

NoticeisherebygiventhattheHanover CountyBoardofSupervisorshasset

Wednesday,March22,2023 inthe BoardRoomoftheHanoverCounty AdministrationBuildingatHanover Courthouse,7516CountyComplex Road,Hanover,Virginia,astheday,date, time,andplacefor aSpecialBudget Meeting,ifneeded,tobegin at2:00 P.M. followedby aRegularBoardMeetingto beginat6:00

PUBLICNOTICE

NoticeisherebygiventhattheAshland Town Councilhasset Tuesday, March21,2023, at6:30 p.m.inthe CouncilChambersofthe Ashland TownHall, 121ThompsonStreet, Ashland,Virginia,asthetime,dateandplace fora publichearingconcerningthecreationof aTourismImprovementDistrict.

Allpersonsdesiring to beheardontheabove mayappearattheabove timeandplace.A copy ofthe ResolutionofIntentiononthecreationof aTourismImprovementDistrictinthe Townof Ashlandis available forinspectionintheClerk of Council’sOffice,TownHallBuilding,during the regular businesshoursof7:30a.m. –6:00 p.m.,MondaythroughThursday.

PertheorderofAshland Town Council

DEPARTMENTOFHOMELANDSECURITY

FEDERALEMERGENCYMANAGEMENTAGENCY

ProposedFloodHazardDeterminationsforHanoverCounty,VirginiaandIncorporatedAreas TheDepartmentofHomelandSecurity’sFederalEmergencyManagementAgencyhasissueda preliminaryFloodInsuranceRateMap(FIRM),andwhereapplicable,FloodInsuranceStudy(FIS) report,reflectingproposedfloodhazarddeterminationswithinHanoverCounty,VirginiaandIncorporatedAreas.Thesefloodhazarddeterminationsmayincludetheadditionormodificationof BaseFloodElevations,baseflooddepths,SpecialFloodHazardAreaboundariesorzonedesignations,ortheregulatoryfloodway.TechnicalinformationorcommentsaresolicitedontheproposedfloodhazarddeterminationsshownonthepreliminaryFIRMand/orFISreportforHanover County,VirginiaandIncorporatedAreas.Thesefloodhazarddeterminationsarethebasisforthe floodplainmanagementmeasuresthatyourcommunityisrequiredtoeitheradoptorshowevidenceofbeingalreadyineffectinordertoqualifyorremainqualifiedforparticipationintheNationalFloodInsuranceProgram.However,beforethesedeterminationsareeffectiveforfloodplainmanagementpurposes,youwillbeprovidedanopportunitytoappealtheproposedinformation.Forinformationonthestatutory90-dayperiodprovidedforappeals,aswellas acompletelistingofthecommunitiesaffectedandthelocationswherecopiesoftheFIRMareavailableforreview,pleasevisitFEMA’swebsiteathttps://www.floodmaps.fema.gov/fhm/BFE_Status /bfe_main.asp,orcalltheFEMAMappingandInsuranceeXchange(FMIX)tollfreeat1-877-FEMA MAP(1-877-336-2627).

Mechanicsville

books, music and fun for toddlers ages 2-3 and their caregivers.

Libraries

Mother Goose storytime at the Mechanicsville Branch Library. Tuesdays, March 14, 21 and 28, 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 storytime at the Mechanicsville Branch Library. Tuesday, March 14, 21 and 28, 11 to 11:30 a.m. enjoy a stor ytime of

Pageant

From A12

to the kindergarten classes at Washington Henry Elementary School. She took photos with guests at Night to Shine RVA and attended the Christmas Under the Clocktower fundraising event.

The event will not only shine a spotlight on these amazing young women but will also serve as a fundraiser for Hanover Community Support Services. Hanover Community Support Services is a local nonprofit that provides general and

Halotherapy

From A9

the giveaway of five free salt sessions.

Relax, Release, Renew Salt Cave invites Hanover County and surrounding counties to an all-natural drug-free solution to respiratory wellness. As a leader in halotherapy, Relax, Release, Renew Salt Cave aims to educate, encourage and excite the community about halotherapy and its many benefits. Halotherapy benefits adults, children and animals. Although relatively new to the United States,

saturday Family storytime at the Mechanicsville Branch Library, saturday, March 18, 11 — 11:30am, enjoy a fun time with books, signing, rhymes, and much more! Family stor ytime is for children ages 0-5 and their caregivers.

ages 18 and up. Join us for a night of painting as we celebrate the start of spring! registration is required at https://pamunkeylibrary.libcal.com/event/9725858.

From 13 exercise your body and brain as you learn about hula dancing and culture at the library. Wear clothing you can dance in easily!

Building c hallenge at the Mechanicsville Branch Library saturday, March 18, 11:30 a.m. — 12:30 p.m. For ages 2-12. Join us for an afternoon of sTeM exploration as we offer multiple building supplies for your children to build whatever they can imagine!

Paint night at the Mechanicsville Branch Library, Tuesday, March 21, 6:30 — 7:30 p.m.,

respite support to Hanover County residents who have a developmental disability, substance use disorder or mental health issues. This year proceeds from the pageant will go toward continued relationships and funding opportunities with organizations such as the Hanover CSB, YoungLife Capernaum and Wings of Hope. Proceeds from the event will also be used to continue gifting scholarships to Hanover County seniors who plan to pursue a degree supporting individuals with mental health, substance use and/or developmental disabilities.

Ashley White, President of HCSS,

adult stor ytime at the Mechanicsville Branch Library, Friday, March 24, 10:45 — 11:45 a.m., ages 18 and up you’re never too old to listen to a good story. If you are, or are the caregiver of, an adult who would enjoy the lively reading of picture books and lighthearted stories, please join us for adult storytime!

submitted by carolyn Garner, adult public services coordinator.

said, “I am absolutely thrilled to add the Junior Miss Hanover Abilities age division to our event this year. One of the main goals of this event is to give as many girls with special needs as possible the opportunity to shine and the addition of the new age division builds on that mission.”

Tickets can be purchased at the door for $15 (general admission). A discounted rate of $10 is available for high school students and children. A link for online ticket sales is available on the Hanover Community Support Services website (www.hcss-inc. org) or on its Facebook page.

h anover c oun ty, Virginia. h e also will share information about ongoing efforts to conserve and digitize the county’s historical records.

Instant shakespeare: King Lear at the a shland Branch Library, s aturday, March 25, 1 — 5:30 p.m. Immerse yourself in s hakespeare! s pend a day reviewing, discussing, preparing for a dramatic reading of King Lear. end the day with the dramatic reading with props. scripts and props are provided. registration is required by Wednesday, March 22. a minimum of 8 participants will be necessary for the program. For more information and to request a role, contact Becki Jones, the shakespeare Lady, at theshakespearelady@hotmail.com. are There Monsters in Virginia? at the ashland Branch Library, Wednesday, March 29, 7 – 8 p.m. are there monsters in Virginia? d o Bigfoot, the Wampus c at and cr yptids exist? Why is norton, Virginia considered a sanctuary for Bigfoot? h ear stories about reported sightings of monsters in Virginia and Washington, d c . and decide for yourself if these monsters are real!

HANOVER BRANCH LIBRARY

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

halotherapy has been around since the 1800s in Europe. In the salt mines in Poland, miners who had frequent exposure to the salt noticed healing of their respiratory and skin ailments.

For general respiratory wellness, experts recommend a once or twice-a-week salt session to enhance lung capacity, boost the immune system, improve stamina and performance, reduce the likelihood of cramps and injury, reduce stress and aid better sleep. Most people who include halotherapy in their wellness routine find relief from a variety of respiratory conditions such as asthma, allergies, common

cold, bronchitis, COPD, cystic fibrosis, sinusitis, ear infections and a smoker’s cough. It is holistic and has no harmful side effects.

Relax, Release, Renew Salt Cave, a Black-owned and operated business in old town Mechanicsville, looks forward to assisting all in our community, county, and state in attaining optimal respiratory hygiene and overall wellness. In addition to halotherapy, it also offers ionic foot detox therapy. Customers are also able to purchase an array of salt scrubs, bath and body salt products, and salt lamps. The business is a member of the Salt Therapy Association.

at 17205 Sycamore Tavern Lane for more information.

Family st orytime at the Montpelier Branch Library. Thursday, March 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. dungeons & dragons at the Montpelier Branch Library, saturday, March 11, 10:30 a.m. — 12:30 p.m. For ages 13 and up. Join us to create an exciting story where you will go on bold adventurers and confront deadly perils. refreshments will be provided. registration required at https://pamunkeylibrary.libcal.com/event/9779431.

Mystery Book c lub at the Montpelier Branch Library, Monday, March 13, 6:30 — 7:30 p.m. ages 18 & up

Join us for a monthly discussion on our favorite mystery titles.

Montpelier Writer’s Group at the Montpelier Branch Library, Tuesday, March 14, 4 – 5 p.m. ready to share your love of words? Whether our stories are already published or locked away in a drawer, every writer can benefit from the support and encouragement of other writers. yo u don’t need a work-in-progress to begin! This monthly workshop is led by Valerie Forde-Galvin, Writer’s digest award winner and published author.

From A21

the church. The christian 12 steps and Biblical

wisdom are the basis of study and discussion to learn about God’s place in our lives. all are welcome. contact 804-746-5081 or contact craig simpson at craigwgbc@gmail.com.

group, meets from 6 to 7 p.m. in the lobby of the Pamunkey regional Jail at 7240 courtland Farm rd. in hanover. contact John shinholser, Mcshin president, at 804-249-1845. The website is http://www.mcshin.org.

Family stor ytime at the h anover Branch Library, Fridays, March 10, 24 and 31, 10:45 — 11:15 a.m. enjoy a fun time with books, signing, rhymes, and much more! Family stor ytime is for children ages 0-5 and their caregivers.

Kumihimo at the hanover Branch Library, Thursday, March 16, 4:30 — 5:30 p .m. a ges 12-18. Learn the Japanese braiding art of kumihimo. all materials provided to make one necklace. r egistr ation required at https://pamunkeylibrary.libcal. com/event/9745971. re freshments provided.

hanover Book club at the hanover Branch Library, Tuesday, March 21, noon – 1 p.m. do you like to read? Join our fun group to enjoy a good book and discuss it among peers. March’s title is “The alice network” by Kate Quinn. registration is required for the Zoom portion at https://pamunkeylibrary.libcal.com/event/10303353.

The meeting link will be sent to the email registered 1 day before the event occurs. If you don’t receive your reminder email, please contact the library.

LOIS WICKHAM JONES/ MONTPELIER BRANCH LIBRARY

Call 804-883-7116 or visit the library

Get a hobby: Linoblock Printing at the Montpelier Branch Library, Thursday, March 23, 6:30 — 7:30 p.m. need a new craft obsession? Try your hand at the ancient art of block printing. We’ll create original designs on paper using linoleum and ink. Beware: the tools are sharp! ages 18+

COCHRANE ROCKVILLE BRANCH LIBRARY

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

Family stor ytime at the cochrane r ock ville Branch Library. Friday, March 10, 24 and 31, 10:30 to 11 a.m. e njoy a fun time with books, singing, rhymes and more. Family storytime is for children ages 0-5 and their caregivers.

read 2 rover at the cochrane rockville Branch Library. Thursday, March 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. c all the rockville Branch at 804-749-3146 or visit the library for more information to register for this rewarding program!

submitted

by

carolyn Garner, adult public services coordinator.

Spring home improvement

Budget-friendly dining room renovation ideas

If the kitchen is the heart of the home, then the dining room may be akin to one of its arteries. The mood created in the kitchen spreads to the dining space where family and friends gather to eat and enjoy one another’s company.

Dining rooms can get lost in the home renovation shuffle, as many homeowners tend to focus on renovating kitchens and bathrooms instead. Homeowners do not have to invest a lot of money in renovations to give their dining spaces awe-inspiring makeovers. Here’s how to do so on a budget.

Lighten and brighten

Dining rooms were once very formal spaces. Dark woods, large pieces of furniture, over-the-top chandeliers, and other details could be found in many homes. But now that houses are being built with open floor plans, dining rooms can blend with other spaces, which have moved to lighter colored walls, flooring and furniture. A fresh coat of vibrant paint can work wonders and it doesn’t cost much. If you can’t remove a floor,

Items that end up being recycled

cover it with a brightly colored area rug.

Switch things up with slipcovers

Slipcovers can be changed each season to dramatically alter the look of a dining room for little investment. Slip covers also protect chairs and can be easily laundered after spills.

Add floating shelving

Floating shelves provide much-needed storage or display space without the need to invest in another piece of furniture. Depending on the shelving, they can work in modern design schemes or even farmhouse dining spaces.

Clear out the clutter

It might be time to say “so long” to that large curio cabinet and the knickknacks within it. Curio and china cabinets used to be de rigueur, but plenty of people now prefer more open and airy dining rooms. For those who want to keep the cabinet, try decluttering inside to only include the very best display pieces and see if the cabinet can be refinished with paint or a lightly colored stain.

Improve lighting

Make the chandelier the statement piece of the space. Go for a bold color or an innovative design. Then add accessories throughout the space that coordinate with the chandelier.

Many of today’s adults grew up recycling bottles, cans and paper products. That’s made it easy to take the benefits of recycling for granted. Recycle

Across America, a nonprofit organization dedicated to expediting environmental progress, notes that there’s much to learn about the many products that find their way into recycling bins and recycling centers every day.

Residents of the United States discard 2.5 million plastic bottles every hour. Recycling just one ton of plastic bottles saves the same amount of energy as a single two-person household consumes in an

Add bench seating

Those who need additional seating may not have to get entirely new furniture. Swap out some chairs for benches, which can fit a couple more guests than chairs.

Create depth with color

HGTV says that using various shades of the same color in a space can add depth. Coordinate drapes, walls, seat fabrics, and accessories for a cohesive design.

entire year. Despite that, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that only around three million tons of plastics were recycled in 2018.

Recycle Across America notes that every three months enough aluminum is deposited in landfills to build the entire commercial air fleet of the United States.

Recycling a single aluminum can saves enough energy to power a television for three hours.

According to Recycle Across America, the amount of office paper discarded each year in the United States is enough to build a 12-foot-high wall

Renovating a dining room doesn’t require a large investment of time and money. A few simple steps can give dining spaces a whole new feel without busting homeowners’ budgets. -Metro Creative

from Seattle to New York. Recycling paper is highly effective, as more than 37 percent of the fiber used to make new paper products in the United States comes from recycled sources.

The Empire State Building in midtown Manhattan is one of the tallest buildings in the United States. Two Empire State Buildings could be filled every three weeks with the glass bottles and jars that end up in American landfills every year.

-Metro Creative

Metro Creative Connection

Make the chandelier the statement piece of the space