The Mechanicsville-Ashland Local – 06/07/2023

GOOD BOY

title 17

Ashland wants more people to stay the night

RACHEL KESTER

Richmond Suburban Newspapers

The self-proclaimed Center of the Universe is looking to make itself an even more sought-after destination, thanks to a recently passed plan that promises to raise the city’s profile and attract more tourists to Ashland.

The Ashland Town Council in May approved a Tourism Improvement District Plan proposed by Richmond Regional Tourism that looks to boost overnight stays in surrounding counties. The program calls for participants to pay an annual 2% assessment fee and in return receive assistance with sales and marketing programs, such as print and internet advertising, visitor services and sales lead generation.

Officials estimate the TID will generate $8.2 million annually, with about $235,000 coming from Ashland hotels. To qualify, lodging must be within the participating jurisdiction and have at least 41 rooms.

County residents enjoy firstever Hanover Night at the Diamond

Hanover baseball puts it together at the right time, claims

PHOTO BY ASH DANIEL

A BERRY

INDEED This sweet pup had a paw-fectly wonderful time at the annual Ashland Strawberry Faire last Saturday, and even walked away with a first-place win in the costume contest. For more photos from the festival, see page 14.

RECENT PROPERTY TRANSFERS

1 27 acres; s teve Wylie to Robin Talbert, $200,000

7973 Bear Grass Lane, Mechanicsville; Laura a� Todd, trustee to Kelly Blair Krukiel, $335,000

Block a , s ection a , d ominion Park; Kid Care LC to n est schools Inc , $1,200,000

8971 Buffin Road, Henrico; equity Trustees LLC to Miles Tyson Christian, $176,900�

7380 Chestnut Church Road, Mechanicsville; Morse Code LLC to edward L � Watts, $385,000�

7501 Crossbill Court, Mechanicsville; W�V� McClure Inc � to anthony Giambanco, $506,618�

13224 depot Road, Hanover; s ean M � Hamon to Joseph C � andrews, $460,000�

7109 e dgewood Road, Mechanicsville; a shley e� McKercher to Imran a li n asir, $325,000�

14821 Gilman’s Cross Court, Glen a llen; a ngelique M � Byrd to Paul V Fryling, $759,999

15218 Greenwood Church Road, Montpelier; Conde schwartz, executor to Thomas e� stanley Trust, $272,500

9214 Halifax Green drive, Mechanicsville; nVR Inc to david erhard austin Jr , $543,685

7015 Hanna drive, Mechanicsville; Walter L Harvie to Paul Franklin Garton, $290,000

9170 Ivy s prings Place, Mechanicsville; Mark s prowl to Taylor Reid Ramey, $475,000

6326 Kristy s tar Lane, Mechanicsville; Cathy e� Thomas to Martin C Jacques, $245,000

10524 Little Meadow Lane, Glen a len; Boone Homes Inc to Jill Marie Kennedy, $693,057

Lot 2, Villages of Beaverdam Park; Chris Jefferson, trustee to Will Henry smith, $185,000

Lot 4, Highland Meadow; donald e� Trumble Jr� to Jeremy Todd Walden, $175,900�

Lot a , Bell Creek Park, 1 � 5 acres; 8300 Bell Creek LLC to sPX Realty LLC, $3,169,000�

8165 s Mayfield Lane, Mechanicsville; Jessie n icole Osborn to Jeannie Carol d avis, $344,000

11435 n ew Farrington Court, Glen a llen; e lizabeth Grant Comly Carron, successor trustee to Michael Fennessey, $466,000

6030 n orthfall Creek Parkway, Mechanicsville; d orne R � yager to Ira Bellew, $464,000�

9942 Orchard Meadow Road, Mechanicsville; adam G� Packett to William L � Clatterbuck, $540,000�

Parcel; Janet M � Hall to JaHaP LLC, $200,000�

11410 Parsons Chapel Road, Glen allen; Todd B� Winston to alan d� ellis, $480,000�

9466 Pleasant Level Road, Mechanicsville; HHHunt Homes

LC to e rik s cott Peterson, $605,294�

9330 Ravensworth Court, Mechanicsville; Mary Conway Bowman to Michael L Mitchell, $350,000

11265 Rocky Ridge Road, Glen allen; Ronald L Hedlund to david strother, $630,000

8171 saint emilion Court, Mechanicsville; nK Homes LLC to Jin Li Chen, $344,950

7421 stuart drive, Mechanicsville; Tonya d� Witherow to John W smith II, $235,000

18420 Taylors Creek Road, Montpelier; William s� Morgan to Christian B Marchetti, $295,000

18 Trotter Mill Close, ashland; Richard a� Houghton III to Joan McGarry, $215,000 unit 304, Phase 1, stony Run Condominium; stony Run Partners LLC to O dale Breedlove sr , $249,950

9092 Westone Road, Mechanicsville; Midatlantic Builders LLC to Jeremy Calhoun, $380,000�

7312 Windermere d rive, Mechanicsville; d avid F� Mehaffey to Courtney M � Lutton, $395,000�

Hanover Night a home run for local Rotary Club

RYAN Editor

Spending time with your friends and neighbors is always nice. But how about taking in a baseball game with 7,800 of them?

That’s exactly what Hanover residents had the opportunity to do last Thursday during the inaugural Hanover at the Diamond Night with the Richmond Flying Squirrels.

Organized by the Mechanicsville Rotary Club, the event drew thousands for an evening of fellowship, fundraising, fireworks and, of course, baseball. By the end of the evening, the club had raised around $85,000 for several local organizations, including the Hanover Safe Place, the Hanover Education Foundation and the Rotary Club Foundation. They also managed, according to Mechanicsville Rotary Club member Phil Englander, to have a very, very good time.

“It’s great when you’re walking around a baseball game and you keep running into your neighbors,” said Englander, calling it “an amazing display of togetherness.”

The event was a departure from the club’s traditional Casino Night fundraiser, and an effort to find a way to include families in the fun.

It was also an opportunity to honor a number of local first responders, including Dennis Edwards, Hanover officer of the year.

When the time came to touch off the fire-

works display that punctuated the evening, Hanover Fire Chief Jethro Piland was tapped to do the honors.

Rotarian Aaron Pierce, who spearheaded the planning of the event, said the idea for Hanover Night came about when the club began thinking of ways to get as many people involved as possible in celebrating the county.

“We wanted to engage all of Hanover and have it benefit as many people as possible,” Pierce said. “And we really wanted to celebrate what is so special about Hanover.”

To Englander, who moved from California to Hanover three years ago, a large part of Hanover’s charm comes down to its people.

“I feel more of a sense of community in Hanover than any place I’ve ever lived,” he said.

Planning is now underway for next year’s event, though Pierce pointed out that those who didn’t attend Hanover Night this year can still contribute to their favorite local organizations. Anyone wishing to donate can text the word “tomato” to 53555 and a link will direct them to the donation site.

The Mechanicsville Rotary, which has been active in Hanover for more than 30 years, meets every Wednesday at 7:30 a.m. at the Cold Harbor Restaurant (8153 Mechanicsville Turnpike). For more information on the club’s activities, including Hanover Night at the Diamond 2024, visit the club’s website at www.mechanicsvillerotary.org.

Shady Grove United Women in Faith release new cookbook.

ROSLYN

PHOTO BY ASH DANIEL

Hanover Officer of the year dennis edwards roots for the Richmond Flying squirrels with his wife, donna�

Martha Miller, Ashland’s community engagement manager, says it’s best to create a threshold that shields smaller properties. “Those are the least likely to be impacted by traditional marketing and group sales done by RRT,” she says.

At least 51% of hotels in the jurisdiction needed to support the plan before it could be petitioned to the Council. In Ashland, 88% of hotel operators supported it. The plan officially takes effect July 1. It will run 10 years before re-approval is required.

While the TID is designed solely for larger lodging properties, the money generated from fees will be used to assist this train-centric community in various ways.

“Those revenues directly enhance the quality of life for our residents and businesses by enabling the town

to continue providing … high-quality services, such as public safety, sidewalks and parks,” Miller says.

Council Member Kathy Abbott says the goal is to attract as many people as possible to Ashland. “We basically survive as a town on local revenue, so the goal is to bring more people here to stay at hotels,” she says. “It’s not only great economically, [it’s also great] for folks to discover what Ashland offers.”

One local business that looks forward to a potential boost is the Ashland Theatre. The non-profit has been a community sta-

ple since its reopening in 2018. The theatre not only shows a variety of films, but hosts events like book signings, concerts and familyfriendly options like Toddler Takeover. The new plan could help increase tourist awareness of the theatre and its unique offerings, especially during the holidays.

“Because we’re a train town, during the holidays we run several Polar Express showings,” says Courtney Caldwell, general manager. “A lot of people take the train from Downtown Richmond to Ashland to come watch it. It’s a really cute event.”

Author Tara McClar y Reeves

To speak at Shalom Baptist Church

Sunday, June 11, 2023 at 12:30 p.m.

On Sunday, June 11th, at 12:30 p.m. you are cordially invited to come and hear Tara McClar y Reeves, co-author of the devotional book, The Chosen for Kids. This event is free, and lunch will be provided. Please RSVP by June 8, by calling the church office at 804.746.7737.

Shalom Baptist Church is located at: 8116 Walnut Grove Rd. Mechanicsville, VA 23111 Office: 804.846.7737

At least 51% of hotels in the jurisdiction needed to support the plan before it could be petitioned to the Council. In Ashland, 88% of hotel operators supported it. The plan officially takes effect July 1. It will run 10 years before re-approval is required.

SATURDAY, JUNE 10

Mechanicsville Baptist Church is hold a workshop, engaging Brain Change, understanding dementia from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at 8016 atlee Road in Mechanicsville. This impactful learning event will be held in the Family Life Center behind the main church building. Become “dementia aware” and gain better understanding of brain changes that occur with alzheimer’s and other dementia related diseases. Light refreshments will be provided by dowda senior Consultants. signup was due at office@mechanicsvillebaptist.org or 804-746-7253 by

Wednesday, May 31 with your name, phone number and the number of people planning to attend.

a summer art show at Woodside Farms will be held from from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for our Chickahominy Falls Open House Market day and art show located at 10447 Woodside Farms drive in Glen allen. Tour model homes and 5-star, award-winning clubhouse. explore miles of walking trails and shop at the Woodside Market for locally sourced, market-fresh offerings, as well as delicious seasonal produce. Listen to live music and browse the unique creations available for sale by our local vendors.

The Chickahominy Falls art Guild is showcasing a beautiful collection of paintings, jewelry, photography, quilts, pottery, metalwork, and hand-blown glass. saturdays have never been more inspired at Chickahominy Falls, where creativity is always homegrown. for more information email: info@woodsidefarms.net

shalom Baptist Church Children’s Ministry will hald a ‘Touch a Truck’ event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 8116 Walnut Grove Road in Mechanicsville. Touch-a-Truck is a handson learning experience for children to explore a variety of large trucks, first responder vehicles,

Career and Technical Education

Summer Academy

5-day teen summer camp

Chickahominy Tribal Center

July 17 to 21, 2023

construction vehicles and much more. Children will be able to get behind the wheel of their favorite vehicles, honk the horns, work the lights and sirens and meet the professionals who build, protect and serve our community. Martial arts World of Glen allen will be on onsite to perform. Lazy Cow Ice Cream will also be on site with ice cream treats available to purchase.

SUNDAY, JUNE 11

author Tara McClary-Reves, coauthor of the devotional book, “The Chosen for Kids” will speak at 12:30 p.m. at shalom Baptist Church, 8116 Walnut Grove Road in Mechanicsville. you are invited to come and hear her talk. The event is free and lunch will be provided. Please RsVP by June 4, by calling the church office at 804-746-7737.

TUESDAY, JUNE 13

Mechanicsville aaRP Chapter 5407 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Richmond east Moose Lodge 147’s pavilion, 7167 Flag Lane in Mechanicsville. The rain date is June 20, 2023.

SATURDAY, JUNE 17

Hanover County Va naaCP Juneteenth Celebration will be held from noon to 5 p.m. at Pole Green Park, 8996 Pole Green Road in Mechanicsville. Fun activities are Car show with old cars, trucks. Bikes, corvettes & others. 3 on 3 Basketball Tournament for Kids & adults. Corn Hole Tournament for kids & adults. e mail hanovernaacp2@ gmail.com to participate. Honoring Hanover;s unsung hereos, Mr. Hosea Fox — Hanover’s Promoter, Mr. spencer Curtis — Hanover ‘s Black Volunteer Fire Leader from Coatesville, Brook s Brothers- 6 Hanoverian Veteran brothers, Jock Jones- 1st Hanoverian drafted into the nFL, The 8 students who integrated Patrick Henry & the former Lee-davis High school, now Mechanicsville High shool. Musical guests will be on stage. Vendor spots available to for profits (we reserve the right to deny permission if products don’t reflect our values & mission) email hanovemaacp2@ gmail.com for more information.

SATURDAY, JUNE 24

The Parsons’ Cause Foundation, Inc. will present Freedom’s apostles: The Trial of the spotsylvania Baptists. all performances begin at 10 a.m. at 13182 Hanover Courthouse Road in Hanover. It is the first

of the summer 2023 program of free performances at the Historic Hanover Courthouse. For more information visit parsonscause.org.

ONGOING

a re you the parent of a child with Type 1 diabetes? Parenting a teen with Type 1 diabetes in Hanover. We all understand how demanding this life is. Which is one of the reasons Tara Gray is setting up a meet and greet and a group for have monthly meetings. Please send an email to grays708@yahoo. com with your name and information if you would like to join.

If you think you may have a drinking problem, aa can help. Visit aarichmond.org for meeting info in Hanover County and other areas or call the 24 hour hotline: 804-355-1212.

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.

Hanover County is working with residents, businesses, landowners and other community members to update its Comprehensive Plan. Called “envision Hanover,” the plan is the county’s 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. 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 July 26. The current schedule calls for the Planning Commission to hold a public hearing on the proposed update in august, with the board’s public hearing to take

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

SATURDAYS

Trinity Lutheran Church, ashland Campus, located at 11515 ashcake Road in ashland 2 miles west of u.s. 1, holds its church service at 5 p.m. with Pastor Rev. dr. Roy Minnix. Visit www.trinityrichmond. net or call 804-270-9626.

SUNDAYS

all souls episcopal Church celebrates Holy eucharist Rite II at 9:15 a.m. at Messiah Lutheran Church at 8154 atlee Rd. in Mechanicsville. a nursery will be available for infants and toddlers. Katherine G. dougherty is the deacon in charge of all souls. Visit www. allsoulsva.org.

a Healing and Recovery ss Class meets at 9 a.m. at the Walnut Grove Baptist Church at 7046 Cold Harbor Rd. in Mechanicsville. The class is for adults 18 and over and is an extension of the northstar community that also meets at 6 p.m. Fridays at the church. The Christian 12 steps and Biblical wisdom are the basis of study and discussion to learn about God’s place in our lives. all are welcome. Contact 804746-5081 or contact Craig simpson at craigwgbc@gmail.com.

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

MONDAYS

a Grief support Group through Griefshare will be starting on Monday, May 1, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Meadowbridge sda Church, 7400 antique Lane, Mechanicsville, Va 23116. This is a 13-week session cycle and you are welcome to begin attending at any point in the cycle. The group will provide help and encouragement to those mourning the death of a spouse, child, family member or friend. Let us help you on your journey from mourning to Joy! There is a registration fee of $25 to help cover the cost of the workbook, which is paid at the church (you can pay in increments if need be so don’t let that stop you from coming).

This camp is about real world problem solving and creating solutions for you and your community.

belong here.

CodeVA partners with schools, parents, and communities to bring computer science education opportunities to all of Virginia’s students.

This program is funded through a US Department of Education NACTEP grant awarded to the Virginia Tribal Education Consortium. Find out more at vtecinc.org

Summer sales are under way and homes are st ill selling for even more t han t hey were last year! But we st ill need more houses to pop up! If t here’s a seedling t hought of selling or buying and you have quest ions ions about where t he market is heading in our area, cont act me today for local guidance you can t rust . My team and I have collect ively sold well over 550+ homes in Hanover Count y alone (we also sell in 60+ ot her zipcodes t hroughout Richmond Met ro) and would love t he chance to earn your business. Call or tex t any t ime.

Cyndi Wyatt Blake 804-357-6848

cyndib@htrsi.com

Todd Rogers 804-569-1534

ToddR@HTRSI.com

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Donald Rozell 804-305-0894 DonaldR@HTRSI.com

Jason Collier 804-912-3515

David “Berb” Berberich 804-514-3135 icalledberb@gmail.com

Build on Your Lot or Our s, David “Berb” Berberich icalledberb @gmail.com

The

Search for perfect watermelon becomes labor of love

JIM RIDOLPHI Contributing Columnist

It seems I spend every spring in an elusive search for that perfect slice of watermelon that explodes with juiciness and flavor, and lately it’s been more and more difficult to find. It’s not that there isn’t an abundant amount of the traditional summer treat around, but finding that flavor I remember as a child seems more impossible with each passing year.

I am an Alabama native and a love for watermelon runs deep in my roots. My mother attributes my insatiable appetite to her incessant need to eat watermelon during her pregnancy. I was an

August baby, and anyone who has ever been in Montgomery in the depths of summer can appreciate that ice cold watermelon offered the best and quickest relief.

And watermelons were plentiful, sold along the streets of Montgomery at roadside markets and stands, or available from the back of a pickup truck from a nearby farmer who had just harvested a crop. For 25 cents, you could pick up the biggest one in the lot, or opt for that smaller one sure to contain an amped-up dose of flavor.

It was a way of life in the Deep South, and many family gatherings ended with huge slices of watermelon being passed to everyone. The

kids always lined up near my grandfather, who passed out pieces so large two hands were required to handle it.

I also learned early that the best watermelons are not found in grocery stores. My father thought nothing of pulling over a tractor trailer full of watermelons and negotiating for a couple of the freshest fruits. He was never too busy to stop at a roadside stand or visit the most remote places to get a good watermelon.

Later in my life, my dedication to watermelon didn’t decline with age. I would often drive to Shockoe Bottom to search for trucks parked along the side streets full of fresh melons.

Those selections never disappointed, but the trucks eventually

disappeared.

At some point, I surrendered and began purchasing watermelons at local supermarkets, often opting for the lowest-priced offerings. With each passing year, that remembered blast of flavor became more difficult to find.

A friend explained to me that grocery store fruit is actually less favorable than it used to be due to overbreeding and fruit being produced with longer shelf lives and perfect appearances.

I thought back to the days when fresh strawberries were only available for a few weeks in late spring and peaches were a brief latesummer treat. Both are now available virtually year round.

He also reminded me that as individuals age, taste buds become less nimble and reactions not as vibrant as they once were.

But, there is good news for those engaged in this search for old time goodness in fruit and vegetable.

That elusive experience is still available at local farm markets or local roadside fruit stands. And on those less-traveled highways, you may even be lucky enough to find a small display where the folks selling the fruit actually are responsible for growing it.

So, find yourself a nice plump melon, chill it down and enjoy a blast from the past that explodes with each bite. It’s a great way to begin summer.

Minister's tale was best story I almost missed out on

JACK AGNEW Contributing Writer

When I was really young in Christ, I was led to witness to a really short gentleman. I had never seen him before, and I told God, “I’m wasting my time, Sir. He’s a Baptist deacon. I can tell there’s just peace all around this guy.” And he was—he was a Baptist deacon.

He said, “Yes, I do love Jesus, but let me tell you my story. I grew up in the coal fields of West Virginia, up in the mountains. I went underground when I was 12 years old. I’m obviously short, so I fit great in those 30 inch coal seams. I was hard as a rock and mean as a snake. I had made up my mind that nobody was ever going to call me ‘Shorty’. When I met a new person, I would smack them in the face. I was bent on proving that I was

a man, and I had the worst case of little man’s disease I’ve ever seen in my life. My wife and I lived up in the holler, and I told her, ‘Don’t you tell my children any of that religious mess. Keep them out of church, and don’t give my money to any preacher.’ She loved me, she wouldn’t do it.

“I had a 6-year-old son who contracted spinal meningitis (this was back before treatments were available). Saturday night I was going out to get drunk, fight, cheat on my wife, and whatever else came up, but the doctor grabbed me by the elbow and said, ‘Your son’s not going to make it until Monday. You need to stay here this weekend.’ So I did. We were all gathered around his bed, waiting for the end. He’d been in a coma for three days, and I know for a fact he’d never heard

the name of Jesus, except from me as a swear word. He’d never been to church or school, he’d just grown up there in the cabin with me and my wife. For three days he hadn’t moved or opened his eyes, but about 11 that night, he sat bolt upright in bed, with the most beautiful smile on his face you can imagine. Staring straight ahead at Someone, he said, ‘Praise the name of the Son of God, Jesus Christ.’ Then he laid down and died.

“You would have thought that after that I would have been in church the next morning, it was Sunday. I didn’t. I got drunk that night. I stayed drunk for three years. I tried to keep that memory away, because in my mind, I had to fight my way into respectability to make people honor and respect me. I couldn’t become a

Christian and be a choir boy, because I was short, they wouldn’t respect me. It took me three years to wear myself down, and finally one Sunday morning, after three more years of fighting and drinking and cheating on my wife—”

Then he paused and told me, “Brother, now, you’ve got to forgive me, cuz you remember now, I’m still a pagan.”

I said, “Man, I haven’t breathed in five minutes, just keep talking!”

He continued, “I broke open the doors to a little Baptist church, and I strode down the aisle like a cock rooster, and said, ‘Pastor, stop the services right now! I’ve got to get saved, I can’t stand it anymore!’”

I met his whole family later on. All the grandchildren were Christians, they looked like the Sunday School

WE WANT TO PUBLISH YOUR ISSUE-DRIVEN LETTERS

walking to church. All of them were carrying Bibles, and had slicked-back hair, and clean as they could be. The coal miner’s wife and daughters had gotten saved, and his son-in-law was a Baptist preacher. The whole family was saved from the witness of that little six-year-old boy. I believe in death-bed conversions, to the bottom of my heart. I know Jesus went into that cabin, and saved that little boy. One side-note to this story, I never would have heard it if I hadn’t been obedient and witnessed to that gentleman. I could beg the church to get properly militant, and start witnessing and telling people about Jesus, because we’ve got the greatest gift the world has ever seen. There’s not a king’s ransom or a throne or a palace that can match the gift of eternal life with Christ.

Publisher Joy Monopoli

Editor Roslyn Ryan

Sports Editor Robby Fletcher rfletcher@powhatantoday.com

Production Manager denine d’angelo ddangelo@mechlocal.com

The Local welcomes your signed letters to the editor on topics of interest to Mechanicsville and Hanover residents. Letters must include your address and a daytime telephone number. We reserve the right to edit letters. We do not guarantee that every letter received will be published. Letters reflect the opinions and positions of the writers and not The Mechanicsville-ashland Local.

send letters to: The Mechanicsville-ashland Local 8460 Times-dispatch Blvd. Mechanicsville, Va. 23116

editor@mechlocal.com

by contacting events@mechlocal.com.

The Cold Harbor Ruritan Club would like to express our appreciation to the Mechanicsville community and our volunteer workforce from Hanover Adult Center, Arc of Hanover, and club friends for a successful 2023 event.

Thank you Sponsors for your continued support!

Traffic crashes claim 9 lives across state over holiday weekend

According to a release issued last week by the Virginia State Police, the 2023 Memorial Day weekend proved deadly for nine drivers and passengers, with four motorcyclists included in that total.

The holiday statistical counting period began Friday, May 26, at 12:01 a.m. and concluded at midnight on Monday, May 29. The Virginia State Police not only participated in the nationwide, state-sponsored Operation Crash Awareness Reduction Effort (C.A.R.E.) during the Memorial Day weekend, but also the annual Click It or Ticket seat

belt education and enforcement campaign.

During the designated statistical counting period, Virginia Troopers cited 771 seat belt violations and 136 child restraint violations.

“We are in the midst of schools letting out and summer travel plans being made,” said Colonel Gary T. Settle, Virginia State Police Superintendent. “If this past Memorial Day weekend is any indication of what Virginia’s highways may look like during the coming summer months, then we desperately need drivers and passengers to make a com -

mitted effort to buckle up everyone in a vehicle, share the road responsibly with motorcycles, and drive distraction free. Responsible, safe, and sober driving saves lives. It is really that simple.”

Participation in the four-day Operation C.A.R.E. required all available Virginia State Police patrolling the highways to reduce traffic crashes, fatalities and injuries due to impaired driving, speed and failing to wear a seat belt.

Over the course of the effort, Virginia Troopers cited 4,990 speeders and 1,924 reckless

drivers, and arrested 89 impaired drivers. In addition, 169 felony arrests were made. Virginia State Police also assisted 1,447 disabled motorists. Virginia State Police investigated a total 1,846 traffic crashes statewide and inspected 634 commercial vehicles during the holiday weekend.

The seven fatal crashes occurred in the City of Richmond, and Henry, Loudoun, Orange and Shenandoah counties. Both Henry and Loudoun had two fatal crashes occur in their jurisdictions.

Two of the four fatal motor-

cycle crashes occurred in Loudoun County; the other two took place in Shenandoah County and the City of Richmond.

During the 2022 Memorial Day Operation C.A.R.E. initiative, 16 individuals lost their lives in traffic crashes on Virginia roadways.

Funds generated from summonses issued by Virginia State Police go directly to court fees and the state’s Literary Fund, which benefits public school construction, technology funding and teacher retirement.

s ubmitted by the Virginia s tate Police

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

Caravati’s Architectural Salvage to receive historic preservation award

COMMUNITY REPORT

Downtown Ashland Association and the Ashland Museum have announced that Caravati’s Architectural Salvage will be presented the Art McKinney Historic Preservation Stewardship Award during a brief ceremony and reception on Wednesday, June 21, at 5:30 p.m. The public is encouraged to attend. Following the presentation, guests are invited to an Ashland Museum History Talk presented inside the showroom by co-owner Jimmy Kastelberg about the Caravati’s family business’s 82-yearlong history in Richmond and its two-year anniversary in

downtown Ashland. The Art McKinney Historic Preservation Stewardship Award is a joint initiative of the Ashland Museum and Downtown Ashland Association. It honors business and property owners stewarding historic structures by rehabilitating them for continued commercial use. It is named for Art McKinney, who purchased the former D.B. Cox Department Store and restored it to host McKinney & Company and the Iron Horse Restaurant at 100 S. Railroad Ave. The award was named to recognize McKinney’s leadership in the community, following his passing in

Do you have a news tip, story idea or photo to submit?

E-mail events@mechlocal.com

2016. Fellow downtown Ashland businesses Jake’s Place Restaurant & Market, Sweet Frog, and Ashland Theatre are previous recipients of the Art McKinney Historic Preservation Stewardship Award.

Caravati’s Architectural Salvage’s historic 201 England Street location was first home to the Rawlings Motor Company in 1921. The original building burned in 1931 and was rebuilt. Following renovations, the current brick building was completed in 1937 by Burley Pollard Loving and eventually renamed Loving Motor Company. Nearly a century later, in 2021, the building was again renovated by the Loving family in preparation for Caravati’s Architectural Salvage to move their business to Ashland, reimagining the historic storefront.

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BRAY, Donald W.

BRAY, Donald W., 80, of Mechanicsville, went to be with our Lord Wednesday, May 31, 2023. He was preceded in death by his son, Donald W. Bray Jr.; and is survived by his wife of 47 years, Rebecca Doggett Bray; sister-in-law, Fredericka Pendergraph; as well as many nieces and nephews. Don grew up in Halifax Co., Va. and after serving in the U.S. Army, came to Richmond to complete his education at VCU, graduating in 1971 and a proud brother in Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity. Don loved working in sales. He was a golf industry sales rep for four golf companies, a real estate sales and development partner, and sole proprietor of “Don Bray Floors” in Ashland, Va. for over 18 years. The family will receive friends from 10:15 to 11 a.m., with services beginning at 11 a.m. on Friday, June 9, 2023, at the Mechanicsville Chapel of the Bennett Funeral Home. A memorial celebration immediately following the service will take place at Burkwood Swim & Racquet Club, 9120 Burkwood Club Dr., Mechanicsville, Va. 23116, until 2 p.m. Interment will be private following the memorial celebration. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Mechanicsville Baptist Church, 8016 Atlee Rd., Mechanicsville, Va. 23111 and/or Emmaus Baptist Church, 6700 Emmaus Church Rd. Providence Forge, Va. 23140.

MICHAEL, Joyce Thurston

MICHAEL, Joyce Thurston, 87, of Mechanicsville, went to be with her Lord on May 26, 2023. She was preceded in death by her first husband of 42 years, Linwood Carlyle Thurston Sr.; husband of 15 years, Donald “Pete” Garland Michael; son, Linwood Carlyle Thurston Jr.. She is survived by her children, Cindy Bevan (Joe) and Calvin Thurston (Susan); three grandchildren, Jesse (Corinne), Justin (Morgan), Andrew; four great-grandchildren, Claire, Hannah, Oliver, and Blake. Joyce was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star. She loved cooking, gardening, and caring for her family. Joyce faithfully attended church at Fairmount Christian Church. Her life always consisted of helping people and being there for her family, friends and loved ones; so we all wish you God’s speed where you can rest and be at peace. The family received friends on Thursday, June 1 at Bennett Funeral Homes Mechanicsville Chapel. A funeral service was held on Friday, June 2, at Fairmount Christian Church in Mechanicsville, Va. Interment followed in Forest Lawn Cemetery.

OBITUARIES

JENKINS, Joan Naumann

JENKINS, Joan Naumann, 84, of Mechanicsville, went to be with the Lord Wednesday, May 24, 2023. She was preceded in death by her parents, John B. and Nellie Landers Naumann; husband of 47 years, Walter Earl “Jack” Jenkins; and grandson, Christopher Lee Harshman. Joan is survived by her children, Richard L. Harshman and Sharon A. Harshman; two grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild; brother, Ronnie Naumann; sister-in-law, Ann Pollard; as well as several nieces, nephews and extended family. Joan was a giving and generous wife, mother, sister and friend. She is and will always be loved dearly by her friends and family. She was a graduate of Highland Springs High School and retired from C&P Telephone. Joan was a dedicated member of Leigh Street Baptist Church. The family received friends at the Mechanicsville Chapel of the Bennett Funeral Home, where services were held Wednesday, May 31. Interment followed in Hanover Memorial Park. A reception followed at Richmond East Moose Lodge. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

MILLER, Glenn Wampler

MILLER, Glenn Wampler, passed away on May 15, 2023. He was born April 12, 1937 in Harrisonburg to William Joseph and Rhea Wampler Miller Bowman. Glenn was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Clara; and brother, Robert. He is survived by his loving wife, Geraldine “Gerry” Whitmer Miller; daughter, Tasha Miller (Kendall Gammon); son, Eric Miller (Michelle); grandchildren, Daisy and Jackson Gammon, Lucas Miller; brother, H. Theodore “Ted”; as well as numerous nieces; nephews; and friends. Glenn grew up in Harrisonburg, Va. and Kissimmee, Fla. After graduating from Furman University, Glenn moved to Northern Virginia where he went to work as a management analyst for the military, and met the love of his life, Gerry. After retirement, Glenn and Gerry moved to Lake Anna where they spent a very active retirement. Glenn enjoyed listening to classical music, playing his baritone, sports cars, traveling, church, and volunteering in his community. He loved hosting people at his home, and the doors where always open. A celebration of life will be held at Kirk O’Cliff Presbyterian Church, 16420 Monrovia Rd., Mineral, Va. 23117 at 2 p.m. on June 10, 2023, with a reception immediately following. Online condolences may be registered at www. Bennettfuneralhomes.com.

WRIGHT, Carol Ann

WRIGHT, Carol Ann, 85, of Mechanicsville, Va., passed away Wednesday, May 10, 2023. Born August 13, 1937 in Washington, D.C. to the late William Francis and Jean Benton Conway, she was also preceded in death by her husband of 60 years, Col. Christopher Daniel “Dan” Wright, USAF, Ret. Carol Ann is survived by two children, Leslee Scott “Scottie” Wright (Andrew “Drew” Lafayette Tenser V), of Mechanicsville, Va. and Christopher Daniel Wright Jr., of Suwanee, Ga.; four grandchildren, Alexandra Conway Tenser, Andrew Lafayette Tenser VI, Christopher Daniel Wright III, and Grace Ann Wright; brother, William Francis Conway Jr. (Lydia); as well as nieces, nephews, and extended family. Carol Ann was raised in Sumter, S.C. and attended Converse College in Spartanburg, S.C. After marrying her husband, they lived around the world where she served the USAF as an officer’s spouse, fundraising for the military and civilian families and welcoming new families to new assignments for 28 years. Carol Ann and Dan retired in 1983 at Eglin AFB, Fla., where they enjoyed living on Poquito Bayou for 35 years. She was active in community life as a volunteer with the Red Cross, American Cancer Society, NW Symphony Guild, and the FWB Chamber of Commerce. Carol Ann enjoyed her Bridge club, gourmet cooking club, Fort Walton Beach Yacht Club, and playing golf with her pink golf bag. The family would like to express their heartfelt appreciation for the help and display of compassion and love from the dedicated staff at Harmony of Hanover Assisted Living. We will miss our beloved “Bon-Bon,” her beautiful smile, and her southern charm. Services and a celebration of her life will be held in Arlington National Cemetery at a later date, where she will be buried with her husband. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Wounded Warriors Project at woundedwarriorproject.org. Expressions of love and sympathy may be left and viewed online at bennettfuneralhomes.com.

REILLY, Patrick Joseph Jr.

REILLY, Patrick Joseph Jr., 86, of Hanover, Va., peacefully passed away, Wednesday, May 24, 2023. He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Buddy Reilly; and a sister, Kitty Nix. He is survived by his beloved wife of 30 years, Catherine Reilly; two children, Patrick Reilly III (Tammy) and Jennifer Reilly; two stepchildren, Gary Power (Kathy), and Melanie L. Reid; six grandchildren; six greatgrandchildren; a sister, Ann Griffith; and his special friends, Mark Edwards and John Anderson. The family received friends on Friday, June 2, at Monaghan Funeral Home in Mechanicsville, Va. A Funeral Mass was held on Saturday, June 3, 2023, at the Church of the Redeemer in Mechanicsville, followed by a reception. A private interment will be held at Mt. Calvary Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations in his honor can be made to the American Heart Association.

DORRIER, Phillip Wade

DORRIER, Phillip Wade, 63, of King William, Virginia, loving and devoted husband of 43 years, went to be with our Lord, Wednesday, May 31, 2023. He is survived by his wife, Sheila; daughter, Holly Dorrier (Paul); his parents, Maynard and Emma Jean Dorrier; sister, Cindy Epps (Greg); and two nephews, Jake Epps and Josh Epps. Phillip was a generous, hardworking man who enjoyed playing music with friends and hunting, but most of all he loved his family, including his dogs. He was the type of man to give the shirt off his back. The family received friends at the Mechanicsville Chapel of the Bennett Funeral Home, and services were held on Saturday, June 3, 2023 at Sharon Baptist Church in King William. Interment followed in the church cemetery.

COMMUNITY

Hanover increases tax relief for the elderly and disabled

COMMUNITY REPORT

The Hanover County Board of Supervisors has enhanced tax relief for the elderly and disabled for the second time in less than two months.

On May 24, the Board voted to increase the amount of net worth a participant in the program can have from $300,000 to $400,000. Net worth for the program does not include the value of one’s home and up to 10 acres of land surrounding it. Nor does it include the value of personal items that are not subject to property taxes.

The Board also set the maximum amount of tax relief available under the program at $3,500.

These changes are effective for property tax bills due in October 2023.

The Commissioner of the Revenue will hold a secondary application process for residents who want their properties to be considered for the second-half billing based on the mid-year change to the program.

For more information call the Commissioner of Revenue’s office at (804) 365-6128 or email commissioner@hanovercounty.gov

submitted by Hanover County

Shady Grove United Women in Faith publish cookbook

COMMUNITY REPORT

The Shady Grove United Women in Faith organization is announcing the arrival of its new one-ofa-kind cookbook entitled 70th Anniversary Heritage Cookbook. This book was published by Morris Press Cookbooks of Kearney, Nebraska, and is to recognize and celebrate the 70th Anniversary of Shady Grove Church. The cookbook contains the History of Shady Grove United Methodist Church and a Roll of Pastors from the beginning of church history.

The 1,025 recipes are tried-and-true from present and former members of the church, as well as family and from former pastor’s wives and will be treasured for generations

to come. This mouth-watering cookbook contains everything you need from appetizers to desserts. Each recipe includes the contributor’s name, so it is easy to find the recipes of friends and loved ones. Other features include a three-ring hard cover binder, stand for the cookbook, an envelope for your personal recipes, an alphabet listing of contributors, an alphabetical categorized listing of recipes, and many cooking and household hints.

Cookbooks sell for $20 and are available by contacting uwfcookbook@ gmail.com. Be sure to get your “special edition” cookbook before they sell out!

“There are few things as pleasant as a picnic eaten in perfect comfort” —

W. Somerset Maugham

Want to enjoy a delicious meal in a delightful way? You should plan a picnic!

Picnics make it easy to enjoy a meal in an idyllic setting. Though there’s no rules governing picnics other than those posted by local park officials, the following are some essential components of a fun picnic.

Food

The menu for a picnic need not be elaborate, but there’s also room for foods that are a little more fancy than sandwiches.

Sandwiches are still acceptable picnic fare, but those who want

to expand their horizons can prepare cheeseboards, salads, fresh fruit, and other items that are easily prepared and packed in a picnic basket. It’s best to avoid hot foods, as they can be difficult to keep warm. Small grills might be allowed in certain parks, but it’s best to keep in mind that others may not want to deal with smoke from burning coals. So individuals who plan to grill during a picnic should choose a remote spot that won’t affect those around them.

Beverages

Cold beverages, including water, can ensure no one is overcome by heat. Individuals who want to bring alcohol should only do so on private property, as many local

laws do not allow consumption of alcoholic beverages in public spaces like parks and beaches. A cooler with cold beverages stored in ice can be a good idea if a lot of people will be attending the picnic.

Reusable containers

Reusable containers decrease the chances of creating litter. All it takes is one stiff wind for single-use, resealable plastic bags to blow away, and it’s not always easy to track those bags down. Picnickers should aspire to take out everything that they take in, and reusable containers make that easier to accomplish.

Basket and tablecloth

A tablecloth does more than

just set the scene for a picnic. Tablecloths collect crumbs and keep them off the ground, which can decrease the likelihood that uninvited guests like ants will join the festivities. Tablecloths also ensure utensils can be set out and put down without getting dirty.

Comfortable seating

Though it’s entirely possible some guests will want to sit on the ground throughout the picnic, some comfortable seating can provide the perfect respite when the hard ground begins to feel a little less accommodating. Instruct guests to bring their own foldable lounge chairs, and don’t

Please see PICNIC, Page 16

submitted by the shady Grove united Women in Faith

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Cookbook Committee members, from the left, Lori Cross, Peggy arnold, Kim Farnsworth, Margaret Getz, deb Merritt Bragg, Brenda Fearnow, Linda dwyer, Jill Orrock, Janie Mundie, sandra smith and Janet Lewis. not pictured is Jean swann.

The berries are back in town

Young and old flock to Ashland for annual Strawberry Faire

strawberry lovers had plenty of other plants to check out as well during the Faire.

Pony rides were available in the Kidzone for the many children attending the event.

ASH DANIEL PHOTOS

assistant Mayor John Hodges takes the plunge for charity.

artisan crafts of all varieties lined the vendor rows.

serenity Phillips has her face painted.

Call 746-1235 for details.

Call 804-643-4414,

Picnic

OBITUARY SUBMISSIONS

From 13

forget to bring a picnic blanket or two so anyone who wants to nap can

SUBMISSIONS

paidnotices@timesdispatch.com week’s issue.

catch a few winks. When hosting a beach picnic, look for blankets that dry quickly. Some are even made of fabric that filters out sand to keep it off of food.

Miscellaneous items

OBITUARY SUBMISSIONS

Call 804-643-4414, ext. 3 Email: paidnotices@timesdispatch.com

Bug spray, sunscreen, a bluetooth speaker, biodegradable waste bags, some sports equipment and other items to keep adults and

kids occupied, and even a portable fan to keep guests cool and repel mosquitoes are some additional must-haves for a fun picnic.

—MetroCreative

Deadline is noon Friday for the following week’s issue.

Send news items to Ashland-Hanover Local, email: events@mechlocal.com

WILLIAMS, Carlisle Mister “Carl” III

WILLIAMS, Carlisle

WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED! circulated every week throughout Hanover County, Ashland-Hanover Local are your sources for your news and sports.

2022

OBITUARY SUBMISSIONS

Call 804-643-4414, ext. 3

Email: paidnotices @timesdispatch.com

Deadline is noon Friday for the following week’s issue.

Mister “Carl” III, 63, husband of Kimberly Evans Williams and a resident of Mechanicsville, Va., passed away at his home on Wednesday, May 17, 2023. He was born May 26, 1959 in Nassawadox, Va., and was a native of Onancock, Va. on the Eastern Shore. Carl was the son of Dolly Taylor Williams of Onancock, and the late Carlisle Mister “C. M.” Williams Jr. of Falmouth, Stafford County, Va. After graduating from Broadwater Academy, he attended University of Richmond, from where he attained his bachelor’s degree. Carl was a financial analyst, and active member of Shady Grove United Methodist Church in Mechanicsville. He was a loving husband, father, son and friend to all. In addition to his wife, Kim; and mother, Dolly; survivors include his daughter and son, Taylor Williams Murphy and husband, Patrick, and Carlisle Mister “C. J.” Williams IV, all of Mechanicsville; a sister, Valerie Williams Smith of Onancock; uncle, Philip Martin (Rosemary) of Onancock; stepmother, Barbara Schuyler Williams of Falmouth; stepbrothers, Andrew D. Henderson and James T. “Jim” Henderson (Tisha); mother-in-law, June Bull Evans of Accomac, Va.; sisters-in-law, Kelli Evans Martin (Charlie) and Kathi Evans Winoker (Neil); three nieces, three nephews, and several aunts, uncles, cousins and their families. In addition to his father, he was predeceased by his father-in-law, Milton “Douglas” Evans. On the Eastern Shore, a memorial service will be held on Friday, June 9, 2023, at 11 a.m., from the chapel of the Williams-Onancock Funeral Home, 94 Market Street, Onancock, Va. 23417. In Mechanicsville, a memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 10, 2023, 10 a.m., at Shady Grove United Methodist Church, 8209 Shady Grove Road, Mechanicsville, Va. 23111. Memorial donations in Carl’s name may be made to American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 42040, Oklahoma City, Okla. 73123 (https://donate. cancer.org) or American Diabetes Association, 870 Greenbrier Circle, Greenbrier Tower II, Suite 404, Chesapeake, Va. 23320 (http://www.diabetes.org). Memory tributes may be shared with the family at www.williamsfuneral homes.com. Arrangements by the Williams-Onancock Funeral Home.

Please see MORE OBITUARIES, Page 10, 11

Late surge propels Hawks to crown

TIM PEARRELL

Richmond Times-Dispatch

Almost three weeks ago, the Hanover baseball team stood in the outfield at Mechanicsville High talking about another loss and how to get some consistency.

The 5-3 setback was the Hawks’ eighth of the season after going 36-5 the previous two years while winning the Class 4 state title and finishing as the runner-up.

“We were pretty down in the dumps,” second baseman/pitcher Cole Elrod said.

They were back standing in the outfield at Mechanicsville on Thursday, this time passing around the Region 4B championship trophy and smiling and taking lots of pictures.

After a season of highs and lows, the Hawks found something at the right time, capping a run to the region title by scoring four times in the seventh inning to take a 7-3 victory over host Mechanicsville.

Hanover (16-8) will play host to Region A runner-up Jamestown on Tuesday in the state quarterfinals. Mechanicsville (19-4), which had a 15-game winning streak snapped, will travel to Region A champ Smithfield on Tuesday.

“The goal wasn’t always to win a regional championship,” said Elrod, who was doused by his teammates during an interview.

“It was just to get better and better day-in and day-out. This team, we started off hot, got cold, and we’re here. We never stopped, and that’s what I love about this team. We just don’t stop. We just keep playing.”

From one of the area’s all-time top teams, Hanover lost 15 seniors and all but two starters – Elrod and Nolan Williamson. That squad included one pitcher who was a fairly high draft pick (Seth Keller, sixth round by Atlanta), another (Levi Huesman) who could have been, and a third (catcher Cannon Peebles) who was considered a possible late-round pick. Huesman and Peebles weren’t drafted and went to Coastal Carolina and N.C. State,

respectively.

The Hawks started this season 6-0, then lost five straight games, a streak coach Tyler Kane said was a school record.

They were 11-8 after a second loss to Mechanicsville. The switch flipped after that, when Elrod said the Hawks focused on doing the little things.

“The last couple of weeks, we’ve let the seniors write the practice plan,” Kane said. “We’ve let them take ownership of this program. We’re going to go as far as they

take us.”

The positive was all the losses were to high-caliber competition. Kane said that helped prepare Hanover for the regional. It reached the final with 11-1, 10-1 and 11-1 wins.

Trailing 3-1 in the fifth, the Hawks tied the game on Elrod’s RBI single and Booty Simons’ RBI double down the right-field line that just eluded diving right fielder Andrew Farrar.

Two walks and Simons’ single loaded the bases to start the sev-

enth. Brady Elrod, Cole’s cousin, walked to force in the go-ahead run. Darryl Husband’s sacrifice fly made it 5-3, and T.J. Woodson capped the surge with a two-run single.

Cole Elrod threw three shutout innings in relief of starter Evan Nix. He stranded the go-ahead run at third in the sixth with a strikeout, then struck out the final two hitters in the seventh, setting off a dogpile.

Williamson had three hits, an RBI and a walk. Woodson and Simons had two hits, and Elrod had a hit

and two walks.

“Cole started off the year a little bit slow, but the last six or seven games he’s one of the hottest hitters in the state,” Kane said.

Aaron Maxie had a hit and a walk and drove in two runs for Mechanicsville, which was limited to four hits.

“We knew there would be ups and downs,” Kane said. “These guys figured out a way to battle. They figured out a way to get tougher in the box, and they played for one another. It was really special to see.”

PHOTO BY ROBBY FLETCHER

The Hanover Hawks earned a trip to the Class 4 state Tournament after winning a region title over the Mechanicsville Mustangs.

Hawks softball capture regions, remain undefeated heading into states

ROBBY FLETCHER Sports Editor

In 22 games this season, nobody has gotten the best of the Hanover Hawks.

Through the powerful pitching combo of senior Julia Cuozzo and junior Lily Parrish and a disciplined defense behind them, the Hawks have rarely seen opposing players reach home base this season, allowing just 17 runs against them all season.

In the Class 4, Region B tournament, that was no different. It was far from easy winning any of the three games on the way to their region crown, but in each matchup, Hanover’s defense stepped up and delivered, first holding off a scrappy Patrick Henry team in a 2-1 final, then beating the Powhatan Indians in a 1-0 showdown before Hanover put the finishing touches on the tournament with a 5-1 win in the final over Spotsylvania.

Against the Patriots on May 26, the game was tied at one run apiece for three innings until a sacrifice fly from Kaileigh Byars allowed Brianna Wheeler to make

it home for the winning run. Offensive success was hard to come by for both teams, and while Patrick Henry scored an early run off of Cuozzo in the first inning, when Parrish stepped up in the second, they never came close again.

Parrish struck out the first six batters she faced and had 13 strikeouts in total on the day, not allowing a single hit in her sixinning appearance.

Against Powhatan four days later, it was Cuozzo’s turn to dominate. Last year’s All-Metro player of the year was locked in during her six-inning appearance, striking out 10 batters while only seeing three hits off her, and while that kind of performance from a star player might throw most opponents in a daze as they lose composure for the rest of the game, that wasn’t the case with the Indians, who had their own star power from pitcher Madalyn Johnson to keep the game close the entire way through.

The lone run of the day came in the bottom of the fourth, when McKenzie Martin singled on a line drive to left field that got Destiny

Bryant home for the winning score. The Hawks had runners on first and third after that, but Johnson struck out Ryerson to end the inning and keep the game from getting out of hand.

From that point on, just two Indians players reached a base on offense, and no one made it to third thanks to Cuozzo’s excel-

lent performance and a closeout finish from Parrish where she struck out all three batters in the top of the seventh to end the game with a state tournament bid and a chance at another region title for her team.

The final featured another stellar game on the rubber from Cuozzo, who played the whole

game and struck out 13 batters while the offense was at its best all tournament with a region title on the line.

The Hawks opened the game with Parrish hitting a two-run RBI single where Byars and Meghan Deshazo made it home. They added to the lead again in the bottom of the third, this time seeing Cuozzo hitting into a double play, but not before Byars added her second run of the ballgame.

In the fifth inning, Byars was again involved in the scoring action, this time as a hitter when she singled on a line drive to center field that got Emma Slutzah home for a 4-0 lead. Spotsylvania finally got on the board with a run in the sixth inning, but Wheeler’s sacrifice fly in the bottom of that inning got Parrish home for a response run to wrap up the game with a 5-1 finish.

It was a great showing to close out the tournament, but the job’s not done yet for the Hawks, who kick off the Class 4 State Tournament with a matchup at home against Smithfield (14-9) in the quarterfinals on June 6.

Atlee will make return to state semifinals to defend boys lacrosse title

ROB WITHAM Special correspondent

There can be a ton of distractions in a quest for a championship.

The Atlee boys lacrosse team carried an unbeaten record into Friday’s Class 4 state quarterfinal against Cave Spring of Roanoke. Seniors are approaching commencement, underclassmen are pushing through the final work of the school year.

Even a simple comment from a fan could make one waver. But not Atlee coach Fielding Crawford.

“Had somebody say today, ‘Hey, you’ve got a big game tonight,’” Crawford mentioned. “It’s just a game. The field is the same size, the ball is the same size, whether it’s the first game of the season or a state game.”

That laser focus that showers down from Crawford to his entire team was on full display as the Raiders improved to 18-0 with a 20-2 thumping of the Knights.

Atlee seized the match from the start. The Knights (15-4) won the first faceoff, turned it over, and Ryan Miller made them pay. His first of three goals, all assisted by his brother Kevin, gave Atlee the lead just 31 seconds in. It would be another 7 minutes before Cave Spring had an actual shot opportunity, which they converted on a goal from Carter Jeffords. But by that time, with 4:29 left in the first period, the Raiders led 10-1.

Atlee struggled offensively early in the second period, then went on a 5-0 run beginning with a Thomas Lask goal with 5:19 left in the half and completed when

Caleb Cunningham fired one into the net. The Knights scored with 16 seconds left to make the margin 16-2 at intermission. With a running clock, the Raiders, utilizing their depth, scored twice in each the third and fourth periods, two of the tallies coming from junior Brenton Buchanan.

While the Knights had better offensive opportunities as the match wore on, they were few and far between in comparison to Atlee, whose speed and agility allowed them to simply blow past their opponents in that decisive first stanza.

The path to a second Class 4 state championship will remain at the friendly confines as Atlee will host E.C. Glass, a 13-9 winner Western Albemarle, in the state semifinals Tuesday at 6 p.m.

PHOTO BY ROBBY FLETCHER

Junior Olivia Gibson connects on a pitch against Powhatan in the Class 4, Region B tournament semifinals

PHOTO BY ROBBY FLETCHER senior midfielder nolan emmett, seen in a game against st. Christopher’s on april 24, helped the Raiders win a region title and a trip to the Class 4 state Tournament.

Hanover Evangelical Friends

6420 Mech Trnpk. 804-730-9512, friendlychurch.org

Worship: Sun. 10:30AM

Sunday School @ 9:15AM

Fairmount Christian Church, 559-8070 6502 Creighton Rd.

Sunday AM Worship Traditional 8:00 & 10:15, Contemporary 9:00, Modern 11:15, Bible School at 9:00, 10:15, & 11:15.

Rick Raines, Senior Minister; Chris Santasiere, Associate Minister; Seth Wortman, Associate Minister; Tracy Thomas, Worship &Music Minister; Bill Nicol, Associate Worship Minister; Davis Ellenberger, Youth Minister; Ashley Sears, Children’s Director fairmountcc.org

Gethsemane Church of Christ

5146 Mechanicsville Turnpike

Sunday AM Worship Services (Check website for times) 804-779-2044

Bill Wines, Senior Minister www.gethsemanechristians.org

Truth Baptist Church, 627-2170

COME & SEE!

All info at: www.truthbaptistchurch.com

St Paul Lutheran Church (LCMS) 427-7500 ∂ 8100 Shady Grove Rd, saintpaul-lcms.com

Rev. Rodney Bitely, Pastor; Sun. Sch. 9:15am, Worship 10:30am

HOPE COMMUNITY CHURCH Home of Atlee Christian Academy & HopeNow Counseling. info & more: www.hopenow.cc

Fairfield Presbyterian Church 6930 Cold Harbor Rd., 23111 8:45 & 11:00am services www.fairfieldpcusa.org

Meadowbridge Seventh-Day Adventist Church

7400 Antique Lane Mech., Saturday Services:

Sabbath School, 9:45 am. Worship Service, 11 am.

Wednesday evening Prayer Meeting, 6:30pm. Church phone: 746-2788 meadowbridgesda.org

meadowbridgesdachurch@gmai l.com

Black Creek Baptist Church, 6289 McClellan Road

Sunday School - 9:00 a.m.

Sunday Worship - 10:15 a.m.

Adult Bible Study & Youth Group

Wed. nights at 6:00 p.m. Pastor, Stephen Kendrick blackcreekbaptistchurch.org or call (804)781-0330

Cool Spring Baptist Church 9283 Atlee Station Rd. For info, activities & worship times visit www.coolspring.org or call 746-0800

YOU

Fellowship Community Church of Mechanicsville

After 10 years at Hanover High School we have purchased our own building. We continue to teach the Word of God and watch for the miraculous. Join us Sunday mornings 9:45am at 8505 Bell Creek Road, Suite K. www.fellowshipcc.com

Mechanicsville Baptist Church

8016 Atlee Rd.

Office: 804.746.7253

Worship in person and Live Streamed on YouTube & Facebook on Sundays at 8:30 & 11:00 a.m. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Find us on the web at mechanicsvillebaptist.org

SOUTHERN BAPTIST EVANGELICAL FRIENDS INDEPENDENT BAPTIST INDEPENDENT CHRISTIAN NAZARENE PRESBYTERIAN SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST SOUTHERN BAPTIST SOUTHERN BAPTIST

New Bethesda Baptist Church 9019 New Bethesda Rd. 779-2101

Caleb Bittler, Minister Sunday School 9:30 AM, Worship 10:45 AM Bible Study/Prayer Youth & Children activities 6:30pm, Wednesday www.newbethesda.org

New Highland Baptist Church 550-9601, 9200 New Ashcake Rd newhighland.org, 9:15 AM Bible Study, 10:30 AM Worship In Person & online. Rev. Derek Nicksich

UNITED

METHODIST

Shalom Baptist Church

8116 Walnut Grove Rd. Office: 746.7737

Worship in person and Live Streamed on YouTube & Facebook on Sundays at 8:30 & 11:00 a.m Wednesday Night Suppers at 5:30 p.m. and Bible Study at 6:15 p.m. Find us on the web at shalombaptist.net

Walnut Grove Baptist is a Church committed to following Jesus & loving people. You can find us at wgva.church 7046 Cold Harbor rd

Lebanon United Methodist Church 8492 Peaks Road, 746-0980

Sarah Sealand, Pastor Worship In Person and on Facebook Live: 10:00 am each Sunday

www.facebook.com/LebUMC

9:00 am Sunday School

For more info, check us out at www.lebanonumc.org

Mechanicsville United Methodist Church

7356 Atlee Road 746-5118

Reverend Amy Dunn, pastor 10 am in person worship or Facebook live @MechUMC

Childrens and Youth Programs

Cub Scouts Pack 517 www.mechumc.org

Shady Grove United Methodist 8209 Shady Grove Rd. at the corner of Meadowbridge Rd., Mechanicsville, 804-746-9073 shadygroveumc.org

In-person Worship Sundays at 8:15, 9:45, & 11:15 a.m., Online at 9:45 a.m. Programs for all ages. Rev. Wayne Snead, Pastor info@shadygroveumc.org

ROMAN

Church of the Redeemer 8275 Meadowbridge Road 746-4911 www.churchredeemer.org

Affordable Home Repairs Carpentry, Roofing, Siding, Replacement Windows, Gutters & Decks. Lic/Ins.

Jim Martin, 804-347-3812

Hanover Chimney Sweeps

Serving area since 1981. Ins. Chimney & Gutter Cleaning. 746-1056

Affordable Electrical Installations

For your home or business. Lic./Ins. BBB 746-4350 www.mallory-electric.com

BLS Electrical Specializing in Residential Service, New Residential and also LED Lighting. Affordable pricing Lic/Ins. 804-397-5478 or email at BLSELECTRICAL.LLC@gmail.com

Danny Electric Specializing in Residential Service. Professional work that you can afford! Lic/Ins. Danny Hinton, 804-640-5044

**Fence Scapes** 559-8797

Custom Wood, Chain-Link, Vinyl, Ornamental Aluminum. www.fencescapesllc.com

Good Neighbor Fence Inc

Custom wood , Aluminum, Vinyl , Chainlink & repairs Goodneighborfencing.com

A+BBB … Angie’s List 804-737-4664

Home Maintenance & Repairs Veteran operated.

Over 30 years experience Call Dave, 804-874-4774

Purcell Construction Custom Builder Hunter Purcell 804-972-2215

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Gutter Specialist - Seamless Gutters, Guards, Cleanings & Repairs, 22 yrs. exp. Lic/Ins. Free Est. Spring time is a great time for Gutter Guards!

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Herring Home ImprovementWindows, Decks, Sheds, Repairs Licensed & Insured. Call 537-5755

Affordable Quality Wash Homes, decks , sidewalks, etc 804-550-2345

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HANOVER HANDY SERVICES Low Pressure Powerwashing Gutter Cleaning Lic. & Ins. Call 363-8393 www.hanoverhandy.com Ground Keepers Lawn Care Your #1 Choice Grass Cutting • Trimming • Hedges Tree Work • Mulching • Aerating • Seeding • FREE Est. • Reasonable Rates Rick Custalow, 804-517-3321

Guy Stinchfield Painting & Repair Int./Ext. Painting, Carpentry, Drywall Repair, Pressure Washing, Wallpaper Removal. Lic/Ins. 20 yrs experience Refereneces. Free

Landscape & Hardscape design & Installation. Lawn Maintenance programs. Fully Lic/Ins. Free Estimates Call 804-730-2367 or text 804-301-8626.

Pole Green Care LLC Providing mowing, hedge trimming, mulching and yard cleanup. Please call or text Jarrod 804-514-8214

Notice is hereby given thatthe Hanover County Planning Commission has set Thursday,June 15, 2023, at 6:00 P.M., in the Board Room of the Hanover County Government Building at Hanover Courthouse, Hanover,Virginia, as the day,date, time, and place for apublic hearing to consider the following cases, at which public comments will be accepted:

REZ2022-00030, CHAROL SHAKESHAFT AND DALE MANN

Request to rezone from A-1, Agricultural District, to AR-6(c), Agricultural Residential District with conditions, on GPIN 7789-77-6552, consisting of approximately 14.32 acres, and located on the north line of Mount Hermon Road (State Route 656) approximately 1,200 feet west of its intersection with CheroyRoad (State Route 659). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan MapasAgricultural. The proposed zoning amendment would permit the creation of three (3) building lots for agross density of one (1) dwelling unit per 4.77 acres. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Beaverdam

REZ2022-00033, YOUNG MENS CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION OF GREATER RICHMOND, L.L.C., ET AL.

Request to rezone from M-1(c), Limited Industrial District with conditions, and R-1, Single Family Residential District, to B-1(c), Neighborhood Business District with conditions, on GPIN 7796-94-7576 and 7796-94-6872(part), consisting of approximately 12.75 acres, and located on the south line of Atlee Road (State Route 638) approximately 375 feet east of its intersection with Cool Spring Road (State Route 652). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan MapasLimited Industrial and Suburban General (1.5 –3.0 dwelling units per acre). The proposed zoning amendment would allowfor expansion of the Rutland YMCA, including the addition of outdoor soccer fields. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Chickahominy

CUP2022-00022, YOUNG MENS CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION OF GREATER RICHMOND,

L.L.C., ET AL.

Request aConditional Use Permit in accordance with Sections 26-110.25 of the Hanover County Zoning Ordinance to allowarecreation facility on GPINs 7796-94-7576 and 7796-94-6872(part), zoned M-1(c), Limited Industrial District with conditions, and R-1, Single Family Residential District (concurrent request to rezone to B-1(c), Neighborhood Business District with conditions), consisting of approximately 12.75 acres, and located on the south line of Atlee Road (State Route 638) approximately 375 feet east of its intersection with Cool Spring Road (State Route 652). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan MapasLimited Industrial and Suburban General (1.5 –3.0 dwelling units per acre). (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Chickahominy

REZ2023-00003, HICKORYHILL II, L.L.C.

Requests to rezone from A-1, Agricultural District, to RS(c), Single-Family Residential District with conditions, on GPINs 7880-92-1335(part) and 7880-81-6802, consisting of approximately 52.25 acres, and located on the north line of East Patrick Henr yRoad (State Route 54) at its intersection with Providence Church Road (State Route 662). The subject property is designated on the General Land Use Plan MapasPlanned Business and Commercial. The proposed zoning amendment would allowthe development of 150 single-family homes for agross density of 2.87 dwelling units per acre. (PUBLIC HEARING) Magisterial District: Beaverdam

Copies of the above cases may be reviewed in the Planning Office, Monday through Friday,between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. please contact the Planning Office or you may also go to https ://www .hanover county .gov/ 696/Pl anning-C omm ission -Upcom ing-a nd-Archi ve for more information

TOWN OF ASHLAND PLANNING COMMISSION NOTICE OF PUBLICHEARING

Please take notice that on the 14th day of June at 6:00 p.m. at the Ashland Town Hall, 121 Thompson Street, Ashland, VA,the Ashland Planning Commission will conduct apublic hearing for the purpose of receiving input, and may make arecommendation on the following application:

ORD2023-08, Zoning Permit The Town of Ashland is requesting approval of ORD2023-08 to amend Sections 21-3.1 “Persons Authorized To Apply,” 21-11 “Zoning Approval,” and 21-217 “Duties of aZoning Administrator,” of the Ashland Town Code to provide for the administration of azoning permit. Copies of ORD2023-08 may be obtained by contacting Town Hall at (804) 798-1073, Monday through Thursday,7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Written comments may be submitted to planning@ashlandva.gov or mailed to Town of Ashland, PO Box 1600, Ashland, VA 23005. Any person with a disability requiring assistance in order to participate in this public hearing is asked to contact Town Hall in advance so that appropriate arrangements can be made.

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Elevance Health, Inc. seeks DEVELOPER ADVISOR in Richmond, VA to design and build enterprise systems with afocus on cloud migrations. Apply at www.jobpostingtoday.com Ref #71256.

Elevance Health, Inc. seeks EN GI NE ER SENIOR in Richmond, VA. Perform technical solution design, development, testing, deployment, and application support. Requires domestic travel up to 3% of the time. Apply at www.jobpostingtoday.com ref # 10016.

Elevance Health, Inc. seeks ENGINEER SENIOR in Richmond, VA to develop and define application scope and objectives and prepare technical and/or functional specifications from which programs will be written. Apply at www.jobpostingtoday.com Ref #27997.

CSG SERVICES ENGINEERS sought by Connected Solutions Group, LLC in Mechanicsville, VA to develop and deliver all managed service offerings including remote monitoring and management, 5G business internet, and hardware management for proprietary platforms. Must have relevant education &experience. Send 2resumes &cover letter to Sandra Vandermark, 8529 Meadowbridge Rd, Mechanicsville, VA 23116 REF#1285.001

DIRECTOR &ACTUARY, LIFE MODELING

@Genworth North America Corporation (Richmond, VA) F/T Ensure actuarial models (such as Traditional Life AXIS models) are updated to accnt for changes in regulatry &/or busnss envrnmnt. Reqr Bachlr’s degr, or frgn eqvlnt, in Actrl Sci, Math, Statstcs, or rltd fld, &2 yrs of exp in the job offrd, as Actrl Assoc, Actrl Consltnt, or rltd. Full trm of exp must inclde each of the fllwng: Modeling exp in actrl sftwr such as AXIS; Knwldge of techncl accntng rltd to actrl calculatns for Statutory, Tax, &USGAAP regimes; Wrkng w/ database mngmnt systms &languags, incldng SQL &GreenPlum; &, Statstcl apps, &visualiztn apps, such as Python, R, &SpotFire. Fellow of the Society of Actuaries (FSA) or Assoc of the Society of Actuaries (ASA) desgntn reqrd. Rmte wrk prmtted. Emplyr will accpt any suitble combo of eductn, traing, or exp. Email resume to Im mi grat io nServ ices@ ge nw orth .c om.

Refrnce: GWNA-YH.

ENGINEERING &ARCH.

SENIOR RF ENGINEER SOUGHT by DISH Wireless, LLC in Glen Allen, VA. Perform RF dsgn activities related to building the first standalone 5G broadband n/work in the US. Optimize the end-toend RF dsgn, propagation modeling & prediction, for deployment of Macro Cell deployment. Determine eqpmt & power configurations. Work w/ eNB/RAN &UEteams on RF solutions incl modifications to RF link budgets on aper site level basis to meet operations reqmts. Reqs Bach’s deg of foreign equiv in Electrical Engg, Electronics Engg, Comp Sci, Mechatronics Engg, Comp Applications, or aclosely related field, +5 yrs of relevant postbaccalaureate LTE RF Dsgn work exp in job offered or RF Engineer II/Engineer N/work Engg. Also reqs 5yrs of work exp w//using the following (which may have been gained concurrently): Providing RF support to Site Acquisition & Site Construction teams; Cellular/ Mobile Technology knowl incl 4G or 5G & NR theory; Macro &small cell nominal &final RF dsgns incl dvlpmt, operations, RF KPIs, &maintenance of RF link budgets for 3GPP technologies; Macro &small cell dsgn optimization, monitoring of 4G or 5G n/work performance

KPIs for 3GPP technologies; Dvlp & publish process improvements which may incl dvlpmt of automation tools; Setting up, calibration, utilization &data processing of various LTE dsgn &optimization eqpmt &s/ware; Using propagation/planning tools such as Planet or Atoll, incl detailed knowl of propagation model tuning; Using drive test data post-processing, map generation, frequency planning &interference matrix analysis &site d/base maintenance, using Windcatcher/Actix/ Accuver; Eqpmt co-location reqmts for multiple operators &performing intermodulation &other external interference analysis. Employment is contingent on successful completion of apreemployment criminal background check, which may incl adrug test. Annual Salary: $154,357.00. Benefits info available at careers.dish.com. Apply at careers.dish.com. Ref: 2023-77436 if applying externally through careers.dish.com; Ref: 2023-77435 if applying internally.

SAWMILL NOW HIRING CD L-A DRI VE RS

Greenbush Logistics, Inc. is currently hiring local CDL-A drivers for the team at our sawmill terminal in Ruther Glen.

$3,500 sign-on bonus, $2,000 transition bonus, and paid orientation. Local routes ensure you’ll be home every day. Benefits include dental, vision and health insurance, paid vacation, 401k with company match, company-paid life insurance and profit sharing! Get your career in gear. Come see us June 14 from 10:00 AM until 2:00 PM at Virginia Career Works, 4914 Radford Ave in Richmond, or apply in person at 17258 Doggetts Fork Rd in Ruther Glen.

GENERAL GENERAL HEALTHCARE

PCAs & CNAs private duty care cases. 12 hour shifts.

Henrico/Hanover/King William/ Colonial Heights & Surrounding Areas. Call 804-439-5127.

SAWMILL NOW HIRING MULTIPLE POSITIONS

The Ashton Lewis sawmill in Ruther Glen is currently hiring for multiple positions at its facility.

Openings include machine and forklift operators, lumber grader, maintenance and electrician. Competitive pay with an excellent benefits package including dental, vision and health insurance, paid vacation, 401k with company match, company-paid life insurance and profit sharing.

Apply in person at our career fair Wednesday, June 14, 10:00 AM -2:00 PM at Virginia Career Works, 4914 Radford Ave. in Richmond or apply in person at 17258 Doggetts Fork Rd. in Ruther Glen.

DRIVER,

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804-746-1235

For Your EntErtainmEnt

cROSSWORD puzzlE

cluES acROSS

1. Flat tableland with steep edges

5. Where there’s __, there’s fire

10. Talked incessantly

12. Skill

14. Without shame

16. Where teens spend their days (abbr.)

18. Boxing’s GOAT

19. Used to anoint

20. Cluster cups

22. Footballer Newton

23. They make up a forest

25. Split pulses

26. Self

27. Post-office box

28. Test for high schoolers

30. Large, flightless bird

31. Expectorated

33. Falsehood

35. Prickly, scrambling shrub

37. French river

38. Told on 40. Hillside

41. Peyton’s little brother

42. Soviet Socialist Republic

44. Cathedral city in Cambridgeshire

45. Witness 48. Brews 50. Yellowish-brown 52. Arctic explorers, abbr. 53. Mexican agave 55. A type of ‘cast’ 56. Encourage

Atomic #52 58. Relating to position north of south of equator

63. Gadget whose name you forget

65. Another recording

66. Small blisters

67. Dark brown or black

cluES DOWn

1. Licensed for Wall Street

2. ‘__ and flow’

3. A very large body of water

4. Accumulate on the surface of

5. Central cores of the stem

6. Angry

7. Ceramic jar

8. Scraped a car

9. __ route

10. Soviet labor camp system

11. Strong hostilities

13. Vitamin of the B complex

H OROScO pES

ARIES • Mar 21/Apr 20

15. Go quickly

17. Toast

18. A team’s best pitcher

21. A Philly culinary specialty

23. Small child

24. Unhappy

27. Trims away

29. Characterized by crying eyes

32. Soft touch

34. American spy organization

35. A person’s chest

36. Came from behind to win

39. Fall back

40. Nellie __, journalist

43. Great places to kayak

44. Suffer patiently

46. Majestic bird

47. Electroencephalograph

49. Organic compound used as an antiseptic

51. Objects connected to the web (abbr.)

54. Ship as cargo

59. The bill in a restaurant

60. Upper-class young woman (abbr.)

61. Judge in OJ Simpson trial

62. One’s grandmother

64. Siberian river

Aries, things may not progress the way you want them to unless you become a little more persistent. Figure out how to walk the line to achieve your goals.

TAURUS • Apr 21/May 21

Taurus, many things are going right with your life. But now it’s time to get a handle on your love life. You may have to put in some extra effort, especially this week.

GEMINI • May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, keep things on the lighter side when conversing with coworkers this week. Now is not the time to delve into controversial discussions in the workplace.

CANCER • Jun 22/Jul 22

Cancer, as you try to become more organized, try not to get too overwhelmed by the scope of the task at hand. Tackle one thing at a time and keep making progress.

LEO • Jul 23/Aug 23

Leo, situations may seem like they are a matter of life or death this week, but there’s a good chance you’re just being overly dramatic. Try to go with the flow.

VIRGO • Aug 24/Sept 22

Emotions are running wild and you’re worried about what others think of you, Virgo. Embrace a point of view that relies more on the rational than the emotional.

LIBRA • Sept 23/Oct 23

Libra, after a few stops and starts, you and your romantic partner are on quite a roll. Enjoy that you both are in tune and aspiring toward shared goals.

SCORPIO • Oct 24/Nov 22

Scorpio, it’s possible you feel blocked on all sides regarding your employment. While you can’t get ahead right now, there are some opportunities coming.

SAGITTARIUS • Nov 23/Dec 21

Be careful about speaking before thinking through your words, Sagittarius. Knee-jerk responses can have unexpected consequences. Take time to form your opinion.

CAPRICORN • Dec 22/Jan 20

This week is bound to be pretty intense, Capricorn. But you’ll find a way to skirt through it relatively unscathed. Rely on a few friends as sounding boards.

AQUARIUS • Jan 21/Feb 18

Aquarius, try not to cut off channels of communication with loved ones as you deal with a few difficult issues. Others are willing to step up and help as needed.

PISCES • Feb 19/Mar 20

Pisces, others will not always see the world the way you do. Interactions this week can be a little stilted or even frustrating.