The Mechanicsville Local -12/21/2022

Revisions proposed to HCPS policy

School board considers handling of sexually explicit materials, notifications

CHRISTINA AMANO DOLAN Editor

The Hanover County School Board was presented with proposed revisions to a current Hanover County Public Schools (HCPS) policy regarding instructional materials last week, specifically regarding sexually explicit materials in response to action taken by the General Assembly.

The proposed revision of HCPS Policy 6-5.6 is the result of the passage of Senate Bill 656 by the General Assembly in the 2022 Session. This new statute required the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) to create model policies regarding any use of “sexually explicit

HCPS breaks ground on elementary school

Editor

Ground has been officially broken on what will become the

consolidated Henry Clay and John M. Gandy elementary school, marking the soon-to-be historic event of the first new Hanover

County Public School (HCPS) to open its doors since 2008.

County selects potential school site

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

The Hanover County Board of Supervisors authorized a contract on just over 113 acres in the Henry District for the potential site of a replacement middle school and high school during their Dec. 14 meeting. Longterm planning is a key priority for the board of supervisors and this site could accommodate Mechanicsville High School and Bell Creek Middle School enrollment when those buildings are replaced in future years.

“Identifying a site that had over 100 contiguous building acres with good access and could accommodate both a middle school and a high school complex that was well placed for the catchment area of the current schools was a key driver for

CHRISTINA AMANO DOLAN

PHOTO BY CHRISTINA AMANO DOLAN/THE LOCAL

Henry Clay and John M. Gandy students dig their shovels into the ground of what will become their new consolidated elementary school and are joined by Town of Ashland, county, school division and project officials along with representatives of the Hanover County Board of Supervisors and School Board.

OAK KNOLL MS HOLDS TOYS FOR TOTS DRIVE

County shares holiday closures

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

Hanover County government offices and courts will be closed Friday, Dec. 23 and Monday, Dec. 26, in observance of the Christmas holiday and Monday, Jan. 2 for New Year’s.

Hanover County solid waste facilities will be closed on Christmas Eve, Christmas

Day and New Year’s Day. Branches of the Pamunkey Regional Library will be closed Dec. 23-26 and Dec. 31-Jan. 2.

Information submitted by Tom Harris, communications specialist for Hanover County.

CHICKAHOMINY

MS GIVES BACK

POPs club at chickahominy middle school helped the salvation army collect Fox Holiday socks, a program to provide stockings to children in need� students organized, sorted and bagged more than 250 packages

CORRECTION

The Dec. 7 edition’s coverage of the Mechanicsville Christmas Parade omitted that the Mechanicsville Ruritan Club is also a parade sponsor.

PHOTO AND INFORMATION COURTESY OF HANOVER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

The Jr� beta club at Oak Knoll middle school sponsored a Toys for Tots drive in partnership with the VFW Post 9808 Toys for Tots is a program run by the United states marine corps reser ve and distributes toys to children in need at christmas Pictured left to right are Jr beta members Jonathan Gilmartin, Henry d’alema, maddox Patrick, Tyler mcdowell, Lilly Zyglocke, adellyn meredith, meriya marks and claire Fodill�

PHOTO COURTESY OF HANOVER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Sheriff Hines receives national recognition

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

Colonel David R. Hines, Sheriff of Hanover County, received national recognition from the American Legion on Wednesday, Dec. 14, at the Hanover County Board of Supervisors meeting.

Commander Frank Hilliard with the American Legion presented Hines with the National Officer of the Year award. Hilliard explained Hines received this national recognition for “outstanding, selfless service over and above normal duties through heroic acts, community service and professional achievement, thereby exemplifying the meaning of the phrase: America’s Finest.”

“We were fortunate to nominate Sheriff Hines for our ‘Officer of the Year.’ We then nominated him for the ‘Regional Officer of the Year’ and then the ‘National Officer of the Year.’ There are over 2,000 posts throughout the nation. I am grateful, but not surprised, that our sheriff received this award,” said Post 90 Vice Commander Jim Sisk.

SHERIFF'S REPORT

Aug. 13

„ Assault and battery on a family member was reported in the 12100th block of Winns Church Road, Glen Allen.

„ Unlawful bodily injury was reported in the 17300th block of Belsches Road, Bumpass.

„ Destruction of property, monument was reported in the 17000th block of Beaver Dam Road, Beaverdam.

„ Assault and battery on a family member was reported in the 2000th block of Retreat Drive, Mechanicsville.

r. Hines,

of Hanover

american Legion on dec. 14 at the

from left, are

This award was initially presented at the 2022 American Legion National Convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Hines stated, “I’m extremely humbled by this great honor. This award is not about me. It is about the men and women that serve our community each day. It is about a board of

supervisors that supports law enforcement. It is about our county administration that values public safety. It is about an entire community that supports its law enforcement and each other. This award is only possible due to their support. I accept this award on their behalf.”

Information submitted by

Lt. James Cooper, information officer for the Hanover County Sheriff’s Office.

Christmas Eve Family Candlelight Worship 5:00p.m. Traditional Candlelight Worship 7:00p.m.

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

„ Obtaining money by false pretenses, less than $200 was reported in the 7000th block of Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville.

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

„ Assault on law enforcement, court, correc-

tions, fire or medical personnel was reported in the 7100th block of Ellerson Mill Road, Mechanicsville.

„ Simple assault was reported in the 8000th block of Creighton Parkway, Mechanicsville.

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

„ Credit card theft was reported in the 7400th block of Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville.

PHOTO COURTESY OF LT. JAMES COOPER/HCSO

colonel david

sheriff

county, received national recognition from the

board of supervisors meeting. shown at the presentation,

major rickey dandridge, major Judson Flagg, commander Frank Hilliard (american Legion), sheriff david r. Hines, major Kenny epling, Lieutenant col. Thomas Woody, and Hanover county board of supervisors chair angela Kelly-Wiecek.

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Siteus,” said county administrator John Budesky. “After reviewing numerous locations, we believe we have identified a site that meets the necessary criteria.”

The site is located on the north side of U.S. Rt. 360, between the intersections of Walnut Grove Road and Pole Green Road.

“I am pleased to begin the process of evaluating this property for the suitability of future school sites,” said board of supervisors vice chair Sean M. Davis, in whose district the site is located. “I’m certainly proud that the site is in the Henry District, but at the end of the day, this is an asset for all Hanover County residents.”

Hanover County is now beginning a due diligence period that could take six months or more. This will include surveying, envi-

ronmental studies, wetland delineations, stream assessments, traffic studies and cultural resource studies. In addition, the sale is contingent on the approval of an amendment to the Comprehensive Plan to show the property as a future school site.

Citizen engagement will be key as the process continues to finalize all necessary steps to execute the final purchase. Public hearings will be held before any amendment to the Comprehensive Plan is approved.

Hanover will pay $4.5 million for the project with contingencies allowing for the due diligence period and the adoption of the Comprehensive Plan amendment. The school board and superintendent have been engaged on this project and process and agree with the motions adopted by the board of supervisors on Dec. 14.

“While we are still very much in the early planning

stages of this project, this is a significant step toward meeting our long-term capital needs,” said Dr. Michael Gill, superintendent of schools. “Most importantly, this development demonstrates our ongoing commitment to providing our students, faculty and staff with state-of-the-art facilities that help foster the relevant and innovative learning that we pride ourselves on in Hanover County Public Schools. Just as the school board and board of supervisors – as well as school division and county administration – have worked hand-in-hand in the early stages of this project, we look forward to collaborating with Mechanicsville residents and our broader community in the coming years on this exciting construction project that will serve generations to come.”

“Hanover County Public Schools has a strong tradition of excellence and,

while we remain years away from rebuilding these two schools, I am grateful to be working closely with our board of supervisors, county administration and school division administration to make this project a reality, continuing that proud tradition for generations to come,” said school board chair John Axselle.

The contract signing is scheduled to be completed by the end of this month. For more details on this project, visit the county’s website at www.hanovercounty.gov and click on the homepage link entitled: “New School Property on Route 360 –Henry District.”

Call director of public works Mike Flagg with any questions at 804-365-6181 or deputy county administrator Todd Kilduff at 804365-3310.

Information submitted by Tom Harris, communications specialist for Hanover County.

LOCAL CALENDAR

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 21

blue c hristmas service will be held at 7 p.m. at mechanicsville United methodist church, 7356 atlee road in mechanicsville. a service of light for those who are feeling blue, sad, grieving and experiencing loss this christmas season. This service occurs on the Winter solstice, the longest night of the year. Invite those who have experienced loss and grief this year. all are welcome. nursery provided for children 4 and under.

SATURDAY, JAN. 7

The c ommunit y s alt Fish breakfast will resume from 8 to 10 a.m. at enon Umc , 6156 studley road, mechanicsville, Va 23116. The buffet includes salt fish, corn cakes, scrambled eggs, bacon, grits, hash browns, sausage gravy, biscuits, waffles, apples, beverages and fellowship. adults are $10, ages 6 and under are “free” with all profits going to missions.

SATURDAY, FEB. 4

Glowing smiles dentistry, located at 9097 atlee station road,

How to submit

Fax submissions to calendar to 344-8746, email to events@mechlocal. com, or mail to 8460 Times-dispatch blvd., mechanicsville Va 23116.

deadline is 1 p.m. Thursday for the following week’s issue.

calendar announcements cannot be taken by phone. We reserve the right to edit all items submitted to ashlandHanover Local.

suite 120 in mechanicsville, is hosting its second annual Give Kids a smile event from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is offering free dental care for children of low income families. call 804-559-3250 with any

Please see CALENDAR, Page 5

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Policycontent” within instructional materials, and also required local school divisions to adopt such policies.

The VDOE model policies instruct that parents be notified at least 30 days in advance if any instructional materials with “sexually explicit content,” as defined by the model policy, will be taught in their child’s classroom.

Va. Code 2.2-2827 defines “sexually explicit content” as “any description of or any picture, photograph, drawing, motion picture film, digital image or similar visual representation depicting sexual bestiality, a lewd exhibition of nudity as defined in 18.2-390, sexual excitement, sexual conduct or sadomasochistic abuse, as also defined in 18.2-390, coprophilia, urophilia, or fetishism.”

The code defines “sexual conduct” as “actual or explicitly simulated acts of masturbation, homosexuality, sexual intercourse, or physical contact in an act of apparent sexual stimulation or gratification with a person’s clothed or unclothed genitals, pubic area, buttocks or, if such be female, breast.”

The drafted HCPS policy revisions adhere to the

ashland resident Todd Gathje speaks in favor of the proposed revisions to HcPs Policy 6-5.6 during the public input portion of the school board’s dec. 13 meeting.

VDOE model policies and outline that parents may view instructional material used as part of their student’s curriculum and, upon request by a parent, alternate instructional materials and activities may be provided to complete the assignment. It also instructs that principals maintain a current list of sexually explicit instructional materials by grade and subject on school websites.

Lisa Seward, deputy county attorney, and Jennifer Greif, assistant superintendent of instructional leadership, presented the drafted HCPS policy to the school board shortly after the Dec. 13 meeting’s public comment period, where

several citizens spoke in favor of the drafted policy’s adoption.

Several speakers recommended including the state’s definition of “sexually explicit content” in the policy, which currently states that HCPS will identify instructional materials that include sexually explicit content as defined by Va. Code 2.2-2827 and notify parents prior to its use.

Todd Gathje of the Ashland District recommended a clear indication of when and how parents will be notified and recognition of “principals as having the responsibility for maintaining a list of instructional materials and making them available online” within the policy.

Seward and Greif addressed questions of citizen speakers and school board members during their presentation and said the state’s s definition of “sexually explicit content” is lengthy but will be included in the policy via a hyperlink for parents to easily access. They will additionally distribute any supplemental documentation to principals and administration and conduct training to ensure there is understanding and compliance of the policy.

Seward clarified to board members that the drafted policy is not a “significant departure” from current

practices in place, as it is woven into current HCPS policy regarding instructional materials.

“I want to assure you that this policy and the revisions contained within are just a further extension of the way that we have partnered with families and parents all along,” Seward said.

She added they already have practices in place for parents who wish to review materials or ask for alternate materials to be used with their student within curriculum guidelines. Currently, a parent can contact the school librarian at any time to request a note be placed in their child’s file prohibiting them from checking out certain materials in the school’s library.

“We will put in some further clarifications defining or having teachers to have a standardized communication with parents related to that as we go through, but a teacher isn’t going to assign a specific book from a library

that would be in opposition to what a parent has placed in their child’s file,” Seward said.

Cold Harbor representative Steven Ikenberry requested that the drafted policy clearly define “educational purpose.”

Policy 6-5.6 outlines that “instructional materials” is defined as “any content used by one or more students for an educational purpose, regardless of its format or the time, place and manner in which it is used,” which excludes standardized national or state assessments.

Classroom library and comprehensive library materials are considered instructional

materials when assigned by teachers to be used by students to complete an assignment.

Seward clarified that the term “educational purpose” is directly pulled from state guidelines.

“From my perspective, to define that further might make it too narrow, and the evolution of education and how we teach an educational purpose might also change in certain ways as we move through time,” she said.

The proposed policy revisions required no action by the school board and will return for action in the school board’s next regular monthly meeting on Jan. 10.

From

questions.

ONGOING

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

residency.

Walnut Grove b aptist c hurch will be conducting Free adult english classes (esL) and citizenship classes (Passing the Test) Wednesday mornings with open enrollment through may 17, 2023. classes will meet from 9 to 10:30 a.m at 7046 cold Harbor road, mechanicsville, Va 23111. For more information, contact the church office at (804) 746-5081 or contact Frank at wgbcinfo@comcast.net or (804) 4027701. The classes are free but students are asked to purchase the books required for the class.

SATURDAYS

Trinity Lutheran church, ashland

campus, located at 11515 ashcake road in ashland 2 miles west of U.s 1, holds its church service at 5 p.m. with 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 m essiah Lutheran c hurch at 8154 atlee rd. in mechanicsville. a n ursery will be available for infants and toddlers. Katherine G. dougherty is the deacon in charge of all souls.

PHOTO BY CHRISTINA AMANO DOLAN/THE LOCAL

Fromtheeditor

The immeasurable va lue of than king ou r vetera ns

Colored shovels that left a permanent mark

CHRISTINA AMANO DOLAN Editor

A

toric moment a reality.

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

As Crabtree, Rohrbaugh & Associates architect Joshua Bower pointed to the various colored balloons around the lot, with each hovering above what will become the new school’s front entrance, cafeteria and more, the cheery atmosphere of the morning ceremony could be seen in the smiles of the many, many dedicated civil servants that helped make the his-

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

ttending the groundbreaking ceremony for the consolidated Henry Clay and John M. Gandy elementary school was an exciting endeavor on its own, as faculty, students, parents, community leaders and beyond gathered on a cold, windy winter morning to celebrate the awaited milestone.But as I turned to watch the smiles of the young students eagerly bouncing in their seats with colored hard hats and listened to the touching speeches of distinguished guests, I was reminded of what truly made the historic moment so exciting – and was even transported into the seats of the young scholars.

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

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

sprouted up in the parking lot to replace another classroom.

rowing up outside of Washington, D.C., visiting its plethora of museums and memorials was a common occurrence throughout my childhood through school field trips and family visitsThismemory came to mind whenspeaking with Steve Combs of Old Dominion Honor Flight (ODHF), one of the many Honor Flight Network “Hubs” across the country that honor the nation’s veterans with an all-expenses paidtrip to Washington, D.C. As Combs spoke of hispassion for the nonprofit’s mission of saying “thank you” in powerful ways, I began to recall my parents’ teachings of “the why” behind these memorials’ existence.

bright against the backdrop of our new educational home.

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

In my earliest years of elementary school, there was an exciting promise that hovered over our heads: the little school, which had then weathered over 50 years in the community, would be revived. When this would become a reality, of course, was something our young minds couldn’t know.

But there was something remarkable about this journey and the waiting, as my class became the first sixth grade class to walk the halls of the new school – just in time before our final departure from the only community we had known. Recognizing this, fifth grade teachers gave us an art project to paint a tile that represented each of us.

That moment reminded us that we were part of this journey and we were part of our community’s growth. It reminded us that those walls would carry a piece of us long after our departure, and we would carry a piece of that little school for the rest of our lives.

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

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

what truly makes this remarkable journey worth the wait – the young scholars that will soon walk those shiny new corridors, flourish within the walls of their vibrant classrooms, and bravely embark on their own journeys into the new and unknown as they leave this home.

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

This memory vividly resurfaced last week as I watched the Hanover students dig their colored shovels into the ground of what would become their new home.

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

As years passed, we watched as one by one, different corridors were closed off and another trailer

I never thought of that tile again – that is until the shiny new doors finally opened to our shiny new school on the first day of our last year. There, lining the walls of the vibrant corridors was a little piece of each of us. We gasped in astonishment and raced down the white-tiled hallways in search of our painted tiles, each shining

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

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

Laughter pierced the air as they kept digging and digging, and a student even whispered to another, “Can we dig again?” after the ceremony ended.

Above all, these tokens of gratitude and appreciation

These small moments displaying their excitement for the future surely reminded all in attendance

see VETER

Unintended consequences sometimes have the greatest impact

By Jim Ridolphi Contributing Columnist

S

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

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

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

Publisher

JoyMonopoli

omeone leaves this planet every second of the day, and each of those deaths is a tragedy for the people who lovedthem. As I get older, it seems there are more sad days where someone associated with my generation takes the final ride. Even more frightening is the fact that many of them are our child-

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

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

Orson Welles’ radiodramatiza-

Editorial & BusinessOfficeand Mailing Address: 8460 Times-DispatchBlvd. Mechanicsville, VA 23116

Phone– (804)746-1235 Editor – (804)212-6266 Toll free – (877)888-0449 Fax– (804)344-8746 Online: richmond.com/community/mechanicsville-local

Publisher Joy Monopoli jmonopoli@Rsnva com Managing

hood heroes or favorite icons. Fortunately, most of us will enjoy the upcoming holiday season without the grief and dismay of losing a loved one, and the next few weeks will be spent with spe-

It seems the killermachineshad an immunity to the smallest form of

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

cial moments with the people we love the most.

Mississippi State football coach Mike Leach’s family won’t be one of those happy families celebrating this holiday season after he

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Perhaps these students will also race into their shiny new school as the shiny new doors open, and they will remember the moment they dug those shovels into its foundation. They will have the comfort of knowing that a piece of themselves will always remain in the home they created together and feel a sense of belonging, even into adulthood, knowing they were a part of that journey toward a better future for their own class and the many that followed.

pg. 18

passed last week after suffering a massive heart attack. They will be among those previously referenced few who will spend the

Please see COACH, Page 12

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

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

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

see IMPACT, pg.8

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Floyd announces candidacy for Chickahominy supervisor

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

Local community leader and businesswoman Danielle Floyd announced her candidacy last month for the Hanover County Board of Supervisors at an event at Marty’s Grill in Mechanicsville. She is seeking to represent the Chickahominy District, where she was raised and where she now lives with her husband, Wayne, and their three school-aged daughters.

Danielle Floyd’s platform is centered on three main issues: parental rights in education, supporting law enforcement and making sure development is done in a reasonable and commonsense way.

“I’ve seen a lot of things change in our area in the past few decades and not for the better,” Floyd said. “The landscape is one of the things that has changed dramatically. We don’t need to turn into our neighboring counties of Henrico, Chesterfield or Richmond. We need to keep Hanover, Hanover, a great

place to live, own a business and raise a family.”

Floyd continued, “I want to strengthen our community by protecting our morals and values in schools and bring back commonsense to our county government. We need to manage growth with responsible development, not micro development. I want to empower parents to be involved in their children’s education. Parents should not only feel comfortable sending their kids to Hanover County schools, but be proud of our blue ribbon schools. Academic rigor needs to be the focus at school, not social or political issues.”

Following redistricting, elections will occur next year in 2023 to fill this board of supervisors seat.

Finance department recognized for excellence

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

Hanover County’s Department of Finance and Management Services continues to be recognized for its outstanding performance by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA).

The GFOA has awarded Hanover County with its Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for its Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) for the fiscal year that ended June 30, 2021. The county has received this prestigious award each fiscal year since 1985, now 37 consecutive years. The Finance and Accounting Division within the Department of Finance and Management Services is led by Lauren Null.

The GFOA also awarded a Distinguished Budget Presentation Award to Hanover County for its FY2023 budget document. The county has received this prestigious award each fiscal year since 1990 (now 32 consecutive years). This award reflects the commit-

Simplythebestchoice.

• Winner of “Best of SeniorLiving” basedon reviewson A PlaceforMom,theleadingonline searchplatform forsenior care.Itisawarded to only2-3%ofsenior communitiesnationwide.

• Winner of “BestAssistedLiving” and “BestMemory Care” from U.S.News & World Report, basedon consumer-satisfactionsurveys completed byresidentsandtheir families.

• Ourapproach to dementia care follows Teepa Snow’sPositive Approach to Care®model, which recognizes eachperson’s uniqueneeds,highlightingtheirskillswhileproviding support.

• Supportingthelocal community by providingeducationalprogramsorganizing collections,and raising funds forcharities.

Hanover county’s department of Finance and management services was awarded the GFOa’s cer tificate of achievement for excellence in Financial repor ting and a distinguished budget Presentation award. From left to right are dr. Jay brown, deputy county administrator; mark Highfield; Jackie manzer; amanda six; Lauren null; nancy mancuso; Kelli Hoffner; amy sylvia; and angela Kelly-Wiecek, chair of the board of supervisors.

ment of the governing body and staff to meeting the highest principles of governmental budgeting. In order to receive the budget award, Hanover County had to satisfy nationally recognized guidelines for effective budget presentation. These guidelines are designed to assess how well an entity’s budget serves as a pol-

icy document; a financial plan; an operations guide; and a communications device. The Budget Division within the Department of Finance and Management Services is led by Shelly Wright.

Information submitted by Tom Harris, communications specialist for Hanover county.

CallHollyat804-723-1336 to arrangea visitor emailherathcarson@heritagegreenal.com.

PHOTO COURTESY OF HANOVER COUNTY

Floyd

Hanover native takes Virginia Rep stage

CHRISTINA AMANO DOLAN Editor

Mechanicsville native Emily Franch returns to her beloved hometown this holiday season in her Virginia Repertory Theatre debut as Mary Bennet, the lead in the ongoing production of “Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley.”

Virginia Repertory Theatre, located at 114 W Broad Street in Richmond, was created by the merger of Hanover’s Barksdale Theatre and Theatre IV in 2012 and has become one of the largest performing arts organizations in Central Virginia.

“Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley” brings the characters from Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice” to life in this holiday spinoff written by Lauren Gunderson and Margot Melcon. In the two years following the end of “Pride and Prejudice,” the Bennet sisters and their spouses are celebrating the holidays with family at the Darcy estate. Mary Bennet, played by Franch, isn’t particularly in a festive mood, but an unexpected guest may give Mary the ultimate gift of love.

Franch is thrilled to return to her Hanover roots and perform for family, friends and her lifelong community during the Christmas season.

Growing up in Mechanicsville, Franch said she knew from an early age that she belonged on stage. At the age of 2, she began dancing at the Ann Catherine Cross School of Dance in Cold Harbor and never shied away from the spotlight. She went on to play her very first lead role as the Littlest Christmas tree in the Mechanicsville Elementary School’s production of “The Littlest Christmas Tree,” participated in the drama program at Oak Knoll Middle School,

and was involved in show choir at Hanover High School.

“I always knew I wanted to be an actress,” Franch said, adding this passion for performing came from a love of “bringing people joy and smiles.”

“And I never had any fear of being on stage,” she said. “It was always just seeing those faces looking back up at me and knowing that I could maybe make them happy… being able to transport people, but also hopefully make them in a roundabout way think about their own lives and their relationships.”

Graduating from Hanover High in 2012, Franch followed her dream and moved from her hometown to the big city after her acceptance into NYU. She graduated in 2016 and received her B.F.A in Drama from The New Studio on Broadway at NYU Tisch School of the Arts.

“I always wanted to be in New York,” Franch said, as she grew up admiring The Rockettes in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, watching Broadway shows on TV and more.

But Franch never dreamed of traveling beyond New York and “bringing joy to people all over the world.”

Now living in Brooklyn, she has travelled across the country and even as far as Northern Europe while performing as a MainStage performer for Disney Cruise Line.

“It was an incredible experience, and my Mechanicsville family has traveled so many places to see me,” she said. “They came on the cruise, they’ve been to Florida, Pennsylvania, New

York when I was in ‘A Chorus Line’ at New York City Center. It’s been incredible.”

As a member of the Actors’ Equity Association, an American labor union representing those who work in live theatrical performance, Franch knew that Virginia Repertory hired union actors and reached out about auditioning.

She was thrilled to receive the lead role of Mary Bennet, as she could be with her Mechanicsville family during the holidays in her hometown. She added it is a “full circle moment,” as she returns home after evolving as a performer in New York and beyond.

“It’s very nostalgic,” she said. “And just thinking about all the people in Mechanicsville that supported me – even from a young age when I said, ‘I want to go to New York and be on Broadway,’ nobody every batted an eye.”

Throughout her life, Franch’s dream was invigorated with the love and support of her community – from fellow members at Broadus Memorial Baptist Church, teachers in school, friends, family and beyond.

“Not many people from Mechanicsville end up in New York, but they never made me feel like that dream was too big or out of reach,” she said.

Franch said “Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley” is a perfect holiday production for Jane Austen lovers and the family – filled with laughter, excitement and drama while delving into the complex character of Mary Bennet.

“You don’t have to know ‘Pride and Prejudice’ to enjoy the twists and turns, because there’s not much detail about Mary in the book,” she said. “So it’s expanding upon these unknown facets

of her character.”

She loves playing Mary, who is known for her fiery temper that she learns to manage throughout the play, as Franch has connected with her character from learning how to stand up for herself as a young female professional in the industry.

“I’m this smiley person, so getting to come back to my hometown and show this different character that also is a different side of me… I’ve loved it,” Franch said.

Performances began Nov. 25 and will last until Jan. 1. The run time is two hours including intermission. Tickets can be purchased by visiting the website, https:// va-rep.org/_miss-bennetnovember.html.

PHOTO BY AARON SUTTEN/VIRGINIA REPERTORY THEATRE emily Franch stands on the Virginia reper tory stage as mary bennet.

Franch

OBITUARIES

Margaret “Peggy” Burns

BURNS, Margaret “Peggy,” 90, died peacefully on december 11, 2022, in mechanicsville. Peggy moved to the richmond area in 1963 where she reared her three children. From her youth, she was passionate reader and an avid newspaper supporter, who contributed several op-ed pieces to the local newspaper. Peggy was an amateur artist and an aficionado of music, flowers, color in all things and a lover of hot coffee. she was preceded in death by her parents, earl and margaret Perrine; brother, don Perrine; and sister, doris dunn. she is survived by her son, brantley (amy) burns; daughters, noelle (stan) Webb, and becky (Todd) rogers; sister, earlene mohr; nine grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. Visitation begins at 11 a.m., on Thursday, december 22, at saint mary’s catholic church, 9505 Gayton road, richmond, Va. 23229; Funeral mass follows at noon. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to moments Of Hope Pantry, 13400 in Hanover courthouse rd., Hanover, Va. 23069. Online condolences at www.woodyfuneralhomeatlee.com.

Afton “Skip” Barnes Carter III

CARTER, Afton “Skip” Barnes III, 65, of studley, Va., peacefully passed away at his home on saturday, december 10, 2022. He was born July 9, 1957, to af ton b carter Jr. and mildred stout carter in richmond, Va. He is survived by his sons, a b carter IV (Jayme) and andrew s carter (cr ystal); two grandchildren, arielle brie carter and ruby Kate carter; his sister, dale c anderson (Hugh); brothers, William e carter (susie) and steven T. carter; a nephew, William e carter Jr.; and his beloved dogs, Kimber and diva. The family received friends from 3 to 7 p.m., Thursday, december 15, 2022, at monaghan Funeral Home, 7300 creighton Pkwy., mechanicsville, Va. 23111. a funeral service was held at 11 a.m. Friday, december 16, 2022, at Fairmount christian church, 6502 creighton rd., mechanicsville, Va. 23111. Interment followed in Hanover memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the east Hanover Volunteer Fire department, 8493 new bethesda rd., mechanicsville, Va. 23116.

Thomas “Tom Cat” Cersley Jr.

CERSLEY, Thomas “Tom Cat” Jr., of mechanicsville. The world unexpectedly lost a good man on december 10, 2022. Tom was born on august 10, 1951 to the late Thomas and Lillian cersley. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, betty Lou Wright; and recently, J.d. Grubbs. Tom is survived by the love of his life and soul mate, barbara ross- cersley; son, Ti cersley of new york; siblings, Warren cersley (carolyn), beverly Grubbs, bonnie Long (Jr) and Larry cersley; brother in-law, Frank Heskett (susan); and many nieces and nephews. Tom was a graduate of Lee-davis High school and went to work in the trade show industry. He became involved in blacksmithing and was a founding member of the central Virginia blacksmith Guild. Tom had a passion for antique cars. Tom was a loyal friend and could be called upon whenever needed. He will be missed by his family, friends and his best pal, mugsy. The family received friends for a time of remembrance from 4 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, december 15 at the bennett Funeral Homes, mechanicsville chapel, 8014 Lee davis rd donations may be made to Wounded Warriors Project, central Virginia blacksmiths Guild or american Heart a ssociation.

DUNNING, John Edward, 86, of mechanicsville, passed away on december 16, 2022. born and raised in suffolk, Va., John was the son of the late Francis and mildred dunning. John attended rPI, and in 1957 he joined the army. While stationed at Fort Gordon in augusta, Ga., John attended a dance where, he met a beautiful young woman named marilyn, they were married one year later on January 4, 1959. marilyn preceded John in death in 2006. John is survived by his children, sharon Howells (edward) of mechanicsville, Julie duffy (david) of Williamsburg, amy VanVeelan (dan) of severna Park, md.; grandchildren, mathew Howells, John Howells, Jessica Howells, megan mothershed, rebecca duffy, ryan VanVeelen, Jack VanVeelen, Will VanVeelen; and great-grandchildren, nora Howells and rey mothershed. John was a loving husband and father, who raised his children with warmth, compassion and integrity. He maintained lifelong relationships with many close friends, he made a beautiful life for his loved ones. He retired after 30 years with the rF&P railroad, as a electronic supervisor. He was known as an honest, hardworking man of integrity and faith who loved his country. John was a highly-skilled woodworker, spending many hours in his workshop. John was a man of strong faith; John regularly attended cool spring baptist church before attending new Highland baptist church. The family received friends from 6 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, december 20 at the mechanicsville chapel of the bennett Funeral Home, 8014 Lee davis rd a funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, december 21, at new Highland baptist church, 9200 new ashcake rd, mechanicsville, Va. 23116. Interment will follow in signal Hill memorial Park.

John Edward Dunning

OBITUARIES

From

Mansil Sim “Shim” Hazelgrove

HAZELGROVE, Mansil Sim “Shim,” 79, of mechanicsville, went home peacefully at her home on Thursday, december 15, 2022. she is survived by her husband of 53 years, robert (bud) Hazelgrove; sons, Paul Hazelgrove and his wife, erin, and mark Hazelgrove; three grandchildren, a shley Henry and her husband, ryan, emily Hazelgrove and ben Hazelgrove; and three great-grandchildren, eva, ember and cole Henry. she was preceded in death by her grandson, Franky Hazelgrove. she is also survived by dear sisters and brothers-in-law, nancy and buck Wicker, Harvey and martha Hazelgrove and sue and Frank Previs; as well as many nieces and nephews in mechanicsville and cousins in Korea. shim retired from Lucent Technologies, where she met her still best friend, Gladys Grasberger. The family received friends 3 to 7 p.m. sunday at the Parham chapel, Woody Funeral Home, 1771 n. Parham road. Graveside services were held 2 p.m. monday at black creek baptist church cemetery, 6289 mcclellan road, mechanicsville, Va. 23111.

Siegfried “Siggi” Leise

LEISE, Siegfried “Siggi,” 80, of manquin, went to be with the Lord Friday, december 9, 2022. He was preceded in death by his parents, Gunther and emma Leise strunk; daughter, Lisa ann downey; and grandson, Logan Jenks. siggi is survived by his wife, rita ann Leise; children, britta sigrid Leise, erik siegfried Leise (Heather) and doug Jenks (Karen); dawn Waters; son-inlaw, charles downey; grandchildren, Kenny, a shleigh (ryan), samantha (John), nelson, Hunter (Gabi), Kirsten, elizabeth, seth, Laura and Van; as well as numerous great-grandchildren. He was co-owner of Hanover machine and Tool. siggi’s passions were his church, family, hockey and golf. Family received friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, december 15 at the mechanicsville chapel of the bennett Funeral Home, 8014 Lee-davis rd services were held 12 noon Friday, december 16, 2022, at the church of Jesus christ of Latter day saints, mechanicsville Ward. Interment followed in signal Hill memorial Park.

Beatrice Mae “Bea” Peay

PEAY, Beatrice Mae “Bea,” 81, of new Kent, Va., went to be with her Lord and savior on Tuesday, december 13, 2022. she was preceded in death by her parents, John and mable Parsley; husband, bernard Joseph “Pete” Peay; siblings, Wallace (Hobo), alton (shine), Paul, mason, Jane and norma. she is survived by her loving daughter, cathy edwards (Tim) of mechanicsville; grandchildren, cole and Zach Johnson and blake edwards; two sisters, shirley Higgins and Verna Lee Gatewood of new Kent; one brother, Jimmy Parsley of new Kent; and a host of family and friends. beatrice was a lifetime member of Hopewell baptist church in new Kent. beatrice enjoyed listening to gospel music and always attended events in the area. she always had a joke for anyone who came to visit. The family received friends on saturday, december 17, 2022, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at bennett Funeral Homes, mechanicsville chapel, with a graveside service following at 1 p.m. at Hopewell baptist church in new Kent, Va. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Hopewell baptist church.

Lt. Col. Carlton “Shady” Schelhorn

SCHELHORN, Carlton “Shady,” LTC., 91, of mechanicsville, formerly of alexandria, passed away on december 14, 2022. He is survived by his devoted wife of 68 years, Pat; children, chip schelhorn (Julie), Lynn michaux (Jody), cathy d’antuono (steve) and nancy bennett (mark); nine grandchildren and four greatgrandchildren. shady was a 1955 University of Virginia graduate, where he played football and was a member of Phi delta Theta. He proudly served his country in the U.s army for 23 years, retiring as a Lieutenant colonel. Known for his incredible sense of humor and charm, shady never met a stranger. He was always the loudest voice in the room, an excellent dancer and fond of martinis. His family was his greatest pride and joy; “G-dad” was adored in return. some of his favorite pastimes included golfing, especially with the Over-The-Hill Hoos, spending winters in marco Island, Florida and lately watching “Grit” TV. The family will receive friends from 2 to 4 p.m. on Wednesday, december 21, at the bennett Funeral Home, mechanicsville chapel, 8014 Lee davis rd., where a funeral service will follow at 4 p.m. Interment will take place in arlington national cemetery at a later date.

Hanover Rotary continues Red Kettle Campaign

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

The Red Kettle Campaign, which started in San Francisco in 1891, has been the Salvation Army’s most prominent fundraiser.

For more than 133 years, the Salvation Army Central Virginia has been helping local communities.

The annual Red Kettle Christmas campaign enables the Salvation Army to provide food, clothing and toys for individuals and

Coach

From 6

coming days remembering and missing Mike, and they won’t be alone.

Even avid college football fans may not be acquainted with Leach as his teams never won a national championship or even captured a conference title. But, to those who are familiar with his antics, Leach was a winner who mentored hundreds of successful individuals who played for him and had thousands more who admired his efforts.

I began following Leach, 61, when he coached at Texas Tech and was first introduced to his dry wit and humorous approach to some of life’s smallest problems. The sultry coach was never timid about offering his opinion on almost anything.

For example, in a postgame report, a reporter asked Leach about his thoughts on Halloween candy. He anxiously answered, “I think candy corn is awful. You know, it’s like fruitcake. There’s a reason they serve fruitcake once a year, because it’s awful. There’s a reason they only serve mint julips once a year, because they’re awful. And there’s a reason they only serve candy corn once a year,

families.

The monies also support many programs of the Salvation Army and provide shelter, food, day care for children, a safe place for at risk children, the Boys & Girls Club and many other services for individuals and families.

The Hanover Rotary Club has been “ringing the bell” for 49 years. It is a proud tradition, and now most Rotary Clubs from Richmond

to Virginia Beach are joining the club in this worthwhile project.

“We are happy to report this year’s donations from the generous Ashland and surrounding communities at Walmart Ashland totaled $1,127.37,” said club president Penny Guiles.

For additional information and photos, visit the websites, salvationarmycentralva.org or hanoverrotary.org.

because it’s awful. Now that does beg the question why they serve it at all, but, anyway, that’s my opinion.”

He freely opined about everything from the existence of Big Foot to a special brand of marital advice (he endorsed eloping), and never lacked a snappy response to reporters’ questions.

When one asked Leach the overused and useless question regarding how he would like to be remembered in his obituary, Leach’s answer was predictable. “Well that’s their problem ... what do I care, I’m dead.”

You could have easily been fooled by the down home, everyman’s approach Leach employed, but don’t let the simple approach to life’s complexities fool you. Leach was no dummy. He held a master’s degree and graduated law school before he arrived on the sideline as a coach.

But, it was his refreshing approach to the game that made him a fan favorite.

Leach knew that winning wasn’t everything and prioritized producing responsible young adults with a reasonable chance of winning in the most important game — life.

Along the way, he gained a reputation as an offensive genius, credited with trans-

forming college football with the Air Raid offense.

The loss to the college football world is immense, and his irreverent personality is probably irreplaceable. But, my thoughts are focused on his family who are suffering through an unimaginable loss at the most difficult time of year.

I can relate to their grief, and that of the thousands of Americans who suffer loss at this celebratory time of year. I lost my father on Christmas Eve, 1960, and the season has never been quite the same, but now has become an appropriate time to remember lives lost and appreciate the blessings they bestowed on us.

Above all others, Leach’s family know the influence Leach had on thousands of young lives and the love and respect he displayed for them. Our thoughts and prayers are with them at this difficult time.

For the rest of us, Leach’s death reminds us that life is fleeting and tomorrow is never guaranteed.

I’ll leave you with a tidbit of Leach’s philosophy, an appropriate reminder of how he lived and enjoyed his too short time on earth.

“Well, you’re going to be dead in a hundred years anyway, so live dangerously.”

School

From 1

HCPS officials were joined by county, Town of Ashland and project officials along with students and the community on Monday, Dec. 12, to celebrate the groundbreaking on the site of the upcoming elementary school in Ashland.

The school is set to open for the 2024-2025 school year and will consolidate Henry Clay Elementary, which currently serves students in pre-K through second grade, and John M. Gandy Elementary, which currently serves students in third through fifth grades.

Crabtree, Rohrbaugh & Associates (CRA), a Charlottesvillebased architectural firm, is leading the design of the school and Southwood Builders, an Ashlandbased construction company, will serve as the general contractor for the project.

Leigh Finch, John M. Gandy principal, and Kristin Haas, Henry Clay principal, delivered opening remarks to the crowd of attendees and expressed their gratitude for the momentous occasion.

All stood for the Presentation of Colors by Patrick Henry High School NJROTC cadets and the pledge of allegiance before remaining guest speakers delivered their remarks.

HCPS Superintendent Michael Gill recognized community members for their “incredible support” and “invaluable” input throughout the planning process.

“This is truly a great day,” Gill said. “When the school opens, it will have been 16 years since the last time we cut a ribbon for a Hanover County school, and this project promises to be worth the wait.”

He added that HCPS is comprised of four corridors, and the new elementary school will be the first school in 45 years built in the western corridor.

Gill recognized the collaborative efforts of the school division, school board, county administration, Hanover County Board of Supervisors, Town of Ashland and the community in making the project a reality.

“This collaboration exemplifies the best of who we are and who we can be, and the result will be a state of the art facility which will serve our amazing students and staff for decades to come,” Gill said. “It will honor the rich legacy of these two schools while being a symbol of the current strength of our school division and the promise of a strong future for Hanover County and the Town of Ashland.”

School board chair and Beaverdam representative John Axselle asked the audience to turn their attention to the ceremony’s program, which contained images of

the students of the two schools and added, “We do it for them.”

“We look forward to even greater things from our young people and our future leaders,” Axselle said.

Ola J. Hawkins, school board representative of the Ashland District, named the occasion a “historic event” for both the county and Ashland while recognizing the rich history of both schools.

“And as we move further to do this consolidation, we know that our principals, Mrs. Haas and Mrs. Finch, and their staff continuously move forward to see that each and every student reaches

his or her potential, and we thank you for that,” Hawkins said.

“I do want to be sure… that we continue to thank our principals, our teachers – everyone that’s involved in teaching our children the path to a good and solid life,” she added.

“Our hearts are warm – warm in thinking about the opportunity that we have to reflect on community and the role that our schools play, not just in being a place for people to gather or to educate children, but to represent a community,” said Board of Supervisors Chair and Chickahominy representative Angela Kelly-Wiecek.

Kelly-Wiecek turned to the students in attendance and added, “Long after you leave your elementary school or middle or high school… there will always be that sense of belonging. You will always be part of that community.”

“A school is a place where a community of teachers and students and people who live and love here and raise their families here gather to learn, gather to gain the tools to move us into a better future,” said Ashland Supervisor Faye Prichard. “And this beautiful school that everyone has worked so hard on is an emblem of that growth in our community.”

Sofia M., Head of House for House Gratos at John M. Gandy Elementary, spoke on behalf of her peers at both elementary schools.

“In our new building, we will show how we are always honest and trustworthy. We will share our creative and innovative ideas. We will be appreciative and grateful for small gestures. We will be caring and empathetic toward others. And we will show our teachers and friends that we are polite and respectful,” Sofia said.

Sofia invited her fellow Heads of House to join her in pouring colored sand onto the dirt, with each a different color to represent the five Houses and their unity.

CRA architect Joshua Bower spoke on behalf of fellow project officials and expressed their excitement for the journey ahead. Pointing to the colored balloons stationed around the plot of land, Bower gave the audience a glimpse at what will be the new gym, front entrance, cafeteria and classrooms.

John M. Gandy and Henry Clay students grabbed their hard hats and dug their shovels into the ground of their new community, as project, Town of Ashland, county, school and school board officials cheered behind them in celebration.

Construction will take place over the next 18 months and the current John M. Gandy campus will remain operational during that time.

For more information on the new school, visit the website, https://www.hcps.us/community/consolidated_elementary_ school.

PHOTOS BY CHRISTINA AMANO DOLAN/THE LOCAL student attendees of the groundbreaking ceremony watch Patrick Henry High school nJrOTc cadets perform a Presentation of colors.

John m. Gandy principal Leigh Finch delivers opening remarks with Henry clay principal Kristin Haas.

county administrator John budesky, from left, Henry supervisor sean davis, chickahominy supervisor and chair angela Kelly-Wiecek, ashland supervisor Faye Prichard, and mechanicsville supervisor canova Peterson break ground on the new elementary school.

Christmas Mother Clements’ holiday travels

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

Michele Clements, 2022 Hanover Christmas Mother, continues her holiday travels around the community, spreading Christmas cheer and philanthropic spirit to every corner of the community.

Last week, Clements visited the Hanover Museum of History & Culture’s exhibit, “Leaders & Legacy: Women of Hanover.” The growing exhibit now includes a brief history of the Hanover County Christmas Mother program, which has been supporting local families since 1949 by collecting donations to gift to needy families during Christmas.

Clements was greeted by Jaime Fawcett, executive director of the Hanover Museum of History & Culture, and Aaron Reidmiller, director of Hanover County Parks and Recreation.

Clements has received generous donations toward the Christmas Mother Pro-

gram from multiple community groups over the past few weeks.

The Mechanicsville Ruritan Club hosted Clements at their monthly breakfast meeting on Dec. 2 and presented her with a check donation from all profits of the concessions sold during the Rotary Ruritan Christmas Parade.

Last week, the Mechanicsville AARP Chapter invited Clements to their Decem-

ber meeting at First Union Baptist Church where they shared lunch and presented a donation to Clements.

Clements spread the gift of generosity herself by meeting with Toys for Tots volunteers to donate an abundance of toys left over from the Christmas Mother program.

Clements visited Bethlehem Lutheran Church to see the church’s Mitten Tree, which is adorned with mittens to represent the num-

ber of donations made to the Christmas Mother program by church members. The church supports a different Christmas Mother each year.

The Hanover Christmas Mother thanks all donors for their generous contributions toward the meaningful program. To donate, visit the website, www.hanoverchristmasmother.org or by writing Hanover Christmas Mother, P.O. Box 39, Doswell, VA, 23047.

‘12 Days for Christmas’ to fund 25 small businesses

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

Pete and Burson Snyder, founders of The 30 Day Fund, which has grown to become the largest COVID-19 pandemic-related small business charity in America, announced last week an additional effort to provide immediate fiscal relief to small businesses in Virginia during the holiday season. The 30 Day Fund will be selecting 25 small businesses in the Commonwealth to support through a “12 Days for Christmas” holiday campaign.

Small businesses that have been impacted by COVID-19, or the effects of the pandemic, can ap-

ply for up to $3,500 in immediate funds from The 30 Day Fund by visiting the website, va30dayfund. com/apply. Applications must be entered by Christmas Day.

Pete Snyder, co-founder of The 30 Day Fund, said, “2022 has been a brutal year for small businesses. Runaway inflation, rising fuel prices, labor shortages and supply chain issues continue to plague so many on the front lines of our economy, and we’ve awarded nearly $8 million in grants already this year as small businesses work through this difficult period. We at The 30 Day Fund want to make sure that small businesses who are struggling in Virginia can make it until next year, that’s why we want to close the year strong by giving money to 25 more small businesses

over the next 12 days. We want to make the holidays a bit brighter for these hard-working heroes, so they can provide much needed bonuses for their employees, get needed equipment to keep their business running or make sure their workers have something extra under their tree on Christmas morning.”

“When Burson and I launched this effort in March of 2020, we did it with a simple desire to help small businesses in Virginia- immediately,” he continued. “We had no idea that the initial investment we made of $100,000 would eventually turn into a national movement that has now raised nearly $50 million total and helped 3,154 small businesses nationwide, including hundreds right here in the Commonwealth. The mission is

not over. Businesses are still suffering and so we are really pleased to be launching this round of ‘12 Days for Christmas’ to help them.”

Co-founder Burson Snyder added, “The 30 Day Fund is still going strong. In this season that can be so special and, at the same time, so tough for families and small businesses, we are launching our ‘12 Days for Christmas’ effort to provide even more help for those still struggling with the challenges of the pandemic. We know all too well from the small businesses we’ve been working with and talking to all across the country, that the effects of the pandemic are still very real. The 30 Day Fund will be there for them this holiday season.”

To apply to be a “12 Days for Christmas” recipient, small busi-

nesses must continue to meet the following criteria: Employ three to 30 people, be based in Virginia and have been operating for at least one year; be impacted by the pandemic (inflation, labor shortages etc.); and be owned and operated by a Virginia resident.

Funds disbursed to small businesses by The 30 Day fund do not need to be repaid. If businesses who receive the Fund’s assistance do, at a later date, wish to “pay it forward” to another small business in need of assistance, they may do so by directing those dollars back to the Fund, which will disburse the funding to another business in need.

To learn more about The 30 Day Fund, visit https://30dayfund. com/.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS

Francis Garrett of bethlehem Lutheran church shows michele clements the church mitten Tree, with each mitten representing a donation to the Hanover christmas mother Program by a church member.

michele clements donates leftover christmas presents from the christmas mother Program to Toys for Tots volunteers.

Local businesses deliver Christmas joy to family

CHRISTINA AMANO DOLAN Editor

HanoverRuritan honors Vidunasfor outstandingservice astraffic engineer

The agents at Realty Richmond and the staff of Shurm Homes continued their joint holiday tradition of bringing truckloads of Christmas presents to a Hanover family this season.

Shurm Homes is a familyowned home builder located at 9205 Atlee Branch Lane in Mechanicsville. Realty Richmond, which is located in the same building, is a full service real estate company that serves the entire metro area.

Brothers John and Shawn Shurm decided to combine the efforts of their two businesses in 2016 to bring holiday cheer to a family in need, and an annual tradition was born.

Partnering with Hanover Preschool, the ongoing initiative adopts a new “Christmas family” each year that is selected by the school. The school provides a list of clothing and shoe sizes along with any toy requests from the selected family.

Liz Bednar, office administrator at Realty Richmond, said everyone

Sulserscelebrate59thanniversary

The agents at realty richmond and staff at shurm Homes pose around the christmas tree with their donated gifts before delivering them to Hanover Preschool.

26.Theyhavethreesons, Chris and Brian,and threegrandsons, Brandon, ConnorandGrant.Norman servedontheHanoverCountySchool Board for16years andMary servedon the HanoverCounty CommunityServiceBoard for eightyears. TheSulsersenjoyed theirtravels toall 50statesand14countriesinEurope

between the two businesses participate in the initiative and purchase the items themselves, filling a truckload of clothing items and toys to deliver to the preschool.

LIBRARY

“It’s a great opportunity for us

to all come together, pitch in and be able to buy a family their entire Christmas presents,” Bednar said. “It’s just really important to us this time of the year to reach out and make sure that we get a

Hanover family covered with all of their needs at the holidays.”

They adopted the biggest Christmas family this year with a total of nine children.

managed to get it all done,” Bednar said, adding that they are always willing to take on more children each year and hope to continue growing the initiative in coming years.

Hunter celebrates 80th birthday

Bednar said some of the most enjoyable moments of the annual tradition are seeing the final product and loading up the car with the pile of gifts.

Bednar had the pleasure this year of delivering the presents, which are all wrapped and labelled for the convenience of the family, to the school.

“To just see our preschool’s reaction to the load of presents that were able to come through for them, it’s just a lot of joy and just good feelings all around,” she said. “You can tell they’re just as excited as whoever’s going to be receiving the gifts, and that they really enjoy what they do.”

school Storytime, for ages3-5 with a caregiver.

“It was quite a tall order, but we

For more information on Shurm Homes and their services, visit https://www.shurmhomes.com/. For more information on Realty Richmond, visit https://www. realtyrichmondva.com/.

CHRISTINA AMANO DOLAN Editor

The Tools 4 Teachers store is finishing up their orders for the first three months of the 2022-2023 school year and is looking ahead to potentially fill orders for the four high schools of Hanover County Public Schools (HCPS) at the start of 2023.

Contributedphoto HanoverRuritanClub’s speaker foritsOctober meeting wasJosephE. Vidunas,traffic engineer forHanover County. Hespoketo the clubabout road improvements taking place and roundabouts.While a numberofdrivers don’t like roundabouts,they save lives asthey slow the traffic downandlessenthenumber of accidents, Vidunassaid. Hewas selectedbytheclub’s businessand professioncommitteeinappreciationforhisoutstanding servicetothecitizens of HanoverCounty inhis roleas transportationengineer Vidunasis shown receivinghis award fromAnnJewell, Hanover RuritanClub president.

tian Emergency Services (ACES) and HCPS formed to offer financial assistance to teachers in need of school supplies for students and classrooms.

1 p.m. Learn about a variety of homegardening topics from Virginia Cooperative Extension’s MasterGardeners This session’s topic is"The Oaks of Hanover.” Learn about the stately historical trees right in yourbackyard.

Library. Saturday, Nov. 5, 2 to 3:30 p.m. Make beautiful and unique placeholders for the holiday table. Participants will be able to make up to sixdifferent placeholders Registration is required.

Tools 4 Teachers seeking volunteers for 2023

Atlee BookGroup at the Atlee Branch Librar y. Wednesday, Nov. 9,11a.m.

Contributedphoto UrsulaHunter and family would liketo wishher husband of 58years, Clarence T. Hunter Sr., a happy80thbirthdaythat wascelebratedon Oct.

The Tools 4 Teachers program is a community partnership between Mechanicsville Churches Emergency Functions (MCEF), Ashland Chris-

The Tools 4 Teachers program currently delivers school supplies ordered by middle school teachers from September to April of the year. Volunteers filled 98 orders in October, 88 in November and are filling 26 orders this month.

In order to begin incorporating the four HCPS high schools as early as Feb-

Fall Leaf Table Place Holders at the Atlee Branch

ruary 2023, Tools 4 Teachers will need two additional teams of volunteers to help deliver orders the first and second half of the month to the high schools. They are currently seeking around six volunteers.

All work is performed in the back of the Arc of Hanover Thrift Store building, located at 10193 Washington Highway in Glen Allen. Volunteer duties include picking, checking and packing orders toward the beginning of the month; tidying up the storeroom;

Preschool Storytime at the Atlee Branch Library. Mondays, Nov. 7, 14, 21, & 28,10 to 10:30 a.m Enjoy books, music, fingerplays and much more at pre-

identifying items that need replenishing; preparing for the next delivery; receiving and inventorying donations; placing donations on the shelves; and entering quantities into an Excel spreadsheet.

Those interested in volunteering for or donating to the Tools 4 Teachers store can visit the MCEF website (https://www.4mcef.com/) or ACES website (https:// aceshanover.org/), can email Office@4MCEF.com, or call 804-365-4300 with any questions.

BY ROBERTHARLING

Contributedphotos

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

CHRISTINA AMANO DOLAN/FILE PHOTO

The Tools 4 Teachers office and inventory is situated at the back of the arc of Hanover Thrift store, located at 10193 Washington Highway, Glen allen.

Virginia Rep Center’s main theater named to honor Jessie Bogese

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

Virginia Repertory Theatre has received a $1 million naming gift from Susan Stevens Bogese and her two children, Allyson Bogese Ashcraft (Jay) and Michael Bogese III, to name the main theater at the new Virginia Rep Center in memory of their daughter/sibling Jessica “Jessie” Michael Bogese, who passed away unexpectedly in March 2021.

Jessica would have turned 43 on Saturday, Dec.10, and that is the day that Virginia Repertory Theatre welcomed the family to the new facility for a private ceremony and champagne toast to name the theater at Virginia Rep Center for Arts and Education in Jessie’s memory.

In the early 1990s, Jessie Bogese had a birthday party at Virginia Rep’s predecessor, Theatre IV. Throughout her life, Jessie reminisced with her mom about how that particular party stood out in her memory, because she was

treated like royalty in front of her friends. Jessica had cerebral palsy and despite her disability was very active in theater, dance and art.

When Susan Bogese saw the Richmond Times-Dispatch news coverage regarding Virginia Rep’s purchase of The Scottish Rite Temple, she was moved to call. Susan let the theatre’s Director of Development Emily Cole-Jones know that she had been searching for something positive to do with the funds in Jessie’s estate to honor her memory. The recent announcement that Virginia Rep Center has brought Disney Musicals in Schools to Chesterfield County reinforced her decision about being involved with Virginia Rep.

After several conversations with Susan, Cole-Jones said, “She shared with us how Jessie was quiet and shy, but that she loved theater and dance, and once she was on stage, she was transformed. Her disability took a back

seat to her talent.”

“Even though Jessie didn’t like a lot of attention, we felt that Jessie would be happy that her story might be able to inspire hundreds

AARP issues fraud alert for mail theft

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

Scams aren’t always high tech – some of the most common are about as old fashioned as they come.

In 2021 there were 33,000 reports of incidents involving mail carrier robberies and mail theft, up from 24,000 in 2019, according to the US Postal Inspectors (USPIS). The thieves were looking for personal checks that can be washed and re-written to anyone for any amount.

The simplest way for criminals to find mail to steal is to look for mailboxes with a raised flag, which often contain bill payments with personal checks included. Another way is for criminals to steal a master key that opens the blue boxes from a postal worker. These “arrow keys” sell for between $5,000 and $10,000 on the black market. Once they have a personal check, thieves can “wash” the

ink off with household chemicals and fill it out to a new recipient for whatever amount they wish.

For protection, deposit any mail containing checks, cash or sensitive personal information in collection boxes as close to the indicated pickup time as possible or bring them inside the post office for mailing.

Be a fraud fighter. If you can spot a scam, you can stop a scam.

The AARP Fraud Watch Network is a free resource for all. Learn how to proactively spot scams or get guidance if you’ve been targeted. Visit www.aarp. org/fraudwatchnetwork or call the dedicated helpline to speak to a fraud specialist at 1-877908-3360.

To learn more about AARP Virginia, like them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/aarpvirginia and follow @AARPVa on

Twitter at www.twitter.com/ aarpva.

AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With nearly 38 million members and offices in every state, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, AARP works to strengthen communities and advocate for what matters most to families with a focus on health security, financial stability, and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, highquality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP produces the nation’s largest circulation publications, AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin.

of kids to take risks, overcome challenges and pursue their talents,” Bogese said.

The first show to be presented in the Virginia Rep Center’s Jessica

M. Bogese Theatre is “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas,” which opened Saturday, Dec. 17 and is running through Jan. 1, 2023, for the holidays. The theater can welcome up to 650 children and their families to see this Christmas classic. Snow Bear will be on hand to meet the children.

The new Virginia Rep Center for Arts and Education is located at 4204 Hermitage Road in Richmond’s Hermitage Road Historic District, adjacent to the Bellevue neighborhood, with close proximity to Bryan Park that allows for outdoor programming and new community partnerships. This landmark building, the former home of the Richmond Children’s Theatre, has a long history as a performing arts venue. Virginia Rep is preserving this legacy and will be making it available to other local theaters, dance companies, schools, community nonprofits, and area arts and education organizations.

Rep. Good introduces 40th bill

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

Congressman Bob Good (VA05) introduced on Dec. 13 his 40th bill in his first term, the Apprenticeship Freedom Act. Currently, 83% of apprenticeship programs in America are run by business owners. This legislation would allow employers more say in how they run their own apprenticeship programs and still remain eligible for funding, rather than being forced to comply with government regulations.

“Apprenticeships play a vital role in developing the American workforce, yet right now, President Biden’s Department of Labor has the final say in how Americans can run these valuable programs,” said Good. “By striking the current requirement under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act to register apprenticeships with the Department of Labor, we can restore control of American businesses to small business

owners and curb the power of Washington bureaucrats.”

Currently, there are 27,000 apprenticeship programs registered with the Department of Labor, with Virginia boasting the highest active number at 2,845. The Apprenticeship Freedom Act would increase opportunities for employers seeking to contribute to the workforce, giving them the flexibility to utilize these programs and develop the skilled employees that they desperately need.

“This bill will level the playing field for businesses in a way that is fiscally responsible,” said Good. “American employers, not Washington bureaucrats, know what is best for their businesses including how to develop the skills their workforce needs to be successful.”

The introduction of his 40th bill ranks Good near the top of the freshman class in the 117th Congress.

PHOTO COURTESY OF VIRGINIA REPERTORY THEATRE

The bogese family stand in the Virginia rep center’s main theater, which has been named in memory of Jessie bogese after the family donated $1 million to the theater.

Ashl d Ga rden Club lebr 10 0 years

UPCOMING PROGRAMS AT HANOVER AREA LIBRARIES

RICHARD S. GILLIS, JR./ ASHLAND BRANCH

LIBRARY

From the Heart stitchers at the ashland branch Library. Thursday, dec. 22, noon to 4 p.m. From the Heart stitchers began in 2001 making chemo hats for the massey cancer center and today has over 1899 stitchers making 1000’s 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.

such asCampBloomand 4-HCamp, as wellas a $2,000 scholarshipfor a Patrick Henry High Schoolseniorwhoplans to study horticulture,agriculture, botany orenvironmental

oftheTheAshlandGardenClub daffodilsinpublicspacesaroun and 2022in frontof Rhodeen.

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

The Parsons’Cause Foundation seeking

s cavenger Hunt, Take and m ake Lunar n ew year at the ashland branch Library. Tuesday, Jan. 3, all day event. Find the animals that embody the year hiding around the library, then take home a rabbit puppet kit for fun of your own.

mad about mahjong! at the ashland branch Library. Friday, Jan. 6, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Join other mahjong enthusiasts in playing the cultural tile game every other Friday at the ashland branch Library.

Upcoming programs atAshland branch library

playing the culturaltilegame at the Ashland Library.

HHS CHANTE OFFERS HOLIDAY PERFORMANCE

The

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

a shland b ridge c lub at the ashland branch Library. Friday, Jan. 6, 1 to 4 p.m. ashland bridge club is for players with a basic knowledge and skill in playing bridge. The club plays most Friday afternoons. contact d ick Hamby at mokeyhamby@gmail. com for more information and to sign up. registration is required.

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

mother Goose storytime at the ashland branch Library. monday, Jan. 9, 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. Call 804-798-4072 or visit the library at 201 S. Railroad Ave. for more information.

PHOTO BY CHRISTINA AMANO DOLAN/THE LOCAL

3 Rivers Livestock Club at the AshlandBranch Library. Tuesday, Dec. 13,6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Ages5-18. Would you like to participate in

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

LOIS WICKHAM JONES/ MONTPELIER BRANCH LIBRARY

Ashland Police Station, Henry Clay Elementary Schooland the town parks.

ASHLAND/

| Also serving the communities ofMontpelier, Beaverdam, Rockville and Doswell

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE CONCERT BALLET OF VIRGINIA

The concert ballet of Virginia lit up the Patrick Henry High school stage with a lively performance of "The nutcracker" by steve davis on the weekend of dec. 10.

Hanover High school chanté gave a special holiday performance of “carol of the bells” and “dance of the sugar Plum Fairy” during the Hanover county school board’s dec. 13 meeting under the direction of erin dixon.

Spor ts

Youth, High School,College, Recreational& Professional

North wins 33-21 in Big River Rivalry

ROBBY FLETCHER Sports Editor

Entering a week of practice and preparation for this year’s Big River Rivalry all-star football game, Hanover quarterback Cole Elrod had a chip on his shoulder to prove what he could do when he worked from the pocket.

Mustangs place third in Holiday Classic

Patrick Henr y rumblespastMechanicsville inhigh-scoring64th matoBowl

By AdamCheek for Richmond Times-Dispatch

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

Mostly known as a run-heavy option under center and even a target as a receiver, Elrod commanded the North team offense at Randolph-Macon’s Day Field, carving up the defense to the tune of 74 passing yards with a touchdown to go with 74 more yards on the ground as a runner. That performance earned him MVP honors and helped his team to a 33-21 win over the South in an exciting display from the best football players in Richmond.

In a packed gym for two days of non-stop wrestling from the best teams in the area, the 2022 Mechanicsville Holiday Classic was again a huge success, with the Mustangs finishing in third place in the 21-team tournament held from Dec. 16 to 17.

semifinals against Mills E. Godwin’s Colin Mayhew, who he defeated with a 11-0 major decision. In his final against Tristan Tores, he won yet again by fall, taking home the top honor in 5:29.

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

“The only thing I wanted to show was that I could throw the ball around a little bit and be that pocket passer,” Elrod said.

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

Elrod said the MVP honor feels more like a team award, crediting the talent of his teammates for his success on the field.

“There’s a lot of studs out here and everybody makes everybody better,” Elrod said. “Honestly, this MVP trophy goes to everybody. My job was so easy today just to give them the ball and let them go to work.”

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

On the North side, Trinity’s Trai Ferguson took home MVP honors as well, finishing with 120 yards on six receptions along with one touchdown.

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

outs was Ross, a running back/ wide receiver combo and special teams ace, who had arguably the play of the day in the third quarter when he astonishingly broke four tackles and found paydirt down the left sideline for a 61-yard punt return touchdown that led to his teammates clearing the benches to celebrate with the Patriots star.

Voices across the sideline could be heard yelling “sign him” as uncommitted Ross celebrated with his teammates in the end zone.

Ross says he set out to prove that he could compete with the best Richmond has to offer, something he’s been consistently proving over the course of his Patrick Henry career.

“I just wanted to show that my size wouldn’t hold me back from performing, and that I belong here,” Ross said.

return with 3:35 left in the opening period. The South responded quickly to tie the game up when Powhatan quarterback Dylan Trevillian fired a deep ball to an open Trai Ferguson that went 83 yards for a touchdown.

Entering halftime tied up 7-7, the North came out firing on all cylinders in a dominant third quarter that opened with Ross’ score and was followed by an Elrod strike over the top to Aziz FosterPowell for a 51-yard score to make it 21-7. Then, Kenari Eberhardt scored his first of two second half touchdowns to open the scoring up even more to 27-7, though the South did score one touchdown just before the end of the quarter on a 60-yard touchdown catch from Jashaun Amin.

In front of the hosting Mustangs were the top-placed Spotsylvania Knights with 203.5 points and the Atlee Raiders with 186 points. Mechanicsville finished just behind Atlee with 181 points. The tournament also saw Patrick Henry finish as the holder of fifth place with 159 points and Hanover in seventh with 146.5 points.

The Raiders placed second thanks to an impressive team performance headlined by Alex Donaldson’s first place finish in the 126-pound bracket, second place finishes from 113-pound Eric Ludwig and 157-pound Tristan Tores and third place finishes from 165-pound Benji Collawn and 138-pound Brayton Crews.

For Patrick Henry, who is fresh off a Patriot Revolution first place finish as a team, Ryan and Dillon O’Keefe were once again at the forefront of the team’s success. Ryan, competing in the 106-pound class, placed second after winning with pins in the first two rounds and by major decision in a 21-8 win over Deep Run’s Ajay Pai. Dillon, meanwhile, won the 132-pound class, cruising through the early rounds with three consecutive pins and ultimately taking the championship bout over Powhatan’s Talon Harness in a tight 7-4 decision.

Seventh place Hanover had one first place winner in 138-pound Robert Owens, a second place finish from 215-pound Jacob Epperly and two third place results from 106-pound Emmons Tewalt and 126-pound Jadyn Avila.

Donaldson pinned his first two opponents within the first period to set up a showdown with Hanover’s Jadyn Avila in the semifinals, who he beat with a 17-1 tech fall. In the final, he earned the title when he won by tech fall yet again, this time against Mechanicsville’s Mason Santini, 16-0.

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

The North team featured many familiar faces for fans in Hanover and Mechanicsville, with stars like Patrick Henry’s Gracyn Ross and Maddox Ratcliffe, Elrod’s Hanover teammate Grady Fahed, Mechanicsville’s Tyler Stevens and Trey Strattman and Atlee’s Scott Holmes and Zach Tschantre making an appearance in the allsenior game.

Caeden Waltershit Aaron Maxie

One of the game’s biggest stand-

After a performance like the one he had at Day Field along with a senior season that saw him record over 1,700 all-purpose yards and 20 touchdowns, Ross seems to have made his point loud and clear.

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

Ross’ punt return score was the second one of the day for the North, with the first coming from Highland Springs star Caron Ferguson, who opened up the scoring in the first quarter with a 49-yard

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

PH took control inthesecond

After Eberhardt added one more North score on the ground and the South responded with a few minutes left, the North was able to run down the clock and pick up an impressive win. In the Big River Rivalry’s eight-year history, it’s the fifth time the North team came away with the victory.

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

It’s hard to think of a better send-off event for these senior football stars, who now close out a thrilling chapter in their football careers.

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

The Mustangs had two first place winners in their home gym with Drew Kozubal winning the 157-pound class and Joe Elaal winning the 215-pound class. The 126-pound Santini also placed second and 175-pound Jacob Koenig and 150-pound Kevin Bagby finished in third place in their respective brackets.

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

Despite anothe r meticulous Mechanicsvillescoringdrive that tickedoff more than 7 minutes

Kozubal had two pins to his name by the time he reached the

SHABAN ATHUMAN/TIMES-DISPATCH

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

Owens took down Mechanicsville’s Noah Styles and Hermitage’s Jackson Daniels with first period pins before a 5-2 decision put him over Atlee’s Brayton Crews to send him to the semifinals. He ultimately won the semifinals matchup via forfeit, leading to his championship win over Powhatan’s Gavin Utley in a wild 4-2 sudden victory. Owens was down 2-0 entering the third period, where he recorded the first of two takedowns between then and the only overtime period that gave him a hard-fought first place medal.

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

It was another eventful weekend of wrestling at Mechanicsville, whose Holiday Classic continues to be an exciting event that gives schools across Virginia the opportunity to showcase their best talent on the mats.

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

PHOTO BY ROBBY FLETCHER

Hanover quarterback cole elrod was named the big river rivalry north team mVP after throwing a touchdown and for 74 yards in the team’s 3321 win over the south team at day Field on dec. 17.

ROBBY FLETCHER Sports Editor

Atlee players spread Christmas cheer

CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS

Players from Atlee’s football team brought smiles to the faces of some Mechanicsville Elementary students on Wednesday, Dec. 14 as they joined them in their Christmas

activities.

The Raiders athletes played games, made crafts, helped with class work and enjoyed recess with the young students, who left school with even more Christmas sprit than

when they entered.

It was yet another example of the Raiders doing their part to positively influence the community and the young students that look up to them.

Mustangs fall in overtime thriller

ROBBY FLETCHER Sports Editor

In a game that featured excellent defense, an amped up crowd and a rare overtime period that gave the fans in attendance some free basketball, Mechanicsville’s riveting matchup on the road against Maggie Walker had a little bit of everything for fans of the game.

The Dec. 15 battle featured six ties and eight lead changes from the start of the fourth quarter into overtime, though it would be the Green Dragons who would come out on top in a 50-43 final. The loss is Mechanicsville’s third straight, and it moves to 1-4 on the season.

Junior Brady Barton led the Mustangs in scoring with 12 points on the night and also had a chance to end the game in regulation when he took a deep three just before time expired that would have been the go-ahead basket had it gone in. Behind him was an excellent performance from junior guard Joseph Evans, who directed the offense with flair and impressive passing vision while also chipping in nine points of his own.

It took some time for both teams to develop into a scoring rhythm at the start of the game, but Maggie Walker ultimately delivered the first punch in the first quarter, springing to an 8-0 run to take a 9-6 lead into the second quarter.

The Mustangs responded well in the second quarter with an 8-0 run of their own highlighted by a go-ahead steal and score from Evans that saw him intercept a pass at the top of the key and euro step his way into a layup for a 10-9 Mustangs lead.

Mechanicsville locked in defensively to end the half

as well, with senior Jamil Mashore recording three steals in the second quarter while his teammates fed off that intensity with some tough on-ball defense.

Entering the third quarter up 19-15, the Mustangs and Dragons traded baskets in a high-octane third quarter that saw the teams enter the fourth quarter locked into a 25-25 tie. At the end of the quarter with the Green Dragons up by two, Evans once again delivered a dime of an assist to his teammate Joseph Foley, who he found open at the dunker’s spot with a no-look laser to the hands of Foley for an easy lay-in to end the period.

The fourth quarter again saw the two teams trading baskets, with the Mustangs scoring on their first three possessions to start the final stretch, but the Green Dragons used their size in the frontcourt to earn extra possessions on the glass and keep the game close.

Maggie Walker ultimately tied the game up with 14 seconds left after a trip to the free throw line resulted in one made basket and a 3939 score, which led to five extra minutes in overtime to determine a winner.

The Green Dragons, with an amped up home crowd, quickly took momentum in overtime, outscoring the Mustangs 11-4 and making the necessary defensive stops to come away with the win. Maggie Walker big man Wood Johnson led the way with four of the team’s 11 points in the additional minutes.

The Mustangs can respond to the close loss in their next game on Dec. 28 when they host King William in a holiday tournament. The game will start at 7:15 p.m.

CLASSIFIEDS

Ashland

From

Library Transcribe-a-Thon at the montpelier branch Library. Friday, Jan. 6, from 3 to 4 p.m. ages 16 and up. Join the Transcribe-a-Thon and enhance access to Library of Virginia collections covering 400 years of Virginia history, people and culture. Working from a digital image of an original document, visitors will create a typed version while enjoying refreshments and the company of friends.

LeGO League at the montpelier branch Library. Friday, Jan. 6, from 4 to 5:30 p.m. ages 5 and up. Tackle fun LeGO challenges with friends and face design dilemmas, time limits and more. refreshments will be provided by Friends of the montpelier branch Library. m ystery b ook c lub at the m ontpelier b ranch Library. monday, Jan. 9, from 6:30 to

7:30 p.m. Join neighbors for a lively discussion of a contemporary mystery novel. call the library to get a copy of the novel and enjoy the fun.

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

COCHRANE ROCKVILLE BRANCH LIBRARY

First Friday Films at the rockville branch Library. Friday, Jan. 6, from 4 to 6 p.m. round up the neighborhood crew and catch a full-length feature film the first Friday of every month.

c reate an e mergency File at the r ock ville b ranch Library. saturday, Jan. 7, from 1 to 2 p.m. Visit the library to create an emergency binder with important documents to access quickly in an emergency.

For more information or if you have a special physical or communication need, contact ask@ pamunkeylibrary.org or call the Cochrane Rockville Branch Library at 804-749-3146.

Calendar

From 5

Visit www.allsoulsva.org. a Healing and recovery ss class meets at 9 a.m. at the Walnut Grove baptist church at 7046 cold Harbor rd. in mechanicsville. The class is for adults 18 and over and is an extension of the northstar community that also meets at 6 p.m. Fridays at the church. The christian 12 steps and biblical wisdom are the basis of study and discussion to learn about God’s place in our lives. all are welcome. contact 804-746-5081 or contact craig simpson at craigwgbc@ gmail.com.

Outside the Walls, a n arcotics 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, mc sh in president, at 804-249-1845. The website is http:// www.mcshin.org.

TUESDAYS

The Hanover c onc ert b and

rehearses from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. every Tuesday, mid-January through mid-december, at the Hanover arts and activities center at 500 s. railroad ave. in ashland, just south of U.s. 54. membership is open to anyone who can read music and play a non-string instrument. High school students are welcome with parents’ permission. Visit www.hanoverconcertband.org or call 804-789-0536.

The american Legion Post 175, located at 8700 bell creek road in mechanicsville, holds a “meet and Greet, coffee and donut” event from 9-11 a.m. every Tuesday for the community and perspective members to meet members and learn about what they do for the community. Visit http://www.post175.org/.

WEDNESDAYS

Hanover rotary meets from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at roma’s restaurant at 7240 bell creek rd. in mechanicsville. due to the pandemic, contact President Penny at pennyguiles43@gmail.com for current meeting at roma’s or Zoom connection information.

THURSDAYS

The ashland rotar y club meets weekly at noon at the Iron Horse restaurant at 100 s. railroad ave. in ashland. For more information, contact steve dunham at 804-4966093 or sandrdunham@yahoo.com.

Overcomers Outreach & Women’s codependency is a christ-centered anonymous support program offering hope and healing for recovering alcoholics, addicts and their families. meetings are held at 7 p.m. at shalom baptist church at 8116 Walnut Grove road mechanicsville. For more information, call 804-366-6524 or email mjfaith1@ gmail.com.

n ew Highland b aptist c hur ch hosts open basketball gym time for adults in the christian Life center (cLc) starting at 7:30 Pm The church is located at 9200 new ashcake road in mechanicsville. Use the side back entrance to enter. contact Jeff Fitzgerald at jkfitzgerald@comcast.net.

civil air Patrol, Hanover squadron, meets Thursdays, from 7 to

9 p.m. at the Fairfield Presbyterian church, 6930 cold Harbor road, in mechanicsville. caP is an awesome program for youth, ages 12- 21, as well as for adults who care about young people and want to help train america’s next generation of Leaders. you’ll find cadet life exciting if you enjoy Flying, Leadership Training, model rocketry, earning rank & awards, and much more. Visit hanover.vawg.cap.gov or contact capt James Wright at 804-551-3354 or james.wright@vawg.cap.gov.

FRIDAYS

The b uilding b ridges group of narcotics anonymous is a fellowship of men and women for whom drugs had become a major problem. The group’s mission is to bring a message of hope and recovery to those suffering from addiction issues. They meet on Fridays from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. at mechanicsville United methodist church, 7356 atlee road in mechanicsville. Visit rvana.org.

HanoverEvangelicalFriends

6420MechTrnpk.804-730-9512, friendlychurch.org

Worship:Sun.10:30AM SundaySchool@9:15AM

AdventCommunityChurch Mechanicsville,8079StudleyRd, (804)746.0895or746.0279

Worship/Children’schurch10am adventcommunitychurch.com

FairmountChristianChurch, 559-8070

6502CreightonRd.

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

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

GethsemaneChurchofChrist

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

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

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

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

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

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

WorshippingonSundays! In-person&onFacebook! 5351PoleGreenRd. Mechanicsville,23116 PhilPeacock,Pastor SundaySchool9a.m. Worship10a.m. 3407KingWilliamRd. Aylett,23009 JeffPoythress,Pastor Worship9:30a.m. SundaySchool10:30a.m.

Makingeachoneawitness!

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

FellowshipCommunityChurchof Mechanicsville After10yearsatHanoverHigh Schoolwehavepurchasedour

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

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

GlennHawkins,Pastor

MechanicsvilleBaptistChurch 8016AtleeRd. Office:804.746.7253

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

NewBethesdaBaptistChurch 9019NewBethesdaRd.779-2101

CalebBittler,Minister SundaySchool9:30AM, Worship10:45AM BibleStudy/Prayer Youth&Childrenactivities 6:30pm,Wednesday www.newbethesda.org

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

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

WalnutGroveBaptistisaChurch committedtofollowingJesus& lovingpeople.Youcanfindusat wgva.church7046ColdHarborrd

LebanonUnitedMethodist Church 8492PeaksRoad,746-0980

SarahSealand,Pastor WorshipInPersonandon FacebookLive: 10:00ameachSunday www.facebook.com/LebUMC 9:00amSundaySchool Formoreinfo,checkusoutat www.lebanonumc.org

MechanicsvilleUnitedMethodist Church 7356AtleeRoad746-5118

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

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

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

ChurchoftheRedeemer 8275MeadowbridgeRoad 746-4911 www.churchredeemer.org

TruthBaptistChurch,627-2170 COME&SEE! Allinfoat: www.truthbaptistchurch.com

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

CLASSIFIEDS

Calendar

From 20

SECOND MONDAYS

The Web of Hope meets from 10 a. m. to noon at the black creek baptist church at 6289 mcclellan road in mechanicsville. It is one of several groups in the richmond area that crochets, knits, sews, and quilts gifts for the american red c ross to distributed to those in need. since its inception, the Web has donated over 153,000 gifts locally, nationally and globally. If you can make it, the Web can use it. call Laurie Wagner at 804-781-0338.

THIRD MONDAYS

alzheimer’s/dementia support group for caregivers and others who want to help and encourage those who have loved ones with dementia illnesses meets at 7 p.m. on the third monday of each month

on Zoom. contact Jennifer bean at 804-559-2805 or the church office at 804-746-9073.

The Hanover county community s ervices b oard meets at 6:30 p.m. at 12300 Washington Hwy. in ashland.

FOURTH MONDAYS

The Feedmore mobile Food Pantry will be distributing food from 10 to 11 a.m. at the First shiloh baptist church at 8150 Walnut Grove rd. in mechanicsville. contact Heather at hshaheen96@gmail.com.

The atlee ruritan c lub meets every fourth monday at Hillcrest baptist c hurch on rt.301. meetings, that include dinner and a program, begin at 6:30 p.m. ruritan is a national community service organization dedicated to fellowship, goodwill, and community service. The atlee club welcomes both men and women. To learn more about the club’s mission and reserve your spot for dinner, call (804) 789-9365.

Sheriff's

From 3

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

„ Assault and battery on a family member was reported in the 8300th block of New Ashcake Road, Mechanicsville.

Aug. 14

„ Assault and battery on a family member was reported in the 12100th block of Ashland Heights Road, Ashland.

„ Petit larceny from auto was reported in the 13400th

block of Woodside Lane, Ashland.

„ Obtaining money or signature by false pretenses was reported in the 4000th block of River Road, Mechanicsville.

„ Destruction of property, monument was reported in the 7200th block of Garden Park Lane, Mechanicsville.

„ Trespassing after being forbidden to do so was reported in the 3300th block of Westwood Road, Mechanicsville.

„ Grand larceny, $500 or more not from a person was reported in the 16000th block of Theme Park Way, Doswell.

„ DWI: BAC .15 to .20, first offense was reported

in the 12100th block of Chewning Road, Glen Allen.

Aug. 15

„ Public swearing or intoxication was reported in the 9400th block of Chamberlayne Road/Shady Grove Road, Mechanicsville.

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

„ Grand larceny from auto was reported in the 6300th block of Power Road, Mechanicsville.

„ Grand larceny from auto was reported in the 13500th block of Ashland Road, Ashland.

„ Annoying phone

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

„ Identity fraud, use of identifying information to defraud was reported in the 9100th block of Ashlar Place, Mechanicsville.

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

„ Identity fraud, use of identifying information to defraud was reported in the 12300th block of Winns Church Road, Glen Allen.

„ Identity fraud, use of identifying information to defraud was reported in the 8300th block of Peaks Road, Hanover.

ShalomBaptistChurchof 8116WalnutGroveislookingto growandhireaChildren’s

ARIES • Mar 21/Apr 20

Don’t fret, Aries. No news is good news while you’re waiting around to hear about something important. Give it a few more days and your waiting time will be over.

TAURUS • Apr 21/May 21

If you are thinking about changing careers, you probably should wait until the holidays are over. No one’s mind is on the job these days, so waiting is the wiser move.

GEMINI • May 22/Jun 21

Consider all sides of a situation before you offer your opinion, Gemini. This way you have the facts and will not inadvertently alienate someone.

CANCER • Jun 22/Jul 22

When someone turns to you for help, you do not hesitate to do all that you can, Cancer. Just be sure you do not to overwork yourself. Take on only what you can manage

LEO • Jul 23/Aug 23

You’ve bitten off quite a lot lately, Leo. Fortunately, you have a good support system that can help you out when you need a helping hand. Rely on them as much as necessary.

VIRGO • Aug 24/Sept 22

Take a few days to sit back and rest and recharge. It will afford you an opportunity to plan for the future, as this may be a period of unrest for you.

LIBRA • Sept 23/Oct 23

You’ve been placed in a new role and you’re loving every minute of it, Libra. Enjoy the moments while they last. This may be what you’re meant to do.

SCORPIO • Oct 24/Nov 22

Scorpio, you might want to take it easy and stick close to home for the time being. You need to regroup and focus anew. You can do that more easily without distractions.

SAGITTARIUS • Nov 23/Dec 21

Sagittarius, your to-do list might be growing longer, but tackle one thing at a time rather than getting overwhelmed. Reach out to a loved one for assistance.

CAPRICORN • Dec 22/Jan 20

Success is within reach, Capricorn. Do not be surprised if others are a bit jealous of your accomplishments and want to pull you down. Ignore the naysayers.

AQUARIUS • Jan 21/Feb 18

You have a plan but others are not falling in line right now, Aquarius. It may take time before others come around to your way of thinking. Be a little more patient.

PISCES • Feb 19/Mar 20

It’s a fine balance between work and play right now for you, Pisces. You’re tempted to forego all responsibilities, but that wouldn’t be smart.