Hanover County's E-Newsletter

December 8, 2025

 

Trashed Panda takes Hanover (and the internet) by storm

Nearly a week ago, a hilarious tale about a “trashed panda” put Hanover County on the map across the nation — and even around the world.


On Dec. 2, Hanover County Animal Protection and Shelter shared a lighthearted Facebook post about a raccoon that broke into the Ashland ABC Store, indulged a bit too much and ultimately passed out in the restroom. The post chronicled the raccoon’s liquor-fueled antics and quickly went viral.


Since then, the story has been picked up by major media outlets, inspired countless memes and was even featured in Saturday Night Live’s “Weekend Update.”


While the escapade gave everyone a much-needed laugh, it also sparked something more significant. Animal Protection launched a fundraising campaign offering limited-edition T-shirts, sweatshirts and cups. The response has been extraordinary. To date, sales have topped $150,000, with more than 14,000 items sold. Proceeds will directly support:


  • Shelter animal care and enrichment
  • Training for field officers
  • Equipment that ensures safe and humane responses to wildlife calls


We’re grateful for a community that can find joy in a unique moment and help turn it into something that benefits animals in need. To purchase merchandise, click here.

Help our pets find a home for the holidays

Join us on Saturday, Dec. 20, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Hanover County Animal Protection and Shelter, 12471 Taylor Complex Lane, for our Clear the Shelter Christmas Open House.


Enjoy local vendors, meet Santa Claus, sip on hot cocoa, and spend time with our adorable adoptable dogs and cats looking for their forever homes!


Adoption fees will be reduced for this event. We are also accepting donations, and you can find the wish list here.


Bring the family, spread some joy and meet your new best friend.

Winter on the Green returns

Winter on the Green is back! Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year in the heart of Hanover as the Historic Courthouse Green transforms into a sparkling winter wonderland.


Enjoy a magical evening filled with:

  • Horse and carriage rides
  • Visits with Santa
  • Cookie decorating with Mrs. Claus
  • Rides aboard the RVA Express trackless train
  • A winter marketplace featuring local vendors
  • Live holiday entertainment
  • North Pole Cocoa and festive treats


Join us Saturday, Dec. 13, from 5 to 8 p.m. This event is free to attend, with food and vendor items available for purchase.

Member of Team Hanover receives regional recognition

Congratulations to Hanover County Traffic Engineer Joe Vidunas for receiving the Regional Champion Award from PlanRVA!

 

Vidunas was recognized at last week's annual joint meeting between the Central Virginia Transportation Authority (CVTA), Richmond Regional Transportation Planning Organization (RRTPO) Policy Board and PlanRVA. 

 

Team Hanover is lucky to have him serving our community.

Planning Commission meeting canceled

The Dec. 11 Planning Commission meeting has been canceled. There are no cases ready for a public hearing at this time.

County collecting feedback on proposed Greenwood Church Road roundabout

There will be a public hearing on the proposed Greenwood Church Road/Blanton Road/Ashland Road/Ashcake Road roundabout on Wednesday, Dec. 17, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. in the Patrick Henry High School library, 12449 West Patrick Henry Road.


The hearing will include a project overview with tentative schedule information, Q&A session, and an opportunity to engage one-on-one and in small groups with members of the project team.


You can also share your feedback online at engage.hanovercounty.gov/greenwoodroundabout.

Hanover 4-H Camp registration opens Jan. 30

Get ready for a week packed with summer fun — swimming, archery, campfires and more — all along the James River.


Hanover 4-H Camp will be held July 6–10 at the Jamestown 4-H Educational Center and is open to youth ages 9–14. The cost is $410 (cash or check). Campers stay in air-conditioned cabins and enjoy activities with friends from Hanover, Goochland and Powhatan.


Want an email alert with full details and registration information? Sign up here. Registration opens Friday, Jan. 30. 


For questions, contact Bridgitte Groome, 4-H Youth Development Agent with the Hanover Extension Office, at 804-752-4308 or bridg93@vt.edu.

We Want to Hear From You!

What should Trashed Panda’s official Hanover County title be?

Upcoming Events

Winter on the Green
 

LOCATION

Historic Hanover Courthouse Green
 

DATE AND TIME

12/13/25 5:00pm - 12/13/25 8:00pm US/Eastern
 
Step into the spirit of the season with a joyful evening of holiday cheer and community fun. Come celebrate this magical tradition.
Magic in a Jar
 

LOCATION

Montpelier Recreation Center and Library
 

DATE AND TIME

12/19/25 11:30am - 12/19/25 1:00pm US/Eastern
 
Participants will create their own mini snow globes inside jars, complete with sparkling snow and festive decorations.

Board of Supervisors Meetings






Wednesday,

December 10 at 2 p.m.

Board of Supervisors meetings can be watched live or on-demand here.

Hanover Board Brief


Hanover Board Brief is your new go-to source for a quick rundown of key highlights and discussions from Board meetings.


Stay in the loop and view all Hanover Board Briefs here.

 

Sign Up for Hanover Alert

Engage Hanover

Hear In Hanover Podcast

Come Join Team Hanover!

We want to work alongside you on Team Hanover!


  • Administrative Assistant
  • Automotive Technician
  • Heavy Diesel Technician
  • Payroll Analyst



For more opportunities in Hanover County, visit www.hanovercountyjobs.com.

Hanover County's E-Newsletter

December 8, 2025

Hanover County Communications and Community Engagement

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