Hear In Hanover

Welcome to Hear In Hanover, your all-access pass to everything happening in Hanover County.

Before the school bell rings, there’s still time to make the most of summer in Hanover! In the latest episode of Hear In Hanover, Director of Tourism Rachel Smith shares a last-minute summer to-do list packed with activities, local spots and ways to squeeze in a little more fun before school starts.

Welcome to Hear In Hanover, your all-access pass to everything happening in Hanover County.

In this special intern takeover episode of Hear in Hanover, Communications and Community Engagement intern Nina Broderick sits down with fellow summer interns Meadow Messerschmidt from Human Resources and Emily Smiley from Public Utilities. Together, they share how they found Hanover County, the projects they've been working on this summer and the experiences that have made their internships both meaningful and memorable.

Whether you're a student exploring career opportunities or simply curious about the people helping serve our community, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at the next generation of public servants. 

Welcome to Hear In Hanover, your all-access pass to everything happening in Hanover County.

On this episode, we welcome Amber Hawkins and Anne Geddy Cross, co-chairs of Hanover County's VA250 Committee, to discuss how Hanover is preparing to commemorate America's 250th anniversary.

Hanover played a pivotal role in the events leading up to the American Revolution. Amber and Anne preview upcoming projects and events, while sharing how residents can connect with Hanover's revolutionary legacy. Plus, discover a fascinating piece of Hanover's past.

Tune in to learn how Hanover helped shape the freedoms we celebrate today and how the community is honoring America's 250th anniversary.

Welcome to Hear In Hanover, your all-access pass to everything happening in Hanover County.

Director of Parks and Recreation Aaron Reidmiller joins the podcast to talk about Hanover County’s new summer concert series, Sounds at Sunset!

After a strong start and great community turnout at the first few shows, Aaron recaps the highlights so far, previews the exciting performances still to come this summer and shares how resident feedback and participation helped bring the series to life. From music and food to community connection, learn why Sounds at Sunset is quickly becoming a favorite Hanover tradition.

Welcome to Hear In Hanover, your all-access pass to everything happening in Hanover County.

Hanover County has launched its new tourism initiative, Visit Hanover VA, designed to showcase the community as a destination “Ripe for Discovery,” embracing the slogan: Big Thrills. Deep Roots. Legendary Tomatoes.

Director Rachel Smith joins us to break down the four pillars — history, outdoor recreation, agritourism and events — and how they highlight the people, places and experiences that make Hanover special. Whether you’re a longtime resident or just discovering Hanover, this conversation offers a fresh perspective on the community and what’s ahead.

Welcome to Hear In Hanover, your all-access pass to everything happening in Hanover County.

In this episode of Hear In Hanover, Hanover County Administrator John A. Budesky joins us to break down his proposed Fiscal Year 2027 budget. Centered on the theme of “sustaining our success,” the proposal focuses on continuing to invest in the people, services and infrastructure that keep Hanover County strong.

From education and public safety to the resources needed to support our growing community, Budesky walks through the key investments and what they mean for residents now and in the future.

Welcome to Hear In Hanover, your all-access pass to everything happening in Hanover County.

Looking to turn classroom knowledge into real-world experience? In this episode of Hear In Hanover, we sit down with Human Resources to explore the County’s internship program.

Hear firsthand what interns can expect, how the program enhances and strengthens career skills and why public service offers a meaningful way to give back to the community while growing professionally.

Welcome to Hear In Hanover, your all-access pass to everything happening in Hanover County.

We’re joined by Animal Protection Officer Martin, who gives her firsthand account of the now-international sensation: the Black Friday Bandit — better known as Trashed Panda.

From the moment the call came in to the unlikely scene inside the Ashland ABC Store, Officer Martin walks us through what really happened that day, how the team cared for the raccoon and what it’s been like watching the story take off around the world.

She also shares how the community's enthusiasm has turned into real support for the animals at our shelter — including what proceeds from the Trashed Panda merchandise can help fund.

Want to join in on the fun and support a great cause? Grab your own Trashed Panda gear at www.bonfire.com/trashed-panda.

Tune in for behind-the-scenes details, a whole lot of laughs and a heartwarming reminder of how even the most unexpected stories can bring out the best in our community.