The Goochland Gazette – 02/24/2022 by Goochland Gazette

INSIDE “Friendly gentleman” still looking for his forever home. > page 2

Volume 66 Number 8 • February 24, 2022

Celebrating Goochland History

Board denies rezoning for Dollar General By Roslyn Ryan Editor

Photograph Courtesy of Eleanore Andrews and the Goochland County Historical Society

In this 1942 photograph from the Goochland County Historical Society’s archives, members of a local family and their friends enjoy a beautiful day at the old Randolph School on Cardwell Road. Pictured in the front row are Goldie Allen, Patricia Dixon and an unknown person. In the second row are Cecil Allen, Joe Allen, an unknown person and Plummer Allen. In the second row are James Allen, Florence Allen, Harriet Allen and Caroline Allen. The driver is unknown. Can you or someone you know tell us more about this photo? Contact The Goochland Gazette at rryan@goochlandgazette.com or call (804) 339-7956.

Goochland GOP will hold mass meeting March 16 Contributed report The Goochland County Republican Committee has approved a mass meeting to be held on March 16, 2022, to elect local committee officers, members of the committee for the next two-year term, and delegates to attend the convention to nominate their party’s nominee for Congress. The mass meeting will be held at the American Legion Post 215, 3386 River Road

West, in Goochland on March 16 at 7 p.m. with registration beginning at 6 p.m. To participate, Goochland voters must file no later than March 7 at 7 p.m. All details are on the Goochland County Republican Committee’s website at https://goochland.gop. After redistricting, Goochland County is now a member of the 5th Congressional District. The 5th Congressional District Republican Committee voted to hold a convention to nomi-

nate the district’s candidate for Congress. The convention will be held on May 21 at HampdenSydney College in Farmville starting at 10 a.m. The filing deadline to attend this convention is also March 7 and all details are also on the Goochland County Republican Committee’s website. The current Congressman, Bob Good, is being challenged by the Charlottesville City Republican Committee chair, Dan Moy.

Citing concerns about safety, Goochland County supervisors have denied a request by Rhetson Companies, Inc. to approve a rezoning that would have allowed the company to open a Dollar General store on the north side of River Road West approximately 300 feet from the intersection of Hadensville Fife Road and River Road West. While the area is designated by the county’s comprehensive plan for commercial development, several board members noted that the 55 mph speed limit was a major concern for them, as was the property’s orientation with the nearby Cartersville Road intersection and other access points. A number of residents spoke out against the proposal, citing concerns over traffic and noting that the store would detract from the rural charm of the area. A petition against the rezoning, featuring 40 signatures, was also presented to the board. During the course of the hour-long discussion, supervisors noted that local governing bodies are not permitted to decide on such cases based on the potential impact to nearby similar businesses. “It is our job to guide development where it is safe and where it does not impact the community,” said District 1 supervisor Susan Lascolette. “It doesn’t matter what the store is—that’s got nothing to do with this.” Last December, the Goochland County Planning Commission had voted 3-2 in favor of the rezoning. The board of supervisors voted 4-1 on Feb. 1 in favor of denial.

Thursday

February 24, 2022

Area health district begins sending texts on booster eligibility

NEWS: What’s Going on in Goochland County

Serving Goochland County Since 1955

Pet of the week SPORTS

Contributed report

The Chickahominy Health District is sending text and voice messages to residents in the counties of Charles City, Goochland, Hanover, and New Kent to remind them they are eligible for booster shots against COVID-19. The texts/calls are just one more way VDH is reaching out to let Virginians know they can get a free booster dose of vaccine at many locations around the state. The message will read: “Virginia Department of Health records indicate you are eligible for a Booster COVID-19 vaccine. To request an appointment visit: https://tinyurl.com/vaxCHD or call 804-365-3240.” Not everyone will be contacted at first and individuals do not need to wait for this notification to get a vaccine booster. If you believe that you received a booster vaccine message in error, please contact the VDH central call center for a review of your record to make sure it is up to date. Call 877-VAX-IN-VA (877-829-4682, TTY users call 7-11). Assistance is available in English, Spanish, and more than 100 other languages. Also, Community Vaccination Centers (CVCs) are also open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Walk-ins are welcome at CVCs, but appointments are encourage and can be made online: https://vase.vdh. virginia.gov/.

Elrod & Dunham

Dentistry

Elrod and Dunham Dentistry welcomes new patients with comprehensive, gentle dental care for all ages.

Please welcome our new hygienist, Kelsey, to our growing practice. Call to schedule your cleaning with Kelsey or Sara. We look forward to meeting your dental health needs. 7516 Right Flank Rd., 2979 River Road W. Mechanicsville, VA 23116 Goochland, VA 23063 (804) 746-1300 (804) 556-2530 elroddunhamdentistry.net

Photos submitted by the Goochland Animal Shelter

Have you ever seen a dog that looked more like a Bocephus? Couldn’t you picture him in a big floppy hat sipping a sweet tea on your porch? I do declare Bocephus is a friendly gentleman with an eager-to-please disposition. He is everyone’s friend and gets along well with other doggies. He is particularly fond of his peanut butter-filled Kongs. Here at the adoption center he can often be found in repose on his bed and blankets. He likes to go for walks and is getting better on a leash. He is neutered, chipped, and up to date on all of his vetting. The Goochland Animal Shelter, located at 1900 Hidden Rock Lane in Goochland, is open Tuesday and Wednesday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.; Thursday 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.; Friday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. -2 p.m. For more information on local pets still in need of homes at the Goochland Animal Shelter, call (804) 556-5302. You also can visit the shelter on Facebook at “Goochland County Animal Control.” Anyone wishing to make a monetary donation to the shelter is asked to make donations payable to Goochland Animal Protection.

Cadets finish in second at states PAGE 9 Calendar ................................ 4 Classifieds ......................16-19 Letters .................................... 6 Obituaries .............................. 4 Opinion .................................. 6 Sports ...............................9-11 TV Listings ......................12-14

Property Transfers 81.48 acres; Dennis L. Behrensen Jr. to Fred T. Barber III, $200,000. Lot 11, Pembroke Farms; Pembroke Farm LLC to Stephen G. Reardon, $350,000. Lot 12, Block B, Section 4E, Lower Tuckahoe; William N. Finley to NRI Holdings LLC, $735,500. Lot 6, Section 9, Kinloch; Kinloch Development Corp. to Raymond Roberts, $530,000. Lot 9, Section 9, Kinloch; Kinloch Development Corp. to Cindy S. Hansen, trustee, $700,000. Parcel; 12662 Broad LLC to Asgard Broad Street Properties I LLC, $640,000.

Parcel; Mary G. Tucker to Edward K. Nickel, $570,000. 7015 Benhall Circle, Glen Allen; Michael Morey to Derek Hugh Price, $510,000. 3007 Preston Park Terrace, Sandy Hook; Chesterfield Construction Services Inc. to Charles J. Batt Jr., $438,675. 12063 Talavera Terrace, Richmond; HHHunt Homes LC to Crystal H. Spence, $449,080. 3820 Three Chopt Road, Gum Spring; New Ventures Real Estate LLC to Matthew J. Romig, $319,950. 1.33 acres; Carolyn S. Carter to Cameron Carter, $150,000. 10.24 acres; MidAtlantic

IRA LLC to Boone Homes Inc., $525,000. 1.33 acres; 288 & Broad Street LLC to Asgard Broad Street Properties I LLC, $725,000. 1.5 acres; Jason S. Grubbs to Nicholas Woodson Ragland, $205,500. 1.78 acres; Goochland County Historical Society to Sherrie Marie Markow, $315,000. 10.05 acres; Benjamin Blankenstein to Jerald R. Hess, $350,000. 11 lots, Section 2A, Mosaic at West Creek; HHHunt Homes LC to Style Craft Homes Inc. of Virginia, $1,265,000.

Toll Free - (877) 888-0449 Office - (804) 746-1235 Joy Monopoli Publisher (804) 775-4614 Fax: (804) 819-5529 Laura McFarland Managing Editor (804) 363-1577 Roslyn Ryan Editor (804) 339-7956 Robby Fletcher Sports Editor (804) 380-0497 Cindy Adams Classifieds (804) 775-4616 Fax: (804) 344-8746 Denine D’Angelo Production Manager (804) 775-4624

Thursday

February 24, 2022

NEWS: What’s Going on in Goochland County

Serving Goochland County Since 1955

County convenience centers extend waiver on brush fees Contributed report Goochland County is extending the waiving of residents’ fees for brush disposal at the Central and Western Convenience Centers through Friday, April 1, 2022, to give residents additional time to clean up from the winter storm that occurred on and

MetroCreative graphic

Parents to school board: GCPS needs to address bullying issue By Roslyn Ryan Editor

While it isn’t unusual for high school students to look forward to graduation, Goochland High School senior Carlyn Overton has perhaps become focused on that date more than most. As Overton told Goochland County School Board members during the board’s monthly meeting on Feb. 8, she is counting down the days until she can leave her high school years behind her. The reason? Bullying. In a calm and steady voice, Overton told school board members about being called a “parasite” and told “to go die.” And while she thanked the GCPS administrators who had stepped in to help address the ongoing situation, Overton insisted that more needs to be done to help other students who find themselves facing a similar crisis. Overton was one of several residents who addressed the board on the topic of bullying and its impact on local students. One mother described the devastating toll cyberbulling—defined as bullying that takes place over digital devices like cell phones

or computers—had taken on her daughter, while another said that her children had been targeted by racial slurs. Several parents reported that their children had suffered from anxiety and depression after being bullied either at school or online. “I’m here because I think we need to do something,” said Jessica Ganyuma, a mother of four. “It’s overwhelming and it’s scary.” According to stopbullying.gov, a federal government website managed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, bullying is defined as unwanted, aggressive behavior among school-aged children that involves a real or perceived power imbalance. And research shows that those who are bullied and who bully others may suffer serious, lasting impacts. Bullying includes actions such as making threats, spreading rumors, attacking someone physically or verbally, and excluding someone from a group on purpose. While the topic of bullying was not an agenda item up for discussion, Goochland County School superintendent Dr. Jeremy Raley did address the issue toward the end of the meeting.

“Our school board and our division has policies related to bullying,” Raley said. “They are clear, they are explicit and we believe in those policies strongly.” Raley insisted that the division takes concerns about bullying seriously, and acts swiftly when administrators become aware of a problem. “We all must work together to provide a safe environment in our schools,” Raley said. “And it does take all of us.” Bullying is a global issue that affects children every day. A 2018 study from the UNESCO Institute for Statistics found that nearly one third of teens worldwide had recently experienced bullying. Even more troubling is that the same study found that, in countries where children reported the highest incidences of bullying, 65% of girls and 62% of boys reported bullying.

Helping to stop bullying Preventing bullying is a communitywide responsibility. Parents can do their part by taking the following measures to address bullying.

see Bullying > page 4

since Jan. 3. The fee waiver for brush disposal applies to both the Central Convenience Center at 1908 Hidden Rock Lane and the Western Convenience Center at 3455 Hadensville-Fife Road. The Convenience Centers are open Monday – Sunday, 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

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Thursday

February 24, 2022

Serving Goochland County

NEWS: What’s Going on in Goochland County

Since 1955

Obituaries RUDOLPH P. DUVALL Rudolph Pendleton Duvall, 85, of Marlinton, W.Va., passed away Sunday, February 13, 2022 at the Pocahontas Center in Marlinton. Born February 19, 1936 in Goochland, Va., he was a son of the late Edmond Pendleton and Daisy Irene Griffith Duval. He was DUVALL also preceded in death by

Bullying continued from >3 Address aggressive behavior. According to StopBullying.gov, a website managed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, aggressive behavior in young children is very common. Failure to address such behavior can lead to bullying, and children whose aggressive behavior goes unchecked may experience other problems with their peers. Whether their children have exhibited aggressive behaviors or not, parents can encourage cooperative behaviors like helping, sharing and problem-solving. Engage with your children. Various studies have shown that children are more likely to bully other kids if their parents spend little time with them or do not regularly supervise their activities. But studies also have found that students are less likely to bully other children if their parents warmly engage with them. Learn about bullying. Parents who learn about bullying are in better position to prevent it. Various myths prevail about bullying, and it’s important that parents recognize these myths. No child is immune from bullying, as StopBullying.gov indicates that children from all racial and ethnic backgrounds are vulnerable to bullying, which also affects kids of all ages. In addition, any child can engage in bullying. Parents who recognize these facts are in better position to identify signs their child is being bullied or even bullying other students. Teach by example. Children reflect the attitudes and behaviors of their parents. If parents exhibit disrespectful behaviors toward one another or other people, children are more likely to follow suit. In addition, a 2001 study published in the

his wife, Shirley Aletha Duvall; son, Rudolph Pendleton Duvall Jr.; grandson, James Beasley III; 11 brothers and sisters. Rudolph was of the Baptist faith, a laborer for a sawmill and a logger. Rudolph is survived by two daughters, Brenda Cagle-Volb and her husband, Serge and Leafty Irene Cochran, both of Marlinton; grandchildren, Michelle Cagle, Melissa Cagle, Robert Beasley and John Brunk; great-granddaughter, Yasmine Arianya Cagle; and a sister, Ellen Allen of Florida. In keeping with Rudolph’s wishes, he will be cremated with no services and visitation.

Journal of Clinical Child Psychology found that abused children are more likely to bully others and be bullied by others than children who are not abused. Maintaining a home environment in which every individual, including children, is respected can reduce the likelihood that kids will bully or be bullied by others. These are just a handful of strategies parents can employ to address bullying with their children. More information is available at www.StopBullying.gov.

Signs of cyberbullying Despite its relative infancy, the internet has become so prevalent in daily life that it’s hard to imagine a time when it wasn’t so widely available. Yet that time wasn’t so long ago. In fact, many adults who are now entering or in middle-age made it through their secondary educations without the internet. That’s not so for today’s students, and that divide can sometimes make it difficult for parents to spot signs that their children are victims of cyberbullying. Cyberbullying refers to the use of electronic communication to bully a person, typically by sending intimidating and/ or threatening messages. These messages may be sent in various ways, including through apps or via social media platforms. According to StopBullying.gov, research has shown that a quick and consistent response to bullying is an effective way to convey that such behavior is unacceptable. But parents first must learn to recognize signs of cyberbullying, which is not always as easy to spot as other bullying behaviors. The Anti-Defamation League notes that hateful words and rumors are often a component of cyberbullying. In such instances, that abuse can follow young people home, giving them the idea that the bullying is

Online condolences may be made at lantzfuner- pup, Jingles. She was preceded in death by her husband, David L. Liverman; son, Claude G. alhome.com. Swift; parents, Claude and Thelma Proffitt; and siblings, EUNICE LIVERMAN Eunice Liverman, 74, of Manakin-Sabot, Claude and Betty. A memosadly left us on Saturday, February 5, 2022. rial service was held on Eunice was a beloved mother and treasured Wednesday, Feb. 16, 2022, at friend. She will be greatly missed for her sense Elpis Christian Church, 2703 of humor, generous heart and kindness. Eunice Elpis Church Rd., Maidens, will be lovingly remembered by her son, Andrew Va. 23102. Online guestbook C. Swift Jr. (Judy); daughter, Wendy S. McGuire is available at affinityfunerLIVERMAN (Michael); five grandchildren; and her beloved alservice.com.

inescapable. In decades past, bullying victims could at least see their homes as safe havens. That’s no longer the case, which is why it’s vital that parents learn to recognize the signs of cyberbullying. Young people may exhibit their own unique symptoms if they’re being victimized by cyberbullies. In addition, the ADL notes that parents can look for these signs and then take immediate action if they suspect their children are being cyberbullied. A child becomes upset, sad or angry during or after being online or using their phone. A child withdraws from family or friends. A child expresses reluctance or refuses to participate in activities previously enjoyed. A child has an unexplained decline in grades. A child refuses to go to school or expresses anger or dissatisfaction with a specific class or school in general. A child increasingly reports symptoms of illness for which he or she wants to stay at home. A child shows signs of depression or sadness. The ADL urges parents who see any of these signs to respond to them immediately. Take a gentle, supportive tone during any discussions with children, making sure to express your concerns while also listening to the child when he or she explains what is so upsetting. Parents who have confirmed or suspect their child is a victim of cyberbullying should contact their children’s school immediately. More information about how to respond to cyberbullying and prevent its recurrence is available at www. StopBullying.gov.

Library Calendar Friday, March 11 Friday Book Group at the Goochland Branch Library from 11 a.m. - noon. Registration required at https:// pamunkeylibrary.libcal.com. Call (804) 556-4774 or visit the library at 3075 River Road West for more information.

Tuesday, March 22 Goochland Mystery Book Group at the Goochland Branch Library from 10 – 11 a.m. Registration required at https://pamunkeylibrary.libcal. com. Call (804) 556-4774 or visit the library at 3075 River Road West for more information.

ing, preserving and preparing seeds before planting them and watching the magic of germination. Presented by Pat Lust, Master Gardener, Goochland Powhatan Master Gardener Association. Registration is required at https://pamunk e y l i b r a r y. l i b c a l . c o m / event/8790526. This program is hosted virtually through Zoom and the meeting link will be sent to the email registered 1 day before the event occurs. If you don’t receive your reminder email on Friday, March 11, please contact the library. Call (804) 556-4774 or visit the library at 3075 River Road West for more information.

Monday, March 28 Boomer Yoga at the Cochrane Rockville Branch Library from 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. Ages 12 & up. Join us for an easy beginner yoga session suitable for all ages (12 and older) and skill levels. No previous yoga experience needed. The instructor will provide all equipment. Registration required at https://pamunkeylibrary.libcal. com/event/8684634. Call (804) 749-3146 or visit the li

Flower Pot Decorating premieres for ages 12-18. Are you a new plant parent? Start decorating your pots. Learn fun and decorative ways to dress up an ordinary pot to elevate your houseplants and create unique decor! This video premieres on the library’s website (https://tinyurl.com/prlteens), YouTube channel (https://www. youtube.com/user/pamunkeylibrary), and Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/ PamunkeyLibrary/). Call (804) Saturday, March 12 749-3146 or visit the library at Starting from Seeds from 11 16600 Pouncey Tract Road for a.m. - noon. Selecting, collect- more information.

Thursday

February 24, 2022

NEWS: What’s Going on in Goochland County

Serving Goochland County Since 1955

In the Garden

No need to give up gardening in late winter By Virginia McCown Contributing columnist

Although many of us are weary of the cold weather, below are some tried and true guaranteed safe ideas to end your winter and welcome in spring!

Q. A.

What can I prune in my garden during late winter?

Prune your crape myrtles! As a rule of thumb, it’s best to prune as soon as blooms begins to fade. Pruning is not recommended in fall for spring flowering shrubs such as forsythia, azaleas, rhododendrons or lilacs. However, “late bloomers” such hibiscus, Rose of Sharon, and Crape Myrtle should be pruned in late winter during their dormancy. Consult The Shrub Pruning Calendar for Virginia available online from Virginia Tech (www.pubs. ext.vt.edu/.../430/430-462/430-462_ pdf.pdf) as well as The Shrub Pruning Guide (www.pubs.ext. vt.edu/430/430-459/430-459.html). Besides crape myrtle, there are other numerous shrubs and deciduous trees ready for pruning in late winter including beauty berry, butterfly bush, and gardenia.

Q. A.

What can I do in my garden during late winter?

Get a soil test! Most fruits and vegetables grow best in neutral soil with a pH of about 6.2 to 7.2. However, blueberry bushes, for example, prefer an acidic or a low pH level. Soil test kits are available for pick-up and easily available from Virginia Cooperative Extension offices. For a modest fee, the soil test not only provides information on the soil, pH, and available levels of phosphorous, but on potassium and other essential elements or nutrients. The Virginia Tech lab’s soil test report also offers suggestions on how to adjust or modify problems with the soil for the particular plantings intended for your

garden. Results can be received either pubs.ext.vt.edu/.../426-411/SPES-254. ing the cycle. The spores land on cedar needle bases or in the crevices of pdf) by standard mail or email. branches. The spores germinate and What can I build in my garWhat are those walnut-sized produce swellings resembling small den during late winter? dark things on my cedar green peas. Rather than trying to remove trees? all cedar trees located within a one I watched a whole lotta hope, promise and commitThey are the galls of the mile radius of your apple tree, it’s ment get wiped out by three deer in Gymnosporangium juni- more practical to select disease resisless than four hours. peri-virginianae commonly referred tant apple trees right from the start. Long story short, build and erect to as Cedar Apple Rust. Later in the Fungicides applied on a schedule are a fence for your vegetable garden. spring, the galls will explode into a highly effective against the disease during the apple cycle. Most sprays It should be at least eight-feet high. jellyfish-looking thing. Make sure to put in a second fence Cedar Apple Rust is one of the are applied four times at seven to ten inches below the surface. Keep most common of several fungal rust 10-day intervals, beginning in April and May. These applications in mind squirrels still climb in. Small diseases that attack susceptible cultirabbits squeak through. Ground hogs vars of apple and crabapple trees. ees. It can be pretty clever fellows, too. Yet infects, disfigures and often destroys stroys this should take care of most of your the leaves and fruit. First it needs summer vegetable garden woes. an initial host plant, and that hat is the Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus perus What can I still plant during virginiana). Any species of juniper niper can substitute for the Eastern Red late winter? Cedar. However, here in Virginia ginia I learned by error that it’s cedars are plentiful. On the Eastern Red Cedar really never too late to plant edar garlic. Traditionally we plant garlic in host, the fungus produces redlate fall or early winter. Yet, there is dish-brown galls. These galls alls still time to set out individual cloves. are sometimes confused with ith Garlic likes well-drained and loamy cones. In April and May these ese soil with lots of organic material. The structures elongate into orange ge individual cloves should be planted gelatinous protrusions and swell ell about two inches deep and spaced four during rainy periods. The wind nd to six inches apart. Garlic bulbs begin carries the microscopic spores es growing by sending out roots. Once to infect apple leaves, fruit and d the roots establish, the stalk begins young branches. Individual al growing. The individual plants will spores can travel miles. These spores attach them-resemble green spring onions. Green garlic is garlic that hasn’t ripened. It selves to apple leaves about thee resembles a scallion. It is very tender time the buds are in the early and delicious, yet not overpowering. blossom stage. Infection can These green scapes are a springtime take place in as little as four delicacy when sautéed in olive oil with hours. Yellow lesions begin a dash of sea salt. It’s a win-win sce- to develop in one to three nario! Scapes are normally removed weeks. In midsummer, spores in spring to encourage the plant to focus all its energy on growing bigger, from the apple leaves are healthier garlic bulbs. Consult Virginia produced, and in turn the Tech publication Onions, Garlic and wind carries the spores back Shallots by Diane Relf (https://www. to the cedars thus complet-

Q. A.

Planting garlic is just one of many activities area gardeners can enjoy as they wait for winter to wane. Metro Creative photo

protect the apples from spores being released from the cedar host. Resources to consult: Growing Apples in Virginia www. pubs.ext.vt.edu/422/422-023/422--23. html and Cedar Apple Rust: http://plantclinic.cornell.edu/factsheets/cedarapplerust.pdf Virginia McCown is a master gardener and master food volunteer living in Central Virginia along with her garden and assorted creatures both great and small.

Thursday

OPINION: Editorial, Letters to the Editor

February 24, 2022

The small, hidden joys of a ‘hand-me-down’ life By Roslyn Ryan Editor

Sometimes you just have to laugh. The other day, when the twenty-something daughter of a good friend complimented the sweater I was wearing and asked where I got it, I thanked her and explained that it was actually a hand-me-down from one of my aunts. The girl looked confused, and I have to admit I couldn’t immediately figure out why. Maybe she didn’t know I had aunts? In fact, as I quickly figured, it was the first part that puzzled her: she didn’t know what I meant by hand-me-down. As I’ve gotten older, I always

try and adhere to a personal policy of hiding my amusement whenever I find myself in a situation like this. When someone under 25 asks me what a “long-distance call” was, or the way to write a capital “Z” in cursive, or if it’s true that the television once had only three channels and no remote, I always try and remember that there are plenty of things they understand that I don’t (including Twitter, YouTube stardom and Bitcoin, just to name a few). In this case though, when my friend’s daughter confessed that she had never heard of the concept of hand-me-down clothes, I have to admit my first reaction was something more akin to pity rather than disbelief.

Perhaps this is because so many of the things I treasure might be considered hand-me-downs of one sort or another. Maybe I’m a bit strange—I’ll admit to that—but I have always loved the concepts of secondhand, gently-used and, if we’re aiming a bit more fancy, heirloom. It’s not that I’m against buying new things, but I would have to say that I have never derived much joy from it. My favorite pieces of jewelry will always be those that belonged first to my mother or grandmother, and my favorite dining room chairs had already served for decades at a relative’s table before they came to me. Every once in a while, when I drive the 15-year-old truck that

once belonged to my adored late father-in-law, I can almost smell the concrete dust that always clung to his boots. Maybe it won’t make sense to some, but I know my favorite winter coat will always be one that my best friend passed on to me, and my sofa at home is often occupied by a once-unwanted hand-medown dog that I wouldn’t give up for a million dollars. Years ago, I suppose the idea of hand-me-downs was more about thrift and common sense, but to me, these days, it just feels a lot like love. Out with the old, in with the new? Call me old-fashioned, thrifty or even peculiar, but I prefer things the other way around.

Tell Me A Story

Far from home, the chance to learn something new By Ryan Mulligan Contributing writer

(Editor’s note: The following contribution is part of the Gazette’s continuing series “Tell Me a Story,” in which we ask our readers to share tales from their own lives or the lives of family members.) A KGB agent taught me karate in Cairo, Egypt. Let me explain. When I was 8 years old (1989), my father, who was in the Navy at the time, was volunteered to work with the United Nations as a

part of the United Nations Truce Supervision Organization (UNTSO). He was deployed overseas to Tiberias, Israel and then Cairo, Egypt. Against better judgment we joined him and lived overseas, as civilians. For the first six months we lived in Tiberias, Israel on the sea of Galilea, right across from Syria and the Golan Heights. It was a huge culture shock for us, especially for my mother. My brother and I had feared we would be living in tents in the desert, because that is all we really knew from TV and movies. We were relieved

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Joy Monopoli

jmonopoli@RSNVA.com

to have physical structures and running water. It was still shocking to us though. We jumped at the sounds of what we thought were bombs going off in the near distance, but it ended up to just be sonic booms from jets breaking the sound barrier. At least that’s what we were told. There was a lot of tension. We suffered through some civil defense sirens and bomb drills. Often the city was buzzed by jets trying to fly below the radar, but we never really expesee Karate > page 7

WE WANT TO PUBLISH YOUR ISSUE-DRIVEN LETTERS The Local welcomes your signed letters to the editor on topics of interest to Goochland residents. Letters must include your address and a daytime telephone number. We reserve the right to edit letters. We do not guarantee that every letter received will be published. Letters reflect the opinions and positions of the writers and not The Goochland Gazette.

Laura McFarland lmcfarland@powhatantoday.com Roslyn Ryan

rryan@gooochlandgazette.com

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rfletcher@powhatantoday.com

Tom Haynie

thaynie@mechlocal.com

Cindy Adams

cadams@mechlocal.com

Denine D’Angelo ddangelo@mechlocal.com

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Serving Goochland County Since 1955

Unrecognized mentor leaves lasting impact By Jim Ridolphi Contributing Columnist

When you are 14 years old and possess less than refined social skills, it’s not easy to find a summer job, so I headed to the community pool to celebrate the first day of summer vacation. I immediately noticed my two best friends, both of them in similar employment status, as they scouted out the best location for a day of fun and mischief that only happens in those neighborhood pools. As we settled in, my friend alerted us to what seemed like earth-shattering news at the time. “I think I found a job,” he exclaimed. It seems he had stumbled on what would become employment for all three of us, working on a Charles Chips delivery truck and running chips, pretzels and chocolate chip cookies door to door in a variety of neighborhoods. Bright and early the next day, a vintage panel step van pulled in front of my house and collected me for what would be my first day of work. Sure, I’d had paper routes, sold seeds door to door for Boy Scouts and mowed a fair share of lawns in my neighborhood; but real employment at a real job was a new experience. Joe had been delivering Charles Chips for some years, and had a good grasp on how to sell the most, but, more importantly, he possessed an understanding of how to retain customers. The ex-Marine had a slow, sincere, southern drawl that appealed to the customers we encountered, and they had learned that Joe was a man of his word and always delivered on a promise. Those first days progressed as Joe drove the old truck and we ran from door to door picking up and dropping off potato chips. Money for the see Mentor > page 7

Thursday

February 24, 2022

NEWS: What’s Going on in Goochland County

Burning ban to remain in effect through April 30

Photo courtesy of Goochland County Fire-Rescue

Goochland fire crews work to extinguish a brush fire on Covington Road on Feb. 11. The cause of the fire, which burned almost 2 acres, remains undetermined.

Karate continued from >6 rienced any real danger. I celebrated my ninth birthday in Tiberias. I have plenty of stories about our time there, but that’s not why we are here today. It is important to mention here that the United Nation peace keeping forces are in part comprised of members of the military and other…agencies of the various countries that are members of the UN. In both Israel and Egypt and, I assume, wherever there is a UN contingent there was a central HQ where

the troops and their families could go and hang out or otherwise enjoy the trappings of their nation and culture (this is where I was introduced to such American cinematic masterpieces as Top Gun and History of the World Part I), but also share and experience others. There were often events, like potlucks, where we would all bring in foods from our countries and share. After Israel we moved on to Cairo, Egypt. We had learned to take nothing for granted and expect the unexpected, so the culture shock was not quite so shocking. Except our introduction to bidets...that was shocking. It

Contributed report The Virginia Department of Forestry’s current 4 p.m. Burn Law will remain in effect through April 30. The 4 p.m. Burn Law specifies: No burning until after 4 p.m. from Feb. 15 through April 30 of each year, if the fire is in or within 300 feet of woodland, brushland or field containing dry grass or other flammable material. Fire shall not be left unattended if within 150 feet of woodland, brushland or fields containing dry grass. No new fires set, no fuel added, or fire rekindled after midnight. Law applies to campfires, warming fires, brush piles, leaves, household trash, stumps, fields of broom straw and brush or anything capable of spreading fire. The law provides for a penalty of up to $500, plus payment of court costs and fire suppression costs if the fire escapes. For questions or more information about the 4:00 p.m. Burning Law contact the local Virginia Department of Forestry office at 540.967.3702 or Goochland County Fire-Rescue at 804.556.5304. Citizens are reminded and strongly encouraged to consult the open burning regulations for Goochland County, available at https://www. goochlandva.us/DocumentCenter/View/349/ Goochland-County-Burning-Regulations, before conducting any open burning yearround. Prior to all open burning, the Goochland County Sheriff ’s Office must be notified at (804) 556-5349 with the location and times of the burning.

was at the HQ in Cairo that a Russian member of the group, that we were told was KGB or maybe ex KGB ,had the idea to hold some karate classes to keep us busy. My family jumped at the chance. It seemed like a great way to give us something to do that would also give us a way to meet people, promote physical activity and possibly teach my older brother and I some discipline. I used to know the Russian terms for stances and kicks and punches, but they are long forgotten. So, there you have it. Probably not what you were expecting, but that is the story of how a KGB agent taught me karate in Cairo, Egypt.

Serving Goochland County Since 1955

Mentor continued from >6 new order was left under the empty can left on the front porch. When we weren’t hustling chips, Joe would enlighten us with war stories or his theory of successful business. As the weeks passed, Joe became more of a mentor than an employer. Joe knew something about just everything you can imagine and never failed to amaze us with his outdated quips and a unique ability to replace curse words with like sounding alternatives. “You have to look sharp if you want to sell something. No one wants to buy products from a bum,” he told us as he straightened his simple black clip-on tie positioned perfectly on a simple short sleeved white shirt. Needless to say, we didn’t realize we were actually learning something as the summer progressed, but all three of us never missed a day on the truck; and Joe became the person you could go to and discuss anything. As summer ended, we went back to high school and Joe continued to sell Charles Chips around town. We stayed in touch. For many years following that summer, the three of us would get together at Christmas and make a visit to Joe’s small apartment. It wasn’t until far later in life that I realized Joe’s contributions and influence on our lives. He joins dozens of others who have positively affected my life, a sort of collage of people from all walks of life and various professions – all contributing bits of wisdom I hope wasn’t lost on the recipient. But, Joe provided my first lessons in business in those hot days of August sitting in that old step van surrounded by cans of Charles Chips. As for that trio of young entrepreneurs who enjoyed the wisdom of a crusty, old Marine that summer, one chose to work on the railroad and the security that accompanied, and another became a well-respected circuit court judge. I took Joe’s advice and pursued a career doing something I loved much more than door-to-door sales. When the seasoned warrior finally gave up the fight and passed years later, a small obituary appeared in the local newspaper. It listed no survivors or family members, and information regarding a funeral was missing. As I read the announcement, I thought that an unknowing reader might assume this person lived an insignificant life, unfulfilled with the joys of family and loved ones. To those who knew Joe, nothing was further from the truth. For certain, his legacy is fondly remembered and respected by that trio of friends who learned life’s earliest lessons riding in a Charles Chips van, perhaps unrecognized but not unremembered.

Thursday

February 24, 2022

NEWS: What’s Going on in Goochland County

Woman’s Club scholarship honors Behrens Contributed report Applications are now being accepted for the Mabel L. Behrens Memorial Scholarship. The scholarship is open to any Goochland High School senior who plans to attend a four year college or university and is

based on community involvement and service, academics and need. Applicants must complete the Mabel L. Behrens Scholarship application, available in the high school guidance office. Applications are

due by April 29, 2022. The Goochland Woman’s Club began awarding education scholarships to deserving Goochland High School students in 1979. Mabel. L. Behrens, a founding member of Goochland

Woman’s Club, was passionate about learning, and encouraging others to continue their education. She believed that every child should have a good education. The GFWC Goochland Woman’s Club gives the scholarship in her memory.

Scholarships available through Monacan Soil and Water Contributed report

Are you a high school senior or college freshman interested in a college degree in natural resource conservation and/or environmental protection? Are you seeking financial support for this degree? Have you participated in the Envirothon contest sponsored by your local soil and water conservation district? Monacan Soil and Water Conservation District is promoting four scholarship opportunities for those of you who answered yes.

Four $1,000 scholarships are awarded statewide each year through the Virginia Association of Soil and Water Conservation District’s (VASWCD) Educational Foundation. The purpose of these scholarships is to give financial support to students majoring in or showing a strong desire to major in a course curriculum related to natural resource conservation and/or environmental studies. Individual applicants must be full-time students enrolled in or who have applied to a college

freshman level curriculum. Applicants must also document a class ranking in the top 20% of his or her graduating class or a minimum 3.0 GPA. Participation in the Envirothon contest will be greatly considered in the ranking process. Call the District office for additional details! Monacan District’s education committee can select one application to forward to the VASWCD for consideration of one of these scholarships. Applicants must be a resident of Goochland or Powhatan

county to be eligible for Monacan consideration. Completed applications must be returned to the Monacan office by 4:30 p.m. April 5, 2022. Applications may be obtained by calling the Monacan SWCD office at (804) 556-4936. Email inquiries may be directed to betty. mccracken@vaswcd.org. Completed applications can be mailed to the Monacan SWCD office at PO Box 66, Goochland 23063 or delivered to the office at 2748 Dogtown Road, Goochland.

Parks and Recreation Events Zumba Mondays and Wednesdays, through March 2, 6-7 p.m. Zumba is a dance fitness format that will include pop, hip hop, and international music with dance rhythms that incorporate interval exercises. These dances will help you tone target areas on your body and absolutely increase your confidence as this class is a judgment free zone. This party is for everyone regardless of their fitness level. The goal is to have fun and keep moving! $45/6 week session or $7 drop in fee. For more information, call (804) 556-5854.

a 6-week session to exercise your entire body and strengthen your mind. The central focus of Tai Chi is to enable the qi, a life force, to flow smoothly and powerfully throughout the body benefiting improved health and balance, increased flexibility and strength, and reduced stress. You can choose to take one or two days a week. $60/one day a week or $120/two days a week. For more information contact Goochland County Parks and Recreation at (804) 556-5854.

Intro to Brazilian Jiujitsu

Tuesdays and Thursdays, through April 21, 7 -8:30 p.m. This class will introduce you the fun Tai Chi for Health damentals of the fastest growing and most Tuesdays and Fridays, through March effective martial art, Brazilian Jiujitsu. 4, 9- 10 a.m. With a focus on self-defense and practiTai Chi is an effective exercise to cal applications, students will finish this improve health and well-being. Join us for 12-week program with an understanding

of the gentle art. Participants need to purchase a Gi and white belt. $100. For more information contact Goochland County Parks and Recreation at (804) 556-5854.

Help! My Dog Has Hit the Teenage Phase! Mondays, Feb. 28-April 4, 6:30 p.m.7:20 p.m. Has your puppy forgotten all it knew? Maybe acting a bit like a teenager? Pushing boundaries, testing the waters? Or maybe you are in between needing puppy training and being ready for your CGC? This can be a challenging time to navigate! In this class we will work on skills that will help you survive their “teenage phase” and keep them on the right track to being that fantastic companion we know they can be! $135. For more information contact Goochland County Parks and Recreation at (804) 556-5854.

Serving Goochland County Since 1955

In the Kitchen Ham takes center stage for holiday entertaining Contributed report Many people prefer to serve ham instead of lamb for Easter dinner. Ham can be perfectly smoky and salty but also sweet when it is cooked with a delicious glaze. This recipe for “Brandied Baked Ham with Mustard Butter” from Denise Gee’s “Southern Appetizers: 60 Delectables for Gracious Get-Togethers” (Chronicle Books) pairs the fruity overtones of brandy with the tang of mustard to form an ideal blend of flavors. Serve the ham on its own, or nestle slices between buttermilk biscuits for a brunch or lunchtime treat.

Brandied Baked Ham with Mustard Butter Serves 16 to 20 Brandied Baked Ham 11/2 cups packed dark brown sugar 2 tablespoons grainy mustard 1 5-pound bone-in half ham, fully cooked 11/2 teaspoons whole cloves Mustard Butter 2 cups butter, softened 1/4 cup grated sweet onion 1/4 cup Dijon or Creole mustard To make the ham: In a small saucepan, stir to combine the brown sugar, brandy, and mustard. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat and, stirring constantly, cook until the glaze is thick and syrupy, about 3 minutes. (Watch carefully, holding a tight-fitting lid; if the brandy ignites, quickly cover the saucepan to tamp out the flame before removing the lid. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat just before serving.) Preheat the oven to 325 F. Line a shallow roasting pan with heavy-duty aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top. Score the fat on top of the ham by making diagonal cuts in a diamond pattern. Insert the cloves into the intersections of each diamond. Place the ham on the rack in the prepared pan. Insert a meat thermometer, making sure it doesn’t touch the bone. Bake the ham for about 1 hour, or until the meat thermometer registers 125 F. Remove the ham and brush on the brandy glaze. Return the ham to the oven and cook for 20 to 30 minutes more, or until the meat thermometer registers 135 F. Let it stand for 15 minutes. (The meat temperature will rise to 140 F.) To make the mustard butter: In a medium bowl, stir to combine the butter, sweet onion and mustard. Scrape it into a serving bowl. Cut the ham into thin slices and arrange them on a platter. Serve accompanied with the bowl of mustard butter.

Thursday

February 24, 2022

SPORTS: Youth, High School, College, Recreational, Professional

Serving Goochland County Since 1955

Photos by Robby Fletcher

Left, senior Dyson Dunham locks around Covenant School’s John Gayle in the 132-pound VISAA state semifinal on Feb. 19. Right, sophomore Freddy Barber wrestles in the fifth place match.

Cadets finish in second at states By Robby Fletcher Sports Editor As the host team of the VISAA State Wrestling Tournament that brought in 25 teams across the state of Virginia, the Benedictine Cadets had much to prove on their home turf. With the home crowd on their side and a star-studded roster of wrestlers, the Cadets had four state champions and two more top-4 finishers in a high-octane weekend of highlevel wrestling. Benedictine finished second in total during the competition, accumulating 223.5 team points. They were behind St. Christopher’s, who won the tournament with 264.4 points. Benedictine carried 12 wrestlers into the tournament and finished with a total record of 42-17. The undefeated champs were freshman Lane Foard at 113 pounds, sophomore Brycen Arbogast at 120 pounds and seniors Dyson Dunham and Zane Cox at 132 and 160 pounds.

Foard’s journey to a title in his first state tournament was one he’ll surely never forget, as he ran through his first two matches with first period pins before facing one of the toughest challenges of his wrestling career in the final match. Facing St. Christopher’s Jack Parker, the two title contenders held each other scoreless through the first two periods before Foard finally broke through with a goahead escape and takedown all within a minute. Though Parker recorded a late escape himself, Foard held onto the 3-1 lead and took home wellearned bragging rights. “Coming into the third period I knew it was going to be the hardest of them all, I was going to have to work harder than ever before to get up and finish the match,” Foard said. “I had to trust and believe that all my training was about to pay off, which it did.” Foard credits upperclass-

Photos by Robby Fletcher

Left, freshman Ronin Foldes takes down Roman Catholic’s Sam Sweeney. Right, junior Brady Bollander battles for control in the 138-pound consolation semifinal.

men like Arbogast, Dunham and Cox as the motivators that have helped him quickly become one of the best upand-coming high school wrestlers in the state. Like the freshman he helped motivate to a title, Arbogast also came away victorious after the weekend, dominating every opponent that stood in his way. Of his four wins, only the championship bout with Fishburne’s Ryan Barone went for three periods and Arbogast domi-

nated that one with a 16-1 technical fall. In that titlewinning match, he recorded four near falls and three takedowns. Leading up to that match, Arbogast had another 17-2 tech fall in the quarterfinals that was sandwiched between two first period pins. His quickest pin came in his opening matchup with Collegiate’s Walker Bain, where he ended the match in just 15 seconds. As for Dunham in the 132pound bracket, the senior was

just as dominant, winning three of his four matches with a pin and the fourth with a tech fall. Like his teammate Arbogast, all of his pins came within the first period, as Dunham made quick work of his opponents. It took 54 seconds for him to win his opening matchup, as he recorded a quick takedown and kept his opponent down on the ground for the rest of the match. After beating Covenant School standout John Gayle in the semifinals

with a 17-2 tech fall, Dunham matched up with Eli Lianez from Fishburne Military School and completely stole the show. Lianez had no answers for the Cadet, who jumped out to a 10-0 lead in the blink of an eye with four two-point near falls and a takedown before ending Lianez’ misery with a pin. Rounding out the champions is Cox, who ran off four straight pins before a 17-2 tech

see States > 10

Thursday

February 24, 2022

SPORTS: Youth, High School, College, Recreational, Professional

Serving Goochland County Since 1955

Belcher places third in 200 free, Bulldogs finish 15th By Robby Fletcher Sports Editor

Bringing along four swimmers to the VHSL Class 3 State Championships held at SwimRVA on Feb. 19, Goochland’s swim season came to a close with a number of impressive finishes. Led by junior Harry Belcher, who participated in three events with two top-5 finishes, Goochland in total scored 56 team points, good for 15th place in the boys competitions. Belcher first competed in the 200 freestyle event, following up his region titlewinning result of 1:45.98 with an even better time of 1:43.28. In the preliminaries, he swam a 1:47.09. Brentsville District senior Benjamin Huffman won the competition with a time of 1:38.56, setting a new Class 3 state record. Later on in the evening, Belcher followed up his bronze-winning performance with another strong time in the 100-yard freestyle. Finishing fourth in the competition, Belcher swam a 48.36 time that beat his preliminary time set at 49.27 seconds. He began in fifth place after his first lap, which he finished in 23.41 seconds, but

States continued from >10 fall won him the 160-pound state title. The senior used his elite endurance and strength to win four of his five matches within the first period, just like his fellow title-winning teammates Arbogast and Dunham. To Cox, that type of consis-

he kept a steady pace in the final stretch of the race. With a final lap time of 24.95 seconds, the junior was able to move up a spot in the standings for yet another top-5 finish. Cave Spring senior Connor Woods finished in first place in the event, recording a 46.68-second result. Harry wasn’t the only Belcher to perform at states for the Bulldogs, as freshman Bill Belcher joined in for his first appearance in the state championship. The younger Belcher competed in the 500-yard freestyle event held in the middle of a packed schedule of non-stop swimming and came away in 10th place in the finals. Belcher did significantly better in his final run compared to his preliminary race, which he ended with a 5:15.64 time. His final run was 7.5 seconds better, pulling in at 10th place with a time of 5:08.15. Belcher had two laps go under 30 seconds in the race, with his first lap landing at 27.60 seconds and his last coming in at 29.53 seconds. The two relay events Goochland competed in saw both the Belchers compete together alongside sophomore Leyton Sutherland and senior Joe Hardman. In the 200-yard medley

relay, the opening event of the championships, the four Bulldogs worked together to finish the race at 1:47.42, good for 11th place in the event. Maggie Walker’s relay team

would win that event to start off a night that saw them win both the girls and boys competitions with 253 and 255 team points. Later on in the night,

they all competed in the 200yard freestyle relay. With Bill Belcher starting and Harry Belcher closing, the Bulldogs finished in 14th place with a time of 1:35.64 to cap off

a busy night for Goochland swimming that ended the season on a positive note. Robby Fletcher can be reached at rfletcher@powhatantoday.com.

tent dominance from multiple athletes isn’t a coincidence, but instead an expectation for Benedictine wrestling. “At Benedictine we train harder than anyone else in the state. I think that is what gives me the edge over all of my opponents,” Cox said. For the opponents that do make it to the third period, Cox says the team’s training

and non-stop motor is usually too much to handle. Head coach David Yost calls it “dragging them into the deep end.” After running through his first three matchups with relative ease, with the longest match lasting just 1:43 before Cox pinned his opponent down, Cox entered that final match with Paul VI’s Danny Lowell with the same confi-

dence in his ability that he always has. “A big part of wrestling is mentality. I didn’t think I was going to tech fall him; I knew I was going to,” he said. “I had faith in my moves and that allowed me to open up my offense to win 17-2.” Beyond those four, Benedictine had more notable finishes from its stacked

roster. The 285-pound senior Stanislaw Schoenborn placed second in his bracket, finishing the day with a 2-1 record and two pins in under a minute. Sophomore Christian Ferrell lost his opening match in a 5-3 decision, but then won his next five games in the consolation bracket before placing fourth. Junior Brady Bollander also placed fourth,

going 4-2 and making it all the way to the semifinals before losing to St. Stephens wrestler Aidan Koch. Finally, freshman Ronin Foldes was the other top-5 finisher with his fifth-place finish, recording a 4-2 record in the 145-pound bracket. Robby Fletcher can be reached at rfletcher@powhatantoday.com.

Photos by Robby Fletcher

Above, junior Harry Belcher closes in as the third place finisher in the 200-yard freestyle event. Bottom left, freshman Bill Belcher swims the backstroke portion of the boys 200-yard relay. Bottom right, senior Joe Hardman swims the butterfly in the 200 relay.

Thursday

February 24, 2022

SPORTS: Youth, High School, College, Recreational, Professional

Serving Goochland County Since 1955

Multiple Bulldogs impress at 3B track regionals By Robby Fletcher Sports Editor

Goochland’s track and field team will have multiple athletes continue their seasons after regionals, with the team seeing plenty of big time performances at the VHSL 3B Region Indoor Track Championships. The regional championships were held at Woodberry Forest School on Feb. 19. With regional athletes required to finish in the top 3 of both individual and relay events, Goochland finished with three individual competitors and one relay team in the top 3. The biggest Bulldogs standout was junior Tyler Black, who finished in first place of the pole vault competition. Black has long been a standout in the competition, winning last year’s regionals with a 13-foot, 6-inch result. This year, Black managed to do even better, posting a result

of 14 feet even. This will be Black’s third straight year entering states. As a freshman, he placed sixth in the competition with a mark of 12-6, but won the entire event outright in his sophomore year with a vault of 13 feet. He’ll look to defend his title after beating his own mark significantly in this year’s regional competition. In the boys high jump event, sophomore Derek Pierce earned second place to get into states, posting a 5-foot, 6-inch jump. He was just an inch off from first place finisher Lawrence LaSasso, a sophomore from Culpeper County. Pierce nearly made states in the 55-meter dash as well, but finished in fifth place in the event. Running in the fourth heat alongside three of the top-4 finishers, Pierce gave a great effort to reach states, but his 6.98-second result was just shy of placing him in the top-3. It was a true photo fin-

ish in the event, with Skyline senior Logan Bailey edging out Maggie Walker senior Trevor Lundgren by .07 seconds to win first place with a result of 6.72 seconds. In Pierce’s previous race at Louisa County on Feb. 8, Pierce finished in first by running the dash in 6.84 seconds. Sophomore Jadelyn Taylor will also be representing Goochland at states in the 55-meter hurdles competition after finishing second at Woodberry. Finishing in 9.69 seconds, Taylor was 0.21 seconds behind the first place winner, Maggie Walker senior Hanna Ngai. The 4x200 meter relay was also one that Bulldogs finished well in, with its group finishing in third place among five schools. Goochland’s relay team hit the finish line at 1 minute, 57.56 seconds, with Maggie Walker taking first place with a 1:54.54 finish. Though junior Amore Jackson didn’t have a top-3

Contributed Photo

Junior Tyler Black delivers a first-place result in the pole vault at the 3B Regional Indoor Track Championships on Feb. 19 at Woodberry Forest School.

finish, she also represented Goochland well, placing fourth in the long jump at 14-10.75 and sixth in the 55-meter dash at 8.04 seconds. Senior Isaac Bustos also placed fifth in the 300-meter

dash at 38.99 seconds while junior David Johnson turned in a fifth place result in the 1000-meter run with a time of 3:05.92. The Bulldogs heading to states will have ample time

to prepare for the VHSL Class 3 State Championships, which take place at Liberty University on Feb. 28. Robby Fletcher can be reached at rfletcher@powhatantoday.com.

Goochland wrestling finishes up promising season By Robby Fletcher Sports Editor

Capping off an impressive season of wrestling, the Goochland Bulldogs went down to the Salem Civic Center on Feb. 18 to take on the best of the best at the VHSL Class 3 State Championship. Bringing six of their best competitors to the tournament, the Bulldogs had just one of their athletes stand on the podium in the end, but it was nonetheless a thrilling experience for a team that showed major improvement throughout the season.

Senior Alexander Rosenbaum finished with a team-best fourth place finish in the 285-pound bracket, recording a 4-2 record over the weekend and a 23-3 record for the season. After winning his opening matchup in a 4-3 decision, Rosenbaum had just his second loss of the season in the following round when he was just barely edged out in a 6-3 decision to Liberty Christian Academy’s Gavin Womack. Rosenbaum responded well in his next three matches in the consolation bracket, winning two by pin and the consola-

tion semifinal by a 3-1 decision. In the third place match, the Bulldog matched up with Womack once again, and lost in a 1-0 heartbreaker. Still, it was a terrific finish from one of the program’s most talented athletes. In the 160-pound bracket, junior Reese Vincent had some moments to be proud of as well. After losing his first matchup after getting pinned in the first period, Vincent responded with an impressive 8-4 decision victory over Fluvanna County’s David Taylor. In the next round, he pinned Heritage’s Pait Perice in 2:12. Vincent lost in the third

consolation round after that, wrapping up his season with a 22-5 record. Freshman Patrick Harlow also made it to the consolation third round with a 2-2 record at the tournament. Both of his wins came down to the wire, as the 170-pound wrestler won the opening match in a 6-5 double-overtime thriller. Later on in the consolation bracket, Harlow faced overtime yet again, and managed to come out victorious with a 2-0 win over Carroll County Gabe Melton thanks to a late takedown.

Contributed Photo

Goochland’s state-qualifying wrestlers stand with their coaching staff at the VHSL Class 3 State Championships held at Salem Civic Center on Feb. 19. Goochland finished with 27 team points at the tournament.

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February 24, 2022

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