10/11/2018 by Goochland Gazette

INSIDE Readers weigh in on wide range of topics in this week’s mailbag > page 6

Volume 63, Number 40 • Oct. 11, 2018

District 2 supervisor apologizes after sending controversial tweet. See page 2 D

Woman indicted for crash that left three dead By Roslyn Ryan Editor

games and pony rides, the event will feature a Celebrity “Dunk Tank” with Goochland High School principal Chris Collier, PE teacher Brad

A grand jury in Goochland on Tuesday indicted an area attorney on three counts of involuntary manslaughter stemming from a June 27, 2018 motor vehicle crash on Interstate 288 that claimed the lives of three people. Claire C. Carr, 53, of North Chesterfield, was reportedly traveling southbound near the intersection of Route 288 and West Creek Parkway at around 9 p.m. that night when she came upon a disabled vehicle in the roadway. According to Sgt. Keeli Hill with the Virginia State Police, the vehicle belonged to Linli Xu, 25, of Midlothian, who had been travelling on 288 shortly before 9 p.m. that night when she struck

see Fundraiser > 12

see Indictment > 14

Contributed photo

Local students discuss Girls State experience Pictured here with American Legion Auxiliary member Jenna Nelson, left, Goochland students Morgan Butler, second from the left, Breanna Grimm, Savannah Slater and Chantel Taylor recently spoke at an American Legion meeting about their experience taking part in the Girls State program last summer at Longwood University. Running for offices in their different cities or in the Girls State government provided them with insights into the workings of government, being part of city councils and preparing budgets. Funding for this program is provided by the American Legion Auxiliary of Post 215.

School leaders set to get ‘dunked’ in support of firefighters finest community leaders are willing to go all in — sometimes literally. On Oct. 13, Goochland When it comes to supporting a Courthouse Company 5 Fire-Rescue good cause, many of Goochland’s will be hosting their first-ever Pig By Roslyn Ryan Editor

Roast and Fire House fundraiser from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. to raise funds for badly-needed renovations and repair of the organization’s building and parking lot. In addition to food,

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October 11 2018

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The Goochland County Animal Shelter has temporarily relocated to the County’s Central High School Cultural and Educational Complex located at 2748 Dogtown Rd. in Goochland. The temporary Animal Shelter will operate at the rear of the Central High School Complex until the new shelter is completed. Citizens can continue to contact the Animal Shelter by calling (804) 556-5302. The shelter currently has the following pets available to a good home: A white female cat, about a year old; and two white and grey female cats, each about a year old. The Goochland Animal Shelter is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. The facility has many lost dog and cat fliers posted. For more information on these pets, as well as the many more 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.”

Alvarez discusses tweet that sparked internet backlash

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ast week, a tweet sent by Goochland District 2 Supervisor Manuel Alvarez made news nationwide and sparked outrage from many who said they viewed Alvarez’s tweet — a response to reports that protestors had attacked a Maryland Congressman — as a threat of violence. The tweet, which has now been deleted along with Alvarez’s Twitter feed — read “With one reload, I can take 34 of them. But my guess is one will be sufficient,” a statement Alvarez described as a joke but later apologized for in numerous interviews and in an open letter to Goochland residents ALVAREZ (see Letters to the Editor on page 6). In a recent interview with the Gazette, Alvarez, who is now serving his second term as a supervisor, discussed the controversial tweet, the reason he’s stopped using Twitter, and why he doesn’t intend to give up social media altogether.

Goochland Gazette: Twitter has been embraced as an effective communication tool by everyone from politicians to professional athletes, and has notably become known as a favorite outlet for President Donald Trump. When did you first start using Twitter and why? Alvarez: I created my twitter account in 2011 when I was running for office, because I thought it might help with communication, but I didn’t have many Goochland followers, so I didn’t use it much. Recently I started using it more and quickly went from about 200 followers to over 600. Goochland Gazette: Although Twitter administrators do review and remove content they deem to violate the platform’s terms, there are plenty of examples of users taking advantage of the micro blogging site to tweet attacks on other users, spread uncorroborated accusations and otherwise engage in behavior most see Alvarez > 3

Goochland rolls past Cumberland, 52-0 PAGE 8 Calendar ................................ 4 Classifieds ........................... 13 Letters .................................... 6 Obituaries .............................. 4 Opinion .................................. 6 Sports .................................8-9 TV Listings ......................10-12

CONTACT US Toll Free - (877) 888-0449 Office - (804) 746-1235 Joy Monopoli Publisher (804) 775-4614 Fax: (804) 819-5529 Melody Kinser Managing Editor (804) 775-4622 Fax: (804) 730-0476 Roslyn Ryan Editor (804) 339-7956 Billy Fellin Sports Writer (804) 396-1915 Fax: (804) 598-7757 Cindy Adams Classifieds (804) 775-4616 Fax: (804) 730-0476

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October 11, 2018

NEWS: Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Going on in Goochland County

idiotic on my twitter account, media? so my account included my continued from > 2 real name and my role on the Alvarez: As I said in my apology the tweet was reasonable Americans would board. thoughtless and ill-conceived. likely find offensive. Where do GG: After backlash conBut while I did it in jest, no you see the line in terms of cerning a reply you posted one should ever joke about what should and shouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be last week, you elected to delete shooting one person, much tolerated? your account. Why did you less 34. So yes, tweets can be make that decision and are you misinterpreted, but my tweet Alvarez: Well, I sure wish also limiting your use of other didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need any help, it was bad they had deleted my tweet social media platforms? enough on its own. And Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m immediately, but they didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t. very sorry about the impact That said, I believe in the Alvarez: I wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t sure the itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s had on so many. That said, first amendment and Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m not tweet had been deleted and many people said I was advosure how twitter administra- the number of replies and cating for shooting protesters tors can monitor and remove retweets was overwhelming, so and nothing could be farther content without introducing I thought the best thing to do from the truth. Anyone who some bias. I think what might was to deactivate the account. I follows me on Facebook sees help keep the discussions more also saw that people were cred- my almost weekly posts about civil would be to force users iting me with messages I know the Cuban â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ladies in Whiteâ&#x20AC;? to identify themselves. Too I did not like or retweet and I being attacked by Cubaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s desmany people are anonymous didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t think I could control it. potic goons. Those ladies on twitter, so they can post march every Sunday on their whatever they want without GG: Are you ever con- way to Church, but they never any consequences. I remember cerned that perhaps someone make it there. If they pray at all how ugly the discussions were might take what is intended itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in a prison cell with mulon the Gazette online arti- as a harmless tweet and actu- tiple bruises and even broken cles when people could post ally interpret it as a call to bones. I believe in and defend anonymously. I certainly never commit violence? How has this see Tweet > 7 intended to post anything so changed your view of social

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Obituaries HERBERT T. PICKLES Herbert Tipton Pickles of Goochland, passed away on Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018, at the age of 83. He was preceded in death by his PICKLES brothers,

Buck and Bill; sisters, Esther, Jane and Pevis. He is survived by his loving wife Joy; son, Herbert Pickels (Junior); stepson, Ronnie Joyner; grandson, Tyler; a host of nieces, nephews and countless friends. Herbert was a very successful brick contractor and homebuilder, in which he never quit. Herbert planned and oversaw work until his passing. He was a proud mem-

ber of the Brookland United Waters Jr. went to his heavenly Methodist Church. Visitation home on Wednesday, Oct. 3, was held on Wednesday, Oct. 2018 in Goochland. Bill is survived by his 3, at Bennett Funeral Home loving wife in Glen Allen. The funeral was Judy Waters, held there on Oct. 4. Flowers daug hters may be sent to The Crippled S te p h a n i e Children’s Hospital, 2924 Brook Overstreet Rd., Richmond, Va. and Kelly West, and WILLIAM S. WATERS JR son Jamie Mr. William “Bill” Samuel WATERS

Waters. Son-in-laws Brian Overstreet and David West, and his grandchildren Charis Overstreet, and Katie and Cody West. Bill is also survived by his brothers Gene, Darrell, and Jimmy Waters and their respective families. Bill’s life bore witness that he lived as the hands and feet of Christ. He is remembered for his strong faith and love for others. A

memorial service followed by a visitation will be held at 4 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 12, at Salem Baptist Church, located at 465 Broad St Rd in Manakin. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made out to Salem Baptist Church for the (memo line) “Broad St Building Fund” or the “Gideons.” Please visit online guest book at www.lacyfuneralhome.com.

Community Calendar participate is $175. For more For more information, call Goochland Parks and information, contact Parks and (804) 556-5854. Recreation is partner- Recreation at (804) 556-5854. The Goochland Branch ing with Swift Creek School Library will host LEGO Goochland Country Parks of Equitation for Youth Adventures from 6:30 to 7:30 and Recreation has partnered Horseback Riding Lessons for those ages 5-11. Participants with RichCity Basketball p.m. for children ages 5-10. will learn to groom, tack, and to host a basketball clinic at Those who love LEGOs are ride, and lessons are avail- Goochland Sports Complex encouraged to bring their able for all experience levels. from 5-7 p.m. for participants friends for a fun night of buildJumping instructions are avail- ages 10-14. This clinic will ing and play, featuring group able for advanced students. focus on individual and team challenges based on important Transportation is available for fundamentals including ball engineering principles. Call students at Goochland and handling, shooting, passing, (804) 556-4774 for more inforRandolph Elementary to Swift perimeter moves, and defense mation. Creek School of Equitation. concepts. Coaches will create Thursday, Oct. 11 Lessons will be held from 3:30- and environment that is both 5:30 p.m. at Swift Creek School challenging and encouraging. Goochland Parks and of Equitation, and the cost to The fee to participate is $20. Recreation is partnerWednesday, Oct. 10

ing with Swift Creek School of Equitation for Youth Horseback Riding Lessons for those ages 5-11. Participants will learn to groom, tack, and ride, and lessons are available for all experience levels. Jumping instructions are available for advanced students. Transportation is available for students at Goochland and Randolph Elementary to Swift Creek School of Equitation. Lessons will be held from 3:305:30 p.m. at Swift Creek School of Equitation, and the cost to participate is $175. For more information, contact Parks and Recreation at (804) 556-5854. The Cochrane Rockville

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Branch Library will host “Breakout”! from 6:30 to 8 p.m. for those age 11 and over. This event will offer the chance to test their mental proficiency and solve mysteries and puzzles to get to the sweet surprise at the end. Participants are encouraged to bring their friends and family to work as a team. Pizza will be provided by the Friends of the Rockville Library. Call (804) 749-3146 or visit the library at 16600 Pouncey Tract Road for more information.

Library will host Mystery Book Club from 2 to 3 p.m., featuring a discussion on a selection of popular thrillers. Call (804) 556-4774 or visit the library at 3075 River Road West for more information. Friday, Oct. 12

The Rotary Club of Goochland will welcome Susan Zachensky-Walthall, Rotary District Governor, to provide an update about Rotary’s efforts across the district. This is a rescheduled event from August. The meeting starts at Storytimes at the 7:30 a.m. and is held at the Goochland Branch Library are Richmond Country Club. as follows: Toddler at 10 a.m.; Family Storytimes at the Preschool at 10:45 a.m.; and Mother Goose at 11:30 a.m. Cochrane Rockville Branch Call (804) 556-4774 or visit Library are held at 10:30 a.m. the library at 3075 River Road Call (804) 749-3146 or visit the library at 16600 Pouncey Tract West for more information. The Goochland Branch see Calendar > 14

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October 11 2018

OPINION: Editorial, Letters to the Editor

Letters to the Editor communication. Whether you find it in your heart to forgive my transgression, I promDear Editor, ise to continue my good work on Words matter. Words are power- your behalf and hope to re-earn ful. I had forgotten the truth of these your respect over time. phrases two days ago when I quickly tossed off a horrible response to a Sincerely, tweet. Now, I recognize that I canManuel Alvarez Jr. not find words powerful enough to District 2 Supervisor apologize for my careless behavior. My tweet was thoughtless and illFleming is right choice conceived. While it was done in jest, the notion of shooting 34 people for county school board — or even one — is abhorrent no Dear Editor, matter how it’s presented. The Goochland County Public All I can do now is apologize to School is an exceptional school sysall Goochland citizens, to my fam- tem recognized at the local, state ily, and to friends for my idiotic and national level for its outstandcomment and for putting you all ing accomplishments for our stuthrough this. I sincerely regret my dents. My son graduated from actions and ask for your forgiveness. Goochland Public Schools, and we Over the past seven years, I have were proud of the opportunities he worked very hard, with my peers, had. November 6th, District 3 voters to make Goochland County a bet- have a chance to further enhance ter place to live, work, and play. I our school board by maintaining think we have accomplished a great a diverse board with qualified and deal in that time. I have spoken dedicated members. with residents at innumerable comIn May this year, the School munity meetings, listened to them Board selected Vernon Fleming as at hundreds of public hearings, and the interim School Board member happily stopped during one of my for District 3. The Board felt he runs to be attentive to citizens con- was the best candidate of the five cerns. I have sought and encouraged applicants who expressed an interest community engagement, responded in the position. Vernon is running to every call and email, and I have as a candidate to be elected to the treated everyone with respect. I School Board by the voters. I say to hope and pray that you will consider Mr. Fleming, thank you for being that body of work and not judge me willing to continue the charge of solely by my worst five seconds of serving your community as a School

Supervisor apologizes for offensive tweet

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Board member. Mr. Fleming is not running unopposed in this election. So let me share why voters of District 3 should vote to retain Vernon Fleming as your School Board representative. Vernon Fleming is a native of Goochland and educated by Louisa County Public Schools. His public education afforded him the opportunity to further his education at Hampton University. He received his commission from Hampton’s ROTC upon graduation and entered the United States Army where he retired as Lieutenant Colonel. He works at the corporate level where he used his leadership abilities to manage budgets, resources, projects, and staff. He serves on Community Boards in the county. He can communicate with students, faculty, teachers, and citizens on any level. He is married, and the father of six children of which three attend or have attended Goochland Public Schools. He does not shy away from challenges, as evidence of his being a care provider for two of his five grandchildren during his daughter’s illness and her death. Vernon and his wife have served their community as foster parents providing a loving and safe home for children in need. He understands the many challenges some students face when coming to school hungry, tired, or feeling alone. Vernon understands economics impact on the student but thinks all students can be successful

with the support of an embracing school system. This candidate believes all students deserve to get the best education whether it is to prepare for college or vocational training to have the best quality of life possible. He would provide the avenue to help students of diverse backgrounds, and different needs reach their full potential. He knows that education is the pathway to success and is a living example of that belief. He would be a voice for the underserved, and at risked students and foster programs within the school that would identify and assist students at risk academically. He would support resources to help teachers focus more on meeting the needs of every student. He believes that everyone has a voice and would be someone all students, parents, and teachers can share their concerns and needs of the school system. He is passionate about ensuring every student is successful, graduate, and given the opportunity to meet their full potential. He is open-minded and willing to listen and address the needs of those he serves. Vernon is a man of high principles, integrity, honesty and a man who will do what he is charged to do as a servant leader as your School Board representative. He is in this campaign for the people and no other reason. He loves Goochland see Letters > 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. Send letters to: The Goochland Gazette 8460 Times-Dispatch Blvd. Mechanicsville, Va. 23116 Fax: 730-0476 E-mail: editor@goochlandgazette.com © 2018 by Richmond Suburban Newspapers. All advertising and editorial matter is fully protected and may not be reproduced in any manner without the permission of the publisher. CAC Audited Circulation: 8,014.

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Newspapers can help to reveal new perspective By Roslyn Ryan Editor

Of all the stories I’ve ever read in a newspaper, the most memorable one also was the most heartbreaking. And although it was published almost a decade ago, I tend to think of it every October when National Newspaper Week comes around and thoughts in newsrooms across the nation turn to the value that quality journalism continues to bring to our daily lives. The story in question was a 2009 in-depth piece by Gene Weingarten of the Washington Post about the rising number of children dying after being left in hot cars by their parents. At the time, the subject was both gaining national attention and eliciting a similar response each time another child died: How could this happen? What kind of monster would do such a thing? How could any parent forget their own child? I will admit to sharing those same thoughts prior to reading Weingarten s story, which took a deep, gut-wrenching dive into the issue and painted a picture that was far more complicated and tragic than many would have probably even guessed. It was a beautifully composed story and would go on to win a Pulitzer Prize, but it wasn’t the lyrical prose or the unflinching reporting that brings my mind back to it every time I attempt to explain why I consider the role of newspapers to be so vital. No, the reason I value that particular story — and many more like it — is because it changed me. Not only did it show me a side of an see Newspapers > page 7

Letters continued from > 6 and its citizens. He is committed to serving. He has experience working with the existing School Board and the staff. He understands fully what the role entails and is willing to continue in that leadership capacity. He is the best person to represent the interest of all citizens. He is an independent candidate because he does not want the influences of any party to overshadow the needs of the students, teachers and the community. Please support Vernon Fleming for District 3 School Board because when elected he serves us all. VOTE on November 6th for Vernon Fleming for District 3 School Board. Wendy Hobbs Sandy Hook

Pet owners must control their animals Editor, For the second time in about

Newspapers continued from > 6 issue I had not been able to see for myself, but it forced me to consider the entire subject in a different way. When there had been disbelief, there was now understanding. Where there had been only harsh judgment, there was now compassion.

Tweet continued from > 3 everyone’s right to protest peacefully and would never advocate for those rights to be violated. What triggered my thoughtless reaction was the fact that those protesters broke into an office and assaulted the occupant. My office is my

a month I caught a big stray dog on my 19 acres and called Goochland Animal Control to retrieve the miscreant. The first dog was a stray pit bull big enough to kill a person. Unlike the old days I remember 40 years ago, when Goochland had one “Dog Warden,” a Goochland Animal Control Officer arrived at my house within an hour on both occasions to fetch the dogs. Our multiple modern Animal Control Officers have new high dollar trucks, spiffy uniforms, and carry pistols like real law enforcement officers at our tax payer expense. I have to say Goochland’s Animal Control Officers look great, are highly professional and very responsive, and do a great job. I just don’t like having to pay taxes for them. It seems like the first thing everyone who moves to Goochland County does is get a pickup truck, a security light to ruin the night sky, and a barking dog to run loose and intimidate county residents. In recent years it has been impossible for me to have any

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OPINION: Editorial, Letters to the Editor small animals on my property like ducks, turkeys, chickens or peacocks due to dog kills. Even pet dogs turn to their natural killing instincts when lost or hungry, and frequently just for fun. Instead of building our fantastic new animal control facility, I think the money should have been spent on a gas chamber and crematorium for stray dogs. I still subscribe to the Montana sheep herders’ creed for most dogs: “shoot, shovel, and shut up.” Goochland County residents should keep their dogs under control and we need more dog laws and higher fines. Art Bachman Gum Spring

Letter writer invited to learn more about Spanberger platform Dear Editor, In her letter to the editor on Sept. 27, Charlotte Whitmire, Goochland Republican Women Board Member

I’m certainly not going to tell you today, as we celebrate another National Newspaper Week, that all journalism is lifechanging — or even that all of it is that interesting — but it is unquestionably valuable. Newspapers have the power to bring events, people and ideas into our lives and present them in a way that sometimes sharpens our focus

and sometimes challenges our perceptions. Occasionally it is through “just the facts” reporting, but oftentimes it is thanks to the tireless work of a reporter doggedly sifting through layer upon layer of information to tease out the one essential piece that completes the picture. Gathering and reporting the news isn’t always a perfect

home. I think social media has its place. My family is spread far and wide and it helps me keep up with them. I have been able to stay connected with friends that I would otherwise never hear from. Facebook allows me to communicate important information to constituents and sometimes to add some

fact to rumors. I have often read about citizens’ concerns on Facebook that I could then investigate and help resolve. So I won’t give up Facebook, but I had already reduced my activity and will continue to use it sparingly. But twitter is more of a one-directional tool and has little conversational value, so I will stay away from it.

states she has a problem. The Goochland Democratic Committee would agree. Her problem, as we see it, is a very distorted and inaccurate perception of Abigail Spanberger’s candidacy for Virginia’s 7th District and the Democratic Party. Spanberger is committed to understanding the needs of the citizens of the 7th district. Her platform encompasses: support for quality, affordable healthcare for all Americans; responsible gun ownership; protection for Social Security and Medicare programs; implementation of workforce training that meets the needs of a changing economy; strengthening our public education system; finding bipartisan solutions for immigration reform; protecting women’s access to reproductive healthcare; investing in alternative and renewable energy resources; supporting efforts to bring broadband access to the 7th district and other underserved communities; addressing the opioid crisis. The Democratic party does

process, but I can think of few things more critical to a society than a free and independent press working on behalf of the citizenry.

www.goochlandgazette.com

believe in free speech. We do and Greets that are held almost not condone violence for any weekly, where she can directly reason, and we most certainly address our candidate. Sincerely, respect the United States and Tina Winkler Virginia’s Constitutions. The Co-Chair Goochland party advocates programs Democratic Committee for the common good that increase political, social, and cultural opportunities for all Americans as well as protect- Brown Motor Parts, Inc. ing and defending human Rt. 6 & 45 at George’s Tavern rights and civil liberties. This 5285 River Road West includes raising incomes and Goochland, VA 23063 restoring economic security for the middle class, fighting Hours: M-F 8am-6pm • Sales after hours by Appt. for economic fairness, com• All Makes & Models bating climate change, conof Auto,Truck & fronting global threats, providTractor Parts ing affordable education and • Hydraulic Hose AUTO PARTS ensuring the health and safety of all Americans. We invite Ms. Whitmire to • Saws and any of our monthly Goochland SALES & SERVICE • Trimmers Democratic Committee meetings if she would like to learn Full Service Department more about our party. In VA State Inspections addition, she might want to attend one of Abigail’s Meet

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October 11, 2018

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

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Photo by Jim Ridolphi

Goochland’s Connor Popielarz (10), seen here against Central Lunenburg, scored twice against Cumberland in the Bulldogs 52-0 win. He caught a 15-yard pass for a score as well as a 22-yard run for a score.

Goochland rolls past Cumberland in 52-0 win By Jim Ridolphi Contributing Writer

Perry Snead-Johnson, Quincy Snead and Connor Popielarz each had a pair of touchdowns as Goochland recorded a one sided road victory over hapless Cumberland, 52-0 on Oct. 5. The Bulldogs had already achieved slaughter rule sta-

tus by the end of the first half mounting a 35-0 lead by intermission. Two long runs of 44 and 63 yards by Snead and SneadJohnson in the first half set the tone for a one-sided on the road victory for the Bulldogs. The victory that ups the Bulldogs record to 6-0 included a third quarter 47-yard

field goal by Jacob Hayward. The Bulldog kicker has consistently placed kickoffs in the end zone and has a near perfect extra point mark entering the final portion of the regular season. The kick was originally thought to have been from 52 yards and would have tied a Richmond-area record. But, Bulldogs coach Alex

Fruth wrote in an email that due to Cumberland’s field not having numbers painted on the grass, the kick was originally thought to have been longer than it was. With a commanding 21-0 lead early in the second quarter Perry Snead-Johnson reeled off a 63 yard touchdown run to make the score 28-0.

Brandon Demming provided the only bright spot for the Dukes shortly before halftime when he picked up a Bulldog fumble, but Cumberland couldn’t take advantage of the miscue. Popielarz scored from 15 yards out to close the half with a reception from CJ Towles to make the score 35-0. In addition to Hayward’s

long kick, the Bulldogs added second half scores when Popielarz scored on a 22-yard run and Towles returned an interception 46 yards for a score. Fruth said even with the one-sided win, his team continues to progress and improve. “This game was a really see Bulldogsl>9

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Roundup: Goochland girls XC dominate meet By Billy Fellin Sports Editor

Goochland’s cross country teams participated in the James River Challenge hosted by Fork Union on Oct. 3 and the girls team dominated the competition. The Bulldogs took eight of the top nine spots in the meet on the girls side. Emmy Paulin led Goochland with a 21:36 to win the meet. Grace Juran was second with a 21:56, Anna Kate Wirsing was third with a 22:04 and Zella Warner completed the sweep of the top four positions with a 22:11. Victoria Spooner was sixth with a 23:22, Nadia Esposito was seventh with a 23:28 and Marissa Schroder was eighth with a 23:40. According to Milestat. com, the times for Wirsing, Esposito and Schroder were all season bests. Maddie Muniz was 13th after running a season-best 24:33, Taylor Gagnon also ran her best time of the season according to Milestat with a 24:55 for 16th and Caroline Black was 32nd with a 27:40. Sarah Creasey was 35th and Rachel Ferguson was 37th with a 28:08 and a 28:19,

Bulldogs continued from >8 good opportunity for our guys to get chances to go against another opponent in a game situation under the lights,” the coach said. “We will learn more about our team from this game and our depth when we look at the film,” he added.

respectively. Milestat.com listed both of their times as season bests as well. The Bulldogs scored 15 points and was easily the winner of the meet. Steward was second with 79, Buckingham was third with 81 points, Randolph-Henry was fourth with 105, Nottoway was fifth with 124 and Amelia was sixth with 143. On the boys side, John Williams led the way for Goochland with a 12th place finish after running a 19:34. Jackson Hoffler was 20th with a 20:02, Joey Cornell was 32nd with a 20:47 and Max Jarrell was 58th with a 22:11. Jake LeFerriere was 62nd with a 22:28 and Ben McCray was 66th with a 22:39. Milestat.com notated Jarrell, LeFerriere and McCray’s times as seasonbests.

Buckingham on Oct. 9 and will host Cumberland on Oct. 11.

COLLEGE Goochland alum Sydney Alvis of Coastal Carolina was named Co-Defensive Player of the Week in the Sun Belt Conference. Alvis led the Chanticleers with 5.56 digs per set. She had 26 digs in two games over the last week, including leading the team against Little Rock. She also had five aces.

HALL OF FAME

Goochland’s volleyball team earned a home win on Oct. 2 with a three-set win over Nottoway 25-21, 29-27, 25-14. Mary King had six kills for the Bulldogs, while Trinity Wonderling had 13 assists, six kills and three aces. Ellie Spencer added 30 digs. Goochland travelled to

Goochland High School alum John Hicks will be enshrined in the University of Virginia Baseball Hall of Fame. Hicks played for the Cavaliers from 2009-2011 and played catcher and first base. He was an All-American in 2011 and played on the College World Series teams in 2009 and 2011. Hicks is third all-time for Virginia in doubles (54), seventh in career at bats (775), ninth all-time in runs scored and hits (245) and tied for sixth all-time in total bases (379). He also owns the postseason record for runs in a game, when he scored four against

VCU in the 2010 regional. Hicks was drafted in 2011 by the Seattle Mariners and currently plays with the Detroit Tigers. He will be officially inducted on Jan. 26, 2019 at

Goochland High School and Old Dominion University product Justin Verlander was dominant in his American

League Divisional Series start against the Cleveland Indians on Oct. 5. Verlander pitched 5 1/3 innings and allowed two runs on two hits and struck out seven. Verlander retired 15 of the first 16 batters he faced.

Fruth said that review will provide answer to questions like how did the team react to blitzes and the ability of his team to remain focused even when the outcome is determined. Credit for the rushing performances is shared, and Fruth said his offensive line performed well, but not perfect. “The offensive line had a

decent night,” Fruth said. “We really have been all over them lately about knowing their assignments and following their rules,” he continued. “While we were not perfect, they showed that they are progressing nicely and starting to gel as a unit.” The impressive rushing performance by a variety of backs also impressed the

coach. “Our backs did a good job following their blocking rules and when given the opportunity to carry the ball, made the most of it,” Fruth said. And it’s the little things that made all the difference in Fruth’s mind. “What I’m most pleased about is that we did a decent job of picking up pressure,

following our rules, and held onto the ball all game,” he said. Fruth said the next few weeks are important to continuing the team’s progression and improvement as playoff time approaches. “Our theme this week was ‘us,’ which we won’t change for the next couple of weeks. We talk about the fact that

we aren’t a finished product yet, that we need to improve each and every week,” he said. “And, we also can’t take a team lightly regardless of the record that they have. Any given night something crazy can happen and records can get thrown out the window.” The Bulldogs, who are tied for the top spot in Region 2B with Amelia, will face visiting Bluestone on Oct. 12.

VOLLEYBALL

File Photo by Billy Fellin

Goochland’s Anna Kate Wirsing finished third for the Bulldogs at the James River Challenge on Oct. 2 with a time of 22:04. According to Milestat.com, it was a season-best time for her..

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