INSIDE A few tips to help keep pets safe as summer temperatures climb > page 5
Volume 66 Number 21 • June 3, 2021
Raley: Coming academic year to see return of pre-pandemic learning style By Roslyn Ryan Editor
The topic has come up with renewed urgency on social media in recent weeks, as panicked Goochland residents seek reassurance that the unwelcome visitor sunning on their porch steps or slipping out from under their deck is harmless. Fortunately, according to Mike Clifford, Chairman of the Virginia Herpetological Society’s Education Committee, only one of the 16 species of snakes found in the Goochland
After over a year of operating under COVID-19 restrictions, Goochland County Public Schools (GCPS) are expected to return this fall to a learning experience that, according to GCPS superintendent Dr. Jeremy Raley, will look very much like it did before the pandemic. In a message posted to the GCPS website on May 19, Raley confirmed that students are expected to return to in-person learning five days a week on Monday, August 23, 2021. “We have seen health conditions improve significantly over the past several months,” Raley noted. “As improving Raley conditions persist, our division’s health plan will continue to be informed by guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Virginia Department of Health, and the Virginia Department of Education.” Goochland’s public school division has been delivering in-person instruction since October, and it has not seen and COVID outbreaks this school year. “As we transition to 2021-22, our students and staff will continue to remain safe
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Courtesy photo
Local family enjoys unique ride-along Need a lift? The Cheatham family recently received a special treat, after taking part in a silent auction at Goochland Elementary School. They were the top bidders for a chance to ride to school in one of the County’s new Sheriff’s Office patrol vehicles.
Something slithering got you scared? You’re probably safe to get most of us out of the house and into the great outdoors. Unfortunately, there is at least one thing that will send some of us running right back inside again: a snake sighting. Maybe we’re just uncomfortable sharing our outdoor living spaces with members of suborder Serpentes, or maybe we have an actual By Roslyn Ryan psychological condition (ophidiophobia, or fear Editor of snakes), but one thing is for certain: Plenty As summer approaches and backyard BBQ of people are less than thrilled to see any snake season officially kicks off, it doesn’t take much anywhere near their homes.
While many of us harbor a fear of snakes, expert says most around here not dangerous to people