INSIDE Snakes alive! Wildlife educator makes stop at Goochland Library > page 9
Volume 66 Number 29 • July 28, 2022
It makes a village Roanoke-based design firm shares vision for Centerville area’s future
Board to consider fulfillment center proposal Aug. 2 By Roslyn Ryan Editor
On Aug. 2, Goochland County supervisors are scheduled to make a decision on whether or not to approve plans for a 650,000-square-foot fulfillment center on Ashland Road just north of the I-64 interchange. But while the matter already received approval from the Goochland County Planning Commission via a 3-2 vote on July 7, many residents living near the proposed site insist the project will create nothing less than a traffic nightmare—and a whole host of other problems— see Fulfillment center > 4
Graphics courtesy of Hill Studio
Above, one of many diagrams used to help illuminate Hill Studio’s vision for creating a vibrant, walkable village in Goochland’s Centerville area. Right, a mock-up of how the firm’s proposed new logo for the area might be used.
By Roslyn Ryan Editor
If David Hill has his way—or at least realizes his vision—future visitors traveling through Goochland’s Centerville area won’t have any doubt that they’ve entered a very special place. First, however, he has to answer
one big question: How do you tell them? This was among the main topics covered during the July 14 Centerville Village Plan midway meeting, a gathering convened so that Hill, a landscape architect and founder of the Roanoke-based Hill Studio, could share with residents how he and his team envision the future of Goochland’s small (just 2,047 people)
but economically mighty eastern sector. Hill, who has been hired by the county to come up with a villagefocused plan for both the courthouse and Centerville areas, says he’s been taken by the area’s “exceptional neighborhoods” and dynamic commercial growth, which provides two-thirds of
see Village > 5
Teachers’ cultural competency will now be reviewed By Roslyn Ryan Editor
As teachers begin eyeing the return to the classroom, a change to the way their performance is evaluated will be going into effect. Beginning this year, a new metric added to the annual review process will aim to assess teachers’ cultural responsiveness and support of equity in the classroom. The move comes in the wake of legislation approved by the 2021 General Assembly requiring see Teachers > 3
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Property Transfers 12.551 acres; Chapmans LLC to Lisa A.H. Moncure, $1,425,000. 5 acres; Janice B. Banks, trustee to Chris Bolton, $350,000. 495 Ada Ash Lane, Manakin Sabot; Judith A. Brown to Lee Schiferl, $620,000. 2509 Carver Oaks Court, Rockville; W.V. McClure Inc. to Taylor P. Jefferson, $582,298. 1742 Fishers Pond Drive, Maidens; Krickovic and Ziegler LLC to Sean Mlodzinski, $787,064. 271 Hill Point Road, Richmond; Madison P. Wooten to James M. Greber II, $1,300,000. 200 Kinloch Road, Goochland; Carolyn H. Leake to Michael E. Klein, $1,250,000. Lot 33, Block B, Section 1, Rivergate; Donald J. Gilbert to Matthew S. Marek, $1,220,000. Lots 51 and 61, Section 2A, Mosaic at West Creek; HHHunt Mosaic LLC to Schell Brothers Richmond LLC, $263,900. Parcel; Alley Properties LLC to ZGB LLC, $675,000. 517 Red Maple Drive,
Manakin Sabot; Elias Willis Jr. trustee to Andrew Martin Lehman, $517,500. 2911 Stone Creek Drive, Sandy Hook; Noreen M. Grimes to Shannon M. Patton, $410,000. 12022 Talavera Terrace, Henrico; HHHunt Homes LC to Stephen Robins Zacharias, $503,170. 12033 Talavera Terrace, Henrico; HHHunt Homes LC to Kim Ann Dessoye, $474,725. 7161 Yare St., Glen Allen; Eagle Construction of Virginia LLC to Gary Elliott, $586,159. 1.33 acres; Flow Property Group LLC to 38 Weyburn LLC, $205,000. 2.96 acres; Bruno Kenney to John L. Lentz, $200,000. 7.67 acres; Norma N. Roacap to Blair Road LLC, $400,000. 1584 Cartersville Road, Goochland; Germando R. Harris to Cody Allen Pierpont, $286,500. 2758 Checketts Drive, Sandy Hook; Daniel C. Hicks to Wesley A. Jenkins, $420,000. 3251 Hazel Lane, Goochland; Daniel Dominguez Martinez to Sonya R. Gierke, $269,000.
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Goochland History Revealed SPORTS
Schnur achieves Wimbledon dreams PAGE 7 Photo courtesy of the Goochland County Historical Society
Nearly 90 years ago, mother-daughter duo sentenced to jail for bootlegging Pictured here are mother and daughter, Martha Catlett Napier and Mary Lou Napier Manley, sitting in the Henrico County jail. The two women were arrested in September 1930 in the woods just outside of Columbia and were convicted on Dec. 8 for operating a still in Goochland. It was during Prohibition, which lasted until 1933, at which time the unpopular law was finally repealed. Bootleggers, such as the two women pictured, set up stills to produce moonshine to fulfill the needs of drinkers. Moonshine, produced primarily in the southern states, was so called due to its being produced under the shine of the moon and was also called “hooch” and “white lightening.” Mrs. Napier and Mrs. Manley pled not guilty but the evidence convicted them anyway. They were sentenced to one year in jail and a $50 fine. According to the note on the back of the photograph, they were then “remanded to the Henrico County jail because the jail of this (Goochland) county is unsafe.” Martha was born in 1860 and married at the age of 15 to Henry Napier. She died in Columbia in her home in 1940. According the census records, her daughter, Mary Lou, was born in 1883. She died March 1, 1982 in a nursing home in Charlottesville.
DID YOU KNOW? According to author Jennifer Billock, who has researched and written about the early days of moonshine production, even before Prohibition enterprising distillers were gathering in secret, “brewing up homemade spirits to sell under the radar and away from alcohol taxes and bans.” The drink was made at night, often under the light of the moon, in an attempt to hide smoke rising from the stills.
The Goochland Gazette is currently working on a story about the history of moonshine production in Goochland County. Do you have a story or infofrmation to share? Contact Roslyn Ryan at rryan@goochlandgazette.com.
Calendar ................................ 4 Classifieds ......................12-14 Letters .................................... 6 Opinion .................................. 6 Sports .................................7-8
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NEWS: What’s Going on in Goochland County
July 28, 2022
Pet of the week
Photo by Sidney Warren
Teachers continued from >1 that teacher evaluations include an evaluation of cultural competency. Following that change, the Virginia Department of Education added the following performance standard to the Guidelines for Uniform Performance Standards and Evaluation Criteria for Teachers: “The teacher demonstrates a commitment to equity and provides instruction and classroom strategies that result in culturally inclusive and responsive learning environments and academic achievement for all students.” According to Goochland County Public Schools assistant superintendent Andy Armstrong, school divisions are not permitted to amend the wording of the new metric, but can use their own guidelines to assess whether a teacher is meeting that standard. Armstrong told school board members on July 12 that the change comes as the division is moving away from using a traditional grade-focused system to assess teacher performance and toward a method that relies more on qualitative feedback from administrators. Goochland NAACP presi-
Spencer is an adorable foxhound looking for a new home. He came into the shelter a little shy but has become much more social thanks to the shelter’s wonderful staff and volunteers. Spencer is about two years old and weighs around 40 pounds. He is vaccinated, heartworm negative and is neutered. He not only came into the shelter with another dog, but has done well with meeting other dogs and joining in doggo playgroups, too. Spencer is super sweet, enjoys playing outside, going on walks and relaxing right by your side
dent Wendy Hobbs confirmed in an e-mail last week that she had reviewed the new standard. “Training staff on cultural differences is always an opportunity for others to learn and be sensitive to others’ differences and our biases,” Hobbs said. “The question is, how will our school system implement this new requirement for its staff for the 22-23 school year?” According to a release issued by the state Board of Education last March, examples of teacher work and practices aligned with the new standard include, but are not limited to: Disaggregation of assessment, engagement, behavioral, and attendance data by student groups and identification and application of differentiated strategies to address growth and learning needs of all students with specific attention to students within gap groups; Fostering of classroom environments that create opportunities for access and achievement by acknowledging, valuing, advocating and affirming cultural and social diversity in all aspects of the learning process, including for gender, race, ethnicity, English Language Learners and students with disabilities;
Building of meaningful relationships with all students anchored in affirmation, mutual respect and validation by employing culturally responsive teaching practices and by the modeling of high expectations for all students; Use of inclusive curriculum and instructional resources that represent and validate diversity from all rings of culture including generational, gender, religion, class, nationality, race, ethnicity, native language, ability and sexuality by connecting classroom curriculum and instruction to the cultural examples, experiences, backgrounds, and traditions of all learners; Analysis, selection and integration of texts, materials and classroom resources that reflect cultural inclusivity and the needs of all students, including for gender, race, ethnicity, English Language Learners and students with disabilities; Use of communication strategies that are inclusive of the language, dialects, cultural, social and literacy needs of all students (including gender, race, ethnicity, English Language Learners and students with disabilities); and Teaching students the
when he’s done exploring. Consider coming to see Spencer today! The Goochland Animal Shelter, located at 1900 Hidden Rock Lane in Goochland, has many pets available to a good home. For more information on these pets, call (804) 556-5302. The shelter’s hours are 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. Anyone wishing to make a monetary donation to the shelter is asked to make donations payable to Goochland Pet Lovers. skills necessary to communicate and engage with diverse groups in ways that support the eradication of discrimination and bias while mitigating against classroom power imbalances (based on race, ethnicity, gender, identity, ability, and/or socio-economic status) that perpetuate fear and anxiety of difference. Under the revised guidance, teachers are expected to demonstrate their commitment to equity and provide instruction and classroom strategies that result in culturally inclusive and responsive learning environments and student engagement practices and academic achievement for all students. “Cultural competency and equitable practices are essential for teachers to achieve success in the commonwealth’s increasingly diverse schools,” Board of Education President Dan Gecker said. “By setting this new expectation at the state level, we begin a process —supported by professional development for teachers and administrators—that will ultimately effect needed changes at the division, school and classroom levels and improve learning environments and outcomes for all of our students.”
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COVID vaccine now available for children, clinics set for August Contributed report
Earlier this month, the Chickahominy Health Distric began offering the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines for children ages 6 months through 4 or 5 years old, following guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Food and Drug Administration. Families have several options for where to get their children the COVID19 vaccine. Vaccination sites may include: Local health departments (including Charles City, Goochland, Hanover, and New Kent) Community clinics (managed by the local health department) Pediatric and family medicine offices Federally qualified health centers Retail pharmacies (for children ages 3 years and older) Those wishing to get their children vaccinated at a Chickahominy Health
District clinic (either at the local health department or at one of the special community-based clinics) should make an appointment by contacting the district’s COVID-19 Call Center at (804) 365-3240 or by requesting an appointment online: https://tinyurl. com/VaxCHD. The district will be holding special clinics — catered for this youngest age group — through August. These health district clinics will be conducted by appointment only and a parent and/or guardian must accompany their children. For additional COVID19 vaccination options, visit vaccinate.virginia.gov or call 877-VAX-IN-VA (877829-4682), Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (TTY users can call 711). Assistance is available in English, Spanish, and more than 100 other languages. For more information on COVID-19 in Virginia, visit vdh.virginia.gov/coronavirus.
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July 28, 2022
Fulfillment center continued from >1 in an area without the proper infrastructure to handle it. “We’re talking about a project that is probably the largest in this region,” said Steve Levet, who lives just a few miles away from the intersection in the age-restricted community of Parkside Village. He says he simply can’t imagine adding traffic from employees and tractor trailers entering and leaving the facility to the area’s already overburdened roadways. “It’s a two-lane road, it won’t work,” said Levet. “I can’t even believe that our representatives are considering such a thing on Ashland Road.” Levet and his wife Margaret are just two of a larger group of residents, many of whom live in Parkside Village, who
have come forward to share their concerns about the proposed fulfllment center, which has been referred to in county documents as Project Rocky. As revealed during the July 7 planning commission meeting, the planned facility, which is being proposed by PDC TN/FL LPIV, LLC on behalf of a company that has not been named but is widely speculated to be the mega e-commerce company Amazon, would operate seven days a week and 24 hours a day and employ around 1,000 people over two shifts. Representatives for the applicant have indicated that those employees, as well as the incoming tractor trailers, would be coming and going between the hours of 8 p.m. and 4 a.m., and would largely be using the interchange to enter and leave the area, creating less impact on local roads.
Kitchens/Baths Patios/Decks New Construction Doors/Windows Sidewalks/Pavers Remodels/Additions
NEWS: What’s Going on in Goochland County A number of residents have pushed back against that notion, however, pointing out that the area—which is home to several other large scale industrial operations—already suffers from severe congestion during peak travel times. They also point out that the measures being discussed to mitigate the problem—the installation of a traffic light and the eventual reworking of the interchange— will be, respectively, too little and too late. “We’re not against development, but this is overkill,” said Levet. “It’s just too big.” Paul Anderson, also a Parkside Village resident, insists that he isn’t against development either. “I understand completely that development is going to happen,” said Anderson, who spent his career working in the distribution and logistics field.
“The issue is building something of this size before the infrastructure is done. The roads need to be done first or it’s going to be a nightmare.” Anderson also pointed out that the county building department has already raised concerns that the increased traffic could hinder first responders’ efforts to reach Parkside Village and nearby properties in the event of an emergency. Margaret Levet said she is concerned about the kinds of businesses that might open to support the fulfillment center and what impact they will have on both the local economy and the crime rate. “I think they think maybe because we are a 55-and-older community our brains are mush,” Margaret Levet said. “But we are not going to fall for it.” Reached by phone on
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Monday, board of supervisors chairman Neil Spoonhower confirmed that he had received significant feedback on the proposal from residents, but declined to comment further prior to next week’s planned vote. Spoonhower did urge residents both for and against the project to come to the meeting and voice their opinions, and also to investigate whether the information they find on social media is factual. Spoonhower added that one thing he has learned from working on transportation issues over the years is that “things do not happen proactively.” Often, he explained, projects are not prioritized until there is an evident need. In other words, Spoonhower said, “until you get something that is coming, the intersection doesn’t get fixed.”
Fairground intersection work begins As county drivers may have noticed in recent days, work on the highly anticipated Fairground Road intersection improvements has now begun. Drivers are encouraged to stay informed of road closures and impacts along the Fairground Road (Route 632) and Sandy Hook Road (Route 522) intersection. Once completed, the project will include a single-lane roundabout to improve user safety. Virginia Department of Transportation’s expected completion date for the project is Fall of 2023. Announcements regarding road closures and detours will be posted on the county website and Facebook page.
Community Calendar Tuesday, Aug. 2
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is required at https://pamunkeylibrary.libcal.com/. Call the Rockville Branch Library The Cochrane Rockville Branch at (804) 749-3146 or visit the library for Library will host “Saving Virginia’s Oyster more information to register for this proReefs” from 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. for those ages gram. 13 and up. Learn how people are working to save Virginia’s oyster population with Saturday, August 20 the collection of shells and the rebuilding of the reefs with Master Naturalist Cindy The Cochrane Rockville Branch Haddon Andrews. Library will host Outdoor Family Story
Tuesday, August 16
The Goochland County Sheriff ’s Office will be hosting National Night Out on Aug. 2 from 6 - 8:30 p.m. This free family event will be at the Goochland County Courthouse complex, located at 2938 River Road West. National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes law enforcementcommunity partnerships and neighborWednesday, Aug. 17 hood camaraderie. For more information, Action Figure Art Class will be held at contact the Goochland Sheriff ’s Office at the Goochland Branch Library from 6:30 (804) 556-5349 or visit sheriff ’s office on – 7:30 p.m. for ages 12-18. Meet local artist Facebook. Curtis Brown and learn techniques to draw your own superhero action figure. All supTuesday, Aug. 9 plies will be provided. Call (804) 556-4774 The Cochrane Rockville Branch Library for more information. will be hosting “Medicare: Learn How to Simplify the Decision Making Process” from 6 – 7 p.m. Medicare mistakes are Thursday, August 18 common and can be costly. Learn how to Read to Rover will be held at the avoid the pitfalls with Justin Williams of Cochrane Rockville Branch Library from Edward Jones Financial and Bryan Gay of Boomer Insurance. Registration is required 4:30 - 5:30 p.m. for those in grades K-2. at https://pamunkeylibrary.libcal.com/. Read to Rover provides comfort and motiCall (804) 749-3146 or visit the library for vation for beginning readers as they read aloud to Colby or Pepper, the library’s thermore information. apy dogs. Space is limited and registration
Time from 11 – 11:30 a.m. All are invited to join in for an all-age Storytime to sing songs, learn rhymes, and listen to stories. Participants are encouraged to bring a blanket. Storytime is held weather permitting. Register at https://pamunkeylibrary. libcal.com/ to be notified prior to the program if it is canceled due to weather. Call (804) 749-3146 or visit the library for more information.
Tuesday, August 23 The Goochland Library will be hosting Mystery Book Club from 10 – 11 a.m. for those ages 18 and up. Attend the meeting to discuss the chosen mystery title for the month. Call (804) 556-4774 or visit the library for more information.
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July 28, 2022
NEWS: What’s Going on in Goochland County
Graphic courtesy of Hill Studio
Above, a sketch showing a possible plan for Centerville’s village, featuring a central green space, a farmers market, dining options and a water feature.
Village continued from >1 the county’s jobs. Hill added he was immediately struck during his initial visit by the “welcome break” the Centerville area provided from the bustle of Henrico’s Short Pump directly to the east. He loved the white fences, the rolling hills and the feeling that he had entered an area that was new and refreshing. Hill told attendees at the July 14 meeting that it didn’t take him long to realize that this characteristic was one he could use to tell Centerville’s story, and to help highlight what makes the area special. In short, just as one would do for any other enterprise, he knew he wanted to use those elements to create Centerville’s brand. Focused on the tagline “A breath of fresh air,” Hill’s suggested logo for the community features a stylized white fence, a stone pillar and a green “swoosh” meant to represent the rolling hills that lend the
area its bucolic air. He didn’t fully appreciate the rural charm of the community at first, Hill admitted, but once he got off the main road and began to see the quieter parts of Centerville, he knew those hills had to be front and center. While the finer details of the company’s branding strategy were briefly discussed—the fonts and color schemes, the different ways the logo could be reimagined for various uses— the broader picture took center stage during the meeting. Critical to the path ahead, Hill said, is that the designers find a way to solidify Centerville and let people know they have entered a separate and distinct area. That can be accomplished by making sure the brand is highly visible—by placing the logo on everything from the area’s water tower to its lampposts, as well as on a gateway sign near the village border— but also, Hill pointed out, by focusing on making sure the village itself remains a place set apart from its somewhat noisier neighbor to the east.
One way to do this would be to flank Route 250, a major traffic corridor running through Centerville, with larger commercial enterprises that effectively wall off the more quaint, walkable village areas on the other side. This would be where the retail shops, boutiques and other small businesses that a recent survey indicated area residents want in the area would go, positioned in the sort of mixed-use spaces that blend retail, office and residential units. The crown jewel of the village, Hill explained, would be a central green space where the community could gather for events just steps from features such as a farmers market and other entertainment and dining options. The meeting marked the midway point in the design process, which will ultimately result in a proposal presented to county supervisors. For questions or comments on the Centerville Village plan, contact centervilleplan22@ goochlandva.us.
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OPINION: Editorial, Letters to the Editor
July 28, 2022
Decades later, First Lady’s example still resonates By Roslyn Ryan Editor
A good friend of mine once gave me one of those little rubber bracelets inscribed with the letters WWJD and reminded me, with a wink, that the “J” stood for “Jesus” and not “Jackie.” He meant Jackie Kennedy, of course, because he knew me, and he knew that—while Jesus will always come first—Jackie has always been a personal hero. If you think that’s odd, I suppose I can live with that (and if you are too young to know who former first lady Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis was, I would encourage you to Google her and keep reading past the part about the pill box hat, the Greek shipping magnate and giant sunglasses).
Unfortunately, despite the bracelet, I do all sorts of things that Jackie probably wouldn’t. I have been known to use swear words in traffic and accidently leave the house with only one earring on. I occasionally eat dinner over the sink or out of a paper bag, and I may or may not have made a dash into the grocery store last week wearing what could, in fairness, be described as pajamas. Jackie spoke four languages fluently, read voraciously and was once described by a maître d’ at New York’s famed Carlyle Hotel as the single kindest and loveliest person he had ever met. Even in the midst of the maelstrom of political life, with all its many obligations and potential pitfalls, she remained a pillar of grace. Last week, I may or may not
have used an unprintable word, repeatedly, because I couldn’t get my Instagram feed to load. There are some people, many of whom I deeply respect and even like, who might suggest that Jackie Kennedy would not be a suitable role model for today’s young women, pointing out, perhaps, that she rarely, if ever, took a political position of her own while in the White House, or used her standing to advocate for any real social change. Wearing stylish hats and hosting elegant dinner parties don’t exactly earn one a place on the pantheon of feminist icons. She was modest where today we are encouraged to self-promote, and seemed to cherish above all her role as a homemaker, wife and mother. She didn’t even have an Instagram account, much less use it to promote a juice
cleanse or a face cream. And yet… In the midst of tragedy, when most would have crumbled, Jackie remained a steadfast portrait of strength for the entire nation. She would go on to marry again, face public disapproval and forge a successful career of her own when she could have simply remained among the well-heeled ladies who lunch. Rather than trade off of her fame, she lived quietly and simply, celebrating the arts and devoting her time and considerable influence to the causes she held dear. Simply put, she did it her way. What would Jackie do? On the day that would have been her 93rd birthday, in an age when strong role models for young girls are occasionally hard to come by, it’s still a question worth asking.
Tell Me a Story
Summertime fun in the city—and an improvised carwash 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. By Jack Agnew Contributing Writer
I was in the Bronx, New York one summer and happened upon an event called a Bronx Beach. When it gets hot enough, the fire department, or sometimes the kids on their own, will open a fire hydrant at one of the smaller nozzles, and let the children play in the jet of water.
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There were about 30 kids there, in this pool on a little-used side street, and they were having a blast. One of them was manning the hydrant with a doubleopen-ended tomato can. He was directing the stream of water to almost-knock-down force on his comrades, and they were running
around, just enjoying the stream. A tractor trailer pulled up to the melee, stopping just short of the pond. It looked like he was telling the kid not to hit his truck, I couldn’t tell. The young man at the hydrant stopped spraying his buddies and straightened up, as he see Summertime > page 10
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Letters to the Editor Proposed fulfillment center is wrong move for Ashland Road area Dear Editor, When government operates in secrecy the citizens suffer. Goochland County is negotiating behind closed doors for a massive e-commerce distribution center code named “Project Rocky” which, if approved by the Board of Supervisors on August 2, will dramatically change the entire region. Requests to the county to reveal the identity of this business through email and FOIA have been denied. A 650,000-square-foot, 24/7 sorting center with more than 1,000 employees and nearly 13,000 tractor trailers per week traveling I-64, Ashland and Pouncy Tract Roads will have a devastating effect on Goochland, Hanover and Henrico traffic. In addition, reduction in emergency response times and significant truck-related air quality issues will be felt for miles in every direction. Project Rocky will disrupt existing businesses as well as residents’ quality of life. Goochland agreeing to closed negotiations, its lack of transparency and posture which it has taken regarding this project demonstrates a disregard for its citizens. To even consider such a move without fully informing existing businesses and residents as well as adjacent counties of the identity and complete details and impacts of such a huge project is government at its worst. According to the VA Freedom of Information Act, “The affairs of government are not intended to be conducted in an atmosphere of secrecy since at all times the public is to be the beneficiary of any action taken at any level of government.” The citizens of Goochland expect and deserve an open and transparent government. Closed door negotiations are not wanted see Letters > page 10
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July 28, 2022
SPORTS: Youth, High School, College, Recreational, Professional
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Schnur achieves Wimbledon dreams By Zach Joachim Richmond Times-Dispatch
W
hen Collegiate alums Max Schnur and Brady Straus led the Cougars tennis program to its firstever Prep League title in the spring of 2011, they clinched the historic feat against Woodberry Forest’s No. 1 doubles team, Rags Coxe and Robert Galloway. It was a tight match — Schnur and Straus saved at least one match point, remembers the former. Upon clinching the title, Schnur, the 2011 All-Metro player of the year who is 6-foot-5, shared a comical chest bump with the 5-8 Straus, who would win the same award the following season. Little did Schnur know that, across the court on the losing end, he’d just defeated a foe who would one day become his companion for a
much greater victory. “I still playfully tease Galloway about it a little bit,” said Schnur who, on June 30, won his first career match at Wimbledon alongside doubles partner Robert Galloway. “I still like to remind him that I owned him in high school.” The former Prep League adversaries even openly disliked one another in high school. Schnur, already a yearround player training with former UVA captain and local coach Damian Sancilio, as well as Jamie Hevron, now the head tennis pro at Richmond Country Club, would always beat Galloway, not yet a fulltime player, when they faced one another at the No. 1 singles line. “Why would I ever be friends with this guy? I’m probably never going to see him after high school ends. Nothing personal, it’s just a
competitive rivalry,” Schnur reminisced with a chuckle. “But I distinctly did not like him. I told him that recently and he thought it was funny.” Schnur went to Columbia in New York and Galloway to Wofford in South Carolina, so their connection ended for a time in college. After graduating, they saw one another on a futures tour, and Schnur noticed Galloway had taken his game to another level. But the partners didn’t play together for the first time until the beginning of this year in a tournament in Italy. They did fine, Schnur said. Nothing to write home about. Then, the partnership started to click in Arkansas at the Little Rock Open, where they reached the final. “At this point, we’re friends, we were ranked around the same so we said ‘Welp, we’re probably not going to get into Wimbledon. But let’s sign, be
Courtesy of Max Schnur
Collegiate alums Max Schnur and Brady Straus chest-bumped after leading the Cougars tennis program to its first-ever Prep League title in the spring of 2011.
alternates and commit to staying there and seeing what happens,’” Schnur said. Great Britain’s governing tennis body, the Lawn Tennis Association, banned Russian and Belarusian play-
ers from Wimbledon this year because of the countries’ war in Ukraine. So the ATP and WTA did not award ranking points at Wimbledon, further thinning the field, though Schnur said
the competitive balance ended up being comparable to normal years. Schnur and Galloway went for the experience, even if they didn’t get a chance to play.
see Schnur > 8
All-Metro Roundup: Three Bulldogs featured on softball list By Robby Fletcher Sports Editor
After Goochland softball’s inaugural season in the Jefferson District ended in a 7-11 record and a regional tournament semifinal appearance, some of Goochland’s top players are still bringing in offseason accolades for their contributions to the team. With the Richmond TimesDispatch continuing to release its All-Metro Team lists for various high school sports, the softball list continued the trend of honoring Goochland’s best ball players. The list, released on Tuesday, July 19, featured
three Goochland girls on the honorable mention list: Jasmine Price, Abrielle White and Karsyn Martin. Earlier this month, Price was honored as a second team All-State member after her senior season as well as the All-District Team. All three were All-Region members as well, with Price and White listed on the first team and Martin mentioned on the second team. Martin, who was part of the senior class alongside Price, was a leader in the dugout and a top contributor on the field, stepping up as a mainstay on first base with a reliable glove
and good instincts on defense. Offensively, she saw perhaps her best performance of the season come in a close 5-4 loss to Nottoway on March 22 in a game where she connected on two hits, scored two runs and added an RBI. White, who commonly found herself playing on the right side of the outfield, earned her honorable mention through a combination of quality play as a speedy ball-catching outfielder and as an ace with the bat. Some of White’s best performances of the season came from her constantly getting on base as a batter, including a two-hit
outing on March 29 versus Western Albemarle where she recorded an RBI and two runs of her own. Against Albemarle on May 12, White was one of many Bulldogs to get in on the scoring action in a 17-0 walloping, picking up three hits, two runs and one RBI. One of Goochland’s key storylines for next season will be in what it does to replace the impact of veteran leaders Price and Martin, who have been given well-deserved praise for their contributions to the team, while also expecting more of Photos by Robby Fletcher the same from White and the Karsyn Martin (left) and Abrielle White (right) were featured rest of the team’s returning alongside teammate Jasmine Price on the softball All-Metro players. Honorable Mention list.
Thursday
8
SPORTS: Youth, High School, College, Recreational, Professional
July 28, 2022
Serving Goochland County Since 1955
Hardman, Rogerson celebrated by Manta Rays By Robby Fletcher Sports Editor
Contributed Photo
Anneliese Rogerson (left) and Joe Hardman (right) hold up signed posters presented to them during the Manta Rays’ matchup against Atlee on July 19.
Schnur continued from >7 “I thought for weeks we were definitely getting in, then in the days leading up, I wasn’t sure if it was going to happen,” said Schnur, who had qualified for Wimbledon once before in 2017 but lost his first-round match. The doubles draw began on a Wednesday, and no teams pulled out with Schnur and Galloway second in line for a spot. A still-hopeful Schnur showed up the next day. He still hadn’t heard of any teams exiting the tournament, not an uncommon occurrence in doubles with many competitors also playing the singles
tournament. Schnur hadn’t even told many people he was at Wimbledon. He tried not to post on social media because he didn’t want friends reaching out asking when he was going to play when that wasn’t guaranteed, perhaps even unlikely. “As soon as I found out I was in I posted, put it on my [Instagram] story,” said a laughing Schnur. Then friends reached out and the support started pouring in. Schnur and Galloway acknowledged the magnitude of the moment, but tried to keep things routine. “It’s not every day you get to play on the hallowed lawns of
The Manta Rays swim team celebrated its seniors in its meet on Friday, July 19 in a matchup against Atlee. Seniors Joe Hardman and Anneliese Rogerson were given the spotlight during the meet, with both getting honored by their teams and coaches for their impact in the pool and for their positive influence on the younger swimmers that look up to them. Hardman, 17 years old, swam in four events for the Manta Rays, winning three of them and placing second in another. “When they recognized me at the swim meet I felt good but also sad because I’m leaving a team that I’ve been on since I was 4, but I am excited to start a new adventure,” Hardman said. Hardman credits coach Helen Brown as a strong part of his development as a swim-
mer, and says he’ll always value his time with the Manta Rays and the people he’s developed friendships with in his time on the team. “Being a Manta Ray is good, Helen is the greatest and most caring coach, but being on the team also helped make bonds with some of my closer friends like Leyton (Sutherland) and Cole (Malkerson),” he said. Starting off his day, Hardman first swam alongside teammate Nathan Getter in the Boys 15-18 50-yard breaststroke, turning in a 35.29-second time that was just behind Getter’s 34.44-second result. Hardman then beat his seed time of 1:03.88 in the 100-yard butterfly, crushing his time with an impressive result of 1:01.35. Eight events later, Hardman was atop the standings of an eight-swimmer race in the 50-yard freestyle, winning the event with a 26.63-second time that nearly toppled his seed time of 25.87 seconds. To wrap up his celebratory
day, Hardman finished with the 200-yard medley relay alongside teammates Malkerson, Rogerson and Sutherland. The experienced quartet won the race with over four seconds to spare, finishing with a time of 1:56.65. Including her role in the mixed relay, Rogerson also had some strong times in three other events on her senior night. First participating in the Girls 15-18 100-yard individual medley finals, Rogerson battled well in a tight race with Atlee’s Emma Allison. Allison got the advantage in that one, but Rogerson still finished with a strong time of 1:08.75 to start her day. Later, she swam in the 50-yard breaststroke against Allison and finished with a time of 37.19 seconds, just behind her seed time of 34.43 seconds. In her final individual competition of the day before her relay win, Rogerson competed in the 50-yard freestyle versus Atlee swimmer Avery Jenkins.
Rogerson was again very close to her seed time, which was set at 27.97 seconds, and turned in another good performance with a final result of 28.53 seconds. Rogerson says she’ll miss her time as a swimmer with the team as well as her time dedicated to coaching younger swimmers. “I swam and I coached and just got the whole experience with it. It really got me excited for all of the things that I want to do in life,” Rogerson said. Capping off the day, the Manta Rays took home plenty of wins across their many age groups. Both the girls and boys swimmers managed to get a total score that passed Atlee’s, with the girls outscoring their opponent 522-336 and the boys winning their races with a score of 490-377, which all culminated in a final score of 1162-815. The Manta Rays now prepare for the upcoming 2022 GRAL Championships on July 30-31 that will be held at SwimRVA.
Wimbledon,” Schnur said. “Let’s see if we can do some damage, let’s enjoy it. Because these opportunities don’t come along all the time. I really do think it’s the best tournament in the world. I wanted to enjoy every second of it.” The first match, a 6-1, 6-4, 6-2 victory over the Netherlands’ Tallon Griekspoor and Germany’s Oscar Otte, lasted an hour and seven minutes. It went by in a blur, Schnur said. “We were really locked in from the start, especially Rob,” Schnur said, adding that a break in the second match was the key moment where it felt like he and Galloway really
took control. “That was the best I’ve ever seen him play. He was super dialed in. I thought I was solid. We served well, put in a lot of returns and put the pressure on. We were sharp from the get-go.” Schnur certainly had more time to take in the moment during the second match, and said he relaxed a good deal after getting that first win under his belt. He and Galloway went down in the second round with a fight, losing a three-hour-and-47-minute marathon to Argentina’s Andres Molteni and Mexico’s Santiago Gonzalez 7-6 (8-6), 6-4, 3-6, 6-7 (4-7), 6-4. Schnur remembers a great
view of center court and the ivy on the wall. He’s a bigger, more powerful player, while Galloway, who is 6-2, is a great returner with excellent feel and awareness. “We work well as a team because we can both play to our strengths and it works seamlessly with what we’re trying to do as a team,” Schnur said. “We don’t have to change our identities in order for us to be successful. “I’m really proud of the way we competed.” Schnur and Galloway won’t continue playing together in the immediate future, but the former said “there’s a pretty good chance at some point we’ll end up on the same side
of the net together.” Schnur briefly considered giving up his pro tennis career after shoulder surgery in 2019 was coupled with career disruptions resulting from the pandemic. But the former Cougar persisted in hopes of returning to tournaments like Wimbledon. Next up, Schnur hopes, is a run at qualifying for the US Open, his “home slam” held in the New York resident’s back yard that begins in late August. “It’s been one of my biggest goals for awhile,” Schnur said of the US Open. “I think a lot of people from Richmond would come and support. That would be really cool.”
Thursday
July 28, 2022
FEATURE: The Lives We Lead
Serving Goochland County Since 1955
9
Photos by Roslyn Ryan
Animal educator Jack Baugus, pictured in the photo on the left with a boa constrictor from his travelling zoo exhibit, brought his Jack’s Jungle trailer to the Goochland Library on Monday.
Welcome to the jungle
I
f you think you have workplace headaches, consider this: Several weeks ago, professional wildlife educator Jack Baugus’ alligator escaped from its enclosure and went on the lam. It was eventually found safe several days later, relaxing in someone’s swimming pool, but not before making headlines across the nation and garnering Baugus a few sidelong glances from his neighbors.
Fortunately for Baugus, all animals were accounted for when he arrived at the Goochland Library last Monday with his customized Jack’s Jungle trailer. Onboard the 13-foot pull-behind rig were several animals from his collection, including a Chinese water dragon, a ball python, and a blue and gold macaw named Scoot that seemed almost as interested in the children peering into his habitat as they were in him.
A surefire hit with kids of all ages—and adults as well—Baugus and his mini-zoo have spent the past two and a half years traveling from his home base in Chesapeake to birthday parties and corporate events around the state, as well as conducting educational programs such as Monday’s visit, during which a steady stream of kids got the chance to interact with the mobile menagerie in the Goochland Library parking lot. Each animal has its own
Goochland Library program features popular mobile zoo
small enclosure, and each enclosure bears a sticker with the animal’s name and a bit of trivia about it. One gaggle of youngsters spent the better part of five minutes Monday peering through the glass of Adam the chameleon’s leafy habitat, but couldn’t manage to locate him. Another escape artist, perhaps? Not this time. As Baugus pointed out, he’s just very good at hiding. —Roslyn Ryan
Thursday
10
July 28, 2022
OPINION: Editorial, Letters to the Editor
Serving Goochland County Since 1955
A healthy dose of separation anxiety By Jim Ridolphi Contributing Columnist
As I sat in a dormitory room and gazed out of a window overlooking Monroe Park, I wondered just how long it had been since I’d been on the VCU campus. After pondering the question, I realized this was my first time on the campus since my graduation decades ago. And for sure, the campus has changed quite a bit since my days spending more time that I should have sitting in Shaffer Court, and what was once a disjointed collection of buildings has transformed into a beautiful campus, something only envisioned when I attended. My twins, Jack and Emma, are attending VCU this fall, and Jack has enrolled in the Summer Scholar Program to get a head start on his studies. As I visited with Jack and listened to his excited conversations regarding his classes and the start of a new adventure, I was overcome with a sense of pride as I watched him. I’m sure it’s the same sentiment felt by most parents as they watch their children embark on new journeys, begin new adventures and stand on the brink of numerous possibilities and challenges. Whether it’s watching a child move to a dormitory or see-
ing them begin new careers or pursue other interests, it’s a time of transition for both children and parents. But, in Jack’s case, that sense of accomplishment seemed more important as I sat in his room and considered the challenges he’s faced on his journey to this college dormitory. I thought back to a dire diagnosis of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy more than a decade ago, when every obstacle seemed so impossible. In the depths of despair those days presented, it was Jack who led me from the darkness of hopelessness to the reality of life and the gift it provides each day. Giving up was always too easy for Jack and never considered an option. He began a steady and determined drive to achieve his dreams, because, in Jack’s mind, not only was anything possible— everything was possible. Certainly, I’m not the only parent saying farewell to children heading to college or other pursuits, and I’m sure the separation anxiety is an emotion felt by parents throughout time. No matter how confident we are in our children’s abilities to succeed, it’s always hard to stand back and watch from a distance. Jack’s independence is no different from the thousands of students making the same transition, and our feelings as a family are no
ny of those individual more significant than any stories. n’s limitations, thee But realizing my son’s first few days haven’t been easy for upport him. those who love and support n turns His sisters have taken spending evenings and nights with their brother, and his us mother makes numerous trips each day to assistt Jack. It’s a process, but Jack assures us he’s ready to begin his journey as an independent adult, and we’ve learned not to doubt his tenacity and determination. At the risk of sounding like an over indulgent parent who can’t stop bragging about their kids, see-ing Jack in his dorm is one of the proudest moments of my life, and I exited the buildught ing with a single thought ind. running through my mind. y! You can’t hide happy! MetroCeative illiustraion
Letters continued from >6 or appreciated. No to “Project Rocky.” Stephen A. Levet Glen Allen Dear Editor, I would like to address the issue of the proposed distribution center at 1990 Ashland Road. This project, while bringing needed employment and tax revenue to Goochland County, raises serious issues with traffic and accessibility to points served by Ashland Road. This proposed development came before the Goochland Planning Commission on July 7, when it was approved by a vote of three to two. This was over the objections of many of the residents in the affected
area. Ashland Road, which is a two-lane road and crosses I-64 on a two lane bridge, will be seriously and negatively affected by traffic related to this distribution center. There are proposed road improvements that will supposedly mitigate some of the increased traffic. Unfortunately, the proposed road improvements are not scheduled for completion until sometime in 2028 – that is six years from now. Ashland Road already has significant traffic back up at the I-64 intersection both on Ashland Road and on the west bound exit ramp on I-64 during peak hours. There are NO proposed improvements for north bound Ashland Road, which will also be heavily affected by traffic from the proposed center. Heavy truck
traffic related to the landfill and the quarries on Ashland Road are already a traffic issue. The Traffic Impact Analysis, which was revised this July, says on page 9 that southbound Ashland and west bound I-64 exit currently operate at LOS F, the worst possible, during peak hours. It was noted that the morning backup was at 3,200 feet and the evening at 3,900 feet, or more than a half mile in the morning and close to three quarters of a mile in the evening. Regardless of any road or interchange improvements, the limiting factor – and it was not mentioned in the study – is the Ashland Road bridge over I-64 which is two lanes, one each way, and has a significant impact on the amount of traffic which can flow through the area no matter what type of
interchange exists. Additionally, I’d like to mention the concern of Goochland County agencies and departments on the proposed project. In the initial review by the building department, it was noted, and I quote - “The major concern is increased traffic congestion on Ashland Rd, which is already congested most of the business day. Congestion may affect Fire/Rescue’s ability to arrive promptly to emergencies on Ashland and Pouncy Tract roads, especially the age restricted Parkside Village development. With significantly more growth expected in the near future, the infrastructure should be up-graded prior to permitting more development along Ashland Rd and Pouncy Tract Rd.” (emphasis mine).
And in the second review, Fire/ Rescue noted there may be an issue with the height of the proposed roof. All of their ladder trucks go to 100’ and there are no trucks in the immediate area that can reach 120’. In closing, I would like to say that a major failing of many jurisdictions and governing bodies is allowing heavy growth before adequate infrastructure is in place. Building that infrastructure after the growth takes place creates it’s own problems and exacerbates the situation immensely. I would hope that Goochland County has the wisdom to be smart about planning ahead to provide needed improvements before the growth and not after. Thank you, Paul Anderson Goochland
Summertime continued from >6 and the driver looked each other in the eye for a second. The other kids were getting out of the way of the truck. The driver hit his windshield wipers, and the kid, with a big smile on his face, leapt forward, grabbed the can and started hitting the guy’s cab with the stream. With his wipers on, that truck cab was powewashed. It was a symbiotic relationship. Like the picker fish in the ocean that clean the gills and teeth of the predator fish and they don’t get eaten, that semi got a really good scrubbing that day. It was totally amusing.
Thursday
July 28, 2022
OPINION: Editorial, Letters to the Editor
Serving Goochland County Since 1955
11
Grandparent Life
Taking them out to the ballgame By Emily Walls Ray Contributing Columnist
“T
ake me out to the ballgame,” was the theme song of my most recent caper with my grandsons in Richmond. More than anything, they wanted to hear the “cra-ack” of bat against baseball and the crash of a wayward ball into the stands at The Diamond, primed with a glove to catch it. Thanks to the Richmond Times-Dispatch, I had my copy of the remaining 2022 schedule of the Flying Squirrels baseball team. The red calendar dates indicated home games, and brightly colored red with yellow fireworks showers marked the games that included fireworks. I circled in pen the most likely dates I could treat the boys. I decided our best bet was a Friday night game with the Bowie Baysox. Because I don’t drive after dark, I explained we wouldn’t be able to stay for the whole game, but I would do everything I could to make sure they had a good time. They thought they could handle that. So a few days ahead, I started getting ready. First, which of the several baseball caps we keep on hand would work? I am aware that worn out baseball caps carry a certain cachet if they are an authentic representation of good, clean sweat caused by the surplus of humidity in our Southern clime. The grandsons grabbed their hats of preference, and we were almost set. Next, I located a fanny pack for some cash, a credit card, and my phone. Hands should be free to carry drinks, programs, and any neat giveaways from promoters of the Squirrels. We left around 5 p.m. and headed on 64 East toward the stadium. Surprisingly, traffic wasn’t that bad for a Friday night. I followed other drivers into the parking lot, asking the attendant the price of drinks and hot dogs inside the stadium after I paid the five dollar parking fee. (I hadn’t been to a baseball game in years and wanted to be prepared for anything to make this evening great.) “Well honey, you have happy hour, but plain hot dogs are three dollars,” the attendant said before waving us through to the lot. Parking was a critical part of the success of this caper, I told myself. I selected a light pole strategically located and identifiable by a huge sign marked “E6.” I wanted no stumbling around or wandering once we were walking back to the car. I grabbed a free program booklet, which I used religiously to look up players and their
height, weight, birthdays and homes of origin throughout the game. I also did some on the spot data analysis in order to appreciate the players on both the Richmond Squirrels and the other team. I always admired people in the stands who called out to their favorite players encouragingly as the game played out. This was the case at this game, too. I learned a lot by listening to the spectators behind me, who had made the evening a family affair, complete with Goldfish-toting toddler and a young mom wearing a Squirrels T-shirt stretched over a potential sibling for the soon-to-be big brother. In fact, I saw many families and children walking up and down the steps next to my aisle seat. A friend had explained the new rule where pitchers and batters were timed and Photo by Emily Walls Ray penalized if they took too Emily Ray, here in a selfie with her grandsons at a recent Richmond Flying Squirrels game, was committed to long to pitch or swing. This making sure the two boys enjoyed the afternoon. change was to accommodate fans who grew tired of longer than necessary the program booklet that gave statistics mentioned an official, brand new baseball. Skipping up to me, games due to delays. Of course, I was aware of earlier. Using it allowed me to learn who the play- my grandson’s face burst into a huge smile as he baseball lore where the repeated touching of a ers were, and gave me a desire to come back and held up his newest prized possession. hat bill, pawing the plate or dirt before swing- cheer for the Squirrels again. For example, five of Recently, our generous neighbors shared their ing, warming up, spitting on hands, smacking them were 6 feet 4, and came from places as down love of the game by gifting us with vouchers. Next gum and the like were what made baseball such home as Georgia and as far away as Taiwan, all for time, I will make sure my grandsons get to see a beloved sport for many fans. But I will admit the love of baseball. Just like a mama whose little fireworks. Oh, and by the way, the grands also one of the reasons I hadn’t attended that many boy once had a dream of playing pro ball and was corrected an error in my recall of everybody’s games during my life was my perception of them now on his way, I watched those players do their favorite baseball song—they informed me it’s not taking too long. But I was not immune to the spell best and winced when one of either team had a “root, toot-toot for the home team, but actually baseball cast on my contemporaries. Thanks to strike. It made the game a more personal experi- “root, root-root.” Singing that song was probably Little League, church leagues, movies such as “The ence. Next time I go I’ll get to know their man- the high point of my nostalgic evening at The Sandlot,” and schoolteachers still teaching Casey at nerisms and habits even more. I’ll know that RBI Diamond. Can’t wait to go back and watch them the Bat, the lure and romance of baseball has been stands for their number of runs batted in. Maybe play the Somerset Patriots. Emily Walls Ray is a freelance writer, tutor, kept alive for children. when the pitcher makes another perfect pitch I’ll and former teacher of English and creative writing The aspects of the game I enjoyed the most even call out, “Go Frisbee!” were the scoreboard, the music and commentator, My grandsons got to witness a home run and in the GCPS system from 2007-2020. She enjoys the antics on the field (such as The Molly Maids taste hotdogs, a soft drink and blue cotton candy. gardening, reading, church, and sewing, but most who smoothed the field), and the contests and The one who brought his glove didn’t catch a of all, being a grandmother. To read more of her fun featured on the big screen so fans could see up fly ball. But on our way out, as we passed an stories, visit her blog at https://writetouchblog. close from anywhere. But my favorite feature was employee of the stadium, he handed my grandson wordpress.com/.