The Goochland Gazette – 01/05/2023

INSIDE:

Firefighters step in to help with pipe problem

Searchers find body of missing Powhatan resident

Dec. 20,

Historical society to offer genealogy course

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

For those who have wanted to discover the history of their family, but didn’t know how or where to begin, the Goochland County Historical Society is here to help. Starting this month, the organiza-

tion will be sponsoring Beginning Genealogy, a series of four lectures designed to help begin the search. Topics will include understanding a group sheet; how to search for genealogical information using a personal computer; why the

U.S. Census is a valuable resource; other sources of free information available; and how to judge the accuracy of found information.

The first lecture will be held on Saturday, Jan. 21, from 10 a.m. to noon, in the meeting room of the

Goochland Branch Library (3075 River Road West). This introductory session will provide the basics.

The second lecture will be held

In a heartbreaking end to a search that drew scores of first responders to Goochland’s Tucker Park and the surrounding area last week, the body of a missing Powhatan woman was located in the James River on Dec. 28.

Officers from the Goochland County Sheriff’s Office, the Powhatan County Sheriff’s Office, the Louisa County Sheriff’s Office, the Virginia State Police, the Chesterfield County Police Department, the Department of Wildlife Resources and firerescue teams from Goochland and Chesterfield had been searching for Malana Weaver, 70, of Powhatan since she had been reported missing from her home on Monday, Dec. 26. The following day her vehicle was located in Tucker Park, and

Spanberger legislation nets $4 million for Oilville Road interchange improvements. See

ROSLYN RYAN Editor

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE GOOCHLAND COUNTY SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT

On

Amanda Adams was officially sworn in as Goochland Circuit Court Clerk. Adams, here with Goochland County sheriff Steven Creasey, is currently filling the unexpired term of Dale Agnew, who served in the clerk’s office for 40 years. Several Goochland County officials attended Adams’ swearing-in ceremony, including Agnew, Del. John McGuire, and supervisors John Lumpkins and Susan Lascolette. Also in attendance were retired sheriff Jim Agnew, retired judge and former commonwealth's attorney Eddie Carpenter, and Goochland’s county administrator, Victor Carpenter.

ADAMS SWORN IN AS GOOCHLAND CIRCUIT COURT CLERK

Weaver

GOOCHLAND HISTORY REVEALED

Goochland's middle school wrestling sees increased interest PAGE A8

ALSO

Calendar ........................... 4 Classifieds 10 Obituaries ........................ 4 Opinion 6 sports ............................ 8-9

LOCAL LANDMARK OFFERED MAIL, GROCERIES

haden’s store and post office at Fife was opened in 1911 on the old richmond to Charlottesville road by two brothers, samuel d. and h. L. haden. The roads changed and times changed, but until around 1992 samuel d haden was still postmaster and, with the help of his wife, the former Minnie Ware, he continued to supply neighbors with groceries. The building was demolished some time before 1994.

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several witnesses reported seeing a woman matching Weaver’s description walking near the river in Tucker Park that day.

According to Goochland County Sheriff Steven Creasey, an intensive search of the area around Tucker Park continued from early Tuesday morning until nightfall, when conditions on the water forced teams to suspend their efforts until the following day.

Regardless of how long it took, said Creasey, “we were not going to give up looking and trying to bring

closure to the family. I know how I would feel if it was my family, so we were going to do whatever we possibly could.”

Involved in the attempt to locate Weaver were multiple boats, SONAR equipment, and several K-9 teams, including Dogs East search dog teams out of Fredericksburg and the Virginia Search and Rescue Dog Association from Bristow. MedFlight was on the scene, as was a dive team from the Chesterfield Fire Department.

Creasey admitted that the search took an emotional toll on the men and women involved, all of whom had been hoping against hope for a miracle

that would never come. Shortly before 7 p.m. on Dec. 28, Powhatan authorities announced that Weaver’s body had been located in the river by Goochland County Fire Rescue personnel.

The cause and manner of death will be determined by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.

Creasey said he was proud of the way so many local public safety departments were able to work together, and that they were at least able to bring a degree of closure to the family.

Right now, he added, “we just really want to make sure that they know that our thoughts and prayers are with them.”

Joy Monopoli Publisher (804) 775-4614 Fax: (804) 819-5529

Laura McFarland Managing Editor (804) 363-1577

Roslyn Ryan Editor (804) 339-7956

Robby Fletcher sports Editor (804) 380-0497

Cindy Adams Classifieds (804) 775-4616 Fax: (804) 344-8746

Denine D’Angelo Production Manager (804) 775-4624

PHOTO COURTESY GOOCHLAND COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Oilville Road interchange receives $4M

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

President Joe Biden has signed into law U.S. Representative Abigail Spanberger’s legislation that will provide $4,000,000 for Goochland County to make much-needed improvements at the Oilville RoadI-64 interchange.

The major funding for Goochland County — which Spanberger successfully secured as part of the U.S. House and U.S. Senatepassed FY 2023 end-of-year government funding package — will help build a fourway roundabout that would alleviate a major traffic blockage on I-64 that creates a safety threat to both exiting traffic and through

traffic on the interstate. The proposed roundabout would allow commuters to flow seamlessly from I-64 onto Oilville Road — benefiting an estimated 10,000 to 15,000 commuters daily.

“Investments in our physical infrastructure are smart investments in the people who live in our communities — and who drive on our roads and deserve to be safe as they travel around our Commonwealth,” said Spanberger. “Goochland County’s officials understand the importance of these investments, and I am grateful for the leaders who worked closely with my office to successfully secure this major invest-

ment. Now, federal funding is headed to the county to rebuild our aging roadways, reduce congestion and increase driver safety at the I-64 and Oilville Road interchange.”

For FY2023, the U.S. House of Representatives allowed members of Congress to submit Community Project Funding requests — as it did in FY2022. This allowed for specific, community-driven requests — like the Oilville Road-I-64 interchange.

The Community Project Funding process was created to ensure that members of Congress, in concert with the communities they represent, may submit direct

applications for federal funding to support locally planned projects as part of the yearly appropriations process.

To be eligible, projects must be sponsored by local or state government entities or nonprofit organizations and must be projects that would otherwise meet the qualifications to apply for federal grant funding. The purpose of Community Project Funding is to ensure direct, local engagement as part of the federal appropriations process. In line with this goal, funding applications needed to demonstrate significant local support for the projects.

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CONTRIBUTED REPORT

For those lacking acreage, an edible landscape can be scaled down, said Virginia Cooperative Extension master gardener Alyssa Ford Morel. Her own residential foodscape includes Padrón peppers, fennel, Jerusalem artichoke and an edible passionflower vine that doubles as a privacy screen.

“And our Swiss chard is going gangbusters!” she said.

For smaller spaces like patios, she recommends edibles suitable for containers—arugula, cherry tomatoes, hot peppers, kale, leeks and sweet potato.

Growing an edible landscape can be done affordably.

“I encourage you to start small,” Morel advised beginners. “Pick a few plants to try. Don’t try to convert your entire yard.”

Morel considers the design aesthetic, thought-

fully employing elements of color, texture, line, placement and form, by interplanting, trellising and layering edible species.

And those with plenty of acreage may learn from horticulturalist Michael McConkey’s Edible Landscaping.

Working 25 acres of orchard and greenhouses in Nelson County, McConkey grows over 180 exotic and native cultivars that are sold and shipped locally, throughout Virginia and nationwide.

As a promoter of backyard orcharding since 1979, he wants potential growers to know that cultivating their own “foodscape” of edible fruits, herbs, berries, nuts and flowers is within reach.

Since McConkey lives on site, most of his own meals are picked fresh from the backyard pantry.

His team manages pawpaw trees, goumi shrubs, kiwi vines and chinquapin

nut bushes by hand with no chemical input. He has attempted to grow hundreds of varieties over the years, and about one-third have performed well in Virginia.

“A lot of this is a test orchard,” McConkey said. “We’ve found what actually works here.”

With trial and error, the nursery developed an extensive edible inventory, including desert-loving species like the prickly pear hardy cactus.

“I juice them for fruit salads,” he said. “It’s a little vegetably-tasting, like beet juice with an aloe consistency, and deep red. It’s good on sweet fruit or citrus salads.”

To watch an edible landscaping video produced by Master Gardeners of Northern Virginia, visit bit. ly/3S8w8A9.

* * *

In other area agriculture news, Virginia Farm Bureau

Federation (VFBF) members will soon join other farmers and ranchers from across the country as they shape national policies during the 104th consecutive American Farm Bureau Federation Annual Convention & Trade Show.

Eight VFBF voting delegates and eight VFBF women’s delegates will attend the event, which will be held Jan. 6-11, 2023, in San Juan. This is the first time the national meeting has been held in Puerto Rico.

Delegates from Virginia are VFBF President Wayne F. Pryor, a Goochland resident, VFBF Vice President Scott Sink, Nate Aker of Wythe County, Bedford County Farm Bureau President Amy Johnson, Daniel Judkins of Surry County, Donnie Moore of Pittsylvania County, Hunter Richardson of King and Queen County, and Louisa County Farm Bureau President C.T. Thiemann.

Call 746-1235 for details.

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OBITUARIES

Genealogy

From 1

on Saturday, Feb. 11, from 10 am to noon, also in the Goochland Branch Library meeting room. This lecture will feature five people from the Louisa

County Historical Society who have years of experience doing genealogical research. They will share useful tips, their favorite sources, and suggestions on how to find records of ancestors.

The date and location for the second and third lec-

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 4

yoga will be held at the Goochland Branch Library from 4 –5 p.m. for ages 18 and up. anyone who would like to participate is encouraged to bring a mat and join in for a yoga session that aims to promote strength, flexibility, and balance. The class will be led by certified instructor, Kathleen Tsengas. Call (804) 556-4774 or visit the library at 3075 river road West for more information.

THURSDAY, JAN. 5

The Goochland Branch Library will host Picture your Favorite stor y during library open hours for those ages 13-17. Participants are urged to draw a picture from their favorite book and optionally add a brief review or summary. The picture and review will be placed on display at the branch. drawing paper will be provided at the circulation desk. Call (804) 556-4774 or visit the library at 3075 river road West for more information.

FRIDAY, JAN. 6

The r ota ry Club of Goochland will welcome s heriff s teven Creasey, who will offer a recap of 2022 and a look ahead to 2023. The meeting starts at 7:30 a.m. at The residence Inn short Pump at the notch, 1800 Wilkes ridge Circle.

The Cochrane rockville Branch Library will host First Friday Films from 4 — 6 p.m. a ll are invited to round up the neighborhood crew and catch a full-length feature film the first Friday of every month. Call (804) 749-3146 or visit the library at 16600 Pouncey Tract road for more information.

SATURDAY, JAN. 7

The Cochrane rockville Branch Library will be hosting a workshop from 1 – 2 p.m. on how to

create an emergency file This program is for those ages 18 and up. This program will help participants identify where their important documents are and how they will access everything quickly in an emergency. Call (804) 749-3146 or visit the library at 16600 Pouncey Tract road for more information.

MONDAY, JAN. 9

Goochland Bridge Club will be held at the Goochland Branch Library from 3 – 5 p.m. for those ages 18 and up. The Goochland Bridge Club is for those who want to learn how to play or those with a basic knowledge of the game. Each week there will be instruction and play time. Call (804) 556-4774 or visit the library at 3075 river road West for more information.

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 11

yoga will be held at the Goochland Branch Library from 4 –5 p.m. for ages 18 and up. anyone who would like to participate is encouraged to bring a mat and join in for a yoga session that aims to promote strength, flexibility, and balance. The class will be led by certified instructor, Kathleen Tsengas. Call (804) 556-4774 or visit the library at 3075 river road West for more information.

an action Figure art Class will be held at the Goochland Branch Library from 6:30 — 7:30 p .m. for those ages 10-18. Participants will meet local artist Curtis Brown and learn techniques to draw their own superhero action figure. r egistr ation is required and may be completed at https://pamunkeylibrary.libcal.com/event/9986055

Call (804) 556-4774 or visit the library at 3075 river road West for more information.

tures will be announced.

Preregistration for the lecture series is required to ensure sufficient seating.

To sign up or get more information, contact the Goochland County Historical Society by phone at (804) 556-3966, by email at goochlandhis-

tory@comcast.net, or visit the society at 2924 River Road West. The Goochland County Historical Society is located next to Goochland Courthouse. Hours are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Wednesday through Friday and the second Saturday of the month.

THURSDAY, JAN. 12

Family stor ytime will be held at the Goochland Branch Library from 10 — 10:30 a.m. for ages 2-5 with caregiver. Families will enjoy a fun time with books, singing, rhymes, and much more. Call (804) 556-4774 or visit the library at 3075 river road West for more information.

FRIDAY, JAN. 13

The rotar y Club of Goochland will host its Club assembly. The meeting starts at 7:30 a.m. at The residence Inn short Pump at the notch, 1800 Wilkes ridge Circle.

Toddler and Preschool stor ytime will be held at the Goochland Branch Library from 10 — 10:30 a.m. for ages 2-5 with caregiver. Enjoy a fun time with books, singing, rhymes, and much more. Call (804) 556-4774 or visit the library at 3075 r iver r oad West for more information.

Family stor ytime will be held at the Cochrane rockville Branch Library from10:30 — 11 a.m. Participants can enjoy a fun time with books, singing, rhymes, and much more. Family storytime is for children ages 0-5 and their caregivers. Call (804) 749-3146 or visit the library at 16600 Pouncey Tract road for more information.

Friday Book Group will be held at the Goochland Branch Library from 11 a.m. – noon for those ages 18 and up. Join in to discuss the group’s monthly book choice. Call (804) 556-4774 or visit the library at 3075 river road West for more information.

SATURDAY, JAN. 14

The library will be offering a virtual Ornamental Pollinator Garden program from 10 – 11 a.m. for those ages 18 and up. Participants will learn how to use seven easy, native plants to produce six full months of garden

blooms, bee food, and bouquets to bring inside. This workshop will be presented by master gardener Cathy McCarthy with the Goochland Powhatan Master Gardener association. This program will be hosted virtually through Zoom. registration required at https://pamunkeylibrary.libcal. com/event/9751261. The Zoom meeting link will be sent to the email registered before the event occurs. Please contact the library if you do not receive this email. Call (804) 556-4774 or visit the library at 3075 river road West for more information.

Crafternoon: Crochet will be held at the Cochrane r ock ville Branch Library from 3 – 4 p.m. for those ages 8-12. Participants will explore different crafts and techniques is this workshop, which is appropriate for beginner and veteran crafters alike. This time the group will be learning about crocheting. Call (804) 749-3146 or visit the library at 16600 Pouncey Tract road for more information.

MONDAY, JAN. 16

Goochland Bridge Club will be held at the Goochland Branch Library from 3 – 5 p.m. for those ages 18 and up. The Goochland Bridge Club is for those who want to learn how to play or those with a basic knowledge of the game. Each week there will be instruction and play time. Call (804) 556-4774 or visit the library at 3075 river road West for more information.

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 18

yoga will be held at the Goochland Branch Library from 4 –5 p.m. for ages 18 and up. anyone who would like to participate is encouraged to bring a mat and join in for a yoga session that aims to promote strength, flexibility, and balance. The class will be led by certified

BEACH, Howard H. Jr., of rockville, Va., passed away on december 23, at the age of 88. he is survived by his devoted wife of 46 years, susan Breed Beach; his loving children, Linda B. Fowler (david Conley), Brenda L. McKenna, Jo anne Melton (Ed), richard h. Beach, donna B. Keeton (Barney), and Leslie B. Plucinski (Michael), 14 grandchildren, and four greatgrandchildren. af ter graduating from rockville high school, howard served the military in White sands, n.M. he then worked for Western Electric for more than 20 years in richmond, Va. a hard working and deeply loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, he will be missed by all. “To live in the hearts we leave behind is not to die.” services will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the alzheimer’s a ssociation.

Nancy Tesora Payne Hodges

HODGES, Nancy Tesora Payne, 91, went to be with her Lord and savior on december 25, 2022. nancy was preceded in death by her husband of 65 years, James Winston hodges; her son, J.B. hodges; six brothers and one sister. nancy is survived by her daughter, nancy Lee Morrison (riley); her daughter-in-law, Charlene M. hodges; two grandsons, James Lloyd hodges (sarah), Winston hodges; her sister, Joyce a . Barden and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. nancy loved and was devoted to all of her family. she especially enjoyed cooking for them and taking care of each one. she drove a Goochland County school bus for 40 years and worked within the school cafeteria. she was a longtime member of Perkins Baptist Church and served the Lord in many ways. a service was held at Perkins Baptist Church in Goochland County on Thursday, december 29, 2022, at 1 p.m., burial immediately followed the service. There was not a visitation. norman Funeral Chapel handled the arrangements. Contributions in her memory can be made to Perkins Baptist Church Cemetery Fund.

instructor, Kathleen Tsengas. Call (804) 556-4774 or visit the library at 3075 river road West for more information.

THURSDAY, JAN. 19

Family s t orytime will be held at the Goochland Branch Library from 10 — 10:30 a.m. for ages 2-5 with caregiver. Families will enjoy a fun time with books, singing, rhymes, and much more. Call (804) 556-4774 or visit the library at 3075 river road West for more

information. read 2 rover will be held at the Cochrane rockville Branch Library from 4:30 — 5:30 p.m. for those in grades K-2. read 2 rover provides comfort and motivation for beginning readers as they read aloud to Colby or Pepper, the library’s therapy dogs. space is limited. Call the rockville Branch at (804) 749-3146 or visit the library for more information to register for this rewarding program.

Howard H. Beach Jr.

Hi, I’m Wesson, and this is my story. I was once roaming the wide acres of Goochland, chasing and hunting all the birds and mice I could have wished for. I would terrorize anything that stood in my way. Everyone was afraid of me; I was the boss, I was a bully. Life was great. But now, now I’m trapped behind these bars serving my time, waiting. However, it hasn’t been too bad, I mean, I haven’t had to lift a finger since I arrived. I ask for food, it’s filled, I poop, it’s scooped away. I’ve made plenty of friends, some I like more than others. Not sure what I’m supposed to do with the humans though. Always they show up and want to “snuggle” and I’m not yet sure what that means but it sounds like something a boring cat would do. Clearly I’m not boring. I have grown soft since arriving here, but I think I’m really starting to like it. I am neutered, up to date on vetting, great with cats, and very playful. However, I do not like to be carried.

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.

As if the men and women of Goochland County Fire-Rescue didn’t already do enough, the recent rash of sub-freezing temperatures have seen crews responding to numerous residential calls concerning frozen or leaking pipes. Pictured here, local first responders cheerfully pitch in to help clean up and minimize damage after a pipe problem flooded the Food Lion in Centerville.

PHOTO BY SIDNEY WARREN

PHOTOS COURTESY OF GOOCHLAND COUNTY FIRE-RESCUE

FROM THE EDITOR

As winter rolls on, be smart and stay safe

ROSLYN RYAN Editor

Ask me about the weather over the past few weeks, and I’ll be happy to offer a few descriptive phrases: Desperately cold. Insanely cold. Absurdly, ridiculously, mindnumbingly, lip-tinglingly, frozen-finger flippin’ cold.

Yes, yes I know – the cold around here, despite dipping down into the single digits over the Christmas holiday, seemed like small potatoes compared to the weather that some places around the country were facing. We didn’t have to put up with driving snow or snarled traffic, and, as of yet, we have been spared the worst winter has to offer. Some of us may even, at least furtively, have begun looking ahead to those few welcome signs of spring.

Unfortunately, for those of us who are already dreaming of crocuses, winter is almost certainly not done with us. And even if, by the grace of God, we manage to make it to the month of May without a true winter wallop, there are still a number of precautions that will ensure that both people and pets stay safe in the cold.

According to Goochland County Department of FireRescue & Emergency Services, residents are strongly advised to stay off frozen ponds and parents are urged to remind their children about the dangers of frozen water. Dog owners should also be careful not throw sticks or balls onto the ice. Should a dog go onto the ice and get into difficulty, don’t attempt to carry out a rescue. If a pet or person gets in trouble on the ice on a

frozen pond or lake, call 911 immediately.

A few more tips to bear in mind, courtesy of the Red Cross: All heaters need space. Keep children, pets and things that can burn (paper, matches, bedding, furniture, clothing, carpets, and rugs) at least 3 feet away from heating equipment.

If you must use a space heater, place it on a level, hard and nonflammable surface (such as ceramic tile floor), not on rugs, carpets or near bedding or drapes. Plug power cords directly into outlets — never into an extension cord.

Be careful when tackling strenuous tasks like shoveling snow in cold temperatures.

Check on your neighbors, especially elderly people living alone, people with disabilities and children.

Bring pets indoors. If they can’t come inside, make sure they have enough shelter to keep them warm and that they can get to unfrozen water.

Stay off the roads whenever possible during inclement weather, and use extreme caution when traveling in snowy or icy conditions.

As Goochland residents have seen time and time again, our local fire-rescue personal are unmatched in their dedication and will respond to calls for help no matter the time of day or night and regardless of the weather. Countless lives have been saved thanks to their commitment to serving Goochland County. That said, the less we see of them at work the better. So please stay smart, stay warm and staff safe. And cross your fingers for an early spring.

Thoughtful resolutions: challenging, but worth it

CHRISTINA AMANO DOLAN Richmond Suburban News

It feels like just yesterday when I sat down to reflect on the year to come. Perhaps some readers may recall a past column that reflected on the meaning of New Year’s resolutions at the start of 2022 and why, as adulthood arrives, these annual reso-

lutions seem to escape us against the backdrop of our busy lives. I made another resolution last year – one that called for the recognition of its importance against the backdrop of any phase of our lives. But this past column was written amid a different time, as the year of 2021 brought more uncertain-

ties surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic than the start of 2022 could predict. With the world still uncertain of the future and if another lockdown lay ahead, perhaps writing resolutions could offer us the satisfaction of looking at what has been achieved and the courage to push further and remain hopeful of

the future.

While we have not escaped the pandemic and its lingering effects on seemingly every part of our lives, Jan. 1 of 2023 inspired another hopeful drafting of New Year’s resolutions with the excitement of standing at the

Small acts often have greatest impact on the world

JIM RIDOLPHI Contributing Columnist

It would be difficult to list the societal and cultural changes resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, but few would argue our lives were changed permanently from months of isolation, limited activities and untold hours alone in our homes.

Although I have no confirming information, I suspect that one of the most obvious impacts was on the takeout food service. It seems ordering online and picking up food to go has become more of the rule than the exception, and restaurants have adjusted menus to accommodate customers who prefer to gather their food and enjoy it in the comfort of their homes.

As temperatures plunged last week and I needed a day off from cooking, I ordered from a local eatery and headed out to pick up my dinner. Apparently, I wasn’t the only one seeking refuge from the kitchen – the place was packed.

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Customers crowded the takeout section of the restaurant, while the dining room was relatively empty, perhaps confirmation that America’s dining habits are changing.

A long row of chairs was placed along the wall to accommodate those waiting for orders, but they remained empty except for one gentleman, who sat nervously on the

OPINION

Loving gift left lasting memories

EMILY WALLS RAY Contributing Writer

The holiday season of my third grade year in 1963 Alabama is seared in my 67-year-old memory. It was a season in my life of restored childhood security. My friends and I had been shocked in November to see our teacher crying at school. Then we walked home to watch the funeral of our country’s young president on black and white television. To see a nation mourn was sobering. But the power of imagination that Christmas, encouraged by loving parents, gave me boundless happiness for a time in childhood.

Imagine a skinny, curly haired girl dreamily dusting the foyer furniture as a weekly chore while holding an open book in the other hand. Earnest for my eight years, I wanted to be a writer like Jo March in Little Women until my mother introduced me to books about settling the West by Laura Ingalls Wilder. The pioneer family of Charles (Pa), Caroline (Ma), Mary, Laura (“Half Pint”) and baby Carrie captured my third grader’s imagination for many years.

I remember that Christmas with nostalgia, happiness, and a wistfulness that it can never be perfectly duplicated. The preparation and coordination with

mothers of my neighborhood friends was Mama’s doing. As the volunteer librarian at our newly built school, she was in charge of ordering books, and there were so many classics produced or reprinted during those years. In that capacity, Mama ordered a set of the Little House books for Skyland Elementary School. She made the story come alive for my younger sister and I by sewing us pioneer dresses, aprons and sunbonnets so we could act out the books in play. Only our imagination set limits! With like-minded mothers, she shared the period dress pattern so that our friends had the same presents—a prairie outfit and a newborn baby doll to play wagon train or “pioneers,” as we called it. We also each received our very own copies of a book from the series so we could swap and share.

That Christmas morning in 1963, my sister Martha and I woke early.

On display were the two pioneer dresses Mama sewed; one in a pink cotton print for Martha, and a slightly longer one for me in small orange print. Each outfit had a bonnet and an apron with long strings to tie around the neck and waist.

Those dresses provided a boost

to our imaginations, and for years after (and letting out the generous hems as we grew taller) we passed many lovely hours playing pioneers. We pulled our Radio Flyer wagons with baby dolls safely tucked in, circling our wagon train. We held weddings, church services, and even a funeral for a mouse found floating in a bucket of water one morning.

As a pioneer “wife,” I held many serious conversations with my “husband,” a thin pine tree I named “Stick Barkley.”

“Stick” was the perfect partner for an 8-year-old independent pioneer woman. He never talked back, interrupted or gave an opinion. He was the tall, silent type. Yes, those homemade pioneer dresses had unleashed a spirit of adventure and possibilities. We all have to grow up sometime, but that season of play provided an unparalleled sense that all was right in the world, especially at Christmas.

Emily Walls Ray is a freelance writer, tutor, and former teacher of English and creative writing in the GCPS system from 2007-2020. She enjoys gardening, reading, church, and sewing, but most of all, being a grandmother. To read more of her stories, visit her blog at https:// writetouchblog.wordpress.com/

Small acts

From 6

edge of his seat.

After periods of inactivity, the man would suddenly wave his arms as if he was speaking to a large group of people, but never uttering a sound.

He wasn’t as old as he looked, evidenced by his frothy full head of white gray hair, and I was immediately intrigued by his actions.

There was no wait for my food, and it was sitting ready on a shelved unit marked Online Orders. I turned to thank the person working behind the busy counter.

“Is he OK?” I asked shifting my eyes toward the man in the chair.

“He’s just in here getting warm,” the employee said. “I’m trying to let him stay as long as I can until someone complains.”

I grabbed my bag and exited, heading to my car and eventually the comfort of my warm house, but something would not let me leave the parking lot.

I re-entered the restaurant and immediately took the seat beside the man.

“Hello there. How are you?” I asked him.

He replied with a big smile but no words. But, something in his eyes revealed a dignity not easily recognizable at first glance. I returned his gesture with a smile.

Thoughtful

From 6

finish line and admiring the distance traveled – and the various roadblocks along the way.

As mentioned before, this tradition – although tedious and requiring the difficult task of self-reflecting – is one that has been upheld by my family for years. Gathered around the breakfast table on the first morning of the year, my family of six reads aloud each resolution from the year prior and what boxes have been checked off.

This always brings an uplifting

image, as each family member always seems to find themselves astonished at what has been accomplished. The number of boxes checked off always seems to exceed what is first expected, as drafting a to-do list for the daunting 12 months ahead may seem like a tiresome feat at first.

Or, in my case, it may sometimes bring a fleeting moment of frustration over the lack of boxes checked off, which is quickly followed by a surge of determination as we begin drafting our next to-do list for the year. Knowing these new resolutions will not be seen again until the next year, it calls for each of us

to truly remember our goals –no matter how big or small – as we navigate through another 12-month journey to the finish line.

With the year 2023 officially underway and our own individual journeys just beginning, I highlight the importance of making New Year’s resolutions again. Because the start of 2023, just like every year, is a new beginning. With the doors of businesses open again, community gatherings and celebrations brought back to life, and daily calendars cluttered with the weight of everyday responsibilities, it is more vital than ever to

pause and reflect on the distance traveled – including the various roadblocks along the way – and find comfort in the wonderfully linear nature of time.

It’s almost become instinctive for us to bury ourselves in the present – whether from stress, mounting responsibilities or a touch of workaholic tendencies. When else, as we grow older, do we have the perfect time to take notice of ourselves and say, “Job well done” for the cluttered calendar days crossed off and feel inspired to add another daily task to the calendar days ahead – whether incorporating a trip to the gym, taking up paint-

“I’m going to get you something to eat. Is that OK? You stay warm and have a happy holiday,” I said patting him softly on his shoulder. The smile returned and he looked at me and nodded.

I headed back to the counter and told the employee that I would like to buy the man a sandwich and a cup of soup. When I reached for my wallet, the clerk said no payment was required, and he ordered the food.

I thanked the counter person, waved goodbye to the man in the chair, and headed home. The takeout food was great, and I sat and thought of the man in the chair as I enjoyed it.

Make no mistake, my small act of kindness deserves no recognition and my gesture was uneventful in the general scheme of things; but, the plight of the man is important.

He, most likely, represents only one of America’s walking wounded who survive on the fringes living on the edge. I’m certainly not naïve enough to believe the problem can be solved by one specific act of kindness; or vain enough to pat myself on the back for a humane act I would expect from any of my fellow citizens.

But regarding compassion, oneon-one is not a bad place to start, and as my Mother always advised, when it comes to kindness, you always receive more than you give.

It just might be contagious.

ing classes or picking up a new instrument?

Whether as big as climbing Mount Everest or as modest as making more time to see friends, the possibilities are endless for each of us and our individual journeys as we begin anew in 2023. I encourage readers to seize this meaningful opportunity for self-reflection and courage and write their own New Year’s resolutions lists.

Even if it seems tedious today, imagine the second Christmas that will arrive on Jan. 1, 2024, when marveling at the boxes checked off and wondering, “Where did the time go?”

Goochland's middle school wrestling sees increased interest

ROBBY FLETCHER Sports Editor

Goochland may not have an official middle school wrestling team, but aspiring wrestlers in the area are still finding ways to pick up on the sport.

The club team known as the Goochland Young Dogs Wrestling Club has upwards of 25 wrestlers from Goochland County that come to learn the fundamentals of the sport and learn with a passionate coaching staff that’s dedicated to increasing interest in wrestling. The growth in the interest of the sport comes right as the high school team continues its own rapid development in popularity and team success.

The club is coached by former Godwin wrestling coach Bob Harris, who brings 25 years of coaching experience to help a group largely made up of newcomers try out wrestling for the first time. Harris also works with the high school team, but after the 2021-22 high school season reached its conclusion, he volunteered to focus more on the middle school club, something Goochland High School head coach Jeremy Wampler says has been a blessing for the program.

“His desire and sincere want to work with our middle schoolers has clearly already ignited a middle school love of wrestling here at Goochland, all the while also still getting in with the high schoolers and working with them two to three days a week,” Wampler said.

Harris has a similarly experienced group of coaches at his disposal working with the kids as well. Longtime Goochland High School head coach Mike Nadder,

former Goochland wrestlers Ethan Ford and Jacob Massey and four-year assistant Charles Haines have all had a helping hand with both the middle school and high school kids, but Harris’ right-hand man with the club is Chris Hilliar.

Hilliar worked with Harris for 10 years at Godwin when their sons competed together with the Eagles, and after 12 years since their last year working there, they’ve reunited to lead the rising Bulldogs.

“It’s a good partnership,” Hilliar said. “Bob and I have coached together for years at multiple levels, and he really cares about what he’s doing and he’s got a great coaching technique.”

Harris says he reached out to Hilliar just before starting up with the middle school wrestlers, and when he approached Hilliar about getting back out in the coaching game, there was no hesitation in the reunion.

“I told him let’s bring the back band together, and he

jumped right on in,” Harris said.

Though it’s been over a decade since they last worked together, they’ve jumped back into their roles seamlessly.

“I had forgotten how much I enjoyed coaching with Chris,” Harris said.

“It was kind of like a family coaching at Godwin for many years, and it’s nice this year to have Chris.”

Many of the young wrestlers have yet to get their first live-game action against another team, but that is currently something Harris and the coaching staff have been hard at work on setting up.

Scrimmages against Louisa County and Dinwiddie’s middle school teams have already been set up in January, and there’s hope of another one against Tuckahoe within the next year. The team almost had a scrimmage against Fluvanna County in December, but that was ultimately canceled.

The goal with these

scrimmages, Harris says, is to allow the kids to compete against new faces, apply the fundamentals they’ve been taught and to focus on the sportsmanship aspect of wrestling. Winning and losing is not something they want the kids to heavily prioritize in these early bouts.

Despite not getting that matchup with Fluvanna, Goochland instead called an audible that day and decided to host an intrasquad scrimmage with parents in attendance. It was a big turnout and featured a quick 30-minute practice before the kids grouped up for some live action that showcased to the parents

in the stands just how hard they’ve worked in their time with the club.

Members of the high school team also came by to work with the younger wrestlers, something Hilliar says they did without being asked to.

“The impact it had on the younger wrestlers was just phenomenal,” he said.

The scrimmage was a defining example the coaches of Goochland could point to that shows the passion for wrestling in the county.

“It was just a real cool experience,” Harris said. “I think their parents were really happy to see what they’ve been doing everyday, and I am impressed by

the strides these middle school kids have made so far. They’re coachable, which is something every coach wants to have.”

The hope is to one day have a true middle school team that can compete in official matches and prepare for a rise into the high school ranks, but for now, the results of the wrestling club have been encouraging for the people leading the charge.

“I just see it growing,” Harris said of the program. “Wrestling’s one of the best sports in the world to teach you about life, and we’re really excited about the numbers we’re having and the growth we’ve seen.”

CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS

The Goochland young dogs Wrestling Club has over 25 members on the team, which is led by coach Bob harris.

Bob harris (right) has over 25 years of coaching experience, including five years as the head coach of Godwin’s wrestling program.

Gators top Spartans to take Capital City Classic

WELDON BRADSHAW Special correspondent

If you happen to like fastpaced, baseline-to-baseline basketball, white-knuckle tension and chess-match strategy, you would have dearly loved the battle of wills and athleticism between Saint Gertrude and Steward on Thursday, Dec. 29 in the title game of the Benedictine Capital City Classic.

After 32 whirlwind minutes of passionately contested action on the Rut Court in the McMurtrieReynolds Pavilion, the Gators emerged victorious 52-46, and when they assembled at midcourt to accept the championship trophy, they knew full well that they had earned their success with sweat equity, grit, resilience and poise under pressure.

“This was a great atmosphere to play in,” said Saint Gertrude head coach Robyn D’Onofrio. “The energy that was there from the fans translates to the players. It fuels their hustle, their desire. The crowd plays a lot into that. It felt great to have the support out here.”

The matchup of teams ranked in The Times-Dispatch Top 10 began as a give-no-quarter defensive stand-off, and their intensity levels never waned.

Audrey Munro’s put-back at 4:02 put the No. 4 Gators up 2-0, and they held a tenuous advantage until 3:51 in the third quarter, when Sanai Green hit a jumper from the right wing to give the No. 5 Spartans their first lead.

Drama played out in the interim.

Erin Woodson, the Gators’ linchpin (27.3 points, 8.9 rebounds) and a Division I Purdue-Fort Wayne

commit, matched up defensively with Green, Steward’s highly touted 5-foot11 freshman averaging 22.9 points and 10.9 boards.

Woodson, who’s also 5-foot-11, drew her third foul 3:45 before halftime.

Freshman Teagan Semisch subbed in for her and drew the assignment of trying to contain the court-savvy Green.

“Filling Erin’s shoes is difficult,” Semisch said. “I just wanted to do my best to shut her (Green) down. She’s

a good player. She wants to take it to the rim. She’s great at creating space. You have to stay focused and faceguard her, like Coach says.”

Green scored her first five points in the final 1:17 of the half to help the Spartans trim a 21-14 deficit at 1:30 to 23-19 at the break.

She opened the third quarter with six straight points, and, though she picked up her third foul at 3:37, spearheaded a Steward charge by adding six more points later in the period

that enabled the Spartans to take a 35-34 lead into the fourth.

“They had a great run,” said D’Onfrio of the visitors’ rally. “We knew this would be a game of ebbs and flows. They were able to connect on a few things. We made a couple of mistakes. Credit them for getting back into it.

“We responded really well. Defensively, we did some great things that helped our scorers get the open looks that they needed.”

Woodson’s close-range bucket in heavy traffic put the Gators ahead 36-35 at 7:10. The lead changed hands three more times before Woodson, who scored 10 of her 23 points in the fourth quarter, drained a 3-pointer at 3:28, then another from the same spot just to the left of the top of the key at 1:35.

“After that,” Woodson said, “we got pumped up. We picked it up on defense. We let our defense turn into offense. We used the clock to

our advantage, trying to find the best shot.”

After Lilly Thoman’s stickback at 2:01 cut Steward’s deficit to 45-44, Munro hit a jumper off an inbounds pass from point guard Sam Smith at 1:19 to put Saint Gertrude up 47-44.

The Gators then hit five of seven free throws to secure the victory.

“This was really fun,” Woodson said. “The whole atmosphere was fun. I love the pressure. I love playing in that moment.”

PHOTO BY ROBBY FLETCHER

senior guard sam smith, seen in a game against Collegiate on dec. 9, 2022, added 13 points and helped the saint Gertrude Gators edge past steward in the Capital City Classic championship game on dec. 29.

VIRGINIA:

INTHECIRCUITCOURTFORTHE COUNTYOFGOOCHLAND

INRE:

ESTATEOFJAMESE.LYNE,Deceased

SHOWCAUSEORDER

Itappearingthat areportoftheaccountsof JamesE.Lyne,Jr.,ExecutoroftheEstateof JamesE.Lyne,deceased,andofthedebtsand demandsagainsthisestatehasbeenfiledin theClerk’sOffice,andthatsixmonthshave elapsedsincethequalification,onmotionof JamesE.Lyne,Jr.,Executor:ITISORDERED thatthecreditorsof,andallothersinterested intheEstateofJamesE,Lyneshallshow cause,iftheycan,onthe24thdayofJanuary, 2023at1:30p.m.beforethisCourtatitscourtroom,againstthepaymentanddeliveryofthe EstateofJamesE.Lyne,tothedistributees withoutrequiringrefundingbonds.

ENTERED:12/16/2022

TimothyK.Sanner,JUDGE

plathereby madefor amoreparticulardescription of saidrealestate.

AND asmorefullydescribedin the aforesaid DeedofTrust.

TRUSTEE’SSALE

3815COUNTYLINERD KENTSSTORE,VA23084

IASKFORTHIS:

HeatherH.Szajda,Esq.

VirginiaStateBarNo.73599

VirginiaEstate&TrustLaw,PLC 1700BayberryCourt,Ste.100 Richmond,VA.23226 (804)592-3562

CounselforJamesE.Lyne,Jr.,as ExecutoroftheEstateofJamesE.Lyne

NOTICEOFSUBSTITUTETRUSTEESALE

20BuckBranchDrive, Richmond,VA23238

By virtueofthepowerand authority contained in aDeedofTrustdated August 25,2003andrecordedat Instrument Number030005504inthe Clerk’s Office fortheGoochlandCounty Virginia CircuitCourt,Virginia,securing a loan whichwasoriginally $206,000.00. The appointedSUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE, Commonwealth Trustees,LLCwill offer for saleatpublicauctionatthe front steps oftheCircuitCourt for Goochland locatedat2938River Road W, Goochland,VA23063.

January23,2023at4:00PM improved realproperty,withan abbreviated legaldescriptionofthe following describedproperty,towit:

ALL thatcertainlotorparcelof land, with theimprovementsthereon and the appurtenancesthereto belonging, lying andbeinginDover District, Goochland County,Virginia,shown and designated asLot10,BlockC,of Section 3,onplatmadeby Austin Brockenbrough andAssociates, Consulting Engineers,datedMarch 27, 1972, entitled"LowerTuckahoe Section 3", recordedinPlatBook12,pages 1922, Clerk‘sOffice,Circuit Court, Goochland County,Virginia,said plat was correctedbyplatmadeby Austin Brockenbrough andAssociates, C.E., dated March27,1972,revisedMay 12, 1977, entitled"Corrected Subdivision, Lower Tuckahoe,Section3, acopy of which platwasrecordedMay29, 1977, Clerk‘s Office,CircuitCourt, Goochland County, Virginia,inPlatBook12, pages 32-36,referencetowhichplatishereby madeforparticulardescription

TERMS OFSALE:Thepropertywill be sold "ASIS,"WITHOUT REPRESENTATION ORWARRANTYOFANYKIND AND SUBJECT TOconditions, restrictions, reservations, easements,rightsof way, and allothermattersofrecord taking priority overtheDeedofTrusttobe announced atthetimeofsale. Adeposit of $20,000or10%ofthesale price, whichever islower,howevernot less than $10,000,thatwillberequired at the timeofsale,intheformof certified check, cashier’scheckormoney order by thepurchaser.Thebalanceof the purchase price,withinterestat the rate containedintheDeedof Trust Note fromthedateofsaletothe date said fundsarereceivedintheoffice of the SUBSTITUTETRUSTEE,willbe due within fifteen(15)daysofsale.In the event ofdefaultbythesuccessful bidder, theentiredepositshallbe forfeited andappliedtothecostsand expenses ofsaleandSubstitute Trustee’s fee. Allotherpublicchargesor assessments, includingwater/sewer charges, whether incurredpriortoorafter the sale, andallothercostsincidentto settlement tobepaidbythepurchaser. In the eventtaxes,anyother public charges havebeenadvanced, acredit will beduetotheseller,tobe adjusted from thedateofsaleatthetimeof settlement. Purchaseragreestopay the seller’s attorneysatsettlement, afee of $470.00forreviewofthe settlement documents.

Additional termswillbeannounced at the timeofsaleandthesuccessful bidder willberequiredtoexecuteand deliver totheSubstituteTrustees amemorandum orcontractofthesaleat the conclusion ofbidding.

FOR INFORMATIONCONTACT

Rosenberg &Associates,LLC (Attorney fortheSecuredParty) 4340 EastWestHighway,Suite600 Bethesda, MD20814 301-907-8000 www.rosenberg-assoc.com

InexecutionoftheDeedofTrustintheoriginal principalamountof$150,228.00,datedApril 17,2009,andrecordedasInstrumentNumber 090004156inGoochlandCountylandrecords, theappointedSubstituteTrusteewillofferfor saleatpublicauction inthefrontoftheCircuit CourtbuildingforGoochlandCounty,2938RiverRoadWest,Goochland,VA23063onFebruary07,2023at12:45PM, thepropertydescribedinsaiddeedoftrust,locatedattheabove addressandmoreparticularlydescribedas follows:

ALLTHATCERTAINTRACTORPARCELOF LANDLYINGANDBEINGINBYRDDISTRICT, GOOCHLANDCOUNTY,VIRGINIA,CONTAINING 2.47ACRES,ACCORDINGTO ASURVEYAND PLATTHEREOFMADEBYCARROLLGILLISPIE, C.L.S.,DATEDMAY4,1972,WHICHPLATISRECORDEDINTHECLERK’SOFFICE,CIRCUIT COURT,GOOCHLANDCOUNTY,VIRGINIAIN DEEDBOOK126,PAGE461,ANDONWHICHIT ISMOREPARTICULARLYDESCRIBEDASFOLLOWS:

BEGINNINGAT APOINTONTHEEASTERNSIDE OFSTATEHIGHWAYROUTE#669ANDADJOININGTHELANDSOFJOEJOHNSON;THENCE NORTH68DEGREES15’EAST689FEETTOAN IRONINCORNER;THENCESOUTH14DEGREES 15’EAST152FEETTO ASTAKEINCORNER; THENCE,SOUTH68DEGREES15’WEST729 FEETTOTHERIGHT-OF-WAYOFSAIDROAD; THENCE,UPTHESAIDRIGHT-OF-WAYOF STATEHIGHWAYROUTE#669DUENORTH160 FEETTOTHEPOINTOFBEGINNING.

BEINGTHESAMEREALESTATECONVEYEDTO JUSTINH.RICKMANBYDEEDFROMROBERT MARTIN,DATEDAPRIL8,2009,ANDRECORDED INTHECLERK’SOFFICE,CIRCUITCOURT. GOOCHLANDCOUNTY,VIRGINIASIMULTANEOUSLYHEREWITH.

ALLOFBORRROWER’SOBLIGATIONSSECURED BYTHISSECURITYINSTRUMENTALSOSHALL BESECUREDBYTHEFOLLOWINGMANUFACTUREDHOME: MAKE:OAKWOOD,MODEL,MANUFHOME, YEAR:2006,SERIAL/VIN#:ROC719846NCAB, ANDLEGNTHXWIDTH:40X27.00

Thepropertyandimprovementswillbesoldin "asis"physicalconditionwithoutwarrantyof anykind.

TERMSOFSALE: Anon-refundablebidder’s depositof10%ofthesalepriceor10%ofthe originalprincipalamountofthesubjectDeed ofTrust,whicheverislower,bycashier’sor certifiedcheckrequiredattimeofsaleexcept forthepartysecuredbytheDeedofTrust. Riskoflossonpurchaserfromdateandtime ofauction.Balanceofthepurchasepricemust bepaidbycashier’scheckwithin15daysfrom saledate.ExceptforVirginiaGrantortax,all settlementcostsandexpensesarepurchaser’sresponsibility.Taxesarepro-ratedtothe dateofsale.Purchaserisresponsibleforobtainingpossessionoftheproperty.Ifpurchaserdefaults,depositmaybeforfeitedandpropertyresoldattheriskandcostofthe defaultingpurchaserwhoshallbeliablefor anydeficiencyinthepurchasepriceandall costs,expensesandattorney’sfeesofboth sales.IfTrusteedoesnotconveytitleforany reason,purchaser’ssoleremedyisreturnof depositwithoutinterest.Thissaleissubjectto post-saleauditofthestatusoftheloansecuredbytheDeedofTrustincludingbutnot limitedtodeterminingwhetherpriortosalea bankruptcywasfiled, aforbearance,repaymentorotheragreementwasenteredintoor theloanwasreinstatedorpaidoff;inanysuch eventthissaleshallbenullandvoidandpurchaser’ssoleremedyshallbereturnofdeposit withoutinterest.Thiscommunicationisfrom adebtcollectorandisanattempttocollecta debtandanyinformationobtainedwillbe usedforthatpurpose.

SUBSTITUTETRUSTEE:RASTrusteeServices, LLC,4012RaintreeRoad,Suite100A,Chesapeake,Virginia23321

FORINFORMATIONCONTACT: RASTrusteeServices,LLC,SubstituteTrustee c/oRobertson,Anschutz,Schneid,Crane& Partners,PLLC 11900ParklawnDrive,Suite310 Rockville,Maryland20852 (844)442-2150 (470)321-7112

ARIES • Mar 21/Apr 20

Sometimes you have to hold some things in to safeguard others from sticky situations. It can be tricky keeping secrets, but this week it is for the best.

TAURUS • Apr 21/May 21

Taurus, there are a lot of people in your corner right now who are willing to pitch in when you need help. If you encounter an obstacle, just ask for assistance.

GEMINI • May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, change your schedule or your scenery, especially if you feel like you are in a rut. All it may take is one modification to bring on an entirely new perspective.

CANCER • Jun 22/Jul 22

If a person comes to you needing a friend in the next few days, resist the urge to offer advice. Simply listen and provide companionship. This is all the person needs at the moment.

LEO • Jul 23/Aug 23

Prioritize getting your finances in order, Leo. Make this one New Year’s resolution that you maintain; otherwise, you may have financial troubles in the months to come.

VIRGO • Aug 24/Sept 22

A few opportunities are coming your way in regard to your career, Virgo. Sort through all of the offers and figure out what works best for your situation.

LIBRA • Sept 23/Oct 23

Libra, there is a lot of momentum around you, but for some reason you cannot find your footing. Sooner than later you’ll find your path and will be moving along.

SCORPIO • Oct 24/Nov 22

Take charge of your priorities, Scorpio. It can be easy to get swept away in other people’s drama. Make a list of all the things you want to accomplish and start working.

SAGITTARIUS • Nov 23/Dec 21

Sagittarius, people are expecting much of you this week, especially higher-ups at work. You may need to find the motivation to keep going. The end result will be worth it.

CAPRICORN • Dec 22/Jan 20

Family time is a hot commodity for you right now, Capricorn. Even after the holidays, you have a few other events on the calendar that will bring relatives together.

AQUARIUS • Jan 21/Feb 18

It can be difficult to let things go and trust other people. However, the free time that you’ll get will enable you to tackle other items on your todo list, Aquarius.

PISCES • Feb 19/Mar 20

If you are thinking about going back to school or learning a new skill, this is the time to do it, Pisces. Start shopping around for programs.