The Goochland Gazette – 01/26/2023

GoochlandCares announces new board members

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

Local nonprofit GoochlandCares recently introduced the five volunteers who will serve on the organization’s board of directors. These new board members will play a significant role in providing guidance to GoochlandCares, with members contributing to the organization’s culture, strategic focus, effectiveness and financial sustainability as well as serving as ambassadors and advocates.

Each new member brings valuable perspective and personal, professional and volunteer experience that will enhance GoochlandCares’ ability to further its mission.

GOOCHLAND COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS NAMES TOP TEACHER

On Jan. 20,

Schools remain focused on retaining talent

ROSLYN RYAN Editor

When it comes to recruiting and retaining top talent, Goochland County Public Schools (GCPS) has plenty to offer prospective teachers. As Andy Armstrong, GCPS superintendent of admin-

istration, explained to Goochland School Board members during a presentation on Jan. 10, the division’s small class sizes, teacher resources and strong community support all serve as incentives for potential employees.

The issue, Armstrong said, are

the areas where the division continues to struggle in comparison to neighboring counties, fighting to convince would-be hires to look past the fact that teachers’ salaries in Goochland have now fallen below the median average for the area. Add in the current

struggles with inflation, as well as attractive offers from the private sector that promise higher wages, and school leaders could soon be finding it even more difficult to fill open positions.

Manny Alvarez is joining the GoochlandCares Board of Directors for another term. Alvarez recently retired as the interim Goochland County administrator and is a former member of the board of supervisors. He rejoins the GoochlandCares board to help in continuing the good work of the organization. Alvarez has volunteered as a translator to assist Spanish speaking clients.

Donna Leabough is a longtime resident of Goochland County. After graduating from VCU, Leabough worked for 20 years in the mental health field as an instructor, specialist and coordinator with Goochland

INSIDE: Shelter cat presents poetic case for adoption

Barefoot-Reid to serve as Goochland County School Board Chair for 2023 school year. See Page 5

PHOTO COURTESY OF GOOCHLAND COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Goochland County Public Schools (GCPS) announced that Goochland High School math teacher Megan Proffitt has been named the division’s 2023 Teacher of the Year. Pictured here, from left, are GCPS superintendent Jeremy Raley, Proffitt and Goochland High School principal Michael Wright. For more on Profitt’s win, and a list of each individual school’s winning teacher, see page 5.

RECENT PROPERTY TRANSFERS

0.767 acres; Norma A. Roadcap to WIT Ventures Ltd., $200,000.

152.84 acres; Louis F. Bernier, trustee to Kayla M. Kody, $1,480,000. 25 acres; Samuel Greer Forbes to Brandon Davis, $460,000.

71.993 acres; Willie R. Gilman Sr. Family Investment Co. LLC to ME Gilman LLC, $6,300,000.

14 Buck Drive, Richmond; Steven Edwards Adams, successor trustee to Stephen Thomas Harper, $965,000.

2641 Deer Haven Trail, Columbia; Bonnie S. Field to Raymond Fritsch, $535,000.

101 Hickory Drive, Manakin Sabot; Sara C. Parker to Margaret Andrews Foley, $422,500.

Lot 15A, George Landing; Laura Jean Wagner to Yarabi Nava Ovalle, $260,000.

Lot 8, Section 9, Kinloch; Kinloch Development Corp. to James Woo, $680,000.

15580 Mosaic Creek Blvd., Richmond; Schell Brothers Richmond LLC to Joseph C. McCann, $691,064.

15640 Mosaic Creek Blvd., Richmond; Stylecraft Homes Inc. of Virginia to Robert Michael Chieffo, $540,552.

Parcel; Kimberly Proffitt Davis to Hundred Acre Woods Inc., $500,000.

1603 Reed Marsh Place, Goochland; Boone Homes Inc. to James H. Atkinson Jr., $670,414.

3015 Swann’s Inn Crescent, Goochland; Swanns Inn LLC to William E. Henson, $623,378.

2967 Willow Trace Lane, Sandy Hook; Nathaniel V. Coffelt to Amanda Dobbs, $540,000.

Board

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Powhatan Community Services Agency. Leabough provided support and education to clients and their families. Leabough has been volunteering in the GoochlandCares Food Pantry assisting clients with their shopping.

Grace Creasey recently served as Goochland’s Christmas Mother. Creasey is fluent in Spanish and volunteers as an ESL teacher at Second Baptist Church. Creasey also served on the Virginia Board of Education. After attending Sweet Briar College, she received her Master of Educational Administration degree from the University of Richmond. Creasey is currently the executive director of a private, nonprofit educational association, and is excited to bring her skills to GoochlandCares.

Harry Baldwin has been a part of the Goochland community for 70 years.

Talent

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It isn’t all bad news. As Armstrong explained, competitive compensation for teachers and support staff is about more than just the dollar amount on a paycheck. When looking at other factors – including lower stress levels and incentives such as tuition reimbursement and better health insurance coverage – Armstrong said the discussion becomes about “how we are going to twist those knobs and levers” to help employees commit to Goochland.

Salary comparisons can be challenging to make between counties, Armstrong

GoochlandCares recently introduced the five volunteers who will serve on the organization’s board of directors. Pictured from left to right are Manny alvarez, donna Leabough, Grace Creasey, harry Baldwin and Jeff Williamson.

Baldwin worked in longterm care for 30 years in the areas of marketing and management. He served at Westminster-Canterbury Richmond and as executive director of Goodwin House Alexandria for 12 years. Baldwin graduated from the University of Rich-

said, primarily because some school divisions start employees with salaries comparable to Goochland’s but increase those salaries more over time. In Goochland, for example, a first-year teacher with a bachelor’s degree starts at $49,430 while in Louisa the starting salary would be $49,677. After 25 years, however, the Goochland teacher would be making $61,078, while the teacher in Louisa would be making $69,432.

Finding housing close to work can also be a challenge.

“There are some aspects of this that are out of our control,” said District 3 representative Karen Horn. “But if there are supervisors

support his neighbors. Williamson and his family volunteer picking up food donations from local grocery stores that provide healthy food choices for Food Pantry clients. Williamson holds an industrial engineering degree from the University of Illinois and is currently the senior vice president of operations at Performance Food Group.

INSIDE

mond and has a master’s in gerontology from VCU. As a current volunteer in our Clothes Closet, Baldwin sees firsthand how all of GoochlandCares’ programs help those in need.

Jeff Williamson says he feels that board service is a very meaningful way to

or builders listening, and I have talked to builders in the area about this, there is a potential to build a rightsized house in Goochland County.”

Even if factors like housing and reliable access to childcare – also a challenge in Goochland – could be solved, the dollar figure still remains a key motivator say school leaders.

“Ultimately we need to contribute the resources to make sure these are attractive positions, not just for our current employees, but for our future employees as well,” superintendent Jeremy Raley said. “The fact of the matter is that $50,000 just doesn’t go very far anymore.”

Raley said he recently at-

With the community’s help, GoochlandCares continues to provide services to those in great need in Goochland County. The organization provides food, clothing, medical, mental health, and dental care, help for domestic violence victims and so much more. Call (804) 556-6260 for further information about donations and services.

For more information about GoochlandCares, contact Adair Frayser at afrayser@goochlandcares. org, visit the organization at www.GoochlandCares. org, or find them on Facebook at facebook.com/ goochlandcares.

tended a workshop where students were asked about entering the teaching profession. Raley said a number of those polled expressed doubts that they could support a family comfortably on what they expected to earn. “We’re at a point where families are not encouraging their children to be educators, and students are saying ‘I don’t know if I want to do that.’”

Armstrong said the division’s plan now is to continue leaning on word-ofmouth advertising and reliable recruiting pipelines to fill open positions, but also to keep salaries and benefits as competitive as possible.

Essentially, Armstrong said, “we need to keep making it worth the drive.”

Goochland wrestling splits matches at Louisa tri meet PAGE 7 ALSO Calendar ........................... 4 Opinion 6 sports ........................... 7-8 Classifieds 9-10 Puzzle .............................. 11

CONTACT US

Toll Free - (877) 888-0449 Office - (804) 746-1235

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

Laura McFarland Managing Editor (804) 363-1577

Roslyn Ryan Editor (804) 339-7956

Robby Fletcher sports Editor (804) 380-0497

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

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

PHOTO COURTESY OF GOOCHLANDCARES

PET OF THE WEEK

A lovely poem given to us by our dear friend Kyle.

I knead your chest with my claws to show you my affection

I nibble your arm and don’t let go to show you adoration

I walk across your neck at night because I want to say, “Hello!”

I leap across the countertop because I miss you so I trip you when you walk down the stairs, so you know I’m always near I cover your face and block your air so my absence

you need not fear I show my love in so many ways my devotion runneth’ over

So, I don’t know why when I approach you duck and run for cover

Kyle is around 2 years old, neutered, chipped and up to date on all vetting. Kyle is a playful little trickster with lots of enthusiasm. Kyle is a master of cat hijinks looking for someone who loves the quintessential feline persona. If you are looking for mischievous fun, Kyle is certainly the one.

Program will focus on septic system management

Knowing how to manage a septic system is important for rural residents.

An upcoming program will offer the opportunity for rural homeowners to learn how to properly manage their septic system, with a focus on household practices and land use considerations near the drain

field to promote optimal functionality and years of use. Commonly encountered problems will also be discussed.

The program is scheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 15 at the Central High School Complex auditorium from 6:30 – 8 p.m. The Central High Complex is located

at 2748 Dogtown Road in Goochland.

This in-person program will also be available concurrently via Zoom for those who prefer to participate virtually.

Those who have questions concerning their septic system or need information on septic sys-

tem management will get plenty of information from this program.

Contact your local extension office in Goochland at (804) 556-5841 (email whitehd5@vt.edu) or Powhatan at (804) 598-5640 (email allisw2@vt.edu) for information and to register for the program.

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

The Library of Virginia, one of the oldest state libraries and archives in the nation, will mark its bicentennial in 2023 with a free exhibition, “200 Years, 200 Stories.” This program opened on Jan. 24 and will run until Oct. 28, 2023. The exhibition and multimedia experience celebrate 200 Virginians whose fascinating narratives are housed in the Library’s collections and together reflect the stories of Virginia.

The Library of Virginia was founded by the General Assembly on Jan. 24, 1823,

to organize, care for and manage the state’s growing collection of books and official records — many of which date back to the early colonial period. Since then, the collection has grown to 2 million books, newspapers, maps, prints and photographs, as well as 130 million manuscript items, making the Library the most comprehensive resource in the world for the study of Virginia history, culture and government.

“We’ve been fortunate to play such an important role in preserving Virginia’s history and culture for two

centuries,” said Librarian of Virginia Sandra Treadway. “This exhibition provides a great opportunity to educate the public about the significance of our collections and engage them in exploring the past while reflecting on how it connects to the present and our next century.”

Rather than a Top 10or a Who’s Who, “200 Years, 200 Stories” profiles Virginians of all stripes: heroes and villains, the famous and infamous, the powerful and the powerless. Stories feature Virginians like Ethel Bailey Furman, one of the

first black female architects in Virginia; David Martin, founder of the Martin Agency and creator of the famed tagline “Virginia is for Lovers”; Chinese immigrant Ow Chuck Sam, who became a naturalized citizen and served in the armed forces during World War II; and many more. History and art specialist Susan Glasser served as guest curator, helping to bring an outside perspective and select content that would reflect the diversity of Virginia’s narratives.

PHOTO BY SIDNEY WARREN

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 25

yoga will be held at the Goochland Branch Library from 4 –5 p.m. for ages 18 and up. a nyone 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. 26

a Gospel d iscussion Group hosted by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day saints will be held at Goochland Library (3075 river road West) from 7-8 p.m.

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. 27

The rotar y Club of Goochland will welcome sally Graham, executive director of Goochland Cares. The meeting starts at 7:30 a.m. and will be held 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. f or 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 from 10:30 — 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.

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 1

yoga will be held at the Goochland Branch Library from 4 — 5 p.m. for those ages 18 and up. Participants are asked to bring a mat to take part in the session, which will 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, FEB. 2

Family stor ytime will be held from 10-10:30 a.m. at the Goochland Branch Library for children ages 2-5 with a caregiver. Participants 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, FEB. 3

First Friday Films will be held from 4 — 6 p.m. at the Cochrane rock ville Branch Library. all are encouraged to round up the neighborhood crew and catch a fulllength feature film the first Friday of every month! Call (804) 749-3146 or visit the library at 16600 Pouncey Tract r oad f or more information.

Family stor ytime will be held at the Cochrane rockville Branch Library from 10:30-11 a.m. Families will enjoy a fun time with books, singing, rhymes and much more!

Family stor ytime 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.

Toddler and Preschool stor ytime will be held at the Goochland Branch Library from 1010:30 a.m. for children ages 2-5 with a caregiver. Participants 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.

MONDAY, FEB. 6

The Goochland Branch Library will host Goochland Bridge Club 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.

TUESDAY, FEB. 7

The Goochland Branch Library will host read to rover from 6:30 — 7:30 p.m. for children in grades K-5. This event will offer children the opportunity to practice reading in a relaxed environment with a trained therapy dog from Caring Canines. Call the Goochland Branch Library to reserve a time. Call (804) 556-4774 or visit the library at 3075 river road West for more information.

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 8

yoga will be held at the Goochland Branch Library from 4 — 5 p.m. for those ages 18 and up. Participants are asked to bring a mat to take part in the session, which will 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.

The Goochland Branch Library will host a program entitled “Black rebellion in Early america” from 7- 8 p.m. for those ages 18 and up. Participants will enjoy a presentation provided by the John Marshall h ouse. This talk features Gabriel’s Conspiracy, the German Coast uprising, and nat Turner’s rebellion. refreshments will be provided by the Friends of the Goochland Library. Call (804) 556-4774 or visit the library at 3075 r iver road West for more information.

THURSDAY, FEB. 9

The Goochland County Library will be hosting Cupcake Wars for kids ages 13-17 from 6 – 7 p.m. d o you enjoy cupcakes and expressing your creativity? Visit the library for a friendly and exhilarating cupcake decorating competition. registration is required at https://pamunkeylibrary.

libcal.com/event/9750255. Call (804) 556-4774 or visit the library at 3075 river road West for more information.

Family stor ytime will be held from 10-10:30 a.m. at the Goochland Branch Library for children ages 2-5 with a caregiver. Participants 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, FEB. 10

Family stor ytime will be held at the Cochrane rockville Branch Library from 10:30-11 a.m. Families will enjoy a fun time with books, singing, rhymes and much more!

Family stor ytime 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 the library to discuss the monthly book choice. Call (804) 556-4774 or visit the library at 3075 river road West for more information.

MONDAY, FEB. 13

The Goochland Branch Library will host Goochland Bridge Club 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, FEB. 15

a workshop entitled “avoiding the Pitfalls of Medicare” will be held at the Cochrane r ock ville Branch Library from 6- 7 p.m. Take part in this workshop to learn how to simplify the decision making process with Bryan Gay of Boomer Insurance. Call (804) 749-3146 or visit the library at 16600 Pouncey Tract road for more information.

yoga will be held at the Goochland Branch Library from 4 — 5 p.m. for those ages 18 and up. Participants are asked to bring a mat to take part in the session, which will 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. registration is required at https://pamunkeylibrary.libcal. com/event/9986055. Call (804) 556-4774 or visit the library at 3075 r iver road West for more information.

THURSDAY, FEB. 16

Family stor ytime will be held from 10-10:30 a.m. at the Goochland Branch Library for children ages 2-5 with a caregiver. Participants 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 for more information or to register for this rewarding program!

FRIDAY, FEB. 17

Toddler and Preschool stor ytime will be held at the Goochland Branch Library from 1010:30 a.m. for children ages 2-5 with a caregiver. Participants 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.

Family stor ytime will be held at the Cochrane rockville Branch Library from 10:30-11 a.m. Families will enjoy a fun time with books, singing, rhymes and much more!

Family stor ytime 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.

SATURDAY, FEB. 18

Crafternoon: n eedle Felting will be held at the Goochland Branch Library from 1 – 2 p .m. for those ages 18 and up. no skills are needed and all supplies will be provided. registration is required at https://pamunkeylibrary.libcal.

com/event/9748764. r efr eshments will be provided by the Friends of the Goochland Library. Call (804) 556-4774 or visit the library at 3075 river road West for more information.

MONDAY, FEB. 20

The Goochland Branch Library will host Goochland Bridge Club 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.

TUESDAY, FEB. 21

a program entitled “Virginia is Bear Country!” will be held at the Cochrane rockville Branch Library from 7-8 p.m. for those ages 18 and up. If you live in Virginia, you live in bear country. have you been visited by one of these fascinating creatures? Learn about our Virginia bears, some of their natural history, why and when you might see one and how to protect your property from their antics. This workshop will be presented by the Virginia d epartment of Wildlife resources and the r iverine Chapter of Virginia Master naturalists. Call (804) 749-3146 or visit the library at 16600 Pouncey Tract road for more information.

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 22

yoga will be held at the Goochland Branch Library from 4 — 5 p.m. for those ages 18 and up. Participants are asked to bring a mat to take part in the session, which will 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 r i ver ro ad West for more information.

THURSDAY, FEB. 23

Family stor ytime will be held from 10-10:30 a.m. at the Goochland Branch Library for children ages 2-5 with a caregiver. Participants 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.

Pro tt named Teacher of the Year

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

On Jan. 20, Goochland County Public School superintendent Jeremy Raley and Goochland High School (GHS) principal Michael Wright joined division leaders at GHS to surprise math teacher Megan Pro tt with the news that she has been named the Goochland County Public Schools 2023 Teacher of the Year.

A graduate of Sweet Briar University and the University of Virginia, Pro tt has served GCPS in a variety of roles in her 20-year career, including as an instructional assistant and second grade

WORK BEGINS ON ENTRANCE TO NEW ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

teacher at Goochland Elementary School, a substitute teacher and, currently, as a math teacher at Goochland High School.

She is distinguished by her exceptional skills in working with students who struggle the most with math. “Knowledge of math is a small part of what makes Mrs. Pro tt special to our students and community,” GHS assistant principal Brian Hahn said. “She would not make measurable gains in student growth and achievement without her uncanny ability to connect with and inspire students. Megan Pro tt is truly

one of the best.”

Pro tt will now represent GCPS in the Virginia Department of Education’s Mary Bicouvaris Teacher of the Year competition.

This May, Pro tt will be recognized alongside the recently named school-level teachers of the year, retirees, and division employee, team, and rookies of the year at the annual GCPS Evening of Excellence.

This year’s school-level Teachers of the Year are:

 Amanda Taliaferro, first grade teacher, Byrd Elementary School

Though completion of the new Goochland Elementary School is not expected until next year, work o cially began on one of the entrances to the facility last week. At their meeting on January 10, the Goochland County School Board voted 5-0 to approve a contract for $44,906,315 with Howard Shockey & Sons, Inc. for the construction of the new school. “We are excited to move this project forward and are very grateful for the support of the board of supervisors,” division superintendent Jeremy Raley said. “Unexpected cost increases may have jeopardized this project, however, through collaboration, teamwork, and perseverance, we are now able to construct a school that will meet the needs of our students, teachers, and community for decades to come.”

Bicentennial

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“We want exhibition visitors to experience the joy of discovery felt by our patrons every day when they encounter the treasures within our collections,” said Greg Kimball, the Library’s director of

public services and outreach.

The exhibition begins in the lobby with montages of individuals featured in the stories, a large map of Virginia on the lobby floor identifying the locations of the featured individuals, and an interactive kiosk for visitors to explore the evolution of the Library’s physical site or enjoy a look at the

institution’s internal workings.

Once visitors enter the Exhibition Gallery, another interactive kiosk presents the stories of 200 Virginians, searchable by themes and location, while “discovery drawers” allow visitors to explore ephemera collections with items such as travel brochures, posters and more.



Jennifer Carr, third grade teacher, Goochland Elementary School

Katie Hadd, fourth grade teacher, Randolph Elementary School



Barefoot-Reid will serve as school board chair for 2023



Brett Alvis, art teacher, Goochland Middle School

“We are grateful for the work of all of our teachers and sta at a time when that work is more complex than ever,” Raley said. “Our teachers of the year represent the excellence, courage, creativity, honor and optimism of our school division and our community, and we are excited to recognize them.”

ROSLYN RYAN Editor

The Goochland County School Board approved new leadership and committee representatives for the 2023 calendar year at its monthly meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 10.

Sandra Barefoot-Reid of District 1 will succeed District 4’s Michael Newman as chair of the Goochland County School Board. She began her o cial duties as chair during the Jan. 10 meeting. Angela Allen of District of 2 will serve as the vice chair for the 2023 calendar year. Diane Bennett was appointed clerk of the board.

Barefoot-Reid was also appointed to the School Health Advisory Committee, CTE Advisory Committee and the Special Education Advisory Committee.

Allen was named to the Gifted Advisory Committee, STEM Advisory Committee and the Policy Advisory Committee.

Newman was appointed to the Goochland Education Foundation, GCPS Facilities Committee and to serve as the Maggie L. Walker Governor’s School Alternate.

Other committee appointments made included:

The exhibition is one of several key events and initiatives planned to celebrate the Library’s bicentennial in 2023. Look for the full 200th anniversary event schedule in the coming weeks on the Library’s calendar at https:// www.lva.virginia.gov/events calendar/ or the website at lva. virginia.gov.

Karen Horn, District 3 representative, appointed to the Advisory Committee for Equity in Education, the Policy Advisory Committee, and as the Blue Ridge Virtual Governor’s School Representative

John Wright, District 5 representative, appointed as the Maggie L. Walker Governor’s School Representative, and to the GCPS Facilities Committee

BarefootReid

Allen

PHOTO COURTESY OF GOOCHLAND COUNTY SCHOOLS

FROM THE EDITOR

Soldier’s heroism should never be forgotten

ROSLYN RYAN Editor

Let’s just accept it right now: at some point today, something is going to go wrong. It might be one of those smaller inconveniences that can nevertheless turn what had been a good day into a slog – the computer program that keeps crashing, the traffic back-up that stretches for miles or the dogs next door barking endlessly. Or perhaps it could be something far worse, one of those events that changes the trajectory of your life and shakes you to the core.

As always, life offers an unending list of ways to challenge us, but what matters most is what we do when faced with those challenges. And today, it seems, is a very good day to reflect on that idea.

On this day, in 1945, legendary World War II hero Audie Murphy was involved in the action that would ultimately see him awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor, our nation’s highest award for valor.

There are two very interesting things about this. One is the sheer number of young people who have no idea who Audie Murphy was (at least according to my own very informal poll), and the second is the almost incompressible reality of what Murphy did.

Here, just for reference, is the citation that accompanied Murphy’s medal:

“Second Lt. Murphy com-

manded Company B, which was attacked by six tanks and waves of infantry. Second Lt. Murphy ordered his men to withdraw to prepared positions in a woods, while he remained forward at his command post and continued to give fire directions to the artillery by telephone. Behind him, to his right, one of our tank destroyers received a direct hit and began to burn. Its crew withdrew to the woods. Second Lt. Murphy continued to direct artillery fire which killed large numbers of the advancing enemy infantry. With the enemy tanks abreast of his position, 2d Lt. Murphy climbed on the burning tank destroyer, which was in danger of blowing up at any moment, and employed its .50-caliber machine gun against the enemy. He was alone and exposed to German fire from three sides, but his deadly fire killed dozens of Germans and caused their infantry attack to waver. The enemy tanks, losing infantry support, began to fall back. For an hour the Germans tried every available weapon to eliminate 2d Lt. Murphy, but he continued to hold his position and wiped out a squad which was trying to creep up unnoticed on his right flank. Germans reached as close as 10 yards, only to be mowed down by his fire. He received a leg wound, but ignored it and continued the singlehanded fight until his ammunition was exhausted. He then made his way to his company, refused medical attention, and organized the company in a coun-

terattack which forced the Germans to withdraw. His directing of artillery fire wiped out many of the enemy; he killed or wounded about 50. Second Lt. Murphy’s indomitable courage and his refusal to give an inch of ground saved his company from possible encirclement and destruction, and enabled it to hold the woods which had been the enemy’s objective.”

Murphy’s life reads like it was made for the screen, and of course that is where it would eventually end up. But before he was one of the most decorated military veterans in American history, or a Hollywood star with a spot on the Walk of Fame, Murphy was just a young man who wanted so badly to serve his country that he enlisted his sister to help fake the age on his enlistment papers.

After the war, Murphy would spend the rest of his brief life battling the invisible wounds of war, struggling with the same demons that plague so many of our veterans and lending his image and voice to advocate for others in the same position.

Murphy’s story is worth bringing up as often as possible, and those of us who do know of him should do whatever we can to ensure the next generation does as well.

But it also serves, perhaps, as a gentle reminder that almost every challenge we face over the course of our lives can be met with courage, and we are capable of handling them and moving forward.

Handle with care

(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.)

JACK AGNEW Contributing Columnist

When I was in Louisiana in the Army, I took demolition training from a crusty old sergeant who was real short and had had both of his eardrums blown out in Vietnam when a bomb went off too close to him. After the injury he always talked really loudly, because he couldn’t hear himself that well.

The first night I met him, a bunch of us were gathered around a huge campfire, flames probably 5 feet in the air. He appeared out of the shadows with an armful of brownishred sticks.

“This armload of what you see is TNT,” he said. “It’s dynamite. Be careful with it, respect it, and listen to what I say, and you’ll do fine.” And with that, he threw it into the fire.

There were probably about 10 of us in that class, and we looked like a covey of quail taking off. We thought the old guy had lost his mind, and was going to kill us all and himself. We flew through the woods trying to get out of the blast range, and heard him cackling

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like a hen.

“Come back, come back, it’s just going to burn, it’s not dangerous,” he said. “It’s fine, it’s fine.” It didn’t blow up, so we crept back carefully.

The veteran was laughing his head off and said, “No, it takes heat and a blow simultaneously to set off dynamite. It has to be done together, fire won’t do it. You can burn it, you can heat your C rations with it if you want to.”

The old way to set off dynamite was to put a blasting cap in the end, crimp a fuse onto the open end of the blasting cap, and run that back to the electrical charge, flame, or whatever you were using, and blow it off. When the blasting cap goes off, it sets off the dynamite. The blasting cap supplies the heat and the blow simultaneously.

When he was teaching us how to set the blasting cap on the fuse, the blasting cap has an explosive end, and the other end is a hollow little aluminum tube that you crimp onto the fuse. “You have to be real careful because if your crimping tool gets too close to the explosive end, you’re going to set it off and blow your hand off,” he said. “You have to crimp it so the fuse is stuck on good and tight, but not close enough to the explosive part where you set the cap off. You crimp the fuse on first, holding it behind your back, looking the other way, and crimp it in one smooth motion.”

Publisher Joy Monopoli

Managing Editor laura McFarland lmcfarland@powhatantoday.com

Editor Roslyn Ryan rryan@goochlandgazette.com

Sports Editor Robby Fletcher rfletcher@powhatantoday.com

Sales Representative Tom haynie thaynie@mechlocal.com

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

send letters to: The Goochland Gazette 8460 Times-dispatch Blvd. Mechanicsville, Va. 23116 Fax: (804) 344-8746 E-mail: editor@goochlandgazette.com

Of course, I pipe up, “If it’s so important, why don’t I hold it in front of myself so I can see what I’m doing, so I don’t crimp it too close to the explosive part?” He was waiting for that obvious question, and triumphantly said, “You genius, which had you rather blow off: your butt, or your face?” He had a point, after he explained it that way.

Crusty old buzzard.

Goochland wrestling splits matches at Louisa tri meet

ROBBY FLETCHER Sports Editor

Entering a tri meet at Louisa County riding a five-game winning streak, the Goochland wrestling team faced a tough Lions team that was looking to take down a scorching Bulldogs team that has found its groove late in the season.

The Lions succeeded in that regard, beating the Bulldogs 5721 on Jan. 18, though the Bulldogs still left the Louisa County gym with a 42-35 win over Orange County.

Before the tri meet, Goochland’s last competition came on Jan. 11, when the team took on and defeated Monticello, Albemarle and Charlottesville in a quad meet. The success from the quad meet was a primary reason the Bulldogs came into Louisa County with momentum.

Despite the team loss, there were still positives found in the performance, with pins by Jordan Duke, John Summitt and Patrick Harlow all coming in lightningquick fashion within the first period. In the 157-pound match, senior Reese Vincent also pulled out a tough 3-2 decision victory over Brandon Wallace.

It was the only match of the day for Harlow and Summitt, who accepted forfeits in Goochland’s favor when the team took on Orange County. For Duke though, it was a chance to redeem a loss against the Hornets, with the 120-pound Bulldogs wrestler losing in a second period technical fall to Justin Jones.

After the loss, Duke came back strong in his second appearance on the mat, needing only one period to claim the victory over Louisa County’s Harbor Amiss. The 1-1 record that Duke ended the meet with comes on the heels of a first period pin against Albemarle’s Ali Al-Nidawi in Goochland’s quad meet on Jan. 11.

Though the three pins were certain highlights, the Lions were able to pin down their Bulldogs opponents more often in their

home meet, getting six Bulldogs on their backs to give their team six team points per win.

Against the Hornets, the Bulldogs had pins from Vincent and 175-pound Ethan Winter to give them 12 points in the victory, both of which came in the first period.

Vincent, who looks to qualify for the state tournament again, is certainly making a case for being a favorite for a region title in the

157-pound class with another impressive showing in the tri meet. The win comes on the heels of one of his closest wins of the season when Goochland played Charlottesville, which Vincent won over Xavier Cassende in a 6-5 decision.

In the 138-pound matchup, Noah Daniel pulled out a 7-6 decision win over Gavin Meredith for a hard-fought three points for his team. After forfeits on the

Orange County side for the final two weight classes, the Bulldogs closed the deal and pulled ahead, with every point making a difference for their victory.

The Bulldogs have just a few more opportunities left in the season before they head to Warren County for their 3B regional tournament on Feb. 10-11.

They’ll first head to Henrico High School for the 28th annual

Warriors Invitational on Jan. 28 and then end the regular season with a tri meet featuring Dinwiddie and Patrick Henry on Feb. 1. The Warriors Invitational will feature 32 teams in the Henrico gym, including schools like Patrick Henry, Mechanicsville, Manchester and Benedictine.

robby Fletcher can be reached at rfletcher@powhatantoday.com.

PHOTO BY ROBBY FLETCHER

Goochland’s John summitt, seen wrestling at the Patriot revolution on dec. 10, won his matchup against Louisa County on Jan. 18 with a first period pin.

Goochland JV

Jan. 13. Guard Carson Murray (22) would hit the game-winning shot for a 54-52 Bulldogs win.

At the buzzer: Murray’s winner takes down Orange County

ROBBY FLETCHER Sports Editor

After a big 14-point win against William Monroe on Jan. 11, the Goochland junior varsity boys basketball team faced another tough opponent in the Orange County Hornets two days later.

It was a rough start for the young Bulldogs, who were down as many as 12 points, but with a strong fight to close the lead to within three points and later getting it down to one with eight seconds left in the game, the team needed someone to step into the shoes of the caped hero to deliver the knockout blow and complete the comeback over the Hornets.

Enter Carson Murray, a sophomore guard who scrambled past an Orange County defender and launched a stepback 3-pointer at the death that hit all nylon and pushed his team ahead to a 54-52 victory. The win was the JV team’s fifth of the season.

Head coach Kenneth Johnson credits the team’s

Local athletes featured on volleyball All-Metro team

ROBBY FLETCHER Sports Editor

The Richmond-Times Dispatch’s All-Metro girls volleyball list was released on Jan. 21, and it features two Collegiate Cougars who helped lead their team to a second consecutive LIS title and one of Goochland’s most relied upon seniors that helped lead the team a state quarterfinals appearance.

belief in themselves and a focus to never give up until the final buzzer as key reasons for the comeback. The second half turnaround wasn’t all from one great stretch of play, but from a mounting momentum built through making the right plays and the Bulldogs keeping their heads up as they slowly chipped away at the Hornets’ lead.

Before Murray’s winner was even an option, the Bulldogs got down early due to a cold start shooting and a lack of aggression on both ends of the floor. On the other side of the floor, Orange County had no issues with those aspects of the game, shooting the ball effectively and giving the Goochland offense a hard time.

It took the efforts of Goochland captains Owen Walton, William Geyer, Wyatt Dameron and Zach Summers to motivate the rest of the troops throughout a first half that was mostly in Orange County’s favor while Jake Tickle, Kinyon Ross, DJ Jones and Hunter Nagle

came off the bench to give the Bulldogs a small spark on defense.

The Bulldogs went into halftime down five, and after a quick third quarter run, it grew to 12, with the Bulldogs slowly losing ground with time draining from the clock. It took a timeout from Johnson for the team to regroup and get back into the comeback mindset, and after that short break, the team started to play their brand of basketball, getting the lead down to three in the fourth quarter thanks to improved defense and the shooting of Summers, Dameron and Walton.

After a quick two points and a defensive stop, the Bulldogs were only down by one with eight seconds left in the game and after another quick time out, the Bulldogs ran a quick play in which the ball found the hands of Murray, whose hesitation got his defender off his feet, leaving Murray the space to knock down the game winner and celebrate with his teammates on the Goochland floor.

Collegiate seniors Gabby Chenn and Taylor Domson made the All-Metro second team, capping off high school careers that ended in the Cougars winning backto-back LIS titles, ending a decade-long drought in the process.

Beginning her time at Collegiate primarily as a setter, Domson quickly grew into a jack-of-alltrades type of player for Collegiate, finishing her final season with 53 aces, 136 kills, 208 assists and 137 digs. For her efforts, she was also named the co-LIS Player of the Year and made the All-LIS team for a second time in her volleyball career.

After defeating St. Catherine’s in the LIS final in her junior year, Domson was able to make one more run at a title with her teammates in her senior year and, alongside co-captain Chenn, they were able to leave behind their high school volleyball careers with an impressive repeat performance and another championship under their belts.

“That was my primary goal, just to defend the LIS title and do it alongside girls I love as teammates and friends. And honestly to leave the match and

FILE PHOTO

senior and team captain Taylor domson was named a second team all-Metro honoree after helping the Collegiate Cougars win their second consecutive LIs title.

leave the season with no regrets, knowing I gave everything I could to the team and that title,” Domson told the Richmond Times-Dispatch.

Chenn’s final season with Collegiate volleyball ended with her also putting up big numbers, finishing her sea-

son with 75 aces, 134 kills, 79 assists and 136 digs. One of her best performances of the season saw her record 11 kills, seven aces and seven digs against St. Catherine’s in a 3-0 Collegiate victory on Sept. 20.

For the Goochland Bulldogs, who finished the season with a 15-9 record and as the regional runner-up, senior Nina Smith concluded her Bulldogs career with a solid final season in the red and black, helping her team to a 5-0 start to the season and a near-upset of York High School in the state quarterfinals.

The Goochland opposite hitter had 191 kills in her final season and 473 kills in her four-year tenure, and her strong senior season ended with her being a first team All-Region and second team All-State honoree. Now, she can add an All-Metro nod to that list of senior year accolades.

PHOTO BY JOEL BROWN

Goochland senior nina smith was named to the all-region, all-state and all-Metro volleyball teams after her last season as a Bulldog.

PHOTO COURTESY OF DREAM SPORTS

head coach Kenneth Johnson regroups with his team during a timeout against Orange County on

CLASSIFIEDS

PUBLICHEARINGNOTICE

GoochlandCountyBoardofSupervisors

PublicMeeting

Tuesday,February7,2023,6:00PM

GoochlandCountyAdministrationBuilding

1800SandyHookRd., P. O.Box10,Goochland, VA 23063

BoardMeetingRoomSuite250

Viewcountymeeting:https://www.goochlandva.us/1154/County-Meetings

IFYOUHAVECOMMENTSONTHESEPUBLICHEARINGITEMS,PLEASE SENDCOMMENTSTOBOSCOMMENT@GOOCHLANDVA.USORCONTACT 804-556-5811.

PLEASECHECKWWW.GOOCHLANDVA.USFORANYUPDATES REGARDINGTHISMEETING.

District 3–RZ-2022-00003 –Applicationby TruettRealEstateInvestments, LLC requesting arezoningof49.372acresfromAgricultural,Limited (A-2)toResidential,Limited(R-1),withprofferedconditions,onFairground Roadapproximately ¼milewestofMaidensRoadon TaxMapNo. 43-1-0-4-0.TheComprehensivePlandesignatesthisareaasSingle FamilyResidential,LowDensity. Thiscasewasdeferredfrom September6,2022toFebruar y7,2023,applicanthasrequesteda deferralofthisapplicationtoApril4,2023.

District 4–CU-2022-00015 –ApplicationbyCapitalBroad,LLC requesting aConditionalUsePermitforunhostedshortterm rentaland publicassemblyplaceon15.2acresat250BroadStreetRoadon Tax MapNo.47-9-0-5-0.ThepropertyiszonedAgricultural,Limited(A-2). TheConditionalUsePermitis requiredbyCountyZoningOrdinance Sec.15-112,inaccordancewithSecs.15-285.Gand15-290.The ComprehensivePlandesignatesthisareaasRuralEnhancementArea.

Countywide –ZOA-2022-00006 –AmendmenttoZoningOrdinance Sec.15-56(Pre-applicationsandapplications)to revisethecommunity meeting requirement.

Countywide –ZOA-2022-00007 –SubdivisionOrdinanceAmendment repealingArticle10(AccessManagement)initsentirety.Thissectionhas beenmovedtoArticle23oftheZoningOrdinance.

CountywideOrdinanceamendingCountyCodeSecs.2-26 (Officialelectoralmap,defined),2-32(Electiondistrictdescriptions)and 2-43(Precinctdescriptions)tocomplywiththe recentchangestothe GoochlandLouisaboundary.

Userswhoneedaccessibilityassistancecancontactthe CountybyphonethroughtheFederalInformationRelay Serviceat1-800-877-8339forTTY/Voicecommunication.

Meetingaccommodationsincludinginterpretersare providedupon request DeputyClerk:804.556-5811 E-mail:countyadmin@goochlandva.us. Website:www.goochlandva.us.

PUBLICHEARINGNOTICE

Gooc hlandCou nt yPla nningCommission

Thursday, February 2, 2023,6:45p.m.(note belowstar ttimes) 1800 SandyHookRd.,Board MeetingRoom Suite250, Goochland,VA23063

Meetingis Open to the Public View county meeting:htt ps://w ww.goochlandva.us/115 4/County-Meet ings

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6:45 p.m. –Board Follow Up 7:00 p.m. –PublicHearings

County Wide ZOA-2022-0 0002–Amendment to ZoningOrdinance Secs.15-102, 15 -112,15-132, 15 -142,15-152, 15 -162,15-172, 15 -182,15-192, 15 -204,15-214, 15 -232,15-242, 15 -252,15-262, and15-272(Uses andstructurespermit tedbyright(P) or by conditionalusepermit (CUP)) to allowenergystorage facilities by conditionaluse permit in theAgricultural,General (A-1), Agricultural, Limited(A-2),Industrial, Limited(M-1),and Industrial,General (M-2)Districts;toallow principalsolarenergy facilitiesbyconditionaluse permit in theAgricultural,General (A-1)District;toallow supplementar ysolarenergyfacilities by conditionalusepermit in theIndustrial, Limited(M-1),and Industrial,General (M-2)Districts; andtoallow accessor ysolar energy facilities as apermit teduse in allzoningdistricts exceptthe Agricultural, Intensive (A-3)District;toamend Sec. 15 -500 (Definitions)toadd solar-related terms; andtoamend Sec. 15 -289 (Renewableenergy) to addusestandards. Staf fwillbe requestingdeferralatthe meeting.

2022 District 5 ZR Z-2022-0 0004–Application by Tuckahoe Lands, LLCrequestingarezoning of 14.298 acresfromAgricultural,Limited (A-2)and Residential,Limited (R-1)to Residential, Limited(R-1),withproffered conditions,toallow 17 single -familylotsat 12310River Roadon Ta xMapNos.64-1- 0-75 -0 and64-1- 0-75 -A .The Comprehensive Plan designatesthisareaasSingleFamilyResidential, MediumDensity

Anyone mayattend to express opinionsont heabove. Full text of theabove informationis availableint he PlanningO f fice, 18 00 Sand yHook Road,S uite 28 0 Goochland, VA 23 06 3 Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. –5:0 0p.m Meeting accommodationsincluding interpreters are provideduponrequest Telephone:5 56 -5 86 0( TDD711 (V irginia Relay)) E-mail:count yadmin@goochlandva.us. Website:w ww.goochlandva.us.

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Goochland Fire-Rescue offers safety tips

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

There is something about the winter months and curling up with a good book by the fireplace. But did you know that heating equipment is one of the leading causes of home fire deaths? With a few simple safety tips and precautions you can prevent most heating fires from happening.

Be warm and safe this winter!

Keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet away from heating equipment,

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like the furnace, fireplace, wood stove or portable space heater.

Have a 3-foot “kid-free zone” around open fires and space heaters.

Never use your oven to heat your home.

Have a qualified professional install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters or central heating equipment according to the local codes and manufacturer’s instructions.

Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and

Family storytime will be held at the Cochrane rockville Branch Library from 10:30-11 a.m. Families will enjoy a fun time with books, singing, rhymes and much more!

FRIDAY, FEB. 24

Toddler and Preschool storytime will be held at the Goochland Branch Library from 1010:30 a.m. for children ages 2-5 with a caregiver. Participants 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.

inspected every year by a qualified professional.

Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed.

Always use the right kind of fuel, specified by the manufacturer, for fuel burning space heaters.

Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room. Ashes should be cool before putting them in a metal container. Keep the container a safe distance away from your home.

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.

MONDAY, FEB. 27

The Goochland Branch Library will host Goochland Bridge Club 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.

TUESDAY, FEB. 28

The Goochland Branch Library will host Mystery Book Club from 10-11 a.m. for those ages 18 and up. Join the group to discuss the chosen mystery title for the month. Call (804) 556-4774 or visit the library at 3075 r iver road West for more information.

ARIES • Mar 21/Apr 20

Aries, make a concerted effort to focus your attention on something that interests you. This may require that you find something new to stoke your passion.

TAURUS • Apr 21/May 21

It’s a week for love and you have all of the resources available to take advantage and explore your feelings, Taurus. Work things out in your head before taking action.

GEMINI • May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, currently you are playing a much smaller role at work than you would like. It is not that you aren’t capable, but it’s a matter of paying your dues before taking the next step.

CANCER • Jun 22/Jul 22

Cancer, don’t box yourself in with a strict to-do list and schedule. You need a little more wiggle room to explore your creativity and what makes you happy.

LEO • Jul 23/Aug 23

Your open and outgoing nature may lead many people to think they know all about you, Leo. Instead, you can be quite a mysterious person. Show others only what you want.

VIRGO • Aug 24/Sept 22

Believing someone is flawless can set you up for disappointment when you realize no one can live up to that standard, Virgo. Be realistic when assessing partners or other people.

LIBRA • Sept 23/Oct 23

Being available to other people is admirable, Libra. Make sure this is not at the expense of your own well-being. You may need to dial back and prioritize your own needs.

SCORPIO • Oct 24/Nov 22

Living in your comfort zone may lead to missed opportunities, Scorpio. You may need to let your risktaking side show this week. Enjoy the ride.

SAGITTARIUS • Nov 23/Dec 21

You might start to notice you are losing some traction in your love life, Sagittarius. Figure out a way to talk and spend more time together in the days ahead.

CAPRICORN • Dec 22/Jan 20

You may believe you can think your way out of a situation this week, Capricorn. But sometimes logic just doesn’t cut it. You may have to use your heart to get to the root.

AQUARIUS • Jan 21/Feb 18

Take a second look at your talents and your abilities, Aquarius. You may have been selling yourself short for some time. But you can accomplish anything with some effort.

PISCES • Feb 19/Mar 20

Don’t make assumptions about how others see you, Pisces. You have a lot to offer. It’s time to recognize all your strengths.