INSIDE Goochland resident turns storm-damaged tree into work of art. > page 6
Volume 61, Number 33 • August 18, 2016
BOS votes to rezone property in Courthouse Change could pave way for business development, but land’s use will be regulated
Benedictine grad returns from Rio a gold medalist. See page 11
Readying to return Teachers, students will see several changes as school kicks off Monday Bigger, better bus will be hitting the road
By Roslyn Ryan Editor
The Goochland County Board of Supervisors has unanimously approved the rezoning of several parcels of county-owned property in the Courthouse area, paving the way for the possibility that the land could be developed for business use. The land, which had previously been zoned as A-1 (Agricultural limited), and R-3 (Residential general) is now zoned B-1, meaning that commercial development is allowed. Addressing the board during the Aug. 4 supervisors meeting, county planner Tom Coleman explained see Rezoning > 3
Martin to perform on AGT again next week By Roslyn Ryan Editor
Martin
Coming home, with hardware
Hometown favorite Ronee Martin will be making another appearance on the NBC reality competition show America’s Got Talent, competing in the live show on Tuesday, Aug. 23. She is currently part of the top see Martin > 3
The schools’ transportation department will be welcoming two new buses to its fleet this year, including a 77-passenger model that boasts several new safety features. The bus, which holds about a dozen more students than previous models, also features a three-camera video system, two stop signs (including one on the back of the bus), LED lights on the signage and in the taillights, and a GPS tracking system.
“Folks who are saying ‘Schools were better in my day’ don’t recognize the fact that what you do today is not really like what schools were like five, 10 or 15 years ago … it seems like just as you get a handle on what you need to do, more tasks get added on.” Dr. Steve Staples, state superintendent for public instruction, addressing Goochland County teachers during the school division’s convocation celebration on Aug. 12.
Heading back is hard to do: Need tips on getting back in the school year routine? See page 8
Construction wrapping up As the start of the school year nears, crews are working to complete a $1 million renovation project at Goochland Elementary School that will not only upgrade plumbing but also add a secure entry point to the front of the 60-year-old building. The new entry will route visitors to the school through the front office, GCPS Finance Director Debbie White explained. An elevator will also be added to make the building’s second floor accessible to those with disabilities. White said she expects the work will be completed by Aug. 22.