The Goochland Gazette – 08/05/2021 by Goochland Gazette

INSIDE County Sheriff’s Office summer program a big hit with local kids > page 8

Volume 66 Number 30 • August 5, 2021

Let the sunshine in The end of summer may be in sight, but there is still time to visit the annual Alvis Farms Sunflower Festival, which runs through this Sunday. For more information on the event, visit www.alvisfarmsva.com. Photo by Anna Stenberg

Weekend water outings scrapped after Goochland sewer line break By Roslyn Ryan Editor

While a sewer line break in Goochland’s eastern end has now been repaired, a recreational water advisory issued by the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) remained in effect as of Tuesday. According to Brookie Crawford, a spokesperson for VDH, the advisory that was put in place to warn

those heading to the river of possible adverse health effects was expected to be revised on Wednesday. Goochland County officials confirmed that the issue began on the evening of Tuesday, July 27, when a sewer line break occurred along River Road near the Henrico County border, releasing around 300,000 gallons of untreated sewage into a nearby ditch. The break led to the closure of River Road for several hours before it

reopened around midnight. County utility customers were not impacted by the break and no service disruption occurred. Representatives from Goochland County Department of Public Utilities, Henrico County Department of Public Utilities, Goochland County FireRescue, Goochland County Sheriff ’s Office, Henrico County Division of

see Sewer > 3

County announces new hires in Community Development and Financial Services offices Contributed report

Goochland County has announced that Mary Anna Twisdale has joined the County as the new Director of Financial Services and Raymond Cash Jr. has joined as the new Assistant Director of Community Development. see Staff > 3

TWISDALE

CASH

Thursday

August 5, 2021

NEWS: What’s Going on in Goochland County

Serving Goochland County Since 1955

Pets of the week

Kitchens/Baths Patios/Decks New Construction Doors/Windows Sidewalks/Pavers Remodels/Additions

SPORTS

Greg 804-457-9426 20 YearsBlanchard Carpentry Experience VA Lic. 27505-093745-A

Blanchard & Associates 804-457-9426 Greg VA Lic. 27505-093745-A 20 YearsBlanchard Carpentry Experience Residential Contractor, Inc.

Our

Second Century — Established 1897 — Charles D. Morehead, President and General Manager

Photos submitted by Julie Lawrence

The Goochland Animal Shelter, located at 1900 Hidden Rock Lane in Goochland, has the following pets available to a good home: A sweet, spayed female Beagle, about 7 years old; adorable kittens, about 3-4 months old; and a super-friendly spayed female mixed breed, about 2-3 years old.. The Goochland Animal Shelter is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. The facility has many lost dog and cat fliers posted. For more information on these pets, as well as the many more still in need of homes at the Goochland Animal Shelter, call (804) 556-5302. You also can visit the shelter on Facebook at “Goochland County Animal Control.”

Bennett West • Henrico 11020 West Broad Street Henrico’s families have trusted Bennett Funeral Homes in their time of need for an entire century.

Convenience Center to close for paving Contributed report

359-4481 • www.bennettfuneralhomes.com

Goochland County’s Central Convenience Center on Hidden Rock Lane will be closed on Thursday, Aug. 5 for paving, as weather permits. This is anticipated to be a one-day closure. During the closure, the closest alterna-

tive convenience center will be the Western Convenience Center located at 3455 Hadensville-Fife Road, Goochland, VA 23063. Goochland County’s Central Convenience Center and Western Convenience Center are normally open Monday to Saturday 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Elrod & Dunham

Dentistry

Elrod and Dunham Dentistry welcomes new patients with comprehensive, gentle dental care for all ages.

Please welcome our new hygienist, Kelsey, to our growing practice. Call to schedule your cleaning with Kelsey or Sara. We look forward to meeting your dental health needs. 7516 Right Flank Rd., 2979 River Road W. Mechanicsville, VA 23116 Goochland, VA 23063 (804) 746-1300 (804) 556-2530 elroddunhamdentistry.net

Recent Property Transfers 7414 Aldeby St., Glen Allen; Eagle Construction of Virginia LLC to Brian S. Robison, $586,336. 4841 Ashgrove Lane, Goochland; Daves Construction LLC to Annette Butler Jones, $302,750. 1299 Autumn Breeze Drive, Oilville; Hunton Station LLC to Larry L. Henshaw II, $475,000. 12301 Bienvenue Road, Rockville; Sarina Elizabeth Lewis to Marigrace Anderson, $210,000. 5461 Broad Street Road, Louisa; Benjamin W. Beatley to Michael Scott Dunlavey, $250,000.

1640 Cartersville Road, Goochland; Allen W. Martin to Anthony G. Cilona, $195,000. 1520 Forrest Meadow Lane, Manakin Sabot; Daniel Perrone to Jose R. Cedillo, $1,830,000. 174 Grayash, Richmond; Gwendolyn K. Newman to David S. Wagner, $240,000. 148 Honey Locust, Richmond; Rose T. Tharp, trustee to Donald M. Pallais, $890,000. 906 Kinloch Point Lane, Manakin Sabot; Kinloch Development Corp. to Richard A. Combs, $575,000. 3817 Leabough Road, Goochland; Michael D. Harris

to Rodney Fitzgerald, $245,000. 14004 Mosaic Nook, Richmond; HHHunt Homes LC to Paula W. Mahaffey, $420,950. 14006 Mosaic Nook, Richmond; HHHunt Homes LC to Karen Ashley Albright, $384,675. 3645 Pryor Road, Goochland; Cleopatra Carter to Robin Corliss McCarter, $259,800. 2030 Shallow Well Road, Manakin Sabot; Brian J. Lohr to Abel Gonzalez, $270,000. 367 Swinburne Road, Manakin Sabot; Boone Homes Inc. to Robert A. Warwick, $626,583.

Manta Rays hit water for CHAMPS meet PAGE 9 Calendar ................................ 4 Classifieds ........................... 14 Letters .................................... 6 Opinion .................................. 6 Sports ...............................9-10 TV Listings ......................11-13

CONTACT US Toll Free - (877) 888-0449 Office - (804) 746-1235 Joy Monopoli Publisher (804) 775-4614 Fax: (804) 819-5529 Denine D’Angelo Production Manager (804) 775-4624 Fax: (804) 344-8746 Roslyn Ryan Editor (804) 339-7956 Nick Vandeloecht Sports Editor (540) 728-0549 Cindy Adams Classifieds (804) 775-4616 Fax: (804) 344-8746

Thursday

August 5, 2021

Serving Goochland County

NEWS: What’s Going on in Goochland County

Since 1955

Through texts, program offers parents advice on preparing kids for school Contributed report It’s never too early to begin getting children ready for school, and now parents and caregivers in the Richmond region can sign up to receive two free texts each week with parenting facts and fun activities to help boost their young child’s brain development and learning capabilities.

Sewer continued from >1 Fire, Henrico County Police, and Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) all responded to the scene and break. All pertinent local and state agencies were notified about the break including the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality who also responded to the scene. A section of River Road (Route 650) in Goochland was closed off to allow for the emergency utility repair project. The VDH’s warning cov-

Staff continued from >1 Mary Anna Twisdale comes to Goochland County from the Virginia Department of Health, where she served as Business Manager for the Chesapeake Health District. As Director of Financial Services, she will provide leadership and oversight for the Financial Services department including budgeting, accounting, procurement/purchasing, and financial reporting functions to ensure compliance with local, state, and federal laws. In addition to approximately 15 years of local government accounting experience, Twisdale has eight years of direct budget development and financial management experience in a leadership posi-

Insights is a free text messaging program designed to support a child’s development in the early years and strengthen the relationship between parents and their children. Each week until the child turns three, Basics Insights sends two text messages which are personalized and age-appropriate based on inforered all of Tuckahoe Creek beginning at River Road, including the Eastern and Western Branches of Tuckahoe Creek, and the James River from Robious Landing Park in Chesterfield, Goochland, and Henrico counties to Belle Isle in the City of Richmond and advised against recreational water activities such as swimming, wading, tubing, and whitewater kayaking. The creek travels approximately 3.75 miles along the mainstem and the Eastern Tuckahoe Branch to its confluence with the James River near

tion including Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR) preparation and financial auditing work with the Virginia Department of Health, City of Virginia Beach, County of Fluvanna, City of Chesapeake, and the City of Charlottesville. She brings extensive knowledge of multiple Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) financial systems, and is completing her Certified Government Financial Manager credentialing this summer. “Mary Anna Twisdale is a great addition to the Goochland County organization,” said Barbara Horlacher, Deputy County Administrator for Administrative Services, “Her education and experience will be a great asset to the County in her oversight of Financial Services.”

mation provided on the signup form. Signing up is fast, easy and free. Go to https://smartbeginningsrva.org/join-the-basicsnow/, choose English or Spanish, and then click the link or scan the QR Code. The texts align with sciencebased parenting and caregivRobious Landing in Henrico, Goochland, and Chesterfield counties. To ensure public safety in this high-recreational use waterbody, the advisory extends from the James River at Robious Landing Park to include all of Belle Isle (approximately 12 miles of the James River). VDH has observed no evidence of impacts to drinking water at this time. To prevent recreational water illnesses due to exposure to sewage release events, people should:

Raymond Cash Jr. comes to Goochland from Chesterfield, where he has held the position of Zoning Administrator for the past seven years. As Assistant Director of Community Development he will assist in overseeing the Department of Community Development including planning and zoning and environmental land development. He brings extensive planning and zoning experience to Goochland, having worked for the Chesterfield County Department of Planning for the past 17 years. While in Chesterfield County, Cash accepted the challenge of writing the subdivision ordinance and zoning ordinance amendments. His experience will be a great addition to Goochland County and the Community Development team.

ing principles of The Basics, a program developed at Harvard University that was brought to the Richmond region in 2018. The core principles of The Basics are simple, powerful things that parents and caregivers can do with children ages 0-5 to help them thrive and reach their full potential Avoid contact with the waterbodies noted above and observe advisory signage posted at waterbody access points. Avoid any area of the waterbody where there is water with a foul odor, dead or dying fish, or discolored water. Promptly wash skin with soap and water if you cannot avoid contact with water in the vicinity. Seek medical care and notify your practitioner of the waterbody exposure if you experience adverse health effects after contact with the waterbody.

“On Mondays, parents will receive an evidence-based fact about their child’s development. On Wednesdays, they’ll receive a suggestion for a fun activity that they can do with their child to boost learning,” said Meg Pienkowski, Vice President of Community Partnerships & Programs at Smart Beginnings

Greater Richmond. “The messages serve as great reminders and sources of new ideas for connecting with their little one.” To learn more about The Basics, visit rvabasics.org. The website contains tip sheets on each of the five principles along with other helpful resources, all available in English and Spanish..

WE ARE NOW OPEN

ON SUNDAYS from 11:30 - 8:00! Please join us. Featuring Brunch items from 11:30 - 2:30

1601 Hockett Rd. Manakin Sabot, VA

Summer Movie Night At Old Trail Please join us on Friday, August 13th as we show Disney’s “UP” on the front lawn of the church. The Movie Starts at 8:30pm. Popcorn and Bottled Water will be provided. Bring a chair and/or a blanket as we watch the movie.

If this movie is rained out, the makeup date is scheduled for Saturday, August 14th. For inclement weather updates or date changes, please visit our Facebook page.

Old Trail Church of Christ 3015 River Road West Goochland, VA 23063 https://www.facebook.com/oldtrailcoc

No Drop Offs. All Children Must Be Accompanied By A Parent Or Guardian Over 18 Years Of Age.

Have an idea for a community news story? Send news tips to Roslyn Ryan at rryan@goochlandgazette.com or contact the Gazette at (804) 339-7956.

Thursday

August 5, 2021

THE SHRINE OF THE BLACK MADONNA SANCTUARY BOOK OF THE MONTH Young, Gifted and Black By Teresa Perry, Claude Steele and Asa Hilliard

GOOCHLAND SELF-STORAGE

Clean Storage Facilities at a Convenient Location • 6 sizes available • From $59 a month • On call 7 days a week • Conditioned units available 81827-01

Oilville Business Park • 784-4949 Located at Oilville exit on Rt. 617

www.goochlandselfstorage.com

Working hands-on with direct contact throughout the Buying or Selling process. Resident and Real Estate CALL Broker DEBRA! Specializing in Rural Property for Over 30 Years

Debra Hoffman, Associate Broker OFFICE: 347-3878

debra.hoffman@penfedrealty.com

Advertise In The Goochland Gazette! Call 804-746-1235 for details.

NEWS: What’s Going on in Goochland County

Serving Goochland County Since 1955

Library Calendar Tuesday, August 10 Retirement by Design: Justin Williams with Edward Jones Financial discusses the need to define retirement goals and determine the savings needed to reach those goals from 6 - 7 p.m. Registration is required at https://pamunkeylibrary.libcal.com/ event/7812502. This virtual program is hosted through Zoom and the meeting link will be sent to the email registered one day before the event occurs. If you don’t receive your reminder email on Monday, Aug. 9, please contact the Cochrane Rockville Branch Library at (804) 749-3146. This program is for those ages 18 & up. For more information or if you have a special physical or communication need, please contact ask@pamunkeylibrary.org.

Wednesday, August 11 Join the Atlee Virtual Book Club from 11 a.m. - noon for a lively book discussion on Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Lisa See. Place a hold on your copy today or check it out on hoopla or OverDrive. Registration is required at https://pamunkeylibrary. libcal.com/event/7822690. This virtual program is hosted through Zoom and the meeting link will be sent to the email registered one day before the event occurs. If you don’t receive your reminder email on Tuesday, August 10, please contact the Atlee Branch Library at 804-559-0654. This program is for those ages 18 & up. For more information or if you have a special physical or communication need, please contact ask@pamunkeylibrary.org. Thursday, August 12 Hanover Safe Place: This interactive virtual workshop, which will be held from 6 p.m. – 7 p.m., explores the dynamics of sexual assault, who is most vulnerable to experience it, perpetrator accountability, importance of consent, and false reporting. We’ll also discuss how to help someone after trauma and what community resources are available. Registration is required at https://pamunkeylibrary.libcal.com/event/7812514. If you don’t receive your reminder email on Wednesday, Aug. 11, please contact the library. For more information or if you

have a special physical or communication need, please contact ask@pamunkeylibrary.org or call the Mechanicsville Branch Library at 804-746-9615.

and the meeting link will be sent to the email registered one day before the event occurs. If you don’t receive your reminder email on Monday, Aug. 23, please contact the library. For more information or if you have a special physical or communiSaturday, August 14 cation need, please contact ask@pamunHerb Garden Planning and Planting: keylibrary.org or call the Atlee Branch Linda Toler, Master Gardener with the Library at 804-559-0654. Goochland Powhatan Master Gardener Association, shares how herbs add beauty, Tuesday, August 24 flavor, and fragrances to our lives. With foresight, planning, and preparation, you Honey Heist: Those in grades 6-12 can have a truly wonderful herb garden are invited to join in and play Honey that will keep on giving with minimal Heist, a one-shot style D&D game, from care. This program will be held from 4 - 5 p.m.! Registration is required at 11 a.m. – noon. Registration is required https://pamunkeylibrary.libcal.com/ at https://pamunkeylibrary.libcal.com/ event/7752388. This virtual program is event/7812497. This virtual program is hosted through Zoom and the meeting hosted through Zoom and the meeting link will be sent to the email registered 1 link will be sent to the email registered day before the event occurs. If you don’t one day before the event occurs. This receive your reminder email on Monday, program is for those ages 18 & up. If August 23, please contact the library. For you don’t receive your reminder email more information or if you have a special on Friday, Aug. 13, please contact the physical or communication need, please Goochland Branch Library at (804) 556- contact ask@pamunkeylibrary.org or call 4774. For more information or if you the Mechanicsville Branch Library at 804have a special physical or communication 746-9615. need, please contact ask@pamunkeylibrary.org. Saturday, August 28 Friday, August 20 Kids’ Lego Club: Meet and talk with other kids about your current creations, ask questions, and show off your amazing Lego builds! This program, held from 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. is for kids in grades K-5. Registration required - sign up online or see a staff member to register. Registration is required at https://pamunkeylibrary. libcal.com/event/7687558. This virtual program is hosted through Zoom and the meeting link will be sent to the email registered one day before the event occurs. If you don’t receive your reminder email on Thursday, Aug.19, please contact the Atlee Branch Library at (804) 559-0654. For more information or if you have a special physical or communication need, please contact ask@pamunkeylibrary.org. Become a Citizen Scientist: Learn how you can make real contributions to scientific research in your spare time. This program is being held from 2 - 3 p.m. Registration is required at https://pamunkeylibrary.libcal.com/event/7822662. This virtual program is hosted through Zoom

CoderDojo: Those in Grades 3 – 12 will learn how to develop logic-based coding skills and use creative problem-solving with Scratch. Registration required- sign up online or see a staff member to register. Go to https://pamunkeylibrary.libcal. com/event/7687562 to sign up. This program is hosted from 2- 4 p.m. on Discord. For more information or if you have a special physical or communication need, please contact ask@pamunkeylibrary.org.

On Demand Videos Storytime for Grownups Premieres Wednesday, August 11. Ages 18 & up. Storytime is not just for kids! If you like to be read to, join us for a monthly short story for adults. Starting August 11, go to our YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/user/pamunkeylibrary), our Adults page (https:// tinyurl.com/prladults), or Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/ PamunkeyLibrary) to see the video. For more information, contact ask@pamunkeylibrary.org. see Calendar > 13

Thursday

August 5, 2021

Barbie girl in a garden world: Famed doll offers tips on growing in the Golden Years

By Virginia McCown Contributing Writer

Long ago and far, far away a child’s fashion doll, Barbie, was introduced. Barbie and I shared many good times. We grew up together. We went to proms, left home and then sought-out our first jobs. We traveled the stiletto-heeled road together of young womanhood. But even before that, toy Barbie and I began to distance from each other. It was those high heel shoes. Using the Metro or subway or simply

walking on polished floors left this Barbie with multiple sprained ankles. Around 2015, several toy Barbie’s were designed with flat feet. Thank you, Mattel, for cleverly averting the potentially disastrous Bunion Barbie. The economic losses for a Bunion Barbie doll could have irreparably changed fashion doll history forever.

Meet ‘Suddenly 60 Barbie’ Yep, she arrived but not in your favorite stores — just in real life. Here are her recommendations: Wear practical shoes Most Barbie feet are permanently frozen into one shape and that shape fits into stiletto high heels only. Except for aerating the lawn, stiletto shoes are good for little else.

Since 1955

Local Events

In The Garden

With a few simple changes, you won’t need to retire those shears any time soon

Serving Goochland County

NEWS: What’s Going on in Goochland County

Through trial and error, Suddenly 60 Barbie learned that vent-free Crocs and waterproof gum shoes are her first choice for garden footwear. For heavier jobs such as the rototiller or mower, steel toe work shoes or boots — not be as comfy as Crocs — are reliably safer while using heavy equipment. Build raised beds Bending has become an issue for Suddenly 60 Barbie. Raised beds are easier to work in and access plants. But Suddenly 60 Barbie understands that raised beds require more watering unlike in-ground garden beds. It’s a trade-off. Save water or save your back? In urban areas where soil quality, chemical residue, pesticide and herbicide content is questionable, constructing raised beds is necessary. Suddenly 60 Barbie compromised. She has both raised beds and a traditional in-ground vegetable garden. She also utilizes more and more containers. Good news: drip irrigation systems have dropped in price. They’re affordable for everyone and in many settings, including container gardening. Clothing and color Television’s Walking Dead is filmed in the Richmond metro area. Suddenly 60 Barbie might be confused with someone applying as a series extra. Her gardening clothes consist of capris or cut-off light-weight pants, a beat up shirt, and an old cargo vest. The cargo vests holds twine and light weight tools. A widebrimmed hat is essential and comfort is key. Color is important. Insects tend to be attracted to flowery colors — particularly yellow. Wear muted colors. If you wear a mask for work in a community garden, choose your mask color with this in mind.

see Garden > 7

The Purple Hearts Relay team will be hosting a Stamp Card Bingo on Saturday, August 14 at 7 p.m. at Mt. Gilead Baptist Church Fellowship Hall, located at 4768 Shannon Hill Road, in Columbia. The cost is $20 for 6 faces, and food and drinks will be sold. Trail Life Troop VA-2019 will be holding an Open House from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Aug. 17, at Ragland Memorial Baptist Church (2838 Sandy Hook Rd. in Goochland). All are invited to come and enjoy a hotdog dinner while learning more about Trail Life. Troop members will be on hand to answer questions and assist those who would like to sign up.

“Your Home is My Business” P.O. Box 67 Powhatan, VA 23139 bruce@thehousegeek.com www.thehousegeek.com

(804) 921-8367

Bruce Blackwell State Licensed Home Inspector #3380000220 NRS

Backto

School If your child is entering 7th grade they must have the Meningitis, HPV, and Tdap vaccines in order to enroll. Talk to your doctor and vaccinate them now!

Thursday

August 5, 2021

Serving Goochland County

OPINION: Editorial, Letters to the Editor

Since 1955

Young life saved for a purpose By Jim Ridolphi Contributing Columnist

Contributed photo

Shively, Goochland Rotary honored for outstanding achievement The Rotary Club of Goochland recently announced that out of 62 Rotary Clubs in Rotary District 7600 , Jay Shively was one of five Club Presidents who received the outstanding Presidents Award at the Rotary District 7600 Awards Ceremony on Saturday, July 10. In addition, the Rotary Club of Goochland was one of five club’s that received the Governor’s Circle award and the club was also recognized as one of the top achievers in several categories, including Club Administration and Public Image. As Jay Shively, Immediate Past President 2020 - 2021 of the Rotary Club of Goochland recently shared, “The dedicated men and women of the Rotary Club of Goochland is comprised of 63 dedicated, service-driven individuals who are focused on improving our local community and the world. It is a pleasure and an honor to help meet the needs of our community alongside my fellow Rotarians and friends.” Pictured, from the left, John Kendig, Cyndy Brown, Vern Fleming, Jay Shively, incoming President Dan Linnaberry, Frank Huber, Mark Orgain, Bonnie Fields, Andy Hayes and Delbert Horn. Not pictured, John Aaron and Matthew Neels

Celebrating those among us brave enough to fail By Roslyn Ryan Editor

Like so many millions of people around the world, I remember watching the Olympic Games on television as a child. And just as young people have always done, my friends and

I back then took far more from the Games than just entertainment. There were life lessons there too, allegories that helped shape our view of the wider world we were just beginning to step into. I know I saw plenty of spectacular finishes and fairy-tale moments,

Editorial & Business Office and Mailing Address: 8460 Times-Dispatch Blvd. Mechanicsville, VA 23116 Phone – (804) 746-1235 Toll free – (877) 888-0449 Fax – (804) 344-8746 Online: www.goochlandgazette.com

Publisher Editor Production Manager Sports Editor Sales Representative Classifieds

Joy Monopoli

jmonopoli@RSNVA.com

Roslyn Ryan

rryan@gooochlandgazette.com

Denine D’Angelo ddangelo@mechlocal.com Nick Vandeloecht nvandeloecht@powhatantoday.com Tom Haynie

thaynie@mechlocal.com

Cindy Adams

cadams@mechlocal.com

but I also remember the events that didn’t quite fit the typical storyline, the reminders that life so rarely plays out in reality the way it does in the movies. Does anyone remember when swimming legend Greg Louganis struck his head on the diving board during the preliminary rounds of the

1988 Olympics in Seoul? How about when Cuban pole vaulter Lazaro Borges’ pole snapped in half while competing in London in 2012? And then, in the tear-jerker cat-

see Olympics > 7

WE WANT TO PUBLISH YOUR ISSUE-DRIVEN LETTERS The Local 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: 344-8746 E-mail: editor@goochlandgazette.com © 2021 by Richmond Suburban Newspapers. All advertising and editorial matter is fully protected and may not be reproduced in any manner without the permission of the publisher. CAC Audited Circulation: 8,014.

Think there is no light at the end of the tunnel? Consider the story of Drew Robinson. To the outside observer, and even those closest to the budding minor league baseball star, his life appeared to be almost perfect. Unfortunately what seems idyllic to the majority is actually not even close to the reality of a person struggling through mental illness and depression. Robinson came from a baseball family and followed his brother Chad to the world of professional baseball, skipping a college career. He was rated among the top rookies of the 2010 draft, alongside top rookies like Bryce Harper, and landed a spot with the Houston Astros’ organization. He enjoyed some powerful seasons during a seven-year minor league career, but also suffered the ups and downs associated with life in the pros. Although he had a comprehensive support system in the form of a loving family and a devoted girlfriend, Drew knew something was missing and he eventually began to detest his life. Outside, it all looked perfect. But inside, Drew was becoming increasingly disturbed with a life he didn’t think he deserved, a daily existence he had learned to hate, and the struggle to find self-worth and happiness. Brief stints in the major leagues and almost instant returns to the minors didn’t help with Robinson’s plight. The almost euphoric sensation of a call up to the big leagues was immediately replaced with the disappointment of failure and the self-doubt that accompanied see Robinson > page 7

Thursday

August 5, 2021

Class offers a chance for behind-the-scenes look at how county runs Contributed report

Would you like to learn more about Goochland County? The Goochland Leadership Enterprise (GLE) is now accepting applications for its 23rd Class. These classes introduce Goochland residents to their county by providing information on topics such as the county’s history, county departments and services, agriculture, economic development and the budget process. Participants are intro-

duced to both country and state government officials. GLE hosts 13 sessions, typically every other Wednesday, at 7:00 PM from mid-October through early April. Sessions are held at different locations in the county to provide further insight into Goochland’s history and environment. Registration is in progress and continues into October. For additional information, brochure, and applications call the Goochland Extension Office at 804-556-5841.

Schedule for GLE Class Orientation/Pictorial County Tour/History Oct 16 Agriculture and Natural Resources Oct 30 County Administration, Revenue, Treasurer Nov 13 Sheriff, Clerk of Courts, Commonwealth’s Attorney Nov 20 Education Dec 04 Community & Government Service Dec 18 Budget & Fire Rescue Jan 8 County Development Jan 22 Dinner with Board of Supervisors (Tuesday) Feb 4 State Legislature (Day at the State Capital) (Monday)Feb 18 Business and Economic Development Feb 26 Leadership: Getting Involved! Mar 25 Graduation Dinner Apr 8

Robinson continued from >6 it. In April of 2020, it all became too much for Robinson to endure, and, in an instant, grabbed a pistol and shot himself. It was what he thought would provide a sure solution to years of suffering with mental illness. Now with San Francisco Giants, Robinson was well aware of his personal demons, but was unable to communicate his desperation to anyone, even those closest to him.

His off and on girlfriend since high school had endured it all. The optimistic promises, the deep pits of depression and his seemingly uncaring behavior were not enough to force her departure. After abruptly ended engagements and a cancelled wedding the two pursued separate lives, but she never lost her commitment to the boy she had fallen in love with in high school. Robinson thought of her as he awakened the next morning in intense pain, and quickly realized the extent of the damage. He sat in the exact place

Serving Goochland County

OPINION: Editorial, Letters to the Editor

Since 1955

athletes reminded us that they were human —that they made the same mistakes and fell victim to the same bad luck we all do — that have stayed with me, perhaps because they served as a reminder that we all start from the same place. We all have the potential for greatness, and the same vulnerabilities as well. The difference, so

often, is simply in the amount of effort some of us are willing to put toward achieving the goals we have set for ourselves. The men and women who compete at the Olympic Games do so knowing that they may not succeed. In fact, they may fail catastrophically. But the fact that they try anyway is something so inspiring,

chores every half hour helps considerably. She never stays continued from >5 with one chore or one tool for Tools and repetitive over an hour. action Gloves Some wonderful hand A good pair of gloves is tools for older people as well as for the handicapped are avail- vital to the health of your able. You can find these online hands and nails. But just one and even in some stores. Yet, good pair you ask? Not necthere are other things to con- essarily. Suddenly 60 Barbie sider. Suddenly 60 Barbie has buys ’em by the dozen when learned that constant repeti- they’re on sale. This includes tive motion is one of her worst soft cloth work gloves as well enemies. She survived carpal as the ones with latex coated tunnel syndrome. This can be palms. Don’t leave gardening disputed by professionals, but gloves inside a hot shed or in Suddenly 60 Barbie finds, by your car all season. Launder using a timer if necessary, that them in cold water and store if she assigns certain chores to them inside the home. Do this, a specified time period and and they’ll last a lot longer. alternates her movements she avoids a lot of aches, pains, Never a Girl Scout numbing and cramping. That’s right. Suddenly 60 For example, she finds Barbie was in the Civil Air changing and alternating her Patrol as a youth. She wasn’t garden tools and gardening a Girl Scout. She also knows

planting native plants is the way to go. Planting native species helps native bees and other plants. Yet she confesses liking some of the foreign invaders. Some of those invaders are legacy transplants from family members. What to do? She compromises. While keeping her beloved pet favorites, she’s planted as many native species as possible. Cone flower (Echinacea) and butterfly weed (Asclepias tuberosa) are interspersed all over. Aggressive native plants such as trumpet vine (Campsis radicans) and poison ivy (Rhus radicans) are thriving denizens of her gardens as well.

Olympics continued from >6 egory, there was the image of British sprinter Derek Redmond in Barcelona in 1992 being helped to the finish line by his father after tearing his hamstring during a race. It’s those moments when

Garden

he’d been 20 hours earlier when he fired the shot, and faced the most important decision of his life. Holding the pistol in one hand and a phone with 9-1-1 keyed in the other, he contemplated his future. He chose life and dialed for emergency assistance. Robinson survived the shot that destroyed his right eye and endured long weeks of recovery in the hospital. Due to COVID, no in-person visits were allowed. That did not deter soul mate Daiana from driving to the parking lot each night just

to be close, and text support. After the incident, Drew addressed his mental health issues. He became open with his family and friends, and now attends regular therapy sessions. He’s not afraid to acknowledge a bad day, or express feelings of depression to friends and family. He told a reporter that the bullet that entered his head that frightful day had not killed him, but had killed his ego, and a man that had one year earlier hated himself, learned to love life. His passion for baseball also returned. One year after the inci-

so important to witness, that I think it should be highlighted as often as possible. If they can dare so greatly on the world stage, what is stopping the rest of us from doing so in our daily lives? As the Tokyo Olympic Games continue, it’s certainly something worth thinking about.

ed to farming. Sweet Orchard Farm Barbie is keen on keeping traditions and helping her community. Her little red boots, her farm/garden clothing are really quite stylish. Okay, okay… Eventually toy Barbie, real Barbie and Suddenly 60 Barbie will resemble a women’s true reality. She’s getting there. Suddenly 60 Barbie has offered the above gardening suggestions but realizes she is not a health care professional by any means. Her recommendations are only a brief summary of what she’s experienced while aging in the garden. Will there be a Suddenly 70 Barbie? I sure hope so. I doubt Sweet Orchard it’ll be all that SUDDEN, howFarm Barbie ever. Her recommendation? Mattel has introduced a Use common sense and never flat-footed Barbie that’s devot- stop gardening!

dent, Drew took the field in his hometown of Las Vegas. After a decent run with the minor league club, Robinson announced his retirement and accepted a job in the San Francisco front office as a mental health advocate earlier this month. Drew’s story is disturbing, the details troubling and the reality too intense to fathom, but it’s a story he’s willing to share if it assists others who suffer. He encourages them to share their distress, trust in the love of family and friends and address mental issues early and often.

According to reports, Daiana and Drew remain best friends and are taking it one day at a time. Drew explains that his life was spared so he could share his story and help others who are suffering, and he has found peace in a life that although it appeared absolutely perfect to many on the outside, but, in reality, provided only turmoil. I think it’s fair to say we are all rooting for him, and thankful for the lives his message will impact. Assistance is available at the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255.

Thursday

August 5, 2021

NEWS: What’s Going on in Goochland County

For kids, a week of summer fun alongside local heroes

he first annual Goochland County Junior Deputy Academy recently wrapped up after a week of games, water fun and time spent learning what it takes to protect and serve in Goochland. The Goochland County Sheriff’s Office (GCSO) would like to thank all the volunteers and instructors for their time, as well as Goochland County Parks and Recreation and Goochland County Public Schools for their partnership. According to the GCSO, 43 local children participated in the event. Photos contributed by the Goochland County Sheriff’s Office

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August 5, 2021

SPORTS: Youth, High School, College, Recreational, Professional

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Manta Rays take on Day 2 of GRAL CHAMPS meet Staff Reports

Goochland YMCA’s Manta Rays swim team concluded competition in the 2021 Greater Richmond Aquatic League Champs meet with the 13-14 and 15-18 age-group events last Tuesday at Swim RVA in Midlothian. In the mixed 13-14 agegroup relays, Goochland’s Benjamin Stevens, Simon Smith, Malachi Montgomery and Annika Rogerson placed third in the 200-yard JV freestyle relay (1:55.57) and added a time of 2:14.83 in the 200 varsity medley relay. In the 15-18 age group, Grace Kemmerly, Leyton Sutherland, Anneliese Rogerson and Jessica Valdez swam a 1:52.41 in the 200 JV freestyle relay. Individually, Annika Rogerson, competing in the Photos by Nick Vandeloecht/Goochland Gazette girls 13-14 group, took fifth Goochland YMCA swimmer Annika Rogerson swims the butterfly in the Greater Richmond Aquatic League Champs meet at Swim RVA last Tuesday. overall in the 100-yard butterfly (1:08.68) and recorded three more top-eight swims in the senior varsity division. She swam seventh in the 50-yard freestyle (27.51), seventh in the 50 fly (29.87) and eighth in the 50 backstroke (31.77). Annika was one of three swimmers, including her older sister Anneliese Rogerson and Grace Kemmerly, to represent Goochland YMCA in Tuesday’s individual events. Both Anneliese and Kemmerly competed in the From left: Grace Kemmerly swims the backstroke, Anneliese Rogerson swims the butterfly and Leyton Sutherland competes in a medley relay last Tuesday. girls 15-18 age group. Kemmerly swam a 32.24 in the 50 back, boarded a 28.73 in the 50 free, notched a 1:09.65 in the 100 back and took second in her heat of the 100 free with a time of 1:04.91. Anneliese placed sixth in the senior varsity division of the 100 fly (1:06.41) and swam times of 29.26 in the 50 fly, 1:06.94 in the 100-yard individual medley and 1:17.05 in From left: Simon Smith competes in a medley relay, Malachi Montgomery competes in a freestyle relay, Jessica Valdez concludes her swim in a freestyle rethe 100 breaststroke. lay and Benjamin Stevens competes in the opening backstroke leg of a medley relay in the Greater Richmond Aquatic League Champs meet at Swim RVA.

Thursday

August 5, 2021

SPORTS: Youth, High School, College, Recreational, Professional

Serving Goochland County Since 1955

Photos by Clay Farnsley/RVA Performance Training

From left: Goochland softball’s Chelsey Farthing tracks down a flyball for an out; Adam Webb serves in the boys tennis state doubles tournament; Goochland girls soccer’s Grace Becraft maintains possession of the ball against pressure from an opponent while Perry Nuckols looks on; Goochland lacrosse goalie Caitlin McDermott passes the ball during a game at Powhatan.

Scenes from Goochland, Benedictine’s 2021 spring season Staff Reports Goochland and Benedictine capped off the 2020-21 athletic year with a spring season to remember. Benedictine’s baseball team came together after an 0-3 start and won 19 of their next 22 games, including the last 11, to earn their second consecutive state championship. From Goochland High School, two student-athletes became state champions. Multisport standout Chris White won the Class 3 outdoor track and field titles in both the 300-meter hurdles and the 200meter dash, and rising junior Evan Bernstine won his first singles state Class 3 boys tennis championship in addition to earning runner-up honors in state doubles alongside Adam Webb. Also in states for track and field, Tyler Black finished runner-up in the Class 3 state pole vault. Goochland’s boys soccer team went unbeaten in the regular season and reached the regional semifinals (11-1). Goochland’s girls soccer (7-3), softball (8-5) and baseball (6-5 regular season) teams all competed in the regional quarterfinals, and Goochland’s girls lacrosse team completed its first season. Heather Raley and Margaret Townsend represented Goochland girls tennis in the regional doubles tournament.

From left: Goochland’s Chris White leaps a hurdle on the way to winning the Class 3 state championship in the 300-meter hurdles; Michael Aleksa pitches in Benedictine’s Senior Day game; Goochland’s Heather Raley returns a ball during a Class 3, Region B girls tennis doubles match.

From left: Andrew Jones goes after a ground ball; Megan Reid runs the opening leg of the 4x800-meter relay during a regular-season outdoor track and field home meet; Tyler Black warms up for the Class 3 state pole vault; Charlie Flammia (20) battles an Independence player for the ball in regionals.

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