Across Virginia
RICHMOND, Va. (AP) — The owner of a Virginia roadside zoo and his nephew pleaded no contest Friday to multiple counts of animal cruelty and received suspended sentences, state Attorney General Jason Miyares announced.
Keith Wilson, owner of Wilson’s Wild Animal Park in Winchester, entered no contest pleas to 27 misdemeanor counts in Frederick County Circuit Court. Wilson’s nephew, Christian Dall’Acqua, pleaded no contest to 19 misdemeanor counts.
In 2019, 119 exotic and agricultural animals were seized from the zoo, including lions, tigers, bears, camels and water buffalo after a judge found Wilson “cruelly treated, neglected or deprived” the animals of adequate care.
Under a plea agreement, Wilson and his nephew were sentenced to 12 -month suspended sentences on each count, with a series of conditions. They cannot work, own, buy or sell any exotic animals for five years.
Wilson cannot have any more than 125 agricultural animals and is required to practice good animal husbandry. He also agreed to allow unannounced inspections by law enforcement, investigators and a licensed Virginia veterinarian for a period of five years.
If Wilson or Dall’Acqua violate any of the conditions of their agreement, they could serve 27 or 19 years in prison, respectively.
A house full of unsupervised children in Virginia were given sleeping pills by another child, causing them to be hospitalized Wednesday evening, police said.WTVR-TV reports that Hopewell Police were called to a home on South 16th Street around 5:30 p.m. where they found four children, ages 1 to 4, unresponsive. Three more children found in another part of the home were awake but lethargic. Their ages were not immediately known. Lt. Cheyenne Casale of the Hopewell Police Department said that the kids were left alone for a short period of time and that one of the kids who had prescription medication “got into it and shared with the other children here.” It was not immediately clear if the medication was prescribed to the 7-year-old child.
ROANOKE, Va. – Local developers have recently purchased Raleigh Court’s English Gardens apartments and are finalizing details to begin a historic renovation of the 75-year-old, 100-unit community. The new owners, doing business as Gardens at Grandin, LLC, are working towards listing the property on the Virginia Landmarks Register and the National Register of Historic Places. A historic renovation will follow that will preserve the integrity of the architecture while making much-needed repairs and modernizations.
Built on 4.79 acres in the Raleigh Court neighborhood, buildings within the community were constructed in 1947, 1950, and 1962. Of the 100 units across 20 buildings, 84 units are of historical significance. The remaining 16 units from the 1962 build are non-historical units.
John Powell, Jr., a representative for Gardens at Grandin, shared, “This renovation will preserve the historic significance and architecture of these buildings while replacing worn-out systems and modernizing living spaces to hopefully provide quality housing for another 75 years.”
The apartments have undergone limited upgrades since their original construction. Many of the integral building systems are over 70 years old and need to be replaced. Planned renovations include, but are not limited to, the replacement of the major mechanical systems (electrical and HVAC), water lines, and sewer lines. Interior (kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, etc.) and exterior updates (new roofs and landscaping) will also enhance the community. The disruption caused by active construction and complete replacement of the mechanical and plumbing systems will create an unsafe and unsuitable environment for housing.
“Unfortunately, it is unsafe for tenants to remain in the buildings during active construction. We understand that the process of relocation can be difficult, and we are working to help current tenants by offering several rent support opportunities to ease some of the financial burden created by this decision,” explains Katie Schlake, residential property manager with Hall Associates, Inc., the property management firm for the English Gardens.
Approximately 80 apartments are currently occupied with all residents on a month-to-month lease or a lease that expires on or before June 30th. Residents are being given 100 days advance notice that leases will not be renewed. After thoughtful consideration, rent for April has been waived to help residents pay for application fees/security deposits for a new residence and other moving expenses. Further, residents who leave early in May and June will be eligible for additional rent refunds and prorations. The advance notice and rent support opportunities are being provided to help residents through the relocation process.
Hall Associates will be working closely with residents to help connect them with community resources to ease the transition.
Frank Shushok, Jr.
Photo: Roanoke College
Roanoke College’s next president has an educational and professional background from large universities, but he says all institutions of higher education — regardless of size — face common challenges and should share many similar goals. Frank Shushok, Jr, earned his degrees at large universities, and his work experience is also within those settings. He is currently Vice-President for Student Affairs at Virginia Tech, and he learned yesterday he had been selected to lead Roanoke:
Shushok says regardless of size, colleges and universities must think alike in some important ways:
Shushok was selected from more than 100 applicants. He will become Roanoke College’s 12th president when he succeeds Michael Maxey in July.
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Statement From Roanoke College: The Roanoke College Board of Trustees has appointed Frank Shushok Jr., Ph.D. the 12th president of Roanoke College. Shushok, current vice president for student affairs at Virginia Tech, will succeed Michael C. Maxey, who will retire as president of Roanoke College in July, after serving for 15 years.
Shushok has 30 years of work experience in higher education, the past 13 at Virginia Tech in posts that include associate vice president, senior associate vice president and vice president for Student Affairs. He is also a tenured associate professor of Agricultural Leadership & Community Education at Virginia Tech.
“Throughout the Presidential search, Dr. Shushok inspired us with his spirit, energy and centered dedication to student learning,” said Malon Courts, chairman of the Roanoke College Board of Trustees and a 1992 Roanoke College graduate. “Dr. Shushok’s background aligns with the most important needs of the College, and he understands the value of who we are, our culture, people and traditions, including the importance of our rich Lutheran heritage. He will propel us forward, embracing innovation while respecting history and tradition to make Roanoke College an even greater institution.”
“I am grateful to the entire community who worked hard to find the right leader for our beloved College, especially Presidential Search Committee Co-Chair Kirk Betts. We are all thrilled to welcome Dr. Shushok to Roanoke College,” said Courts.
Shushok said he was drawn to Roanoke College for the cherished convictions held by the institution. “Roanoke College is a beautiful community deeply committed to students and their holistic learning,” he said. “Everywhere at Roanoke College, there are structures and individuals committed to a kind of deep learning that emboldens the human spirit, strengthens public discourse, and becomes a true north for what matters most. I admired this community the moment I discovered it, and I am honored to join the faculty and staff in pursuit of such a worthy calling. I am humbled by the Board of Trustees’ faith in me to contribute to this legacy that has been in motion since 1842.”
As Virginia Tech’s vice president for student affairs, Shushok provides overall leadership for one of the nation’s largest student affairs divisions, where he directs 25 departments and units. Shushok leads the maintenance and renovation of more than 30 percent of Virginia Tech’s physical campus, is a member of the president’s cabinet, and serves on many other boards and organizations at the university. He is especially known for his passion for integrating academic and student life and championing the role of faculty in the holistic development of students.
“As a national thought leader in residential education and student well-being, Virginia Tech has been fortunate to have Frank Shushok as our vice president for student affairs,” said Virginia Tech President Tim Sands. “He exemplifies the spirit of Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), and that will be a great benefit to the faculty, staff, and students of Roanoke College. We appreciate his dedicated service, and while he will be greatly missed at Virginia Tech, higher education in the Commonwealth has gained a talented new leader and we wish him all the best.”
Prior to his work at Virginia Tech, Shushok served at his alma mater, Baylor University, in several capacities, including dean for student learning and engagement, and associate dean for Campus Living and Learning. While at Baylor and Virginia Tech, Shushok has been a formidable fundraiser, a prolific author, and a passionate partner to underserved and underrepresented student populations. He authored and co-authored multiple in-depth studies, helped bring in millions of dollars in gifts, and led a re-organization that addressed the systemic pattern of residence hall racial segregation.
In 2017, Shushok was named a Fellow of the American Council on Education and took up residency at Wake Forest University, where he focused on fundraising, alumni engagement and enrollment strategy. “Frank Shushok is inquisitive, a great listener, and thinks creatively about educating the whole person, linking the academic life of students to their entire collegiate experience,” said Nathan O. Hatch, president emeritus of Wake Forest University. “I can think of no one better to lead Roanoke College in their aim to help students build lives of meaning and purpose.”
Shushok holds a B.S. in history from Baylor University, an M.A. in higher education and student affairs administration from The Ohio State University, and a Ph.D. in higher education policy, planning and analysis from the University of Maryland, College Park.
The Roanoke College Board of Trustees’ unanimous vote on March 21 confirming Shushok follows a five-month nationwide search conducted by a search committee of trustees, faculty, staff and students. Academic Search, a Washington, D.C.-based executive search firm, partnered with the College to conduct the search. The search produced a pool of more than 100 applicants of diverse backgrounds.
“Everywhere at Roanoke College, there are structures and individuals committed to a kind of deep learning that emboldens the human spirit, strengthens public discourse, and becomes a true north for what matters most. I admired this community the moment I discovered it, and I am honored to join the faculty and staff in pursuit of such a worthy calling.”
Frank Shushok Jr., Ph.D.
Michael C. Maxey, 11th president of Roanoke College, is retiring in July. Maxey has been with the College in various roles since 1985, serving as the president since 2007. Under Maxey’s leadership, the College has expanded in many ways, including an increase in diversity of the student body and senior leadership, construction and renovation of 15 buildings, emphasis on experiential learning opportunities for students, and implementation of Roanoke’s focus on assisting students in finding direction and purpose in their lives.
“I am thrilled to welcome President Elect Frank Shushok to the Maroon family,” Maxey said. “Terri and I found Frank and his wife, Kelly, to be a dedicated couple who are excited about the Roanoke College community. What struck me about Frank is how engaging he is and how interested he is in getting to know others. He and Kelly will fit right in at Roanoke College. His commitment to enriching the Roanoke community is clear. The College is in good hands with Dr. Shushok.”
At Roanoke, Shushok will join an institution highly regarded for its curriculum and emphasis on helping students find high-value careers and lives with meaning and purpose. In recent years, Roanoke College has become a top producer of academic scholars including Fulbright, Gilman, Goldwater and Truman awardees. New majors have been created in actuarial science, public health, engineering science, data science, education, creative writing and communication.
Roanoke’s academic programs are designed to help students understand who they are and how they relate to the world. The College produces students who can think critically, communicate clearly, and solve complex problems. With a 13:1 student to faculty ratio and an average class size of 18, Roanoke features small classes and hands-on opportunities for students to work closely with faculty mentors.
“When I learned about Dr. Shushok’s commitment to excellent education for students from diverse educational and socioeconomic backgrounds, and his approach to student learning and campus experiences, it became clear to me that he would be an inspiring leader for Roanoke College,” said Dr. Shannon Anderson, associate professor of sociology, faculty moderator, and member of the Presidential Search Committee. “I believe his engaging and collaborative leadership style will amplify what we do best as a liberal arts college: we help students discover their academic interests and gifts, guide them with our institutional focus on finding purpose, and then watch as they launch into lives with meaning.”
“I am very pleased to welcome Dr. Frank Shushok, Jr. as the next president of Roanoke College. Dr. Shushok exhibits passion for the liberal arts, total commitment to student success and the student experience, and a sincere desire to create an inclusive and diverse community in which all members can envision themselves as a part,” said Elizabeth G. McClenney, director of the library, and member of the Presidential Search Committee.
Emily Norton ‘23, former SGA president at the College and the student representative on the Presidential Search Committee, said that Shushok’s warm and genuine demeanor will endear him to Roanoke students. “I think that students will immediately be able to connect with President Elect Shushok and feel his excitement to be a part of our Roanoke community,” Norton said. “I, for one, look forward to working with him and continuing to get to know him as he steps into the presidency. He’s the kind of person you would want to hang out with at Mac and Bob’s, and someone who has a lot of knowledge to share.”
Shushok and his spouse, Kelly, are high school sweethearts who have been married for 30 years. Kelly has served more than 20 years in ministry, most recently as pastor at “edges,” a progressive United Methodist community in Blacksburg. Together, they have three children: Brayden, 22, who is employed at Morgan Stanley and 2021 graduate of Virginia Tech; Christian, 20, a sophomore at Sewanee: The University of the South; and Ivy Anne, 17, a junior at Blacksburg High School.
Additionally, the Shushok family comes to Roanoke College with one lovable and excited pup, Maple — the Maroon!
Governor Youngkin traveled to Lynchburg this morning to sign a bill that immediately outlaws vehicles called “Carolina Squats” It is a bill introduced by a Lynchburg lawmaker and passed in unusually quick time. “Carolina Squats” are pickups and SUV’s modified so the front bumpers are noticeably higher than the rear ones, and they are given their nickname for first becoming popular in the Myrtle Beach area. Critics say they dangerously limit visibility, especially when coming over hills, and they point to a fatal Virginia accident last month as just such an unfortunate example. WFIR’s Evan Jones has more:
South Carolina and North Carolina have previously outlawed “Carolina Squat” vehicles.
CLICK HERE for the Myrtle Beach Cam website which, among many other things, has videos of Carolina Squat cruising.
CHESAPEAKE, Va. (AP) — A man was fatally shot outside a Virginia shopping center, police said, marking another serious crime during a weekend of violence in the Hampton Roads region.
The Chesapeake Police Department said its officers responded to a gunfire report Saturday afternoon at the Holly Point Shopping Center, where they found a man who had been shot.
The man, whose name was not immediately disclosed, died on the way to the hospital, according to news outlets. No arrests have been announced.
The Virginian-Pilot of Norfolk reported that at least 15 people had been shot — four of whom died — in shootings between Friday evening and Saturday afternoon in an area stretching from Newport News to Chesapeake and Suffolk.
The shooting victims included Virginian-Pilot reporter Sierra Jenkins, who died at a Norfolk hospital after being shot during a shooting early Saturday outside a restaurant and bar. Devon M. Harris, 25, of Portsmouth, also died, and three others were wounded, police said.
A manager at Chicho’s Pizza Backstage said Jenkins, who was 25 and joined her hometown newspaper in late 2020, was caught in the crossfire as she was leaving the bar. No arrests had been announced as of Sunday.
Norfolk police said a shooting Friday night sent Leonco S. Lamb, 31, to the hospital, where he later died.
RICHMOND, Va. (AP) — A new, permanent leader for Virginia’s 23 community colleges has been named, after new Gov. Glenn Youngkin asked that the hiring process be restarted and an interim head be appointed.
The State Board for Community Colleges on Thursday picked Russell Kavalhuna, president of Henry Ford College in Michigan, as the system’s next chancellor. He’ll succeed the retiring Glenn Dubois.
His appointment came after Youngkin criticized the appointment process as lacking transparency and failing to address the system’s needs, in particular workforce development. But the board said no wait was needed because Youngkin’s concerns had been addressed, the Richmond Times-Dispatch reported.
Youngkin initially wrote a letter earlier this month to board Chair Nathaniel Bishop, saying the board had failed to collaborate with the administration.
Youngkin and Bishop conferred twice, but the governor requested more involvement. He still felt excluded from the decision-making process, he wrote in a second letter obtained by the newspaper.
“Our exclusion from your search process for the next chancellor was disappointing, and I strongly recommend that the selection committee appoint an interim chancellor and restart the process,” Youngkin wrote on Wednesday.
The board spent at least three hours in closed session Thursday before picking Kavalhuna, who was also a former federal prosecutor and commercial airline captain.
The governor believes the system hasn’t done enough to support workforce development to address the number of unfilled jobs in the state and to grow enrollment, according to Macaulay Porter, a Youngkin spokesperson.
“While there are outstanding individual schools, Virginia needs an entire system that supports all Virginians in the pursuit of gaining skills, furthering their academic goals and equipping them with the tools they need to succeed in an ever-competitive world,” Porter said.
In a letter to Youngkin on Thursday, the board said it had contacted the education and commerce secretaries soon after their appointments, and the selection committee added Jason El Koubi, interim president of the Virginia Economic Development Partnership.
The transparency, administration input and business involvement that Youngkin sought was accomplished, the board said, so “therefore, there is no need to delay nor repeat the process.”
POTOMAC FALLS, Va. (AP) — A woman was fatally shot early Friday when authorities said she lunged at Virginia sheriff’s deputies with a knife.
Loudoun County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a report of an argument at an apartment in the Potomac Falls area around 4 a.m., the sheriff’s office said in a news release. Arriving deputies found Faubricia Virtaux Gainer, 36, near the entrance of the apartment armed with a knife that she refused to drop, officials said. When she lunged at the deputies, Gainer was shot, officials said. Gainer was taken to a hospital, where she died.
Inside the apartment, deputies found a 38-year-old woman and 15-year-old girl with stab wounds they siffered during an argument with Gainer. They were taken to a hospital for treatment of injuries that weren’t considered life-threatening. Two other children in the apartment were not injured.
No deputies were injured. Virginia State Police are investigating the shooting at the request of the sheriff’s office.
MARTINSVILLE, Va. (AP) – Police in Virginia say a man fleeing an attempted bank robbery was caught after he crashed a motorcycle into a police vehicle. Martinsville police said a man entered the Carter Bank and Trust in Martinsville on Thursday afternoon, opened a bag and ordered the teller to put money inside. He didn’t get any money and left. Police were immediately notified and officers found the man as he was taking off on a motorcycle. After a brief pursuit, police say the man was involved in a wreck with a police vehicle. The man was taken to a hospital with minor injuries. Police say he will face charges once he’s released from the hospital.
(From University of Richmond Athletics)
BUFFALO, N.Y. (AP) – Jacob Gilyard scored 24 points and 12th-seeded Richmond leaned on its experienced lineup to defeat Big Ten champion Iowa 67-63 in the first round of the NCAA Tournament. Tyler Burton scored 18 points and had 11 rebounds for the Atlantic 10-champion Spiders, who improved their tournament record against fifth-seeded teams to 4-0. Keegan Murray scored 21 points and Patrick McCaffery added 18 for the Hawkeyes. Richmond advances to face the Midwest Region’s No. 4 seed, Providence. Iowa came in with the nation’s fourth-best offense but had its worst scoring output since January.