RVA Mag

Richmond, VA Culture & Politics Since 2005

Menu

Best Of RVA Missed Connections: November 7 – November 13

|

Topics: , , ,

Apparently a lot of hearts were set aflame this week, and more than a little of it happened at shows, from hot pit action at Good Riddance in Norfolk to some serious closeness in the pit at GWAR. Whether or not you rocked out with some cuties this past week, though, you still might find love in the Missed Connections section. Especially if you’re hanging out at Wawa, or driving your Jeep to the gym.

And if you’re stuck working cashier at a Southside grocery store, have no fear — dashing strangers are seeking to take you away from all this. They’ll let you know about it through the pages of this week’s Missed Connections.

Good time at GWAR (The National)

You: short black hair, black hoodie, tight jeans; jumping, grinding, deft hands, not sure about biting.

Me: grey long-sleeve shirt, jeans, short brown hair; surprised, flattered, hair pulling, tight grip, very into you but there with someone else.

Tell me what part of the venue we were in if you’re interested in more dedicated attention.

Missing my Chubby Girl (Norfolk)

It’s been a cold spell and I’m loney. I am 49 year old guy and can host.

Sexy school teacher at wawa (Wawa bailey bridge)

I seen you at the wawa your blue eyes and tight dress was absolutely eye catching and definitely a fantasy kind or woman you are if you seen this contact me put (your teacher) in subject line. Hope to make a fantasy come true

ALL THE PRETTY LADIES AT (MCV)

JUST TO LET YALL KNOW YOU ARE ALL SO EASY ON THE EYES!!!! ESP IN THOSE LEGGINS OH MY GOOTNESS !!!! I TRY NOT TO STARE OR DROP MY MOUTH WIDE OPEN LIKE A DOG IN HEAT SO I JUST CATCH A BRIEF GLANCE AND CARRY ON AS IF NOTHING HAPPENED BUT INSIDE IM SCREAMING DAAAAAAAYYUUUUUUUMMM !!! LOLZ AS THE OLD SONG GOES “I’M A GIRL WATCHER HERE COMES ONE NOW!!!”” MY MY MY I’M JUST A RANDOM CONSTRUCTION WORKER THAT WORKS DOWN THERE WITH YALL AND WANTED TO LET YOU ALL KNOW YOU ARE APPRECIATED ALL OF YOU EVERY RACE CREED LONG HAIR SHORT HAIR BROWN BLOND BLACK GREEN EYES BLUE BROWN AND GRAY .

Veteran’s day ..got boobs? (Chesapeake)

Happy Veterans day to all my brothers and sisters who have served!I saw a meme earlier this morning so ladies please make this bet happy!it say ” show a veteran your boobs it’s the American thing to do”

Jan……. 1970’s (Richmond)

Jan….. we are still in touch from time to time but both have seperate lives now. Just had to tell you that when we were younger you made my heart flutter. So beautiful and so fun…… and the sexiest most kissable feet I have ever seen (probably the cause of my current obsession… ha). Anyway just want to let you know how you imprinted my life. Wonder if you can figure this out… would do a “same time next year” with you anyday.

Good Riddance at Peabody’s

You’re the red haired girl that jumped onto my back in the pit. You were awesome and a lot of fun! I must see you and talk to you before the next show we meet at.

Cute girl at Walmart on rt.10 (Rt.10 chesterfield)

Just throwing this out there, I hope you get this.You bumped me with your shopping cart in the checkout line.I wanted to talk to you but I was in a hurry.This was about 2 weeks ago, can’t get you off of my mind.Let me know if you wanna chat.

Hot cashier at Foodlion (Chester)

I’m looking for the hot cashier at the foodlion off chester rd.I haven’t seen you in a while.Short girl with glasses, and big tatas.I’m single now, if anyone can help me find her, I haven’t seen her and don’t know if she still works there. Thanks!

Mistress Gingers subby boys (Chester)

Looking for my playmates. If you’ve played with me before contact me. Must be able to describe me and our session details. Used to post on bp and cl. Hope to find my old playmates soon.

Anytime Fitness Forest Hill Jeep JK (Forest Hill)

So, I see you going in to AF from time to time.

You drive a dark grey Jeep.

You’re usually there around 11-noon or so.

You look really good in your tight workout pants – you usually wear black but recently, you’ve worn grey.

I’d love to slide them off of you and work out everything that’s underneath.

M4M

Best of RVA Missed Connections: October 31 – November 6

|

Topics: , , ,

The weather is turning chilly here in Richmond, and it’s the perfect time to find a sweetheart and curl up by a warm fire. But only if you promise to be careful — if you roll into the fire while you’re testing out jiu jitsu techniques on each other, we won’t be held responsible.

This week also brings us some beachgoers who aren’t sure whether to dress for winter or for summer — a problem we can all relate to lately, I’m sure. Don’t forget the dominatrixes in Volkswagens, the ghosts who stuck around after Halloween, and the nuns who might not want to be nuns anymore. They’re all here in Missed Connections this week, and they just might be looking for you! Especially if you’re that guy. You know, THAT guy.

Dive in, Richmond.

Looking for Jiu Jitsu Girl

Is there a Jiu Jitsu girl our there willing to grapple with an untrained but very fit strong male? Let’s roll! I’m in Virginia Beach.

Shoes off under your desk (JCC)

You sat in your all glass cubicle working at your computer, you had your shoes off and were using your toes to play with your shoes, one of your coworkers was assisting me in the main area..every so often you peeked and me from around your PC monitor.. just wanted to say thanks for the show ❤

Please ignore the map, it is not correct…

VW DOMINATRIX (Over by chezterfield town center)

ABOUT 6 MONTHS AGO……..
We were driving around the parking lot. I thought u were HOT! little did i know! I pulled over and so did you. I WAS NOT PREPAIRED, FOR WHAT WAS ABOUT TO HAPPEN! You got out of your car in public and started walking my way. I froze up like…….well like a scared underserving pig. I had no idea you were dressed like that…. full on Dominatrix! A LEATHER WHIP AND EVERYTHING! IVE BEEN LOOKING FOR U EVER SENCE. PLEASE TRAIN ME, HOW EVER YOU SEE FIT!

Stars (Front Royal)

I am in the shadow that creeps across your wall
And in the fingers of the wind as it tangles up your hair
I am in the corner of the eye of the stranger lurking by; I am Ghost.
I am in the shriek that shatters your sleep
And in the dance of the branches of the dying autumn trees;
I am in the silence and in the shouting, too;
I am Ghost.
I am in the tears weeping on your window
And reflected in the puddle in a fold between the ripples;
I am in the lonliness as she reaches for the phone,
And in the empty house, that aches for a family who will never return;
I am Ghost.
I am in the echo of hollow laughter gone;
I am in the rip in the wallpaper and the old patterns peeking through
And in the yellowed newspapers stacked up in the hall;
I am Ghost.
I am in the invitation forgotten in the drawer
And in the legs of the spiter who lives beside the light;
I am in the rusty ring on the claw-footed tub.
I am Ghost.

Girl damn I miss you.
Your essence.
Your being.

Gabby, the Francophile (Richmond)

Did you ever get that drink?

stuarts draft nun (22911)

I once met a nun from stuarts draft at a store near crozet her name is Kim, she told me she was tired of being a nun. I really wanted to help her but lost her contact info. Would like to reconnect.

Gold chain at wawa (Staples)

Purchased your gold chain from you recently. We met a wawa in the pouring rain. You had someone with you, not sure if they were a friend or significant other. You seemed cool, maybe even someone who I could explore new friendship possibilities with. Im just curious.. if that may be a possibility?
Tell me how I was not alone either for our exchange. That should be super easy for you.

Kroger (Daleville)

Ann in Drug GM, we spoke in the parking lot, you have the handcuffs and whip…

…I have the nipple electrodes and stimulators…

Let’s have some fun.

To that guy (Richmond)

Hey! I’m pretty sure I’m the guy you were looking for before, but for some reason craigslist isn’t letting me respond to your ad. Any way, you were under 40, and you were the “top” guy looking for “the guy”.. I hope this isn’t too vague. Get in touch.

Wards corner taco bell (Norfolk)

Hey, i walked in with an older gentalman Saturday night, Nov 3, & we ordered a taco pack & I a 7 layer. You were working, asked if i wanted a cup & gave me one. Not knowing where it came from, you said “I have it to you”. Then you took your break & we just kept looking at each other while i waited for our food. I think you’re beautiful & would like to get to know you more.

Older guy walking (Track)

Wow! I was amazed at what I saw this morning. You were an older gentleman and you were walking at the park in Midlothian near AMFAM. I walked passed you on the path and when I did I saw your sausage and every conture. Very nice! I’m glad my husband decided to stay home this morning. I hope to see that again sometime in the future. P.S. I went home and took it out on my husband. I know he appreciated what you did for him and ME.

You were dressed for winter, I for summer (North beach near ?60?)

You were bundled up and I was not. My dog took to you quickly. We briefly discussed your profession and an upcoming festival. I hope to see you there for those 2 birthday drinks mr. Scorpio! I should’ve given you my number on the beach today. You seem super chill & can fulfill your doggy desires while playing with mine and I’ll be the bonus. 😉 Hope to see you tomorrow…ill be looking for those dreads. I was a couple of blocks off, I’m on 28th. Hope to See you on 24th tomorrow!

 

Astral Plane: Weekend Playlist by Shagwüf

|

Topics: , , , , , ,

Every Friday night, RVA Mag drops one scorcher of a playlist curated by Virginia’s most influential artists, musicians, and institutions.

As you look for that sexy sweet freak this weekend, let Richmond’s glam gutter punks, Shagwüf, take you on a thrill-ride full of mind-bending harmonic reverberations, suited for whatever your night-work needs might be this November weekend.

Keep banging, Virginia.

Best of RVA Missed Connections: October 24 – October 30

|

Topics: , , , , ,

The cool crisp casual air of October is full of mischief and missed connections. The perfect combination for an all-hallows meet up in the most auspicious of locations: including one of the most prestigious houses at Hogwarts.

This week, you’ll also find a guy with a leather fetish (hellbent for leather) in Culpepper, and a man looking to connect with gingers: asking all of Central Virginia, “Where you be?” Also, are you a police officer in Midlothian? Someone is looking for you; the “incident” has sparked a curiosity that has grown into something more — dare we even say — “interesting.”

All this and more below. Get amongst it, Richmond.

My Ravenclaw:

I miss you too, everyday.

Jacob: Mall Drive

i was in Lidl today for the first time you asked if i need help and i did , your a very outgoing man and a great look about you we talked a little i wish i would have asked for your number but i chicken out if you see this hit me up

Cyclist: Powtan

When I was leaving the store I noticed you and you noticed me. I was with the guy who had a leather fetish. We know each other from back in the day and we’re very close. Think you lived in Culpeper.

Green Shirt Brown Pants Tattoos White Truck: Wawa Sliding Hill Rd. Near Home Depot

I wanted to speak but lost my nerve, I was hoping to end up in line behind you but I was too late. What color is my car?

Powhatan McDonalds: Powhatan

Allison i come through the drive through & every time you’re working. I’d like to get to know you. I know this is a long shot. Dinner on me? not McDs though lol.

Penn Station Subs Last Saturday: West Broad

So, you started coming in again a few times lately. A few times you just made a small purchase but this time you ordered food. I know we made eye contact several times. Am I reading this wrong that you may be interested?. I hope not. You are a male so if you know who I am and felt something pass between us, you know what to do. Describe me so I know it’s you and let’s talk again.

Gingers: Richmond

Love gingers’ personalities. Where you be?:)

At Home Wasting Away No More: The Fan

We talked for a few minutes you were going to dinner but needed a drink before. You were mad bc you wanted to stay with me but couldn’t on account of the cheating hubby. Wish we could chat? Hit me up with the bar we briefly talked.

Monas Cigar Bar:

hello you were there with several of your friends for a party. we made eye contact as you were leaving the humidor hope to hear from you.

Police Officer: Midlothian

You are a police officer that responded to a call tonight. I was not a part of the incident directly, but we did talk. If you read this, put in the subject line the location of the incident! Hope to hear from you!:)

ES Lobby:

Im looking for a woman in her late 20 -30s. After catching my eyes in hotel lobby and taking taking my breath she disappeared. Never had a chance to talk to you her after check out. I looked everywhere now kicking myself that we weren’t able to connect. You: tall, brunette, Tight jeans, and, white sweater & boots. I hope you are out there, because I would love to possibly connect. Here all week at same hotel in hopes to see you again.

I would tell you more about me, but I’d rather do it directly in an e-mail due to my position. If this sounds like you or if you know her, please send me a message!

Clear PS4 Controller: Richmond

You had to wait for a while in electronics because I was helping this one guy already, and when he left, you told me you wanted one of the clear PS4 controllers, and we both agreed that it looked amazing, and I had my eye on one of them too. Apparently the color is called ‘crystal.’ Anyway, after I rang you up, for some reason I laughed at the receipt printing out sort of crimped, and you giggled as well, then you went on your way.

The chances are super slim that you’ll even see this, but I might as well try right? I remember thinking you were so beautiful and seemed so kind, you had a cute voice, and your blonde hair looked so pretty, (I realize how creepy this sounds), but I kept thinking of ways to smoothly ask for your number or something cliche like that, but couldn’t think of anything. Anyway, if you read this, I’d love to be able to talk to you more sometime. Maybe we can play something together!

Beautiful Redhead: Kroger Ivymont

You were wearing a flannel shirt and had gorgeous red hair. I wanted to speak to you but you were on the phone and my shyness is hard to overcome. Wished I would have been more bold at the time.

This all Women’s Pinball Tournament in Richmond brought the Heat

|

Topics: , , , , , ,

The world loves an underdog story — and IPAs, White Claws, and costumes. Oh, and also pinball. 

The Richmond Pinball Collective, a non-profit social club, held their first Gal-O-Ween Women’s Pinball Tournament this weekend with players coming from all over the Commonwealth. Also in attendance were members of the Richmond chapter of Belles & Chimes, an international network of women’s pinball leagues. Most players were there to win, some were there to support their league’s event, and others had no idea what they were getting themselves into. 

Enter Maya Leyden: a junior and physics major at the College of William and Mary — and an underdog contender for Gal-O-Ween. RVA Mag followed Leyden on her quest to win this pinball tournament, but what became clear was that neither of us really had any idea what to expect. Pinball is just a game for fun, right? Figuring she’d just play a couple of rounds and call it a day, we entered the tournament area. 

Walking into the Richmond Pinball Collective, Leyden was greeted by Laura Fraley, the club’s president. Standing beside her was the club’s vice president, Clark Fraley, dressed in a pink dragon onesie (amazing). The walls of the Pinball Collective were a deep purple, and lined entirely with pinball machines; sitting conspicuously on the counter were three trophies.

“There are trophies? I want one,” said Leyden, determined. We both laughed — Leyden had ever thought about winning a pinball trophy before. Today was her day. 

Bringing the Heat at Gal-O-Ween

While this was a weird blip of a Sunday afternoon, it was a chance to pull back the curtain to peek inside a different world. To others, this was a chance to showcase their skills. 

The stakes in this tournament vary in degree depending on who you are. If you’re a serious competitor, you’re there to rack up points for your World Pinball Player Rankings (WPPRs). Since this tournament was for women only, the points count toward the players’ women’s world rankings only. The International Flipper Pinball Association has a player-ranking system for competitive pinball players, with co-ed tournaments awarding regular WPPRs. Fraley, for example, has placed at number eight in an international tournament, and gets ranked accordingly. 

Leyden’s penchant for the game spurs from her father’s love of pinball, and from having two machines in their basement. She knew there were professional pinball players, but didn’t exactly know the extent of the culture surrounding the game — or of that people came just to be spectators and cheer on the tournaments. 

Players bought beer from the selection of IPAs and White Claws behind the counter. The turnout for this tournament was much higher than expected.

“I was thinking 15-20 people,” said Fraley. “We ended up with 24, and that’s about the size of a men and women’s tournament.” Originally stressing about the attendance and event planning, it all paid off in the end. “This is all women in pinball…and I’m melting here, I’m melting,” she said, basking in her success. 

Fraley explained the rules of the game while Taylor Swift’s “Blank Space” played in the background. The competition was a three-strike tournament with 24 total players. Four players at a time competed at a machine — group knockout style. First- and second-place point-earners were in the safe zone, and third- and fourth-place point-earners received a strike. A player’s third strike disqualified them. 

The top four players were each awarded a percentage of the tournament registration fees, and the third, second, and first place winners also got one of the neon light-up trophies. In Fraley’s love for the tournament, she paid for the trophies out-of-pocket. 

The energy in the room was radiating with friendly competition. Players discussed the pros and cons of wearing heels while playing. Some liked to lean down at eye level, while some liked to stand over the play field, seeing it from a bird’s-eye view. One player dressed as Wednesday Addams walked down the line of machines and smiled, “We’re all gonna win!” Other players were dressed as Velma from Scooby Doo, cowgirls, and doctors; Leyden wore devil horns. 

The overall vibe was about the women competitors, all of whom congratulated each other, shouting,“good ball!,” and shaking their heads with empathy when a round didn’t go so well. “It only takes one ball, one ball,” the players kept repeating to each other. One good ball could solidify your spot in the safe zone. 

“I feel like that’s how all the all women’s events go, a much more supportive atmosphere,” said Juana Summers, who traveled more than five hours from Baltimore to attend the tournament. Summers and another player, Stephanie Traub, both opted to wear headphones while they played, giving off a more intense aura. 

For the most part, Traub kept to herself. Summers and Leyden ended up playing a couple rounds against each other, joking around and supporting each other through the process. Others were starting to feel the pressure. Player Christina Turner told me she was nervous. 

“You don’t think it’ll be intense because it’s pinball, but it really is nerve-wracking,” Turner said. “Once you’re here, and other people want to win, you want to win, too.” 

As the tournament progressed, the player pool got smaller. Leyden ended in the top five, without a strike bracket. Walking around the room, I snapped pictures and took in conversations happening around me at the various machines. “She’s astounding,” someone said, pointing to Leyden. Fraley saw me in awe. 

“Your girl’s doing pretty well,” Fraley said. “Looks like you’ll be here a while.” Summers asked if she’d ever played in a tournament before. Leyden smiled, and told her no.

“You’re kidding me!” Summers laughed. 

Richmond Pinball Collective

The last four competitors were Leyden, Traub, and two women named Caroline Creekman and Sandy Gramling. Fewer machines were lighting up, the bells died down, and the crowd was paying attention. Former players started to shed the more uncomfortable accessories of their costumes, as wigs and spiderwebs were removed. Almost everyone had a beer in their hands. 

Leyden and Creekman were playing on their first strike, and Gramling and Traub were both playing on their last strike. Being in the top four secured Leyden’s standing in leaving with a cash prize; the neon trophies were actually in her grasp — she never thought she’d make it this far. 

With the silence brought the pressure, and Leyden wasn’t doing so hot. “Just takes one ball, one ball!” she kept saying. Gramling eventually pulled ahead in the end, with Leyden laughing and saying “the pressure, the pressure!” 

Creekman and Traub eventually played for first place on a Dirty Harry machine. The crowd was silent, with the only noises coming from the pinball machine. Traub’s earphones were off and sat with her phone a couple machines down — she let a few expletives loose during the game. Winning, she finally cracked a smile — yet the real story was Leyden, a random rookie who just wanted to play a few rounds, and walked away $30 richer. 

“I want a trophy next time,” said Maya, as we were leaving. Wait — next time?

 

Best of RVA Missed Connections: October 9 – October 15

|

Topics: , , , , , ,

What a week for those tenacious lost souls looking to touch fate and spark intrepid romances.

One never knows where Cupid’s Arrow might find them: At a convenience store, at the tractor supply, or perhaps as the manager of Red Lobster makes sure “everything is operating smoothly.” Smooth, indeed.

Into this week’s dance with destiny, you’ll find a little something for everyone — notably for the handsome farm and country boys, especially the “awfully cute” ones playing some “dope country music.”

Also be on the look-out for Josh and Jordie (What up, bruhs!). Someone needs to exchange some photos with you guys from a recent brewery tour.

7-11: Forest hill

“You: blonde, white vehicle getting gas, you work/volunteer with fine arts. I keep seeing you everywhere, and am taking it as a sign from the universe to post this missed connection. Grab a drink or dinner together? I am a SWM.”

Blond Woman at Flagstop Car Wash: Parham 

“You were detailing your Beamer on Saturday around 5:30… Love the way you look and your attention to detail is sexy. Great eyes and…”

Red Lobster Manager

“I was eating out at red lobster with my family and saw you walking around, making sure everything, was operating smoothly.

You had reddish brown hair and cute ears that stick out from your head and thick, thighs and a voice that says I don’t put up with peoples shit. 

I’d like to get to know you and I’m not in it for free food or nothin. I’m 25, male, have a full time job with a college degree, 6’1 190 pounds.”

Wawa: Forest hill

“Polite younger gent in line that put out a welcoming vibe. My transaction after you was slower than I would’ve liked. I was hoping to spark up a conversation in the parking lot but, you vanished. 🙁 Message me if this was you. Maybe we could hang out as early as tonight?”

We Met Leaving Farm Fresh – f4m (E Main) 

“You helped me with my groceries after one of my grocery bags broke. I really appreciated the help and you were really cute and I didn’t even get to hear your name. You were a good-looking gentleman wearing sunglasses. If you’re on snap or qwikmeet tell me what name you go by.”

Went Brewery-Hopping With Josh/Jordie: Richmond, VA

“I went brewery hopping with Josh and Jordie in Richmond on October 11th. I lost my phone on the way back to where I was staying and was not able to text them and say I made it safely. If you get this please reach out via email to exchange photos… all my photos were lost with the phone. Or you can try texting the number in a week and a half, as I should have a replacement by then.”

Country Boy at Tractor Supply: Powhatan 

“Saw you over and over throughout the aisles and in the parking lot at the Tractor Supply in Powhatan. You’re awful cute. Love the hat and boots, and your truck isn’t too shabby either. You: white, not too tall, dark hair, clean face, seemed kind of quiet, shy. Me: short, white female in jeans, cowboy hat and boots buying chicken feed. Would love to talk farming…..”

Light Skin Curly Hair Girl Cooking at McDonalds: Hopewell McDonalds 

“You were working around 5 this evening at McDonalds next to 7-11. I couldn’t keep my eyes off you while waiting for my order. Being that you were in the back I didn’t get a chance to talk to you. Let’s go out for dinner sometime.”

Country Boy: Glen Allen, VA

“To the country boy I was going to walk past and didn’t because I consciously decided to turn and walk a different way; and then you pulled up at the 7-11 with some dope country playing…I wanted to go up to you and say it’s not that I don’t think you’re attractive I just didn’t want it to be awkward. I’m sure you’re an awesome guy and, just to let you know, I felt bad about the missed interaction the entire rest of my day. (Plus anyone who knows me knows I’m country as fuck.)”

You Checked Out In Line Behind Me: Aldi on Boulevard

“you were tall handsome, blue eyes and wearing a blue t shirt. Looked like you were on a break from work. I was in line right in front of you and had made eyes with you while we were shopping. You drove away in a white work van/truck.

I thought you were incredibly hot and I hesitated hitting on you because you looked so good 

I hope you see this and respond”

Tuesday Morning Home Depot: Short Pump

“You were looking good. Pretty smile and we laughed at the other employee. Just wondering if you were single? If by chance you see this, tell me what color dress you had on and what I was picking up. I know your name by the reciept [sic].”