Every once in a while, we’ll find a local Richmonder we’d all like to know a bit more about. Same questions each time, from the Prying Publisher, and the answers are just for you.
This month, we caught up with Nutzy, the Richmond Flying Squirrels mascot who has stolen the hearts of baseball fans, young and old, across the area.
Nutzy and the gang play ball at The Diamond, but Nutzy doesn’t spend very much time in the dugout. When he isn’t working on his rock-hard abs, this very active team rep can be seen all over Richmond, recruiting new fans and members for the Squirrel Tails, the team’s popular kids club.
Did you know the name for the Squirrels, a Double-A affiliate of the San Francisco Giants, was chosen via a Times-Dispatch readers’ vote back in October 2009? Other finalists for the team name included the Rock Hoppers, the Rhinos, and the Hush Puppies. Yikes! We’re glad the Flying Squirrels came out on top. Otherwise, Nutzy might be a giant deep-fried ball of dough!
Mountains or beach?
Mountains! More trees = more fun!
Dogs or cats?
Neither. I have to go with Parker the Rally Pig.
Blackberry or iPhone?
iPhone with the Flying Squirrels app.
What reading material is on your nightstand right now?
Nutshell Magazine – opened to page three. And yes, some flying squirrels have nightstands.
If you were stranded on a desert island, what food would you want to grow on trees?
Traveling nachos of course.
Same island, what one CD would you want to have with you?
The Molly Maids dancing queen mix.
What’s the last song you downloaded to your iPod?
You’re the Best from The Karate Kid. I listen to it on loop. It’s kind of tough to play with my iPod with gloves on.
What is your favorite way to spend a rainy Sunday?
Don’t say that four-letter word: R-A-I-N.
What is your favorite vacation spot?
San Francisco with a stop at Redwood National Park.
What is your energy source?
Baseball, fireworks, family fun, and Zinger, my new acorn sidekick. I just love getting out and meeting kids and
families and being a part of the Flying Squirrels organization.
Favorite family day outing?
A trip to The Diamond to cheer on my favorite team – or visiting the other flying squirrels at Maymont.
Readers will be surprised to know…
I’m a squirrel of few words, but I am a very good listener – and a great high-fiver! I’m trying for the world record for most high-fives.
