02/16/2012 by Goochland Gazette

INSIDE Supervisors hear school budget > page 4

Volume 57, Number 7 • February 16, 2012

Chief MacKay requests funds for more full and part-time Firefighters/EMTS By Ken Odor jodor@goochlandgazette.com

Goochland County’s population is stable but with an aging population, calls for service are increasing, said Fire/EMS Chief Bill MacKay last week in a Thursday interview. “We have asked for some additional career staff,” said MacKay of his budget request, which shows an almost 16 percent increase in the operating budget from $1,719,155 last year to a requested 1,993,464 for Fiscal Year 2013. Goochland spends $79 per resident for Fire/EMS services, said MacKay, compared to $122 per resident in Louisa County. MacKay would like to increase his department’s spending level to $93 per resident. MacKay wants two more full-time paid Firefighter/EMT positions and two part-timers to help staff the department, to offset the decline in volunteer hours as the county population demographics change. “Our resident labor pool is changing,” said MacKay. “They may not come from an environment where they understand the need for volunteers,” explained

INDEX

Calendar Classifieds Letters Obituaries

Photo by Ken Odor

The Goochland Planning Commission meets in a work session last week to discuss a multi-family zoning ordinance amendment for West Creek Office Park.

Multi-family zoning decision Thursday? By Ken Odor jodor@goochlandgazette.com

Photo by Ken Odor

Goochland Fire/EMS Chief Bill MacKay holds a map of the county which shows how housing patterns have changed, leaving some areas underserved by the current system. MacKay said the county hasn’t built a fire station since 1973.

MacKay of newly arrived residents. “Or they just may not have the time.” So some companies are finding it difficult to provide cov-

16 17-19 6 8

Opinion 6 Sheriff’s Reports 10 Sports 12-13 TV Listings 14-16

erage during daytime weekday west and in the east and Monday hours and MacKay wants to through Friday 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. change that. in the center of the county,” he “We’re hoping to have career staffing 24/7 coverage in the see MacKay > page 4

Multi-family development appears a step closer after a Goochland Planning Commission workshop meeting last week. While expressing numerous reservations, by the end of the meeting the commissioners seemed to have reached a consensus that they could live with an amendment that would allow one multi-family development on a maximum tract of 30 acres in West Creek Office Park. “We ought to be prepared to act on this next Thursday,”

SPORTS

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Snowball-baseball RMC gets first win

Young delegate has open door policy

> page 12

> page 2

said chairwoman Courtney Hyers near the end of the twohour meeting at the Goochland Library. Only a handful of people attended the meeting in addition to the commission and there were no public comments. The original proposal from the planning department recommeded a 75 acre maximum which could accommodate two developments. At the January meeting, the commissioners declined to endorse that concept, sending it back to staff for revision. see Multi-family > page 4

Thursday

POLITICS: Government, Elections

February 16, 2012

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Young delegate has open door policy for constituents By Daniel Lombardo Capital News Service

It would be understandable if you saw Peter Farrell in the General Assembly Building and thought he was a legislative intern. A youthful looking 28, he could easily pass for a college student. But Farrell isn’t working

for a lawmaker; he is one. A Republican, he represents the 56th House District, which includes Louisa County and parts of Goochland, Henrico and Spotsylvania counties. Farrell entered the 56th House District race after the incumbent delegate, Bill Janis, resigned to run for commonwealth’s attorney in Henrico

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County. GOP leaders selected Farrell as the party’s nominee, and he ran unopposed for the seat. His father, Thomas Farrell, is president, chairman and chief executive officer of Dominion Resources, the Richmond-based energy conglomerate. Gov. Bob McDonnell appointed the elder Farrell to chair the Governor’s Higher Education Commission and to sit on Virginia Commonwealth University’s governing board. Del. Farrell raised more than $133,000 for his House campaign. The Republican Party chipped in $22,000, Farrell’s father donated $10,000, and several large contributions came from prominent Richmond-area residents. For instance, Richard Cullen, chairman of the McGuireWoods law firm, gave Farrell $8,325, and William Goodwin Jr., chairman of CCA Industries, provided $5,000, according to the Virginia Public Access Project, which compiles campaign finance data. Farrell doesn’t let his age or newcomer status hold him back. He brings a light, unassuming attitude to his job, with a willingness to meet anyone. “I have an open-door policy,” Farrell said. “If I’m here, I will talk to them.” Being among the youngest of the 100 delegates can be an advantage: It gives Farrell a fresh perspective on issues – and an opportunity to be a voice for the next generation. “I think it’s a good thing. We have every right to serve,” he said. “We’re the group of people that are buying our first houses, our first home.” Farrell graduated from the University of Virginia in 2006 with a bachelor’s degree in

government. He is the founder of Recast Energy, which provides thermal energy to industrial customers. In his business, Farrell said that he has dealt with government regulations and red tape and that he understands “the necessity of a business climate that encourages investments and growth.” A vice chairman of the Henrico County Republican Committee, Farrell describes himself as “a commonsense conservative who knows we need to get back to the basics.” In a recent interview in his Capitol Square office, Farrell said the strength of the General Assembly is that it includes people from all walks of life. “We’re a citizen legislature. We have doctors and a wide array of perspectives to start out with a bill,” Farrell said. “So many people see it, so we have a vast array of different perspectives.” He filed 11 bills for consideration this legislative session. Two already have passed the House – including a measure that would give health care providers access to the state’s data on immunizations and newborn screening records. Government operations and politics weren’t on Farrell’s mind when he was growing up. Instead, he dreamed of being an actor. After a failed attempt in New York City at achieving his Hollywood dreams, Farrell set his sights on other endeavors. His interest in movies still lives with him, and he spends his free time enjoying films. Like Jimmy Stewart’s selfeffacing character in the Frank Capra classic “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington,” Farrell said he hopes to make a difference in government. “I hope I’m easygoing, willing to listen,” Farrell said. “I hope I’m not boring.”

Photo by Ken Odor

New Del. Peter Farrell made an appearance at the swearing in ceremony of county officials in December. Here he gets a congratulatory handshake from Goochland Electoral Board member Herb Griffith.

The Farrell file Born: June 12, 1983, in Alexandria, Va. Education: Bachelor’s degree in government, University of Virginia, 2006 Occupation: Founding member of Recast Energy Political party: Republican; vice chairman of the Henrico GOP Committee Delegate for: 56th House District, which includes Louisa County and parts of Goochland, Henrico and Spotsylvania counties Committee assignments: Courts of Justice and General Laws Capitol office phone number: 804-698-1056 District office phone number: 804-644-0266 Email address: DelPFarrell@house.virginia.gov Community involvement: Member of the Tuckahoe YMCA Board of Directors and the Endowment Foundation for Catholic Schools; former member of the Collegiate School Alumni Board Honors: Named one of the “Top 40 Under 40” leaders in the Richmond area by Style Weekly in 2010

Thursday

PEOPLE: Personalities & Achievements

February 16, 2012

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Don Charles and Debra Pierce honored by county By Ken Odor jodor@goochlandgazette.com

Two well known Goochland County employees who passed away within hours of each other last Sept. 2 were inducted into the Parks, Recreation and Facilities Management’s Wall of Fame last week. At a brief ceremony following a catered dinner in the old gymnasium, the families of former Deputy County Administrator Don Charles and Director of the Goochland CSA/Office on Youth Debra Pierce received special plaques recognizing their service. “They have left an indelible public imprint upon the community and their fellow public servants,” said PRFM Director Derek Stamey. “Tonight we honor them.” “Don Charles had a tremendous impact on Goochland

Photos by Ken Odor

At left,Don Charles’ son Tyler holds the plaque honoring his father’s service along with his mother Sharon Charles and Don’s co-worker Sara Worley. At right, Debra Pierce’s sisters, Diane Trama, left, Donna Heilman, right and son Glenn are joined by Goochland Director of Social Services Kimberly Jefferson to display the plaque awarded at the Wall of Fame dinner.

County and the individuals he worked with,” said Goochland County Administrator Rebecca Dickson, who called him “a visionary, a teacher and a friend.” Dickson recalled Charles’

love of drawing and how he entertained co-workers with stories from his past experiences in Vietnam and during his long career in Richmond. Dickson then presented the special plaque to Charles’ wife

Sharon and son Tyler. Director of Social Services Kimberly Jefferson then spoke about Debra Pierce’s contributions to the county as Director of the Goochland CSA/Office on Youth, working

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with numerous county agencies. Jefferson also highlighted Pierce’s work on founding a critical new program in the county. “She worked tirelessly to establish Goochland’s Court

Appointed Special Advocate program,” said Jefferson. Jefferson likened Pierce to the cardinal, Virginia’s state bird, in that they shared common attributes. “Like the cardinal, she was strong. Like the cardinal, she was well loved. Like the cardinal she was social. Like the cardinal she was about family. Each time you see this beautiful bird, blow a kiss to the sky and think of Debbie,” said Jefferson to Pierce’s family. Pierce’s son Glenn and two of her four sisters, Diane Trama and Donna Heilman, were on hand to accept the special plaque honoring Pierce. Charles and Pierce were also honored by resolutions as the first order of business at the evening session of the Goochland Board of Supervisors just after the dinner meeting.

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February 16, 2012

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Supervisors hear balanced school budget

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Goochland’s Board of Supervisors got what they wanted Monday night - a balanced schools budget presentation. The two boards spent most of the day together, touring schools and sharing a joint dinner. In the evening meeting, school board chairwoman Beth Hardy, assisted by superintendent Linda Underwood and vice-chairman John Wright, presented the budget, balanced at $23,624,799 with a projected

county transfer of $17,386,626. “It’s delightful to see such cooperation,” said board of supervisors chairman Ned S. Creasey after the presentation. The only discord in an othewise amiable meeting was Goochland NAACP president Sekou Shabaka’s statement during public comment, asking that the supervisors take a close look at the proposed outsourcing of custodial services, a move which would affect about 25 workers. The complete budget presentation is avaiPhoto by Ken Odor alable online at http://www.glnd.k12.va.us/ School Board Chairwoman Beth Hardy budget/2012_2013_Budget_Rev020812.pdf presents the school budget to the BOS.

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continued from > page 1 Principal Planner Tom Coleman came back to the Wednesday workshop with the maximum acreage reduced to 60. But the commissioners were

MacKay continued from > page 1 said. Volunteers would provide coverage on the weekends. Challenges for the future include replacing an aging fleet of fire engines and ambulances. One ambulance is included

still reluctant. “What if we limited it to one project on 30 acres?” asked District 4 commissioner James D. Crews Jr. But Lowe Lunsford III, District 5, was concerned about the acreage reduction and how it might affect potential developer Tommy Pruitt, who had made

a presentation at last month’s meeting for a 340 unit multifamily development as part of a larger project. But the reduced acreage proposal eventually gained favor. “We do not want to pass the buck to those that follow us,” said Ty Querry of District 2, referring to the fact that a

number of the commissioners have resigned after a request from the board of supervisors while others’ terms end March 20 this year. The planning commission is scheduled to meet Thursday, Feb. 16 to take up the multfamily zoning amendment once again.

int the Capital Improvement Program for 2013, another for 2016. Also high on the chief’s list for the future is replacing the Hadensville Fire Station, at an estimated cost of $2.5 million. “Goochland hasn’t built a fire station since 1973,” said MacKay. Existing facilities were built to

meet the needs of the population of the 60s and 70s and people are now living in areas farther away from current stations, said the chief. MacKay also talked about cost recovery, a euphemism for charging for ambulance transport services. A number of neighboring counties, such as Louisa,

Chesterfield, Hanover and Amelia already have such a system in place. “All I was doing is presenting an option,” said MacKay. Options might include ability to pay provisions for low income citizens. Projected revenue might be in the range of $500,000 per year when first introduced.

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February 16, 2012

NEWS: What’s Going on in Goochland County

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Goochland Commonwealth’s Attorney seeks judgeship By Jim Fields jfields@mechlocal.com

COMFORTABLE JUST GOT AFFORDABLE.

Stokes

associations. Culpeper County Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney Dale Durrer received the endorsement of the Culpeper Bar Association, and the Orange County Bar Association supported Orange County Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney Richard Moore. Culpeper attorney Mike Sharman and Manassas attorney Paul Walla are also in the running. The decision on funding the vacancy will be made by the Senate Finance Committee, with

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There is a vacant judge’s position in the 16th Judicial Circuit of Virginia, and Goochland Commonwealth’s Attorney Claiborne Stokes is one of five candidates seeking it. But the biggest question concerning the vacancy appears to be whether the General Assembly will provide funds to fill it. Stokes acknowledged that he is a candidate for the vacancy but pointed out there was a good chance it would not be filled this year because of funding issues. The 16th Judicial Circuit serves eight counties and the City of Charlottesville. The counties are: Albemarle, Culpepper, Fluvanna, Goochland, Greene, Louisa, Madison and Orange. The candidates are vying to replace recently retired judge John G. Berry. Stokes has been endorsed by the Goochland Bar Association. Two other candidates have also been endorsed by their local bar

the advice of the Department have decided on a process. that it is,” Garrett concluded. Commonwealth’s Attorney will of Legislative Services, accord“I believe it is crucial that District.” be appointed for Goochland ing to District 22 Senator Tom this judicial vacancy be filled, If Stokes receives the until a special election can be Garrett. Goochland County is in and I will do all that I can to see nomination, an interim held. Garrett’s senatorial district. “In initial discussions with the Department of Legislative Services, it appears that the caseload in the 16th Judicial District UP TO 60 MONTHS 0% INTEREST IF PAID IN FULL.* is not sufficient to warrant fundHeat Now, Pay Later. ing the vacancy, but that deterImagine coming home every day to an environment that’s as fresh, clean, and healthy mination is not final,” Garrett as it is comfortable. Now is the perfect time to make that a reality with a Trane highsaid by email. “I am working to performance heating and cooling system. And with up to 5 years interest free financing* it’s never been so easy to own one! Offer valid from Jan 15 Feb 29, 2012 find the necessary funds, but I am not optimistic.” Energy prices have skyrocketed and so has demand for systems that cut usage. Trane’s XLi high efficiency systems are among the most cost-effective options available today. Garrett said a number of facMaximum comfort and lower heating and cooling costs-that’s the Trane difference. tors prevent him from endorsCALL NOW FOR NO INTEREST ON HIGH-EFFICIENCY ing a candidate. TRANE EQUIPMENT*. “First, we must learn whether or not the position will be funded” Garrett said. “Second, ALLEN MECHANICAL due to the late receipt of Judge Goochland, VA Berry’s decision to retire, we www.allenmech.com or www.trane.com are still receiving resumes from RELIABLE, ENERGY EFFICIENT, CLEAN AIR FOR THE HOME. people who are indicating a *See your independent Trane dealer for complete program eligibility, dates, details and restrictions. Special financing willingness to serve. Finally, and offers on qualifying Trane systems only. All sales must be to homeowners in the United States. Void where prohibited. perhaps most important, I am The Home Projects® Visa® card is issued by Wells Fargo Financial National Bank. Special terms apply to qualifying purchases charged with approved credit at participating merchants. Regular minimum monthly payments are required one of five senators and eight during the promotional period. Interest will be charged to your account from the purchase date at the regular APR if the purchase balance is not paid in full within the promotional period or if you make a late payment. For newly opened delegates that have an interest in accounts, the regular APR is 27.99% The APR may vary. The APR is given as of 7/1/2011. If you are charged interest in this vacancy. I hesitate to spoil any billing cycle, the minimum interest charge will be $1.00. If you use the card for cash advances, the cash advance fee is 5% of the amount of the cash advance, but not less than $10.00. the selection process before we

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Thursday

OPINION: Editorial, Letters to the Editor

February 16, 2012

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Where the rubber meets the road to help keep the county safe when the time comes.

Planning commission to okay multi-family? Everyone seems to be in agreement that economic development and expanding the tax base is critical to Goochland’s future. So when it looked like the Goochland Planning Commission was about ready to bow to the inevitable and acquiesce to a possible multifamily zoning ordinance amendment at a workshop meeting last week that was good news. Although they expressed some reservations and since it was after all a work session meeting and no votes were taken, the commissioners seemed to reach a consensus that they could live with a zoning ordinance amendment that would allow one multifamily development in West Creek. We’ll find out for sure Thursday evening when the commission meets for its regularly scheduled monthly meeting, where the amendment is on the agenda. We think it would be in the county’s best interest to move ahead and take a step to diversify the types of development allowed. After all, we’re talking about one multi-family project in one office park. It could be the catalyst to jump start a spate of development in West Creek, development the county sorely needs.

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Request for resignations questioned I had just read a letter in the TimesDispatch about the firing of the county administrator in Powhatan that read, “Winning an election is not a license to fire people just because one can.” Then I pick up my Gazette and read that my own Board of Supervisors has asked for the resignations of the entire Planning Commission. The wisdom of Powhatan’s action is questionable and so is Goochland’s. Mr. Creasey’s response is that the newly-elected board should be able to appoint their own people.

If it is just going to be more of the same opinions, then why do we need a Planning Commission? The Commissioner should bring a different set of ideas to situations under consideration, independent of the Supervisor, rather than simply act as the appointing Supervisor would or wants. In addition, some history is important on the Commission, which is why they have staggered terms. If the Board wants to replace Commissioners, or reduce the number, let it happen as the terms expire. Eileen Ford Columbia

Why hunting should be expanded If a reporter were to ask me what I think of Sunday hunting, I’d have a response that I haven’t seen anyone else mention. I support the repeal of the ban on Sunday hunting with its private property considerations, which makes sense. But the main reason hunting should be expanded is that there are too many deer. I deliver newspapers early every morning. In my three hour drive around Central Goochland County I see 12-20 deer every day crossing or by the roadway in small herds of three or see Letters > page 7

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Letters to the Editor

CLIP AND SAVE

In these difficult economic times many of us have gotten used to the idea of keeping things we ordinarily would replace a little longer, stretching out their lifespan a bit to save money. That’s something I’ve been doing for years, cheapskate that I am. Driving a 15-year-old car I bought used that’s now on its second motor is no big deal to me. I can do that because if my ride conks out on me I can just coast to the side of the road, whip out my cell phone and call AAA and wait for a tow. It’s not like it’s a matter of life or death if I’m late for an appointment. I can reschedule. But it is critical for a patient in an ambulance on the way to the hospital. One new ambulance for Goochland Fire/Rescue (they cost about $250,000 apiece!) is included in the FY2013 Capital Improvement Program presented Monday night. Another ambulance would be bought in FY2016 under the proposed plan. It’s just another example of the fact that you can only put off replacement of critical items for so long, if you are going to have reliable public safety services. The Goochland Sheriff’s Office made that same point earlier this year, when the new supervisors visited and found many of the police cruisers marked with their mileage on the rear windows, many way over 100,000. We trust the supervisors will find the money to provide the most critically needed equipment

Thursday

OPINION: Letters to the Editor

February 16, 2012

Letters continued from > page 6 four or more. I have to be alert to not hit them with my car. This does not include all the other nocturnal rascals like raccoons, polecats, possums, rabbits, foxes, and even nighthawks and owls that sit in the middle of the road as if they owned the place. It is a “minefield” out there that I am alert to in addition to all the stop and go of delivering papers to the proper houses. I am not privy to information the Virginia Game Commission has, but I’d bet their statistics show an overpopulation of deer throughout Virginia. For their own good the deer need to be thinned out. Hunting game to put food on the table is a timehonored tradition. I’ve never understood why restaurants do not serve venison. There sure are enough deer in supply. I’d say expand the hunting season, too, as long as the experts can approve the harvesting without numbers falling towards extinction. PETA and other anti-hunting organizations and people seem to think animals have an ability to think, “Oh, today is Sunday. I get a day off today.” God did not give animals the ability to reason. That’s the primary difference between man and the beasts. God takes care of and provides for the animals needs better than we humans do. God told us to have dominion over the plants and the animals, but we don’t do a very good job of that. Laws on hunting are more for the protection of property owners. A healthy balance between these folks and the deer must be kept in mind. G. H. Latham Rockville

Hunger is a yearround problem

that there are many Goochland County residents who depend on the organization’s Food Pantry to make ends meet and to feed their family. During the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays I witnessed just how generous Goochland citizens are with the multitude of food donations. Now that the holidays are over, donations have slowed but the need is still great. With over 120 families receiving food each week, our shelves are bare. The Food Pantry biggest needs are canned meats, canned fruit, peanut butter, rice, pasta sauce, pasta and breakfast foods like cereal and oatmeal. GFCFS maintains a list of suggested food items on their website www. goochlandfreeclinicandfamilyservices.org. Remember, hunger is a yearround problem for many struggling families. It has been a tough year economically for a lot of people. With unemployment rates still high and poverty levels increasing it is more important than ever for all of us to take care of our neighbors. Find out how you can help at 804-556-6260. Gerry Manikus Maidens

was indeed sad. This cartoon seemed to indicate that liberals in the media would prefer a woman seeking to abort her child remain ignorant of the human life she carries. The “it’s my body argument” to take an unborn baby’s life carried to its logical conclusion could be used to deny any helpless person aid, I’m sure even liberals would oppose that, especially when they’re on the table. “Therefore let no man judge you by what you eat or drink, or in respect of a holy day or of the new moon, or of the Sabbath days; which are a shadow of things to come: but the body is of Christ.” Col. 2: 16, 17. Given this command by God perhaps state regulation of Sunday hunting should be abolished, however God’s fourth commandment still stands and should be honored by Christians. Lastly the argument that a law is unconstitutional if it is religious based is poor reasoning given the multitude of legislation that is religious based. Thou shalt not steal, murder, give false testimony, commit

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adultery, take a bribe, give false knowledge. The reason given for measures, commit incest, prosti- requesting the resignations is the planned downsizing of the PC by tution or rape to list but a few. the BOS, However, the number Scott Blunk of GPC members is also set by Columbia ordinance. I believe that for an amendment to be made to the the ordiCommission a public hearing must change questioned nance, be held first. This raises some important questions, since it I find myself somewhat diswould appear that the matter has turbed by the rancor of some already been decided...and within the county, regarding the out public input. refusal to resign of a few memThere is no denying that bers of the Goochland Planning democratic representative govCommission. ernment is not the most efficient A comparison to the expected way to govern or be governed. resignations of advisors at the fedIn fact, it is often tedious and eral level when a new administramessy and requires cooperation tion takes office is like comparing and oftentimes compromise. It apples to oranges. I believe that can be a long process. It is ceronly happens in cases where the tainly tempting to seek quicker advisors serve at the pleasure of methods. those who appoint them. However, if efficiency and That is not quite the case for speedy progress is preferred, dicmembers of the GPC. The term tatorship is certainly the way to of service is set by ordinance. The go. Dictators can abrogate the terms are staggered, no doubt law, brutally quell dissent, and with the intent that the PC will force their will on the citizenry; have some sort of continuity of provided they have the firepower both experience and pertinent

to back their edicts up. If, however, we choose to be governed by our own consent, both government and citizen have to accept the constraints that system places on liberty and will. We need to realize that a mandate for change does not imply that everyone who supported that mandate will always agree with every position and action taken by those the change brought in. We also need to understand that dissent is both healthy and necessary. It keeps both sides honest. Democratic, representative government does not mean, “My way, or the highway.” If, as one writer has suggested, the purpose of the requested resignations was to allow the new board carte blanche to put in members of their own choosing, then the reason given for requesting the resignations is disingenuous and belies the transparency we were promised. Linda Hosay Columbia

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Mary Rebecca Bryant of Goochland, born Oct. 24, 1948, passed Jan. 11, 2012 while visiting in Key West, Fla. Mary was the daughter of the late Harold E. Armel Sr. and Cora bell Armel and the mother of the late Larry Paul Bryant Jr and Mary Ann Carlton. Mary is survived by her Husband Larry

Paul Bryant, Sr., two daughters Cora Rose of Key West, Florida and Debra Greybill of Liberty, South Carolina, and eight grandchildren. Her heart of love and her smile will be missed by all.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Harriet Waddy and Wilmore Fleming; and husband, George Harris. She leaves to cherish her memory three devoted sons, Artto Fleming (Loraine), Harvey “Melvin” (Lucille) and Ricky Harris Harris; nine grandchildren, five great-grandchilElver Lee Fleming Harris, dren, three sisters-in-law; 90, of Rockville, departed this five devoted nieces, Willette life Thursday, Feb. 9, 2012. Woodson, Harriet Robinson,

Louise Fleming, two of whom were also dedicated caregivers, Sarah Turner and Shirley Johnson; a devoted nephew, Charles Turner; and a host of other relatives and friends. Family received friends at the Robert Mealy Funeral Home, Goochland, Va. Funeral services were held Tuesday, Feb. 14, 2012 at the St. Mark Baptist Church, Maidens, Va. Gregory Washington, Pastor, officiated

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and eulogy was given by Dr. Marshall D. Burgess. Graveside services were held at Roselawn Memory Gardens, Glen Allen, Va.

and her daughter-in-law, Karen, all of Goochland. Irmgard was born in Brandenburg, Germany, and became a citizen of the United States on May 26, 1961 while living in Kenai, Horn Alaska. A graveside service was held Sunday, Feb. 12, Irmgard Horn, 91, passed 2012 at Greenwood Memorial away peacefully surrounded by Gardens. Norman Funeral her family on Feb. 9, 2012. She Home is assisting family. is survived by her husband of 53 see Obituaries > page 10 years, Richard; her son, Delbert;

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continued from > page 8 Nuckols Virginia Long Nuckols, 83, of Crozier, passed away on Feb. 11, 2012. She is survived by two sons, Joe Nuckols (Dale), David Nuckols (Kathy); daughter, Nancy Essid (Joe); five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. She was the wife of Edward Joseph Nuckols, the owner of Nuckols Auto Service in Crozier, as well as an avid square and round dancer. A memorial service was held at Salem Baptist Church, 1701 Cardwell Rd., Crozier, on Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2012. Family received friends at Norman Funeral Home, 2892 River Rd. West, Goochland, on Tuesday, Feb. 14, 2012. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Goochland Volunteer Fire & Rescue Company Two, Crozier, Va. Pleasant

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Robert Lee Pleasant, of Powhatan, departed this life Friday, Feb. 3, 2012. He was predeceased by his father, John Pleasant Jr.; mother, Cora Burton Pleasant Goode; and stepfather, Joseph Goode Sr. He leaves to mourn three brothers, John III “Lewis,”

twin, Roger and James “Larry” Pleasant; two stepbrothers, three aunts, three uncles, one niece, one nephew, three greatnephews and a host of cousins and friends. Family received friends at the Robert Mealy Funeral Home, Goochland, Va. Funeral services were held Friday, Febr. 10, 2012, at First Antioch Baptist Church, 3920 Maidens Rd., Powhatan, Va. Reverend Vera Rhyne officiated. Graveside services were held in the church cemetery. Trail Edna Searles Trail of Bumpass, Va., passed away on Feb. 6, 2012 after a sudden illness at the age of 67. She is predeceased by her husband, Johnny, her parents, Fred and Helen Searles. She is survived by her three children, Dana Netherland husband James of Powhatan,Kenny Trail of Louisa and Stacy Boatwright husband John of Goochland, six grandchildren, Adam & Katelyn Netherland, Treasure King, Kinley Trail, and Coleman & Allie Boatwright and a brother, Robert Searles of Richmond. Edna was a long time nurse for James River Correctional Center. Family received friends Wednesday, Feb. 8, 2012 at Lacy Funeral Home; Mineral, Va. Funeral services were held on

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Thursday, Feb. 9, 2012 at Fork Baptist Church. Graveside services were held at Spring Gove Memorial Park in Mineral, Va. Donations in her honor can be made to the Kidney Foundation 30 East 33rd St. NY, NY 10016. Weir Nancy Jean Fitzgerald Weir, 84, departed this life on Tuesday, Feb. 7, 2012 at 2:37 p.m. in Kill Devil Hills, N.C. She was the widow of Eugene A. Weir; and is survived by two sons, Eugene Marcus Weir and wife, Maria, of Orlando, Fla., and Jefferson Arnold Weir and wife, Virginia, of WinstonSalem, N.C.; a daughter, Kathryn Weir Felps and husband, Marty, of Nags Head, N.C.; four grandchildren, Kylie Felps Draucker and husband, Adam, of Moseley, Va., Martin Jordan Felps and wife, Caitlin, of Midlothian, Va., Lt. Charles Marcus Felps, USMC and wife, Elizabeth, of Pensacola, Fla., Richard Fitzgerald Weir of Hollywood, Fla.; and three great-grandchildren, Cole Castle Draucker, Price Eugene Draucker and Bryn Logan Felps. She was preceded in death in 2010 by her husband of 56 years, Eugene Arnold Weir; and by her grandson in 2008, Logan Eugene Felps.

Nancy was born on November 20, 1927 in Minden, La. After marrying, she resided in Baton Rouge, La., until 1981, when she and her husband relocated to Richmond, Va. Nancy attended L.S.U., where she was a very involved member of Kappa Kappa Gamma. She was an airline stewardess for Delta Airline until starting her family. She was very involved in her communities as a member of numerous clubs and organizations. She and her husband were avid art collectors and loved travels to all parts of the world, where they added to their collection. She was a council member and hands-on worker of the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. The family will have a private memorial service at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church of Goochland, Va. In lieu of flowers, please make donations in her memory to the Logan Eugene Felps Memorial Scholarship, Savannah College of Art and Design, P.O. Box 3146, Savannah, Ga. 31402, or to the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, 200 N. Boulevard Richmond, Va. 23220-4007. Condolences to the family may be expressed via the on-line register at www.gallopfuneralservices.com. Gallop Funeral Services, Inc. was entrusted with arrangements.

SHERIFF’S REPORTS: Incidents at location on Double Brook Rd.

February 7 X

Suspect committed grand larceny at location on Dogtown Rd. Suspect committed embezzlement at location on Queensland Dr.

February 8 X

Suspect was driving under the influence of alcohol at location on W. Leigh St.

Suspect destroyed property at location on Oilville Rd.

Suspect was driving under the influence of alcohol at location on Broad St. Rd.

February 10 X

Suspect broke into location on Pleasant Hill Lane.

Suspect charged with disorderly conduct at location on River Rd. W.

February 9 X

Person was dead on arrival

Suspect committed grand

larceny at location on River Rd. W.

February 11 X

Suspect eluded police and endangered victims at location on Broad St. Rd.

Suspect was in possession of marijuana at location on Rock Castle Rd.

February 12 X

Suspect was driving under the influence of alcohol at location on North Point Ct.

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No. 3 Cadets surge to victory past No. 4 Miller Burgess scores 15, helps Benedictine top Miller By Weldon Bradshaw Media General News Services

There’s nothing like a topflight opponent to bring out the best in the Benedictine Cadets. Saturday night before an enthusiastic, highly partisan crowd, Coach Sean McAloon’s crew used a 32-minute adrenaline rush to dispatch Miller School 70-57 in the eighth annual Warren Rutledge Classic. “You live for these games,” McAloon said. “The kids were ready to go.” From the outset, both squads used man-to-man defense to disrupt the other’s offensive flow. There was much contact. They contested each passing lane and rebound. Every possession brought hard screens. Those who ventured into the paint did so at risk to their personal safety. The Cadets, ranked fourth in The Times-Dispatch Top 10,

Benedictine, 15-1 since the Christmas break, led 16-10 after a quarter, 35-23 at the half, and 53-35 with eight minutes to go. “Certainly, their defensive pressure took us out of our comfort zone early,” said Miller coach Scott Willard, whose team is ranked fourth in the VISAA Division I poll. “We were clawing our way back with each possession just trying to compete.” The Cadets, who played much of the first half with Burgess sidelined by foul trouble, received 26 points from bench players. “They gave us awesome minutes,” McAloon said. “We stretched it with subs. That’s the mark of our team this year.” Benedictine’s cause was aided appreciably when Photo by Mark Gormus/Media General News Services Kansas-bound Andrew White, The Benedictine students get vocal in the stands as the Cadets’ Ryan Burnett (33) defends against Miller’s Chase Cannon the Mavericks’ go-to guy, drew two fouls in the first quarter (22). jumped ahead 7-0 after just Jordan Burgess, a VCU recruit and a third a minute after he 53 seconds and never looked who finished with 15 points. returned in the second and back. “You can’t play bad against a contributed only two points and three rebounds before the “We came out on fire,” said good opponent.”

break. The 6-foot-6 senior small forward, who started his career at Thomas Dale, finished with 19 points and five boards, but much of his production came when the outcome had been long since determined. Despite the circumstances and straight-up man defense by Burgess, then Ryan Burnett, White roamed the Coach Rut Court with rarely a change in his placid countenance. “There’s no need to cry to the refs or throw an attitude at my teammates,” said White, whose fourth personal foul came 1:30 into the second half. “My attitude is very content. I’m blessed either way. I take the good with the bad. “It’s good to have a halfway competitive game. That’s my mentality toward my frustrations.” White’s patience and maturity paid off. In the fourth quarter, he energized his teammates into a 9-0 run that enabled them to trim a 60-40 deficit to 11 points with 4 minutes left

before the Cadets, No. 3 in the VISAA Division I poll, pulled away for good. “My focus,” he said, “is to develop the best I can until it’s time to leave (for Kansas). I’m working hard every day to be as good as advertised.” Containing White’s innate quickness and fluidity was no easy feat. “You have to play him up front and play him tight,” said Burnett, a 6-4 senior. “He’s a very good pull-up shooter. He has a good midrange shot. “You have to make it difficult for him to get a shot off. If he takes a bunch of tough shots, we can live with that.” MILLER (15-7) — Jenkins 15, Majors 0, Washington 2, Cannon 4, White 19, Hester 4, Gunner 0, Anderson 7, Lodge 4, Martin 2. Totals 21 13-17 57. BENEDICTINE (23-4) — Coppola 6, George 13, Gorski 0, Burgess 15, Burnett 10, Gill 4, Wilson 7, Fleming 2, Fehl 0, Hudson 13. Totals 23 2123 70. Miller 10 13 12 22 — 57 Benedict. 16 19 18 17 — 70 3-point goals — M: Jenkins, White; B: Burgess, Burnett, Hudson.

Yellow Jackets get off to hot start despite snow By Charlie Leffler cleffler@goochlandgazette.com

With temperatures in the low 40s and occasional glimpses of sun, the RandolphMacon baseball opener was not as unbearable as it would become later in the day on Saturday when heavy snow forced a postponement three innings into the second game of a scheduled double-header. In the opener Matt Musser and All-American first baseman Jordan Walton got things going and Zach Broaddus closed the door in extra innings as the Yellow Jackets downed St. Mary’s (MD) 4-3 at Hugh Stephens Park. Veteran junior lefty Jamie

Hendrick got the start for RMC but the visiting Seahawks looked like they would make noise early after John Stewart reached on a one out error. However, Hendrick got Stefano Muscatelli to fly out to right then on what appeared to be a guaranteed RBI shot up the middle from Keith Johnson, Jackets’ senior centerfielder Brian Jordan (Goochland) made an incredible sliding catch to escape the threat. The two teams remained scoreless heading into the bottom of the second when RMC’s Michael Helbig reached on a lead-off walk bringing Musser to the plate. The redshirt junior catcher had waited three years for his

opportunity to start but he wasted little time making an impact. Musser took the first pitch from Devon Jerrard and blistered a rope past Stewart in right for an RBI triple, driving in Helbig for a 1-0 lead. “People with good attitudes are always going to find success at some point and Matt has maintained a positive attitude for the better part of three years,” said R-MC head coach Ray Hedrick. “His success is very well deserved. “I couldn’t have been happier to see Matt lead off in that role, that capacity,” Hedrick added. Freshman shortstop Nate Meiners reached via walk, stole second and a RBI ground out

bottom of the third after loading the bases with no outs. Freshman DH Tim Benjamin singled, Helbig was walked and Musser notched his second hit of the day on a successful bunt. But Meiners struck out then sophomore Kevin Carroll (Goochland), who got the start at second, flew out into a double-play to end the inning. The Jackets also stranded runners in the fourth and fifth innings to leave the door open Photo by Charlie Leffler for St. Mary’s in the sixth. The Seahawks’ Corey Former Bulldog Brian Jordan makes a score-saving catch in the top of the first for Randolph-Macon on Saturday. Napier led off with a double to to second from Broaddus plat- middle by Walton drove in center then advanced to second ed Musser to put the Jackets Meiners for a 3-0 advantage. on a Johnson single. Napier up 2-0. It appeared as if R-MC see Jackets >page 13 Later a two-bagger up the would add to its lead in the

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February 16, 2012

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GHS basketball teams head into post season play By Jim Ridolphi Special Correspondent

This week, the Goochland boys and girls basketball teams entered James River District Tournament play. Seeded #7, it was a quick 6857 exit for the boys when they traveled to Randolph-Henry, a team they did not match up well against, on Monday night. The #3 seed Lady Bulldogs hosted Bluestone on Tuesday night after press deadline. Despite a final record of 9-12, Coach Preston Gordon was pleased with his boys’ work ethic and tenacity. “We are definitely headed in the right direction,” Gordon said. “I think the most impor-

tant thing about a program is surrounding yourself with great people. We have that established and have kids who are willing to work and play hard every day. Now, we will have to focus on specific aspects of the game and continue to improve individuals’ skills during the off-season.” It was an up and down year for the Bulldogs, who delayed the opening of their season due to the football team’s playoff run. As the season progressed, teams began to key on Bulldog guard and team leader James Brooks, but the senior continued to impress. “James Brooks earned First

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Team All James River District and has been the backbone of this team,” Gordon said. “He creates so many opportunities on offense with his quickness, and his stingy defense puts gut wrenching pressure on his opponents.” Cody Johnson received JRD honorable mention. Zakell Johnson, Sammy Smith and Dasheem Norris, also seniors, finished the season contributing their own brand of tenacity and guts. The five seniors hold a special place for Gordon who completed his first year at Goochland after several seasons at Louisa. “These young men will be missed, and their dedication to this athletic program over the years is very much appreciated.” Gordon said the program

would continue to focus on the basics and refine their disciplined style of play. “We will continue to improve our defense, perimeter shooting, and decision making every day.” The Goochland girls basketball team has a final shot at redemption this week when they host a first round James River District game against Bluestone. The Lady Bulldogs finished the season with a 7-7 District mark, but slipped to 9-12 overall. It is the girls’ best finish in Coach Sarah Voyack’s tenure, but in her estimation fell short of team’s the potential. Most of the wins were lumped at the beginning of the season and a majority of the losses came after the Christmas break. “Unfortunately, we started

off the season much stronger than we finished,” Voyack said. “Anybody who knows anything about sports knows that you want it to be the other way around. We were playing with confidence and playing together before Christmas break. We did face some injuries and illness in the second half of the season, but we needed to have girls step up and play bigger roles and we just didn’t get that.” Despite the slump over the end of the regular season, Voyack knows that as long as the team is playing there’s a chance to win. “Anything goes in tournament play. It truly is a new season and we are going to stress that to the girls,” she said. “They need to realize that they are capable and have the ability to do great things but they need to put

forth the effort and want it. Anything can happen on any given night - that’s the beauty of playing sports.” When the season does end, the team loses two seniors, Briana Jackson and Kelsey Simmons. “Briana is a three year varsity player and this was Kelsey’s first year and the first time she’s played basketball since middle school,” Voyack said. Likewise, the coach feels the future of Goochland girls’ basketball has great potential. “With five returning starters next season and some talent coming up from the JV, we should have our sights set high for next season,” Voyack said. “But, again, the real difference is going to be whether or not we put in the work in the offseason.”

But Williamson bounced continued from >page 12 back to close out the side without further damage. then trimmed the R-MC lead R-MC had an opportunity to 3-1 on a sacrifice from Zach to pick up the win in regulaNadolny. tion when Jordan led off the With two outs, Johnson bottom of the seventh with a reached second on a Nick Urso triple to right center but he was single then scored on an Alex left stranded. Lenovitz shot to center. Williamson took down the Leading 3-2 heading into the side in the top of the eighth seventh and final inning of the giving the Jackets another double-header, Hedrick made opportunity to go for the win. the planned switch to freshWith one out, Broaddus man righty J.T. Williamson. sent a shot to short and beat “We pre-scripted it,” out the throw to first. Next up, Hedrick said. “We knew exact- Jake Fletcher connected on a ly what we were going to do. double which sent Broaddus We wanted to make sure J.T. home for the game winner. Williamson went out there Both teams notched 10 hits with a clean slate at the start in the contest and Williamson of an inning because we knew picked up his first win as a that just like any freshman Yellow Jacket. pitcher, they’re going to be nerOn the day, Musser was 3vous and they’re going to have for-3 with an RBI triple, a run, jitters, it’s going to be a little bit a stolen base and was intenoverwhelming.” tionally walked in his final atFacing Williamson, St. bat. Mary’s Stewart led off with a The second game of the single to right then knotted the double-header reached a scoregame 3-3 on a Napier double less third inning when snow to center. started to fall. Things turned

cold for R-MC as St. Mary’s quickly scored four runs on some well placed hits and lucky bounces. “I think it all, no pun intended, kind of snow-balled a little bit,” Hedrick said. The freezing temperatures and heavy snow most likely effected Helbig’s pitching. However, the game was soon called and it proved to be a teaching opportunity for Hedrick. “There was a lot of teaching tools both in the second game and the first game that I think we’re going to be able to use,” he said. Overall, Hedrick was pleased with the opening day performance. “I don’t think we were perfect by any stretch of the imagination, but I don’t think any team is necessarily perfect opening day,” he said. “We left too many runners on base and missed out on too many opportunities to separate from them early in the game. “Overall I thought it was an above average effort. The main difference between this

year and last year is that we won that game. Last year we blew that game late, blew the lead late and we weren’t able to come back and overcome the adversity that we were able to overcome this year. I think that was a big character win for us. This year we were able to do the things to win that game whereas last year we didn’t.” R-MC returns to action Wednesday, Feb. 15 when they travel to Newport News to take on highly ranked Christopher Newport in a 2 p.m. start. “They are the team to beat in our region,” Hedrick said. “I think they are preseason #4-#5 in the country depending on what poll that you read. I think they’ve got all their hitters back including Billy Steel from LeeDavis. They’ve got two or three of their top arms back. “I expect it’s going to be a challenging matchup for us given the veteran experience they have and where they’ve been over the last year,” Hedrick said. “I think it will be fine but they’re going to be good.”

Jackets

Photos courtesy of Joe Fowler

On Feb. 2, Goochland kicker Colby Cooke, above right, and punter Thomas Meadows, below, signed letters of intent to continue their football careers in college. Cooke will play at Vanderbilt while Meadows will go to Purdue.

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