10/16/2014 by Goochland Gazette

INSIDE Field trip lets students go head to head with robots > page 6

Volume 59, Number 39 • October 16, 2014

Goochland schools fully accredited

New park markers unveiled

Contributed report

The Goochland County School District recently was notified that it was one of 22 school divisions — out of the 132 in Virginia — to have 100 percent of its schools earn full state accreditation. “I’m so proud of our results,” James Lane, Goochland County Lane Public Schools superintendent, said. “Our school community has worked diligently and focused on the right see Schools > 2

Contributed photo

On hand for the recent dedication of the Tucker Park historical markers were members of the Tucker family, who formerly owned the land on which the park is located. They are, from left, Allan Tucker, Billy Tucker, Goochland Historical Society board member Scott Johnson, Goochland Historical Society executive director Phyllis Silber. Goochland Historical Society board member Ed Wilson, Goochland Historical Society president Wayne Dementi and Jimmy Tucker.

Sign of the T

TIMES

New markers at county’s Tucker Park offer glimpse into area’s storied past Contributed report

he historical and environmental significance of Tucker Park at Maidens Crossing will now be permanently on display, thanks to the collaborative efforts of the Friends of Goochland Parks, the Goochland County Historical Society, the Goochland County Parks and Recreation Department and the Dominion Foundation. At the Autumn River Days event held on Saturday, Sept.13, two new historical markers were dedicated commemorating Maidens Crossing and the Maidens Adventure/Tucker Hotel. The markers were created to pay tribute to the role Maidens played in the early commerce and transportation of Goochland County and the Commonwealth of Virginia. The interpretative signs feature information and visuals on the natural elements found at Tucker Park, including river species, native plants see Markers > 8

Fall Festival to take cue from the Wild West By Roslyn Ryan Editor

Goochland will be hosting its 8th annual Fall Festival from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, and this year’s theme is straight out of the Wild West. Featuring a performance by Southern rock favorites The Pat Russell Band at 2 p.m., the free event also will offer downon-the-ranch-themed activities, including roping and target shooting contests. The festival also is expected to offer the public its first chance to meet Tucker see Festival > 4

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INSIDE

Month of October declared Virginia Pumpkin Month PAGE 10

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The Goochland Animal Shelter, located at 1900 Hidden Rock Lane in Goochland, has the following pets available to a good home: A male lab mix, between 1 to 3 years old; a female pit mix, about 3 years old; and a spayed female lab mix, between 3 to 5 years old. Anyone interested in adopting a pet is urged to visit from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. For more information on these pets, as well as the many more still in need of homes at the Goochland Animal Shelter, call (804) 556-5302. You also can visit the shelter on Facebook at “Goochland County Animal Control.”

Restaurant continued from >1 things. This accreditation validates our focus on maximizing every learner’s potential.” Goochland is in the top three regionally in all core academic areas (reading, writing, mathematics, science and history) based on overall achievement as measured by the state’s Standards of Learning (SOL) tests in grades 3 through 12. For a second consecutive year, Goochland was ranked number one regionally in writing achievement. “Writing is the only GCPS School one of the state testSuperintendent ing areas that requires James Lane students to think critically and demonstrate understanding through the development of an original product,” Stephen Geyer, assistant superintendent for instruction, said. “In this case, it’s a piece of writing. All other state assessments are generally

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multiple choice in nature.” Goochland also finished in the top three in all areas when compared with the top 10 highest funded school divisions in Virginia (based on per pupil expenditure). Goochland’s per pupil expenditure ranks the division 57th of 132 in spending in the state. More specifically, Goochland’s state ranks in achievement and per pupil expenditures are as follows: Area Reading Writing Math History Science

Rank 13th 7th 9th 19th 16th

Percentage: Top 9.8 percent Top 5.3 percent Top 6.8 percent Top 14.4 pcent Top 12.1 pcent

Advance Placement (AP) results also are on the rise at Goochland High School. Sixty-seven percent of students tested received a score of three or higher during the 2013-2014 school year. That’s up from 55 percent the year before and 33 percent the year before that. Goochland’s 67 percent “AP pass rate” is higher than both the state (65 percent) and global (61percent) rate. Finally, Goochland High School’s graduation rate is 95 percent, far outpacing the state and regional graduation rate, as well as the benchmark for state and federal accreditation.

Netherland leaves legacy of dedication to Legion baseball PAGE 12 Calendar ................................ 5 Classifieds ......................18-19 Letters .................................... 6 Opinion .................................. 6 Sports .............................12-13 TV Listings ......................14-16

CONTACT US Toll Free - (877) 888-0449 Office - (804) 746-1235 x 0 Joy Monopoli Publisher (804) 746-1235 x 14 Fax: (804) 819-5529 Melody Kinser Managing Editor (804) 746-1235 x 22 Fax: (804) 730-0476 Roslyn Ryan Editor (804) 339-7956 Mike Schoeffel Sports Writer (804) 658-6458 Fax: (804) 598-7757 Cindy Grant Classifieds (804) 746-1235 x 16 Fax: (804) 730-0476

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Engagement

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Smith and Burton Angie L. Smith of Gum Spring and Ed L. Burton Jr. of Stafford have announced their engagement. The couple will marry on June 20, 2015, in Gum Spring.

Master Gardeners program now accepting applications for 2015 Contributed report

The Goochland Powhatan Master Gardeners program is accepting applications for the 2015 Master Gardener training sessions. Extension Master Gardeners (MGs) are trained volunteer educators, working within their local communities to encourage and promote environmentally sound horticulture practices through sustainable landscape management education and training. As an educational outreach component of Virginia Cooperative Extension, the Master Gardener pro-

gram brings the resources of Virginia’s land-grant universities — Virginia Tech and Virginia State University — to the people of the Commonwealth. All volunteers are trained with at least 50 hours of horticultural classes and return at least 50 hours of volunteer community service through their local Extension office. Training sessions will begin on Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2015, and meet every Tuesday and Friday through March. Training fees are $135 and the deadline for applications is Nov. 1, 2014.

For additional information, contact Jean Cauble at (804) 241-2987 or email jfcid1@ gmail.com. Those interested also should visit the http://www. gpmga.org/join.htm or call the Goochland Office at (804) 5565841 or the Powhatan Office at (804) 598-5640.

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Tom’s Auto Care

Two winners from last year’s popular Fall Festival costume contest show off the trophy they received. The costume contest will be part of the fun once again this year as the county kicks off its 8th annual festival, which also will feature Westernthemed games, activities for children, crafts and a performance by Jonathan Austin.

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Festival continued from >1 the Turtle, the new Goochland County Parks and Recreation mascot. “We’ve seen this event grow steadily and we think it’s just a great way to come out, have fun and enjoy a fall Saturday,”

Parks and Recreation director Derek Stamey said. “It’s really a great opportunity to bring a lot of folks together and celebrate community.” Among the contests and games scheduled for the festival are the Halloween Costume Contest at 1:30 p.m. and the wildly popular Apple Pie

Eating Contest. Other family friendly offerings will include a bounce house, a 12:30 p.m. performance by multi-talented entertainer Jonathan Austin, pony rides and a petting zoo. Plenty of Western-themed carnival games will round out the event, and area vendors

also will be on hand showcasing their wares. Volunteers are still needed to help with activities during the event and anyone interested in volunteering is asked to contact the Parks and Recreation Department at (804) 556-5854 or visit ww.co.goochland.va.us for more information.

Home run derby will raise funds for GHS athletics

79534-01

By Roslyn Ryan Editor

Goochland’s best hitters are encouraged to swing for the fences on Saturday, Oct. 25, during the first-ever Cole Stark Memorial Home Run Derby. The event honors former Goochland High School baseball player Cole Stark, who died from a heart ailment in May at the age of 19. “Cole loved baseball so much, so we thought this

would be a wonderful way to honor him and to raise funds,” Sheryl Holcomb, who is organizing the contest, said. Money raised from the contest’s $5 entry fee will help support the athletic programs at Goochland High School. The date for the event was chosen to coincide with Goochland’s annual Fall Festival (see story, above). The rules for the derby, which will be held from noon to 4 p.m. at the Napa Field

(located at the intersection of where balls fall on the field and Route 522 and Fairgrounds the age group of the hitter. Road), are as follows: Bats and balls will be provided, but players may use Participants will be divid- their own bats with the judges’ ed into age groups for both approval. boys and girls, including 3rd through 5th grade; 6th through Derby winners will be 8th grade; 9th through 12th awarded prizes, including gift grade; and an adult group. certificates to area businesses Each batter will have 10 and a youth jersey donatswings per round. ed by the Richmond Flying Home runs will have to Squirrels. clear the fence, but points will For more information, call be awarded for all hits based on (804) 400-0589.

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR

October 16, 2014

749-3146 or visit the library at program. Guest singers will be The Countyline Gospel Storytimes will be held at 16600 Pouncey Tract Road. Choir and soloist Sister Crystal the Goochland Branch Library. Bingo will be held at the Harris. The community is welToddler storytime, for 2-yearolds accompanied by a parent, Powhatan Moose Lodge at 7 come to join the church for the event. Dinner will be served will start at 10 a.m. Mother p.m. following the program. Goose storytime, for children Saturday, Oct. 18 6 to 24 months old with a parThursday, Oct. 23 ent, will begin at 10:45 a.m. The Goochland Branch Preschool storytime, for chil- Library will host a “Turn Storytimes will be held at dren who are 3 to 5 years old, Dreams into Reality” movie the Goochland Branch Library. starts at 11:30 a.m. For more morning from 10 a.m. to Toddler storytime, for 2-yearinformation, call (804) 556noon for ages 11 through 18. olds accompanied by a parent, 4774 or visit the library at 3075 Attendees will watch a movie will start at 10 a.m. Mother River Road West. and enjoy snacks provided by Goose storytime, for children the Friends of the Goochland 6 to 24 months old with a parFriday, Oct. 17 Library. For more informa- ent, will begin at 10:45 a.m. The Battle of the Bristle tion, call (804) 556-4774 or Preschool storytime, for chilBots will be held from 5:30 visit the library at 3075 River dren who are 3 to 5 years old, starts at 11:30 a.m. For more to 7:30 p.m. at the Cochrane Road West. information, call (804) 556Rockville Branch Library for The Second Union 4774 or visit the library at 3075 ages 11 to 18. Participants will build robots made from tooth- (Rosenwald) School will host River Road West. brushes and race their friends. a Fall Festival from 1 to 5 p.m. Friday, Oct. 24 Participants are encour- at the school, which is located aged to bring Nerf guns and at 2843 Hadensville-Fife Road. Storytimes will be held at make giant fortresses to fight The event will include food, Cochrane Rockville Branch from. For more information, fun and fellowship, and will Library. Preschool storytime, call (804) 749-3146 or visit allow visitors to see the reno- for children who are 3 to 5 the library at 16600 Pouncey vations that are taking place at years old, will be held at 10:30 Tract Road. the school. a.m. Family storytime, for all ages, begins at 11 a.m. For Storytimes will be held at more information, call 804Sunday, Oct. 19 Cochrane Rockville Branch 749-3146 or visit the library at The Second Union Baptist 16600 Pouncey Tract Road. Library. Preschool storytime, for children who are 3 to 5 Church on 2843 Hadensvilleyears old, will be held at 10:30 Fife Road will celebrate its Sunday, Oct. 26 a.m. Family storytime, for all Senior Choir Annual Day at Fauquier Baptist Church ages, begins at 11 a.m. For 3 p.m. The day will be commore information, call (804) memorated with a musical will host a Week of Prayer Thursday, Oct. 16

worship service at 11 a.m. at the church at 2455 Dogtown Road, Goochland. The theme will be “Lord Teach us to Pray,” Luke 11:1, 9-10, and the guest speaker will be Karen E. Harden of Life Changing Ministries International in

Goochland. All women are Dogtown Road in Goochland. The theme will be “Creating a asked to wear white. Positive Image for our Youth,” Fauquier Baptist Church and the guest speaker will be will host a 20th anniversary Jerry Alex Zan “the Info-Tainer,” a A. Allen Memorial Education native of Charlottesville who is and Scholarship Service at 3 an author, TV producer, colp.m. at the church at 2455 umnist and presenter.

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On the hunt for a special kind of treasure By Roslyn Ryan Editor

For almost as far back as I can remember, one of my favorite haunts has been the junk store. Never been to one? Perhaps it can be explained this way: A junk store is not quite an antique shop but certainly more than a dump. It is where the humble debris of daily life — the flower vases and piano stools and well-worn 1970s era jumpsuits — make a final pit stop before being relegated to the trash. It also is, for the many irredeemable junk hunters like me, a constant source of magical discoveries. Maybe I should explain: Like so many others — and I know they are out there — the kind of thing I hunt for, embrace and drag home (much to my husband’s chagrin) have never seemed like junk to me. The things that qualify are not perfectly preserved and they show the marks that time tends to leave behind. But they are most definitely useful. And sussing out the history of some of these “found objects” can be a never-ending source of cheap entertainment (“cheap,” of course, is the operative word here — part of the joy in junking is the fact that it won’t ever wreck your budget). If I the penchant for haunting junk shops has an origin, I can trace

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mine back to a shop I first visited as a teenager. It was a perfectly dim and musty place, piled to the rafters with bits and pieces, and the proprietor was a jovial man with “mad scientist” hair and a seemingly endless reserve of patience. Somehow, for some reason, it became a home away from home. Ensconced in the shop’s sweltering back room, I could spend hours sifting through the endless collection of Life magazines or the world’s most random record collection. Here, among the mismatched bookends and the macramé plant holders, a passion for the particular artifacts of our American culture began to take root. I still have a few of the treasures from those days, though some have been released back into the world for others to find (there is a fine line, after all, between being a collector of neat objects and a When I find myself with some extra time, I’ve enjoyed stopping by Goochland’s own version of the classic junk shops, of which there are a few. I would encourage anyone who hasn’t to give it a try. Put a few dollars in your pocket, open your mind and lose yourself in an afternoon of exploring. You never know, after all, what perfectly imperfect wonders you might discover.

Joy Monopoli Publisher Melody Kinser Managing Editor Roslyn Ryan Editor Mike Schoeffel Sports Writer Sue Smoak Sales Representative Online: www.goochlandgazette.com For news: news@goochlandgazette.com For advertising: sales@goochlandgazette.com For classifieds: cgrant@mechlocal.com © 2014 by Richmond Suburban Newspapers. All advertising and editorial matter is fully protected and may not be reproduced in any manner without the permission of the publisher. CAC Audited Circulation: 8,300

Contributed photo

Students go head to head with robots Charlottesville-based Perrone Robotics, a company that develops infrastructure software, recently hosted the Byrd Elementary Robotics Team. On Oct. 9, the students were able to learn from experts in the field how technology can be used to support the design and creation of robotics and automation vehicles. “It was a great experience,” BES teacher Glenda Hawk said. “The students represented the school and division so well, asking thoughtful questions and displaying gracious professionalism.” With special emphasis on safety in designing autonomous vehicles, members of the the Byrd Team were able to ask questions and share their own solution for their First Lego League challenge. They met “Tommy II,” a

robotic car and even attempted to beat the laser of the security system developed by Perrone. Richard Carchman, a member of Goochland’s Science Technology Engineering and Math (STEM) Advisory Committee, said he was particularly pleased with the event. “The Goochland STEM program represents such a well focused program,” he said. “How rewarding to see this robotics team of elementary children joyfully stretching their minds.” The elementary First Lego League Robotics program is but one facet of the school division’s expanded emphasis on STEM education, including STEM Camp and Conundrum Day. —Contributed report

Flying babies: A day at the fair takes off By Jim Ridolphi Contributing Columnist

When I visit the fair, it’s the unusual, the weird the off the grid that I search for as I wander through the assortment of lights, smells and visuals. It’s a marvelous collection of people — from the family farmer to the speedy-tongued kitchen knife sales person who can slice a tomato into a thousand slices … and it never needs sharpening. There’s always something new to experience at the State Fair of Virginia, and finding a good photo-

graph for our publication is usually not a hard assignment. As I parked my car in a lot adjacent to the midway, a lady in white pickup truck with two goats in the back stopped me and said, “You’ve got to see the flying babies.” “I will,” I smiled back with no idea what she was talking about. I hadn’t read anything about adolescents with altitudes in the pre-event literature, but I decided I’d ask a few questions. As I wandered through an agricultural tent, I marveled at the giantsized pumpkins and watermelons and wondered how you grow something like that.

Turns out people are curious when you take photos of their fruit, and one watermelon grower politely inquired who I was and what I was doing. “How do you grow something like that?” I asked. “Oh, there’s a lot of secrets I can’t tell you, but I just give her as much liquid as she’ll take,” the farmer said with an obvious sense of pride. “What would happen if I cut this watermelon open?” I asked. “Oh, you wouldn’t want to do that,” he said. “They’re really not for see Fair > page 7

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A young child enjoys a State Fair attraction that allowed children to be harnessed into a system of bungee cords so they could “fly. ”

Fair continued from >6 eating and this one was ripe weeks ago. It’s probably a mess in there by now.” We talked awhile about the finer points of growing prize-winning giant uneatable vegetables before I had to ask. “Do you know anything about any flying babies?” I sheepishly asked. “Flying what?” he responded. “You reporters are dumber than I thought. Everyone knows babies can’t fly! And I spent my life sitting on a tractor!” I walked through the endless displays, a midway full of

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rides, enough animals for any preference and an endless array of barkers prompting me to give my luck a chance. One even let me take a shot with his basketball at a rim that wouldn’t budge and quickly rejected my all-net shot. The attendant sat poised to argue my claims that the game was not fair, but I only had one question. “Where are the flying babies?” While this guy was well versed in defense testimony, he didn’t have a clue when it came to airborne babies. As the sun began to set with my mission almost complete, I found a row of benches — there’s an abundance of them at the Meadow Event Park in Doswell (the Caroline County side) — and treated myself to a cup of famous State Fair iced tea.

I was sipping the tasty sweetened tea when a flash from the corner of my eye broke my concentration. At first, I thought it was just an illusion but — quickly enough — the truth was revealed as baby after baby soared skyward harnessed by bungee cords attached at the waist. The kids laughed while parents stood with mouths open as their launched offspring went higher and higher into the sky. I quickly realized the woman in the parking lot had not steered me wrong. I clipped off a few photos, finished my tea and headed for my car. On reflection, this year’s event at The Meadow was a winner when it comes to state fairs. And those flying babies … you’ve got to see it to believe it!

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GOOCHLAND COUNTY

FALL FESTIVAL Contributed photo

New signs showcasing the natural and historical elements found at Tucker Park were unveiled on Sept. 13. Shown are, from left, Leigh Dunn, environmental planner with Goochland County; Derek Stamey, director of Goochland County’s Parks, Recreation and Facilities Management Department; Mark D. Williams, board member of Friends of Goochland Parks; and Andy Nicholson, Dominion Resources’ employee and volunteer at Autumn River Days.

Markers continued from >1 and animals and canals. Both the historical markers and interpretative signs were made possible with the help of an Environmental Stewardship Grant received

by the Friends of Goochland Parks from the Dominion Foundation. “We are standing on sacred ground,” Beth C. Moore, president of the Friends of Goochland Parks, said in her dedication remarks. “Those who came before us were

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explorers, pioneers, visionaries and dreamers. They traveled on the same glorious river we now call the James. They built their lives along its banks and, in doing so, laid the foundation for our lives. We share with our ancestors the good fortune of being able to enjoy the beauty of this park and are linked to them by the landscape, wildlife and native plants that flourish on these riverbanks,” Moore continued. “We are grateful for the gifted research, documentation and educational work conducted by the Goochland County Historical Society, who does a wonderful job of preserving and protecting the heritage and traditions of Goochland County. Friends of Goochland Parks’ board member Leigh Dunn spearheaded the content and design of the interpretative signs that will offer new insights into the natural and historical elements of Tucker Park. And we are fortunate see Tucker > 9

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Free Clinic connecting women with life-saving mammograms Contributed report

Breast cancer is the second leading cancer killer of women, striking one in eight women. The Richmond area ranks among the highest in cancer death rates and among the lowest in early diagnosis rates in Virginia, according to the Virginia Department of Health, Breast Cancer Statistics for Virginia, July 2011. As the nation marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month during October, Goochland Free Clinic & Family Services (GFCFS) continues to work with The Ellen Shaw de Paredes Breast Cancer Foundation (ESBCF) to provide free mammograms to the medically-underserved women in the Goochland community to fulfill the commitment for the early detection of breast cancer. The Free Mammography Outreach Program provides vouchers to clients of GFCFS to receive free services at any of 11 imaging centers in the Richmond area. This program

provides care to those who are in need without discrimination for age, ethnicity, documentation or current health. Mammograms are one of the best tools to detect early breast cancer. Screening tests can find breast cancer early on and is recommended yearly for women over the age of 40. The most common symptom of breast cancer is an unusual lump but there are other symptoms such as breast dimpling or puckering of the skin, a knot, swelling and redness or darkening of the breast. If there is anything unusual, talk with a physician immediately. GFCFS refers over 100 women a year to get mammograms. Bonita Reed, a client of GFCFS, can attest to that. She had lost her job and, with that, her health insurance. She also had custody of young four grandchildren. Reed heard about the Free Clinic at GFCFS and signed up. There she found out that she had high blood pressure and diabetes â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and she was only 45.

The clinic also sent Reed to have her first mammogram. The results showed breast cancer. She was devastated and even more scared. Who would bring up her grandchildren if she was gone? The Goochland Free Clinic provided Reed access to the doctors for a mastectomy and chemotherapy. Even though she is still being treated, Reed said she doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know what tomorrow will bring. What she does know is that GFCFS is here for her. Goochland Free Clinic & Family Services is a non-profit organization that provides access to health care and basic human services to Goochland residents in need. GFCFS is a private, 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation supported by individuals, churches, corporations, grants, and businesses who share its vision. For more information, visit www.GoochlandFreeClinicA ndFamilyServices.orgor find GFCFS on Facebook at www. facebook.com/gfcfs.

Rain or Shine

Legion Post 215 to hold meeting Oct. 21 Contributed report

American Legion Post 215 will meet at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 21. The Post will hold a review of its Open House and Fall Festival and discuss plans for the upcoming

Tucker continued from >8 to have had the support from the Dominion Foundation, which has enabled this project to become a reality!â&#x20AC;? The dedication was one of many activities held as part of the Autumn River Days.

Veterans Day Ceremony to be held Goochland High School. The meeting is open to the public and all veterans are welcome. A free fried chicken buffet dinner will be served start-

ing at 6:30 p.m. The meeting will be held at the Post Hall at 3386 River Road West in Goochland. For more information, call (804) 708-0513, or visit www. goochlandlegionpost215.com.

In addition, almost 50 volunteers spent the morning picking up trash along the shoreline of Tucker Park as part of the James River Advisory Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual James River Regional Clean Up. Volunteers also assisted with maintenance on the newly created Butterfly Garden and

the one-mile trail that circles the park. Friends of Goochland Parksâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; board member, Wayne Dementi also read from his book â&#x20AC;&#x153;ABCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s from the James Riverâ&#x20AC;?. For more information about Tucker Park at Maidens Crossing, visit www.tuckerparkva.com.

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October declared Virginia Pumpkin Month Pumpkin growers report abundant crop, ready for carving and cooking Contributed report

Everywhere you turn, pumpkin is on the menu — pumpkin coffees, pumpkin ales, pumpkin breads and more. Last year, Americans spent more than $300 million on pumpkin-flavored products, according to market research from Nielsen. With all the excitement surrounding this fall favorite, the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) encourages consumers to pick up real, Virginia Grown pumpkins this season too. To promote Virginia pumpkins, Gov. Terry McAuliffe proclaims October as “Virginia Pumpkin Month” in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Virginia is home to about 200 pumpkin growers with about 3,000 acres of wholesale pumpkins valued at more than $6 million,

according to the Virginia Pumpkin Growers’ Association. In addition, many pick-your-own pumpkin farms sell directly to the consumer. An increasing number of Virginia farmers have effectively utilized the state’s favorable environment for growing pumpkins, taking advantage of higher elevations and cooler temperatures to produce a high-value crop that consumers enjoy. The Commonwealth’s farmers have been harvesting pumpkins for three or four weeks now and will continue to pick for another week or two. Pumpkins are grown across the state, with most of the commercial pumpkin production in Southwest Virginia. Actual conditions may vary slightly by region, but farmers are reporting a good growing season with excellent color. Virginia Grown pumpkins are available at grocery stores, markets, pick-your-own farms and roadside stands. As we head into the peak pumpkin season, consumers should find plenty of pie pumpkins, squash, gourds, mini pumpkins and other specialty varieties of every size, shape and color for carving or cooking. Consumers may search for farms, markets, events and pumpkin recipes online at VirginiaGrown.com. VDACS encourages consumers to call ahead to confirm availability and hours of operation.

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Contributed report Spessard will be appear- Saturday, Oct. 18, at the Goochland author Ron ing from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. White Hawk Music Cafe for a book signing, during which Brown Motor Parts, Inc. he be signing copies of his first book, “Homespun”. Rt. 6 & 45 at George’s Tavern The book, which was 5285 River Road West published this year, is a Goochland, VA 23063 compilation of stories All Residential. Commercial from Spessard’s childhood, and Farming Electrical Needs Hours: M-F 8am-6pm • Sales after hours by Appt. which he spent living with • All Makes & Models his grandparents, aunts and Electrical Service and Repair uncles on a rural farm. of Auto,Truck & Tractor Parts Generator Panels Spessard tells tales of a • Hydraulic Hose simpler time in America, AUTO PARTS Service Upgrades and his narrative highlights Class A Electrical and Building Contractor a way of life that is quickly • Saws and Fully Licensed and Insured fading into the past. • Trimmers SALES & SERVICE Serving Goochland, Louisa, Hanover, White Hawk Music Cafe Powhatan and Surrounding Counties is located at 1940 Sandy Full Service Department Hook Road in Goochland. Call (804) 457-3415 VA State Inspections For more information, or (804) 928-4400 call (804) 556-3388.

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Tea Party to meet Oct. 16 Contributed report

The Goochland Tea Party is holding a general meeting at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 16, at 2955 River Road west in Goochland. Guest speakers will include: Susan Lascolette (Goochland supervisor for District 1) will discuss the issue of land application of industrial solids in Goochland. Keith Flannagan (vice chairman of the Goochland Electoral Board) will present information pertaining to the November 2014 elections in Goochland. Adam Wise (Salem Christian School) will present an overview of his “God and Country” class. James Carr (Libertarian candidate for the U.S. House of Representatives 7th district) will discuss his campaign platform and the objectives he seeks to achieve if elected, followed by a question and answer session. Jack Trammell (Democratic candidate for the U.S. House of Representatives 7th district) will discuss his campaign platform and objectives he seeks to achieve if elected, followed by a question and answer session. All are invited to attend this event and encouraged to bring their questions for the question and answer session.

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FOR YOUR ENTERTAINMENT

10/15-10/16

COMPUTER WORD SEARCH

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

HOROSCOPES

51. Disorderly crowd 52. Less in spanish 54. Br. broad valleys 56. Good Wife’s Julianna 60. Expression of annoyance 61. Blocks 62. 4840 square yards 63. The culminating point 64. Hit an unreturned serve 65. Excessively fat 66. Scorch the surface of 67. Dekaliter 68. Ruhr River city CLUES DOWN 1. Prevents harm to young 2. Children’s tale bear 3. Eskers 4. Small food stores 5. -__, denotes past 6 .Mentums 7. Gadoid fish 8. Rainbow effect 9. Live in or on hosts 10. Long narrative poem 11. Informal term for tobacco (Br.) 12. One who has attained nirvana 14. One who estranges

17. Collection of maps 20. Pouchlike structure 21. Simple column 23. Constitution Hall org. 25. Apple notebook computer 26. Biblical Syria 27. Cuts into small pieces 29. Talked profusely 30. Hawthorne’s city 32. Takes readings from other distant instruments 34. 13th Hebrew letter 35. Filippo __, Saint 37. Gulf of, in the Aegean 40. Bleat 42. A bird’s beak 43. Performs a song 47. Note of hand 49. Icelandic poems 50. Ludicrous, empty show 52. Peter Pan illustrator Attwell 53. Broad, flat stones 55. Tibetan Buddhist teacher 56. Mire and mud 57. Frozen drinks 58. Irish Gaelic 59. Viewed with the eyes 61. Blackguard 65. Olde English

CANCER - Jun 22/Jul 22 Cancer, you are pondering a trip out of town. A secluded cabin or campsite may be the way to go. You will find plenty of great options if you ask around for recommendation.

LIBRA - Sept 23/Oct 23 Libra, don’t grow discouraged when your first try at something doesn’t work out as you had expected. You will have plenty of opportunities to try again.

CAPRICORN - Dec 22/Jan 20 Restlessness has you looking for a brief vacation to somewhere within driving distance, Capricorn. It is a great time of year for a road trip to take in the foliage.

TAURUS - Apr 21/May 21 Your goals are commendable, Taurus. By Friday you may find there are some things you need to take charge of. Don’t worry when things get hectic, as you will get the job done.

LEO - Jul 23/Aug 23 There’s more to you than meets the eye, Leo. But people often seem content with what they gleam from the surface. This week you will show them a different side.

SCORPIO - Oct 24/Nov 22 Patience has not always been your strong suit, Scorpio. When you set your eyes on a prize this week, you will do anything within your power to get it.

AQUARIUS - Jan 21/Feb 18 Aquarius, it may take a while to wrap your head around a particularly trying problem. If you cannot come to a resolution on your own, ask a friend to share his or her perspective.

VIRGO - Aug 24/Sept 22 You’re not content to be just part of the party this week, Virgo. You want to be the center of attention. You just may get your chance later in the week when a social occasion pops up.

SAGITTARIUS - Nov 23/Dec 21 Sagittarius, you know that complaining about a situation is not likely to make it change anytime soon. Instead, put your words into action and attempt to change things for the better.

GEMINI - May 22/Jun 21 This is a good week to reshape and renew a personal philosophy on spirituality, Gemini. You’ll experience breakthroughs in compassion and communication.

PISCES - Feb 19/Mar 20 Simplify your life any way you can this week, Pisces. You will benefit from few responsibilities and no worries.

THIS WEEK’S ANSWERS

CLUES ACROSS 1. Pottery brand 6. Contemporary hit radio 9. Tatouhou 13. Modeled 14. Whale ship captain 15. On _ __ with 16. Dirty fossil fuel 17. The same 18. Wealthy 19. Actress Baranski 21. Bangladesh’s capital, old 22. Gross receipts 23. Runs PCs 24. Yukon Territory 25. Angry 28. Have the ability to 29. City of light 31. Person from U.K. (abbr.) 33. Helper 36. Walking steps 38. Cablegram (abbr.) 39. Slang for famous person 41. Skin cancers 44. Body fluids 45. More dry 46. Roman seven 48. Actress Farrow 49. 1st Lady of Song’s initials

ARIES - Mar 21/Apr 20 Aries, you have a natural sense of what people want. You may find yourself playing the role of peacemaker this week, and it’s a role you will excel in.

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A life well-lived Rob Netherland Jr. left very few stones unturned during his lifetime By Mike Schoeffel Sports Writer

If you’re reading this, you probably knew Rob Netherland Jr. If you didn’t know him, you probably know somebody who knew him. And if you did know him, you won’t forget him, because that’s just the kind of guy he was. Netherland was the long-time state chairman of American Legion baseball. He held that position for 22 years until passing away in June after a bout with silent pneumonia. But to pigeonhole him into the a title as limiting as state chairman would be an injustice to the dynamic way Bob, as he was often called, lived life during his 81 inspired years on Earth.

The Scene: A Postcard of Americana On a near-perfect fall day, just a few miles off of route 522 in Goochland, Netherland’s wife Shirley, son Rob III and daughter Donna have gathered in Shirley’s rancher down a rural gravel road. You can see the house from the corner, and the image is a postcard of purebred Americana. The pristine golf course lawn is so green it almost hurts your eyes, and beyond the glistening lawn in the house, a veritable prototype for the 1950s perception of the American Dream. You see the paved driveway, the white SUV parked right up front, and finally the front door, where Shirley Netherland – a spry grandmother with lively eyes – is waiting with a smile. The occasion is somewhat grave, but the Netherland family is in

good spirits. It has been about four John. Bob and John affectionately months since Bob passed away, and referred to each other as “Boss,” the trio has gathered in Shirley’s even as they descended into old living room to discuss the life of a man – a legend, by every account – whose spirit is still very much alive in their hearts. For two full hours they talk – almost non-stop. There is such a wealth of anecdotes it Virginia state chairman for American seems the well will never run Legion baseball for 22 years. Helped impledry. And, honestly, it never ment the first Junior Legion program in actually does: If Robert III – a Virginia state history. police officer for the Henrico Police Department – wasn’t Worked 38 years for the Virginia State called away to attend to busiPolice: 27 with the K9 unit, 11 with the ness, the conversation could Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI). have stretched on for another polygraph operator. Highest rank achieved: hour or two, at the least. assistant special agent in charge (ASAC). Here is Bob’s story, as told by those closest to him. Post commander for several different Legion posts at various points The Early Years American during his lifetime. In 1932, Robert Glenn Netherland Jr. was born in Master Mason (32nd degree). Sullivan County, Tennessee, a community so small that a Senator with the Jaycees. town by the name of Bluntville just a few miles up the road Guest speaker at American Legion Boys seems like a thriving metropoand Girls State on multiple occasions. lis in comparison – “I’m not even sure you can call it a town,” joked Rob III. Bob was one of nine children born on the age, a tradition left family farm, and life was about over from childhood, as tough and no-nonsense as one when they would would expect for a kid growing up watch classic Westerns in a large family in a small Southern together. Nelson and Sam community smack in the middle of joined the military to the Great Depression. “It was pretty hard living,” said fight in World War II. Rob III. “He would get up, work Bob decided to follow on the farm before school, go to in their footsteps and school, then come back home and join the service, but, unlike Nelson and Sam, work on the farm.” Bob’s father was a stern Southern he made it a point to gentleman who didn’t hesitate to finish high school. Bob dish out physical punishment in became the first boy in the form of “whuppins,” as Rob III the family to earn a diploput it, whenever the boys got out ma. Education – both forof line. Bob had two older broth- mal and informal – would ers – Nelson and Sam – he deeply be a prominent theme admired. However, he was closest see Netherland > 13 with one of his younger brothers,

Rob Netherland Jr. accomplished much over eight decades

Contributed photos

Above: Rob Netherland Jr. with his first dog Major, a towering German Shepherd. Netherland worked in the K9 Unit of the Virginia State Police for 27 of his 38 years on the force. Inset: The inside pages of a prayer card from Netherland’s funeral, a well-attended service held in Richmond’s West End.

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October 16, 2014

Netherland continued from >12 throughout his life. As soon as Bob had the scroll in hand, it was off to the U.S. Navy. He served four years during the Korean Conflict – mostly on the USS Wasp – before an honorable discharge in 1956. It would have been three years and 363 days, Rob III said, had Bob not made his superiors wait two more days to make it an even four. “He was always weird about that kind of stuff,” said Rob III. “He just wanted to make sure everything was in line. It was his way of paying attention to the details.”

Devoted to the Details Years after Bob left the Navy, his meticulous attention to detail helped him become the longest standing Virginia state chairman in the annals of American Legion baseball. It inspired him to help start the first Police Drug K9 school in Virginia history. It also caused him to pull the preacher aside after a service and pepper him with questions about why he skipped over verses two and three, or what have you, of a four-verse hymn – not out of an inherent need to intimidate, but because of an authentic desire to do everything right. “He’d say ‘If they only wanted us to sing two verses, they would have only written two verses,’ ” recalled Rob III with a smile. “ ‘If there are four verses, we should sing them all.’ ” It was his love of structure and his strong moral compass that led him to a career in law enforcement after his exit from the Navy. He became a state trooper in 1957, and his first assignment was in St. Paul, Virginia, another “hole-inthe-wall town,” as Rob III put it, similar to Bluntville. It was in St. Paul that Rob Jr.’s love

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of America’s pastime began to take root. “On his days off, he we always playing ball,” said Shirley. “Every day he was at practice, or out there hitting the ball or doing something. The love of baseball …” Rob III cuts in: “But that’s what was unique, because coming through high school and the Navy he was always big into basketball. So it’s kind of a mystery where his love for baseball came from.” Though he wouldn’t get involved with American Legion baseball until almost two decades later, the seed had been planted. At the beginning of his post-military days – and beyond – Bob was intently focused on his career, and was quickly becoming a widelyrespected state trooper. The Netherland family moved to the Appomattox area in the early 1960s. That’s where Bob first got involved with the K9 program, his “true love in the state police department,” Rob III said. Bob was one of the five original dog handlers in the state. Back then, police dogs were aptly called “attack dogs,” because “it was nothing for [the police] to open the door and let the dog go at it, and, if you were anywhere near it, it’d eat your butt up,” Rob III said. Bob’s first dog was Major, a towering German Shepherd that eventually became the family pet. “I used to ride him like a horse because he was that big and I was that small,” Rob III said. Major became the first in a long procession of beloved canines: Little John, Taz, Beeps, Missy and several others. In an act of reverence, Bob had all of their names printed on license plates that still hang in the garage. As deep as his love for canines ran, Bob had an equal amount of disdain for another, less innately loyal animal. “He couldn’t stand a cat,” said Rob III. “He thought that

was the most worthless animal in the world.” “We were at a family reunion in Tennessee,” Donna said, stifling a laugh. “And our little hot dog [Beeps] was in the camper. Daddy threw Uncle Nelson’s cat in there and shut the door. All you heard was screeching and barking. Daddy about laughed himself to death. He looked over at [his grandson] R.G. and goes ‘Why’d you do that?’ ” When the Netherlands moved from Appomattox to Chesterfield around 1974, Bob became one of the pioneers of Virginia’s drug K9 program. He was one of the original three to start the program, and even went on to write the official manual. After that, he wrote the Georgia State Highway Patrol’s K9 program’s manual. At the time, there were only three drug K9 officers covering the entire state: Jerry Gregory (Northern Virginia), Jack Adams (Eastern Shore) and Bob (from Richmond to Tennessee). Rob III, a young boy at the time, recalled countless occasions where his father would wake him in the middle of the night and say “Get up. Come with me.” The two would then drive to a location in Southwest Virginia, run the dog around a truck a couple of times, find the drugs, and come straight back home. “We would spend maybe 15 minutes there,” recalled Rob III. “But it would take us three hours to drive it.” All told, Bob spent 38 years with the Virginia State police, 27 of which were with the K9 unit. He spent 11 years with the Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI), where he served as an assistant special agent in charge (ASAC) and conducted polygraph tests. He enjoyed his work as an ASAC, Rob III said, and was quite talented at it, but his true passion would always rest in the K9 program.

He started filing his retirement papers in 1994, but didn’t retire until 1995, because he wanted to make sure he had spent 38 years to the day on the job.

Overcoming Tragedy It was during the Chesterfield years that Bob and his family experienced one of their most difficult times together. Bob and Shirley’s daughter Denise (or “Mouse,” as she was often called) was an aspiring registered nurse at the University of Virginia and “the smartest one out of all of us,” Rob III said. On Sept. 3, 1980, Denise was struck by a drunk driver. She experienced severe head trauma that sent her into a coma, where she would remain for two weeks. She passed away on Sept. 18. The perpetrator was given an astonishingly light sentence: a $100 fine and

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a suspended license for three months, according to Shirley. For a proud man like Bob, whose livelihood depended on ensuring public safety, it was an almost unbearable reality. “As a trooper, he was on the road to protect other people. But he couldn’t protect his own child,” said Shirley. “It really bothered him for a long time.” Rob III agreed. “That was clearly a low-point in his life, if you want to call it that. For a good three or four years after, he was a bear to live with.” Coming from a hardened Southern upbringing that preached a man ought to deal with his own problems instead of seeking help, Bob bottled up his dark emotions about the incident. It wasn’t until Shirley became president of the Richmond Mothers Against Drunk Driving (M.A.D.D.) program, a title she held for six

years, that Bob finally began the healing process. “That’s when he started to accept the fact that death is a part of life,” Rob III said. “And that, unfortunately, death sometimes comes quicker than most people want it to come.”

Bob’s Next Challenge: Legion Baseball Once Rob III was old enough to play sports, Bob was there to coach him. Perhaps getting back on the field with his son rekindled the passion for baseball that had taken root back in St. Paul, because shortly thereafter – around 1984 – Bob got involved with American Legion baseball at Post 137 in South Richmond. It was the “first date,” if you will, of a romance that would last the rest of his life. Having been involved with see Baseball > 17

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