The Goochland Gazette – 03/12/2020 by Goochland Gazette

INSIDE Several local shelter pets still waiting for their forever homes > page 2

Volume 65, Number 11 • March 12, 2020

Biden was county’s top vote-earner in primary in the coming November election, with former Vice President Joseph Biden picking up 61.03 percent of Goochland voters left little doubt the county votes in the Democratic as to their choice for the Democrat Presidential Primary held March 3. who will likely face Donald Trump Of the 3,927 votes cast, Biden By Roslyn Ryan Editor

had 2,509 votes, followed by Vermont’s Sen. Bernie Sanders with 692, former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg with 480, and Massachusetts’ Sen. Elizabeth Warren with 312.

Several candidates who had The only candidate to earn already dropped out of the race were no votes? Former Massachusetts still able to grab a few votes, including Governor Deval Patrick, who ended former South Bend, Indiana Mayor his campaign on Feb. 12. Pete Buttigieg (28), and Minnesota’s see Primary> 3 Sen. Amy Klobuchar (26).

Local groups unite to help repair homes

Leaders say plan in place should virus reach county

Contributed report

By Roslyn Ryan Editor

GoochlandCares and Habitat for Humanity of Goochland County are combining forces to tackle the growing demand from those living in homes in desperate need of critical repairs. The year-round joint effort is designed to leverage each organizations’ ability and desire to serve those whose housing is threatened by critical, health, life, and safety issues. Both skilled and non-skilled volunteers are needed to perform small and large interior and exterior home projects. Building trade professee Repairs> 2

Contributed photo

In addition to building homes, Goochland’ volunteers also help perform critical repairs on existing homes. Pictured from left to right are Habitat of Goochland board members Knight Bowles, Don Koonce, Joe Morgan and Kavis Winston; and GoochlandCares staff members Sally Graham, Executive Director; Angie Shiflett, Critical Home Repair Coordinator and Diane Reale, Director of Volunteer Resources.

As the number of Americans diagnosed with the 2019 novel coronavirus continues to climb, Goochland County officials say they are monitoring the situation closely and reviewing a plan of action should the virus impact Goochland. According to Goochland County Administrator John Budesky, leaders from both the local government and the see Virus> 3

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Pets of the week

SPORTS

Hey parents, do you need a break? Connecting Pointe Church of the Nazarene, located at 519 Broad Street Road, Manakin-Sabot, is hosting a Parents’ Night Out on Friday, March 13, and Friday, April 3, from 5-9 p.m. Drop the kids off with us while you enjoy an evening out. There will be music, dinner, games, crafts, Bible lessons and movie time. The cost is $5/child for all children up to 7th grade. For more information, or if you would like to register for one or both nights, email us at families@connectingpointe.org. We look forward to seeing you.

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Elrod and Dunham Dentistry welcomes new patients with comprehensive, gentle dental care for all ages.

Photos submitted by Julie Lawrence

The Goochland County Animal Shelter has temporarily relocated to the County’s Central High School Cultural and Educational Complex located at 2748 Dogtown Road, in Goochland. The temporary Animal Shelter will operate at the rear of the Central High School Complex until the new shelter is completed. Citizens can continue to contact the Animal Shelter by calling (804) 556-5302. The shelter currently has the following pets available to a good home: Little male Beagle, about 6-8 yrs old; sweet female hound, spayed, about 4-6 years old -- has been in the shelter since January; spayed female pit, about 1-3 years old. The Goochland Animal Shelter is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. The facility has many lost dog and cat fliers posted. 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.”

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sionals and those with construction experience are especially needed to serve as project leaders. Examples of critical home projects include plumbing, electrical, roofing, ramps, railings and flooring repairs. Faith-based, civic, corporate and other groups are also invited to volunteer. “GoochlandCares has seen a huge increase in requests for home repair assistance,” said Angie Shiflett, Critical Home Repair Coordinator. “In working with Habitat of Goochland, we will be able to utilize their experienced volunteers and expand the reach of our program so that we can complete more projects and help more people.” Requests for home repairs will continue to be

received and evaluated by GoochlandCares, who will work with Habitat of Goochland to assess the properties to determine what work is needed, coordinate the project schedule, and manage the on-site completion of the repairs. Both organizations will also work to raise funds for home repairs and identify businesses that can assist with contributions of materials “Habitat of Goochland has always been about providing families with safe, decent and affordable housing,” said Joe Morgan, Construction Lead Volunteer and Habitat board member. “While we are known for building new homes, we have also provided some home repairs through the years. This partnership with GoochlandCares will strengthen our ability to improve more homes and ultimately our community.” To volunteer for this pro-

gram, contact Goochland Habitat board member Joe Morgan at jpmorgan0308@ comcast.net. Only those repairs that are critical or unsafe in nature will be considered. To apply for the program, a candidate must be a resident of Goochland; own the home needing repair; not be at risk of foreclosure due to nonpayment of mortgage or property taxes; and complete the registration process with GoochlandCares. Those who would like to apply for the Home Repair program are urged to contact GoochlandCares Critical Home Repair Coordinator Angie Shiflett, ashiflett@ goochlandcares.org. A kickoff meeting for volunteers will be held Thursday, March 19, at 6 p.m. at the GoochlandCares’ offices, 2999 River Road West, Goochland, VA 23063.

Plenty of returning talent for GHS soccer PAGE 7 Calendar ................................ 4 Classifieds ......................13-14 Letters .................................... 6 Opinion .................................. 6 Sports .................................7-9 TV Listings ......................10-12

CONTACT US Toll Free - (877) 888-0449 Office - (804) 746-1235 Joy Monopoli Publisher (804) 775-4614 Fax: (804) 819-5529 Melody Kinser Managing Editor (804) 775-4622 Fax: (804) 344-8746 Roslyn Ryan Editor (804) 339-7956 Cindy Adams Classifieds (804) 775-4616 Fax: (804) 344-8746 Nick Vandeloecht Sports Editor (540) 728-0549

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Goochland Community Cats celebrates first year Contributed report

One year after it was founded, Goochland Community Cats is already making a tremendous impact in the lives of the county’s homeless cats. “What a difference a year can make,” said Rebecca Lipchak, cochair of the organization. After all, it was this time last year that the organization was awarded 501c3 status, and from that moment on the members have

Primary continued from >1 According to Goochland Electoral Board Secretary Robin Lind, official returns from the March 3 election show Goochland’s turnout was 22.14 percent of active voters, higher than the statewide average. Three Square Precinct had the highest voter turnout, as it had in last November’s elec-

Virus continued from >1 Goochland school division recently met with Dr. Thomas Franck, Director of the Chickahominy Health District, and “are doing our best to be as proactive on this issue as possible.” Budesky said during the March 4 Board of Supervisors meeting that this includes taking extra safety measures at all county facilitates and schools, as well as instituting enhanced cleaning measures in those buildings as well. “Please know that on the school and on the county side, we are taking this very seriously,” Budesky said. “We are continuing to monitor the situation and getting updates daily. Goochland County Deputy Fire and EMS Chief Mike Watkins confirmed that the

been hitting one milestone after another. “After successfully achieving non-profit status we started building our team and growing in our work of caring for homeless cats,” said Liz Berrier, co-chair of Goochland Community Cats. The group is now registered with the Virginia Agriculture Department of Animal Control. A board of directors has been formed. A capital campaign was launched

and is nearing its goal, and the team of volunteers has grown to over 40 enthusiastic cat lovers. Over 300 community, or feral, cats were humanely assisted in 2019 through a process called TNR, which stands for Trap-NeuterReturn. The Save Rate for last year was 96.3 percent, a level recognized as elite by national standards. Volunteers are critical to GCC success, and the group continues to reach out to the community for

tion, with 27.16 percent . As for the coming election in November, the Goochland TEA Party will host a Republican Candidate Forum for the 7th Congressional District Thursday starting at 7 p.m. at Goochland High School (3250 River Rd W, Goochland, VA 23063). The list of candidates includes Nick Freitas, Peter Greenwald, Andrew Knaggs, John McGuire, Tina Ramirez

and Jason Roberge. Each Candidate will have an opportunity to present their campaign message to the audience followed by a Q&A session. Index cards will be available to the public for submitting Candidate questions, so attendees should plan on arriving a few minutes early to greet the Candidates and submit questions. All citizens of the 7th District are welcome to attend.

county’s emergency services personnel do currently have the appropriate protective equipment to respond to calls that could place first responders at risk of contracting the virus, though Watkins said obtaining additional supplies has been difficult due to high demand. ‘ Watkins noted that the symptoms often seen in patients suffering from infection by the new strain of coronavirus often mimic the seasonal flu, and basic preventative measures are similar for both. According to information provided by the Virginia Department of Health, the following actions can help prevent the spread of infections such as those caused by the coronavirus: Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, and help young children do the same. If soap and water are not available, use

an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Wash your hands especially after coughing and sneezing, before and after caring for an ill person, and before preparing foods and before eating. Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze and then throw the tissue in the trash. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands. Avoid close contact (such as kissing or sharing eating utensils) with people who are sick. Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and objects, such as toys and doorknobs, especially if someone is sick. Stay home when you are sick, except to get medical care. Wash hands after animal contact and after visiting farms, markets, barns, petting zoos, and agricultural fairs.

assistance. The current goal is to help Goochland County become a standard bearer in its humane treatment of community cats. Training and instruction is available. To volunteer, interested persons may call Dawn Dotson at 446MEOW (6369), or email her at gccatinfo@gmail.com. To learn more about Goochland Community Cats, visit www. goochlandcommunitycats.org.

Correction In last week’s edition, the headline that accompanied a story on Goochland resident Wayne Pryor stated that he had been re-elected to a seventh term as president of the Virginia Farm Bureau. While Pryor was re-elected to a seventh term in 2018, the article in last week’s paper concerned his recent election as president and chairman of the Southern Farm Bureau Life Insurance Co. board. The headline should have reflected this accomplishment, and we sincerely regret the error.

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Community Calendar

The Unborn

For You formed my inward parts; You wove me in my motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s womb. I will give thanks to You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Wonderful are Your works, And my soul knows it very well. My frame was not hidden from You, When I was made in secret, And skillfully wrought in the depths of the earth; (Psalm 139:13-15) Under Mosesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Law even an accidental miscarriage called for judicial involvement. â&#x20AC;&#x153;If men struggle with each other and strike a woman with child so that she gives birth prematurely, yet there is no injury, he shall surely be ďŹ ned as the womanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s husband may demand of him, and he shall pay as the judges decide.â&#x20AC;? (Exodus 21:22) Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s view of the unborn and abortion? Scripture speaks quite clearly!

If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re interested in further study of Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s word, meet with us Wednesday evenings at 6:30. Details on our website.

Wednesday, March 11 The American Cancer Societyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Goochland Relay For Life of 2020 will hold a Team Captains and Planning Committee meeting at 6:30 p.m. at the Providence Presbyterian Church, 3388 Three Chopt Road, Gum Spring. Go to www.relayforlife.org/goochlandva or contact Laura Burton at (804) 527-3712 for information or to sign up. Thursday, March 12

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Advertise in The Gazette! Call (804) 746-1235 for details.

The Goochland TEA Party will host a Republican Candidate Forum for the 7th Congressional District starting at 7 p.m. at Goochland High School (3250 River Rd W, Goochland, VA 23063). The list of Candidates includes Nick Freitas, Peter Greenwald, Andrew Knaggs, John McGuire, Tina Ramirez and Jason Roberge. Each Candidate will have an opportunity to present their campaign message to the audience followed by a Q&A session. Index cards will be available to the public for submitting Candidate questions, so attendees should plan on arriving a few minutes early to submit questions. All citizens of the 7th District are welcome to attend.

Goochland Community Theatre presents â&#x20AC;&#x153;Fairy Tale Misfitsâ&#x20AC;? by Jeff Fluharty, directed by Dillon White, at 7 p.m. at Central High Complex, 2748 Dogtown Road, Goochland, VA 23063. Tickets are $15 General Admission, The Goochland Branch and $10 for Students/Military/ Library will host Mystery Seniors. Visit gvatheatre.org Book Group from 2 - 3 p.m. for more information. Call (804) 556-4774 or visit the library at 3075 River Road West for the title of the groupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s latest amazing thriller.

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p.m. at Central High Complex, 2748 Dogtown Road, Goochland, VA 23063. Tickets are $15 General Admission, and $10 for Students/Military/ Seniors. Visit gvatheatre.org for more information. Family Storytime at the Cochrane Rockville Branch Library is held at 10:30 a.m. Call (804) 749-3146 or visit the library at 16600 Pouncey Tract Road for more information. The Goochland Branch Library hosts Friday Book Group from 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Call (804) 556-4774 or visit the library at 3075 River Road West for more information. Saturday, March 14 Goochland Community Theatre presents â&#x20AC;&#x153;Fairy Tale Misfitsâ&#x20AC;? by Jeff Fluharty, directed by Dillon White, at 7 p.m. at Central High Complex, 2748 Dogtown Road, Goochland, VA 23063. Tickets are $15 General Admission, and $10 for Students/Military/ Seniors. Visit gvatheatre.org for more information.

The Goochland Branch Library will host LEGO Adventures from 6:30 - 7:30 p.m., offering a fun night of free Lego play for kids. All are welcome to visit Materials will be provided. Gum Spring United Methodist Call (804) 556-4774 or visit the library for more informa- Church, located at 191 Cross County Road, Gum Spring, tion. for some seriously good BBQ Storytimes at the from 4:30-7 p.m. Admission Goochland Branch Library (adults $10, kids $5) includes are as follows: Toddler - 10 North Carolina-style BBQ, a.m.; Preschool - 10:45 a.m.; baked beans, cole slaw or Mother Goose - 11:30 a.m. apple sauce, hush puppies, Call (804) 556-4774 or visit dessert and a beverage. Food the library at 3075 River Road is eat-in or take-out. West for more information. Mt. Gilead Purple Hearts and Relay for Life will be hostFriday, March 13 ing a Stamp Bingo at 7 p.m. Goochland Community at the Hadensville Volunteer Theatre presents â&#x20AC;&#x153;Fairy Tale Fire Department Co. #6 locatMisfitsâ&#x20AC;? by Jeff Fluharty, ed at 810 Three Chopt Road, directed by Dillon White, at 7 Louisa. Cost for adults age

12 years and older is $10 for one bingo sheet (three games on one sheet) for total of 16 sheets; for children under 12 years of age the cost is $2 for a bingo card. Food and drinks will be sold. All benefits go to American Cancer Society. Grace Episcopal Church will host a Community Prayer Service at 5 p.m. at the church (located at 2955 River Road West in the Goochland Courthouse). This is a monthly service offered to the Goochland community every second Saturday. All are welcome. For more information call (804) 556-3051 or visit the churchâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website at www. gracechurchgoochland.org. The Cochrane Rockville Branch Library will host Sherlocked in the Library from 2 - 4 p.m. for those ages 11-18. Participants will celebrate the iconic detective Sherlock Holmes, study his methods and solve a crime through an escape room-like experience. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s elementary! Snacks will be provided by the Friends of the Rockville Library. Call (804) 749-3146 or visit the library at 16600 Pouncey Tract Road for more information. Sunday, March 15 Pleasant Grove Baptist Church will hold its annual Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day at the church, located at 3845 Shannon Hill Road (Route 605). Morning worship service is at 11:30 a.m. with the Rev. Stephone Coleman, pastor, preaching. Lunch is from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Evening worship service is at 3 p.m. with the Rev. Dr. Emanuel C. Harris, pastor, preaching and the choir, ushers, and church family from Jerusalem Baptist Church in Manakin-Sabot. see Calendar> 12

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County offering parenting classes beginning April 7 Contributed report

Contributed photo

GMS honors Students of the Month Goochland Middle School recently honored the Students of the Month and Eagle of the Month for February. Pictured in the front is Eagle of the Month Brynn Parrish. Remaining students, from left to right, are Mckenzie Swindell, Ryan Hewitt, Kelsey Epps, Scott Bumgarner, Abigail Sheehan and Brady McMillan.

Goochland County is once again offering the “Parenting the Love and Logic Way” education program, an interactive series of four two-hour sessions designed to help parents provide a nurturing environment which encourages children to make healthy choices. The program is based on a win-win approach to parenting that teaches young people how to be responsible, and parents how to establish healthy controls.

This workshop session is a collaboration between the Goochland Department of Social Services and Goochland County Human Services. It is free for Goochland residents, but space is limited. The next session begins Tuesday, April 7 and runs for four Tuesday evenings from 5– 7 p.m. For more information or registration, contact Mills Jones, Director of Goochland Human Services at (804) 556-5875, or email mjones@goochlandva.us.

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Recent Property Transfers 12119 Branch Overlook Circle, Manakin Sabot; Eagle Construction of Virginia LLC to Thomas Edward Ward, $508,866. 2789 Broadland Way, Sandy Hook; Kevin L. Ramsdell to Priscilla K. Alden, $435,000. 2257 Chapel HIll Road, Goochland; Gordon Brothers Construction LLC to Mark S. Flitcraft, $275,089. 12105 Ebb Pointe Circle, Manakin Sabot; Eagle Construction of

Virginia LLC to Charles Stribling Jones, $647,150. 652 Fairhurst Court, Manakin Sabot; Boone Homes Inc. to Matthew H. Neels, $1,044,623. 1186 Lickinghole Road, Goochland; Trey C. Pruitt to Blue Ridge Custom Homes LLC, $252,000. 2636 Maidens Road, Maidens; Jean Lindemann Campbell to Elizabeth Omohundro Harwood, $232,000. 4591 Old Fredericksburg Road, Mineral; Shelbie Lynn

West to Dawn Renee Rudolph, $205,500. 3090 Rock Cress Lane, Sandy Hook; James Scott Houghtaling to Dale E. Ruffner, $180,000. 2837 Summerchase Lane, Goochland; David Kim to Gary Edward Duda, $209,000. 3009 Swanns Inn Crescent, Goochland; Legacy Homes LLC to James Douglas Duby Jr., $495,720. 867 Waterbridge Road, Manakin Sabot; Boone Homes Inc. to Mihail Moroianu, $923,817.

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On March 12, Goochland Community Theatre will present the opening night of “Fairy Tale Misfits” at 7 p.m. at Central High Complex, 2748 Dogtown Road, Goochland, VA 23063. Tickets are $15 General Admission, and $10 for Students/Military/Seniors.

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OPINION: Editorial, Letters to the Editor

Honoring local first responders On Saturday, Feb. 29, Byrd Presbyterian Church held its third annual First Responders Breakfast. “We were glad and honored to serve over 30 first responders including the Sheriff’s department, State Police, Fire and Rescue, and Animal Control,” said Rev. Johan O’Connell. “Thanks to all these folks for what you do to serve and protect.” O’Connell also offered special thanks to Jonni Farish, “who started this community outreach and all the Byrdies who every year support her in every step and way. We are already looking forward to welcome even more First Responders next year. The more the merrier!” Contributed photo

Put it on ice: Seeking common ground as election nears By Roslyn Ryan Editor

Let’s face it: This election season, more than likely, is going to be another bruiser. There are going to be endless campaign ads of varying validity, plenty of preening and posturing, and at least a handful of dinner table discussions that devolve into heated debates and hurt feelings. Perhaps in light of this, as November nears, it would help if we all just took a few moments to focus and reflect on the things that all of us — or at least almost all of

us — have in common: Like ice. Yes, I said it. Ice. Apparently, from what I’ve been told, Americans as a group have some kind of inborn affinity for having their drinks served over ice, and this preference is not widely shared by many of those living in other parts of the world. Simply put, ice is kind of our thing. I know ice does not make for scintillating conversation over cocktails (even if the ice is in the cocktail). But if we can’t talk about politics for fear of blunt force injuries and we’ve exhausted the

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weather as a topic (“Been really rainy lately, huh?” “Yep, sure has.”), we are soon going to find ourselves in need of a little conversational kindling. Fortunately, there are plenty of things that you can count on having in common with most of the fellow Americans standing in line with you at the grocery store, even if they’re wearing MAGA hats and you’re very much feeling the Bern. “Elections tend to stress whatever differences we have,” said the author and scholar Michael Ledeen. “But even in the most divisive issues, Americans have a great

degree of consensus.” Americans are also, Ledeen said, far more tolerant of differences than it would seem during the heat of a Presidential race. So even if you are tempted to look at the next person who takes a dig at you for your personal political beliefs and imagine them strapped to the outside of a rocket bound for the moon, you might find it heartening to know that, in all likelihood, you are probably more alike than you are different. The discussions may get heated, after all, but at least all of our drinks will be ice cold.

WE WANT TO PUBLISH YOUR ISSUE-DRIVEN LETTERS The Gazette welcomes your signed letters to the editor on topics of interest to Goochland residents. Letters must include your address and a daytime telephone number. We reserve the right to edit letters. We do not guarantee that every letter received will be published. Letters reflect the opinions and positions of the writers and not The Goochland Gazette. Send letters to: The Goochland Gazette 8460 Times-Dispatch Blvd. Mechanicsville, Va. 23116 Fax: (804) 344-8746 E-mail: rryan@goochlandgazette.com © 2020 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: 8,014.

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Letter to the Editor Many hands made for successful Super Tuesday in Goochland Dear Editor, Official returns from the March 3 Democratic Presidential Primary election show Goochland’s turnout was 22.14 percent of active voters, higher than the statewide average. Three Square Precinct led the way, as it did in the November election, with a commendable 27.16 percent turnout. We are grateful for the goodwill of voters across the county who exercised the franchise with humor, patience and commitment, despite the unknowns associated with public gatherings in a time of healththreatening virus. As the several political campaigns continue toward November please remember your neighbors whose willingness to serve made this election possible. Their performance embodies the five ‘Rs’ of their training: Responsible • Resilient • Resourceful • Respectful • Resolute. At Fife, please thank Chief Robbin Bryce, Assistant Chief Sara Reed, Shirley Foutz, Ron Jenkins, Mara Hilliar, and Ella Helms. At Hadensville, please thank Chief Shirley Christian, Assistant Chief Ken Siddons, Shannon Grayson, Deloris Shelton, Willie Dickerson, and Thelma Hughes. At Three Square, please thank Chief Larry Finnegan, Assistant Chief Mara Hilliar, Sonja Johns, Francine Bryce, and Bonnie Field. At Sandy Hook, please thank Chief Shauna Sprouse, Assistant Chief Karen Gentry, Haywood Pace, Diane Lively, Penny Athey, Shirley Lewis, and Diana Nixon. At Goochland Court House Precinct One, please thank Chief Yvette Thomas, Assistant Chief Kris Hutchinson, Geraldine Woodson, Robert Walker and Cyndi Young. At Goochland Court House Precinct Two, please thank Chief Patti Rosner, Assistant Chief Fred Dunevant, Ruth Quarles, Patricia see Letters > page 12

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SPORTS: Youth, High School, College, Recreational, Professional

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Talented returners back to lead Goochland State title-winning coach takes the helm of the Bulldogs By Nick Vandeloecht Sports Editor

As a little boy, Marshall Lindner wanted to play center field for the New York Mets. It wasn’t a dream that he would ever realize – although he did get to play at the NCAA Division III level for Franklin & Marshall College in Pennsylvania – but when he won that 2004 high school baseball state championship with a bunch of studentathletes he enjoyed coaching at Friends Academy, it was better than anything he could’ve ever dreamed up for his career. “And the three soccer state championships were the same way,” he said. As a coach, Lindner has devoted 45 years to the athletic fields. That’s longer than many careers, but the joy he derives from coaching has not wavered. He was pumped up for the scrimmage last Friday, when the team he now coaches – Goochland boys soccer – took on Class 3 opponent New Kent. “You still get the same excitement,” he said. His 46th year of coaching will be his first with Goochland. He takes over a highly talented team led by several key returners who contributed to its 17-1 record and regional semifinal appearance in 2019. Lindner described Charlie Flammia as “very, very talented,” called him a “classic center midfielder” and praised him as having a “great touch on the ball.” He’s also

File/Goochland Gazette

Goochland’s Charlie Flammia (from left), Matthew Lewis and Caleb Moyer are all back to help lead the Bulldogs into the upcoming 2020 high school season.

seen Matthew Lewis’ versatility and said he can play anywhere on the field. “He’s one of those kids who can play defense, offense, midfield,” Lindner said of Lewis. “He’s very, very talented, really knows the game well.” Nick Lowery, who on Monday signed to attend and play for Louisburg College, returns at midfield, and Lindner also complimented him as someone who can play at different positions. Junior Caleb Moyer had a very strong scrimmage, and Hunter Willms impressed his head coach with his speed. “He’s really a kid who can help you on the offensive side and also defensive if necessary,” Lindner said of Willms. The Bulldogs will also get a boost from senior defender Ty Amos, as well as from

talented freshman Conner Doersch who will join the roster as a striker. “I think for a ninth grader, he’s a good-sized kid, he’s quick,” Lindner said of Doersch. “He plays like he’s got a lot of experience, which I’m sure he does.” Max Moreno, a junior, is projected to start in goal. Lindner described him as a good athlete but noted that he’s relatively new to the role, so they’ll be working with him as he learns the position. Lindner has been impressed by the overall team speed of this year’s unit, but as the season goes on, he said they have to keep working on depth and rotation to ensure that they not only have players who can step up in a position if the starter or main player in that spot gets injured, but also that they

Contributed photo

Nick Lowery (seated at center), who on Monday signed to attend and play soccer for Louisburg College next school year, is among Goochland’s returners for the 2020 boys soccer season.

have the ability to match up well against other teams in different formations and situations. Goochland will host

Nottoway on Monday, March Conestoga Valley High School in 1972. He taught 16 at 5:30 p.m. Lindner’s career in both there for 11 years before teaching and coaching first see Soccer> page 9 began at Pennsylvania’s

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Pitching, infield to lead Bulldogs into new year By Nick Vandeloecht Sports Editor

The Bulldogs will take on the new season anchored by several strong returning arms on the mound and in the infield. Utility players and seniors Walker Murray, Jackson Raines and Cole Bashinski, senior infielder Eli Bowman, junior utility player Ayden Doczi and senior multisport standout Quincy Snead, who contributed last season primarily as a base runner, are all back. The team should also get a boost from an athletic core including Kindrick Braxton, Will Stratton, Travis Lestyk, Mason Nuckols and Devin McCray. “Hopefully we will continue to get quality starts from our pitchers and solid infield play,” Goochland head coach Wes Farkas said. “We hope to get more production from a seasoned group at the

plate.” As the season goes on, the Bulldogs will look to gain strides and experience in the outfield, as well as in the bottom half of the batting order to complement a seasoned top half of the lineup. “We have some very athletic outfielders who should develop quickly as the season progresses, but might have some learning to do early on in the season,” Farkas said. The team also hopes to see its middle relief and closers gain more experience on the pitcher’s mound. Farkas and his coaching staff want everyone to be working together to achieve one common goal. They want everyone to take it one game at a time, strive to be ready every pitch whether on the field or off of it and play to the best of their ability for the guy next to them. “Wins and losses are important,” File/Goochland Gazette Farkas said, “but if everyone does their Senior pitcher and utility player Jackson Raines and senior infielder Eli Bowman are among Goochland’s returners for the upcoming 2020 high school varsity baseball season. part, the record will take care of itself.”

Goochland returning 10 starters for 2020 season Contributed Report

File/Goochland Gazette

Left: Goochland’s Julissa Gallegos, seen controlling the ball in a 2019 season contest, will return to help lead the Bulldogs in 2020 as a senior, co-captain and forward; Goochland’s Claire Anderson (32), seen vying for possession of the ball in a 2019 season contest versus Nottoway, will return to help lead the Bulldogs in 2020 as a senior, co-captain and defender.

Returning 10 starters from 2019 and entering its third year in head coach Paul Manno’s system, Goochland girls soccer will look to build upon last season’s regional semifinal appearance and 12-6 record. Manno expects the Bulldogs to be a well-balanced team this season, with many returning starters in key positions on both offense and defense. Goochland returns Second Team All-State co-captain, forward and senior Julissa Gallegos, All-Region co-captain, senior and defender Claire Anderson and the following midfielders: All-Region player and sophomore Ella Kamencik, versatile multisport standout and junior Gabrielle “Gabby” Ragone and AllDistrict player and junior Aubrie Hixon. Sophomore Erla Thorkelsdottir is back at forward, and sophomore Allie Joyner returns at midfield. Newcomer Frances Thackston, a freshman, will bring additional pace and talent to the defense, while newcomer and sophomore Grace Becraft, who missed her freshman year with a knee injury, will help to control the midfield. Other players to watch include senior midfielder and basketball player Victoria “Vicki” Lopez, sophomore defender and cross country runner Nadia Esposito and freshman keeper Mayland Walker. Manno expects that a deep and talented roster will afford the Bulldogs the opportunity to be versatile in their substitutions and creative formations, thus resulting in a successful season for Goochland.

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Cadets lose 10, but expect to have plenty of talent By Nick Vandeloecht Sports Editor

When the Cadets step onto the field to begin the 2020 season, they won’t have 10 players who were part of last year’s 28-2 run to the VISAA state championship. But they still expect to have plenty of talent. “While we have some familiar faces, we have a lot of guys who have been waiting for their turn to be in the lineup,” said Benedictine head coach Sean Ryan. “I’ve been impressed with their focus on getting better.” Benedictine last year graduated a star-studded class of eight seniors – among them Jamari Baylor (Phillies), Brett Cook (Tulane) and Casey Green (Coastal Carolina) – and saw two more contributors depart as Brett Allen transferred back to Lee-Davis High School and Connor Schumann transferred to Midlothian. The Cadets this season are also not expecting to have senior Jack Hall on the field as he recovers from foot surgery following an injury that he sustained in the summer (the injury caused him to miss the football season as well). Dual-sport leader Jay Woolfolk, who committed to Virginia for baseball as well as football and helped his Cadets win state championships last year in both sports, is recovering from a knee injury. The timetable for his return had not yet been determined. But several players who contributed to the depth that helped the Cadets win the VISAA title will be back. Bennett Lloyd, Nick Neighbors, Matt Sylvia and Patrick White are all

File/Goochland Gazette

Bennett Lloyd (13), seen catching a throw from a Benedictine teammate to complete an out at first base in a 2019 season game at Collegiate, is among the Cadets’ returners for the upcoming 2020 high school baseball season.

slated to return. Henry Dolan, whose versatility bolstered the football team in its 2019 title run, will also be back. Senior Jack Anderson, who missed most of last year but had a clutch hit in the state final, will be one of the top three arms and will bat in the middle of the order. Junior Hank Carpin will play in the middle infield, bat near the top of the order and pitch. Senior Brock Carter will also play in the middle infield and pitch. Junior Jackson Cray, who caught down the stretch for Hall, is back. And senior infielders Jacob Dunleavy (third base)

Soccer continued from >7 moving back to Long Island, where he is originally from, and became a teacher at Friends Academy. He was able to coach both soccer and baseball there, as the soccer season took place during the fall and baseball was played during the spring. While at the school, Lindner would enjoy a storied run, winning the 2004 state championship in baseball and then three more state titles in soccer in 2009, 2010 and 2013. And even though Friends Academy is a private school,

and Richie Smith (first base) are expected to strengthen the lineup. Michael Aleska, a transfer from Mills Godwin, is projected to be among the team’s top three or four pitchers and also expects to be in the lineup. Ryan said that juniors Connor Handy and Spencer Baird will add depth to the pitching staff. “I expect we’ll have a lot more power throughout the lineup than last year, and we are deep on the mound, although it will probably take us a few weeks to settle into a consistent rotation,” Ryan said. “We’re going

Lindner and his teams won those state trophies in Class C of the New York State Public High School Athletic Association league. Lindner, who is now 70 years old, retired from Friends Academy a year-and-a-half ago and moved to Manakin Farms to be closer to his two grandsons. He did coach Collegiate Middle School soccer in the fall, and between working with the team there and scrimmaging New Kent with Goochland, he’s gotten to see that there are a lot of talented players in the Richmond area in general. “For the preseason scrimmage, first time

to have fresh faces at all the positions up the middle. We have a chance to be really good defensively, but it will start with our new starters up the middle. Pitching-wise, the Cadets early on will likely be using a committee approach until they feel more comfortable with having their strongest arms extend deeper into the later innings of games. Some of the players in this year’s group – Dolan and Woolfolk included – will be able to benefit the Cadets with their experience of having not only won the state championship at

out, I thought it was really good soccer from both teams,” Lindner said. “It was a scrimmage that could’ve gone either way. We came out with a couple of goals, but it was a good level of play for so early in the season.” Across his career, he’s asked the following things from his players: that they show up on time every day; that they give it their best effort; that they be good teammates; and that they exhibit good sportsmanship. As for what the players can expect from their head coach, Lindner said: “I’m going to treat you (the players) with respect, I’m going to treat our opponents with respect and the

this level, but also having done it in another sport. “In some ways, it’s good because our players know how hard it is to win one playoff game, let alone three in a week,” Ryan said. “The success of last year’s team definitely can carry over. But by virtue of that success, we’ll be one of the teams to beat.” Ryan said they expect their schedule to be “as difficult as ever” as state champions Stafford, Miller and Walsingham, several tough public schools like Western Branch, Great Bridge, Kellam and Thomas Dale, games in the challenging Deep Run Spring Break tournament and their traditionally strong private school opponents are all on the 2020 slate. “They know that we lost a lot of stars from last year’s team,” Ryan said of his returners, “but they understand the difficult schedule ahead of them. “ The Cadets have several goals that go into ensuring a strong season. Ultimately, they want to be among those nine teams that get a chance to play for the state title at the end of the year. “As we saw first-hand the past two years, teams can’t take anything for granted in the playoffs, especially that first game,” Ryan said. “Our division has gotten so strong top to bottom, you almost can throw seedings out the window.” As they work towards that ultimate goal, the Cadets want to get a little better each game, each week of the season. “This has the feeling of being a team that will be stronger late in the season,” Ryan said, “regardless of what our record is at the time.”

officials with respect.” And winning is important – “it really is,” Lindner said – but, in describing what he feels is more important, he still looks back on his high school playing days in both soccer and baseball and reflects on those experiences as really enjoyable times; in fact, he’s still friends with a lot of the student-athletes he played with. So his biggest hope is that, 25 years in the future, the men who played on the 2020 Goochland boys soccer unit can look back on this season and their days on this team and say that they enjoyed this time in their lives.

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