As discussion continues regarding the fiscal year 2024 Goochland County Public Schools budget, a plan that includes a proposed 5% pay increase for all school division employees, county school board members are eyeing a potential pay raise for the school board as well.
INSIDE: Mt. Gilead Baptist hosts STEM night. SEE PAGE 9
As current school board chair Sandra Barefoot-Reid noted during a Jan. 16 school board budget work session, the $4,950 annual salary for a Goochland County School Board member has been in place since 2006.
One look at the possum and Goochland resident Mark Busser knew something wasn’t right. Not only was the possum plainly visible during the daytime—unusual for the marsupials, which are typically most active at night—but it was also walking, as Busser would later describe it, “in small fast circles.”
Concerned that the animal might be sick and fearing his two Labrador Retrievers might try to approach it, Busser called Goochland Animal Protection for assistance and kept an eye on the possum while he waited. A short time later, Officer Shawn Rutledge arrived on the scene.
Barefoot-Reid
Barefoot-Reid added that, while she understood the need to keep the current proposed budget balanced and prioritize the critical needs of the school division, she felt the time had come to discuss a raise.
“None of us are here to make money, but there are expenses that we endure as well,”
Please see PAY BUMP, Page 3
A Goochland County deputy remains on administrative leave after a Feb. 2 shooting that occurred after o cers responded to a home in the 4600 block of Hodges Hideaway Lane.
Responding to a call from a resident about shots being fired in the area and a woman screaming for help, o cers with the Goochland County Sheri ’s O ce arrived on the scene and began their investigation.
According to a release issues by the Goochland County Sheri ’s o ce, o cers were questioning a male subject about his possible involvement in the incident when the man produced a firearm.
Despite repeated commands for the man to drop the weapon, he allegedly pointed it at the deputies and was subsequently shot. Deputies immediately rendered aid and called for rescue.
Please see WILD, Page 2
As Rutledge explained later, seeing a possum out in the daylight hours, while unusual, isn’t necessarily cause for alarm. Particularly during Goochland Animal Protection O cer Shawn Rutledge examines a possum after a resident reported that it had been exhibiting strange behavior.
The man was transported to VCU Medical Center, and his condition remains unknown.
Charges are currently pending against him.
Hodges Hideaway Lane is located o Three Chopt Road in the western part of the county.
At the request of Goochland County Sheri Steven N. Creasey, the Virginia State Police are investigating the incident.
After four decades of service, former Goochland Fire-Rescue ambulance will now serve new purpose.ROSLYN RYAN Editor ROSLYN
Repeated command to drop the weapon reportedly ignored
Local Animal Protection o cers remain focused on helping people, area wildlife share the countyPHOTO COURTESY OF MARK BUSSER
The Goochland County Sheriff’s Office (GCSO) will be hosting its third annual Junior Deputy Academy summer camp, offering kids age 7 to 11 the chance to see what their local sheriff’s office does daily. They will get to see the patrol cars, equipment and technology that GCSO uses on a daily basis. The sheriff’s office will be inviting other first responders to teach what their
agencies do as well. Some of those visiting agencies will include Goochland FireRescue, Goochland Animal Protection and the Virginia State Police. Registration for this free, all-day camp opens this month. For more information or to register, visit the Goochland County Parks and Recreation website at https://www.goochlandva. us/236/Parks-Recreation or call (804) 556-5349.
said. “It was obvious he has respect for the lives of animals.”
the winter months, animals normally hidden away during the day must sometimes forage for food wherever—and whenever—they can.
In this case, however, once he saw a video Busser had taken of the possum walking in circles, Rutledge suspected something might be amiss. He contacted the Department of Wildlife Resources and spent a few minutes conferring with a source who advised him that the animal was likely either ill or injured. The decision was made to euthanize the possum to spare it from any further suffering.
To Busser, the incident showcased the professionalism of the county’s Animal Protection officers, who can often be found crisscrossing the county responding to calls about everything from stray dogs to errant livestock.
“I am very appreciative of the job the officer did, his compassion for the animal, and the thoroughness of his decisionmaking process,” Busser
This year, a record-setting number of Goochland Troop 710 scouts achieved the rank of Eagle Scout. This year also, for the first time, two of these were young ladies. Eagle Scout is the highest rank in scouting, something achieved by only 6% of those who have begun the journey.
Candidates must remain active in the troop for several years, and for some it is a decade-long commitment. These scouts demonstrated hundreds of life skill requirements and earned over 21 merit badges. As a capstone for his or her final rank, each scout planned, developed and gave leadership to a service project the community.
Below is a list of the scouts and a brief description of their Eagle Project:
Rutledge, for his part, says he truly enjoys the work. After briefly leaving the department in 2018 to work for the Virginia Department of Corrections, he says he’s happy to be back with Goochland Animal Protection.
As for his advice to residents who encounter sick of injured animals, he says the best course of action is to avoid touching or handling the animal and to call Goochland Animal Protection at (804) 556-5302.
He also urges people to remember that encountering wildlife, provided they are not posing a threat, is often just part of living in the country.
“Those are our wild neighbors,” Rutledge said cheerfully, “so we have to share the neighborhood.”
* * *
Wondering who to call about local animal issues?
Goochland County Animal Protection responds at any time of day or night to calls involving domestic animals or any issues involving injured or sick animals. The office can be reached at (804) 556-5302.
Austin McGuire led a team that constructed tables and garden beds for Salem Christian School.
Sarah Pudwill led a team that constructed picnic tables for Maggie L. Walker Governor’s School.
David Dick led a team that worked at Providence Presbyterian Church to produce over 250 cloth face masks for Goochland citizens.
Emmett Jones led a team that built several metal park benches for Gum Springs United Methodist Church.
Jacob Shively led a team that built several picnic tables and cleared a nature trail for an outdoor learning center for the Goochland Family YMCA.
Alexander Rosenbaum led a team that renovated St. Matthews United Methodist Church outdoor worship center.
Miles McCray led a team that built eight picnic tables for the Central High School Cultural and Educational Center.
Maggie McCray led a team that built six American Kestrel nesting boxes for habitats in Goochland, Appomattox and Prince George counties.
Rafe Smith led a team that built three donation collection cabinets for St. John Neumann Catholic Church to better organize and distribute donated items such as: food, hygiene products, and health supplies.
Jack Campbell led a team that installed drainage improvements for Goochland Elementary School’s outdoor classroom.
Alex Campbell led a team constructed and prepared six raised garden beds for Goochland Elementary School.
As these scouts have supported the Goochland community, residents who would like to support Troop 710 are encouraged to attend the group’s annual Spaghetti Dinner and Auction. The event will be held on Saturday, Feb. 25 at the Cub Adventure Camp Dining Hall (1723 Maidens Road, Maidens, VA). Visit 710dinner.com to purchase tickets, become a corporate sponsor, and to learn more about this upcoming event.
Do you like big, goofy dogs? What about mature, big, goofy dogs? What about mature, big, goofy, dogs that happen to be bully breeds? If the answer is yes, we undoubtedly have the dog for you in Bradley. Brad was found stray by a nice person who kept him snug in her garage until we could pick him up. Brad has a sweet disposition, seems house-trained, is good with other doggos and Otis the cat! We warned you he was big—he is just under 70 lbs of love. Brad had a little skin rash on his rump when he came in so he has been getting some medicated baths during his stay, and is a perfect gentleman
for them too. He loves getting his booty scratched and putting his big noggin in your arms for a hug. We know that there are big dog enthusiasts
out there looking for a buddy like Bradley! If you are one of those, swing by and meet this adorable pooch. Brad is about 6-8 years young, neutered,
chipped, tested, and up to date on his doggie vaccinations.
The Goochland Animal Shelter is located at 1900 Hidden Rock Lane in Goochland. For more information on the many pets still in need of homes, call (804) 556-5302. You also can visit the shelter on Facebook at “Goochland County Animal Control.”
The shelter’s hours are Tuesday and Wednesday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.; Thursday 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.; Friday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. -2 p.m. Anyone wishing to make a monetary donation to the shelter is asked to make donations payable to Goochland Pet Lovers.
CONTRIBUTED REPORT
American legion Post 215 will begin regularly scheduled Bingo games on Sunday, Feb. 19 at the Post building located at 3386 River Road West in Goochland. Admission is $35 and includes a pack of play sheets for 20 games with various cash prizes and jackpots. In addition, instant games (pull tabs) will be available for purchase at $1 each. Refreshments will be available for
From 1
Barefoot-Reid said.
District 3 representative Karen Horn said she recalled late former Goochland County School Board member William Quarles suggesting a school board salary review in 2021, and added that the Code of Virginia allows a school board to increase salaries prior to July 1 of any year in which
purchase as well. Doors will open at 1 p.m. Games will be held on the first Saturday and third Sunday of each month.
The Post recently acquired a computer-operated Bingo machine that randomly selects and tracks balls for each game. The machine will be operated by Post members who are state licensed Bingo game callers.
According to Post Commander George Mitchell, a USMC Vietnam veteran,
a school board election will be held. By code, the new salary does not become effective until the new board takes over, Horn said, adding that if the pay increase is not initiated this year it will not be until 2028 that a school board raise could go into effect.
Underscoring the fact that the raise would only impact current school board members if they were to be reelected, Horn agreed with Barefoot-Reid that the time
money earned from the games will be used to support and enhance all the Post’s community-based activities.
“We really hope to use much of these proceeds to help veterans through our programs,” Mitchell said.
The four pillars of the American Legion, which was founded by Congress in 1919, are Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation, National Security, Americanism, and
has come for an increase.
“None of us come here for the money, absolutely not,” Horn said, “but we all use a lot of our time, and we use our gas to get here.”
Horn suggested revisiting the discussion once more state budget figures become available and asked GCPS school superintendent Jeremy Raley about the procedure for implementing the pay increase after the school budget has been finalized and adopted.
Children and Youth. Anyone with questions is asked to call (804)
The Goochland County Sheriff’s Office and Goochland Fire-Rescue will be joining forces for the Stock the Shelves Food Drive 2023. The organizations will be collecting non-perishable food items from now until Feb. 15, with donation boxes located at the Goochland County Sheriff’s Office (2938 River Rd. West) and all six
Goochland Fire-Rescue stations. A “Pack the Cruiser” event will also be held this Saturday, and on Feb. 11 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Courthouse Commons and Broad View shopping centers, and non-perishable food items will be accepted during those events as well.
Both efforts will benefit the GoochlandCares Food Pantry.
Goochland baptist Church will be hosting a Community Table Craft night event, during which participants will make Valentines for the Chelsea Healthcare Center. dinner begins at 6 p.m. and activities start at 6:30. Goochland baptist Church is located at 2454 Manakin rd. in Manakin-sabot. For more information, call (804) 749-3522.
yoga will be held at the Goochland branch Library from 4 — 5 p.m. for those ages 18 and up. Participants are asked to bring a mat to take part in the session, which will promote strength, flexibility and balance. The class will be led by certified instructor, Kathleen Tsengas. Call (804) 5564774 or visit the library at 3075 river road West for more information.
The Goochland branch Library will host a program entitled “black rebellion in early america” from 7- 8 p.m. for those ages 18 and up.
Participants will enjoy a presentation provided by the John Marshall House. This talk features Gabriel’s Conspiracy, the German Coast uprising, and nat Turner’s rebellion. refreshments will be provided by the Friends of the Goochland Library.
Call (804) 556-4774 or visit the library at 3075 river road West for more information.
The Goochland County Library will be hosting Cupcake Wars for kids ages 13-17 from 6 – 7 p.m. do you enjoy cupcakes and expressing your creativity? Visit the library for a friendly and exhilarating cupcake decorating competition. registration is required at https://pamunkeylibrary.libcal.com/event/9750255.
Call (804) 556-4774 or visit the library at 3075 river road West for more information.
Family stor ytime will be held from 10-10:30 a.m. at the Goochland branch Library for children ages 2-5 with a caregiver. Participants will enjoy a fun time with books, singing, rhymes and much more. Call (804) 556-4774 or visit the library at 3075 river road West for more information.
FRIDAY, FEB. 10
The rotary Club of Goochland will hear from Chief eddie Ferguson Jr. of Goochland Fire-rescue. The meeting starts at 7:30 a.m. and is held at The residence Inn short Pump at the notch, 1800 Wilkes ridge Circle. Family storytime will be held at
the Cochrane rockville branch Library from 10:30-11 a.m. Families will enjoy a fun time with books, singing, rhymes and much more! Family storytime is for children ages 0-5 and their caregivers. Call (804) 749-3146 or visit the library at 16600 Pouncey Tract road for more information.
Friday book Group will be held at the Goochland branch Library from 11 a.m. – noon for those ages 18 and up. Join the library to discuss the monthly book choice. Call (804) 5564774 or visit the library at 3075 river road West for more information.
MONDAY, FEB. 13
The Goochland branch Library will host Goochland bridge Club from 3-5 p.m. for those ages 18 and up. The Goochland bridge Club is for those who want to learn how to play or those with a basic knowledge of the game. each week there will be instruction and play time. Call (804) 556-4774 or visit the library at 3075 river road West for more information.
WEDNESDAY, FEB. 15
Goochland baptist Church will be hosting a Community Table service project event focused on giving back to Goochland elementary school. dinner begins at 6 p.m. and activities start at 6:30. Goochland baptist Church is located at 2454 Manakin rd. in Manakin-sabot. For more information, call (804) 749-3522.
a workshop entitled “avoiding the Pitfalls of Medicare” will be held at the Cochrane rockville branch Library from 6- 7 p.m. Take part in this workshop to learn how to simplify the decision making process with br yan Gay of boomer Insurance. Call (804) 749-3146 or visit the library at 16600 Pouncey Tract road for more information.
yoga will be held at the Goochland branch Library from 4 — 5 p.m. for those ages 18 and up. Participants are asked to bring a mat to take part in the session, which will promote strength, flexibility, and balance. The class will be led by certified instructor Kathleen Tsengas. Call (804) 556-4774 or visit the library at 3075 river road West for more information.
an action Figure art Class will be held at the Goochland branch Library from 6:30 — 7:30 p.m. for those ages 10-18. Participants will meet local artist Curtis brown and learn techniques to draw their own superhero action figure. registration
is required at https://pamunkeylibrary.libcal.com/event/9986055. Call (804) 556-4774 or visit the library at 3075 river road West for more information.
Family stor ytime will be held from 10-10:30 a.m. at the Goochland branch Library for children ages 2-5 with a caregiver. Participants will enjoy a fun time with books, singing, rhymes and much more. Call (804) 556-4774 or visit the library at 3075 river road West for more information.
read 2 rover will be held at the Cochrane rockville branch Library from 4:30 — 5:30 p.m. for those in grades K-2. read 2 rover provides comfort and motivation for beginning readers as they read aloud to Colby or Pepper, the library’s therapy dogs. space is limited. Call the rockville branch at (804) 749-3146 for more information or to register for this rewarding program!
FRIDAY, FEB. 17
The rotary Club of Goochland will hear from Mike Caudill, Goochland Commonwealth’s attorney. The meeting starts at 7:30 a.m. and is held at The residence Inn short Pump at the notch, 1800 Wilkes ridge Circle.
Toddler and Preschool storytime will be held at the Goochland branch Library from 10-10:30 a.m. for children ages 2-5 with a caregiver. Participants will enjoy a fun time with books, singing, rhymes and much more. Call (804) 556-4774 or visit the library at 3075 river road West for more information.
Family storytime will be held at the Cochrane rockville branch Library from 10:30-11 a.m. Families will enjoy a fun time with books, singing, rhymes and much more! Family storytime is for children ages 0-5 and their caregivers. Call (804) 7493146 or visit the library at 16600 Pouncey Tract r oad for more information.
Crafternoon: needle Felting will be held at the Goochland branch Library from 1 – 2 p.m. for those ages 18 and up. no skills are needed and all supplies will be provided. registration is required at https://pamunkeylibrary.libcal.com/event/9748764. refreshments will be provided by the Friends of the Goochland Library. Call (804) 556-4774 or visit the library at 3075 river road West for
more information.
FEB. 20
The Goochland branch Library will host Goochland bridge Club from 3-5 p.m. for those ages 18 and up. The Goochland bridge Club is for those who want to learn how to play or those with a basic knowledge of the game. each week there will be instruction and play time. Call (804) 556-4774 or visit the library at 3075 river road West for more information.
TUESDAY, FEB. 21
a program entitled “Virginia is bear Country!” will be held at the Cochrane rockville branch Library from 7-8 p.m. for those ages 18 and up. If you live in Virginia, you live in bear country. Have you been visited by one of these fascinating creatures? Learn about our Virginia bears, some of their natural history, why and when you might see one and how to protect your property from their antics. This workshop will be presented by the Virginia department of Wildlife resources and the riverine Chapter of Virginia Master naturalists. Call (804) 749-3146 or visit the library at 16600 Pouncey Tract road for more information.
WEDNESDAY, FEB. 22
Goochland baptist Church will be hosting a Community Table bInGO night. dinner begins at 6 p.m. and activities start at 6:30. Goochland baptist Church is located at 2454 Manakin rd. in Manakin-sabot. For more information, call (804) 749-3522. yoga will be held at the Goochland branch Library from 4 — 5 p.m. for those ages 18 and up. Participants are asked to bring a mat to take part in the session, which will promote strength, flexibility and balance. The class will be led by certified instructor Kathleen Tsengas. Call (804) 556-4774 or visit the library at 3075 r iver r oad W est for more information.
THURSDAY, FEB. 23
Family stor ytime will be held from 10-10:30 a.m. at the Goochland branch Library for children ages 2-5 with a caregiver. Participants will enjoy a fun time with books, singing, rhymes and much more. Call (804) 556-4774 or visit the library at 3075 river road West for more information.
Please see CALENDAR, Page 5
ROSLYN RYAN
Editor
A piece of Goochland
Fire-Rescue history has begun a brand new chapter.
On Saturday, Jan. 7, at Goochland’s Company 5 fire house, the Goochland County Fire-Rescue Association Board of Directors transferred ownership of Emergency Response Unit 1 (ERU 1), to the Metro Richmond Flying Squad. The former ambulance, purchased by Company 5 in 1979, was a huge advancement for the delivery of emergency medical services in the county at the time. As only the second modular
“box” style Horton Ambulance in the department, the vehicle offered a far more spacious patient care area than the Chevrolet Suburban vehicles, panel trucks, and low and mid-rise vans that had dominated the fleet. The ambulance body was originally on a gasoline Chevrolet chassis and was re-mounted three more times over the years, all on Ford trucks. The unit was retired as an ambulance in 2007 and assigned to the Fire-Rescue Training Center as a tow vehicle.
The Metro Richmond Flying Squad, a nonprofit founded in 2016 to provide
services to firefighters, police and Emergency Services personnel during emergencies, will continue to use ERU 1 to further the organization’s mission.
“This emergency vehicle has served the department and citizens of Goochland County very well over the many years, and represents the true quality found in Horton Emergency Vehicles,” said Goochland FireRescue chief Eddie Ferguson. “This vehicle was a great investment that has carried forward over the last 44 years, and will continue to support our mission in the hands of its new owners.”
their caregivers. Call (804) 749-3146 or visit the library at 16600 Pouncey Tract road for more information.
MONDAY, FEB.
The rotary Club of Goochland will hold its Club assembly. The meeting starts at 7:30 a.m. and is held at The residence Inn short Pump at the notch, 1800 Wilkes ridge Circle.
Toddler and Preschool storytime will be held at the Goochland branch Library from 10-10:30 a.m. for children ages 2-5 with a caregiver. Participants will enjoy a fun time with books, singing, rhymes and much more. Call (804) 556-4774 or visit the library at 3075 river road West for more information.
Family storytime will be held at the Cochrane rockville branch Library from 10:30-11 a.m. Families will enjoy a fun time with books, singing, rhymes and much more! Family storytime is for children ages 0-5 and
The Goochland branch Library will host Goochland bridge Club from 3-5 p.m. for those ages 18 and up. The Goochland bridge Club is for those who want to learn how to play or those with a basic knowledge of the game. each week there will be instruction and play time. Call (804) 556-4774 or visit the library at 3075 river road West for more information.
TUESDAY, FEB. 28
The Goochland branch Library will host Mystery book Club from 10-11 a.m. for those ages 18 and up. Join the group to discuss the chosen mystery title for the month. Call (804) 556-4774 or visit the library at 3075 river road West for more information.
Three very short stories that offer small but important lessons about life…
1.Dressed to thrill
Many years ago, with the nation embroiled in World War II, my grandfather joined the United States Navy. As the story goes, one day early in his training he was walking through New York’s Grand Central Station in his dress whites, looking every bit the dapper young Navy man. Even better, people seemed to be taking notice of him as he passed, nudging one another and smiling in his direction. Seeing this, his step took on a bit of a bounce. He was cutting quite a figure, and he knew it – in a city that knew style, he was getting noticed. I can’t recall what eventually tipped him
Dear Editor,
As I write this letter, I’m reflecting on a fantastic first semester of school – the kindest bus driver arrives on time every morning with a smile, my children love going to
off, but at some point he looked down and realized exactly why he had been getting so much attention…he had forgotten to zip up his pants and his shorts were plainly visible to all. The moral of the story: When tempted to think you’re the toast of the town, make sure to check your zipper.
2.Couch conundrum
Years ago, when moving out of my college apartment, I found myself facing a bit of a conundrum. I had packed up most of my possessions and loaded them into the back of my car, and almost everything that wouldn’t fit had been either given away or sold. By the time moving day arrived, the only thing that still needed to be dealt with was my couch. I had dragged my feet on what to do with it, knowing I really loved it but also that I had
no place to put it (I was moving back home). Even if I had a place for it, there was virtually no way it was going to fit into the back of my car and I didn’t know anyone with a truck. Even when the two very kind Vietnamese men who had offered to help me move it down the rickety back staircase of the third-floor walk-up arrived, I still wasn’t sure exactly what I was going to do. Seeing the task they had ahead of them, they quickly decided it would be a better idea to use some rope and gently lower the couch down. A few minutes later, I heard them both yelling something in Vietnamese, followed by a tremendous crash. The couch had fallen three stories and was now in a splintered heap of wood, fabric and springs.
The moral of the story: Some-
times, if you put off a decision long enough, life will step in and decide for you.
3.It’s my party, and I’ll sigh if I want to I promise this story is not made up. A good friend of mine has owned a small bakery for years. One summer day a couple of years ago, just by happenstance, a movie star she’d admired since she was a teenager came into the shop while he was in town filming. It just happened to be my friend’s birthday, so she and her staff and the movie star ended up laughing, posing for pictures and eating cake for the better part of an hour. It was, she told me later, simply magical. Cut to one year later, and my friend was once again celebrating her birthday at work. Only this time the HVAC unit in her shop had broken down, and the
back of the store was flooded. The temperature inside the shop was soaring, the repairman was telling her he couldn’t get there for at least two days (unless she wanted to pay the “emergency fee”) and a well-meaning staffer had slipped and dropped her birthday cake onto the floor… right into a puddle of water. I asked her how she managed to keep her composure that day, and she just laughed. “It’s all part of it,” she said. “You don’t get to have the highs without the lows.”
The moral of the story: Some days you’re going to get to hang out with movie stars and some days you’re going to eat floor cake. Since you never know which kind of day it’s going to be, you might as well get up and make the most of each and every one.
school to learn with friends and experience enriching activities, our teachers support our children with extra-mile-style care and concern, and our principal and other key staff create a warm, safe environment every day where kids feel a sense of belonging and pride. I am so grateful for all GCPS teachers and support staff do each and every day. I cannot imagine a better place to send my children, and I want EVERY child in
editorial & Business office and Mailing address: 8460 Times-dispatch Blvd. Mechanicsville, Va 23116
Phone – (804) 746-1235
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Goochland to feel this way. This is the underlying reason for my correspondence.
Recently, a member of the school board, Ms. Angela Allen used her official Facebook page “Angela Allen, Goochland School Board Representative” to make a post that violated Goochland County School Board Policy BBAB, Code of Ethics for Goochland County, Virginia School Board Members, to which she swore an
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oath and is bound to uphold by virtue of her position. On Jan. 26, 2023, Ms. Allen posted, without any anteceding question or reason, the following on the aforementioned page: “As a Goochland School Board member, effectively representing your interests is my duty. This week I learned that GCPS students are allowed to use restrooms different from their biological gender. Is this our community’s expectation?”
Allen’s January post violates the following elements of policy BBAB, as indicated by highlighted text:
While serving as a member of the Goochland County School Board, I accept the responsibility to support and improve public education in my community and in the Commonwealth, and to that end I will:
Please see LETTERS, Page 7
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Contributing Columnist
It’s hard not to cringe when you hear continuing details emerge regarding George Santos, newly elected House of Representative member from New York.
Now, Long Island is a long way from Richmond, but the implications of poorly vetted candidates has the potential to affect every election held in the United States.
Like many, I am astounded at the extent of deception uncovered regarding Santos’ biography and finances, but I was also surprised that some media commentators attributed that failure to reveal those potentially damaging details on local newspapers and news outlets.
While thorough research is essential to effective and accurate
journalism, truth be known, few local outlets have the staff, time or money to conduct extensive background searches on local candidates. Even with those limitations, in Santos’ case, some local news outlets did question some of his claims.
Perhaps, media should have screamed louder when Santos’ story didn’t seem viable, and details didn’t seem to add up. But, what about New York GOP officials who also didn’t catch the red flags and continued to support what some knew was a flawed candidate?
Nor did a detached Democratic local organization who assumed the race would not be close, refusing to supply funds for opponent research, and ignoring warnings of Santos’ fraudulent claims.
While some may point to the failure of local media to expose Santos, I welcome the apparent realization that local media is vital to transparency in government, and local reporters play a vital role in monitoring proceedings that are too often ignored by public eyes. It’s not a new concept, witnessed by our founding fathers’ desire to include protections for a fourth estate, established as a watchdog to the first three.
According to Northwestern University, more than a fourth of newspapers have ceased operations since 2005, and 7% of counties in America have no local news outlet. Studies have confirmed and common sense reaffirms that communities with strong local media presence enjoy an increased citizen involvement in all aspects of local
government. Conversely, communities who are underserved by local news often incorporate less inclusive government and limited citizen participation in their processes.
Dedicated media coverage and an informed citizenry ensures the system in which we place our trust daily operates in full sunlight and voters have all the information to make well reasoned choices.
As the Santos saga continues, it’s hard to imagine how this candidate cleared the lowest of moral hurdles to gain his party’s endorsement, and I , for one, think many knew of these impending problems long before the press broke the story after his election.
Some of those party officials claim they simply believed that Santos was telling the truth when
he claimed his mother had died in the Sept. 11 attacks in New York, or his 3.9 GPA at schools he never attended.
Newly elected Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy likened Santos’ claims to the usual embellishments often found in the resumes of political candidates. I hope not.
If that’s the case, the mission of local journalism continues as demands on its services increase and resources continue to dwindle; and good local reporting is still the best oversight to ensure transparent and responsible government. Is the work important? I suggest that answer may best be found in an angry group of Long Island voters who when polled recently voiced a decided majority to remove Santos from office.
1. Remember that my first and greatest concern is the educational welfare, academic growth and achievement, of all students attending Goochland County Public Schools;
2.Resolve to affirm the division’s commitment to an inclusive school environment where equal educational opportunities are available for all students, without regard to sex, sexual orientation, race, creed, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, ethnicity, religion, disability, ancestry, marital or parental status or any other unlawful basis;
7. Place the welfare of the children and the School Division as a whole above any loyalty to individuals, voting districts, particular schools or other interest groups;
8. Be fair, open and honest, and exercise integrity in all matters;
12. Communicate and act in a manner that will encourage and facilitate an open, two-way communication process with all segments of our community;
15. Recognize that as an individual Board Member I have no authority to speak or act for the board unless authorized to do so;
16. The board delegates authority for the administration of the schools to the Superintendent to establish a process for accountability;
17. Continually improve my ability to serve as a Board Member by engaging in the studying of educational issues and participating in appropriate professional development;
19. Respect the confidentiality of privileged and confidential information and refrain from discussion of confidential matters in public or to anyone not privy to such information;
22. Have integrity in all matters and bring about desired changes through legal and ethical procedures upholding and enforcing all laws, state regulations, and court orders pertaining to schools. Therefore, I will always strive to demonstrate appropriate behavior/conduct as a public school board member. (Each member of this school board voting to adopt this Code should sign.)
The purpose of this posting was purely to stoke controversy and incite distrust in school leaders, not to improve outcomes for students. Allen campaigned on political talking points and continues to repeat them now while in office, (as evidenced by this post) placing students, teachers, and staff in the cross hairs of culture wars. The timing of this post, with the legislative session and other national headlines, shows me she is doing nothing more than trying to bring national headlines here –to our peaceful town – not solve real problems from the ground up. While citizens of Goochland have wide-ranging political viewpoints, student safety and belonging should not be politicized. Every community member should want this for every child. The belief that every child is “our” child is something I love about living and raising children in Goochland. Ostracizing vulnerable students is not the Goochland way. As an elected official, she is bound by the policies of the board on which she sits, and has failed to do so, acting unbecoming of her office, breaking the oath she swore. Further, her be-
havior is antithetical to our school division’s mission, to “maximize the potential of every learner.” Beyond breaking School Board policy and acting counter to our mission, we know this public shaming and targeting of transgender students causes real and measurable harm. Research tells us, loudly and clearly:
All youth require the support and acceptance of their family, peers, and communities to thrive. Transgender and gender-nonconforming youth are no exception; their health and well-being is heavily influenced by the institutions and communities that surround them. Although youth who identify as a gender other than the one assigned to them at birth have among the highest rates of suicide, depression, and self-harm, a supportive and safe environment can significantly reduce these risks.
A recent study published in the Journal of Adolescent Health demonstrates the power of affirming transgender youth’s identities: For each additional context (i.e., at home, school, work, or with friends) in which a transgender youth’s chosen name is used, their
risk of suicidal behavior is reduced by more than half.
Another study, published in the journal Pediatrics, finds that transgender youth who have fully socially transitioned to their identified gender, and have been supported in doing so, do not have elevated depressive symptoms compared to the broader population. And in an era in which overall youth suicide rates have significantly increased over the last decade, it is critical to take steps to reduce risk for suicide. Ms. Allen’s behavior is transparent, ill-intentioned, unbecoming, and an embarrassment to the school board, our stellar school division, and all her constituents, of which I am one. Zero tolerance to hate in all its forms is what we expect of students, and elected officials of the schools in which they learn should be held to the same if not higher standard. No one should stand in the way of our staff finding safe, common-sense, affirming solutions on a case-by-case basis to support our most vulnerable students. Regretfully submitted, Laura Kassner Goochland
“Granny, you’ve been to an excessive amount of parties lately,” my grandson recently remarked. He was referring to a string of lively engagements that started in early December and continue, happily, into the month of January. Why happily? Shouldn’t I be tired from trooping into restaurants, church pageants and the homes of new and old friends? Well, I’m not, and I credit my energy to the art of conversation.
The difference in these pleasant gatherings has been the quality of talk around the tables, where I’ve sat with people who’ve been asked a simple question or two worth considering. And the laughter that sometimes erupts as a result of something shared is truly special—deep belly laughs that continue until I hurt! An unspoken foundation of the conversation has been to avoid politics and focus on what we have in common—a lively interest in learning about others and staying positive.
There has been diversity of many kinds at these tables, though there’s been no talk of political parties, movements, or agendas because these are not “focus groups.” These gatherings stem from good old-fashioned hospitality, along with a desire to learn about others and their experiences.
A recent gathering featured the usual coffee, tea, and goodies associated with the holidays.
Early on, the hostess, seated at the head of a long table, asked each of us to recount a simple but happy memory of a holiday. She began the round robin by pointing out the tablecloth beneath our cups and saucers.
“I made this when my children were little,” she said. It was embellished with colorful red and green preschoolsized handprints in fabric paint, along with a signature and printed child’s name in their own hand. Over the years, adult-sized handprints were added as grandparents, aunts and uncles visited. Now it is a treasured keepsake covered each year in clear vinyl as one of the family’s favorite decorations. As she explained, “Some of these dear people are no longer with us, so it’s a nice remembrance at this time of year.”
The next guest spoke about her favorite Christmas, when all the little girls in the neighborhood got matching pioneer dresses (stitched by clever moms) and books from the Little
tags. This promotes a sense of security and friendliness. Once she used old magazines such as Southern Living and House Beautiful as ice breakers, having us choose a photo that resonated. Then we each explained why we chose the photo. As a realtor and stager of homes, she has worked to make her home a place of hospitality, and has room to entertain. She makes it look effortless due to planning and simplicity.
House series that they could swap with each other. It resulted in years of imaginative play.
The stories varied as each person took their turn. One guest sang remembered verses of a Polish lullaby sung to her by a grandmother.
“The conversations were not superficial, and they helped us get to know one another better,” said a participant.
One of the secrets of the success of these gatherings was the origin of contact with one another. You see, we all met at our local gym, whether it was in water aerobics or weight lifting, yoga or other exercise classes. Each person met during an effort to stay or get healthy, so the foundation of the gatherings was positive. While these extracurricular gatherings were not sponsored by the gym, they definitely originated mutual efforts to get moving for physical and emotional health.
One of the frequent hostesses, Monica Davis, usually provides labels and markers so her guests can make name
landish responses in word games.
Another member of the same gym, Dr. Dianne Simons, also opened up her home and continued the conversation about positive memories, but with a mostly different group of people. She has studied group dynamics as a professor emeritus of occupational therapy, and made this observation about the art of conversing: “The conversation featured one guest at a time, but each person’s account had an effect on the tale shared by the next guest.” This keeps the flow organic and helps prevent the next person from rehearsing their anticipated response while another person is talking.
Sometimes we play word games such as Blank Slate, or Just One. A quick demonstration ensures everyone knows what to expect. A couple of rounds gives pause to conversation and usually promotes laughter. Remember when you were young and just looking at your best friend or sibling resulted in giggles and guffaws? This is the hoped-for reaction to some of the more out -
Other times everyone will bring a book to swap or gently used or unwanted items to pass around to see if anyone can use them. The saying “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure,” applies during these kinds of exchanges. Most of the time guests are invited to bring a snack, but not always. I have been thinking about hosting a gathering before too long, but do not have the space for many people at once. I may entertain a smaller group, or use a public facility. Some restaurants have secluded areas or rooms that may be available. I have even found a few places that don’t charge for groups meeting in private rooms if they are not already reserved. I’ve staked out a couple of places that have elevators for the people who may be wearing an orthopedic boot or are on scooters or in wheelchairs, so everyone can be accommodated. Yes, even gym frequenters occasionally have accidents or surgeries, but that doesn’t mean they can’t join in on the art of conversation and have fun.
e mily Walls r ay is a freelance writer, tutor, and former teacher of e nglish and creative writing in the GCP s system from 20072020. s he enjoys gardening, reading, church, and sewing, but most of all, being a grandmother. To read more of her stories, visit her blog at https:// writetouchblog.wordpress. com/
Goochland County FireRescue is reminding residents that the countywide burn ban will be in effect from Feb. 15 — April 30, meaning no burning until after 4 p.m. During this period, the following rules apply:
No burning until after 4 p.m. if the fire is in or within 300 feet of woodland, brush land or field containing dry grass or other flammable material.
Fire shall not be left unattended if within 150 feet of woodland, brush land or fields containing dry grass.
No new fires set, or fuel added after midnight.
The law applies to campfires, warming fires, brush piles, leaves, household trash, stumps, fields of broom straw and brush or anything capable of spreading fire.
The law provides for a penalty of up to $500, plus payment of court costs and fire suppression costs if the fire escapes.
If you must burn, follow these fire safety tips:
Contact your local fire department or Virginia Department of Forestry office.
Beware of power lines, trees and structures.
Clear all flammable materials, such as dry leaves and dry grass, from around the fire.
Have water and hand tools, such as a shovel and/or rake, available.
Have communication available or have someone nearby who can call for help in case of an emergency.
Burn when the humidity is high, and the wind is calm.
Burn between 4 p.m. and midnight.
paidnotices@timesdispatch.com issue.
events, 40th birthday can rryan@goochlandgazette.com
Preschoolers at Mount Gilead Preschool love a challenge! On Thursday, Jan. 26, Mount Gilead Baptist Church preschoolers and their fathers enjoyed a fun night of children’s engineering during the annual Father’s STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) Night.
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After a taco dinner together, the Goochland High School Robotics Team, The Junkyard Dogs, led by mentors Ryan Maloney, Stephanie DeLoach, and Raymond Slaughter, shared their robot. The Junkyard Dogs robotics team demonstrated how the robot could move a ball from one place to another. The children enjoyed watching the robot, catching the ball and rolling it back to the robot to see it all happen again.
The team members in attendance consisted of Isaac Subudhi, Vienna Hill, Noah Saunders, Raleigh Trevino, Brayden Parrish, Collin Neale, and Conner Neale.
The Junkyard Dogs robotics team competes in the FIRST robotics competition each year.
The 2022 competition included picking up a ball from the ground and throwing it into a large hoop in the center of a basketball court while avoiding other robots playing defense.
After the robot demonstration, the dads and preschoolers had to work together to design a catapult that would throw indoor snowballs into
targets, such as igloos and snowmen. They were also challenged to see how high and how far their snowballs could go. Lots of problem solving and teamwork was used to accomplish this exciting task. Local 4-H extension agent Cayla Walker
joined in the STEM fun by helping PreK students to launch “stomp rockets.” The PreK students at Mount Gilead Preschool are Cloverbuds through the county’s 4-H program and enjoy extension lessons to correlate with the preschool themes.
Since 1955
With the season inching closer to its ultimate conclusion, the Goochland Bulldogs welcomed the Dinwiddie Generals and the Patrick Henry Patriots to their home gym for a senior night tri meet that honored five Bulldogs making their way through their final seasons.
Seth Conrad, Noah Daniel, Riley Hite, John Summit and Reese Vincent were all honored in the middle of the meet, though Vincent was out due to an illness.
“The coaches and I have been around long enough to know that team dynamics change every now and then due to seniors graduating, and in this particular case, our team is definitely about to lose the driving force of its current identity,” head coach Jeremy Wampler said. “Noah and Seth have only been with us for two years, but they fit in perfectly with Reese, Riley and John, and we will miss them all sorely.”
The Bulldogs were down a number of wrestlers entering the meet and lost Summitt early in his first matchup due to a wrist injury, which played a part in Goochland losing 46-36 to Dinwiddie and 58-24 to Patrick Henry.
Only Conrad, Daniel and Summitt were available to wrestle on their senior night, and with Summitt leaving his battle with Dinwiddie’s Xander Nesmith in the first period with an injury default, that left Goochland’s other two available seniors to lead their team.
Conrad took a forfeit in Goochland’s favor against Patrick Henry and took on Dinwiddie wrestler Dylan Harris in the 285-pound class. Though Harris had the advantage throughout the matchup, Conrad fought hard to keep the match going into the third period, where he was eventually pinned for six team points for Dinwiddie.
Daniel split his matches in the 138-pound class, winning a
dominant meeting against Dinwiddie’s Kaden Vandermark with a first period pin as he took the Generals wrestler down by the leg and quickly got his back to the mat. It was one of five pins for the Bulldogs in the Dinwiddie match, with three coming in the first period from Jordan Duke, Cannen Harlow and Ethan Winter. Mason Duke, 132 pounds, also won by pin in the second period.
Despite some positive results, two forfeits along with the injury forfeit for Summitt were key for the Generals to pull ahead, and
they took home the road win.
Against a strong Patriots team, the Bulldogs got wins from Winter and 157-pound Jarin Evans, but six Patriots pins were too much to keep up with, and the result again went against the Bulldogs.
Winter had his second first period pin in as many tries, taking down Jesup Chandler and improving his overall season record, while Evans finished the job in the second period against Jacoby Williamson.
Though not the picture perfect send-off for its senior class,
Wampler says it was an honor to coach and work with these athletes as they approach the final moments of their wrestling careers at Goochland.
“These five have shown our team how to embrace the rigor, hard work, attitude and camaraderie that comes with wrestling, and they’ve led the way as Bob (Harris), and all the other coaches and I have worked to steer this program in the direction we’ve gone,” he said. “Without them, we wouldn’t have made the strides we’ve made over the past years, and we’ll do
what we can to make sure the team remembers just who these guys are and how much they’ve impacted wrestling at Goochland.”
With the regular season now finished, the Bulldogs get set for a chance to compete at Warren County for the VHSL Region 3B Championship. Last year, the Bulldogs placed fourth in regions, with Vincent, Summit and Patrick Harlow all placing within the top-3 of their weight classes. This year, those core members of the team will hope to improve on those results.
It hasn’t happened too often over the course of this season, but the Saint Gertrude Gators found themselves in an early hole on the home court of the Collegiate Cougars on Jan. 31.
The Cougars, who are 6-9 on the year, had revenge on their minds after a 69-46 loss at the hands of the Gators earlier in the season and led 12-4 at one point in the second meeting.
At the end of the first quarter, the Gators got the deficit down to 12-8 with a buzzer-beater from freshman Alexa Gillikin. The Gators needed just a few minutes to take back the lead in the second quarter, and they never looked back, cruising to a 70-36 win to move to 19-4 on the season.
The Gators have won plenty of games in blowout fashion this year – nine by 20 or more points to be exact – but the way in which this particular blowout came to be was particularly unique with the Gators trailing early.
The Gators took control thanks to a wild 26-0 run in the second quarter where the Cougars couldn’t buy a bucket while everything seemed to be falling for the Gators.
The Cougars scored just a single point in the second quarter, while Saint Gertrude saw star forward Erin Woodson catch fire alongside Ava Fulkerson and Sam Smith to put the Gators far ahead with a 3513 halftime lead.
In the third quarter,
Goochland’s swim team entered the Prince William County Schools Aquatic Center with a purpose on Feb. 3, looking to make an impression and continue their season into the Class 3 State Championships.
When it was all said and done, four Goochland athletes won region titles and seven placed within the top-5 to give the Bulldogs a fourth place finish in the boys finals and a sixth place finish in the girls standings.
1:48.14 seed time and three seconds ahead of second place finisher Wesley Sturgill from Meridian. Belcher also placed second in the 100-yard freestyle with a time of 49.36 seconds.
Bill Belcher also did fantastic work outside of the collective region title in the 200 medley, claiming second place in the 500yard freestyle (5:23.79) and helping the 200-yard freestyle relay team place third in 1:38.16.
Woodson opened the half drilling a three off the catch, with Fulkerson pushing the pace off a defensive rebound and finding her teammate with space to get the shot off.
After a long scoring drought, Collegiate was finally able to get some offense generated thanks to a layup from senior Addison Thompson. Despite improved scoring from the Cougars, who scored eight in the quarter, they couldn’t contain the Gators once they caught fire and began playing their brand of “drive, kick and move” offense.
The scoring barrage
continued with Fulkerson walking the baseline out to the right wing and setting herself up with a 3-pointer that made it 46-20.
In the fourth quarter, the Cougars got out with an impressive bucket from guard Lily Berger, who pump-faked and nailed an open mid-range jumper. Woodson immediately responded with another three, her third of the game, and with a 59-27 lead, the Gators were able to clear out the bench and get everyone involved for the final minutes of the game.
Woodson was again the leading scorer for the
Gators, while Smith and Fulkerson combined for 17 points. The second leading scorer on the night ended up being Gillikin, who chipped in 13 points on five-of-nine shooting, nine rebounds and three blocks. The mighty Gators will look to end the season with two more wins in their final matchups against Trinity Episcopal and Saint John Paul the Great on Feb. 9 and 13. Collegiate, meanwhile, plays Trinity and St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes on Feb. 10 and 11.
robby Fletcher can be reached at rfletcher@powhatantoday.com.
The four-man racing crew of Connor Davis, Bill Belcher, Harry Belcher and Leyton Sutherland claimed a region title together with a fantastic performance in the 200-yard medley relay, inching past Manassas, Maggie Walker and Brentsville with a final time of 1:49.84. Sutherland closed out the race with Goochland’s fastest time in the event, swimming his portion in 26.64 seconds to help close out the competitors close behind him, giving Goochland an appearance atop the podium.
The medley relay victory wasn’t the only one for Harry Belcher, with the junior also claiming an individual title with a first place showing in the 200-yard freestyle event. Belcher won with a time of 1:47.30, just ahead of his
Davis also placed third in the 100-yard backstroke (1:02.51) and eighth in the 50-yard freestyle (25.09 seconds) while Sutherland finished fifth in the 50-yard freestyle (24.27 seconds) and seventh in the 100-yard breaststroke (1:12.25) to cap off impressive days for the boys team.
On the girls side, second place finishes from sophomore Callie Horst in the 200 freestyle (2:00.66) and Olivia Spooner in the 50-yard freestyle (25.55 seconds) led the way for the Bulldogs, with Horst also placing sixth in the 100-yard butterfly (1:02.82) and Spooner finishing in fourth in the 100-yard freestyle (56.85 seconds).
The Bulldogs that punched tickets to the state championships will continue on with their season with a chance at state title glory on Feb. 17 at SwimRVA.
ContentsinsidesealedVaultBricksrevealoldU.S.coinswithadded24KaratGoldLayeringmintednearly 100yearsagoareactuallybeinghandedovertoVirginiaresidentswhofindtheirzipcodebelow;butonly thosewhobeatthe48hourdeadlinearegettingthematjuststateminimum
“IfyouliveinthestateofVirginiayou needtofindthefirstthreedigitsofyourzip codelistedintoday’snewspaperannouncementandcallimmediately,”sa id LauraA. Lyn ne ,DirectorofCoina nd Curre nc yfor NationalMintandTreasury.
That’sb ec a use Virgin ia residen ts canreallycashinforthenext48hours. Here’swhy.Non-stateres ide ntsand thosewhomisst he 48-hour de adli ne mustpay $8 percoin,butVirginiaresid ents wh otaket he VaultBrickscover justt he $4 percoinstateminimum.That meansVirginiares id entsgetall125coins withrare24KaratGoldLayeringfor ju st $500 wh ichisarealstealsi nc enonstateres ide ntsmustpayover $1,000 for eachVaultBrick.A nd itgetsevenbetter forthoseclaimingt he JumboGoldVault
Bri ck s.
Thisisallhapp eningbecausethousa nd s ofU.S.res id entssta nd tomissthedeadlinetoclaimt he gold.Nowanyres id ent whofi nd st he firstthreedigitsoft hei rzip codelistedintoday’spublicationa nd calls toverifyitgetstoclaimt he GoldVault Bricksfort he mselvesandke ep allt he valuablegoldfou nd ins ide.
A ndhe re’st he bestpart.Virginiaresid entswhofi nd t he firstthreedigitsof t he irzipco de listedintoday’spublicationaregettingSealedVaultBrickscontainingtheonlyVirginiaStateGoldBank Rollsknowntoexistwiththeexclusive StateRestrictedDesigna nd eachloaded withrarelyseenU.S.Gov’tissuedBuffalo Nickelslayeredinvaluable24KaratGold byNationalMinta nd Treasury.
“AsDirectorofCoina nd Curre nc yfor NationalMintandTreasury,oneofmyjobs istodeliverbreakingnews.A nd today’s announcementconfirmingt he releaseof SealedGoldVaultBrickstoresidentsofthe stateofVirginiaisasbigasitgets,”Lynne said.
“Somyadviceisthis,anyo ne whogets anopportunitytogettheirhandsononeof theseGoldVaultBricksfullofcoinsissued byt he U.S.Gov’t ne arly100yearsago withrare24KaratGoldlayeringfromthe NationalMintandTreasurybetterjumpat thechancewhiletheystillcan,”Lynnesaid.
“TheseGoldVaultBricksmakethemost impressivegiftsforChristmas,birt hd ays, graduations,weddings,andanyotheroccasion,especiallyforthathard-to-buy-for
(Continuedonnextpage)
■ FLYINGOUTTHEDOOR: Lucky Vi rg inia residentsarehopingtofindtheirzipcodelistedintoday’s publication ,b utno teverybodywill.That’swhyt ho sew ho doneedtoim me diatelycalltheStateDistrib ut ion Hotlines.Everyonew ho doesisautho rizedtoclaimsealed VaultBricksloadedwiththeonly V irginia StateGold BankRollsknowntoexistforthelowestever $4 percoinminimumsetfor V irginia residents - non-stateresidents andthosewhomissthe 48 hour deadlinemustpay $8 per coin,if anyremain.
VIRGINIARESIDENTS: IF YOUFINDTHEFIRSTTHREEDIGITSOFYOURZIP CODEBELOW CALL:1-800-280-4564EXT:GNH1581
■ RARELY SEEN: ISSUED BYTHEU.S.GOV’T NEARLY100YEARSAGO
(Continuedfromprevious page)
person,”Lynnesaid.
AccordingtoMs.Lynne,sincethousands ofU.S.residentsstandtomissthedeadline toclaimt he gold,todaya nd tomorroware intendedasa“special48hourrelease”for thebenefitofVirginiaresidents.Thisgives t he mafairchancetoclaimt he Sealed GoldVaultBricksa nd allthevaluablegold loadedinsideforthemselves.
But,Ms.Lynneadded,“TheSealedGold VaultBricksareonlyavailableasinventory permitsduringt he special48hourrelease sopleasedon ot misst he deadli ne .”T he directoradded,“Wehavenopowertost op coindealers,res el lersorcollectorsbuying upallt he GoldVaultBrickst he ycanget theirhandson,”Lynnesaid.
”Wealreadyknowthephoneswillbe ringingoffthehook.That’s whyhu nd reds ofagentsaresta nd ingbytoanswert he phonesbeginningat8:30amthismorning. We’regoingtodoourbest,butwithjust 48hourstoanswerallt he callsitwon’tbe easy.Somakesuretotelleveryonetokeep callingifalllinesarebusy.We’lldoour besttoanswerthemall,”Lynnesaid.
“That’s wh yNationalMinta nd Treasurysetupt he StateDistributionHot li ne s inordertomakesureresidentsofVirginia cangetthemnow,”Lynnesaid.
T he onlythingreadersoftoday’s ne wspaperpublicationneedtodoismakesure theyliveinoneoft he zipcodeslisteda nd callt he StateDistributionHot li ne sbefore thespecial48hourdeadlineendsmidnight t omor row. ■
Q:HowmucharetheGoldVaultBricksworth?
A:It’simpossibletosay,buttheseBuffalosdateclearbacktotheearly1900’sandarenot ordinaryU.S. coins.That’sbecauseonlyanextremelylowpercentageofBuffaloswerethen commissionedbyNationalMintandTreasurytobe coveredwithrarelyseen24KaratGold Layering,t hen sealeda ndprotectedin brilliantcollector cond ition insidespecial25count VirginiaBankRolls.That’swhyyoubetterhurryifyouwanttogetyourhandsonthem.Collector valuesalwaysfluctuateandthereareneveranyguarantees.Butwedoknowtheyaretheonly VirginiaStateBankRollsknowntoexist.Soanyoneluckyenoughtogettheirhandsonthese sealedVaultBricksshouldholdontothembecausethere’snotellinghowmuchtheycouldbe worthincollectorvaluesomeday.
Q:WhyaresomanyVirginiaresidentscallingtogetthem?
A:BecausetheyaretheonlyVirginiaStateBankRollsknowntoexistwe’rebracingfortheflood of calls.Thesearenot ordinaryBankRolls.ThesearefullBankRolls containing 25 Buffalos datingclearbacktotheearly1900’s.BestofalleachBuffaloislayeredin24KaratGoldand thestateminimumsetbyNationalMintandTreasuryisrestrictedtoVirginiaresidentswhofind thefirstthreedigitsoftheirzipcodelistedintoday’spublicationandbeatthedeadlineonly. ThatmeansVirginiaresidentscoveronly $4 perBuffalowhentheyclaimtheGoldVaultBricks, whichisjust $500 forthenext2days.
Q:HowdoIgettheGoldVaultBricks?
A:TheonlythingVirginiaresidentsneedtodoisfindthefirstthreedigitsoftheirzipcode intoday’spublicationandcalltheStateToll-FreeHotlineat 1-800-280-4564Ext. GNH1581 beforet he dead li neends. Ever yone w ho doesisgetti ng t he Ba nk Rollsfor justt he state minimum.That’sasealedGoldVaultBrick co ntainingtheonlyVirgin ia StateBankRolls knowntoexisteachloadedwiththerarelyseenU.S.Gov’tissuedBuffaloNickelslayered invaluable24KaratGoldforjustthe $4 percoin stateminimums et bytheNational Mint andTreasury,whichtotalsjust $500 forthefullsealedGoldVaultBrick.That’sarealsteal becausestateresidentsandnon-stateresidentswhomissthedeadlinemustpay $1,000 for eachsealedGoldVaultBrickifanyremain.
■ FIRSTLOOKINSIDEGOLDVAULTBRICKS: ShownaboveisasneakpeakinsidetheGoldVaultBricks.TheGoldVaultBricksareloadedwithVirginia StateGoldBankRollscontainingU.S.Buffaloseachlayeredin24KaratGold.Thephonelineswillberingingoffthehookbeginningatprecisely8:30amthis morning.That’sbecauseVirginiaresidentscanreallycashinforthenext48hours.Here’swhy.Non-stateresidentsandthosewhomissthe48-hourdeadline mustpay $8 percoin,but Virginiaresidentswho taketheGoldVaultBrickspicturedabovecoverjustthe $4 percoinstateminimum.ThatmeansVirginia residentsgetall125coinswithrare24KaratGoldLayeringforjust $500 whichisarealstealsincenon-stateresidentsmustpayover $1,000 foreachGold VaultBrick.AnditgetsevenbetterforthoseclaimingtheJumboGoldVaultBricks.
NATIONALMINTANDTREASURY,LLCISNOTAFFILIATEDWITHTHEU.S.MINT,THEU.S.GOVERNMENT,ABANKORANYGOVERNMENTAGENCY.IFFORANYREASONWITHIN30DAYSFROMSHIPMENT YOUAREDISSATISFIED,RETURNTHEPRODU CT FORAREFUNDLESSRETURNPOSTAGE.THISSAMEOFFERMAYBEMADEAVAILABLEATALATERDATEORINADIFFERENTGEOGRAPHICALLOCATION. OHRESIDENTSADD6.5%SALESTAX.NATIONALMINTANDTREASURY,POBOX35609,CANTON,OH44735©2023NATIONALMINTANDTREASURY.
VIRGINIA:INTHECIRCUITCOURTFORTHE COUNTYOFGOOCHLAND
BEVERLYA.FIELD,etal., Plaintiffs, v. CASENO.CL22000753-00 ELEANORA.PELLEGRINO,etal., Defendants.
ORDEROFPUBLICATION
To:Theheirs,devisees,assigns,andsuccessorsintitleGLADYSB.GLAZE,a/k/aMABEL GLAZE,a/k/aMABELBOWDEN,a/k/aMABEL SAUNDERS,a/k/aGLADYSV.TAYLOR,a/k/a/ GladysV.GLAZE,a/k/aGLADYSVIRGINIA GLAZE,a/k/aMRS.MABELGLAZE,a/k/a/Mrs. C.W.GLAZE,whosenamesandlastknownaddressesareunknown,whoaremadeparties Defendantbythegeneraldescriptionof"PARTIESUNKNOWN."
Theobjectofthissuitistoenteranorderquietingtitleof atwo-acreparcel,moreorless,of realpropertylocatedinGoochlandCounty, Virginia(the"Property"),andmoreparticularlydescribedinthedeedrecordedinthe Clerk’sOfficefortheCircuitCourtof GoochlandCounty,Virginia(the"Clerk’sOffice"),inDeedBook66,page287,toplaintiffs BeverlyA.FieldandChristpherW.Glaze,Jr.An affidavithavingbeenfiledthattheremaybe heirs,devisees,assignsandsuccessorsintitle ofGladysB.Glaze,a/k/aMabelGlaze,a/k/a MabelBowden,a/k/aMabelSaunders,a/k/a GladysV.Taylor,a/k/aGladysV.Glaze,a/k/a GladysVirginiaGlaze,a/k/aMrs.MabelGlaze, a/k/a/Mrs.C.W.Glaze,whosenamesandlast knownaddressesareunknown,whoaremade partiesDefendantbythegeneraldescription of"PARTIESUNKNOWN,"astheymayormay notclaimaninterestintheProperty,itisherebyORDEREDthatanyPartiesUnknownshould appearonorbeforethe 28thdayofMarch, 2023at1:30p.m.,intheClerk’sOfficeanddo whateverisnecessarytoprotectanyinterest theymayclaimintheProperty.
Entered:January30,2023.
BY:TimothyK.Sanner,JudgeVIRGINIA:
INTHECIRCUITCOURTOFTHECOUNTYOF GOOCHLAND
PAYAMSAADAT, asExecutoroftheEstateofTourajErtefai
Plaintiff, v.
District, County,Virginia) ing5.000acres,andknowntoBearIslandTimberlandsCo.,L.P.as aportionoftheRaglandKentTract(GO-071),whichportionisshown ontheplatmadebyGregoryD.Hosaflook, P.C.,datedMarch1,1994,entitled"APlat Showing APortionOfTaxMapSection6,Parcel(1)-1TheBearIslandTimberlandsCo.L.P. Property",whichpropertyismoreparticularly describedasfollows:
IASKFORTHIS:
JamesL.Windsor(VSBNo.25155)
DennisT.Lewandowski(VSBNo.22232)
Kaufman&Canoles,P.C. 2101ParksAvenue,Suite700 VirginiaBeach,VA23451
Phone:(757)873.6308 Fax:(888)360.9092 jlwindsor@kaufcan.com/ dtlewand@kaufcan.com CounselforPlaintiffsBeverlyA.Fieldand ChristopherW.Glaze,Jr.
CaseNo.:CL22-835
PEIMANSAADAT, MAHVASHERTEFAI, IRAJERTEFAI, KATHERINEREICH, SEYEDVAEZALLAI, MINATOMADON, ELLENSCHORSCH, NOUROLLAHERTEFAI, MEHRANGIZTAGHISUBJECT, TheUnknownheirs,descendants,devisees, assigns,and/orsuccessorsintitleto TourajErtefai,PeimanSaadat,Mahvash Erterfai,SeyedVaezallai,EllenScorsch,Iraj Ertefai,NourollahErtefai,andMerangizTaghi Meshkati,ifanytherebe,theconsortsofany ofthesaidunknownheirswhoaremarried, theliencreditorsofthesaidunknownheirs,if any,andotherpersonswhomayhaveaninterestinthesubjectmatterofthissuit,whose namesareunknownandareincludedinthe generaldescriptionof "UNKNOWNHEIRSand
PARTIESUNKNOWN" And
Anyoneelsewhomayclaimaninterestinthe Propertywhichisthesubjectmatterofthis suitandwhoismadeapartyheretobythe caption
PARTIESUNKNOWN
SERVE:ByOrderofPublication
Defendants.
ORDEROFPUBLICATION
TheobjectofthissuitistoasktheCourtfor aidandguidanceinregardtothedistribution oftheEstateofTourajErtefai,assetforthin TourajErtefai’sWill,inregardstocertainparcelsoflandsituatedintheCountyof Goochland,Virginia,beingpreviouslyowned byTourajErtefai,moreparticularlydescribed asfollows:
PARCEL1:(GO-071)
THATcertaintractorparceloflandlocatedin theByrdMagisterialDistrictofGoochland County,Virginia,andtheMineralDistrictof LouisaCounty,Virginia,containingonehundred(100)acres,moreorless,andlyingapproximatelyoneandone-half(l.1/2)miles northofHadensvilleonthewestsideofState HighwayRoute#606,andbeingboundedon thesouthbythelandnoworformerlybelongingtoJewelPayne,onthewestbythelands noworformerlybelongingtoRichard0.Parris andJohnSamBowles,onthenorthbytheland noworformerlybelongingtoWilliamJackson andontheeastbyStateHighwayRoute#606, lessandexceptthreecertainparcelsofland heretoforecontainedinthattractandcontaining2.00acreseach,and6.00acresintheaggregate,whichparcelsaremoreparticularly definedin aplatmadebyMichaelL.Parrish& Associates,datedMarch26,1987,entitled "PlatofSurveyofThreeLotsForRagland Wood Products &Co.",whichplatisattached toandmade apartofthedeedrecordedin DeedBook238,page780.
SUCHpropertybeingfurtherdescribedas 103.534acresby aplatofsurveydatedApril 13,1990,preparedbyG.D.Hosaflook,P.C.,entitled"APlatShowing ABoundarySurveyOf TaxMapSection6,Parcel(1)-1TheBearIsland TimberlandsCo.L.P.PropertyByrdDistrict, GoochlandCounty,Virginia", acopyofwhich isrecordedinPlatCabinetB,page136.This platincorporatedhereintofurtheraidinthe descriptionoftheaboveproperty.
LESSANDEXCEPTthatportionoflandcontaining5.0acresoflandconveyedinDeedBook 321,Page471inGoochlandCountyandisalso recordedinDeedBook478,Page56inLouisa County(5.000ACREPORTIONOFTHE RAGLAND-KENTTRACT(G0-071);describedas follows:
ALLthatcertaintractorparceloflandlying, beingandsituateinLouisaCounty,Virginia (assessedfortaxpurposesinByrdMagisterial District,GoochlandCounty,Virginia)containing5.000andknowntoBearIslandTim-
BEGINNINGat arodsetonthenorthernlineof StateRoute606,saidrodbeinglocated0.6milenortheastfromtherightofwayofl-64; thenceleavingStateRoute606,N.29.A.030’ 22"W.375.00feetto arodset;thence N.36.A.015’15"W.347.74feetto arodset;then N.53.A.044’45"E.275.60feetto arodset; thenceS.36.AO15’15"E.797.64feettoState Route606;thencecontinuingalongState Route606,S.69.AO14’02"W.189.50feettoa point;thencealong acurvetothelefthavinga radiusof913.09feet,anarcdistanceof139.80 feettothepointandplaceofBEGINNING.
PARCEL2:(GO-074)
ALLthatcertaintractorparceloflandlying andbeingsituateintheByrdMagisterialDistrict,GoochlandCounty,Virginia,andinthe MineralDistrict,LouisaCounty,containing80.l acres,moreorless,boundedbythelandsnow orformerlybelongingtoAndrewJackson,JennieDemure,NatDuke,JosephGreen,Susan RobinsonandJohnMarks,beingpartofthe landknownastheNelsonMartinTract.This parcelofrealestatehasbeenfoundbysurvey datedSeptember23,1965,preparedbyCarroll Gillespie.C.L.S.,whichplatisrecordedin GoochlandCounty,Virginia,withthedeedin DeedBook320,page596,intocontain80.1 acres.
BEINGthesamerealestateconveyedtoTouraj Ertefai,byDeedfromRiveroakTimberlandInvestments,LP, aTennesseelimitedpartnership,datedJuly11,2002,recordedJuly17, 2002,intheClerk’sOffice,CircuitCourt, GoochlandCounty,Virginia,asInstrument Number020003562.ThesaidTourajErtefai diedtestateOctober10,2008,copyofhisWill wasrecordedinGoochlandCircuitCourt,Virginia,inWillBook11000425withreference madetoArticle 4ofhisWillleavingtherest, residueandremaindertoPayamSaadat, PeirnanSaadat,MahvashErtefai,IrajErtefai, KatherineReich,SeyedVaezallai,Mina Tomadon,EllenSchorsch,NourollahErtefai andMehrangizTaghisubject.
Affidavithavingbeenmadeandfiledthatdue diligencehasbeenusedwithouteffecttoascertaintheidentitiesand/orlocationsofcertainpartiestobeserved,andthatthereareor mightbepersonswhosenamesareunknown, interestedinthesubjectmatterofthissuit; ItisORDEREDthattheunknownheirs,descendants,devisees,assigns,and/orsuccessorsintitletoTourajiErtefai’sestateandotherunknownheirsorpartieswhohaveaninterestinthesubjectmatterofthissuit,whoare proceededagainstasPartiesUnknown,appearbeforeCourtonorbefore March28,2023 at1:30p.m. toprotecttheirinterests,ifany,in thissuit.
Entered:1/17/2023
BY:TimothyK.Sanner,Judge
Iaskforthis:
CurtisD.Gordon,Esq.,V.S.B.#25325
JasonShaber,Esq.,V.S.B.#96186 DANKOS,GORDON&TUCKER,P.C. 1360EastParhamRoad,Suite200 Richmond,VA23228
Telephone:(804)262-8000
Facsimile:(804)262-8088
Email:cgordon@dankosgordon.com
Email:jshaber@dankosgordon.com CounselforPlaintiff
Multifamilyindooryardsale.Saturday, February11from8to2at 3534DavisMillRoad,Goochland23063. Furniture,records,books,household items,collectibles,vintageitems,etc.
DavidsonRoofingCo. ResidentialRoofing&Repair Specialists.Lic/Insured
GAFMasterEliteContractor
BBB/FreeEstimates 804-672-0540
www.davidsonroofing.com
Alexander&Company Draperies,Curtains,Pillows &Bedding.CustomSewing. 804-304-3780
A&CLawnCare -LeafRemoval, Mulching,Aerating,Pruning,GrassCutting,HedgeTrimming,StormRemoval &More!FreeEst.Licensed/Insured. Call804-514-2459or804-398-9122
JasonTheMason,LLC
SpecializinginBrickandStoneRepairs repointing,retainingwalls,patios, walkways,powerwashing,etc. Lic.&Ins.20+yearsexp(804)467-4252 FindusonFacebook-JasontheMason, Crozier,VA
Cemeteryplot,GreenwoodMeml Gardens,Goochland,VA
Onetraditionalvault;OneCremation vault;Opening/Closing.Current pricing$12,000;willsellfor$7500. Cali/text804-241-6966
GoochlandSocialServicesHumanServicesAssistantII
PostingNumber:00010 HiringRange:$26,565-$36,565 (salarybasedonexperience)
Fulltimesalaried;openuntilfilled
Toapply:logontohttps://virginia jobs.peopleadmin.com/postings/s
CLUES ACROSS
1. Functions
5. Records electric currents associated with contractions of the heart
8. Trigonometric function (abbr.)
11. Secret political clique
13. Type of gibbon
14. Nocturnal S. American rodent
15. Famed American playwright
16. Mesopotamian goddess
17. Abba __, Israeli politician
18. Long ridge of gravel and sediment
20. A place to stay
21. Actor Idris
22. One who behaves in a rebellious way
25. A way to measure movement
30. Distinguish oneself
31. Type of drug (abbr.)
32. Basketball great Baylor
33. Masses of salivary matter
38. Calls balls and strikes
41. Plant that grows along the ground
recreational activity
55. Ancient Greek City 56. Similar
57. Roughly trimmed tree trunk used in a Scottish game
59. Semitic fertility god
60. Born of
61. Frogs, toads, tree toads
62. School in the northeast (abbr.)
63. Soviet Socialist Republic
64. ‘__ the Man’ Musical, baseball player
CLUES DOWn
1. Fiddler crabs
2. Discount
3. Partner to ‘flows’
4. Ethnic group of Laos
5. Beloved ‘Seinfeld’ character
6 .Book of tickets
7. The last name of ‘Hermione’
8. Type of TV package
9. Helps to heal a cut
10. Town in Galilee
ARIES • Mar 21/Apr 20
Excessive spending in recent days may have you feeling nervous about your finances, Aries. In addition to bills, you could be waiting to be reimbursed. Be patient.
12. Actor Horsley
14. ‘Hocus Pocus 2’ actor Ed
19. Bird-loving group (abbr.)
23. They respond when someone is sick
24. Emerged
25. Midway between south and southeast
26. Monetary unit of Afghanistan
27. Unit of work or energy
28. Indicates near 29. Famed river 34. For each 35. News organization 36. CNN’s founder 37. They __
39. Areas off to the side 40. Satisfies
41. A spare bed
42. Legendary singer Diana
44. Frothy mass of bubbles
45. A kind of sorcery
46. River in South Africa
47. Philippine Island
48. County in China
51. S. American plant
52. Beverage containers
53. Edge
54. Protein-rich liquids
58. Moved quickly on foot
TAURUS • Apr 21/May 21
Taurus, you may have been working so hard you haven’t had time to spend with family and friends lately. Clear your calendar and make some time for recreation.
GEMINI • May 22/Jun 21
This week you may lock yourself behind closed doors and enjoy some alone time for a change, Gemini. Relax with a good book or binge watch some television.
CANCER • Jun 22/Jul 22
A friendship could be tested when you get into a quarrel over money, Cancer. You each have different philosophies on spending. Try to see both sides.
LEO • Jul 23/Aug 23
Philosophy and religious principles are of interest to you lately, Leo. Explore the metaphysical and dive into these subjects with all of your energy.
VIRGO • Aug 24/Sept 22
Virgo, you could be longing for a vacation, so why not make it happen? If you’ve socked away some cash, put it towards a trip to recharge and relax.
LIBRA • Sept 23/Oct 23
Make an effort to reconnect with someone you have known a long time who has become absent from your life. Resolve to maintain this connection in the years ahead.
SCORPIO • Oct 24/Nov 22
Honest communication can take you through a rough patch you might be having with your romantic partner, Scorpio. Speak openly and honestly to resolve the issue.
SAGITTARIUS • Nov 23/Dec 21
Keep your eyes focused on the future, Sagittarius. It’s easy to dwell on what happened in the past, but that won’t matter much in the grand scheme of things.
CAPRICORN • Dec 22/Jan 20
A miscommunication could find you spending money you just don’t have right now, Capricorn. This may be an instance when you need to seek a professional to sort it all out.
AQUARIUS • Jan 21/Feb 18
Aquarius, a project that has been on the calendar for some time finally gets completed. It has been a long time coming, but the results are better than you expected.
PISCES • Feb 19/Mar 20
Go through some old photos and reminisce, Pisces. It can be a quiet way to spend a day or two and enjoy the memories.
