The Goochland Gazette – 03/08/2023

INSIDE: Decades ago, ‘Little Dover’ met fiery end. SEE PAGE 2

Goochland residents urged to ensure they are ready for all types of severe weather. See Page 2

Industrial park proposal given green light by county planning commissioners

ROSLYN RYAN

Editor

For soon-to-be Goochland resident Lee Reese, news of a planned industrial park near the intersection of Pony Farm and Oilville roads was more than just a surprise.

“It was a kick in the gut,” said Reese, who attended last week’s Goochland County Planning Commission meeting during which a public hearing on the project was held.

GATEWOOD NAMED DEPUTY OF THE YEAR

On the same night he was named Deputy of the Year, officer Lance Gatewood, second from the left, was promoted to corporal during the firstever Goochland County Sheriff’s Office Awards and Promotions Ceremony on Feb. 28 at Salem Baptist Church. Virginia’s secretary of public safety and homeland security Bob Mosier was in attendance, as were John Jones, executive director of the Virginia Sheriff’s Association; Elizabeth Hobbs, staff attorney for the Virginia Sheriff’s Institute; and Goochland County supervisors Neil Spoonhower, John Lumpkins, Susan Lascolette and Ken Peterson.

For new chiefs, service is a calling

ROSLYN RYAN Editor

After decades of dedicated service, countless hours of training and thousands of volunteer hours logged, three Goochland County Fire-Rescue volunteers were recently promoted to the role of district chief for their departments.

But while the promotions mean that

each volunteer has attained the highest rank in their respective departments, don’t expect any of them to make much of a fuss about it.

For new Centerville Company 3 District Chief Rusty Perkins, rising through the ranks has never been the goal. He began

Reese is still building his home on Oilville Manor Court near the site of what could potentially be a 14-lot industrial park straddling the border of Goochland and Hanover. He told planning commissioners during a public comment period that having a large-scale industrial development essentially next door to his home would ruin what he and many others living nearby enjoy most about the area.

“Leave the view of country life the way it should be,” Reese urged the commissioners. “Make something quaint out of this exit instead of developing it into an industrial park.”

Planning commissioners ultimately decided 3-1 to give their stamp of approval to the proposal brought forth by I-64 Industrial LLC. The matter is now set to go before the county board of supervisors for a vote on April 18.

For a number of residents living near

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE GOOCHLAND COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

Residents urged to remain ready for severe weather

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

The National Weather Service is promoting severe weather safety from March 6 – 10, 2023. The following information is being shared throughout the week.

Stay informed. Be weather-ready before, during and after severe weather.

„ Listen to local news or a NOAA Weather Radio to stay informed about watches and warnings.

„ Stay informed before, during and after severe weather events.

„ Sign-up for local alerts in Goochland County’s CODERED alerting tool at https://public.coderedweb.com/CNE/enUS/1380BACA5A57.

Know the difference between tornado watch and a tornado warning:

Tornado watch – Conditions are favorable for the development of thunderstorms capable of producing tornadoes. Stay informed in case a warning is issued and know where to take shelter. Be prepared.

Tornado warning – A thunderstorm is capable of producing a tornado and it is imminent. Take shelter immediately. Go to a basement or interior room. Stay informed of forecast updates. Take action.

Learn more at www. weather.gov/safety/tornado.

Be safe during severe thunderstorms and lightning

When thunder roars go indoors! According to the National Weather Ser-

GOOCHLAND HISTORY REVEALED

vice, lightning strikes the United States about 25 million times a year. Most lightning occurs in the summer, but people can be struck any time of the year. Visit www.weather. gov/safety/lightning to learn more about lightening safety.

Be aware of flash flooding – water may be deeper than it appears!

„ Flash flooding is a rapid and extreme flow of high water into a normally dry area, or a rapid water level rise in a stream or creek above a predetermined flood level, beginning within six hours of the causative event (i.e., intense rainfall, dam failure).

„ Don’t underestimate the power of water!

„ 6 inches of fast-moving water can knock over and carry away an adult.

„ 12 inches of fastmoving water can carry away a small car.

„ 18-24 inches of fastmoving water can carry away most large SUVs, vans and trucks.

„ Don’t drive into flooded roadways or around barricade; Turn Around, Don’t Drown!

Be prepared for outdoor weather safety

Here are some tips from the National Weather Service to help with outdoor weather safety and preparedness:

„ Know before you go! Before heading outdoors, check the latest forecast from https://www.

Please see WEATHER, Page 3

HOW GOOCHLAND’S ‘LITTLE DOVER’ MET ITS FIERY END

Little dover has had a long succession of owners. Originally comprised of some 480 acres, it was divided in 1852 into two parcels by consent of William h. Trent, who had inherited it from his parents. The upper part became the property of John h. Guy of contention, and the rest was purchased by richard s. Wood. It is not known who built the house, which appeared to be of mid-19th century vintage. The original house at Little dover was used for firefighting practice by the Manakin Volunteer Fire department in 1967. here, the fire department is preparing the house prior to setting it ablaze.

PROPERTY TRANSFERS

1 acre; Vertical Builders LLc to doris Mietka, $314,950.

2 parcels; Paul T. c hesson to Joshua e. Popham, $455,700.

3.543 acres; West creek MOB II LLc to West creek MOB LLc, $1,706,469.

52.14 acres; ecT Properties LLc to Vertical Builders LLc, $930,000.

1974 cardwell road, crozier; Blue ridge custom homes LLc to Jeremy Gunderson, $765,000.

2815 davis Mill road, Goochland; Leia M. sabatini to Gustavo rodriguez cruz, $300,000.

217 Kinloch road, Manakin sabot; ellington custom homes LLc to Paul Bradford Zubowsky, $222,635.

Lot 20, section 3, Breeze hill; Krickovic and Ziegler LLc to Wayne B. Griffith, $175,000.

Lot 8, royal Oaks estates; david B. Worthington to charise M. davis, $376,000.

15634 Mosaic creek Blvd., richmond; style craft homes Inc. of Virginia to J. Bruce Barnett, $486,042.

1605 reed Marsh Place, Goochland; Boone homes Inc. to Brittany nido, $577,715.

4956 shannon hill road, Kents store; John alexander nichols, executor to cody h. Burgess, $265,000.

12009 Talavera Terrace, richmond; hhhunt homes Lc to Phillip cummings Metcalf, $515,205.

860 Waterbridge road, Manakin sabot; Boone homes Inc. to William L. reinhart, $1,129,961.

0.267 acres; Mildred T. Taylor to river road West Properties LLc , $180,000.

19.719 acres; WJL LLc to Barry Joseph stewart, $174,900.

29.05 acres; charles L. reed Jr. to robert carrel, $425,000.

5 acres; chris Bolton to reuben Garner, $357,711.

1970 cardwell road, crozier; Blue ridge custom homes LLc to dylan steers, $620,000.

4025 county Line road, Kents store; Patricia Kidd, trustee to cheryl

antonucci, $425,000.

520 h artfield road, Manakin sabot; donald W. swank Jr. to caroline c. Thompson, $1,179,600.

Lot 2, section 3, Longwood; Lisa carol Keller, devisee to richmond Property Buyers LLc, $280,000.

Lot 57, section 2B, Mosaic at West creek; st yle craft homes Inc. of Virginia to William Glenn Bishop, $502,216.

15570 Mosaic creek Blvd., richmond; schell Brothers richmond LLc to diane hudobenko, $620,471.

503 red cedar drive, Manakin sabot; doris P. howell to Timothy M. Wilson, $525,000.

1112 shallow Well road, Manakin sabot; deborah Leshner to 1112 shallow Well LLc, $550,000.

12007 Talavera Terrace, richmond; hhhunt homes Lc to elizabeth Buttrick Burton, $570,230.

3065 Tranbycroft Way, sandy hook; rober t J. Bolm to Laura alice Larkin, $600,000.

PHOTO COURTESY GOOCHLAND HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Chiefs

volunteering with fire-rescue at 16 years old, and over the years has served in many different roles. Early on he completed his Firefighter I and Hazmat Awareness certification. In the early 2000’s he became an EMT while he volunteered on the Virginia Tech Rescue Squad, then moved on to become a member of the Franklin County Public Safety Ferrum Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department during his time in college.

Over the last 25 years, Perkins has held various operational positions with Goochland Fire-Rescue, as well as representing Company 3 on

the Association Board of Directors.

Rather than aim for higher rank over the years, “I tried to position myself in areas where I could help,” Perkins said. “My goal is to be able to support the department and be a good example to the other members, whether that is as a firefighter, a captain, a district chief or any other role.”

Like Perkins, Company 5 Courthouse district chief Jenna Nelson has always maintained a focus on serving others and supporting her fellow volunteers. Nelson, a critical care nurse, joined Goochland Fire/Rescue – Centerville Station 3 in November 2003 and is an active lifetime member of

also urged commissioners to consider how the project fits in with the county’s current comprehensive plan.

the department. A certified firefighter and EMT, she also comes from a long line of volunteers.

“It’s a family thing,” Nelson said last week when asked what led her to the firerescue world, noting that her grandfather, father, brother and uncle have all served as firemen. For her part Nelson has served as a lieutenant and captain for Company 3, and as a captain for Company 5. While she’s proud to be a member of the department, Nelson said she hasn’t given much thought to the fact the she is also one of the first female district chiefs in Goochland Fire-Rescue history. Rather than focus on her own accomplishments, she said she prefers to keep

the spotlight on the department’s mission.

“Honestly, I think anyone who steps into this role is here to serve our community,” Nelson said. “That’s got to be our focus—is our community being taken care of, are our members being taken care of?”

Lisa Brown, the new district chief for Fife Station 4, joined Goochland FireRescue in April 2018 but has been involved in fire-rescue for over 30 years and has served in multiple departments as both a volunteer and as a career firefighter/ medic. She also worked for the Virginia Department of Fire Programs as a training and program manager.

Unlike Nelson, Brown’s

interest in becoming a first responder didn’t stem from her family background. Rather, Brown’s curiosity was first piqued by a television program called “Emergency,” one of the first shows to highlight the critical role of rescue workers.

Brown, who is currently employed with Powhatan County Public Schools as an Instructional STEM Coach, first began as a volunteer with the Williamsburg fire department while in college and was then hired a firefighter in Newport News. From there, she said, she

never looked back.

“It’s a life of service but also a brotherhood,” Brown said. “If you are truly drawn to this work, it consumes you.”

Brown said she was humbled to be chosen to lead Station 4, and feels blessed to be able to serve.

“I feel so fortunate to be able do two things I love, one as my job and the other as my way of giving back to the community,” said Brown, who lives just a few minutes from the station. “They both pay, one is just a different type of currency.”

the 39.8-acre site, which is currently zoned for agricultural use, locating an industrial park in that location will threaten the tranquility they say drew them to the area in the first place.

Among the concerns raised during a January public meeting about the proposal were the potential for increased noise as well as traffic. Those speaking during the March 2 planning commission meeting

Weather

From 2

weather.gov/akq/, or from a trusted weather source. If severe weather is expected, stay home, or go before the weather is expected to deteriorate.

„ Monitor the weather. Have a NOAA Weather Radio, and/or apps that have radar and lightning data.

Clay Carter, who lives on Pony Farm Road, pointed out that the area already sees heavy traffic from Goochland, Louisa and Hanover. Adding in the industrial park traffic would only make the issue worse, Carter said.

The majority of planning commissioners, however, did not see the proposed industrial park as an inappropriate use for the area.

“This is what this area should be used for,” said

Make sure you have a way to receive weather warnings.

„ Stop all activities when you hear thunder or when weather conditions look threatening. The first lightning strike can come out of a clear blue sky many miles ahead of an approaching thunderstorm cloud.

„ Know your area. In hilly terrain, flash floods can strike with little or no

District 3 planning commissioner Carter Duke, who made the motion to vote in favor of the project. District 5’s Tom Rockecharlie was the only planning commissioner who opposed the plan, and District 1 planning commissioner John Myers was not in attendance.

According to the proposed rezoning requirements, potential uses for the property cannot include operating an animal shelter; an asphalt mixing plant or concrete mixing plant; a carwash; a composting facility; a restaurant; a debris landfill; a

junk storage facility; a material recovery facility; a sand and gravel pit; a quarry mining operation; a commercial sawmill; a place of public assembly; a gas station; a petroleum storage facility; a truck terminal; or a kennel. No structures on the property will be able to exceed 35 feet, and no individual building will be larger than 12,000 square feet in size unless a firewall or other approved construction method is used.

All outdoor storage will also need to be screened from public view.

advance warning, and distant rain may be channeled into gullies and ravines, turning a quiet stream into a rampaging torrent in minutes. Never camp on low ground next to streams since a flash flood can catch you while you’re asleep.

„ Turn around don’t drown. If you come upon flood waters, stop, turn around and go another way. Climb to higher ground.

„ When thunder roars go indoors. There is no 100% safe shelter outside. The only place of safety from lightning is inside a vehicle or a substantial, enclosed structure. Do not take shelter in small sheds, under isolated trees or in convertible automobiles. Stay away from tall objects such as towers, fences, telephone poles and power lines.

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Albert “Plug” Barker

BARKER, Albert “Plug,” 88, of Manakin-sabot, went to be with the Lord February 24, 2023. he was preceded in death by his wife, Joyce Barker; great-grandson, noah Toney; three brothers and three sisters. he is survived by his daughters, deborah Barker, Vicky Barker, christy Gregory (Greg) and Marie Wood (Tommy); sister, annie Fair; brother, Mike Barker; 11 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren and numerous other loving extended family members. Plug was the unofficial mayor of short Pump, an avid pond fisherman and he never met a stranger. The Barker Family Band played at numerous charitable events through the years, including camp rainbow, which was dear to Plug’s heart. Funeral services were held 1 p.m. Friday, March 3, at st. Matthew’s United Methodist church, 1706 st. Matthew’s Lane richmond, Va. 23233. and the family received friends starting at 12 p.m. Interment followed in the church cemetery. The family wishes to give special thanks to hospice of Virginia and Bon secours community hospice house for their care and support. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to any children’s charity of your choice.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 8

Tucker’s storytime will be held at central high from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. for ages 2 -5. Participants are encouraged to stick around after and spend some time in the bouncy house! children attending this free event must have a caregiver. For more information, contact Parks & recreation at (804) 556-5854.

THURSDAY, MARCH 9

Therapeutic recreation: Paint night will be held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. for those ages 5 and up. a Parks & rec staff member will work with each participant on whatever they need and all material will be provided. This event is for persons with disabilities or special needs. The fee for the class is $15 and caregivers may attend at no additional cost. For more information, contact Parks & recreation at (804) 556-5854.

FRIDAY, MARCH 10

notch, 1800 Wilkes ridge circle. It’s a kids night in! children ages 5-10 are invited to join Parks and recreation for a Kids n ight In! Leave the kids to have dinner, play games, do a craft, and watch a movie while you have a night out. This event will run from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. and dinner will include a slice of pizza. Please note if your child has any allergies. The fee for the class is $20. For more information, contact Parks & recreation at (804) 556-5854.

THURSDAY, MARCH 23

The nra home Firearms safety, a three-hour basic pistol course that satisfies Virginia’s concealed carry Weapons permit classroom instruction, will be held from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. for those ages 21 and up. Please do not bring a weapon to class. The fee for the class is $50. For more information, contact Parks & recreation at (804) 556-5854.

SATURDAY, MARCH 25

will be Goochland silkisondan Karate. The program ends on Monday, June 12, and the fee for the class is $150. For more information, contact Parks & recreation at (804) 556-5854.

WEDNESDAY MARCH 29

The church of Jesus christ of Latter day saints will be holding a meeting from 7 – 8 p.m. ,at the Goochland Library. all are welcome.

THURSDAY, MARCH 30

adult karate students will learn techniques including kicking, punching, blocking, sparring and partner work in this class, which will be held from, 6:30 — 8 p.m. This class is for students ages 16 and up and will place an emphasis is on philosophy and discipline of the martial arts to increase students’ self-confidence and physical condition. This challenging program will expand upon techniques and skills learned in the main Karate program. a $5 discount will be offered for participants enrolled in the main program as well. The instructor for this class will be from Goochland s ilkisondan Karate. Fee for the class is $100. For more information. contact Parks & recreation at (804) 556-5854 for more information.

MONDAY, APRIL 10

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The rotary club of Goochland will welcome Fletcher Johnson, director of donor and community engagement for Liberation Veteran services. The meeting starts at 7:30 a.m. and will be held at The residence Inn short Pump at the notch, 1800 Wilkes ridge circle. Family Game night will be held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at central high for those ages 5 and up. Play some of the many board games we have to offer or bring your own favorites! The fee for the class is $5. For more information, contact Parks & recreation at (804) 556-5854.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 15

Mini chefs: st. Patty’s day will offer those ages 5-11 to celebrate the holiday by cooking some treats. register your child to come make, eat, and enjoy all things around st. Patty’s day. The class will be held from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. and the fee for the class is $20. For more information, contact Parks & recreation at (804) 556-5854.

FRIDAY, MARCH 17

The rotary club of Goochland will welcome Bill Mulvihill, who will be speaking about the global grant for students in africa and answering questions regarding rotary accounting. The meeting starts at 7:30 a.m. and will be held at The residence Inn short Pump at the

a Garden rock Painting class will help kick off the Parks & rec hidden “rock Garden” from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Materials will be provided, and registration is highly encouraged for this free program. For more information, contact Parks & recreation at (804) 556-5854. come try out Goochland Parks & recreation’s newest fitness program, core resistance! This class, which will be held from 11 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and is for those ages 15 and up, uses resistance bands to help build and strengthen the core. Participants may bring their own mat if they choose. The program ends on saturday, april 29, and the fee for the class is $25. For more information, contact Parks & recreation at (804) 556-5854.

MONDAY, MARCH 27

Karate students will learn techniques including kicking, punching, blocking, sparring and partner work. e m phasis will be on philosophy and discipline of the martial arts to increase students’ self-confidence and physical condition. This challenging program, which will be held from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., is for those ages 7 and up (including adults) and will help participants lead a healthier life. a $25 one-time Karate association fee will be taken at the door for first time students. The instructor

Karate students will learn techniques including kicking, punching, blocking, sparring and partner work. e m phasis will be on philosophy and discipline of the martial arts to increase students’ self-confidence and physical condition. This challenging program, which will be held from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., is for those ages 7 and up (including adults) and will help participants lead a healthier life. a $25 one-time Karate association fee will be taken at the door for first time students. The instructor will be Goochland silkisondan Karate. The program ends on Thursday, June 15, and the fee for the class is $150. For more information, contact Parks & recreation at (804) 556-5854.

MONDAY, APRIL 3

Zumba is a dance fitness format that will include pop, hip hop, and international music with dance rhythms that incorporate interval exercises. These dances will help you tone target areas on your body and absolutely increase your confidence as this class is a judgment free zone. This party is for everyone regardless of their fitness level. The goal is to have fun and keep moving! This class for ages 13 and up will be held from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. and the program ends on Wednesday, May 10. The fee for the class is $45. For more information, contact Parks & recreation at (804) 556-5854.

TUESDAY, APRIL 4

Zumba Gold is a modified form of Zumba for active older adults that recreates the original Zumba moves at a lower intensity. This class is or those 50 and above and will be held from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. The program ends on Tuesday, May 9, and the fee for the class is $25. For more information, contact Parks & r e creation at (804) 556-5854.

hatha yoga incorporates poses, breathing, and deep relaxation. Participants in this class, which is for students ages 18 and up and held from 6 – 7 p.m., should bring their own mat. The program ends on Monday, May 15, 2023 and the fee for the class is $60. For more information, contact Parks & recreation at (804) 556-5854.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 12

Tucker’s storytime will be held from 10 – 11 a.m. for ages 2 -5. come enjoy a story at central high, then stick around after and spend some time in the bouncy house! For more information, contact Parks & recreation at (804) 556-5854. a beginner’s quilt /quilted pillow will be held from 6 — 8:30 p.m. for ages 18 and up.

In this three-session class, participants will get an introduction to quilting while making a classic throw pillow. Week 1: cutting and piecing techniques. Week 2: Machine quilting techniques. Week 3: Make block into pillow sham. Fabric needed: 1/8 yard background, 1/8 yard churn dash fabric, 1/8 year inner border, 1/2 yard outer border and backing. Other supplies to bring: neutral color thread for piecing (White, black, or gray) coordinating thread for quilting (matching your fabric) 12” pillow form sewing Machine in good working order with the instruction manual. Basic sewing supplies: scissors, seam ripper, pins, 6x24 ruler, cutting mat, rotary cutter. recommended: 1/4in presser foot for your machine.

Warning: Are we getting just a little too cautious?

ROSLYN RYAN Editor

“Is that…safe?” a friend asked me the other day, as she watched me poke a lit match into a hole on the side of my gas grill.

She was over for a visit, and we had decided to take advantage of the unseasonably warm weather by barbecuing some chicken for dinner.

I promised her the match maneuver was totally safe — that all I was doing was circumventing the grill’s busted igniter—but something told me that she wasn’t quite convinced. My friend, to be fair, tends to do things by the book. She always drives the speed limit and always wears her seatbelt. She abides

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Parents must be aware of what is happening in our local schools

Dear Editor,

The “woke mob” is alive and well in Goochland! I saw this well organized, well coached group at work the last Goochland School Board meeting on Tuesday evening, Feb. 14. These folks are disciples of the DEI cult. They espouse the glory of diversity, equity and inclusion,

by expiration dates. She doesn’t stand on the top step of a ladder or eat unwashed fruit.

To say that we are opposites when it comes to all of these things would be fair. And while I am no daredevil by any stretch, I do enjoy a somewhat casual relationship with safety protocols from time to time.

But I might also note—with a hint of dismay—that our modern world has become a place where being careful is stressed at every turn, so much so that we are rarely given the opportunity for plain old common sense to develop.

Don’t get me wrong, most of these safety warnings are a good thing. Anything that aims to keep children safe, for example,

is worth noting no matter how obvious it might seem. But there are some warnings that just seem to take it too far.

From the minute I wake up I am being told what not to do. My hairdryer warns me not to throw it in the bathtub. My car reminds me that I need to put my seatbelt on. My drive-thru coffee order warns me on the cup that it is hot (isn’t that what I wanted?).

I don’t ever remember seeing any warning labels about the big stuff over the years, nothing about picking the wrong college major, lending your car to your least responsible roommate or marrying someone you met on a beach three days earlier. But the bag of chips I ate with lunch today had four separate allergy

warnings and my washing machine has a sticker that reminds me not to put people in it.

I’m not anti-helmet or in favor of taking the warnings off dangerous products. But do I need to be told that the sleep aid in my medicine cabinet may cause drowsiness? Apparently I do.

I mentioned all of this to my friend the other night as we cooked our dinner. Satisfied that the chicken had reached a safe internal temperature (it was printed on the pack), and that the grill had been turned off (I double checked), I handed her a plate and warned her that it might be a little spicy. After all, you can never be too careful.

Power, privilege and greed in the Low Country

JIM RIDOLPHI

Contributing Columnist

It’s anybody’s guess what motivates a nation to become enamored with a certain trial, but there’s no doubt that every couple of years, one comes along that captures the attention of a nation.

which on the surface sounds like a noble cause. It is not. But that is fodder for another letter. I write to call to action the parents of this county who do not wish their children to share bathrooms with students of the opposite sex. Yes, boys are allowed to use the girls’ bathrooms and locker rooms in the name of DEI. Disagree with that? Be prepared to be vilified, taunted, intimidated, fired and cancelled. Pay attention. You and your kids might be the focus of their next “seek and destroy” mission. I urge all of you to check

out a very informative Facebook page called “Goochland School Board Watch.” There is a link to the public comment period of last night’s meeting. Decide for yourself. After all we are a free society. Aren’t we?

Barbara Slone Maidens

We are appalled, and greatly disappointed in the recent vicious and unjustified attacks on School Board member Angela Allen. We live in the best country in the world, which allow us to freely speak without persecution, or at least we thought we did. Recently, Ms. Allen simply inquired if it was the community’s expectation to “allow students to use restrooms different from their biological gender.” She did not offer, nor advocate her personal opinion

In a small corner of South Carolina kindly described as the Low Country, a small courtroom became the center of national attention for several weeks as a wellheeled Gamecock aristocrat stood trial for the brutal murder of his wife and son in the culmination of a saga that defies logical explanation.

Phone – (804) 746-1235

Toll free – (877) 888-0449 Fax – (804) 344-8746 online: www.goochlandgazette.com

Publisher Joy Monopoli ......................................... jmonopoli@RSnVa.com

Managing Editor laura McFarland lmcfarland@powhatantoday.com

Editor Roslyn Ryan ................................ rryan@goochlandgazette.com

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Dear Editor,

Please see LETTERS, Page 7

It’s a crime that is incomprehensible to most of us and represents acts that have no apparent reasonable explanation. For the past six weeks, attorneys in the case have attempted to provide reasonable explanations for irrational acts. In the process, a story of power and wealth has emerged that sometimes seems to overshadow the cruel brutality of the crime.

Faced with impending financial doom, prominent attorney Alex Murdaugh is accused of murdering his wife and son in an attempt to distract investigations underway regarding his financial dealings. Much of the testimony in the trial centered around those financial

Please see POWER, Page 7

Recent attacks on Allen were unfair and unjustified

We are always espousing the virtues of a good hound or beagle around these parts. In Goochland we get a variety of Gooch Pooches, but none more so than our longeared hounds. They are typically loving, goofy, well-tempered and smart! Not to mention treat and comfort motivated. This is Brynn all over, and we couldn’t imagine a better pup for anyone. She is smart, she is sweet, she gets along well with everyone. We tested her with a cat and it hissed at her (typical cat, am I right?). Can you guess her response? Well, it was a friendly play bow, absolutely precious. Brynn has personality as soft as her velveteen coat. She loves soft snuggles, pets and walks on leash. She made a perfect office dog, too, relaxing

quietly. Brynn is about 2-3 years old, 40 pounds, tested, chipped, spayed, and fully vetted. We think Brynn will be a perfect addition to any home—and she’ll even try to win over your cat. 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.

Extension office offers tips on tree pruning

CONTRIBUTED

REPORT

Late winter and early spring before bud break is a good time to prune fruit trees and many ornamental shrubs. You need sharp tools for pruning success, so winter is a great time to clean and sharpen the blades on pruners, loppers and saws. Sharp tools make early season pruning easier on you and the plants. Precise cuts allow plants to heal the wound more efficiently and reduce the chance for plant disease infection. Serrated pruning saw blades are a little tougher to sharpen because of the numerous teeth, equipment needed and tedious attention to detail. If you are not a DIY aficionado this may be a job for a professional.

The purpose of pruning is to guide a plant to a desired growth habit or structure. Each tree or shrub has recommended growth habits for particular purposes. For example, many apple tree growers prefer a central leader or traditional triangular growth habit, broader at the base and narrow at the top. A peach tree grower might prefer the open center growth habit which is an open bowl shape without a central main leader.

The growth habit of a multistemmed shrub may require pruning to control plant height or removal of older stems to promote new stems for enhanced flowering. Improved light and air circulation reduce the chance for fungal disease infection. Some older neglected plants may require renovation pruning by cutting them back near the ground to reestablish a desirable growth habit.

There are two basic pruning cuts – heading and thinning.

Thinning cuts are the most commonly used. A thinning cut is intended to remove an undesirable branch back to its point of origin at either a side lateral branch or a main trunk. Heading cuts remove tips or portions of a single branch.

Heading cuts should be used judiciously since they stimulate the awakening of dormant buds on branches. This results in numerous side branching and thickening of foliage. If you are trying to open the interior of a shrub to allow more light penetration and air circulation, heading cuts are not the best choice.

Start by removing any dead, damaged or diseased branches. These can be removed any time

on the subject, but was trying to ascertain her constituent’s opinion so she could best represent their wishes. This question alone ignited a flurry of relentless, unjustified name calling and attributed words to Ms. Allen that were not spoken by her. Even more distressing, it is rumored that the

School Board intends to vote to censure Ms. Allen at their March 14 meeting. If we, the citizens of Goochland County, don’t stand up and put an immediate stop to this damaging behavior, ultimately, we will find ourselves in jeopardy of losing the very precious rights our country has fought so long to preserve.

Jane Polk and Robert Gathright Goochland

of year. Water sprouts and root sprouts are thin flimsy stems that grow vertically on top of lateral branches or roots as if they are trying to reach for the sun. These are weak stems that will never enhance the structure of the tree and should be removed. Remove any crossing branches or branches that are rubbing on each other. Likewise remove any downward growing branches and those with narrow crotch angles less than 45 degrees. To see examples and fine tune your pruning decisions, extension publication resources are available for most tree and shrub species along with pruning calendars. For a start, see the following web link: https://extension.umd. edu/resource/pruning-tree-andshrub-basics.

Have a question about a plant, insect or soil? The Goochland Extension Office is here to help! Give them a call at (804) 556-5842 and speak with either Bob or Nicole. Drop-ins are welcome at the office at 2748 Dogtown Road between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

submitted by the Goochland extension Office.

misgivings and how they could have forced Murdaugh to resort to such an unthinkable act. Believing that it was done as a distraction is a journey too far for many watching the trial, covered almost gavel to gavel on several internet and streaming media sources.

By Murdaugh’s own admission, he’s swindled hundreds of thousands of dollars from his clients in his role as an attorney for the past decade or so. After obtaining large settlements for many of these dirt poor clients, Murdaugh kept most of the generous settlements awarded by what outsiders describe as a friendly legal system infested with a good ole boy factor that dominated the system in this economically depressed section of the state.

Having watched little of the actual testimony, I couldn’t predict an outcome and I had even less inclination as to Murdaugh’s guilt or innocence. But, several chapters of the confused, misguided story have tweaked my interest.

It seemed odd to me that all of these financial misdeeds were undetected for years until local media began digging after Murdaugh’s son and victim, Paul, was charged in a 2019 boat wreck that claimed the life of a 19-year old woman named Mallory Beach. Many of the duped clients were unaware that any deception had occurred, clueless to the amount of the awards and funds that were supposed to be paid to them.

That was partially due to

the prominent nature of the Murdaugh family, who possessed a position as Low Country royalty with a history of public service. Both Alex’s father and grandfather had served as solicitor general for the district, and their descendant served in the same role as a volunteer assistant.

Yes, it’s a convoluted tale of greed, wealth and privilege in a state where politics are notoriously corrupt. It has captured the latest attention of court watchers probably still catching their breath after the Johnny Depp trial. Who knows what’s next.

But, for Alex Murdaugh, after six weeks of testimony, three documentaries, numerous television specials and hours of news coverage, the jury gave the final verdict, finding him guilty of the heinous crime of double murder. He has now been sentenced to consecutive life sentences without parole.

Even if he hadn’t been found guilty, Murdaugh still faced more than 90 financial fraud charges and an insurance fraud case. Shortly after the murders of his family, he attempted to hire a man to shoot him so the surviving son would receive a huge death benefit.

It leaves the rest of us asking how could this type of corruption go on for years with no one noticing or maybe not even realizing the sleazy nature of the participants.

I have no answer for that convoluted question, but there’s no doubt the whole episode gives new meaning to the term low country.

PHOTO BY SIDNEY WARREN

SGHS basketball season ends in state quarterfinals

ROBBY FLETCHER Sports Editor

The Saint Gertrude basketball season has been a fruitful one, with moments both high and low as they claimed a runnerup spot at the LIS Tournament, finished the regular season with a 24-6 record and earned the fourth seed in the VISAA State Tournament.

After starting strong with a state tournament-opening win against St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes, it came to a halt in the quarterfinals, when they matched up with Catholic despite having the homecourt advantage at the McMurtrie-Reynolds Pavilion.

The Gators wrapped up their season with a 25-8 record and saw contributions on the floor from seniors Erin Woodson, Elise Hickman, Sam Smith and Madelyn Mitchell for the last time in Gators green.

Woodson ended her illustrious Saint Gertrude career with some more dazzling basketball, putting up 33 points on 13-of24 shooting in the 63-36 win over St. Stephen’s and scoring her 2,000th career point late in the game when she squared up and fired from the right wing for a 3-point make that temporarily stopped the game and had her honored with an inscribed ball.

The moment was one of many special ones of Woodson’s career as she has grown into a star talent that’s led the charge for one of the top teams in the VISAA. With opportunities on the basketball court still awaiting her at the collegiate level, her story with the game of basketball is far from over.

Everything was going right for the Gators in that matchup against their opponent from Alexandria, though the Saints were able to keep it close with a 12-8 deficit with just a few minutes remaining in the first half.

With a man-to-man press setting the tone, the Gators defense was what got them run -

ning away with momentum, as they shut down the Saints’ halfcourt offense and went on a late surge to take a 25-9 halftime lead after Ava Fulkerson hit a late shot clock corner 3-pointer with under a minute to go.

In the third quarter, Woodson took charge to ensure the game continued trending in the blowout category. She hounded the ball on each and every inbounds pass, recording three consecutive steals at one point, with buckets generating off those turnovers and leading to a 35-13 Gators advantage.

It was 45-20 by the end of the

third, with Woodson ultimately finishing the game with eight steals, showcasing her ability to be a constant pick-pocket that left Saints ballhandlers in the dust as she created possessions with an open hoop staring back at her.

The Gators were able to hold onto the double-digit lead in the fourth, with the defense easing up and the bench clearing so everyone could see the floor as they guaranteed themselves a spot in the quarterfinals the next day.

Against Catholic, it felt as if the roles might be reversed on

Saint Gertrude, with the Crusaders controlling the game through some airtight defense of their own.

Despite a 14-10 Crusaders lead at the end of the first that indicated a potentially close matchup, the team from Virginia Beach was swarming the Gators on every offensive possession in the second quarter, holding the Gators to two points in that quarter while they put up a respectable 13 of their own to take a 27-12 lead into halftime.

Woodson, Smith and Fulkerson accounted for 32 of Saint Gertrude’s 36 points on the

day, with Catholic consistently forcing them to make tough, contested looks with their highenergy defensive display. The Gators ultimately played better after a tough second quarter, even outscoring the Crusaders 14-10 in the fourth quarter, but that big first half proved too much to overcome, and the season ended with a 5236 finish.

Next season, the Gators will have the unenviable task of filling the roles of players that have helped shape the culture of success that has defined the team the past few seasons.

PHOTO BY ROBBY FLETCHER

In her final games as a Gator, erin Woodson helped lead her team to the VIsaa state Quar terfinals, while scoring 2,000 career points in the process.

Goochland track athletes compete at states

ROBBY FLETCHER Sports Editor

Goochland had multiple athletes travel to Liberty University’s campus for a chance to compete in the VHSL Class 3 Indoor Track and Field State Championships, a fitting conclusion to the season that saw the top talent from across the state come together to compete one more time before the outdoor track season is ushered in this spring.

Nine events across the two days of competition featured Bulldogs athletes competing, with Leilani Burgess delivering the best performance of the championships with a second place finish in the high jump.

It’s been an excellent all-around season for the junior Bulldog, who competes as a sprinter for the team as well. Her region title-winning performance at the 3B championships at Woodberry Forest was what gave her the chance to keep competing though, and after a 4-foot, 11-inch mark at regionals was good enough to take first place, her improved mark of 5 feet got her a silver medal on an even bigger stage.

She was just 2 inches off from the state-winning result that came from Heritage junior Akera Molette, and she was tied at 5 feet with Broadway junior Taylor Driver.

Another good performance came from senior Charlie Alston in the triple jump, where he placed seventh among 16 athletes with a 41-06 mark. The result was one of Alston’s best of the season, but not nearly

as good as the performance that earned him a region title weeks ago, where he went to Woodberry Forest and put up a remarkable 42-5.5 result.

Other Goochland competitors to make it to states include junior Jadelyn Taylor, who ran a 9.16-second time in the 55-meter dash; freshman Ailey Black, who placed 10th in the pole vault with a 8-6; and Kadin Nitsch with a 4:47.71 time in the 1600-meter finals. Freshman Jerry Fry and junior Jack Alston also competed in preliminary events, with Fry running a 8.38 in the 55 hurdles and Alston running the 55 dash in 6.91 seconds.

Goochland softball returns with new coach, experienced lineup

ROBBY FLETCHER Sports Editor

Softball season is back in Goochland with a fresh face leading the team in the dugout and a Bulldogs roster that features many notable returnees that helped last year’s team to a 7-11 record.

Nitsch, Drew Meiller, David Johnson and Will Browning also worked together in the 4x800 relay after taking bronze in regionals. They ran a 9:06.23 mark at states to shatter their regional time of 9:13.02.

This marks the end of the indoor track season for the Bulldogs, who saw many more faces make it to this stage of the season than they did last year, when they only had three events covered by Goochland athletes. With plenty of returning members of this team taking with them state-qualifying experience, next year should be an even better season for the Bulldogs.

After the retirement of head coach Wayland Colwell, the Bulldogs will now be led by Dan Allen, who has at his disposal a team that already comes with built-in chemistry and a group of seniors that understand what’s asked of them as leaders.

The team’s most identifiable strengths heading into this new campaign are its variety of pitching options and overall strength defensively. Senior Jayden Staton and junior Chelsey Farthing had plenty of experience on the mound from last year, helping graduate Jasmine Price lead the defense.

Now with Price gone, it’s their show to run, with both likely to be featured heavily in that position alongside up-and-coming

underclassmen like sophomore Kyndall Shapiro and freshman Emma Whaley.

Farthing made her presence known as a pitcher in her sophomore year, tossing 10 strikeouts with a 2.5 ERA. Staton also threw 13 strikeouts with just two walks last season.

Regardless of who’s throwing the ball, they’ll have the luxury of working with senior Brookelyn Green at catcher, who is coming off an excellent junior season as a workhorse defender that logged 72 innings last year. With a big arm that threw out four of 11 runners, Allen says he’s excited to see her continued development while working with assistant coach Dan Shaw, who specializes in catching.

Another player to keep an eye on as a breakout candidate is senior third baseman Madison Duke, who has already proven a capably solid defender and will have a chance to show how much she’s improved on the other side of the field with the bat in her hand.

Offensively, the Bulldogs have a handful of hitters that are likely to impress. When Staton and Farthing aren’t tossing speedy deliveries against opposing hitters, they’re likely finding themselves on a bag with consistent swings of their own. Staton finished up last season with a .354 batting average and 10 RBIs, while Farthing finished with a .333 batting average that may jump up even higher with another year of experience under her belt.

Second baseman Sadie Grimes is someone that impressed with her opportunities last year as well, finishing her first varsity season with a .400 batting average. The sophomore is one of Goochland’s younger players that has a spot in the starting lineup with breakout potential.

Goochland’s season kicks off with a home matchup against Caroline on March 14 at 6:30 p.m.

robby Fletcher can be reached at rfletcher@powhatantoday.com.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

(From left to right): david Johnson, Kadin nitsch, Will Browning and drew Meiller make up the Goochland 4x800 relay team that competed at the class 3 state championships held at Liber ty University on Feb. 27-28.

FILE PHOTO

senior Jayden staton will be one of Goochland’s top options at pitcher this season after helping the team reach a 7-11 record in 2022.

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ARIES • Mar 21/Apr 20

Take a few deep breaths before forging ahead with a plan that you have in mind, Aries. You might need to think things through a little more in the days to come.

TAURUS • Apr 21/May 21

Taurus, when a new opportunity arises, you may feel like a fish out of water until you get into a routine. After that learning period, things will come more easily.

GEMINI • May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, do not wait around for change to come. Sometimes you have to get the ball rolling yourself. Put plans in motion and figure out who will join you.

CANCER • Jun 22/Jul 22

Cancer, right now is a big waiting game, and that could have you feeling a bit frustrated. If you are ready for action, take on a hobby or something else to stay busy.

LEO • Jul 23/Aug 23

Leo, you may get wind that others are talking about you when you are not around. Remember that all publicity is good publicity. You’re on their minds and that’s important.

VIRGO • Aug 24/Sept 22

Virgo, after a few tumultuous months, you finally get into a groove and forge a new path for yourself. You may be surprised by what comes your way.

LIBRA • Sept 23/Oct 23

You may joke about something that someone else takes very seriously, Libra. Be careful with your words to avoid offending someone you care about.

SCORPIO • Oct 24/Nov 22

You may have a lot of ideas, Scorpio, but it is essential to figure out funding if those plans are to be put in motion. This includes home improvements.

SAGITTARIUS • Nov 23/Dec 21

Sagittarius, it’s time to embrace your love of culture, as you need to start pushing the creative side rather than the analytical one. Visit a museum when time permits.

CAPRICORN • Dec 22/Jan 20

Opportunity awaits if you know where to look, Capricorn. A new business venture could be right around the corner. Start thinking of ways to get involved.

AQUARIUS • Jan 21/Feb 18

Aquarius, big project is finished and you could not be happier. That pressure may have been weighing you down and now you have more free time.

PISCES • Feb 19/Mar 20

Pisces, your own mind could be your only obstacle this week. Clear this mental hurdle and enjoy the challenges ahead.