Thursday, December 13, 2007
More questions on the quick firing of DGIF director
Bill Cochran
Recent mail
BILL: I just read your column about the firing of the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries director [J. Carlton Courter III]. It came as a shock to me, when I first heard of it. The agency desperately needs to somehow, someway, get back on the right track.
I met Bill Woodfin a couple of years ago at the Virginia Outdoor Sportsman Show in Richmond, back when he was director. He shook my hand, asked how I was doing, and that was about it. He was surrounded by what appeared to be an entourage, or could I use the word “sycophants?”
I met with [interim director] Col. Massengill in his office when I started asking questions and showing concern about the agency. In my mind, the DGIF director should be cut from the same mold as Col. Massengill, as he definitely knows how to run a state agency.
I met with Carlton Courter at one of the DGIF public meetings. He talked about trying to get kids more involved with hunting. I thought he was going to do a good job running the DGIF. His dismissal came as a shock, as it did to a lot of folks.
I wish [the new interim director] Col. Mike Bise the best of luck with trying to run the agency properly.
BUTCH AMMON
Richmond
BILL & MARK TAYLOR: Thanks to both of you for writing such readable and through provoking articles about the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries board and their recent action with regard to the director.
For the past few years The Roanoke Times has consistently presented information about this agency that might have remained obscure to the averge sportsmen and outdoor enthusiasts.
As you both suggested, it is a credit to the board that they recognized Courter was not the best choice for the times, but the whole scenario makes you wonder about the selection process.
Keep up the good work, there may be more questions to come.
PAULETTE ALBRIGHT
