Speaking of governors, how does a mayor rank higher than a governor — or U.S. Secretary of the Treasury John Snow, for that matter?

It’s because this exercise is a study of the Richmond area. In creating our Power List, we ask ourselves: Who runs this town? To what extent can a person shake things up in the areas of economics, public policy and philanthropy? And what about the intangibles, such as reputation, contacts, influence and the effects of “old Richmond”?

It’s an eye-opening challenge, much of which is subjective, if not philosophical. We consider how power flows in and out of corporate fiefdoms and the ripple effect of local educational institutions on the economy. We examine whether politicians get their power from the people — and how they give it back. And where do spiritual leaders fit into the picture?

Since our first Power List in July 2004, we’ve been keeping track of who’s making waves, getting things done and winning or losing power struggles.We attempt to cast a wide net, starting with a list of more than 225 names and whittling it down through several processes, including an attempt to quantify the subjective. We seek guidance from inside sources; we debate and revise. In the end, we come out with an illuminating look at who’s in charge.

In the truest sense of the word, right now that’s Wilder. Even those who have felt his wrath — directly or indirectly — admire him. Ask Council President G. Manoli Loupassi, who at times has appeared emotionally beaten by the man. Or Ukrop, who received a Wilder tongue-lashing — a harsh “he doesn’t own me” slavery metaphor — after the grocery magnate offered a lighthearted criticism in the newspaper.

Just weeks after Wilder promised to scuttle the downtown performing arts center, Beverley W. “Booty” Armstrong, one of the project’s biggest backers, endorsed the mayor and has decided to work on the mayor’s procurement review committee. Even billionaire William H. Goodwin Jr. summarily praises him. “I happen to like Doug,” Goodwin says.

Not everybody does. Every so often, in his office at City Hall, he lovingly pulls out his Louisville Slugger and chuckles about using it. He treats taxpayers like gold, sweet-talks Richmond into liking itself, then shows up to a meeting with developers, carrying the bat, demanding financial accountability. He raised eyebrows when he hired his nephew, Isaac Graves, and has a problem with campaign contributions — he sometimes forgets where the money went or who spent it.

But arguably for the first time in the city’s history, Richmond has a mayor who is truly beholden to no one — not friends, not campaign contributors, not a popular governor of the same party.

Only the voters.

2 Gov. Mark R. Warner

Being a lame duck isn’t so bad when people are wondering whether you’ll be a good presidential candidate in 2008. That’s what’s happening with Gov. Mark Warner, who wraps up his four-year term in January. Will he run for Senate against incumbent Sen. George Allen in 2006? Or will he bide his time, taking a stab at the Senate in 2008 … or the Oval Office? Some national media pundits, citing his crossover appeal in a Republican state, say he could be the Democrat’s best hope to regain the White House. Warner’s talking about how he’s not talking about it, traveling to the National Press Club in July to address national issues, criticize President Bush and discuss such concepts as “unity” within the Democratic Party. Move over, Hillary! The unknown only helps build more speculation — and buzz. Warner’s also raised his profile this year as chairman of the National Governors Association. As for Virginia, say what you will about Warner’s budget battles and tax hikes, but the multimillionaire will be leaving what Governing Magazine recently called the best-managed state in the country.

3 William H. “Bill” Goodwin Jr.

The man knows the power of a check. Just ask Virginia Commonwealth University, which received a $32.5 million pledge from Bill Goodwin and wife, Alice, in late May. It was the single biggest gift in the university’s history, and it upped the Goodwins’ gift-giving tally at VCU to about $75 million. A staunch Republican known for giving to a wide variety of causes, Goodwin is most famous for selling AMF Bowling to the New York brokerage firm Goldman Sachs for $1.5 billion — and giving $120 million from the sale to The Community Foundation. Said to have a net worth of between $100 million and $1 billion, Goodwin, who owns the West Creek business park with partner Booty Armstrong, also has the ear of Mayor Wilder, insiders say, which is becoming a rarity in corporate Richmond.

4 James E. Ukrop

The elder Ukrop says he’d like to step out of the limelight for now and let others share in the basking. Slipping a notch on the Power List, brother Jim, chairman of Ukrop’s Super Markets and First Market Bank, still wields what others want. He serves on the boards of the Coalition for a Greater Richmond, the Council for America’s First Freedom, Legg Mason and Owens & Minor. Ukrop’s a vocal member of the Virginia High-Speed Rail Development Committee and Richmond Renaissance. But this year he’s taken a jab by many — including the mayor — for his unwavering role as chairman of the funds-needy Virginia Performing Arts Foundation. His spirited involvement in city matters remains undeterred, so much so that he and his wife, Barbara Berkeley Ukrop, say they plan to move soon and spend their empty-nesting years downtown.

5 Michael Szymanczyk

Philip Morris USA may not be out of the legal woods just yet, but the Richmond-based tobacco unit of Altria Group, the world’s biggest cigarette maker, appears to have turned the corner, observers say. The lawsuits are shrinking, Marlboro is again gaining market share, and in April, the company announced plans to dump $300 million downtown for a new research and technology center behind the Richmond Coliseum, where it expects to employ 500 highly paid scientists and technicians. Szymanczyk, meanwhile, is becoming more visible on the local business scene two years after relocating from New York. He earned a whopping $7.6 million in salary and compensation last year.

6 Eugene P. Trani

In 1990, Eugene P. Trani became president of an unprepossessing urban institution called Virginia Commonwealth University. Fifteen years and about $1 billion later, the university has developed a massive presence along the formerly ailing Broad Street, built its medical college into a renowned research center and established the Virginia Biotechnology Research Park — and construction continues, including a new business school. Collectively, VCU and the VCU Health System have an annual budget of more than $1.7 billion and employ 16,000 people. Trani, who’s extensively involved with community organizations, gets the credit — and occasionally the criticism — for creating Richmond’s educational behemoth. In its most recent fiscal year, VCU saw its highest fund-raising totals yet — $82 million.

7 Margaret G. Lewis

In a Power List position held last year by Marilyn B. Tavenner — whose job as a group president of HCA Inc. has kept her less tied to Richmond affairs — Margaret Lewis makes her debut. She may be new on the scene, but she’s the highest-ranked local exec of a health-care giant, the second-largest private employer in Richmond and Virginia. For the past year, Lewis has been president of the Central Atlantic Division, which includes six hospital campuses locally. She’s involved in local causes and civic associations. And she’s quickly gaining a reputation on the benefit circuit. She recently helped lead the Stardust Ball for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and served with Diana Cantor and Marty Kilgore as chairwoman of the Red Dress Ball, which raised money for the Levinson Heart Foundation and awareness of heart disease in women. Most recently she served on the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia, to which she was appointed by Gov. Warner.

8 J. Stewart Bryan III

While Media General’s revenue continues to grow, J. Stewart Bryan is easing into retirement. July 1, he passed the chief executive torch to Marshall N. Morton. The two have long been colleagues, working together since 1989. Bryan remains chairman of the Southeastern media company and continues to press for change to an FCC rule limiting companies from owning print and broadcast outlets or several TV and radio stations in the same market. The U.S. Supreme Court erected a roadblock in June, refusing to hear objections from companies including Media General. Starting this summer, Bryan will perhaps have more time to spend on such pet projects as the Virginia Historical Society and the Virginia Performing Arts Foundation, which has been slow to raise the millions needed for a performing arts center downtown.

9 Marge M. Connelly

The Richmond area may have felt the sting of layoffs from Capital One Financial Corp., but stock in the country’s largest independent credit-card issuer is doing just fine, thank you. Shares are trading near their 52-week high. And analysts have been debating whether the McLean-based financial giant — Richmond’s largest private employer — is ripe for a takeover. Marge Connelly, the company’s top local executive, leads the company’s U.S. credit-card operations. The New York native’s engaged, hands-on approach has been appreciated at local nonprofits such as the Central Virginia Food Bank and the Greater Richmond YMCA. And in the past year Connelly, a lesbian and mother of two, has openly spoken out about issues important to same-sex partners.

10 Jerry Kilgore

Whether his drawl works as a turnoff or turn-on, the state’s former attorney general undoubtedly has raised his voice, his profile and his platitudes this year as the GOP’s candidate for governor. Climbing from 13th to tenth, Kilgore resigned his post as attorney general to dedicate his time and travels to campaigning. A partner with the law firm Williams Mullen, he says if elected he’d help put the focus of politics and government on real family values. Kilgore is married to former public school teacher Marty Kilgore. She served as deputy secretary of the commonwealth under Gov. Jim Gilmore and is executive director of the Tobacco Settlement Foundation. The Kilgores have two young children, Klarke and Kelsey.

11 The Gottwald Family

Representing a dynasty in and of the making, Richmond’s Gottwalds reportedly are worth more than $1.2 billion. Floyd D. Gottwald Jr. presides over Albemarle Corp., a chemical production company named for the family’s first foray in the paper business. His younger brother, Bruce C., oversees Richmond’s Ethyl Corp. Floyd’s son, John D. Gottwald, runs Tredegar Industries. On the philanthropic side, the family has made numerous and significant contributions to local arts and cultural institutions as well as University of Richmond and Virginia Military Institute. Thomas E. “Teddy” Gottwald, son of Bruce, is active with the Science Museum of Virginia and Interfaith Housing Corp. William F., son of Floyd, and Nancy H., wife of Bruce, are members respectively of the Virginia Foundation for Independent Colleges and VMFA’s board of trustees.

12 The Weinstein Family

A portrait of Marcus and Carole Weinstein hangs in the University of Richmond’s barely broken-in social sciences building, Weinstein Hall. A statue may be next. Longtime givers to UR, the Weinsteins — Marcus and Carole, daughter Allison, her husband, Ivan Jecklin, and Marcus’ brother Philip — in March announced a $5 million gift toward a new recreation and wellness center at the university. Allison is one of five trustees leading UR’s $200 million capital fund-raising campaign, which is ahead of schedule. Weinstein Properties, founded by the family’s patriarch 43 years ago, has grown to a portfolio of 10,000 apartments in Virginia and North Carolina. The Weinsteins give to myriad local causes, including the Weinstein Jewish Community Center and the Virginia Holocaust Museum.

13 Lt. Gov. Timothy Kaine

Only November will tell if Lt. Gov. Tim Kaine is on his way up or down in the Richmond power-archy, but the former mayor is holding his own in the race for governor. As of June 30, he was leading Republican opponent Jerry Kilgore in fund-raising by more than $1 million, but reports filed July 15 showed that Kilgore has been closing the gap. His campaign continues to use creative methods to get Kaine’s message out, from online “podcasts” for iPods to a plane-towed banner heckling Kilgore about his reluctance to debate. Kaine saw few of his bills pass the legislature this year. Among the unsuccessful bills he championed were three that would have instituted pay raises and annual evaluations for teachers, limited tuition increases at state colleges and encouraged the federal government to allow the importing of prescription drugs.

14 Robert S. Ukrop

When he’s not basking in his newest role as granddad, the president and chief executive of Ukrop’s Super Markets is busy learning to lead like Jesus. Bobby Ukrop spent his Memorial Day weekend meeting folks and passing out watermelon at the family’s newest store — its 30th — on Forest Hill Avenue. Every week for the last 27 years, he’s conducted meetings with new employees to hear feedback and pep them up. An eager athlete, he parlays his love of soccer and coaching it to his post as trustee of the University of Richmond and its athletic council. Ukrop also serves on the boards of the Science Museum of Virginia and the Greater Richmond Partnership.

15 Thomas F. Farrell II

Considered the workhorse at Dominion Resources, Thomas Farrell is the heir apparent to Thomas E. Capps, chief executive and chairman of the power company. He’s expected to take the company reins next year. Farrell is considered by many to be the brains behind the utility’s recent ascent. Dominion’s trading at more than $75 a share and has managed to overcome a tough energy market. Outside Dominion, Farrell was reappointed this year for a second term on the board of visitors at the University of Virginia, where he was recently named rector. He’s an active campaign contributor and has given $41,000 to Republican candidates since 1997. His biggest contributions went to Mark Earley, who received $14,000 in separate bids for attorney general in 1997 and governor in 2001.

16 Beverley W. “Booty” Armstrong

He’s still rich and best buds with supremely rich Bill Goodwin, but Booty Armstrong’s pet project — the planned performing arts center downtown — was nearly dismantled by the mayor. He didn’t get chewed out publicly like partner Jim Ukrop, but as the foundation’s treasurer, he is widely considered one of the project’s key drivers. Hence he got a lashing by default. The Virginia Performing Arts Foundation’s decision not to open its books and address basic questions of economics seemed to reflect the “we know best” mentality of Richmond’s corporate elite — with Armstrong leading the charge. With the blessing of City Council, the arts project received a reprieve. And Booty is now working closely with Wilder, most recently on a procurement review committee, putting his considerable business skills to work at City Hall.

17 The Robins Family

The Robins name is everywhere in Richmond — throughout the University of Richmond’s campus and on the SPCA’s $7 million humane center. The next place to be graced with the ubiquitous name — we’re guessing — will be the planned downtown performance hall. The Robins Foundation’s $5 million gift was a milestone in the Virginia Performing Arts Foundation’s heretofore lackluster fund-raising efforts. Robins Foundation founder E. Claiborne Robins, who made his fortune in pharmaceuticals, died in 1995. Since then, the foundation, headed by Robins’ wife, Lora, and daughters, Ann Carol Robins Marchant and Betty Robins Porter, has given more than $38.6 million to nearly 200 nonprofit agencies, most in the Richmond area.

18 Stanley F. Pauley

Last year Forbes named the Carpenter Co. as the 232nd largest private company in America. Carpenter’s revenues have been rising, and increasing from $1.2 billion in 2003 to $1.3 billion in 2004. Credited with the growth, as well as research advances, is Stanley Pauley, owner, chairman and chief executive. Carpenter, which makes foam and fiber cushion products for Select Comfort, among myriad other vendors, employs about 5,000 in the region. Pauley, an electrical engineer, is a behind-the-scenes businessman who seems to be more on the scene of late. He serves as trustee emeritus at the University of Richmond and is a trustee at Virginia Commonwealth University’s School of Engineering. Virginia Business estimates his net worth at $90 million. He and his wife, Dorothy, are active philanthropists, especially at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts.

19 Paul Goldman

Mayor Wilder’s alter ego, Senior Policy Advisor Paul Goldman seems to always be lurking in City Hall’s shadows, with hair ruffled and a smirk on his face. When Wilder needs to test the waters, he sends out Goldman, always armed with hyperbole and daggers for potential adversaries. He’s taken on the developers of the planned baseball stadium in the Bottom, the power brokers behind the downtown arts center, the city School Board, and even Gov. Mark Warner with dismissive, cutting e-mail verbiage. When former Mayor Rudy McCollum lashed out against Wilder during last fall’s mayoral campaign, he quickly retorted, calling McCollum “Kojak without the lollipop.” By virtue of his relationship with Wilder, whose closest political aide he has been since 1985, be warned: Goldman is the pit bull guarding the mayor’s door.

20 John W. Snow

Sure, as fifth in line to succeed the president, you have to be pretty powerful. Treasury Secretary John Snow heads the Bush economic team and hovers in the center of political power in Washington. Still, his local impact may be waning. Since relinquishing his 26-year gig with the formerly Richmond-based CSX Corp., his home in Hampton Hills is his most visible mark here. Still, when he’s not preparing the Bush team for the G8 summit or helping the president push tax cuts through Congress, he can be seen with his wife, Carolyn, at their favorite, but undisclosed, Richmond restaurants or playing golf on an ample green.

21 Thomas E. Capps

The powerful chairman and chief executive of Dominion Resources is easing into retirement, and perhaps more time for duck-hunting. In April Thomas Capps officially announced that his handpicked successor, Thomas F. Farrell, would take the helm within a year, with Capps remaining chairman for “a period of time.” Capps’ reputation is mixed in the corporate community, and he’s caught flack for plans to expand the South Anna nuclear plant and the company’s public labor-union battles. But he has steered the $25.5 billion company through rocky energy markets in the last couple of years, and its stock has peaked recently at $75 a share. He also serves on the board of visitors for the College of William and Mary and the board of trustees for the Virginia Foundation for Independent Colleges.

22 William E. Cooper

The University of Richmond is going through a transition, you might say — hardly smooth and easy for an institution that just celebrated its 175th anniversary. At the forefront is Bill Cooper, in his seventh year on the job. He’s forced UR to consider its future and how to get there. In short, the goal is to be among the best small, private universities in the world. Internally, there’s been turnover and some agitation. Some alumni have been put off by a large tuition increase. And Cooper is dabbling less in civic affairs than his counterpart at Virginia Commonwealth University. Yet he is holding strong. The university’s endowment hit $1 billion this year, and the $200 million capital campaign Cooper launched in March 2004 is 75 percent toward its goal.

23 G. Gilmer Minor III

Bedpans and bandages may not be a glamorous business, but medical supplies mean healthy profits for Fortune 500 company Owens & Minor and its chief executive, Gil Minor. The Virginia Military Institute graduate, who pulled down a $1.9 million in direct compensation in 2004, has worked for the family company all his life. He guided the business through tough times in the late 1990s and since then has seen dividends more than double. He’s active on many influential Richmond boards, including those of the Virginia BioTechnology Research Park, Richmond Renaissance and the Virginia Health Care Foundation.

24 Michael D. Fraizer

A year after Genworth Financial Inc. launched its initial public offering, Michael Fraizer, president and chief executive, made a splash with the Donald. In the last episode of “The Apprentice” in December, he appeared on the show to endorse contestant Kelly Perdew. The Trumpster apparently listened — and wound up hiring Perdew. The TV publicity, paid for by Genworth, helped propel the $11 billion Henrico County-based company onto the national insurance scene. Genworth was formerly a division of General Electric, so for years Fraizer was a step away from the legendary CEO Jack Welch. He now leads one of the region’s biggest companies — and is gaining clout in local business circles.

25 Rep. Eric I. Cantor

Stand back. The money and buzz whooshing around 7th District Congressman Eric Cantor is likely to cause significant windstorms. His Every Republican Is Crucial PAC (ERICPAC) raised $1.45 million for the 2004 elections, and he gave $515,292 to Republican candidates for national office, according to the most recent figures from the Center for Responsive Politics. The PAC’s assuredly refilling its coffers for the next elections. Cantor’s even been taking his fund-raising show on the road and into such posh places as Beverly Hills and Aspen. Such financial success is one reason the GOP has elevated Cantor, 42, to the position of chief deputy whip in the House. Cantor’s wife, Diana, is executive director of the Virginia College Savings Plan and a board member at Media General Inc.

26 Gordon F. Rainey Jr.

Gordon F. Rainey Jr. has long been a force to be reckoned with as chairman of the executive committee of Hunton & Williams, Richmond’s largest law firm. But this year Rainey wielded even more power during the 2005 General Assembly. As rector of the University of Virginia’s board of visitors, he helped persuade legislators that the merits of allowing public universities greater independence outweighed the risks of relaxing state oversight. The Higher Education Restructuring Act will allow UVa. and other top-flight universities to make their own decisions about tuition, financial aid, construction and staff. Though Rainey recently retired as rector, his influence has given public universities significant power for decades to come.

27 Dr. Frank S. Royal

Still widely respected for his success, Dr. Frank Royal is perhaps a less dominant leader in the African-American community. Lately his focus has been on his alma mater, Virginia Union University, where he’s head of the board of trustees. The historically black institution is in the midst of change and named its first female president in April. But it’s too early to tell where VUU is headed and to what extent Royal will be its guide. While such change continues, the family physician remains steadfast in his widespread corporate influence. He’s a director of six publicly traded companies, including such powerhouses as Dominion Resources Inc., HCA Inc. and CSX Corp.

28 Peter J. Bernard

Chief executive of the Bon Secours Richmond Health System, Peter J. Bernard manages the most profitable unit of Marriottsville, Md.-based Bon Secours Health System, which operates 24 hospitals, some through joint ventures, on the East Coast. And in September Bon Secours Richmond, which operates three hospitals locally, will open its fourth, St. Francis Medical Center, in western Chesterfield County. In May, the company was named “Employer of Choice” by the Richmond Human Resources Management Association and the Greater Richmond Chamber of Commerce. In Richmond, Bernard is considered a savvy executive who has managed to compete effectively against a well-entrenched HCA, the country’s largest hospital chain. And his clout is growing with St. Francis, Bon Secours’ first foray south of the river.

29 Former Gov. Gerald L. Baliles

Even though 15 years have passed since he was governor, Jerry Baliles retains his clout: his credibility. An avid proponent of advancing Virginia’s transportation system, he’s been outspoken about the state’s need to address its dire lack of funds for new construction. His days have grown longer, he says, since becoming lead partner of the international practice group at the law firm Hunton & Williams. As such, he advises businesses and organizations on public policy, international relations and the environment. In his spare time, Baliles is a writer and angler, traveling to the quiet places, he says, “where the fish are.” He and his wife, Robin, live in Stratford Hills.

30 Ralph L. “Bill” Axselle Jr.

As chairman of Richmond Region 2007, Axselle is consumed these days with history — especially Richmond’s 1607 connection with Jamestown — and how it matters today. Considering he’s in charge of dispensing millions to support and promote the much-hyped quadricentennial, it’s his job to see it matters most. Specializing in land-use and development, Axselle is a partner in the law firm Williams Mullen. With a reputable career that includes 16 years in the Virginia House of Delegates and having served on boards and commissions for five governors, Axselle casts a wide net. Few people of influence don’t know him; those who do often seek his ear. That’s easy to understand. His style is unpretentious yet effective. He was born and raised in Glen Allen, and his community interests are numerous.

31 Robert L. Burrus Jr.

Robert Burrus has friends in high places — from the courtroom to the boardroom. As a partner and chairman of the city’s second-largest law firm, McGuireWoods, Burrus commands a well-respected firm of 775 lawyers, nearly 200 of them in Richmond. Burrus serves on several corporate boards and offers legal advice to Dominion Resources, among other companies. At his alma mater, the University of Richmond, he’s a trustee who has been helping drive a fast-moving, $200 million capital campaign. The university awarded him an honorary doctorate in May.

32 Stuart C. Siegel

A big supporter of Democratic hopeful Lt. Gov. Tim Kaine, Stuart C. Siegel, chairman of S&K Famous Brands Inc., has coughed up $45,000 so far to put the former Richmond mayor in the executive mansion, not to mention giving an in-kind donation of office space valued at $10,000. A big giver to VCU and other local causes — hence the Stuart C. Siegel Center on Broad Street — the menswear tycoon has overseen a turnaround at the 27-store chain S&K as well. Revenues have been steadily rising. This year through July 2, sales have increased 9 percent to $88 million, up from $80.7 million through the same period last year. Siegel, insiders say, is still a key player among Richmond’s top movers and shakers.

33 Austin Ligon

Although recently hurt by inflated gas prices and a softening used-car market, CarMax is still one better than former parent Circuit City Stores, where former chief Richard L. Sharp concocted the used-car superstore concept in 1991. Austin Ligon, CarMax’s brainy chief executive, is in the driver’s seat. The $5.3 billion company now has 62 superstores, and Ligon is becoming a player on the political scene — he’s given Tim Kaine $90,000 toward his bid for governor. He’s also contributed to local causes and institutions such as the Maggie L. Walker Governor’s School, where he personally pledged $500,000 for the student commons. His biggest achievement, though, was fixing CarMax’s logistic and overbuilding problems in the late 1990s.

34 The Markel Family

Known for making happy investors and sharp investment strategies, the profitability of Richmond-based Markel Corp. has had a ripple effect in Richmond and elsewhere. If you aren’t already a shareholder — the stock is currently hovering around $327 — you may have ridden in a taxi insured by Markel or taken a walk in a city park protected by the company. The Markel family is known for giving generously to the arts, and the company’s top three honchos — Alan Kirshner and cousins Tony and Steve Markel — are savvy businessmen who steered the company through tough times, including the insurer’s nightmare: 9/11. To celebrate their 75th anniversary, the Markels served shareholders champagne at their annual meeting in May.

35 James C. Cherry

When Mayor Wilder swung into office, he turned to several corporate leaders for help, including Jim Cherry, chief executive of Mid-Atlantic Banking Group for Wachovia Bank. Cherry not only served on Wilder’s transition team, he also helped choose new Police Chief Rodney Monroe. An older member of the Power List says Cherry is making a name for himself in the circles of influence. Business ain’t bad either. The Lynchburg native oversees more than 5,300 employees in the Richmond area, and Wachovia is only getting bigger. It recently merged with SouthTrust. Cherry helped spread some of the wealth: In June, the company’s foundation announced a $400,000 gift to Virginia Commonwealth University.

36 State Sen. John C. Watkins

He isn’t a fiery public speaker. But when the Republican senator from Powhatan County speaks, his fellow legislators listen. In his 23 years in office (including 16 in the House of Delegates), Sen. John Watkins has built a reputation as a moderate Republican who’s respected by Democrats and Republicans alike. He’s a member of the all-powerful Senate Finance Committee and is deeply involved in the complex, high-stakes process of electricity deregulation. This year, Watkins successfully carried controversial legislation to set up a nutrient credit exchange program for major water polluters and to impose harsher penalties on repeat pollution-law violators. Recently, Watkins also took center stage in a development proposal that promises to have a major impact on western Chesterfield. The state senator is working with a group of developers on a 655-acre business and residential center – potentially the biggest development in county history – at intersection of Routes 288 and 60.

37 Billy K. Cannaday Jr.

In his fifth year, the superintendent of Chesterfield County Public Schools continues to earn fans. With 55,000-plus students under his wing, Billy Cannaday oversees the largest department of the largest county in the region. Localities rely on schools not only to create successful, educated citizens, but also to attract residents and businesses. This isn’t lost on Cannaday, whose personal, positive approach, along with leading his schools to 100 percent accreditation, earned him the Virginia Association of School Superintendents’ superintendent of the year award in May. The Roanoke native makes a point to support the arts and is a board member of the Virginia Performing Arts Foundation. Last year the University of Richmond’s Jepson School of Leadership Studies named him a leader in residence.

38 Daniel J. Ludeman

Richmond’s status as a brokerage powerhouse was re-established by Daniel Ludeman, who became president and chief executive officer of the third largest securities firm in the United States in 2003. As a result of Wachovia Securities’ purchase of Prudential Securities, Richmond gained about 1,000 new jobs two summers ago. Ludeman, president and chief executive of Wachovia Securities, with client assets of $640 billion, has been climbing ever since. In December he was named chairman of the Securities Industry Association, which represents 600 securities firms across the country, and is a board member of the College of William and Mary School of Business, the University of Richmond and the Virginia Foundation for Independent Colleges, along with the Virginia Performing Arts Foundation.

39 Virgil R. Hazelett

As Henrico County Manager, Virgil Hazelett last year convinced his Board of Supervisors to approve a $307.8 million bond referendum to pay for the county’s growing needs. This year, the influence of the 30-plus-year veteran of the county is on the rise. Hazelett oversees all operations of Henrico’s government, with an operating budget of $789 million and a workforce of more than 9,500. He’s into his job too: A registered professional engineer, he’s a member of the international City Management Association, the American Public Works Association, the National Association of County Engineers and the American Society of Civil Engineers. He is a fellow of the International Institute of Transportation engineers and over the years has served in a variety of professional appointments.

40 Ivor Massey Jr. and Family

Most recently, venture capitalist Ivor Massey Jr. has been recognized for being the top individual contributor to both gubernatorial candidates, while not necessarily thinking either one is a winner. He’s given Kaine and Kilgore a combined $30,000, which he shrugs off. After all, he’s said publicly that he’s upset with Kaine for backing last year’s tax hikes. He’s cooled to Kilgore out of concern that state Republicans are too closely tied to “religious fruit loops,” as he told the Virginian-Pilot in the spring. Massey’s father, Ivor, made the family fortune — now estimated at more than $200 million — in the stock market. That money continues to make a mark on various Richmond nonprofits, most notably with the internationally recognized Massey Cancer Center at VCU Health System.

41 Brenton S. Halsey

As an entrepreneur, Halsey co-founded a small paper mill called the James River Corp., now Fort James Corp., and helped turn it into a Fortune 500 company. While Halsey’s been retired for more than a decade, his acuity in and devotion to Virginia history only seems to sharpen and increasingly affect others, especially his efforts to transform the Virginia Historical Society from a small, provincial library into a respected research institution — one on its way to finishing construction on a new wing as part of its $55 million campaign. He’s given prodigiously, too, to state educational and cultural groups, as well as to Richmond Renaissance.

42 Robert C. Sledd

Stock is rising at Performance Food Group, the third-largest food distributor in the country, which keeps the shelves stocked at Burger King, Ruby Tuesday and myriad other food-service outlets. In February, Bob Sledd, chairman and chief executive, oversaw a sale of the company’s fresh-cut produce division to Chiquita Brands International Inc., bringing in a tidy $855 million. And in March, Fortune again named PFG one of “America’s Most Admired Companies.” Sledd, who will celebrate a decade with the company next year, is involved in local causes too, such as The Healing Place shelter, which helps the chronically homeless, especially those who are substance abusers. The $5 million fund-raising campaign that Sledd spearheaded helped give the shelter solid footing when it opened in early 2005.

43 Lane B. Ramsey

As regional cooperation goes, Chesterfield County Administrator Lane Ramsey fought a tidal wave in the last year. With the isolationist verve of Renny Humphrey and fellow supervisors gaining an ally in Democrat Ed Barber, their chairman, Ramsey held it together. The citified bus-vans were nixed but then brought back, funding for the Greater Richmond Partnership was pulled then reinstated — oh, and the county outmaneuvered one of Richmond’s biggest black churches and saved Cloverleaf, at a premium, from a full-scale revival off the county’s tax rolls. Moreover, Ramsey oversees a workforce of 10,000 and for 18 years has kept finances in check despite an overburdened tax base.

44 Thomas J. Bliley Jr.

He was city councilman, mayor of Richmond, then spent 10 terms as a U.S. representative. Since his retirement in January 2001, Bliley’s power has become less prevalent. Still, his family’s Bliley Funeral Homes remain a strong part of Richmond. In political circles, Bliley manages to muster attention when he wants it. Support from the popular Republican matters much to candidates flying the GOP banner. And let’s not forget the new system of city government was propelled to reality in part because of Wilder and Bliley’s joint partnership, which not only led to a sweeping charter change but also laid the groundwork for Wilder to become mayor.

45 Delegate M. Kirkland Cox

A teacher at Manchester High School, Delegate Kirk Cox beat an incumbent to the 66th District House spot in 1989 and has won ever since. Observers say his teacher qualities shine in his support for new delegates — as does his Reaganite beliefs and reputation for preparedness. He serves as the House majority whip, aligning votes from fellow Republicans. And he serves on several key committees. His district includes the city of Colonial Heights and Chesterfield County, but he helped push legislation to address Richmond Schools’ truancy problem this year. He also has big fans in the military. In January, the Virginia National Guard honored him with a medal of merit; in July, the American Legion gave him its Distinguished Service Medal.

46 State Sen. Walter Stosch

He’s the state Senate majority leader, chair of the general laws committee and sits on the key finance committee. In other words, if you want to get a piece of legislation through the Senate, you’d better talk to Stosch first. A key budget negotiator, the Henrico County Republican drew some criticism for leading a faction that broke away from their party to support Gov. Mark Warner during the 2004 budget impasse. A numbers guy, Stosch carries many bills affecting big business and worked hard to soften the impact of higher cigarette taxes on Philip Morris. His efforts to change Virginia law to allow Verizon and other companies to enter the cable market failed this year, but you can bet he’ll try again in 2006.

47 Robert W. “Robin” Miller Jr.

Arguably the most prolific developer in town, Miller has made gentrification — and the use of historic tax credits — his modus operandi for success. This year, Miller climbs the Power List. His often high-profile renovations in Richmond — about $50 million worth — include such landmark properties as the Sydnor & Hundley building, Kensington Court, Robert E. Lee Elementary School and Stuart Circle Hospital, to name a few. His most recent handiwork can be seen in the Old Manchester and Shockoe Valley Lofts, two tony condominium projects near the river and downtown. A graduate of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and Harvard University’s JFK School of Government, Miller has done much to change perceptions of urban living. He is an active participant in dozens of civic and

cultural groups.

48 The Reynolds Family

Five years ago, the Reynolds family turned silver into gold, selling the aluminum manufacturer Reynolds Metals Co. to Alcoa Inc. for $4.4 billion. The family’s main interests now are philanthropy and real estate. In January, despite the protests of some nearby residents, the Henrico County Board of Supervisors approved a rezoning for the family’s 71 acres, bounded by Interstate 64, Glenside Drive and West Broad Street. Now the land can be redeveloped for a hotel, retail and office use. Meanwhile, the Richard S. Reynolds Foundation, named for the company’s late founder, has supported causes as diverse as exhibits at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts and the construction of a physics auditorium at Princeton University.

49 Gilbert and Fannie Rosenthal

They’re not in the headlines, and that’s the way they like it. But Gil Rosenthal, 79, and his wife, Fannie, can read about the results of their generosity across the city. They are philanthropic leaders. In the mid-’90s, Gil sold his chain of Standard Drug stores, founded by his father and two uncles. Since then he’s shared his fortune with perhaps 100 or so causes in the region — including Habitat for Humanity, the William Byrd Community House, local educational institutions, the Jewish Community Federation of Richmond and The Community Foundation. Gil and Fannie, who first met as children growing up in the Fan, celebrated their 53rd wedding anniversary in January.

50 J. Alfred Broaddus Jr.

Though retired for a year from his job as president of the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond, Al Broaddus seems to be keeping his clout — and having more time to spend on community projects. He is a native Richmonder, Washington and Lee University grad and Fulbright scholar. And thanks to his financial expertise, connections and undeniable likeability, he tops the “it” list for businesses stacking their boards with go-to people. Broaddus serves as director of three of Richmond’s most prestigious companies: Albemarle Corp., manufacturer of specialty chemicals; insurer Markel Corp.; and Owens & Minor, distributor of medical and surgical supplies.

51 Marshall N. Morton

After 20 years at the helm, J. Stewart Bryan III tapped Marshall Morton to succeed him as president and chief executive of Media General Inc. Morton, 59, took over July 1. “He’s younger than I am,” Bryan says. There may be a few years separating the men, but during 16 years of working together, they developed a common vision for the company, Morton says, and what must stay the same in a changing media environment: “truth, credibility — being a force in our marketplace.” Media General has a good share of that marketplace — 25 dailies, more than 100 other pubs, 26 television stations and 50-plus online outlets — and revenues were up to $900 million in 2004. Like his predecessor, Morton is active in the community and serves on the board of the Virginia Performing Arts Foundation, where he and his wife have pledged financial support.

52 Rodney D. Monroe

Monroe’s been on the job for less than six months, but already he’s mustered his might. Since becoming Richmond’s chief of police in February, the former Macon, Ga., police chief has implemented all kinds of new policies and strategies to combat crime in River City. He started by asking the U.S. Justice Department to review all uses of deadly force within his department. He followed that by assigning officers to permanent beats or shifts — an unpopular move with many — and restructuring power and protocol at precincts. Meanwhile, he’s the top law enforcer in a city raging with homicides. Halfway through the year, the number tops 50; the hottest and most notoriously dangerous days remain. But arrests are up. And Monroe’s got muscle, if not time, on his side — namely the support of Mayor L. Douglas Wilder. He’s also got the resources of more than 700 officers and a $65 million budget at his fingertips.

53 James W. Dunn

For nearly 15 years, Jim Dunn has served as president and chief executive of the Greater Richmond Chamber of Commerce. His job puts him in the midst of power brokers, politicians and corporate leaders. As for his own power, it’s up for debate: Is he in essence an elevated staffer, doing the bidding of the elite, or is he a player in his own right, representing the voices of 2,000-plus member businesses? Regardless of the answer, Dunn, who grew up on an Ohio farm, is widely admired, and many of those at the center of decision-making consider him a part of the mix. He is credited with helping lure AirTran Airways to Richmond. And when Mayor Wilder’s administration recently “separated” a key city director from his position, Dunn called him that day, offering to do what he could to keep him in the region.

54 C.T. Hill

One of Richmond’s banking power brokers, C.T. Hill, president and chief executive of SunTrust Bank’s Mid-Atlantic headquarters in Richmond, is a regular on the local money circuit. With more than 30 years of banking experience, he’s a sought-after board member in Richmond. He serves on the boards of Richmond Renaissance, the VCU Engineering Foundation and the Virginia Performing Arts Foundation, to name a few. He also chairs the VCU Business Roundtable, a forum for addressing the productivity of workers with disabilities, and serves on the board for the Virginians for High Speed Rail. Hill is the outgoing chairman of the Virginia Bankers Association.

55 The Sauer Family

C.F. Sauer Co., makers of spices and specialty food products, was founded in 1887. Today, a fourth generation of Sauers still runs the family business, which boasts 900 employees, more than 250 products and annual revenues of $276.8 million — up $30 million from last year. It’s why, along with the family’s increased involvement in real estate, the Sauers move up on the list from their ranking last year. The Richmond-based business at 2000 W. Broad Street — and its neon baker sign — is a landmark, as much of a staple as its famous Duke’s mayonnaise. Conrad F. III serves as company chairman; Conrad F. IV is chief executive and president; Brad and Mark are vice presidents, respectively, of real estate and marketing. The Sauers also own Pleasants Hardware, the newly renovated Cary Court shopping center and more than 400 acres of the old Figgie International property near Virginia Center Commons.

56 Bishop Peter James Lee

Bishop of the Diocese of Virginia, Lee oversees 189 churches, 87,000 members and 400 clergy. It’s the nation’s oldest and largest diocese in the Episcopal Church. Today it’s in tumult. Ever since Lee voted to ordain the Rev. Canon Gene V. Robinson of New Hampshire as the church’s first openly gay bishop, Lee, a centrist, has himself been at the center of a church divided. The New York Times Magazine featured Lee as the subject of its Jan. 4 cover story on issues plaguing the church. Meanwhile, Lee changed his position, as if doing so might, better-late-than-never, quell dissent. With his silver hair, ice-blue eyes and resounding voice, Lee personifies didacticism. Yet his resolve seems to have been shaken. With such realities as parents refusing to let Lee baptize their babies and a growing number of congregants leaving the Episcopal Church to form new Anglican ones, time will tell whether Lee’s previously famous attribute of consensus-building will be enough to bind what continues to tear at the heart of the church.

57 Richard L. Sharp

Each year that Circuit City Stores slips a little further behind rival Best Buy, so does its last successful CEO, Richard Sharp, who retired in 2000. A series of missteps have continually dogged the electronics giant, which started its fall in earnest not long after Sharp stepped away from the Richmond company. His saving grace, however, is CarMax. Sharp, who conceived the concept 14 years ago, is still CarMax’s chairman, and the company is faring better on Wall Street than Circuit City, its former parent, is. But unlike CarMax chief executive Austin Ligon, a major supporter of gubernatorial candidate Lt. Gov. Tim Kaine, Sharp is backing his opponent, Jerry Kilgore. So far he’s given the Republican $105,000.

58 Judge Roger L. Gregory

Why is one judged more powerful than another when he’s doing his job following the law? It’s a question we ask of Gregory’s placement on the list — it’s dropped 18 slots from last year’s. In 2001 Gregory, a former law partner of L. Douglas Wilder, was named to the conservative 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals (which was then all white), one of 12 courts that rank just below the U.S. Supreme Court. Since then, he’s brought some balance to the bench, particularly in matters of civil liberty. His influence, though, appears to be held in check, even as President Bush and legal pundits look to his court colleagues as potential picks for one or more upcoming Supreme Court appointments.

59 Robert J. Grey Jr.

A newcomer to the list though familiar to many, especially within legal circles, Robert Grey is a partner with Hunton & Williams and president of the American Bar Association. He is the first African-American to hold the post. As such, he’s publicly raised questions about the prudence of juries and the autonomy of judges, and at a time when cases like Terry Schiavo’s put the nation on watch. Grey has received several gubernatorial appointments, including chair of the Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Board and vice chair of the Virginia Public Building Authority. In addition, he has chaired the Greater Richmond Chamber of Commerce, the Greater Richmond Partnership and its Youth Matters, and was president of the Richmond Crusade for Voters.

60 Ray Allen Jr. and Melinda Allen, and M. Boyd Marcus

Their clients’ rising profiles help boost their business and clout: U.S. Sen. George Allen, Congressman Eric Cantor, gubernatorial candidate Jerry Kilgore, Lt. Gov. candidate Bill Bolling. Behind the politicians is a team of strategists to be reckoned with. Ray Allen Jr. is president of Allen Consulting Group and founding partner of mailing house Creative Direct. Then there’s Marcus & Allen, which includes counterpart Boyd Marcus — the Karl Rove of former Gov. Jim Gilmore’s administration and the “No car tax” sloganeer. Allen’s wife, Melinda, has boosted Cantor’s standing by bringing in the big bucks for his fund-raising rocket, ERICPAC.

61 Thurston R. Moore

As managing partner of Hunton & Williams, Thurston Moore oversees operations for the firm’s 848 attorneys, 226 of them in Richmond. His specialty of practice focuses primarily on corporate and securities representation with an emphasis on corporate financing and governance, venture capital, real-estate investment trusts and partnership law. Last year Gov. Mark Warner appointed Moore to the board of VMFA. He also serves as trustee for The Nature Conservancy of Virginia and the Mary Morton Parsons Foundation. He’s an active member, too, of The Metropolitan Business Foundation and the Richmond Chamber of Commerce, and is a board member of St. Catherine’s School.

62 W. Alan McCollough

Things can’t turn soon enough at Circuit City Stores, where chairman and chief executive Alan McCollough has played the proverbial game of catch-up. Even recent changes — including the hire of former Best Buy exec Philip J. Schoonover as president, and a push toward a more “personalized, consumer-driven” shopping experience — don’t seem to be enough. The company’s $9.7 billion in annual revenue pales by comparison to Best Buy’s $25 billion. “I haven’t seen a vision, a strategy out of Circuit City yet that would enable them to successfully compete with Best Buy,” Bill Sims, a senior research analyst at Smith Barney, told CIO Magazine in July. And it can’t be good when your No. 2 makes twice as much as you do. Schoonover pulled in $5.6 million in total compensation in fiscal 2005; McCollough got $2.5 million.

63 Eva S. Hardy

Earlier this spring, the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at VCU named Hardy, a newcomer to the list, recipient of the 2005 Wilder School Public Service Award. Hardy — who is married to Richmond Times-Dispatch political reporter Michael Hardy — is senior vice president for external affairs and corporate communications for Dominion. She served under Gov. Gerald L. Baliles as secretary of health and human resources. Considered a major player in corporate and philanthropic circles, the lifelong Democrat musters respect on both sides of the aisle. She is widely liked and respected, and insiders say she’s the most effective corporate lobbyist on Capitol Square. Hardy is close, too, with Gov. Mark Warner. He just appointed her to the board of the State Council for Higher Education.

64 Robert F. Norfleet Jr.

He still wields influence, but the former executive at Crestar Bank is far removed from his days as a powerful Richmond banker. When Crestar sold out to Atlanta-based SunTrust in the mid-1990s, Norfleet turned into civic booster extraordinaire. He was an active voice in the push to change the city’s charter to its current strong-mayor system and has served as chairman of numerous local boards. He is past chairman of The Community Foundation, the Greater Richmond Chamber of Commerce, the Valentine Museum and the United Way Campaign. Norfleet, a guest columnist for the Times-Dispatch in 2003, has been quiet of late, however — but his Rolodex still packs a punch.

65 Charlie H. Foster Jr.

He’s becoming less active with LandAmerica Financial Group — he stepped down as chief executive in January — but Charlie Foster remains chairman of one of the biggest title insurance companies in the country. Locally, he’s becoming even more active. He serves on a variety of boards — including that of the Richmond Metropolitan Authority, Trinity Episcopal School, Virginia Business Council, Bon Secours, Universal Corp. and Overnite Corp. — and is widely considered one of Chesterfield County’s most powerful executives. Politically, he’s given $32,750 to Republican candidates in 2005, in addition to $1,300 to Democratic gubernatorial hopeful Lt. Gov. Tim Kaine.

66 Robey “Rob” Estes Jr.

One of the country’s biggest trucking companies just got bigger. The $1 billion-a-year Estes Express Lines announced in mid-July the acquisition of Los Angeles-based GI Trucking, giving the Richmond-based Estes a major presence on the West Coast. The deal pushes Estes’ total reach to 46 states (up from 33) with 12,000 employees and 172 terminals. Unlike its publicly traded counterpart in Richmond, Overnite Transportation, Estes President Robey “Rob” Estes Jr. and family are local fixtures. But the family largely keeps to themselves — the whole clan apparently loves to play bridge — and focuses on business. They aren’t terribly active on the philanthropy scene.

67 John B. Adams Jr. and Michael Hughes

They go together, like UPS and brown, or Geico and gekko. The Martin Agency’s John Adams, chairman and chief executive, and Mike Hughes, president and creative director, have worked together for 27 years. Their advertising agency, which made the UPS-brown connection and the gekko revelation, is still going strong, and remains at the top of the local ad agency heap. There was a monkey thrown into the mix this year, though: Spongmonkeys. The odd little creatures created for the Quiznos sub account didn’t go over so well. And Quiznos took its account elsewhere in December. But Martin did land other jobs, including the Delta Faucet account and a job pushing the CBS lines of “CSI.” Outside their Shockoe Slip agency, Adams and Hughes are involved in a variety of community organizations.

68 The Rev. Lance D. Watson

His national telecast is called “Positive Power,” but the heart of the Rev. Lance Watson’s leadership is local. As chief visionary and senior pastor of The Saint Paul’s Baptist Church in Richmond, Watson shepherds more than 8,500 predominantly African-American residents who call St. Paul’s their spiritual home. Its $25 million campus is more than the city’s largest Baptist church, though. It’s a stronghold and a community magnet, with a credit union, a child-development center, a resource for arts and music, and a community-development corporation. Watson will mark his 20th anniversary with the church in October.

69 Thomas N. Allen

He’s a regular on the local nonprofit circuit, and he has considerable clout in business circles as the former chairman of East Coast Oil Corp., which was sold in 2001. He and his partner, former East Coast CEO Dick Riley, are now dabbling in real estate and have opened Huddle House franchises (a competitor to Waffle House) throughout Southwest Virginia. Allen’s active with the Richmond Symphony and the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, and serves on the trustee council for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Richmond. He’s also a director at Overnite Transportation in Richmond and Noland Corp. in Newport News. As a campaign contributor, Allen has straddled the fence, giving to both Republican candidates and Democrats such as Tim Kaine.

70 Charles S. Luck III and Family

As members of Richmond’s first family of stone, Charles S. Luck III and his son, Charles IV, have turned the Luck Stone quarry business into the 12th-largest crushed-stone operation in the country. The Lucks are regarded as savvy business engineers — the high cost of extracting stone requires a finely tuned crystal ball — and are very active in the community. As one local fund-raiser puts it, “There are not too many boards that wouldn’t want to have a Luck.” In addition to the Luck Stone Community Foundation, which awards grants to a variety of causes, the Lucks are active in Richmond institutions such as the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts.

71 Bishop Francis Xavier DiLorenzo

Francis Xavier DiLorenzo was named the 12th Bishop of Richmond by Pope John Paul II on March 31, 2004. He replaces the ever- popular Bishop Walter F. Sullivan, who held the post for 30 years. While he hasn’t proven yet to be as vocal or visible as Sullivan, his behind-the-scenes efforts running a diocese of 213,000 members, one of the oldest and strongest nationwide, are becoming more noticeable. DiLorenzo serves in the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops as a member of the administrative committee. He’s also chairman of the committee on science and human values and has produced a series of popular teaching brochures reflecting bishops’ discussions with lead scientists on such controversial topics as the relationship between science and religion, and ethical issues in the quickly expanding fields of genetic testing and screening.

72 Frances A. Lewis

A native New Yorker who grew up in Washington, D.C., Frances Aaronson Lewis may shy from the spotlight, but she’s no stranger to society. Her work, service and financial contributions to cultural organizations and education are numerous. When Best Products, the catalogue-showroom chain she and her late husband, Sydney, founded, made them immensely wealthy, they decided to spread their fortune, giving $9 million to Washington and Lee University’s law program, $2 million to Virginia Union University to establish a school of business, and $1.5 million toward establishing a new medical school in eastern Virginia, along with major gifts to the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, the Whitney Museum of American Art and the Richmond Jewish Community Council. A widow for six years, Lewis serves on the expansion committee for VMFA, helping oversee designs for the museum’s $108 million expansion. She still pushes for Richmond to expand its place in the world.

73 The Rev. Peter James Flamming

Matters of faith and spirituality figure prominently in Richmond, and so do its leaders. Widely respected, the Rev. Jim Flamming has long been part of that community, leading the oldest congregation in Richmond at First Baptist Church. It was a big year for Flamming, who celebrated 50 years of marriage, 50 years in the ministry — 22 of them with First Baptist — and the 225th anniversary of the church, whose congregation numbers 3,900. Sure, its building at Monument and the Boulevard may be stately, and you may find prominent Richmonders in the pews, but church members are known for reaching beyond walls, running a thriving community-service ministry in the heart of the city.

74 Gov. Jim Gilmore

Just like the car tax, former Gov. Jim Gilmore is still around. He showed up at a party celebrating the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts’ multimillion-dollar McGlothlin gift. And in the spring, The Washington Post published a story called “Gilmore’s Glittering Return.” We’re not quite ready to use that term, but there is no denying the most recent Republican governor commands a strong core of supporters. In April, 400 of them came to the Richmond Marriott to hear about “Americans for Freedom and Opportunity,” a nonprofit founded by Gilmore and his former chief of staff, M. Boyd Marcus. The Post quoted Gilmore saying his group would “find ways to advance the cause of justice and goodness for the people of Virginia and the nation.” Gilmore says his work now is mostly national — he chairs the board of visitors at the United States Air Force Academy, among other projects. But, he says, “I probably will be a candidate again.”

75 Jeffrey M. Lacker

Following a legend isn’t easy. Lacker, a highly regarded economist, replaced the venerable J. Alfred Broaddus Jr., who retired as president of the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond in July 2004. Lacker is a member of the Maggie L. Walker Governor’s School Advisory Council and serves on the board of directors of the Richmond Jewish Foundation. Lacker isn’t as active as Broaddus, a 34-year veteran of the Fed, but he’s beginning to make his presence felt, say those who know him. He’s moving in that direction already, says his old boss. “He’s going to be a natural,” Broaddus says.

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