Tuesday, May 24, 2011

Fwd: Updated York County Tax Maps

The following tax maps were recently updated on the website.  You may download them manually, or click on the links below.

http://www.yorkcounty.gov/Portals/gis/m11.pdf  (Vasco D Boyd and Ruth A Boyd Subdivision - 414 Maple Rd & 509 Dogwood Rd)
http://www.yorkcounty.gov/Portals/gis/s04.pdf  (City of Newport News Pump Station Lot - 521-Z Darby Rd)

If you have any questions, please feel free to e-mail or call the GIS department at gis@yorkcounty.gov (757) 890-3899.

York County GIS Staff

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Fwd: Memorial Day Holiday Collections

MEMORIAL DAY CHANGES FOR GARBAGE COLLECTIONS ONLY
 
There will be no garbage collection on Monday, May 30, 2011. Garbage collections (only) will instead be delayed by one day for the week. Monday collections will be on Tuesday, Tuesday collections will be on Wednesday, and so forth. Friday collections will be completed on Saturday, June 4th.
In addition, all operations located at the York County Waste Management Center, 145 Goodwin Neck Road, Yorktown, will be closed on Monday, May 30th in honor of the Memorial Day holiday. This includes the Administrative Offices and Scales, transfer station operations, citizen drop-off areas for recycling and/or garbage disposal, and the VPPSA Composting Facility. Normal operations will resume on Monday, June 6th.
Recycling collections will NOT be affected by the Memorial Day holiday and will occur as scheduled. If Monday, May 30th is your regular day for recycling, please remember to have your materials at the curb by 7:00 a.m. in order to ensure collections.
For additional information about garbage or recycling service in York County, please contact the Waste Management Center office at 890-3780.

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Press Releases from York County

Board seeks applicants for the York County Historical Committee
 
May 19, 2011
 
FOR RELEASE AT WILL
 
The York County Board of Supervisors is currently seeking applications from county citizens interested in serving on the York County Historical Committee. 
 
The Historical Committee is an advisory body to the York County Board of Supervisors on matters of a historical nature dealing with the county and the Town of York. The Committee meets the third Thursday of each month.
 
York County citizens interested in applying for appointment to the York County Historical Committee may obtain an application at the County Administrator's Office at 224 Ballard Street in Yorktown, or by calling 890-3320. Applications may also be obtained and filed by visiting www.yorkcounty.gov, clicking on On-Line Services, and clicking on Board Bank Application.
 
# # #
 
Rand Irons wins Outstanding Youth Award for Overall Achievement
 
May 19, 2011
 
FOR RELEASE AT WILL
 
Recently, Grafton High School senior Rand Irons received the 2011 Outstanding Youth Award for Overall Achievement from Board of Supervisors Chairman George Hrichak.
 
Rand epitomizes excellence and outstanding achievement with his numerous accomplishments and superior performance in a wide variety of pursuits. Academically, he is ranked third in his class with a 4.56 grade point average in a demanding curriculum; he has been recognized by the College Board as an Advanced Placement Scholar with Distinction; he has earned membership into the National and Spanish Honor Societies; he has placed in the top one percent of high school students in a national competition conducted by the President's Advisory Council on Financial Literacy; and he has placed first at the regional and state Future Business Leaders of America competitions for three consecutive years.
 
In terms of leadership and service, Rand has been appointed as a student representative to the York County Career and Technical Education Council; served as president of Grafton's National Honor Society this year; and led his peers in a variety of capacities though Grafton's very active FBLA Chapter and the regional FBLA organization. Rand is also a Junior Assistant Scoutmaster in his Boy Scout Troop where earlier this year he became an Eagle Scout.
 
In his spare time, Rand participates on Grafton's policy debate team, advancing to the semifinals this year; he held down a part-time job during his sophomore and junior years; and he stays very active with his church, attending a 6 a.m. seminary class every day before school for the past four years and serving as a youth assistant and ordained lay priest.
 
# # #
 
Shannon Kuster wins Outstanding Youth Award for Community Service
 
May 19, 2011
 
FOR RELEASE AT WILL
 
Recently, York High School senior Shannon Kuster received the 2011 Outstanding Youth Award for Community Service from Board of Supervisors Chairman George Hrichak.
 
Throughout her high school career, Shannon has consistently demonstrated a genuine desire and commitment to serve others, as evidenced by her more than 500 hours of community service over the years. Since ninth grade, Shannon has worked as a 4H Peer Teacher Volunteer at the Yorktown Victory Center. She volunteers there eight hours a month during school and 16 hours a month during the summer as an 18th-century costumed interpreter in the center's military encampment.
 
Shannon also spent time last summer volunteering as an intern at the Peninsula Fine Arts Center, creating four hands-on projects for children to complement the center's featured exhibit.
 
With the encouragement of her AP Art teacher, Shannon founded a National Art Honor Society at York High through which members initiated an "Instrument of Art" project this year by painting old musical instruments to raise money for charity.
 
Shannon is a Red Cross certified lifeguard and swim instructor, and serves as a Skills Tester at an annual Special Olympics swim meet, where she helps and encourages the athletes to compete in modified swimming events. She also has spent time during her last three summers volunteering with the York County Library's summer reading programs for children.
 
In addition to all her volunteer work, Shannon holds a 4.41 grade point average in the rigorous International Baccalaureate Programme at York High, serves on the Student Council Advisory Board and swims competitively year-round on the Coast Guard Blue Dolphins and York High varsity swim teams.
 
# # #
 
Brooke Frix wins Outstanding Youth Award for Courage
 
May 19, 2011
 
FOR RELEASE AT WILL
 
Recently, Tabb High School freshman Brooke Frix received the 2011 Outstanding Youth Award for Courage from Board of Supervisors Chairman George Hrichak.
 
At the beginning of the school year last year, Brooke was a regular student, excited to start 9th grade and looking forward to being a Junior Varsity cheerleader. But in early October, that all changed when she was suddenly struck with severe headaches. After 10 days of excruciating pain, Brooke was taken to the hospital where doctors discovered a large mass in her skull and immediately transferred her to the Children's Hospital of the King's Daughters in Norfolk. There, specialists confirmed that Brooke had developed a large but thankfully benign brain tumor, which doctors completely removed three days later. After spending several more days in the hospital, Brooke returned home to recuperate, eventually returning to school part-time until December, when she was finally able to stay for a full day of classes.
 
Despite being away so long, Brooke immediately set out to catch up in all her subjects, which she succeeded in doing by the end of December. Weeks later, Brooke and her family received the shocking news that the tumor had come back and had already grown to its original size, an unheard of scenario for a case of her type. Surgery was scheduled for two weeks from her diagnosis date. During that time, as Brooke and her parents gratefully point out, many people - including their beloved church family where Brooke's father serves as the pastor - lifted up prayers on her behalf. Just before her second scheduled surgery, an MRI of Brooke's brain showed that the tumor was shrinking. The risky surgery was postponed in lieu of continued monitoring of her condition.
 
Throughout this emotional roller coaster, Brooke kept a positive attitude, serving as an inspiration to those around her. She maintained A's and B's in her coursework throughout the year, despite continued, intense, constant headaches that would prove debilitating to most people.
 
"Brooke has not succumbed to self-pity, depression or despair but instead has continued to brighten her corner of the world with sunshine, a resilience grounded in faith and a positive attitude that is rare and contagious," said her English teacher and nominator Mary Dawson.
###
 
Elizabeth Roberts wins Outstanding Youth Award for Compassion
 
May 19, 2011
 
FOR RELEASE AT WILL
 
Recently, York High School senior Elizabeth Roberts received the 2011 Outstanding Youth Award for Compassion from Board of Supervisors Chairman George Hrichak.
 
Though an active member in the National, Spanish and Math Honor Societies, president of the Key Club, editor of the yearbook, captain of the varsity field hockey team and student council historian, Liz is never too busy to help others. At York High's Special Needs Carnival last year, Liz recruited many student volunteers to help assist with games and activities.
 
She is very active with the Special Olympics, committing not just her time but her heart by getting to know these athletes on a personal level and genuinely bonding with them. In fact, they have so touched her heart that she has now become regular lunch buddies with one of them at school, even inviting this individual to attend a school basketball game together with some of her other friends. This was such a rewarding experience for everyone involved that Liz asked the school's Special Education staff to contact the parents of other special needs students to see if even more could participate in a similar outing to a soccer game this spring.
 
Liz's compassion clearly motivates her fellow students, as evidenced by her role as Key Club President. In her time as president the club has jumped from 20 to 90 members this year and has spearheaded many meaningful service activities. The club has sponsored food drives and donation projects, participated in the Diabetes Walk and Special Olympics programs and initiated a mentorship program at Yorktown Middle School.
 
"Liz is one of the most compassionate, self-directed students that I have ever encountered," said her nominator and guidance counselor Felicia Highland. "She is always optimistic and every time I see her I am enamored by her warmth."
 
 
# # #
 
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Fwd: Recent Press Releases from York County

 
 
FOR RELEASE AT WILL
 
The York County Public Library is pleased to announce a special Hunt for History Story Time on Saturday, May 21, at 10:30 a.m. in the Tabb Library meeting room.
 
In commemoration of the 150th anniversary of the Civil War, local historian Nancy Beaton will read "Henry's Freedom Box" by Ellen Levine and "The Silent Witness: A True Story of the Civil War" by Robin Freidman. Beaton will also have Civil War artifacts to share and will be dressed in period clothing.
 
This event is free and recommended for children ages six and up. Registration is not required.
 
For more information, contact the Tabb Library at 890-5110. The Tabb Library is located at the intersection of Hampton Highway (VA Rt. 134) and Long Green Boulevard, across from the Victory YMCA. The Yorktown Library is located at the intersection of George Washington Memorial Highway (Route 17) and Battle Road.
 
# # #
 
Board seeks applicants for Transportation Safety Commission
 
 
FOR RELEASE AT WILL
 
The York County Board of Supervisors is seeking applications from county citizens interested in serving on the York County Transportation Safety Commission to fill future vacancies. This is an advisory body to the Board on issues related to transportation safety in the county.
 
The length of term for appointees is three years. The commission meets in March, June, September, and December on the second Monday of the month. Meetings are at noon and are held in the Lower County.
 
York County citizens interested in applying for future appointment to the Transportation Safety Commission can obtain an application at the County Administrator's Office at 224 Ballard Street in Yorktown or by calling 890-3320. Applications can also be obtained and filed by using the county Web site. Visit www.yorkcounty.gov, click on On-Line Services, and click on Board Bank Application.
For more information on the Transportation Safety Commission, please call the York County Planning Division at 890-3404.
 
# # #
 
Many hands help build rain garden at New Quarter Park
 
May 17, 2011
 
FOR RELEASE AT WILL
 
Volunteers with the James City County Master Gardener-Water Stewards program spearheaded the construction of a rain garden at New Quarter Park as part of the York County Park's Teaching Garden, a .15 mile trail that features native plants in a woodland setting.
 
The rain garden will demonstrate landscaping techniques that control stormwater runoff, prevent damage to tree roots, and infiltrate water. The garden has been filled with native plants donated by the Virginia Native Plant Society, James City County Master Gardeners, Hampton Roads Agricultural Research & Extension Center, York County, Ralph and Carolyn Will, and Bob and Cynthia Long.
 
Seen here constructing a settling pond and filling it with plants are, from left to right, Dr. Laurie Fox, Hampton Roads Agricultural Research & Extension Center; Anne Nielsen, Master Gardener-Water Steward; Jack Cole, New Quarter Park staff; Jean Balutanski, Historic Rivers Chapter Virginia Master Naturalist; and Carol Fryer, Master Gardener-Water Steward. Not pictured: Jeanne Millen, Master Naturalist and Master Gardener-Water Steward; Shirley Devan, Patty Maloney, and Nancy Norton, Master Naturalist; Sara Lewis and Thad Hecht, Master Naturalists and New Quarter Park staff; and Molly Nealer, York County Parks and Recreation supervisor.
 
# # #
 
Master Naturalists share nature knowledge during NQP field trip
 
May 17, 2011
 
FOR RELEASE AT WILL
 
Members of the Historic Rivers Chapter, Virginia Master Naturalists helped staff at New Quarter Park conduct a fun and interesting field trip for 120 first-graders from Yorktown Elementary School on Tuesday, May 10, at the 545-acre York County park near Queen's Lake.
 
The students visited stations arranged around the park to learn about insects, plants, birds, and archaeology. The rotation also included a stop at the playground to swing, climb, slide, and enjoy the beautiful day outdoors. The field trip concluded with lunch in one of the park's large picnic shelters.
 
Master Naturalists who led discussions about nature and the environment included (seated, left) Sara Lewis (also New Quarter Park staff), Christina Woodson, Patty Riddick, (standing) Les Lawrence, Geoff Giles, (seated, right) Larry Riddick, Clyde Marstellar, and Pam Camblin. Field trip planners and helpers not pictured: Thad Hecht (Master Naturalists and New Quarter Park Staff), Jane Frigo (Hampton Roads Bird Club), and Jim Harrison and Molly Nealer (New Quarter Park Staff). For more information about New Quarter Park programs, call 757-890-3513
 

# # #

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Tuesday, May 17, 2011

Fwd: Recent Press Releases from York County

 
 
FOR RELEASE AT WILL
 
The York County Public Library is pleased to announce a special Hunt for History Story Time on Saturday, May 21, at 10:30 a.m. in the Tabb Library meeting room.
 
In commemoration of the 150th anniversary of the Civil War, local historian Nancy Beaton will read "Henry's Freedom Box" by Ellen Levine and "The Silent Witness: A True Story of the Civil War" by Robin Freidman. Beaton will also have Civil War artifacts to share and will be dressed in period clothing.
 
This event is free and recommended for children ages six and up. Registration is not required.
 
For more information, contact the Tabb Library at 890-5110. The Tabb Library is located at the intersection of Hampton Highway (VA Rt. 134) and Long Green Boulevard, across from the Victory YMCA. The Yorktown Library is located at the intersection of George Washington Memorial Highway (Route 17) and Battle Road.
 
# # #
 
Board seeks applicants for Transportation Safety Commission
 
 
FOR RELEASE AT WILL
 
The York County Board of Supervisors is seeking applications from county citizens interested in serving on the York County Transportation Safety Commission to fill future vacancies. This is an advisory body to the Board on issues related to transportation safety in the county.
 
The length of term for appointees is three years. The commission meets in March, June, September, and December on the second Monday of the month. Meetings are at noon and are held in the Lower County.
 
York County citizens interested in applying for future appointment to the Transportation Safety Commission can obtain an application at the County Administrator's Office at 224 Ballard Street in Yorktown or by calling 890-3320. Applications can also be obtained and filed by using the county Web site. Visit www.yorkcounty.gov, click on On-Line Services, and click on Board Bank Application.
For more information on the Transportation Safety Commission, please call the York County Planning Division at 890-3404.
 
# # #
 
Many hands help build rain garden at New Quarter Park
 
May 17, 2011
 
FOR RELEASE AT WILL
 
Volunteers with the James City County Master Gardener-Water Stewards program spearheaded the construction of a rain garden at New Quarter Park as part of the York County Park's Teaching Garden, a .15 mile trail that features native plants in a woodland setting.
 
The rain garden will demonstrate landscaping techniques that control stormwater runoff, prevent damage to tree roots, and infiltrate water. The garden has been filled with native plants donated by the Virginia Native Plant Society, James City County Master Gardeners, Hampton Roads Agricultural Research & Extension Center, York County, Ralph and Carolyn Will, and Bob and Cynthia Long.
 
Seen here constructing a settling pond and filling it with plants are, from left to right, Dr. Laurie Fox, Hampton Roads Agricultural Research & Extension Center; Anne Nielsen, Master Gardener-Water Steward; Jack Cole, New Quarter Park staff; Jean Balutanski, Historic Rivers Chapter Virginia Master Naturalist; and Carol Fryer, Master Gardener-Water Steward. Not pictured: Jeanne Millen, Master Naturalist and Master Gardener-Water Steward; Shirley Devan, Patty Maloney, and Nancy Norton, Master Naturalist; Sara Lewis and Thad Hecht, Master Naturalists and New Quarter Park staff; and Molly Nealer, York County Parks and Recreation supervisor.
 
# # #
 
Master Naturalists share nature knowledge during NQP field trip
 
May 17, 2011
 
FOR RELEASE AT WILL
 
Members of the Historic Rivers Chapter, Virginia Master Naturalists helped staff at New Quarter Park conduct a fun and interesting field trip for 120 first-graders from Yorktown Elementary School on Tuesday, May 10, at the 545-acre York County park near Queen's Lake.
 
The students visited stations arranged around the park to learn about insects, plants, birds, and archaeology. The rotation also included a stop at the playground to swing, climb, slide, and enjoy the beautiful day outdoors. The field trip concluded with lunch in one of the park's large picnic shelters.
 
Master Naturalists who led discussions about nature and the environment included (seated, left) Sara Lewis (also New Quarter Park staff), Christina Woodson, Patty Riddick, (standing) Les Lawrence, Geoff Giles, (seated, right) Larry Riddick, Clyde Marstellar, and Pam Camblin. Field trip planners and helpers not pictured: Thad Hecht (Master Naturalists and New Quarter Park Staff), Jane Frigo (Hampton Roads Bird Club), and Jim Harrison and Molly Nealer (New Quarter Park Staff). For more information about New Quarter Park programs, call 757-890-3513
 


--
Alexander of York

Fwd: T/F Sound Support

From: The Tuscany Forum <thetuscanyforum@cox.net>
Date: Tue, May 17, 2011 at 7:46 AM
Subject: T/F Sound Support

Tuscany Forum Attendees,

As you may know, each forum has audio sound support so all can hear and
participate in the forum.  This is currently provided by one volunteer and
personal equipment.  Due to individual availability and to share the fun, we
are seeking to add other volunteers to establish a team so the sound
requirement does not fall on just one.

The requirement is just a basic public address (PA) system; three speakers
seem to work best.  If you have such a system and are willing to be a
"Rotational Roadie" with others, please let us know!

If you can help, simply respond the the above Tuscany Forum email, subject:
T/F Sound Support.

Thanks,
Your T/F Core Team!





--
Alexander of York

Sunday, May 15, 2011

**YORK COUNTY CITIZENS **

*****Due to Lack of County Supervisor Candidate Pairings, there will be NO Tuscany Forum in May*****

The Tuscany Forum will open the June and July forums to debates among candidates running for the York County Board of Supervisors in November

Candidate Primary is set for August 23rd!

*************************************************************************************
The Tuscany Forum provides York County Citizens a public Forum where they can:

Voice their concerns about the responsiveness and direction of their county, state and federal governments,
Conduct civil, direct, in-person dialogue with their elected officials and government staff,  
Develop and encourage positive political plans of action to accomplish the will of the people.

To add someone to the Tuscany Forum email distribution, please send their name and email address to thetuscanyforum@cox.net

The Tuscany Forum Core Group:
Bart Barton, Danny Diggs, Greg Garrett, Mike Hoyes, Linda Hutchinson, Winston Lawrence, Mary Leedom, Wade McRoberts, Thomas Nelsen, David Phillips, Stephen Roane, Maywood Wilson

Times & Location:
Unless otherwise stated, monthly meetings of The Tuscany Forum are held the Third Thursday of each month at Tuscany's Coffee House, 6605 George Washington Memorial Highway (Route 17) Yorktown, 23692.  Doors open at 6:00pm, food and drink available for sale, Forum begins at 7:00pm.

Mark your Calendar for The Tuscany Coffee House on June 16th & July 21st, both 7:00pm!!








--
Alexander of York

Thursday, May 12, 2011

Fwd: York County Board of Supervisors' Meeting Agenda for May 17, 2011

Click on the link below to view the May 17, 2011, Regular Meeting Agenda of the York County Board of Supervisors.

http://www.yorkcounty.gov/Default.aspx?tabid=1900

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Tuesday, May 10, 2011

Fwd: Crime Watch Alert - Multiple Cars Break-ins (Larceny from Auto)

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: "Thomas Shepperd" <tgshep@cox.net>
Date: May 10, 2011 7:50 AM
Subject: Crime Watch Alert - Multiple Cars Break-ins (Larceny from Auto)
To: "Thomas Shepperd" <tgshep@cox.net>

Dear Neighbors,

 

The following Crime Watch Alert is provided in support of your community Crime Watch Program.  I received the following notice on May 8th

 

"Several cars in Tabb Lakes had windows broken out this morning around 4 am, my car included.  My purse was taken, but I found it in my back yard – the contents had been dumped out.  A small amount of cash and one credit card was stolen.  A tarp was taken from the utility trailer parked in my driveway and thrown over my motion-sensitive floodlight above my garage.  The same tarp was used in the same manner at my neighbor's house. Three cars on my cul-de-sac were broken into and several other cars in the neighborhood were broken into; at least one on Tiger Paw Path and one on Tabb Lakes Drive, from which an IPod Touch and a GPS were stolen.  There were probably more throughout the neighborhood.  The sheriff's department is investigating. In fact, they were already at my neighbor's when I went out and found my car window smashed."  End Notice.

 

I contacted the Sheriff's Office on  May 9th  to confirm the information above and obtain an update.  The deputy I spoke to not only confirmed the multiple car break-ins in Tabb Lakes but stated that several car break-ins had occurred in Yorkshire Downs and the Four Season Apartments.  In all, between May 7th and 8th there were 8 auto larcenies.  Of the eight cars, only three were reported to have broken passenger side windows.  Most of the cars were entered though unlocked doors.

 

The Sheriff's Office asked that I stress to the public that vehicles parked outside of a garage are a favorite target of opportunity for thieves, especially those that are left unlocked.  Generally speaking, thieves usually will not break a car window because of the noise the action can generate.  It can alert the owner or someone else nearby and this is a risk most thieves want to avoid.  However, occasionally a thief may feel that the risk is worthwhile.  This is especially true if the contents of a car is in plain sight and appears to be of significant value.  That may have been the case with the lady's purse.  The Sheriff's Office is continuing to study these cases and asks the public to be vigilant and report all suspicious activity.

 

Over the past 10 years, I have observed that as the school year ends the rate of larceny from auto, vandalism and other neighborhood crimes tend to increase.  This criminal activity is not just limited to juveniles.  Many young adults have been caught up in these crimes.  Knowing that your car or truck is  unsecured and a prime target for criminals, what are you doing to keep your valuable safe?  Past reports show that items stolen from vehicles include money, cell phones, car radios, wallets, golf clubs, and hand guns just to name a few.  If your car is going to remain parked outside throughout the night, it is recommend that you remove all valuables and don't think for one moment that your car trunk is a safe place.  Once inside a car, access to the truck is usually just a button or lever away.  Also, remember the garage door opener can provide access to your house, which is a whole other issue.  If you do not take proper precaution to secure you valuables, you may not only lose them but face the inconvenience of having to replace credit cards, a driver license, and other important items.

 

Please help keep our community safe by sharing this information with your family, neighbors and friends.  Anyone wishing to receive future Crime Watch Alerts and my District 5 Report will be placed on the distribution list upon request to tgshep@cox.net or tshepperd@yorkcounty.gov.  Please include your name and residential address.  Phone numbers are optional.  All personal information is kept confidential.  Opinions expressed in the alerts and reports are mine and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of other elected representatives within the County.  Comments and questions are always welcome.

 

Regards,

 

Tom Shepperd

District 5 Representative

York County Board of Supervisors

 

Home (757) 868-8591

Office (757) 240-5836

Mobile (757) 618-3335

Fax (757) 890-4082

shepperd@yorkcounty.gov

tgshep@cox.net

tshepperd@alionscience.com

 

Monday, May 9, 2011

News from York County


Market Days launches season on May 14 with Fitness Market
 
May 9, 2011
 
FOR RELEASE AT WILL
 
The 5th Annual Yorktown Market Days season kicks off next Saturday, May 14, along the Yorktown waterfront at Riverwalk Landing.
 
For the opening market, the 2011 Leadership Historic Triangle Class is partnering with the Market for its Historic Triangle Healthy Habits program. This program is a regional initiative to improve the quality of life for residents by educating citizens about the importance of healthy living and highlighting tools available to make healthy lifestyle choices easily and on any budget.
 
Shop the market and make your way to the fitness section for exercise classes, numerous vendors, health screenings such as blood pressure and body mass measurements, and free giveaways all tying in with the farmers market. Participating exhibitors include: York County Parks and Recreation, Riverside Wellness & Fitness Center, Riverside Health System, Diabetes Services and Adult Day Services, Tidewater Physicians Multispecialty Group, YMCA, Tidewater Physical Therapy, Cancer Prevention Coalition of the VA Peninsula, HUMANA, York County Master Gardeners, 4-H Center, SHIP, Yorktown Boys & Girls Club, NASA/Langley Exchange Skywatchers, Clean the Bay, and Virginia Capital Trail Foundation.
 
Don't miss the healthy cooking demonstrations provided by Riverwalk Restaurant at 9:30 and 11:30 am. Additional activities include solar viewing, New Quarter Park Disc Golf demonstrations, grow your own vegetable garden demonstrations and youth speed and agility demonstrations.
 
The tentative class demonstration schedule is:
8:30 a.m.         Zumba demonstration with Stacey Zebrowski
9 a.m.             Beginner Yoga demonstration with Shannon Moore
9:30 a.m.         Tai Chi demonstration with Bill Hansell
10 a.m.            Senior Center Line Dancers lead by Jeannette Pretlow
10:30 a.m.       Tae Kwon Do with Action Arts Academy
11 a.m.            Line Dancing with Good Time Dancers
11:30 a.m.       Body Recall with Domenica Jernigan and Company
 
Saturday's festivities will culminate with a culinary garden event to be held from 1 to 3 p.m. at Riverwalk Restaurant where Floral and Herbal expert Don Haynie, who operates Buffalo Springs Farm, will present "Le Potager: The French Culinary Garden." There is a cost to attend this event and the event is sponsored by Sister Cities Yorktown. For more information, call 890-5313.
 
Free parking will be available at the market in several public parking areas throughout Historic Yorktown. The free Yorktown trolley runs from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.  
 
York County Market Days will operate weekly through Sept. 17 from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., and monthly markets will be held on Oct. 8, Nov. 12 and Dec. 10, with extended hours in October and November. The market hosts more than 35 local farmers and vendors and 20 local artists throughout the season with a variety of homegrown favorites and local artwork.
 
No rain dates are scheduled for the Market Days or Fitness Market. In the event of inclement weather, please call the Yorktown events weather hotline at 890-3520 for updates. For more information please visit www.riverwalklanding.com.
 
Yorktown Market Days is presented by York County and the Riverwalk Landing Business Association. Special thanks to the Fitness Market partners: 2011 Leadership Historic Triangle Class and York County Parks and Recreation. 
 
# # #

 

Make and Take hypertufa workshop at New Quarter Park on May 28
 
May 9, 2011
 
FOR RELEASE AT WILL
 
Join botanical artist Linda Miller at New Quarter Park on Saturday, May 28, from 10 a.m. to noon to Make and Take a hypertufa garden pot, bird feeder, birdbath, or sculpture.
 
Miller will talk about garden art and help with creative ideas while participants make a garden piece from hypertufa, a mixture of concrete and light materials that add texture and make the concrete less dense. After molding a garden object, participants will take it home to unmold in two to three days, and add to a garden.
 
Participants may bring decorative bits of ceramic, rocks, leaves, shell, other natural objects to press into the mix, or an object to use as a mold to add a personal touch. A limited number of decorative materials and molds will be available to choose from. Dress to work outdoors with messy materials. Latex gloves will be provided.
 
Registration for the May 28 event is required; call York County Parks and Recreation at 890-3513. The fee for materials is $5, payable on the day of the Make and Take. New Quarter Park is located at 1000 Lakeshead Drive. From the Colonial Parkway about two miles northeast of Williamsburg, take the Queen's Lake exit. Turn right and then turn on Lakeshead Drive. Follow the signs to New Quarter Park.
 

# # #

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--
Alexander of York

Fwd: York County District 5 Report - May 2011


From: Thomas Shepperd <tgshep@cox.net>
Date: Sat, May 7, 2011 at 4:38 PM
Subject: York County District 5 Report - May 2011
To: Thomas Shepperd <tgshep@cox.net>


Dear Neighbors,

 

The York County District 5 Report for May 2011 is provided to help keep you informed of local and state government actions that could impact our homes and communities.* Crime Watch information is included as a supplement to your local Crime Watch program.  York County residents are added to the report distribution lists upon request. Comments and questions are always welcome.  You can reach me at the phone numbers and email addresses listed below my name.  I greatly appreciate your help in disseminating the report to others residents in your communities.

 

Sincerely,

 

Tom Shepperd

District 5 Representative

York County Board of Supervisors

 

Home (757) 868-8591

Office (757) 240-5836

Mobile (757) 618-3335

shepperd@yorkcounty.gov

tgshep@cox.net

tshepperd@alionscience.com

 

-----York County District 5 Report for May 2011----

 

1.  Crime Watch.  As many of you already know through the Crime Watch Alerts, we had several recent break-ins within District 5 and District 4 (Coventry-Kiln Creek-Tabb Lakes).  Quick thinking by a Coventry homeowner in snapping a few pictures of a culprit's car as he made a hasty getaway from a failed home burglary was instrumental in his arrest for multiple break-ins throughout the area.  This is not the first time that an alert resident with a camera has played a significant role in taking criminals off the street.  Recall last year's case when an 11 year old in Kiln Creek took pictures of two suspicious individuals removing items from the next door neighbor's house.  A quick 911 call and the pictures resulted in the arrest of both individuals while in the process of committing another burglary within the neighborhood.  Here are a few observations and conclusions that I have reached over the years concerning home break-ins:

 

            A. Residents are very interested in hearing about any criminal activity within the neighborhoods but the dissemination of alerts is hit and miss.  Some neighborhoods have very aggressive Crime Watch Programs but the success of these programs is usually driven by one or two highly motivated individuals.

 

            B.  While break-ins can and do occur throughout our communities, the greatest concentration of break-ins occur near major thoroughfares such as Route 17, Route 134 and Route 171.  It appears that many of the break-ins along these routes are due to easy access.  If successful near the main routes, burglars will move further into the neighborhoods as they become more familiar with the area.

 

            C. York County has a relatively low crime rate when compared to the larger cities that surround us.  Usually, our biggest neighborhood issue is speeding.  While we occasionally do find some home grown criminals, many of the burglaries are due to criminals who live in areas such as Hampton, Portsmouth and as far away as Richmond.  As the Commonwealth Attorney once told me, York County is considered "high shelf", meaning criminals see our neighborhoods as rich targets.

 

Our Sheriff's Department has a good record in catching the bad guys but we all need to do our part.  You are the first line of defense for your home.  Working together, your community becomes an effective second line of defense.  The Sheriff's Department is the third line of defense.   Often all three lines are at play at the same time and word eventually gets out to the bad guys that, if you commit a crime in York County, you can expect to get caught.

 

2.  Notices and Announcements

 

            A.  York County is seeking a District 5 volunteer to serve on the York County Library Board.  The purpose of the Library Board is the control and management of the York County Public Libraries.  A successful candidate for this position must have a strong desire to maintain and enhance our library system.  The length of term is for four years.  Meetings are held the second Thursday of each month at one of our two libraries.  If you are interested in serving on the Library Board, send an email to tgshep@cox.net or shepperd@yorkcounty.gov  or better yet, call me at 757-618-3335.

 

            B.  York County is seeking volunteers to serve on the Colonial Behavioral Health Board.  This is a regional board serving York County, James City County, Williamsburg and Poquoson with the purpose of providing overall administration and coordination of mental health, intellectual disabilities, and substance use disorder programs.  The board meets the first Tuesday of each month at a facility on Route 143 at the Williamsburg end of York County near Route 199.  The length of term is for three years. If you are interested in serving on the Colonial Behavioral Health Board, send an email to tgshep@cox.net or shepperd@yorkcounty.gov  or better yet, call me at 757-618-3335.

 

C.  This year Dominion will be performing routine vegetation maintenance (removal of dead trees, etc.) along its transmission facilities from approximately Oriana Rd. in Grafton, through the Running Man neighborhood, to its Peninsula substation near Magruder Blvd.  This work is expected to begin in mid May and continue into the fall of this year.  Individual properties where work is required will be notified with a door card and brief description of the work that will be performed on their property. The door card will also provide contact information for a Transmission Forestry Representative if the property owner has any additional questions.   For more information on Dominion's Transmission Vegetation Maintenance please visit www.dom.com and type "Trees" into the search bar.

 

D. Solicitation – Many neighborhoods have "No Solicitation" signs at the entrance to the neighborhood.  These signs represent only a statement of desire and actually have no standing in law when it comes to individual homes within a neighborhood. It's a bit complicated but unless a neighborhood association actually owns the streets, it cannot restrict access to the streets or individual properties of the neighborhood.  Based on concerns expressed by residents over the issue of neighborhood safety and questionable sales throughout our area, I have proposed that the Board of Supervisors take up the solicitation issue later this year.   The Board has agreed and the plan is to provide reasonable limits as to when and how solicitation can take place within the County.  State law does not permit localities to prohibit solicitation in its entirety or to restrict door-to-door solicitation for charities and political activities.

 

            E. Stormwater Projects – After nearly 10 years and $3.5 million, the Moores Creek Drainage Project is finally finished.  Moores Creek was the County's number one drainage project and improved the drainage for approximately 1000 homes within District 5.  The last aspect of the Moores Creek Project was the modification to improved drainage from Galaxy Way.  The County Staff is currently re-evaluating the ditch along Big Bethel Road from the Homestead pond to the Big Bethel Road outflow near the New Bethel Baptist Church.

 

F.  The Water Way Alliance (WWA) has, through the County's "Adopt a Spot" program, adopted the new Moores Creek drainage pond area near the corner of Calthrop Neck Road and Yorktown Road.  The WWA will be responsible for removing trash from the pond and reporting the pond's condition to the County Staff.  A sign will be posted near the pond recognizing the Water Way Alliance's adoption of the pond and contribution to a healthy environment.   This is a great community effort and will significantly help to reduce Bay pollution.

 

            G. Sewer Projects - The Dogwood Sewer Project (neighborhood behind the Dairy Queen on Hampton Hwy) and the Moores Creek Sewer Project are currently in the design phase.  Construction bids are expected for September and August with construction to begin in November.   The Dogwood Sewer Project will encompass 48 homes and the Moores Creek Sewer Project will encompass 18 homes.  Estimated cost for both projects is $1.5 million or approximately $23,000 per home.

 

The first public meeting for these sewer projects is scheduled for June 2011. Residents will be notified by the County in writing of their requirement to connect to the public sewer system.  Connection is mandatory and the tap fee is $3,700 payable within 90 days.  After 90 days, the price climbs to $8,625. The County has a payment plan for those who wish to pay through installments.  Homeowners are responsible for plumbing services to the sewer tap.  Connection must be accomplished within 120 days of service availability.  The County's Environmental Development Services (EDS) will provide more details concerning the sewer tap rules.

 

            H. Widening of Route 17 – Pending any changes by the Commonwealth Transportation Board, VDOT's draft 6-year Statewide Improvement Program will include $33,944,000 for the widening of Route 17.  The project is scheduled to begin in 2015 and will include the widening of Route 17 from Route 134 (Hampton Hwy) to Wolf Trap Road.  The bulk of the funding ($20 million) will come from a state revenue bond. VDOT is making plans for utility relocation and, as part of the widening project, the Board of Supervisors has agreed to pledge $7 million as its share of the $12 million cost to bury the power lines.

 

            I.  Route 171/Bike Trail Update – The County staff continues to investigate the possibility of construction of a multi-use trail over the HRSD and Stormwater pipes along Route 171 (Victory Blvd) from Route 134 to the City of Poquoson line.  If Poquoson decides to participate, the path will extend all the way to Wythe Creek Road.  The staff believes that placement of the trail over the buried pipes will not interfere with VDOTs future widening of Victory Blvd.  The proposal is still being discussed with VDOT.  The staff is also exploring funding options for the project.  One option is to seek $2.9 million in federal funding under the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Program.  This option requires a 20% local match.  More on this effort as the planning progresses.

 

            I.  Shellfish Area Condemnation – On March 15th, we received notice from the state's Department of Health that all Poquoson River tributaries were designated condemned shellfish (oyster) areas.  Specifically, the following creeks are affected by the condemnation order: Hodges Cove, Patricks Creek, Quarter March Creek, Moores Creek, Lamb Creek, and Bennett Creek.  The Director, Division of Shellfish Sanitation, said that we can expect the designated areas to remain condemned for at least a year.  The condemnation order prohibits the removal of any shellfish (oysters) for personal or commercial use.  Removal of shellfish that are in cages or bags require a special permit and tagging.

 

3.  Board of Supervisors Actions

 

A. Olde Port Cove Stub Street – Approved Ordinance No. 11-4 and Resolution R11-42 that vacated (sold) the unimproved street (stub street) right of way within the neighborhood. This action blocks any future street connection of residentially zoned property with Olde Port Cove.

 

Comment:   The connection of subdivisions is a very sensitive issue.  At issue is VDOT's effort to mitigate traffic congestion versus residents' desire for a safe community.  The state eliminated local government's ability to block subdivision connections and mandated by way of financial penalties that developers must connect subdivisions.  VDOT's effort to mitigate traffic congestion makes sense when you consider the tremendous cost of highway construction and the negative economic impact of traffic delays.  However, this one shoe fits all approach disregards the loss of community identity, tranquility and the potential increase in criminal activity and traffic related safety issues. York County's actions in support of Olde Port Cove set a precedent and established a means by which other communities can solve the neighborhood connection problem. The process was not easy nor the outcome assured.  It was only through agreement of the individual homeowners next to the stub street, the members of the HOA, and an understanding of the issue by the Supervisors that this effort succeeded.  Neighborhoods that wish to address future stud street connections must begin well in advance of any future development.

 

            B. County Redistricting – Approved Ordinance No. 11-7 to adjust district boundaries to comply with Federal and Virginia laws that require election districts to be drawn every ten years to ensure they have relatively equal populations.  In 2001, the County's population was 58,600.  In 2010, the population was 65,364, which means that the population of each of the 5 districts should be approximately 13,073.  The major change to the District 5 boundary was the inclusion of the entire area south of Yorktown Road that is behind Tabb HS all the way to Hampton Highway.  The residents in the new District 5 area will vote at Tabb HS.

 

Tied to the redistricting are this year's elections.  At the local level, the five members of the Board of Supervisors, five School Board members, Sheriff, Commonwealth Attorney, Treasurer, and Commission of the Revenue are up for election.  State elections will include seats for the state Senate, House of Delegates, and two directors for the Soil and Water Board.  The Supervisors and School Board members run only within their respective districts.  Other County officials are elected county-wide.  Party primaries for all elected official, excluding the School Board which by law must be nonpartisan, will take place on August 23rd.  The General Election will take place on November 8th.  Voting during the Primary Election and General Election is open to all registered voters and will take place at your assigned precinct.

 

C. Budget – Approved Ordinance No. 11-3 and Resolution R11-31, which established the Fiscal Year 2012 budget and tax rates for 2011.  The adopted budget is $122,999,088 and includes $55.4 million for Education and Educational Services (schools and public libraries), $28.3 million for Public Safety (Sheriff's Department and Fire & Life Safety), $8.5 million for Capital Outlay, Funding Transfers & Non-Departmental, and $8.2 million for Finance & Planning.  The tax rates remain unchanged from last year.  The Real Estate Tax Rate of $0.6575 has remained unchanged since 2008.  Comment:  The 2012 budget reflects the loss of $2 million in tax revenue from the refinery.  Next year we face an additional $2 million loss.  An additional loss of revenue will come from an anticipated 3% reduction in the average real estate values.

 

* The York County District 5 Report is produced about every two months and distributed to residents on the York County District 5 Report email list.  I will gladly add you to the distribution list upon request to tgshep@cox.net or shepperd@yorkcounty.gov.  Please include your name and address in the request.  All information is kept confidential.  Comments and opinions express in this report do not necessarily represent the position of other members of the York County Board of Supervisors.  If you wish to obtain comments from members of the Board of Supervisor, please visit the County website at www.yorkcounty.gov.  Supervisor contact information is located on the website under the title "County Government."  Homeowner Associations are encouraged to use this report in preparing their association newsletters.

 

---End Report---




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Alexander of York

Friday, May 6, 2011

Fwd: Crime Watch Update - Arrest Made in Coventry Break-in

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: "Thomas Shepperd" <tgshep@cox.net>
Date: May 6, 2011 6:21 PM
Subject: Crime Watch Update - Arrest Made in Coventry Break-in
To: "Thomas Shepperd" <tgshep@cox.net>

Dear Neighbors,

 

This email is provided in support of your neighborhood crime watch program.  Earlier today (May 6th) the York County Sheriff's Office informed me that one individual was arrested in connection with the break-in attempt on Amelia Court in the Coventry neighborhood.  As I understand it, the individual was caught and arrested while committing another burglary in the City of Hampton.  The perpetrator's car was identified through pictures taken by the Coventry homeowner and interestingly enough, a search of the vehicle turned up evidence from unannounced burglaries that had taken place in the Woodlake Crossing and Patriot Village neighborhoods.  It is estimated that 90% of the property taken from the homes was recovered.  The Sheriff's Office will provide a press release of the arrest next week.  Once again quick thinking by a homeowner and the use of a camera has helped to take a criminal off the street.

 

If you would like to receive my Crime Watch Alerts and District 5 Reports, please send an email with your neighborhood address to tgshep@cox.net or shepperd@yorkcounty.gov.  All information is kept confidential.  Opinions expressed in the reports are my own and do not necessary reflect the official position of other elected representatives or the official position of the York County Board of Supervisors.  Comments and questions concerning information provided through the alerts and reports are always welcomed.

 

Regards,

 

 

Tom Shepperd

District 5 Representative

York County Board of Supervisors

 

Home (757) 868-8591

Office (757) 240-5836

Mobile (757) 618-3335

Fax (757) 890-4082

shepperd@yorkcounty.gov

tgshep@cox.net

tshepperd@alionscience.com

Thursday, May 5, 2011

Fwd: May 11, 2011 Planning Commission Agenda

Planning Division Website Update

 
The website has been updated with the following information:
 
The agenda for the May 11, 2011 Planning Commission meeting has been added.
 
To see the agenda visit:
 
 
# # #
 
 
If you have questions regarding this notification, please contact the Planning Division (757) 890-3404 or by email at planning@yorkcounty.gov.
 
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Alexander of York