August 12, 2009
Thomas J. Tomzak City of Fredericksburg
Mayor 715 Princess Anne Street
P. O. Box 7447
Fredericksburg, VA 22404-7447
(540) 372-1022
Release sent August 11, 2009
City Council Appoints Beverly R. Cameron as City Manager
Contact: Thomas J. Tomzak, Mayor (540) 372-1022
The Fredericksburg City Council appointed Beverly R. Cameron as city manager, effective August 12, 2009, at its meeting August 11, 2009. Mr. Cameron has been the Assistant City Manager since 1986, and has served as interim city manager since April, 2009. He will earn an annual salary of $155,000.
Mr. Cameron, a native of Front Royal, Virginia, holds the degrees of bachelor's of city planning from the University of Virginia, and master's in business administration from the College of William and Mary.
Fredericksburg Mayor Thomas J. Tomzak, M.D. commented, “I think this is a very good decision for the city of Fredericksburg. In Bev, we get a combination of experience, dedication, talent, and a continuation of leadership.”
During his 23 years of service to the city, Mr. Cameron has: Served as project manager for numerous capital projects including: headquarters branch renovation of the Central Rappahannock Regional Library, Sophia Street Parking Garage, New Police Headquarters and 911 Center, and Dixon Park Athletic Complex.
Led major initiatives including work necessary to create the FRED Regional Transit System, upgrading of city’s bond rating in 1998, and implementation of enhanced budgeting and financial management systems. Been responsible for development of special service district(s) for the provision of enhanced municipal services in “New City Area.” This led to the construction of a major roadway (Cowan Boulevard) six years ahead of previous VDOT schedule. Assisted in the coordination of improved cash management and investment procedures which significantly improved investment returns.
Cameron assisted city managers and city councils in the development and negotiation of cost effective regional solutions for water supply, jails, libraries, commuter rail, and solid waste management. Had a major role in planning, procurement, financing and construction of two new schools in the city – Lafayette Upper Elementary School and James Monroe High School. Served as acting city manager for a combined period of approximately 16 months in 1992–93, 2002–2004.
Mr. Cameron said, “I am honored to serve as Fredericksburg’s city manager and to lead a team of over 400 hard-working and dedicated men and women who labor every day to provide essential services to the citizens of Fredericksburg. While the city faces many fiscal challenges, city staff and I are committed to advancing Council’s goals that will improve the quality of life for our residents.”
Virginians Love Farmers Markets
August 10, 2009
VIRGINIA’S FARMERS MARKETS RANK AMONG THE FAVORITES IN THE NATION
The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) is pleased to announce that six Virginia farmers markets were ranked in the Top 20 in “American’s Favorite Farmers Market Contest” sponsored by the American Farmland Trust (AFT). Only California had more markets in the Top 20 with a total of seven. AFT announced the results Saturday, August 8, which was the last day of Farmers Market Week.
More than 800 markets signed up to participate in the contest. Voters could vote for their favorite market in one of three categories, small, medium or large. Markets are categorized by the number of vendors at each. A small market has 30 venders or less; medium markets support 31 to 55 vendors and large markets are those with more than 55 vendors.
Among medium markets, Williamsburg ranked number one nationwide. Historic Roanoke came in at number seven, Yorktown at number eight and Goochland at number 19. In the small category, Fairfax ranked number three and Virginia Beach ranked sixth. A list of the Top 20 markets is available at http://action.farmland.org/site/PageNavigator/Americas-Favorite-Farmers-Markets/top_farmers_markets.
“I am not at all surprised that Virginia had six farmers markets ranked in the Top 20 nationally,” said Todd P. Haymore, VDACS Commissioner. “Farmers markets are a vital part of life in Virginia. They’ve become the new social gathering place, and they are a great way to meet the people who grow and raise your food and fiber. Because Virginia’s industry of agriculture is so diverse, so are the offerings in our farmers markets. We have seen a tremendous growth in the number of markets in the last four years – from 88 in 2005 to 174 and counting today. I have shopped personally at several of our Virginia Top 20 markets,” Haymore continued, “and I can see why their customers voted for them. Congratulations to all of our winners, and to all of our farmers who provide high quality, homegrown fruits, vegetables and more to our consumers.”
Elaine J. Lidholm
Director, Office of Communication
Va. Dept. of Agriculture & Consumer Services
Oliver W. Hill Building
102 Governor Street
Richmond, VA 23219
(804)786-7686
VIRGINIA’S FARMERS MARKETS RANK AMONG THE FAVORITES IN THE NATION
The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) is pleased to announce that six Virginia farmers markets were ranked in the Top 20 in “American’s Favorite Farmers Market Contest” sponsored by the American Farmland Trust (AFT). Only California had more markets in the Top 20 with a total of seven. AFT announced the results Saturday, August 8, which was the last day of Farmers Market Week.
More than 800 markets signed up to participate in the contest. Voters could vote for their favorite market in one of three categories, small, medium or large. Markets are categorized by the number of vendors at each. A small market has 30 venders or less; medium markets support 31 to 55 vendors and large markets are those with more than 55 vendors.
Among medium markets, Williamsburg ranked number one nationwide. Historic Roanoke came in at number seven, Yorktown at number eight and Goochland at number 19. In the small category, Fairfax ranked number three and Virginia Beach ranked sixth. A list of the Top 20 markets is available at http://action.farmland.org/site/PageNavigator/Americas-Favorite-Farmers-Markets/top_farmers_markets.
“I am not at all surprised that Virginia had six farmers markets ranked in the Top 20 nationally,” said Todd P. Haymore, VDACS Commissioner. “Farmers markets are a vital part of life in Virginia. They’ve become the new social gathering place, and they are a great way to meet the people who grow and raise your food and fiber. Because Virginia’s industry of agriculture is so diverse, so are the offerings in our farmers markets. We have seen a tremendous growth in the number of markets in the last four years – from 88 in 2005 to 174 and counting today. I have shopped personally at several of our Virginia Top 20 markets,” Haymore continued, “and I can see why their customers voted for them. Congratulations to all of our winners, and to all of our farmers who provide high quality, homegrown fruits, vegetables and more to our consumers.”
Elaine J. Lidholm
Director, Office of Communication
Va. Dept. of Agriculture & Consumer Services
Oliver W. Hill Building
102 Governor Street
Richmond, VA 23219
(804)786-7686
GOGREEN Garden Festival September 12
August 10, 2009
2009 GOGREEN GARDEN FESTIVAL FEATURES PLANTS, MUSIC, CRAFTS, CHILDRENS’ ACTIVITIES AND GARDENING EDUCATION SEPTEMBER 12
The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) announces the fourth annual GoGreen Garden Festival Saturday, September 12, in the Garner Pavilion at the Science Museum of Virginia. The museum is located at 2500 Broad Street in Richmond. The multifaceted event is sponsored by the Virginia Green Industry Council to promote Virginia’s extensive horticulture industry. The festival runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is free.
Todd Haymore, VDACS Commissioner, is a big fan of Virginia’s gardening industries. “The nursery/horticulture industry became one of Virginia’s top commodities a few years ago and generates around $240 million annually in cash receipts. But the appeal of this festival goes way beyond the economic importance of the industry. It’s fun; it’s educational; it’s free; and you can take the kids. While they’re getting their faces painted, planting seeds, visiting with Smokey Bear, or petting the animals, Mom and Dad can take turns shopping for plants and gardening products, listening to Andre Viette host his radio show ‘In the Garden’ live from 9 to 11 a.m., or touring the Science Museum’s ecology display. The whole family will enjoy the music, crafts, and demonstrations on wool spinning and beekeeping.”
Two new features this year include a seminar on fall lawn care with Dr. Mike Goatley of Virginia Tech and the launch of the Beautiful Gardens Plant Introduction Program. The program introduces plants into Virginia that have not been grown commercially in the state before. It also features Plants of Distinction each year and encourages people to buy plants that are under used in the Virginia landscape.
The GoGreen Festival is geared toward both the experienced and the novice gardener. “The seasoned gardener can learn something new,” says Rick Baker, festival chairman, “and the inexperienced gardener is sure to come away with a head full of ideas and a trunk full of plants and equipment. It’s a great family activity and a delightful way to spend the day outside enjoying the beauty and wonder of our natural environment.”
For more information on the Festival, contact Rick Baker at rick.baker@vdacs.virginia.gov or (301)275.2077; or Sylvia Wright at syhwright@comcast.net or (804)672.6007.
Elaine J. Lidholm
Director, Office of Communication
Va. Dept. of Agriculture & Consumer Services
Oliver W. Hill Building
102 Governor Street
Richmond, VA 23219
(804)786-7686
2009 GOGREEN GARDEN FESTIVAL FEATURES PLANTS, MUSIC, CRAFTS, CHILDRENS’ ACTIVITIES AND GARDENING EDUCATION SEPTEMBER 12
The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) announces the fourth annual GoGreen Garden Festival Saturday, September 12, in the Garner Pavilion at the Science Museum of Virginia. The museum is located at 2500 Broad Street in Richmond. The multifaceted event is sponsored by the Virginia Green Industry Council to promote Virginia’s extensive horticulture industry. The festival runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is free.
Todd Haymore, VDACS Commissioner, is a big fan of Virginia’s gardening industries. “The nursery/horticulture industry became one of Virginia’s top commodities a few years ago and generates around $240 million annually in cash receipts. But the appeal of this festival goes way beyond the economic importance of the industry. It’s fun; it’s educational; it’s free; and you can take the kids. While they’re getting their faces painted, planting seeds, visiting with Smokey Bear, or petting the animals, Mom and Dad can take turns shopping for plants and gardening products, listening to Andre Viette host his radio show ‘In the Garden’ live from 9 to 11 a.m., or touring the Science Museum’s ecology display. The whole family will enjoy the music, crafts, and demonstrations on wool spinning and beekeeping.”
Two new features this year include a seminar on fall lawn care with Dr. Mike Goatley of Virginia Tech and the launch of the Beautiful Gardens Plant Introduction Program. The program introduces plants into Virginia that have not been grown commercially in the state before. It also features Plants of Distinction each year and encourages people to buy plants that are under used in the Virginia landscape.
The GoGreen Festival is geared toward both the experienced and the novice gardener. “The seasoned gardener can learn something new,” says Rick Baker, festival chairman, “and the inexperienced gardener is sure to come away with a head full of ideas and a trunk full of plants and equipment. It’s a great family activity and a delightful way to spend the day outside enjoying the beauty and wonder of our natural environment.”
For more information on the Festival, contact Rick Baker at rick.baker@vdacs.virginia.gov or (301)275.2077; or Sylvia Wright at syhwright@comcast.net or (804)672.6007.
Elaine J. Lidholm
Director, Office of Communication
Va. Dept. of Agriculture & Consumer Services
Oliver W. Hill Building
102 Governor Street
Richmond, VA 23219
(804)786-7686
Orange Hires Town Manager
August 10, 2009
According to published reports, John Bailey has been hired by the Orange Town Council to be their new town manager. He has experience working with local government in Cumberland County, and most recently was the general manager of a homeowners' association in Orange County. He's also served in the past as Keep Virginia Beautiful Executive Director.
For more information Tedd E. Povar
Virginia Institute of Government
Virginia Support Network Administrator
(804) 371-0202
tep3e@virginia.edu
According to published reports, John Bailey has been hired by the Orange Town Council to be their new town manager. He has experience working with local government in Cumberland County, and most recently was the general manager of a homeowners' association in Orange County. He's also served in the past as Keep Virginia Beautiful Executive Director.
For more information Tedd E. Povar
Virginia Institute of Government
Virginia Support Network Administrator
(804) 371-0202
tep3e@virginia.edu
Arlington County Executive Takes ICMA Post
August 10, 2009
Ron Carlee, who has been Arlington County Executive since 2001, has taken a post with the International City/County Management Association (ICMA) as executive in residence and director of strategic domestic initiatives. According to published reports, he intended to fulfill his personal goal of achieving 30 years with the county, but was tempted by this job to leave Arlington after 29 years there.
For more information contact Tedd E. Povar
Virginia Institute of Government
VLGMA Support Network Administrator
(804) 371-0202
tep3e@virginia.edu
Ron Carlee, who has been Arlington County Executive since 2001, has taken a post with the International City/County Management Association (ICMA) as executive in residence and director of strategic domestic initiatives. According to published reports, he intended to fulfill his personal goal of achieving 30 years with the county, but was tempted by this job to leave Arlington after 29 years there.
For more information contact Tedd E. Povar
Virginia Institute of Government
VLGMA Support Network Administrator
(804) 371-0202
tep3e@virginia.edu
Community Conference in Chesterfield
August 10, 2009
BUILDING STRONGER COMMUNITIES TOGETHER THROUGHOUT THE STATE
Chesterfield County will be hosting the Virginia Statewide Neighborhood Conference during its 10th anniversary on Sept. 24–26. The three-day conference provides an excellent opportunity for communities from across the state to share their knowledge, experience and vision on how to make Virginia’s neighborhoods the neighborhoods of choice. This year’s conference theme is “Sustaining Communities through Effective Partnerships.” The conference will include an anniversary celebration, information-packed workshops, thought provoking speakers, exhibitions and networking opportunities. The conference will be held at the Holiday Inn Select Koger South, 1021 Koger Center Boulevard, Richmond, VA.
"Neighborhood leaders in the commonwealth are not alone,” added Latisha Jenkins, the community revitalization coordinator for Chesterfield County and this year’s conference organizer. “VSNC has been bringing neighborhood issues to the forefront for 10 years. Those who attend this year's conference will make valuable connections to others who have faced similar issues. So, even if you’re not able to attend, contact us! We are dedicated to improving Virginia neighborhoods."
Early registrations will be accepted until Aug. 31 and late registrations by Sept. 14. For more information, visit vsnc.org or call (804) 748-1065.
BUILDING STRONGER COMMUNITIES TOGETHER THROUGHOUT THE STATE
Chesterfield County will be hosting the Virginia Statewide Neighborhood Conference during its 10th anniversary on Sept. 24–26. The three-day conference provides an excellent opportunity for communities from across the state to share their knowledge, experience and vision on how to make Virginia’s neighborhoods the neighborhoods of choice. This year’s conference theme is “Sustaining Communities through Effective Partnerships.” The conference will include an anniversary celebration, information-packed workshops, thought provoking speakers, exhibitions and networking opportunities. The conference will be held at the Holiday Inn Select Koger South, 1021 Koger Center Boulevard, Richmond, VA.
"Neighborhood leaders in the commonwealth are not alone,” added Latisha Jenkins, the community revitalization coordinator for Chesterfield County and this year’s conference organizer. “VSNC has been bringing neighborhood issues to the forefront for 10 years. Those who attend this year's conference will make valuable connections to others who have faced similar issues. So, even if you’re not able to attend, contact us! We are dedicated to improving Virginia neighborhoods."
Early registrations will be accepted until Aug. 31 and late registrations by Sept. 14. For more information, visit vsnc.org or call (804) 748-1065.
Walkerton Farmers' Market Open
August 8, 2009
The Walkerton Farmers' Market is open on the third Saturdays, July, August, and September from 9 am to noon in Walkerton, VA. It is sponsored by King and Queen Community Development, Inc.
The market is held at the landing of the Latane Trice Bridge, and is free to the public and exhibitors. Those wishing to sell local produce or plants should call (804) 769-9656 or email info@kqcd.org.
The Walkerton Farmers' Market is open on the third Saturdays, July, August, and September from 9 am to noon in Walkerton, VA. It is sponsored by King and Queen Community Development, Inc.
The market is held at the landing of the Latane Trice Bridge, and is free to the public and exhibitors. Those wishing to sell local produce or plants should call (804) 769-9656 or email info@kqcd.org.
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