tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-71786860264002505912024-03-05T03:19:25.011-08:00NewsVirginia Reviewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11477498015448917232noreply@blogger.comBlogger505125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7178686026400250591.post-669358700155405372009-08-12T07:50:00.000-07:002009-08-12T07:56:26.380-07:00Fredericksburg Names Cameron ManagerAugust 12, 2009<br /><br />Thomas J. Tomzak City of Fredericksburg<br />Mayor 715 Princess Anne Street<br />P. O. Box 7447<br />Fredericksburg, VA 22404-7447<br />(540) 372-1022<br /><br />Release sent August 11, 2009<br /><br />City Council Appoints Beverly R. Cameron as City Manager<br /><br />Contact: Thomas J. Tomzak, Mayor (540) 372-1022<br /><br />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.<br /><br />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.<br /><br />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.”<br /><br />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.<br /><br />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.<br /><br />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.<br /><br />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.”Virginia Reviewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11477498015448917232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7178686026400250591.post-70374970073425790422009-08-10T11:23:00.000-07:002009-08-10T11:25:18.997-07:00Virginians Love Farmers MarketsAugust 10, 2009<br /><br />VIRGINIA’S FARMERS MARKETS RANK AMONG THE FAVORITES IN THE NATION<br /> <br />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.<br /> <br />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.<br /> <br />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. <br /> <br />“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.” <br /> <br /> <br />Elaine J. Lidholm<br />Director, Office of Communication <br />Va. Dept. of Agriculture & Consumer Services<br />Oliver W. Hill Building<br />102 Governor Street<br />Richmond, VA 23219<br />(804)786-7686Virginia Reviewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11477498015448917232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7178686026400250591.post-66680418219817775012009-08-10T10:57:00.000-07:002009-08-10T10:59:43.284-07:00GOGREEN Garden Festival September 12August 10, 2009<br /><br /><br />2009 GOGREEN GARDEN FESTIVAL FEATURES PLANTS, MUSIC, CRAFTS, CHILDRENS’ ACTIVITIES AND GARDENING EDUCATION SEPTEMBER 12<br /> <br />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.<br /> <br />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.” <br /> <br />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.<br /> <br />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.”<br /> <br />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.<br /> <br /> <br />Elaine J. Lidholm<br />Director, Office of Communication <br />Va. Dept. of Agriculture & Consumer Services<br />Oliver W. Hill Building<br />102 Governor Street<br />Richmond, VA 23219<br />(804)786-7686Virginia Reviewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11477498015448917232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7178686026400250591.post-46470782020586083182009-08-10T10:49:00.000-07:002009-08-10T10:53:55.383-07:00Orange Hires Town ManagerAugust 10, 2009<br /><br />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.<br /><br />For more information Tedd E. Povar<br />Virginia Institute of Government<br />Virginia Support Network Administrator<br />(804) 371-0202<br />tep3e@virginia.eduVirginia Reviewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11477498015448917232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7178686026400250591.post-34410934295456885172009-08-10T10:44:00.000-07:002009-08-10T10:49:08.893-07:00Arlington County Executive Takes ICMA PostAugust 10, 2009<br /><br />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.<br /><br />For more information contact Tedd E. Povar<br />Virginia Institute of Government<br />VLGMA Support Network Administrator<br />(804) 371-0202<br />tep3e@virginia.eduVirginia Reviewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11477498015448917232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7178686026400250591.post-44079417897063255712009-08-10T06:40:00.000-07:002009-08-10T06:41:35.846-07:00Community Conference in ChesterfieldAugust 10, 2009<br /><br />BUILDING STRONGER COMMUNITIES TOGETHER THROUGHOUT THE STATE<br /> <br />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.<br /><br />"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."<br />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.Virginia Reviewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11477498015448917232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7178686026400250591.post-79567695412694623112009-08-08T09:12:00.000-07:002009-08-08T09:16:32.239-07:00Walkerton Farmers' Market OpenAugust 8, 2009<br /><br />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. <br /><br />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.Virginia Reviewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11477498015448917232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7178686026400250591.post-60658684825988151682009-08-08T07:48:00.000-07:002009-08-08T07:59:47.657-07:00Suzy Szasz Palmer Named New Deputy Librarian of VirginiaAugust 8, 2009<br /><br />After a nationwide search, the Library of Virginia announced through their online Library of Virginia e-newsletter that Suzy Szasz Palmer is the new deputy librarian for the Commonwealth of Virginia. She assumed her new duties July 10.<br /><br />For the past two years, Suzy Szasz Palmer has served as director of the Library of Virginia Research and Information Services Division for the Library of Virginia. Prior to coming to the Library of Virginia, she was associate dean for collections, preservation, and digital initiatives at the University of Louisville. From 1979 through 2002, she held numerous positions in the Cornell University Library system, including head of public services for rare and manuscript collections, reference coordinator and bibliographer, and special project assistant to the deputy director of the Olin Library. <br /><br />She is visible and active in the library profession nationally. Among the many current positions she holds are memberships on the editorial board of Microfilm & Imaging Review, secretary of the American Library Association (ALA) State Library Section of the Association of Specialized and Cooperative Library Agencies, chair of the hot topics in front line reference discussion group of the ALA Reference and User Services Association, chair of the publications committee of the Virginia Library Association, and president elect of the Richmond Academic Library Consortium. <br /><br />She earned her undergraduate degree, summa cum laude, in political philosophy and her master's in library science from Syracuse University.<br /><br />For more information go to the Library of Virginia website at www.lva.virginia.govVirginia Reviewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11477498015448917232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7178686026400250591.post-12625525772531042242009-08-08T07:32:00.000-07:002009-08-08T07:39:02.719-07:00Virginia Forum Call for PapersAugust 8, 2009<br /><br />Virginia's leading annual history conference, the Virginia Forum, has issued a call for papers. This is the fifth annual Virginia Forum, and will meet at Christopher Newport University in Newport News April 15-17 2010.<br /><br />The Virginia Forum invites proposals for presentations on all topics in Virginia history and culture, but the Hampton Rods area's relationship to the Atlantic Ocean, Chesapeake Bay, and other waterways offers a special opportunity to reflect on maritime history and culture. Proposals for graduate and undergraduate students conducting research in Virginia history are encouraged. The deadline for submitting proposals is September 15, 2009.<br /><br />The Virginia Forum inviites proposals for individual papers or complete panel sessions, roundtable discussions, workshops, poster sessions, or electronic/multimedia presentations. Additional information is available online at www.virginiaforum.org.Virginia Reviewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11477498015448917232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7178686026400250591.post-27753787119572010752009-08-08T07:15:00.000-07:002009-08-08T07:16:48.840-07:00New Online Resources for Virginia TeachersAugust 8, 2009<br /> <br />Contact: Lynda Tran <br />Phone: (804) 225-4806 <br />Cell Phone: (804) 317-1505<br />Internet: www.governor.virginia.gov <br /> <br />GOVERNOR KAINE ANNOUNCES NEW ONLINE RESOURCES FOR VIRGINIA TEACHERS<br />~ Partnership with SAS provides award-winning content at no charge ~<br /><br />Governor Timothy M. Kaine Friday August 7 announced a partnership with Statistical Analysis Software (SAS) to provide the software vendor’s SAS Curriculum Pathways collection of online resources, interactive features and ready-to-use lessons to Virginia middle schools and high schools at no charge.<br /><br />“Partnering with groups like SAS provides additional resources to support instruction and independent learning at a time when school divisions are cutting back,” Governor Kaine said. “This is an important investment in the public schools of Virginia and the young people they serve.”<br /><br />SAS Curriculum Pathways provides resources and content aligned with state standards in English, history/social science, science, mathematics and Spanish. Designed for a range of classroom environments, technology capabilities and learning styles, SAS Curriculum Pathways can be used in classrooms, virtual schools, small groups and by individual students. School divisions and schools access SAS Curriculum Pathways by setting up online accounts through the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE).<br /> <br />“Online curriculum is an effective way to empower teachers and students during tight times,” said SAS Chief Executive Officer Jim Goodnight. “Static or shrinking budgets should not stand in the way of students’ access to new technology and engaging content.”<br /> <br />“VDOE technology staff will work with school divisions to make sure teachers and students can take full advantage of SAS Curriculum Pathways,” said Superintendent of Public Instruction Patricia I. Wright.<br />SAS is a leader in business analytics software and services, and the largeVirginia Reviewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11477498015448917232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7178686026400250591.post-80459493361082341242009-08-08T07:12:00.000-07:002009-08-08T07:14:16.063-07:00VDACS Announces Harvest of Small Grains Is CompleteAugust 8, 2009<br /> <br />The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) announced today that the 2009 harvest of small grains is complete and the U.S. Department of<br />Agriculture (USDA) will now measure US farmers’ final production of those grains. Production figures will include wheat, oats, barley and rye.<br /> <br />During the first two weeks of September, the Virginia Field Office of USDA’s National<br />Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) will contact more than 1,200 producers statewide as part of the September Agricultural Survey, also known as the Crops/Stocks Survey. Results will provide the basis for official USDA estimates of 2009 acreage, yield and production for small grains.<br /> <br />“This is one of the most important surveys NASS conducts each year,” explained<br />Herman Ellison, director of the NASS Virginia Field Office. “Not only will we be gathering final data on 2009 small grains production, but we’ll also be collecting information on quantities of grains and oilseeds stored on farms statewide. Data from the September Agricultural Survey benefits farmers by providing timely and accurate information to help them make critical year-end business decisions and evaluate the<br />success of the growing season,” added Ellison.<br /> <br />NASS will contact selected Virginia producers by mail or telephone and ask them to<br />provide information on their 2009 production and on-farm stocks of winter wheat, barley, and oats. As with all NASS surveys, information provided by respondents is confidential by law.<br /> <br />“NASS safeguards the privacy of all responses and publishes only state and national level data, ensuring that no individual operation or producer can be identified,” Ellison said. Survey results will be published in several reports, including the annual Small Grains summary and the quarterly Grain Stocks report, both to be released on September 30. These and all NASS reports are available on the agency’s website: www.nass.usda.gov .<br /> <br />For more information on NASS surveys and reports, call the NASS Virginia Field Office at 1-800-772-0670.<br /> <br /> <br /> <br />Elaine J. Lidholm<br />Director, Office of Communication <br />Va. Dept. of Agriculture & Consumer Services<br />Oliver W. Hill Building<br />102 Governor Street<br />Richmond, VA 23219<br />804/786-7686Virginia Reviewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11477498015448917232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7178686026400250591.post-5629219025054799242009-08-07T06:37:00.001-07:002009-08-07T06:41:31.173-07:00Hanover Updates Economic Development WebsiteAugust 7, 2009<br /><br />Hanover County Partners with Consultant for Update to Economic Development Website<br /><br />Timmons Group, a Virginia Review Directory advertiser and a leader in Enterprise Geospatial products and services, announced today that Hanover County has again partnered with the firm by incorporating the new and updated version of Site LoGIStics software into their Web presence. This update will increase the level of service and information provided to local citizens, the professional real estate community, businesses and business prospects. Site LoGIStics is an ArcGIS Server based GIS web solution that enhances site and building property searches and provides critical business, consumer, demographic and labor information essential for site selection.<br /><br />Economic development has changed dramatically over the past few years. Now site selection consultants and business executives rely heavily on the internet for information. In today’s technology driven environment, the Internet is often used to develop a short list of locations for a business expansion or relocation. To remain competitive in today’s economy, economic development organizations must provide reliable, in-depth, information that is easily accessible on the web. Recognizing this, Hanover County wanted a site that allowed their clients and potential businesses to conduct property searches that could be tailored to fit their specific business needs. With Site LoGIStics, prospective companies can conduct site and building searches on a macro level using broad search criteria or on a micro level that allows them to choose a site or building with multiple and very explicit criteria. This technology allows the user to quickly and accurately find properties that fit their particular business needs.<br /><br />“Site LoGIStics has definitely had a positive impact on the level of service that we can provide to our businesses and the real estate community. As we face more competition for fewer projects, the need for concise, accurate and easily obtainable data is paramount,” said Marc S. Weiss, Director of Hanover County Economic Development. “We rely on the data and functionality of Site LoGIStics in our everyday operations and our clients have come to rely on access to the type of information that it provides.”<br /><br />Using ESRI’s ArcGIS Server 9.3.1 technology, Hanover’s new site features interactive maps and tools that allow the user to view selected properties in a variety of ways. Property search results can be displayed in a map view or grid view. The aerial photography and GIS integrated maps provide a prospective business executive a more complete understanding of the selected properties and the community by allowing the user to see the properties in relation to critical factors like access to roadways, airports, railroads, utilities, parks and recreation, universities and colleges and other key factors. Using the “Compare Selection” tool, properties can be viewed and contrasted for side-by-side analysis to provide a better understanding of the attributes of each individual property. <br /><br />To enhance the user experience, reports featuring demographics, business point analysis, consumer expenditure, workforce statistics and labor information can be quickly obtained and displayed for individual properties. Using measurements of feet, meter, miles or kilometers the data is displayed in concentric radii from the selected property.<br /><br />Site LoGIStics enhances the site selection process by providing quick access to critical information. This solution provides Hanover County with the competitive advantage needed to attract potential development projects by easily providing up to the minute information. <br /><br /> <br />Tim Asimos, Marketing Manager<br />Timmons Group<br />(804) 200.6375<br />tim.asimos@timmons.comVirginia Reviewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11477498015448917232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7178686026400250591.post-28742421875256744012009-08-07T06:21:00.000-07:002009-08-07T06:30:43.269-07:00You Can Help Select UVa's New PresidentAugust 7, 2009<br /><br />Dear University alumni, parents, and friends: <br /><br />As you know, President Casteen announced in June that he would retire next summer at the conclusion of his 20th year. <br /><br />We have been fortunate to have John Casteen's extraordinary leadership, and as a result I believe we are well positioned to find an able successor who will continue the work of further distinguishing the University. <br /><br />It is the responsibility of the Board of Visitors — and, in fact, its most important task — to find the very best person to take over the helm of our great institution. <br /><br />We have assembled a talented search committee ready to assist us in meeting this challenge. The UVa Special Committee on the Nomination of a President includes nine members of the board, six faculty members, two prominent alumni, and two students. The 19 members bring a deep understanding of the University's history, traditions, culture, strengths, opportunities, and challenges. <br /><br />To complete our search successfully, we must act in the best interest of all those who care deeply about the University. Listening to the ideas, viewpoints, and opinions of members of the University community is vital to the process. In the coming weeks, the committee will hold a series of open forums in order to hear what members of the University community believe are important qualities and considerations for our next president.<br /><br />We are posing the same three questions in all forums to all those interested in offering input. They are:<br /><br />What opportunities and challenges do you see facing the University of Virginia in the next ten years?<br />What qualifications/personal leadership characteristics should the next president possess to take advantage of the opportunities and address the challenges?<br />What other considerations should the committee bear in mind as we initiate this search process?<br />While forums are designated for specific groups, all sessions are open to anyone who wishes to attend, including members of the local community. The dates, times, and locations for the forums follow:<br /><br />Forum primarily for students: Aug. 25, 10 a.m.-noon, Newcomb Hall ballroom.<br />Forum primarily for staff: Aug. 25, 3:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m., Zehmer Hall auditorium.<br />Forum primarily for Health System personnel: Sept. 1, 7:30 a.m.-9:30 a.m., McLeod Hall auditorium.<br />Forum primarily for faculty: Sept. 1, 4 p.m.-6 p.m., Newcomb Hall ballroom.<br />Forum primarily for alumni: Sept. 12, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Alumni Hall ballroom. (Co-hosted with Alumni Association.)<br />Forum primarily for the College at Wise: Sept. 29. (Time and location to be announced.)<br />Because we seek the broadest participation possible, we have created three additional ways for people to communicate with us if they are unable to attend one of the forums.<br /><br />Email: presidentsearch@virginia.edu<br />Mail: Board of Visitors Office, c/o Presidential Search, NW Wing, The Rotunda, P.O. Box 400222, Charlottesville, VA 22904-4222<br />Online: Presidential Search Website at www.virginia.edu/presidentsearch.<br />I hope you will take a few moments to share your thoughts as we embark on this important milestone in the University's history — the selection of the University of Virginia's eighth president. <br /><br />With kind regards, <br /><br />John O. Wynne<br />University Rector<br />Chairman, Special Committee on the Nomination of a PresidentVirginia Reviewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11477498015448917232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7178686026400250591.post-49349859199514438082009-08-06T11:19:00.001-07:002009-08-06T11:21:43.999-07:00Senator Webb Planning Five Nation Asian Trip - First US Member of Congress to Visit Burma in More Than Ten YearsContact: Jessica Smith – 202-228-5185<br />Thursday, August 6, 2009 Kimberly Hunter – 202-228-5258<br /> <br />Webb to Visit Five Asian Nations, Including Burma, as Chairman of<br />Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on East Asia & Pacific Affairs <br /> <br />Trip to Focus on Opportunities to Advance U.S. Interests in the Region<br /> <br />Senator Jim Webb (D-VA) will embark Sunday on a two week, five nation tour of Asia to explore opportunities to advance US interests in Burma and the region. Webb was named chairman of the East Asia and Pacific Affairs Subcommittee of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee in February.<br /> <br />Senator Webb will be the first United States Member of Congress to visit the nation of Burma in more than ten years. He will also hold meetings with government representatives and industry leaders in Thailand, Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia.<br /> <br />Webb has enjoyed a continuous personal involvement in Asian and Pacific affairs that long predates his time in the Senate. In addition to his more recent visits as a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Webb has worked and traveled throughout this vast region, from Micronesia to Burma, for nearly four decades, as a Marine Corps officer, a defense planner, a journalist, a novelist, a Department of Defense executive, and as a business consultant. <br /> <br />As chairman of the East Asia and Pacific Affairs Subcommittee, Webb oversees US relations with countries in East Asia, Southeast Asia, the Pacific Rim, and Oceana. The subcommittee also oversees regional organizations such as the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC).<br /> <br />Webb’s chaired a subcommittee hearing on July 15 to examine China’s role in maritime territorial disputes in Asia and the degree to which sovereignty issues are impacting the region and U.S. interests. He has also chaired two full Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearings to consider nominees for Ambassadorships to Asia and the Pacific Islands.<br /> <br />Webb served as an infantry Marine in Vietnam, and later as assistant secretary of defense and Secretary of the Navy in the Pentagon. He also served as an Asia-Pacific regional military planner in Guam, has written extensively on local, national and international issues in Japan, Thailand, Vietnam and the Philippines, and in the 1990's worked as a consultant for companies wishing to do business in Vietnam. He has served on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee since joining the US Senate in January 2007.Virginia Reviewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11477498015448917232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7178686026400250591.post-77203177598675476502009-08-06T07:46:00.000-07:002009-08-06T07:48:16.145-07:00Tourism Destination in Southwest Virginia GroundbreakingAugust 6, 2009<br /><br />Contact: Lauren Cunningham Hollie S. Cammarasana/DHCD<br />Phone: (804) 225-4262 (804) 371-7006 <br />Cell Phone: (804) 393-9406 (804) 382-2075<br />Internet: www.governor.virginia.gov www.dhcd.virginia.gov<br /><br /> <br />GOVERNOR KAINE HIGHLIGHTS HEARTWOOD GROUNDBREAKING<br />~ $16 million facility will serve as the artisan gateway to Southwest Virginia’s cultural heritage ~<br /> <br />Governor Kaine highlighted today the groundbreaking of Heartwood, a $16 million, 28,000 square foot facility that will serve as the gateway to Southwest Virginia and as a one of a kind tourism destination for travelers exploring the rich cultural, musical and artisan culture distinctive of the region.<br /> <br />“Heartwood will be the cultural hub of Southwest Virginia, promoting the artistic heritage of the area, while also highlighting The Crooked Road and the numerous other nature and artisan trails throughout the region,” said Governor Kaine. “It will be the symbol of the new economy based on heritage tourism that is emerging in Southwest Virginia.”<br /> <br />The facility is projected to draw 270,000 visitors and generate more than $10 million in revenue for the region each year. According to the Virginia Tourism Corporation, five of the 15 localities with the greatest increase in tourism expenditures from 2005 to 2006 were in Southwest Virginia along The Crooked Road. The region’s new “creative economy” is replacing the manufacturing economy in Southwest Virginia, capitalizing on synergies between music, crafts, agriculture, the arts, and downtown revitalization. <br /> <br />“The groundbreaking today is representative of the energy and hard work that has been focused on revitalizing Southwest Virginia’s economy by focusing on our culture, heritage, music, crafts and natural assets,” said Senator William Wampler Jr. “The Southwest Virginia Cultural Heritage Commission has worked in partnership with many organizations and agencies to move this project forward, and as a result of many collaborations that will continue, we are seeing a very real revitalization taking place in this region.”<br /> <br />Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony were The Honorable William C. Wampler, state senator and Chair of the Southwest Virginia Cultural Heritage Commission; The Honorable Patrick O. Gottschalk, Secretary of Commerce and Trade; Bill Shelton, Director of the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development; Alisa Bailey, CEO of the Virginia Tourism Corporation and Glenn Dubois, Chancellor of the Virginia Community College System, among others.<br /> <br />Heartwood will be the focal point and portal to all heritage tourism sites in the region, connecting visitors to the Artisan Trails of Southwest Virginia, The Crooked Road, Wilderness Road, outdoor recreation opportunities and other cultural and heritage attractions throughout Southwest Virginia. Through retail sales and demonstrations, Heartwood will be representative of crafts created by individuals as well as venues that include craft as an institutional program. Promotion of visitation to these sites and artisan studios will be a priority of the Gateway’s visitor services.<br /> <br />Designed by Spectrum Design of Roanoke, the LEED Certified building will feature artisan galleries, a superior food court with locally sourced foods and beverages, storyboards and maps of the region to highlight opportunities for exploring, exhibits of featured artisans and a place for music performances as a stop on The Crooked Road. The building will also house the offices of the 'Round the Mountain: Southwest Virginia Artisan’s Network and The Crooked Road: Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail staff.<br /> <br />The following organizations/entities are partners for Heartwood:<br />• The Heartwood Management Team<br />• Southwest Virginia Cultural Heritage Commission<br />• Virginia Tobacco Indemnification and Community Revitalization Commission<br />• Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development<br />• Virginia Tourism Corporation<br />• Virginia Highlands Community College<br />• Virginia Community College System<br />• Town of Abingdon<br />• Washington County<br />• PEOPLE Inc.<br />• 'Round the Mountain<br />• The Crooked Road<br />• Mount Rogers Planning District Commission<br />• Appalachian Regional Commission<br />• Tennessee Valley Authority<br />• Department of Housing and Urban Development<br />• Spectrum Design, Inc.<br />• 1717 Design<br />• Martin Brothers Contractors, Roanoke, VA<br />• Virginia Department of General Services<br /> <br />Located off of Interstate 81 in Abingdon Virginia, Heartwood will be located on eight acres next to the campus of Virginia Highlands Community College. Heartwood is projected to take 15 months to construct and may open in early 2011.<br /> <br />For more information about Heartwood, visit: www.heartwoodvirginia.org.Virginia Reviewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11477498015448917232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7178686026400250591.post-54236437368452628712009-08-05T12:56:00.000-07:002009-08-05T13:06:04.846-07:00Keeping Your Head Above Water - LGA Conference ThemeAugust 5, 2009<br /><br />Keeping Your Head Above Water - Local Government Attorneys of Virginia, Inc. Conference Theme<br /><br />From October 29-31 at the Cavalier Hotel & Beach Club Conference Center in Virginia Beach, the Local Government Attorneys of Virginia, Inc. will hold their fall meeting. Their tentative program thus far includes 9.5 CLE credit hours, including 2.0 Ethics credit hours. The address of the venue is the oceanfront at 42nd Street, VA Beach with phone numbers of (800) 446-8199, or (757)425-8555.<br /><br />Session topics include the ARRA (Stimulus Package Implementation), Noise Enforcement, Annual New Case Law Update, the New Liability for Utility Line Damage, and others.<br /><br />The deadline for registration for the Cavalier Hotel is Monday, September 28, and for the conference, Thursday, October 1. For registration information go to www.lgava.org or call Leisa Steele, LGA Conference & Member Services at (804) 371-0202, email Lrs5c@virginia.edu.Virginia Reviewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11477498015448917232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7178686026400250591.post-12685383804994549912009-08-05T11:14:00.000-07:002009-08-05T11:19:25.409-07:00Things Go Better With Coke in RoanokeContacts: Alison Patient, CCBCC, 704-905-6684<br />Jill Loope, RCEDA, 540-772-2124<br />Dave Perry, WVLT, 540-985-0000<br /><br />August 5, 2009<br />Coca-Cola Consolidated Announces Major Investment in Roanoke Valley; Partners with Western Virginia Land Trust<br /><br />Adds bottling line at downtown Roanoke manufacturing plant<br /><br />Opens new warehouse and logistics facility at Valley Gateway<br /><br />Total investment of more than $9 million; 10 jobs created<br /><br />Announces partnership with Western Virginia Land Trust<br /><br />Donates Toyota Prius hybrid vehicle to Land Trust<br /><br />Coca-Cola Bottling Co. Consolidated today announced the opening of its new warehouse and logistics center at a ribbon cutting ceremony at the Valley Gateway Industrial Park in Roanoke County. The expansion represents a major investment of more than $9 million in the Roanoke Valley.<br /><br />“We are excited to expand our operations in the Roanoke Valley,” said Bill Elmore, Coca-Cola Consolidated President and Chief Operating Officer. “This investment of more than $9 million includes a new bottling line at our downtown Roanoke manufacturing plant on Shenandoah Avenue and the opening of our new warehouse and logistics center at Valley Gateway.”<br />“The Roanoke Valley is a great place to do business and we are pleased to be a part of this vibrant community,” he added. In addition to expanding our facilities, we were also able to create ten new jobs for citizens in the Roanoke Valley.”<br /><br />"Coca-Cola is a well known brand name and we are thrilled to have them expand their operations in Roanoke County. Coca-Cola Consolidated's location in the Valley Gateway shell building is ideal for their business operations and will allow them to establish a stronger corporate presence in the Roanoke Valley. We are pleased to welcome such an outstanding company to Roanoke County," said Assistant Director of Economic Development Jill Loope.<br /><br />In addition, Coca-Cola Consolidated announced a partnership with the Western Virginia Land Trust to sponsor the Conservation Celebration in September, where the Land Trust will be honoring the conservation achievements of Virginia Governor Tim Kaine. The Western Virginia Land Trust promotes the conservation of western Virginia’s natural resources –farms, forests, waterways and rural landscapes. Since its founding in 1996, the Land Trust has helped to conserve more than 71,000 acres of land in the Commonwealth.<br /><br />Coca-Cola Consolidated is donating a Toyota Prius to the Land Trust to assist in its mission. Bill Elmore noted that “The Coca-Cola system has set a goal to return 100% of the water we use back to nature. We are pleased to be able to promote this goal by supporting the Land Trust in the creation and maintenance of healthy watersheds throughout western Virginia.”<br />“The Prius is a perfect fit with our mission of conserving our farms, forests, waterways and rural landscapes,” said Western Virginia Land Trust Executive Director Roger Holnback. “We’re proud to have Coca-Cola Consolidated on board as a lead sponsor, joining other regional businesses in honoring Gov. Kaine’s efforts to protect our rural lands and improve water quality across the Commonwealth.”<br /><br />Coca-Cola Bottling Co. Consolidated is the second largest Coca-Cola Bottler in the United States. The Company is a leader in the manufacturing, marketing and distribution of soft drinks. With Corporate offices in Charlotte, North Carolina, the Company does business in eleven states, primarily in the Southeast. Coca-Cola Bottling Co. Consolidated is listed on the NASDAQ national market system under the symbol COKE.Virginia Reviewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11477498015448917232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7178686026400250591.post-71377814162965699902009-08-05T06:54:00.000-07:002009-08-05T06:57:04.175-07:00Prince William County Lands New Industry Corporate HeadquartersAugust 5, 2009<br />PWC Contact: <br />Jason D. Grant, Communications Manager <br />(703) 792-5500<br /><br />Casework Genetics Locates Corporate Headquarters <br />and Forensics Laboratory in Prince William County<br /><br />Prince William County, Virginia…The Prince William Board of County Supervisors is pleased to announce that Casework Genetics will locate its new corporate headquarters and forensics laboratory in Prince William County, Virginia. Casework Genetics agreed to a seven year lease for 8,850 square feet of class A office space in The Engineering Groupe building, which is part of a premier mixed use development in Woodbridge, Virginia. Casework announced their intent to invest $1 million and create 25 jobs over the next three years with an average annual salary of approximately $89,000. <br /><br />“Casework Genetics’ decision to locate in Prince William County affirms our position as the leading business community for forensic science and life science companies,” said Corey A. Stewart, Chairman of the Prince William Board of County Supervisors. “We welcome them to Prince William County, and we look forward to their continued growth and success as members of our dynamic business community.”<br /><br />“With our focus on the research and application of DNA technology in forensic investigations, Prince William County provides a unique opportunity for us,” said Dr. Kevin McElfresh, President of Casework Genetics. “Prince William County has a growing forensics and criminal justice business cluster, which includes the FBI Northern Virginia Resident Agency, the FBI and DEA forensics units at Quantico Marine Corps Base, the Prince William County Police, and the Virginia Department of Forensics Northern Laboratory. Prince William County clearly understands the needs of high tech companies like Casework Genetics, and we are honored to be part of their life science and forensics business community.”<br /><br />Appian Realty Advisors, LLC worked closely with Casework Genetics to introduce and help secure the Prince William location. To further encourage Casework Genetics, Prince William County extended a $25,000 grant from the Prince William County Economic Development Opportunity Fund to be used for workforce services and development and/or capital equipment purchases. Casework Genetics agrees to occupy its new headquarters by December 31, 2009, and create 25 new permanent full time jobs in Prince William County. <br /><br />Casework Genetics is a biotechnology company applying state of the art human genome DNA technology to forensic science. Its focus is on taking the extreme limits of modern laboratory techniques and turning them into validated operational crimeVirginia Reviewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11477498015448917232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7178686026400250591.post-77840254816263991352009-08-05T06:46:00.001-07:002009-08-05T06:49:13.345-07:00Roanoke County Wins Statewide IT AwardAugust 5, 2009<br /><br />Roanoke County Public Information Office<br />5204 Bernard Drive, SW PO Box 29800<br />Roanoke, Virginia 24018-0798<br /><br /><br />For Immediate Release<br /><br />Contact: Teresa Hamilton Hall<br />Roanoke County Public Information Director<br />Office: 540-772-2010 <br /><br /><br />Roanoke County Receives Statewide Recognition<br />for Its Use of Web 2.0 Technologies<br />VACo Achievement Award Comes on Heels of Top Spot at National Level<br /><br />The Virginia Association of Counties (VACo) has recognized the county of Roanoke as a recipient of a 2009 Achievement Award in the Information Technology category for its submittal Innovation Without Funding. VACo – an organization that exists to support county officials and to effectively represent, promote, and protect the interests of counties to better serve the people of Virginia – received 72 entries from localities across the state. Roanoke County was one of 15 chosen to receive an award, which recognizes local government programs in awards criteria that include innovation, cooperation, and model practices.<br /><br />As standard practice and when possible, Roanoke County incorporates technology to increase efficiency and improve services and communications with its citizens. During difficult economic times, however, innovation typically suffers as funds are diverted to cover essential technology investments. In the fall of 2008 – when it was obvious that Roanoke County would also suffer a budget shortfall – County staff began exploring alternative technology methods that would allow citizen communication and collaboration to continue on a positive trajectory at little or no cost. <br /><br />After extensive research and guidance from other local governments around the country, the answer seemed to lie in Web 2.0. According to Wikipedia, “Web 2.0 is a term describing the use of [Internet] technology and Web design that aims to enhance creativity, information sharing, and, most notably, collaboration among users. These concepts have led to the development and evolution of Web based communities and hosted services, such as social-networking sites, wikis, blogs, and folksonomies.” In response, the county formed a Web 2.0 working group and several departments adopted and implemented a handful of Web 2.0 tools – most notably popular social media Facebook and Twitter.<br /><br />“The significance of using Facebook and Twitter in government cannot be understated. Both are free, so the only financial commitment is the small learning curve for the designated users,” says Elaine Carver, Roanoke County Chief Information Officer. “We have been able to reach out and engage citizens who don’t rely on traditional media outlets for information, broadening our audience and making us a more inclusive government.” Information Technology Director Bill Greeves adds, “We are delighted to engage and collaborate with our citizens using methods they are already familiar with. We have had to learn to integrate our messages, our tools, and our services into the media and forums that people are already accustomed to and use by choice.” Both added that the use of social media and other technologies is important to the long-term stability of county operations as baby boomers retire and millennials – the twenty-somethings who are entering the workforce who have already deeply integrated these technologies in to their lifestyles – move into the work force.<br /><br />Receiving the VACo award is an honor. “We had a record number of entries this year,” said VACo executive director, James Campbell. “This shows that many counties are adapting to the economic environment by developing innovating programs to affect positive change in their community. I am thoroughly impressed by all the quality work that can be replicated throughout the state and country.” More information about VACo and this award can be found at the Virginia Association of Counties.<br /><br />News of the award from VACo comes on the heels of the July 28 announcement that Roanoke County regained its top spot for a community its size in the annual Digital Counties Survey. <br />Competition within Digital Counties is based upon population categories derived from metropolitan statistical area (MSA) data and is based on a number of criteria. Roanoke County’s award is particularly significant because the locality competed against counties with populations between 150,000 and 249,000. The population of Roanoke County is roughly 90,000.<br /><br />The first-place winners in each of the four population categories are:<br /><br />° Oakland County, MI (500,000+ population)<br />° Loudoun County, VA (250,000-499,999 population)<br />° Roanoke County, VA (150,000-249,999 population)<br />° Charles County, MD (<150,000 population) <br /><br />In recent years, Roanoke County’s leadership in the use of information technology has been consistently recognized. In 2005 and 2006, Roanoke County placed first in the Digital Counties Survey. In 2007 and 2008, the county earned the second place. <br /><br />The Digital Counties Survey award supports the premise of the VACo award. Survey trends found that, amidst budgetary challenges, counties are embracing the new technologies, such as social media, to involve citizens; improving on-line services; and moving toward sustainable practices and more transparent government. According to NACo Executive Director Larry E. Naake, “Not only are county governments using technology to continue delivering services with fewer resources, they are using innovative technology to communicate more effectively with their citizens and businesses. The Digital Counties Survey illustrates the innovation and tenacity of counties across the country.” More information about the Digital Counties Survey can be found at the Center for Digital Government.<br /><br />CIO Elaine Carver concludes, “Our Web site will remain our core tool for citizen communications, but we’re excited about using the ‘push’ technologies of Twitter and Facebook to get relevant information into people’s hands – whether it’s news of an unexpected roadblock, an important vote by the Board of Supervisors, or a Parks and Rec-hosted event. These are exciting times.”Virginia Reviewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11477498015448917232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7178686026400250591.post-50806127990130183672009-08-05T06:39:00.000-07:002009-08-05T06:40:42.264-07:00Bill Pantele, Former Richmond City Councilman Appointed to ABC BoardOffice of the Governor<br /><br />Timothy M. Kaine FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE<br /> Governor August 4, 2009<br /><br />Contact: Lynda Tran<br />Phone: (804) 225-4806<br />Cell Phone: (804) 317-1505<br />Internet: www.governor.virginia.gov<br /><br />August 5, 2009<br /><br />GOVERNOR KAINE ANNOUNCES ABC COMMISSION APPOINTMENT<br />~ William J. Pantele named to state regulatory board ~<br /> <br />Governor Timothy M. Kaine today announced the appointment of William J. Pantele to the Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission, effective August 3, 2009. Pantele represented the Second District for three full terms on the Richmond City Council, including a term as president of the council from 2006-2008.<br /> <br /> “I have known Bill for many years and know that he will do outstanding work with the ABC Commission,” Governor Kaine said. “He has served the people of Richmond with distinction for many years and I know that he will serve the state well in his new role.”<br /> <br />Pantele has been an active member of the Richmond community for many years, with particular emphasis on the city’s economic development efforts. He has served as the president of Venture Richmond, a member of the Greater Richmond Partnership, the director of the Richmond Regional Planning District Commission, and a member of the Virginia Municipal League.<br /> <br />He was a partner in the law firm of Butler, Williams, Pantele and Skilling, P.C. from 1994 until 2003, when he opened his own firm focused on small business, corporate, and real estate law. Pantele has an undergraduate degree from Hampden-Sydney College and a law degree from the University of Virginia School of Law.Virginia Reviewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11477498015448917232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7178686026400250591.post-91934432075213710492009-08-03T13:26:00.001-07:002009-08-03T13:27:32.311-07:00Campus Safety Conference Called by Governor KaineAugust 3, 2009<br /><br />Contact: Lynda Tran <br />Phone: (804) 225-4806<br />Cell Phone: (804) 317-1505 <br />Internet: www.governor.virginia.gov<br /><br />GOVERNOR KAINE HOSTS THIRD ANNUAL CAMPUS PREPAREDNESS CONFERENCE<br />~ Higher education leaders meet on all hazard preparedness ~<br /> <br />Governor Timothy M. Kaine is today hosting the third annual Governor’s Campus Preparedness Conference at Virginia Commonwealth University’s Student Commons. Since 2007, the day long conference has brought together teams from Virginia’s two and four year degree granting public and private colleges and universities to focus on all hazard preparedness. Participants share information on campus security strategies, participate in panel discussions on preparedness issues, and examine the latest products and services to improve campus security from a wide variety of vendors.<br /> <br />“While we cannot anticipate every possible emergency, our colleges and universities can certainly prepare their students, faculties, and campuses to respond in effective ways,” Governor Kaine said. “I am happy to once again bring our higher education leaders together to learn, network, and provide vital information on this critical issue.”<br /> <br />Colleges and universities from across the Commonwealth annually send representatives—including top administrators, student and faculty leaders, campus security and emergency management officials, health, counseling, and information technology officials— to ensure that their campus is prepared to respond to any emergency or hazard.<br /> <br />Topics of discussion this year include preparations for the H1N1 flu virus, ways for universities to collaborate internally and externally to prepare for emergencies, and effective means to employ social networking and media to communicate in emergencies.<br /> <br />Along with Governor Kaine, attendees will hear from state and federal leaders including The Honorable Robert C. Scott, US Representative for Virginia’s 3rd District, Robert P. Crouch, Jr., Assistant to the Governor for Commonwealth Preparedness and Virginia Secretary of Education Thomas R. Morris.<br /> <br />For more information, visit the Virginia Higher Education Preparedness Consortium website at http://www.ocp.virginia.gov/vhepc/index.htm.Virginia Reviewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11477498015448917232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7178686026400250591.post-69923585700729531232009-08-03T12:27:00.000-07:002009-08-03T12:31:00.016-07:00Feeling Poe? Library of Virginia Great Events for August & SeptemberEvents at the Library of Virginia in August and September<br />All events are free and take place from noon until 1 pm in the conference rooms at the Library of Virginia unless otherwise noted. The Library is located at 800 East Broad Street and there is limited, free underground parking, which is accessible from either Eighth or Ninth streets. For more information, call 804-692-3592.<br /> <br />Docent-led Tour of Poe: Man, Myth, or Monster <br />Tuesday, August 4, 2009 <br />Time: 2:00–2:45 pm<br />RSVP by calling 804-692-3592. Join our library docents for a tour of the Library of Virginia’s exhibition focusing on Edgar Allan Poe, whose influence on writers and artists was profound. Learn just how well you know this master of macabre. Space is limited. Tours occur every Tuesday & Thursday, July 21–December 3 except Tuesday, September, 8, and Thursday, November 27.<br /> <br />Curator-led Tour of Poe: Man, Myth, or Monster<br />Thursday, August 6, 2009<br />Time: Noon–12:45 pm<br />RSVP to 804.692.3592. Space is limited.<br />Join exhibition curator Chris Semtner for an in-depth tour of the Library of Virginia’s exhibition focusing on Edgar Allan Poe, whose influence on writers and artists was profound. Learn just how well you know this Master of Macabre.<br /> <br />The Riesling Retribution: A Wine Country Mystery<br />Tuesday, August 11, 2009<br />Time: 6:00–8:00 pm<br />Place: Lecture Hall<br />Ellen Crosby will launch the fourth in her mystery series featuring wine and great descriptions of the Virginia wine country. Crosby is member of Mystery Writers of America and Sisters in Crime. The Riesling Retribution continues the saga of Lucie Montgomery, a wine and history aficionado, who owns and operates a vineyard, a winemaking operation, and a catering business on a historical site near the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia. A tornado not only destroys some of Montgomery's newest grapevines, but also unearths a grave in abandoned field on her property. Crosby weaves this plotline cleverly with tribulations of employee clashes, romantic feelings, ghost stories, and a family's checkered past to create a charming and fast-paced mystery. A reception follows the talk.<br /> <br />Question of Freedom: A Memoir of Learning, Survival and Coming of Age in Prison <br />Wednesday, August 12, 2009 <br />Time: 6:00–8:00 pm<br />Place: Conference Rooms <br />Dwayne Betts will speak about and sign A Question of Freedom: A Memoir of Learning, Survival and Coming of Age in Prison. Betts was a good student from a lower-middle class family when, at 16, he and a friend carjacked a man. He had never held a gun before, but within a matter of minutes he had committed six felonies. A bright young kid, weighing only 126 pounds, he served his eight-year sentence as part of the adult population in some of the worst prisons in Virginia. A Question of Freedom is a coming-of-age story, with the unique twist that it takes place in prison. Utterly alone—and with the growing realization that he really is not going home any time soon—Betts confronts profound questions about violence, freedom, crime, race, and the justice system. Above all, A Question of Freedom is about a quest for identity—one that guarantees Betts’s survival in a hostile environment and that incorporates an understanding of how his own past led to the moment of his crime.<br /> <br />FAMILY DAY AT THE LIBRARY OF VIRGINIA: I Know Poe<br />Saturday, August 15, 2009<br />Time: 10:00 am–2:00 pm<br />Experience Virginia’s rich past by exploring our collection of documents representing 400 years of the state’s history. The day will feature an array of free events, giveaways, and tours of the exhibition Poe: Man, Myth, or Monster. Parents and children can enjoy activities such as face painting, crafts, a scavenger hunt, and performances by the Haunts of Richmond, a haunted attraction that brings local ghost stories and legends to life.<br /> <br />Docent-led Tour of Poe: Man, Myth, or Monster <br />Tuesday, September 1, 2009 <br />Time: 2:00 PM–2:45 PM <br />Place: Exhibition Hall and Lobby<br />RSVP by calling 804-692-3592. Join our library docents for a tour of the Library of Virginia’s exhibition focusing on Edgar Allan Poe, whose influence on writers and artists was profound. Learn just how well you know this master of macabre. Space is limited. Space is limited. Tours occur every Tuesday & Thursday, July 21–December 3 except Tuesday, September, 8, and Thursday, November 27.<br /> <br />No Right to Remain Silent: The Tragedy at Virginia Tech <br />Tuesday, September 08, 2009 <br />Time: Noon–1:00 PM <br />Place: Conference Rooms <br />Lucinda Roy, an Alumni Distinguished Professor and former chair of the English Department at Virginia Tech, will discuss and sign No Right to Remain Silent: The Tragedy at Virginia Tech. Roy recounts the tragic events of April 2007 and the response to the massacre by Virginia Tech.<br /> <br />Poe Mania! Theatrical Performances by Haunts of Richmond <br />Thursday, September 10, 2009 <br />Time: 7:00 PM–8:00 PM <br />Place: Lecture Hall, Fee. Call 804-371-2126 for details. <br />Join us for a manically energetic, dramatic tribute to the Master of the Macabre, Edgar Allan Poe, in celebration of the bicentennial of his birth. Witness some of Poe's darkest and most riveting tales spun live, onstage in a rich tapestry of terror and suspense. We'll take you on a psychological thrill ride down Poe's unique "murderer's row" of anti-heroes in such classic tales as "The Cask of Amontillado," and "The Tell-Tale Heart." You'll cringe as hapless victims endure the trials and tribulations of ill fortune in stories such as "The Pit and the Pendulum," and "Berenice." You'll emerge from this exploration of Poe's dark world with a renewed appreciation for the artistry and genius of one of America's most influential literary craftsmen.<br /> <br />Poe Mania! Theatrical Performances by Haunts of Richmond <br />Friday, September 11, 2009 <br />Time: 11:00 AM–12:30 PM <br />Place: Lecture Hall, Fee. Call 804-371-2126 for details. <br />Join us for a manically energetic, dramatic tribute to the Master of the Macabre, Edgar Allan Poe, in celebration of the bicentennial of his birth. Witness some of Poe's darkest and most riveting tales spun live, onstage in a rich tapestry of terror and suspense. We'll take you on a psychological thrill ride down Poe's unique "murderer's row" of anti-heroes in such classic tales as "The Cask of Amontillado," and "The Tell-Tale Heart." You'll cringe as hapless victims endure the trials and tribulations of ill fortune in stories such as "The Pit and the Pendulum," and "Berenice." You'll emerge from this exploration of Poe's dark world with a renewed appreciation for the artistry and genius of one of America's most influential literary craftsmen.<br />Virginia Made: Researching the Southern Decorative Arts through County and State Records <br />Tuesday, September 15, 2009 <br />Time: Noon–1:00 PM <br />Place: Conference Rooms <br />Chris Kolbe, archives research services coordinator at the Library of Virginia, will discuss the value of using original Virginia county, city, and state government records to locate information about Virginia furniture makers and decorative arts craftspeople.<br />Curator-led Tour of Poe: Man, Myth, or Monster <br />Wednesday, September 23, 2009 <br />Time: Noon–12:45 PM <br />Place: Exhibition Hall and Lobby<br />RSVP by calling 804-692-3592 by Monday, September 21, 2009. Join exhibition curator Chris Semtner for an in-depth tour of the Library of Virginia’s exhibition focusing on Edgar Allan Poe, whose influence on writers and artists was profound. Learn just how well you know this master of macabre. Space is limited.<br />Virginia in Verse: The Poetry of Michelle Boisseau and John Casteen. <br />Tuesday, September 29, 2009 <br />Time: 6:00 PM–7:00 PM <br />Place: Conference Rooms<br />Michelle Boisseau, author of A Sunday in God-Years, and John Casteen, author of Free Union: Poems, will discuss and sign their books of poetry. A Sunday in God-Years is centered on the long poem "A Reckoning," made up of 15 shorter poems/sections (some sections are documents like wills and runaway slave notices). The poems in Free Union revolve around physical work, the Appalachian landscape, and family relationships. Casteen, for ten years a designer and builder of custom furniture, covers subjects ranging from the farm to the shop floor, from the rivers of the Piedmont to the wooded shoulders of the Blue Ridge, and from the hyper-attentiveness of childhood through the anxieties and joys of fatherhood.<br />All events are free and take place from noon until 1 pm in the conference rooms at the Library of Virginia unless otherwise noted. The Library is located at 800 East Broad Street and there is limited, free underground parking, which is accessible from either Eighth or Ninth streets. For more information, call 804-692-3592.<br /> <br /> <br />Jan Hathcock<br />Public Information & Policy Coordinator<br />Library of Virginia<br />800 E. Broad St.<br />Richmond, VA 23219-8000<br />804-692-3592Virginia Reviewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11477498015448917232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7178686026400250591.post-42844350045722678582009-08-03T08:15:00.000-07:002009-08-03T08:18:48.266-07:00National Budget Officers Association Meeting in Virginia BeachAugust 3, 2009<br /><br />Contact: Lynda Tran <br /> (804) 225-4801<br /><br /> www.governor.virginia.gov<br /><br />GOVERNOR KAINE WELCOMES NATIONAL MEETING OF BUDGET OFFICERS TO VIRGINIA<br />~ National Association of State Budget Officers holds 65th annual meeting in Norfolk ~<br /> <br />Governor Timothy M. Kaine today welcomed the National Association of State Budget Officers (NASBO) annual meeting to Norfolk, Virginia. The professional organization is comprised of the heads of state budget offices, state finance departments and staffs for all fifty states and the US territories. The independent association is currently chaired by Governor Kaine’s Secretary of Finance Ric Brown and its executive director, Scott Pattison, is a former director of the Virginia Department of Planning and Budget.<br /> <br />“The work performed by NASBO and its members is always difficult, but it has been particularly tough during the past few years,” Governor Kaine said. “As governments across the country deal with the worst national economy since the Great Depression, we will continue to rely on our budget and finance officers to help us make the critical decisions that meet our present needs while preparing us for future growth and success.”<br /> <br />Founded in 1945, NASBO’s mission is to:<br /><br />· Improve the quality and availability of information to state budget offices;<br />· Provide opportunities to share practices across states;<br />· Provide training and research information through publications and seminars; and<br />· Assist the National Governors Association in the development and implementation of its policy positions on fiscal issues.<br /> <br />NASBO’s 65th annual meeting is being held at the Norfolk Sheraton Waterside from August 2-5, and is officially hosted by the Virginia Department of Planning and Budget. This year’s theme is “Celebrate History, Make History” and will include sessions on managing the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, health care, government transparency, transportation funding, and long term budget stability.Virginia Reviewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11477498015448917232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7178686026400250591.post-23416853461038762612009-08-01T10:43:00.000-07:002009-08-01T10:45:44.030-07:00Virginia's US Senators Secure $2.9 Million for Richmond Water ProjectsFor Immediate Release Contact: Kimberly Hunter (Webb) – 202-228-5258<br />Friday, July 31, 2009 Kevin Hall (Warner) 202-224-2425<br /> <br />WEBB AND WARNER SECURE $2.9 MILLION FOR WATER PROJECTS IN RICHMOND<br /><br />Projects Improve Clean Water, Traffic Congestion<br /> <br />Senators Jim Webb and Mark R. Warner today announced that $2.9 million in funding was secured for three water and energy projects in the Richmond area. The funds were included in the FY2010 Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act, passed in the Senate on Wednesday night, which provides funding for the Department of Energy, Army Corps of Engineers, Department of the Interior, and economic development projects.<br /> <br />The projects will encourage economic development, improve intercoastal transportation, and increase access to clean water in Richmond. Projects include construction of a deepwater turning basin in the James River, initial steps toward dredging portions of the Appomattox River, and completion of an engineering design for upgrades to the Richmond Wastewater Treatment Facility.<br /> <br />“I’m pleased that Congress has recognized the importance of funding these vital water projects to improve the quality of life of Richmond residents and spur economic development in the area,” said Senator Webb. “The FY2010 Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act will allocate more than $32 million to Virginia to make waterways more efficient, implement restoration and conservation measures, and increase economic growth throughout the Commonwealth.”<br /> <br />“These investments are significant steps toward improving and enhancing the Richmond area’s waterways, expanding the capabilities of our ports and upgrading Richmond’s wastewater treatment capacity,” said Senator Warner. “Overall, the investments in this bill will help fund several key projects across Virginia designed to improve infrastructure and protect the environment.”<br /> <br />Below is the list of projects secured in the Richmond area:<br /> <br />James River Deepwater Turning Basin; Richmond, VA; $2,234,000<br />Funds will go toward construction of the James River Deepwater Terminal Turning Basin, to provide a safe turning radius in the James River and an alternate port supporting the Port of Hampton Roads for national defense.<br /> <br />Appomattox River; Appomattox River (Petersburg & Hopewell), VA; $500,000<br />Funds will be used to finalize the supplemental environmental assessment, finalize engineering, obtain environmental permits, and coordinate with the stakeholders and interested parties to ensure readiness of the project when dredging funds are appropriated.<br /><br />Richmond Wastewater Treatment Facility Disinfection Project; Richmond, VA; $150,000<br />Funds will be used to complete a preliminary engineering report and 100% design for a construction project that upgrades primary treatment facilities to provide reliable treatment up to 140 million gallons per day of wet weather flow. The Funds will be used to upgrade solids handling facilities to handle increased solids loading associated with the increased combined sewer wet weather flow treatment.Virginia Reviewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11477498015448917232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7178686026400250591.post-67489880081596072942009-08-01T10:40:00.000-07:002009-08-01T10:43:18.715-07:00Senator Jim Webb on GI BillAugust 1, 2009<br /><br /><br />Starting August 1, 2009, veterans and service members who have served honorably since September 11, 2001 will be eligible for comprehensive educational benefits under the new Post-9/11 GI Bill. Introduced by Senator Jim Webb on his first day in office and enacted into law last July, the Post-9/11 GI Bill is the largest expansion of veterans’ benefits since World War II.<br /> <br />The Bill offers today’s service members the same opportunity for a first class educational future as those who served during the World War II era.<br /> <br />In Virginia, the new benefits offered to eligible students include:<br /> <br />Full tuition at any public school in the Commonwealth.<br />This equates to as much as $313 per credit hour at any Virginia public or private institution;<br />Full payment of fees at any public school in the Commonwealth.<br />This equates to as much as $3,660 in fees per term at any Virginia public or private institution;<br />A monthly housing allowance based on the military’s basic housing allowance (BHA) for an E-5 service member with dependents, accounting for local cost of living. This equates to approximately $11,000 a year in Central Virginia; and <br />An annual books & supplies stipend of $1,000. <br /> <br />Note: Tuition, fees, and housing allowance estimates are based on 100% benefit levels. To calculate estimates for different benefit levels, please go to: http://www.gibill2008.org/calculator.html.<br /> <br />Public Schools in Richmond & Central Virginia<br /> <br />Students attending area public schools and community colleges can apply all of the benefits above to the following institutions: <br /> <br /> College of William and Mary, Williamsburg<br /> Longwood University, Farmville<br /> Old Dominion University, Richmond<br /> Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond<br /> Virginia State University, Petersburg<br /> Richard Bland College, Petersburg<br /> J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College, Richmond<br /> John Tyler Community College, Midlothian<br /> <br />Private Schools in Richmond & Central Virginia<br /> <br />The Yellow Ribbon program was established under the Post-9/11 GI Bill to extend extra benefits to service members who want to attend a private institution. Private schools in Virginia can opt into the program and contribute up to 50% of expenses above the highest public school tuition rate; and the federal government will match that amount.<br /> <br />Over 700 private institutions across the country have signed up to participate in the Yellow Ribbon program, including 54 schools in Virginia. <br /> <br />Participating “Yellow Ribbon” private schools in Central Virginia include: <br /> <br />Name of College <br />Location<br />Division<br />Number of Students<br />School Contribution*<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br />Bryant & Stratton College<br />Richmond<br />All<br />Unlimited<br />$4,000<br />ECPI College of Technology<br />Richmond<br />All<br />Unlimited<br />$5,000<br />ITT Technical Institute<br />Richmond<br />All<br />Unlimited<br />$99,999<br />Medical Careers Institute<br />Richmond<br />All<br />Unlimited<br />$5,000<br />Medical Careers Institute<br />Richmond<br />All<br />Unlimited<br />$5,000<br />University of Phoenix - Richmond<br />Richmond<br />Undergraduate<br />Unlimited<br />$2,250<br />University of Phoenix - Richmond<br />Richmond<br />Graduate<br />Unlimited<br />$5,250<br />University of Phoenix - Richmond<br />Richmond<br />All<br />25<br />$5,000<br />Virginia Commonwealth University<br />Richmond<br />Undergraduate<br />5<br />$6,000<br />Virginia Commonwealth University<br />Richmond<br />Graduate<br />5<br />$6,000<br />Virginia Union University<br />Richmond<br />Undergraduate<br />20<br />$3,000<br /><br />South University - Richmond<br />Glen Allen<br />All<br />Unlimited<br />$1,954.00 Undergraduate, $1,648.00 Graduate<br />Strayer University<br />Glen Allen<br />All<br />Unlimited<br />$5,000<br /> <br />ECPI College of Technology<br />Innsbrook<br />All<br />Unlimited<br />$5,000<br /> <br />Strayer University<br />Midlothian<br />All<br />Unlimited<br />$5,000<br /> <br />College of William and Mary<br />Williamsburg<br />All<br />5<br />$2,000<br /> <br />Florida Institute of Technology - Fort Lee Site<br />Fort Lee<br />Graduate<br />10<br />$1,800<br /> <br />Hampden-Sydney College<br />Hampden-Sydney<br />Undergraduate<br />120<br />$10,500<br />* Per Student/ Per Year<br /> <br />For more about the Post-9/11 GI Bill, please visit the GI Bill website of the Department of Veterans Affairs at: http://www.gibill.va.gov/ <br /> <br />To learn more about Senator Webb’s effort to pass the GI Bill through Congress, please visit: http://webb.senate.gov/email/gibilllaw.html<br /> <br />For other questions and background information, don’t hesitate to call: Jessica (202-228-5185) or Kimberly (202-228-5158).Virginia Reviewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11477498015448917232noreply@blogger.com0