News

Fredericksburg Names Cameron Manager

2009-08-12T07:50:00.000-07:00

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

2009-08-10T11:23:00.000-07:00

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

GOGREEN Garden Festival September 12

2009-08-10T10:57:00.000-07:00

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

Orange Hires Town Manager

2009-08-10T10:49:00.000-07:00

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

Arlington County Executive Takes ICMA Post

2009-08-10T10:44:00.000-07:00

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

Community Conference in Chesterfield

2009-08-10T06:40:00.000-07:00

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.

Walkerton Farmers' Market Open

2009-08-08T09:12:00.000-07:00

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.

Suzy Szasz Palmer Named New Deputy Librarian of Virginia

2009-08-08T07:48:00.000-07:00

August 8, 2009

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.

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.

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.

She earned her undergraduate degree, summa cum laude, in political philosophy and her master's in library science from Syracuse University.

For more information go to the Library of Virginia website at www.lva.virginia.gov

Virginia Forum Call for Papers

2009-08-08T07:32:00.000-07:00

August 8, 2009

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.

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.

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.

New Online Resources for Virginia Teachers

2009-08-08T07:15:00.000-07:00

August 8, 2009

Contact: Lynda Tran
Phone: (804) 225-4806
Cell Phone: (804) 317-1505
Internet: www.governor.virginia.gov

GOVERNOR KAINE ANNOUNCES NEW ONLINE RESOURCES FOR VIRGINIA TEACHERS
~ Partnership with SAS provides award-winning content at no charge ~

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.

“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.”

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).

“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.”

“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.
SAS is a leader in business analytics software and services, and the large

VDACS Announces Harvest of Small Grains Is Complete

2009-08-08T07:12:00.000-07:00

August 8, 2009

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
Agriculture (USDA) will now measure US farmers’ final production of those grains. Production figures will include wheat, oats, barley and rye.

During the first two weeks of September, the Virginia Field Office of USDA’s National
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.

“This is one of the most important surveys NASS conducts each year,” explained
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
success of the growing season,” added Ellison.

NASS will contact selected Virginia producers by mail or telephone and ask them to
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.

“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 .

For more information on NASS surveys and reports, call the NASS Virginia Field Office at 1-800-772-0670.

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

Hanover Updates Economic Development Website

2009-08-07T06:37:00.001-07:00

August 7, 2009

Hanover County Partners with Consultant for Update to Economic Development Website

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.

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.

“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.”

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.

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.

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.

Tim Asimos, Marketing Manager
Timmons Group
(804) 200.6375
tim.asimos@timmons.com

You Can Help Select UVa's New President

2009-08-07T06:21:00.000-07:00

August 7, 2009

Dear University alumni, parents, and friends:

As you know, President Casteen announced in June that he would retire next summer at the conclusion of his 20th year.

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.

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.

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.

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.

We are posing the same three questions in all forums to all those interested in offering input. They are:

What opportunities and challenges do you see facing the University of Virginia in the next ten years?
What qualifications/personal leadership characteristics should the next president possess to take advantage of the opportunities and address the challenges?
What other considerations should the committee bear in mind as we initiate this search process?
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:

Forum primarily for students: Aug. 25, 10 a.m.-noon, Newcomb Hall ballroom.
Forum primarily for staff: Aug. 25, 3:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m., Zehmer Hall auditorium.
Forum primarily for Health System personnel: Sept. 1, 7:30 a.m.-9:30 a.m., McLeod Hall auditorium.
Forum primarily for faculty: Sept. 1, 4 p.m.-6 p.m., Newcomb Hall ballroom.
Forum primarily for alumni: Sept. 12, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Alumni Hall ballroom. (Co-hosted with Alumni Association.)
Forum primarily for the College at Wise: Sept. 29. (Time and location to be announced.)
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.

Email: presidentsearch@virginia.edu
Mail: Board of Visitors Office, c/o Presidential Search, NW Wing, The Rotunda, P.O. Box 400222, Charlottesville, VA 22904-4222
Online: Presidential Search Website at www.virginia.edu/presidentsearch.
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.

With kind regards,

John O. Wynne
University Rector
Chairman, Special Committee on the Nomination of a President

Senator Webb Planning Five Nation Asian Trip - First US Member of Congress to Visit Burma in More Than Ten Years

2009-08-06T11:19:00.001-07:00

Contact: Jessica Smith – 202-228-5185
Thursday, August 6, 2009 Kimberly Hunter – 202-228-5258

Webb to Visit Five Asian Nations, Including Burma, as Chairman of
Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on East Asia & Pacific Affairs

Trip to Focus on Opportunities to Advance U.S. Interests in the Region

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.

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.

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.

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).

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.

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.

Tourism Destination in Southwest Virginia Groundbreaking

2009-08-06T07:46:00.000-07:00

August 6, 2009

Contact: Lauren Cunningham Hollie S. Cammarasana/DHCD
Phone: (804) 225-4262 (804) 371-7006
Cell Phone: (804) 393-9406 (804) 382-2075
Internet: www.governor.virginia.gov www.dhcd.virginia.gov

GOVERNOR KAINE HIGHLIGHTS HEARTWOOD GROUNDBREAKING
~ $16 million facility will serve as the artisan gateway to Southwest Virginia’s cultural heritage ~

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.

“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.”

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.

“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.”

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.

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.

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.

The following organizations/entities are partners for Heartwood:
• The Heartwood Management Team
• Southwest Virginia Cultural Heritage Commission
• Virginia Tobacco Indemnification and Community Revitalization Commission
• Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development
• Virginia Tourism Corporation
• Virginia Highlands Community College
• Virginia Community College System
• Town of Abingdon
• Washington County
• PEOPLE Inc.
• 'Round the Mountain
• The Crooked Road
• Mount Rogers Planning District Commission
• Appalachian Regional Commission
• Tennessee Valley Authority
• Department of Housing and Urban Development
• Spectrum Design, Inc.
• 1717 Design
• Martin Brothers Contractors, Roanoke, VA
• Virginia Department of General Services

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.

For more information about Heartwood, visit: www.heartwoodvirginia.org.

Keeping Your Head Above Water - LGA Conference Theme

2009-08-05T12:56:00.000-07:00

August 5, 2009

Keeping Your Head Above Water - Local Government Attorneys of Virginia, Inc. Conference Theme

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.

Session topics include the ARRA (Stimulus Package Implementation), Noise Enforcement, Annual New Case Law Update, the New Liability for Utility Line Damage, and others.

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.

Things Go Better With Coke in Roanoke

2009-08-05T11:14:00.000-07:00

Contacts: Alison Patient, CCBCC, 704-905-6684
Jill Loope, RCEDA, 540-772-2124
Dave Perry, WVLT, 540-985-0000

August 5, 2009
Coca-Cola Consolidated Announces Major Investment in Roanoke Valley; Partners with Western Virginia Land Trust

Adds bottling line at downtown Roanoke manufacturing plant

Opens new warehouse and logistics facility at Valley Gateway

Total investment of more than $9 million; 10 jobs created

Announces partnership with Western Virginia Land Trust

Donates Toyota Prius hybrid vehicle to Land Trust

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.

“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.”
“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.”

"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.

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.

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.”
“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.”

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.

Prince William County Lands New Industry Corporate Headquarters

2009-08-05T06:54:00.000-07:00

August 5, 2009
PWC Contact:
Jason D. Grant, Communications Manager
(703) 792-5500

Casework Genetics Locates Corporate Headquarters
and Forensics Laboratory in Prince William County

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.

“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.”

“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.”

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.

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 crime

Roanoke County Wins Statewide IT Award

2009-08-05T06:46:00.001-07:00

August 5, 2009

Roanoke County Public Information Office
5204 Bernard Drive, SW  PO Box 29800
Roanoke, Virginia 24018-0798

For Immediate Release

Contact: Teresa Hamilton Hall
Roanoke County Public Information Director
Office: 540-772-2010

Roanoke County Receives Statewide Recognition
for Its Use of Web 2.0 Technologies
VACo Achievement Award Comes on Heels of Top Spot at National Level

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.

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.

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.

“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.

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.

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.
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.

The first-place winners in each of the four population categories are:

° Oakland County, MI (500,000+ population)
° Loudoun County, VA (250,000-499,999 population)
° Roanoke County, VA (150,000-249,999 population)
° Charles County, MD (<150,000 population)

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.

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.

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.”

Bill Pantele, Former Richmond City Councilman Appointed to ABC Board

2009-08-05T06:39:00.000-07:00

Office of the Governor

Timothy M. Kaine FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Governor August 4, 2009

Contact: Lynda Tran
Phone: (804) 225-4806
Cell Phone: (804) 317-1505
Internet: www.governor.virginia.gov

August 5, 2009

GOVERNOR KAINE ANNOUNCES ABC COMMISSION APPOINTMENT
~ William J. Pantele named to state regulatory board ~

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.

“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.”

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.

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.

Campus Safety Conference Called by Governor Kaine

2009-08-03T13:26:00.001-07:00

August 3, 2009

Contact: Lynda Tran
Phone: (804) 225-4806
Cell Phone: (804) 317-1505
Internet: www.governor.virginia.gov

GOVERNOR KAINE HOSTS THIRD ANNUAL CAMPUS PREPAREDNESS CONFERENCE
~ Higher education leaders meet on all hazard preparedness ~

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.

“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.”

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.

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.

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.

For more information, visit the Virginia Higher Education Preparedness Consortium website at http://www.ocp.virginia.gov/vhepc/index.htm.

Feeling Poe? Library of Virginia Great Events for August & September

2009-08-03T12:27:00.000-07:00

Events at the Library of Virginia in August and September
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.

Docent-led Tour of Poe: Man, Myth, or Monster
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Time: 2:00–2:45 pm
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.

Curator-led Tour of Poe: Man, Myth, or Monster
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Time: Noon–12:45 pm
RSVP to 804.692.3592. Space is limited.
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.

The Riesling Retribution: A Wine Country Mystery
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Time: 6:00–8:00 pm
Place: Lecture Hall
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.

Question of Freedom: A Memoir of Learning, Survival and Coming of Age in Prison
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Time: 6:00–8:00 pm
Place: Conference Rooms
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.

FAMILY DAY AT THE LIBRARY OF VIRGINIA: I Know Poe
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Time: 10:00 am–2:00 pm
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.

Docent-led Tour of Poe: Man, Myth, or Monster
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Time: 2:00 PM–2:45 PM
Place: Exhibition Hall and Lobby
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.

No Right to Remain Silent: The Tragedy at Virginia Tech
Tuesday, September 08, 2009
Time: Noon–1:00 PM
Place: Conference Rooms
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.

Poe Mania! Theatrical Performances by Haunts of Richmond
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Time: 7:00 PM–8:00 PM
Place: Lecture Hall, Fee. Call 804-371-2126 for details.
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.

Poe Mania! Theatrical Performances by Haunts of Richmond
Friday, September 11, 2009
Time: 11:00 AM–12:30 PM
Place: Lecture Hall, Fee. Call 804-371-2126 for details.
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.
Virginia Made: Researching the Southern Decorative Arts through County and State Records
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Time: Noon–1:00 PM
Place: Conference Rooms
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.
Curator-led Tour of Poe: Man, Myth, or Monster
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Time: Noon–12:45 PM
Place: Exhibition Hall and Lobby
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.
Virginia in Verse: The Poetry of Michelle Boisseau and John Casteen.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Time: 6:00 PM–7:00 PM
Place: Conference Rooms
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.
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.

Jan Hathcock
Public Information & Policy Coordinator
Library of Virginia
800 E. Broad St.
Richmond, VA 23219-8000
804-692-3592

National Budget Officers Association Meeting in Virginia Beach

2009-08-03T08:15:00.000-07:00

August 3, 2009

Contact: Lynda Tran
(804) 225-4801

www.governor.virginia.gov

GOVERNOR KAINE WELCOMES NATIONAL MEETING OF BUDGET OFFICERS TO VIRGINIA
~ National Association of State Budget Officers holds 65th annual meeting in Norfolk ~

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.

“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.”

Founded in 1945, NASBO’s mission is to:

· Improve the quality and availability of information to state budget offices;
· Provide opportunities to share practices across states;
· Provide training and research information through publications and seminars; and
· Assist the National Governors Association in the development and implementation of its policy positions on fiscal issues.

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's US Senators Secure $2.9 Million for Richmond Water Projects

2009-08-01T10:43:00.000-07:00

For Immediate Release Contact: Kimberly Hunter (Webb) – 202-228-5258
Friday, July 31, 2009 Kevin Hall (Warner) 202-224-2425

WEBB AND WARNER SECURE $2.9 MILLION FOR WATER PROJECTS IN RICHMOND

Projects Improve Clean Water, Traffic Congestion

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.

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.

“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.”

“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.”

Below is the list of projects secured in the Richmond area:

James River Deepwater Turning Basin; Richmond, VA; $2,234,000
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.

Appomattox River; Appomattox River (Petersburg & Hopewell), VA; $500,000
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.

Richmond Wastewater Treatment Facility Disinfection Project; Richmond, VA; $150,000
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.

Senator Jim Webb on GI Bill

2009-08-01T10:40:00.000-07:00

August 1, 2009

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.

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.

In Virginia, the new benefits offered to eligible students include:

Full tuition at any public school in the Commonwealth.
This equates to as much as $313 per credit hour at any Virginia public or private institution;
Full payment of fees at any public school in the Commonwealth.
This equates to as much as $3,660 in fees per term at any Virginia public or private institution;
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
An annual books & supplies stipend of $1,000.

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.

Public Schools in Richmond & Central Virginia

Students attending area public schools and community colleges can apply all of the benefits above to the following institutions:

College of William and Mary, Williamsburg
Longwood University, Farmville
Old Dominion University, Richmond
Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond
Virginia State University, Petersburg
Richard Bland College, Petersburg
J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College, Richmond
John Tyler Community College, Midlothian

Private Schools in Richmond & Central Virginia

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.

Over 700 private institutions across the country have signed up to participate in the Yellow Ribbon program, including 54 schools in Virginia.

Participating “Yellow Ribbon” private schools in Central Virginia include:

Name of College
Location
Division
Number of Students
School Contribution*

Bryant & Stratton College
Richmond
All
Unlimited
$4,000
ECPI College of Technology
Richmond
All
Unlimited
$5,000
ITT Technical Institute
Richmond
All
Unlimited
$99,999
Medical Careers Institute
Richmond
All
Unlimited
$5,000
Medical Careers Institute
Richmond
All
Unlimited
$5,000
University of Phoenix - Richmond
Richmond
Undergraduate
Unlimited
$2,250
University of Phoenix - Richmond
Richmond
Graduate
Unlimited
$5,250
University of Phoenix - Richmond
Richmond
All
25
$5,000
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond
Undergraduate
5
$6,000
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond
Graduate
5
$6,000
Virginia Union University
Richmond
Undergraduate
20
$3,000

South University - Richmond
Glen Allen
All
Unlimited
$1,954.00 Undergraduate, $1,648.00 Graduate
Strayer University
Glen Allen
All
Unlimited
$5,000

ECPI College of Technology
Innsbrook
All
Unlimited
$5,000

Strayer University
Midlothian
All
Unlimited
$5,000

College of William and Mary
Williamsburg
All
5
$2,000

Florida Institute of Technology - Fort Lee Site
Fort Lee
Graduate
10
$1,800

Hampden-Sydney College
Hampden-Sydney
Undergraduate
120
$10,500
* Per Student/ Per Year

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/

To learn more about Senator Webb’s effort to pass the GI Bill through Congress, please visit: http://webb.senate.gov/email/gibilllaw.html

For other questions and background information, don’t hesitate to call: Jessica (202-228-5185) or Kimberly (202-228-5158).

Louisa is Really Hot - in Fire Training

2009-08-01T08:15:00.000-07:00

August 1, 2009

For more information:
areidelbach@louisa.org

Louisa County Moves Forward With “Burn Building”

“The Louisa County Board of Supervisors is committed to providing and supporting core public safety services for the citizens of Louisa County. In March, the board approved construction of the much anticipated fire training center located just outside the town of Mineral,” said County Administrator Dale Mullen.

To meet the ever increasing need for training opportunities for volunteer and career firefighters, Louisa County Emergency Services Department and the Volunteer Firefighters Association joined together to build a 3,500 square foot, multistory building using high end technology for burning structure simulations.

“The state of the art facility will provide Louisa County with a multiuse facility that will be utilized for conducting critically needed initial training and continuing education sessions for all facets of emergency incident preparedness and response,” said Fire Chief Robert Dubé.

Over the course of the past ten years, in partnership with the Louisa County Volunteer Fire Association, Louisa County has been developing a training facility for use by the seven volunteer fire departments along with the county’s department of emergency services. Developed on approximately 18 acres, the site currently has a classroom, garage and facilities being used by volunteers and full time staff. This site is also the new remote assembly site and staging area for off-site security operations for North Anna Power Station.

The new building will provide opportunities for live fire training, search and rescue, ventilation, rope operations, ladders and many other training opportunities that are not currently available. Additionally, the facility will be used to host state and national level training courses.

“Live fire training is essential to becoming a firefighter,” said Ricky Bywaters, President of the Louisa County Volunteer Firefighters Association. “Having a local training facility decreases the costs for training, as well as offers the ability to conduct additional training because of the site’s convenient location. Our firefighters will now have the opportunity to prepare as much as other jurisdictions that have their own facilities.”

Chairman Willie L. Harper (Mineral) said “The board of supervisors places high value on the commitment and dedication of the Volunteer Fire and Emergency Medical Service Providers. This facility is an important step forward in ensuring the highest level of professionalism in the full time and volunteer ranks. Our community should expect nothing less than the highest standards of commitment and professionalism from all emergency services personnel.”

Construction of the facility should be completed in November/December 2009.

Williamsburg Names New Parks Director

2009-08-01T08:01:00.000-07:00

August 1, 2009

Lori Rierson Appointed Director of Parks & Recreation

The city of Williamsburg has announced that Lori
Rierson will be the director of parks & recreation for the city
effective August 1, 2009. Rierson, the deputy director of the
department since 2002, succeeds Paul Hudson, who retired this month.

“I am really excited about this opportunity to continue the tradition
of excellence, personalized attention, and quality programming that the
city’s parks and recreation department is known for,” said Rierson.
“Paul Hudson has left in place a terrific team and state of the art
facilities. I’m looking forward to the challenge of finding new ways
to empower the staff to provide the highest quality service and expand
outreach to our community.”

Rierson is a graduate of Radford University with a B.S. in recreation
administration, and joined the department right after graduation in
1981. She began as a program director and was promoted to deputy
director in 2002. She has overseen the introduction and expansion of
the use of technology in addition to developing programming for all
ages.

“Lori Rierson has been a leader in parks & recreation programming for
many years,” said Jack Tuttle, Williamsburg City Manager. “Her
strong managerial skills and her commitment to the community make her
the right person to maintain the high standards we have now and
challenge us to be even better in the future.”

Rierson received the city’s leadership award in 2005 and the
excellence in service award in 2006. She played an active role in the
development of the Waller Mill Dog Park and the Great City Walks walking
brochure.

Rierson has one daughter, Amber, who lives in Northern Virginia and is
pursuing a graduate degree at George Mason University.

Contact:
Kate Hoving
(757) 220.6197
khoving@williamsburgva.gov

The city of Williamsburg, Virginia (www.williamsburgva.gov),
established in 1699, is home to two internationally renowned
institutions, the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation (www.cwf.org), who
operates the world’s largest outdoor living museum; and the College of
William and Mary (www.wm.edu), the second oldest college in the United
States.

Williamsburg, governed by an elected city council and administered by a
city manager, functions under its vision to “…become an evermore safe,
beautiful, livable city of historic and academic renown, served by a
city government-cohesively led, financially strong, always improving-in
full partnership with the people who live, work and visit here.”

From Senator Mark Warner on Health Care Reform

2009-07-30T07:52:00.000-07:00

July 30, 2009

As our health care debate continues, I'm reminded that Virginians hired me last fall to help change the way things are done in Washington and to make sure the federal government is more responsible with taxpayer dollars, even in times of crisis.

Reforming our health care system is essential to ensuring a prosperous future and it cannot wait. But I am concerned that far too little attention is being paid to containing the cost of any potential reform plan.

The status quo is not sustainable. But we cannot spend away our future to achieve the health reform we need.

That's why I joined eight fellow freshman Senators last week in a letter to Senator Max Baucus, chairman of the Finance Committee. In our letter, we commend the chairman's efforts to achieve bipartisan support for health care reform legislation.

But we also make a critical request: We must renew our focus on containing costs - before it's too late.

As recently-elected members of the Senate, we all know first-hand that Americans desire health care reform.

We also know that the United States can't afford the consequences of inaction. We're already spending 17 percent of our GDP on health care - more than any other industrialized country - and that number will only go up if Congress does not act.

Our business community can't afford the status quo, either. They are already at a serious disadvantage as they compete with firms around the globe because our businesses spend so much more than foreign competitors on skyrocketing health care costs.

And our government cannot afford to miss this window of opportunity because growth in healthcare costs threatens to bankrupt the government. We absolutely must get a handle on this challenge.

I'm working with my colleagues to make sure this discussion remains focused on cost reduction as well as expanded coverage. Our letter is just a small part of our continuing effort to bring a sustainable, sensible approach to health reform.

Sincerely,
Mark Warner

Stafford's Crow's Nest Preserve Gets 1,100 Acre Addition

2009-07-30T07:37:00.001-07:00

July 29, 2009

Contact: Gordon Hickey
(804) 225-4260
www.governor.virginia.gov

GOVERNOR KAINE ANNOUNCES 1,100 ACRE ADDITION TO CROW’S NEST PRESERVE
~ Brings total to 2,870 acres of protected costal habitat ~

Governor Timothy M. Kaine today announced the purchase of more than a thousand acres for preservation as part of Crow’s Nest Natural Area Preserve in Stafford, Virginia. The $14.2 million deal finalized this week adds 1,100 acres to the 1,770 acres already purchased in the first phase of the preservation effort, resulting in the permanent protection of 2,870 acres of highly significant coastal habitat. Funding for the purchase of the second parcel of land was provided by the Commonwealth in the form of grants and low-interest loans. The purchase results from a partnership between the Stafford County Board of Supervisors and the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation.

“Virginians strongly support conserving significant natural and historic lands,” said Governor Kaine. “This purchase brings us 1,100 acres closer to my goal of preserving 400,000 acres statewide by 2010, while also improving water quality.”

To date, more than 340,000 acres statewide have been preserved.

“I am pleased that Stafford’s citizens are now collective owners of almost 3,000 acres of a local treasure,” said the chair of the Stafford Board of Supervisors George Schwartz. “The preservation of this tract will allow us to continue enjoying all that Crow’s Nest has to offer, including rare wildlife and plants.”

This purchase will preserve 138 species of migratory birds, bald eagles, 750 acres of wetlands and 2,200 acres of hardwood forests. In addition, many historically significant events occurred in the area, including Pocahontas’s kidnapping and Civil War occupation by the Union Army.

The peninsula will be used for recreation, including bird watching, canoeing and hiking. Eventually, Crow’s Nest will serve as an educational hub for the area’s natural resources and history.

“We have been negotiating to save Crow’s Nest for years because we were committed to preserving this priceless and environmentally sensitive area for visitors today and generations to come,” said Supervisor Paul Milde of the Aquia District, which includes Crow’s Nest. “Our hard work will pay dividends to our citizens and visitors, and hopefully, will be an inspiration to other groups who seek to preserve natural and historic treasures.”

For several years, citizens groups, county, state and federal officials have worked together to negotiate with Stafford Lakes Limited Partnership to purchase the land. Phase One of the purchase was completed in December 2007 for $19 million. Crow’s Nest is Virginia’s 54th natural area preserve.

“Acquisition of Crow’s Nest Phase Two is a critical step in ensuring the protection of the original 1,770 acres purchased in 2007,” said Joseph H. Maroon, DCR director. “This tract is also an important property in its own right, with 73 acres of wetlands, more than 1,000 acres of upland forest and nearly six miles of streams.”

Virginia natural area preserves provide access to the public for activities such as hiking, wildlife observation and canoeing. DCR staff has begun planning limited access improvements such as parking areas, trails and a canoe launch. Staff is also looking at scheduling weekends this fall when the preserve will be open to the public. However, Crow’s Nest Natural Area Preserve will remain closed on a regular basis until funding for staffing is in place and access improvements have been made.

Today’s announcement comes as Governor Kaine continues to move his “Renew Virginia” initiative. Renew Virginia is focused on promoting renewable energy, creating green jobs, and encouraging preservation of the environment.

For more information on Renew Virginia, visit www.governor.virginia.gov.

Blacksburg Dedicates Adaptive Reuse LEED Project

2009-07-30T07:29:00.000-07:00

July 30, 2009

Heather D. Browning
Community Relations Manager
(540) 961-1199
hbrowning@blacksburg.gov
www.blacksburg.gov

Join the Town of Blacksburg for a Grand Opening Celebration

Blacksburg Motor Company
400 South Main Street

Friday, August 7, 10am – 1pm

The town of Blacksburg is pleased to announce that renovation of the historic Blacksburg Motor Company building is complete and a grand opening celebration is scheduled for August 7 at 10am, coinciding with the annual Downtown Blacksburg Steppin Out Festival. Town offices will begin moving on August 11-12.

The new Motor Company building has been restored using Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) principals, and the project team has considered sustainability in every design and construction decision. As a result, the Town hopes to achieve a Platinum LEED certification, the highest level achievable.

The building will serve as the new home to the Blacksburg Planning and Building, and Engineering and GIS departments. In addition, the site and structure will illustrate green building and low impact development techniques throughout.

Features of the LEED renovation include a geothermal heat pump, where the constant temperature of the earth reduces heating and cooling energy use; carpet made of 77% recycled material including reclaimed carpet; refurbished original tin ceilings; motion sensor lighting; and environmental site design including rain gardens, porous concrete, and native landscaping. Lastly, the building is served by Blacksburg Transit, the Smart Way bus, and a network of sidewalks and trails encouraging alternative forms of transportation.

“We are excited to officially introduce the Blacksburg Motor Company building as a new addition to the Town’s downtown civic complex,” said Town Manager Marc Verniel. “Decades ago, we established a vision of a civic complex in downtown to include the existing Town Hall, the Police Station, the Library, Five Chimneys House, Alexander Black House, Thomas Connor House, and the Blacksburg Motor Company Building. The completion of the renovation is a major step towards implementing that vision. It’s an example of how to re-use a building in an environmentally sensitive way while preserving a key piece of Blacksburg’s history.”
The building has been listed as historically significant, and the construction was designed to comply with national standards for historic renovation projects. This enables the project to receive a significant level of funding through state and federal historic tax credits.

Virginia's Senators Webb and Warner on $44.2 Million in Recovery Act Funds

2009-07-29T11:19:00.000-07:00

Contact: Kevin Hall (Warner) 202-224-2425
July 29, 2009 Jessica Smith (Webb) 202-228-5185

SENATORS WEBB, WARNER ANNOUNCE $44.2 MILLION IN RECOVERY ACT FUNDS
FOR AFFORDABLE RENTAL HOUSING CONSTRUCTION IN VIRGINIA
~ Funding will create jobs in the hard-hit construction industry ~

US Senators Jim Webb and Mark R. Warner today announced that the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has approved $44.2 million to jumpstart affordable rental housing programs in Virginia. Funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, HUD’s new Tax Credit Assistance Program (TCAP) provides grants to state housing finance agencies to resume affordable rental housing projects throughout the country while also creating jobs in the hard hit construction industry.

“Today’s announcement will resume funding assistance for local communities to develop affordable housing and also make available more construction jobs across Virginia,” said Senator Webb.

“These grants will significantly boost our efforts to put Virginians back to work while also providing quality, affordable housing options for low income families at a time when those options are critical,” Senator Warner said. “These grants also should help unlock the credit markets while supporting shovel ready projects.”

Current economic challenges have frozen investments in the low income housing tax credit (LIHTC) market, and those tax credits create an incentive for investors to provide capital to developers to build multifamily rental housing for moderate and low income families across the nation. Since the contraction of the credit market, and as traditional investors remain on the sidelines, the value of tax credits has plummeted. Consequently, as many as 1,000 projects (containing nearly 150,000 units of housing) are stalled across the country.

In response, the Recovery Act provides $2.25 billion for TCAP, a grant program to provide capital investments in these stalled LIHTC developments. HUD is awarding TCAP grants by formula to state housing credit agencies (all 50 states plus the District of Columbia and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico) to complete construction of qualified housing projects that will ultimately provide affordable housing to an estimated 35,000 households nationwide. Since a major purpose of this program is job creation, the Recovery Act establishes ambitious deadlines to spend the grant funds and requires state housing credit agencies to give priority to projects that can begin immediately and be completed by February 16, 2012.

President Barack Obama on Health Care

2009-07-29T11:17:00.000-07:00

July 29, 2009

Dear Friend,

If you’re like most Americans, there’s nothing more important to you about health care than peace of mind.

Given the status quo, that’s understandable. The current system often denies insurance due to pre-existing conditions, charges steep out of pocket fees – and sometimes isn’t there at all if you become seriously ill.

It’s time to fix our unsustainable insurance system and create a new foundation for health care security. That means guaranteeing your health care security and stability with eight basic consumer protections:
No discrimination for pre-existing conditions
No exorbitant out of pocket expenses, deductibles or co-pays
No cost sharing for preventive care
No dropping of coverage if you become seriously ill
No gender discrimination
No annual or lifetime caps on coverage
Extended coverage for young adults
Guaranteed insurance renewal so long as premiums are paid
Learn more about these consumer protections at Whitehouse.gov.

Over the next month there is going to be an avalanche of misinformation and scare tactics from those seeking to perpetuate the status quo. But we know the cost of doing nothing is too high. Health care costs will double over the next decade, millions more will become uninsured, and state and local governments will go bankrupt.

It’s time to act and reform health insurance, drive down costs and guarantee the health care security and stability of every American family. You can help by putting these core principles of reform in the hands of your friends, your family, and the rest of your social network.

Thank you,
Barack Obama

Chesapeake City Manager Announces Public Works Engineer Appointment

2009-07-28T16:02:00.000-07:00

July 28, 2009 CONTACT:
Mark S. Cox, APR
Director of Public Communications
(757)382-6241 (WK)
or Lizz Gunnufsen
Public Communications Coordinator
(757) 382-6241 (WK)

Chesapeake City Manager William Harrell announced this week the appointment of Cecil Earl Sorey Jr. as the new city engineer of the Chesapeake Public Works Department, effective August 1. Sorey has been serving as the interim city engineer since June 2008 following the promotion of Eric Martin to public works director.

Sorey will be tasked with managing the engineering division which has 70 employees and an annual operating budget of $7 million. The engineering division is responsible for the delivery of a $120 million capital improvement budget consisting of transportation and stormwater projects. As city engineer, Sorey will oversee traffic engineering; stormwater design; right of way acquisition; design and construction services; surveys and drafting; and environmental engineering. Sorey’s salary will be $96,086 per year.

Sorey began his engineering career with the city of Chesapeake, and later served as an engineer in the cities of Virginia Beach and Portsmouth prior to his return to Chesapeake in 2001 as the city’s transportation engineer. Sorey holds a bachelor's degree in civil engineering technology and a masters of public administration, and is a licensed professional engineer.

VACo Gives Annual Achievement Awards

2009-07-28T15:57:00.002-07:00

Virginia Association of Counties
1207 E. Main St., Suite 300
Richmond, VA 23219-3627 Contact: Gage Harter (804) 343-2502
For Immediate Release gharter@vaco.org

July 28, 2009

Virginia Counties Recognized for Model Programs

The Virginia Association of Counties (VACo) is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2009 Achievement Awards recognizing model local government programs.

The winning counties and program titles are:

· Carroll County: “Economic Milestone” (Regional Collaboration)
· Chesterfield County: “Emergency Worker and Dependant Shelter”
(Criminal Justice & Public Safety)
Fairfax County: “The ART Conference” (Organizational Development)
Fairfax County: “Road DAWG” (Criminal Justice & Public Safety)
Gloucester County: “Full Service School Project” (Human Services)
Hanover County: “Citizen-Driven Curbside Recycling Program” (Environmental)
Henrico County: “Electronic Waste Recycling” (Environmental)
Henrico County: “Regional Supplier Conference”
(Regional Collaboration)
James City County: “Neighborhoods Organizing Ways to Achieve Connections” (Information Technology)
Loudoun County: “Real Estate Assessment Review Online Application” (Customer Service)
Prince William County: “Home Help Program”
(Community & Economic Development)
Prince William County: “Virtual Public Hearing”
(Public Affairs & Communications)
Roanoke County: “Innovation Without Funding” (Information Technology)
Rockbridge County: “Rockbridge Area Prevention Coalition” (Human Services)
York County: “Wetlands Interpretive Sanctuary for Education” (Environmental)

VACo received 72 entries for the statewide contest. The Honorable Kate Hanley, Secretary of the Commonwealth; Tedd Povar, associate director of the Virginia Institute of Government; and Elmer Hodge, former Roanoke County Administrator, served as judges for this year’s statewide awards program.

“We had a record number of entries this year,” said James Campbell, VACo Executive Director. “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 the country.”

Hodge, who served Roanoke County for 22 years as administrator, also commended the quality of the entries. “I am most impressed with all the applications and equally pleased that so many small- and medium sized counties participated,” Hodge said. “Applicants seemed undaunted by the economy and, in fact, found new ways to meet the needs of their communities in ways that did not require additional local funding. These projects reflect the strong leadership that has always been present in Virginia’s 95 counties.”

This was the fifth consecutive year Povar has served as a judge. “We fully appreciate the time taken by the applicant counties to prepare and submit award nominations,” Povar said. “Many of these submissions required hours of detailed preparation to fully describe the project and its surrounding context. The professionalism, ingenuity, and creativity displayed are very encouraging, particularly as we face the most challenging period for local government in recent memory. We congratulate all the applicants on a job well done, and, in particular, those that received award recognition.”

The VACo Achievement Awards is a competitive program open to local government members of the association. Held annually, it recognizes local government programs in awards criteria that include innovation, cooperation and model practices.

Several collaborative projects were submitted in 2009, prompting the judges to create a new category—Regional Collaboration.

Representatives from each of the award-winning counties will receive a certificate at an official ceremony during VACo’s 2009 Annual Conference in November. Also, VACo will present several awards at board of supervisors meetings.

2009-07-28T15:57:00.001-07:00

Virginia Association of Counties
1207 E. Main St., Suite 300
Richmond, VA 23219-3627 Contact: Gage Harter (804) 343-2502
For Immediate Release gharter@vaco.org

July 28, 2009

Virginia Counties Recognized for Model Programs

The Virginia Association of Counties (VACo) is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2009 Achievement Awards recognizing model local government programs.

The winning counties and program titles are:

· Carroll County: “Economic Milestone” (Regional Collaboration)
· Chesterfield County: “Emergency Worker and Dependant Shelter”
(Criminal Justice & Public Safety)
Fairfax County: “The ART Conference” (Organizational Development)
Fairfax County: “Road DAWG” (Criminal Justice & Public Safety)
Gloucester County: “Full Service School Project” (Human Services)
Hanover County: “Citizen-Driven Curbside Recycling Program” (Environmental)
Henrico County: “Electronic Waste Recycling” (Environmental)
Henrico County: “Regional Supplier Conference”
(Regional Collaboration)
James City County: “Neighborhoods Organizing Ways to Achieve Connections” (Information Technology)
Loudoun County: “Real Estate Assessment Review Online Application” (Customer Service)
Prince William County: “Home Help Program”
(Community & Economic Development)
Prince William County: “Virtual Public Hearing”
(Public Affairs & Communications)
Roanoke County: “Innovation Without Funding” (Information Technology)
Rockbridge County: “Rockbridge Area Prevention Coalition” (Human Services)
York County: “Wetlands Interpretive Sanctuary for Education” (Environmental)

VACo received 72 entries for the statewide contest. The Honorable Kate Hanley, Secretary of the Commonwealth; Tedd Povar, Associate Director of the Virginia Institute of Government; and Elmer Hodge, former Roanoke County Administrator, served as judges for this year’s statewide awards program.

“We had a record number of entries this year,” said James Campbell, VACo executive director. “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 the country.”

Hodge, who served Roanoke County for 22 years as administrator, also commended the quality of the entries. “I am most impressed with all the applications and equally pleased that so many small- and medium-sized counties participated,” Hodge said. “Applicants seemed undaunted by the economy and, in fact, found new ways to meet the needs of their communities in ways that did not require additional local funding. These projects reflect the strong leadership that has always been present in Virginia’s 95 counties.”

This was the fifth consecutive year Povar has served as a judge. “We fully appreciate the time taken by the applicant counties to prepare and submit award nominations,” Povar said. “Many of these submissions required hours of detailed preparation to fully describe the project and its surrounding context. The professionalism, ingenuity, and creativity displayed are very encouraging, particularly as we face the most challenging period for local government in recent memory. We congratulate all the applicants on a job well done, and, in particular, those that received award recognition.”

The VACo Achievement Awards is a competitive program open to local government members of the association. Held annually, it recognizes local government programs in awards criteria that include innovation, cooperation and model practices.

Several collaborative projects were submitted in 2009, prompting the judges to create a new category—Regional Collaboration.

Representatives from each of the award-winning counties will receive a certificate at an official ceremony during VACo’s 2009 Annual Conference in November. Also, VACo will present several awards at Board of Supervisors meetings.

Campbell County Announces New Festival

2009-07-28T12:06:00.000-07:00

July 28, 2009

Contact: Sherry Harding, Director of Recreation Programming, 434-332-9570
Campbell County PIO
Re: New Festival in Campbell County

New Festival Planned in Campbell County – August 15;
Celebrating County Heritage

The Campbell County Recreation Department, in cooperation with the Community Park Committee, is pleased to announce a new festival in Campbell County; the Campbell County Heritage Festival. This one day event will be held on Saturday, August 15, 2009, at the William Campbell High School and adjacent community park in Naruna, Virginia, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. This event is free to the public.

Created to honor Campbell County’s rich heritage, this event offers: educational demonstrations, historical reenactments, an antique tractor and car show, sheep herding demonstrations, tobacco tying, apple butter and cider making, basket weaving, pottery demonstrations, fiber spinning, antique tools, pony rides, crafters, children’s activities and live musical entertainment.

As a finale to the festival, The Dazzlers, a popular 1950’s rock a billy band from the Brookneal area, will offer a benefit concert at 7:00 p.m. Tickets for this concert are available at the Campbell County Recreation Department and Campbell County Libraries and will also be sold on-site; tickets are $8.00 per adult and $5.00 per child. All proceeds from this concert go toward the development of an amphitheatre at the community park site.

For more information regarding the Campbell County Heritage Festival, please contact the Campbell County Recreation Department at 434-332-9570 or visit www.campbellcountyva.gov.

Governor Kaine Praises Presidential Appointments of Virginians

2009-07-28T12:03:00.001-07:00

July 28, 2009
www.governor.virginia.gov www.YesVirginia.org

GOVERNOR KAINE APPLAUDS PRESIDENTIAL APPOINTMENTS OF VIRGINIA TALENT
~Vivek Kundra, Aneesh Chopra to be honored during reception~

Governor Timothy M. Kaine tonight will honor Aneesh Chopra, former Virginia Secretary of Technology, and Vivek Kundra, former Virginia Assistant Secretary of Commerce and Technology, for their recent White House appointments during a reception at 6:30 p.m. at The Tower Club in Vienna. Kundra was named Federal Chief Information Officer. Chopra will serve as the Federal Chief Technology Officer. The reception is hosted by the Northern Virginia Technology Council and the Virginia Economic Development Partnership.

“As our nation’s top information technology leaders, Vivek Kundra and Aneesh Chopra can expand on Virginia's longstanding model of technology innovation to benefit all Americans,” said Governor Kaine. “I’m confident their contributions will continue to pave the way to new strategies and economic development opportunities -- here in the Commonwealth and at the national level.”

In his new role, Chopra’s responsibilities will be similar to his Virginia post—technology and innovation policy. As Virginia’s fourth Secretary of Technology, Chopra worked to leverage technology in government reform, promote innovation and foster technology-related economic development with a special emphasis on entrepreneurship. He was awarded the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society’s 2007 State Leadership Advocacy Award, and was also named to Government Technology magazine’s Top 25 in their Doers, Dreamers, and Drivers issue, which recognizes 25 individuals who help set the standard for using technology to improve government.

As Federal Chief Information Officer, Kundra will direct the policy and strategic planning of federal information technology investments and is responsible for oversight of federal technology spending. As Virginia’s Assistant Secretary of Commerce and Technology, the first dual cabinet role in Virginia history, Kundra worked to streamline government and enhance business opportunity through technology innovations. He has been recognized among the top 25 chief technology officers nationwide and as the 2008 IT Executive of the Year for “driving transparency, engaging citizens, and lowering the cost of government operations.”

Back To School Sales Tax Holiday Coming Soon

2009-07-28T07:36:00.000-07:00

July 29, 2009

JOEL DAVISON
Public Relations Manager
(804) 786-3507
joel.davison@tax.virginia.gov

Virginia’s Fourth Annual Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday Coming Up

~ Get ready to shop and save! ~

More than ever, the cost of sending children back to school is likely hanging over the heads of many families this year, even for frugal families who clip coupons, scour sale circulars and shop around.

For the fourth year, the Commonwealth, along with Virginia’s retailers, again stands ready to help its citizens save a little more.

Virginia’s back to school sales tax holiday begins Friday, Aug. 7 and runs through Sunday, Aug. 9, 2009.

During this three day period, many school supplies costing $20 or less each and clothing items and footwear costing $100 or less each will be exempt from Virginia’s 5 percent sales tax. This includes items like pencils, pens, binders, paints, musical instruments and calculators, as well as pants, shirts, formal wear, shoes, flip flops, and even uniforms.

Lists of exempt items, along with guidelines for the sales tax holiday and a set of frequently asked questions, are available on the Tax Department’s Sales Tax Holiday Information Center at www.tax.virginia.gov.

This sales tax holiday is for all taxpayers in Virginia, not just for those with children heading back to school, so now’s a good time to stock up on office supplies or clothing for adults as well. There is no limit on the number of items you can buy as long as each one qualifies under the holiday’s guidelines.

During this sales tax holiday, retailers may also choose to save taxpayers even more by opting to pay the sales tax themselves on items that are not eligible for exemption.

“The citizens of the Commonwealth are savvy, and they know that the August sales tax holiday is a great way to put a little more back in the family budget,” said Tax Commissioner Janie Bowen. “This has been a popular sales tax holiday every year since it was implemented, and I have no doubt even more thrifty families will be out there this year taking advantage of this opportunity to stretch their dollars a little further.”

It is estimated that Virginia taxpayers will save $4 million in sales tax this year.

Attorney General Candidates Challenge Each Other to Debates- Or Not

2009-07-27T13:21:00.000-07:00

July 27, 2009

Chris LaCivita
(804) 594-3710
Cuccinelli AGAIN pushing for debates.

Earlier this morning, State Senator Ken Cuccinelli approached Steve Shannon on an overall debate schedule that would enable all regions of the Commonwealth to have an opportunity to see first hand those who seek to represent them as the next Attorney General.

To see a copy of the email sent to Steve Shannon this morning, go to: http://cuccinelli.com/cuccinelli-shannon-email.htm

As usual, the request has been met with silence.

"Im very disappointed, that again, Steve Shannon refuses to take seriously efforts to debate our respective records" said Ken Cuccinelli. "It's apparent that following his Gubernatorial nominee's poor performance at the Homestead Resort debate this past weekend, the last thing Steve Shannon wants to do is debate."

"Steve Shannon is avoiding any debate so he can duck questions regarding his past support for tax increases that he had explicitly opposed while campaigning, his support for card check (like Creigh Deeds) and his support for the regressive 'Cap and Trade' legislation which will cripple Virginia Industry (again like Creigh Deeds)."

"The people of Virginia have a right to know the records and goals of those who seek to represent them in the Attorney General's office" continued Cuccinelli. "I just don't think Steve wants to defend his three mistakes on the law he has made in the last month."

The three examples mentioned by Senator Cuccinelli include Shannon's error on the death penalty during their one and only debate; Shannon's misguided statement that the Melendez-Diaz situation facing prosecutors in Virginia could be fixed through what he called an 'administrative solution' instead of a legislative solution; and Shannon's error regarding his own bill (HB 3086 in 2007) which he incorrectly declared would have addressed the Melendez situation in drunk driving cases.

"I am hopeful that sometime in the near future Steve Shannon will agree to debate me. I stand ready to debate any time - and any place. The only question is will Steve Shannon join me?"
check (like Creigh Deeds) and his support for the regressive 'Cap and Trade' legislation which will cripple Virginia Industry (again like Creigh Deeds)."

Warner Hosts Broadband Summit

2009-07-27T13:00:00.000-07:00

Monday, July 27, 2009
Kevin Hall (Warner) - (202) 224-2425

SENATOR WARNER HOSTS BROADBAND ACCESS SUMMIT
~ Brings top federal officials to Charlottesville to brief local officials, non-profit leaders ~

US Senator Mark R. Warner today hosted the Virginia Summit on Broadband Access at Piedmont Virginia Community College in Charlottesville, bringing together more than 400 representatives from federal, state, and local governments, as well as leaders of nonprofit organizations, to explore opportunities to access new federal funding to expand access to high speed Internet broadband technology across Virginia.

The Recovery Act provided a total of $7.2 billion to the Commerce Department’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) and the US Department of Agriculture’s Rural Utilities Service (RUS) to increase broadband access throughout the country. Of that funding, NTIA will utilize $4.7 billion to deploy broadband access in unserved and underserved areas in the United States. By expanding public computer center capacity and encouraging sustainable adoption of broadband service, RUS will invest $2.5 billion to improve broadband access in rural communities.

The top administrators of both federal programs attended today’s Summit. Applications for the first round of funding from both federal agencies are due on August 14, and applications are available at http://www.broadbandusa.gov.

"Broadband technology, with its capacity to expand education and job training programs, makes many of our communities much more attractive for increased economic investment and new jobs," Senator Warner said. “The experts we assembled at today’s summit were able to provide great information on what these expanded federal broadband programs have to offer, how to apply, and how to make applications from Virginia stand out.”

Senator Warner made expanded access to broadband technology an economic development priority during his term as Governor of Virginia (2002-06), leveraging federal and state resources to partner with the private sector in extending broadband infrastructure across 400 miles of rural Virginia. In 2007 and 2008, Warner cochaired Gov. Timothy M. Kaine’s Broadband Roundtable, which ultimately produced a first in the nation, statewide coverage map and a “toolkit” to help localities tackle many of the “last mile” challenges of broadband deployment.

Today’s Broadband Access Summit was the third in a series of conferences hosted by Senator Warner this summer that will help Virginians access new federal funds available through the 2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. In mid July, he hosted the Virginia Summit on Energy Opportunities which brought together more than 400 decision makers at Hampton University in Hampton. In May, he hosted the Virginia Conference on Health Information Technology that brought 450 health care professionals to Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond. All three conferences were streamed live on the Senator’s website.

Attorney General Candidate Launches First Web Ad

2009-07-27T11:32:00.001-07:00

Shannon Campaign Launches First Web Ad of the 2009 Attorney General’s Race

July 27, 2009 Contact: Brian Coy: (703) 477-8222

brian@shannon2009.com

The campaign of Attorney General candidate Steve Shannon (D) today launched the first online campaign ad of the 2009 election, calling on his opponent, Ken Cuccinelli, to stand up to the reckless, incendiary rhetoric of one of his running mates. The video focuses on the statement by 99th House District candidate Catherine Crabill earlier this month, in which she told a cheering crowd that they “have a chance to fight this battle at the ballot box, before we have to resort to the bullet box.”

The remarks made national news, and Shannon’s earlier challenge to Cuccinelli to condemn the remarks has gone unanswered. Shannon is a Delegate and former criminal prosecutor from Fairfax County. Cuccinelli is a State Senator, also from Fairfax.

“At a time when a lot of people in the country are on edge about their economic future, the last thing we need are candidates talking about armed violence because they don’t like election results. We need an Attorney General with the leadership and principles to stand against this type of reckless rhetoric,” said Shannon. “If Ken Cuccinelli wants to be Virginia’s top law enforcement official, he shouldn’t have a problem condemning these remarks and the implication that violence is an acceptable solution to any political dispute.”

After the video of Ms. Crabill’s remarks became public two weeks ago, Delegate Shannon condemned the remarks and called on his opponent to do the same. Shannon also asked Cuccinelli whether he believed the President of the United States and his administration were “domestic terrorists,” as Ms. Crabill claimed. Cuccinelli and his top adviser have both dismissed the issue, with the manager, Chris LaCivita, saying concerns about Crabill’s remarks were “stupid.”

“There are stark differences between Steve Shannon and Ken Cuccinelli on the critical public safety issues facing Virginia and we are going to continue to make sure the people of Virginia know about them,” Shannon Campaign Manager Mike Henry said. “As Attorney General, Steve Shannon will not use his office as a platform for his own political agenda, his agenda will be protecting our communities by cracking down on drug dealers, drunk drivers and Internet predators who target our kids.”

This will be the first paid advertisement by either candidate in the 2009 race for Attorney General. It will first debut as part of an internet advertising campaign on sites such as Facebook.com. The ad can be viewed here: http://www.shannon2009.com/bulletbox

Delegate Steve Shannon is a former criminal prosecutor from Fairfax County and the only candidate for Attorney General with public safety experience.

Four Debates and Forums Set for Lt. Governor Candidates

2009-07-27T11:20:00.000-07:00

July 27, 2009
Contact: press@jodyforva.com

WAGNER ACCEPTS DEBATE INVITATIONS
AGREES TO FOUR DEBATES IN FALL

Today, Democratic Nominee for Lieutenant Governor Jody Wagner announced her acceptance of invitations to four debates and forums with Lt. Governor Bill Bolling in the fall. The campaign accepted invitations from Virginia Votes, the Prince William Committee of 100, the Young Lawyers Bar Association, and the Women's Bar Association. Dates and locations have not been determined.

Said Wagner: "I'm pleased to accept invitations from these groups. These debates and forums will give voters across the Commonwealth the chance to participate in the conversation about Virginia's future, and I sincerely hope Bill Bolling will join me."

In June, Wagner challenged Bolling to a series of monthly debates.

Hampton Renames City Agency

2009-07-27T11:15:00.000-07:00

Hampton City Manager’s Office
22 Lincoln Street • Hampton, Virginia 23669 Date: July 27, 2009
Phone (757) 727-6876
www.hampton.gov

Rebecca Bolte, Public Communications Manager

Media & Community Relations Department

In an effort to better reflect the offerings of the department, Hampton has renamed the Office of Community and International Relations to Media & Community Relations.
Led by Special Assistant to the City Manager Dianne Randall Foster, the Media & Community Relations Department will continue to focus on its mission to enhance the mutual understanding, cooperation, and goodwill between the City of Hampton government and the citizens of local, national, and international communities through ongoing information and media communications.
The office encompasses the Hampton City Channel, University Relations, and the Citizen’s Unity Commission

Virginia Board Announces Grants to Expand Community Services for People with Disabilities

2009-07-27T11:10:00.000-07:00

July 27, 2009

Contact: Gordon Hickey
(804) 225-4260
www.governor.virginia.gov

VIRGINIA BOARD ANNOUNCES GRANTS TO EXPAND
COMMUNITY SERVICES FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES
~ Innovative projects address health care, employment opportunities
and information and referral services ~

Governor Timothy M. Kaine today announced that the Virginia Board for People with Disabilities (VBPD) has approved four 2009 Competitive Grant Awards for projects totaling more than $600,000 to improve and expand community support for individuals with developmental and other disabilities. Each of these projects addresses specific objectives in VBPD’s 2007-2011 State Plan and recommendations made in its 2008 Biennial Assessment of the Disability Services System in Virginia.

“The groups receiving these grants continue to break ground on ways to integrate and enrich the lives of individuals with disabilities living in the Commonwealth,” Governor Kaine said. “By supporting these organizations, Virginia is lending a helping hand to the many people with disabilities who want to be active and productive in our communities.”

The four grants awarded by the board are:

· SeniorNavigator, city of Richmond, “Creating a Community-Based Network of VirginiaNavigator Centers.”
Project Total: $286,718
Grant Funds Awarded: $143,359
Match: $143,359
Grant Period: October 1, 2009 – September 30, 2011
Project Goal: To develop a person- and family centered network of VirginiaNavigator Centers which will foster interagency cooperation, expand service capacity, encourage inclusion in the community and enable adults with disabilities to achieve greater independence. The project will have a special focus on transportation.

· Northern Virginia Training Center, Fairfax, “Integrated Dental Service Initiative: Building Capability, Capacity and Commitment to Serve People with Developmental Disabilities.”
Project Total: $97,952
Grant Funds Awarded: $65,541
Match: $32,411
Grant Period: October 1, 2009 – March 31, 2011
Project Goal: To build regional capacity, capability and commitment for the provision of dental health services to people with developmental disabilities.

· Chesterfield County Community Services Board – Chesterfield Employment Services, Chesterfield County, “Creating Opportunities for Persons with the Most Significant Disabilities with Customized Employment.”
Project Total: $153,322
Grant Funds Awarded: $90,000
Match: $63,322
Grant Period: October 1, 2009 – September 30, 2011
Project Goal: To expand employment opportunities for people with significant disabilities by developing and implementing a Customized Employment Program in Chesterfield County.

· PHILLIPS Programs, Annandale, “Using 21st Century Technology and Skills to Promote Employment Success.”
Project Total: $73,154
Grant Funds Awarded: $54,975
Match: $18,179
Grant Period: October 1, 2009 – September 30, 2011
Project Goal: To develop and implement a demonstration project on how 21st century technologies and social media can support youth with developmental and other disabilities in transitioning from secondary education to career pathways of their choice and participation in integrated employment.

As Virginia’s Developmental Disabilities Planning Council, VBPD works to develop and promote person centered policies, programs and services that enable individuals with disabilities to live independently and successfully in communities of their own choice. VBPD has invested in more than 200 best-practice, demonstration, research, advocacy and outreach projects in the areas of education, employment, housing, transportation, early intervention, recreation and community integration.

Funding for these projects is provided to VBPD by the federal Administration for Developmental Disabilities under the national Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 2000 (P.L. 106-402).

To learn more about VBPD, its grants, advocacy and leadership programs and other activities, visit www.vaboard.org , call (800) 846-4464, or email Info@VBPD.virginia.gov .

Chesapeake Bay License Plates Grants Announced

2009-07-27T10:55:00.000-07:00

July 27, 2009

Applications Being Accepted for Monies from the Sale of Chesapeake Bay License Plates Until October 1

Total Grants $392,152 Available

The Chesapeake Bay Restoration Advisory Committee is accepting grant applications to conduct Chesapeake Bay related education and restoration activities. The grants are funded with monies from the sale of the special Chesapeake Bay license plate "Friend of the Chesapeake." This year $329,152 in grant monies will be awarded to eligible applicants. During this past year, 53 grantees received $392,574 in grant funds. Since 1996, nearly $5.2 million has been awarded as a result of the sale of the "Bay" plates.

The deadline for submitting a proposal for 2010 support grants is October 1, 2009. Grant funds will be awarded in May-June 2010. To be eligible for receiving a grant, applicants should submit proposals emphasizing environmental education or restoration and conservation of the Chesapeake Bay. Project focusing on environmental education should increase public awareness and knowledge about the Bay, and projects of a restoration and conservation nature should be action oriented.

Applications will be accepted from nonprofit conservation organizations, schools, and universities, as well as governmental agencies whose projects will affect water bodies that are located within the Chesapeake Bay watershed.

For more information go to http://dls.state.va.us/cbrfac.htm. You may also contact the Division of Legislative Services, General Assembly Building, 910 Capitol Street, Richmond, VA 23219, (804) 786-3591.

Political News: Lt. Governor's Race

2009-07-27T10:27:00.000-07:00

July 27, 2009
Contact: press@jodyforva.com

JODY WAGNER TO CAMPAIGN IN PETERSBURG TOMORROW

On Tuesday, July 28th, Democratic Nominee for Lt. Governor Jody Wagner will visit and campaign in Petersburg. Wagner will tour Richard Bland College, host a roundtable discussion on education and the economy, and visit the D.A.R.E. Summer Reading Program. All events are open to the press. Details are below, and subject to change.

Tuesday, July 28th

8:00 - 9:00 AM Jody Wagner tours Richard Bland College with college President James B. McNeer and faculty members
Tour will start at Maze Hall
11301 Johnson Road
Petersburg, VA
Onsite Contact: Tyee Davenport (804) 901-4934

10:00 - 11:30 AM Jody Wagner hosts Round Table discussion on education and the economy
Attendees to include: Senator Henry Marsh, Delegate Rosalyn Dance, Delegate Joe Morrissey, Mayor Annie M. Mickens, and members of the Petersburg City Council & School Board
Olde Towne Catering
9 West Old Street
Petersburg, VA
Onsite Contact: Tyee Davenport (804) 901-4934

12:30 - 1:00 PM Jody Wagner visits the D.A.R.E. Free Summer Reading Program
A.P. Hill Community Center
1237 Halifax Street
Petersburg, VA
Onsite Contact: Tyee Davenport (804) 901-4934)

Roanoke County Maximizes Energy Efficiency

2009-07-27T07:37:00.000-07:00

July 27, 2009

Contact: Anne Marie Green
Roanoke County General Services Director
Office: 540-387-6100
agreen@RoanokeCountyVA.gov

Roanoke County to Maximize Energy Efficiency of its Buildings
Improvements are Part of the County’s Overall Environmental Initiatives

Roanoke County is in the process of renovating county buildings as part of its overall initiative to improve energy efficiency. The renovations will be funded through utility cost savings. The county also plans to use $300,000 of federal stimulus money to fund additional improvements.

Roanoke County selected Trane to perform a detailed study of its facilities, which began last month. After an in-depth building analysis, Trane will develop a plan to update the buildings’ comfort, lighting, and water systems while adding a greater level of control to all of its building systems. The renovations will result in significant improvements to 25 county facilities including fire stations, community centers, and libraries. “We’re thrilled to bring the necessary analysis and improvements to these facilities to improve comfort and save money,” said Ross Atherton, Trane’s Solutions leader for Virginia.

Reducing energy consumption has been a priority for the county for the past eight years. In 2001, the county implemented a system of environmental management using ISO 14001 guidelines to research and implement ways to reduce energy consumption and bills. ISO 14001 is an international standard of environmental operation. The work with Trane will complement the work that is already in place.

In 2007, Roanoke County joined Local Governments for Sustainability, also known as ICLEI. As part of its commitment to ICLEI, the county has set a goal for itself to stop increasing carbon emissions by 2012 and to then reduce the county’s carbon emissions by three percent every year thereafter until 2020 as Milestone 2 of the ICLEI program.

Roanoke County has also shown its commitment to the environment through its capital projects. The Western Virginia Regional Jail is LEED certified, and the new fleet service center and multigenerational recreation center (Green Ridge Recreation Center) will also receive certification. “I am proud of our efforts to reduce energy consumption through the programs and projects we have in place and look forward to making our existing buildings even more energy efficient,” said Clay Goodman, Roanoke County Administrator.

# # #

For more information about Trane, you may contact:
Ross Atherton at (540) 563-2828

History of the General Assembly Lecture at Library of Virginia

2009-07-26T07:34:00.001-07:00

July 26, 2009

Thursday, July 30, 2009 Warren M. Billings will give a talk on The General Assembly of 1619: Myths and Realities. This will take place from 5:30 to 5:30 pm in the lecture hall of the Library of Virginia, and there is a fee associated with this of $12. Tickets can be purchased online at www.preservationvirginia.org/calendar, and is sponsored by Preservation Virginia and the Library of Virginia. For more information please call (757) 229-0412, ext. 2.

Senator Jim Webb Announces Funds for Economic Development in Virginia Localities

2009-07-24T13:44:00.000-07:00

July 23, 2009

Since 1974, CDBG has given more than $127 billion to state and local governments to target their own community development priorities. The rehabilitation of affordable housing and the construction and improvement of public facilities have traditionally been the largest uses of CDBG funds although the program is also an important catalyst for job growth and business opportunities.

Below is a list of grants to Virginia:

ARLINGTON COUNTY
VA
$475,768
BLACKSBURG
VA
$170,820
CHESAPEAKE
VA
$331,823
CHESTERFIELD COUNTY
VA
$336,859
COLONIAL HEIGHTS
VA
$23,510
DANVILLE
VA
$283,823
FAIRFAX COUNTY
VA
$1,610,504
FREDERICKSBURG
VA
$62,192
HAMPTON
VA
$292,061
LOUDOUN COUNTY
VA
$244,615
LYNCHBURG
VA
$237,404
NEWPORT NEWS
VA
$430,989
PORTSMOUTH
VA
$473,578
PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY
VA
$516,528
RADFORD
VA
$54,172
RICHMOND
VA
$1,336,140
ROANOKE
VA
$500,675
SUFFOLK
VA
$150,017
VIRGINIA BEACH
VA
$660,901
WINCHESTER
VA
$68,076

Total Funding: $8,260,455

Virginia Reclaims CNBS's "Top State for Business" Title

2009-07-24T13:26:00.000-07:00

July 23, 2009

Contact: Lynda Tran
Phone: (804) 225-4806
Cell Phone: (804) 317-1505
Internet: www.governor.virginia.gov

VIRGINIA RECLAIMS CNBC’S “TOP STATE
FOR BUSINESS” TITLE
~Commonwealth rises from No. 2 spot to garner second top ranking in three years ~

Governor Timothy M. Kaine today announced that for the second time during his administration, CNBC has named Virginia its “Top State for Business”. This best in the nation ranking was based on a wide range of factors, from workforce quality to broadband infrastructure, and reaffirms that “Virginia has what it takes to emerge from an economy turned upside down.” Virginia received CNBC’s top ranking in 2007 and was ranked second in 2008. This is the fourth time in the last month that Virginia has received national acclaim as a top place to do business.

“This recognition shines an international spotlight on the Commonwealth, distinguishing Virginia as a stellar business location—an especially important distinction in the current economic climate,” said Governor Kaine. “This designation, and others before it, demonstrates that our efforts to recruit quality jobs, prepare our workforce, and invest in education and innovation are necessary and effective steps to ensure a prosperous future for Virginia.”

CNBC, a worldwide leader in business news, evaluated each state on 40 different measures of competitiveness in ten categories:

· Workforce- education of workforce, available workers, training programs;
· Education- higher education institutions, K-12 test scores;
· Economy- strength and diversity of economy, number of major corporations;
· Business Friendliness- “friendliness” of legal and regulatory framework;
· Quality of Life- local attractions, crime rate, health care, and air/water quality;
· Technology and Innovation- broadband infrastructure, support for innovation, number of patents;
· Cost of Doing Business- tax burden, utilities, workers compensation; road quality;
· Cost of Living- housing, food, and energy costs;
· Transportation and Infrastructure- value of goods transported, air travel,
· Access to Capital- availability of venture capital.

According to CNBC, Virginia has the 7th best economy nationally in 2009, up from 17th in 2008. The business channel also cited Virginia’s reasonable sales, personal income and corporate tax rates as key contributors to Virginia’s ranking as America’s Best State for Business, 2009.

Governor Kaine joined CNBC Senior Correspondent Scott Cohn for a live interview this afternoon on the Capitol south lawn to announce Virginia’s top ranking. Texas, last year’s “Best State for Business”, was ranked second, followed by Colorado, Iowa and Utah.

Since January 2008, Virginia has attracted $6.58 billion in investment and created 30,856 new jobs. The Commonwealth has also recruited dozens of new businesses and attracted prominent companies, such as Rolls-Royce, AREVA Newport News, Swedwood North America, MeadWestvaco Corporation, Hilton Hotels, CSC and Volkswagen of America, Inc., to make significant investments in Virginia.

Today’s announcement marks the seventh time that Virginia has been recognized as the most business friendly state under the leadership of Governor Kaine. In the past month alone, Virginia has been ranked “No. 1 Pro-Business State” by Pollina Corporate Real Estate Inc., the second “Best State for Business” by Directorship magazine, and the second “Best State to Start a Business” by U.S. News and World Report. During Governor Kaine’s administration, Virginia has also been recognized as the most business-friendly state in America (Forbes.com 2006-2008), the top performing state government in America (Governing Magazine 2008) and the state where “a child is most likely to have a successful life (Education Week 2007).”

Washington County Announces 70 New Jobs

2009-07-24T13:24:00.000-07:00

July 23, 2009

Contact: Lynda Tran
Phone: (804) 225-4806
Cell Phone: (804) 317-1505
Internet: www.governor.virginia.gov

GOVERNOR KAINE ANNOUNCES 70 NEW JOBS IN WASHINGTON COUNTY
~ Columbus McKinnon Corporation to invest $5 million in Damascus operation ~

Governor Timothy M. Kaine today announced that Columbus McKinnon Corporation, a leading designer, manufacturer and marketer of material handling products, plans to invest approximately $5 million in its Damascus Hoist Division operations in Washington County. This investment is part of a corporate restructuring that will consolidate part of its hoist operations into the Damascus plant. The project expects to create approximately 70 new jobs and retain 174 current positions. Virginia successfully competed against three other states for these jobs.

“Retaining the Columbus McKinnon Hoist Division operations in the region is crucial -- the company is a major contributor to Washington County,” Governor Kaine said. “This latest expansion and investment is welcome news during tough economic times for the county, state, and nation.”

Columbus McKinnon is a leading worldwide designer, manufacturer and marketer of material handling products, systems and services, which efficiently and ergonomically move, lift position or secure material. Key products include hoists, cranes, actuators, chain and forged attachments. The Company is focused on commercial and industrial applications that require the safety and quality provided by its superior design and engineering know how.

“Our Virginia plant has been a very safe, productive and progressive plant that knows how to build high quality products and take good care of our customers,” said Gene Buer, Columbus McKinnon vice president. “The products being added to this operation complement the products currently produced in Damascus very well, and we were very impressed with the level of support we received from the local community, Washington County and the state of Virginia.”

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with Washington County and Virginia’s aCorridor to secure the project for Virginia. Governor Kaine approved a $140,000 grant from the Governor’s Opportunity Fund to assist Washington County with the project. The Virginia Tobacco Indemnification and Community Revitalization Commission approved $283,000 in Tobacco Region Opportunity Funds for the project. The Virginia Department of Business Assistance will provide training assistance through the Virginia Jobs Investment Program.

“The vitality and growth of Columbus McKinnon is of great importance to Washington County and the Town of Damascus,” says Kenneth Reynolds, Chairman of the Board of Supervisors. “They have been operating here since 1958 and are now the fourth largest employer in the county.”

“On behalf of the Virginia Tobacco Commission we congratulate Washington County on a great win for the Southwest Virginia region,” said Charles R. Hawkins, Chairman, Virginia Tobacco Indemnification and Community Revitalization Commission. “We are pleased that the Tobacco Commission could offer assistance to ensure that Columbus McKinnon’s Hoist Division will stay and thrive in Damascus, Virginia.”

State Board of Elections Sends Voter Confirmation Mailings

2009-07-24T13:22:00.000-07:00

Media Release
_____________________________________________________

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
July 23, 2009

For More Information:
Ryan Enright
Office: 804-864-8943
-or-
Garry Ellis
Office: 804-864-8910

After Business Hours:
804-382-3619

July 24, 2009

SBE VOTER ADDRESS CONFIRMATION PROCESS STARTS TODAY
~SBE Sends Mailings to Nearly 500,000 Virginia Addresses~

In accordance with state and federal law, the State Board of Elections has mailed confirmation of address forms to nearly 500,000 individuals. This process, known as National Change of Address (NCOA) List Maintenance is vital to ensuring the integrity of the election process in Virginia.

These confirmations are intended to maintain the accuracy of voter lists in the Commonwealth and will be mailed to Virginians identified as individuals who have potentially changed residences.

Recipients are asked to return the confirmation using the self-addressed envelopes within 30 days of initial receipt in order to avoid a change in registration status. For more information, including a list of frequently asked questions, please visit the State Board of Elections website at www.sbe.virginia.gov.

Russell County Announces CGI Expansion

2009-07-24T13:19:00.000-07:00

July 23, 2009

Contact: Lynda Tran
Phone: (804) 225-4806
Cell Phone: (804) 317-1505
Internet: www.governor.virginia.gov

GOVERNOR KAINE ANNOUNCES CGI EXPANSION IN RUSSELL COUNTY
~ High tech company to create 100 new information technology jobs ~

Governor Timothy M. Kaine today announced that CGI, the wholly owned US operating subsidiary of CGI Group Inc., will add 100 positions to its software development and systems integration facility in the Russell County Government Center in Lebanon. CGI provides information technology (IT) services to the government and private sector.

“When CGI committed to Russell County in 2005 they brought job opportunities to help rejuvenate the region’s economy,” said Governor Kaine. “This company has been instrumental in creating the rural IT model for Southwest Virginia and I am thrilled CGI will add another 100 skilled positions to its current base of 290.”

Founded in 1976 and headquartered in Fairfax, Virginia, CGI Group Inc. is one of the largest independent information technology and business process services firms in the world. CGI is the wholly owned U.S. operating subsidiary of CGI Group Inc., which employs approximately 25,500 professionals in more than 100 offices across 16 countries through its affiliated companies. CGI provides end-to-end IT and business process services to clients worldwide from offices in the United States, Canada, Europe and Asia Pacific.

“With our Center of Excellence in Russell County as the cornerstone, CGI is proud to continue its commitment to creating high value, high quality jobs in rural America,” said Donna Morea, President, CGI US. “The Commonwealth is a recognized leader in fostering opportunities to do business in Virginia. The flexibility of local and regional government coupled with the availability of highly skilled resources made the decision to add new jobs in Virginia an easy one.”

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with the Russell County Industrial Development Authority and the Virginia Coalfield Economic Development Authority to secure the project for Virginia. The Virginia Tobacco Indemnification and Community Revitalization Commission approved $250,000 in Tobacco Region Opportunity Funds for the project. The Virginia Department of Business Assistance will provide training assistance through the Virginia Jobs Investment Program. Additional funding for training will be provided by the Southwest Virginia Workforce Investment Board.

“We are always excited with any industrial announcement that brings more jobs to our county,” said Danny Brown, Chairman of the Russell County Board of Supervisors. “We are even more excited when it is an expansion of an existing industry because it shows that the company is extremely satisfied with the work environment, especially the quality of the work force. By expanding it also shows an increase in the commitment of the company to our town and county.”

“On behalf of the Virginia Tobacco Commission we commend Russell County and CGI on a continued corporate partnership,” said Charles R. Hawkins, Chairman, Virginia Tobacco Indemnification and Community Revitalization Commission. “We are pleased that the Tobacco Commission could offer assistance to ensure that CGI will stay and thrive in Russell County, Virginia.”

Governor Kaine to Call for Special Session of General Assembly for August 19

2009-07-22T14:09:00.000-07:00

July 22, 2009

(804) 225-4806
www.governor.virginia.gov

~ Session to address US Supreme Court’s decision in Melendez-Diaz v. Massachusetts ~

Governor Timothy M. Kaine today announced his intention to call a special session of the General Assembly to begin on Wednesday, August 19, 2009. In agreement with the leadership of the General Assembly, the session will focus solely on the required law changes to assure Virginia’s compliance with the US Supreme Court’s ruling in Melendez-Diaz v. Massachusetts, which deals with the circumstances under which evidence must be presented at trial to comply with the confrontation clause of the US Constitution. The session will occur in conjunction with the annual August meeting of the General Assembly’s Joint Money Committees.

“In the absence of further guidance from the Supreme Court, a special session is the most effective way to ensure compliance with Melendez-Diaz and ensure that pending cases in Virginia are handled in an orderly fashion,” said Governor Kaine. “I have been in frequent contact with a number of legislators—especially Delegates Morgan Griffith and Steve Shannon, and Senators Donald McEachin and Ken Cuccinelli—as well as the Attorney General and Commonwealth’s Attorneys Association. We feel that a brief, focused special session will result in legislation that will address the concerns raised by the US Supreme Court.”

In Melendez-Diaz, the US Supreme court ruled that the burden was on the prosecution to present a witness, rather than simply introduce a certificate of laboratory analysis into evidence in criminal trials. This ruling will require forensic professionals to testify in more trials than had previously been required.

Governor Kaine also announced today that he will authorize the use of resources from the Economic Contingency Fund to allow forensic professionals to testify as needed in criminal trials in the Commonwealth. Certain immediate statutory changes will also be required to manage pending cases, and these changes will also be addressed during the special session.

By agreement of the legislative leadership, the only bills that will be heard during the special session will be those introduced on behalf of the administration to address the Melendez-Diaz case. Legislation will be crafted in conjunction with the Attorney General’s office, Division of Legislative Services and relevant stakeholders.

Virginia Tech Tragedy- Counseling Records of Cho Recovered

2009-07-22T14:07:00.001-07:00

July 22, 2009

Contact: Lynda Tran
(804) 225-4806
www.governor.virginia.gov

STATEMENT OF GOVERNOR KAINE
~ On recovery of Cook Counseling Center records of Seung Hui Cho~

Governor Timothy M. Kaine released the following statement today on the recovery of the Cook Counseling Center records of Seung Hui Cho:

“During the course of the investigation in the aftermath of the shootings at Virginia Tech, it was learned that Seung Hui Cho’s counseling file from the Cook Counseling Center on the Virginia Tech campus could not be found. The file has now been recovered from the home of a former employee who left the counseling center a number of months before the shooting. There is an investigation under way to determine how the file was removed from the Cook Counseling Center.

“The file was recovered in connection with a pending civil suit, and while I cannot comment on the circumstances of its recovery, we feel it is imperative that the file be made public as quickly as possible. The panel that conducted the review under my direction did not have the file, the families of those killed and injured have not had access to it, and Seung Hui Cho’s parents have not been able to see that information.

“We are currently pursuing the release of the materials, which we hope will happen very promptly. The records can legally be released by the administrator of Cho’s estate, and his family earlier gave similar permission for release of other materials. The file could also be made public during legal proceedings through subpoena. We will make sure that the file is released publicly as soon as possible.

“While I do not know the contents of the files, I recognize that they are an important component in understanding what happened that day and what productive steps can be taken in the future to prevent such a terrible event. My thoughts and prayers continue to be with the families and friends of the victims as they continue to cope with such an incredible tragedy.”

Virginia Association of Commonwealth's Attorneys Applauds Governor Kaine's Calling for a Special Legislative Session

2009-07-22T14:02:00.000-07:00

The Virginia Association of Commonwealth’s Attorneys applauds Governor Kaine’s leadership in calling for a special session of the General Assembly to deal with the public safety issues raised by the recent United States Supreme Court ruling in Melendez-Diaz v. Massachusetts.

Given the significant impact on the Division of Forensic Science and on pending criminal trials, the Governor made the responsible decision to seek prompt legislative action. Our Association looks forward to working with the Governor’s office and the Office of the Attorney General to draft a bipartisan solution to present to the General Assembly.

Joel R. Branscom
Commonwealth’s Attorney for Botetourt County
President, Virginia Association of Commonwealth’s Attorneys

Region 2000 Partnership Releases Regional Economic Impact Analysis

2009-07-22T13:55:00.000-07:00

Findings show that region’s industry base is moving toward high wage, high growth sectors

July 22, 2009

Virginia’s Region 2000 Economic Development Council (EDC) released a regional economic impact analysis this week to its board of directors showing how the local economy is slowly evolving away from an over dependence on the manufacturing sector and toward high-wage, high-growth sectors such as healthcare and professional, technical services.

The Council engaged a Richmond based firm to conduct an objective, quantitative and qualitative analysis to show how Region 2000 Partnership efforts are making an impact on the local economy. The Partnership includes six organizations each focused in different areas of economic development and regional coordination and planning.

“The business, education and local government leaders in this region felt we were doing the right things to create a supportive environment for business and this study validated that for us,” said Bryan David, executive director of the EDC. “When you look at the long-term view, it’s clear that we are pointed in the right direction to transform our economy.”

The report explored employment and wage trends by industry with the largest change occurring in the manufacturing sector. That sector shed more than 8,000 jobs from 2000-2008 for a 33.8 percent decline — a change that drove manufacturing from a 24.1 percent share of regional employment in 2000 to a 15.8 percent share in 2008. These losses were offset, however, by significant gains in healthcare, professional, scientific, and technical services, accommodation, and wholesale trade, during the same period.

The healthcare sector posted the largest absolute increase in employment, growing by 3,380 jobs, or 27.9 percent. The professional, scientific, and technical services sector saw the second largest increase in employment, growing by 2,305 jobs, or 76.2 percent.

According to the study, “Region 2000 is doing an excellent job of rebalancing its portfolio of industries and jobs away from an over-dependence on the manufacturing sector and toward the high growth, high wage sectors in healthcare and professional/technical services."

During Tuesday’s board meeting, economic development council members also looked at the latest economic numbers from 2009 and discussed the study’s context in relation to the downturn.

“Taking the historical data into account, I believe that when we emerge from this recession, we will be well positioned in the new economy and we will continue to evolve and diversify our business base,” Bryan David said.

Contacts:

R. Bryan David, Executive Director
Virginia’s Region 2000 Economic Development Council
434-847-1447
bdavid@region2000.org

Traci Blido, Communications Officer
Virginia’s Region 2000 Partnership
434-847-1447
tblido@region2000.o

Blacksburg Wins Digital Governance Award

2009-07-22T13:50:00.001-07:00

July 22, 2009

Heather D. Browning
Community Relations Manager
(540) 961-1199
hbrowning@blacksburg.gov
www.blacksburg.gov

TOWN OF BLACKSBURG RECEIVES DIGITAL GOVERNANCE AWARD
Honored for Leadership in Digital Access

The town of Blacksburg has won the national 2009 Digital Governance Award for Leadership in Digital Access. The town distinguished itself in this category using webcasting technology as a critical, cost efficient vehicle for distributing public information. Blacksburg Web Administrator John McKenna will accept the award at the Digital Governance Awards Banquet on July 24 at the 2009 Granicus User Conference held July 22-24 in San Francisco.

The 2009 Digital Governance Awards program is presented by Granicus, Inc. It celebrates government agencies for using digital technology in innovative ways to confront today’s challenging economic times and to deliver organizational value. The winners represent best practices in creating competitive advantage, reducing operating costs, optimizing legislative processes, or improving government-to-citizen relationships.

“We’re very proud to be recognized on a national level for this accomplishment. We’ve worked and will continue to work hard to optimize digital media as a valuable resource for relaying public information and promoting town services.” said Chip Herman, WTOB Station Manager.

Blacksburg began using Granicus as a webcasting solution in 2006. Since then the town has grown a media library of over 100 videos ranging from public meetings, public service announcements, arts and historical content, to recreational activities and community events. Blacksburg continues to expand access and now offers podcasting and downloads through the popular iTunes music service.

"We are extremely proud to recognize our clients for displaying innovation, creativity, and leadership in using technology to achieve better results at lower costs,” says Tom Spengler, Granicus CEO and cofounder. “Blacksburg demonstrated an outstanding use of Granicus technology to deliver high levels of government transparency, citizen participation, and empowerment. This is an important accomplishment in today's difficult financial climate where governments have to work harder to deliver value to their citizens."

The highly competitive Digital Governance Awards seek to honor Granicus clients who display measurable outcomes with technological solutions that:

Improve efficiency in government and public services.
Enhance public communication.
Improve community engagement.
Facilitate government transparency.

A record number of applications were submitted. The competition was close. The winning jurisdictions demonstrated the most compelling use of Granicus technology. And they accomplished measurable and impressive results.

For Additional Information

Chip Herman, Town of Blacksburg, cherman@blacksburg.gov, 540-961-1199
Lauren Alexander, Granicus, Inc., lauren@granicus.com, 415-357-3618 x1788

Blacksburg Welcomes Cygielnik as Assistant Director of Public Works

2009-07-22T13:45:00.000-07:00

July 22, 2009

Heather D. Browning
Community Relations Manager
(540) 961-1199
hbrowning@blacksburg.gov
www.blacksburg.gov

Priscilla Morales Cygielnik has joined the town of Blacksburg as assistant director of public works following a competitive search and selection from a field of over 40 candidates.

Cygielnik has a B.S. degree in Civil Engineering from Virginia Tech, an M.B.A. from the University of Florida. She relocated to Blacksburg last year and worked for a local engineering and design firm after serving five years as a project manager for the Miami-Dade Public Works Department and four years as a project engineer with Burns & McDonnell Engineering in Coral Gables, Florida. She has extensive knowledge in planning, design, and construction administration of major infrastructure projects with expertise in community enhancement projects and bicycle and pedestrian safety improvements.

Cygielnik is a registered professional engineer in Virginia, Florida, and Illinois. She was born in the Panama Canal Zone to a Brazilian mother, Penelope Morales, and a Puerto Rican father, Lieutenant Colonel Mario Morales Jr. She speaks Spanish and Portuguese, and spent the first thirteen years of her life living overseas in Panama, Brazil, Spain, and Puerto Rico as an Air Force "brat."

She will be assisting the public works department with a variety of responsibilities, to include managing the department’s input into the design review process, labor and equipment resource allocation, performance measurement, and project management.

“Priscilla brings to the town a high level of technical expertise and professionalism,” said Director of Public Works Kelly Mattingly. “We are confident that her knowledge and experience will enable the Public Works department to better meet the challenges of the future.”

Virginia Heritage Awards Seeking Nominees

2009-07-22T13:30:00.000-07:00

July 22, 2009

The Virginia Commission for the Arts is now accepting nominations for the state's first Virginia Heritage Awards to be presented in Richmond on October 9th during the Richmond Folk Festival.

The Virginia Heritage Awards will recognize six master folk artists and/or preservationists who have made outstanding contributions to artistic traditions rooted in the traditional or ethnic culture of the Commonwealth. Folk and traditional arts, which include music, crafts, dance, storytelling, and others, are those that are learned as part of the cultural life of a community whose members share a common heritage, language, religion, occupation, or geographic region. These traditions are shaped by the values of the shared culture and are passed from generation to generation, most often within families and community through observation, conversation, and practice, rather than formal training.

Anyone can nominate an individual, group, or organization for the Virginia Heritage Awards. Nominees must currently live or be located in Virginia. Candidates will be evaluated on the authenticity of their tradition, as well as on their efforts to enrich their communities and enhance their tradition to a higher level of artistic achievement.

Nominations are due by 5 pm on Monday, August 3, 2009, in the offices of the Virginia Commission for the Arts. Visit the Virginia Heritage Awards nominations page at www.arts.virginia.gov for nomination forms and instructions, or call the commission offices at (804) 225-3132 for more information about the nomination process.

The Virginia Commission for the Arts supports the arts through funding from the Virginia General Assembly and the National Endowment for the Arts. The commission distributes grant awards to artists, arts and other nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, educators and local governments and provides technical assistance in arts management.

Williamsburg Tourism Goes Green

2009-07-21T13:35:00.000-07:00

July 21, 2009

City of Williamsburg Promotes Going Green to Tourism Businesses:
Combining good environmental practice with a unique marketing
opportunity

The city of Williamsburg has joined forces with
MBA students from the Mason School of Business at the College of William
& Mary to encourage local businesses in the hospitality industry to be
certified Virginia Green by the Virginia Tourism Corporation (VTC) and
the state’s Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). Beginning this
week, the students are mailing letters and contacting businesses
individually to help them understand the value of going green and
provide assistance in the application process.

“With the current economy, we want to do everything we can to assist
our local businesses to be as successful as possible,” said Michele
Mixner DeWitt, economic development director for the city of
Williamsburg. “More and more travelers are choosing environmentally
friendly businesses when they plan their trips, and we want our
businesses to be the ones they choose. We’re very excited to be able
to partner with interns from the Mason School of Business, who are
bringing their expertise, time and enthusiasm to this project.”

Virginia Green is a statewide program to reduce the environmental
impacts of Virginia’s tourism industry. The program awards Virginia
Green Certification to tourism-related business such as hotels,
restaurants and attractions taking voluntary actions to reduce harmful
impacts on the environment.
(http://www.deq.virginia.gov/p2/virginiagreen/homepage.html)

Once a business is registered green, it is promoted as a green business
on the VTC website, which five million people visit annually
(http://www.virginia.org/green/)

The first certified restaurant in the city to be Virginia Green was
Aberdeen Barn. The first certified hotel was Williamsburg Hospitality
House.

The current outreach includes contact information for recycling and
other services to assist businesses wanting to go green.

For more information: Michele Mixner DeWitt, 757.220.6120,
mdewitt@williamsburgva.gov

Kate Hoving
Communications Specialist
City of Williamsburg
401 Lafayette St.
Williamsburg, VA 23185
Office: 757.220.6197
Fax 757.259.8042
email: khoving@williamsburgva.gov

High Speed Rail from Richmond to DC Funding Urged

2009-07-21T11:09:00.001-07:00

July 21, 2009

Contact: Gordon Hickey
(804) 225-4260

www.governor.virginia.gov

GOVERNOR KAINE, LOCAL LEADERS MAKE CASE FOR HIGH SPEED RAIL IN VIRGINIA
~ Business and elected leaders urge funding approval to expand passenger service and encourage growth along Washington, DC to Richmond/Petersburg corridor ~

Governor Timothy M. Kaine today joined with regional business and local government officials to appeal for federal funds to develop high speed rail between Washington, DC and the Richmond and Petersburg region. The broad swath of state and local officials stood with representatives of area Chambers of Commerce in a strong show of support for expanded passenger rail service that would encourage economic development along one of the nation's busiest corridors.

“The economies of the national capital region and state capital region are integrally connected,” Governor Kaine said. “This first nationwide investment in high speed rail can help rebalance transportation options for Virginians--and reduce our dependence on a stressed highway system--while reducing pollution and creating jobs all along the I-95 corridor.”

On July 10, the Commonwealth submitted preapplications for more than $2 billion of high speed rail projects under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act's (ARRA) high speed rail program. The ARRA rail stimulus program will provide $8 billion in federal funds to support high speed and intercity passenger rail projects across the country --another $5 billion in federal funds is expected to be committed in the next decade. Virginia's applications focus on the I-95 corridor between Washington, DC and Petersburg and would further the Commonwealth's commitment to freight and passenger rail options. Recent infrastructure investments and public-private partnerships include expansions of passenger rail service along the routes from Richmond and Lynchburg to Washington, DC and the Northeast Corridor that are expected to remove 1.4 millions cars from highways, save more than 8.3 million gallons of fuel, and eliminate 66,000 tons of carbon emissions each year.

“High speed rail is a tremendous economic development opportunity with the power to transform the Richmond region in a very positive way,” said Kim Scheeler, President & CEO of the Greater Richmond Chamber of Commerce.

"The Greater Richmond Chamber is extremely excited about the prospect of high speed rail in our region because of the transformational economic development potential it creates." stated Kim Scheeler, President & CEO of the Greater Richmond Chamber.

Katherine Busser, Immediate Past Chair of the Greater Richmond Chamber and a Co-Chair of the Capital Region Collaborative said, "The Collaborative is united in our support for the high speed rail and we wanted to join forces with those who are working hard to make this a reality for the Capital region. The level of cooperation and excitement about this issue is incredible. We know that our entire region will benefit from high speed rail."

"The Richmond Regional Planning District Commission is very excited to partner with the Greater Richmond Chamber on the Capital Region Collaborative,” said Robert Crum, Executive Director of the RRPDC. "The Region's support for high speed rail is an example of how our community can come together to support an initiative that will benefit the entire Richmond Region."

Hanover County Supervisor and RRPDC Board member John Gordon added that he looks forward to the opportunities that continued regional cooperation will offer the Richmond Region. "High speed rail is the Collaborative's first success story, and I look forward to working with our regional partners to advance other important initiatives that will strengthen the Richmond Region."

Transportation options such as passenger rail provide congestion relief and economic benefits by encouraging tourism, supporting jobs and promoting local investment. According to the Virginia Statewide Rail Plan, the total wages of Amtrak employees in Virginia amount to more than $50 million per year, and Amtrak spends approximately $50 million per year for goods and services in Virginia.

The timeline for grant awards includes at least two rounds, with Round 1 in fall 2009 and Round 2 in spring 2010. States were requested to submit pre-applications for all projects no later than July 10, 2009, even if projects will be submitted as part of later rounds of grant awards. Complete details of the program funding criteria, timeline and project selection process are available online at http://www.fra.dot.gov/us/content/2153 .

Governor Kaine Joins Youth Volunteers for Service Project

2009-07-21T06:56:00.001-07:00

July 21, 2009

Contact: Gordon Hickey (804) 225-4260
www.governor.virginia.gov

GOVERNOR KAINE JOINS YOUTH VOLUNTEERS FOR SERVICE PROJECT
~ Project is part of summer-long United We Serve initiative ~

Governor Timothy M. Kaine today joined members of the Virginia State Parks Youth Conservation Corps (YCC) to volunteer at Pocahontas State Park, highlighting community service efforts in the Commonwealth. The service project is also part of the United We Serve initiative, President Barack Obama’s national call for a summer of service. As part of their volunteer work, the Governor and members of the YCC spent the morning participating in environmentally friendly efforts such as creating trails and working on improvements to one of the park’s dining halls.

“Today was a mixture of inspiration and perspiration, and it was great,” said Governor Kaine. “The teens from YCC tackle important projects in our parks, work long, hard hours and develop an appreciation for the environment and the outdoors. The lessons they learn here will influence them for the rest of their lives.”

United We Serve aims to put volunteers on a path to sustained service in their communities. Citizens are encouraged to organize those within their community, identify unmet needs, develop their own service projects, and network with others who have similar skills or interests. The initiative is encouraging participation across a wide range of service areas, with particular emphasis on fields that will help mitigate the effects of the economic downturn and help America recover. The areas of emphasis are:

· Promoting clean energy, energy efficiency, and public land restoration
· Education and literacy
· Increasing health care access, public health awareness, and prevention
· Providing community renewal to areas hardest hit by the economic crisis

United We Serve will culminate on Sept. 11, 2009 as a National Day of Service and Remembrance. Volunteer opportunities in the Commonwealth may be searched by location and keyword at www.serve.org.

The YCC is modeled after the depression-era Civilian Conservation Corps, which built the original six Virginia State Parks and Pocahontas State Park. In 2008, YCC received the Governor’s Volunteer Award for Best Youth Volunteer Program. Operating through the Virginia Office on Volunteerism and Community Service the AmeriCorps*State Program allows members to earn an education award that can be used to pay for college or to pay back qualified student loans.

Governor Kaine also was joined today by the Governor’s Fellows, 18 graduating college seniors and current graduate students from Virginia serving in the Governor’s Office and Cabinets. The Governor’s Fellows will work through Aug. 7, and are afforded opportunities to observe the operation of the highest levels of state government. This summer, the Fellows volunteered their time gardening for community food banks and mentoring at-risk youth, and plan to participate in an upcoming Remote Area Medical clinic in Wise County later this week in the spirit of sustainable service.

“Public service is an honorable, character-building pursuit,” said Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR). Director Joseph H. Maroon. “From the YCC, to the Governor’s Fellows, to the thousands of Virginians volunteering in United We Serve programs, our Commonwealth is made better by their efforts.”

Governor Kaine Announces ARRA Funding

2009-07-20T11:29:00.000-07:00

July 20, 2009

Contact: Gordon Hickey
(804) 225-4260
www.governor.virginia.gov

GOVERNOR KAINE ANNOUNCES $1 BILLION MILESTONE IN ARRA FUNDING ALLOCATED FOR INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS
~ Nearly 250 projects across the state will be constructed thanks to Recovery Act funding ~

Governor Timothy M. Kaine today announced that more than $1 billion in American Restoration and Recovery Act funding has been allocated for infrastructure projects in Virginia. The infrastructure projects, and jobs created, would not have been possible without the stimulus money provided by the federal government.

“These projects are beginning at a time when we are facing a national economic crisis, and they are putting Virginians to work,” Governor Kaine said. “The projects also will pay long term dividends to all of us, in the form of improved bridges and highways, railways and other transit, sewage treatment and drinking water.”

The Commonwealth of Virginia is expected to receive about $4.8 billion from the Recovery Act. Individuals, private organizations and businesses, and local governments are also eligible for additional Recovery Act funding. As more Recovery Act funds are allocated, more jobs and improvements are expected statewide.

Infrastructure allocations to date include:
$123 million for highway safety and construction improvements;
$116 million for regional transportation projects selected by regional planning organizations;
$116 million for bridge replacement or repair;
$114 million for pavement preservation and restoration;
$96 million for road construction associated with the BRAC process;
$70 million for sewage plant work;
$62 million for rail improvements;
$28 million for urban transit projects;
$21 million for transportation enhancement projects;
$14 million for small urban transit projects;
$19 million for clean drinking water projects;
$8 million for “green” clean water projects;
$4 million for rural transit projects;
About $184 million for the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority, shared with Maryland and Washington, DC.

The Commonwealth Transportation Board, local governments, the Department of Transportation, Department of Rail and Public Transportation, the Department of Environmental Quality, and Department of Health are now getting the work under contract so that jobs are saved and created. For example, 23 jobs have been created with just two highway paving contracts.

A complete list of infrastructure projects follows:

Project
Locality
Estimated Allocation*
Type of Project
Renewable Energy System
Abingdon
$378,900
Clean Water - Green
STAR Transit
Eastern Shore
$110,000
Rural Transit
Interstate 64 Shadwell Interchange
Albemarle
$1,550,000
Highway Construction
Routes 20/29/33/53/250
Albemarle
$4,848,000
Pavement Preservation and Restoration
Interstate 64
Alleghany
$18,995,610
Highway Safety Improvements
Route 661
Alleghany
$726,000
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Lower Jackson River Wastewater Treatment Plant and Collection
Alleghany
$10,000,000
Clean Water
Energy Recovery Microturbine
Alleghany
$250,000
Clean Water - Green
Iron Gate Water Trank Replacement
Alleghany
$700,000
Clean Drinking Water
Mount Horeb Road
Amherst
$247,500
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Mount Pleasant Road
Amherst
$165,000
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
River Road
Amherst
$338,250
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Stinnett Road
Amherst
123750
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Route 50/Courthouse Road Interchange
Arlington
$10,300,000
Highway Construction
Route 664
Augusta
$536,250
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Route 721
Augusta
$833,250
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Route 971
Augusta
$272,250
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Solar Panels at WWTP/Pump Stations
Augusta
$364,964
Clean Water - Green
Route 600
Bath
$495,000
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Union Church Road
Bedford
$334,950
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Water Resue Line to Brooks Food Group
Bedford (city)
$165,330
Clean Water - Green
Kimberling Road
Bland
$430,650
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Poor Valley Road
Bland
$389,400
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Waddletown Road
Bland
$340,197
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Cedar Brook Lane
Botetourt
$173,250
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Humbert Road
Botetourt
$173,250
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Interstate 81
Botetourt
$18,369,000
Pavement Preservation and Restoration
Boydton Plan Road (Sturgeon Creek)
Brunswick
$1,559,250
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Boydton Plank Road
Brunswick
$1,559,250
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Tobacco Heritage Trail
Brunswick
$6,000,000
Enhancement Project
Lawrenceville WRP Upgrades
Brunswick
$715,000
Clean Drinking Water
Greenway Road
Buckingham
$462,000
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
New Store Road
Buckingham
$1,529,550
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Slate Hill Road
Buckingham
$354,750
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Union Church Road
Buckingham
$353,100
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Mollies Creek Road
Campbell
$297,000
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Brookneal Water System Improvements
Campbell
$705,104
Clean Drinking Water
Golansville Road
Caroline
$577,500
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Paige Road
Caroline
$1,041,150
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Hillsville Main Interceptor Replacement SSO
Carroll
$552,900
Clean Water
Interstate 64 5th Street Interchange
Charlottesville
$1,150,000
Highway Construction
Charlottesville Transit Service
Charlottesville, Albemarle
$1,306,442
Small Urban Transit
Dismal Swamp Canal Trail
Chesapeake
$1,300,000
Transportation Enhancement Project
Interstate 464
Chesapeake
$5,784,000
Pavement Preservation and Restoration
Interstate 64
Chesapeake
$17,941,000
Pavement Preservation and Restoration
Routes 15/20/29/250/299/522
Culpeper
$4,625,000
Pavement Preservation and Restoration
Boiler Conversion
Culpeper
$260,000
Clean Water - Green
Deep Run Road
Cumberland
$206,250
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Rock Creek Road
Cumberland
$561,000
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Danville Transit System
Danville
$200,000
Small Urban Transit
Robertson Bridge
Danville
$28,945,377
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Clintwood Longs Fork Sewer
Dickenson
$803,985
Clean Water
Route 360/460
Dinwiddie, Amelia
$2,951,000
Pavement Preservation and Restoration
Fairfax County Parkway Phase IV
Fairfax
$22,800,000
BRAC Construction
Fairfax County Parkway Phases III
Fairfax
$37,300,000
BRAC Construction
Fairfax County Parkway/Fair Lakes Interchange
Fairfax
$13,020,897
Highway Construction
Water Reuse Line to Covanta
Fairfax
$3,803,000
Clean Water - Green
High Bridge Trail
Farmville area
$2,000,000
Transportation Enhancement Project
Cromwell Road
Fauquier
$262,350
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Delaplane Grade Road
Fauquier
$264,000
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Route 15/17/28 (34.54 lane miles)
Fauquier
$5,768,000
Pavement Preservation and Restoration
Warrenton Digester Gas Collection
Fauquier
$400,000
Clean Water - Green
Callaway Road
Franklin
$1,126,950
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Boones Mill Water System Upgrade
Franklin
$3,396,400
Clean Drinking Water
Route 657
Frederick
$1,056,000
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Route 61
Giles
$15,698,013
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Falls Road
Grayson
$499,950
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Laurel Creek Road
Grayson
$440,550
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Laurel Hill Road
Grayson
$1,329,900
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Laurel View Road (N Fork Elk Creek)
Grayson
$414,150
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Laurel View Road (S Fork Elk Creek)
Grayson
$344,850
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Low Gap Road
Grayson
$379,500
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Peaks Mountain Road
Grayson
$504,900
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Rose Hill Road
Grayson
$211,200
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Route 656
Grayson
$605,550
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Route 678
Grayson
$330,000
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Stones Chapel Road
Grayson
$445,500
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Winding Road
Grayson
$226,050
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Town of Fries Sewer Line Replacement
Grayson
$309,200
Clean Water
Armistead Road
Halifax
$90,750
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
East Hitesburg Road
Halifax
$107,250
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Henrys Mill Road
Halifax
$2,092,200
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Mercury Boulevard
Hampton
$3,600,000
Pavement Preservation and Restoration
Hampton Roads Metropolitan Planning Organization
Hampton Roads Region
$41,041,797
Regional Transportation Priorities
Hampton Roads Transit
Hampton Roads Region
$24,100,000
Urban Transit
Harrisonburg Department of Public Transportation
Harrisonburg
$1,670,400
Small Urban Transit
Interstate 295
Henrico
$8,362,000
Pavement Preservation and Restoration
Virginia Capital Trail
Henrico, Charles City
$8,133,000
Transportation Enhancement Project
Life Station Standby Generators
Henry
$705,000
Clean Water
Route 654
Highland
$396,000
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Agal Alternative Treatment Project
Hopewell
$600,000
Clean Water
Fort Eustis Boulevard Widening
James City, Newport News
$24,509,793
BRAC Highway Construction
Route 3/360
Lancaster, Northerumberland, Richmond
$2,286,000
Pavement Preservation and Restoration
Old Nursery Road
Lee
$320,100
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Ward Hill Road
Lee
$303,600
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Mountain Transit Empire Older Citizens, Inc
Lee, Scott, Wise and City of Norton
$225,000
Rural Transit
Routes 7/9/287
Loudoun
$4,476,000
Pavement Preservation and Restoration
VRT - Loudoun County
Loudoun
$2,794,000
Rural Transit
Water Reuse Line to National Rural utilities
Loudoun
$1,196,330
Clean Water - Green
Water Resue Line to One Loudoun
Loudoun
$580,000
Clean Water
Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) - 2 interceptors
Lynchburg
$24,960,000
Clean Water
Rainleader Disconnect Program
Lynchburg
$400,000
Clean Water - Green
Greater Lynchburg Transit Company
Lynchburg Region
$5,177,500
Small Urban Transit
Wellington Road/Rail Interchange
Manassas
$24,905,390
Rail
Route 1
Mencklenburg
$1,848,000
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Shiney Rock Road
Mencklenburg
$598,950
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Blacksburg Transit
Montgomery
$4,523,664
Small Urban Transit

Aerial Drive
Nelson
$165,000
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Battery Hill Lane
Nelson
$1,419,000
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Cedar Creek Road
Nelson
$1,947,000
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Collen Road
Nelson
$148,500
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Dutch Creek Lane
Nelson
$338,250
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Findlay Gap Drive
Nelson
$255,750
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Findlay Gap Road
Nelson
$107,250
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Myndus Road
Nelson
$222,750
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Norwood Road (Rock Cliff Creek)
Nelson
$338,250
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Norwood Road (Tribruary of James River)
Nelson
$231,000
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Norwood Road (Union Hill Creek)
Nelson
$796,950
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Pharsalia Road
Nelson
$338,250
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Rockfish River Road
Nelson
$173,250
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Rockfish River Road
Nelson
$239,250
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Starvale Lane
Nelson
$165,000
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Variety Mills Road
Nelson
$222,750
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Willis Lane
Nelson
$338,250
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Pocahontas Trail WBL
New Kent
$907,500
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Parham Landing
New Kent
$6,752,136
Clean Water
NIT Central Rail Yard
Norfolk
$17,800,000
Rail
Cape Charles Wastewater Treatment Plant & Nutrient Upgrade
Northampton
$4,463,973
Clean Water
Bay Aging Transit
Northern Neck and Middle Peninsula regions
$396,900
Rural Transit
Potomac-Rappahannock Transportation Commission
Northern Virginia and Fredercksburg region
$3,900,000
Urban Transit
Virginia Railway Express
Northern Virginia and Fredercksburg region
$9,800,000
Urban Transit
Northern Virginia Transportation Authority
Northern Virginia region
$51,262,196
Regional Transportation Priorities
Lee Lake Road
Nottoway
$610,500
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Orange Spicers Mill Road Interceptor Replacement
Orange
$2,117,500
Clean Water
Route 211 EBL
Page
$478,500
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Stanley I/I Repairs
Page
$100,000
Clean Water
Davis Road
Pittsylvania
$1,993,200
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Route 29 Business
Pittsylvania
$1,998,150
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Route 685
Pittsylvania
$2,478,300
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Route 164 Rail Relocation
Portsmouth
$9,000,000
Rail
Prentis Park Waterline Replacement
Portsmouth
$4,808,249
Clean Drinking Water
Cartersville Road
Powhatan
$1,229,250
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Bell Road
Prince Edward
$165,000
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Chappell Road
Prince Edward
$107,250
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Miller's Lake Road
Prince Edward
$247,500
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Route 460
Prince Edward
$4,430,000
Pavement Preservation and Restoration
Snead Road
Prince Edward
$371,250
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Route 36 Corridor
Prince George, Petersburg, Hopewell
$11,379,950
BRAC Highway Construction
US Marine Corp Heritage Trail
Prince William
$500,000
Transportation Enhancement Project
Haymarket Transit
Prince William
$145,000
Rural Transit
Routes 1/15/28/29/55/234
Prince William
$5,819,000
Pavement Preservation and Restoration
Pulaski Area Transit
Pulaski
$54,000
Rural Transit
Harris Hollow Road
Rappahannock
$259,050
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Acca Yard Preliminary Engineering
Richmond
$10,000,000
Rail
German School Road
Richmond
$3,336,000
Highway Construction
History Land Highway
Richmond
$689,700
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) - 3 projects
Richmond
$6,208,000
Clean Water
Richmond Metropolitan Planning Organization
Richmond Region
$20,848,262
Regional Transportation Priorities
Greater Richmond Transit Company
Richmond, Henrico
$13,800,000
Urban Transit
RADAR/Roanoke Tranist
Roanoke Region
$110,000
Rural Transit
Rorer Avenue Water Line Replacements
Roanoke (city)
$100,550
Clean Drinking Water
Rugby Boulevard Water Lane Replacements
Roanoke (city)
$173,800
Clean Drinking Water
Greater Roanoke Tranist Company
Roanoke Region
$580,000
Small Urban Transit
Roanoke River Greenway
Roanoke Region
$2,000,000
Transportation Enhancement Project
Route 603 (Irish Creek)
Rockbridge
$396,000
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Route 603 (Irish Creek)
Rockbridge
$437,250
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Route 611
Rockbridge
$338,250
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Goshen Water System Replacement
Rockbridge
$1,000,000
Clean Drinking Water
Port Republic Road
Rockingham
$22,115,603
Highway Construction
Route 624
Rockingham
$363,000
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Route 631
Rockingham
$594,000
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Route 671
Rockingham
$297,000
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Route 722
Rockingham
$280,500
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Route 955
Rockingham
$264,000
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Valley Pike Road
Rockingham
$742,500
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Green Valley Road
Russell
$602,250
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Kents Ridge Road
Russell
$1,072,500
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Pine Creek Road
Russell
$762,300
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Route 664/Route 603 Waterline Extension
Russell
$1,285,414
Clean Drinking Water
Hunters Valley E.
Scott
$313,500
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Natural Tunnel Parkway
Scott
$321,750
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Rye Cove Memorial Road
Scott
$628,650
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Big Stone Gap Sewer System Rehabiliation
Scott
$1,836,909
Clean Water
Otterhouse to Beach Grove Waterline Extension
Scott
$2,248,903
Clean Drinking Water
Route 600
Shenandoah
$478,500
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Route 601
Shenandoah
$120,000
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Route 645
Shenandoah
$330,000
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Route 676
Shenandoah
$115,500
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Valley Pike Trail
Shenandoah
$850,000
Transportation Enhancement Project
New Market North Fork Public Sewer
Shenandoah
$4,265,116
Clean Water
Bear Creek Road
Smyth
$541,200
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Flat Ridge Road
Smyth
$660,000
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Flowing Springs Road
Smyth
$457,050
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Lick Creek Road
Smyth
$600,600
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Sugar Street
Smyth
$232,650
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Hall Addition and Staley Creek Sewer Extension
Smyth
$870,728
Clean Water
Marion South Main Street Water Replacement
Smyth
$163,350
Clean Drinking Water
Route 3 Design-Build
Spotsylvania
$25,200,000
Highway Construction
Interstate 95
Spotsylvania, Stafford
$13,155,838
Pavement Preservation and Restoration
Brooke Road
Stafford
$973,500
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Route 630/CSX Bridge
Stafford
$5,390,000
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Route 653
Tazewell
$669,900
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Baptist Valley East Sewer
Tazewell
$2,000,000
Clean Water
Pocahontas WTP Improvements
Tazewell
$122,600
Clean Drinking Water
Tri-Cities Metropolitan Planning Organization
Tri-Cities region
$3,252,112
Regional Transportation Priorities
Prince Anne Road
Virginia Beach
$16,700,000
Highway Construction
Witchduck Road
Virginia Beach
$10,607,101
Highway Construction
Interstate 66
Warren
$1,596,000
Pavement Preservation and Restoration
Brumley Gap Road
Washington
$496,650
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Brumley Gap Road
Washington
$397,650
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Chestnut Mountain Road
Washington
$544,500
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Dry Branch Road
Washington
$321,750
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Interstate 81
Washington
$3,065,424
Pavement Preservation and Restoration
Lindell Road
Washington
$671,550
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Tidwells/Drum Bay Spray Irrigation/Water Reuse
Westmoreland
$890,000
Clean Water - Green
Winchester Transit
Winchester
$36,100
Small Urban Transit
Lick Branch Road
Wise
$242,550
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Stephens/Guest River Interceptor
Wise
$1,037,000
Clean Water
Disinfection By-Product Abatement
Wise
$490,000
Clean Drinking Water
St. Paul Water System Rehabilitation
Wise
$403,604
Clean Drinking Water
Pound Water Improvements
Wise
$1,552,470
Clean Drinking Water
Appalachia System Improvements
Wise
$747,891
Clean Drinking Water
Berea Road
Wythe
$1,036,200
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Castleton Road
Wythe
$361,350
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Interstate 77
Wythe
$6,566,912
Pavement Preservation and Restoration
Saint Peters Road (Dry Run Creek)
Wythe
$689,700
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Saint Peters Road (Mill Branch)
Wythe
$219,450
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
South Fork Drive
Wythe
$783,750
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement
Grahams Forge Phase II
Wythe
$1,449,340
Clean Water
Wysor Highway
Wythe
$438,900
Bridge Structure Repair/Replacement

$812,852,874

Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority**
National Capital Region
$184,083,396
Urban Transit

$996,936,270

Additional Potential ARRA Transportation Projects ***
Interstate 664
Norfolk, Portsmouth, Chesapeake
$20,175,000
Pavement Preservation and Restoration
Pacific Boulevard
Loudoun
$5,000,000
Highway Construction
I-581 Elm Avenue Interchange
City of Roanoke
$20,000,000
Highway Construction
Route 174
Martinsville
$7,494,381
Highway Construction
Route 208 - Spotsylvania CH Bypass
Spotsylvania
$25,836,569
Highway Construction

* Project allocates are estimates and may vary based on actual costs
** Includes funds allocated to Virginia, Maryland and Washington, DC
*** Project is eligible for remaining $46.8 million in ARRA funding based on CTB action (06/18/09); whether or not project is advanced using ARRA funds will be determined in coming months. However, all $46.8 million in funding will be used on infrastructure projects.

Governor's Cabinet Features Community Day Schedule

2009-07-20T11:24:00.000-07:00

July 20, 2009

Contact: Michael Kelly
(804) 225-4801
www.governor.virginia.gov

GOVERNOR’S CABINET
COMMUNITY DAY PUBLIC SCHEDULE
~ Fifteenth Cabinet Community Day Session to be held July 29 ~

Fredericksburg Cabinet Community Day

Governor Timothy M. Kaine, his Cabinet and members of his senior staff will conduct their fifteenth Cabinet Community Day on Wednesday, July 29, 2009 in the Fredericksburg area. This is the third Cabinet Community Day of 2009.

The Governor holds four Cabinet Community Days every year, visiting eight regions of the state twice over the course of the administration.

In 2009, Cabinet Community Days have been held in Southwest Virginia on June 5 and in Martinsville on April 9. In 2008, Cabinet Community days were held on the Virginia Peninsula, Fairfax, Staunton, and Petersburg. In 2007, sessions took place in Southern Virginia, the Eastern Shore, Roanoke and Charlottesville. In 2006, Cabinet Community Days occurred in Hampton Roads, Abingdon, the Shenandoah Valley, and Northern Virginia.

Wednesday, July 29

ARRA Weatherization Event and United We Serve Service Project. Governor Kaine and members of his Cabinet and senior staff will join the Rappahannock Area Agency on Aging to highlight the increased funding for the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development’s Weatherization Assistance program as a result of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The Governor and Cabinet will perform weatherization work at the home of Katherine Smith as part of President Obama’s call for a summer of community service through his United We Serve initiative. The Governor and Cabinet will work alongside a crew from Christiansburg-based Community Housing Partners, a weatherization contractor that has doubled its staff and projects over the last 8 months in response to increased demand stemming from the newly available weatherization funding. Open to the press and public.

When: 9:00 a.m.

Where: Home of Katherine Smith
1205 Mullens Court
King George, Virginia

Germanna Community College Stafford Center Ribbon Cutting. Governor Kaine and members of his Cabinet and senior staff will help cut the ribbon on Germanna Community College’s new Stafford Center. The fourth location of Germanna Community College—which will have four classrooms, computer labs, and office space—is expected to offer 52 classes this fall and serve approximately 1,000 students. The Center is a partnership between the school and Stafford Economic Development Authority which has invested $300,000 over three years to promote economic development through workforce training. The center will also meet anticipated needs associated with the BRAC expansion at Quantico and the new Stafford Hospital Center. Open to the press and public.

When: 10:45 a.m.

Where: Suites 105, 107 and 109, Aquia Park
2761 Jefferson Davis Highway
Stafford, Virginia

Business Sales Growth Seminar. Governor Kaine and members of his Cabinet and senior staff will attend the Virginia Department of Business Assistance’s Fredericksburg-area Business Sales Growth seminar—an advanced seminar providing interactive discussions with experts on growing sales by targeting appropriate government and private sector markets. Governor Kaine and Secretary of Commerce and Trade Patrick O. Gottschalk will address and meet with attendees. To register for the free seminar, please visit http://www.vastartup.org/register/events/31. Open to the press and public.

When: 12:00 p.m.

Where: Germanna Community College
Workforce and Technology Center
10000 Germanna Point Drive
Fredericksburg, Virginia

Federation of Virginia Food Banks Check Presentation and United We Serve Service Project. Governor Kaine will present a ceremonial check for $1 million to representatives of the Federation of Virginia Food Banks. Governor Kaine recommended the money as a budget amendment in the 2009 legislative session to help meet the basic needs of Virginians during hard economic times. Following the presentation, the Governor and members of his Cabinet and senior staff will participate in the Fredericksburg Area Food Bank’s Food for Life program as part of President Obama’s call for a summer of community service through his United We Serve initiative. The Food for Life program prepares boxes of nutritious food for delivery to low income seniors and persons with disabilities. Open to the press and public.

When: 1:45 p.m.

Where: Fredericksburg Area Food Bank
3631 Lee Hill Drive
Fredericksburg, Virginia

State Legislatures Face More Difficult Times According to NCSL Report

2009-07-20T11:19:00.000-07:00

July 20, 2009

State Legislators Face Even More Doom and Gloom

FY 2009 can be summed up in one word: dismal.
FY 2010 can be characterized by two words: even worse.

2009 will go down in history as one of the most difficult in history for state budgets. Hemorrhaging revenues have produced gaping holes in FY 2009 and FY 2010 budgets, and the bleeding is far from over.

State legislators worked to close cumulative budget shortfalls that reached $113.2 billion for FY 2009 and struggled to keep those budgets balanced. Some energy producing states were able to sidestep the majority of the fiscal problems the rest of the nation experienced, but even those states saw their revenues deteriorate. Revenue forecasts were pessimistic, but not pessimistic enough. Not only were states faced with lower revenue growth rates, many actually collected less money that the year before.

As bad as things were in FY 2009, the picture looks worse for FY 2010 and beyond.

The National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) has released its latest report, State Budget Update: July 2009. This report shows states had to close a $142.6 billion gap as legislatures enacted their new budgets. This staggering number does not include any new gaps that may open after the fiscal year began, which was on July 1 for 46 states.

"If you think legislators are breathing a sigh of relief because their budgets are passed, think again," said William Pound, NCSL executive director. "If history repeats itself, states are bound to see budget gaps reappear within the first quarter of FY 2010."

Eight states failed to meet their July 1 budget deadlines as legislators and governors became locked in heated debates. At the time of this release, five states had not passed a FY 2010 budget before the fiscal year began.

"Lawmakers are alarmed by looming budget gaps, which just keep getting bigger," said Corina Eckl, director of the fiscal program at NCSL. "They have already taken far-reaching, difficult and often unpopular actions. At this stage of the problem, there aren't many palatable solutions left on the table."

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) may be the silver lining. Without the stimulus money, state fiscal problems could have been even worse. The stimulus money provided through AARA has made NCSL's job made NCSL's job of collecting data very difficult. For instance, states may have reported that general fund spending fell from one year to the next, but ARRA funds—outside of the general fund—may have offset all or parts of those reductions.

NCSL's new report also indicates the cumulative state budget shortfall from FY 2002-FY 2006 (during the last recession) was $263.8 billion. The total cumulative budget totals for FY 2008, FY 2009 and FY 2010, and projected numbers for FY 2011 and FY 2012, already indicate the gap will reach at least $348.2 billion.

"It takes state budgets a couple of years to recover after a recession ends," said Eckl. "The last recession eight months, but it took states five years to fully recover. The current recession has already lasted 19 months and it isn't over. Without a doubt, lawmakers' endurance to resolve extraordinary fiscal problems will be tested for years to come."

NCSL's report provides information collected from legislative fiscal directors in June and July 2009. It includes information on budget gaps in FY 2009 and FY 2010 for all 50 states and Puerto Rico. Because of delayed budget enactment or lack of a budget altogether, 35 states provided additional information and are included in other sections of this report. Additional areas covered in this report include estimated growth rates for FY 2010 revenues, the impact of ARRA funds on state spending changes, a summary of actions states have taken to close FY 2010 budget gaps and forecasts of gaps in FY 2011 and FY 2012.

This report was released during NCSL's Legislative Summit in Philadelphia and the data was shared with legislators, legislative staff and members of the business community. The full report is available online and members of the media are encouraged to call the NCSL Press Room at the Pennsylvania Convention Center to discuss the report with NCSL's fiscal policy analysts.

NCSL is the bipartisan organization that serves the legislators and staff of the states, commonwealths and territories. It provides research, technical assistance and opportunities for policymakers to exchange ideas on the most pressing state issues and is an effective and respected advocate for the interests of the states in the American federal system.

For more information:

Michelle Blackston
Director of Media and Public Affairs
Washington, D.C.
(202) 624-8667

Meagan Dorsch
Media Manager
Denver
(303)856-1412

Virginia Dentist Gets National Service Award at National Governors' Association

2009-07-20T07:36:00.000-07:00

July 20, 2009

Contact: Gordon Hickey
Phone: (804) 225-4260
Cell Phone: (804) 291-8977
Internet: www.governor.virginia.gov

GOVERNOR KAINE CONGRATULATES VIRGINIA DENTIST ON NATIONAL SERVICE AWARD
~ Governor Kaine nominated Dr. Terry Dickinson for the National Governors’ Association Private Citizen Distinguished Service Award ~

Governor Timothy M. Kaine announced July 17 that Terry D. Dickinson, DDS, has been awarded the Private Citizen Distinguished Service to State Government Award by the National Governors’ Association (NGA). Selected among nominees from governors across the country, Dr. Dickinson was nominated by Governor Kaine for his outstanding public service in providing free dental care to thousands of underserved Virginians. Dickinson will receive his award at the annual NGA meeting in Biloxi, Mississippi on July 18, 2009. The NGA presents annual awards in three categories—outstanding contributions by private citizens, outstanding state officials, and outstanding contributions to the arts. This is the third time Governor Kaine’s nominee has received the Private Citizen Award, and the fourth time his nominee has received one of the NGA’s Distinguished Service to State Government Awards.

“Dr. Dickinson has taken his professional skill as a dentist and blended it with a deep personal compassion for others to make a significant difference for thousands of underserved Virginians and others across the nation,” said Governor Kaine. “He is a Virginia treasure whom I am immensely proud to have nominated for this award. His selection by the NGA confirms his outstanding service and compassion for others.”

In his role as the Executive Director of the Virginia Dental Association (VDA), Dr. Dickinson is the founder and driving force of the VDA’s “Mission of Mercy” or MOM Projects. Through the MOM Projects, Dickinson coordinates hundreds of volunteers, including dentists, dental hygienists, and others to provide free dental services to underserved Virginians. Since 2000, Dickinson has directed 39 MOM Projects across the Commonwealth which have provided more than $14.5 million in free dental care to over 30,000 patients. “I have been to several MOM Projects, and have witnessed first-hand what a difference Terry has made in providing quality dental care to so many Virginians in need,” Governor Kaine said.

Dickinson’s work on the MOM Projects has extended well beyond Virginia’s borders. In February, 2006, he coordinated a week long MOM Project in New Orleans for Hurricane Katrina victims. Treating 3,500 patients, it was the largest dental outreach project in history. The highly successful MOM Project has been replicated in several other states, including Texas, Kansas, Arkansas, Nebraska, Colorado, West Virginia, Connecticut, and North Carolina.

The NGA Distinguished Service award also recognized Dickinson’s role in the restructuring of Virginia’s Medicaid/CHIP dental program to provide greater access to dental care for more than 450,000 children. Dickinson worked closely with state officials to create the new program and recruit additional dentists to care for the children. Due largely to his efforts, there has been a 100% increase in participating providers, and a 55% increase in the percentage of eligible children receiving care.

The NGA Awards Program for Distinguished Service to State Government was established in 1976 to provide annual recognition for distinguished service to state government by key state officials and private citizens, and to focus governmental and public attention on the importance of these contributions and the vitality and creativity of state administrations. In 2006, Governor Kaine nominated John O. “Dubby” Wynne who received the award for his work with the Council on Virginia’s Future. In 2007, Governor Kaine nominated Frank Batten for his philanthropy supporting Virginia educational institutions. In 2007, Dr. Robert Stroube, then commissioner of the Virginia Department of Health, received the Outstanding State Official award from the NGA.

Hampton Is A Hot Spot

2009-07-17T09:19:00.000-07:00

22 Lincoln Street • Hampton, Virginia 23669 Date: July 17, 2009
Phone (757) 727-6876
www.hampton.gov FOR RELEASE: Immediate

Rebecca Bolte, Public Communications Manager

Hampton Ranks in the Top 20 of Hot Spots
For Young Professionals

The city of Hampton was recently named one of the top 20 hot spots for young professionals to live and work as ranked by Next Generation Consulting (NGC). The ranking was based on seven indexes: earning and future job growth, educational opportunities, vitality, ability to get around town, after hours activities, cost of lifestyle, and social capital. Hampton ranked number 20 on the list in the “Mighty Micro” population category of 100,000 to 200,000.
“We are extremely honored to receive this distinction,” said Mayor Molly Joseph Ward. “Hampton prides itself on being an affordable community with numerous career opportunities and a vibrant social scene for young professionals.”
NGC has studied workplace preferences of 20 to 40 year olds since 1998. This particular study used 45 measures of the seven indexes to determine the best cities for young professionals.

Virginia's US Senators Announce Approval of Military Construction Funds

2009-07-17T08:47:00.001-07:00

Contact: Jessica Smith –(202) 228-5185
Friday, July 17, 2009 Kevin Hall – (202) 224-2023

WEBB AND WARNER ANNOUNCE SENATE COMMITTEE APPROVAL OF
$476 MILLION IN KEY MILITARY CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS IN VIRGINIA

Today, US Senators Jim Webb and Mark R. Warner announced that the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill for Fiscal Year (FY) 2010 contains $476.1 million for key military construction projects in Virginia.

Reported out by the Senate Committee on Appropriations July 13, the bill incorporates two projects the senators specifically requested —a $3.66 million project for the expansion of an electromagnetic research and engineering facility at the Naval Surface Warfare Center Dalghren, VA., and an $8.9 million project to upgrade the marshalling area at Ft. Eustis, requests supported by the Navy and Army, respectively.

Committee passage clears the way for the bill to be considered by the full Senate later this year.

“The committee’s funding support for these military construction projects is an important step forward in our efforts to provide uniformed service members and civilian employees with the modern facilities they need to perform their critical missions,” said Senator Webb, who serves on the Senate Committees on Armed Services and Veterans Affairs.

“These projects will upgrade training capabilities and invest in important infrastructure improvements at military facilities across Virginia, which will better prepare our servicemen and women as they work and train to defend our nation,” said Senator Warner.

The senators also supported the following military construction projects in Virginia for which the Committee appropriated funds in line with the administration’s budget request:

Dalghren Naval Surface Warfare Center AEGIS Ballistic Missile Defense Facility expansion: $24.5M
Dam Neck Special Operations Forces Operations Facility (Increment III): $15.967M
Fort A.P Hill Automated Infantry Platoon Battle Course: $4.9M
Fort A.P. Hill Field Training Area: $9M
Fort A.P. Hill Training Aids Center: $9.1M
Fort Belvoir Flight Control Tower: $8.4M
Fort Belvoir Road and Access Control Point: $9.5M
Fort Pickett Regional Training Institute (Phase II): $32M
Langley Air Force Base West & LaSalle Gates Force Protection/Access: $10M
Little Creek Special Operations Forces Activity Operations Facility: $18.669M
Little Creek Naval Construction Division Operations Facility: $13.095M
Norfolk E-2D Trainer Facility: $11.737M
Norfolk Facility Upgrades for E-2D Program: $6.402M
Oceana Naval Air Station C-40 Hangar: $30.4M
Pentagon Electrical Upgrade: $19.272M
Pentagon Secondary Uninterruptible Power Raven Rock: $8.4M
Portsmouth Ship Repair Pier Replacement: $126.969M
Quantico Student Quarters – The Basic School (Phase IV): $32.06M
Quantico Marine Security Guard Battalion Training Facility: $10.34M
Quantico Marine Corps Information Operations Center: $29.62M
Quantico Aircraft Trainer: $3.17M
Quantico Dining Facility – The Basic School: $14.78M
Quantico South Mainside Electrical Substation: $15.27M

The Committee’s press release provides a more comprehensive description of the bill’s provisions and is available at: http://appropriations.senate.gov/military/2009_07_06_Summary_of_FY_2010_Military_Construction_and_Veterans_Affairs_Appropriations.pdf

National Conference of State Legislatures To Meet in Philadelphia

2009-07-17T07:22:00.000-07:00

July 17, 2009

State Legislators to Discuss Budget Battles

Constitution Center in Philadelphia will host event featuring NCSL leaders.

While tackling their own budgetary challenges, state legislatures also play a role in spurring the nation's economic recovery. To discuss this further, the National Constitution Center and the National Conference of State Legislatures will have a forum on the states' responses to the current economic crisis in America.

Speakers on the panel include state legislators who will discuss ways in which they are putting money from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 to work. Panelists include:

NCSL President Joe Hackney, the speaker of the North Carolina House of Representatives
Georgia State Senator Don Balfour, NCSL President Elect
Pennsylvania State Senator Jake Corman.
The event begins at 5 p.m. on July 19. Admission is free, but reservations are required and can be made by calling (215) 409-6700.

This program is part of a broader series at the Constitution Center on the American economy, tracking the various causes of the recession and the ways to improve the economic situation. The series presents a balanced assessment of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and how the money is being spent.

Speakers' bios:

Georgia State Senator Don Balfour of Snellville was first elected to the state Senate in 1992, and has served the 9th District consecutively for more than 17 years, making him the longest serving Republican in the Senate. Senator Balfour is chairman of the Senate Rules Committee, and is a member of the Appropriations, Education and Youth, and Health and Human Services Committees. Senator Balfour was elected incoming president of the National Conference of State Legislatures, and will be the first legislator from Georgia to hold the position since NCSL’s founding in 1975.
Pennsylvania State Senator Jake Corman was elected in 1998 and is now serving his third consecutive term. He represents the 34th Senatorial District and currently serves as chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and as a member of the Banking and Insurance, Finance, Rules and Executive Nominations, and State Government Committees.
Representative Joe Hackney was elected speaker of the North Carolina House of Representatives in January 2007, at the start of his 14th term. Before becoming speaker, Hackney was House Democratic leader for one term, House majority leader for one term, and Speaker pro tempore for two terms. He currently serves as president of the National Conference of State Legislatures. In 2007, he received the group’s Excellence in State Legislative Leadership Award, the nation’s top honor for state legislators.
The National Constitution Center, located at 525 Arch St. on Philadelphia’s Independence Mall, is an independent, nonpartisan, nonprofit organization dedicated to increasing public understanding of the U.S. Constitution and the ideas and values it represents. It serves as a museum, an education center, and a forum for debate on constitutional issues. The museum dramatically tells the story of the Constitution from Revolutionary times to the present through more than 100 interactive, multimedia exhibits, film, photographs, written accounts, sculptures and artifacts, and features a powerful, award-winning theatrical performance, “Freedom Rising”. The center also houses the Annenberg Center for Education and Outreach, which serves as the hub for national constitutional education. Also, as a nonpartisan forum for constitutional discourse, the center presents—without endorsement—programs that contain diverse viewpoints on a broad range of issues. For more information, call (215) 409-6700 or visit www.constitutioncenter.org.

NCSL is a bipartisan organization that serves the legislators and staffs of the states, commonwealths and territories. It provides research, technical assistance and opportunities for policymakers to exchange ideas on the most pressing state issues and is an effective and respected advocate for the interests of the states in the American federal system.

Senator Jim Webb Introduces Bill to Strengthen Adult Education, Workforce

2009-07-16T14:56:00.000-07:00

Contact: Jessica Smith – 202-228-5185
Thursday, July 16, 2009 Kimberly Hunter – 202-228-5258

WEBB INTRODUCES BILL TO STRENGTHEN
ADULT EDUCATION, WORKFORCE

Senator Jim Webb (D-VA) today introduced the “Adult Education and Economic Growth (AEEG) Act of 2009,” which will reform and increase investment in job training, adult education and other programs needed to build a 21st century workforce.

According to the National Commission on Adult Literacy, 80-90 million US adults today—about half of the adult workforce—do not have the basic education and communications skills required to obtain jobs that pay a family-sustaining wage. However, federal funding for adult education has declined in real terms since 2002, and the nation’s primary federal resource for adult education, job training and employment services—the Workforce Investment Act—has not been reauthorized for over ten years.

“The American workplace has seen many changes over the past ten years, and the need for well-trained and highly skilled workers has increased dramatically. At the same time, our adult education system has not kept pace with this changing workforce,” said Webb. “One of the biggest impacts we can have on our economic future is to ensure that as many workers as possible are able to improve the skills and credentials needed to compete in our global economy.”

“We are proposing a two-pronged approach to strengthen the nation’s workforce. First, we want to build ‘on ramps’ for American workers who need new skills and a better education in order to improve their lives. Just as importantly, we want to protect and reward employers for helping them, by offering tax credits to businesses that invest in their employees,” said Webb.

“Modest funding will invigorate state and local adult education programs to better align with workplace needs,” continued Webb. “This investment will have an affirmative ripple effect on our communities. And, it advances my longstanding goal of promoting basic economic fairness in our society.”

Specifically, the Adult Education and Economic Growth Act of 2009 makes significant changes to adult education and training by:

· Encouraging employers to invest in lower skilled working adults by providing a tax credit for employers who invest in their employee’s education;
Increasing funding for adult education to provide additional support for state and local authorities to ensure collaboration between adult education and workforce needs;
· Improving access to correctional education programs to channel former offenders into productive endeavors and reduce recidivism; and
· Expanding access to adult education services through the use of technology.

“As a matter of great economic urgency, we need to transform the current array of adult education and workforce skills programs into a coherent, integrated system that meets 21st century needs,” said Gail Spangenberg, Manager, National Commission on Adult Literacy. “The National Commission on Adult Literacy applauds the future thinking Adult Education and Economic Growth Act and Senator Webb’s leadership for recognizing these imperatives.”

In the House of Representatives, Congressmen Patrick Kennedy (D-RI) and Ruben Hinojosa (D-TX) today introduced companion legislation to Webb’s legislation. Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) serves as an original cosponsor in the Senate.

To review summary of The Adult Education and Economic Growth (AEEG) Act of 2009, visit: http://www.webb.senate.gov/pdf/SmmyAdEd.pdf

Roanoke County Assistant Administrator John Chamblis To Retire

2009-07-16T11:29:00.000-07:00

July 16, 2009

Contact: Teresa Hamilton Hall
Roanoke County Public Information Director
(540)772.2010
thall@RoanokeCountyVA.gov

Roanoke County Assistant Administrator John Chambliss Set to Retire July 31

Roanoke County’s assistant administrator, John Chambliss, will retire on July 31, 2009 after 36 years of service. Mr. Chambliss was first hired on June 11, 1973, as assistant finance officer, working his way through the department until he became its director in 1978. In March 1986 he was promoted to assistant county administrator, where he will serve until his retirement at the end of the month. Mr. Chambliss also served as interim county administrator for almost nine months after County Administrator Elmer Hodge retired in June 2008.

“It’s not unusual to find long serving employees in local government,” says Clay Goodman, Roanoke County’s new administrator. “Administrators at this level, however, tend to come and go. John Chambliss is unique in this regard and his long term service underscores his commitment to the Roanoke Valley. His good works are evident in all corners of Roanoke County government.”

John Chambliss has been influential in the design and success of numerous projects and initiatives that have benefited not only the citizens of Roanoke County but those in the surrounding region as well, including the community policy and management team, the regional juvenile detention center, and a new facility for the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and its governing municipal panel. Mr. Chambliss has been an integral part of the CORTRAN program since its inception, providing much needed public transportation for the County’s elderly and handicapped citizens. Most recently he was instrumental in the formation of the Western Virginia Regional Jail Authority, serving on its board and as Roanoke County’s administrator for the site selection, development, and successful completion of the facility. Mr. Chambliss has also represented Roanoke County on numerous advisory boards and committees, including the Court Community Corrections Program, the Regional Community Criminal Justice Board, the Regional Center for Animal Control and Protection, the Roanoke Valley Juvenile Detention Commission, and the Roanoke Valley Resource Authority. To underscore his belief in service to the Roanoke Valley, John Chambliss has also volunteered as a Roanoke County firefighter for 13 years, reaching the rank of volunteer captain.

Chambliss and his wife, Judy, live in Roanoke County and have two grown children and two young grandchildren. A retirement reception will be held from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Thursday, July 23 in the fourth floor lobby of the Roanoke County Administration Center, 5204 Bernard Drive, Roanoke.

Virginia's EGOV Announcement

2009-07-16T09:04:00.000-07:00

July 16, 2009

Contact: Gordon Hickey Susan Pollard, DGS
Phone: (804) 225-4260 (804) 786-0282
Cell Phone: (804) 291-8977 (804) 641-9199
Internet: www.governor.virginia.gov www.dgs.virginia.gov

VIRGINIA’S ELECTRONIC PROCUREMENT SYSTEM SURPASSES $20 BILLION IN PURCHASES, SAVES $280 MILLION
~ Contract extended for Commonwealth’s award winning program ~

Governor Timothy M. Kaine today announced that eVA, the Commonwealth’s Electronic Procurement System, has surpassed $20 billion in purchases of goods and services and saved the Commonwealth and taxpayers more than $280 million through streamlined purchasing and improved transparency and accountability of the procurement process.

“eVA has introduced a whole new level of procurement transparency and accountability to state officials and the general public and it has leveled the playing field for small, women, and minority owned businesses to participate in the state’s business opportunities,” Governor Kaine said. “eVA has increased the Commonwealth’s efficiency, reduced the cost of government, and allowed us to leverage our buying power, all critical objectives during these tough budget times.”

Since the program was started in 2001, eVA has had more than five million products posted online and more than 38,000 private vendors registered. The eVA program leverages Virginia’s buying power and reduces purchasing time and administrative costs. More than 171 state agencies and 575 local governments do business using eVA. In 2008 alone eVA processed more than 580,000 purchase transactions.

Virginia is viewed as a pioneer in the e-procurement field. Other states and nations, including Canada, Portugal, and Indonesia, have sought Virginia’s advice on developing their own programs. eVA is coordinated by the Division of Purchases and Supply in Virginia’s Department of General Services.

To develop eVA, the Commonwealth partnered with CGI Technologies and Solutions Inc, a leading provider of information technology and business process services with offices in Fairfax, Virginia. Working closely with CGI, eVA was designed specifically for Virginia to modernize and simplify the procurement process. Modifications to the electronic procurement system are continually made in order to meet the Commonwealth’s diverse and changing needs. This June, the Commonwealth and CGI signed a $70 million contract renewal extending the eVA contract thru June 2016.

“A recently released report by the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission regarding the ‘Impact of eVA on Small Virginia Businesses’ has validated the importance of eVA to the many small, women, and minority-owned businesses that are the backbone of Virginia’s economy,” said Viola O. Baskerville, Secretary of Administration. “As one small business in the report stated, ‘eVA has been absolutely tremendous in leveling the playing field in order to keep the small businesses competitive with the very large businesses…. It is a life blood for small business in general.”

“Governor Kaine has placed a high priority on supporting small businesses and operating efficiently to generate savings during these austere budget times,” said Richard F. Sliwoski, P.E., Director, Department of General Services. “eVA is a strong example of how the right technology can accomplish these objectives while bringing more accountability and transparency to government procurement.”

eVA has been awarded numerous accolades since its inception. Most recently the eVA program and Department of General Services, Division of Purchases and Supply, was recognized by eight public and private sector purchasing organizations as one of the winners of the 2009 Achievement of Excellence in Procurement Award. Among other past awards the eVA Program has received are the National Electronic Commerce Coordinating Council Cost Effectiveness Through Government Award, National Association of State Procurement Officials’ Cronin Gold Award for Information Technology Innovations, The Massachusetts Institute of Technology School of Architecture and Planning and Accenture, Inc. State Government Innovator Award, eGov Magazine’s Government Services Administration Technology Trailblazer Award, and the Center for Digital Government Digital State Survey in the Electronic Commerce and Business Regulation Category ranked Virginia and eVA first in the country.

Virginia Public Access Project Posts Campaign Fundraising Info

2009-07-16T05:57:00.001-07:00

July 16, 2009

Campaign Finance Reports Now Online

The nonpartisan Virginia Public Access Project has posted the campaign finance reports due today.

These reports provide a look at fundraising by candidates for the House of Delegates and three statewide offices between May 28 and June 30.

Same Day Disclosures

The link above provides an A-Z list of candidates whose reports are available. Select a candidate, and you can see how much he/she raise during the period and sort donations by name, date and amount.

Below are links to the reports for the major party candidates for statewide office:

Deeds for Governor (Raised $3.4 million during period.)

McDonnell for Governor (Raised $1.8 million during period)

Bolling for Lt. Governor (Raised $366,141 during period)

Wagner for Lt. Governor (Raised $231,661 during period)

Cuccinelli for Attorney General (Raised $291,704 during period)

Shannon for Attorney General (Raised $284,733 during period)

VPAP staff is working to integrate 20,000+ transactions from these reports into its database. For now, the transactions contained in the June 1 reports will be visible only on a few pages on VPAP.org.

VPAP adds value to the campaign finance information, which makes it easier to sort a candidate's donations by donor name, occupation and ZIP Code and to provide a complete contribution history for each donor.

VPAP is expected to integrated the value-added information for statewide candidates throughout its website by Sunday. House candidates should be available by next Wednesday, July 22. Go to vpap.org for more information.

JCOTS Meetings for Rest of 2009

2009-07-15T13:50:00.001-07:00

July 15, 2009

Good afternoon,

The JCOTS meeting schedule for the rest of the year is as follows:

Wednesday, August 5: JCOTS Executive Committee 10:00 AM 6th Floor
Speaker's Conference Room

Wednesday, August 5: JCOTS Full Committee 1:30 PM House Room C

Wednesday, September 16: JCOTS Full Committee 1:30 PM House Room C

Tuesday, November 10: JCOTS Executive Committee 10:00 AM 6th Floor
Speaker's Conference Room

Wednesday, December 2: JCOTS Full Committee 10:00 AM House Room C

Thank you,

Stephanie Kerns, skerns@DLS.Virginia.gov

Statewide Telework Day Scheduled

2009-07-15T13:43:00.000-07:00

July 15, 2009

Contact: Gordon Hickey or Meghan O’Neil/Telework Exchange
(804) 225-4260 or (703) 883-9000 ext. 125

www.governor.virginia.gov www.teleworkexchange.com

GOVERNOR KAINE ANNOUNCES STATEWIDE TELEWORK DAY
~ Encourages individuals, organizations to telework on August 3, 2009 ~

Governor Timothy M. Kaine today joined Telework!VA and Telework Exchange in encouraging individuals and organizations to pledge to telework from home or a remote location on Telework Day – Monday, August 3, 2009. Employees and organization representatives across Virginia can visit www.teleworkexchange.com/teleworkday to sign up to telework, calculate the potential cost savings and environmental savings realized by teleworking, determine telework eligibility, and access additional telework related resources.

“Telework is a family friendly, business friendly public policy that promotes workplace efficiency, reduces strain on transportation infrastructure, and provides an opportunity to ‘green’ Virginia,” Governor Kaine said. “We encourage organizations and individuals in Virginia to take the Telework Day pledge and see how telework can help them improve productivity and business operations, while also benefiting the environment.”

Telework Day follows on Governor Kaine’s June 10, 2009 executive order to reduce energy consumption and increase energy efficiency at executive branch agencies and institutions. The goal of Telework Day is to encourage private employers to offer telework to their employees on this one day as a catalyst to drive more pervasive telework adoption across Virginia.

“Telework Day also provides a prime opportunity for organizations to test their business continuity plans,” said Karen Jackson, Deputy Secretary of Technology, Commonwealth of Virginia. “Telework allows employees to conduct work away from their primary workplace in the case of an emergency or natural disaster. We encourage organizations to ‘stress test’ their business continuity plan and infrastructure during Telework Day.”

Telework Exchange is a public-private partnership focused on demonstrating the tangible value of telework and serving the emerging educational and communication requirements of the Federal teleworker community. The Telework!VA program was launched by the Department of Rail and Public Transportation to help reduce the number of commuters on Virginia's roadways. The program provides incentives for Virginia businesses to establish or expand telework programs for employees.

“Telework Day is an important opportunity to advocate telework as a business strategy that can have a positive impact on the bottom line and improve organizational efficiency, while at the same time reducing traffic on Virginia’s roads. Telework is one of the most effective ways for people to greatly reduce their work related carbon footprint and demonstrate that ‘work is something you do, not a place you go,’” said Jennifer Thomas Alcott, Program Manager of Telework!VA.

“It is incumbent that businesses and government agencies support efforts to promote widespread adoption of telework,” said Cindy Auten, General Manager of Telework Exchange. “It’s now imperative that employees and managers alike take the next step and embrace the notion of telework. Telework Day provides that important opportunity.”

For more information on Telework Day, to make an individual pledge, or to make a pledge on behalf of an organization, visit www.teleworkexchange.com/teleworkday. The Commonwealth of Virginia, Telework!VA, and Telework Exchange will release a post-Telework Day report in August, highlighting the impact of Telework Day on Virginia organizations and constituents.

Thomas Jefferson Institute Hosts Health Care Conference July 22 in Richmond

2009-07-15T04:07:00.000-07:00

July 15, 2009

The Thomas Jefferson Institute of Public Policy will host "How Will the New Health Care Proposals Affect Your Business, Your Family, and Your Profession?" on Wednesday, July 22 at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, Robins Room, 1800 Lakeside Ave., Richmond, VA. Registration and light continental breakfast will be offered at 8:30 am and "Consumer Driven Health Care" will begin at 9 am. At 10 am "The Employer Mandate: Who Pays the Cost and How?" by William J. (Denny) Dennis Jr. will begin, followed by a panel discussion starting at 11 am. An informal box lunch will be offered at noon at a cost of $15. Please pay cash at the event or make checks payable to the Thomas Jefferson Institute.

This half day conference is free and open to the public, but registration is required. There is a $15 charge for the box lunch. For more information email healthcare09@verizon.net. For additional information contact jscottleake@verizon.net or call (804) 467-5347.

Herndon Ranked 8th in Money Listing of "Best Places for the Rich and Single"

2009-07-14T12:45:00.000-07:00

July 14, 2009

Anne Curtis
(703)435-6800 X2010
anne.curtis@herndon-va.gov

The editors at Money Magazine have ranked Herndon, Virginia, as the eighth “best place in the nation for the rich and single.”

The ranking, posted on CNNMoney.com, a joint Web venture between the two media outlets and Fortune Magazine, references Herndon’s proximity to major technology companies located within the Dulles Technology Corridor, its diverse night life and the comparative affluence of its residents as reasons why the town is attractive to wealthy singles.

Money editors used statistics from data provider Onboard Informatics to compile the ranking, taking into consideration qualifications that included median family incomes, crime statistics, number of restaurants within a 15 mile radius and more.

Follow the link for the Money report on Herndon as well as a complete listing of towns included in the ranking:

http://money.cnn.com/galleries/2009/moneymag/0906/gallery.bplive_richsingles.moneymag/8.html
The town of Herndon was incorporated by the General Assembly of the Commonwealth of Virginia on January 14, 1879. Located in western Fairfax County, Herndon is the 3rd largest town in the Commonwealth and is home to more than 23,000 citizens. Businesses located within the Town of Herndon, which range from high tech enterprises to entrepreneurially-owned establishments, employ approximately 25,000 people. Business Week Magazine has named Herndon one of the nation’s “Best Affordable Suburbs.”

For more information, visit the town’s website at www.herndon-va.gov.

Senator Webb on Funds for Richmond Buses & Bus Facilities

2009-07-14T11:43:00.000-07:00

July 14, 2009

Senator Jim Webb today announced that the Greater Richmond Transit Company (GRTC) will receive a $2.3 million grant from the Department of Transportation toward the construction of a new bus administrative and maintenance facility in Richmond, which will improve the efficiency and effectiveness of transit services. The new facility will be approximately 412,000 square feet and will be designed to the national standards for optimum on-site circulation, space planning, and building systems in support of operations for a modern bus fleet. This grant also includes funds to purchase two 40 ft. buses to replace vehicles that have outlived their useful service life.

GRTC currently occupies a site that has been used for public transit for the past 100 years. This site, with its supportive 100-year old structures, does not have the optimal infrastructure, configuration, building systems, and operational equipment for efficient daily operations of the GRTC fleet of approximately 200 vehicles. The new building will serve as GRTC’s corporate administrative office and primary maintenance and heavy repair facility for the fleet.

“With more Virginians utilizing public transportation, it is important that our transit infrastructure is well maintained with secure vehicles and facilities,” said Senator Webb. “Today’s $2.3 million grant will help ensure public safety, bolster security measures, and benefit Richmond’s capital needs—while putting area residents to work.”

“Senator Webb continues to be a great supporter of public transit,” said John M. Lewis, CEO, GRTC Transit System. “The funding this grant provides allows the completion of our LEED designed operations and administration facility. We are proud GRTC will complete this project on time and on budget. Senator Webb’s leadership in these difficult economic times ensures access to efficient transportation solutions to the citizens of Central Virginia.”

In addition to today’s grant announcement, Senator Webb secured $450,000 in the Consolidated Appropriations Act for FY 2008 toward the design and construction of a new GRTC bus operations and maintenance facility.

The breakdown of the funding is as follows:
Bus Replacement $617,500
Bus Operations/Maintenance Facility $1,372,000
Design and construction of Facility $338,580
Total: $2,328,080

Don't Miss This Opportunity to Introduce Virginia Agricultural Products to India

2009-07-14T11:18:00.001-07:00

July 15, 2009

OPPORTUNITY FOR VIRGINIA AGRICULTURAL PRODUCERS TO INTRODUCE THEIR PRODUCTS TO THE GROWING INDIAN MARKET

India is the world’s fifth largest economy, with a population of over one billion people. Food consumption is growing 4.1% annually and is expected to reach $344 billion by 2025. Food, nonalcoholic beverages, and wine imports to India are growing nearly 25 percent yearly. To help Virginia farmers and producers take advantage of this burgeoning market, the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) offers them the opportunity to introduce their products to India through a partnership with the Southern United States Trade Association (SUSTA).

Producers will be able to participate in two events for the same low price. From December 2 - 4, they will exhibit at the International Food and Drink Expo in New Delhi where they will have a presence in the SUSTA pavilion and the opportunity to meet with key buyers. SUSTA will ship up to 50 pounds of product samples to the show at no cost to the producer, and a chef will prepare product samples at the show. Following the food show, producers will participate in a Trade Mission to Mumbai December 5 and 6. In Mumbai, they will tour retail stores and meet with buyers.

The best prospects for import to India include breakfast food, canned foods, snack foods, condiments, nuts, specialty foods, beverages and wines.

Information for participants:
􀂃 Participation fee: $350 (includes both events)
􀂃 SUSTA will pay airfare for one company participant and for shipping up to 50 pounds of product samples
􀂃 Participants are responsible for hotel accommodations
􀂃 Samples must be shipped to a forwarder by October 30, 2009
􀂃 Deadline to register is October 23, 2009. (No refunds will be issued after the registration deadline.)

“Food and grocery retailing accounts for 62 percent of India’s total retail market,” said Keith Long, Director of VDACS’ Office of International Marketing, “and that segment of the market will be worth $150 billion by 2025. India is a fast growing market with many opportunities, but it can also be a challenging market to enter. This trade mission is a low-cost way for companies to test the waters without a big investment.”

Producers interested in taking advantage of this opportunity to introduce their products to India should contact Keith Long. Call (804)371.8990 or email keith.long@vdacs.virginia.gov. For information on additional domestic and international trade events, go to the VDACS Website at http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/t-events.shtml.

Elaine J. Lidholm
Director, Office of Communication
Va. Dept. of Agriculture & Consumer Services
Oliver W. Hill Building
102 Governor Street
Richmond, VA 23219
(804)786-768

Geographic Information Systems Conference To Be Held in Richmond in September

2009-07-14T08:05:00.000-07:00

July 14, 2009

The 2009 Virginia GIS Conference will be held September 21-23, 2009 at the Sheraton Richmond West Hotel in Richmond. The conference is jointly sponsored by the Virginia Association of Planning District Commissions (VAPDC) and the Virginia Association of Mapping and Land Information Systems (VAMLIS). Recognizing this new partnership, the theme of the conference for 2009 will be "Virginia GIS: A New Sense of Collaboration."

Over the last eight months, the GIS Conference Planning Committee, composed of VAMLIS and the VAPDC representatives, has been busy planning for this year's conference. The two day conference will be preceded by more in depth workshops on September 21.

For more information email vapdc@associationbuilders.com

VAPDC Summer Conference

2009-07-14T08:02:00.000-07:00

July 14, 2009

The Virginia Association of Planning District Commissions (VAPDC) is having their summer conference July 30-August 1 at the Virginia Beach Resort Hotel & Conference Center.

This year's theme is "Preparing for Prosperity," and timely topics will include the housing environment, then economy, energy, and transportation.

For more information email vapdc@associationbuilders.com.

Goveror Kaine Attends Grand Opening of Albemarle Ciderworks

2009-07-14T06:25:00.000-07:00

July 14, 2009

Contact: Gordon Hickey
(804) 225-4260
www.governor.virginia.gov

~Family run agribusiness to produce 3 blends of Virginia cider ~

On July 13, Governor Timothy M. Kaine announced the grand opening of Albemarle CiderWorks in Albemarle County. The business, run by the Shelton family, represents a $650,000 investment in Albemarle County and will support three jobs with the possibility of more seasonal labor.

"Virginia has a strong agricultural heritage, and family run farms, like the Shelton's, have always been a part of that heritage," Governor Kaine said. "Protecting working farms like this and open space are among the ways we can preserve our agriculture heritage and ensure that agriculture will remain a strong industry in the Commonwealth."

Albemarle CiderWorks is a family run cidery that produces cider from heritage varieties of apples that thrive at its Rural Ridge Orchard in Albemarle County, Virginia. The farm currently has 3,000 fruit trees and ships root stock across the country. Bud and Mary Margaret Shelton purchased the farm, which sits on approximately 130 acres, and started a small orchard in 1986. Their children Chuck, Charlotte, Bill and Todd helped expand the orchard and created Vintage Virginia Apples in 2000, and now grandson Rob has joined the team, making it a three generation farm.

Albemarle CiderWorks will produce three blends of hard apple cider-Ragged Mountain, Royal Pippin, and Jupiter's Legacy. The first batch of cider has been bottled and is available now through the onsite tasting room and local retailers. More than 800 cases were bottled in 2009 with future capacity expected to be approximately 2,000 cases annually.

While the project was privately financed, it was assisted by the Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Commission, the Virginia Wine Marketing Office and the Agribusiness Development Services Unit of the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, which facilitated access to state marketing resources and helped organize the Grand Opening event.

The state's assistance demonstrates why Virginia was highlighted recently in U S News & World Report as being among the "Five Best States to Start a Business." Last month, Pollina Corporate Real Estate Inc., a top U S corporate site relocation expert, also ranked Virginia first in its annual study of probusiness states, marking the third time overall.

During Governor Kaine's administration, Virginia has also been recognized as the most business friendly state in America (Forbes.com 2006-2008), one of the best states for business (CNBC 2007 and 2008), the top performing state government in America (Governing Magazine 2008) and the state where "a child is most likely to have a successful life (Education Week 2007)."

State Police Call Air, Land & Speed a Success

2009-07-13T15:50:00.001-07:00

July 13, 2009

OPERATION AIR, LAND & SPEED NETS THIRD HIGHEST TOTAL VIOLATIONS ON INTERSTATES 81 AND 95
4,155 Speed Violations – 35 Drug/Felony Arrests – 12 DUI Arrests

Operation Air, Land and Speed produced the third highest total violations since the traffic safety campaign began in 2006. The two-day enforcement blitz yielded 8,289 summonses and arrests along Interstate 81 and Interstate 95, which took place Friday, July 10, and Saturday, July 11, 2009.
“For us, a successful day would be when state police does not issue a single ticket during this enforcement because it means motorists are complying with Virginia’s traffic laws,” says Colonel W. Steven Flaherty, Superintendent of the Virginia State Police. “Unfortunately, the reality is there were more than eight thousand summonses issued during Operation Air, Land and Speed. These latest results are an indicator of how far we still have to go to emphasize the importance of highway safety to drivers.”
The record number of summonses and arrests for a two day enforcement of Operation Air, Land and Speed was in July 2006 when the traffic safety project was launched by state police. The first initiative also concentrated on I-81 and I-95. All funds generated by Virginia State Police summonses go to the State Literacy Fund.
From the Tennessee border to West Virginia, 3,540 individuals were cited by Virginia State Police along I-81. The enhanced enforcement stopped 2,077 speeders and 240 individuals for reckless driving. Six drunk drivers were arrested and 15 drug/felony arrests were made by state police. Additionally, troopers cited 115 individuals for safety belt violations.
From the North Carolina border to the Maryland state line, state police issued 4,749 violations on I-95. State police stopped 2,078 drivers for speeding and 504 individuals for reckless driving along the north-south interstate corridor. In addition, troopers arrested six people for drunk driving and made 20 drug/felony arrests. Also, during the two day enforcement initiative, state police issued 215 seat belt violations.
This is the eleventh time since 2006 that Operation Air, Land and Speed has focused on Interstate 81 and Interstate 95. A total of 20 operations have been conducted on Virginia interstates statewide since the campaign’s inception in 2006 and have yielded 106,186 total summonses and arrests.

The comprehensive enforcement project utilizes troopers, supervisors, motorcycle units and motor carrier troopers. State police operational duties on other interstates, primary and secondary roads are not affected during the operation. Funding for the enforcement initiative is provided through federal highway safety monies.

Deborah Cox

Public Relations Office l Virginia State Police

804.674.2843 l Deborah.cox@vsp.virginia.gov

Take Virginia's Highway Safety Challenge http://www.safeVAhighways.org

State Police Call

2009-07-13T15:50:00.000-07:00

For Immediate Release: July 13, 2009

OPERATION AIR, LAND & SPEED NETS THIRD HIGHEST TOTAL VIOLATIONS ON INTERSTATES 81 AND 95
4,155 Speed Violations – 35 Drug/Felony Arrests – 12 DUI Arrests
RICHMOND – Operation Air, Land and Speed produced the third highest total violations since the traffic safety campaign began in 2006. The two-day enforcement blitz yielded 8,289 summonses and arrests along Interstate 81 and Interstate 95, which took place Friday, July 10, and Saturday, July 11, 2009.
“For us, a successful day would be when state police does not issue a single ticket during this enforcement because it means motorists are complying with Virginia’s traffic laws,” says Colonel W. Steven Flaherty, Superintendent of the Virginia State Police. “Unfortunately, the reality is there were more than eight thousand summonses issued during Operation Air, Land and Speed. These latest results are an indicator of how far we still have to go to emphasize the importance of highway safety to drivers.”
The record number of summonses and arrests for a two-day enforcement of Operation Air, Land and Speed was in July 2006 when the traffic safety project was launched by state police. The first initiative also concentrated on I-81 and I-95. All funds generated by Virginia State Police summonses go to the State Literacy Fund.
From the Tennessee border to West Virginia, 3,540 individuals were cited by Virginia State Police along I-81. The enhanced enforcement stopped 2,077 speeders and 240 individuals for reckless driving. Six drunk drivers were arrested and 15 drug/felony arrests were made by state police. Additionally, troopers cited 115 individuals for safety belt violations.
From the North Carolina border to the Maryland state line, state police issued 4,749 violations on I-95. State police stopped 2,078 drivers for speeding and 504 individuals for reckless driving along the north-south interstate corridor. In addition, troopers arrested six people for drunk driving and made 20 drug/felony arrests. Also, during the two-day enforcement initiative, state police issued 215 seat belt violations.
This is the eleventh time since 2006 that Operation Air, Land and Speed has focused on Interstate 81 and Interstate 95. A total of 20 operations have been conducted on Virginia interstates statewide since the campaign’s inception in 2006 and have yielded 106,186 total summonses and arrests.

The comprehensive enforcement project utilizes troopers, supervisors, motorcycle units and motor carrier troopers. State police operational duties on other interstates, primary and secondary roads are not affected during the operation. Funding for the enforcement initiative is provided through federal highway safety monies.

Deborah Cox

Public Relations Office l Virginia State Police

804.674.2843 l Deborah.cox@vsp.virginia.gov

Take Virginia's Highway Safety Challenge http://www.safeVAhighways.org

Senator Jim Webb To Hold Foreign Relations Committee Hearing on China's Role in Maritime and Other Issues in East Asia

2009-07-13T12:13:00.001-07:00

July 13, 2009

On Wednesday, July 15 at 2:30pm, Senator Jim Webb (D-VA) will chair a Senate Foreign Relations Committee Hearing, entitled “Maritime Disputes and Sovereignty Issues in East Asia.”

As chair of the Subcommittee on East Asian and Pacific Affairs, Senator Webb scheduled Wednesday’s hearing to examine China’s strategic goals in the region, specifically the country’s role in maritime territorial disputes involving the Senkaku Islands in the East China Sea, and the Spratly Islands, and Paracel Islands in the South China Sea. The hearing will also seek to clarify the impact of these actions on the United States and countries involved in these issues.

Witnesses will deliver testimony focused on the strategic and economic implications of China’s long-term pattern of behavior in the East China Sea and South China Sea including, among others, how this behavior impacts sovereignty issues with Southeast Asian nations and the role of the U.S. and organizations such as ASEAN in resolving disputes.

WHO: Senator Jim Webb
WHAT: Senate Foreign Relations Committee Hearing, “Maritime Disputes and Sovereignty Issues in East Asia”

WHEN: Wednesday, July 15, 2009 at 2:30pm

WHERE: 419 Dirksen Senate Office Building

*** The hearing will be webcast at www.foreign.senate.gov.

Governor Kaine Announces Financial Training and Loan Program for State Employees

2009-07-13T07:56:00.000-07:00

July 13, 2008

Contact: Gordon Hickey
Phone: (804) 225-4260
Cell Phone: (804) 291-8977
Internet: www.governor.virginia.gov

~ Virginia State Employee Loan Program to assist state employees with short term needs and long term financial literacy and planning ~

Governor Timothy M. Kaine today announced the establishment of the Virginia State Employee Loan Program, a unique partnership to help meet the short term loan needs of state employees as they manage through the worst economic crisis in generations. The pilot program, a partnership between the Commonwealth of Virginia Campaign (CVC) and Virginia Credit Union (VACU), will offer small loans—$100 to $500—to state employees facing financial difficulties. As a requirement of the loan, borrowers will complete an online financial fitness course and exam to keep them on sound financial footing.

“This program will allow our state employees to receive small loans without having to go to predatory lenders,” Governor Kaine said. “If the Commonwealth can offer this kind of program, other large employers may consider similar initiatives of their own.”

Participants in the State Employee Loan Program must be a non-probationary state employee and a member in good standing with the VACU. Participants must be a member of the VACU, maintaining at least $5 in a savings or checking account. To qualify for a loan, participants must successfully complete an online financial fitness course followed by a ten question financial literacy exam.

The loans will carry an APR of 24.99 percent and will be payable over six months with no prepayment penalty. Loans will be repaid through direct debit from employee’s VACU checking or savings accounts, in up to 12 semimonthly payments. Employees can have only one loan at a time and may apply for a maximum of two loans annually. There will be no credit check for loans and the loans will not be reported to credit agencies.

A $100 loan will be repaid in semimonthly payments, with a total repayment cost of about $108. A $500 loan will be repaid in semi-monthly payments, with a total repayment cost of about $540.

“We are proud to collaborate with the Commonwealth of Virginia Campaign and help administer this program to benefit state employees,” said Jane Watkins, President/CEO of Virginia Credit Union. “Financial education is a major focus of Virginia Credit Union and we are pleased to see an educational component as part of the program.”

Loans will be backed by the Virginia State Employee Assistance Fund (VSEAF), a 501(c)3 charity administered by the CVC team within the Department of Human Resource Management. Both CVC and VSEAF programs are run by state employees for state employees, and are funded solely from employee contributions, with no state tax dollars involved.

The Commonwealth of Virginia Campaign (CVC) facilitates state employee giving in Virginia. In the 2008 campaign, more than 24,000 employees gave $4.4 million. Employees may designate their gift to a specific charity (or multiple charities), to all the charities in their part of the state, or to all the charities in the campaign. With over 1300 charities, there are plenty of choices for employee giving. In the last ten years, the CVC has raised over $35 million for charities.

Hampton Is Award Winner in Communications

2009-07-10T12:57:00.000-07:00

City of Hampton
City Manager’s Office
22 Lincoln Street • Hampton, Virginia 23669 Date: July 9, 2009
Phone (757) 727-6191
www.hampton.gov FOR RELEASE: Immediate

Tami Back, Public Communications Assistant

Hampton Receives Awards in Print and Video

The City of Hampton’s Media & Community Relations (MCR) department was recently chosen as a recipient of the 2009 Communicator Awards, 2009 Videographer Awards, and the 2009 APEX Awards. The office received the following awards:
• Silver Communicator Award – Hampton City Channel print ads
• Silver Communicator Award – “Spotlight on Citizens”
• Videographer Award of Distinction – “Spotlight on Citizens”
• APEX Award of Excellence – Hampton Communications Plan

The Hampton City Channel ads are part of a monthly advertising campaign aimed at establishing a distinct identity for the station and educating the public on the variety of programs airing each month. The ads are written and designed by MCR staff and appear in the Daily Press. “Spotlight on Citizens” is a monthly program designed to provide Hampton City Council members the opportunity to recognize outstanding citizens, businesses, and organizations within the community. The annual Communications Plan establishes goals and initiatives relating to internal and external communications, community and media relations, emergency management, video production, marketing, and diversity education.

The Communicator Awards is an international awards program honoring creative excellence for communications professionals. There were over 9,000 entries in this year’s competition. The Communicator Awards is sanctioned and judged by the International Academy of the Visual Arts, an invitation only body consisting of professionals from media, communications, advertising, creative and marketing firms.

The Videographer Awards recognize production and communication professionals whose work exceeds industry standards. There were approximately 1,800 entries from the U S and several other countries. The Videographer Awards is administered and judged by the Association of Marketing and Communication Professionals.

The APEX Awards for Publication Excellence is an international competition that recognizes outstanding publications and is sponsored by Communications Concepts, Inc. Awards were based on excellence in graphic design, quality of editorial content, and the success of the entry in conveying the message and achieving overall communications effectiveness. This year’s competition received 3,785 entries.

About Us
The city of Hampton’s Media & Community Relations department provides citizens and employees with
comprehensive updates on strategic and quality of life initiatives, emergency planning, diversity education,
and civic involvement. The department produces a number of publications such as City Page, Customer Delight, and Hampton Notes and serves the city’s broader interest of fostering regional, state, university and international relationships.

Virginia Submits Pre-Applications for More Than $2 Billion of High Speed Rail Projects From Federal Recovery Funds

2009-07-10T12:13:00.000-07:00

July 10, 2009

Contact: Gordon Hickey
(804) 225-4260
www.governor.virginia.gov

VIRGINIA SUBMITS PRE-APPLICATIONS FOR MORE THAN $2 BILLION OF HIGH SPEED RAIL PROJECTS FROM FEDERAL RECOVERY FUNDS
~ Proposals focus on Washington, DC to Petersburg line ~

Governor Timothy M. Kaine today announced that the Commonwealth has submitted pre-applications for more than $2 billion of high speed rail projects under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act’s (ARRA) high speed rail program. The rail stimulus program will provide $8 billion in federal funds to support high speed and intercity passenger rail projects across the country. Virginia’s applications focus on the I-95 corridor between Washington, DC and Petersburg. The projects will further the Commonwealth’s commitment to commercial and passenger rail options, including recent infrastructure investments and public-private partnerships.

“Virginia has made significant investments in rail options to help rebalance our transportation network in the Commonwealth,” Governor Kaine said. “As we continue to work towards high speed rail in Virginia, the availability of ARRA funds will help deliver more transportation choices and economic benefits to the public much more quickly than we would otherwise be able to achieve.”

The Commonwealth has submitted pre-applications that reflect the highest priorities for passenger rail investment in Virginia’s most congested travel corridors.

The I-95 rail corridor between Washington, DC and Petersburg is the top priority corridor for passenger rail improvements in Virginia based on population and employment densities, in addition to its strategic location connecting Virginia to Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor and the Southeast High Speed Rail Corridor. Virginia has invested more than $197 million in this corridor to date, and recently executed an agreement with Amtrak to initiate a new Northeast Corridor train between Richmond and Washington, DC.

Completion of the following projects would support high speed passenger rail service in this corridor, and were submitted in pre-applications:

Arkendale to Powell’s Creek: $72 million in rail infrastructure improvements between Fredericksburg and Prince William County, including 11 miles of third track; proposed for Round 1 funding under Track 1 as a “ready to go” project. This project could advance independently of the Washington, DC to Petersburg corridor program defined below.
Washington, DC to Petersburg: $1.57 billion in rail infrastructure improvements such as additional tracks and signal, station and rail yard improvements; proposed for Round 1 funding under Track 2 as a corridor development program. This project includes Arkendale to Powell’s Creek as described above, in the event that FRA elects to fund the project as part of a corridor development program.

The Richmond/Hampton Roads corridor is the next priority for Virginia passenger rail enhancements. The limited transportation capacity in this region requires greater investment in choices such as passenger rail, and the current federal environmental study underway will provide the information needed to advance high speed rail service for this region.

Federal funding is required to advance this initiative from planning into construction, and the following pre-application was submitted:

Richmond/Hampton Roads: $330-$844 million in rail infrastructure improvements to support the introduction of high speed rail service between Richmond and Hampton Roads; proposed for Round 2 funding under Track 2. This project is proposed for Round 2 since a federal Environmental Impact Statement is currently underway to select the high speed route, and should be completed prior to Round 2 grant awards. The cost is expressed in a range since the exact route has not yet been determined.

The federal rail stimulus program is organized into Tracks based on the types of projects to be submitted. Track 1 includes “ready to go” projects, Track 2 includes corridor development programs, Track 3 includes planning initiatives and Track 4 includes “ready to go” projects for which applicants offer at least 50 percent non-federal funding.

The Commonwealth has demonstrated its commitment to advancing rail initiatives through a dedicated state funding source, the Rail Enhancement Fund. In addition, since 2007 a portion of transportation bonds has been dedicated to rail initiatives. Virginia has also successfully negotiated complex agreements with Amtrak and freight railroads to initiate new service, in addition to funding new passenger rail operations.

Transportation options such as passenger rail provide congestion relief and economic benefits by encouraging tourism, supporting jobs and promoting local investment. According to the Virginia Statewide Rail Plan, the total wages of Amtrak employees in Virginia amount to more than $50 million per year, and Amtrak spends approximately $50 million per year for goods and services in Virginia.

The timeline for grant awards includes at least two rounds, with Round 1 in fall 2009 and Round 2 in spring 2010. States were requested to submit pre-applications for all projects no later than July 10, 2009, even if projects will be submitted as part of later rounds of grant awards. Complete details of the program funding criteria, timeline and project selection process are available online at http://www.fra.dot.gov/us/content/2153.

Up in the Sky- Is It a Bird, a Plane - It's the Virginia State Police!

2009-07-09T13:31:00.000-07:00

July 9, 2009

ONCE AGAIN VIRGINIA STATE POLICE TARGET INTERSTATES 95 & 81 FOR OPERATION AIR, LAND & SPEED ENFORCEMENT
July 10-11 Troopers to Saturate Two North-South Interstate Corridors

For the third time in eight months, Operation Air, Land and Speed will focus on Interstate 95 and Interstate 81 for continued traffic safety enforcement. With the summer driving season underway, the safety initiative allows for an increased number of troopers to patrol the north-south interstate corridors to enhance enforcement and encourage responsible driving behavior on the highways. The latest Operation Air, Land and Speed project will begin Friday, July 10, and conclude Saturday, July 11, 2009.

“Unfortunately, last weekend during the July 4th holiday, alcohol and a lack of seat belt usage were common factors in the nine traffic crashes that claimed 10 lives,” says Colonel W. Steven Flaherty, Virginia State Police Superintendent. “Hopefully our increased patrols and visible enforcement during this Operation Air, Land and Speed campaign will serve as continuing deterrents to irresponsible and potentially deadly driving behaviors.”

The most recent Operation Air, Land and Speed project on I-81 and I-95 was in May 2009. The enforcement effort produced a total of 6,853 arrests and summonses. The following is the breakdown for each highway corridor:
On I-81, troopers stopped 2,138 speeders and 234 reckless drivers. They also took six drunk drivers off the interstate and made 12 felony arrests. Total violations and arrests on I-81 during the Sunday, May 17, and Monday, May 18, 2009, enforcement blitz were 3,725.

On I-95, troopers stopped 1,386 speeders and 345 reckless drivers. They also took three drunk drivers off the interstate and made 11 felony arrests. Total violations and arrests on I-95 were 3,128 for the May Operation Air, Land and Speed initiative.

There were zero traffic fatalities on either interstate during the operation.

This is the eleventh time since 2006 that Operation Air, Land and Speed has focused on the I-81 and I-95 interstate corridors. A total of 19 operations have been conducted on Virginia interstates statewide since the campaign’s inception in 2006 and have yielded 97,897 total summonses and arrests.

With additional troopers on the roads for this traffic safety campaign, state police reminds motorists to comply with Virginia’s “Move Over” law. This state law requires drivers to change to another travel lane or, when not able to, to cautiously pass emergency personnel stopped on the side of the road.

The comprehensive enforcement project utilizes troopers, supervisors, motorcycle units and motor carrier troopers. State police operational duties on other interstates, primary and secondary roads are not affected during the operation. Funding for the enforcement initiative is provided through federal highway safety monies.

12th Annual Center for Politics Conference Slated for Virginia Capitol July 17th

2009-07-09T12:59:00.000-07:00

July 9, 2009

Center for Politics
465 Crestwood Drive
P.O. Box 400806
Charlottesville, VA 22904
(434).243.8468
www.centerforpolitics.org

Contact:
Cordel L. Faulk
(434) 243-8466
clf8g@virginia.edu

Center for Politics 12th Annual Virginia Political History Project:
“With All Deliberate Speed? Massive Resistance in Virginia"
— Conference Will Examine Commonwealth’s Brown v. Board Era —

On Friday, July 17, 2009, the University of Virginia Center for Politics will host the 12th Annual Virginia Political History Project (VPHP), “With All Deliberate Speed? Massive Resistance in Virginia.” The conference, in recognition of the coincidence of the inauguration of the nation’s first African American president, Barack Obama, and the 50th anniversary of the beginning of the end of Massive Resistance in Virginia, will explore the events of the time and analyze how the Commonwealth has evolved since the Massive Resistance era.

The 2009 VPHP will bring together students, journalists, civil rights leaders and elected officials who will focus on the Massive Resistance era, its political backdrop, and the life stories of the Virginians who were most impacted by Massive Resistance, as well as its lasting effects and legacies. The conference will feature the only statewide gathering of former students as they share their own personal histories.

Center for Politics Director Larry J. Sabato will open the proceedings with introductory remarks, and all events will take place in the new extension of the Virginia Capitol Building in Richmond.

The schedule will be:

8:45 a.m.
Doors open at the Virginia Capitol Building, Richmond

9:20 a.m.
Introduction by Dr. Larry J. Sabato

9:30-10:45 a.m.
Panel I: The Student Experience
Moderated by Ms. Margaret Edds
- Dr. Delores Brown, Norfolk
- Mr. Henry Cabarrus Jr., Prince Edward
- Ms. Suetta Freeman, Warren
- Mr. Andrew Heidelberg, Norfolk
- Ms. Alicia Lugo, Charlottesville

11:00 a.m.-12:15 p.m.
Panel II: Politics and Media during Massive Resistance
Moderated by Dr. Larry J. Sabato
- Ms. Brenda Andrews, New Journal & Guide (Norfolk)
- Mr. Luther Carter, formerly of the Virginian-Pilot
- Chief Justice Leroy Hassell, Supreme Court of Virginia
- Dr. James Hershman, Georgetown University
- Governor A. Linwood Holton Jr. (1970-74)
- Senator Henry Marsh, Senate of Virginia
- Mr. Jeff Schapiro, Richmond Times-Dispatch

1:05-1:45 p.m.
Keynote Speech: Governor L. Douglas Wilder (1990-94)

2:00-3:15 p.m.
Panel III: The Student Experience
Moderated by Dr. Cassandra Newby-Alexander
- Rev. Everett Berryman, Prince Edward
- Mr. Michael Jones, Arlington
- Rev. James Kilby, Warren
- Mr. Donald Martin, Charlottesville
- Ms. Rita Mosely, Prince Edward
- Dr. Patricia Turner, Norfolk

3:30 - 4:45 p.m.
Panel IV: What are the Lasting Effects of Massive Resistance?
Moderated by Ms. Daphne Maxwell Reid
- Mr. Ray Boone, Richmond Free Press
- Dr. Paul Gaston, University of Virginia
- Senator Yvonne Miller, Senate of Virginia
- Dr. W. Ferguson Reid, former Delegate
- Professor Mildred Robinson, University of Virginia School of Law
- Mr. Eugene Williams, Charlottesville civil rights leader
- Mr. Michael Paul Williams, Richmond Times-Dispatch

The conference is free and open to the public, but registration is required
at: http://www.centerforpolitics.org/programs/govcon/indexMass.html.

Senator Jim Webb Announces Veterans' and Service Members' Educational Benefits

2009-07-09T11:17:00.000-07:00

July 9, 2009

From: Jessica Smith & Kimberly Hunter, Senator Webb’s Press Office
Date: Thursday, July 9, 2009
Re: August 1: Area Colleges & Universities to Begin Admitting Students through Senator Webb’s Post-9/11 GI Bill

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.

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.

In Virginia, the new benefits offered to eligible students include:

Full tuition at any public school in the Commonwealth.
This equates to as much as $313 per credit hour at any Virginia public or private institution;
Full payment of fees at any public school in the Commonwealth.
This equates to as much as $3,660 in fees per term at any Virginia public or private institution;
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
An annual books & supplies stipend of $1,000.

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.

Public Schools in Richmond & Central Virginia

Students attending area public schools and community colleges can apply all of the benefits above to the following institutions:

The College of William and Mary, Williamsburg
Longwood University, Farmville
Old Dominion University, Richmond
Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond
Virginia State University, Petersburg
Richard Bland College, Petersburg
J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College, Richmond
John Tyler Community College, Midlothian

Private Schools in Richmond & Central Virginia

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.

Over 700 private institutions across the country have signed up to participate in the Yellow Ribbon program, including 54 schools in Virginia.

Participating “Yellow Ribbon” private schools in Central Virginia include:

Name of College
Location
Division
Number of Students
School Contribution*

Bryant & Stratton College
Richmond
All
Unlimited
$4,000
ECPI College of Technology
Richmond
All
Unlimited
$5,000
ITT Technical Institute
Richmond
All
Unlimited
$99,999
Medical Careers Institute
Richmond
All
Unlimited
$5,000
Medical Careers Institute
Richmond
All
Unlimited
$5,000
University of Phoenix - Richmond
Richmond
Undergraduate
Unlimited
$2,250
University of Phoenix - Richmond
Richmond
Graduate
Unlimited
$5,250
University of Phoenix - Richmond
Richmond
All
25
$5,000
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond
Undergraduate
5
$6,000
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond
Graduate
5
$6,000
Virginia Union University
Richmond
Undergraduate
20
$3,000

South University - Richmond
Glen Allen
All
Unlimited
$1,954.00 Undergraduate, $1,648.00 Graduate
Strayer University
Glen Allen
All
Unlimited
$5,000

ECPI College of Technology
Innsbrook
All
Unlimited
$5,000

Strayer University
Midlothian
All
Unlimited
$5,000

College of William and Mary
Williamsburg
All
5
$2,000

Florida Institute of Technology - Fort Lee Site
Fort Lee
Graduate
10
$1,800

Hampden-Sydney College
Hampden-Sydney
Undergraduate
120
$10,500
* Per Student/ Per Year

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/

To learn more about Senator Webb’s effort to pass the GI Bill through Congress, please visit: http://webb.senate.gov/email/gibilllaw.html

For other questions and background information, don’t hesitate to call: Jessica (202-228-5185) or Kimberly (202-228-5158).

************************
Jessica Smith
Communications Director
Office of Senator Jim Webb
w.(202) 228-5185
c.(202) 731-5096
jessica_smith@webb.senate.gov

Williamsburg Police Department Selected To Be Flagship Agency for CALEA, Inc.

2009-07-09T11:13:00.000-07:00

July 9, 2009
Contact: Dave Sloggie
Phone: (757)592.3637
dsloggie@williamsburgva.gov

The Commission on Accreditation for Law
Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA) has selected the Williamsburg Police
Force to be a Flagship Agency -- an extraordinary example of excellence
in public safety and a recognized resource to other for other
departments across the country.

CALEA’s accreditation programs (which are voluntary) challenge public
safety agencies to demonstrate that they meet an established set of
professionally recognized standards leading to excellence in management
and service delivery. These standards reflect the best thinking and
experience of contemporary public safety practitioners and researchers
and are considered benchmarks for today's public safety agencies.

“We constantly strive to do the best we can to protect our residents
and visitors, and we hold ourselves to the highest possible standards -
our own -- but we are also proud of this affirmation of the work we
do,” said Williamsburg Police Chief Mike Yost. “This has been a
rigorous process and a team effort, and a great deal of hard work and
dedication by the entire Williamsburg Police Department, especially our
Accreditation Manager, Deby Middlebrook.”

Agencies receive their awards after participating in a process that
involves a commitment of personnel and other resources and can last up
to 36 months. During this period, all aspects of the agency’s
policies, procedures, management, operations and support services are
examined in detail. In addition, each agency conducts a detailed
self-assessment and participates in an on-site review by a team of
outside CALEA Assessors, composed of experienced public safety
practitioners. Williamsburg’s on site review was in April 2009. The
local community is also notified of the process and given an opportunity
to submit their comments and observations.

“The Williamsburg Police Department has always been a “flagship
agency” to us, but it is wonderful to see them get the recognition
they deserve from such a prestigious national accrediting agency,”
said Mayor Jeanne Zeidler. “It is no surprise that the on site
assessors were impressed by the department’s professionalism and
integrity in addition to the number of specialized activities, programs
and services that a department our size maintains.”

On July 12, 1987, the Williamsburg Police Department became the 49th
Law Enforcement Agency in the United States to be awarded Accreditation.
The department has received reaccreditation status five times: 1992,
1997, 2000, 2003, and 2006 previously.

CALEA is an independent national accrediting authority established in
1979 by the four major law enforcement executive associations:
International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP); National
Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE); National
Sheriffs' Association (NSA); and Police Executive Research Forum (PERF).
www.CALEA.org

Kate Hoving
Communications Specialist
City of Williamsburg
401 Lafayette St.
Williamsburg, VA 23185
Office: (757).220.6197
email: khoving@williamsburgva.gov

Virginia Is Recognized Among Five Best States to Start a Business

2009-07-09T11:08:00.000-07:00

Contact: Gordon Hickey, or William Vehrs/VDBA
(804) 225-4260 804-371-0058

www.governor.virginia.gov www.dba.state.va.us

~ Governor Kaine highlights national ranking by U.S. News & World Report for Virginia’s “favorable and innovative climate” for entrepreneurs ~

Governor Timothy M. Kaine today highlighted Virginia’s ranking among the “Five Best States to Start a Business.” The recognition by US News & World Report this week comes on the heels of the Commonwealth’s sixth number one ranking for its pro business environment.

“The latest accolades accorded the Commonwealth demonstrate that Virginia remains a power player among business-friendly states,” said Governor Kaine. “As we work to get our economy back on track, it’s great to be recognized for continuing to attract innovative businesses to Virginia.”

“Virginia makes a great effort to assist in the establishment of small businesses with programs that streamline the startup process and connect entrepreneurs with resources,” said Virginia Secretary of Commerce and Trade, Patrick Gottschalk. “Our business one stop electronic business formation system is continually growing in popularity with Virginia’s entrepreneurs.”

From U S News & World Report: “Virginia- This state is not just "purple" in its voting patterns. Like blue states such as Massachusetts, It mixes the highly educated workforce and technological sophistication. And like red states such as Texas, Virginia is known for its low taxes. This state boasts the highest number of information technology jobs in non IT industries as a total share of jobs, which indicates that Virginia’s businesses are more technologically advanced than businesses in other states.”

Virginia has been recognized as the most business friendly state six times under the leadership of Governor Kaine. Last month, Pollina Corporate Real Estate Inc., a top U S corporate site relocation expert, ranked Virginia first in its annual study of pro business states, marking the third time for the third time overall. During Governor Kaine’s administration, Virginia has also been recognized as the most business-friendly state in America (Forbes.com 2006-2008), one of the best states for business (CNBC 2007 and 2008), the top performing state government in America (Governing Magazine 2008) and the state where “a child is most likely to have a successful life (Education Week 2007).”

To compile their report, U S News & World Report examined two leading studies that measure a state’s ability to promote entrepreneurship: the 2008 New State Economy Index from the Kauffman Foundation and the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation, and 2008’s Small Business Survival Index from the Small Business and Entrepreneurship Council.

Virginia Main Street Upcoming Events

2009-07-09T11:04:00.000-07:00

July 9, 2009

Virginia Main Street Training Opportunities

Virginia Main Street Summer Toolkit: Getting Strategic About Main Street
July 29 and 30
Winchester, Virginia

Identifying a strategic advantage can move your revitalization program to an entirely new level of economic effectiveness. This summer’s toolkit is designed to help you strategically focus your revitalization efforts around your community’s strengths.

Join the Virginia Main Street network of downtown revitalization professionals and volunteers for this fast paced, interactive event featuring business development strategists and a new look at Old Town Winchester

To register or for more information, visit: http://www.dhcd.virginia.gov/mainstreet.

Economic Development Finance Professional (EDFP) Certification Program
Charleston, West Virginia

The National Development Council’s four-course comprehensive training series for economic development practitioners is being held over the next nine months. Participants will build the capacity they need to successfully create jobs and translate economic development opportunities into results. For more information, visit: www.bbttraining.com.

ED 201 – Business Credit Analysis Aug. 31 - Sept. 4, 2009
ED 202 – Real Estate Finance Jan 11 - 15, 2010
ED 300 – The Art of Deal Structuring March 22 - 26, 2010

Women in Business Workshop
July 10, 9 a.m. to Noon
Abingdon, Virginia

Join the SWVA Chapter of the Risk Management Association in a panel discussion concerning resources for entrepreneurs in an economic downturn. The program will include:
How to start and operate a business;
Resources and ideas for entrepreneurs;
SBA facilities and business plans;
Banking options, lending criteria;
Marketing techniques and opportunities; and
Question and answer session with panelists

Everyone is invited to attend this free conference; light refreshments will be provided.
More information and registration is available online at: http://www.vastartup.org/register/events/.

Orange County Entrepreneur Express: Moving Your Business Forward
July 21, 8:30 a.m. to Noon
Orange, Virginia

The Moving Your Business Forward workshop is designed to provide information on available business resources and to deliver practical, hands on training covering key elements of business practice. Workshop segments will include information on how to start and operate a business, growing an existing business, marketing strategies, financing and other available resources. For more information, visit: http://www.vastartup.org/register/events/.

Virginia Tourism Commission Help Desk
August 19, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
South Boston, Virginia

Tourism businesses and local organizations can meet one-on-one with Virginia Tourism Corporation (VTC) staff to take advantage of their education, development and marketing services. Breakout sessions at 9:30 and 11:00 a.m., and 1:30 p.m. for orientation, grants and customer service training. For more information, visit: http://www.vatc.org/PAM/workshops.asp.

Entrepreneur Essentials in Staunton
August 3, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Staunton, Virginia

Whether you are a seasoned or new entrepreneur, this event will have resources,
exhibits, workshops, giveaways and more just for you. For more information visit: www.stauntondowntown.org.

Announcements

DHCD’s Change of Address
The Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) will be moving its office location on July 9 – 10. Due to this move, the agency will be closed to business on these days. Computer services may not be available during this time; however the agency will resume business as usual on Monday, July 13. The agency’s new address will be:

Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development
Main Street Centre
600 East Main Street, Suite 300
Richmond, VA 23219

All phone and fax numbers will remain the same.

On the Virginia Main Street Blog
Which Main Street community was recommended as a top 100 destination for the summer travels of New Yorkers? Find out on the Virginia Main Street Blog. Recent posts cover topics like measuring the effectiveness of your town’s art walk and connecting your revitalization efforts to your area’s natural assets. New posts are added each week to the Virginia Main Street Blog, so mark it as a favorite or sign up for an RSS feed.

Take a Virtual Tour of Virginia Main Street Communities
It’s easy to take a virtual tour of all of Virginia’s designated Main Street communities. Just click through the list on the VMS Blog page dedicated to our communities.

Manassas offers WiFi Access for Old Town Shoppers
The City of Manassas Internet Service has installed a WiFi system in the Old Town area for residents and visitors to use while they are in the Old Town area shopping or dining. The wireless can be accessed by connecting to Manassas WiFi. The main coverage areas are Battle Street, The Walkway, and the Loy E. Harris Pavilion.

Virginia Main Street Community Events

Abingdon, Main Street 5K
Saturday, August 1, 6:30 p.m.

Register at the Abingdon Market Pavilion for this Main Street run. Event starts at 7:30 p.m. and registration is $15.

Berryville, Dog Days of Summer Festival
Saturday, July 19, 9 a.m.—Noon

Enjoy Downtown Berryville with your canine friend. Events include a look-alike contest, a stupid pet trick contest, a dog health presentation from a renowned doggie doctor, and demonstrations by the Berryville and Winchester sheriffs’ departments canine units and Bartemus the flying Frisbee dog.

Culpeper, The Embers —Third Thursday Summer Concert Series
Thursday, July 1, 5 - 9 p.m.

Downtown Culpeper will move to the sounds during July’s installment of this monthly event at the Depot.

Marion, Hungry Mother Arts & Crafts Festival and Marion Downtown Days Summer Festival
Friday through Sunday, July 17 – 19, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Park downtown and ride the free shuttle all weekend. Activities at both venues include arts, crafts, and food booths, live music at the park. Friday night downtown features Chili Championship, Show ‘n’ Shine vehicle show, and street dance with Phantom. Saturday features sidewalk sales, vendors, and a special evening of live music, children’s theater and special menus at downtown eateries.

Martinsville, Uptown Vision Day
Saturday, July 25:, 8:30 a.m. - Noon

Join Uptown stakeholders from throughout Martinsville and Henry County for a look at the future of Uptown. The interactive morning will include mini-walking tours, a sampling of Uptown eateries, and discussion of strategies for Uptown as a robust business and community hub. For more information visit: www.uptownmville.com.

Freedmen Bureau Records Are Now Available Online

2009-07-09T06:33:00.000-07:00

July 9, 2009

Contact: Gordon Hickey
(804) 225-4260

www.governor.virginia.gov

GOVERNOR KAINE ANNOUNCES AVAILABILITY OF HISTORIC FREEDMEN RECORDS ONLINE
~ Virginia will also take the lead in a historically significant “Finding the Freedmen Marriage Records Project” ~

Governor Timothy M. Kaine today announced that the historic Virginia Freedmen’s Bureau records, the earliest major compilation of information on the African American community, have been extracted and indexed, and are now available online to historians and family history researchers. Under the direction of the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia and in collaboration with FamilySearch, volunteers digitized the records of names, marriages, educational pursuits, work contracts, health care and legal services and other important information from the Virginia Freedmen’s Bureau. The records can now be viewed temporarily at the FamilySearch website, and negotiations are currently ongoing to permanently host the records through the Smithsonian Institution‘s National Museum of African American History and Culture.

“This project is exciting for Virginia and for the world,” Governor Kaine said. “What we have done is helped preserve the legacy of those nearly four million freedmen who at the end of the Civil War stepped out of slavery and into freedom.”

In October 2006, Governor Kaine announced that Virginia would be the first state to participate in a historic project to index and digitize the Freedmen’s Bureau records, allowing historians and descendents of emancipated slaves, freed Blacks and black Union soldiers to access historical data, much of which was never before available. Participation in this historically significant project, as well as collaboration with key national organizations, continues Virginia’s prominent role in preserving America’s history and legacies.

Building on Virginia’s trailblazing effort, the project now moves to the remaining states in which the Freedmen’s Bureau had established headquarters. FamilySearch, which initiated this project at the request of the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), will provide direct administrative support for this important second phase of the freedmen project.

The Governor also announced that the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia will continue to play a leading role in helping to ensure that all of the freedmen records—Freedmen’s Bureau, Freedman’s Bank, and other Freedmen records not included in the NARA archives— are brought together into one place and made accessible to the public. To this end, the Museum will be involved in three important, freedmen-related projects:

• Collaboration with FamilySearch and other national organizations to encourage African American participation in the second phase of the freedmen records extraction and indexing project;

• Collaboration with other national organizations in an effort to identify the freedmen marriage records that remain in the counties, libraries and other locations throughout the South; a blue ribbon coordinating committee will be appointed to plan, seek funding for, and oversee this project;

• In partnership with the US Census Bureau, develop an educational program that highlights the role played by three historically significant record sets – the freedmen records, the 1870 census, and the 1880 census – in documenting and identifying the freedmen as they emerged from slavery at the end of the Civil War.

“The digitization of information from the freedmen records will greatly aid students of history and genealogy in better understanding the freedmen era, commonly known by historians as Reconstruction,” said Dr. Maureen Elgersman Lee, Executive Director of the Black History Museum.

“We thank the Black History Museum and its volunteers for their prodigious efforts on behalf of the freedmen,” said Alan Heath of FamilySearch. “Those volunteers spent countless hours, sitting at their computers, extracting name by name, place by place America’s history from the ragged pages of the past.”

“These records are clearly among the most important American historical records yet to become accessible to the family history and scholarly communities,” said Lonnie Bunch, founding director of the Smithsonian Institution‘s National Museum of African American History and Culture.

The Bureau of Refugees, Freedmen, and Abandoned Lands, commonly called the Freedmen's Bureau, was established by the US Congress in 1865 to assist refugees and freedmen following the Civil War and Emancipation Proclamation. The Bureau sought to establish systems of education, health care and opportunity to support recently emancipated African Americans until it’s dissolution in 1872.

Ethanol Gas Complaints in Tidewater Reported to VDACS

2009-07-09T06:30:00.000-07:00

OFFICE OF COMMUNICATIONS, P.O. BOX 1163, RICHMOND, VA 23218, www.vdacs.virginia.gov
July 8, 2009

Contact: Elaine Lidholm, (804)786-7686

STATE RECEIVES MORE THAN 500 COMPLAINTS ABOUT HIGH LEVELS OF ETHANOL IN GASOLINE IN TIDEWATER AREA

From June 8 to July 7, 2009, the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) received more than 500 complaints about high levels of ethanol in gasoline sold in the Tidewater area. Many consumers reported that their vehicles were performing poorly after they filled their tanks. VDACS’ Office of Product and Industry Standards (OPIS) began inspecting gas stations for which they had complaints and found several instances of excessive levels of ethanol. Eight OPIS inspectors are dedicating their full attention to these investigations. As of July 7, 2009 inspectors had investigated 457 of the 532 complaints received by VDACS, involving a significant number of retail locations.

Although the number of complaints and telephone inquiries had abated somewhat by the week of July 6, VDACS continues to receive reports from consumers who are concerned about the quality of the gasoline they purchased. The vast majority of the fuel sampled by the inspectors was found to be in compliance, and OPIS inspectors only issued five Stop Sale orders. The affected pumps were sealed out of service and labeled with a prominent tag, protecting consumers by preventing the inadvertent purchase of contaminated product. In every one of the five cases, the retailers took action to ensure that their fuel was brought into compliance; and, upon subsequent testing by OPIS inspectors, the Stop Sale orders were lifted. In fewer than ten other instances, inspectors determined that retailers who took delivery of suspect fuel had voluntarily closed their pumps and had the suspect fuel pumped out and replenished with fresh gasoline.

During a typical investigation of a gasoline quality complaint, an inspector gathers records about recent deliveries of fuel at the station and asks station management if the station has received other complaints. The inspector also determines how much fuel is on hand by either using the station's electronic readout or by dipping the tank with a fuel stick coated with detection paste. To test for ethanol, the inspector purges the fuel lines first and then collects a sample. Using a field test kit, the inspector can determine if the fuel contains excessive ethanol, water or sediment. If the sample is noncompliant, the fuel is put under a Stop Sale order, an official sample is drawn for laboratory analysis and the dispenser is tagged and taken out of service. Whenever a Stop Sale order is issued, only an OPIS inspector or supervisor can remove the tags and release the fuel for sale.

OPIS is actively investigating all complaints received, not only at the retail level, but also with various distributors and terminal operators. The findings are being reviewed for possible compliance action in accordance with the provisions of Virginia's Motor Fuels and Lubricating Oils Law. In accordance with §3.2-103(4) of the Code of Virginia, the records of these investigations must remain confidential until the investigations are closed. In the event that restitution may be available in the future, consumers should keep receipts and/or statements as proof of purchase.

In addition to OPIS, VDACS Office of Consumer Affairs (OCA) is available to assist consumers who believe that their vehicles might have been damaged by contaminated fuel. OCA recommends that consumers first contact the retailer from whom they purchased the suspect fuel. If efforts to resolve complaints with the retailer are unsuccessful, consumers may wish to discuss their particular case with a staff member in OCA by calling 800.552.9963 or 804.786.2042 in the Greater Richmond area. More information about OCA’s services, including a link to the consumer complaint form, is available online at www.vdacs.virginia.gov, under Consumer Services.

CDBG Funding Announced by Governor Kaine

2009-07-07T12:26:00.000-07:00

July 7, 2009

Contact: Gordon Hickey Hollie S. Cammarasana, DHCD
Phone: (804) 225-4260 (804) 371-7006
Cell Phone: (804) 291-8977 (804) 382-2075
Internet: www.governor.virginia.gov www.dhcd.virginia.gov

GOVERNOR KAINE ANNOUNCES MORE THAN $14 MILLION IN COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT FUNDING
~Approximately 3,790 Virginians will benefit from improved housing, wastewater services, job creation and economic revitalization projects ~

RICHMOND – Governor Timothy M. Kaine today announced $14,134,490 in federal funding for 22 community development projects through the Virginia Community Development Block Grant (VCDBG) program. The grants, which will fund a variety of projects – from housing revitalization to water and sewer infrastructure, to broadband and economic and downtown revitalization – are expected to benefit 3,790 Virginians, of which 2,899 are low to moderate income.

“These community improvement projects address a number of critical issues throughout the Commonwealth,” said Governor Kaine. “While a majority of these awards go toward creating safe and affordable housing and water for Virginians, there is also important funding for broadband, and economic and downtown revitalization efforts that will help our communities grow and improve the quality of life for their citizens.”

“We feel these projects will result in significant benefits for the citizens of Virginia,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Patrick Gottschalk. “These grants also provide communities with additional opportunities for future growth.”

Since 1982, the federally funded VCDBG program has been administered by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD), and Virginia receives up to $19 million annually for this “small cities” grant program. VCDBG grants are awarded through a competitive process. Most projects benefit low and moderate income persons, and many projects are targeted for the prevention or elimination of slums and blighting conditions.

Several projects are noted as either Multi Year or Letter of Intent projects. Multi year projects are those that will receive a contract allocating funds for one year, and after achieving specific performance targets, will then be eligible for another year of funding. Letter of Intent projects are those which will be awarded after the locality meets specific targets.

“Quality of life for Virginians means having a safe, affordable and prosperous community in which to live, work and do business,” said Bill Shelton, DHCD Director. “Creating better communities in which to live is the goal of our agency, and these grants are focused directly on that goal.”

Details of the grant award projects and amounts are listed below:

Project Title
Locality
Elected Official
Funding Sources
Funds Total
Old Madison Heights Revitalization Project – Phase I Stump Hill Area

Multi Year
Amherst, County of
Vernon L. Wood, Chairman, Board of Supervisors
CDBG
State IPR
USDA – RD
Local
TOTAL
$ 1,098,449
29,385
22,500
40,175
$ 1,190,509
Project Description: The county will address substandard housing and infrastructure conditions in the Stump Hill community, as the first step of the larger Old Madison Heights neighborhood revitalization. The project will include the rehabilitation of eight owner-occupied homes, the substantial reconstruction of one owner-occupied home, the rehabilitation of one rental home, demolition and clearance of three vacant and dilapidated structures, installation of approximately 1,450 linear feet of water line, connection of sanitary sewer to five homes, and roadway and drainage improvements. The project is expected to benefit approximately 42 persons, at least 34 of whom are low to moderate income.

Simmons Drive Community Improvement Project

Multi Year
Brunswick, County of
Welton Tyler, Chairman, Board of Supervisors
CDBG
Local
TOTAL
$ 1,102,510
25,345
$ 1,127,855
Project Description: The county will reduce substandard housing conditions and improve infrastructure in the Simmons Drive community. The project will include the rehabilitation of five owner-occupied homes; the substantial reconstruction of one owner-occupied home; the rehabilitation of five renter occupied homes; the demolition and removal of two dilapidated vacant structures; the installation of 1,770 linear feet of water line, 2,620 linear feet of gravity sewer, 2,700 linear feet of one and one half- nch sewer force main, and appurtenances; and the construction of approximately 3,000 centerline feet of residential street. The project is expected to benefit 51 persons, 46 of whom are low to moderate income.

Haysi to Big A Mountain Water Project, Phase III
Buchanan, County of

Dickenson, County of
James Carroll Branham, Chairman, Board of Supervisors

Roger Stanley, Chairman, Board of Supervisors
CDBG
ARC
AML
SWVA Water/WV Fund
Coalfield Water Development
Local PSA
TOTAL
$ 1,000,000
500,000
2,361,325
170,790

185,000

142,475
$ 4,359,590
Project Description: The counties will provide for the extension of public water service to priority areas identified in the Coalfields Regional Water Study. Presently households in this area are served by wells and springs that have been shown to poor quality and diminished quantity. Water tests have revealed that many water sources contain unsafe levels of coliform bacteria and other contaminants such as high levels of iron. The project will connect a total of 210 households to safe and adequate source of potable water and is expected to serve 348 persons, 233 of whom are low to moderate income.

Hurley Flood Recovery Housing Project – Phase V
Buchanan, County of
James Carroll Branham, Chairman, Board of Supervisors
CDBG
Local
TOTAL
$ 775,000
200,000
$ 975,000
Project Description: The county will rehabilitate one home and substantially reconstruct 13 homes as the final phase of the Hurley Flood Recovery Project, which to date has addressed over 70 homes. This project will provide safe and suitable housing for 37 persons, all of whom are low to moderate income.

West Fourth Street Community Improvement Project

Multi Year
Chase City, Town of
Eddie Bratton, Mayor
CDBG
Local
TOTAL
$ 1,250,990
6,740
$ 1,257,730
Project Description: The town will reduce substandard housing and infrastructure conditions for the West Fourth Street community. The project will include the rehabilitation of nine owner-occupied homes; the substantial reconstruction of five owner-occupied home; the rehabilitation of seven renter occupied homes; the demolition and removal of two dilapidated vacant structures; the installation of 1,740 linear feet of water line, 1,780 linear feet of eight-inch sewer line, and the installation of culverts and drainage improvements. The project is expected to benefit 52 persons, all of whom are low to moderate income.

Chincoteague Broadband Network Project
Chincoteague, Town of
John H. Tarr, Mayor
CDBG
U.S. Fish & Wildlife
Local
TOTAL
$ 540,990
25,000
100,000
$ 665,990
Project Description: The town will install an open access broadband network to support local communication needs and future broadband deployment. The project will include the installation of approximately 35,000 linear feet of 96 strand fiber optic cable, the installation of necessary electronics, and connection to the collocation center to access the broadband backbone. The project is expected to create at least 20 new jobs, of which at least half will be for low to moderate income persons, and improved access to healthcare.

Washington Park Community Development Program – Phase IV

Multi Year
Greensville, County of

Peggy R. Wiley, Chairman, Board of Supervisors
CDBG
Private
Local
TOTAL
$ 973,300
137,500
129,700
$ 1,240,500
Project Description: The county will complete the next phase of the larger Washington Park neighborhood revitalization. The project will include the rehabilitation of one owner-occupied home, the rehabilitation of five rental homes, the substantial reconstruction of eight owner-occupied homes, the creation of five new low to moderate income home owners, and the installation of approximately 550 linear feet of storm water drainage pipe, 500 linear feet of curb and gutter, 80 square yards of entrance gutter, 500 linear feet of sidewalk, and at least four additional street lights. The project is expected to benefit at least 40 persons, 33 of whom are low to moderate income.

South Street Neighborhood Improvement Project

Multi Year
Henry, County of
Jim Adams, Chairman, Board of Supervisors
CDBG
VDEM
Weatherization
USDA-RD
Private
Local
TOTAL
$ 1,400,000
313,362
194,000
115,862
27,400
118,959
$ 2,169,853
Project Description: The county will implement a neighborhood improvement project in the South Street area of the Bassett community. The project will include the rehabilitation of four owner-occupied homes, the rehabilitation of ten renter occupied single family homes and four multi-family renter occupied units, the substantial reconstruction of three owner-occupied homes, demolition and removal of two dilapidated vacant structures, 5,500 cubic yards of excavation, 1,340 linear feet of ditches, 3,554 square yards of new road construction, and the replacement of 1,570 linear feet of water line and 2,125 linear feet of sewer line. The project is expected to benefit 49 persons, 47 of who are low to moderate income.

Mary Ball Road Neighborhood Improvement Project

Multi Year
Kilmarnock, Town of
Dr. Curtis H. Smith, Mayor
CDBG
State-IPR
Weatherization
Private
Local
TOTAL
$ 1,385,455
119,850
77,100
7,500
951,249
$ 2,541,154
Project Description: The town will provide improvements and infrastructure to the Mary Ball Road community. The project will include the rehabilitation of 12 owner-occupied homes, the rehabilitation of six rental homes, the substantial reconstruction of four owner-occupied homes, demolition and clearance of four abandoned, dilapidated structures, and the installation of 5,119 linear feet of eight inch water line, 307 linear feet of water service line, 26 water meters, 5,478 linear feet of eight inch gravity sewer line, 5,359 linear feet of four-inch sewer force main, 420 linear feet of sewer service line, 31 sewer connections, and appurtenances. The project will benefit at least 60 persons, 49 of whom are low to moderate income.

Angel Court Housing Production

Letter of Intent
King George, County of
Joseph W. Grezieka, Chairman, Board of Supervisors
CDBG
VHDA loan
VHDA grant
HOME
LIHTC
Private
Local
TOTAL
$ 680,000
735,000
220,000
500,000
2,647,000
512,346
175,000
$ 5,469,346
Project Description: The county will complete infrastructure improvements in support of the development of 24 units of affordable rental housing for low-income and disabled residents of the county. The project will include construction of 975 linear feet of VDOT public access road, two commercial entrances, 650 linear feet of eight inch water line, 785 linear feet of four-inch sewer force main, and storm water / drainage improvements. The project is expected to benefit 114 persons, all of whom are low to moderate income.

Blackwater – Lee County Water Project

Lee, County of
Carl Bailey, Chairman, Board of Supervisors
CDBG
Health Dept.
TOTAL
$ 1,000,000
1,069,774
$ 2,069,774
Project Description: The county will provide public water service to approximately 90 households in the Blackwater community. The project will include the construction of approximately 40,000 linear feet of eight inch water line, 25,000 linear feet of six inch water line, 1,100 linear feet of four inch water line, 600 linear feet of two inch water line, 9,900 linear feet of three quarter inch service line, a 50,000 gallon water storage tank, and a booster pump station. The project is expected to benefit approximately 200 persons, 125 of whom are low to moderate income.

Old Woodway Road Extention – Phase II
Lee, County of
Carl Bailey, Chairman, Board of Supervisors
CDBG
Local
TOTAL
$ 250,000
107,114
$ 357,114
Project Description: The county will provide public water service to the remaining 20 households in the Old Woodway community. The project will include the construction of approximately 8,797 linear feet of eight-inch water line, one pressure reduction station, and appurtenances. The project is expected to benefit approximately 45 persons, 30 of whom are low to moderate income.

Pearl Avenue and Buchanan Street Housing Rehabilitation Project

Multi Year
Marion, Town of
David P. Helms, Mayor
CDBG
Local
TOTAL
$ 715,190
36,000
$ 751,190
Project Description: The town will address substandard housing conditions in the Pearl Avenue and Buchanan Street community. The project includes the rehabilitation 15 owner-occupied houses, the rehabilitation 6 renter-occupied properties, the substantially reconstruction of one owner-occupied home, and demolition and removal of two vacant blighted structures in addition to general debris and trash removal. The project is expected to benefit 46 persons, all of whom are low to moderate income.

Route 92 Waterline Extension Project
Mecklenburg, County of
Glenn E. Barbour, Chairman, Board of Supervisors
CDBG
Tobacco Commission
EDA
Local
TOTAL
$ 1,000,000
1,000,000
1,250,000
700,000
$ 3,950,000
Project Description: The county will install a water main to connect the town of Chase City’s water distribution system to address concerns with the town’s water supply which has repeatedly received violations for water quality problems. The project will include the construction of 54,483 linear feet of twelve inch water line, 27 gate valves, a booster pump station, related appurtenances, and the replacement of approximately 4,890 linear feet of water line within the town. The project is expected to benefit 2,169 persons, 1,623 of whom are low to moderate income.

Skipwith Road II Housing Rehabilitation Project

Multi Year
Mecklenburg, County of
Glenn E. Barbour, Chairman, Board of Supervisors
CDBG
Local
TOTAL
$ 600,700
1,260
$ 601,960
Project Description: The county will improve the housing conditions for low to moderate income residents of the Skipwith Road community. The project includes the rehabilitation of nine owner occupied homes, the rehabilitation of three tenant occupied homes, the substantial reconstruction of three owner occupied homes, and the demolition of two severely dilapidated vacant structures. The project will benefit 41 low to moderate income persons.

Dora Highway Neighborhood Revitalization Project

Multi Year
Pulaski, Town of
Jeff Worrell, Mayor
CDBG
HOME
State – SHOP
Weatherization
Private
Local
TOTAL
$ 1,400,000
319,000
75,000
92,750
501,000
401,686
$ 2,789,436
Project Description: The town will provide a broad range of improvements to the Dora Highway Neighborhood. The project will include the rehabilitation of ten owner-occupied homes, the substantial reconstruction of owner-occupied homes, the rehabilitation of four rental homes, the acquisition of six lots for the construction of six new homes for sale to first time low to moderate income homebuyers, demolition and clearance of 14 vacant and blighted structures, and the installation of 3,000 linear feet of upgraded and “loop connection” water line, resurfacing of 1,628 linear feet of existing streets, improvements to one intersection and the construction of two cul de sacs. The project will benefit 154 persons, 137 of whom are low to moderate income.

Dante – Sawmill Hollow Housing Rehabilitation Project
Russell, County of
Danny Brown, Chairman, Board of Supervisors
CDBG
Local
TOTAL
$ 467,000
62,400
$ 529,400
Project Description: The county will rehabilitate one home, substantially reconstruct six homes, and remove 16 vacant and severely dilapidated structures in the Dante-Sawmill Hollow Community. The project is expected to benefit 15 persons, all of whom are low to moderate income.

American Tobacco Warehouse Renovation Project: Advanced Manufacturing Technology Program

Letter of Intent
South Boston, Town of
Carroll Thackston, Mayor
CDBG
Tobacco Commission
Historic Tax Credits
TOTAL
$ 700,000
6,000,000

4,335,903

$ 11,035,903
Project Description: The town will purchase advanced manufacturing technology equipment to support the Advanced Manufacturing Technology portion of the Innovation Center, a component of the American Tobacco Warehouse Renovation Project. This program will produce 60 persons receiving a Certification and Associate Degree of Applied Science, 48 persons receiving an Associate Degree, 39 persons receiving a Certificate, and 15 persons receiving job training in Advanced Manufacturing. Of the 162 persons who have completed coursework, 118 will be low to moderate income.

Middle Creek Water Line Extension Project
Tazewell, County of
David R. Anderson, Chairman, Board of Supervisors
CDGB
SWVA Water/WV Fund
Local
TOTAL
$ 437,500
155,283

25,000
$ 617,783
Project Description: The county will provide water service from the town of Cedar Bluff water system to 35 households in the Middle Creek community. The project will include approximately 7,000 linear feet of six-inch water line, 7,000 linear feet of four-inch water line, a pump station, and 35 water meters. The project is expected to benefit 74 persons, 53 of whom are low to moderate income.

Arch/Market Neighborhood Project
Waynesboro, City of
Timothy D. Williams, Mayor
CDBG
Local
TOTAL
$ 684,000
10,000
$ 694,000
Project Description: The city will undertake an effort to address substandard housing conditions and the potential for flooding in the Arch / Market Street Neighborhood. The project will include the rehabilitation of eleven owner-occupied homes, one of which will be elevated, and the substantial reconstruction of four homes, two of which are owner occupied and two of which will become homeowners through the project. The project is expected to benefit 41 low to moderate income persons.

Wise Inn Restoration and Redevelopment

Letter of Intent
Wise, County of
Robert E. Robbins, Jr., Chairman, Board of Supervisors
CDBG
ARC
Tobacco Commission
VCEDA
Historic Tax Credits
Local
TOTAL
$ 700,000
277,574
1,100,000

1,200,000
3,942,426

880,000
$ 8,100,000
Project Description: The county will partner with the Wise County Industrial Development Authority will oversee the redevelopment of the historic Wise Inn property. The Inn will be a hub for regional tourism and is expected to host a variety of educational, cultural, and entertainment activities. The restoration will result in an upscale, 40-room hotel, restaurant, conference and meeting space, and additional parking. Approximately 30 jobs are expected to be created as a result of the Inn's operation, at least half of which will be for low to moderate income persons.

Wise Downtown Revitalization Project

Wise, County of
Caynor Smith, Mayor
CDBG
Private
Local
TOTAL
$ 700,000
83,800
502,117
$ 1,285,917
Project Description: The town will complete a variety of improvements in its central business district that are designed to contribute to the overall economic restructuring of the town. The project will include the construction of the Gateway Gardens, including a pedestrian plaza and turning radius improvements, façade improvements to at least seven downtown commercial properties, and construction of the Big Glades Square community events and performance space. The project will result in the removal of all physical and economic blight in the town’s business district.

Virginia Coalition for Open Government Seeks Nominations

2009-07-07T06:16:00.000-07:00

July 7, 2009

VCOG Seeks Nominations for Freedom of Information Awards

VCOG's FOI Awards Information
Do you know someone who works hard to keep government open and accountable? Have you read an article, seen a television show, or heard a radio program that helped you understand the importance of government records and meetings? Has someone in local or state government demonstrated a real commitment to citizen access to government information?

The Virginia Coalition for Open Government is seeking nominations for its annual Freedom of Information Awards. The awards are given in three categories: citizen, media, and government. They are based on the nominee's outstanding efforts in using public records and meetings to keep government open and accountable to the people.

The coalition's citizen award, the Laurence E. Richardson award, is named for veteran Charlottesville broadcaster Laurence Richardson (1920–1999), a VCOG founder and longtime First Amendment and Freedom of Information supporter.

Past winners include David Poole, the founder of the Virginia Public Access Project; former Librarian of Virginia Nolan T. Yelich and the Library Board for ensuring that public records from former Governor James S. Gilmore's administration were transferred to the Library of Virginia; a citizen activist who successfully sued the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries for spending records; the Virginia Beach FOI Office; and a Roanoke Times reporter who used the FOI Act to uncover a city councilman's double-billing practices.

Nominations should be accompanied by an explanation and any supporting materials (articles, letters, website links, etc.) that will help the judges evaluate the nominee's achievements.

To nominate someone, please complete this online form http://www.opengovva.org/component/option,com_mosforms/mosform,10/Itemid,183/
A printable form is also available, and can be mailed to VCOG, Attention: Awards, P.O. Box 2576, Williamsburg, VA 23187. Supporting materials can be mailed to the same address.

Winners will be announced in conjunction with the coalition's annual conference October 15–16 in Staunton.

Edgar Allan Poe Exhibit Opens at Library of Virginia July 20

2009-07-07T06:13:00.000-07:00

July 7, 2009

Poe: Man, Myth, or Monster Opens July 20 at the Library of Virginia

To celebrate the 200th anniversary of Edgar Allan Poe’s birth, the Library of Virginia, in partnership with the Poe Museum, is presenting a major exhibition exploring the myths and legends surrounding Edgar Allan Poe, America’s first internationally renowned author. Poe: Man, Myth, or Monster covers the many facets of Poe’s life. He was born in Boston in 1809 but identified himself as a Virginian.

Who is Edgar Allan Poe? He has his own action figure and comic book. He has appeared in film, television, and other people’s novels. He is America’s first internationally influential author, the inventor of the modern detective story, a contributor to the genre of science fiction, author of some of the most thoughtful and piercing literary criticism ever written, a lyric poet, an amateur scientist, and inventor of nearly 1,000 new words. (Think tintinnabulation.) Poe’s influence on other authors is incalculable.

But much of what we think we know about Poe is not necessarily accurate. During his lifetime Poe often was less than truthful about his life. A University of Virginia dropout, he wrote an autobiography claiming to have graduated from the school. His account also had him traveling to Europe to fight in the Greek Wars of Independence and being imprisoned in Saint Petersburg. Subsequent biographers also were less than factual, erring either on the side of Poe the drunken madman or Poe the refined, ever proper gentleman.

The exhibition includes three interactive stations: Poe’s Words (readings from Poe), Poe in Film (the 1928 silent film The Fall of the House of Usher), and Fact or Fiction (visitors get to test their knowledge of Poe).

Among the more 100 (digital and original items) in the exhibition are:

* A copy of Tamerlane, Poe's first, but not widely distributed, published book of poetry (1827)
* Posters in different languages from commercial films based (however loosely) on Poe's tales
* An Edgar, the annual award given by the Mystery Writers of America
* Illustrations of The Raven by James Carling (1857–1887)
* Original manuscripts of "Eulalie: a Song," "To Elizabeth," and Poe's autobiography

Chris Semtner, curator of the exhibition, is the author of several articles on Edgar Allan Poe and serves as acting director of the Poe Museum.

Poe: Man, Myth, or Monster runs through December 5, 2009. The exhibition is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Monday through Saturday. Admission is free. Monthly curator led tours and weekly docent led tours are available. Please call (804) 692-3592 for tour information.