***ZONING ORDINANCE VOTE***

***TOMORROW EVENING***

Tomorrow Evening, Wednesday Nov 16th at 6:00 pm, Board of Supervisors meeting to VOTE on Zoning Ordinance Changes
York Hall, 301 Main Street, Yorktown


Remember - Holding our elected officials accountable at public meetings is just as effective as the ballot box!

"Whenever the people are well informed they can be trusted with their own government; that whenever things get so far wrong as to attract their notice, they may be relied on to set them to rights."
Thomas Jefferson

***ZONING ORDINANCE VOTE***

***NEXT WEDNESDAY EVENING***

Wednesday Nov 16th (changed from the 15th) at 6:00 pm, Board of Supervisors meeting to VOTE on Zoning Ordinance Changes
York Hall, 301 Main Street, Yorktown


Remember - Holding our elected officials accountable at public meetings is just as effective as the ballot box!

"Whenever the people are well informed they can be trusted with their own government; that whenever things get so far wrong as to attract their notice, they may be relied on to set them to rights."
Thomas Jefferson

***ZONING ORDINANCE DISCUSSION***

***TOMORROW EVENING***


Thursday Nov 10th (changed from the 17th) at 6:00 pm, Tuscany Forum hosts York County Supervisors – Mr. Tom Shepperd has confirmed attendance
To discuss proposed Zoning Ordinance Changes, York Hall, 301 Main Street, Yorktown


Remember - Holding our elected officials accountable at public meetings is just as effective as the ballot box!

"Whenever the people are well informed they can be trusted with their own government; that whenever things get so far wrong as to attract their notice, they may be relied on to set them to rights."
Thomas Jefferson

***YORK COUNTY CITIZENS ABSOLUTE MUST ATTEND EVENTS***

Citizens of York County - we must make our voice heard – for which, it is never too late!
Below are Must Attend Events for every Voting Resident of York County

• Nov 8th, ELECTION DAY – BE SURE TO VOTE AND TAKE A FEW FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS WITH YOU!!
  

• Nov 9th at 7:00 pm, Planning Commission meeting on proposed Zoning Ordinance Changes, York Hall, 301 Main Street, Yorktown
  

• Nov 10th (changed from the 17th) at 6:00 pm, Tuscany Forum hosts York County Supervisors – Mr. Tom Shepperd has confirmed attendance – to discuss proposed Zoning Ordinance Changes, York Hall, 301 Main Street, Yorktown
  

• Nov 16th (changed from the 15th) at 6:00 pm, Board of Supervisors meeting to consider Zoning Ordinance Changes, York Hall, 301 Main Street, Yorktown
  

Remember - Holding our elected officials accountable at public meetings is just as effective as the ballot box!

"Whenever the people are well informed they can be trusted with their own government; that whenever things get so far wrong as to attract their notice, they may be relied on to set them to rights."
Thomas Jefferson

***YORK COUNTY CITIZENS LET YOUR VOICE BE HEARD***

Citizens of York County - we must make our voice heard – for which, it is never too late!
Here are a few upcoming events where we can do just that:

• Nov 8th, ELECTION DAY – BE SURE TO VOTE AND TAKE A FEW FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS WITH YOU!!
• Nov 9th at 7:00 pm, Planning Commission meeting on proposed Zoning Ordinance Changes, York Hall, 301 Main Street, Yorktown
• Nov 10th (changed from the 17th) at 6:00 pm, Tuscany Forum hosts York County Supervisors – Mr. Tom Shepperd has confirmed attendance – to discuss proposed Zoning Ordinance Changes, location and more information to follow.
• Nov 16th (changed from the 15th) at 6:00 pm, Board of Supervisors meeting to consider Zoning Ordinance Changes, York Hall, 301 Main Street, Yorktown
  

Remember - Holding our elected officials accountable at public meetings is just as effective as the ballot box!

"Whenever the people are well informed they can be trusted with their own government; that whenever things get so far wrong as to attract their notice, they may be relied on to set them to rights."
Thomas Jefferson

YOUR HELP is needed by Tom Harmon for VA Senate this last week!!!

The Tuscany Forum provides the following information at the request of Lynda Fairman, York County Coordinator, Tom Harmon for Senate
The Forum encourages all York County Citizens to actively support the candidates of your choice!

***************************************************************************
We look forward to seeing everyone at these events in these last days before the Nov. 8 election!!
Tom Harmon has a real chance of winning IF the voters from York County and the 2nd District get to the polls on Nov. 8th!
Even if you aren’t in the 2nd District, it’s important to help get voters motivated to elect Tom Harmon! We need you!!
Tom’s opponent thinks York County doesn’t matter even though we’re now in the 2nd District – it’s time we showed her all of York County & all of the 2nd District care about who represents us in Richmond!
IT’S UP TO YOU TO MAKE IT HAPPEN!

Thanks for all you’re doing to get the word out that there IS a conservative choice for the 2nd District Senate – Tom Harmon!!
Hope to see you at my home for Tom’s “Meet & Greet” on Nov. 1st!
Lynda Fairman
York County Coordinator, Tom Harmon for Virginia Senate
 
‘Like’ & share us on Facebook: Tom Harmon for VA Senate
www.tomharmonforvasenate.com
 www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Tom-Harmon-for-VA-Senate/188102734578805  

Here are the upcoming events that need your help to ‘Flip The Senate’ and send Tom Harmon to replace incumbent liberal Mamie Locke in the 2nd Senate District!!

WE NEED YOUR HELP!!   MARK YOUR CALENDARS!!    IT’S UP TO YOU!!

Friday, 28 Oct., 6:00 pm @ Hampton City Hall: League of Women Voters Debate – Tom Harmon (R) vs. incumbent Mamie Locke (D)

We need you to turn out to support Tom in this District 2 debate that will be reported in local newspapers and blogs. You can submit questions from the floor. It’s time to ask Mamie Locke why she has ignored York County and refused to attend the York County forums/debates and why she stated she’s “proud of her zero rating from the Family Foundation” on her family values voting record!


Sat., 29 Oct., 10:00 am, YC Door-to-Door Walking with Tom Harmon in the subdivisions along Cary’s Chapel Rd.
(Woods of Tabb, Brentmeade, etc.)

Meet @ produce stand at corner of Victory Blvd. & Cary’s Chapel Rd. diagonally across from Cary’s Chapel Church to get maps & walk lists from Carl Anderson
(You might want to bring an umbrella & raincoat!)

Join Tom & his team as they bring Tom’s message & information to this area of York County & meet the voters! We’ll still walk even if it’s raining

It REALLY sends the message to voters that we care that much about electing Tom Harmon!

Carl has other 2nd District area maps & walk lists that need to be completed this week, also, so let him know if you’re able to help with this:
Carl Anderson: 757-870-6081 & hydro4u@aol.com


Tuesday, 1 Nov., 6:30pm – 8:30pm  Meet & Greet/Fundraiser
Terry & Lynda Fairman’s home (invitation attached & below!) with special guest speaker & Constitutional patriot, E. W. Jackson!

This is a chance for York County voters to hear Tom speak on his plans to represent you and answer your questions.

Funds raised this evening will be used for a final media push to get the vote out for Tom on Nov. 8th!
(Please RSVP asap by 31 Oct. so we’re sure to have enough appetizers & beverages for everyone!)


30 Oct. – 7 Nov., late afternoons & early evenings; PHONE BANKING from your own home!

Lynda Fairman has the York County phone lists to call 2nd District voters to remind them to vote for Tom Harmon for VA Senate on Tuesday, 8 Nov. Contact her at 757-593-1854 or lvlfairman@sprint.blackberry.net or respond to this email to get a list. She’ll have them at the Nov. 1st Meet & Greet event at her home, also.


Tuesday, 8 NOV – ELECTION DAY Poll Watchers!!

We need poll watchers in all the 52 polling locations in the 2nd District to make sure everything runs smoothly and it’s a fair election! Contact Tom’s campaign mgr., Darryl Postell, to let him know you’re able to help and find out when/where the training will take place: darrylpostell@gmail.com or 757-303-8871. Call Darryl quickly to get the poll location you’d like to work!


Don’t know your District?? The 2nd Senate District = Hampton, southern part of Newport News, part of Portsmouth, and part of York County

If you’re not sure what District you’re now in or know of other voters who are unsure. Please pass this along to others, too! J

Go to this official site: http://redistricting.dls.virginia.gov/2010/
When it comes up, select "Interactive Map & Plans" then change "Default" window to desired state race: Senate or House (of Delegates).
The left sidebar should automatically 'check' the last map choice: "passed 4/28/11" to get the final version of the new lines.
                             Above the map in the menu bar, type in your address. The map will place a flag on that location.
You can then zoom in and out to see the district lines & streets. You'll see the # of the district in that area.

If you need Tom’s literature, yard signs, bumper stickers, etc.
Contact Lynda Fairman (757-593-1854), Carl Anderson (757-870-6081), or CM Darryl Postell (757-303-8871)!

Let your Voice be Heard!

Citizens of York County - we must make our voice heard – it’s never too late for that!
Here are a few upcoming events where we can do just that:

• Nov 3rd at 5:00 pm, Committee Discussion on aquaculture changes effecting much of York County, East Room at York Hall, 301 Main Street, Yorktown
• Nov 3rd at 7:00 pm, Yorktown Republican Committee Meeting,  York Hall, 301 Main Street, Yorktown
• Nov 9th at 7:00 pm, Planning Commission meeting  at York Hall, 301 Main Street, Yorktown
• Nov 16th (changed from the 15th) at 6:00 pm, Board of Supervisors meeting, York Hall, 301 Main Street, Yorktown

Remember - Holding our elected officials accountable at public meetings is just as effective as the ballot box!

"Whenever the people are well informed they can be trusted with their own government; that whenever things get so far wrong as to attract their notice, they may be relied on to set them to rights."

Thomas Jefferson
96th District, Virginia House of Delegates               October 27, 2011

Freedom Under Siege in Yorktown

Excerpt from Delegate Brenda Pogge’s Newsletter


"Whenever the people are well informed they can be trusted with their own government; that whenever things get so far wrong as to attract their notice, they may be relied on to set them to rights."

Thomas Jefferson
96th District, Virginia House of Delegates               October 27, 2011

Sweeping Changes Coming to York Zoning

On  Thursday, October 13th I attended the York County Planning District meeting. The topic of discussion was proposed zoning changes for York County. What I heard astounded me! There was a laundry list of approximately 20 zoning ordinances that will forever change life in York County. These proposed ordinances include drastic changes for residents who now enjoy certain property rights associated with their Rural Residential  zoning.

Imagine a farming and fishing community where traditional activities such as chicken keeping, horseback riding, raising vegetables, selling excess produce or eggs to your neighbors, even docking your work boat will be regulated, restricted or totally banned.

The new three R's of York County zoning will be Restrictions, Regulations and Raising Fees; all of these amount to a government encroachment upon the property rights of York County residents and invisible tax increases in the form of permitting fees which limit the citizen's freedoms and choices. If you live in York County, especially in a Rural Residential district you need to be at the next planning district meeting on Nov 9th and the next  Board of Supervisors meeting on Nov 16th. I will be sending out an  update with specific information soon.


Brenda Pogge

2010 Census Alters Voting Districts

Last year's federal census brought changes to the Delegate Districts in Virginia. My District has changed because of that. Prior to redistricting, I represented 7 precincts in James City County and 10 precincts in York. That has switched. I now have 10 precincts in JCC and 7 in York.

I no longer will be representing the following precincts: Kiln Creek, Harwood's Mill, and half of Edgehill. These are now in the 93rd District where you have an opportunity to support Republican Mike Watson in his challenge to Democrat Robin Abbott. This will be one of the most closely watched races in the state and a must win for Republicans in order to send a message to Washington.
 
The Tabb, Coventry, and Bethel precincts will now be represented by Delegate Gordon Helsel.

While I will miss my old precincts, I welcome my new ones. They include Seaford, Dare and what used to be known as Harris Grove in York. In James City County I have added all of the Powhatan precincts and all of what used to be the Berkley precincts.

Contact Info

email: brenda@brendapogge.com
delegate business: DelBPogge@house.virginia.gov
phone: 757-223-9690
During session, call: 804-698-1096

mail to:

Delegate Brenda Pogge
P.O. Box 1386
Yorktown, VA  23692

Committee Meeting on Property Rights in York County

***For those interested in Property Rights***

There will be an Agriculture/Aquaculture Planning Committee Meeting

Thursday November 3rd, 5:00pm
East Room of York Hall, 301 Main Street, Yorktown

The York County Planning Commission’s ad hoc committee established to review proposed Zoning Ordinance amendments pertaining to

AGRICULTURE and AQUACULTURE

Will hold a meeting on Thursday, November 3, 2011 at 5 p.m. in the East Room of York Hall, 301 Main Street, Yorktown

To see the proposed changes in the York County Zoning Ordinance
Click here:

http://www.yorkcounty.gov/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=aOVm9hHcTYs%3d&tabid=1900

Copies are also available for review at the Planning Division office, located in the Administration Building, 224 Ballard Street, Yorktown
For additional information, please contact the Planning Division at (757) 890-3404 or by email at planning@yorkcounty.gov

Notice of Chicken Committee Meeting

For those who may be interested
There will be a meeting of the Chicken Committee on Wednesday, October 26, 2011 at 7:00 p.m.
Location: Multi-Purpose Room of the Environmental and Development Services Building
105 Service Drive, Yorktown, Virginia
The meeting will begin at 7:00 p.m.

***REMINDER*** TONIGHT'S FORUM

Don’t forget tonight’s forum – see below!

The James River Journal <http://www.jamesriverjournal.com/> will be covering and reporting on the Forum!


 

The Tuscany Forum Hosts
A Candidate  Forum
Thursday Evening October 20th

The forum is structured  to allow the candidates to address questions from the  audience

This event is open to the  public
When
Thursday Evening October  20th, 7:00 – 9:00pm
Where
Bills Seafood Restaurant
2831  Denbigh Blvd, Yorktown, VA  23692
Banquet Room - doors open at  6:00pm

*********************************************************************************************
The following Candidates have been  invited to attend or send a Representative:

John Miller - State Senate District  1
Mickey Chohany - State Senate District 1
Mamie Locke - State Senate  District 2
Tom Harmon - State Senate District 2
Tommy Norment - State  Senate District 3
Robin Abbott - State Delegate 93rd District
Mike  Watson - State Delegate 93rd District

Forum Moderator - Mr. Bill O’Donovan
Editor and Publisher  of the Virginia Gazette,  Williamsburg,  VA

*********************************************************
***Save the Date***
Thursday Evening November  17th, 7:00 – 9:00pm
The Tuscany Forum will host a discussion on the  Planning Commission’s proposed changes to our Zoning Ordinances
County  Supervisors and Planning Commission Members will be  invited

The links  below provide information on the proposed changes:
Summary link for the  October 12th Hearing - http://www.yorkcounty.gov/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=dCHv4sw5vvg%3d&tabid=2217

Detailed link on the proposed changes - http://www.yorkcounty.gov/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=aOVm9hHcTYs%3d&tabid=1900

*************************************************************************************
The Tuscany Forum  provides York County Citizens a public Forum where they can:
Voice their concerns about the responsiveness and direction of their  county, state and federal governments,
Conduct civil, direct, in-person  dialogue with their elected officials and government staff,
Develop and encourage positive political plans of action to  accomplish the will of the people.

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

The Tuscany  Forum Planning Team:
Bart Barton, Danny Diggs, Greg Garrett, Mike  Hoyes, Linda Hutchinson, Winston Lawrence, Mary Leedom, Todd Mathes, Chuck  McGee, Wade McRoberts, Thomas Nelson, David Phillips
 Stephen Roane,  Maywood Wilson

Times & Location:
Unless  otherwise stated, monthly meetings of The Tuscany Forum are held the  third Thursday of each month at Bills Seafood, 2831  Denbigh Blvd, Yorktown, VA  23692
Forum begins at 7:00pm ***  Food and drink available

*** TONIGHT *** Planning Commission Meeting

**** THE  PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING IS TONIGHT - WEDNESDAY EVENING, OCTOBER 12TH, 7:00PM*****

Below is a link to the specific Planning Commission agenda this evening.  

This is an opportunity for York County citizens to provide input to the Planning Commission regarding the proposed changes.  
The Hearing will be in York Hall tonight, Oct 12th at 7:00pm

Link about this first Hearing....
 
http://www.yorkcounty.gov/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=dCHv4sw5vvg%3d&tabid=2217
 
Link on the proposed changes....
 
http://www.yorkcounty.gov/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=aOVm9hHcTYs%3d&tabid=1900

The Tuscany Forum Planning Team

**YORK COUNTY CITIZENS - IMPORTANT CANDIDATE FORUM NEXT WEEK**

The Tuscany Forum Hosts
A Candidate Forum
Thursday Evening October 20th

The forum is structured to allow the candidates to address questions from the audience  
Questions are to be submitted at the beginning of the event and will be answered during the course of the evening.  
This event is open to the public
When
Thursday Evening October 20th, 7:00 – 9:00pm
Where
Bills Seafood Restaurant
2831 Denbigh Blvd, Yorktown, VA  23692
Banquet Room - open at 6:00pm

*********************************************************************************************
The following Candidates have been invited to attend or send a Representative:

John Miller - State Senate District 1
Mickey Chohany - State Senate District 1
Mamie Locke - State Senate District 2
Tom Harmon - State Senate District 2
Tommy Norment - State Senate District 3
Robin Abbott - State Delegate 93rd District
Mike Watson - State Delegate 93rd District

Forum Moderator - Mr. Bill O’Donovan
Editor and Publisher of the Virginia Gazette, Williamsburg, VA

*********************************************************
***Save the Date***
Thursday Evening November 17th, 7:00 – 9:00pm
The Tuscany Forum will host a discussion on the Planning Commission’s proposed changes to our Zoning Ordinances
County Supervisors and Planning Commission Members will be invited

The links below provide information on the proposed changes:
Summary link for the October 12th Hearing - http://www.yorkcounty.gov/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=dCHv4sw5vvg%3d&tabid=2217

Detailed link on the proposed changes - http://www.yorkcounty.gov/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=aOVm9hHcTYs%3d&tabid=1900

*************************************************************************************
The Tuscany Forum provides York County Citizens a public Forum where they can:
Voice their concerns about the responsiveness and direction of their county, state and federal governments,
Conduct civil, direct, in-person dialogue with their elected officials and government staff,  
Develop and encourage positive political plans of action to accomplish the will of the people.

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

The Tuscany Forum Planning Team:
Bart Barton, Danny Diggs, Greg Garrett, Mike Hoyes, Linda Hutchinson, Winston Lawrence, Mary Leedom, Todd Mathes, Chuck McGee, Wade McRoberts, Thomas Nelson, David Phillips
 Stephen Roane, Maywood Wilson

Times & Location:
Unless otherwise stated, monthly meetings of The Tuscany Forum are held the third Thursday of each month at Bills Seafood, 2831 Denbigh Blvd, Yorktown, VA  23692
Forum begins at 7:00pm *** Food and drink available

FW: Planning Commission Meeting Details

****SORRY TO ALL, THE  PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING IS WEDNESDAY EVENING, OCTOBER 12TH, 7:00PM*****

Below is a link to the specific Planning Commission agenda this WEDNESDAY evening.  

This is an opportunity for York County citizens to provide input to the Planning Commission regarding the proposed changes.  
The Hearing will be in York Hall, Wednesday, Oct 12th at 7:00pm.

Link about this first Hearing....
 
http://www.yorkcounty.gov/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=dCHv4sw5vvg%3d&tabid=2217
 
Link on the proposed changes....
 
http://www.yorkcounty.gov/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=aOVm9hHcTYs%3d&tabid=1900

The Tuscany Forum Planning Team

Planning Commission Meeting Details

Below is a link to the specific Planning Commission agenda this Thursday evening.  

This is an opportunity for York County citizens to provide input to the Planning Commission regarding the proposed changes.  
The Hearing will be in York Hall, Wednesday, Oct 12th at 7:00pm.

Link about this first Hearing....
 
http://www.yorkcounty.gov/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=dCHv4sw5vvg%3d&tabid=2217
 
Link on the proposed changes....
 
http://www.yorkcounty.gov/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=aOVm9hHcTYs%3d&tabid=1900

The Tuscany Forum Planning Team

Fwd: ***York County Planning Commission Meeting***

Citizens,
OUR York County Planning Commission is planning significant changes in the zoning and property rights laws of York County, that will affect all of us!

The Commission will meet this Wednesday evening October 12th, 7:00pm, in York Hall, historic Yorktown to discuss and hear our views.

Please attend and voice your views on these changes.

For more information on our York County Planning commission,  http://www.yorkcounty.gov/Planning/PlanningCommission/tabid/1737/default.aspx

The next Tuscany Forum will be held Thursday October 20th at Bill's Seafood, Yorktown, at 6:00pm
Details later this week.

Thanks,
Tuscany Forum Planning Team

Fwd: York County Post Election Gathering

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: "The Tuscany Forum" <thetuscanyforum@cox.net>
Date: Aug 23, 2011 6:26 PM
Subject: York County Post Election Gathering
To: "The Tuscany Forum" <thetuscanyforum@cox.net>

All Voters and Candidates are cordially invited to an informal post election gathering at Bill's Seafood
2831 Denbigh Blvd, Yorktown, VA  23692
Beginning after the polls close!

**YORK COUNTY CITIZENS - IMPORTANT DEBATE THIS WEEK**

York County Chamber of Commerce
Hosts a Fall 2011 Electoral Candidate Forum

The structured forum is intended to allow the participants to address questions to the fall 2011 Electoral Candidates.
Questions are to be submitted at the beginning of the event and will be answered during the course of the evening.  
This event is open to the public.
When
Thursday evening,  August 11th, 6 – 9:15pm
Where
Grafton Middle School, Kiva, 405 Grafton Drive, Yorktown, VA 23692

The Tuscany Forum Planning Team Encourages all Tuscany Forum attendees to participate in this Candidate Forum

*********************************************************************************************
The Tuscany Forum will host Two Town Hall Meetings

The first is Monday evening, August 15th, 7-9pm
Holiday Inn & Suites, 515 Bypass Road, Williamsburg, VA  23185
Invited guests are the candidates for York County Board of Supervisors District 1 and candidates for the York/Poquoson Office of the Commonwealth's Attorney

The second is Thursday evening, August 18th, 7-9pm
Yorktown Library, 8500 George Washington Mem Hwy, Yorktown, VA 23692
Invited guests are the candidates for York County Board of Supervisors Districts 2 – 5 and candidates for the York/Poquoson Office of the Commonwealth's Attorney

*************************************************************************************
The Tuscany Forum provides York County Citizens a public Forum where they can:
Voice their concerns about the responsiveness and direction of their county, state and federal governments,
Conduct civil, direct, in-person dialogue with their elected officials and government staff,
Develop and encourage positive political plans of action to accomplish the will of the people.

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

The Tuscany Forum Planning Team:
Bart Barton, Danny Diggs, Greg Garrett, Mike Hoyes, Linda Hutchinson, Winston Lawrence, Mary Leedom, Todd Mathes, Chuck McGee, Wade McRoberts, Thomas Nelson, David Phillips
 Stephen Roane, Maywood Wilson

Times & Location:
Unless otherwise stated, monthly meetings of The Tuscany Forum are held the third Thursday of each month at Bills Seafood, 2831 Denbigh Blvd, Yorktown, VA  23692
Forum begins at 7:00pm *** Food and drink available

Fwd: July Tuscany Forum

From: The Tuscany Forum

Date: Mon, Jul 4, 2011 at 4:10 PM
Subject: July Tuscany Forum

***YORK COUNTY CITIZENS***

As we celebrate 235 years of independence as these United States of America, please remember with honor our founders who pledged their lives, fortunes, and sacred honor to it's beginning.  It is a legacy we must be vigilant to preserve, or we will surely lose the freedoms they so solemnly pledged!

Another York County Citizens Group is Sponsoring a Board of Supervisors Candidate Debate

Sponsor:    Just Cause Foundation
Location:   Kiva at Grafton High School
Date & Time:    July 21st, 7:00 – 9:00pm   

The July Tuscany Forum is cancelled for the 21st and the Tuscany Forum Core Team encourages all attendees and friends of the Tuscany Forum to attend this event and help vet our candidates prior to the August 23rd Primary.  

The Tuscany Forum plans to sponsor up to four follow-on, district level debates for the challenged Board of Supervisor positions after this full field debate on July 21st.  
These one-on-one debates will be held in or near the district of interest.
Notification with be sent out once dates, times and locations are determined.
 
Candidate Primary is set for August 23rd!

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

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

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

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

Redistricting. It's Down to the Wire.

James River Journal story on Tuscany Forum Meeting of April 21, 2011: Redistricting. It's Down to the Wire.

Fwd: T/F Sound Support

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

Tuscany Forum Attendees,

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

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

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

Thanks,
Your T/F Core Team!

--
Alexander of York

**YORK COUNTY CITIZENS **

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

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

Candidate Primary is set for August 23rd!

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

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

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

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

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

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

--
Alexander of York

Fwd: **YORK COUNTY CITIZENS - TWO IMPORTANT MEETINGS NEXT WEEK**

There are Two Events Next Week ALL York County Citizens are Encouraged to Attend!
Your Voice Needs to be Heard!

Tuesday Evening, April 19th, 7:00pm, York Hall

Board of Supervisors Meeting to Approve a York County Redistricting Plan
York Hall in Yorktown

The two current plans on the table are referred to as B2 and E2.  The Core Team of the Tuscany Forum recommends Plan B2 for adoption.  
Visit site link http://www.yorkcounty.gov/Default.aspx?tabid=1796 to get more details.

Thursday Evening, April 21st, 7:00pm, Tuscany Coffee House

The Tuscany Forum welcomes invited guests Delegate Brenda Pogge, Delegate Gordon Helsel, and Supervisor George Hrichak
State and County Redistricting issues will be on the agenda.

All are encouraged to attend these very important meetings
Tuesday and Thursday evening, April 19th and 21st, beginning at 7:00 p.m.


Also mark your calendar for Thursday evening, May 19th, when
The Forum will host debates among candidates running for the York County Board of Supervisors in November

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

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

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

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

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

See you at York Hall April 19th and Tuscany Coffee House on April 21st, both 7:00pm!!

--
Alexander of York

Fwd: York County Redistricting

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: The Tuscany Forum <thetuscanyforum@cox.net>
Date: Thu, Mar 31, 2011 at 9:25 PM
Subject: York County Redistricting
To: The Tuscany Forum <thetuscanyforum@cox.net>

Update message to York County citizens:

The York County Board of Supervisors will hold a public hearing on April 19 for the purpose of receiving additional comments from the public prior to deciding which redistricting plan to adopt.

This year the Board of Supervisors will need to redraw the County's election district boundaries. Based on the principle of "one person, one vote," federal and Virginia law requires election districts to be drawn every ten years, following the U.S. Census, to provide for districts that are relatively equal in population. The geographic distribution of population growth in the County since 2000 has been uneven; therefore, district boundaries will have to be adjusted.

At its March 15 meeting, the Board of Supervisors selected two alternative redistricting plans for public review and comment. These alternatives can be viewed by clicking on the link below. All public comments will be forwarded to the Board.   

View alternatives and make comments on line at
http://www.yorkcounty.gov/

All are encouraged to come and be prepared to speak about one of the choices - B2 or E2.  You can view them at York Hall or on line.
Only a few citizens came to the last meeting to view the proposals prior to the meeting – we now have a choice, come and be heard!

Additionally, the Board of Supervisors regular meeting will be held on April 5th 6:00 PM, East Room, York Hall.  
Agenda:  Proposed adoption of Fiscal Year 2012 Budget, 2011 Tax Rates, and 2012-2017 Capital Improvements Program

--
Alexander of York

Fwd: **YORK COUNTY CITIZENS - IMPORTANT MEETINGS THIS WEEK**

The York County Tuscany Forum Will NOT Meet in March

**HOWEVER**

Two Events This Week Need ALL York County Citizens Attention!!

Tuesday Evening, March 15th
Board of Supervisors Meeting on the York County Redistricting Plan
One Citizens Concern:

Mr. Walt Zaremba,
In reviewing the redistricting plans Thursday at the Tabb library, we saw some widely different options. We learned that options A, B, and C were developed earlier and that you requested option D be developed more recently. I am unclear about the rationale for the boundaries on the option you requested as they extend like octopus tentacles into the lower county. It seems to be much less compact and contiguous than the others, but I am open to correction.  Understanding your rationale for requesting option D would help me to make an informed and rational determination about the options.  I look forward to hearing from you.  Dr. Linda Hutchinson

Thursday Evening, March 17th
Board of Supervisors Public hearings on the FY2012 Proposed Budget and the Calendar Year 2011 Proposed Tax Rates

All are encouraged to attend these very important meetings
Tuesday and Thursday evening, March 15th and 17th, beginning at 7:00 p.m.
Board Room York Hall, 301 Main Street, Yorktown, Virginia.
They will be televised live on cable channel 46.

For more information, click links below:

http://www.yorkcounty.gov/Default.aspx?tabid=1796

http://www.yorkcounty.gov/Default.aspx?tabid=13020

Also mark your calendar for Thursday evening, April 21st, when
The Forum will host our state Delegates/Senators for a State Legislative Update and
Debates among candidates running for the York County Board of Supervisors
November Election

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

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

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

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

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

See you at York Hall March 15th and 17th, 7:00pm!!

--
Alexander of York

*** March Tuscany Forum ***

The York County Tuscany Forum

The Tuscany Forum will NOT hold it's regular 3rd Thursday Forum in March due to
The York County Board of Supervisors Called
Public hearings on the FY2012 Proposed Budget and the Calendar Year 2011 Proposed Tax Rates
All are encouraged to attend this very important Budget/Tax Hearing
Thursday evening, March 17th, beginning at 7:00 p.m.
Board Room York Hall, 301 Main Street, Yorktown, Virginia.
It will be televised live on Cable Channel 46.

For more information, click link below:

http://www.yorkcounty.gov/Default.aspx?tabid=1796

Also mark your calendar for the 3rd Thursday evening for the next several months as
The Forum will host presentations and debates among the five district candidates running for
The York County Board of Supervisors and other important guests

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

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

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

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

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

See you at York Hall, Thursday March 17th, 7:00pm!!

--
Alexander of York

Fwd: Update On SB1190

---------- Forwarded message ----------

From: Thomas Shepperd <tgshep@cox.net>
Date: Mon, Feb 14, 2011 at 7:57 PM
Subject: Update On SB1190
To: Thomas Shepperd <tgshep@cox.net>

Dear Neighbor,

Senate Bill 1190, a bill to place aquaculture operations in the Right to Farm Act, passed in the Senate and is now up for consideration this Wednesday (February 16^th) in the House of Delegates Agriculture Committee.   If you wish to express an opinion on SB1190, here is a list of Delegates that serve on the Agriculture Committee. 

DelJScott@house.virginia.gov

DelDBulova@house.virginia.gov

DelLLewis@house.virginia.gov

DelHMorgan@house.virginia.gov

DelBPogge@house.virginia.gov

DelBSherwood@house.virginia.gov

DelLTorian@house.virginia.gov

DelLWare@house.virginia.gov

ADD

DelDMarshall@house.virginia.gov

DelBOrrock@house.virginia.gov

DelCPoindexter@house.virginia.gov

DelBKnight@house.virginia.gov

DelDBell@house.virginia.gov

DelJEdmunds@house.virginia.gov

DelTWilt@house.virginia.gov

DelJCox@house.virginia.gov

DelKPlum@house.virginia.gov

DelJSchuler@house.virginia.gov

DelMSickles@house.virginia.gov

DelDElgin@house.virginia.gov

DelMJames@house.virginia.gov

I remain very much opposed to SB1190 for one simple reason.  It denies residents a meaningful way of commenting to their locally elected representatives about an issue that could affect their homes and neighborhood.  My opposition to this bill has nothing to do with oyster operations, the state's constitution, or the proposal that was recommended for denial by the York Planning Commission.   It has everything to do with us (you and I) losing our ability to have a reasonable and effective way of expressing an opinion about a neighborhood business.  To put SB1190 into perspective consider this.  Your neighbor decides to establish a home business next door to you or somewhere else in or around  your neighborhood.   You are concerned that the business might negatively impact your property and community.  I suspect most of you would want to have the ability to address your concerns to your elected Supervisor and know that your comments could have an effect.   As it pertains to aquaculture, SB1190 denies us this capability, especially for residents along the waterfront.

Now in fairness, I must point out that SB1190 does not prohibit an appeal to the Virginia Marine Resource Commission (VMRC) whose members are appointed by and responsible only to the Governor.  The VMRC conducts hearings during normal work hours and is located in downtown Newport News.   In my opinion, appealing to this appointed state board is an inconvenient and time consuming effort and, for these reasons, many residents prefer to engage their local government.

Again, this is your opportunity to express your thoughts on the SB1190, one way or the other.   

Regards,

Tom Shepperd

Program Manager, Alion Science and Technology

Office - 757.240.5386

Mobile - 757.618.3335

Fax - 757.596.4014

Extract of my 2/5/11 email:

State Senate Bill (SB) 1190 needs your immediate attention and I recommend that you  write to the state senate and express your opinion on the issue.  SB 1190, introduced by Senator Norment, is titled "Aquaculture Production Activities: Authority of Local Governments." The concern I have with the bill has nothing to do with aquaculture or farming, which I support.  My concern is with state government intruding into local issues.  

Here is some background on the situation leading up to SB1190.  In November, a resident applied for a Special Use Permit to conduct oyster farming from piers on residential property.  The application worked its way through the local planning process to a public hearing before the York County Planning Commission.  The public hearing was advertised by the County, the staff introduced the application, the applicant presented his points, residents were invited to make comments, which they did, and the Planning Commission asked questions of the applicant and staff before deliberating publically on the proposal.  After the deliberation, the Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend that the Board of Supervisors deny the special use permit.  At this point the resident withdrew the application and took the issue to Senator Norment, who in turn introduced SB1190.  If approved, SB1190 will prohibit local governments from requiring a special use permit for oyster farming.  In other words, local governments and its citizens will no longer be allowed to make input on the issue.  This is where I have a problem with the bill.

What bothers me most is why Senator Norment feels so compelled to act on an local issue for a single individual.  To give you some perspective, consider this.  There are over 8 million residents and just 40 state senators in the Commonwealth of Virginia.  This means that each senator represents about 200,000 citizens.  Yet, when the York County Board of Supervisors, which represents over 65,000 citizens tried to meet with Senator Norment on the County's legislative program, which included issues such as funding support for education, transportation, and public safety, we were unable to meet.

Even more curious is that I cannot find a single instance where a local government in Virginia has requested that oyster operations be included in the Right to Farm Act.  No other county has brought this up.  To underscore this point, it is my understanding that the Virginia Association of Counties whose membership includes Virginia's 95 counties, and possibly the Virginia Municipal League, will oppose SB1190.  Even the Virginia Marine Resources Commission has serious reservations, not only from a workload perspective, but also because of the potential negative impact the bill could have on the whole oyster industry due to health concerns.  One would think that a legislative action impacting a local government with over 200 miles of coast line would first be vetted with the local government.  It wasn't. 

Local governments did not ask for this bill and I can tell you that residents near the site of the proposed oyster operation are very concerned about the scope of operations.  SB1190 will deny residents the ability to make meaningful input for future proposals.  And, if SB1190 goes unchallenged what's the next intrusion by which the state government tells us what's best for our communities?   Is this an overreaction?   Maybe, but for those of you who have fought and lost on the issue of street connections to neighborhoods because of state rules, you'll know that it isn't.

--
Alexander of York

91st District Candidate Debate

The York County Tuscany Forum Presents:
91st District Candidate Debate
Thursday evening, January 13th, Tabb High School Cafeteria
Doors open 6:00pm, Debate begins at 7:00pm
Invited Guests:Chad Green, Seaford Attorney
Gordon Helsel Jr., Poquoson Mayor
Teresa Vanasse Schmidt, Fox Hill Resident
Chris Stuart, Hampton City Council Member
andAny Other Announced Candidate for the 91st District Delegate Seat
(Additional announced candidates, please respond to this email by 12 January to be included)
Debate Format:Opening Ceremonies and Announcements
Presentation of Guests
Questions and Answers
Debate Moderator: Greg Garrett
*************************************************************************************
The Tuscany Forum provides York County Citizens a public Forum where they can:

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

To request someone be added to the Tuscany Forum email distribution, please send their name and email address tothetuscanyforum@cox.net
The Tuscany Forum Core Group:Bart Barton, Danny Diggs, Greg Garrett, Mike Hoyes, Winston Lawrence, Mary Leedom, Wade McRoberts, Thomas Nelsen, David Phillips, Stephen Roane, Maywood Wilson

Times & Location:Unless otherwise stated, monthly meetings of The Tuscany Forum are held the third Thursday of each month at Tuscany’s Coffee House, 6605 George Washington Memorial Highway (Route 17) Yorktown, 23692.  Doors open at 6:00pm, food and drink available, Forum begins at 7:00pm.
See you at Tabb High School Cafeteria, Thursday January 13th, 6:00pm!!