tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7434780996117732512024-03-17T23:04:28.072-04:00Friends of Indian River<hr>Striving to improve the quality of life for all the residents of the Indian River neighborhoods of Chesapeake, Virginia, by promoting and preserving a healthy and clean river, shorelines, parks, and green spaces connected to the surrounding community.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger239125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743478099611773251.post-32027792829534225172024-03-02T16:18:00.008-05:002024-03-16T16:49:42.250-04:00March Newsletter and Events<ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Upcoming Events</span></li><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><strike>3/9/2024 - Saturday - Second Saturday Hike at Indian River Park </strike>- Cancelled due to forecast of inclement weather</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">3/21/2024 - Thursday - Bi-Monthly Meeting: Chesapeake Comprehensive Planning </span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">3/23/2024 - Saturday - Great American Cleanup along Indian River Road</span></li></ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">News</span></li><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Tree Pledge</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Tree Bills </span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">January Recap</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Spring Membership Drive</span></li></ul></ul><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><hr /></span></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"></div></b></div></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: left;">Upcoming Events</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>Thursday, March21: Bi-Monthly Meeting: Chesapeake Comprehensive Planning</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div><ul><li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTiahup3X7Pwcr5AU5FXhQ6GSAfLR9ps_HgWXDVLjH8IvVnuUfC5qVlnLALOqGZfn_Vj2jryWqVXMNtEw1C8AkhTyl_-06zJor57tiwrp8n8pD3YwS9hoCrLLXwGw0IIBzygOS34iUvZTPjKhf5uD-7trXq5freZ2cmMJ84wc5CjehNrCdkeSCFvJcV7Y/s526/373435909_23857932307410449_5151313772676728340_n.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="526" data-original-width="526" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTiahup3X7Pwcr5AU5FXhQ6GSAfLR9ps_HgWXDVLjH8IvVnuUfC5qVlnLALOqGZfn_Vj2jryWqVXMNtEw1C8AkhTyl_-06zJor57tiwrp8n8pD3YwS9hoCrLLXwGw0IIBzygOS34iUvZTPjKhf5uD-7trXq5freZ2cmMJ84wc5CjehNrCdkeSCFvJcV7Y/s320/373435909_23857932307410449_5151313772676728340_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Time: 7 pm to 8:30 pm </li><li>Location: Oaklette United Methodist Church, 520 Oaklette Drive</li><li>Our guest speaker will be Kevin Finn with the Chesapeake Planning Department. He will give us an update on the Comprehensive Planning efforts currently underway in the City including updates to the core "Comp Plan", the Greenbrier Area Planning Study, and the Trails and Connectivity Plan. This is an opportunity to provide feedback to the City on their planning efforts. </li><li>We will also hold a brief Business Meeting to review and approve our 2024 budget. </li><li>All are welcome. There will be light refreshments.</li></ul><b>Saturday, March 23: Great American Cleanup along Indian River Road</b></div><div><ul><li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcIQ2MUvlG-dupKllPzXVZSjT0yj4NmXv6xJCsiSSnZbh3eAGMgrI7kiLkqOXlrjs75SFjhZmxR1_s_CKMRQCtUjwhk1otlXku7vvlzOEX8ENvePjqoJjkkLcIZ4ot6opSliTlEg2dij2Ut6yibs454x9dfqJao1i49e6d6DV9L-89W3i1XLAgJiePJL4/s1024/IMG_2513.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1024" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcIQ2MUvlG-dupKllPzXVZSjT0yj4NmXv6xJCsiSSnZbh3eAGMgrI7kiLkqOXlrjs75SFjhZmxR1_s_CKMRQCtUjwhk1otlXku7vvlzOEX8ENvePjqoJjkkLcIZ4ot6opSliTlEg2dij2Ut6yibs454x9dfqJao1i49e6d6DV9L-89W3i1XLAgJiePJL4/s320/IMG_2513.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Time: 9 AM to 11:30 am </li><li>Meet at side parking lot at Post Office, 3810 Indian River Road</li><li>We need your help for our quarterly cleanup. Join us for a few hours to clean up the mile of Indian River Road from the city limits at Wingfield Avenue all the way to MacDonald Road. We are also asking all business owners along Indian River Road - and everywhere really - to make sure they sweep up in front of their storefronts as part of the effort. And if you can't make it out for our organized cleanup please take 15 minutes and cleanup the street and ditches in front of your home; pass the word to your neighbors!</li><li>For our main cleanup on Indian River Road, the city will provide garbage bags and orange safety vests. Please wear closed-toe shoes, a hat and bring work gloves and other items that may be useful. Participants under 18 years of age must have adult supervision.</li><li>Please pre-register at <a href="https://forms.gle/vhudKYahWNLMwtCb8" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/vhudKYahWNLMwtCb8</a> (suggested but not required)</li></ul></div></div></div></div></span></div></span></span></div></div></span></span></span></div></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div><span style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><hr /></span></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"></div></b></div></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: left;">Tree Pledge</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Will you take our Tree Pledge to protect trees in our community? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Click here to help protect trees: <a href="https://forms.gle/xNCG9XMuBWPExmWt6" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/xNCG9XMuBWPExmWt6</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">There are an almost endless list of benefits of having trees in our community that include reducing flooding, mitigating urban heat during the summer, counteracting air and water pollution, improving human health factors, and making our community a more beautiful place to live. Learn more at <a href="http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/trees.html" target="_blank">http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/trees.html</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC8MWiC1c2i3NRVdshoy5TA5pW0PmDn-U_obGP1ouPlUX0LaU4bqMpdetixvrkQD7iaQjGs7AENGtx-mNpRn8uMJCATlTSVgMm3HmUO1LPPm18Hza4R7kMQF-L8AShlI2w0POAd8CBqeKMm45LWoxF3fMwivI5D2AbhkEJnwLmqAezbblGQ1Cg_6-2yIk/s1880/benefits-urban-trees.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1880" height="255" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC8MWiC1c2i3NRVdshoy5TA5pW0PmDn-U_obGP1ouPlUX0LaU4bqMpdetixvrkQD7iaQjGs7AENGtx-mNpRn8uMJCATlTSVgMm3HmUO1LPPm18Hza4R7kMQF-L8AShlI2w0POAd8CBqeKMm45LWoxF3fMwivI5D2AbhkEJnwLmqAezbblGQ1Cg_6-2yIk/w400-h255/benefits-urban-trees.jpg" title="Benefit of Trees graphic from the Nature Conservancy" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Benefit of Trees graphic from the Nature Conservancy</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><b>Tree Bills</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6U6cOUovfIGMCV6A3IjGnGokXeaQLh1atcE94lFSSlzuZWank9yhsphWyHG3SlQlU68TQ6q5IuqpLlIbf4FO3NkwohTPwnrGMCDEs80wOxy2y-xaJ3tWMJmkosMQIjyFEIrs6jA11PM4H81osVqXPdigcB9adbTn4xT9CO_nMe3v74btzsjG9GwU5b_Q/s2048/428651507_726479186278559_1849041400957769751_n.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2047" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6U6cOUovfIGMCV6A3IjGnGokXeaQLh1atcE94lFSSlzuZWank9yhsphWyHG3SlQlU68TQ6q5IuqpLlIbf4FO3NkwohTPwnrGMCDEs80wOxy2y-xaJ3tWMJmkosMQIjyFEIrs6jA11PM4H81osVqXPdigcB9adbTn4xT9CO_nMe3v74btzsjG9GwU5b_Q/s320/428651507_726479186278559_1849041400957769751_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">March Tree of the Month -<br />Southern Magnolia at Rokeby Center</td></tr></tbody></table>Some good news on trees - Several tree bills have been passed by the General Assembly in Richmond including HB529 and HB1100. These two bills will enable localities to enact stronger tree protection ordinances and are now heading for the Governor's desk. Stay tuned for any Action Alerts asking folks to contact the Governor to urge him to sign these bills. Learn more about these bills at <a href="http://www.greeningchesapeake.com/2024/02/support-tree-bills-in-general-assembly.html" target="_blank">http://www.greeningchesapeake.com/2024/02/support-tree-bills-in-general-assembly.html</a><br /><br /><b>February Recap</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy7McOvZZDBio7KbxsFUNKcOAKIq_UykwIqHZ4uI9k4o8H1MYTFSCndaOl6-PuP1c2fsvfIcI8567mU9tyFgY2sIRB7i2nk_09Bt_v6HTFEBU0p6I9wD3unjIn2odvU_Ao9CpcFc-Uozx5YDH_NWv8sZtVdhyphenhyphen5Cy_kIy9iJUfn-k6XOYtGEvuWkbOgQAM/s585/Screenshot%202024-03-02%20153351.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="584" data-original-width="585" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy7McOvZZDBio7KbxsFUNKcOAKIq_UykwIqHZ4uI9k4o8H1MYTFSCndaOl6-PuP1c2fsvfIcI8567mU9tyFgY2sIRB7i2nk_09Bt_v6HTFEBU0p6I9wD3unjIn2odvU_Ao9CpcFc-Uozx5YDH_NWv8sZtVdhyphenhyphen5Cy_kIy9iJUfn-k6XOYtGEvuWkbOgQAM/s320/Screenshot%202024-03-02%20153351.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>We had a blustery morning for our birding hike around the lake at the high school during the Great Backyard Bird Count. We didn't see as much bird action as last year but still saw a dozen different species. There were a lot of Canada Geese on the lake and we also saw Ring-billed Gulls, Pied-billed Grebes, American Crows, Mallards, Kingfisher, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Brown Thrasher, Bluebird, Cardinal, and glimpses of a Blue Heron and a Bald Eagle. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">A big thank you to the 16 volunteers who came out for our invasive species management workshop at Indian River Park in February. The volunteers learned about the different invasives plants in the park and then worked to free dozens of trees from the encroaching English Ivy and eliminate fresh outbreaks! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><br />Spring Membership Drive</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMEeRKLSTUa0erUHx3Kv5szXNAze9kniiOdQ29jqAKXgVErzHjoe-EjGlTzXn-RiypbP9YTpNl-qnal8Fbg5FdB-bX9c7gXcZrOX_ulWnrvN9hG8EYZq0DOte12GicvtWuHxvvF5KN9lidAGu06R7oRrlRkqHaOIi5dJitzM45qBEnNgSGG4ejI_HY3b8/s375/Screenshot%202024-03-02%20155056.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="375" data-original-width="215" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMEeRKLSTUa0erUHx3Kv5szXNAze9kniiOdQ29jqAKXgVErzHjoe-EjGlTzXn-RiypbP9YTpNl-qnal8Fbg5FdB-bX9c7gXcZrOX_ulWnrvN9hG8EYZq0DOte12GicvtWuHxvvF5KN9lidAGu06R7oRrlRkqHaOIi5dJitzM45qBEnNgSGG4ejI_HY3b8/s320/Screenshot%202024-03-02%20155056.jpg" width="183" /></a></div>It's time for our annual spring membership drive. The Friends of Indian River are an all-volunteer, local, 501(c)(3) non-profit, and we depend on member contributions to advance our mission to improve the quality of life for all the residents of the Indian River neighborhoods. Our fiscal year ends March 31 and our fundraising goal is $1600; we are currently at $1080. Help us reach our goal. You can become a member, renew your membership, or just make a contribution online at <a href="http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/membership.html">http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/membership.html</a></div></div></span></div></div></span></span></div></div></span></span></span></div></span></div>Rogardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00794374232118059295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743478099611773251.post-75702831999067593982024-02-04T13:40:00.002-05:002024-02-06T11:03:14.728-05:00February Newsletter and Events<p></p><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Upcoming Events</span></li><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">2/10/2024 - Saturday - Adopt-A-Park @ Indian River Park - Invasives</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">2/17/2024 - Saturday - Great Backyard Bird Count - Guided Hike</span></li></ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">News</span></li><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">January Roundup</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Benefit of Trees</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">*New* Action Alert: Support Tree Bills in General Assembly</span></li></ul></ul><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><hr /></span></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"></div></b></div></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: left;">Upcoming Events</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>Saturday, Feb 10: Adopt-A-Park @ Indian River Park - Invasive Species Workshop</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><ul><li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm6swYHtCzllmKCrn78rSmEdEvX-qbf1QlJ-zUWtEw3O_qBk2_RPoH7HdPpM8d_jgWzuTJUMcLDrB0lCUL3zwhF5ZjkiMgVarwWCrwIlutKICaEq3t-G2epLbAuwNmwkJ4qW-nEUvcWsXMsMkn0BpYFtkN_isbX634fOLY_E_e8mSIZ5uVWhwffbSGmwA/s1200/1-IMG_3595.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="801" data-original-width="1200" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm6swYHtCzllmKCrn78rSmEdEvX-qbf1QlJ-zUWtEw3O_qBk2_RPoH7HdPpM8d_jgWzuTJUMcLDrB0lCUL3zwhF5ZjkiMgVarwWCrwIlutKICaEq3t-G2epLbAuwNmwkJ4qW-nEUvcWsXMsMkn0BpYFtkN_isbX634fOLY_E_e8mSIZ5uVWhwffbSGmwA/w320-h214/1-IMG_3595.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Time: 9:00 am to Noon</li><li>Location: Meet at the Indian River Park entrance at Rokeby Ave. and Main St. (2001 Rokeby Ave.) which is located just south of Military Highway, i.e. across Military Highway from the Fire Station.</li><li>Learn to identify various invasive plant species that threaten Indian River Park and natural areas across the Tidewater region. Those found in the park include English Ivy, Chinese Privet, Multifloral Rose, Linden Viburnum, and others. </li><li>Then we'll have a work effort to clear some outbreaks of the English Ivy. The more volunteers that come out the more that we can accomplish! </li><li>Please wear closed-toe shoes, long pants, a hat and bring work gloves. We'll be working both to remove Ivy on the ground and on trees. Bring pruning clippers, loppers, screwdrivers (which are amazingly useful in prying ivy off tree trunks) and/or pruning saws if you have them. We will have water and snacks but we also always encourage folks to bring their own water in reusable bottles to minimize use of plastic bottles. Participants under 18 years of age must have adult supervision.</li><li>Please pre-register at <a href="https://forms.gle/RH8sPF1G8zCR4Ziq9" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/RH8sPF1G8zCR4Ziq9</a></li></ul><div><b>Saturday, Feb 17: Great Backyard Bird Count - Guided Hike</b></div><div><ul><li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI8q-x9fP2JUtKKmh3LTjlFQPW18Z_Uq8CXlAilfIcH7FZoWU7u6tR_Ku9fmaRXgJI3qRWKNih7KPVGJ2M7f-zCak587IkAD_ot8Kicose1QP9VmqAdGcoHxsSUQMVMT-Yr6Nv84AC5oD0IicxFN2NAv_qWTKTVW_7tCkNtGD-tpqEknP04Z7Jkt9-1fM/s800/GBBC_Web_Square_2024_EN_Rubycrowned_Kinglet.webp" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI8q-x9fP2JUtKKmh3LTjlFQPW18Z_Uq8CXlAilfIcH7FZoWU7u6tR_Ku9fmaRXgJI3qRWKNih7KPVGJ2M7f-zCak587IkAD_ot8Kicose1QP9VmqAdGcoHxsSUQMVMT-Yr6Nv84AC5oD0IicxFN2NAv_qWTKTVW_7tCkNtGD-tpqEknP04Z7Jkt9-1fM/s320/GBBC_Web_Square_2024_EN_Rubycrowned_Kinglet.webp" width="320" /></a></div>Time: 8:30 am to 10:30 am. </li><li>Location: Meet at the Indian River Community Center, 2250 Old Greenbrier Rd</li><li>It's the weekend of the Great Backyard Bird Count, a worldwide effort to identify the distribution of birds; as part of this we'll be leading a guided bird walk around the lake between the Indian River Community/Rec Center and the High School.</li><li>Last year we had a real treat with a flock of 18 Ring-necked Ducks on the lake, a first for us at this location, Northern Shoveler ducks, Pied-billed Grebes, Double-Crested Cormorants, Mallards, and lots of Canada Geese. We also saw Bald Eagles, Ospreys, Great Blue Herons, Hooded Merganser, 3 kinds of woodpeckers, various sparrows, an Eastern Towhee, and more.</li><li>We'll have some binoculars and a spotting scope, but do bring your own if you have some!</li><li>Please pre-register at <a href="https://forms.gle/n55atYuswhUXUp417" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/n55atYuswhUXUp417</a> (suggested but not required)</li></ul></div><div><br /></div></div></div></div></span></div></span></span></div></div></span></span></span></div></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><hr /></span></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"></div></b></div></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: left;">January Roundup</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">On Thursday, Jan 18 the Friends of Indian River held our Annual Meeting and Volunteer Appreciation Celebration. We reelected our board and officers and then had an excellent discussion about goals for 2024. A sample of the ideas raised included continuing to focus on implementation of the Indian River Small Area Plan, working more with the Elizabeth River Project on their River Star program, protecting existing trees and planting more trees, and more community outreach. Our board will be reviewing the suggestion at its February meeting. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLKkGN_WSB-CmF37kvp02x5Z_40WP0KDd5saKpl6yIFjWsDOeT7SzK9Hv0ULNfr4nV9vEsm_xamPGj75Ggp-VJhuVm6LrxrRoGmmUjYs-2mItB0Zp5_hT8XN1kH-vMLK3a7WQfXk_EdYoQf10MCd1hmrKsWXs6yVbvUeptCo6RvSs62668P-VqZPjXHME/s5120/2024-01-18%20FIR%20Annual%20Meeting.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="5120" height="106" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLKkGN_WSB-CmF37kvp02x5Z_40WP0KDd5saKpl6yIFjWsDOeT7SzK9Hv0ULNfr4nV9vEsm_xamPGj75Ggp-VJhuVm6LrxrRoGmmUjYs-2mItB0Zp5_hT8XN1kH-vMLK3a7WQfXk_EdYoQf10MCd1hmrKsWXs6yVbvUeptCo6RvSs62668P-VqZPjXHME/w640-h106/2024-01-18%20FIR%20Annual%20Meeting.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghvJGgL3gKI92bkZhyBUnmoHTJisuJZfv7coSt_lizu0Cwbr2MQOINLfdMmn5tPRqhmb-uhLgxOw4CzVyPm-CT3EV4ygAl4V7BlVvHsVYVdpr_4cpZW1-uUYvgQqRUJFP7pAi7Ju93p8O__T4wiUEF95-4pYFtO1X7biihi5a7mxLQzyLgEGQt_XwJf_o/s4032/IMG_3065.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghvJGgL3gKI92bkZhyBUnmoHTJisuJZfv7coSt_lizu0Cwbr2MQOINLfdMmn5tPRqhmb-uhLgxOw4CzVyPm-CT3EV4ygAl4V7BlVvHsVYVdpr_4cpZW1-uUYvgQqRUJFP7pAi7Ju93p8O__T4wiUEF95-4pYFtO1X7biihi5a7mxLQzyLgEGQt_XwJf_o/w150-h200/IMG_3065.JPG" width="150" /></a></div>The Friends of Indian River were recognized for our Sustained Distinguished Performance at the Model Level at the Elizabeth River Project River Star Businesses Recognition Luncheon in January. We were called out in particular for our effort to plant the native trees and shrubs along Indian River Road by the bridge. Chesapeake Parks, Recreation and Tourism, who were inducted in the River Star Hall of Fame at the luncheon, also thanked us for our partnership efforts with their department. The Blue Heron Landing Park under construction were also highlighted during the ceremonies! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">At the end of the month, we had a great Adopt-A-Park event at Indian River Park. 11 energetic volunteers got the garden mulched in about an hour - and then had the energy to pull around 250 lbs of trash out of the wetlands. We thank the volunteers for all the great work! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTYkaCUbm738TVqGVaB6WkD91ylc7-p-7_rWoilTJSXbtMMqfNGJ324RU-6EWjMqFyNESh2rBAwXjpgtOOJGaJGrmvpUG-3x81XM5N4BpZSA-zTHo9-7Y7kYEOouM43yJIgY5rIgJ-_t-pi5o3rHeX24lCJ1BxKMsTT9ga5zYTxCdHbh7tvMgraY7_M0w/s1024/IMG_3128.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="684" data-original-width="1024" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTYkaCUbm738TVqGVaB6WkD91ylc7-p-7_rWoilTJSXbtMMqfNGJ324RU-6EWjMqFyNESh2rBAwXjpgtOOJGaJGrmvpUG-3x81XM5N4BpZSA-zTHo9-7Y7kYEOouM43yJIgY5rIgJ-_t-pi5o3rHeX24lCJ1BxKMsTT9ga5zYTxCdHbh7tvMgraY7_M0w/s320/IMG_3128.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Benefits of Trees</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">While trees alone won't solve all the woes of a modern city, they go a long way to making a City a more livable place. The benefits of trees includes:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><ul><li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQLLCgS4CYpRwCuEoJkTI9K07d66-8YQ2-DgguTCs-jO711ru7t_Y3ISCxzsBfhA4EQV7CfQLs5WWOAh9p_pugS8Lx2JKiHjk3e7pJDYoYl7K3CXAufL5LtsnFGqwZsP-5_Www4ca6KmvsAys-VGH6YQ_n8FQn6hsIK46hJZBJU9I7Ndls7ZGCuyyg9dU/s2048/1-IMG_7936.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1367" data-original-width="2048" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQLLCgS4CYpRwCuEoJkTI9K07d66-8YQ2-DgguTCs-jO711ru7t_Y3ISCxzsBfhA4EQV7CfQLs5WWOAh9p_pugS8Lx2JKiHjk3e7pJDYoYl7K3CXAufL5LtsnFGqwZsP-5_Www4ca6KmvsAys-VGH6YQ_n8FQn6hsIK46hJZBJU9I7Ndls7ZGCuyyg9dU/s320/1-IMG_7936.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Reduced Flooding</li><li>Reduced Urban Heat Islands </li><li>Enhanced Beauty of a Place</li><li>Improved Air Quality</li><li>Improved Water Quality</li><li>Improved Soil Health</li><li>Reduced Noise Pollution</li><li>Improved Walkability and Sense of Community</li><li>Increased Economic Activity in business districts with tree lined streetscapes </li><li>Improved Human Health including reduced incidence of obesity and asthma</li><li>Reduced Stress and Anxiety and overall improved Mental Health</li><li>Reduced symptoms of Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD)</li><li>Traffic Calming and fewer Accidents</li><li>Lower Cooling and Heating Costs</li><li>Increased Property Values</li><li>Reduced Violence and Crime</li><li>Improved Academic Performance of students</li><li>Wildlife and Biodiversity benefits<br /></li><li>Storage of Carbon</li></ul><div><b>Action Alert: Support Tree Bills in General Assembly</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><div>There are several bills in the General Assembly that would give the City of Chesapeake the option to do more to protect trees and restore tree canopy during development. Current state law limits how much Chesapeake can require of developers during construction. HB1100 would enable all counties, cities, and towns in Virginia to adopt tree conservation ordinances to conserve healthy mature trees during construction projects. HB 529 would increase how much canopy must be replaced when trees are cut down during development. Both these bills will be heard by the full House this week. Please reach out to your Delegates today to ask them to support these bills. Here is a quick action link to send them a message. <a href="https://p2a.co/m3lRvxK" target="_blank">https://p2a.co/m3lRvxK</a></div><div><br /></div><div>Everyone agrees on the many benefits of trees for flood protection, summer heat mitigation, improving the environment, enabling healthier living, and improving the beauty of a place. But the Chesapeake Bay Program Forestry Workgroup, the US Forest Service, and the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay recently released a Tree Cover Status Report that finds that the City of Chesapeake had a net loss of 332 acres of trees between 2014 and 2018, even factoring in tree planting efforts – about 80 acres per year lost. Just in 2023, the Chesapeake City Council approved 20 development projects that will result in cutting down over 70 acres of mature trees, with the ultimate replanting of about 20 acres, for a net loss of 50 acres to zoning changes. And that doesn’t count trees lost to by-right development, road construction, other infrastructure projects, or homeowners cutting down trees. And this goes on year after year, with a cumulative snowball effect. HB 529 and HB 1100 will give the City of Chesapeake the option to protect more trees and/or require more trees to be planted. Ask your Delegate to support these bills today!</div></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div></div></div></span></div></span></span></div></div></span></span></span></div></span></div>Rogardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00794374232118059295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743478099611773251.post-71426796401199634622023-12-31T11:26:00.008-05:002024-01-19T08:24:13.011-05:00January Newsletter and Events<p><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b>The 1/20 Adopt-A-Park Invasive Plant Workshop event is cancelled due to the frigid forecast. It will be rescheduled for Saturday, 2/10.</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Happy New Year!</span></p><div><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Upcoming Events</span></li><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">1/18/2024 - Thursday - Annual Meeting and Volunteer Appreciation Celebration</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">1/20/2024 (cancelled) - <strike>Saturday - Adopt-A-Park @ Indian River Park - Invasives</strike></span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">1/27/2024 - Saturday - Adopt-A-Park @ Indian River Park - Mulching</span></li></ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">News</span></li><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">2023 Year in Review</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Friends of Indian River is a Sustained Distinguished Performance River Star Business</span></li></ul></ul><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><hr /></span></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"></div></b></div></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: left;">Upcoming Events</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>Saturday, <strike>Jan 6</strike> Jan 27: Adopt-A-Park @ Indian River Park</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><ul><li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu68_UGBqHUdPP9V6nc1OaUaza-uydOX5nIC3qKqJsXYDkvVStjwQnWd88qkOulPRhl-CPESyWDtBpeZ1b-QU69JpMi6nNevDbI_kLE0NTrs7xfslgDv5LSAyI6kaIQpRfmz5BnqkeF-Mnq4YjwwtCNCamJzz75Eg8Vl8GBo6UtPfqz6GUeYEnjcDGspA/s800/IMG_0793.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu68_UGBqHUdPP9V6nc1OaUaza-uydOX5nIC3qKqJsXYDkvVStjwQnWd88qkOulPRhl-CPESyWDtBpeZ1b-QU69JpMi6nNevDbI_kLE0NTrs7xfslgDv5LSAyI6kaIQpRfmz5BnqkeF-Mnq4YjwwtCNCamJzz75Eg8Vl8GBo6UtPfqz6GUeYEnjcDGspA/s320/IMG_0793.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Time: 9:30 am to Noon</li><li>Location: Meet at the Indian River Park entrance at Rokeby Ave. and Main St. (2001 Rokeby Ave.) which is located just south of Military Highway, i.e. across Military Highway from the Fire Station.</li><li>Help us finish mulching the native plant garden at Indian River Park. We need folks to help move and spread mulch.</li><li>Please wear closed-toe shoes, a hat and bring work gloves. Long pants are recommended. If you can, bring rakes and pitchforks. We'll have water and snacks available. We also always encourage folks to bring their own water in reusable bottles to minimize use of plastic bottles and cans.</li><li>Participants under 18 years of age must have adult supervision.</li><li>Please pre-register so we have a headcount on the number of volunteers at <a href="https://forms.gle/e3vKfcAV4aRZbq2F6" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/e3vKfcAV4aRZbq2F6</a></li></ul></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>Thursday, Jan 18: Annual Meeting and Volunteer Appreciation Celebration</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><ul><li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLpjQLrjFgRTjiypxXPPeUqyC-hMvy9ZE4LOBEb0BgToVvNMKT170MuzheWW7P8YDsE8N2rak0cNX-3or71jPN9N-PBctElfQrWglgmheQcrSzaw7eZVsQjX7x3CgHl7PKH9piA1PF2XUl43M4iPbjOHoxJaukZ8uLUFXrx3cpjrh53yvNcKmvLdajs1U/s5120/Starred%20Photos6.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3657" data-original-width="5120" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLpjQLrjFgRTjiypxXPPeUqyC-hMvy9ZE4LOBEb0BgToVvNMKT170MuzheWW7P8YDsE8N2rak0cNX-3or71jPN9N-PBctElfQrWglgmheQcrSzaw7eZVsQjX7x3CgHl7PKH9piA1PF2XUl43M4iPbjOHoxJaukZ8uLUFXrx3cpjrh53yvNcKmvLdajs1U/s320/Starred%20Photos6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Time: 7 pm </li><li>Location: Oaklette United Methodist Church, 520 Oaklette Drive</li><li>Please join us for our Annual Meeting to help us plan for 2024 and hold elections for our Board. If you are interested in becoming an officer or board members, please contact us for more information about the roles.</li><li>We will also use this meeting recognize our volunteers and the great work they do. There will be refreshments including various appetizers and desserts. </li><li>We'll also have the latest community news and updates on Indian River Small Area Plan, the duck blind and more! </li><li>All are welcome - please join us to celebrate our accomplishments in 2023 and plan for 2024.</li></ul><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b><strike>Saturday, Jan 20: Adopt-A-Park @ Indian River Park - Invasive Species Workshop </strike></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>Cancelled - will be rescheduled for Feb 10.</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><ul><li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm6swYHtCzllmKCrn78rSmEdEvX-qbf1QlJ-zUWtEw3O_qBk2_RPoH7HdPpM8d_jgWzuTJUMcLDrB0lCUL3zwhF5ZjkiMgVarwWCrwIlutKICaEq3t-G2epLbAuwNmwkJ4qW-nEUvcWsXMsMkn0BpYFtkN_isbX634fOLY_E_e8mSIZ5uVWhwffbSGmwA/s1200/1-IMG_3595.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="801" data-original-width="1200" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm6swYHtCzllmKCrn78rSmEdEvX-qbf1QlJ-zUWtEw3O_qBk2_RPoH7HdPpM8d_jgWzuTJUMcLDrB0lCUL3zwhF5ZjkiMgVarwWCrwIlutKICaEq3t-G2epLbAuwNmwkJ4qW-nEUvcWsXMsMkn0BpYFtkN_isbX634fOLY_E_e8mSIZ5uVWhwffbSGmwA/w320-h214/1-IMG_3595.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Time: 9:00 am to Noon</li><li>Location: Meet at the Indian River Park entrance at Rokeby Ave. and Main St. (2001 Rokeby Ave.) which is located just south of Military Highway, i.e. across Military Highway from the Fire Station.</li><li>Learn to identify various invasive plant species that threaten Indian River Park and natural areas across the Tidewater region. Those found in the park include English Ivy, Chinese Privet, Multifloral Rose, Linden Viburnum, and others. </li><li>Then we'll have a work effort to clear some outbreaks of the English Ivy. The more volunteers that come out the more that we can accomplish! </li><li>Please wear closed-toe shoes, long pants, a hat and bring work gloves. We'll be working both to remove Ivy on the ground and on trees. Bring pruning clippers, loppers, screwdrivers (which are amazingly useful in prying ivy off tree trunks) and/or pruning saws if you have them. We will have water and snacks but we also always encourage folks to bring their own water in reusable bottles to minimize use of plastic bottles. Participants under 18 years of age must have adult supervision.</li></ul></div></div></div></div></span></div></span></span></div></div></span></span></span></div></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div><span style="text-align: center;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><hr /></span></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"></div></b></div></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Year in Review</b></div></div></b></span></div><div><br /></div><div><div>A key focus for the Friends of Indian River in 2023 has been following up on the implementation of the Indian River Small Area Plan and various projects and issues that affect our community. Perhaps the biggest win for the year is the start of construction for the new Blue Heron Landing Park, scheduled to be completed by the summer of 2024!</div><div><br /></div><div>Some highlights for this past year include:</div><div>- 1880 lbs. Trash Removed over Multiple Cleanups</div><div>- 9 Hikes and Nature Walks </div><div>- 4 Guest Speakers</div><div>- 1 High School Scholarship Awarded</div><div>- 1 Environmental Award Received</div><div>- Overall, 74 Volunteers performed 800+ Volunteer Hours</div><div><br /></div><div>See our full Year in Review report at <a href="http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/2023/12/2023-year-in-review.html">http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/2023/12/2023-year-in-review.html</a></div><div><br /></div><div>Please join us for our Annual Meeting and Volunteer Appreciation Event on Thursday, January 18 at 7 pm at Oaklette United Methodist Church, 520 Oaklette Drive. We'll recognize our volunteers and the great work they do at this meeting and there will be refreshments including various appetizers and desserts. We will also discuss plans for 2024 and hold elections for our Board. All are welcome.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Friends of Indian River is a Sustained Distinguished Performance River Star Business</b></div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb3s_7gVMU6OkpMTjS2GyN16qwUyktsxDChdUtMi6LjUvliHAMfKQktYXMJD-zEYcL4-XenR7exu7UbZe1WoGJoOdgp46tcs26QK2sDz3fYExnyETRe3jA-h4Ehuq7o5P2ehGaas-Ci2J6FPavrqWPA3u-0EuL_kZ7LoYU9Tf7jTBIz3eLCAQXtO4ia94/s251/ERP_New.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="172" data-original-width="251" height="172" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb3s_7gVMU6OkpMTjS2GyN16qwUyktsxDChdUtMi6LjUvliHAMfKQktYXMJD-zEYcL4-XenR7exu7UbZe1WoGJoOdgp46tcs26QK2sDz3fYExnyETRe3jA-h4Ehuq7o5P2ehGaas-Ci2J6FPavrqWPA3u-0EuL_kZ7LoYU9Tf7jTBIz3eLCAQXtO4ia94/s1600/ERP_New.jpg" width="251" /></a></div>The Elizabeth River Project River (ERP) Restoration Advisory Committee, comprised of other River Star Businesses and technical experts, unanimously voted to recognize Friends of Indian River for Sustained Distinguished Performance at Model Level. The Model Level represents the ERP's highest achievement level, recognizing organizations that lead the community in environmental stewardship. Sustained Distinguished Performance represents completion of a significant new initiative by a River Star, which in our case included the tree planting along Indian River Road and our continued engagement with the City on planning and conservation efforts. We'll be celebrating at the ERP's Annual River Star Businesses Recognition Luncheon on Thursday, January 18 at The Founders Inn. If you are interested in joining us at this luncheon, please contact us at info@friendsofindianriver.org for pricing and ticket information. </div><br /></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></span></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></span></span></div></div></span></span></span></div></span></div></div>Rogardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00794374232118059295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743478099611773251.post-16021469673738290462023-12-27T15:41:00.001-05:002023-12-27T15:57:36.248-05:002023 Year in Review<p><span>A key focus for the Friends of Indian River this year has been following up on the implementation of the Indian River Small Area Plan and various projects and issues that affect our community. This year the City kicked off a number of new planning initiatives including a major revision of the citywide Comprehensive Plan. Locally, several projects are in planning or design, including bike lanes for Indian River Road, so we're hoping to actually see implementation start in 2024. </span></p><p><span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDAceQmofVrBk2ejzEyyIR2A_pEndhxya2djWsbGyRnfc2gK0osvi-lEDDtIz39ZpMISckLd0pEV03m5zFYPLArHsGPZCH2U1aHqyw5xw8Fdj5ZEXCcPafZuPna_d1Mcp0Ao2S1uZPZclOYfsGUoh4BgDh1mn1NVHTTPrRqqqQI9ZpOm2WVL0Gz-M2Qvo/s1024/IMG_2835.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDAceQmofVrBk2ejzEyyIR2A_pEndhxya2djWsbGyRnfc2gK0osvi-lEDDtIz39ZpMISckLd0pEV03m5zFYPLArHsGPZCH2U1aHqyw5xw8Fdj5ZEXCcPafZuPna_d1Mcp0Ao2S1uZPZclOYfsGUoh4BgDh1mn1NVHTTPrRqqqQI9ZpOm2WVL0Gz-M2Qvo/s320/IMG_2835.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div><span>Perhaps the biggest win for the year is the start of construction for the new Blue Heron Landing Park just off Indian River Road across from Lilac Avenue. Building the park entails a major shoreline restoration. The site was a former parking lot constructed of rubble fill behind an improvised sea wall. The project will tear all this out and reconstruct a living shoreline including an oyster reef, tidal low and high marshes and forested uplands replanted with native trees and plants. A boardwalk and kayak launch will complete the new park. The project is scheduled to be completed by the summer of 2024!</span><div><br /></div><div><div>In the meantime, our volunteers have kept busy. Some highlights for this past year include:</div><div>- 1880 lbs. Trash Removed over Multiple Cleanups</div><div>- 9 Hikes and Nature Walks </div><div>- 4 Guest Speakers</div><div>- 1 High School Scholarship Awarded</div><div>- 1 Environmental Award Received</div><div>- Overall, 74 Volunteers performed 800+ Volunteer Hours</div><div><br /></div><div><span>Please join us for our Annual Meeting and Volunteer Appreciation Event on </span>Thursday, January 18 at 7 pm at Oaklette United Methodist Church, 520 Oaklette Drive. We'll recognize our volunteers and the great work they do at this meeting and there will be refreshments including various appetizers and desserts. We will also discuss plans for 2024 and hold elections for our Board. All are welcome.</div><div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span><span>The Friends of Indian River is an all-volunteer, local 501(c)(3) non-profit. You can support our efforts by becoming a member, renewing your membership, or just making a contribution online<span style="color: #eeeeee;"> </span></span><span style="color: #eeeeee;"><a href="http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/membership.html" target="_blank">http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/membership.html</a></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #eeeeee;"><br /></span></div><div><u><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Year in Review</b></span></u></div><div><u><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></u></div><div><u><span style="font-size: large;">Indian River Small Area Plan</span></u></div><div><span><br /><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZfDuY1e9dZhHooA5Vhs0VMJx7VNBCf-998BHgw1Q6UeR5eGkbc5dTT4gH5GX2djYYyYJqmxz-i1EUvc_fWDwkttYK9w9Xc7STGxOHWvXvZ1oOwDtAGb86Gv9uy8fWZFvixzS6fxyEBJ_DoePVGWLMujWhpKIFyYmizIqapWLKQQOk1arD2qXHlBPcsl8/s514/Nodes.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="514" data-original-width="456" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZfDuY1e9dZhHooA5Vhs0VMJx7VNBCf-998BHgw1Q6UeR5eGkbc5dTT4gH5GX2djYYyYJqmxz-i1EUvc_fWDwkttYK9w9Xc7STGxOHWvXvZ1oOwDtAGb86Gv9uy8fWZFvixzS6fxyEBJ_DoePVGWLMujWhpKIFyYmizIqapWLKQQOk1arD2qXHlBPcsl8/s320/Nodes.png" width="284" /></a></div>Nearly two years ago, in December 2021, the residents of the Indian River area celebrated the approval of the Indian River Planning Area Study by the City Council. One of the key parts of the Plan was the inclusion of an Implementation Strategy defining Short (0 to 2 years), Medium, and Long Term actions to fulfill the goals outlined in the document at <a href="https://www.cityofchesapeake.net/DocumentCenter/View/3073/Indian-River-Adopted-Plan-PDF">https://www.cityofchesapeake.net/DocumentCenter/View/3073/Indian-River-Adopted-Plan-PDF</a></div><div><br /></div><div>Today we are very excited to see construction under way at the new Blue Heron Landing Park along the Indian River; this will be a major new amenity for the community. We are also pleased that the Planning Department has begun work on the Design Guidelines for the Commercial Corridors. These are perhaps the two most significant examples of progress from the implementation matrix. Another key project funded by the City Council in May of 2022, the addition of bicycle lanes along Indian River Road was recently slated to start additional engineering analysis by Public Works. And just this past month the City Council approved plans related to the revitalization of the Peaceful Village public housing in Campostella and MacDonald Manor public housing at the south end of MacDonald Rd, another goal included in the Plan. </div><div><br /></div><div>However, many other Short Term goals have seen little to no action. These include planning for pedestrian and bicycle safety improvements across the community, steps to preserve and rehabilitate existing residential areas, developing an economic development strategy for the community, developing stormwater mitigation strategies, enacting policy changes to encourage tree preservation, allocating streetscape improvements funds to our community, or reaching out to the Chesapeake Public Schools with regards to first steps in creating a cohesive civic campus around the Indian River High School/Community Center/Middle School/Library. With the Medium Term (2+ years) is just around the corner and there will be even more goals to reach for. </div><div><br /></div>After the approval of the Plan in 2021, the City stated it would organize an implementation steering committee that would meet on a regularly occurring basis and include both City staff and community members. When we held the Friends' Annual Meeting in January of 2023, we had reason to expect the formation of the Steering Committee early in the year, but that did not happen. We raised it again with the Deputy City Manager in May. And in the past month, we again reached out to the City Manager about progress on implementation of the Plan and setting up the steering committee with community involvement. We also addressed this issue directly to the City Council at one of their December meetings. We hope to receive feedback from the City that we can share at our Annual Meeting in January. </span></div><div><span style="color: #eeeeee;"><br /></span></div><div><u><span style="font-size: large;">Volunteer Events</span></u></div><div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH9AO-JgVEhqsQb8dTr1BMZs-bQP8N89vKzcY0exmkHrlM89uDCZI0Cxb_iHEBBZyuGS21oe27qKVNT2_HeZzSlujzuHdmgf0JwYotBfhQlWIxD7xyYpjhSxrDbuzIIohCWa85eoSqkE5OL-LLVCGmaTxpXJMXPArvyqY7DtrxT_xDDZBFvqsbCwm0dhU/s1200/IMG_2148.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1200" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH9AO-JgVEhqsQb8dTr1BMZs-bQP8N89vKzcY0exmkHrlM89uDCZI0Cxb_iHEBBZyuGS21oe27qKVNT2_HeZzSlujzuHdmgf0JwYotBfhQlWIxD7xyYpjhSxrDbuzIIohCWa85eoSqkE5OL-LLVCGmaTxpXJMXPArvyqY7DtrxT_xDDZBFvqsbCwm0dhU/w320-h240/IMG_2148.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>We ramped up our volunteer cleanups doing the Great American Cleanup (co-hosted with the Chesapeake Environmental Improvement Council), and Earth Day cleanup, Clean the Bay Day, the International Coastal Cleanup, and two Adopt-A-Road cleanups. All together 74 volunteers collect 1880 lbs. of trash at Indian River Park, Plymouth Park, along the shores of the Indian River, at the lake by the Civic Campus (High School/Middle School/Community Center), and along Indian River Road. </div><div><br /></div><div>We held several Adopt-A-Park events at Indian River Park to tend to the Native Plant Garden. A key effort was to give the garden a makeover by clearing out the many of the irises in the front garden to allow some of the other flowers - including black-eyed susans and coneflowers - bloom. But we retained enough native blue flag irises to re-establish a smaller collection in the garden next year. We also replaced the stakes on the tree signs on the Nature Trail in the Park this spring. </div></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>We also continued on-going efforts to manage the spread of invasive plants in the park, including removing Japanese Stilt Grass, pulling English Ivy, and pruning back the red-berried Linden Viburnum. A key strategy is containment to reduce the spread of the plants and additional volunteers are needed! </span></div><div><br /></div><div><span>We also had a dedicated crew of volunteers kept up with regular maintenance at the various gardens maintained by the Friends of Indian River through the year, including at the Indian River Oaklette Bridge, Indian River Park, Plymouth Park, and several planters along Indian River Road. Without their dedicated efforts, these gardens would likely get overrun by plants we don't want in these plantings, i.e., "weeds". (Although the definition of what is a weed varies depending on gardening goals). We also thank the volunteers outside our group who maintain other public gardens in the area, including at the Rokeby Center and the Indian River Library. All these efforts help make our community beautiful!</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>Overall, 74 volunteers performed 800+ Volunteer Hours with the Friends of Indian River in 2023</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioI9rOQavSnjH4Pp4SrGVd1QAdFkPhB2NPERrhSrD9CKFptoFzGYj0K1ENCetcku35HM5dMXN-0Rq_ALtJyr3j1OoBgE3Zmxd45bs2NG1mcN4Elo9ETMmEtJUoHj8KdZ9Q-ekQ5_GeDZfn-Jvg07PjVtEtEstnyGpzpq6RwHx4Lkyhr09MyRfLYATHNOE/s5120/Starred%20Photos5.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1706" data-original-width="5120" height="134" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioI9rOQavSnjH4Pp4SrGVd1QAdFkPhB2NPERrhSrD9CKFptoFzGYj0K1ENCetcku35HM5dMXN-0Rq_ALtJyr3j1OoBgE3Zmxd45bs2NG1mcN4Elo9ETMmEtJUoHj8KdZ9Q-ekQ5_GeDZfn-Jvg07PjVtEtEstnyGpzpq6RwHx4Lkyhr09MyRfLYATHNOE/w400-h134/Starred%20Photos5.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /></div><div><u><span style="font-size: large;">Planning and Zoning</span></u></div><div><br /></div><div>The City kicked off multiple new planning efforts in 2023 including a major revision of the City Comprehensive Plan, the drafting of the Greenbrier Area Plan, and a Trails and Connectivity Plan. The Indian River Small Area Plan would continue to be an addendum to the updated Comprehensive Plan. We encourage residents to stay engaged in providing input to these plans. Several more public feedback sessions are expected for these plan updates in 2024. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNP-QSIUTNFN1xh22crLRE7kcWpwynQJKElXLmbm8DSr_K-xSIaoZWuO1062dRexMhKvW8DFWSB5OXhVMOOiJBvsY53cjylE5f_IrpQxZmBgnuSuuLDsQKzfo1EWNkjYt_Hk4OuUFcls3jgUcRy64C1aiCLizlGNYB1SUZGHs0o-0j_sTHTTeheEltEM4/s838/Oct%2011%20Plan.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="663" data-original-width="838" height="253" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNP-QSIUTNFN1xh22crLRE7kcWpwynQJKElXLmbm8DSr_K-xSIaoZWuO1062dRexMhKvW8DFWSB5OXhVMOOiJBvsY53cjylE5f_IrpQxZmBgnuSuuLDsQKzfo1EWNkjYt_Hk4OuUFcls3jgUcRy64C1aiCLizlGNYB1SUZGHs0o-0j_sTHTTeheEltEM4/s320/Oct%2011%20Plan.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>We've also been following plans for redevelopment of the property of the old Cornerstone Christian School between Willow Avenue and Sparrow Road to a multi-family residential development named Cornerstone Highlands. The developer has shared multiple site plan revisions with us, generally showing 21 townhouses and villas on the 1.5 acre property. The Friends of Indian River have provided feedback and concerns related to these site plans with the developer with the goal of improving the plans to better fit into the community. The proposal is not yet scheduled for presentation to the City Planning Commission and we will continue to engage both the developer and City. </div><div><br /></div><div>Another concern that arose in the fall was the construction of duck hunting blind on the Indian River in a literal jurisdictional loophole. Located on the river between the Norfolk Highlands, Plymouth Park, and Oaklette neighbors it is just over 150 yards from any of the approximately 50 homes surrounding the hunting blind. There is ambiguity on whether the City can enforce its ordinance prohibiting the discharge of weapons on State waters. We've engaged the City Council and our newly elected State Delegate Bonita Anthony on the issue to find a way to address the concerns of residents. </div><div><u><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></u></div><div><u><span style="font-size: large;">Connecting with Nature</span></u></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span>We continued our Second Saturday Hike program at Indian River Park in 2023 with 7 hikes plus our First Day Hike on New Year's Day. </span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMAf1G1m58SH1_Nhwz8C-GV_kSG_7dIuoIY_bKpJgYkkpEZ5l7VT0IkiLqSnIGpGrmCVu_BVr6HRas5542wIDvoW-phDi168ag9exHKrkfojljwlMt2Ay_Cnm5CKCHyO781od34wP9fguEzXQSJx5-03xYZU6LqZVgbvQRSRZVPR_RlPBAsLLqC0YSf0c/s1942/IMG_4022.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1942" data-original-width="1939" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMAf1G1m58SH1_Nhwz8C-GV_kSG_7dIuoIY_bKpJgYkkpEZ5l7VT0IkiLqSnIGpGrmCVu_BVr6HRas5542wIDvoW-phDi168ag9exHKrkfojljwlMt2Ay_Cnm5CKCHyO781od34wP9fguEzXQSJx5-03xYZU6LqZVgbvQRSRZVPR_RlPBAsLLqC0YSf0c/w200-h200/IMG_4022.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>In February, we had one of our best Great Backyard Bird Count bird walks ever around the lake between the Indian River Community Center and the High School. Right at the start, we spotted two Bald Eagles and two Ospreys wheeling across the sky above the lake. The ospreys were already building their nest. Then we had a real treat with a flock of 18 Ring-necked Ducks on the lake; this is a first for us and the flock may have been blown here by the previous day's storm. They were joined by 5 Northern Shoveler ducks, 3 Pied-billed Grebes, a couple of Double-Crested Cormorants, some Mallards, and lots of Canada Geese. We also saw Great Blue Herons, Hooded Merganser, 3 kinds of woodpeckers, various sparrows, an Eastern Towhee, and more. All told, we identified 26 species! </span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>In the fall, we had a member field trip to visit the Hoffler Creek Wildlife Preserve in Suffolk to see how they manage their park. The invasive species management effort using a herd of goats was particularly interesting. </span></div><div><span style="color: #eeeeee;"><br /></span></div><div><u><span style="font-size: large;">Civic Engagement</span></u></div><div><div><span style="color: #eeeeee;"><br /></span></div><div><span><span>In 2023, g</span><span>uest speakers at our meetings included:</span></span></div><div><ul><li>March: Bobby Nance, Certified Arborist, Bartlett Tree Experts, discussing tree care</li><li>May: Brian Solis, Deputy City Manager, to discuss community priorities</li><li>September: Barbara Gavin, Elizabeth River Project, to discuss the River Star Homes program</li><li>November: Daniel Whitaker, Chesapeake City Council, to discuss community priorities</li></ul><div>In June, we held a picnic instead of a regular indoor meeting. </div><div><br /></div><div>Also in June, we bid farewell to Pastor Tim Hazlett from Oaklette United Methodist Church, who is moving on to his next assignment. Pastor Tim was a strong supporter of the Friends and we wish him the best at his new parish. <span style="color: #eeeeee;"> </span></div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-0Kq7NT9Iuwv26SRZKg0km8n149PE_lU1rAll2T079KVbn8iQpleRukwntI44SgfmIhw8-tND9T3WV8CcNrPa9_6uLLMPnKetPgIKt2VlHA3TCP5hXzCedxa3mK9NBx33QsL525_FXyXw6ocRcQ2Tfii6gwGyNds2yPI4y8d7ISBy-Wn1nDSCm10pxRw/s866/Screenshot%202023-09-29%20161349.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="655" data-original-width="866" height="151" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-0Kq7NT9Iuwv26SRZKg0km8n149PE_lU1rAll2T079KVbn8iQpleRukwntI44SgfmIhw8-tND9T3WV8CcNrPa9_6uLLMPnKetPgIKt2VlHA3TCP5hXzCedxa3mK9NBx33QsL525_FXyXw6ocRcQ2Tfii6gwGyNds2yPI4y8d7ISBy-Wn1nDSCm10pxRw/w200-h151/Screenshot%202023-09-29%20161349.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Our president, Rogard Ross, delivered a well-received presentation to the Backyard Gardeners on the History and Value of Trees in Chesapeake. The presentation looked at the transition of land of today's City from an old growth forested swamp to today's suburbia, the role of the timber industry in the history of the City, and the crucial role trees play today in making our City livable.</div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>Of course, we continued our online outreach through our monthly newsletter, Facebook, Instagram, Next Door, and our website. </span><span style="color: #eeeeee;"> </span></div></div></div><div><span style="color: #eeeeee;"><br /></span></div><div><div><u><span style="font-size: large;">Indian River High School Scholarship</span></u></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipOEfAZpULMQ-edl_kFbIQ484Xn4DOxtI0CzPoHNxSwqYeOmy5p5vbjTIHk8SEzAZt9S1bCpjb3eT8Y_yJMZMS9YEfKVy49R3simjcOPKO-pNeaiPrTB5gml221msIEzQK6PsWHMsiuiSUL-Ejp5AXjfL9YDyNAogzFd4qTrs_HshmAzyq3B7gLE4qd_I/s853/351331236_270985292010579_2687760288177807530_n.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="640" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipOEfAZpULMQ-edl_kFbIQ484Xn4DOxtI0CzPoHNxSwqYeOmy5p5vbjTIHk8SEzAZt9S1bCpjb3eT8Y_yJMZMS9YEfKVy49R3simjcOPKO-pNeaiPrTB5gml221msIEzQK6PsWHMsiuiSUL-Ejp5AXjfL9YDyNAogzFd4qTrs_HshmAzyq3B7gLE4qd_I/w150-h200/351331236_270985292010579_2687760288177807530_n.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>The Friends of Indian River Education Scholarship is awarded to an Indian River High School graduating senior who embodies the spirit of the Friends of Indian River mission and excels in leadership, citizenship, extracurricular activities and academics<span style="color: #eeeeee;">. </span> The award this year went to </span>Derrick Lawrence. Well respected by the faculty, Derrick is seen as an inspiration for other students, and demonstrates a readiness to help and support others.</div></div><div><br /></div><div>Applications are now open for students graduating in 2024. Learn more about the scholarship at <a href="http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/friends-of-indian-river-scholarship.html" target="_blank">http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/friends-of-indian-river-scholarship.html</a></div><div><br /></div><div><span><u><span style="font-size: large;">Awards and Recognitions</span></u></span></div><div><span style="color: #eeeeee;"><br /></span><div class="MsoNormal"><span>At the annual Chesapeake Environmental Improvement Council (CEIC) Environmental Awards Luncheon, our president, Rogard Ross, received the prestigious Pioneer Award for his work with the Friends of Indian River, the Chesapeake Environmental Improvement Council, and other local conservation efforts.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnwmpItlvySAmQFv2sef6uS3zF_7oKWjTJyJgwJM1wvg-P_0pHMCnXdWMx9bkuTvMA1IeVnV7LpCs8uKp1_dRs_X92-CfQyFXSMk_64j7lwuZ5IQDoy9q-0ymZgMPMSObxOG8MUPYY94cSAQLIssBeTAqrIllN5xWu1RsI_r3RQfCDwD0xNSlMa2tZGw8/s2048/359144634_651948130296787_1217046316390953316_n.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnwmpItlvySAmQFv2sef6uS3zF_7oKWjTJyJgwJM1wvg-P_0pHMCnXdWMx9bkuTvMA1IeVnV7LpCs8uKp1_dRs_X92-CfQyFXSMk_64j7lwuZ5IQDoy9q-0ymZgMPMSObxOG8MUPYY94cSAQLIssBeTAqrIllN5xWu1RsI_r3RQfCDwD0xNSlMa2tZGw8/s320/359144634_651948130296787_1217046316390953316_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>We also congratulate Friends of Indian River members Gary and Susan Ball for being selected as the best Notable Yard in the Indian River for 2023 by the CEIC. Their River Star Home is a “river-friendly” oasis with a host of benefits for the environment and wildlife. They took advantage of funding opportunities from the Elizabeth River Project to develop a buffer garden along their shoreline that help keep pollutants out of the river and discourage harmful geese from entering their yard. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span>There are nearly 200 Elizabeth River Project River Star Homes in the Indian River watershed today, but we want to recruit many more. Learn how you can take advantage of the become a River Star and take advantage of its benefits at <a href="https://elizabethriver.org/river-stars/" target="_blank">https://elizabethriver.org/river-stars/</a></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: #eeeeee;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><u style="font-size: x-large;"><span>Active Supporting Members and Volunteers 2023</span></u></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div><span style="color: #eeeeee;"><br /></span><table border="0" cellpadding="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="background: white; mso-cellspacing: 1.5pt; mso-yfti-tbllook: 1184;"><tbody><tr style="mso-yfti-firstrow: yes; mso-yfti-irow: 0; mso-yfti-lastrow: yes;"><td style="padding: 0.75pt;" valign="top"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">Jill Arnone<sup> </sup><sup>M</sup></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">Gary Ball <span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><sup>MV</sup></span>*</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Susan Ball <sup>M</sup></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Daniel Brooks <sup>M</sup></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">Stephenie Brazen and family <sup>V </sup></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">Diane Burke <sup>MV</sup>*</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Joe Burke <sup>M</sup><span face=""arial" , "sans-serif"" style="color: #999999;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Margie Carraway<sup> M</sup></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Commonwealth Challenge <br />Youth Academy</span> <sup>V</sup></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Dollar Tree <sup>V</sup></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span><span><span>Brian Easley </span><sup>M</sup></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span><span>Vickie Easley </span><sup>MV</sup></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Dean Firth <sup>V</sup></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Lynn Gilbert <sup>M</sup>*</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">David and Lynn Greenfield <sup>M</sup><sup> </sup></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: #999999;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Michelle Hagdorn <sup>M</sup></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Helene Haluska <sup>MV</sup>*</span></div></span></div></td><td style="padding: 0.75pt;" valign="top"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">Jim Haluska <sup>M</sup></div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span><span>Jim Harrison</span> <sup>M</sup></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Jim Hartle <sup>MV</sup></span>*</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Eric Holsinger<sup> V</sup></span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Jill Jamison<sup> MV</sup></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Kathi Johnson <sup>V</sup></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span><span><span>Artemis Jones</span> <sup>M</sup></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span><span>Tom Kennedy </span><sup>V</sup></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Janet Kerns<sup> V</sup></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">Sharon Komenda <sup>MV</sup>* </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">Susan Lang<sup> MV</sup></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Paige Lewis <sup>M<span style="color: #999999;"><o:p></o:p></span></sup></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Devin Malamphy<sup> V</sup></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Chris </span>Mathew <sup>MV</sup></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Ed Mathew <sup>M</sup></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Cheynne Maupin <sup>M</sup></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Barbara McCane <sup>M</sup>*</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">Daniel Murguia <sup>V</sup></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: #999999; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></div></span></div></td><td style="padding: 0.75pt;" valign="top"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Keith and Debbie Moore <sup>M<span style="color: #999999;"> </span></sup></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">Michael Nerino <sup>M</sup></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Vic Nichols <sup>M</sup></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Amy Petersen <sup>M</sup></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">Jennifer Raymond <sup>MV</sup></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Dennie Reno <sup>M</sup><span face=""arial" , "sans-serif""><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Rogard Ross <sup>MV</sup>*</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">Rosie Roszko and family <sup>V</sup></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Jim Spiegeler <sup>M</sup></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Peter Tolles <sup>V</sup></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">Carol Warren <sup>MV</sup>*</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Amy Weber <sup>MV</sup>*<span style="color: #999999;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Darius Whitehurst<sup> V</sup></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Shirley Whitehurst <sup>M</sup></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Alex Whitney <sup>V</sup></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Chris Whitney <sup>MV</sup></span>*</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Jayne Whitney <sup>MV</sup>*<span face=""arial" , "sans-serif"" style="color: #999999;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><sup><span style="color: #eeeeee;"><br /></span></sup></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: #eeeeee;"><br /></span></div></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="background-color: white;">M – Supporting Member V – Volunteer </span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN_Sp3ImhtTc9isHTzMYIdOeNtW-ahcwy4C5haEjxJYTu4QF91u9HMZZnwRrWfHp2HuwF84acosDZ5yQ7taV1TChlnpuZiKOx9KhOjD4F8RgP_6RABRC7lrRhvZvlvOmxy97SvKyd7Vto/s1600/136-Starred+Photos1.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span><span><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">* - Completed more than 100 lifetime volunteer hours with FIR</span><span face=""arial" , "sans-serif"" style="color: #eeeeee; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></span><br /></span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span><span><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLEsZmnhi8mvYNCX0Q4C8Sj3i_op4G3Y3E64PdrW_t7VQJ4Jy8ryjP23cbkUI7M4TxOBJJnx7l05PwgeSlUkgaLZROWH_ENvPm8-M97sD5Tn4Z362_scqOfyIafRloQdLXpbAr40h7x4uwhSsFnHPkKjOhBOkxyciFqYyxDomORwoJNuHEvk6QgsSzhJA/s1200/Starred%20Photos6.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="857" data-original-width="1200" height="458" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLEsZmnhi8mvYNCX0Q4C8Sj3i_op4G3Y3E64PdrW_t7VQJ4Jy8ryjP23cbkUI7M4TxOBJJnx7l05PwgeSlUkgaLZROWH_ENvPm8-M97sD5Tn4Z362_scqOfyIafRloQdLXpbAr40h7x4uwhSsFnHPkKjOhBOkxyciFqYyxDomORwoJNuHEvk6QgsSzhJA/w640-h458/Starred%20Photos6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: #eeeeee;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="color: #eeeeee;"><br /></span><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span></span></div></div></div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743478099611773251.post-39555222761622260852023-12-04T14:03:00.033-05:002023-12-14T16:10:03.401-05:00December Newsletter and Events<p><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Saturday, Dec 16, Adopt-A-Park event @ Indian River Park is <span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>Cancelled</b></span>! We will reschedule for the new year. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;">There is a lot to share in this month's newsletter. First off, we need volunteers to finish mulching the Native Plant garden on Saturday, Dec. 16th. Also, since we are now meeting every other month, we will not be holding a Holiday Party this December. Instead, we will have a Volunteer Appreciation Celebration as part of our Annual Meeting on Jan. 18th in the new year; so, please mark your calendars. And don't forget our traditional First Day Hike at Indian River Park on New Year's Day! </span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Also in this issue:</span></p><div><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Upcoming Events</span></li><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><strike>12/16/2023 - Saturday - Adopt-A-Park @ Indian River Park</strike></span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">1/1/2024 - Monday - First Day Hike at Indian River Park</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">1/18/2024 - Thursday - Annual Meeting and Volunteer Appreciation Celebration</span></li></ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">News</span></li><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Indian River Small Area Plan Update</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">General Assembly Session</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Tidewater Master Naturalist and Chesapeake Master Gardeners</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Leave the Leaves</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">November Recap</span></li></ul></ul><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><hr /></span></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"></div></b></div></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: left;">Upcoming Events</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>Saturday, Dec 16: <span style="color: #cc0000;">Cancelled</span> <strike>Adopt-A-Park @ Indian River Park</strike></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><ul><li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu68_UGBqHUdPP9V6nc1OaUaza-uydOX5nIC3qKqJsXYDkvVStjwQnWd88qkOulPRhl-CPESyWDtBpeZ1b-QU69JpMi6nNevDbI_kLE0NTrs7xfslgDv5LSAyI6kaIQpRfmz5BnqkeF-Mnq4YjwwtCNCamJzz75Eg8Vl8GBo6UtPfqz6GUeYEnjcDGspA/s800/IMG_0793.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu68_UGBqHUdPP9V6nc1OaUaza-uydOX5nIC3qKqJsXYDkvVStjwQnWd88qkOulPRhl-CPESyWDtBpeZ1b-QU69JpMi6nNevDbI_kLE0NTrs7xfslgDv5LSAyI6kaIQpRfmz5BnqkeF-Mnq4YjwwtCNCamJzz75Eg8Vl8GBo6UtPfqz6GUeYEnjcDGspA/s320/IMG_0793.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><span style="color: #eeeeee;">Time: 10:00 am to 1 pm</span></li><li><span style="color: #eeeeee;">Location: Meet at the Indian River Park entrance at Rokeby Ave. and Main St. (2001 Rokeby Ave.) which is located just south of Military Highway, i.e. across Military Highway from the Fire Station.</span></li><li><span style="color: #eeeeee;">Help us finish mulching the native plant garden at Indian River Park. We need folks to help move and spread mulch. If you have a wheel barrow you can bring, please let us know!</span></li><li><span style="color: #eeeeee;">Please wear closed-toe shoes, a hat and bring work gloves. Long pants are recommended. If you can, bring rakes and pitchforks. We'll have water and snacks available. We also always encourage folks to bring their own water in reusable bottles to minimize use of plastic bottles and cans.</span></li><li><span style="color: #eeeeee;">Participants under 18 years of age must have adult supervision.</span></li><li><span style="color: #eeeeee;">Please pre-register so we have a headcount on the number of volunteers at <a href="https://forms.gle/v1cUZ3SVY9eGLYC79" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/v1cUZ3SVY9eGLYC79</a></span></li></ul></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>Monday, Jan 1: Second Saturday Hike @ Indian River Park</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><ul><li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfPJ1M9VQ5vorCs8DAsn2u6nNS90Hs-sZH4MylpNui1lWP2SBV5fyRPNcZkIeTyp0QupXEuo8e3nTDBBQ1UP8JHpgCqZ1Rsc1r0isYKwmjkjZKB3kiyBvDBtCv9JWye1-66oUPekV4C-gpH3varYMiUZcE3UyWFk2TIg1mG8dhyWIq8vFLOp4Ur2J97Fw/s1024/2-IMG_3334.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="682" data-original-width="1024" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfPJ1M9VQ5vorCs8DAsn2u6nNS90Hs-sZH4MylpNui1lWP2SBV5fyRPNcZkIeTyp0QupXEuo8e3nTDBBQ1UP8JHpgCqZ1Rsc1r0isYKwmjkjZKB3kiyBvDBtCv9JWye1-66oUPekV4C-gpH3varYMiUZcE3UyWFk2TIg1mG8dhyWIq8vFLOp4Ur2J97Fw/s320/2-IMG_3334.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Time: 1 pm to 2:30 pm</li><li>Location: Indian River Park entrance at Rokeby Ave. and Main St. (2003 Rokeby Ave.) which is located just south of Military Highway, i.e. across Military Highway from the Fire Station.</li><li>Join us for our New Year traditional nature hike in Indian River Park. Learn about the history of the park, the native trees and plants in this century old forest on the Indian River flood plain, and its value to maintaining the health of local butterfly, bird, and wildlife populations. Note: the forest trail has uneven surfaces and minor elevation changes.</li><li>Please pre-register at <a href="https://forms.gle/6asmKFpwFq22cjfv6" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/6asmKFpwFq22cjfv6</a> (suggested but not required)</li></ul></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>Thursday, Jan 18: Annual Meeting and Volunteer Appreciation Celebration</b> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><ul><li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu_JEeRAMIIVp0I2k5zavJiYBkEbG2JSdY7uEGcU8UvMCsv5GmxZSD_77GabwRhzVn5yZSjy3w4YU2xmLAgIDaSdu62Ov1fChw9x1R7HlJt4ZzlJDjTBLJ9ZDf8ni23JzxR5wzLVE2iKWzUsRkzm3cijR7SVpGF057UML_NYt_gjyM64eKxo0v8PTV0h4/s5120/Starred%20Photos3-1.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3657" data-original-width="5120" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu_JEeRAMIIVp0I2k5zavJiYBkEbG2JSdY7uEGcU8UvMCsv5GmxZSD_77GabwRhzVn5yZSjy3w4YU2xmLAgIDaSdu62Ov1fChw9x1R7HlJt4ZzlJDjTBLJ9ZDf8ni23JzxR5wzLVE2iKWzUsRkzm3cijR7SVpGF057UML_NYt_gjyM64eKxo0v8PTV0h4/s320/Starred%20Photos3-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Time: 7 pm</li><li>Location: Oaklette United Methodist Church, 520 Oaklette Drive</li><li>Please join us for our Annual Meeting to help us plan for 2024 and hold elections for our Board. If you are interested in becoming an officer or board members, please contact us for more information about the roles.</li><li>We will also use this meeting recognize our volunteers and the great work they do. There will be refreshments including various appetizers and desserts. </li><li>We'll also have the latest community news and updates on Indian River Small Area Plan, the duck blind and more! </li><li>All are welcome - please join us to celebrate our accomplishments in 2023 and plan for 2024.</li></ul></div></div></span></div></span></span></div></div></span></span></span></div></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div><span style="text-align: center;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><hr /></span></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"></div></b></div></span></div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div></b></span></div><div><b>Indian River Small Area Plan Update</b></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><b style="text-align: left;"><br /></b></span></div><div><div>Nearly two years ago, in December 2021, the residents of the Indian River area celebrated the approval of the Indian River Planning Area Study by the City Council. One of the key parts of the Plan was the inclusion of an Implementation Strategy defining Short (0 to 2 years), Medium, and Long Term actions to fulfill the goals outlined in the document at <a href="https://www.cityofchesapeake.net/DocumentCenter/View/3073/Indian-River-Adopted-Plan-PDF" target="_blank">https://www.cityofchesapeake.net/DocumentCenter/View/3073/Indian-River-Adopted-Plan-PDF</a></div><div><br /></div><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc5k9kAeRxwUW9o_UVbWgjQvlZqav_eLpfUcu7OlbKhnJwuZI-tecW3JZtdsDlU9Aw-EGXdW4qaShGsi3C_LpQ97Yjy2iZA1WCvqME8OZ4nCaQWKVcUUlhyl4xQMpDrMdYtfNPqakEknZwOePyWDDfYktnKVF8NN6hLqQdIMgx31CkXcsBGdjB6r6u1Wk/s1024/IMG_2835.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc5k9kAeRxwUW9o_UVbWgjQvlZqav_eLpfUcu7OlbKhnJwuZI-tecW3JZtdsDlU9Aw-EGXdW4qaShGsi3C_LpQ97Yjy2iZA1WCvqME8OZ4nCaQWKVcUUlhyl4xQMpDrMdYtfNPqakEknZwOePyWDDfYktnKVF8NN6hLqQdIMgx31CkXcsBGdjB6r6u1Wk/s320/IMG_2835.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blue Heron Landing Park construction</td></tr></tbody></table>Today we are very excited to see construction under way at the new Blue Heron Landing Park along the Indian River; this will be a major new amenity for the community. We are also pleased that the Planning Department has begun work on the Design Guidelines for the Commercial Corridors. These are perhaps the two most significant examples of progress from the implementation matrix. Another key project funded by the City Council in May of 2022, the addition of bicycle lanes along Indian River Road was recently slated to start additional engineering analysis by Public Works. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN5PJ6VcctMR3TNGQ_DjkUa0_OJdQy8EcEOX6WDxMCFb8oUk8O9BcojsEemmLxGyCbZ2V0waQdd-WwtIBh0dzAJJC3guKkxplvHXopcqiC8x7FC8a-A_-9SgPlTDr_PVCagg4VODBKomjEDZ7Hyjrp-_P1cxjmwHjMxXLGg0ZlLuMiq-3G3kq_lv37mqQ/s514/Nodes.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="514" data-original-width="456" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN5PJ6VcctMR3TNGQ_DjkUa0_OJdQy8EcEOX6WDxMCFb8oUk8O9BcojsEemmLxGyCbZ2V0waQdd-WwtIBh0dzAJJC3guKkxplvHXopcqiC8x7FC8a-A_-9SgPlTDr_PVCagg4VODBKomjEDZ7Hyjrp-_P1cxjmwHjMxXLGg0ZlLuMiq-3G3kq_lv37mqQ/s320/Nodes.png" width="284" /></a></div>However, many other Short Term goals have seen little to no action. These include planning for pedestrian and bicycle safety improvements across the community, steps to preserve and rehabilitate existing residential areas, developing an economic development strategy for the community, developing stormwater mitigation strategies, enacting policy changes to encourage tree preservation, allocating streetscape improvements funds to our community, or reaching out to the Chesapeake Public Schools with regards to first steps in creating a cohesive civic campus around the Indian River High School/Community Center/Middle School/Library. With the Medium Term (2+ years) is just around the corner and there will be even more goals to reach for. </div><div><br />After the approval of the Plan in 2021, the City stated it would organize an implementation steering committee that would meet on a regularly occurring basis and include both City staff and community members. This past month, we again reached out to the City about progress on the implementation of the Indian River Planning Area Study and for setting up this steering committee, with community involvement. We hope to share feedback from the City at our Annual Meeting in January. </div></div><div><br /></div><div><b>General Assembly Session</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>Speaking of newly elected Delegates, we extend our congratulations to Delegate-Elect Bonita Anthony, elected to represent the new 92nd District covering the Tanglewood, Norfolk Highlands, Oaklette, and Campostella neighborhoods in the Indian River area, as well as parts of South Norfolk, Berkley, and much of western Norfolk. We also congratulate Delegate Cliff Hayes for his re-election to the new 91st District covering the Georgetown and Indian River Park neighborhoods, as well as much of Greenbrier, South Norfolk, Deep Creek and Western Branch, and Senator Louise Lucas for her re-election to the new 18th District covering much of northern Chesapeake and Portsmouth. We also send our sincere thanks to outgoing Senator Lionell Spruill for his over 35 years of public service to the City of Chesapeake.</div><div><br /></div><div>The 2024 Session of the General Assembly convenes on January 10 and scheduled to run through March 9. For an overview of key topics related to conservation issues that may be addressed in the General Assembly this year, check out the Virginia Conservation Network's Common Agenda, representing the policy agenda of more than 160 organizations across the Commonwealth. <a href="https://vcnva.org/our-common-agenda/" target="_blank">https://vcnva.org/our-common-agenda/</a>. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Tidewater Master Naturalist and Chesapeake Master Gardeners</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>Have you applied to become a Chesapeake Master Gardener or thinking about applying to become a Tidewater Master Naturalist (<a href="https://tidewatermn.org/training/basic-training/" target="_blank">https://tidewatermn.org/training/basic-training/</a> - applications close Jan 15)? If so, let us know. We have a scholarship program for Friends of Indian River members in good standing!</div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="font-weight: bold; text-align: left;">Leave the Leaves</div><div style="font-weight: bold; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Leave those leaves. You really do not need to make the effort to rake and bag all those leaves. Mulch mow the leaves on your lawn to break them into smaller pieces that will compost on your lawn and add valuable nutrients to your soil. Leave the leaves in your garden beds and around your trees - they are free mulch, help build stronger soil, and provide valuable overwinter habitat for overwintering butterflies and moths, turtles, birds, and other wildlife. Please never blow your leaves into the street or into ditches - this ends up clogging storm drainage and pushing unneeded nutrients into our waterways.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi28haK0B_3LUdK-D18nZ_a1tFWHB55b4P9kKMh8ez5EMCaVn5EDd02pw0QCJYcJEaiYupgdNbVwsewDOvRhnXjRYMI1CvKwNR1enoabXyWQlXJnZI-MSlfc4DqgdbhRuahOoBEx-gHBJsAyn3igy6vKYFfA7MieYio1pN-rMeimXtNxsFa5HwRF-mYlUI/s717/399656728_670272211899257_7533654245647633648_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="717" data-original-width="526" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi28haK0B_3LUdK-D18nZ_a1tFWHB55b4P9kKMh8ez5EMCaVn5EDd02pw0QCJYcJEaiYupgdNbVwsewDOvRhnXjRYMI1CvKwNR1enoabXyWQlXJnZI-MSlfc4DqgdbhRuahOoBEx-gHBJsAyn3igy6vKYFfA7MieYio1pN-rMeimXtNxsFa5HwRF-mYlUI/s320/399656728_670272211899257_7533654245647633648_n.jpg" width="235" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Artwork courtesy of <a href="https://www.instagram.com/joan_de_art/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Joan_de_Art</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b style="text-align: center;">November Recap </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFjz_rZZDxufVRODYwMbPORpNW_xmVspUcVQWc4Yw2YGh5KFt1TpTmEz3q332qOOWX4Wf0DRYoUKrZqyAsif8__Zp2KmoEs-zd8ZbuHw84JU_lmuNK6mCbDesxqci79C0xCV55pMN-6i2prV4HEaJXH7G1sWnHfXMp13Sqjsf87aj6L4yrtRsDFyfI7Fg/s2048/394526572_658239846435827_2733385276679287244_n.jpg" style="clear: right; display: inline; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFjz_rZZDxufVRODYwMbPORpNW_xmVspUcVQWc4Yw2YGh5KFt1TpTmEz3q332qOOWX4Wf0DRYoUKrZqyAsif8__Zp2KmoEs-zd8ZbuHw84JU_lmuNK6mCbDesxqci79C0xCV55pMN-6i2prV4HEaJXH7G1sWnHfXMp13Sqjsf87aj6L4yrtRsDFyfI7Fg/w200-h150/394526572_658239846435827_2733385276679287244_n.jpg" width="200" /></a>We had a successful Adopt-A-Park effort at Indian River Park in November. Thanks to the six volunteers who came out to help, we cleared out the many of the irises in the front garden. The irises were being somewhat too aggressive and pushing out the other flowers; we also discovered some of them were the invasive yellow flag variety. But we retained enough native blue flag irises to re-establish a smaller collection in the garden next year. We need volunteers to come back in December to finish mulching the garden, see upcoming events for details. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Year End Giving</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;">The Friends of Indian River is an all-volunteer, local 501(c)(3) non-profit. You can support our efforts by becoming a member, renewing your membership, or just making a contribution online at <a href="http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/membership.html" target="_blank">http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/membership.html<br /></a></div></span></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></span></span></div></div></span></span></span></div></span></div></div>Rogardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00794374232118059295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743478099611773251.post-30808447990992425952023-10-29T15:26:00.004-04:002023-10-30T16:15:20.088-04:00November Newsletter and Events<ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">News</span></li><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Early Voting for November Elections</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Leave the Leaves</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Greenbrier Area Plan</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Indian River High School Scholarship</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">October Recap</span></li></ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Upcoming Events</span></li><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">11/11 - Saturday - Second Saturday Hike at Indian River Park</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">11/16 - Monthly Meeting - City Council Member Daniel Whitaker</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">11/18 - Saturday - Adopt-A-Park @ Indian River Park</span></li></ul></ul><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div><span style="text-align: center;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><hr /></span></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"></div></b></div></span></div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div></b></span></div><div><b>Early Voting for November Elections</b></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><b style="text-align: left;"><br /></b></span></div><div>Early voting is now underway in Chesapeake. Here are some key dates:</div><div><div><ul><li>In Person Early Voting @ Registrar’s Office in Great Bridge– thru Saturday, Nov 4 </li><li>In Person Early Voting @ Indian River, Central, Hillard, and Russell Libraries - Monday, October 23, through Saturday, November 4 </li><li>Election Day (last day to vote) – Tuesday, Nov 7</li></ul></div><div>On the ballot for the Indian River area in Chesapeake will be candidates for Senate of Virginia (18th District), House of Virginia (91st District and 92nd District), City of Chesapeake Treasurer (Unexpired Term), and Soil and Water Conservation Director Virginia Dare District (vote for 2 candidates). Election information and Sample Ballots can be found at <a href="https://www.cityofchesapeake.net/1048/Election-Information" target="_blank">https://www.cityofchesapeake.net/1048/Election-Information.</a></div><div><b><br /><span style="text-align: center;">Leave the Leaves</span></b></div><div><b><span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span></b></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNYNKuBb16YdiTrPT6XJBTAyYuXaspirGNO2En6oTaAXHQ-dYsVNyelDKQpYpVEN_HWO87266nzQQSqKaWw-qkdDjUYFBqk7EkJm0I7OOM7ojuQsMLc6fjacLijZzcfoxTb4D-Z3iX2SAs1HsvJ4UNPk61iiHTQn4teVeQ5aOcnxMlOA6sQ-Ar0chzQGg/s814/393770863_714567027368230_1674877371042479339_n.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="814" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNYNKuBb16YdiTrPT6XJBTAyYuXaspirGNO2En6oTaAXHQ-dYsVNyelDKQpYpVEN_HWO87266nzQQSqKaWw-qkdDjUYFBqk7EkJm0I7OOM7ojuQsMLc6fjacLijZzcfoxTb4D-Z3iX2SAs1HsvJ4UNPk61iiHTQn4teVeQ5aOcnxMlOA6sQ-Ar0chzQGg/s320/393770863_714567027368230_1674877371042479339_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Each autumn homeowners dutifully bag their leaves in the required clear 35-gallon plastic bags so that the workers can see that it is "light yard waste". In November and December, City trucks will collect a maximum of 50 bags per home per week. Tax dollars pay for the trucks, fuel, and thousands of staff hours required to collect all these leaves, and then pays again to haul and dump the leaves into the landfill. Despite what some may think, there is no local market to commercially compost so many leaves. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">And for the most part, this is all unnecessary. Leaves have been "God's mulch" since the first trees sprouted. Leaves provide a cover for gardens that conserves moisture, keeps the ground warmer during the winter, and reduces soil erosion. The fallen leaves also hide countless butterfly and moth eggs, caterpillars, and chrysalises; over the winter the leaves provide vital habitat for these over-wintering pollinators, native bees, and other beneficial insects. By spring, bacteria, fungi, and other naturally occurring organisms compost the leaves to enrich the soil and provide plants with valuable nutrients. Besides all these benefits for both your yard and the local ecosystem, leaving the leaves can also greatly reduce the need for buying and hauling commercial mulch to your yard. <b> </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Tips for using leaves in your yard</div><div style="text-align: left;"><ul><li>Mulch mow the leaves on your lawn. Mulch mowing your leaves builds soil health and provides nutrients for the lawn; it's easier than raking and a lot quieter than leaf blowing. </li><li>Leave the leaves and add leaves, mulched mowed or not, around your trees and perennial plants. They'll protect your plants in the same way as store-bought bagged mulch. Don't pile the leaves too high. Like with wood chip mulch, don't let the leave mulch pile against the trunks of trees and shrubs. Put a 3 to 6-inch layer of leaves around the base of trees and shrubs. A 2 to 3-inch mulch of shredded leaves is ideal for perennial flower beds. For vegetable gardens, a thick layer of leaves placed between the rows functions as a mulch and an all-weather walkway that will allow you to work in your garden during wet periods. </li><li>Add leaves to an existing or new compost pile. Mulched leaves will decompose faster in a compost pile. If you're new to composting, remember you want to mix equal volumes of carbon-rich, naturally dry plant material such as fallen leaves, with nitrogen-rich green plant material such as green yard clippings, fruit and vegetable kitchen waste, etc. </li></ul></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="font-weight: bold;"><b><span style="text-align: center;">Greenbrier Area Plan </span></b></div></div></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;">The City will be holding another Open House on Wednesday, November 15th, 6 pm to 8 pm, at Greenbrier Middle School to collect feedback on the future of Greenbrier. This is a chance to share your ideas about land use scenarios in Greenbrier.</span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><b>Indian River High School Scholarship</b></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;">The Friends of Indian River are once again sponsoring a $500 scholarship for a current Indian River High School senior who will be a college freshman next year. The scholarship will recognize a senior who excels in leadership, citizenship, extracurricular activities and academics. If you know a potential candidate, please reach out to us at info@friendsofindianriver.org and we’ll make sure they get an application!</span></div><div><b style="text-align: center;"><br /><div style="font-weight: 400; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFjz_rZZDxufVRODYwMbPORpNW_xmVspUcVQWc4Yw2YGh5KFt1TpTmEz3q332qOOWX4Wf0DRYoUKrZqyAsif8__Zp2KmoEs-zd8ZbuHw84JU_lmuNK6mCbDesxqci79C0xCV55pMN-6i2prV4HEaJXH7G1sWnHfXMp13Sqjsf87aj6L4yrtRsDFyfI7Fg/s2048/394526572_658239846435827_2733385276679287244_n.jpg" style="clear: right; display: inline; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFjz_rZZDxufVRODYwMbPORpNW_xmVspUcVQWc4Yw2YGh5KFt1TpTmEz3q332qOOWX4Wf0DRYoUKrZqyAsif8__Zp2KmoEs-zd8ZbuHw84JU_lmuNK6mCbDesxqci79C0xCV55pMN-6i2prV4HEaJXH7G1sWnHfXMp13Sqjsf87aj6L4yrtRsDFyfI7Fg/w200-h150/394526572_658239846435827_2733385276679287244_n.jpg" width="200" /></a><b style="text-align: center;">October Recap </b></div><div style="font-weight: 400; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="font-weight: 400; text-align: left;">Volunteers were at Indian River Park this month to tend to the native plant garden, cleanup the trailhead entrance, and work on trail maintenance and invasive plant control in the park. We have another volunteer day coming up on November 18th in the park; see below for details. </div></b></div></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div><span style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><hr /></span></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"></div></b></div></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: right;"><br /></div></div></div></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><b>Upcoming Events</b></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><b>Second Saturday Hike at Indian River Park</b></span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiPRv_mHQpEMYRn1arWoe081rBHQZt3OmBvLfBWUEEjyf89NEKUJwtPj3OVKyCvvnd0JDb2G8FklHPgK5quHYIKx7gmlmHkCDnV94BMdJE7qIDGmCql_2fkSJ_CwYBhsTeOU28dm2MUX1KIGNE_ILflD92TkXjHZ-cXOqVOSudXO2aW2HhzLyYqRYSS=s800" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiPRv_mHQpEMYRn1arWoe081rBHQZt3OmBvLfBWUEEjyf89NEKUJwtPj3OVKyCvvnd0JDb2G8FklHPgK5quHYIKx7gmlmHkCDnV94BMdJE7qIDGmCql_2fkSJ_CwYBhsTeOU28dm2MUX1KIGNE_ILflD92TkXjHZ-cXOqVOSudXO2aW2HhzLyYqRYSS=w200-h150" width="200" /></a></div>Date: </span>Saturday, November 11, 8:30 am to 10:30 am</span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Location: Meet at the Indian River Park entrance at Rokeby Ave. and Main St. (2001 Rokeby Ave.) which is located just south of Military Highway, i.e. across Military Highway from the Fire Station.</span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div>Join us for a walk in the park. Learn about the history of the park, the native trees and plants in this century old forest on the Indian River flood plain, and its value to maintaining the health of local butterfly, bird, and wildlife populations. Note: the forest trail has uneven surfaces and minor elevation changes.</div><div><br /></div><div>Please pre-register at <a href="https://forms.gle/w7xWjp8vzmbi1ZMP9" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/w7xWjp8vzmbi1ZMP9</a> (suggested but not required)</div></div><div><br /></div><div><div><b style="text-align: center;">Monthly Meeting - City Council Member Daniel Whitaker</b></div></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSiVPoOEuBdhJl-OkBwJzLdLrmRk4mol3AdQhBtEXx9oHXSxK5RaPKqHMU72drSVi4hJRFjnM938pD3OGnqorC6U0bblB_mwy-Bex-ATQfIdXRQ4upa3Wc_5QcbDM11oUhoSwf-YLN3WvvUDNIA6tq367hac8Gbd56Uv920cu1iK4g5wg1nvIudeIKmp0/s280/Whitaker.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="280" data-original-width="200" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSiVPoOEuBdhJl-OkBwJzLdLrmRk4mol3AdQhBtEXx9oHXSxK5RaPKqHMU72drSVi4hJRFjnM938pD3OGnqorC6U0bblB_mwy-Bex-ATQfIdXRQ4upa3Wc_5QcbDM11oUhoSwf-YLN3WvvUDNIA6tq367hac8Gbd56Uv920cu1iK4g5wg1nvIudeIKmp0/s1600/Whitaker.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Date: Thursday, November 16, 7 pm </span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;">Location: </span>Oaklette United Methodist Church, 520 Oaklette Drive</div><div><br /></div><div><div><div>Our guest speaker this evening will be City Council Member Daniel Whitaker. This is a chance to discuss community and citywide matters with the Councilmember. </div><div><br /></div><div>We'll also have the latest community news and updates! There will be light refreshments after the meeting. </div></div></div></div></span></div></div></span></span></div></div></span></span></span></div></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span><span color:="" font-family:="" helvetica="" style="font-family: helvetica;"><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div><b>Adopt-A-Park @ Indian River Park</b></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjanP_rttcnW8ZLaSD7LszEzx3XsA6X6YhqDvIWWtviZpnYRodkV44FcF-Ng_BB4ahZsSnxDYdHENiHi9k3ReLUW3oZyOyrzLATyrqZ9X9gPi0maKf1KK0ud-c7U5hOOKfxouu_TK8NImE3JSGMMVhkNfwInhTsm5qNO_9df9zaB66nJ7dmF1o7WEHcxZI/s1024/4-IMG_3341.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="684" data-original-width="1024" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjanP_rttcnW8ZLaSD7LszEzx3XsA6X6YhqDvIWWtviZpnYRodkV44FcF-Ng_BB4ahZsSnxDYdHENiHi9k3ReLUW3oZyOyrzLATyrqZ9X9gPi0maKf1KK0ud-c7U5hOOKfxouu_TK8NImE3JSGMMVhkNfwInhTsm5qNO_9df9zaB66nJ7dmF1o7WEHcxZI/s320/4-IMG_3341.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Date: </span>Saturday, November 18, 9 am to Noon</span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Location: </span><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Meet at the Indian River Park entrance at Rokeby Ave. and Main St. (2001 Rokeby Ave.) which is located just south of Military Highway, i.e. across Military Highway from the Fire Station.</span></div></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div>It is time for our fall gardening at Indian River Park. We'll be tending to the native plant garden at the park entrance, including mulching, weeding and preparing the garden for the winter. We will also be dividing some the blue flag irises. Volunteers helping out that day will have an opportunity to take home some of the extra plants. We may also do some trail work, pruning, weeding, and cleanup.</div><div><br /></div><div>Please wear closed-toe shoes, a hat and bring work gloves. Long pants are recommended. If you can, bring shovels, rakes, pruners, saws and other gardening tools. We'll have water and snacks available. We also always encourage folks to bring their own water in reusable bottles to minimize use of plastic bottles and cans. </div><div> </div><div>Participants under 18 years of age must have adult supervision.</div><div><br /></div><div>Please pre-register at <a href="https://forms.gle/iumCXQgNqGGGuNV69" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/iumCXQgNqGGGuNV69</a> (suggested but not required)</div></div></div></span></span></span></div></div></span></div>Rogardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00794374232118059295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743478099611773251.post-79644130123820135992023-09-30T10:10:00.009-04:002023-10-01T15:50:02.648-04:00October Newsletter and Events<ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">News</span></li><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Blue Heron Landing Park Update</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">The History and Value of Trees in Chesapeake</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Early Voting for November Elections</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Town Meeting - 10/3</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">River Star Homes Forum</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">September Recap</span></li></ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Upcoming Events</span></li><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">10/14 - Saturday - Second Saturday Hike at Indian River Park</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">10/21 - Saturday - Adopt-A-Park @ Indian River Park</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">10/22 - Sunday - Field Trip to Hoffler Creek Wildlife Preserve in Suffolk</span></li></ul></ul><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div><span style="text-align: center;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><hr /></span></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"></div></b></div></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></b></div></div></span></div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWXs1mfxUOnNjLroroP0KHsuQ6VNUCEMt5MNpZFGNajMHs980GR_DVTE_uj4qPfwjKFV4AzCAZ3n5PHYggJqOArNtRRBpRidqMS8L5jpixzbsa_wJvXrf6D_cOiEoT2x7s6UJGLyfXed5uCmdnIYi13R2rYTVK84CvYWfA42BK1ITTDKvYnWfU5Q8bC08/s590/Screenshot%202023-09-29%20144733.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="590" data-original-width="585" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWXs1mfxUOnNjLroroP0KHsuQ6VNUCEMt5MNpZFGNajMHs980GR_DVTE_uj4qPfwjKFV4AzCAZ3n5PHYggJqOArNtRRBpRidqMS8L5jpixzbsa_wJvXrf6D_cOiEoT2x7s6UJGLyfXed5uCmdnIYi13R2rYTVK84CvYWfA42BK1ITTDKvYnWfU5Q8bC08/s320/Screenshot%202023-09-29%20144733.jpg" width="317" /></a></div>Blue Heron Landing Park Update</b></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;">Construction has started on the new Blue Heron Landing Park just off Indian River Road across from Lilac Avenue. Building the park entails a major shoreline restoration. The site is a former parking lot constructed of rubble fill behind an improvised sea wall. The first step was to remove all the trees from the site; unfortunately, the trees were literally growing out of the old rubble and work to remove asphalt, concrete, rubble fill, failing retaining wall, and failing sea wall couldn't happen without removing the trees first. The project will tear all this out and reconstruct a living shoreline including an oyster reef, tidal low and high marshes and forested uplands. The entire area will then be replanted with native trees and plants. Finally, a boardwalk and kayak launch will complete the new park. The project will take upwards of 11 months to complete, so we'll keep every up to date as work progresses!</span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4oQYDC5TrF2p1ArklNJrWZRkp3peT7jntz23EjEJCH_Um3XfbRsDNkz3HJQaPW5gIRRX3gCS0UWckNPXZ7TEtuR4GVNpuEYQL1FqPJKgQGqSQcpugjr4Nn6Lp7e5qsb4fSbgNtC1wXX-znPpWvoy4Zvu37MarXP6ISt7KhyFifbFjxUu5ISKsbmtTf6A/s866/Screenshot%202023-09-29%20161349.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="655" data-original-width="866" height="242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4oQYDC5TrF2p1ArklNJrWZRkp3peT7jntz23EjEJCH_Um3XfbRsDNkz3HJQaPW5gIRRX3gCS0UWckNPXZ7TEtuR4GVNpuEYQL1FqPJKgQGqSQcpugjr4Nn6Lp7e5qsb4fSbgNtC1wXX-znPpWvoy4Zvu37MarXP6ISt7KhyFifbFjxUu5ISKsbmtTf6A/s320/Screenshot%202023-09-29%20161349.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><b>The History and Value of Trees in Chesapeake<br /></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>Speaking of trees, our own Rogard Ross, President of the Friends of Indian River, will be presenting at the Backyard Gardeners meeting on Tuesday, October 17 at 6:30 pm at the Great Bridge Presbyterian Church located at 333 Cedar Road on the History and Value of Trees in Chesapeake. Before European settlement, what now is Chesapeake was almost entirely an old growth forested swamp, from the Great Dismal in the southwest to Buck Trout Swamp in the northeast. These forests, and the industries that harvested them, were major factors in the region's history. Today, trees still play a crucial role in making our City livable, providing critical ecosystem services, cooling our neighborhoods, providing beauty, recreational space, and wildlife habitat. The talk will also address steps needed to protect and rebuild today's urban forest. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Early Voting for November Elections</b></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><b style="text-align: left;"><br /></b></span></div><div>Early voting is now underway in Chesapeake. Here are some key dates:</div><div><div><ul><li>Voter Registration Deadline – Monday, Oct 16</li><li>In Person Early Voting @ Registrar’s Office in Great Bridge– Friday, Sept 22 thru Saturday, Nov 4 </li><li>In Person Early Voting @ Indian River, Central, Hillard, and Russell Libraries - Monday, October 23, through Friday, November 4 </li><li>Election Day (last day to vote) – Tuesday, Nov 7</li></ul></div><div>On the ballot for the Indian River area in Chesapeake will be candidates for Senate of Virginia (18th District), House of Virginia (91st District and 92nd District), City of Chesapeake Treasurer (Unexpired Term), and Soil and Water Conservation Director Virginia Dare District (vote for 2 candidates). Election information and Sample Ballots can be found at <a href="https://www.cityofchesapeake.net/1048/Election-Information" target="_blank">https://www.cityofchesapeake.net/1048/Election-Information</a></div><div><br /></div><div>The Women’s Division of the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce will host a candidate forum at 5 pm on Monday, Oct. 2 at Chesapeake City Hall. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/6874249942625877" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/events/6874249942625877</a></div></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Town Meeting - 10/3</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">The City is holding their next quarterly "Town Meeting" at the Indian River High School on Tuesday, October 3, from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.; residents are "encouraged to attend at their leisure to discuss topics of interest with City Council members and City staff". </span></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><b>River Star Home Forum </b></span></div><div><span style="color: #050505;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #050505;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7GbPIMWpnlCxz0Ei5aQ5EHShalWaLdYTlWcYwS-zcm3I-SxL0MqFy1Twz7pexm2Gf3GHZbCGMCNfXE9N01u85Df5BWYbmPrB0aekCI4nFU9qnUFzgAhfSOreL0iyRu8SWozUxoM2w5-slvkEpOoj2ZMUf0akTYg2ZyMOWAwb_EXqyJNOSrs7ptZhM4LA/s3024/NEW%20RSH%20FLAG.jpg" style="clear: right; display: inline; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="2268" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7GbPIMWpnlCxz0Ei5aQ5EHShalWaLdYTlWcYwS-zcm3I-SxL0MqFy1Twz7pexm2Gf3GHZbCGMCNfXE9N01u85Df5BWYbmPrB0aekCI4nFU9qnUFzgAhfSOreL0iyRu8SWozUxoM2w5-slvkEpOoj2ZMUf0akTYg2ZyMOWAwb_EXqyJNOSrs7ptZhM4LA/s320/NEW%20RSH%20FLAG.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>We had a good turnout for our River Star Home Forum at our September meeting. Barbara Gavin from the Elizabeth River Project provided much valuable information about the benefits of the program. Current and new members asked questions and discussed reasons to participate in this program to preserve a healthy and clean environment for our community. </span></div><div style="color: #050505;"><br /></div><span style="color: #050505;">It’s fun, free and easy to become a River Star. When you do, you will get a beautiful River Star flag for your yard, a welcome packet and more. And as a River Star you are eligible to get a free native tree delivered to your home ready for planting and access funding opportunities for conservation landscaping, rain gardens, shoreline protection and more. There are nearly 200 River Star Homes in the Indian River watershed and we want to double that number and then double it again. You can take the pledge today to "Do Something Beautiful" for our river and community at</span><span style="color: #050505;"> </span><a href="https://elizabethriver.org/river-stars/" target="_blank">https://elizabethriver.org/river-stars/</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b style="text-align: center;">September Recap</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div>September was a busy month. The City held several Open House events of interest to our community, including one on a new Indian River Commercial Design Guidelines, which is a follow-up effort from the Indian River Planning Area Study, one for the next version of the City-wide Comprehensive Plan, and one for a Trails and Connectivity Plan. These were all introductory sessions to collect citizen input prior to creating first drafts of their respective documents. More meetings are expected over the winter and we'll keep everyone informed about them. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilg3mvDWHOniaMvR84zCLFbjmnnqXECl8iwRVe6oe0t0DgpzPzmH6sekbx6RgKUUCT9xEN_mQGZOqiRz_njAgk3zH7m0_3arpYYGrz1V6VGppKYZ10MqNkbKjIPdqkIZ2yQmnHfuiOzAooWJYTN1xZnUh5szB72Z-V7Tv5erTVMizE4lF-PEWA5zY_bzY/s3910/IMG_2430.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2618" data-original-width="3910" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilg3mvDWHOniaMvR84zCLFbjmnnqXECl8iwRVe6oe0t0DgpzPzmH6sekbx6RgKUUCT9xEN_mQGZOqiRz_njAgk3zH7m0_3arpYYGrz1V6VGppKYZ10MqNkbKjIPdqkIZ2yQmnHfuiOzAooWJYTN1xZnUh5szB72Z-V7Tv5erTVMizE4lF-PEWA5zY_bzY/s320/IMG_2430.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>There was also a meeting in conjunction with the Norfolk Highlands Civic League and the developer of the proposed Cornerstone Highlands project at the old Cornerstone school between Willow Avenue and Sparrow Road. The developer shared their latest site plan that now has 21 units - 5 cottage style homes and 16 townhomes. The City asked that the site entrance be on Willow Ave. with all the driveways are on the interior streets. To meet their stormwater BMPs requirements, the developer says the site will most likely incorporate an underground stormwater detention and filtration system (i.e. a big, buried storage cistern or similar). The housing will be market priced with the developer predicting home prices around $400K. The Friends of Indian River have been listening to community feedback and is drafting comments to the developer. The project is <u>not</u> on the October agenda for the Planning Commission. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE6dQV1M81yGYIdl571_5VKV0HGwsL8QzBlw8gwMWf35XcQFbzwt8t8bkNMdymiwJXVE0r80ztDmhyphenhyphensUUab1u2hL_vF-FooZsscWgUbmS9JUvmMDZ94IkPXKMXcdfNzi867aOWV5mBk-vLI1Pz60oLo5kZ1hkxVob6d-h4pKMHGSMfOytwth1ET0Uo-8k/s1024/IMG_2513.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1024" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE6dQV1M81yGYIdl571_5VKV0HGwsL8QzBlw8gwMWf35XcQFbzwt8t8bkNMdymiwJXVE0r80ztDmhyphenhyphensUUab1u2hL_vF-FooZsscWgUbmS9JUvmMDZ94IkPXKMXcdfNzi867aOWV5mBk-vLI1Pz60oLo5kZ1hkxVob6d-h4pKMHGSMfOytwth1ET0Uo-8k/s320/IMG_2513.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Our volunteers participated in the International Coastal Cleanup in mid-month. Seven volunteers came out to do a shoreline cleanup around the Indian River Oaklette Bridge and the future Blue Heron Landing Park. We collected about 200 pounds of trash - lots of bits of plastic chopped up by mowing, lots of beverage containers (glass, plastic, and aluminum), lots of food wrappers and plastic bags. We also continued weeding efforts around the bridge landscaping and gardens and at the native plant garden at Indian River Park. We always need more volunteers, so please do join us for upcoming events!</div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><hr /></span></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"></div></b></div></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: right;"><br /></div></div></div></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><b>Upcoming Events</b></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><b>Second Saturday Hike at Indian River Park</b></span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiPRv_mHQpEMYRn1arWoe081rBHQZt3OmBvLfBWUEEjyf89NEKUJwtPj3OVKyCvvnd0JDb2G8FklHPgK5quHYIKx7gmlmHkCDnV94BMdJE7qIDGmCql_2fkSJ_CwYBhsTeOU28dm2MUX1KIGNE_ILflD92TkXjHZ-cXOqVOSudXO2aW2HhzLyYqRYSS=s800" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiPRv_mHQpEMYRn1arWoe081rBHQZt3OmBvLfBWUEEjyf89NEKUJwtPj3OVKyCvvnd0JDb2G8FklHPgK5quHYIKx7gmlmHkCDnV94BMdJE7qIDGmCql_2fkSJ_CwYBhsTeOU28dm2MUX1KIGNE_ILflD92TkXjHZ-cXOqVOSudXO2aW2HhzLyYqRYSS=w200-h150" width="200" /></a></div>Date: </span>Saturday, October 14, 8:30 am to 10:30 am</span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Location: Meet at the Indian River Park entrance at Rokeby Ave. and Main St. (2001 Rokeby Ave.) which is located just south of Military Highway, i.e. across Military Highway from the Fire Station.</span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div>Join us for a walk in the park. Learn about the history of the park, the native trees and plants in this century old forest on the Indian River flood plain, and its value to maintaining the health of local butterfly, bird, and wildlife populations. Note: the forest trail has uneven surfaces and minor elevation changes.</div><div><br /></div><div>Please pre-register at <a href="https://forms.gle/pVb4Z5XPwJeUabou6" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/pVb4Z5XPwJeUabou6</a> (suggested but not required)</div></div><div><br /></div><div><div><b>Adopt-A-Park @ Indian River Park</b></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjanP_rttcnW8ZLaSD7LszEzx3XsA6X6YhqDvIWWtviZpnYRodkV44FcF-Ng_BB4ahZsSnxDYdHENiHi9k3ReLUW3oZyOyrzLATyrqZ9X9gPi0maKf1KK0ud-c7U5hOOKfxouu_TK8NImE3JSGMMVhkNfwInhTsm5qNO_9df9zaB66nJ7dmF1o7WEHcxZI/s1024/4-IMG_3341.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="684" data-original-width="1024" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjanP_rttcnW8ZLaSD7LszEzx3XsA6X6YhqDvIWWtviZpnYRodkV44FcF-Ng_BB4ahZsSnxDYdHENiHi9k3ReLUW3oZyOyrzLATyrqZ9X9gPi0maKf1KK0ud-c7U5hOOKfxouu_TK8NImE3JSGMMVhkNfwInhTsm5qNO_9df9zaB66nJ7dmF1o7WEHcxZI/s320/4-IMG_3341.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Date: </span>Saturday, October 21, 9 am to Noon</span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Location: </span><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Meet at the Indian River Park entrance at Rokeby Ave. and Main St. (2001 Rokeby Ave.) which is located just south of Military Highway, i.e. across Military Highway from the Fire Station.</span></div></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><div>It is time for our fall gardening at Indian River Park. We'll be tending to the native plant garden at the park entrance, including weeding and preparing the garden for the winter. We may also do some trail work, pruning, weeding, and cleanup.</div><div><br /></div><div>Please wear closed-toe shoes, a hat and bring work gloves. Long pants are recommended. If you can, bring shovels, rakes, pruners, saws and other gardening tools. We'll have water and snacks available. We also always encourage folks to bring their own water in reusable bottles to minimize use of plastic bottles and cans. </div><div> </div><div>Participants under 18 years of age must have adult supervision.</div><div><br /></div><div>Please pre-register at <a href="https://forms.gle/GpEVGLbZrE7HdMFU8" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/GpEVGLbZrE7HdMFU8</a> (suggested but not required)</div></div><div><br /></div><div><b style="text-align: center;">Field Trip to Hoffler Creek Wildlife Preserve in Suffolk</b></div><div><b style="text-align: center;"><br /></b></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK0o9QZtGaGBPB6KBCIU6-LDP7RcpKTpDY4OBwN1Gnyms1rv8QbMH-a0Sf1jSXx93lz4mcsb1OZvO2kATiYYObzIzot2CpDaqEYb-TmBjG_3Q0rf0DkJkAvc1n3u0pus4awCzb4Ae6tE2F9aKUc3O98CuO5CJNLQdjXpyqO40R0jF4wm2K-B3mm_ZmB2o/s460/Picture1.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="460" data-original-width="375" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK0o9QZtGaGBPB6KBCIU6-LDP7RcpKTpDY4OBwN1Gnyms1rv8QbMH-a0Sf1jSXx93lz4mcsb1OZvO2kATiYYObzIzot2CpDaqEYb-TmBjG_3Q0rf0DkJkAvc1n3u0pus4awCzb4Ae6tE2F9aKUc3O98CuO5CJNLQdjXpyqO40R0jF4wm2K-B3mm_ZmB2o/s320/Picture1.png" width="261" /></a></div>Date: Sunday, October 22, 2 pm to 5 pm, depart Indian River area around 1 pm </span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;">Location: </span>Hoffler Creek Wildlife Preserve in Suffolk</div><div><br /></div><div><div>Our annual field trip this year will be to Hoffler Creek Wildlife Preserve in Suffolk, a 142 acre preserve with over 3 miles of trails through four separate habitats: a riparian forest filled with pines and hardwoods, a meadow of native wildflowers and grasses, a non-tidal freshwater lake, and a tidal creek with its expansive salt marsh. Many animals have made Hoffler Creek home, from larger mammals like deer and foxes to turtles and lizards no longer than a few inches. More than 200 species of birds have been identified here, making it a haven for local birders. We will have a guided tour of the preserve.</div><div><br /></div><div>This field trip is free but limited to 25 persons. Registration is required and 1st preference will be given to members and active volunteers. Register at <a href="https://forms.gle/3CJScWTXbW8N64HB9" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/3CJScWTXbW8N64HB9</a></div><div><br /></div><div>Details on meeting location and car-pooling options will be provided to those who register for the trip. </div></div></div></span></div></div></span></span></div></div></span></span></span></div></span></div>Rogardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00794374232118059295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743478099611773251.post-85243548695695693412023-09-29T13:33:00.001-04:002023-10-15T10:12:35.929-04:00Tree Resources<p>Friends of Indian River Facebook Page<br /><a href="https://www.facebook.com/FriendsofIndianRiver" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/FriendsofIndianRiver</a></p><p>Department of Forestry Tree Owner's Manual <a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5368392.pdf" target="_blank">https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5368392.pdf</a></p><p>ISA Certified Arborist - Find an Arborist <br /><a href="https://www.treesaregood.org/findanarborist/arboristsearch" target="_blank">https://www.treesaregood.org/findanarborist/arboristsearch</a></p><p>Chesapeake Park & Facility Planning - Chesapeake Tree List<br /><a href="https://www.cityofchesapeake.net/DocumentCenter/View/9873/The-Chesapeake-Tree-List-PDF" target="_blank">https://www.cityofchesapeake.net/DocumentCenter/View/9873/The-Chesapeake-Tree-List-PDF</a></p><p>Virginia Conservation Assistance Program<br /><a href="https://vaswcd.org/vcap" target="_blank">https://vaswcd.org/vcap</a></p><div>Chesapeake Environmental Improvement Council</div><div><a href="https://www.facebook.com/ChesapeakeEnvironmentalImprovementCouncil" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/ChesapeakeEnvironmentalImprovementCouncil</a></div><p>Elizabeth River Project River Star Programs<br /><a href="https://elizabethriver.org/river-stars" target="_blank">https://elizabethriver.org/river-stars</a></p><div>Chesapeake Comprehensive Plan Update 2045<br /><a href="https://www.cityofchesapeake.net/3275/Comprehensive-Plan-Update">https://www.cityofchesapeake.net/3275/Comprehensive-Plan-Update</a></div><div><br /></div><div>Doug Tallamy - Bringing Nature Home<br /><a href="https://homegrownnationalpark.org/tallamys-hub/">https://homegrownnationalpark.org/tallamys-hub/</a></div><div><br /></div><div>Tree Benefits<br /><a href="https://www.arborday.org/programs/alliance-for-community-trees/downloads/tree-facts-benefits-of-trees.pdf" target="_blank">https://www.arborday.org/programs/alliance-for-community-trees/downloads/tree-facts-benefits-of-trees.pdf</a></div><div><div><a href="https://www.vibrantcitieslab.com/" target="_blank">https://www.vibrantcitieslab.com/</a></div></div><div><br /></div><div>Native Plant Guides</div><div><div><a href="https://www.plantvirginianatives.org/plant-southeast-virginia-natives" target="_blank">https://www.plantvirginianatives.org/plant-southeast-virginia-natives</a></div><div><a href="https://dwr.virginia.gov/wildlife/habitat/" target="_blank">https://dwr.virginia.gov/wildlife/habitat/</a></div></div><div><br /></div><div>Virginia Conservation Network - Issue Tracker</div><div><a href="https://vcnva.org/issues/" target="_blank">https://vcnva.org/issues/</a></div><div><br /></div><div>#Sustainable Chesapeake Facebook Group</div><div><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/SustainableChesapeake" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/groups/SustainableChesapeake</a></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGPnWwwyFlOyrHKLUbLQrf9805m8DTCo9vlYNWGyP4WZHv9mvRwPvulqsgQlt00nmxmjPEBCuGdWj_yq3ingmFPzF9HtTPYZLHs7tZ-MKHKZexkzzOM9CnV99_H2Ag-ZLR1RSbDlqXH31oYtprGQ7d1sM09FAwvWT0H57xicTox2g5nuKETN3PkyayTug/s579/Screenshot%202023-10-12%20133032.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="579" data-original-width="569" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGPnWwwyFlOyrHKLUbLQrf9805m8DTCo9vlYNWGyP4WZHv9mvRwPvulqsgQlt00nmxmjPEBCuGdWj_yq3ingmFPzF9HtTPYZLHs7tZ-MKHKZexkzzOM9CnV99_H2Ag-ZLR1RSbDlqXH31oYtprGQ7d1sM09FAwvWT0H57xicTox2g5nuKETN3PkyayTug/w393-h400/Screenshot%202023-10-12%20133032.jpg" width="393" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Rogardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00794374232118059295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743478099611773251.post-54195359498263891242023-08-25T16:19:00.010-04:002023-09-04T15:39:22.123-04:00September Newsletter and Events (Update 9/2)<ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">River Star Homes Forum - Thursday, 9/21</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Upcoming Events</span></li><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">8/31 - Thursday - Commercial Design Guidelines Open House</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">9/7 - Thursday - Cornerstone Highlands Development @ Norfolk Highlands Civic League meeting @ 1212 Willow Avenue</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">9/9 - Saturday - Second Saturday Hike at Indian River Park</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">9/14 - Thursday - Comprehensive Plan Public Input Session</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">9/16 - Saturday - International Coastal Cleanup</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">9/21 - Thursday - Monthly Meeting/River Star Home Forum</span></li></ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Other News</span></li><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Blue Heron Landing Update</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Trails and Connectivity Plan Open House, Wednesday, 9/20</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Notable Yards Winner</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Summer Volunteer Re-cap</span></li></ul></ul><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div><span style="text-align: center;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><hr /></span></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"></div></b></div></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></b></div></div></span></div><b>River Star Home Forum</b></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #050505; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Do you support efforts to <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7GbPIMWpnlCxz0Ei5aQ5EHShalWaLdYTlWcYwS-zcm3I-SxL0MqFy1Twz7pexm2Gf3GHZbCGMCNfXE9N01u85Df5BWYbmPrB0aekCI4nFU9qnUFzgAhfSOreL0iyRu8SWozUxoM2w5-slvkEpOoj2ZMUf0akTYg2ZyMOWAwb_EXqyJNOSrs7ptZhM4LA/s3024/NEW%20RSH%20FLAG.jpg" style="clear: right; display: inline; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="2268" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7GbPIMWpnlCxz0Ei5aQ5EHShalWaLdYTlWcYwS-zcm3I-SxL0MqFy1Twz7pexm2Gf3GHZbCGMCNfXE9N01u85Df5BWYbmPrB0aekCI4nFU9qnUFzgAhfSOreL0iyRu8SWozUxoM2w5-slvkEpOoj2ZMUf0akTYg2ZyMOWAwb_EXqyJNOSrs7ptZhM4LA/s320/NEW%20RSH%20FLAG.jpg" width="240" /></a></span></span><span style="color: #050505;">promote and preserve a healthy and clean environment for our community? One way you can help is by becoming a River Star Home. Organized by our partners at the Elizabeth River Project, </span><span style="color: #050505;">River Stars pledge to take 7 simple steps to make our river and community cleaner. </span><span style="color: #050505;">It’s fun, free and easy to join, and when you do, you will get a beautiful River Star flag for your yard, a welcome packet and more. And as a River Star you are eligible to get a free native tree delivered to your home ready for planting and access funding opportunities for conservation landscaping, rain gardens, shoreline protection and more. </span><span style="color: #050505;">There are nearly 200 River Star Homes in the Indian River watershed, but we want to double that number and then double it again. </span><span style="color: #050505;"> </span></div><div><span style="color: #050505;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #050505;">Our monthly meeting on Thursday, 9/21 will b</span><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #050505; text-align: left;">e all about the River Star program. We will hear from the Elizabeth River Project, existing and new River Star members, and those who want to learn more. Sign up for the meeting at </span></span><a href="https://forms.gle/EhLjaWkW3dnMpLrx6" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/EhLjaWkW3dnMpLrx6</a></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #050505; text-align: left;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #050505;">And you don't have to wait for our September meeting to become a River Star - take the pledge today at </span><a href="https://elizabethriver.org/river-stars/" target="_blank">https://elizabethriver.org/river-stars/</a></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><hr /></span></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"></div></b></div></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: right;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixqXoJj_2HFFumrfAJBT4Y0IQjwXdoSKTV9T0-O-akbQ6d155gQ07lQEg2IQ13Ie013n8DSyk0xfZqjKWjU41ClPIGT81It23vw6FIvYlwZrMDDLPCqwlvSbAyVssfMqw0U5aSYDiR-wO8zpZETgskUGCuozOixakLYW3nxYZcA98K59RNIdV2VvllAbo/s2200/Document.jpg" style="clear: right; display: inline; float: right; font-weight: bold; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2200" data-original-width="1700" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixqXoJj_2HFFumrfAJBT4Y0IQjwXdoSKTV9T0-O-akbQ6d155gQ07lQEg2IQ13Ie013n8DSyk0xfZqjKWjU41ClPIGT81It23vw6FIvYlwZrMDDLPCqwlvSbAyVssfMqw0U5aSYDiR-wO8zpZETgskUGCuozOixakLYW3nxYZcA98K59RNIdV2VvllAbo/s320/Document.jpg" width="247" /></a></div><b><br /></b></div></div></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><b>Upcoming Events</b></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br />Indian River Design Guidelines Open House</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span>Date: </span>Thursday, August 31, 5 pm to 7 pm</span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Location: Indian River Community Center, 2250 Old Greenbrier Rd.</span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">The City of Chesapeake is hosting an open house for the Indian River planning area. They are looking to gather information from the public on how to enhance properties throughout the commercial corridors in Indian River. This discussion and input will be used to create guidelines that will help the City and developers to create well and thoughtfully designed buildings and landscapes.</div></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div><span style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Cornerstone Highlands Development @ Norfolk Highlands Civic League meeting</b></div></div></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div><br /></div><div>Date: Thursday, September 7, 7 pm </div><div><br /></div><div>Location: old Cornerstone School property, 1212 Willow Ave</div><div><br /></div><div>A developer is proposing to redevelop the property where the old Cornerstone Christian School was located between Sparrow Road and Willow Avenue. The concept is to build 10 Cottage Style and 10 Townhome Style units on the 1.5 acre lot. The developer has been invited to attend the September 7 meeting of the Norfolk Highlands Civic League to share their designs and take questions. </div><div><br /></div><div>This meeting will take place at the Cornerstone property and the developer will set up various booths to allow the community to receive specific answers to inquiries about site development, engineering, building design & selections, and more. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0_-vd-aWMJmFhY1EJu2jM80CAedpqUg03Nu3KRuk-_XjfSj1Hb2rwhQzUc0ixsc7T_g5dVQ8aAoyJjK5m_3vM_T1B2JPvGPfwzyB51LhDO8DYdjQ9M_6_VUFHMc65RDrjq7RXRr05G4myxT-GQpxfMEhQJMAZDx-QxawQp3Gkvs6Y4hTtZYAk_z1TT_o/s1495/Screenshot%202023-08-25%20141440.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="787" data-original-width="1495" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0_-vd-aWMJmFhY1EJu2jM80CAedpqUg03Nu3KRuk-_XjfSj1Hb2rwhQzUc0ixsc7T_g5dVQ8aAoyJjK5m_3vM_T1B2JPvGPfwzyB51LhDO8DYdjQ9M_6_VUFHMc65RDrjq7RXRr05G4myxT-GQpxfMEhQJMAZDx-QxawQp3Gkvs6Y4hTtZYAk_z1TT_o/w400-h210/Screenshot%202023-08-25%20141440.jpg" width="400" /></a></div></div><div><br /></div><div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><b>Second Saturday Hike at Indian River Park</b></span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiPRv_mHQpEMYRn1arWoe081rBHQZt3OmBvLfBWUEEjyf89NEKUJwtPj3OVKyCvvnd0JDb2G8FklHPgK5quHYIKx7gmlmHkCDnV94BMdJE7qIDGmCql_2fkSJ_CwYBhsTeOU28dm2MUX1KIGNE_ILflD92TkXjHZ-cXOqVOSudXO2aW2HhzLyYqRYSS=s800" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiPRv_mHQpEMYRn1arWoe081rBHQZt3OmBvLfBWUEEjyf89NEKUJwtPj3OVKyCvvnd0JDb2G8FklHPgK5quHYIKx7gmlmHkCDnV94BMdJE7qIDGmCql_2fkSJ_CwYBhsTeOU28dm2MUX1KIGNE_ILflD92TkXjHZ-cXOqVOSudXO2aW2HhzLyYqRYSS=w200-h150" width="200" /></a></div>Date: </span>Saturday, September 9, 8:30 am to 10:30 am</span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Location: Meet at the Indian River Park entrance at Rokeby Ave. and Main St. (2001 Rokeby Ave.) which is located just south of Military Highway, i.e. across Military Highway from the Fire Station.</span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div>Join is for a hike at the park to learn about the history of the park, the native trees and plants in this century old forest on the Indian River flood plain, and its value to maintaining the health of local butterfly, bird, and wildlife populations. Note: the forest trail has uneven surfaces and minor elevation changes. </div><div><br /></div><div>Please pre-register at <a href="https://forms.gle/QkT4zMCSCuDvUnxbA" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/QkT4zMCSCuDvUnxbA</a> (suggested but not required)</div></div><div><br /></div><div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><b>Comprehensive Plan Public Input Session</b></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtKeUcZEXEhSbEWZlArHR4r1XxJozJgLapOpeE9QKOsWa_7d15gxOyJ-C5VSBYxKRtf00XdErR1ZlIHrYIFgPypELAb18J6OJQ3shqMbn4Wi0P3NbL9cGxIjFLwrdthLLVvQRk0ylFXBzDdEdtOLWlBO8bD28byCCHCp_PRGG9YkxRmM-n-3sNsxaVOvU/s526/373435909_23857932307410449_5151313772676728340_n.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="526" data-original-width="526" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtKeUcZEXEhSbEWZlArHR4r1XxJozJgLapOpeE9QKOsWa_7d15gxOyJ-C5VSBYxKRtf00XdErR1ZlIHrYIFgPypELAb18J6OJQ3shqMbn4Wi0P3NbL9cGxIjFLwrdthLLVvQRk0ylFXBzDdEdtOLWlBO8bD28byCCHCp_PRGG9YkxRmM-n-3sNsxaVOvU/w200-h200/373435909_23857932307410449_5151313772676728340_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br />Date: Thursday, September 14, 5 pm to 7 pm</span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;">Location: Indian River High School, 1969 Braves Trail</span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;">The City is starting work on the next version of City's Comprehensive Plan. This will be the start of a two-year process to update the Comp Plan, the City’s guide to how it will move into the future, whether that be with new growth and development, or protection and preservation of the things we have. It provides the City with policies and recommendations on a range of topics from economic development to environmental sustainability and resilience to transportation to placemaking and design. This plan helps visualize where new roads and infrastructure may be needed in the future, and valuable natural resources and assets that must be protected.</span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;">A series of open houses will be held in September, including at the Indian River High School on September 14th. Learn more at <a href="https://www.cityofchesapeake.net/3275/Chesapeake-2045" target="_blank">https://www.cityofchesapeake.net/3275/Chesapeake-2045</a></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span></div><div><b style="text-align: center;">International Coastal Cleanup</b></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLCLagMYulRvwzJMLJu9jJpViofwLY_Dq3MU9Nu2uqDbFbcZYzOGYFC8_kABWsGEQqcyJ0HkvzbpaCDKPoto8v0q3Qc4HCkyBIoSto_dt2l1JA10KCi6vFCZbZh5GRnXfnb_CmqefrL_hWlEkzXPUTc7Z9f3nm9lA5ilt4SHf-g3kZU_UmIhVlUmF5dVg/s1200/06-untitled-4565-0606.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="798" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLCLagMYulRvwzJMLJu9jJpViofwLY_Dq3MU9Nu2uqDbFbcZYzOGYFC8_kABWsGEQqcyJ0HkvzbpaCDKPoto8v0q3Qc4HCkyBIoSto_dt2l1JA10KCi6vFCZbZh5GRnXfnb_CmqefrL_hWlEkzXPUTc7Z9f3nm9lA5ilt4SHf-g3kZU_UmIhVlUmF5dVg/s320/06-untitled-4565-0606.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>Date: </span>Saturday, September 16, 9 am to Noon</span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Location: Meet at Lilac Avenue and Indian River Road. Park along Lilac Avenue by the Norfolk Highlands Primary School. It is a No Parking zone along Oleander Avenue (parallel to Indian River Road).</span></div></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;">As part of the International Coastal Cleanup, we will be cleaning up around and underneath the Indian River - Oaklette Bridge and the site of the future Blue Heron Landing Park. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;">The city will provide garbage bags and orange safety vests. We encourage folks to bring their own water in reusable bottles to minimize use of plastic bottles. Please wear closed-toe shoes, a hat and bring work gloves and other items that may be useful. We also always encourage folks to bring their own water in reusable bottles to minimize use of plastic bottles. Participants under 18 years of age must have adult supervision. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Please pre-register at <a href="https://forms.gle/TTTv6DstLrFboqpa9" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/TTTv6DstLrFboqpa9</a> </span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;">If have access to the Indian River and are interested in "paddling up" to this cleanup with your own canoe or kayak, please reach out to us in advance at <a href="mailto:info@friendsofindianriver.org">info@friendsofindianriver.org</a></span></div><div><br /></div><div><b style="text-align: center;">Monthly Meeting - River Star Home Forum</b></div><div><b style="text-align: center;"><br /></b></div><div><span style="text-align: center;">Date: Thursday, September 21, 7 pm </span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;">Location: Oaklette United Methodist Church, 520 Oaklette Drive </span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;">This meeting will be a forum to learn about and discuss how to get the most out of the Elizabeth River Project's River Star Homes program. We'll have a representative from the ERP attending and we'll have existing River Stars in attendance to talk about the benefits of participation and how the program can help the entire community. </span><a href="https://forms.gle/EhLjaWkW3dnMpLrx6" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/EhLjaWkW3dnMpLrx6</a></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;">We'll also have the latest community news and updates!</span></div><div><b style="text-align: center;"><br /></b></div></div></span></div><div><b style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div></b></div></div></span></span></div></div></span></span></span></div></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><hr /></span></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></b></div></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Other News</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br />Blue Heron Landing Park and Kayak Launch</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><br />We're a big step closer to seeing Blue Heron Landing and Kayak Launch become a reality along the Indian River. The City has awarded a contract for construction of the park and we're now expecting work to begin this fall. This is located along Indian River Road across from Lilac Avenue. Stay tuned for updates!</div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2h4csr9j74mvRSH8xJg07F8CCmfi3tXhlsJuQqvfypf2BoeLcqvVAdfR8VtrRiMmb6LTpVKM7U7cbOYhpsEjueRtzpWOfy-cqosaCoSe11TgqCY4fpLZfA2FJKXo5WH-goeJecKRwmG62LCwUAxeOpIp7R5y0jwfI1WUiS1QhaEQP90hbwAflNw8X6Ik/s600/image.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="338" data-original-width="600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2h4csr9j74mvRSH8xJg07F8CCmfi3tXhlsJuQqvfypf2BoeLcqvVAdfR8VtrRiMmb6LTpVKM7U7cbOYhpsEjueRtzpWOfy-cqosaCoSe11TgqCY4fpLZfA2FJKXo5WH-goeJecKRwmG62LCwUAxeOpIp7R5y0jwfI1WUiS1QhaEQP90hbwAflNw8X6Ik/s320/image.png" width="320" /></a></div></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3WIFyK43rLF6kgTwkz_FM-y-n1FFTrLeckMbxHejZFjtgR6itX_LjTP6bV74QlbpxnOKEPHaIA_YsmprSX2pRVXwWPeU0YWeQX6uQa6rBTif1CHDgy4sOUnp2pU8CZeTxFQZoXOeUgS-zBFkVmmK2fiivM4kDcjeypR39DmI8jOMYNgzRnCiu1mkMfbU/s3300/Document%20(1).jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3300" data-original-width="2550" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3WIFyK43rLF6kgTwkz_FM-y-n1FFTrLeckMbxHejZFjtgR6itX_LjTP6bV74QlbpxnOKEPHaIA_YsmprSX2pRVXwWPeU0YWeQX6uQa6rBTif1CHDgy4sOUnp2pU8CZeTxFQZoXOeUgS-zBFkVmmK2fiivM4kDcjeypR39DmI8jOMYNgzRnCiu1mkMfbU/s320/Document%20(1).jpg" width="247" /></a></div>Trails and Connectivity Plan Open House</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><div>The City of Chesapeake is working on a plan to improve connections between open spaces through a network of trails, multimodal corridors, and protected lands. The plan will be used to guide connections between trails, recreational areas, conservation lands, water access points, and historic and cultural resources. The City is holding an Open House to get your insights on Wednesday, September 20, from 5:30 to 7:30 pm at the Great Bridge Battlefield & Waterways Museum, 775 Historic Way. </div><div><br /></div><div>Learn more and take a survey at <a href="https://www.cityofchesapeake.net/3233/Chesapeake-Trails-and-Connectivity-Plan" target="_blank">https://www.cityofchesapeake.net/3233/Chesapeake-Trails-and-Connectivity-Plan</a></div></div><div><br /></div><div>Trails and Connectivity were also some of the key goals of the Indian River Planning Area Study and the Friends of Indian River will be working to make sure that those goals are also reflected in this new Trails and Connectivity Plan. </div><div><br /></div></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b>Notable Yards Winner</b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVvfUI4VhNgV2NI5co7Mgyyxvdly7R1kS7SV0kd5xMTk44TBkWADm0YXZeclp6UikiP-iVtO72vxxqNeXoyR_6_bkyQrqnzUZdcLB1Fm4wStW8oZeoWMYI_5NY4IFxHxLQYd676bfhVDic-aEUhilnniSP6WV4S8596p6eRR1FQurIRauk-GDPZ8rCJw0/s2048/359144634_651948130296787_1217046316390953316_n.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVvfUI4VhNgV2NI5co7Mgyyxvdly7R1kS7SV0kd5xMTk44TBkWADm0YXZeclp6UikiP-iVtO72vxxqNeXoyR_6_bkyQrqnzUZdcLB1Fm4wStW8oZeoWMYI_5NY4IFxHxLQYd676bfhVDic-aEUhilnniSP6WV4S8596p6eRR1FQurIRauk-GDPZ8rCJw0/s320/359144634_651948130296787_1217046316390953316_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Congratulations to Friends of Indian River members Gary and Susan Ball for being selected as the best Notable Yard in the Indian River for 2023! Their River Star Home is </span><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">a “river-friendly” oasis with a host of benefits the environment and wildlife. They took advantage of funding opportunities from the Elizabeth River Project to develop a buffer garden along their shoreline that help keep pollutants out of the river and discourage harmful geese from entering their yard. Trees, shrubs, and flowers border each side of the back yard, with a chemical free “freedom lawn” leading down to the river. With a mix of native and non-native plants, they are working to attract various pollinator insects. Gary and Susan's efforts have made their home into a truly beautiful place to enjoy the gifts of nature. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Come to our River Star Home Forum on Thursday, September 21 to learn more about how to make your yard into a Notable Yard. See details above. </span><a href="https://forms.gle/EhLjaWkW3dnMpLrx6" rel="nofollow" style="font-family: helvetica;" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/EhLjaWkW3dnMpLrx6</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b style="font-family: helvetica;">Summer Volunteer Re-cap</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">We haven't had any scheduled volunteer events over the summer, but a dedicated crew of volunteers kept up with regular maintenance at the various gardens maintained by the Friends of Indian River through these hot summer months, including at the Indian River Oaklette Bridge, Indian River Park, Plymouth Park, and several planters along Indian River Road. Without their dedicated efforts, these gardens would likely get overrun by plants we don't want in these plantings, i.e., "weeds". (Although the definition of what is a weed varies depending on gardening goals). We also thank the volunteers outside our group who maintain other public gardens in the area, including at the Rokeby Center and the Indian River Library. All these efforts help make our community beautiful!</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj9pKaTAeNebVjMf_Kom-a-LJ0oYiNj7PhPtzMWWnCilRbabMq38WWtRbNMKJPxDdFpB3Ty0VV0Ozh9gaYIWJHuArQRSJIYMtRXdqmv9HvujGtv0IDBqc_Wef2Y-2PKyNIvonIryuZr0REtRc5e3VLTPS_0SY_gmpmntuKKopZr_o3QxQV7qwSOgjtpuE/s5120/Starred%20Photos5.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1706" data-original-width="5120" height="134" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj9pKaTAeNebVjMf_Kom-a-LJ0oYiNj7PhPtzMWWnCilRbabMq38WWtRbNMKJPxDdFpB3Ty0VV0Ozh9gaYIWJHuArQRSJIYMtRXdqmv9HvujGtv0IDBqc_Wef2Y-2PKyNIvonIryuZr0REtRc5e3VLTPS_0SY_gmpmntuKKopZr_o3QxQV7qwSOgjtpuE/w400-h134/Starred%20Photos5.jpg" width="400" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><div><span color:="" font-family:="" helvetica="" style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div></span></div></span></div></div></span></div>Rogardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00794374232118059295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743478099611773251.post-84954301975228136972023-07-03T13:25:00.002-04:002023-07-05T11:24:56.348-04:00Summer Newsletter and Events<p></p><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">River Star Home Forum </span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Upcoming Events</span></li><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">7/8 - Saturday - Second Saturday Hike at Indian River Park</span></li></ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Other News</span></li><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Indian River High School Scholarship</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">June Re-cap</span></li></ul></ul><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div><span style="text-align: center;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><hr /></span></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"></div></b></div></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></b></div></div></span></div><b>River Star Home Forum</b></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #050505; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Do you support efforts to <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7GbPIMWpnlCxz0Ei5aQ5EHShalWaLdYTlWcYwS-zcm3I-SxL0MqFy1Twz7pexm2Gf3GHZbCGMCNfXE9N01u85Df5BWYbmPrB0aekCI4nFU9qnUFzgAhfSOreL0iyRu8SWozUxoM2w5-slvkEpOoj2ZMUf0akTYg2ZyMOWAwb_EXqyJNOSrs7ptZhM4LA/s3024/NEW%20RSH%20FLAG.jpg" style="clear: right; display: inline; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="2268" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7GbPIMWpnlCxz0Ei5aQ5EHShalWaLdYTlWcYwS-zcm3I-SxL0MqFy1Twz7pexm2Gf3GHZbCGMCNfXE9N01u85Df5BWYbmPrB0aekCI4nFU9qnUFzgAhfSOreL0iyRu8SWozUxoM2w5-slvkEpOoj2ZMUf0akTYg2ZyMOWAwb_EXqyJNOSrs7ptZhM4LA/s320/NEW%20RSH%20FLAG.jpg" width="240" /></a></span></span><span style="color: #050505;">promote and preserve a healthy and clean environment for our community? One way you can help is by becoming a River Star Home. Organized by our partners at the Elizabeth River Project, </span><span style="color: #050505;">River Stars pledge to take 7 simple steps to make our river and community cleaner. </span><span style="color: #050505;">It’s fun, free and easy to join, and when you do, you will get a beautiful River Star flag for your yard, a welcome packet and more. And as a River Star you are eligible to get a free native tree delivered to your home ready for planting and access funding opportunities for conservation landscaping, rain gardens, shoreline protection and more. </span><span style="color: #050505;">There are nearly 200 River Star Homes in the Indian River watershed, but we want to double that number and then double it again. </span><span style="color: #050505;"> </span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #050505; text-align: left;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #050505; text-align: left;">Are you interested in taking the steps to make our community's environment cleaner and healthier for all? Please take this short survey to learn more: <a href="https://forms.gle/EhLjaWkW3dnMpLrx6" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/EhLjaWkW3dnMpLrx6</a></span></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #050505; text-align: left;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #050505; text-align: left;">And mark your calendars for our September meeting on Thursday, 9/21, 7 pm. Our focus will be all about the River Star program. We will hear from the Elizabeth River Project, existing and new River Star members, and those who want to learn more. Please take the survey above to sign up for the meeting. </span></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #050505; text-align: left;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #050505; text-align: left;">And you don't have to wait for our September meeting to become a River Star - take the pledge today at </span><a href="https://elizabethriver.org/river-stars/" style="text-align: left;">https://elizabethriver.org/river-stars/</a></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><hr /></span></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"></div></b></div></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div></div></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><b>Upcoming Events</b></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div><span style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><b>Second Saturday Hike at Indian River Park</b></span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiPRv_mHQpEMYRn1arWoe081rBHQZt3OmBvLfBWUEEjyf89NEKUJwtPj3OVKyCvvnd0JDb2G8FklHPgK5quHYIKx7gmlmHkCDnV94BMdJE7qIDGmCql_2fkSJ_CwYBhsTeOU28dm2MUX1KIGNE_ILflD92TkXjHZ-cXOqVOSudXO2aW2HhzLyYqRYSS=s800" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiPRv_mHQpEMYRn1arWoe081rBHQZt3OmBvLfBWUEEjyf89NEKUJwtPj3OVKyCvvnd0JDb2G8FklHPgK5quHYIKx7gmlmHkCDnV94BMdJE7qIDGmCql_2fkSJ_CwYBhsTeOU28dm2MUX1KIGNE_ILflD92TkXjHZ-cXOqVOSudXO2aW2HhzLyYqRYSS=w200-h150" width="200" /></a></div>Date: </span>Saturday, July 8, 8:30 am to 10:30 am</span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Location: Meet at the Indian River Park entrance at Rokeby Ave. and Main St. (2001 Rokeby Ave.) which is located just south of Military Highway, i.e. across Military Highway from the Fire Station.</span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div>Joining for a hike at the park to learn about the history of the park, the native trees and plants in this century old forest on the Indian River flood plain, and its value to maintaining the health of local butterfly, bird, and wildlife populations. Note: the forest trail has uneven surfaces and minor elevation changes. </div><div><br /></div><div>Please pre-register at <a href="https://forms.gle/vntnyEajQ1BdcVvN9" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/vntnyEajQ1BdcVvN9</a> (suggested but not required)</div></div></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></span></div><div><b style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div></b></div></div></span></span></div></div></span></span></span></div></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><hr /></span></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></b></div></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Other News</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMHcP_jDvIzfFmthF8PcoQEjTHZQNcKSlUPhaXzbRvaEr8_SBSCnwCLgvr-gvwUvjHzIVCvCpyMdRNK-bV2paYNhghNLisYotbfUgrdzHiPoKBN5raoxX879vEW8TpjlOpCd_ccfPJSh459wImtfdAmnGYmrDidxn9Nf52C2rTgX24Gaju8an11_8Kp14/s853/351331236_270985292010579_2687760288177807530_n.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMHcP_jDvIzfFmthF8PcoQEjTHZQNcKSlUPhaXzbRvaEr8_SBSCnwCLgvr-gvwUvjHzIVCvCpyMdRNK-bV2paYNhghNLisYotbfUgrdzHiPoKBN5raoxX879vEW8TpjlOpCd_ccfPJSh459wImtfdAmnGYmrDidxn9Nf52C2rTgX24Gaju8an11_8Kp14/w240-h320/351331236_270985292010579_2687760288177807530_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Indian River High School Scholarship</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><br />Congratulations to Derrick Lawrence on winning the Friends of Indian River 2023 Education Scholarship award! This $500 award from the Friends of Indian River provides a scholarship to an outstanding graduating student at Indian River High School. Derrick embodies the spirit of our mission and excels in leadership, citizenship, extracurricular activities and academics. Well respected by the faculty, he is seen as an inspiration for other students, and demonstrates a readiness to help and support others. </div><div><br /></div><div>Learn more about the scholarship at <a href="http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/friends-of-indian-river-scholarship.html" target="_blank">http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/friends-of-indian-river-scholarship.html</a></div></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b style="font-family: helvetica;">June Re-cap</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><div><span color:="" font-family:="" helvetica="" style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnr2mDNqYQ7D6FDU8oS-Resx8Nt1Uu6r26J9Q-xBmsljSmsQbbNDRYCr3BcAvD49ihPlD7HqubXelX644EZ2pUL3HKeMOar8gpBnNGpgPXfg6TiZ_8NQzpUh74Hjb55z-wQbGTFdzuMTZ0rwcnZyaP80GaLAzuQEu2KxU77pbQM6a9-hKtRCyK34uni5s/s1200/2023-06-03%20Clean%20the%20Bay%20Day.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1200" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnr2mDNqYQ7D6FDU8oS-Resx8Nt1Uu6r26J9Q-xBmsljSmsQbbNDRYCr3BcAvD49ihPlD7HqubXelX644EZ2pUL3HKeMOar8gpBnNGpgPXfg6TiZ_8NQzpUh74Hjb55z-wQbGTFdzuMTZ0rwcnZyaP80GaLAzuQEu2KxU77pbQM6a9-hKtRCyK34uni5s/s320/2023-06-03%20Clean%20the%20Bay%20Day.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>We started the month with Clean the Bay Day on Saturday, June 3 at the Indian River Civic Campus by the High School and Middle School. 30 volunteers removed about 800 lbs. of trash and debris including 2 tires, 2 shopping carts, multiple traffic cones, 1 traffic barrel, a lawn mower, and an abandoned, half inflated raft. A big thanks to all our local volunteers who came out to help including those from the Commonwealth Challenge Youth Academy and from Harbor Group Management Company. And while we were running our cleanup, a large group from Indian River High School were cleaning in and around the school stadium, including under and around the bleachers.</div><div><br /></div><div>Later in the month, 8 volunteers came out for today's Adopt-A-Road cleanup along Indian River Road, around the bridge, and at the future Blue Heron Landing Park. We collected another 200 lbs. of trash and debris.</div><div><br /></div><div>On-going volunteer efforts included weeding at the Bridge, weeding in the Native Plant Garden and working on removing invasive Linden Viburnum at Indian River Park. <span style="color: #050505;">If you can help out with any of these on-going volunteer efforts, please contact us at </span><a href="mailto:info@friendsofindianriver.org" rel="nofollow">info@friendsofindianriver.org</a></div><div><br /></div><div>We had fine weather for our spring picnic, with a chance for members and volunteers to relax and just socialize for a bit. We also bid farewell in June to Pastor Tim Hazlett from Oaklette United Methodist Church who is moving on to his next assignment; Pastor Tim was a strong supporter of the Friends since we were established. </div></span></div></span></div></div></span></div>Rogardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00794374232118059295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743478099611773251.post-40271894215732075592023-05-27T14:46:00.001-04:002023-06-08T13:44:56.551-04:00June Newsletter and Events<p> </p><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Upcoming Events</span></li><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">6/3 - Saturday - Clean the Bay Day</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">6/10 - Saturday - Second Saturday Evening Hike at Indian River Park</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">6/15 - Thursday - Spring Evening Potluck Picnic</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">617 - Saturday - Adopt-A-Road Cleanup</span></li></ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Other News</span></li><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">May Re-cap</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Rokeby Avenue and Military Highway Intersection</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">River Star Homes</span></li></ul></ul><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div><span style="text-align: center;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><hr /></span></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"></div></b></div></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></b></div></div></span></div><b>Upcoming Events</b></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div><span style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b style="text-align: center;">Clean the Bay Day @ Indian River Civic Campus</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6mb8gu9pN__0zLqq0Y26njFbXDx4NT1NmFBcNtAXP8zIYCvTFOAz5ezhxiNjHlcbqepA6MwHO0FPNbVLxP-_fquUKj_CVnKjWeKJyR5BeLbucc4miuWBR7R1prUXf1cizpqngjlfIX29HUVpkqKapR5cyP8o1vQ00nsvg58Tsu-8EctXyZjWKlYMz/s700/185772693_4176070049124981_9093563472971388723_n.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="586" data-original-width="700" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6mb8gu9pN__0zLqq0Y26njFbXDx4NT1NmFBcNtAXP8zIYCvTFOAz5ezhxiNjHlcbqepA6MwHO0FPNbVLxP-_fquUKj_CVnKjWeKJyR5BeLbucc4miuWBR7R1prUXf1cizpqngjlfIX29HUVpkqKapR5cyP8o1vQ00nsvg58Tsu-8EctXyZjWKlYMz/s320/185772693_4176070049124981_9093563472971388723_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Date: </span>Saturday, June 3, 9 am to Noon</span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></div><div>Location: Indian River Civic Campus - area around Indian River Middle School, High School, Community Center, Library, Lake. Meet at side parking lot at Chesapeake Center of Student Success (old Indian River Middle School Annex) at 605 Providence Rd </div><div><br /></div><div>The Friends of Indian River's will be hosting Clean the Bay Day at the Indian River Civic Campus. We'll have water and snacks available. Please wear closed-toe shoes, a hat and bring work gloves and other items that may be useful. Long pants are recommended. We also always encourage folks to bring their own water in reusable bottles to minimize use of plastic bottles. </div><div><br /></div><div>Participants under 18 years of age must have adult supervision. </div><div><br /></div><div>Please pre-register at <a href="https://forms.gle/Y7ybkQG2NqX6hmFo9" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/Y7ybkQG2NqX6hmFo9</a> (suggested but not required)</div></div></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><b>Second Saturday Hike at Indian River Park</b></span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiPRv_mHQpEMYRn1arWoe081rBHQZt3OmBvLfBWUEEjyf89NEKUJwtPj3OVKyCvvnd0JDb2G8FklHPgK5quHYIKx7gmlmHkCDnV94BMdJE7qIDGmCql_2fkSJ_CwYBhsTeOU28dm2MUX1KIGNE_ILflD92TkXjHZ-cXOqVOSudXO2aW2HhzLyYqRYSS=s800" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiPRv_mHQpEMYRn1arWoe081rBHQZt3OmBvLfBWUEEjyf89NEKUJwtPj3OVKyCvvnd0JDb2G8FklHPgK5quHYIKx7gmlmHkCDnV94BMdJE7qIDGmCql_2fkSJ_CwYBhsTeOU28dm2MUX1KIGNE_ILflD92TkXjHZ-cXOqVOSudXO2aW2HhzLyYqRYSS=w200-h150" width="200" /></a></div>Date: </span>Saturday, June 10, 6 pm to 8 pm</span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Location: Meet at the Indian River Park entrance at Rokeby Ave. and Main St. (2001 Rokeby Ave.) which is located just south of Military Highway, i.e. across Military Highway from the Fire Station.</span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div>Joining for an evening hike at the park to learn about the history of the park, the native trees and plants in this century old forest on the Indian River flood plain, and its value to maintaining the health of local butterfly, bird, and wildlife populations. Note: the forest trail has uneven surfaces and minor elevation changes. </div><div><br /></div><div>Please pre-register at <a href="https://forms.gle/Mr23MZjQBc5XTi5A6" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/Mr23MZjQBc5XTi5A6</a> (suggested but not required)</div></div></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div><br /></div><div><b style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">Spring Potluck Picnic</span></b></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Date: Thursday, June 15, 6 pm</span></span></div><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioT7dsCkg3NRxhyXHbauNPwmQdT9PWafA0yP7Yw-Bpm0A8_ovLcHiLO0eUI1JNLuArB-fYaHbR3E4-T6tYdqwFnJHgg6bmxJi5fNAFjU_7Eyy62eCH7GOFnkFoj7SLNpjWT8nggvalXVofr_EwrvYWBljwcZdfzDKMMBG-Gh8WX8QKMSZoPxwBQ9fV/s815/Picnic%20do%20Bruno%20_%20Michell%20Zappa%20_%20Flickr%20attribute.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="815" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioT7dsCkg3NRxhyXHbauNPwmQdT9PWafA0yP7Yw-Bpm0A8_ovLcHiLO0eUI1JNLuArB-fYaHbR3E4-T6tYdqwFnJHgg6bmxJi5fNAFjU_7Eyy62eCH7GOFnkFoj7SLNpjWT8nggvalXVofr_EwrvYWBljwcZdfzDKMMBG-Gh8WX8QKMSZoPxwBQ9fV/w320-h213/Picnic%20do%20Bruno%20_%20Michell%20Zappa%20_%20Flickr%20attribute.jpg" title="https://www.flickr.com/photos/michellzappa/3417192412" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/michellzappa/3417192412">Picnic do Bruno | Michell Zappa | Flickr</a></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">Location: Picnic Pavilion behind Oaklette United Methodist Church, 520 Oaklette Drive; park in side lot along St. Lawrence Dr. </span></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">Rather than our usual monthly meeting, in June we'll have a potluck picnic out behind the church. Bring a dish to share and join us for some camaraderie as we roll into summer. The Friends will set out tables and chairs, provide a main protein dish (likely chicken). We suggest bringing a comfy lawn chair. In the event of rain, we will move the event inside the church's fellowship hall. </span></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">To help coordinate who is bringing what, we set up a Sign Up Genius form at <a href="https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C094DADA92FA2FA7-friends1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C094DADA92FA2FA7-friends1</a></span></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><b>Adopt-A-Road Cleanup</b></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div>Date: Saturday, June 17, 9 am to 11:30 am</span><br /></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuP4GEg9C1Zj2HPCPvgHAUensrd-ZG-n3hdlMFhJYiBOMPxfV6b3XWE4iwVNJ-23BsPOXidqsTX7rgWD09NfgEwehClxMKw3RT4gL5yKl6hs7URcUi4mYowYdI6E6K0K38ymaOtbQgJ5aADFcXErOAp7OmItUCGIIWul35O_fVa4WkwY1bm1RH9y7R/s800/IMG_8310.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuP4GEg9C1Zj2HPCPvgHAUensrd-ZG-n3hdlMFhJYiBOMPxfV6b3XWE4iwVNJ-23BsPOXidqsTX7rgWD09NfgEwehClxMKw3RT4gL5yKl6hs7URcUi4mYowYdI6E6K0K38ymaOtbQgJ5aADFcXErOAp7OmItUCGIIWul35O_fVa4WkwY1bm1RH9y7R/w200-h150/IMG_8310.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><span style="text-align: center;">Location: Meet at Lilac Avenue and Indian River Road. Park along Lilac Avenue by the Norfolk Highlands Primary School We need your help for our quarterly cleanup. </span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;">Join us for a few hours to clean up the mile of Indian River Road from the city limits at Wingfield Avenue all the way to MacDonald Road. We are also asking all business owners along Indian River Road - and everywhere really - to make sure they sweep up in front of their storefronts as part of the effort. </span><span style="text-align: center;">And if you can't make it out for our organized cleanup please take 15 minutes and cleanup the street and ditches in front of your home; pass the word to your neighbors! </span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;">For our main cleanup on Indian River Road, the city will provide garbage bags and orange safety vests. Please wear closed-toe shoes, a hat and bring work gloves and other items that may be useful. Long pants suggested. </span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;">Participants under 18 years of age must have adult supervision. Please pre-register at <a href="https://forms.gle/KP5ZqzrPqHDfjhVK8" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/KP5ZqzrPqHDfjhVK8</a> (suggested but not required)</span></div><div><b style="text-align: center;"><br /></b></div></div></span></div><div><b style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div></b></div></div></span></span></div></div></span></span></span></div></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><hr /></span></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></b></div></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Other News</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b style="font-family: helvetica;">May Re-cap</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><div><span color:="" font-family:="" helvetica="" style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLl2H27tNZQYvP26bmc3sQk2R-VM-vX2LEiyGOwk1Cl4KoephZnyHmUmOOb4kxolOWzOOeuYk6qO8gYU3YrGYT_y8qmTmGItfDa2vDZkIebyzMw-kqHGvZl9gadMytl-u6Kc0D3PsV_4Cweeg6eQzVP3svkzjrctKEcgGfNDSmIBP3jywDe0dYFhH-/s548/Screenshot%202023-05-26%20141212.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="548" data-original-width="548" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLl2H27tNZQYvP26bmc3sQk2R-VM-vX2LEiyGOwk1Cl4KoephZnyHmUmOOb4kxolOWzOOeuYk6qO8gYU3YrGYT_y8qmTmGItfDa2vDZkIebyzMw-kqHGvZl9gadMytl-u6Kc0D3PsV_4Cweeg6eQzVP3svkzjrctKEcgGfNDSmIBP3jywDe0dYFhH-/w200-h200/Screenshot%202023-05-26%20141212.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>There was lots of on-going volunteer work this month - weeding at the Bridge, weeding in the Native Plant Garden and working on removing invasive Linden Virburnum at Indian River Park. A team went in a replaced the stakes on the tree signs on the Nature Trail in the Park too. <span style="color: #050505;">If you can help out with any of these on-going volunteer efforts, please contact us at </span><a href="mailto:info@friendsofindianriver.org" rel="nofollow">info@friendsofindianriver.org</a></div><div><br /></div><div>Deputy City Manager Brian Solis was the guest speaker at our monthly meeting giving a good overview of City projects. Several are slated to start this year in our area including the Oaklette Bridge Rehabilitation, Indian River Road Bike Lanes, Philmont Avenue Septic System Disconnect and Replacement, and Blue Heron Landing Kayak Launch. We should also start having stakeholder meetings related to implementing goals of the Indian River Planning Area Study. We hope to have more status updates on all of these in the coming months. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Rokeby Avenue and Military Highway Intersection</b></div><div><span style="color: #050505;"><br /></span></div><div><div><span style="color: #050505;">The City is seeking S</span><span style="color: #050505;">tate funding to redesign the intersection at Rokeby Avenue and Military Highway next to Indian River Park. To reduce the risk of car crashes, the proposed redesign would require cars to make right turns only coming off Rokeby Avenue. The Friends of Indian River submitted comments to the State and City raising concerns about this proposed design because it does not incorporate any bicycle and pedestrian crossing of Military Highway at Rokeby Avenue, even though Rokeby is where we have existing sidewalks and bicycle lanes. </span><span style="color: #050505;">To provide for the safety of pedestrians and bicyclists as well as vehicles, we said that the intersection must incorporate such a pedestrian and bicycle crossing. </span></div><div><span style="color: #050505;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #050505;">The diagram of the proposed design shows the traffic lane restrictions in red. A new multiuse ped/bike path is shown on the north side of Military Highway going to a pedestrian crossing at Paramont Avenue, but then provides no way to get to the actual park entrances on Rokeby Avenue.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhymZigu5ZdHug3o8ZrdTysehP-LvwAUPy0sughzLP78lz-Y-raZ3KKL9UxG5IZUkgfRBxkDlsli0kXiVnDb_1AAZD7PUxyjIYbGe0y6is1jvoBVLJnqfb9WYE7QiZuuEzr1j4SYdlNZL1GDqFds6ziQC9MSdeh2m7j20ue7txR80FCT59IexNqMJnP/s858/Rokeby%20RCUT.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="619" data-original-width="858" height="231" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhymZigu5ZdHug3o8ZrdTysehP-LvwAUPy0sughzLP78lz-Y-raZ3KKL9UxG5IZUkgfRBxkDlsli0kXiVnDb_1AAZD7PUxyjIYbGe0y6is1jvoBVLJnqfb9WYE7QiZuuEzr1j4SYdlNZL1GDqFds6ziQC9MSdeh2m7j20ue7txR80FCT59IexNqMJnP/s320/Rokeby%20RCUT.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /></span></div></div><div><br /></div><div><b>River Star Homes</b></div><div><div><br /></div><div><span style="color: #050505;">There are nearly 200 River Star Homes in the Indian River watershed, but we want to double that number and then double it again. River Stars pledge to take 7 simple steps to make our river and community cleaner. Many take additional steps to install rain barrels, install environmentally friendly landscaping, and make our neighborhood a healthier place to live. It's easy and free to become a River Star - take the pledge today at <a href="https://elizabethriver.org/river-stars/">https://elizabethriver.org/river-stars/</a></span></div></div></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div></div></span></div></div></div></span></div></span></div></div></span></div>Rogardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00794374232118059295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743478099611773251.post-79921075424403476922023-04-30T12:24:00.005-04:002023-12-20T17:23:34.151-05:00May Newsletter and Events<p> <span style="font-family: trebuchet; text-align: center;">View this newsletter online at <a href="http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/">http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/</a></span><span style="font-family: helvetica;"> </span></p><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Upcoming Events</span></li><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">5/13 - Saturday - Second Saturday Hike at Indian River Park</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">5/18 - Thursday - Bi-Monthly Meeting - Community Development Efforts in Chesapeake</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">6/3 - Saturday - Clean the Bay Day</span></li></ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Other News</span></li><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Plant more Plants!</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">April Re-cap</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Volunteer Needs</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Oyster Gardening</span></li></ul></ul><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div><span style="text-align: center;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><hr /></span></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"></div></b></div></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></b></div></div></span></div><b>Upcoming Events</b></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div style="font-weight: 400; text-align: left;"><div><span style="text-align: center;"><b>Second Saturday Hike at Indian River Park</b></span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiPRv_mHQpEMYRn1arWoe081rBHQZt3OmBvLfBWUEEjyf89NEKUJwtPj3OVKyCvvnd0JDb2G8FklHPgK5quHYIKx7gmlmHkCDnV94BMdJE7qIDGmCql_2fkSJ_CwYBhsTeOU28dm2MUX1KIGNE_ILflD92TkXjHZ-cXOqVOSudXO2aW2HhzLyYqRYSS=s800" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiPRv_mHQpEMYRn1arWoe081rBHQZt3OmBvLfBWUEEjyf89NEKUJwtPj3OVKyCvvnd0JDb2G8FklHPgK5quHYIKx7gmlmHkCDnV94BMdJE7qIDGmCql_2fkSJ_CwYBhsTeOU28dm2MUX1KIGNE_ILflD92TkXjHZ-cXOqVOSudXO2aW2HhzLyYqRYSS=w200-h150" width="200" /></a></div>Date: </span>Saturday, May 13, 8:30 am to 10:30 am</span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Location: Meet at the Indian River Park entrance at Rokeby Ave. and Main St. (2001 Rokeby Ave.) which is located just south of Military Highway, i.e. across Military Highway from the Fire Station.</span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Come out to the park to learn about the history of the park, the native trees and plants in this century old forest on the Indian River flood plain, and its value to maintaining the health of local butterfly, bird, and wildlife populations. Note: the forest trail has uneven surfaces and minor elevation changes.</span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Please pre-register at <a href="https://forms.gle/7p4232xZNDZF7vjQ8" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/7p4232xZNDZF7vjQ8</a> (suggested but not required)</span></div></div></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div><br /></div><div><b style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">Bi-Monthly Meeting - Community Development Efforts in Chesapeake</span></b></div><div><b style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></b></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNtrErm1w6jczUIdj73GmnjsVFMHjQZlGGRPsdyeX1fZlwhMLRxhSgnV8ogPwNPkVnD_ZZSsTLpjEdrAkz5yvmew7eH8lF-bhU4JkZwurzzOS80uMwRau_t_6SJkcZOwwdDiowfBVUbdM/s514/Nodes.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="514" data-original-width="456" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNtrErm1w6jczUIdj73GmnjsVFMHjQZlGGRPsdyeX1fZlwhMLRxhSgnV8ogPwNPkVnD_ZZSsTLpjEdrAkz5yvmew7eH8lF-bhU4JkZwurzzOS80uMwRau_t_6SJkcZOwwdDiowfBVUbdM/s320/Nodes.png" width="284" /></a></div>Date: Thursday, May 18, 7 pm</span></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">Location: </span></span>Oaklette United Methodist Church, 520 Oaklette Drive</div><div><br /></div><div><div>Our guest speaker will be Brian Solis, Deputy City Manager for the City of Chesapeake responsible for community development efforts by various city departments including Economic Development, Planning, Development and Permits, and Parks, Recreation and Tourism. This is an opportunity to learn about on-going efforts and ask questions about future plans.</div><div><br /></div><div>We'll also have the latest community news and updates! Light refreshments will be served.</div></div><div><b style="text-align: center;"><br /></b></div><div><b style="text-align: center;"><br /></b></div><div><b style="text-align: center;"><br /></b></div><div><b style="text-align: center;">Clean the Bay Day @ Indian River Civic Campus</b></div><div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6mb8gu9pN__0zLqq0Y26njFbXDx4NT1NmFBcNtAXP8zIYCvTFOAz5ezhxiNjHlcbqepA6MwHO0FPNbVLxP-_fquUKj_CVnKjWeKJyR5BeLbucc4miuWBR7R1prUXf1cizpqngjlfIX29HUVpkqKapR5cyP8o1vQ00nsvg58Tsu-8EctXyZjWKlYMz/s700/185772693_4176070049124981_9093563472971388723_n.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="586" data-original-width="700" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6mb8gu9pN__0zLqq0Y26njFbXDx4NT1NmFBcNtAXP8zIYCvTFOAz5ezhxiNjHlcbqepA6MwHO0FPNbVLxP-_fquUKj_CVnKjWeKJyR5BeLbucc4miuWBR7R1prUXf1cizpqngjlfIX29HUVpkqKapR5cyP8o1vQ00nsvg58Tsu-8EctXyZjWKlYMz/s320/185772693_4176070049124981_9093563472971388723_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Date: </span>Saturday, June 3, 9 am to Noon</span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></div><div>Location: Indian River Civic Campus - area around Indian River Middle School, High School, Community Center, Library, Lake. Meet at side parking lot at Chesapeake Center of Student Success (old Indian River Middle School Annex) at 605 Providence Rd </div><div><br /></div><div>The Friends of Indian River's will be hosting Clean the Bay Day at the Indian River Civic Campus. We'll have water and snacks available. Please wear closed-toe shoes, a hat and bring work gloves and other items that may be useful. Long pants are recommended. We also always encourage folks to bring their own water in reusable bottles to minimize use of plastic bottles. </div><div><br /></div><div>Participants under 18 years of age must have adult supervision. </div><div><br /></div><div>Please pre-register at <a href="https://forms.gle/Y7ybkQG2NqX6hmFo9" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/Y7ybkQG2NqX6hmFo9</a> (suggested but not required)</div></div></div></span></div><div><b style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div></b></div></div></span></span></div></div></span></span></span></div></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><hr /></span></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></b></div></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Other News</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Plant more Plants!</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Spring gardening season is here and it's a great time to get out and enjoy your garden and make it a healthier place for your family and our planet. We share our community with birds, butterflies, bees, and a surprising abundance of other wildlife. What we do in our yards directly impacts both the people who live here and the environment overall. Planting more shrubs, flowers, and trees - particularly native species - can provide more food and habitat for wildlife, reduce or eliminate the need for toxic herbicides and pesticides, and improve the wellbeing of people. One resource to learn more and find plants that work best in our area is <a href="https://www.audubon.org/plantsforbirds">https://www.audubon.org/plantsforbirds.</a></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><iframe allow="autoplay; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/163864388?h=89c0c63f2c" width="640"></iframe><p><a href="https://vimeo.com/163864388">Plants for Birds</a> from <a href="https://vimeo.com/audubon">Audubon.org</a> on <a href="https://vimeo.com">Vimeo</a>.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b style="font-family: helvetica;">April Re-cap</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><div><span color:="" font-family:="" helvetica="" style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>We supported several excellent volunteer events in April. On Saturday, April 15, we were at Plymouth Community Park doing some litter pickup and pruning (5 volunteers, 60 lbs of litter). On Friday, April 21, a team from Dollar Tree came to Indian River Park for Earth Day (6 volunteers, 40 lbs of trash removed); we did a guided hike of the park and some trash cleanup along the way. And on Saturday, April 22, a dozen volunteers came out to mulch the trees and shrubs at the Indian River Oaklette Bridge landscaping. Thank you to everyone who came out to support these efforts!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs9MxcxfxAS4fqBztfAkm1kLAf2l8qAjOqN6ztwcnbjYrsPct2ETH691AO69NpLy4ht6F4BNNUTnVWx2DOdncH91AKMLJJZDOJS1ExwydUdqhO7Nty_s9nCzb_ochKM7ZQ-Pjt-SDJGrFoDqYlpR8Q73ZaZOZ4UJ9idsMHCU0TnU9vL4QJyF6o0Yam/s5120/Starred%20Photos3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="5120" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs9MxcxfxAS4fqBztfAkm1kLAf2l8qAjOqN6ztwcnbjYrsPct2ETH691AO69NpLy4ht6F4BNNUTnVWx2DOdncH91AKMLJJZDOJS1ExwydUdqhO7Nty_s9nCzb_ochKM7ZQ-Pjt-SDJGrFoDqYlpR8Q73ZaZOZ4UJ9idsMHCU0TnU9vL4QJyF6o0Yam/w640-h160/Starred%20Photos3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><b>Volunteers Needs</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><span style="color: #050505;">We need volunteers to help with weeding at the new landscaping at the Indian River </span><span style="color: #050505;">Oaklette</span><span style="color: #050505;"> </span><span style="color: #050505;">Bridge and at the native plant garden at Indian River Park.</span><span style="color: #050505;"> </span><span style="color: #050505;">We also need volunteers to help with removing invasive plants at the Park. </span><span style="color: #050505;">There are also other volunteer opportunities listed on our website at </span><a href="http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/volunteer.html" target="_blank">http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/volunteer.html</a><span style="color: #050505;">. If you can help out on any of these, please contact us at </span><a href="mailto:info@friendsofindianriver.org" rel="nofollow">info@friendsofindianriver.org</a></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Oyster Gardening</b></div><div><br /></div><div>The Chesapeake Bay Foundation is looking for Oyster Gardeners to help restore our oyster population. As an Oyster Gardener, you become a "foster parent" for hundreds baby oysters. It's fun and pretty easy. You do need access to water with a salinity of at least three parts-per-thousand year-round for your oysters to thrive, which includes most of the Indian River. Oyster Gardeners usually tie their oyster cages to a dock, pier, bulkhead or pilings. To learn more and register for the new gardener seminars, visit <a href="https://www.cbf.org/how-we-save-the-bay/programs-initiatives/virginia/oyster-restoration/oyster-gardening" target="_blank">https://www.cbf.org/how-we-save-the-bay/programs-initiatives/virginia/oyster-restoration/oyster-gardening</a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div></div></span></div></div></div></span></div></span></div></div></span></div>Rogardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00794374232118059295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743478099611773251.post-38240146884831650312023-04-22T16:01:00.008-04:002023-04-22T16:41:39.505-04:00Earth Day 2023<p> Here is a list of 50 Ways to Help Our Planet for Earth Day - and everyday!</p><div class="MsoNormal"><b><br /></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b>Garden</b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><br /></b></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Eliminate or minimize use of herbicides and pesticides<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">Pesticides, including insecticides, herbicides, and fungicides, are designed to kill weeds, insects, rodents, and mold.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>By definition, these toxic chemicals can be poisonous to wildlife, pets, people, and especially children.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So use best practices in your garden to reduce or eliminate the need for these chemicals.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><a href="https://cfpub.epa.gov/npstbx/files/reducewastepesticides.pdf" target="_blank">https://cfpub.epa.gov/npstbx/files/reducewastepesticides.pdf</a><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Reduce use of fertilizers<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">Plants need fertilizer to grow, but most homeowners use much more than necessary.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When too much fertilizer is used or when it is applied at the wrong time, rainfall will wash excess fertilizer out of yards and into our streams and rivers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This fertilizer overload causes severe issues like algae blooms and dead zones that kills aquatic life. <a href="https://www.lynnhavenrivernow.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Pages-from-water-friendly-lawn-care-updated-publication.pdf" target="_blank">https://www.lynnhavenrivernow.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Pages-from-water-friendly-lawn-care-updated-publication.pdf</a><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Reduce storm water runoff<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">Stormwater runoff – excess rain draining from properties - is a leading cause of water quality problems. Rainfall or snowmelt from suburban lawns, golf courses, and paved surfaces picks up and carries away natural and human-made pollutants, washing them into our waterways and into ground waters.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Capturing and keeping more rainwater in your garden allows it to soak in or evaporate, thus reducing both pollution and flooding.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Learn about projects you can do to reduce runoff at <a href="https://vaswcd.org/vcap" target="_blank">https://vaswcd.org/vcap.</a><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Reduce size of your lawn<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">There are about 40 million acres of lawns in the U.S., making it the largest irrigated “crop” in the country.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Americans spend about $30 billion –and countless hours – every year tending to their lawns.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And lawns are ultimately biological deserts of minimal ecological value.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Replacing areas of your lawn with more plants can yield significant environmental benefits.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <a href="https://www.udel.edu/academics/colleges/canr/cooperative-extension/fact-sheets/turf-grass-madness-reasons-to-reduce-the-lawn-in-your-landscape/" target="_blank">https://www.udel.edu/academics/colleges/canr/cooperative-extension/fact-sheets/turf-grass-madness-reasons-to-reduce-the-lawn-in-your-landscape/</a></span><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">5.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Grow a vegetable garden<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">Creating a vegetable garden rather than mowing a lawn has many health benefits, provides you with the freshest fruits and vegetables, and let’s you manage what fertilizers and pesticides touch your food.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Such gardens can come in many sizes from balcony container gardens to mini-farms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><a href="https://ext.vt.edu/lawn-garden/home-vegetables.html" target="_blank">https://ext.vt.edu/lawn-garden/home-vegetables.html</a><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">6.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Protect existing trees<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">There is nearly an endless list of benefits from trees including providing shade, cutting electric bills for cooling, improving air quality, reducing stormwater runoff, enhancing beauty, providing homes for wildlife, increasing property values, and even improving mental health and happiness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Read the “owner’s manual” on how to keep your trees strong and healthy. <a href="https://www.treesaregood.org/treeowner/treeownersmanual" target="_blank">https://www.treesaregood.org/treeowner/treeownersmanual</a><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">7.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Plant more trees<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">We need to protect the existing trees and we need to plant more trees.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As the proverb says, “The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is also important to pick the right tree for the right place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Learn more about selecting trees and proper planting techniques at <a href="https://www.arborday.org/trees/tips/" target="_blank">https://www.arborday.org/trees/tips/</a><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">8.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Plant native plants/plant pollinator garden<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">Your choice of plants is a big factor in how much environmental benefit they provide.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Plants are at the base of the food web for wildlife and research clearly shows that plants that are native to an area – plants that co-evolved with local insects – provide dramatically more wildlife benefit than ornamental plants from distant lands.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So go native as much as you can!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><a href="https://www.yesmagazine.org/environment/2020/02/07/yard-sustainability-native-plants/" target="_blank">https://www.yesmagazine.org/environment/2020/02/07/yard-sustainability-native-plants/</a><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">9.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Live in harmony with wildlife<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">As human populations grow and our cities and towns expand across the landscape, so have our interactions with wildlife.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many species have adapted to living alongside people in our suburban and even urban areas.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hundreds of species of birds, countless insects from beetles to bees to butterflies, snakes and lizards, and larger creatures such as foxes and raccoons make their homes and live their lives in our communities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With proper care and respect, observing these creatures can enrich all our lives.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><a href="https://www.dgif.virginia.gov/wildlife/habitat/" target="_blank">https://www.dgif.virginia.gov/wildlife/habitat/</a><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Home<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">10.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Become a River Star or Bay Star Home<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">Make a commitment to be a better steward of the environment, get more tips on how to use better practices, and in some cases be eligible for financial support on projects.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><br /><a href="https://elizabethriver.org/river-star-homes" target="_blank">https://elizabethriver.org/river-star-homes</a>, <a href="http://askhrgreen.org/programs/bay-star-homes/" target="_blank">http://askhrgreen.org/programs/bay-star-homes/</a><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">11.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But Most of All – Reduce.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">The average American throws away 4.5 lbs of stuff every single day, 365 days per year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Only a small fraction of all this stuff ever gets recycled and much of it is not easily recyclable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’ve all heard of the 3 R’s of Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But perhaps the most important step is to Reduce first – avoid getting single use products and packages that you’ll toss almost immediately.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><a href="https://www.nrdc.org/stories/reduce-reuse-recycle-most-all-reduce" target="_blank">https://www.nrdc.org/stories/reduce-reuse-recycle-most-all-reduce</a><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">12.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Donate old items in good condition to thrift stores<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">Before you throw away that item, consider whether it has a second life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Is it in good condition?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Would it be something you would give to a friend?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If so, consider donating it to a local thrift store.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It can then benefit the charity, provide a low cost item to someone else in your community, keep it out of the landfill, and make you feel good!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><a href="https://www.today.com/style/what-thrift-stores-want-you-know-you-make-donation-t162979" target="_blank">https://www.today.com/style/what-thrift-stores-want-you-know-you-make-donation-t162979</a><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">13.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Share tools and equipment with neighbors rather than buying your own<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">Ever need that one tool that one time?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Should you really hop on your favorite e-commerce site and order it?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How about hopping on your local community group on social media and asking if you can borrow the tool.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Odds are someone has it and may be willing to let you borrow it for the afternoon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><a href="https://learn.eartheasy.com/articles/how-to-start-a-neighborhood-tool-share/" target="_blank">https://learn.eartheasy.com/articles/how-to-start-a-neighborhood-tool-share/</a><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">14.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Opt out of junk mail<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">Americans receive millions of tons of junk mail every year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That’s cumulatively, but many may feel they get that much just themselves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And much of it goes straight into the recycling bin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here are some options for cutting down on how much you get in your mailbox.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><a href="https://green.harvard.edu/tools-resources/how/4-tips-reducing-your-junk-mail" target="_blank">https://green.harvard.edu/tools-resources/how/4-tips-reducing-your-junk-mail</a><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">15.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Turn off unused lights and switch to LED light bulbs<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">Starting with the oldest tip – turn off unused lights – to the newest – replace light bulbs as they fail with LED bulbs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The price of LED’s has dropped dramatically over the years, they use 90% less electricity than incandescents, they have no toxic chemicals, and they practically last forever. <a href="https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/save-electricity-and-fuel/lighting-choices-save-you-money/led-lighting" target="_blank">https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/save-electricity-and-fuel/lighting-choices-save-you-money/led-lighting</a><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">16.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Adjust your thermostat<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">You can save 10% of your heating and cooling bill by adjusting your thermostat for at least 8 hours per day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And heating and cooling costs can easily be more than half of the average home’s electric bill – usually much more during our hot and humid summers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <a href="https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/programmable-thermostats" target="_blank">https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/programmable-thermostats</a></span><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">17.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Wash full loads of laundry in colder water<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">Most of the cost – and energy usage – in doing laundry goes to heating water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Washing in cold water uses 90% less electricity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Also washing in cold water gets the clothes just as clean in typical situations and is more gentle on the clothing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><a href="https://www.csmonitor.com/Business/The-Simple-Dollar/2012/0119/Here-s-exactly-how-much-you-ll-save-doing-laundry-in-cold-water" target="_blank">https://www.csmonitor.com/Business/The-Simple-Dollar/2012/0119/Here-s-exactly-how-much-you-ll-save-doing-laundry-in-cold-water</a><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">18.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Look for the Energy Star label when buying new appliances<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">When you're shopping for appliances or electronics, you have to think both short term and long term.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is the cost of buying the appliance but also the cost of operating it year after year, which is usually much more than the cost to buy it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Looking at the Energy Star label, you can see how much it will cost to run the product so you can buy the more efficient products.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’ll save money year after year and save the planet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><a href="https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/appliances-and-electronics/shopping-appliances" target="_blank">https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/appliances-and-electronics/shopping-appliances</a><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">19.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Winterize your home for winter and summer savings<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">“Winterizing” your home actually saves you money both in the winter and the summer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Taking steps to insulate your home and seal cracks keeps warm air inside in the winter, but it also keeps cool air inside in the summer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Both can result in major cost and energy savings! <a href="https://www.popularmechanics.com/home/interior-projects/how-to/g52/winterize-home-tips-energy-461008/" target="_blank">https://www.popularmechanics.com/home/interior-projects/how-to/g52/winterize-home-tips-energy-461008/</a><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">20.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Get a home or workplace energy audit to identify where you can make the most energy-saving gains<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">You can work with Dominion Energy to have a professional do a Home Energy Assessment of your home and identify more ways to save energy and money.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><a href="https://domsavings.com/va/rhea/" target="_blank">https://domsavings.com/va/rhea/</a><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Shopping/Eating out<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">21.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Say no to single use plastic bottling – bring your own reusable bottle or mug<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">In a nation where almost all Americans (but sadly not all) have access to clean, safe drinking water, we consume water in single use plastic bottles at the rate of 100,000 PER MINUTE; 50 billion bottles per year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And 77% of these bottles never ever reach the recycling center.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Be healthier, save money, save the planet - bring your own water from home!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><a href="https://gogreentravelgreen.com/bring-water-bottle/" target="_blank">https://gogreentravelgreen.com/bring-water-bottle/</a><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">22.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Avoid single use plastic packaging<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">Our society is drowning in single use plastic items – from plastic bags to impossible to open “blister” packs, from plastic water bottles to fruit clamshells.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These items will last nearly forever but are trash after the initial use.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most are not readily recyclable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Plastic production from new petroleum resources is projected to increase by 40% over the next 10 years, and the oil and gas industry is expecting this to be a major revenue source.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Take action to reverse this trend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><a href="https://myplasticfreelife.com/plasticfreeguide/" target="_blank">https://myplasticfreelife.com/plasticfreeguide/</a><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">23.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Shop local<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">By shopping local you support your local community and reduce transportation costs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And when buying locally produced food, such as from farmer markets, you support local agriculture. <a href="https://www.independentwestand.org/what-happens-when-you-shop-local/" target="_blank">https://www.independentwestand.org/what-happens-when-you-shop-local/</a><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">24.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Combine online deliveries into a single delivery<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">Online shopping is convenient.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But having a steady stream of delivery vehicles cruising city streets to drop off more and more cardboard boxes and bags at your door is certainly not ideal for reducing waste or pollution.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Reduce your impact by combining your orders and deliveries into as few shipments as possible, such as by setting an “Amazon Day” <a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/technology/online-shopping-carbon-footprint-1.4914942" target="_blank">https://www.cbc.ca/news/technology/online-shopping-carbon-footprint-1.4914942</a><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">25.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Go Meatless at least once a week<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">Livestock operations have significant negative environmental impacts, from the amount of land and water consumed to the amount of animal waste produced.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Skipping meat once a week can have a major benefit for the ecosystem. <a href="https://www.eatright.org/food/nutrition/vegetarian-and-special-diets/going-meatless-once-a-week" target="_blank">https://www.eatright.org/food/nutrition/vegetarian-and-special-diets/going-meatless-once-a-week</a><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">26.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Buy organic and local whenever possible<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">The USDA Organic certification gives you confidence that it was grown pesticide-free.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Locally grown food helps local farmers and reduces transportation costs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Locally grown organic is the best of both worlds.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Learn about your food choices and make the best choices! <a href="https://www.food.ee/blog/is-it-better-to-buy-local-or-organic/" target="_blank">https://www.food.ee/blog/is-it-better-to-buy-local-or-organic/</a><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">27.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Bring your own reusable container for leftovers at restaurant<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">Want a do-it-yourself solution to avoid getting those Styrofoam containers for leftovers when you go to a restaurant?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Remember back when we ate out).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Come prepared, bring your own reusable food storage containers in a small bag and fill them yourself with your leftovers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><a href="https://www.kitchenstewardship.com/monday-mission-pack-reusable-containers-for-restaurant-leftovers/" target="_blank">https://www.kitchenstewardship.com/monday-mission-pack-reusable-containers-for-restaurant-leftovers/</a><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">28.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Buy second hand from thrift stores or friends<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">Why buy new when there are perfectly good items looking for a new home at your local thrift store? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You avoid the need to manufacture a new product using raw materials, keep an item out of the landfill, save money, and likely help a local good cause.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><a href="http://www.greenandprosperous.com/blog/2017/10/11/how-does-thrift-shopping-help-you-save-the-environment" target="_blank">http://www.greenandprosperous.com/blog/2017/10/11/how-does-thrift-shopping-help-you-save-the-environment</a><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">29.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Buy Less, Live More<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">Focusing on life’s simple pleasures-<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>like spending time in nature, being with loved ones, making a difference to others – can<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>provide more purpose, belonging and happiness than buying and consuming. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><a href="https://www.tbd.community/en/a/consumerism-benefits-buying-less" target="_blank">https://www.tbd.community/en/a/consumerism-benefits-buying-less</a><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 1in; mso-add-space: auto;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Transport<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">30.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Bike instead of driving for some of your trips<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">Choosing your bike over your car has multiple benefits – reducing fuel use and carbon emissions, saving wear and tear on your vehicle, reducing traffic congestion, and providing you with exercise.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><a href="https://biofriendlyplanet.com/green-alternatives/transportation/environmental-reasons-to-start-riding-your-bicycle-more/" target="_blank">https://biofriendlyplanet.com/green-alternatives/transportation/environmental-reasons-to-start-riding-your-bicycle-more/</a><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">31.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Walk instead of driving for short errands<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">Ever drive from one side of a parking lot to the other?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Take the car to go to the post office down the street?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>By walking instead of driving you again reduce pollution from your car and get great exercise.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So park that car and get moving!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><a href="https://www.kstatecollegian.com/2013/02/19/walking-biking-instead-of-driving-offers-significant-health-benefits/" target="_blank">https://www.kstatecollegian.com/2013/02/19/walking-biking-instead-of-driving-offers-significant-health-benefits/</a><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">32.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Combine trips to reduce driving<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">When you do drive, combine several errands in one trip.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And plan your route in advance to line up destinations efficiently and avoid having to backtrack.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And a tip from UPS – when planning your trip, minimize making left turns because they result in more wasted time and fuel. <a href="https://afdc.energy.gov/conserve/behavior_techniques.html" target="_blank">https://afdc.energy.gov/conserve/behavior_techniques.html</a><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">33.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Improve your gas mileage by taking care of your car<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">There are many easy ways to improve your gas mileage, starting with making sure your tires are properly inflated and your air filters are clean.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Also go easy on the gas pedal, avoiding “jack rabbit” starts and driving too fast. <a href="https://www.theautochannel.com/news/2007/06/29/053777.html" target="_blank">https://www.theautochannel.com/news/2007/06/29/053777.html</a><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">34.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Make sure your next car has better gas mileage - or go electric<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">Hybrids and EV cars now so a clear lifecycle reduction in CO2 emissions. The trick may be finding one as demand ramps up. </span><a href="https://climate.mit.edu/ask-mit/are-electric-vehicles-definitely-better-climate-gas-powered-cars" target="_blank">https://climate.mit.edu/ask-mit/are-electric-vehicles-definitely-better-climate-gas-powered-cars</a><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Business<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">35.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Telecommute<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">A lot of businesses have been required to practice telecommuting for the first time this year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If they decide to retain this option for employees long term, at least some of the time, they can provide significant environmental benefits to the world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thousands of cars could be removed from the road and traffic congestion relieved.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Employers could also save costs on heating and cooling buildings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And employees could save hundreds of hours of time commuting each year. <a href="https://www.flexjobs.com/blog/post/telecommuting-sustainability-how-telecommuting-is-a-green-job/" target="_blank">https://www.flexjobs.com/blog/post/telecommuting-sustainability-how-telecommuting-is-a-green-job/</a><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">36.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Reduce energy consumption<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">Businesses can also save money by adopting a variety of energy saving practices, some as simple as making sure unused lights and equipment are powered down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><a href="https://www.dominionenergy.com/our-stories/energy-saving-tips-at-the-office" target="_blank">https://www.dominionenergy.com/our-stories/energy-saving-tips-at-the-office</a><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">37.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Switch to renewal energy providers<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">Renewable solar and wind energy continue to decline dramatically in cost, making them competitive with gas powered and cheaper than coal powered generation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Business can either install solar and wind directly or buy via renewal energy contracts. <a href="https://www.conserve-energy-future.com/9-ways-businesses-can-benefit-renewable-energy.php" target="_blank">https://www.conserve-energy-future.com/9-ways-businesses-can-benefit-renewable-energy.php</a> <a href="https://www.utilitydive.com/news/renewables-cheaper-energy-than-99-percent-of-us-coal-plants-just-energy-transition/642393/" target="_blank">https://www.utilitydive.com/news/renewables-cheaper-energy-than-99-percent-of-us-coal-plants-just-energy-transition/642393/</a><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">38.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Establish a workplace recycling program<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">Businesses often generate large amounts of recyclable materials.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To be a good corporate citizen, the first step for a successful program is a waste audit, including reviewing how to reduce waste before it happens.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For items you can’t reduce/eliminate or reuse, the next step is setting up a recycling program.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Learn how at <a href="https://www.inc.com/guides/2010/04/start-office-recycling-program.html" target="_blank">https://www.inc.com/guides/2010/04/start-office-recycling-program.html</a><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">39.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Reduce waste and improve your company’s environmental footprint<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">Reducing waste saves money while conserving both natural resources and energy – “waste not, want not”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Reducing your waste is also a practice that provides positive customer public relations for businesses.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>More than just recycling, waste reduction looks for various ways to reduce a company’s environmental footprint. <a href="https://content.ces.ncsu.edu/how-your-business-can-cut-costs-by-reducing-wastes" target="_blank">https://content.ces.ncsu.edu/how-your-business-can-cut-costs-by-reducing-wastes</a><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">40.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Reduce business travel<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">Traveling long distances for business meetings has a major environmental impact, not to mention being expensive and time consuming.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sometimes there is nothing that can replace the impact of a face to face meeting, but with today’s technology a tele- or video conference will often be sufficient. <a href="https://www.trondent.com/sustainable-business-travel/" target="_blank">https://www.trondent.com/sustainable-business-travel/</a><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Advocacy<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">41.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Never litter – and lend a hand by picking up litter when you are out and about<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">Litter happens … whether from carelessness, neglect, irresponsibility, or mistakes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Make a pledge to never litter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And when you see litter, pick it up if you can.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Research shows that people are less likely to litter if an area is already litter free.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And discourage the use of single use, disposable packaging when possible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><a href="https://kab.org/goals/end-littering/" target="_blank">https://kab.org/goals/end-littering/</a><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">42.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Join community cleanups<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">Many locales have regular cleanups through programs like Adopt-A-Highway, Adopt-A-Park, The Great American Cleanup, Clean the Bay Day, and the International Coastal Cleanup.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Go out and lend a hand! <a href="https://www.cityofchesapeake.net/1272/Beautification-Cleanups" target="_blank">https://www.cityofchesapeake.net/1272/Beautification-Cleanups</a><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">43.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Follow the Friends of Indian River on Facebook<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">Get the latest environmental tips and updates from the Friends of Indian River.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Follow us on Facebook.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><br /><a href="https://www.facebook.com/FriendsofIndianRiver/" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/FriendsofIndianRiver/</a></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">44.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Volunteer with the Friends of Indian River and other local environmental organizations<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">We are always looking for volunteers to help on a broad array of activities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>From cleanups to advocacy, the efforts of volunteers are what makes non-profits effective.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Check with our volunteer calendar at <a href="http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/calendar.html" target="_blank">http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/calendar.html</a> or browse <a href="https://www.volunteerhr.org/" target="_blank">https://www.volunteerhr.org/</a><br /><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">45.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Participate in the activities of city boards and commissions<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">There are several city boards and commissions, in addition to the CEIC, that deal with environmentally related issues.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These include the Chesapeake Agricultural Advisory Commission, Chesapeake Bay Preservation Area (CPBA) Board , Chesapeake Bicycles/Trails Advisory Committee (BTAC) , and the Stormwater Committee.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><a href="https://www.cityofchesapeake.net/1204/Boards-Commissions" target="_blank">https://www.cityofchesapeake.net/1204/Boards-Commissions</a><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">46.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Make your voice heard at the Planning Commission and City Council<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">The Planning Commission and City Council deal with many land use issues and overall city policies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Planning Commission has public hearings on the 2nd Wednesday of the month.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The City Council has public hearings on most Tuesday evenings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><br /><a href="https://www.cityofchesapeake.net/1345/Planning-Commission" target="_blank">https://www.cityofchesapeake.net/1345/Planning-Commission</a><br /><a href="https://www.cityofchesapeake.net/1158/City-Council" target="_blank">https://www.cityofchesapeake.net/1158/City-Council</a><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">47.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Become an environmental and conservation advocate<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">As a citizen and a constituent, you have the power to contact your elected officials at the city, state, and federal level about issues that are important to you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tools include e-mails, letters, in person meetings, comments at public hearings, and even letters to the editor of local newspapers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <a href="https://maineaudubon.org/advocacy/tips-for-effective-citizen-advocacy/" target="_blank">https://maineaudubon.org/advocacy/tips-for-effective-citizen-advocacy/</a></span></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">48.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Share the Knowledge/Be a Good Example<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">Share what you know and be a good example for others.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Model good behavior and others are more likely to trust you and change their own behaviors <a href="https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/six_ways_to_help_people_change" target="_blank">https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/six_ways_to_help_people_change</a>.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">49.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Vote<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">Elections matter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Research the candidates running for office and support candidates who best support your goals.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And make sure you register and vote.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you can’t get to the polls, make sure you apply for an absentee ballot. <a href="https://vote.elections.virginia.gov/VoterInformation" target="_blank">https://vote.elections.virginia.gov/VoterInformation</a><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">50.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Go outside, enjoy nature, and bring a friend – building a love of nature will encourage everyone to protect our Earth<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 76.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">Study after study shows that getting out in nature improves health and happiness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And people won’t protect the natural world around us unless they learn to appreciate it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One lesson we hopefully take from the recent crisis is that we need more natural areas in our cities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> (Please follow physical distancing rules as required). </span><br /><a href="https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/what_happens_when_we_reconnect_with_nature" target="_blank">https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/what_happens_when_we_reconnect_with_nature</a><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkexELGk0TJdrWqSmvI5J16c7-t4s3ZygOt9V5Tsj8exxDn9nlhIdh-AHDFY0a-3dJlEJGJtC4PASlvOxHHRrGCiVBm2ewLoufR4vmyRFsplv0Dv3sqDSoEJSRu8_hn1PxPC4-P8HKSSw/s2048/globe_west_2048+with+caption+by+me+copy.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkexELGk0TJdrWqSmvI5J16c7-t4s3ZygOt9V5Tsj8exxDn9nlhIdh-AHDFY0a-3dJlEJGJtC4PASlvOxHHRrGCiVBm2ewLoufR4vmyRFsplv0Dv3sqDSoEJSRu8_hn1PxPC4-P8HKSSw/s320/globe_west_2048+with+caption+by+me+copy.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Originally published for Earth Day 2020 - the 50th Anniversary. Now with updated links.</div>Rogardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00794374232118059295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743478099611773251.post-19876986754647227482023-03-26T20:06:00.004-04:002023-04-11T13:02:12.362-04:00April Newsletter and Events<ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Upcoming Events</span></li><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">4/8 - Saturday - Second Saturday Hike <span style="color: red;">(Cancelled)</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">4/15 - Saturday - Plymouth Park Cleanup</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">4/22 - Saturday - Mulching at Bridge Landscaping (New)</span></li></ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Other News</span></li><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">River Star Homes</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Indian River High School Scholarship</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">March Re-cap</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Volunteer Needs</span></li></ul></ul><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div><span style="text-align: center;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><hr /></span></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"></div></b></div></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></b></div></div></span></div><b>Upcoming Events</b></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div style="font-weight: 400; text-align: left;"><div><span style="text-align: center;"><b>Second Saturday Hike at Indian River Park</b></span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Date: </span>Saturday, April 8 - Cancelled due to forecast inclement weather. </span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></div></div></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div><b style="text-align: center;">Plymouth Park Cleanup</b></div><div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6fXVBvmWYlySZ5DWZWEt-GK3hjNwAI4ZmG8BaOtlwF2DRv8zd-xfh5zy6A9h1r8g4CRmCTqRsKTOEMKDVNnXopvawiaKjq9UzilapSYFtFSufSuM12miY8-jWokZA_NCMY0RIBOgpbDIMel-6TPxgK0iDW1LBT927wZQnRrauWVgtusD7UcKqoQrW/s1200/P2250388.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1200" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6fXVBvmWYlySZ5DWZWEt-GK3hjNwAI4ZmG8BaOtlwF2DRv8zd-xfh5zy6A9h1r8g4CRmCTqRsKTOEMKDVNnXopvawiaKjq9UzilapSYFtFSufSuM12miY8-jWokZA_NCMY0RIBOgpbDIMel-6TPxgK0iDW1LBT927wZQnRrauWVgtusD7UcKqoQrW/w200-h150/P2250388.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><br />Date: </span>Saturday, April 15, 9 am to Noon</span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></div><div>Location: Meet at the Plymouth Community Park at 605 Pond Lane in the Plymouth Park neighborhood. </div><div><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">We'll be doing some cleanup, tending to the trees and shrubs we've planted at the park, and light pruning. </span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Please wear closed-toe shoes, a hat and bring work gloves. If you can, bring rakes, pruners, and other gardening tools. We'll have water and snacks available. We also always encourage folks to bring their own water in reusable bottles to minimize use of plastic bottles and cans. </span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Participants under 18 years of age must have adult supervision. </span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Please pre-register at <a href="https://forms.gle/VEZtB4UPSaq3MzfTA" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/VEZtB4UPSaq3MzfTA</a> (suggested but not required)</span></div></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><b>Earth Day, Mulching Native Plant Landscaping at Bridge</b></div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxhqwVb2HVxi5IkWxDfkCvTE68GnwoyKWbebMUhjDSj9vHG4Z1qkQgOA0_y-MDmkYlnaUEgXItz6Lae7hOliuQv9CUn2ynyeW5shvpTiMJPL5lsIGPrEE9XMbMIj3ulgrazzVgQ4l2vA7YFE0AsYgRQDCu7TtZOIAq2aM4giwMhqlXK3Yh8Jjtol__/s1080/thumbnail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="810" data-original-width="1080" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxhqwVb2HVxi5IkWxDfkCvTE68GnwoyKWbebMUhjDSj9vHG4Z1qkQgOA0_y-MDmkYlnaUEgXItz6Lae7hOliuQv9CUn2ynyeW5shvpTiMJPL5lsIGPrEE9XMbMIj3ulgrazzVgQ4l2vA7YFE0AsYgRQDCu7TtZOIAq2aM4giwMhqlXK3Yh8Jjtol__/w200-h150/thumbnail.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Date: Saturday, April 22, 9AM to Noon</div><div><br /></div><div>Location: Meet at Lilac Avenue and Indian River Road. Park along Lilac Avenue by the Norfolk Highlands Primary School. </div><div><br /></div><div>Our main task will be mulching and doing some weeding around the native tree and shrub plantings along the side of Indian River Road at the Oaklette Bridge. We'll have water and snacks available. We also always encourage folks to bring their own water in reusable bottles to minimize use of plastic bottles and cans. </div><div><br /></div><div>Participants under 18 years of age must have adult supervision.</div><div><br /></div><div>Please pre-register at <a href="https://forms.gle/qJxq7nvi76VsiGLP9" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/qJxq7nvi76VsiGLP9</a> (suggested but not required)</div></span></div></div></span></div><div><b style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div></b></div></div></span></span></div></div></span></span></span></div></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><hr /></span></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></b></div></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Other News</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii4j52gLdBoERm88JsSmv31NFmNuBx0zSyGTbdcqdY6S-btVPv0CuJv4ePtDG55dKjSDIaE2CE421Np7K9YeeHsx8mIIxtIU7EaFmwFhkiY1bDUWPHXfdEi6af1lwIF3VG5kKGAD2it9R6l0VmFRkQsqCxmkp0IOAlPMX0jlXPOMHAT3ts0mwt_L6Q/s3648/IMG_3304.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="2736" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii4j52gLdBoERm88JsSmv31NFmNuBx0zSyGTbdcqdY6S-btVPv0CuJv4ePtDG55dKjSDIaE2CE421Np7K9YeeHsx8mIIxtIU7EaFmwFhkiY1bDUWPHXfdEi6af1lwIF3VG5kKGAD2it9R6l0VmFRkQsqCxmkp0IOAlPMX0jlXPOMHAT3ts0mwt_L6Q/w150-h200/IMG_3304.JPG" width="150" /></a></div>River Star Homes</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">The Elizabeth River Project's River Star Home program brings together homeowners from across the watershed to make our community a healthier place for all of us to live. More than 6,000 River Star Homes, including a couple of hundred in the Indian River area, takes simple steps around their homes to make our river and ecosystem cleaner and more beautiful. Many take advantage of River Star incentives to add landscaping in their yards, plant trees, and for those along the river, create living shorelines. Learn how to sign on to help at <a href="https://elizabethriver.org/river-star-homes/" target="_blank">https://elizabethriver.org/river-star-homes/</a></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Indian River High School Scholarship</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div style="background-color: white; color: #050505; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX_8N4SptCHtncy3CZpTJcMOJTWzdGnGyqSG5n2V_MxNSY295XZz2J-MiC3ujWwZKJ-CS__5JWJUv2zSZwinbPprH8fGI1IUyBeF06u1WbywAAQ4vIeqzUEzUEQ9PJCNXGuzR9O5OLCUHhCyXz-qKMBgPXoblGSbA2fXSMq1OlFTUfwPicbGHDFzal/s912/2023%20Scholarship.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="912" data-original-width="810" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX_8N4SptCHtncy3CZpTJcMOJTWzdGnGyqSG5n2V_MxNSY295XZz2J-MiC3ujWwZKJ-CS__5JWJUv2zSZwinbPprH8fGI1IUyBeF06u1WbywAAQ4vIeqzUEzUEQ9PJCNXGuzR9O5OLCUHhCyXz-qKMBgPXoblGSbA2fXSMq1OlFTUfwPicbGHDFzal/s320/2023%20Scholarship.jpg" width="284" /></a></div><br />The Friends of Indian River are once again sponsoring a $500 scholarship for a current Indian River High School senior who will be a college freshman next year. The scholarship will recognize a senior who excels in leadership, citizenship, extracurricular activities and academics. The scholarship application can be found on the Chesapeake Public Schools internal ScholarshipVue database. All completed applications will be returned to the IRHS <a style="color: #385898; cursor: pointer;" tabindex="-1"></a>Scholarship Coordinator by April 7. For more information, visit <a href="http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/friends-of-indian-river-scholarship.html" target="_blank">http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/friends-of-indian-river-scholarship.html</a></div></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><div><span color:="" font-family:="" helvetica="" style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>March Re-cap</b></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4aOnihnaOQQtEZoCqgqTrb1KT_ORku2kXaeD4FMk8l9NWzvePBGShzFdII_i1CAwy0Qw1AnxUXzVCe95CQfeNI7SCHLUQkL9oa0fsU_6eDRH1vwl1aehfZNhxA_Vd9llUbWZ80nzN4YuF3XJnM4Y2Y3CFZ5nIoo171rpycNWhmcyyybZ5cBlMMAXM/s1024/IMG_1440.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4aOnihnaOQQtEZoCqgqTrb1KT_ORku2kXaeD4FMk8l9NWzvePBGShzFdII_i1CAwy0Qw1AnxUXzVCe95CQfeNI7SCHLUQkL9oa0fsU_6eDRH1vwl1aehfZNhxA_Vd9llUbWZ80nzN4YuF3XJnM4Y2Y3CFZ5nIoo171rpycNWhmcyyybZ5cBlMMAXM/s320/IMG_1440.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>There was an excellent turnout for the Great American Cleanup at Indian River Park in late March. Volunteers pulled out about 500 lbs. of trash from the stream bed and roadside ditches. Much of it was bottles, cans, food wrappers, and plastic bags washed into the park from the surrounding streets through the storm drains. But notable items recovered included a lawnmower, 4 ½ tires, a shopping cart, and a trash can. Thank you to the Chesapeake Environmental Improvement Council for organizing the cleanup and all the volunteers who came out! And to Southern Volkswagen - Greenbrier for coming out to help and set up a water tent.</div><div><br />Rescheduled due to the weather, we had a dedicated team that came out on Thursday the 23rd to weed the native plant garden at Indian River Park. A few hours of steady work and we got the garden ready for spring. </div><div><br /></div><div>The speaker for our bi-monthly meeting in March was Bobby Nance from Bartlett Tree Experts. Perhaps the one thing that made a big impression is him seeing the role of an arborist to be a tree doctor, i.e. to be there to maintain the health and vitality of the tree. When you need your trees cared for, make sure to always use a Certified Arborist - and make sure it is the person who is the Certified Arborist who is coming over to look at your trees! <a href="https://dof.virginia.gov/urban-community-forestry/urban-forestry-homeowner-assistance/hire-a-certified-arborist/" target="_blank">https://dof.virginia.gov/urban-community-forestry/urban-forestry-homeowner-assistance/hire-a-certified-arborist/</a></div><div><br /></div><div>Congratulations to our own Rogard Ross for winning the prestigious Pioneer Award at the 39th Chesapeake Environmental Awards Luncheon for his work with the Friends of Indian River, the Chesapeake Environmental Improvement Council, and other local conservation efforts.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Volunteers Needs</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><span style="color: #050505;">We need volunteers to help with weeding at the new landscaping at the Indian River </span><span style="color: #050505;">Oaklette</span><span style="color: #050505;"> </span><span style="color: #050505;">Bridge and at the native plant garden at Indian River Park.</span><span style="color: #050505;"> </span><span style="color: #050505;">We also need volunteers to help with removing invasive plants at the Park. </span><span style="color: #050505;">There are also other volunteer opportunities listed on our website at </span><a href="http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/volunteer.html" target="_blank">http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/volunteer.html</a><span style="color: #050505;">. If you can help out on any of these, please contact us at </span><a href="mailto:info@friendsofindianriver.org" rel="nofollow">info@friendsofindianriver.org</a></div></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div></div></span></div></div></div></span></div></span></div></div></span></div>Rogardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00794374232118059295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743478099611773251.post-12276519945232666242023-03-01T11:22:00.004-05:002023-03-17T14:39:02.598-04:00March Newsletter and Events<div><b><span style="color: red; font-size: medium;">Due to inclement weather, we are rescheduling our Adopt-A-Park gardening event to Thursday, 3/23, at 1:30 pm</span></b></div><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Upcoming Events</span></li><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">3/11 - Saturday - Second Saturday Hike at Indian River Park</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">3/16 - Thursday - Bi-Monthly - Trees in Our Community</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">3/23 - Saturday - Adopt-A-Park @ Indian River Park</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">3/25 - Saturday - Great American Cleanup @ Indian River Park</span></li></ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Other News</span></li><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Indian River High School Scholarship</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">February Re-cap</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Spring Membership Drive</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Volunteer Needs</span></li></ul></ul><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div><span style="text-align: center;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><hr /></span></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"></div></b></div></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></b></div></div></span></div><b>Upcoming Events</b></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div style="font-weight: 400; text-align: left;"><div><span style="text-align: center;"><b>Second Saturday Hike at Indian River Park</b></span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiPRv_mHQpEMYRn1arWoe081rBHQZt3OmBvLfBWUEEjyf89NEKUJwtPj3OVKyCvvnd0JDb2G8FklHPgK5quHYIKx7gmlmHkCDnV94BMdJE7qIDGmCql_2fkSJ_CwYBhsTeOU28dm2MUX1KIGNE_ILflD92TkXjHZ-cXOqVOSudXO2aW2HhzLyYqRYSS=s800" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiPRv_mHQpEMYRn1arWoe081rBHQZt3OmBvLfBWUEEjyf89NEKUJwtPj3OVKyCvvnd0JDb2G8FklHPgK5quHYIKx7gmlmHkCDnV94BMdJE7qIDGmCql_2fkSJ_CwYBhsTeOU28dm2MUX1KIGNE_ILflD92TkXjHZ-cXOqVOSudXO2aW2HhzLyYqRYSS=w200-h150" width="200" /></a></div>Date: </span>Saturday, March 11, 8:30 am to 10:30 am</span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Location: Meet at the Indian River Park entrance at Rokeby Ave. and Main St. (2001 Rokeby Ave.) which is located just south of Military Highway, i.e. across Military Highway from the Fire Station.</span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Time to start up our Second Saturday hikes again. Come out to the park to learn about the history of the park, the native trees and plants in this century old forest on the Indian River flood plain, and its value to maintaining the health of local butterfly, bird, and wildlife populations. Note: the forest trail has uneven surfaces and minor elevation changes.</span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Please pre-register at <a href="https://forms.gle/2GHEESxYvZvKhfaZ7" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/2GHEESxYvZvKhfaZ7</a> (suggested but not required)</span></div></div></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div><br /></div><div><div><b style="text-align: center;">Bi-Monthly Meeting - Trees in Our Community</b></div><div><div><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGsBtQLoeC0bdw3gZu5kTuNFImESWkOSUBA4RrrmuXMqAH4djuO9skyzXoscaCkmVVld7iDvWeqypXKR7mmICBn1ew-hbSjkzRmBSkQux8mzshPBQduwU8HTXRiV23pFot1lLyj9p3VvRkhdfh7esDzKmIIXE14QVKE4Tfmkl6AwAnfxXoh7SbUUsV/s2162/DJI_0039.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1442" data-original-width="2162" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGsBtQLoeC0bdw3gZu5kTuNFImESWkOSUBA4RrrmuXMqAH4djuO9skyzXoscaCkmVVld7iDvWeqypXKR7mmICBn1ew-hbSjkzRmBSkQux8mzshPBQduwU8HTXRiV23pFot1lLyj9p3VvRkhdfh7esDzKmIIXE14QVKE4Tfmkl6AwAnfxXoh7SbUUsV/s320/DJI_0039.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Date: Thursday, March 16, 7 pm</span></span></div><div><span><span><br /></span></span></div><div>Location: Oaklette United Methodist Church, 520 Oaklette Drive</div><div><br /></div><div><div>Our guest speaker will be Bobby Nance, with Bartlett Tree Experts. Bobby is an ISA Board Certified Master Arborist, Tree Risk Assessment Qualified, and is passionate about all aspects of trees. His goal is to challenge the status quo of tree care by providing science-based recommendations to sustain long-term tree health.</div><div><br /></div><div>We will also have a short business meeting to review the organization budget for 2023-2024 and have the latest community news and updates!</div></div></div></div><div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><b>Adopt-A-Park at Indian River Park</b></span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJUdPU0qS0HiD50PMIEdpKltSsSZ0AqAK35ooOzTf5ZZlVjaLIGLcjosfu6TkyKk2CVolU2DZLQWyIEH6E7PFThKB78s5I-mKedE0-WbVRmyHhkzZEY_qipBDTwx28ELzDnu8puXZjPRTHUR8wxcEurY-areyPOCkVCSXsmB4WLxwts6yN31KtcARX/s1024/4-IMG_8549.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJUdPU0qS0HiD50PMIEdpKltSsSZ0AqAK35ooOzTf5ZZlVjaLIGLcjosfu6TkyKk2CVolU2DZLQWyIEH6E7PFThKB78s5I-mKedE0-WbVRmyHhkzZEY_qipBDTwx28ELzDnu8puXZjPRTHUR8wxcEurY-areyPOCkVCSXsmB4WLxwts6yN31KtcARX/s320/4-IMG_8549.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Date: </span>Saturday, March 23, 1:30 pm to 4 pm</span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Location: Meet at the Indian River Park entrance at Rokeby Ave. and Main St. (2001 Rokeby Ave.) which is located just south of Military Highway, i.e. across Military Highway from the Fire Station.</span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">We'll be tending to the native plant garden at the park entrance, including weeding and mulching. We may also do some trail work, pruning, weeding, and cleanup. </span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Please wear closed-toe shoes, a hat and bring work gloves. If you can, bring shovels, rakes, pruners, saws and other gardening tools. We'll have water and snacks available. We also always encourage folks to bring their own water in reusable bottles to minimize use of plastic bottles and cans. </span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Participants under 18 years of age must have adult supervision. </span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Please pre-register at <a href="https://forms.gle/4veXLqUXj242Js886" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/4veXLqUXj242Js886</a> (suggested but not required)</span></div></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><span style="text-align: center;"><b>Great American Cleanup at Indian River Park</b></span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp_ow30ofF_WPguE0kko7x302bk0jHsA21NNkPIzAcXGy5ClQQVsJeYt8KjclqHM5Y9SJTgIbzaIWCzjXeQm0xtgoFIG7d7EXMwHzkM5uYyxQd2bGkA0pAJG41sH5ndgwQF5mkH2I0hlzB5W2_PtXs900sP1isGsfF4k8OSPgYi0wDbcx27uWQA39A/s1024/DSCN0715.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp_ow30ofF_WPguE0kko7x302bk0jHsA21NNkPIzAcXGy5ClQQVsJeYt8KjclqHM5Y9SJTgIbzaIWCzjXeQm0xtgoFIG7d7EXMwHzkM5uYyxQd2bGkA0pAJG41sH5ndgwQF5mkH2I0hlzB5W2_PtXs900sP1isGsfF4k8OSPgYi0wDbcx27uWQA39A/w320-h240/DSCN0715.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Date: </span>Saturday, March 25, 9:45 to Noon</span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Location: Meet at the Indian River Park entrance at Rokeby Ave. and Main St. (2001 Rokeby Ave.) which is located just south of Military Highway, i.e. across Military Highway from the Fire Station.</span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div>The CEIC is hosting the Great American Cleanup at Indian River Park this year. </div><div><br /></div><div>Please dress in appropriate clothing and shoes for the weather. We recommend that you wear long sleeves and pants. Waterproof shoes or boots will be helpful as well, since we’ll be working along the streambed. Be sure to bring your own reusable water bottle. We'll provide bags, gloves, and trash grabbers.</div><div><br /></div><div>This event is open to the public and family-friendly! Please invite your friends and family members!</div></span></div></div></span></div><div><b style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div></b></div></div></span></span></div></div></span></span></span></div></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><hr /></span></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></b></div></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Other News</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Indian River High School Scholarship</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div style="background-color: white; color: #050505; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX_8N4SptCHtncy3CZpTJcMOJTWzdGnGyqSG5n2V_MxNSY295XZz2J-MiC3ujWwZKJ-CS__5JWJUv2zSZwinbPprH8fGI1IUyBeF06u1WbywAAQ4vIeqzUEzUEQ9PJCNXGuzR9O5OLCUHhCyXz-qKMBgPXoblGSbA2fXSMq1OlFTUfwPicbGHDFzal/s912/2023%20Scholarship.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="912" data-original-width="810" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX_8N4SptCHtncy3CZpTJcMOJTWzdGnGyqSG5n2V_MxNSY295XZz2J-MiC3ujWwZKJ-CS__5JWJUv2zSZwinbPprH8fGI1IUyBeF06u1WbywAAQ4vIeqzUEzUEQ9PJCNXGuzR9O5OLCUHhCyXz-qKMBgPXoblGSbA2fXSMq1OlFTUfwPicbGHDFzal/s320/2023%20Scholarship.jpg" width="284" /></a></div><br />The Friends of Indian River are once again sponsoring a $500 scholarship for a current Indian River High School senior who will be a college freshman next year. The scholarship will recognize a senior who excels in leadership, citizenship, extracurricular activities and academics. The scholarship application can be found on the Chesapeake Public Schools internal ScholarshipVue database. All completed applications will be returned to the IRHS <a style="color: #385898; cursor: pointer;" tabindex="-1"></a>Scholarship Coordinator by April 7. For more information, visit <a href="http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/friends-of-indian-river-scholarship.html" target="_blank">http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/friends-of-indian-river-scholarship.html</a></div></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><div><span color:="" font-family:="" helvetica="" style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>February Re-cap</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>Thank you to the four volunteers who came out for our February Adopt-A-Road. They collected about 80 lbs of litter and debris along Indian River Road and around the bridge. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMsU6qOm0rP486bm-07pa7-RNYGlR_C5ks1M0bj6u8W_-tb6DVSF9W7FGyLjzs-3gMN26bzCRrAr0KbNByZsKxx9pR5vu6tZlTlm-rdifespwHbb6GRSTNnmiPwJp4DK8heIuSDAvk7xK9lN5_NR7KF6pZnR-3FO74---AkfcrMkQWVV1WOyVYG325/s1942/IMG_4022.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1942" data-original-width="1939" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMsU6qOm0rP486bm-07pa7-RNYGlR_C5ks1M0bj6u8W_-tb6DVSF9W7FGyLjzs-3gMN26bzCRrAr0KbNByZsKxx9pR5vu6tZlTlm-rdifespwHbb6GRSTNnmiPwJp4DK8heIuSDAvk7xK9lN5_NR7KF6pZnR-3FO74---AkfcrMkQWVV1WOyVYG325/w200-h200/IMG_4022.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>On the 18th, we had one of our best Great Backyard Bird Count bird walks ever around the lake between the Indian River Community Center and the High School. Right at the start, we spotted two Bald Eagles and two Osprey wheeling across the sky above the lake. The Osprey are starting to prepare their nest in one of the nesting platforms installed above the ballfields - that's really early, this being only mid-February. Then we had a real treat with a flock of 18 Ring-necked Ducks on the lake; this is a first for us and the flock may have been blown here by the previous day's storm. They were joined by 5 Northern Shoveler ducks, 3 Pied-billed Grebes, a couple of Double-Crested Cormorants, some Mallards, and lots of Canada Geese. We also saw Great Blue Herons, Hooded Merganser, 3 kinds of woodpeckers, various sparrows, an Eastern Towhee, and more. All told, we identified 26 species! See some pics at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/FriendsofIndianRiver/posts/pfbid035VTkZTnCRovHF4djBHzyn893vocRCdjeDEykAxGtuFGXoxtxm41qW9ZZ8mwE1cdsl">here</a>.</div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>Spring Membership Drive</b></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_9tl73JhSEBa2SpcLuKqj16AmaRy0kGf-z5kbbJiA_ofcji9Aai30SGKbft-SQmi6mfWFw-C29Ytw45GowrodDQ2_XEoUG4QMUGA5zZyn7DbtW60q3BzY9-3Zcc5CSozpMqQLsRmvtVR10a9BTah0WQh6PIfdQenAkH6Fggdr1U-QfdiaPXeARXPp/s376/thermoter%202023.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="376" data-original-width="213" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_9tl73JhSEBa2SpcLuKqj16AmaRy0kGf-z5kbbJiA_ofcji9Aai30SGKbft-SQmi6mfWFw-C29Ytw45GowrodDQ2_XEoUG4QMUGA5zZyn7DbtW60q3BzY9-3Zcc5CSozpMqQLsRmvtVR10a9BTah0WQh6PIfdQenAkH6Fggdr1U-QfdiaPXeARXPp/s320/thermoter%202023.jpg" width="181" /></a></div><br />The Friends of Indian River are an all-volunteer, local, 501(c)(3) non-profit, and we depend on member contributions to advance our mission to improve the quality of life for all the residents of the Indian River neighborhoods. Our fiscal year ends March 31 and our fundraising goal is $1500; we are currently at $865. Help us reach our goal. You can become a member, renew your membership, or just make a contribution online at <a href="http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/membership.html" target="_blank">http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/membership.html</a></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>Volunteers Needs</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><span style="color: #050505;">We need volunteers to help with weeding at the new landscaping at the Indian River </span><span style="color: #050505;">Oaklette</span><span style="color: #050505;"> </span><span style="color: #050505;">Bridge and at the native plant garden at Indian River Park.</span><span style="color: #050505;"> </span><span style="color: #050505;">We also need volunteers to help with removing invasive plants at the Park. </span><span style="color: #050505;">There are also other volunteer opportunities listed on our website at </span><a href="http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/volunteer.html" target="_blank">http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/volunteer.html</a><span style="color: #050505;">. If you can help out on any of these, please contact us at </span><a href="mailto:info@friendsofindianriver.org" rel="nofollow">info@friendsofindianriver.org</a></div><div><br /></div></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"></div></div></span></div></span></div></div></span></div>Rogardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00794374232118059295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743478099611773251.post-34002981563187764252023-01-27T12:12:00.002-05:002023-01-27T12:12:46.030-05:00February Newsletter and Events<ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Upcoming Events</span></li><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">2/11 - Saturday - Adopt-A-Road Cleanup along Indian River Road</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">2/18 - Saturday - Great Backyard Bird Count Hike @ Lake by Indian River Civic Campus</span></li></ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Other News</span></li><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Annual Meeting Recap</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">2023 Calendar</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Volunteer Needs</span></li></ul></ul><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div><span style="text-align: center;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><hr /></span></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"></div></b></div></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></b></div></div></span></div><b>Upcoming Events</b></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div>Adopt-A-Road Cleanup along Indian River Road</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b style="text-align: center;"><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkddHGYTO_WrjQY7m_7CuvcwpkGMGN6Mn9_Nxv871l0CsuUGH9YW24BR6tzmJN8_P_k1-Fq09ltaljXJyTFoKfWeu9sNQzinG9wJ7ynuFPoV9c3KjkFPLGgXXvV1qXzw3Z65OdeDibFP7TpmD75zE9sOXOah5ROm2DMBuOySLktG3rohDnWpPBpNig/s798/327126776_1362001731242908_6161576684585001509_n.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="532" data-original-width="798" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkddHGYTO_WrjQY7m_7CuvcwpkGMGN6Mn9_Nxv871l0CsuUGH9YW24BR6tzmJN8_P_k1-Fq09ltaljXJyTFoKfWeu9sNQzinG9wJ7ynuFPoV9c3KjkFPLGgXXvV1qXzw3Z65OdeDibFP7TpmD75zE9sOXOah5ROm2DMBuOySLktG3rohDnWpPBpNig/s320/327126776_1362001731242908_6161576684585001509_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span><span>Date: Saturday</span>, February 11, 9 am</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div>Location: Meet at Lilac Avenue and Indian River Road. Park along Lilac Avenue by the Norfolk Highlands Primary School</div><div><br /></div><div>We need your help for our quarterly cleanup. Join us for a few hours to clean up the mile of Indian River Road from the city limits at Wingfield Avenue all the way to MacDonald Road. We are also asking all business owners along Indian River Road - and everywhere really - to make sure they sweep up in front of their storefronts as part of the effort. And if you can't make it out for our organized cleanup please take 15 minutes and cleanup the street and ditches in front of your home; pass the word to your neighbors!</div><div><br /></div><div>For our main cleanup on Indian River Road, the city will provide garbage bags and orange safety vests. Please wear closed-toe shoes, a hat and bring work gloves and other items that may be useful. Participants under 18 years of age must have adult supervision.</div><div><br /></div><div>To save time and allow for better social distancing, please pre-register at <a href="https://forms.gle/GjBDAVuBdUJzecKs9" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/GjBDAVuBdUJzecKs9</a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><div><b style="text-align: center;">Great Backyard Bird Count Hike @ Lake by Indian River Civic Campus</b></div><div><b style="text-align: center;"><br /></b></div><div><div><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI4QJP8zYreCmTHfsX6eCgGTAkmK-I80n43n8NRtRwHtaKzsoBpxus1VHkrkuS7LiNbaAK6-VuksX83VHLeNwcB2vsUwNraDBT00FCPhmUYL5ApGGyjbDHU_DUgq_2oC7meQS2s-UCuZMVl4_-lMrX_5OB6Y4FYvGEOOqF65HTaXQZB_eyqCKOBmR-/s1600/327119547_1316637992456963_7591582163666812453_n.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1070" data-original-width="1600" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI4QJP8zYreCmTHfsX6eCgGTAkmK-I80n43n8NRtRwHtaKzsoBpxus1VHkrkuS7LiNbaAK6-VuksX83VHLeNwcB2vsUwNraDBT00FCPhmUYL5ApGGyjbDHU_DUgq_2oC7meQS2s-UCuZMVl4_-lMrX_5OB6Y4FYvGEOOqF65HTaXQZB_eyqCKOBmR-/s320/327119547_1316637992456963_7591582163666812453_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Date: Saturday</span>, February 18, 8:30 am to 10:30 am</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div>Location: Meet at the Indian River Community Center, 2250 Old Greenbrier Rd.</div><div><br /></div><div><div>It's the weekend of the Great Backyard Bird Count, a worldwide effort to identify the distribution of birds; as part of this we'll be leading a guided bird walk around the lake between the Indian River Community/Rec Center and the High School.</div><div><br /></div><div>When scouting the site, a variety of birds were spotted including Cormorants, Mallards, Pied-Bill Grebe, Bluebirds, - Yellow-Rumped Warblers, Woodpeckers, and more.</div><div><br /></div><div>We'll have some binoculars and a spotting scope, but do bring your own if you have some!</div><div><br /></div><div>Please pre-register at <a href="https://forms.gle/8nLaBXvwvV7PpTyk7" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/8nLaBXvwvV7PpTyk7</a></div></div></div></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div></div></span></div></div></span></div><div><b style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div></b></div></div></span></span></div></div></span></span></span></div></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><hr /></span></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></b></div></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Other News</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Annual Meeting Recap</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Our Annual Meeting was a chance to get together with our members and discuss plans for the coming year and hold election for our </span><span style="font-family: helvetica;">officers and board members. We had strong engagement from the attendees and had a great conversation. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Two main goals were highlighted for 2023</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><ul><li>Build Volunteer Base and Membership to meet existing commitments and build our advocacy power,</li><li>Engage with partners in the implementation of the Indian River Planning Area Study </li></ul></div><div>Regarding the Planning Area Study, we're expecting the City to kick off a Steering Committee in the coming month; this has been long delayed due to staffing shortages. The City now has a Request for Bids out to get Commercial Design Guidelines drafted. One priority we want is establishing an Overlay District for the area to strengthen planning and zoning guidelines for the community. </div><div><br /></div></span><span style="font-family: helvetica;">We also talked about progress, or lack of progress, in areas such as redesigning Indian River Road, improving connectivity within our neighborhoods with paths and greenways, improved signage, and other goals identified in the plan. As part of the Great Bridge Village Plan, the City set aside funding to provide facade improvement grants in that part of the City; that's something that needs to be looked at for Indian River. </span><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><br /></div><div>Around parks, the City has a revised Request for Bids out for the new Blue Heron Landing Park on the Indian River. And at Indian River Park, they are continuing improvements; new trail signage is a next step at the park. Another area where there has been no action so far is in talking with Chesapeake Public School about ideas to create a "civic campus" around the lake by the Indian River Community Center/Middle School/High School/Library. </div><div><br /></div><div>One key goal will be to improve our outreach to engage more and new members and volunteers. This will help us complete our many volunteer efforts and bring more people to the table to push forward improvements in the quality of life for all the residents of the Indian River neighborhoods.</div></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;">2023 Calendar</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Here is a first look at the Friends of Indian River planned calendar of events for 2023. Dates are subject to change, so please visit http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/calendar.html for details on upcoming events.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY7Umxs44kbjDuGhPFMBGSvh5jqwU3oS26FbmrqbG391adZWhBwhKaF1f0_JypUiRhlKZj3jf-jNlnjxF9bVuLD1BZ8fgTQfC8tu04nC6ONGoA-c1c9B1XfeaBizigvSFFMiB7VPWFIFbXVka9g_EzRS45_KAjht10B8zupJQLalRUJn-x_KU1414S/s908/2023%20FIR%20Calendar.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="685" data-original-width="908" height="482" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY7Umxs44kbjDuGhPFMBGSvh5jqwU3oS26FbmrqbG391adZWhBwhKaF1f0_JypUiRhlKZj3jf-jNlnjxF9bVuLD1BZ8fgTQfC8tu04nC6ONGoA-c1c9B1XfeaBizigvSFFMiB7VPWFIFbXVka9g_EzRS45_KAjht10B8zupJQLalRUJn-x_KU1414S/w640-h482/2023%20FIR%20Calendar.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><div><span color:="" font-family:="" helvetica="" style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><b>Volunteers Needs</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>Thank you to the volunteers who came out in January to help manage English Ivy at Indian River Park. This is an on-going effort.</div><div><span style="color: #050505;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #050505;">We need volunteers to help with removing invasive plants at the Park. </span><span style="color: #050505;">We also need volunteers to help with weeding at the new landscaping at the Oaklette Indian River Bridge and at the native plant garden at Indian River Park.</span><span style="color: #050505;"> There are also other volunteer opportunities listed on our website at </span><a href="http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/volunteer.html" target="_blank">http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/volunteer.html</a><span style="color: #050505;">. If you can help out on any of these, please contact us at </span><a href="mailto:info@friendsofindianriver.org" rel="nofollow">info@friendsofindianriver.org</a></div></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div></div></span></div></div></div></span></div></span></div></div></span></div><p> </p>Rogardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00794374232118059295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743478099611773251.post-14565880303784705682023-01-04T11:23:00.007-05:002023-01-04T11:25:16.958-05:00January Newsletter and Events<p><br /></p><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Upcoming Events</span></li><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">1/19 - Thursday - Annual Meeting</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">1/21 - Saturday - Adopt-A-Park - Invasive Species Workshop</span></li></ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Other News</span></li><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Year in Review</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">"Main Street" Indian River Holiday Decoration Winners</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Volunteer Needs</span></li></ul></ul><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div><span style="text-align: center;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><hr /></span></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"></div></b></div></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></b></div></div></span></div><b>Upcoming Events</b></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div>Annual Meeting</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b style="text-align: center;"><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div><span><span>Date: </span>Thursday, January 19, 7 pm</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div>Location: Oaklette United Methodist Church, 520 Oaklette Drive</div><div><br /></div><div><div>Please join us for our Annual Meeting to help us plan for 2023 and hold elections for our Board. All are welcome.</div><div> </div><div>We'll also have the latest community news and updates! There will be light refreshments.</div></div><div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><b>Adopt-A-Park - Invasive Species Workshop</b></span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYArG7t4fuapTwERCX7aK5x3xuSo7a7mJqTo7WheKPWuvWQF3Swq6naLAQrzaf8LE-LZKFk6Tacb-iMhoIwTqnJBmFKCobCUJ8yZE2DiniiKRXXSEMGYdYSJyIF2eO3z7MarIAJMKW6lwcd8tGHsWpM3TInsUm0xLrAD9_oRCX1NYhZRG66dAl402p/s1600/Ivy.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYArG7t4fuapTwERCX7aK5x3xuSo7a7mJqTo7WheKPWuvWQF3Swq6naLAQrzaf8LE-LZKFk6Tacb-iMhoIwTqnJBmFKCobCUJ8yZE2DiniiKRXXSEMGYdYSJyIF2eO3z7MarIAJMKW6lwcd8tGHsWpM3TInsUm0xLrAD9_oRCX1NYhZRG66dAl402p/s320/Ivy.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Date: Saturday, January 21, 9 am to Noon</span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Location: Indian River Park trailhead, 2003 Rokeby Ave., which is located just south of Military Highway</span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div>Learn to identify various invasive plant species that threaten Indian River Park and natural areas across the Tidewater region. Those found in the park include English Ivy, Chinese Privet, Multifloral Rose, Linden Viburnum, and others. </div><div><br /></div><div>Then we'll have a work effort to clear some outbreaks of the English Ivy. The more volunteers that come out the more that we can accomplish! </div><div><br /></div><div>Please wear closed-toe shoes, a hat and bring work gloves. We'll be working both to remove Ivy on the ground and on trees. Bring pruning clippers, loppers, screwdrivers (which are amazingly useful in prying ivy off tree trunks) and/or pruning saws if you have them. We will have water and snacks but we also always encourage folks to bring their own water in reusable bottles to minimize use of plastic bottles. Participants under 18 years of age must have adult supervision.</div><div><br /></div><div>Please pre-register at <a href="https://forms.gle/6kppJtmRnWK1Agty5" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/6kppJtmRnWK1Agty5</a></div></span></div></div></div></span></div><div><b style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div></b></div></div></span></span></div></div></span></span></span></div></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><hr /></span></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></b></div></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Other News</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Year In Review</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmj5InjGwqs3wHqRm7MB2Vl_dHum0Uh2Iv4gHFC3Y6WsU9uziVzG9JXOaHhbt35UvFZjD5GfOjOs0shv10u6JDo5isFmX_XCRGWbn8TqwFwLVvw_m2QO_IpfRWvCI5elsOEC_ip7DTP0h_LrFppsQfQZY7ZCy1yszPkY5PYbmWxXKlwEHD4pM7bn6u/s5120/FIR%20Activities%202022.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4096" data-original-width="5120" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmj5InjGwqs3wHqRm7MB2Vl_dHum0Uh2Iv4gHFC3Y6WsU9uziVzG9JXOaHhbt35UvFZjD5GfOjOs0shv10u6JDo5isFmX_XCRGWbn8TqwFwLVvw_m2QO_IpfRWvCI5elsOEC_ip7DTP0h_LrFppsQfQZY7ZCy1yszPkY5PYbmWxXKlwEHD4pM7bn6u/s320/FIR%20Activities%202022.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>This year marks the 10-year anniversary of Friends of Indian River. Over the past decade, hundreds of volunteers have performed nearly 8000 hours of service in projects in our community organized by the Friends of Indian River. We are sincerely thankful for everyone's contribution.</div><div><br /></div><div>In 2022, our signature project was the Indian River Gateway Tree Planting by the Indian River Oaklette Bridge. By the numbers, some highlights for this past year include:</div><div><ul><li>46 Native Trees and Shrubs Planted, plus dozens of Perennials and Flowers</li><li>2000 lbs. Trash Removed over Multiple Cleanups</li><li>6 Hikes and Nature Walks and 1 History Walk</li><li>4 Guest Speakers</li><li>1 High School Scholarship Awarded</li><li>1 Environmental Award Received</li><li>Overall 72 Volunteers performed 680+ Volunteer Hours</li></ul></div><div>You can read our full annual report at <a href="http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/2022/12/2022-year-in-review.html" target="_blank">http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/2022/12/2022-year-in-review.html</a></div></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span color:="" font-family:="" helvetica="" style="font-family: helvetica;"><b>"Main Street" Indian River Holiday Lights & Decorating Contest</b></span></div><div><span color:="" font-family:="" helvetica="" style="font-family: helvetica;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi835WIQKBK0iGrIh9c0QGP45XtUq_FnpKGcJeBKkCWZjDdPXKueJqw7FcbvKTwVqnHkghrjeR8VVFOl9r1witMqzkjS3eKaO31IBRPG_sEgKpwanAQCScs7B4nLVe3jqhhEZQWb-dwjvNRb9v14nNpsqRkG-gFOLHN8_N7oJ1iBlEVgIJzwBdsv_if/s5120/2022-12-08%20Indian%20River%20Holiday%20Lights.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3657" data-original-width="5120" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi835WIQKBK0iGrIh9c0QGP45XtUq_FnpKGcJeBKkCWZjDdPXKueJqw7FcbvKTwVqnHkghrjeR8VVFOl9r1witMqzkjS3eKaO31IBRPG_sEgKpwanAQCScs7B4nLVe3jqhhEZQWb-dwjvNRb9v14nNpsqRkG-gFOLHN8_N7oJ1iBlEVgIJzwBdsv_if/s320/2022-12-08%20Indian%20River%20Holiday%20Lights.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>The winners of our fourth annual "Main Street" Indian River Holiday Decoration Contest were Midway Veterinary Hospital, Vohringer & Bryant Chiropractic, and Trade Team USA. Winners were selected based on overall appearance, festiveness, and decorations being fresh and appropriate for the site. </div><div><br /></div><div>Honorable Mentions go to Affordable Transmission, Botanica Spiritual House, Colorscapes Painting and Design, Direct Auto Insurance, Moulton Tax Service, The Pig Shop BBQ Eatery, Popeyes, Hair2O Studio, Fast Food Mart, and the NAE Federal Credit Union.</div><div><br /></div><div>Thanks to all the businesses that help make Indian River Road sparkle for the Holidays!</div></span></div><div><span color:="" font-family:="" helvetica="" style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></b></div><div><b>Volunteers Needs</b></div><div><span style="color: #050505;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #050505;">We need volunteers to help with weeding at the new landscaping at the Oaklette Indian River Bridge and at the native plant garden at Indian River Park. We also need volunteers to help with removing invasive plants at the Park. There are also other volunteer opportunities listed on our website at </span><a href="http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/volunteer.html" target="_blank">http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/volunteer.html</a><span style="color: #050505;">. If you can help out on any of these, please contact us at </span><a href="mailto:info@friendsofindianriver.org" rel="nofollow">info@friendsofindianriver.org</a></div></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div></div></span></div></div></div></span></div></span></div></div></span></div>Rogardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00794374232118059295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743478099611773251.post-5762568071542659512022-12-27T13:57:00.003-05:002022-12-29T13:03:00.754-05:002022 Year In Review<p>This year marks the 10-year anniversary of Friends of Indian River. Ten years ago, we called a meeting with the goal of finding like-minded people who wanted to improve the quality of life for all the residents of the Indian River neighborhoods. Many turned out for that first meeting, and many kept coming back. Over the past decade, hundreds of volunteers have performed nearly 8000 hours of service in projects in our community organized by the Friends of Indian River. We are sincerely thankful for everyone's contribution.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_QZh9G9w97mb_TRlxdu7iObeMjydwe7FqSSZ-PI2brjHuwS8OYc9l8MVNLs-ncFiW6AzcEq6e1fzHh4G8mDJ6dNPu53KiGc2O5C-3TrcxSrQap5KiSlX3Fyxx_xKfRZAddIzaSEHChBuudggiImuBltpUb54g_vfTMVg5jQA0bRnxoh2RP6HpvUad/s1200/IMG_9802.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1200" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_QZh9G9w97mb_TRlxdu7iObeMjydwe7FqSSZ-PI2brjHuwS8OYc9l8MVNLs-ncFiW6AzcEq6e1fzHh4G8mDJ6dNPu53KiGc2O5C-3TrcxSrQap5KiSlX3Fyxx_xKfRZAddIzaSEHChBuudggiImuBltpUb54g_vfTMVg5jQA0bRnxoh2RP6HpvUad/s320/IMG_9802.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>In 2022, our signature project was the planting over 40 native trees and shrubs, plus various grasses and flowers in the Indian River Gateway Tree Planting by the Indian River Oaklette Bridge. Funded by grants from the Virginia Department of Forestry Virginia Trees for Clean Water Grant and the City of Chesapeake License Plate for Beautification and Conservation Fund, this was a major project to beautify the area. <p></p><p>Some other highlights of the year include: </p><p></p><ul><li>On-going efforts at Indian River Park including maintaining the Native Plant Garden, Invasive Plant Removal, Trail Maintenance, and working on planning efforts with the Parks, Recreations and Tourism (PRT) Department.</li><li>Planting 5 trees and shrubs and maintaining entrance landscaping at Plymouth Park <span style="color: #cccccc;"> </span></li><li>2000 lbs. of trash removed from our streets, parks, and waterways during multiple volunteer cleanups around the area as part of our Adopt-A-Road program on Indian River Road, Clean the Bay Day, and the International Coastal Cleanup. </li><li>Seven hikes and walks including a First Day Hike, the Great Backyard Bird Count, several Second Saturday Hikes at Indian River Park, and a History Walk through parts of the Norfolk Highlands and Oaklette neighborhoods. </li><li>Four guest speakers at our bi-monthly meetings and a spring picnic.</li><li>Fourth annual "Main Street" Indian River Holiday Decoration Contest in December</li><li>Friends of Indian River Education Scholarship Award to a worthy graduate of Indian River High School for third consecutive year</li><li>The Friends of Indian River received the Chesapeake Environmental Improvement Council's Environmental Award for Community Organizations</li><li>Altogether, 72 volunteers performed over 680 hours of service in the community.</li></ul><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIXRuWDdNRsqoYs9eP-7Xl3WbwLj3V_fZLSA3aau2dx8f50IAh0vkChRi_tcimKVKds42Ey9PlK2j66qZ6Dzv1B4di1WmxzmfatoCKeQcJkWjnETFFKj5k24-44echHCv5F6FlC1TrG-0EzBuZ1dhG2hHQSkrsTB6ot1LNaQnY0EZYOe8942YUGZGq/s514/Nodes.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="514" data-original-width="456" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIXRuWDdNRsqoYs9eP-7Xl3WbwLj3V_fZLSA3aau2dx8f50IAh0vkChRi_tcimKVKds42Ey9PlK2j66qZ6Dzv1B4di1WmxzmfatoCKeQcJkWjnETFFKj5k24-44echHCv5F6FlC1TrG-0EzBuZ1dhG2hHQSkrsTB6ot1LNaQnY0EZYOe8942YUGZGq/s320/Nodes.png" width="284" /></a></div>On the flip side, there were some important priorities that saw little progress in 2022, especially around the Indian River Planning Area Study. Early in 2022, the City approved capital funding to create Commercial Design Guidelines and to implement bike lanes along Indian River Road called for in the Study, but neither effort has progressed much due to staffing shortages in both the City Planning and Procurement departments. Likewise, plans to create a steering committee to coordinate work around the Planning Area Study are still pending. A Request for Bids on the construction of the new Blue Heron Landing Park on the Indian River was put out early in 2022, but the bids came in far above the projected budget and the City decided to modify the Request to put it out for re-bidding; that new Request is also still being reviewed by Procurement. In 2023, we also hope to see work start on developing a City-wide Trails and Open Space Plan and an Urban Forestry Management Plan. These are all key efforts to which the Friends of Indian River hope to support in 2023. </div><div><br /></div><div><div><span>Please join us for our Annual Meeting </span>to help us plan for 2023 and hold elections for our Board. The meeting will be on Thursday, January 19 at 7 pm at Oaklette United Methodist Church, 520 Oaklette Drive. All are welcome.</div></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>The Friends of Indian River is an all-volunteer, local 501(c)(3) non-profit. You can support our efforts by becoming a member, renewing your membership, or just making a contribution online at</span><span style="color: #cccccc;"> <a href="http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/membership.html" target="_blank">http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/membership.html</a></span></div><div><span style="color: #cccccc;"><br /></span></div><div><u><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Year in Review</b></span></u></div><div><span style="color: #cccccc;"><br /></span></div><div><span><div><div><u><span style="font-size: large;">Indian River Gateway Tree Planting</span></u></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHmO40ntIMMkSfQEN6J-tyqZlXxzpU3wHIahgqq_gIoUWF0O8c-2ylYKMi12QRn3jgkyahPOg5bcLPOFC_Cxnknsf7GEoaTvjWIbwnKDySeGIHOEJS-AXUDfMphbgeUDHc09GeSCB7VVNrDg-Q_RSmN3RRTRSmv_ltRjnrDlMr_Li-r4AwNBEtuBpr/s1200/IMG_0713.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1199" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHmO40ntIMMkSfQEN6J-tyqZlXxzpU3wHIahgqq_gIoUWF0O8c-2ylYKMi12QRn3jgkyahPOg5bcLPOFC_Cxnknsf7GEoaTvjWIbwnKDySeGIHOEJS-AXUDfMphbgeUDHc09GeSCB7VVNrDg-Q_RSmN3RRTRSmv_ltRjnrDlMr_Li-r4AwNBEtuBpr/w320-h320/IMG_0713.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The east side of the Indian River Oaklette Bridge is identified as a key Recreational/Civic Node in the Indian River Planning Area Study, serving as a Gateway to the community and the river. In 2021, the Friends of Indian River won grants from the </span>Virginia Department of Forestry Virginia Trees for Clean Water Grant and the City of Chesapeake License Plate for Beautification and Conservation Fund to redo the landscaping in this area. Working with a professional landscaper in the spring of this year, we landscaped and planted 14 native trees (magnolias, red cedars, fringe trees, a red bud, and a black gum) 27 native shrubs, 30 native muhly and fountain grasses, and hundreds of daylilies. Just before our planting, Hampton Roads Transit installed a new bus shelter at the site and City Public Works installed new turn chevron signs on the bridge approach. Now our volunteers are doing the on-going work to keep the landscaping weeded and good looking. </div><div><br /></div><div>Still on the books is rehabilitation work by the Public Works Department on the Oaklette Bridge, installing "pile jackets" to protect the bridge piling from corrosion and doing bridge joint, deck and beam small repairs. As with several other projects, work on this is still pending and now targeted for completion in 2023. </div></div></span></div><div><div><br /></div></div><div><u><span style="font-size: large;">Volunteer Events</span></u></div><div><span style="color: #cccccc;"><br /></span></div><div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKDpptvQTzmiKVdRo0jUbL55gobDBvoS2vG3TBTJX0ZE376SyAHBzy6gOpW-6j3FnyBJgK-ipjBRYHfuS70m9k7naqBinl_h7CPJ5hzAl4yjeGyDZtaO_4W3PTTqxHQe1eKbLUtXuxsMto6QqfglbtLQuB6ZHZX8kEmHSrV5ewpSi8w0QDBqe5V6Ck/s1600/IMG_9880.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKDpptvQTzmiKVdRo0jUbL55gobDBvoS2vG3TBTJX0ZE376SyAHBzy6gOpW-6j3FnyBJgK-ipjBRYHfuS70m9k7naqBinl_h7CPJ5hzAl4yjeGyDZtaO_4W3PTTqxHQe1eKbLUtXuxsMto6QqfglbtLQuB6ZHZX8kEmHSrV5ewpSi8w0QDBqe5V6Ck/w320-h240/IMG_9880.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>We got back into the swing of things with volunteer events this year. We held four Adopt-A-Road Cleanups along Indian River Road, held a Clean the Bay Day event at Indian River Park in partnership with the Southern Auto Volkswagen Dealership in the spring, and did a waterborne International Coastal Cleanup on the river in the fall. All together our volunteers removed about 2000 lbs. of trash from the community's streets, parks, and shoreline</div><div><br /></div></div><div>We held several Adopt-A-Park events at Indian River Park, both to tend to the Native Plant Garden at the trailhead and do invasive plant management in the park. We had on-going efforts by trained individuals and small groups to manage and remove English Ivy, Japanese Stilt Grass, Linden Viburnum and Chinese Privet in the park. For Earth Day, a team from Dollar Tree came out with one of our trained volunteers to cut English Ivy encroaching on the park trees. </div><div><br /></div><div>We also continued trail maintenance activities, removing minor trail blockages and working with Parks, Recreations and Tourism (PRT) Department to deal with any larger issues. PRT continued work to rebuild several key bridges over the creeks in the park, including several on the north end of the park and the key bridge at the power lines. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiieCOEhKZHyOP-ZUL-kTGQFacpCdq3OjPgMOptnjK83NUV7NvcOrMwctKPO1iVV1EbWHDaPtUy9pbSFmsieybDnx1cGhq1he7HQ_z-wrn0kiHmS5hAedvC0jOxLp1TWKO8Smcpo3rvvO2PhxtcW3XjBBbGlT8G042WcHnGS0ljkq_EEjtDPh1Q3oUc/s699/306738858_5689620807769890_4650109343226716797_n.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="699" height="154" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiieCOEhKZHyOP-ZUL-kTGQFacpCdq3OjPgMOptnjK83NUV7NvcOrMwctKPO1iVV1EbWHDaPtUy9pbSFmsieybDnx1cGhq1he7HQ_z-wrn0kiHmS5hAedvC0jOxLp1TWKO8Smcpo3rvvO2PhxtcW3XjBBbGlT8G042WcHnGS0ljkq_EEjtDPh1Q3oUc/w200-h154/306738858_5689620807769890_4650109343226716797_n.png" width="200" /></a></div>In September, PRT held a well-attended Public Planning Meeting to gather input on opportunities for improving visitor experience for the many user groups who love the park. Some of the key comments we heard: What do folks love about the park? The mature forest, the location nearby, the multiple use options. What changes would you like to see? Better trail maintenance and signage, removal of invasives, some requests for more "wooden features" for bikers, better erosion control, port-a-potties, a water station, and more trash cans. The Friends will continue to work with PRT on planning and implementing improvements at the park. </div><div><div><br /></div><div><div>At Plymouth Park, another volunteer focused on caring for its flower bed, keeping an eye on the tree plantings, and doing ad hoc litter cleanups. We also did a volunteer tree planting at Plymouth Park, planting 2 Persimmon Trees, 2 Hazelnut Trees, and a False Indigo Bush, all of which are native to this area. On the same day another effort led by the Chesapeake Tree Board, planted saplings along Border Road which will eventually help absorb runoff as part of a stormwater swale. </div></div></div><div><br /></div><div><span>And of course, there was various "back office" work to keep up the organization and do outreach and communication. </span>All told, our 72 volunteers reported more than 680 hours of effort this year.</div><div><br /></div><div>We also want to thank the Chesapeake Environmental Improvement Council also organized another cleanup at Indian River Park for the Great American Cleanup in March. Also, the Chesapeake Master Gardeners and Cooperative Extension Office which worked with local residents to the Plymouth Park neighborhood to do residential tree plantings in both the spring and fall. </div><div><br /></div><div><u><span style="font-size: large;">Connecting with Nature</span></u></div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1EtxiWIxxD8fjzOZORbK07tLVWzSZ8Ruoi-P6Na39JFl-yedojpDp43WRpkOqJTAANRmbMFRnjGh-r7dJaRVMmQYXWLwYHuqEJ3SB6RG3S4lx80_qm195EjuwfvCww1sHqwjsUO2TY0BMLsl6K268KvIPu4ZJ_eYJabBLXbW1UpxEHzH458mueOqk/s3264/IMG_9055.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2448" data-original-width="3264" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1EtxiWIxxD8fjzOZORbK07tLVWzSZ8Ruoi-P6Na39JFl-yedojpDp43WRpkOqJTAANRmbMFRnjGh-r7dJaRVMmQYXWLwYHuqEJ3SB6RG3S4lx80_qm195EjuwfvCww1sHqwjsUO2TY0BMLsl6K268KvIPu4ZJ_eYJabBLXbW1UpxEHzH458mueOqk/w320-h240/IMG_9055.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>We had several more Second Saturday Hikes at Indian River Park in 2022 and plan to continue with these in 2023. We also did a hike around the Indian River Civic Campus (Community Center/ Library/ Middle School/ High School/ Lake area) for the Great Backyard Bird Count in February. These hikes provide an opportunity to learn about the history of the park, the native trees and plants in this century old forest in the park, discover some of the local butterfly, bird, and wildlife populations, and just get together with other folks interested in exploring our natural areas.<br /><br /></div><div><div><u><span style="font-size: large;">Civic Engagement</span></u></div><div><span style="color: #cccccc;"><br /></span></div><div><span>In 2022, we switched to a bi-monthly meeting schedule. </span><span style="color: #cccccc;"> </span><span>Guest speakers this year included:</span></div><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbFV9HPEoPEopTqBvpnKrBl2ny8J5BmSdBOlmwdDTN6hhNtv-U387bNNbsv7nQt5QAisDwno7_VJyIbAsc4k0Eym1yxkYyiEXTDhY_n_NePtrtRDm5sX6Po63FyVjulwXXEvUQMKrZqu5Covmx_vzwhd0wkeS12EXJg1D4EdSf_74XaPCeyBeWKl2E/s640/Norfolk%20Highlands%20Primary%20School.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="514" data-original-width="640" height="161" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbFV9HPEoPEopTqBvpnKrBl2ny8J5BmSdBOlmwdDTN6hhNtv-U387bNNbsv7nQt5QAisDwno7_VJyIbAsc4k0Eym1yxkYyiEXTDhY_n_NePtrtRDm5sX6Po63FyVjulwXXEvUQMKrZqu5Covmx_vzwhd0wkeS12EXJg1D4EdSf_74XaPCeyBeWKl2E/w200-h161/Norfolk%20Highlands%20Primary%20School.jpg" title="Norfolk Highlands Primary School c. 1913" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Norfolk Highlands Primary <br />School c. 1913</td></tr></tbody></table><ul><li><span>Rogard Ross giving a presentation on the History of the Indian River Area</span></li><li><span>Mickie Nance, Hoffler Creek Wildlife Preserve</span></li><li><span>Karen and Steve McCurdy, Butterfly Society of Virginia</span></li><li><span>Mayor Rick West, City of Chesapeake</span></li></ul><div>In June, we had held a picnic instead of a regular indoor meeting. We'll discuss making this an annual event. In October, we organized a History Walk around Norfolk Highlands and Oaklette area, talking about how the name Indian River originated, some of the initial colonial land grants, and the development of the community from a trolley-car suburb in the early 1900's to today. </div></div></div><div><br /></div><div><span>Of course, we continued our online outreach through our monthly newsletter, Facebook, Instagram, Next Door, and our website. </span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXe8XwrS1zoydh52GrIwRyRyF6od1EWzmCzcSn6O2NSeVNb2N4fPP9U_gITwhhmOsEcIQLf0ywTW7qwVxMD9W62VBGZgr536EopDvCzokCBpoR494MaEECNyFPKxQ-ZJcyjXtUo-9-qiC4SDuju32l51WOzYVeiEXQuXpNXU2W3rg6LobQ0udf6IaM/s5120/2022-12-08%20Indian%20River%20Holiday%20Lights.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3657" data-original-width="5120" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXe8XwrS1zoydh52GrIwRyRyF6od1EWzmCzcSn6O2NSeVNb2N4fPP9U_gITwhhmOsEcIQLf0ywTW7qwVxMD9W62VBGZgr536EopDvCzokCBpoR494MaEECNyFPKxQ-ZJcyjXtUo-9-qiC4SDuju32l51WOzYVeiEXQuXpNXU2W3rg6LobQ0udf6IaM/s320/2022-12-08%20Indian%20River%20Holiday%20Lights.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>The Friends of Indian River also sponsored the fourth annual "Main Street" Indian River Holiday Decoration Contest. Winners were selected based on overall appearance, festiveness, and decorations being fresh and appropriate for the site. </span>Winners this year were Midway Veterinary Hospital, Vohringer & Bryant Chiropractic, and Trade Team USA.</div><div><br /></div><div>Honorable Mentions go to Affordable Transmission, Botanica Spiritual House, Colorscapes Painting and Design, Direct Auto Insurance, Moulton Tax Service, The Pig Shop BBQ Eatery, Popeyes, Hair2O Studio, Fast Food Mart, and the NAE Federal Credit Union.</div><div><span style="color: #cccccc;"><br /></span></div><div><div><u><span style="font-size: large;">Indian River High School Scholarship</span></u></div><div><u><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></u></div><div><span>This was the third year of the Friends of Indian River Education Scholarship Award. The Scholarship is awarded to an Indian River High School graduating senior who embodies the spirit of the Friends of Indian River mission and excels in leadership, citizenship, extracurricular activities and academics. The award this year went to </span>Abigale Sloniker, who is interested in pursuing Biochemistry or Chemistry as an area of study in college. Among other accomplishments, she was a student representative to the City's Human Services Advisory Board. </div><div><br /></div></div><div><span>Graduates in the class of 2023 will be able to apply for this scholarship in the coming months.</span></div><div><span style="color: #cccccc;"><br /></span></div><div><span><div><u><span style="font-size: large;">Awards and Recognitions</span></u></div></span></div><div><span style="color: #cccccc;"><br /></span><div class="MsoNormal">The Friends of Indian River received the Chesapeake Environmental Improvement Council's Environmental Award for Community Organizations, recognizing our restoration work in our watershed. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: #cccccc;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><u style="font-size: x-large;">Active Supporting Members and Volunteers 2022</u></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div><span style="color: #cccccc;"><br /></span><table border="0" cellpadding="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="background: white; mso-cellspacing: 1.5pt; mso-yfti-tbllook: 1184;"><tbody><tr style="mso-yfti-firstrow: yes; mso-yfti-irow: 0; mso-yfti-lastrow: yes;"><td style="padding: 0.75pt;" valign="top"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Affordable Transmissions</span><sup> </sup><sup>M</sup></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Jill Arnone<sup> </sup><sup>M</sup></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">Kevin Bailey<sup> </sup><sup>M</sup></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Gary Ball <sup>MV</sup><span face=""arial" , "sans-serif"" style="color: #cccccc;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Susan Ball <sup>M</sup></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Madison Barton <sup>V</sup></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Andrew Bates <sup>V</sup></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Larry Bender <sup>V</sup></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Mark Bunker <sup>V</sup></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Diane Burke <sup>MV</sup>*</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Joe Burke <sup>M</sup><span face=""arial" , "sans-serif""><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Margie Carraway<sup> M</sup><span face=""arial" , "sans-serif""><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">Dollar Tree <sup>V</sup></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span><span><span>Brian Easley </span><sup>MV</sup></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span><span>Vickie Easley </span><sup>MV</sup></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">Lynn Gilbert <sup>M</sup>*</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">Grace Gonzales <sup>V</sup></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">Sarah Kelly Gonzales <sup>V</sup></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">David and Lynn Greenfield <sup>M</sup><sup> </sup></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: #cccccc;"><br /></span></div></td><td style="padding: 0.75pt;" valign="top"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Gilbert Griffin <sup>MV</sup></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Helene Haluska <sup>MV</sup>*</span></div><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Jim Haluska <sup>M</sup></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Jim Harrison</span> <sup>M</sup></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Jim Hartle <sup>MV</sup></span>*</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">Eric Holsinger<sup> V</sup></div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">Jill Jamison<sup> MV</sup></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Lisa and Tom Kennedy </span><sup>M</sup></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Janet Kerns<sup> V</sup></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Elizabeth Kessler</span> <sup>M</sup></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Rachel Knight<sup> V</sup></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Sharon Komenda <sup>MV</sup>*</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Mella Leibrand <sup>V<span style="color: #cccccc;"><o:p></o:p></span></sup></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Shamar Mason <sup>V</sup></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Chris </span>Mathew<sup>MV</sup></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Ed Mathew<sup>MV</sup></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">Barbara McCane <sup>M</sup>*</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: #cccccc;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">Nicolas McConlogue <sup>V</sup></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Karen and Davis Mellott</span> <sup>M</sup></div></span></div></td><td style="padding: 0.75pt;" valign="top"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Debbie Moore <sup>M<span> </span></sup></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">Keith Moore <sup>MV</sup></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">Michael Nerino <sup>M</sup></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Vic Nichols <sup>M</sup></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Amy Petersen<sup>M</sup></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">Jennifer Raymond <sup>MV</sup></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Dennie Reno <sup>M</sup><span face=""arial" , "sans-serif""><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Rogard Ross <sup>MV</sup>*</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Jack Saladino <sup>V</sup></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Shore Consulting Group, LLC <sup>M</sup></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">Edward Sorey and family <sup>V</sup></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">Susan and Emily Vitale <sup>V</sup></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">Carol Warren <sup>MV</sup>*</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Amy Weber <sup>MV</sup>*<span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Shirley Whitehurst <sup>M</sup></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Alex Whitney <sup>V</sup></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Chris Whitney <sup>MV</sup></span>*</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Jayne Whitney <sup>MV</sup>*<span face=""arial" , "sans-serif""><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span>Shaun Wynn-Bouder</span> <sup>M</sup></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><sup><br /></sup></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: #cccccc;"><br /></span></div></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="background-color: white;">M – Supporting Member V – Volunteer </span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN_Sp3ImhtTc9isHTzMYIdOeNtW-ahcwy4C5haEjxJYTu4QF91u9HMZZnwRrWfHp2HuwF84acosDZ5yQ7taV1TChlnpuZiKOx9KhOjD4F8RgP_6RABRC7lrRhvZvlvOmxy97SvKyd7Vto/s1600/136-Starred+Photos1.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span><span><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">* - Completed more than 100 lifetime volunteer hours with FIR</span><span face=""arial" , "sans-serif"" style="color: #cccccc; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></span><br /></span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span><span><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLx6cunhepmWlqFEZq0Y-x3CT_PADvR4ZBwzeqqt-6-RcTXzUFudcC9fETK2RL3p8MvXyytwPK_Pebf17676yKae1RrEh7VyPisLEANJOgkzjAh5rT95OjneISDGWIXqUbovq2y42y7WhFTvnwTB9a0ntTtwhLVvAGVPnqz3t4qUSCm3YgeXiFrtUj/s5120/FIR%20Activities%202022.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4096" data-original-width="5120" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLx6cunhepmWlqFEZq0Y-x3CT_PADvR4ZBwzeqqt-6-RcTXzUFudcC9fETK2RL3p8MvXyytwPK_Pebf17676yKae1RrEh7VyPisLEANJOgkzjAh5rT95OjneISDGWIXqUbovq2y42y7WhFTvnwTB9a0ntTtwhLVvAGVPnqz3t4qUSCm3YgeXiFrtUj/w640-h512/FIR%20Activities%202022.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><br /></span></div></div></div>Rogardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00794374232118059295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743478099611773251.post-6820550127605765042022-12-01T16:30:00.007-05:002022-12-02T10:07:25.264-05:00December Newsletter and Events<ul><li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilX79eUL42WN40U_qM0_62D-dhqcErXQXnzgEcO3IopFdCs2tv65PndhsUO70bKB5CbxDB2dEZ74z-gSGCX4SZm3EPRYV53__TjwAcRFxPk8mzGF7KOvWuZII5Y1F_riyju6P8SB9-pujgB_P3Z5f9F2j5s9PIrOssQG0G86c7GPd4msRXNqX_IGTA/s1200/IMG_0727-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilX79eUL42WN40U_qM0_62D-dhqcErXQXnzgEcO3IopFdCs2tv65PndhsUO70bKB5CbxDB2dEZ74z-gSGCX4SZm3EPRYV53__TjwAcRFxPk8mzGF7KOvWuZII5Y1F_riyju6P8SB9-pujgB_P3Z5f9F2j5s9PIrOssQG0G86c7GPd4msRXNqX_IGTA/w200-h200/IMG_0727-1.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Upcoming Events<br /></span></li><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">12/10 - Saturday - Second Saturday Hike at Indian River Park</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">12/15 - Thursday - </span><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Volunteer Recognition and Holiday Party</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">1/1 - Sunday - First Day Hike at Indian River Park</span></li></ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Other News</span></li><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">“Main Street” Indian River Holiday Lighting & Decoration Contest</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Election Results</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Tidewater Master Naturalist Training Class </span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Volunteer Updates</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Volunteer Needs</span></li></ul></ul><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div><span style="text-align: center;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><hr /></span></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"></div></b></div></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></b></div></div></span></div><b>Upcoming Events</b></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b style="text-align: center;"><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYe6qF90jmNVWIKtaD6CY8ctH19h7IbShI2dD_X__q287imyhD12o1a4_W0ROv8rmecUvq0FuHd_foVHMrJmeFLtUGx_1LUI6BUUf9I0l-ZVJG-7bYuGhtdAvmv7e3xSlPjkeJYejRdGdjH_REHV_cXHvT8rmbbUEuMstGKJnTAnnwt8T4n1kcQsWg/s1600/IMG_5927.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYe6qF90jmNVWIKtaD6CY8ctH19h7IbShI2dD_X__q287imyhD12o1a4_W0ROv8rmecUvq0FuHd_foVHMrJmeFLtUGx_1LUI6BUUf9I0l-ZVJG-7bYuGhtdAvmv7e3xSlPjkeJYejRdGdjH_REHV_cXHvT8rmbbUEuMstGKJnTAnnwt8T4n1kcQsWg/w200-h150/IMG_5927.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>Second Saturday Hike @ Indian River Park</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b style="text-align: center;"><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div><span><span>Date: </span>Saturday, December 10, 8:30 am</span></div><div><br /></div><div><span>Location: Indian River Park entrance at Rokeby Ave. and Main St. (2001 Rokeby Ave.)</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>Learn about the history of the park, the native trees and plants in this century old forest on the Indian River floodplain, and its value to maintaining the health of local butterfly, bird, and wildlife populations. Note: the forest trail has uneven surfaces and minor elevation changes.<br /></span><span><br /></span></div><div><span>Please pre-register at <a href="https://forms.gle/7q6rER4rSiq9vEqd7" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/7q6rER4rSiq9vEqd7</a></span></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2xh_IU9QfzX9rRJdLE9UQZY7ID-rvksk7WAw5oTQwAbVcpZJjL3rCRPqvVCbyMp1uerTerLYZaTGxMCK9T4WfIqJFUle3AJh2J4pkKDURDdOVHoDLFgnr7-bRtyMgZQ68EvQKBcbEsgeMHg56n_6mSudlGimxs_ksxlY_h2DIcSjn_e4tlWWU120a/s3264/1-IMG_3528.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2448" data-original-width="3264" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2xh_IU9QfzX9rRJdLE9UQZY7ID-rvksk7WAw5oTQwAbVcpZJjL3rCRPqvVCbyMp1uerTerLYZaTGxMCK9T4WfIqJFUle3AJh2J4pkKDURDdOVHoDLFgnr7-bRtyMgZQ68EvQKBcbEsgeMHg56n_6mSudlGimxs_ksxlY_h2DIcSjn_e4tlWWU120a/w320-h240/1-IMG_3528.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Annual Volunteer Appreciation and Holiday Party</b></span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Date: Thursday, December 15, 7 pm</span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Location: Oaklette United Methodist Church, 520 Oaklette Drive</span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div>Mark the date for the return of the Friends of Indian River Holiday Party!</div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">This will be our end of year celebration to recognize our many accomplishments, recognize our volunteers, and socialize. Please bring a dessert or appetizer to share and join the festivities. </span></div><div><div><br /></div><div>We'll have a silent auction, so you can finish some Christmas shopping too. Donations of silent auction items are welcome.</div><div><br /></div><div>Please also consider bringing a donation of non-perishable food items for the Oaklette United Methodist Church food pantry to the meeting this evening. </div><div><br /></div><div>Even if you have not been to a meeting in a while or if this would be your very first meeting, we encourage you to come out and partake in the merriment.</div></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></div></span></div></div></div></span></div><div><b style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div style="font-weight: 400; text-align: left;"><b style="text-align: center;">First Day Hike @ Indian River Park</b></div><div style="font-weight: 400; text-align: left;"><b style="text-align: center;"><br /></b></div><div style="font-weight: 400; text-align: left;"><div><span><span>Date: </span>Sunday, January 1, 1 pm</span></div><div><br /></div><div><span>Location: Indian River Park entrance at Rokeby Ave. and Main St. (2001 Rokeby Ave.)</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>Welcome the new year with our traditional First Day Hike at Indian River Park.</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>Learn about the history of the park, the native trees and plants in this century old forest on the Indian River floodplain, and its value to maintaining the health of local butterfly, bird, and wildlife populations. Note: the forest trail has uneven surfaces and minor elevation changes.<br /></span><span><br /></span></div><div><span>Please pre-register at </span><a href="https://forms.gle/zDqHrnnJf3hEmB66A" rel="nofollow" style="background-color: white; color: #33aaff; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/zDqHrnnJf3hEmB66A</a></div></div></b></div><div><div><span><div></div></span></div><div><b style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div></b></div></div></div></span></span></div></div></span></span></span></div></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><hr /></span></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></b></div></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Other News</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span color:="" font-family:="" helvetica="" style="font-family: helvetica;"><b>"Main Street" Indian River Holiday Lights & Decorating Contest</b></span></div><div><span color:="" font-family:="" helvetica="" style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwtjscmsPQw7jq7Y2asJ0S9aKiwHhti-POvDTb7dz3DMJ__f6uFPH5B8UKfPaxyEkWkB7BanyMgQNVpKg0Jbc8QvjjTdJML2gthxkBKjQRla9imAbUJrBdDwwH9h8PxHgftgAwF1bU7n7ndjJnH6o_y7AA4fHSzztr3maS4-yQpTI3UCFCyAzS1nLp/s455/2022%20Holiday%20Lights%20Contest%20small.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="334" data-original-width="455" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwtjscmsPQw7jq7Y2asJ0S9aKiwHhti-POvDTb7dz3DMJ__f6uFPH5B8UKfPaxyEkWkB7BanyMgQNVpKg0Jbc8QvjjTdJML2gthxkBKjQRla9imAbUJrBdDwwH9h8PxHgftgAwF1bU7n7ndjJnH6o_y7AA4fHSzztr3maS4-yQpTI3UCFCyAzS1nLp/s320/2022%20Holiday%20Lights%20Contest%20small.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Our 4th Annual “Main Street” Indian River Holiday Lighting & Decoration Contest is now open. To participate, just decorate your storefront! Contest is open to all businesses along Indian River Rd from Oaklette Bridge to Military Highway and along Sparrow Road from Nautilus Ave. to Fontana Ave. </div><div><br /></div><div>Judging will be between 4 pm and 7 pm on Thursday, Dec 8, and based on overall appearance, festiveness, and being fresh and appropriate for site. Top 3 winners will be announced by Thursday, Dec. 16. Winners will receive $50 prize money and be recognized in our newsletter and social media channels.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Election Results</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>Congratulations to all the winners in the local elections. The Friends of Indian River look forward to working with all our elected officials to continue to improve the quality of life for all the residents of the Indian River neighborhoods! In the City Council, Vice Mayor John DeTriquet and Councilmember Ella Ward won reelection and will be joined by Jeff Bunn, Amanda Newins, and Daniel Whitaker. On the School Board, the winner were Amanda Dean, Michael Lamonea, John McCormick, Norman Pool, Kim Scott, and Brittany Walker. At the Federal level, Bobby Scott was reelected in the 3rd Congressional District and Jen Kiggans took the 2nd District. </div><div><br /></div><div>But there is still one more vote for those in parts of Virginia Beach and Norfolk. A Special Election is being held on January 10th for Jen Kiggans' old seat in the Virginia 7th Senate District which is just west of the Chesapeake/VB city line. Early voting is already underway. On the ballot to fill this seat are Aaron R. Rouse - D and Kevin H. Adams - R. Learn more at <a href="https://www.elections.virginia.gov/casting-a-ballot/calendars-schedules/upcoming-elections.html">Upcoming Elections - Virginia Department of Elections</a> </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Tidewater Master Naturalist Training Class</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>The Tidewater Master Naturalists are accepting applications for their 2023 training class. Their mission is “to develop a well-informed corps of volunteers to provide education, outreach, and service dedicated to the beneficial management of natural resources and natural areas within local communities for the Commonwealth of Virginia”. Several Friends of Indian River members are also Master Naturalists. And the Friends have a special deal for members interested in taking the training program. Learn more at <a href="https://tidewatermn.org/" target="_blank">https://tidewatermn.org/</a> and/or contact us at <a href="mailto:info@friendsofindianriver.org">info@friendsofindianriver.org</a></div></span></div><div><span color:="" font-family:="" helvetica="" style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Volunteer Updates<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT7FCMQ3k4JK2642QLArVdVt2kcnlMx8gNrtKE8tezm4_N7NvsbZp80v6i3SX56P24Ad64FrWhhcqdhgPy3PPJRFOQAaC44KP_5yUZ1pgoq0dhgClkTvxToM7hy3_prgBgC6487R00yCVNTfR3xcdwm2H_DfcGO_B6Xkix4y_sblxU2dvtnQBpe-h5/s800/IMG_0793.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT7FCMQ3k4JK2642QLArVdVt2kcnlMx8gNrtKE8tezm4_N7NvsbZp80v6i3SX56P24Ad64FrWhhcqdhgPy3PPJRFOQAaC44KP_5yUZ1pgoq0dhgClkTvxToM7hy3_prgBgC6487R00yCVNTfR3xcdwm2H_DfcGO_B6Xkix4y_sblxU2dvtnQBpe-h5/s800/IMG_0793.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ5ngpCn4E6QtKDXJgeGTLXGW3VJoXEG3ja5tWtd38YQuwKEtt5IAlAqfrLYx5HW0qOHeBtk9K0QN_4oY0KmT5E5sY_KyMUUZC4z0eUvBFNs-1irDwnVuLt8v2LWvy1wrqh9JoKlOcO7RchKqB9rzBEoQ32ILrD1JtMvlVK_KzNrehyyPHCmW_FFCa/s1200/IMG_0713.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1199" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ5ngpCn4E6QtKDXJgeGTLXGW3VJoXEG3ja5tWtd38YQuwKEtt5IAlAqfrLYx5HW0qOHeBtk9K0QN_4oY0KmT5E5sY_KyMUUZC4z0eUvBFNs-1irDwnVuLt8v2LWvy1wrqh9JoKlOcO7RchKqB9rzBEoQ32ILrD1JtMvlVK_KzNrehyyPHCmW_FFCa/w200-h200/IMG_0713.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT7FCMQ3k4JK2642QLArVdVt2kcnlMx8gNrtKE8tezm4_N7NvsbZp80v6i3SX56P24Ad64FrWhhcqdhgPy3PPJRFOQAaC44KP_5yUZ1pgoq0dhgClkTvxToM7hy3_prgBgC6487R00yCVNTfR3xcdwm2H_DfcGO_B6Xkix4y_sblxU2dvtnQBpe-h5/w200-h150/IMG_0793.JPG" width="200" /></div><br /></b>Thank you to all the volunteers who came out in November for work at both the Oaklette Bridge plantings along Indian River Road and the Native Plant Garden at Indian River Park. Both are looking great!</div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>Volunteers Needs</b></div></span></div></span></div></div></span></div><p><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;">We need volunteers to help with weeding at the new landscaping at the Oaklette Indian River Bridge and at the native plant garden at Indian River Park. We also need volunteers to help with removing invasive plants at the Park. There are also other volunteer opportunities listed on our website at </span><a href="http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/volunteer.html" style="font-family: helvetica;" target="_blank">http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/volunteer.html</a><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;">. If you can help out on any of these, please contact us at </span><a href="mailto:info@friendsofindianriver.org" rel="nofollow" style="font-family: helvetica;">info@friendsofindianriver.org</a> </p>Rogardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00794374232118059295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743478099611773251.post-53736023404299013342022-10-31T17:28:00.006-04:002022-11-06T10:37:19.615-05:00November Newsletter and Events<p> <span style="font-family: trebuchet; text-align: center;">View this newsletter online at </span><a href="http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/" style="font-family: trebuchet; text-align: center;">http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/</a><span style="font-family: helvetica;"> </span></p><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div><span style="text-align: center;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Upcoming Events</span></li><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">City and Congressional Elections</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">11/12 - Saturday - Second Saturday Hike at Indian River Park</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">11/17 - Thursday - Bi-montly Meeting </span></li><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">5 pm - 7 pm Eco Maniac Shopping Opportunity</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">7 pm - Meeting with Guest Speaker Mayor Rick West</span></li></ul><li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjugnWWJDR2K6CMGO_48HStTULf6Hf3ETnHCT2Tu47oWq2JdE6RaWyLRoENvP1-w4u7fhnn78FFLZHzUeQLofg_2I_i4WkdFNU8HDx8dYtH28PFK_PK-INr5QeakERep6reraCWcmDGvHEi91XQUCQ6NAtFoEHxlmu4xf1AhftKbwTpUJhszKaKnNQK/s1419/Eco%20Maniac.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="894" data-original-width="1419" height="126" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjugnWWJDR2K6CMGO_48HStTULf6Hf3ETnHCT2Tu47oWq2JdE6RaWyLRoENvP1-w4u7fhnn78FFLZHzUeQLofg_2I_i4WkdFNU8HDx8dYtH28PFK_PK-INr5QeakERep6reraCWcmDGvHEi91XQUCQ6NAtFoEHxlmu4xf1AhftKbwTpUJhszKaKnNQK/w200-h126/Eco%20Maniac.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><span style="font-family: helvetica;">11/19 - Saturday - Native Plant Garden Adopt-A-Park Work Day</span></li></ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Other News</span></li><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Autumn in your Garden</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Volunteer Recognition and Holiday Party - 12/15</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Volunteer Updates</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Volunteer Needs</span></li></ul></ul><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div><span style="text-align: center;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"></span></div></span></div></span></div></div></span></span></div></div></span></span></span></div></span></div><hr /></span></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"></div></b></div></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></b></div></div></span></div><b>Upcoming Events</b></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLyUE9xP9IhmYtD60eXXtEo9ybc7BC0fcKC3MPiYk1uVIYA7YaR0t-GRP1YvjT0d5_SaxtcImn5tPKPfGZJs-xRYebk2uKXbVqleHJ3QB_b1HiQLDlBXNVDfPf7GUqC8YjzY4XLj6BZB7ofCW7jSBcIYh9mjWIA-Ay7kVwn9ETcPGGw6pfJtTJp_BG/s243/Vote.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="131" data-original-width="243" height="131" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLyUE9xP9IhmYtD60eXXtEo9ybc7BC0fcKC3MPiYk1uVIYA7YaR0t-GRP1YvjT0d5_SaxtcImn5tPKPfGZJs-xRYebk2uKXbVqleHJ3QB_b1HiQLDlBXNVDfPf7GUqC8YjzY4XLj6BZB7ofCW7jSBcIYh9mjWIA-Ay7kVwn9ETcPGGw6pfJtTJp_BG/s1600/Vote.JPG" width="243" /></a></div><span><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b><span>City and Congressional Elections</span></b></span></span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; text-align: left;"><span><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b><span><br /></span></b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">Time is running out to decide who will be on the City Council, School Board, and in Congress. Please Get out and Vote! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><span 15px="" color:="" face=""Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" font-size:="" pre-wrap="" white-space:=""><span data-offset-key="d1clk-0-0"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span 15px="" color:="" face=""Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" font-size:="" pre-wrap="" white-space:=""><span data-offset-key="d1clk-0-0">Early</span></span><span 15px="" color:="" data-offset-key="d1clk-1-0" face=""Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" font-size:="" pre-wrap="" white-space:=""><span data-text="true"> voting continues until Saturday, November 5 at the Voter Registrar's Office and satellite locations - </span></span>Greenbrier Library, Russell Memorial Library, Central Library, Camelot Community Center, Dr. Clarence V. Cuffee Community Center, Indian River Library, and the Voter Registrar’s Office (411 Cedar Rd).<span 15px="" color:="" data-offset-key="d1clk-1-0" face=""Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" font-size:="" pre-wrap="" white-space:=""><span data-text="true"> The last day to vote is Tuesday, November 8 at your local precincts. </span></span><span 15px="" color:="" data-offset-key="d1clk-1-0" face=""Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" font-size:="" pre-wrap="" white-space:=""><span data-text="true">See the hours, details, and sample ballots can be seen at </span></span><span 15px="" class="ezidihy3" color="var(--blue-link)" face=""Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" font-size:="" pre-wrap="" white-space:=""><span data-offset-key="d1clk-2-0"><a href="https://www.cityofchesapeake.net/government/city-departments/departments/Public-Communications-Department/in-the-know/2022/8/November-2022-Voter-s-Guide.htm" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.cityofchesapeake.net/government/city-departments/departments/Public-Communications-Department/in-the-know/2022/8/November-2022-Voter-s-Guide.htm</a></span></span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span face="helvetica neue, arial, helvetica, sans-serif"><span 15px="" 400="" color:="" data-offset-key="d1clk-1-0" face=""Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" font-size:="" font-weight:="" pre-wrap="" white-space:=""><span data-text="true"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div>There are five seats up for election in the City Council, five seats on the School Board plus 1 special election for the School Board, and our Congressional Representative. </span></span><span 15px="" 400="" color:="" data-offset-key="d1clk-3-0" face=""Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" font-size:="" font-weight:="" pre-wrap="" white-space:=""><span data-text="true">Ballotpedia has a summary of all the candidates and links to their website where available. You can find these at </span></span><span 15px="" 400="" class="ezidihy3" color="var(--blue-link)" face=""Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" font-size:="" font-weight:="" pre-wrap="" white-space:=""><span data-offset-key="d1clk-4-0"><a href="https://ballotpedia.org/City_elections_in_Chesapeake,_Virginia_(2022)">https://ballotpedia.org/City_elections_in_Chesapeake,_Virginia_(2022)</a></span></span><span 15px="" 400="" color:="" data-offset-key="d1clk-5-0" face=""Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" font-size:="" font-weight:="" pre-wrap="" white-space:=""><span data-text="true"> </span></span></span></span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span face="helvetica neue, arial, helvetica, sans-serif"><span 15px="" 400="" class="ezidihy3" color="var(--blue-link)" face=""Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" font-size:="" font-weight:="" pre-wrap="" white-space:=""><span data-offset-key="d1clk-6-0"><a href="https://ballotpedia.org/Chesapeake_Public_Schools,_Virginia,_elections_(2022)" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://ballotpedia.org/Chesapeake_Public_Schools,_Virginia,_elections_(2022)</a></span></span><span 15px="" 400="" color:="" data-offset-key="d1clk-7-0" face=""Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" font-size:="" font-weight:="" pre-wrap="" white-space:=""><span data-text="true"> </span></span></span></span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span face="helvetica neue, arial, helvetica, sans-serif"><span 15px="" 400="" class="ezidihy3" color="var(--blue-link)" face=""Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" font-size:="" font-weight:="" pre-wrap="" white-space:=""><span data-offset-key="d1clk-8-0"><a href="https://ballotpedia.org/Virginia%27s_3rd_Congressional_District_election,_2022">https://ballotpedia.org/Virginia%27s_3rd_Congressional_District_election,_2022</a></span></span><span 15px="" 400="" color:="" data-offset-key="d1clk-9-0" face=""Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" font-size:="" font-weight:="" pre-wrap="" white-space:=""><span data-text="true"> </span><span data-text="true">The Friends of Indian River does not endorse any candidates.</span></span></span></span></div></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b style="text-align: center;"><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYe6qF90jmNVWIKtaD6CY8ctH19h7IbShI2dD_X__q287imyhD12o1a4_W0ROv8rmecUvq0FuHd_foVHMrJmeFLtUGx_1LUI6BUUf9I0l-ZVJG-7bYuGhtdAvmv7e3xSlPjkeJYejRdGdjH_REHV_cXHvT8rmbbUEuMstGKJnTAnnwt8T4n1kcQsWg/s1600/IMG_5927.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYe6qF90jmNVWIKtaD6CY8ctH19h7IbShI2dD_X__q287imyhD12o1a4_W0ROv8rmecUvq0FuHd_foVHMrJmeFLtUGx_1LUI6BUUf9I0l-ZVJG-7bYuGhtdAvmv7e3xSlPjkeJYejRdGdjH_REHV_cXHvT8rmbbUEuMstGKJnTAnnwt8T4n1kcQsWg/w200-h150/IMG_5927.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>Second Saturday Hike @ Indian River Park</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b style="text-align: center;"><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div><span><span>Date: </span>Saturday, November 12, 8:30 am</span></div><div><br /></div><div><span>Location: Indian River Park entrance at Rokeby Ave. and Main St. (2001 Rokeby Ave.)</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>Learn about the history of the park, the native trees and plants in this century old forest on the Indian River flood plain, and its value to maintaining the health of local butterfly, bird, and wildlife populations. Note: the forest trail has uneven surfaces and minor elevation changes.<br /></span><span><br /></span></div><div><span>Please pre-register at <a href="https://forms.gle/5ymMG7az6kdXxkCm7" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/5ymMG7az6kdXxkCm7</a></span></div></div></span></div><div><b style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div style="font-weight: 400; text-align: left;"><b style="text-align: center;">Bi-monthly Meeting: <br /></b></div><div style="font-weight: 400; text-align: left;"><b style="text-align: center;"><br /></b></div><div style="font-weight: 400; text-align: left;"><div><span><span>Date: </span>Thursday, November 17</span></div><div><br /></div><div><span>Location: Oaklette United Methodist Church, 520 Oaklette Drive</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjugnWWJDR2K6CMGO_48HStTULf6Hf3ETnHCT2Tu47oWq2JdE6RaWyLRoENvP1-w4u7fhnn78FFLZHzUeQLofg_2I_i4WkdFNU8HDx8dYtH28PFK_PK-INr5QeakERep6reraCWcmDGvHEi91XQUCQ6NAtFoEHxlmu4xf1AhftKbwTpUJhszKaKnNQK/s1419/Eco%20Maniac.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="894" data-original-width="1419" height="126" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjugnWWJDR2K6CMGO_48HStTULf6Hf3ETnHCT2Tu47oWq2JdE6RaWyLRoENvP1-w4u7fhnn78FFLZHzUeQLofg_2I_i4WkdFNU8HDx8dYtH28PFK_PK-INr5QeakERep6reraCWcmDGvHEi91XQUCQ6NAtFoEHxlmu4xf1AhftKbwTpUJhszKaKnNQK/w200-h126/Eco%20Maniac.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><u>5 pm - 7 pm Eco Maniac Shopping Opportunity</u></div><div><u><br /></u></div><div><a href="https://www.ecomaniaccompany.com/" target="_blank">Eco Maniac</a> will be setting up their sales truck in the church parking lot from 5 pm to 7 pm. They offer many reusable alternatives to single-use plastics, a variety of plastic-free/packaging-free products, and Fair Trade Gifts. They strive to offer quality products that are affordable, sustainable, ethically made, and all around good for the planet. Stop by and get an early start to your holiday shopping. </div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><u>7 pm <span style="text-align: center;">Guest Speaker Mayor Rick West</span></u></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjapZDyX3SThBPMpjpJmF1buE0j1zfJpzRXWbm31XhIUqZ7gcEJLpI57gChk6VNKS0lAv_t4rgxK1ZUDWmt2Wg8GDrYUyq4hrU0SfPUzXNoglTWo4N1nkle6lIhpD6-ks58hJWJVPEtRK_Cu6UPMBrGHnpoNzZVgctxZvl4fU-OweY5dRHa3D5jsQuI/s447/Neighborhoods.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="447" data-original-width="410" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjapZDyX3SThBPMpjpJmF1buE0j1zfJpzRXWbm31XhIUqZ7gcEJLpI57gChk6VNKS0lAv_t4rgxK1ZUDWmt2Wg8GDrYUyq4hrU0SfPUzXNoglTWo4N1nkle6lIhpD6-ks58hJWJVPEtRK_Cu6UPMBrGHnpoNzZVgctxZvl4fU-OweY5dRHa3D5jsQuI/w184-h200/Neighborhoods.png" width="184" /></a></div><span><br /></span></div><div><div><span>Our meeting will start at 7 pm in the social hall and our guest speaker will be Chesapeake Mayor Rick West who will provide the latest news on the state of the City and take questions from the audience.</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>We'll also have the latest community news/updates and some light refreshments!</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>Please also consider bringing a donation of non-perishable food items for the Oaklette United Methodist Church food pantry to the meeting this evening.</span></div></div></div></b></div><div><div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTDhCbkgIwU_9hTqiTwnyy9TwtWA2xhcqXIfhSNqkCFLidOJ5QzpVFVqlKCSPINScMt1NO0EKZYfsSly9hlMPXW_7uOUvW5ef_yvzuoW6OMsMRmJbYjyupyH9KJcihs8kybfGSjlq4x_pY1X2PDcBCo1m16vkh9EP2LX453IqL3TFJwTIwy9eMWf-x/s1600/5-IMG_7431.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="134" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTDhCbkgIwU_9hTqiTwnyy9TwtWA2xhcqXIfhSNqkCFLidOJ5QzpVFVqlKCSPINScMt1NO0EKZYfsSly9hlMPXW_7uOUvW5ef_yvzuoW6OMsMRmJbYjyupyH9KJcihs8kybfGSjlq4x_pY1X2PDcBCo1m16vkh9EP2LX453IqL3TFJwTIwy9eMWf-x/w200-h134/5-IMG_7431.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><b>Native Plant Garden Adopt-A-Park @ Indian River Park</b></div><div><br />Date: Saturday, November 19, 9 am to Noon</div><div><br /></div><div>Meet at the Indian River Park entrance at Rokeby Ave. and Main St. (2001 Rokeby Ave.) which is located just south of Military Highway, i.e. across Military Highway from the Fire Station.</div><div><br /></div><div>We'll be tending to the native plant garden at the park entrance, including weeding and mulching. We may also do some trail work, pruning, weeding, and cleanup.</div><div>Please wear closed-toe shoes, a hat and bring work gloves. If you can, bring shovels, rakes, pruners, saws and other gardening tools. We'll have water and snacks available. We also always encourage folks to bring their own water in reusable bottles to minimize use of plastic bottles and cans.</div><div> </div><div>Participants under 18 years of age must have adult supervision.</div><div><br /></div><div>Please pre-register at <a href="https://forms.gle/6YCqgu4eXwxzqRcB9" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/6YCqgu4eXwxzqRcB9</a></div></span></div><div><b style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div></b></div></div></div></div></span></span></div></div></span></span></span></div></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><hr /></span></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></b></div></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Other News</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2GEBwU6e88fxvSBGibGtl6L3ScGBxL2h7ioDFnm9VvCTLY4KSkJlglaIwiFOWJqWF5dYPCh2pYJz-MqNXBPb-Xik9cpOtHRBlVSD8Jt_13aAIfr9Bh0BJAKoAMgy_p6ys28ck7Fe7UF9Ypw188SjXzqm5bng2_aE-yeXuk9vvyPFAtfSMfRYDtYHS/s640/311498827_527384552537249_5633974755660202052_n.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="512" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2GEBwU6e88fxvSBGibGtl6L3ScGBxL2h7ioDFnm9VvCTLY4KSkJlglaIwiFOWJqWF5dYPCh2pYJz-MqNXBPb-Xik9cpOtHRBlVSD8Jt_13aAIfr9Bh0BJAKoAMgy_p6ys28ck7Fe7UF9Ypw188SjXzqm5bng2_aE-yeXuk9vvyPFAtfSMfRYDtYHS/s320/311498827_527384552537249_5633974755660202052_n.jpg" width="256" /></a></div><span color:="" font-family:="" helvetica="" style="font-family: helvetica;"><b>Autumn in your Garden</b><br /></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span color:="" font-family:="" helvetica="" style="font-family: helvetica;">It's autumn and the leaves are starting to turn into all their pretty golds, yellows, orange, reds and will soon be falling. For gardeners, it's a time to get ready for next year, but this can be a lot less work than you may think. Here are some great tips for the autumn:</span></div><div><span color:="" font-family:="" helvetica="" style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span color:="" font-family:="" helvetica="" style="font-family: helvetica;">1) Leave those leaves. You really do not need to make the effort to rake and bag all those leaves. Mulch mow the leaves on your lawn to break them into smaller pieces that will compost on your lawn and add valuable nutrients to your soil. Leave the leaves in your garden beds and around your trees - they are free mulch, help build stronger soil, and provide valuable overwinter habitat for overwintering butterflies and moths, turtles, birds, and other wildlife. Please never blow your leaves into the street or into ditches - this ends up clogging storm drainage and pushing unneeded nutrients into our waterways.</span></div><div><span color:="" font-family:="" helvetica="" style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span color:="" font-family:="" helvetica="" style="font-family: helvetica;">2) Hold off on the garden cleanup. You don't need to cut down all those past-bloom flower stalks. The seed heads from those flowers are critical food sources for finches and other birds, and many pollinators use the plants stems and leaves as places to overwinter. Wait until spring when temperatures are consistently over 50 F before tidying up the gardens. A little mess is wonderful for nature. </span></div><div><span color:="" font-family:="" helvetica="" style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span color:="" font-family:="" helvetica="" style="font-family: helvetica;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8npqeVLz4uTVpGiKVGymsc3OVpeodXEyw3tm55XouEAHER27_oRPNSzfhDI3_S0OyQ1Or0FJfaE45434KuTBVqRNBYfKEAxmhlr6wD-Pa_2U92HqJXtiMhIC65SsqIUaI13PNHALEIGMdTPa4Yn2dnUjkylMSS6NFVyvjCY1SFGkcLk5JR_5e8sKM/s816/311980779_5790290744369562_5946440484409945702_n.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="816" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8npqeVLz4uTVpGiKVGymsc3OVpeodXEyw3tm55XouEAHER27_oRPNSzfhDI3_S0OyQ1Or0FJfaE45434KuTBVqRNBYfKEAxmhlr6wD-Pa_2U92HqJXtiMhIC65SsqIUaI13PNHALEIGMdTPa4Yn2dnUjkylMSS6NFVyvjCY1SFGkcLk5JR_5e8sKM/w200-h133/311980779_5790290744369562_5946440484409945702_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>3) It's not too late to plant more plants. In the Hampton Roads area, you can generally plant perennials and shrubs in November, December, and even early January. This will let them get acclimated and give them a tremendous head start in the spring. And this is the best time to plant trees. So, this is one thing you should not wait to do!</span></div><div><span color:="" font-family:="" helvetica="" style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span color:="" font-family:="" helvetica="" style="font-family: helvetica;">And if you are ready to plant a tree and also a River Star Home - and you can sign up as a River Star for FREE - the Elizabeth River Project is offering a FREE tree to Chesapeake residents. Get yours now at </span><a href="https://elizabethriver.org/river-star-homes/free-tree-program/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Free Tree Program - Elizabeth River Project</span></a>.</div><div><span color:="" font-family:="" helvetica="" style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span color:="" font-family:="" helvetica="" style="font-family: helvetica;">References</span></div><div><span color:="" font-family:="" helvetica="" style="font-family: helvetica;"><a href="https://www.bobvila.com/articles/mulching-leaves/" target="_blank">Why Mulching Leaves Is Better Than Raking—and How to Do It (bobvila.com)</a> </span></div><div><span color:="" font-family:="" helvetica="" style="font-family: helvetica;"><a href="https://www.npr.org/2022/10/25/1131114849/leaves-fall-autumn-compost-mulch-grass-lawn-nutrients" target="_blank">Why experts say you shouldn't bag your leaves this fall : NPR</a> </span></div><div><span color:="" font-family:="" helvetica="" style="font-family: helvetica;"><a href="https://www.ruralsprout.com/dont-tidy-garden-fall/" target="_blank">5 Good Reasons Not to Tidy Up Your Garden This Fall (ruralsprout.com)</a></span></div><div><span color:="" font-family:="" helvetica="" style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2xh_IU9QfzX9rRJdLE9UQZY7ID-rvksk7WAw5oTQwAbVcpZJjL3rCRPqvVCbyMp1uerTerLYZaTGxMCK9T4WfIqJFUle3AJh2J4pkKDURDdOVHoDLFgnr7-bRtyMgZQ68EvQKBcbEsgeMHg56n_6mSudlGimxs_ksxlY_h2DIcSjn_e4tlWWU120a/s3264/1-IMG_3528.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2448" data-original-width="3264" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2xh_IU9QfzX9rRJdLE9UQZY7ID-rvksk7WAw5oTQwAbVcpZJjL3rCRPqvVCbyMp1uerTerLYZaTGxMCK9T4WfIqJFUle3AJh2J4pkKDURDdOVHoDLFgnr7-bRtyMgZQ68EvQKBcbEsgeMHg56n_6mSudlGimxs_ksxlY_h2DIcSjn_e4tlWWU120a/w320-h240/1-IMG_3528.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Annual Volunteer Appreciation and Holiday Party</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Date: Thursday, December 15</span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div>Mark the date for the return of the Friends of Indian River Holiday Party!</div><div><br /></div><div>This will be our end of year celebration to recognize our many accomplishments, recognize our volunteers, and socialize. Please bring a desert or appetizer to share and join the festivities. We'll have a silent auction, so you can finish some Christmas shopping too. </div></span></div><div><span color:="" font-family:="" helvetica="" style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Volunteer Updates</b></div><div><b><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDEHSVZd5K4X0uzHIMJ2O090mcjb_D2Wcdz6NFteuhPVSIItvNx3hJ-n5DW3rXGNcPX46-sFDKOT6Yq9rZwG2PWuIWbWOX8v_5V0byaPvqkmvk4120FOiMCWiRmHtTzVRybOooAkIVVYg5Ea68wT0X-AavoXiTSBCYzvQyOgzwfkXh41veM3bn_4MS/s320/IMG_3276.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="240" data-original-width="320" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDEHSVZd5K4X0uzHIMJ2O090mcjb_D2Wcdz6NFteuhPVSIItvNx3hJ-n5DW3rXGNcPX46-sFDKOT6Yq9rZwG2PWuIWbWOX8v_5V0byaPvqkmvk4120FOiMCWiRmHtTzVRybOooAkIVVYg5Ea68wT0X-AavoXiTSBCYzvQyOgzwfkXh41veM3bn_4MS/w200-h150/IMG_3276.JPG" width="200" /></a></div></b></div><div>Thank you to the 10 volunteers who came out in October for our Adopt-A-Road cleanup around the Indian River Oaklette Bridge and the future Blue Heron Landing. The area needed the TLC. The volunteers collected about 300 lbs of trash and debris.</div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>Volunteers Needs</b></div><div><span style="color: #050505;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #050505;">We need volunteers to help with weeding at the new landscaping at the Oaklette Indian River Bridge and at the native plant garden at Indian River Park. We also need volunteers to help with removing invasive plants at the Park. There are also other volunteer opportunities listed on our website at </span><a href="http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/volunteer.html" target="_blank">http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/volunteer.html</a><span style="color: #050505;">. If you can help out on any of these, please contact us at </span><a href="mailto:info@friendsofindianriver.org" rel="nofollow">info@friendsofindianriver.org</a></div></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div></div></span></div></div></div></span></div></span></div></div></span></div>Rogardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00794374232118059295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743478099611773251.post-81216386825247588352022-10-01T13:11:00.012-04:002022-10-06T08:48:46.180-04:00October Newsletter and Events<p><span style="font-family: helvetica;"> </span></p><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Upcoming Events</span></li><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">10/15 - Saturday - History Walk</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">10/22 - Saturday - Adopt-A-Road Cleannup along Indian River Road</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">11/12 - Saturday - Second Saturday Hike at Indian River Park</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">11/17 - Thursday - Bi-montly Meeting - Guest Speaker Mayor Rick West</span></li></ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Other News</span></li><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">City and Congressional Elections</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">October is </span><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Riparian Buffer Month</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Indian River Park Update</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Volunteer Updates</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Volunteer Needs</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Thru 10/22 - Linger A While Exhibit at the Cuffee Library</span></li></ul></ul><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div><span style="text-align: center;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><hr /></span></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"></div></b></div></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></b></div></div></span></div><b>Upcoming Events</b></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: right;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi346Q8HIhejZJnVM2e8w0b2zeUtjaXNsJoi8wLhxsKFNVqoAx3V9kCv_ya0bBXj6IaHn5Sc1oIeYETddvdhVXaKRazkQ44tOTmcmmY_xOJobKEW5zwg3CQ0bxmwmbMhaEEJKftX_5yV9bqfNvCNllQ1y3-qVov_FOF_w6tU6U69U_saLqu0Fn50FNW/s640/Norfolk%20Highlands%20Primary%20School.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="514" data-original-width="640" height="161" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi346Q8HIhejZJnVM2e8w0b2zeUtjaXNsJoi8wLhxsKFNVqoAx3V9kCv_ya0bBXj6IaHn5Sc1oIeYETddvdhVXaKRazkQ44tOTmcmmY_xOJobKEW5zwg3CQ0bxmwmbMhaEEJKftX_5yV9bqfNvCNllQ1y3-qVov_FOF_w6tU6U69U_saLqu0Fn50FNW/w200-h161/Norfolk%20Highlands%20Primary%20School.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><b style="text-align: center;">History Walk</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b style="text-align: center;"><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div><span><span>Date: </span>Saturday, October 15, 1 pm to 3 pm</span></div><div><br /></div><div><span>Location: Meet on Lilac Avenue by Norfolk Highlands Primary School, 1116 Lilac Avenue</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><div><span>Take a stroll into the history of our community on this walk around Norfolk Highlands and Oaklette. We'll start at Norfolk Highlands Primary School, the core of which was built in 1913, stop by the future Blue Heron Landing Park to talk about the history of settlement along the Indian River, and then cross the bridge to walk around the Oaklette Historic District including a look at the outside of the famous Colonna's Houseboat.</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><div>We'll be walking for about 1.25 miles over 2 hours and it will all be standing. </div><div><br /></div><div>Recommended age at least 12 and up.</div></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>Please pre-register at <a href="https://forms.gle/kivrGebAEmQc8J7F8" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/kivrGebAEmQc8J7F8</a></span></div></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b style="text-align: center;"><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b style="text-align: center;">Adopt-A-Road Cleanup along Indian River Road</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSi_1HnS8oRaS6zLl9xIjdeqaG14_Ba8RJy2_5jYXaj9ubKSJvSZYlQ-q2f4ZOHnKWBHDRsdlMfy0gfBRlNJf3Jqncy2m1ze3JmWsChe3sN_X8hQtDGtGHRlAWbUuUal5vo1SOiDxzKsOM5G170mJoMRZ0AMAAZWsVCC8BExxpyNwmZsikWtizZDK8/s800/IMG_8310.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSi_1HnS8oRaS6zLl9xIjdeqaG14_Ba8RJy2_5jYXaj9ubKSJvSZYlQ-q2f4ZOHnKWBHDRsdlMfy0gfBRlNJf3Jqncy2m1ze3JmWsChe3sN_X8hQtDGtGHRlAWbUuUal5vo1SOiDxzKsOM5G170mJoMRZ0AMAAZWsVCC8BExxpyNwmZsikWtizZDK8/w200-h150/IMG_8310.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><span><div><span><br /></span></div>Date: </span><span>Saturday, October 22, 9 am to Noon</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div><br /></div><div><span>Location: Meet at Lilac Avenue and Indian River Road. Park along Lilac Avenue by the Norfolk Highlands Primary School. </span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><div><span>We'll be doing our quarterly cleanup along Indian River Road, around the Indian River Oaklette Bridge, and the future Blue Heron Landing Park. We'll also have a team doing any necessary gardening around the new landscaping at the bridge. </span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>For our main cleanup on Indian River Road, the city will provide garbage bags and safety vests. Please wear closed-toe shoes, a hat and bring work gloves and other items that may be useful. Participants under 18 years of age must have adult supervision.</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>We are also asking all business owners along Indian River Road - and everywhere really - to make sure they sweep up in front of their storefronts as part of the effort. And if you can't make it out for our organized cleanup please take 15 minutes and clean up the street and ditches in front of your home; pass the word to your neighbors!</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>Please pre-register at <a href="https://forms.gle/35EHLZ9Hj8zPP65R6" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/35EHLZ9Hj8zPP65R6</a></span></div></div></div></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b style="text-align: center;"><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYe6qF90jmNVWIKtaD6CY8ctH19h7IbShI2dD_X__q287imyhD12o1a4_W0ROv8rmecUvq0FuHd_foVHMrJmeFLtUGx_1LUI6BUUf9I0l-ZVJG-7bYuGhtdAvmv7e3xSlPjkeJYejRdGdjH_REHV_cXHvT8rmbbUEuMstGKJnTAnnwt8T4n1kcQsWg/s1600/IMG_5927.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYe6qF90jmNVWIKtaD6CY8ctH19h7IbShI2dD_X__q287imyhD12o1a4_W0ROv8rmecUvq0FuHd_foVHMrJmeFLtUGx_1LUI6BUUf9I0l-ZVJG-7bYuGhtdAvmv7e3xSlPjkeJYejRdGdjH_REHV_cXHvT8rmbbUEuMstGKJnTAnnwt8T4n1kcQsWg/w200-h150/IMG_5927.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>Second Saturday Hike @ Indian River Park</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b style="text-align: center;"><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div><span><span>Date: </span>Saturday, November 12, 8:30 am</span></div><div><br /></div><div><span>Location: Indian River Park entrance at Rokeby Ave. and Main St. (2001 Rokeby Ave.)</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>Learn about the history of the park, the native trees and plants in this century old forest on the Indian River flood plain, and its value to maintaining the health of local butterfly, bird, and wildlife populations. Note: the forest trail has uneven surfaces and minor elevation changes.<br /></span><span><br /></span></div><div><span>Please pre-register at <a href="https://forms.gle/5ymMG7az6kdXxkCm7" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/5ymMG7az6kdXxkCm7</a></span></div></div></span></div><div><b style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP1PL3bERldR5pJ10IH-WYZYgs1OI_1U9Kpw_1QiTWYaCKAEn83AtXIf_-HEoREGlxLXXyNGkPXurMFowDf84NYj8nMXkor7Gtbp0wAnNA6EHN9WnPefRZLvr4yu0JOLeWRywngmmELPAqTW6j8KOeEtXrTWmlBM03PDJCeLAW4sEUYgI_fOKPOMbf/s671/Rick%20West-1.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="671" data-original-width="503" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP1PL3bERldR5pJ10IH-WYZYgs1OI_1U9Kpw_1QiTWYaCKAEn83AtXIf_-HEoREGlxLXXyNGkPXurMFowDf84NYj8nMXkor7Gtbp0wAnNA6EHN9WnPefRZLvr4yu0JOLeWRywngmmELPAqTW6j8KOeEtXrTWmlBM03PDJCeLAW4sEUYgI_fOKPOMbf/w150-h200/Rick%20West-1.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>Bi-monthly Meeting: Guest Speaker Mayor Rick West</b></div><div><b style="text-align: center;"><br /></b></div><div><div><span><span>Date: </span>Thursday, November 17, 7 pm</span></div><div><br /></div><div><span>Location: Oaklette United Methodist Church, 520 Oaklette Drive</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><div><span>Our guest speaker will be Chesapeake Mayor Rick West who will provide the latest news on the state of the City and take questions from the audience.</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>We'll also have the latest community news/updates and some light refreshments!</span></div><div><b style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div></b></div></div></div></div></span></span></div></div></span></span></span></div></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><hr /></span></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></b></div></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Other News</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span>City and Congressional Elections</span></b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span face="helvetica neue, arial, helvetica, sans-serif"><span 15px="" color:="" face=""Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" font-size:="" pre-wrap="" white-space:=""><span data-offset-key="d1clk-0-0">Early</span></span><span 15px="" color:="" data-offset-key="d1clk-1-0" face=""Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" font-size:="" pre-wrap="" white-space:=""><span data-text="true"> voting is already underway at the Voter Registrar's Office. Voting at satellite locations - local libraries - starts on October 24 and the last day to vote is November 8. The deadline to register to vote, or update an existing registration is October 17. </span></span><span 15px="" color:="" data-offset-key="d1clk-1-0" face=""Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" font-size:="" pre-wrap="" white-space:=""><span data-text="true">More details and sample ballots can be seen at </span></span><span 15px="" class="ezidihy3" color="var(--blue-link)" face=""Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" font-size:="" pre-wrap="" white-space:=""><span data-offset-key="d1clk-2-0"><a href="https://www.cityofchesapeake.net/government/city-departments/departments/Public-Communications-Department/in-the-know/2022/8/November-2022-Voter-s-Guide.htm" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.cityofchesapeake.net/government/city-departments/departments/Public-Communications-Department/in-the-know/2022/8/November-2022-Voter-s-Guide.htm</a></span></span></span><span face="helvetica neue, arial, helvetica, sans-serif"><span 15px="" 400="" color:="" data-offset-key="d1clk-1-0" face=""Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" font-size:="" font-weight:="" pre-wrap="" white-space:=""><span data-text="true"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div>There are five seats up for election in the City Council, five seats on the School Board plus 1 special election for the School Board, and our Congressional Representative. </span></span><span 15px="" 400="" color:="" data-offset-key="d1clk-3-0" face=""Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" font-size:="" font-weight:="" pre-wrap="" white-space:=""><span data-text="true">Ballotpedia has a summary of all the candidates and links to their website where available. You can find these at </span></span><span 15px="" 400="" class="ezidihy3" color="var(--blue-link)" face=""Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" font-size:="" font-weight:="" pre-wrap="" white-space:=""><span data-offset-key="d1clk-4-0"><a href="https://ballotpedia.org/City_elections_in_Chesapeake,_Virginia_(2022)">https://ballotpedia.org/City_elections_in_Chesapeake,_Virginia_(2022)</a></span></span><span 15px="" 400="" color:="" data-offset-key="d1clk-5-0" face=""Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" font-size:="" font-weight:="" pre-wrap="" white-space:=""><span data-text="true">
</span></span><span 15px="" 400="" class="ezidihy3" color="var(--blue-link)" face=""Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" font-size:="" font-weight:="" pre-wrap="" white-space:=""><span data-offset-key="d1clk-6-0"><a href="https://ballotpedia.org/Chesapeake_Public_Schools,_Virginia,_elections_(2022)">https://ballotpedia.org/Chesapeake_Public_Schools,_Virginia,_elections_(2022)</a></span></span><span 15px="" 400="" color:="" data-offset-key="d1clk-7-0" face=""Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" font-size:="" font-weight:="" pre-wrap="" white-space:=""><span data-text="true">
</span></span><span 15px="" 400="" class="ezidihy3" color="var(--blue-link)" face=""Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" font-size:="" font-weight:="" pre-wrap="" white-space:=""><span data-offset-key="d1clk-8-0"><a href="https://ballotpedia.org/Virginia%27s_3rd_Congressional_District_election,_2022">https://ballotpedia.org/Virginia%27s_3rd_Congressional_District_election,_2022</a></span></span><span 15px="" 400="" color:="" data-offset-key="d1clk-9-0" face=""Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" font-size:="" font-weight:="" pre-wrap="" white-space:=""><span data-text="true">
</span><span data-text="true">The Friends of Indian River does not endorse any candidates.</span></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><div><span color:="" font-family:="" helvetica="" style="font-family: helvetica;"><b>October is Riparian Buffer Month</b><br /></span></div><div><span color:="" font-family:="" helvetica="" style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span color:="" font-family:="" helvetica="" style="font-family: helvetica;">Riparian buffers, or waterside buffers, protect and improve our river and local streams. A riparian buffer is an area adjacent to a stream, lake, wetland, or coastal area that contains a combination of trees, shrubs, and/or other plants that provide conservation benefits. These plantings filter nutrients, pesticides, sediment and animal waste from stormwater runoff; reduce erosion; provide wildlife habitat; increase the beauty of the area; and provide recreational space. </span></div><div><span color:="" font-family:="" helvetica="" style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span color:="" font-family:="" helvetica="" style="font-family: helvetica;">Along the Indian River, riparian buffers are protected under the Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act, limiting development in the 100' buffer along the river and its tributaries. Protecting and improving the buffers along our river is critical to improving the health of our waterway, preparing for sea level rise, and protecting property values. </span></div><div><span color:="" font-family:="" helvetica="" style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span color:="" font-family:="" helvetica="">We know of at least five shoreline restoration and enhancement projects carried out along the Indian River with the help of the Elizabeth River Project and Chesapeake Bay Foundation. </span><span color:="" font-family:="" helvetica="">If you are interested in improving your shoreline, there are several grant programs in our area that can help. </span><span style="color: #050505;">The Virginia Conservation Assistance Program (VCAP) can provide up to 80% cost reimbursement for various projects - available to residential, commercial, and institutional property owners. And VCAP applicants "may pair VCAP cost share funding with other grant or non-agricultural cost-share programs to fund a particular project". The Elizabeth River Project also has a cost share project that can provide up to 50% funding for Conservation Landscaping, Shoreline Restoration, Rain Gardens for River Star Homes. </span><span style="color: #050505;">See <a href="https://vaswcd.org/vcap" target="_blank">https://vaswcd.org/vcap</a> and <a href="https://elizabethriver.org/river-star-homes/" target="_blank">https://elizabethriver.org/river-star-homes/</a> for more info or contact us for some background info.</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOF1vQigEr6nYTp3ysZXgvfUER9Ux_VQgqnTP_afbdh3N-AlRfFPoAFLSiqdBM29BOvXFoXiHApFWKW6N41NvxO6vzwkY-hTUoWmc5UC7MOMBVn80FlgFYWxXhrRlH9ymbFaEy4TyoODzjuY8VyDkPq3uTmus6FBBZMJsuCUrj5llovrrAyl5iaWN3/s1024/P8280257.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1024" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOF1vQigEr6nYTp3ysZXgvfUER9Ux_VQgqnTP_afbdh3N-AlRfFPoAFLSiqdBM29BOvXFoXiHApFWKW6N41NvxO6vzwkY-hTUoWmc5UC7MOMBVn80FlgFYWxXhrRlH9ymbFaEy4TyoODzjuY8VyDkPq3uTmus6FBBZMJsuCUrj5llovrrAyl5iaWN3/w400-h266/P8280257.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /><span style="color: #050505;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span color:="" font-family:="" helvetica="" style="font-family: helvetica;"><div style="color: black;"><span style="color: #050505;"><b>Indian River Park Update</b><br /></span></div><div style="color: black;"><span style="color: #050505;"><br /></span></div><div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimmOxC1z86WkgR-3dUvaSLw5XcwoJ_SjEWwJuy4FtrseL3Ugu1PJTiTYUnz8H2fvobKNbAC8QSt2G4Ubc-Nkb6DGQ2p3Dte9E08rGxR5Bkd4JF9SFuEpnAVArzFJgKROkVLQlHJyAYsWlCXc4ZZEHOzdCOA3ARu168tmMaUrZNd3Tr2hFlrb7o4iYo/s699/306738858_5689620807769890_4650109343226716797_n.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="699" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimmOxC1z86WkgR-3dUvaSLw5XcwoJ_SjEWwJuy4FtrseL3Ugu1PJTiTYUnz8H2fvobKNbAC8QSt2G4Ubc-Nkb6DGQ2p3Dte9E08rGxR5Bkd4JF9SFuEpnAVArzFJgKROkVLQlHJyAYsWlCXc4ZZEHOzdCOA3ARu168tmMaUrZNd3Tr2hFlrb7o4iYo/w320-h246/306738858_5689620807769890_4650109343226716797_n.png" width="320" /></a></div>Chesapeake Parks, Recreation, and Tourism (PRT) held a public planning meeting in September to gather input regarding trails, signage, and identifying opportunities for improving visitor experience for the many user groups who dearly love and use the park. About 24 citizens came to the meeting. PRT had a lot of staff present - 6 staffers including PRT Director Mike Barber and 2 rangers. Director Barber set some baseline expectation that the City needs to be directly involved in managing the park and users can't just build stuff in the park. Overall, everyone attending the meeting seemed supportive and constructive. Some of the key comments we heard: What do folks love about the park? The mature forest, the location nearby, the multiple use options. What changes would you like to see? Better trail maintenance and signage, removal of invasives, some requests for more "wooden features" for bikers, better erosion control, port-a-potties, a water station, and more trash cans.<br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b style="background-color: transparent;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj36vWEBSb-EgIrn1ab_lGkqvlv_olHY952AYcfR_9mnleuv6f4gfNYzkNwJzRfOD1zBe54rumLeOS3QEvGBEEh1rJTYAKDUlsLmOhRvduf2dg9rkqunEFOBdSedgYtGBQGHPsOcz9NMhR7bJPuCz_x7nnno4JhERWi-qkgY81sOuxX0CROLugT1zcr/s1024/IMG_0186.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1024" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj36vWEBSb-EgIrn1ab_lGkqvlv_olHY952AYcfR_9mnleuv6f4gfNYzkNwJzRfOD1zBe54rumLeOS3QEvGBEEh1rJTYAKDUlsLmOhRvduf2dg9rkqunEFOBdSedgYtGBQGHPsOcz9NMhR7bJPuCz_x7nnno4JhERWi-qkgY81sOuxX0CROLugT1zcr/s320/IMG_0186.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Volunteer Updates</b></div><div><span style="background-color: transparent;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: transparent;">Thank you to the small but determined group that came out on the Indian River for the #InternationalCoastalCleanup in late September. Unfortunately, it didn't take us too long to collect about 10 bags - 150 lbs - of trash from along the shoreline. Mostly plastic bottles, bags, and food packaging. The biggest item was a huge plastic tarp. The smallest items - hundreds of pieces of plastic and foam - not that we got all of them.</span></div><div><b style="background-color: transparent;"><br /></b></div><div><b style="background-color: transparent;">Volunteers Needs</b></div></div></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><span><b><br /></b></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><span>We need volunteers to help with weeding at the new landscaping at the Oaklette Indian River Bridge and at the native plant garden at Indian River Park. We also need volunteers to help with removing invasive plants at the Park. There are also other volunteer opportunities listed on our website at </span><a href="http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/volunteer.html" target="_blank">http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/volunteer.html</a>. If you can help out on any of these, please contact us at <a href="mailto:info@friendsofindianriver.org" rel="nofollow">info@friendsofindianriver.org</a></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><div><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><b>Linger a While: The Art of Ken Wright</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTI7-vi2OzyyQQWQkBd1OQadqc-Kuxc4JFi47SjOPofCagGbdaeewLgjzinJ_aFT5nu6Mb7RpnK6wZLFYJNYE1BObd_PRAAlX5nhjV_aPE8vfQVfdcllIUCFZfbSQHUUB64fjZUwXbYFfn6nBfL76xXUJxF4JlQsGtNkav6TRKuONB_P-hdxqHrdvR/s3968/P4090519.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2976" data-original-width="3968" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTI7-vi2OzyyQQWQkBd1OQadqc-Kuxc4JFi47SjOPofCagGbdaeewLgjzinJ_aFT5nu6Mb7RpnK6wZLFYJNYE1BObd_PRAAlX5nhjV_aPE8vfQVfdcllIUCFZfbSQHUUB64fjZUwXbYFfn6nBfL76xXUJxF4JlQsGtNkav6TRKuONB_P-hdxqHrdvR/w200-h150/P4090519.JPG" width="200" /></span></a></div><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;">From 9/9 through 10/22, the Cuffee Outreach and Innovation Library </span><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;">at 2726 Border Rd, will have an exhibition by</span><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"> a nationally acclaimed artist whose work hung in the White House under both Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama. Learn more at </span><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><a href="https://chesapeakelibrary.libnet.info/event/7059857">https://chesapeakelibrary.libnet.info/event/7059857</a></span></div><div></div><div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></b></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div></div></span></div></div></div></div></div></span></div></span></div></div></span></div>Rogardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00794374232118059295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743478099611773251.post-5931441390483524982022-08-29T11:13:00.002-04:002022-08-30T13:19:06.528-04:00September Newsletter and Events<ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Upcoming Events</span></li><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">9/15 - Thursday - Bi-monthly Meeting: Monarch Butterflies</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">9/17 - Saturday - International Coastal Cleanup by Canoe/Kayak</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">10/6 - Thursday - Chesapeake Conservation Conference and Annual Environmental Awards Luncheon</span></li></ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Other News</span></li><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Fall Events Poster</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Indian River Week in October</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">9/9 - 10/22 - Linger A While Exhibit at the Cuffee Library</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Need Volunteers</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Conservation Landscaping</span></li></ul></ul><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><span><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="text-align: center;"><b>Upcoming Events</b></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><b style="font-family: helvetica; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit3pABw5UZYRN_X7sLPQCF6I4csbTRnKkIsJ27Bt7jyx7CuJT74qVFHnOKvKwpUxy1GdH1vZrKfd7_6NeG_I6aJ-DdyyeO8UpkNTD6f57mXGj68ECW_TCPaKzTTVenM6y1wpO63jHlImlxzWCGq0OFfesp2P3DqZ8Q4jtmPqY3Oz-At0xoGOkoJsXk/s1024/IMG_0225.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit3pABw5UZYRN_X7sLPQCF6I4csbTRnKkIsJ27Bt7jyx7CuJT74qVFHnOKvKwpUxy1GdH1vZrKfd7_6NeG_I6aJ-DdyyeO8UpkNTD6f57mXGj68ECW_TCPaKzTTVenM6y1wpO63jHlImlxzWCGq0OFfesp2P3DqZ8Q4jtmPqY3Oz-At0xoGOkoJsXk/w200-h200/IMG_0225.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>Bi-monthly Meeting: Monarch Butterflies</b></div><div><b style="font-family: helvetica; text-align: center;"><br /></b></div><div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span>Date: </span>Thursday, September 15, 7 pm</span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Location: Oaklette United Methodist Church, 520 Oaklette Drive</span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;">We will start our fall season with a presentation from the Butterfly Society's Karen and Steve McCurdy. They will be talking about Monarch Butterflies, which we should be seeing in our gardens around now. They'll bring along some live caterpillars as part of their demonstration.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;">We'll also have the latest community news and updates!</span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><div><b style="font-family: helvetica; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGAQF0O0jRz5kcrfnhj38L8upjgZdP5scMfyhJdcsIDp_nVEHi9MlDUPSf-nYFr2hRYZt0MlQTL9MHXz-8-imsy2yzGe-_Ur_Z_bhKKoahvnYLe5E7vTgkbq18ky0kuibHcvuo496_AKeTh_MHm5di5HHGFhStuQv3SrbGqUYZiYG9-papcSyvgJoO/s1024/112-P9220751.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="685" data-original-width="1024" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGAQF0O0jRz5kcrfnhj38L8upjgZdP5scMfyhJdcsIDp_nVEHi9MlDUPSf-nYFr2hRYZt0MlQTL9MHXz-8-imsy2yzGe-_Ur_Z_bhKKoahvnYLe5E7vTgkbq18ky0kuibHcvuo496_AKeTh_MHm5di5HHGFhStuQv3SrbGqUYZiYG9-papcSyvgJoO/s320/112-P9220751.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>International Coastal Cleanup by Canoe/Kayak</b></div><div><b style="font-family: helvetica; text-align: center;"><br /></b></div><div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span>Date: </span>Saturday, September 17, 12 pm to 3 pm</span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Location: On the Indian River, see below</span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;">This is a "Bring Your Own Boat" event. If you plan to participate, it is important to let us know so that we can plan appropriately and provide additional information on logistics and where we will gather. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;">If you have a boat but nowhere to put in along the river, contact us to make arrangements on where to put in. If you'd like to participate but have no boat, contact us as we may have a limited number of extra spots on other boats. Contact us at <a href="mailto:info@friendsofindianriver.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">info@friendsofindianriver.org</a></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;">If you are participating with our group, review and complete the online safety release form at least one day before the event: <a href="https://forms.gle/J3sXGzT1P65rp3ZN8">https://forms.gle/J3sXGzT1P65rp3ZN8</a></span></div></div></div></div></div><div><br /></div><div><div><b style="font-family: helvetica; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2zugTwnXY-dgaR6OaA_zDsFq3Ed_2CtLDfcASPhPvJ-WvZUpNVU-yD-aBxM9TfyZ3IF0yUfpPPbVs9sgOHAA-hkimdVoeMVCD1nhazhN-pCjyCbM9-HBrwdJdZbXbeO2OeVVWZl9dItBNYWZJkq-AkfWGMp8DjkB8mcqpJ-BK9fvqc9gpBdFjd44p/s681/Conference.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="681" data-original-width="526" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2zugTwnXY-dgaR6OaA_zDsFq3Ed_2CtLDfcASPhPvJ-WvZUpNVU-yD-aBxM9TfyZ3IF0yUfpPPbVs9sgOHAA-hkimdVoeMVCD1nhazhN-pCjyCbM9-HBrwdJdZbXbeO2OeVVWZl9dItBNYWZJkq-AkfWGMp8DjkB8mcqpJ-BK9fvqc9gpBdFjd44p/s320/Conference.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>Chesapeake Conservation Conference and 39th Annual Environmental Awards Luncheon</b></div><div><b style="font-family: helvetica; text-align: center;"><br /></b></div><div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span>Date: </span>Thursday, October 6, 9 am to 2 pm</span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Location: Chesapeake Conference Center, tickets required</span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;">After a two-year break, the Chesapeake Conservation Conference and 39th Annual Environmental Awards are back this October. The Conference will be in the morning and focus on Urban Forestry with a panel discussion by local Urban Foresters and a presentation on Building Resiliency with Green Infrastructure. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;">After the morning sessions, the Environmental Awards Luncheon will honor local individuals, community groups, schools, and businesses for their outstanding environmental projects. Karen Firehock from the Green Infrastructure Center will deliver the keynote address “Can the Urban Forest Help Us Adapt to a Changing Climate?”</span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;">The Friends of Indian River will be receiving the Adult Community Organization Award during the Awards Luncheon. </span></div></div></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Tickets for the Conference and Luncheon are $50; the Luncheon only is $35. There are also sponsorship opportunities. Registration closes 9/15. Learn more and register at <a href="https://www.cityofchesapeake.net/conservationconference" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.cityofchesapeake.net/conservationconference</a></span></div><div><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></div></div></div><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><span><div style="text-align: left;"><div><br /></div></div></span></span></div></div></span></span></span></div></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><hr /></span></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></b></div></span></div><div><span>Please see and share our fall events poster - click for larger image</span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOWpwwuSyf7WP8D7NgX-fyxiuRnTBzdJCd4fwMvZzhEAutXfKh_ImP5m59TgKCnScU_3_P1DM8uEH2DQIH1bq_8RNU1xuBx_VSoJuT1Kkh4rFStdlcrCBGONvt_StoDCey97qv1IJ1vOzX3nxG-DGQoUHxadCTZeVFxBkciQjregYGt5CNMKv3_nq3/s1006/Screenshot%202022-08-28%20144110.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1006" data-original-width="742" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOWpwwuSyf7WP8D7NgX-fyxiuRnTBzdJCd4fwMvZzhEAutXfKh_ImP5m59TgKCnScU_3_P1DM8uEH2DQIH1bq_8RNU1xuBx_VSoJuT1Kkh4rFStdlcrCBGONvt_StoDCey97qv1IJ1vOzX3nxG-DGQoUHxadCTZeVFxBkciQjregYGt5CNMKv3_nq3/w295-h400/Screenshot%202022-08-28%20144110.jpg" width="295" /></a></div><br /><span><br /></span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT8JaNd2cr608jsstT0RDCWABiE-Gm6rKD_53wZftfOZ3EOgl4MrBt-y1RKbW6zfxczdMxAhXZ98_xqccBFqRqEdzUMpjmj0JyxdEKcDuUYFN6k-kbJJOQkcfSV-D7oHs17atWYswrn94GfkpTNOp7mgHwX1LeeIzKaCJHPdNFU8TBpB5tp3y3Sf_1/s676/Indian%20River%20Week.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="204" data-original-width="676" height="97" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT8JaNd2cr608jsstT0RDCWABiE-Gm6rKD_53wZftfOZ3EOgl4MrBt-y1RKbW6zfxczdMxAhXZ98_xqccBFqRqEdzUMpjmj0JyxdEKcDuUYFN6k-kbJJOQkcfSV-D7oHs17atWYswrn94GfkpTNOp7mgHwX1LeeIzKaCJHPdNFU8TBpB5tp3y3Sf_1/s320/Indian%20River%20Week.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><b>Indian River Week<br /></b></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><span style="background-color: white;">We're still planning to celebrate our community during the week of October 14th for our first ever Indian River Week.</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><span style="background-color: white;">- On Saturday, October 15, the Friends of Indian River will host a History Walk around Norfolk Highlands and Oaklette to talk about the rich history of the area.</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><span style="background-color: white;">- On Saturday, October 22, we'll be doing our quarterly cleanup along Indian River Road, around the Indian River Oaklette Bridge, and the future Blue Heron Landing Park. We'll also have a team doing any necessary gardening around the new landscaping at the bridge. </span></span></div><div><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><span style="background-color: white;">It is also Chesapeake Restaurant Week and we expect some of our local eateries to be highlighting their menu during this annual event. If you are a restaurant wanting to sign up for restaurant week, visit <a href="https://www.visitchesapeake.com/crwinfo/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.visitchesapeake.com/crwinfo/</a> for details.</span></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><span style="background-color: white;">Do you have an event going on in our area from October 14 to 22? Let us know and we'd love to help advertise it. </span></span></div><div><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTI7-vi2OzyyQQWQkBd1OQadqc-Kuxc4JFi47SjOPofCagGbdaeewLgjzinJ_aFT5nu6Mb7RpnK6wZLFYJNYE1BObd_PRAAlX5nhjV_aPE8vfQVfdcllIUCFZfbSQHUUB64fjZUwXbYFfn6nBfL76xXUJxF4JlQsGtNkav6TRKuONB_P-hdxqHrdvR/s3968/P4090519.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2976" data-original-width="3968" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTI7-vi2OzyyQQWQkBd1OQadqc-Kuxc4JFi47SjOPofCagGbdaeewLgjzinJ_aFT5nu6Mb7RpnK6wZLFYJNYE1BObd_PRAAlX5nhjV_aPE8vfQVfdcllIUCFZfbSQHUUB64fjZUwXbYFfn6nBfL76xXUJxF4JlQsGtNkav6TRKuONB_P-hdxqHrdvR/w200-h150/P4090519.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><b>Linger a While: The Art of Ken Wright</b></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;">From 9/9 through 10/22, the Cuffee Outreach and Innovation Library </span><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;">at 2726 Border Rd, will have an exhibition by</span><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"> a nationally acclaimed artist whose work hung in the White House under both Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama. Learn more at </span><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><a href="https://chesapeakelibrary.libnet.info/event/7059857">https://chesapeakelibrary.libnet.info/event/7059857</a></span></div><div></div><div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></b></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh82fLYUpu_LLsxXGE7O4dF3LopNddhhNIbQSV3BH92qrsCspDhUcaKUlN17oIJ7IgQyIJ01tJn5f2mgQQh8HGlTMwoXwUsVL75iqiuDdFuNfD56OqizXc2To3DpBz-lQwLgbiNzK_zU5RYeCG_h8oAECz2NPc7Np5awnqjZ7tgN8NpT_J6J8U1CS_t/s1024/IMG_9348.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1024" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh82fLYUpu_LLsxXGE7O4dF3LopNddhhNIbQSV3BH92qrsCspDhUcaKUlN17oIJ7IgQyIJ01tJn5f2mgQQh8HGlTMwoXwUsVL75iqiuDdFuNfD56OqizXc2To3DpBz-lQwLgbiNzK_zU5RYeCG_h8oAECz2NPc7Np5awnqjZ7tgN8NpT_J6J8U1CS_t/w200-h133/IMG_9348.JPG" width="200" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div><b style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;">Need Volunteers</b></div><div><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><span style="background-color: white;">We need volunteers to help with weeding at the new landscaping at the Oaklette Indian River Bridge and at the native plant garden at Indian River Park. We also need volunteers to help with removing invasive plants at the Park. There are also other volunteer opportunities listed on our website at </span><a href="http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/volunteer.html" target="_blank">http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/volunteer.html</a>. If you can help out on any of these, please contact us at <a href="mailto:info@friendsofindianriver.org" rel="nofollow">info@friendsofindianriver.org</a></span></div><div><br /></div></div></div></span></div></div></span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center; text-decoration-line: underline;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRysascxxoFdEkgJ24OG3ksa30TE6hM69JqtnC9w-euL4dbaeuz3mc6Lqif8tzag5tmkwg11CiQihLnK1OJv3heceherFKuzikcfLpAaqGXdw2SZaENbEYOHuoLkr4NDz0sxwRYmFrxbHLS3-SRChG0D1vxjm7RWQkuyaiEmBSfEGtGSiBlhpW0aXp/s848/ConservationLandscapingFlier%202022.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="848" data-original-width="728" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRysascxxoFdEkgJ24OG3ksa30TE6hM69JqtnC9w-euL4dbaeuz3mc6Lqif8tzag5tmkwg11CiQihLnK1OJv3heceherFKuzikcfLpAaqGXdw2SZaENbEYOHuoLkr4NDz0sxwRYmFrxbHLS3-SRChG0D1vxjm7RWQkuyaiEmBSfEGtGSiBlhpW0aXp/s320/ConservationLandscapingFlier%202022.JPG" width="275" /></a></div><b>Conservation Landscaping</b></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;">Interested in improving the natural value of your property? Would you like to add beauty while helping the environment? The Elizabeth River Project is still offering matching funding for installing living shorelines (up to $5000), buffers (up to $2000), or maybe a Rain Garden (up to $2000). The Friends of Indian River has limited funds to kick in up to another $250 toward these projects in the Indian River section of Chesapeake. Learn more at </span><a href="http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/conservation-landscaping-program.html" style="background-color: white; font-family: helvetica;" target="_blank">http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/conservation-landscaping-program.html</a></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">We always encourage you as an individual to pick up any stray litter that you come across along our roads, parking lots, and in our parks. Every piece of trash collected is one less that causes harm to wildlife in our natural areas and waterways. And just as important, reduce your use of single use packaging to not create litter in the fir</span></span></b></div></div></div></span></div></span></div></span></div></div></div></span></span></div></div></span></span></span></div></span></div>Rogardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00794374232118059295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743478099611773251.post-70540594400655920392022-07-02T14:46:00.006-04:002022-07-07T16:22:32.894-04:00Summer Newsletter <p> <span style="font-family: helvetica;">Happy Summer!</span></p><div><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Upcoming Events</span></li><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">7/9 Saturday - Second Saturday Hike at Indian River Park - <span style="color: red;">CANCELLED</span></span></li></ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">News</span></li><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Chesapeake 2022-2023 Capital Improvement Budget</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Indian River Small Area Plan - next steps</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Indian River Week planned for October</span></li></ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Get Involved</span></li><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Fall Events Preview</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Need Volunteers</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">June Accomplishments</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Conservation Landscaping</span></li></ul></ul><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><span><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="text-align: center;"><b>Upcoming Events</b></span></div><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><b style="font-family: helvetica; text-align: center;">Second Saturday Hike at Indian River Park</b></div><div><b style="font-family: helvetica; text-align: center;"><br /></b></div><div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span>Date: </span>Saturday, July 9, <span style="color: red;">CANCELLED</span></span></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></div></div></div></div></span></span></div></div></span></span></span></div></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><hr /></span></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></b></div></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">News</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><b>Chesapeake 2022-2023 Capital Improvement Budget</b></span></div><div><u style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><br /></u></div><div><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><span style="background-color: white;">The City's new fiscal year started on July 1. Some highlights affecting our area:<br /></span></span></div><div><ul><li><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;">#50-270 Indian River Road Design Guidelines Manual and Overlay District - for the Planning Department to create a commercial overlay district and guidelines manual for Indian River Road that defines elements such as building height and form, placemaking, land use, and landscaping to guide redevelopment in this corridor. Based on the Indian River Planning Area Study, it should include specific actions and policies to create the desired sense of place for the community. </span></span><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"> $175K in FY2023</span></li><li><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><span style="background-color: white;">#40-270 Indian River Road Redesign - </span>Redesigning Indian River Road to improve safety by adding bicycle lands and reducing speed limit along roadway while keeping appropriate capacity for automotive traffic. Based on the current number of vehicles per day that travel on road, Indian River Road is overbuilt and encourages speeding that makes walking along sidewalks and biking along road hazardous and has resulted in severe accidents. Calming traffic along this, our "Main Street" should help develop a sense of place and encourage Indian River to become a destination rather than someplace to speed through. $110K in FY2023</span></li><li><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;">#42-270 - Streetscaping and Landscaping of Various Gateway Corridors - This project funds landscaping and streetscaping at various gateway corridors across the City to highlight the entrances to the City, instill pride in residents and contribute to the goal of making Chesapeake an Exceptional Place. While this funding is not earmarked just for our area, the Indian River Planning Area Study has specific actions for implementing streetscaping along Indian River Road, which could be addressed with this funding. $300K in FY 2023</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnXhe8kZDgo8tm-pOEfE0rY9IsMsdcKr5PXc2T_WKasDMYrmCIYZ6LjlXaRvLsErhOtr-s1DYOCdyLmblTsVcwaahGuAqqWlTFDdqJQZS-AIUC26jNUUcUxHNg9q-Uwf0ZN4eQWdQt2EjU3UqnUYER3AsOVnq7X97f2Dn7Pf2p0OmyJLAhASFMPNVv/s735/Indian%20River%20Road%20character.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="379" data-original-width="735" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnXhe8kZDgo8tm-pOEfE0rY9IsMsdcKr5PXc2T_WKasDMYrmCIYZ6LjlXaRvLsErhOtr-s1DYOCdyLmblTsVcwaahGuAqqWlTFDdqJQZS-AIUC26jNUUcUxHNg9q-Uwf0ZN4eQWdQt2EjU3UqnUYER3AsOVnq7X97f2Dn7Pf2p0OmyJLAhASFMPNVv/w400-h206/Indian%20River%20Road%20character.jpg" width="400" /></a></div></li></ul><div><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;">Just approved after passage of the Virginia State Budget</span></div><div><ul><li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWx9IHwgCf2hApBuJwyua2hq7m-vCm5naYcGR5OYIcplPnoBpYWXA6ndpBx1uPNRl3r5-jNhRz0zNBqcx0K6kgLKo3Zyg-YTt4_IpFrTNpkQS0-T7X21spEfpMNrfyaEsFxUWPyQOghz8Lr-JkqIgqH0qpfqN_ndy4PBgdd3YqpBbUPKye8bUefiND/s3968/P4090519.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2976" data-original-width="3968" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWx9IHwgCf2hApBuJwyua2hq7m-vCm5naYcGR5OYIcplPnoBpYWXA6ndpBx1uPNRl3r5-jNhRz0zNBqcx0K6kgLKo3Zyg-YTt4_IpFrTNpkQS0-T7X21spEfpMNrfyaEsFxUWPyQOghz8Lr-JkqIgqH0qpfqN_ndy4PBgdd3YqpBbUPKye8bUefiND/w200-h150/P4090519.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;">#72-270 Pool at Cuffee Community Center - funding for the design, engineering and building initial infrastructure for the City's first recreational pool at the Cuffee Center in Campostella. $9M in FY 2023; additional $11M will be required in future years for complete buildout.</span></li><li><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;">#75-270 Indian River Middle School Modernization - This project includes the modernization of the main building as well as the Chesapeake Center for Student Success (CCSS) annex building. This will provide additional permanent classroom space to house all Indian River Middle School students in the main building and allow CCSS to utilize the entire annex building. $5.1M in FY 2023</span></li></ul><div><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;">Continued funding for existing projects includes</span></div></div><div><ul><li><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;">#15-240 Blue Heron Landing Park on the Indian River - this project builds out the new park with a restored shoreline, canoe and kayak launch, and boardwalk adjacent to Indian River Oaklette Bridge. Request for Proposals for construction have been issued. Additional $300K allocated in FY2023.</span></li><li><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;">#56-230 Oaklette Bridge (Indian River Road) Rehabilitation - this project funds the repair of the bridge as part of VDOT State of Good Repair Program. Work is slated to occur in 2022. $5.1M allocated in prior years.</span></li></ul><div><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><div>Some additional projects to highlight</div><div><ul><li>20-270 (Parks) Master Plan Update. $200K in 2023</li><li>58-250 Citywide Trails and Open Space Connectivity Plan, $188K in 2023</li><li>61-270 Providence Road Crossing (Culvert) Replacement, $1.4M in 2023</li><li>52-250 Norfolk Highlands Drainage Improvements: additional $600K in 2023</li><li>65-230 Philmont Avenue Septic System Disconnect (installing City sanitary sewer on Philmont Avenue in Norfolk Highlands); $450K in 2023</li><li>12-260 Residential Traffic Calming Program, Citywide, $100K per year</li><li>26-220 Citywide Sidewalk Installation, $800K in 2023 </li><li>03-160 Citywide Stormwater Outfall (out flow to river) Regrading and Restoration; includes Hazel Court</li><li>05-260 Broadlawn Apartments (in Campostella area) Stormwater Outfall Improvements; starts in 2024</li><li>01-270 Water Tank Rehabilitation; include Norfolk Highlands tower; was separate project now rolled into Citywide project item</li></ul></div></span></div></div></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><b>Indian River Plan</b></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;">Some of us from the Friends of Indian River met with staff from the Planning Department in late July to discuss the status of efforts for the Indian River Planning Area Study. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;">In addition to the funding approved above, a key next step is to set up a Steering Committee with representatives from various City agencies including Planning, Public Works, Parks, Recreation, and Tourism, and community stakeholders. Staff turnover in the Planning Department - the lead contact for the Plan left - has slowed down setting this up, but we hope to get back on track by this fall. In the meantime, we have reached out to Public Works about plans for new streetscaping!</span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT8JaNd2cr608jsstT0RDCWABiE-Gm6rKD_53wZftfOZ3EOgl4MrBt-y1RKbW6zfxczdMxAhXZ98_xqccBFqRqEdzUMpjmj0JyxdEKcDuUYFN6k-kbJJOQkcfSV-D7oHs17atWYswrn94GfkpTNOp7mgHwX1LeeIzKaCJHPdNFU8TBpB5tp3y3Sf_1/s676/Indian%20River%20Week.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="204" data-original-width="676" height="97" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT8JaNd2cr608jsstT0RDCWABiE-Gm6rKD_53wZftfOZ3EOgl4MrBt-y1RKbW6zfxczdMxAhXZ98_xqccBFqRqEdzUMpjmj0JyxdEKcDuUYFN6k-kbJJOQkcfSV-D7oHs17atWYswrn94GfkpTNOp7mgHwX1LeeIzKaCJHPdNFU8TBpB5tp3y3Sf_1/s320/Indian%20River%20Week.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><b>Indian River Week<br /></b></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><span style="background-color: white;">We're hoping to coordinate with partners across the community to do something new this fall - organize an Indian River Week of events in the fall. Details are still being hammered out, but the basic idea is to coordinate various local events during a week of October (tentatively the 3rd week) to highlight various aspects of our community. The Friends are planning a History Walk and a Cleanup. The 3rd week in October is also Restaurant Week. We in conversation for some other exciting events, so stay tuned for more info. And if you have an event idea or want to help with planning, please reach out to us at </span><a href="mailto:info@friendsofindianriver.org" rel="nofollow">info@friendsofindianriver.org</a></span></div><div><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span></div><div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><hr /></span></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></b></div></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh82fLYUpu_LLsxXGE7O4dF3LopNddhhNIbQSV3BH92qrsCspDhUcaKUlN17oIJ7IgQyIJ01tJn5f2mgQQh8HGlTMwoXwUsVL75iqiuDdFuNfD56OqizXc2To3DpBz-lQwLgbiNzK_zU5RYeCG_h8oAECz2NPc7Np5awnqjZ7tgN8NpT_J6J8U1CS_t/s1024/IMG_9348.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1024" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh82fLYUpu_LLsxXGE7O4dF3LopNddhhNIbQSV3BH92qrsCspDhUcaKUlN17oIJ7IgQyIJ01tJn5f2mgQQh8HGlTMwoXwUsVL75iqiuDdFuNfD56OqizXc2To3DpBz-lQwLgbiNzK_zU5RYeCG_h8oAECz2NPc7Np5awnqjZ7tgN8NpT_J6J8U1CS_t/w320-h213/IMG_9348.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><b style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;">Get Involved </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b>Need Volunteers<br /></b></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><span style="background-color: white;">We need volunteers this summer to help with weeding at the new landscaping at the Oaklette Indian River Bridge and at the native plant garden at Indian River Park. We also need volunteers to help with removing invasive plants at the Park. There are also other volunteer opportunities listed on our website at </span><a href="http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/volunteer.html" target="_blank">http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/volunteer.html</a>. If you can help out on any of these, please contact us at <a href="mailto:info@friendsofindianriver.org" rel="nofollow">info@friendsofindianriver.org</a></span></div><div><br /></div><div><div><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b>Fall Schedule Preview</b></span></span></div><div><ul><li><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><span style="background-color: white;">No Second Saturday Hikes in August, September, or October</span></span></li><li><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><span style="background-color: white;">Thursday, September 15, 7 pm - Bi-Monthly Meeting</span></span></li><li><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><span style="background-color: white;">Saturday, September 17, 1 pm - International Coastal Cleanup</span></span></li><li><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><span style="background-color: white;">Saturday, October 15, 1 pm - History Walk in Norfolk Highlands and Oaklette</span></span></li><li><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><span style="background-color: white;">TBD - Indian River Week</span></span></li><li><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><span style="background-color: white;">Saturday, October 22, 9 am - Adopt-A-Road Cleanup along Indian River Road</span></span></li><li><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><span style="background-color: white;">Saturday, November 12, 9 am - Second Saturday Hike </span></span></li><li><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><span style="background-color: white;">Thursday, November 17, 7 pm - Bi-Monthly Meeting</span></span></li><li><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><span style="background-color: white;">Saturday, November 19, 9 am - Adopt-A-Park at Indian River Park </span></span></li><li><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><span style="background-color: white;">Saturday, December 10, 9 am - Second Saturday Hike </span></span></li><li><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><span style="background-color: white;">Thursday, December 15, 7 pm - Holiday Party</span></span></li></ul><div><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;">* dates subject to change</span></div></div></div><div><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3not6jnTKEdR-oQUD0f0d0YaK-JrTqCxL56eY9BAp6BWrHYfzUzATOEyJXDgqFPhgsxBBITehgBm1EETObkzKu_L7t6Xb-l588X0KP0uSf8RnllQWV86EWcXUR0HalMjxyrVoDeqKAShSsz1otK4UMSW7ofc4oq6g1Y2Y_W1b69HUBr_ywflKm1kr/s1600/IMG_9880.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3not6jnTKEdR-oQUD0f0d0YaK-JrTqCxL56eY9BAp6BWrHYfzUzATOEyJXDgqFPhgsxBBITehgBm1EETObkzKu_L7t6Xb-l588X0KP0uSf8RnllQWV86EWcXUR0HalMjxyrVoDeqKAShSsz1otK4UMSW7ofc4oq6g1Y2Y_W1b69HUBr_ywflKm1kr/s320/IMG_9880.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><b>June Accomplishments<br /></b></span></div><div><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;">At the beginning of the month, we had a very successful Clean The Bay Day at Indian River Park. 37 volunteers of all ages pulled out nearly 1000 lbs. of debris from the park and river floodplain on the west side of the park. We've never done a cleanup on this side of the park and the area we hit probably had 20 years of trash accumulated. Many thanks to our host and partner Southern Auto Group Volkswagen and to the many volunteers who came out including a team from FedEx Ground.</span></div><div><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;">We held an evening Second Saturday Hike at Indian River Park where we spied various wildlife including a Box Turtle about to lay her eggs just off the trail, multiple Eastern Cottontail rabbits, and Pearly-eye Butterflies. Yarrow and Lizard's Tails were in bloom in the park.</span></div><div><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOv6nlJmO8qp0GkkTvJrQBdPI9Cya-ypSi7-5xvmbrLE3tmTnEFWTsiW3F6wQTgb6rPhmxyS-k3IOvkbmYVpAySr5r2RUg8UI7WPct9cGsq60FF9s6QU78XuPZUuzRP2s3dBJ2Qf1XVMcpWX1WZnIa27imL0Fztc4kTK-fSXCvK1lk9IEAv8qW8GJD/s1024/IMG_9909.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="684" data-original-width="1024" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOv6nlJmO8qp0GkkTvJrQBdPI9Cya-ypSi7-5xvmbrLE3tmTnEFWTsiW3F6wQTgb6rPhmxyS-k3IOvkbmYVpAySr5r2RUg8UI7WPct9cGsq60FF9s6QU78XuPZUuzRP2s3dBJ2Qf1XVMcpWX1WZnIa27imL0Fztc4kTK-fSXCvK1lk9IEAv8qW8GJD/s320/IMG_9909.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>In what we hope is a new tradition, we had a delicious group picnic instead of our regular June meeting. This was a great opportunity to get together and social; our main entree was catered from one of our new local eateries TenderMacs - chicken tenders, zucchini tenders, and, of course, their delicious mac-n-cheese. This was also a chance to celebrate the Friends of Indian River's 10th Anniversary. It was in 2012 that we called our first meeting and we're proud of all we've accomplished since.</span></div><div><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;">We closed out the month with another cleanup along Indian River Road from Wingfield to Sparrow including around the bridge and future Blue Heron Landing Park. We collected about 150 lbs. of litter and a few larger items including, of all things, a toilet. </span></div><div><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVAm0E8PFMdwqrpUOWeAbR9WhUPhZ01StcCW00UWu1vtBgwilCwpI1SuRpbf38IbbF24cBfVgaJ872yqzBejN2OfcS8XwZBfHethERJLwckYWCy9T44_OVgk2zKZtMUehQvGPfGsRd00I8XBMbL-S5r727gvk8kc6DfkeLCRIMDMSbKUwRDji0kWEF/s1247/2012-2022%20Accomplishments.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="933" data-original-width="1247" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVAm0E8PFMdwqrpUOWeAbR9WhUPhZ01StcCW00UWu1vtBgwilCwpI1SuRpbf38IbbF24cBfVgaJ872yqzBejN2OfcS8XwZBfHethERJLwckYWCy9T44_OVgk2zKZtMUehQvGPfGsRd00I8XBMbL-S5r727gvk8kc6DfkeLCRIMDMSbKUwRDji0kWEF/w320-h239/2012-2022%20Accomplishments.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div></div></div></span></div></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center; text-decoration-line: underline;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRysascxxoFdEkgJ24OG3ksa30TE6hM69JqtnC9w-euL4dbaeuz3mc6Lqif8tzag5tmkwg11CiQihLnK1OJv3heceherFKuzikcfLpAaqGXdw2SZaENbEYOHuoLkr4NDz0sxwRYmFrxbHLS3-SRChG0D1vxjm7RWQkuyaiEmBSfEGtGSiBlhpW0aXp/s848/ConservationLandscapingFlier%202022.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="848" data-original-width="728" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRysascxxoFdEkgJ24OG3ksa30TE6hM69JqtnC9w-euL4dbaeuz3mc6Lqif8tzag5tmkwg11CiQihLnK1OJv3heceherFKuzikcfLpAaqGXdw2SZaENbEYOHuoLkr4NDz0sxwRYmFrxbHLS3-SRChG0D1vxjm7RWQkuyaiEmBSfEGtGSiBlhpW0aXp/s320/ConservationLandscapingFlier%202022.JPG" width="275" /></a></div><b>Conservation Landscaping</b></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;">Interested in improving the natural value of your property? Would you like to add beauty while helping the environment? The Elizabeth River Project is still offering matching funding for installing living shorelines (up to $5000), buffers (up to $2000), or maybe a Rain Garden (up to $2000). The Friends of Indian River has limited funds to kick in up to another $250 toward these projects in the Indian River section of Chesapeake. Learn more at </span><a href="http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/conservation-landscaping-program.html" style="background-color: white; font-family: helvetica;" target="_blank">http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/conservation-landscaping-program.html</a></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">We always encourage you as an individual to pick up any stray litter that you come across along our roads, parking lots, and in our parks. Every piece of trash collected is one less that causes harm to wildlife in our natural areas and waterways. And just as important, reduce your use of single use packaging to not create litter in the first place. Take The Pledge to keep Virginia Litter Free</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"> at <a href="https://loversnotlitter.org/pledge/" target="_blank">https://loversnotlitter.org/pledge/</a></span></span></b></div><div><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></b></div><div><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></b></div></div></div></span></div></span></div></div></span></div></div>Rogardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00794374232118059295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743478099611773251.post-3292076585056950702022-05-26T09:12:00.001-04:002022-05-26T09:12:06.657-04:00June Newsletter and Events<p> <span style="font-family: helvetica;">The days are getting longer, the weather is getting hotter, and the Friends are wrapping up spring with a number of great events in June starting with Clean the Bay Day on June 4th. </span></p><div><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Upcoming Events</span></li><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">6/4 Saturday - Clean the Bay Day Event at Indian River Park </span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">6/11 Saturday - Second Saturday EVENING Hike at Indian River Park</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">6/16 Thursday - Spring Picnic </span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">6/18 Saturday - Adopt-A-Road Cleanup along Indian River Road</span></li></ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Other News</span></li><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;"> Chesapeake Capital Improvement Budget approved in May</span></li></ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Get Involved</span></li><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Conservation Landscaping</span></li></ul></ul><div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="font-weight: 400;"></span></span></b></div></div></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><span face="helvetica neue, arial, helvetica, sans-serif"><span style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"></span></div></span></div></div></span></span></span></div></div><div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0QBuI6Z80vJBgVAabfQPndfifa3-RnLW4nfSxPJnng8GBFpZdVGn6I5-PmWc-G4o5NSSh_Od7pVMvHy0NuQ8XZ3bTzTDbRX7JnaO0kaMSng-mXvFcdiECXjSEaaBbqOVQzl99jiqgBqIzMp2f8n1kzUE3Lo5xRIS_A5aFr6TUVQT-TXh5v1GBpkVH/s1011/Clean%20The%20Bay%20Day.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="1011" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0QBuI6Z80vJBgVAabfQPndfifa3-RnLW4nfSxPJnng8GBFpZdVGn6I5-PmWc-G4o5NSSh_Od7pVMvHy0NuQ8XZ3bTzTDbRX7JnaO0kaMSng-mXvFcdiECXjSEaaBbqOVQzl99jiqgBqIzMp2f8n1kzUE3Lo5xRIS_A5aFr6TUVQT-TXh5v1GBpkVH/w400-h208/Clean%20The%20Bay%20Day.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"></div></b></span></div><div style="font-weight: bold;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></b></div></span></span></div></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><span><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="text-align: center;"><b>Upcoming Events</b></span></div><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><b style="font-family: helvetica; text-align: center;">Clean the Bay Day </b></div><div><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="text-align: center;">Date: Saturday, June 4, 9 am</span></div><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="text-align: center;">Location: Indian River Park at Southern Volkswagen off Paramont Avenue.</span></div><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="text-align: center;">This year we are partnering with Southern Volkswagen to clean up the west side of Indian River Park for Clean the Bay Day. The focus will be floodplain and forest edge along the Volkswagen dealership and down to Military Highway. This area has been neglected for a long time and needs a lot of love; this will actually be the second half of a cleanup started earlier this spring. </span></div><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="text-align: center;">Sign up at <a href="https://forms.gle/kWifnY2nbaE4vJ4F6" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/kWifnY2nbaE4vJ4F6</a> and we'll update with parking directions as the date gets nearer. </span></div><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; text-align: center;">Please wear closed-toe shoes, a hat and bring work gloves. We also always encourage folks to bring their own water in reusable bottles to minimize use of plastic bottles. Participants under 18 years of age must have adult supervision.</span></div><div><br /></div></div><div><div><b style="font-family: helvetica; text-align: center;">Second Saturday EVENING Hike at Indian River Park</b></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiPRv_mHQpEMYRn1arWoe081rBHQZt3OmBvLfBWUEEjyf89NEKUJwtPj3OVKyCvvnd0JDb2G8FklHPgK5quHYIKx7gmlmHkCDnV94BMdJE7qIDGmCql_2fkSJ_CwYBhsTeOU28dm2MUX1KIGNE_ILflD92TkXjHZ-cXOqVOSudXO2aW2HhzLyYqRYSS=s800" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiPRv_mHQpEMYRn1arWoe081rBHQZt3OmBvLfBWUEEjyf89NEKUJwtPj3OVKyCvvnd0JDb2G8FklHPgK5quHYIKx7gmlmHkCDnV94BMdJE7qIDGmCql_2fkSJ_CwYBhsTeOU28dm2MUX1KIGNE_ILflD92TkXjHZ-cXOqVOSudXO2aW2HhzLyYqRYSS=w200-h150" width="200" /></a></div>Date: </span>Saturday, June 11, 6 pm to 8 pm</span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Location: Meet at the Indian River Park entrance at Rokeby Ave. and Main St. (2001 Rokeby Ave.) which is located just south of Military Highway, i.e. across Military Highway from the Fire Station.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;">With summer solstice approaching, we'll change things up for our Second Saturday hike in June and do an evening hike starting at 6 pm.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Learn about the history of the park, the native trees and plants in this century old forest on the Indian River flood plain, and its value to maintaining the health of local butterfly, bird, and wildlife populations. Note: the forest trail has uneven surfaces and minor elevation changes.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="font-family: helvetica;">To speed up registration and improve social distancing, please pre-register online at <a class="oajrlxb2 g5ia77u1 qu0x051f esr5mh6w e9989ue4 r7d6kgcz rq0escxv nhd2j8a9 nc684nl6 p7hjln8o kvgmc6g5 cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x jb3vyjys rz4wbd8a qt6c0cv9 a8nywdso i1ao9s8h esuyzwwr f1sip0of lzcic4wl gpro0wi8 py34i1dx" href="https://forms.gle/xN3UdDvi1WMd24fq9?fbclid=IwAR0NTqQQnGEE2yCoE-hbf86jOFsF0vP-9CDLmZ_Y76rgVbFtXtD0AwE4UrE" rel="nofollow" role="link" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; background-color: white; border-color: initial; border-style: initial; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; cursor: pointer; display: inline; font-family: "Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; list-style: none; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; touch-action: manipulation;" tabindex="0" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/xN3UdDvi1WMd24fq9</a></div><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><b>Spring Evening Potluck Picnic</b></div><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioT7dsCkg3NRxhyXHbauNPwmQdT9PWafA0yP7Yw-Bpm0A8_ovLcHiLO0eUI1JNLuArB-fYaHbR3E4-T6tYdqwFnJHgg6bmxJi5fNAFjU_7Eyy62eCH7GOFnkFoj7SLNpjWT8nggvalXVofr_EwrvYWBljwcZdfzDKMMBG-Gh8WX8QKMSZoPxwBQ9fV/s815/Picnic%20do%20Bruno%20_%20Michell%20Zappa%20_%20Flickr%20attribute.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="815" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioT7dsCkg3NRxhyXHbauNPwmQdT9PWafA0yP7Yw-Bpm0A8_ovLcHiLO0eUI1JNLuArB-fYaHbR3E4-T6tYdqwFnJHgg6bmxJi5fNAFjU_7Eyy62eCH7GOFnkFoj7SLNpjWT8nggvalXVofr_EwrvYWBljwcZdfzDKMMBG-Gh8WX8QKMSZoPxwBQ9fV/w200-h133/Picnic%20do%20Bruno%20_%20Michell%20Zappa%20_%20Flickr%20attribute.jpg" title="https://www.flickr.com/photos/michellzappa/3417192412" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/michellzappa/3417192412">Picnic do Bruno | Michell Zappa | Flickr</a></td></tr></tbody></table>Date: Thursday, June 16, 6 pm to 8 pm (come out anytime during the event)</div><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: helvetica;">Location: Picnic Pavilion behind Oaklette United Methodist Church, 520 Oaklette Drive; park in side lot along St. Lawrence Dr.</div><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: helvetica;">Rather than our usual monthly meeting, in June we'll have a potluck picnic out behind the church. This will also be the 10-year anniversary of the founding of the Friends of Indian River so we'll celebrate that also!</div><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: helvetica;">Bring a dish to share and join us for some camaraderie as we roll into summer. The Friends will set out tables and chairs, provide a main protein dish (likely chicken). We suggest bringing a comfy lawn chair.</div><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: helvetica;">In the event of rain, we will move the event inside the church's fellowship hall, however, in this case ONLY restaurant purchased or pre-packaged food from a store is permitted to be consumed inside. </div><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: helvetica;">To help coordinate who is bringing what, we set up a Sign Up Genius form at </div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><a href="https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c094dada92fa2fa7-friends">https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c094dada92fa2fa7-friends</a></span></div><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b>Adopt-A-Road Cleanup along Indian River Road</b></span></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><div style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="font-weight: 400;"><div style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: 400;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi780VrpjtoQ1W_VKsrZ1TWb33BeqM3HD5YMys3ZEcG27hAhR6ILxykWi9d8j02i58p1RLI_GgfEnweFJlhSkofXqeMm85_3QrSXPWc0p4XR6Ciupd-q3Y_Jnk-Poy-8V-BezHeQWgvFM3vZGFh3BssXuGHknUWiEcGxJ-muiC_hV0Sw2Byx_9T1svk/s1600/136-DSCN1233.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi780VrpjtoQ1W_VKsrZ1TWb33BeqM3HD5YMys3ZEcG27hAhR6ILxykWi9d8j02i58p1RLI_GgfEnweFJlhSkofXqeMm85_3QrSXPWc0p4XR6Ciupd-q3Y_Jnk-Poy-8V-BezHeQWgvFM3vZGFh3BssXuGHknUWiEcGxJ-muiC_hV0Sw2Byx_9T1svk/w200-h200/136-DSCN1233.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Date: Saturday, June 18, 9 am</span></div><div style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: 400;"><br /></span></div></span></span></div><div style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Location: Meet at Lilac Avenue and Indian River Road. Park along Lilac Avenue by the Norfolk Highlands Primary School. It is a No Parking zone along Oleander Avenue (parallel to Indian River Road).</span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div>We need your help for our quarterly cleanup. Join us for a few hours to clean up the mile of Indian River Road from the city limits at Wingfield Avenue all the way to MacDonald Road. We are also asking all business owners along Indian River Road - and everywhere really - to make sure they sweep up in front of their storefronts as part of the effort. And if you can't make it out for our organized cleanup please take 15 minutes and cleanup the street and ditches in front of your home; pass the word to your neighbors!</div><div><br /></div><div>For our main cleanup on Indian River Road, the city will provide garbage bags and orange safety vests. One focus will be the area around the Bridge and the future Blue Heron Landing Park. Please wear closed-toe shoes, a hat and bring work gloves and other items that may be useful. Participants under 18 years of age must have adult supervision.</div><div><br /></div><div>To save time and allow for better social distancing, please pre-register at <a href="https://forms.gle/ypFBfAn7N1crjj2R7" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/ypFBfAn7N1crjj2R7</a></div></span></div></div></div><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></div></div></div></div></span></span></div></div></span></span></span></div></span></div></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><hr /></span></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></b></div></span></div><div><span><div><b style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Other News</b></div><div><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></b></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><u>Capital Improvement Budget</u></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span face="helvetica neue, arial, helvetica, sans-serif">In May the City Council approved the City's 2022-2023 Capital Improvement Budget. This included funding for key programs to kickstart the initiatives defined in the Indian River Planning Area Study approved at the end of last year. These include funding for development of an </span><span face=""helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif">Indian River Road Design Guidelines Manual and Overlay District, the first phase of the </span><span face=""helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif">Indian River Road Redesign, En</span><span face=""helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif">hanced Signage & Landscaping at Entrances to the City, and multiple other projects that affect our community. </span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span face=""helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif">We thank the City Council for approving the funding to meet the strategic goals of making our City economically strong, culturally diverse, and environmentally responsible. Within the Indian River area, we look forward to partnering with the City in building a safe, well-connected community of vibrant residential neighborhoods with a thriving "Main Street" and strong commercial areas. See additional details at </span><span style="text-align: center;"><span face="helvetica neue, arial, helvetica, sans-serif"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/FriendsofIndianRiver/posts/5336999803031994" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/FriendsofIndianRiver/posts/5336999803031994</a></span></span></span></div><div><span><span face="helvetica neue, arial, helvetica, sans-serif"><br /></span></span></div><div><span><div><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: left;">Get Involved</b></span></span></div><div><u style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></u></div><div><u style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRysascxxoFdEkgJ24OG3ksa30TE6hM69JqtnC9w-euL4dbaeuz3mc6Lqif8tzag5tmkwg11CiQihLnK1OJv3heceherFKuzikcfLpAaqGXdw2SZaENbEYOHuoLkr4NDz0sxwRYmFrxbHLS3-SRChG0D1vxjm7RWQkuyaiEmBSfEGtGSiBlhpW0aXp/s848/ConservationLandscapingFlier%202022.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="848" data-original-width="728" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRysascxxoFdEkgJ24OG3ksa30TE6hM69JqtnC9w-euL4dbaeuz3mc6Lqif8tzag5tmkwg11CiQihLnK1OJv3heceherFKuzikcfLpAaqGXdw2SZaENbEYOHuoLkr4NDz0sxwRYmFrxbHLS3-SRChG0D1vxjm7RWQkuyaiEmBSfEGtGSiBlhpW0aXp/s320/ConservationLandscapingFlier%202022.JPG" width="275" /></a></div>Conservation Landscaping</u></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;">Interested in improving the natural value of your property? Would you like to add beauty while helping the environment? The Elizabeth River Project is still offering matching funding for installing living shorelines (up to $5000), buffers (up to $2000), or maybe a Rain Garden (up to $2000). The Friends of Indian River has limited funds to kick in up to another $250 toward these projects in the Indian River section of Chesapeake. Learn more at </span><a href="http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/conservation-landscaping-program.html" style="background-color: white; font-family: helvetica;" target="_blank">http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/conservation-landscaping-program.html</a></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Thank you to the many volunteers who came out for our volunteer events in in the last couple of months including at the Native Plant Garden at Indian River Park, Dollar Tree employees coming out for Earth Day to do invasive plant removal at Indian River Park, and for our quarterly Adopt-A-Road Cleanup.</span></span></b></div><div><br /></div><div><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">We always encourage you as an individual to pick up any stray litter that you come across along our roads, parking lots, and in our parks. Every piece of trash collected is one less that causes harm to wildlife in our natural areas and waterways. And just as important, reduce your use of single use packaging to not create litter in the first place. Take The Pledge to keep Virginia Litter Free</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"> at <a href="https://loversnotlitter.org/pledge/" target="_blank">https://loversnotlitter.org/pledge/</a></span></span></b></div><div><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></b></div></div></div></span></div></span></div></span></div></div>Rogardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00794374232118059295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743478099611773251.post-29322403997325153182022-04-23T07:20:00.008-04:002022-04-23T16:07:15.376-04:00May Newsletter and Events<p> <span style="font-family: helvetica;">In this month's newsletter, we have:</span></p><div><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Upcoming Events</span></li><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">5/14 Saturday - Second Saturday Hike at Indian River Park</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">5/19 Thursday - Monthly Meeting - Hoffler Creek Wildlife Preserve</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">6/4 Saturday - Clean the Bay Day Event at Indian River Park </span></li></ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Other News</span></li><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Elizabeth River Project 2022 Watershed Action Plan</span></li></ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Get Involved</span></li><ul><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Conservation Landscaping</span></li><li><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Notable Yards Contest</span></li></ul></ul><div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="font-weight: 400;"></span></span></b></div></div></span></div><div><span style="text-align: center;"><span face="helvetica neue, arial, helvetica, sans-serif"><span style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"></span></div></span></div></div></span></span></span></div></div><div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><hr /></span></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"></div></b></div></span></div></div><div style="font-weight: bold;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></b></div></span></span></div></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><span><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="text-align: center;"><b>Upcoming Events</b></span></div><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><b style="font-family: helvetica; text-align: center;">Second Saturday Hike at Indian River Park</b></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiPRv_mHQpEMYRn1arWoe081rBHQZt3OmBvLfBWUEEjyf89NEKUJwtPj3OVKyCvvnd0JDb2G8FklHPgK5quHYIKx7gmlmHkCDnV94BMdJE7qIDGmCql_2fkSJ_CwYBhsTeOU28dm2MUX1KIGNE_ILflD92TkXjHZ-cXOqVOSudXO2aW2HhzLyYqRYSS=s800" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiPRv_mHQpEMYRn1arWoe081rBHQZt3OmBvLfBWUEEjyf89NEKUJwtPj3OVKyCvvnd0JDb2G8FklHPgK5quHYIKx7gmlmHkCDnV94BMdJE7qIDGmCql_2fkSJ_CwYBhsTeOU28dm2MUX1KIGNE_ILflD92TkXjHZ-cXOqVOSudXO2aW2HhzLyYqRYSS=w200-h150" width="200" /></a></div>Date: </span>Saturday, May 14, 8:30 am to 10:30 am</span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Location: Meet at the Indian River Park entrance at Rokeby Ave. and Main St. (2001 Rokeby Ave.) which is located just south of Military Highway, i.e. across Military Highway from the Fire Station.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Learn about the history of the park, the native trees and plants in this century old forest on the Indian River flood plain, and its value to maintaining the health of local butterfly, bird, and wildlife populations. Note: the forest trail has uneven surfaces and minor elevation changes.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="font-family: helvetica;">To speed up registration and improve social distancing, please pre-register online at <a href="https://forms.gle/2eKE87nDtvgjppqR7">https://forms.gle/2eKE87nDtvgjppqR7</a></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b>May Meeting - Hoffler Creek Wildlife Preserve</b></span></div><div><div style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="font-weight: 400;"><div style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: 400;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Date: Thursday, May 19, 7 pm<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu7tx4kk9O9sSzvFomDdyIm18glj3tgWLTw6Gd5A7_Xr8in14jQCV942-VmhJGjEYGk8BfxH7vcW8i46jBGDtZRaK3qaDkDLJy0Qs4F1uyIgZqv8LByjzcjKndXiY7xh7K5i6q5G9QEQYFtlRVvxIfqD0BFzA65Fq-ZqHE8fkHxZwN_EvIeojVvi5q/s918/Screenshot%202022-04-21%20155921.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="680" data-original-width="918" height="148" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu7tx4kk9O9sSzvFomDdyIm18glj3tgWLTw6Gd5A7_Xr8in14jQCV942-VmhJGjEYGk8BfxH7vcW8i46jBGDtZRaK3qaDkDLJy0Qs4F1uyIgZqv8LByjzcjKndXiY7xh7K5i6q5G9QEQYFtlRVvxIfqD0BFzA65Fq-ZqHE8fkHxZwN_EvIeojVvi5q/w200-h148/Screenshot%202022-04-21%20155921.png" width="200" /></a></div></span></div></span></span></div><div style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Location: Oaklette United Methodist Church, 520 Oaklette Dr.</span></span></div><div style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Our guest speaker will be </span><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Mickie Nance, Vice President of the Board of Directors for Hoffler Creek Wildlife Foundation in Portsmouth. </span><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Mickie, also </span><span style="font-family: helvetica;">a Portsmouth Master Gardener and a Master Naturalist, </span><span style="font-family: helvetica;">will discuss the history of the </span><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Hoffler Creek Wildlife </span><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Preserve, Foundation, and the Preserve's Amenities. </span></div></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;">We'll also have the latest community news</span></div><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="text-align: center;"><b>Clean the Bay Day</b></span></div><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="text-align: center;">Date: Saturday, June 4, 9 am</span></div><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="text-align: center;">Location: Indian River Park at Southern Volkswagen off Paramont Avenue.</span></div><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="text-align: center;">This year we are partnering with Southern Volkswagen to clean up the west side of Indian River Park for Clean the Bay Day. The focus will be floodplain and forest edge along the Volkswagen dealership and down to Military Highway. This area has been neglected for a long time and needs a lot of love; this will actually be the second half of a cleanup started earlier this spring. </span></div><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="text-align: center;">Sign up at <a href="https://forms.gle/kWifnY2nbaE4vJ4F6" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/kWifnY2nbaE4vJ4F6</a> and we'll update with parking directions as the date get nearer. </span></div><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; text-align: center;">Please wear closed-toe shoes, a hat and bring work gloves. We also always encourage folks to bring their own water in reusable bottles to minimize use of plastic bottles. Participants under 18 years of age must have adult supervision.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; text-align: center;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0QBuI6Z80vJBgVAabfQPndfifa3-RnLW4nfSxPJnng8GBFpZdVGn6I5-PmWc-G4o5NSSh_Od7pVMvHy0NuQ8XZ3bTzTDbRX7JnaO0kaMSng-mXvFcdiECXjSEaaBbqOVQzl99jiqgBqIzMp2f8n1kzUE3Lo5xRIS_A5aFr6TUVQT-TXh5v1GBpkVH/s1011/Clean%20The%20Bay%20Day.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="1011" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0QBuI6Z80vJBgVAabfQPndfifa3-RnLW4nfSxPJnng8GBFpZdVGn6I5-PmWc-G4o5NSSh_Od7pVMvHy0NuQ8XZ3bTzTDbRX7JnaO0kaMSng-mXvFcdiECXjSEaaBbqOVQzl99jiqgBqIzMp2f8n1kzUE3Lo5xRIS_A5aFr6TUVQT-TXh5v1GBpkVH/w400-h208/Clean%20The%20Bay%20Day.png" width="400" /></a></div><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></div></div></div><div><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><hr /></span></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></b></div></span></div><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><span>The Elizabeth River Project published its 2022 Watershed Action Plan in April. The Plan set many important goals for all of us to work toward restore a beautiful and healthy river, abundant in diversity, accessible to all. See the full executive summary at <a href="https://elizabethriver.org/sites/default/files/ERP-WAP-ES-2022.pdf" target="_blank">https://elizabethriver.org/sites/default/files/ERP-WAP-ES-2022.pdf</a> </span></div><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><span><br /></span></div><div><span><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: left;">Get Involved</b></span></span></div><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><u style="color: #050505; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></u></div><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><u style="background-color: white; color: #050505;">Conservation Landscaping</u></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: helvetica; text-align: center;"><div class="cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x c1et5uql o9v6fnle ii04i59q" style="background-color: white; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; text-align: left;"><div dir="auto"><span style="color: #050505; font-family: helvetica;"><div dir="auto"><br /></div><div dir="auto">Interested in improving the natural value of your property? Would you like to add beauty while helping the environment? The Elizabeth River Project is still offering matching funding for installing living shorelines (up to $4000), buffers (up to $1500), or maybe a Rain Garden (up to $2000). The Friends of Indian River has limited funds to kick in up to another $250 toward these projects in the Indian River section of Chesapeake. Learn more at <a href="http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/conservation-landscaping-program.html" target="_blank">http://www.friendsofindianriver.org/p/conservation-landscaping-program.html</a></div></span></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="font-weight: 400;"><u>Notable Yards Contest</u></span></span></b></div><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="font-weight: 400;"><br /></span></span></b></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;">The City is looking for nominations for this year's Notable Yards Contest. If you think you or your neighbors have a yard that "Looks Good and Is Good For Nature" nominate it! Judges are looking for visual appeal and garden design, healthy lawn practices, native trees, shrubs and flowers, food gardens and/or wildlife habitat, rainwater harvesting and runoff control. The nomination period runs May 1 thru May 31. For more info see <a href="https://www.cityofchesapeake.net/government/Boards-Commissions/full-listing/ceic/award-programs-contest/Chesapeake-s-Notable-Yards-Contest.htm" target="_blank">https://www.cityofchesapeake.net/government/Boards-Commissions/full-listing/ceic/award-programs-contest/Chesapeake-s-Notable-Yards-Contest.htm</a></span></div><div><b style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="font-weight: 400;"><br /></span></span></b></div><div><b style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">We always encourage you as an individual to pick up any stray litter that you come across along our roads, parking lots, and in our parks. Every piece of trash collected is one less that causes harm to wildlife in our natural areas and waterways. And just as important, reduce your use of single use packaging to not create litter in the first place. Take The Pledge to keep Virginia Litter Free</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"> at <a href="https://loversnotlitter.org/pledge/" target="_blank">https://loversnotlitter.org/pledge/</a></span></span></b></div><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></b></div></div></div></span></div></span></div><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><span><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: helvetica;"><span><br /></span></div></div></div></span></span></div></div></span></span></span></div></span></div></div></div>Rogardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00794374232118059295noreply@blogger.com0