Guest Book Entries
(Book 3, Page 1)
Ruth Wednesday, 6/7/06, 11:07 AM
Ms. Flanders, thank you for the compliment. I do hope to meet Sandra as well as the other Green Space Ladies one day. In the meantime, I agree with Sally...not about not living in Hampton....but her comment that your attitude is not helping the cause. The Hampton councilmatic elections are over, and your energies would be better spent, as you said earlier, continuing your fight to save the B lots from a different direction. Sally's suggestion also that you get your own website is excellent too because then you would not have to complain about your comments to Larry being removed from this one.
From: Hampton
Sally Wednesday, 6/7/06, 8:28 AM
Another thing, Phyllis, your attitude does not help the cause. If you really cared about that wonderful space on the Bay, you would not spend so much energy fighting with the people who are trying to help. We can see through you!
From: Newport New and happy to be here and not in Hampton
Sally Wednesday, 6/7/06, 8:15 AM
Phyllis, if you do not want to be associated with the others, then why don't you get your own website!
From: Newport News - looking in
Phyllis Flanders Wednesday, 6/7/06, 7:32 AM
Dear Ruth, Once again, and for the last time, this new steering committee will bring the plan back to the people for your voice to be heard - you will actually get to say yea or nay rather than having condo's shoved down your throats as before. That is the difference. Now - I invite you to hold fast to your perceptions and politics - please don't change - but I have to get on with the actual work of making a difference. And, for those of you who really thought I put the petitions on a shelf to gather dust - then you need to read more, get on more email lists, or sign your name here with your email so other emails can be sent to you - this is certainly not the only 'save the green space' venue. Larry, every time I post a note saying I agree with you - Trish deletes it - but I have copies of each thing that I have posted if you want to read them - email me for the update on the pier, the Mayor, and Randy Gilliland. I just truly hope that at some point all of you realize how lucky you are that Tuck and Gaskill didn't get elected - and how sad it is that Gilliland did. I only started posting here again because people thought I was still affiliated with the GSL - and that is because Trish, even now, refuses to remove my speeches from this website. Feel free to stay here, and stay stuck, in the past and your negativity however, the 'save the green space' movement is moving forward and looking forward to a bright and happy tomorrow at the expanded park at Buckroe Beach. PS: Ruth - aren't you really Sandra writing under another name? You sound and write just like her. Whether you are or not - God Bless You and keep exercising that voice and writing hand.
From: Hampton
Email: epflanders@aol.com
Larry Wednesday, 6/7/06, 4:52 AM
I have been telling you knuckleheads all along that Randy Gilliand would not champion your cause. That whole deal was purely to get re-elected. Thye mayor and Terry O'Neil have plans for those lots and there is nothing you can do to stop them. This new committee will go through the motions and will amazingly side with Boss Ross and Terry O. And before you know it the mayors pals from Norfolk will be building condos all over the area. This isn't about what is right or wrong, it is about money. Unfortunately, we have one of the most dishonest mayors in North America. He is getting ready to retire and he is lining his pockets. He is truly a disgusting excuse for a human being!
Ruth Tuesday, 6/6/06, 5:22 PM
Ms. Flanders, you speak with a forked tongue....to say one minute you wrote to give signers a voice and that our signatures on the petition were used by the Green Space Gals/Ladies (what is the difference?)to report to City Council our numbers so our voices could be heard and so we could hear what was happening in the process and then to say that the signatures were not supposed to be used to speak for us....how crazy is that? At almost every Council meeting for the first couple of months in early 2005 you reported 2500 "signatures" and then 4000 "signatures" etc so that certainly sounded like you too were speaking for us at the time, and like I said before, we appreciated the fact you Green Space Gals/Ladies were out there speaking for us busy souls, particularly as more and more Hampton citizens signed the petition for their "voices" to be heard and reported by you or one of the other Green Space Gals/Ladies. We were interested in saving Lots B by signing the petition, and we do not/did not care how or who reported our signatues as long as someone did it and spoke for us. If today you are saying you wrote the petition for any other reason then apparently you only want credit for writing the petition and nothing else. Furthermore, that now you are saying you do not want our voices to be heard by anyone but we petitioners personally and apparently you are trying to badmouth those other Green Space Gals/Ladies who have and continue to step forward speaking for all of us is a disservice to all petitioners, particularly those like myself who do not have the time to write letters, call council, attend meetings, etc. For this reason I am very happy to realize the other Green Space Gals/Ladies did not put our signatures on a shelf to gather dust and be ignored as apparently you think they should have been. The only good sensible thing you say below is you are continuing the fight to save Lots B from a different direction. Good for you and good for the other Gren Space gals/ladies because at least you all, with us petitioners, have a common goal and one voice, whether you want to admit it or not.
From: Hampton
Tuesday, 6/6/06, 4:47 PM
Phyllis, I am sorry, but you do not make much sense.
Phyllis Flanders Tuesday, 6/6/06, 4:35 PM
I appreciate your comments Ruth - however, to again set the record straignt - I did not just draft the petition. I wrote the petition and carried it through all of the legal processes that were necessary to ensure its validity before anyone else became involved in the process. And, I did so because the city had selected a group of people to speak for you the citizens - the original steering committee - and they were not reporting back to you at all. I initiated the petition to give you, the citizens your own voice, not to appoint some other group to represent you. The original Green Space Gals were an instrument to report to City Council on the progress of the petition drive for your voices to be heard and, to report to you the citizens on what was happening in the process - not to speak for you. When the Green Space Ladies (a separate group) decided that they represented you the citizens it was just one more reason that I continued the fight to save the B lots from a different direction. Read the petition - nowhere does it say it appoints anyone to speak for you. The petition gave you, the citizens a voice, your voice has been heard, and now you must follow through if you want to be successful.
From: Hampton
Email: epflanders@aol.com
Ruth Tuesday, 6/6/06, 2:37 PM
I want to thank Ms. Flanders for alerting me and other guest book visitors to the initial planning meeting for Lots B on Thursday, 15 June. Sadly, my job will not permit my attendance. For this reason, I need to correct her claim that no one has been elected or selected to represent the petition signers. I signed the petition to have Lots B designated as a city park for our now and future generations and, other than encouraging others to sign the petition, that has had to be the extent of my participation in the issue because of work, family and other pressures. However, my signature, the signatures of my family and friends and co-workers on the petition is legal authorization to permit the Green Space Ladies to speak for us at any event concerning Lots B. We know they want what we want for Lots B, and we all watch the Council meetings and cheer those gals on each and every time they speak on our behalf. We only wish we could do more but know they are out there fighting for us almost every day, if not at Council, then in their letters to the editor and their e-mails to keep us informed and updated. Since I understand Ms. Flanders drafted the petition, I am shocked she does not recognize the fact that the signatures on the petition speak for thousands of Hampton residents through the Green Space Gals. If she does not recognize that, why did she draw up a petition anyway? But, whatever her reason and whether she planned it or not, it worked and it has proven to be a powerful force of voices before Council, all voiced through the Green Space Ladies. Thank you Gals from one family who dearly appreciates your representing and speaking for us petitioners on the issue.
From: Hampton
Phyllis Flanders Tuesday, 6/6/06, 7:27 AM
The first meeting of the newly appointed steering committee for the revamping of the Buckroe Beach Bayfront will meet on Thursday, June 15th at 6:30pm at St Joseph's Church Hall (Cordier Hall) located at 512 Buckroe Avenue. This meeting is open to the public and you may attend whether or not you are on the steering committee. The agenda is as follows: Select member-at-large from applicants for those seats, establish working ground rules, create a schedule for working, and begin process development.Please remember that no one has been elected or selected to represent you the 10,229 petition signers - each person there has one voice and speaks for themself only. This is your meeting and your process. So please show up, listen, watch, and contribute as you deem necessary - and remember you can always email a letter to the editor or a letter to city council regarding your views on the process.
From: Hampton
Email: epflanders
Linda Saturday, 6/3/06, 1:11 PM
I have been reading the entries in here, and I don't understand something, there have been little tugs going back and forth here, who cares about who is doing what and with who, as long as everyone is working for the common good, which is Buckroe, the 3 "B" blocks. I mean come one now, we all should be coming together on the buckroe issue......
From: Hampton/Buckroe
Thursday, 6/1/06, 12:52 PM
Buckroe
Cindy H Thursday, 6/1/06, 12:11 PM
You are right about Terry O'Neil. He is the reason that this area was so poorly designed, and he is the reason that this whole Buckroe mess started in the first place. I wish he would just do us all a favor and move to another state!! By the way I miss the greenspace girls! Come on back "Far Out" Phyllis!
From: Salt Ponds
Howard Thursday, 6/1/06, 6:06 AM
Larry I agree with your comments about Terry O'Neil needing to be replaced. He has been with the city for a very long time and is one of the original power plant people. It seems that everything that he gets involved in turns up a mess. He has cost taxpayers millions of dollars as a result of his stupidity and lack of professional skill. He is the one leading the charge to develop the b lots and to condemn cantamar. It would be great if he and "Boss Ross" would just act int he best interest of the city and just resign. Please resign!!!!!
From: Buckroe
Larry Wednesday, 5/31/06, 5:23 AM
Good question John! It seems that there will be no fishing pier in Buckroe anytime soon because Terry O'Neil and Boss Ross screwed the whole deal up, and now they have to reapply for all the permits. Now is our chance to have the pier put on the old pier one site where it belongs! What a great thing that would be to have the pier in the center of the park. It would truly be the center of all the action and they could also build ice cream parlors and coffee shops there. It would be awesome.
John and Louise Dixon Tuesday, 5/30/06, 1:59 PM
Used to come to buckroe when I was a young girl when the amusement park was there. We had been back some years past for a long weekend just to fish and catch a couple waves. Were thinking about it this summer but I see there is no fishing pier. When will the new pier be finished? Thank you and good luck in your endeavors. Lou
From: Gladstone, Va.
Email: loudix1@aol.com
Larry Tuesday, 5/30/06, 7:51 AM
Enough with all the green space people looking for pats on the back. Lets get back to the issues at hand. This weekend Buckroe Beach was very busy, and yet the new road wasn't open for business. Another prime reason that Terry O'Neil should be removed from office. Also, the yet to be started pier remains a point of concern with the nasty bar that Boss Ross wants to build in the middle of the park. I'm telling you all please go see the one in Norfolk at night and you will be shocked to think that our City fathers would be dumb enough to build that where children are playing. Please take the time to go look. If you all care about Buckroe go see this place in action and you will be sick. It is like the Brass Lantern and it is exactly what everyone involved in Buckroe is trying to get rid of right now.
Phyllis Flanders Tuesday, 5/30/06, 5:11 AM
Dear Ruth, Thank you for your posting. As I said - this isn't about name-calling or flame wars for me - just about setting the record straight. Now that people have had a chance to read about both points of view and choices, they have a right to choose where they stand and support whom they wish - that is the whole point of this effort - for the citizens to have a voice no matter what side they take. So, I thank you for using your voice and wish you well.
From: Hampton
Email: epflanders@aol.com
Ruth Monday, 5/29/06, 9:04 PM
After reading the quote, next under, no wonder you GSLs dropped Phyllis. Who wants to deal with that! Keep up the good work girls. Ruth G.
From: Salt Ponds
Phyllis Flanders Monday, 5/29/06, 7:05 PM
I did not come here to join in the name calling or flame wars that seem to rage on this page - just to set the record straight as many of you have asked me to do since you can contact me once again. For the record I have never left the Green Space Movement - I simply chose to work with a different group of people on the same issue. I did choose not to participate in the referendum effort that Sanda, Trish and Cecile supported and I chose not to support the slate of candidates that they chose to support in the city council race so they dropped my contact information from this page and removed me from their informational mailing list. However, I have continued to work very hard for the green space issue and two of the three candidates that I supported won the race for city council seats - and I happily believe that two outta three ain't bad. :) I'm sorry Trish no longer believes the petition is important - it is still important - very important because it is the instrument of the voice of the people and now the pages are being given to the city and they are expected to actually give an accurate culled count when the last database they have is 9,312 names out of the 10,229 names that are officially counted. Thank you for your support! If you would like to discuss my postings or want further information regarding upcoming strategy meetings feel free to contact me at 757/851-2262 or epflanders@aol.com. PS: To the person who posted just before me - thanks for not calling me "tubby"! LOLOLOLOL Far Out Phyllis :)
From: Hampton
Email: epflanders@aol.com
Bob Friday, 4/28/06, 5:30 AM
Ruth, While your comments make some sense, I do beleive that this election is a referendum. The outcome on Tuesday will determine what direction the city will travel in the future. Will we continue to slide downhill as we have in the past two years, or will the balance of power shift and change the majority? During the current majority's rule citizens have become disillusioned with city hall. Very few residents trust their city officials, lying has become a common business practice for council members and the administration. In all areas of the city there is a feeling that the city is the enemy. Obviously, this should not be the case. I think that the city needs massive change, and this election will determine if it gets done now or if we must two more years. The current majority needs to be the minority, and long time players like Jimmy Eason, and Terry Oneil must be thrown out of office ASAP! They are the root of all evil, and they just never seem to go away. Hampton needs fresh faces and fresh ideas. I was embarassed to watch the council meeting on Wednesday as school children were forced to beg the council not to let budget cuts cancel their youth programs. To watch this made me sick, and to think that the current council and administration is wasting millions on the needless purchase of land for that pier is flat out wrong. To think that they allowed citizens downtown to be duped is flat out wrong. To think that that they want anything to do with Ft. Monroe is flat out wrong. So Ruth, whoever can make these changes take place are the ones that need to be elected.
Ruth Thursday, 4/27/06, 9:49 PM
Bob, your comments below were interesting but remember Mayor "Teach" isn't up for re-election on Tuesday. However, Councilmen Joe Spencer and Randy Gilliland are up for re-election....yet never forget that Joe Spencer is a long-time loyal friend of Jimmy Eason's and both Joe and Jimmy as well as Paige Washington and Butch Heath (as a member of the Planning Commission) were/are part of the many major failed financial deals for the city in the past. Long-time loyal friendships are to be admired and treasured but Joe's loyalty to Condo Jimmy, at the expense of all other Hampton residents, as well as at the expense of putting residential development on Lots B, is wrong. Please vote Randy Gilliland, our one current encumbent and vote Donnie Tuck and Simon Gaskill, two newcomers, to ensure the majority of Hampton registered voters can start to put intelligent experienced and/or new council members on board with fresh sensible ideas that will help overcome Hampton's current scary financial situation/reputation and the "good old boys" regime. In his note below, Larry comments that when we vote we must rememer we are voting for the whole city not just a couple of lots. Larry is right, and Larry is wrong, ie., voting to save Lots B IS voting for the whole city. Lots B are not just "a couple of lots." A vote for the three candidates who wish to ensure Lots B remain for the public's continued use, fun and relaxation is a vote for the health, welfare and livability of our whole city for generations to come. I recently received a flyer from the Green Space Ladies which said, "TGG - there for you and me to save Lots B at Buckroe. Vote TUCK, GASKILL, AND GILLILAND for Hampton City Council on May 2nd" I liked their reasoning behind that statement as expressed on the flyer, and thus I too now plan to vote TGG. Bob, I hope you and your friends come to that same conclusion after reading the flyer and/or listening to the candidates, particularly TGG, at the forums explaining why something should, or will, be done once they are in office.
From: Hampton
Email: Salt Ponds
Bob Thursday, 4/27/06, 7:52 PM
I stopped by this site to get an update on what was happening in the neighborhood, and I read the posts about the pier. I was shocked to read about the city spending money to buy property for that project while they try to sell the b-lots. If that is truly the case then we all need to band together and find out exactly what is going on. Why would our elected officials betray us like this? Who cares about a pier? Maybe a couple of percent of people. Who cares about recreation for the whole community? 100% of the community. If they bought this property then they can sell it and save the b-lots. If anyone in that city hall thinks for one minute that we are going to be hoodwinked by their actions they are wrong. We are not going to sit back while they waste our tax dollars on property purchases that are not necessary while they plead poverty to the community! If the planning director, or mayor think that they are going to sell our children short or deprive our neighbors of community land to benefit themselves they are wrong. The b-lots belong to the community and that is that! If the pier can be built on public land then it should be! To spend more than 2 million dollars on that little sliver of land is nothing less than stupid. So please don't let these morons do this to our families. Voice your opinions, vote, go to city hall, demand to be heard. They are nothing once the numbers turn. We proved that before and we can do it again. The greenspace girls proved that the knuckleheads that are currently in power are nothing to be reckoned with. They work for us, and let them know it! Every politicians worst nightmare is a well informed citizen. Please take the time to tell them that the b-lots are more important than making one of the mayor's friends rich. IOf we can save a couple of million dollars by moving the pier 40 feet then lets do it! By doing this we can save enough money to save the b-lots, and all of the childrens programs that the current council threatens to cut. Let all citizens pray that help is on the way! Wen need to stick together to overcome the current regime. This is truly something that resembles an old Soviet block program. To think that the majority of the city bit into the new open and more honest government pitch two years ago is pathetic. Don't feel bad I voted for that guy too! Once bitten twice shy! Send the teach to detention and get him out of politics ASAP. God Help and Save the City!
From: Buckroe
Larry Thursday, 4/27/06, 10:18 AM
I don't know much about the pier deal, but I am amazed that a city official would spend that much on land. With all of the other things that Hampton could use this seems like an obscene waste of money. If we own land that is suitable for a pier already why must we make someone rich by purchasing land from them? Waterfront land will sell on the open market just fine on its own. It is really amazing that they want to sell our wonderful park land while at the same time buying other waterfront property. It makes you really wonder what is going on downtown, and who the heck is getting all the skim.
From: Buckroe
Jody Shultz Thursday, 4/27/06, 9:42 AM
Don¿t you have a marina to run Cindy? You¿re not getting the bigger picture. If the Pier goes back in the same spot Cerwin Abbott gets 2 mill for just a small chunk of land and then another monster payout for the rest of the trailer park from Ronnie Boon, who will build Condos there. The Mayor gets a sweet kickback from both for fostering the deal.
From: Kent Narrows, MD
Cindy Thursday, 4/27/06, 9:06 AM
Did anyone realize that the City is spending 2 million dollars on buying the land for the fishing pier? I am told that now construction has been halted the city needs to re-apply for all of the permits. If this is the case then why not build the pier on land that we already own? They want to sell the b-lots for money, they cut out childrens programs to save money, groovin by the bay is gone to save money, and now they just waste millions!!! How does this make sense? It makes me sick to my stomach to think that the mayor or whoever is doing this is just raping our city for personal gains. The last thing in the world the city of Hampton needs to do is to buy more expensive property. If we own land that can be used for a pier lets put it there and let our kids grow up with the things that they need.
From: Salt Ponds
Jeff Daube Thursday, 4/27/06, 8:41 AM
In regards to Michael¿s comments below. Waterfront property should be reserved for the wealthy few like me. We need more gated communities around here to isolate ourselves from common folk like you. I am sympathetic to your plight however. I am planning on talking to the Mayor about me building some new low cost housing adjacent to Big Bethel Landfill or perhaps in the Langley Crash Zone. And Just to prove that I¿m not a caring guy. I¿d like to give you a couple of bucks toward getting you a new computer with spell check.
From: Salt Ponds
Larry Thursday, 4/27/06, 7:34 AM
Sandra, Than you for responding to my comment. While I appreciate your position there is more to my post that my liitle personal doubts. I am concerned about the fact that once the election is over certain candidates might revert back to their old philosophies. The redevelopment of Buckroe is a very complex matter, and I beleive that the majority of residents in the area now want a voice in what happens here. We are all sick and tired of the current council and current administrations way of doing business. We are not alone in these feelings, one needs to do no more than look at any other section of the city to find a growing resentment against the elected government. Last week in Phoebus the planning commission employees were heckled by angry citizens that do not want them in their neighborhood. Look at the fiasco downtown, and the hard feelings and embarassment caused by a lack of leadership within the city. This is a feeling that resonates throughout all of Hampton. This city has long been known for backwoods good ole boy politics, but in the last two years it has made our city the laughing stock of Tidewater. So when you vote remember you are voting for the whole city not just a couple of lots.
From: Hampton
Sandra Canepa Wednesday, 4/26/06, 4:09 PM
Hello Larry, and thank you for your comment below. You are exactly right. Councilwoman Angela Leary has supported saving Lots B for the public's continued use and enjoyment from Day One of our battle which began before Council 13 months ago. However, Mrs. Leary is not up for reelection on Tuesday May 2nd. That you point out no other Council member was for saving Lots B over the last year is also right UNTIL Councilman Randy Gilliland began to listen to the people. Mr. Gilliland then made the proposal, which was adopted by a 7-0 vote, to return the fate of Lots B to a new planning process, this time guided by a diverse, broad-based team of citizens and leaders from throughout the city. Mr. Gilliland's actions now to save Lots B from residential development, and his written statements in support of saving that land for the public along with similar statements from two other Council candidates, Mr. Donnie Tuck and Mr. Simon Gaskill, (all statements found on this website) are proof enough to me and other Green Space Ladies that one incombent, Mr. Gilliland, and two newcomers, Mr. Tuck and Mr. Gaskill, are the three right candidates for Hampton City Council on May 2nd. Our choices Tuesday must put aside our own little personal doubts about someone's personality and look at the election as the only way Lots B can be saved for our now and future generations. The elections Tuesday are not about us, they are for our children, our children's children, etc, etc. Larry, thank you again for entering our guest book.
From: Hampton
Email: sandra@buckroebeach.org
Larry Wednesday, 4/26/06, 12:38 PM
In a few days citizens of Hampton will make a decision regarding the future of the greenspace and the city itself. All members of the City would be well advised to remember the positions of the incumbents, and challengers regarding key issues like the b lots. Please do not remember their current positions, but rather their positions all along. I find it hard to beleive that a leopard would change its' spots. As far as I can tell there has been exactly one current council member that has consistently stood up for this fight. Everyone else has been after the fact in the face of the election. I am worried that once the election is over so is the support of the b lots.
From: Hampton
michael cross Saturday, 4/22/06, 12:50 PM
I will agree that the demolotion of Todds Cottages and other properties a de-blight the area,but I ask where is the (poor) people,some of who are honest people supposed to live? I do agree that there was/is some unsavory things that went on there but some familys le lived there or around there and are now homeless.when one person lives in a place for 12 years ,is on a fixed income and payed $375 a mounth where is 1 supposed to move?With theremaining properties to be condemed ie gordens trailer court we will have more homeless people????? what is the plan to fix this I ask? Will the city of hampton be better off by taking these peoples homes so we can build pricy homes that I or them can afford? Maybe these thoughts never came up for discussion.
From: hampton/okla./fla.
Email: psccprez@yahoo.com
michael cross Saturday, 4/22/06, 12:29 PM
as a transplant I very much enjoy the beach and will help fight the destuction of this great asset of land
From: hampton/oklahoma
Email: psccprez@yahoo.com
Perry Pilgrim Tuesday, 4/11/06, 11:48 AM
I agree with your endorsements of Gilliland and Gaskill. I do not know Tuck, but agree with the logic of the first 2. I also find it interesting that use of email has made it easier for people to be rude to each other, as is evident from Mr. Wade's opening remarks to you. PP
From: Hampton
Email: ppilgrim@abbitt.com
Doreen Friday, 4/7/06, 9:43 AM
Hello all, I am a graduate student at Old Dominion University and a small business owner. I have been a resident of Hampton since I was 3 years old. My father was a Vietnam Veteran. He was an engineer with the Army Corps of Engineers. He retired here 25 years ago. One of my brothers is an architect who specializes in Urban Redevelopment. My entire immediate family and extended family believes that to do away with the public beach at Buckroe in Hampton would be a disastrous decision. We should leave the beach for the residents of Hampton and their children, just like it has always been. It should be a totally public space. People do not have the time or money in this city to take a vacation every time they want to go to the beach. Virginia Beach is stressful to get to with all the traffic not to mention crowded and dangerous to take children to because of the waves and rip currents. Grandview Beach is no longer a "Grand" view beach now that condos have been built all over it. That leaves us with only one beach, Buckroe. If residents of Hampton can no longer as much as stick their toes in the Chesapeake Bay, that will be a real low point for Hampton. WE NEED THIS BEACH. I can't tell you how many times I had a rough day, or was exhausted from work and we just couldn't wait to go take our shoes off and stroll down the beach to blow the cobwebs out of our ears. Or how many memories I have from my childhood running through the haunted house, riding on the roller coaster or dancing at the big band shows, laying in the sand watching movies at night, eating ice cream under a beach umbrella. I believe that with a little creativity and passion ( and teamwork) the city and people of Hampton could create a wonderful space that will make all the residents proud to be from Hampton. I believe we can redevelop and include small businesses and restaurants, even a farmers market, flea market or fish market. We can set these back a bit from the beach and still have the beach. We do not need more expensive houses that only a privileged few in Hampton can afford and stamp out the rest of the population from enjoying one of the only simple pleasures in Hampton. I think whoever is in charge of this project should go visit some successful redevelopment areas that include small beaches. St. Michaels on the Eastern Shore is a good example. Even the redevelopment at Yorktown has not done away with the public areas. Imagine if instead they built condos all along the beach and we could no longer go there. As a tax paying resident of Hampton, I demand that my public space is not sold to developers. I am proud to see so many Hampton residents standing up for something so strongly, I wish it happened more often....
From: Hampton
Email: kocdag@earthlink.net
Thursday, 4/6/06, 1:36 PM
You people are really grasping for straws. When most folks go to the beach they primarily go to that strip of sand that adjoins the water, not for the park. So what if condos are built and the park stays as is? They are not going to stop beachgoers, but they will help bring new life into our neighborhood and taxes for the city to continue to buy blighted properties and make improvements. They will bring people who will have money to spend and that higher demand for services will bring more amenities that all of us can enjoy.
Joan Charles Thursday, 4/6/06, 12:00 PM
This will be the last of my comments to an unknown. Think about it. I could have made comments here unsigned. I could have told you I "hold plenty of crediblity both in my profession and private life." Blackbeard could have done the same thing ... I am sure his crew thought he had a credible private life and he was great at prirating. As far as Hampton being a laughing stock, it may be due to the likes of the Harbour Centre deal, Merritt's restaurant deal, the fumbling Radisson deal, the fumbling Holiday Inn deal, a dubious convention center (which I pray will make a turnaround), the Power Plant deal ... need I go on. Hampton's record of economic development leaves something to be desired. I don't think condos at Buckroe are the answer. BUT I do my homework. Thriving cities draw the companies with good jobs because of a good educational system, recreation, culture, and no doubt a few incentives. Condos at Buckroe will not make or break a deal with a company seeking to relocate. Maybe, just maybe, an outstanding park with amenities could be a deal-maker. It surely would help the convention center ... you know that big place we are trying to fill up. I worked for Conventions and Tourism ... a seaside park would be a major perk. Think about it. Hang in there Green Space Gals ... you are on the right track and hopefully the depot is in sight. Woo Woo.
From: Hampton
Email: j.charles@erols.com
Thursday, 4/6/06, 10:36 AM
That¿s ok Joan, I hold plenty of credibility both in my professional and private life. I certainly not going to worry about what you people think of me. I could be a leading expert in sustainable development and green space preservation, however If I told you that residential development for those lots was a better use of the land you still wouldn¿t listen because of your shallow thinking. The only thing you people care about is preventing what you think are rich people from moving here. I hardly think anyone rich and famous is planning on buying a condo in Buckroe. There will much more likely be a lot of retired empty nesters and college educated working professionals. There definitely not a glut in this market for Hampton, just take a look at the market survey done by ODU, Hampton is a laughing stock compared our surrounding cities. You people are the selfish ones here. You want to prevent development because you¿re scared it will change your quality of life. Not because we need a larger park or more parking.
Robie Tuck Thursday, 4/6/06, 7:05 AM
From: Hampton
Email: rebrt@msn.com
Joan Charles Thursday, 4/6/06, 6:20 AM
It is interesting that you do not sign your posting which dilutes its credibility. Did you mean sediment or sentiment? Sediment could be mud. Is that what you think of people's feelings? Or do people count? Or does only dollars make the difference in everything the city does. Economists will tell you that businesses look for cities that provide recreation, culture, education, not just space to build. A few more condos for the rich and famous in a glutted market is not going to make or break Hampton.
From: Hampton
Email: j.charles@erols.com
Thursday, 4/6/06, 5:06 AM
What you say in your post comes as no surprise Joan. You turn to past public sediment and use that as a rally call. It is backward thinking like yours and the others who support this site that would keep this City behind the rest of Hampton Roads in economic development. You have no comprehension of the larger picture. You only think you¿re looking in the best interest of Buckroe, because you don¿t know any better.
Joan Charles Wednesday, 4/5/06, 8:26 PM
Adding a little history to the guest book. Daily Press, June 23, 1994 "Eight years ago, residents and city officials agreed that the best thing for Buckroe would be to create a 10-acre beachfront park and reserve the adjoining 10 acres one block inland as open space until pricey, high-density apartments could be built. "But many local residents now say those development plans would be the worst thing that could happen to Buckroe's family beach atmosphere. And they are demanding that city officials scrap the plans and promise to keep the land as open space forever. ... "During Tuesday's public hearing at the school system's administrative building, Rhonda R. Mack, senior city planner, was the lone voice supporting the 1986 plan." City Council Minutes, January 11, 1995 "Mr. William Baker, Buckroe Neighborhood Planning Committee, requested that Council defer consideration on the proposed Buckroe Neighborhood Plan. He stated that the proposed plan poses consensus recommendations for all topics with the exception of alternative land uses for the PUBLICLY HELD PROPERTY IN THE BEACH FRONT AREA, PROPERTY ACROSS NORTH FIRST STREET FROM THE BUCKROE BEACHFRONT PARK." Now, it is easily seen that the green space has a 10-11 year history of being prized by the public and there is a strong desire TO KEEP IT AS PART OF THE PARK AREA. More later.
From: Hampton
Email: j.charles@erols.com
Joan Charles Wednesday, 4/5/06, 5:58 PM
I do believe Ms. Hobbs need glasses. You do not include a parking lot "on grass" in your "dream park." And since when is Buckroe Beach only used three months. It seems to me folks were down there last month (March). Any native of the area knows we have "beach" weather into October. Can you guess the number people she may know that agree with her? 11,000? Yeah, right. She better check her Buckroe history when it comes to people not wanting condos. It goes waaaay back. More on that later. You all keep up the good work. Joan Charles
From: Hampton
Email: j.charles@erols.com
Trish Ferraro Wednesday, 4/5/06, 9:16 AM
Proof that Amy Hobbs is not always truthful is in her entry below, first by entering it as if it were coming from The Daily Press when in fact it came from her. Amy, I am happy you wrote the following because it shows you do not mind bending the truth to force your opinions on other people. In response to your other opinions given below, I will address them in a letter to the editor. Trish Ferraro
From: Buckroe
The Daily Press Wednesday, 4/5/06, 3:39 AM
More than one way to save Buckroe April 5, 2006 I'm writing to correct the misinformation by the supposed "green space" people. First, the Buckroe planning process was done with hundreds of people in attendance over the course of 19 public meetings, not just a few. Secondly, the idea of green space and open area for all is contradictory to what has been proposed by these folks. A parking lot on grass would remain. It would only be used three months out of the year and would remain in its current state. A miniature golf course, a few rows of houses, some small commercial development: This doesn't sounds like green space to me. Readers should take a look at their Web site and their "plan" and then check out the plan that was put together by professionals at Hampton.gov under neighborhood plans. Also check out Urban Design Associates at its Web site, UrbanDesignAssociates .com. UDA has done such work as the Downtown Norfolk Revitalization, the Kittanning Riverfront Park in western Pennsylvania and the Pensacola Historic District, just to name a few, that have revitalized whole towns by redoing just a few blocks. Sandra Canepa claims to represent all the citizens of Hampton. She doesn't speak for me, nor most of the people I know. I don't imagine she speaks for the people who believe that Buckroe can once again be one of the greatest places to live in and visit on the eastern seaboard either. People should be sure to have all the facts before signing the petition to "Save Buckroe." There are folks here who have been trying to save it for much longer than just the past year. Thanks to the initiative of the Buckroe Civic Association, we have a new community-designed and funded playground, new lighting at the beach, a new, soon- to-open Pembroke corridor, torn-down blight and more. Amy Hobbs
Tommie Leary Tuesday, 4/4/06, 6:52 AM
Ladies, Keep up the good work. THANKS
From: Hampton,Va 23669
Email: VMI60@AOL.COM
Steven Steele Monday, 3/20/06, 8:12 AM
As a tourist in the Hampton area, I would hate to see condos spread across Buckroe Beach Park. In fact me, my family and our friends probabaly wouldn't spend another tourist dollar in Hampton, because BB Park is a big part of our visit. At some small beaches in Florida, overdevelopment virtually made it impossible for the general public to access the beach. Parking (or NO PARKING) was a major concern. This has already occurred at Salt Ponds Beach in Hampton. I dont want to sound crazy, but another issue is climate change. Climeatologist and other scientists are predicting stronger and more frequent hurricanes.It just doesn't make sense to keep building large multi-family dwellings on the coast.
From: Roanoke, Va
Email: steelmillstevensteele@yahoo.com
Kelly J. Thursday, 3/16/06, 8:19 AM
We recently moved here from California & have fallen in love with living so close the beach. Until today (& thanks to this website) we believed that this Buckroe Makeover was a good thing - that it would eliminate the those things which have given Buckroe a bad rap & re-create it to something like it was "back in the day". In fact, thats why I have been online looking for info about the "improvements" - the pics of the old amusement park & stories shared & have been so interesting to me. But now to learn that the open space is to be consumed by more condo's??? Grr!!! Admittedly, we live in a condo here in Buckroe - but are not for building MORE & taking up what belongs to the PUBLIC. I love visiting the park with my kids & seeing the other families enjoying it. Is this whats in danger of being taken away? How can I get involved? I may not have the history here that many of you have, but I certainly care & have an interest. We may be new, but its our home now too! Thanks for the online info - I would never have known!!
From: Buckroe Beach (by way of California)
Email: zinblossom@hotmail.com
Desiree Stone Monday, 3/6/06, 10:19 AM
Buckroe Beach green areas should definitely not be converted for condo development. The city has already cut the land to create a street to separate the beach picnic areas and parking lot from the green space - now people can just cruise up and down 1st street. For years we could go to Buckroe Beach in the evenings and enjoy a cool summer breeze but the condo owners complained about that and thought they would have and the rest of us be restricted. Now they and we are restricted to dusk. Hampton has limited public access areas as it is. It is certainly interesting that we currently don't have access to the beach at the other end of 1st street. Why not add a few parking spaces there - on the public street - so the rest of the Hampton community can drive up there and enjoy what is now a private beach funded by our taxes? Why not go clean up some other blighted areas in Hampton and convert them to condos? The lust for development is not a good thing.
From: Hampton VA
Email: dstone4321@aol.com
jackie brown Monday, 3/6/06, 7:03 AM
thanks for fighting to keep buckroe for the people that enjoy the area,i think we should mabey consider what historic yorktown has done with there boardwalk,but i like the idea of a skatepark too, a nice cozy resaturant or starbucks would be nice, there is more things we can do than CONDO,S that is for sure.
From: amsterdam,But live here langley
Email: jackiebrown66soest@yahoo.com
Louise Zacharias Sunday, 3/5/06, 1:38 PM
We have people that live in Richmond that would like to come and visit a week or so at the beach. They have small children and would rather go to the Bay than the ocean. It would be nice to have some nice places for them to stay. We really like your plan. Lets all stick togeather.
From: Buckroe
Email: LZacharias@Cox.net
Louise Zacharias Sunday, 3/5/06, 1:31 PM
From: Hampton, va
Email: LZacharias@cox.net
Sandra Canepa Sunday, 3/5/06, 7:24 AM
I invite everyone to view my link on the homepage of this website. It is under the picture of Lots B and contains interesting comments from several Hampton residents regarding a skateboard park, traffic and parking at Buckroe Beach. I also invite to view Trish Ferraro's link which has an important message for all Hampton residents interested in saving Lots B for the public. Thank you.
From: Hampton
Email: sandra@buckoebeach.org
jordan moore Saturday, 3/4/06, 3:11 PM
i am so happy that the city council has decided to keep the lots "b" hope that the plan is really what you said it would be!! GOOD LUCK!!!!
From: hampton,newportnews
Email: you know nan
Joyce Carter Winston Monday, 2/27/06, 6:12 AM
I am currently living in the house I was born and raised in which is on Pembroke Avenue in Buckroe Beach. I love the beach and spend mornings walking along its length. I urge Council to save the green areas. When I was young people came in buses and cars from all over to stay and enjoy the area. Let's bring that back.
From: Buckroe Beach
Email: buckrow@aol.com
Evelyn Casey Snead Wednesday, 2/22/06, 6:55 PM
I have many happy memories of Buckroe Beach from the 50's. If it can't be like the old days, then please leave green space to enjoy the beauty of the bay, not condo after condo. What an ugly site! I just returned from a stay at Myrtle Beach, SC. What a beautiful shore but get on the street and all you see is one condo and high rise hotel after another. What an ugly site! What can I say, progress is good but old times and beauty are better. Save the green space.
From: Richmond, Va.
Webmaster Wednesday, 2/22/06, 8:56 AM
Messages left in this guest book by the person who signs in as JP, using the email address galt351@yahoo.com will be deleted. This person also signs in using various other names that can be tracked. Those entries will also be deleted. This person is not really interested in the issue and often leaves inappropriate remarks regarding both sides of the issue.
