Williamsburg Real Estate Blog

Veterans Day Parade in Colonial Williamsburg-FREE admission for Military

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 08:33:11 -0500

Colonial Williamsburg honors the sacrifices and dedication of U.S. veterans, active duty military personnel, guard and reservists, and their dependents during special Veterans Day programs on Wednesday, Nov. 11,2009.

On Veterans Day, a military parade honoring America's veterans will be held at 4:30 p.m. and will begin at the Capitol. All veterans of service in America's armed forces are invited to participate in the parade. Groups will begin forming at 4:15 p.m. A ceremony will follow the parade at the Courthouse on Market Square recognizing all veterans of American service.

*As part of the tribute, Colonial Williamsburg offers special free admission passes to active duty military, guard and reservists, retirees, veterans and their dependents from Friday through Wednesday, Nov. 6-11. The Honoring Service to America pass includes admission to Colonial Williamsburg's Historic Area and museums, including the Capitol, Governor's Palace and Bassett Hall, the Williamsburg home of Foundation benefactor John D. Rockefeller Jr. and his wife, Abby Aldrich Rockefeller. The pass also includes an Orientation Walk, a walking tour that provides an overview of Colonial Williamsburg and its restoration, free shuttle bus service to and from the Visitor Center, a viewing of the movie, "Williamsburg, The Story of a Patriot," and parking at the Visitor Center.

Are you with me ?

Sun, 04 Oct 2009 07:16:07 -0500

Who's with us?

For any of you other bloggers out there who want to join forces on October 15th, just click here to register (it takes about five seconds) and then just write a planet-friendly post on the 15th. Easy to do and , and possibly world changing.

Blog Action Day is an annual event that unites the world's bloggers in posting about the same issue on the same day on their own blogs with the aim of sparking discussion around an issue of global importance. Blog Action Day 2009 will be the largest-ever social change event on the web. One day. One issue. Thousands of voices.

Let's make a difference !

Looking for a 55+ home or community in Hampton Roads VA

Sun, 27 Sep 2009 12:35:17 -0500

After a recent prospect came to town looking for a home in a 55+ community in Williamsburg I assumed as I always do that they would want to live here in Williamsburg, VA. To my surprise they chose VA Beach over Williamsburg. ( A rare occurrence) It seems that they wanted to be closer to their kids who live in VA Beach so they purchased a home in West Neck a 55+ golf community in Virginia Beach, Virginia .The West Neck community sits on a quiet 620 acres and features a beautiful 18 hole, 72-par, Arnold Palmer Signature golf course, designed by Arnold Palmer and Palmer Course Design Company, that presents holes ranging from 5,031 to 7,010 yards. Eight distinct villages with a total of 930 homes comprise the West Neck community.

To that I end I have compiled a list of most of the 55+ Active Adult communities in Hampton Roads. This includes the Chesapeake, Gloucester, Franklin, Portsmouth, Smithfield, Suffolk, VA Beach, and Yorktown VA areas.

Chesapeake, VA -Eagle Pointe at Cahoon Plantation, One Ford Place, Legacy at Washington Arms, The Retreat At Greenbrier, Riverwalk, Monarch Walk, The Commons at Hunningdon, Sommerton

Gloucester , Va- Villas at Gloucester- Coming in 2010

Franklin, VA-Village at Woods End

Portsmouth, VA-Villas of River Pointe - Portsmouth

Smithfield, VA- Villas at Smithfield, Church Square

Suffolk, VA-The Seasons on Lake Meade

VA Beach, VA-Bay Village Condos, West Neck, Chelsea Place, Atlantic Shores,

Williamsburg, VA-Colonial Heritage Gated Active Adult Community, Villas At Five Forks, The Settlement at Powhatan Creek

Yorktown, VA-Rainbrook Villas, Villas at Yorktown

Here is the current map. I will continue to add new communities as they become available. If you know of any I missed please let me know

If you would like an email with prices and specifications for all homes , town homes, condos in 55+ communities in Williamsburg or Hampton Roads VA click here

Howl-O Scream Busch Gardens Williamsburg, VA 2009 opens this weekend

Tue, 22 Sep 2009 06:03:22 -0500

Our favorite time of the year to visit Busch Gardens starts this weekend. With two boys who are 10 and 11 we can now take in all that Howl-O- Scream has to offer. I will say if you have younger children quite a bit of Howl-O Scream might be too scary at night-ime.. To help parents decide what to see and do the attractions and shows are rated for their scare factor.

Howl O Scream at Busch Gardens Williamsburg is open from Sept. 25 - Nov. 1, 2009 every Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Now entering it's 11th year the fright fest for 2009 will feature 18 scare zones, haunted attractions and Halloween-themed live shows. Fifteen of the attractions are completely new.

Neighborhoods in Williamsburg/ James City County

Tue, 15 Sep 2009 16:05:36 -0500

Question ...does your company have a website? Yes, www.MrWilliamsburg.com I want to rent a home at first (with patio or small courtyard or yard....for my very small dog) and be near Colonial Williamsburg and a great gym. The gym is critical....I go three times a week! And I would like to work in Colonial Williamsburg. And somehow, meet people and make friends my age....50's and 60's. Rent needs to be under $1500 a month.....and I have seen some things on a realtor's site in Jamestown Farms , whatever that is. The treet is Gaslight Way...and the listing says it is in Williamsburg. Is that a good idea for a single woman living alone, with only dog and cat for company? I have made the mistake of being too isolated before and it was very lonely and really deadly. What is Newtown? The home you asked about on Gaslight is in the Waterford section of Powhatan Secondary, great neighborhood with both families, individuals and retirees. Powhatan is one of the most conveniently located communities in the entire county. Within walking distance are a major department store ( Target), a major food store,( Ukrops) several pharmacies, a full-service gas station, two major bank/lending institutions, eateries, novelty stores, and service establishments such as video rental and parcel mailing. Within a few miles is The James City County Rec Center it offers a great gym with fitness equipment, indoor pool, indoor track, racquetball, basketball, fitness programs and more. Ironbound Gym is another popular workout spot located nearby in New Town. New Town has become the center of Williamsburg/ James City County. It is a Traditional Neighborhood Development ( TND) Everything is walk-able. Within it are 24+ places to eat, a 12 screen movie theater, Barnes and Noble, Several Coffee Shops, a bakery, Trader Joes, other retail stores, banks, doctors offices, dentist offices and much more. Housing options in New Town range from town-house style apartments to town–homes ( Oxford) to detached homes, to midrise condos. Prices in New Town range from $200’s to over $500k. Apartments rent for $1050 for one bedrooms, and $1250 for two bedrooms. They do accept pets. There was one home in Counselors Close for only $1425. I almost never see rentals that nice that close to CW. Quaint little village like community only a few blocks to Merchants Square and all of CW. That along with a few in Powhatan for $1500 or less might be worth considering.

New Town- Williamsburg VA- Real Estate

Mon, 06 Jul 2009 05:03:26 -0500

The New Town community in James City County/ Williamsburg, VA offers a unique combination of shops, entertainment, a vibrant office environment and a plethora of housing options to appeal to all segments of the population

New Town in Williamsburg, VA has raised the bar on complete living, meeting all of the needs of the community, businesses and residents alike.

See a current list of homes for sale in New Town

As of today I counted 22 different places to eat in New Town. There should be a place for everyone's taste. It includes : artcafe26- A Touch of Europe in Williamsburg, Barnes and Noble Booksellers, Bonefish Grill, Buon Amici- Italian Restaurant & Gourmet Pizzeria, California Tortilla- Specialty Burritos Are Our Specialty, Center Street Grill- Where traditional tastes are fused with new world flavors., Cheeburger Cheeburger- Big is Better, CoCo Chocolatier & Creperie- Williamsburg's Premier Chocolate, Fondue and Crepe destination, Great Harvest Bread Co.- Williamsburg's Whole Grain Headquarters, Green Leafe New Town- Good Beer. Good Food. Good People., HARBOUR COFFEE- YOUR community coffeehouse and specialty roaster, Ichiban- AUTHENTIC CHINESE CUISINE AND OUTSTANDING SUSHI, Maggie Moo's Ice Cream, New Town Avenue Coffee & Tea- New Town Ave. Coffee and Tea, Opus 9 Steakhouse- Casual Elegance, Personalize Service, Relaxed Sophistication, Panera Bread- Bakery-Cafe: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Catering, Parletts- Parletts - Cards Stationery Gifts, Quiznos Sub-, Thaipot- Thai Cuisine, The Corner Pocket- Food, Billiards, Entertainment, The Short Stop Market- ‘Your Neighborhood Market and Deli, Z Pizza- Now Open!

As a local REALTOR working in New Town I would be happy to assist you in finding a home here.

Norfolk VA Fireworks July 3, 4, 5 2009- Harborfest

Thu, 02 Jul 2009 07:41:51 -0500

The renovations to Town Point Park are now complete. Having received $11.5 million in upgrades it is now the premier waterfront park in the area.. Harborfest 2009 will be held there July 3-5th this year . It will be combined with Independence Day and the celebration of the park's reopening .

Lee Greenwood will be there for a concert Saturday at 8 p.m. along with fireworks, music, tall ships and tugboats and activities for the kids.

New this year is the Al Fresco Outdoor Cafe, which brings a restaurant-style eating experience into the park. Adult beverages are on tap at the Hard Rock Fish Cafe.

Each night of the festival ( Friday , Saturday and Sunday) will offer fireworks, but Friday's are twilight fireworks - made especially for the evening light.

Location:
Town Point Park, Downtown Norfolk, Virginia

Read the rest of the story here

Colonial Williamsburg VA 4th of July Fireworks-2009

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 07:44:05 -0500

Colonial Williamsburg's Fourth of July Activities celebrate the founding of a nation.

The Declaration of Independence, drafted by Virginian Thomas Jefferson, was adopted July 4th, 1776. Celebrate the nation's birthday with Fifes and Drums, militia parades, and Colonial Williamsburg's famous Historic Area fireworks. Colonial Williamsburg offers programs throughout the day that honor the birth of our nation.

At 10 a.m. on Market Square, A Salute to the States offers a salute to the original 13 colonies with a Fifes and Drums performance and cannon fire.

At 12:30 p.m., the Declaration of Independence is read to citizens of Williamsburg at the Capitol building.

At 8:15 p.m., Music for the Fireworks features a concert of patriotic music with Colonial Williamsburg's Fifes and Drums prior to the fireworks. Fireworks begin at 9:15 p.m.

Guests are encouraged to bring a blanket or a lawn chair, and park at the Visitor Center and take Colonial Williamsburg's buses to the Historic Area. No ticket is required to enjoy these programs.

Find out more information here

Technorati Tags: fourth of july williamsburg,colonial williamsburg,fireworks hampton roads va,fireworks 4th of july

Windmill Meadows- New Home Community in Williamsburg VA

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 06:59:44 -0500

Windmill Meadows- New Home Community in Williamsburg VA

I just posted an artice about the new homes in Windmill Meadows in James City COunty/ Williamsburg VA.

Associated Developers and Beamon Construction have opened a new community off of Centerville Rd in Williamsburg James City County Virginia.
The Village at Windmill Meadows is a 40 acre community with new homes starting from the $400,000's . Originally the site of a farm. The old windmill from that farm has been restored and now stands sentry at the entrance to the neighborhood.

Seventy Eight new homes are slated for construction. The two models are finished and available for viewing

Search homes for sale in Windmill Meadows in Williamsburg/ James City County , Virginia

You can read the full article here

Search all Williamsburg VA homes for sale in the WAAR WMLS here

Why am I not Blogging on Activerain ?

Sat, 14 Mar 2009 11:00:22 -0500

I started a blog on Activerain back in Sept of 2006. Posted quite often about various topics in the Williamsburg and Hampton Roads area of Virginia. I ended up with 28,000 points, number 2 ranking in my geographic area.

What concerns me most is that everywhere I look are search homes for sale links that send prospects away to JustListed.com . Why is the content I wrote now being used to send leads to my competition / Why aren't more Activerain Bloggers concerned with this ?

You can read all of my latest post at my main blog here Mr Williamsburg Blog blogging about life and real estate in Williamsburg and Hampton Roads Virginia

Williamsburg VA Goddard School

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 17:24:50 -0600

I just posted an artice about the new Goddard School® located in Williamsburg VA! Opening soon in New Town, right down the street from my office . If you would like to be added to their mailing list and notified when enrollment begins, please click here to access the " More Information' form on this page or give them a call.

From their website :
The Goddard School® can make a positive difference in your child's life. Our warm, loving atmosphere features a year round extended day program from 7 AM to 6 PM, Monday through Friday. Our program is designed to enhance the emotional, social, intellectual, and physical development of your child from six weeks to six years of age. We also offer a summer program for children up to seven years of age

You can read the rest of it here

Williamsburg Virginia Real Estate Burlington Woods

Sat, 24 Jan 2009 07:56:38 -0600

I just posted a new upate on the Ryan Home /Burlington Woods new homes community in Williamsburg VA.

You can read the full post here on my blog

JustListed.com grabbing prospect leads on your blog !!!!!!!

Sat, 27 Dec 2008 10:41:51 -0600

Does it bother anyone that when a consumer sees your blog there is a search bar for JustListed.com directly above your blog ? Have you seen it ? Log out first, then search for your blog. It will appear directly above with a search area saying Find Homes for Sale in your city :

Seems a little unsavory that we build the content to bring the consumers only to have Activerain let JustListed.com siphon off those same consumers and sell them back to agents who are signed up with JustListed ( most likely your competitors)

Does this bother You ?

What sayeth You ?

Moving to Central Virginia

Sat, 20 Dec 2008 08:10:44 -0600

CENTRAL VIRGINIA
Central Virginia extends from just east of the fall line to the west
through the capital city of Richmond and on to Charlottesville in the
foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Large sections of the area are
peaceful and rural. South of Richmond are farms producing peanuts and
cotton, while west of Richmond, hay and corn are grown.
Richmond has been the capital since 1779. The capitol's design was influenced
by Thomas Jefferson and is the home for the oldest representative government in the New
World. State agencies surround the Capitol Square, but Richmond's strong economy is
also supported by medical science and technology, manufacturing, education, finance,
distribution and business services. Richmond provides a rich quality of life with myriad
opportunities to enjoy the arts, historical sites and museums, nightlife, and recreational
pursuits. Virginia Commonwealth University and the University of Virginia are both in
Central Virginia as well as other public and private colleges and universities.

John Womeldorf is Mr. Williamsburg, sharing his thoughts, real estate expertise, and "all things Williamsburg" in an effort to spread the word that Williamsburg and Hampton Roads, Virginia is the greatest place on earth to live!

Contact me at John@MrWilliamsburg.com

Research the area at www.WilliamsburgsRealEstate.com

Or ask any questions about homes, neighborhoods, schools, amenities, recreation , shopping or anything else about the area.

Click here to Search all homes, town homes, condos and building lots for sale in Williamsburg, James City, New Kent, York, Gloucester, Charles City Virginia

Click here to search all homes, town homes, condos and building lots for sale in Va Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, Isle of Wight, Portsmouth,Franklin, Sussex,

Williamsburg VA Real Estate " FREE HOUSE IN COLONIAL WILLIAMSBURG

Fri, 12 Dec 2008 08:09:46 -0600

Anybody want a free house in Colonial Williamsburg ? Anybody want to be paid to take away a free house ?

The Billups House in Colonial Williamsburg VA pre-Second World War home on Armistead Avenue is available FREE to anyone who wants to provide a piece of land to house it.
And the developers who received City Council permission on Thursday to knock it down for a mixed commercial-residential development will pay the amount of money they're going to fork over for demolition to the proud new owners. Approximately $15,000
Since Thanksgiving two people have shown an interest in finding a new home for the 80-year-old home. But so far, no one has followed through.

If anybody is interested, call John Womeldorf 757 254 8136 or email John@MrWilliamsburg.com
The house at 203 Armistead Avenue was once the residence of Henry Billups, who rang the Wren Building bells at the College of William and Mary from the 1890s to the 1950s.
It and two commercial buildings on Prince George Street, including the former Mama Mia's Pizza and Deli, will be demolished to make way for a 10,500-square-foot development.
The new project, designed by Magoon Architects for property owners Nick Saras and Steve Manos, will incorporate the architectural style of the block of Prince George Street closer to Colonial Williamsburg. It will have seven apartments on the second floor.

The hope is to create a strong corner, and that one day, the property in between (his planned development and North Boundary Street) will be remodeled and updated, in a mode consistent with the block."

One after another, city council members lavished praise on the development in voting 5-0 to allow the project to proceed."In our own community, projects have basically stopped," said Council Member Paul Freiling. "Here we have a property owner willing to invest what I think is a large amount of money in this development.
"There aren't a lot of places and people that would be doing that right now."
No one even rose in the public comments portion of the meeting to offer a defense of the lonely white house.
But it will stand at least until mid-April. Because of its age, Billups House found itself on Williamsburg's list of historic structures, forcing the developers to appear before the Architectural Review Board as part of its rezoning application process.

In searching for a lot for this home there is one on South Boundary listed for $250,000. There maybe be others available as well. Please contact me for further information. I would think if they can move the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse we should be able to save and move this house !

This informational update provided by Mr Williamsburg.com/ John Womeldorf . A local Realtor assisting home buyers and sellers in the Hampton Roads and Williamsburg areas of Virginia.

Contact me at John@MrWilliamsburg.com

Research the area at www.WilliamsburgsRealEstate.com

Or ask any questions about homes, neighborhoods, schools, amenities, recreation , shopping or anything else about the area.

Search Homes for Sale

Click here to Search all homes, town homes, condos and building lots for sale in Williamsburg, James City, New Kent, York, Gloucester, Charles City Virginia

Click here to search all homes, town homes, condos and building lots for sale in Va Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, Isle of Wight, Portsmouth,Franklin, Sussex, Southhampton, Emporia, Greenville, Mathews, Suffolk, Surry, Smithfield, Newport News, Hampton , Poquoson, Gloucester or York County VA

Williamsburg VA Tax Rates Real Estate, Personal Property, Income, Sales

Thu, 11 Dec 2008 05:27:20 -0600

A common question when people are considering moving to Wiiliamsburg VA is what are your taxes for real estate ? Personal Property ? Income Tax ? Sales Tax ? Gas Tax ? Cigarette Tax ? What about for York County ? James City County ? The State of Virginia ? Below is a breakdown of state and county taxes in the Willaimsburg VA area. Please call or email for futher information York 0.698 per $100 real estate tax

4.00 per $100 personal property tax rate. No tax on first $20k in value click here for explanation http://www.dmv.virginia.gov/webdoc/general/pptr/summary.asp

James City 0.77 per $100 real estate tax

3.50 personal property tax

Virginia's income tax rates are assessed over five tax brackets:

-- 2 percent on the first $3,000 of taxable income.
-- 3 percent on taxable income between $3,001 and $5,000.
-- 5 percent on taxable income between $5,001 and $17,000.
-- 5.75 percent on taxable income of $17,001 and above.

VIRGINIA
Sales Taxes
State Sales Tax: 5.0% (includes statewide local tax of 1%) (prescription and non-prescription drugs exempt); Food purchased for home consumption is taxed at 1.5%.
Gasoline Tax: 19.6 cents/gallon
Diesel Fuel Tax: 19.6 cents/gallon
(Local option tax adds 2% to fuel tax)
Cigarette Tax: 30 cents/pack of 20

Personal Income Taxes
Tax Rate Range: Low - 2.0%; High - 5.75%
Income Brackets: Lowest - $3,000; Highest - $17,000
Number of Brackets: 4
Personal Exemptions: Single - $930; Married - $1,860; Dependents - $930 (Tax year 2008)
Standard Deduction: Single - $3,000; Married filing jointly - $5,000
Medical/Dental Deduction: Partial. Individuals may deduct long-term health care insurance premiums, provided the premiums have not been deducted for federal income tax purposes. The premiums must be paid specifically for a long-term health care policy. The amount to be subtracted is the cost of long-term health care insurance premiums that has not been deducted on your federal return.
Federal Income Tax Deduction: None
Retirement Income Taxes: Taxpayers age 65 and older are eligible for a deduction of $12,000, subject to the following income limitations. The deduction of $12,000 will be reduced by one dollar for each dollar that their Adjusted Federal Adjusted Gross Income exceeds the following thresholds: single - $50,000, married - $75,000 (total for both), married filing separately - $75,000 (total for both). "Adjusted federal adjusted gross income" means the federal adjusted gross income reduced by the taxable Social Security and Tier 1 Railroad Retirement benefits reported as a Virginia subtraction. Virginia law exempts Social Security and Tier 1 Railroad Retirement benefits fro taxation. If you are required to include any of your benefits in federal adjusted gross income, subtract that amount on your Virginia return. Pension income received while you are a Virginia resident is taxable by Virginia, even though it may have been received from another state. However, federal legislation enacted January 1, 1996 prohibits any state from taxing pension payments made to a resident of another state. Even though your pension from another state is taxable in Virginia, it should not be taxed by the other state. Virginia residents are subject to tax on their entire incomes, including federal annuities and military pensions. To the extent that these payments are reported in federal adjusted gross income, they are also subject to Virginia income tax.
Retired Military Pay: Follows federal tax rules. Military retirement income received by those awarded the Medal of Honor can be subtracted from federal gross income for tax purposes.
Military Disability Retired Pay: Disability Portion - Length of Service Pay; Member on September 24, 1975 - No tax; Not Member on September 24, 1975 - Taxed, unless combat incurred. Retired Pay - Based solely on disability: Member on September 24, 1975 - No tax; Not Member on September 24, 1975 - Taxed, unless all pay based on disability and disability resulted from armed conflict, extra-hazardous service, simulated war, or an instrumentality of war.
VA Disability Dependency and Indemnity Compensation: Not subject to federal or state taxes
Military SBP/SSBP/RCSBP/RSFPP: Generally subject to state taxes for those states with income tax. Check with state department of revenue office.

Property Taxes
Property taxes are administered by the state's cities, counties and towns and are based on 100% of fair market value. Tangible personal property is also taxed at the local level and is based on a percentage of the original cost. A county, city, or town may enact a program for senior citizens and disabled persons allowing for exemption, deferral (or a combination of both) for property taxes on realty and manufactured homes owned and occupied as the sole dwelling of a person 65 years of age or older. Annual family income is generally limited to $50,000, but may be higher in certain Northern Virginia communities. Net worth limits may apply.  There are no adjustments at the state level.

Williamsburg 0.540   real estate tax

This informational update provided by Mr Williamsburg.com/ John Womeldorf . A local Realtor assisting home buyers and sellers in the Hampton Roads and Williamsburg areas of Virginia.

Contact me at John@MrWilliamsburg.com

Research the area at www.WilliamsburgsRealEstate.com

Or ask any questions about homes, neighborhoods, schools, amenities, recreation ,taxes,employment, shopping or anything else about the area.

Search Homes for Sale

Click here to Search all homes, town homes, condos and building lots for sale in Williamsburg, James City, New Kent, York, Gloucester, Charles City Virginia

Click here to search all homes, town homes, condos and building lots for sale in Va Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, Isle of Wight, Portsmouth,Franklin, Sussex, Southhampton, Emporia, Greenville, Mathews, Suffolk, Surry, Smithfield, Newport News, Hampton , Poquoson, Gloucester or York County Virginia

Send a Christmas Card to a Soldier " Free"

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 14:10:24 -0600

If you go to this web site, www.letssaythanks.com , you can pick out a thank you card and Xerox will print it and it will be sent to a soldier that is currently serving in Iraq .. You can't pick out who gets it, but it will go to some member of the armed services.

How AMAZING it would be if we could get everyone we know to send one!!!

This is a great site.

It is FREE and it only takes a second.

Urbanna Oyster Festival Novenber 7 & 8, 2008

Thu, 06 Nov 2008 13:23:13 -0600

We have attended this festival on and off for over 30 years. Great food , great fun..

Originally called "Urbanna Days," the Urbanna Oyster Festival was established to promote the town and it's economy. In the early years the event was a relatively small gathering of local folks highlighted by a parade comprised primarily of antique cars.

In 1961 the name was officially changed to the "Urbanna Oyster Festival" in recognition and honor of the succulent bivalve that was such an important part of the local economy. The crowning of a Queen and "Little Miss Spat" (a "spat" is a baby oyster) along with the selection of a grand marshal to honor local or state individuals held in high esteem became an important part of the tradition.

In 1986 the prestigious Friday night Fireman's Parade began a truly exhilarating experience. In 1988, the General Assembly of Virginia designated the festival as the official Oyster Festival of the Commonwealth. In 1991, the Urbanna Oyster Festival Foundation was established to produce and manage the annual festival.

The festival has grown and so have the crowds. Crowds for the two-day event now number nearly 75,000. Food and craft booths number over 125 and the Fireman's Parade features over 80 engines of every size and description. The Oyster Festival Parade on Saturday features over 80 units including numerous marching bands, antique cars, locally produced floats and the renowned Khedive Temple Shrine Club of Norfolk.

Find details, schedule, etc on their website here : http://www.urbannaoysterfestival.com/

Free Admission to Colonial Williamsburg for Military

Sat, 01 Nov 2008 05:55:33 -0500

Colonial Williamsburg SALUTES MILITARY SERVICE ON VETERANS DAY, NOVEMBER 11

Colonial Williamsburg honors the sacrifices and dedication of United States veterans,

active military personnel and their families during special Veterans Day programs on

Tuesday, November 11.

Colonial Williamsburg's Fifes and Drums will perform tunes as a salute to the veterans. As part of the tribute, Colonial Williamsburg offers special complimentary admission passes to active duty military, Reservists, retirees, veterans and their families from November 7 through 11, 2008.

Colonial Williamsburg Special Golf Rates for Military

Fri, 31 Oct 2008 16:14:07 -0500

Colonial Williamsburg's Golden Horseshoe Golf Club invites military golfers to enjoy special rates when they play. The discounted rates on the Green Course are offered as the Military Appreciation Golf Special to honor our country's service men and women. The Golden Horseshoe is part of Colonial Williamsburg's Resort Collection located adjacent to Colonial Williamsburg's Historic Area.

Through Nov. 24, members of the military may play the Green Course Mondays - Thursdays for $39, ( normally $79 a day) and Fridays - Sundays for $49. Nov. 25, 2008 - March 31, 2009, service members may play a round of golf for only $35 Mondays - Thursdays, and $45 on Fridays - Sundays. Special rates available any time Monday through Thursday and after 11 a.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Price per person includes 18 holes of golf, cart and green fees. The special is valid for up to four people and not available to groups. Tee times may be booked up to five days in advance. Subject to availability, and course operating schedules may vary.

Call 1-800-648-6653 or (757) 220-7696 for tee times or to inquire about special rates available for the Gold Course.

Recent awards for this course include :

America's Top Golf Courses," Zagat Survey®, Gold and Green Courses (2007, 2005, 2003)

"Middle Atlantic 100 Must-Play Courses," Gold and Green Courses, Golfstyles Washington (2007)

Four and ½ Stars," Green Course, Best Places to Play, Golf Digest (2006)

Platinum Places: The World's Best Golf Destinations; Best Resorts for Family Foursomes," Golf Odyssey: The Insider's Guide to Sophisticated Golf Travel (2007 - 2008)

"Best of Southern Golf," Southern Sports Journal's inaugural list of favorite Southern courses (2008)

"Silver Medal Resort Award," Golf Magazine (2008)

"Top 100 Golf Resorts in North America," Condé Nast Traveler (2007)

"Gold Medal Resort Award," Golf Magazine (2006, 2004, 1988-2000)

"75 Best Golf Resorts in America," Golf Digest (2006, 2004, 2002)

"Top 100 Golf Resorts in the World," Condé Nast Traveler (2006, 2003)

"Top 50 Golf Destinations in the World," Golf Digest (Greater Williamsburg summary) (2000)

"Gold List World's Best 700 Places to Stay," Condé Nast Traveler, (2003-2005, 1995-2001)

"500 Greatest Hotels in the World," The Williamsburg Inn, Travel + Leisure (2003)

"ACE Golf Meetings Award," Successful Meetings (2001, 1999)

"Apex Award," National Association of Golf Tournament Directors (1999

Aneuser Busch / InBev Purchase in doubt ?

Mon, 27 Oct 2008 09:25:53 -0500

As the closing date for InBev $52 billion takeover of Anheuser-Busch ( The developer of Kingsmill and Busch Gardens in Williamsburg, VA) nears, some investors fear they may be forced to renegotiate or even shelve the debt-financed deal to create the world's largest brewer.

A banking industry meltdown and corresponding market volatility has already caused the Belgium-based brewer to postpone a $13.4 billion rights issue it planned in connection with the deal. Analysts say there could be more changes in store.

Some possibilities include offering a stock component in return for Anheuser shares, instead of the current cash deal terms, as well as trying to persuade Anheuser Busch to accept a lower deal price as tumbling stock markets wipe out trillions of dollars of assets worldwide.

"Could the purchase of Anheuser Busch be delayed ? Could the purchase be restructured? Inbev has repeated stated that it still expects the deal to close by the end of the year.

InBev, which makes Stella Artois Beer and Beck's Beer, has repeatedly said the deal remains on track. But Anheuser's shares have remained well below the $70 deal price, proving at least some investors are skeptical.

Considering what's happened with the financial meltdown, it's just a really serious situation. If they are able to close a deal at the current terms, they're going to be handicapped for years. It's very much in their interest to try to renegotiate."

InBev planned to take a $45 billion jumbo loan to finance the deal, along with other debt.

Lenders signed up for a first round of funding in August, but a second round of loan syndication has been going more slowly in recent weeks due to the global financial crisis, sources told Reuters.

Other analysts agree that InBev's offer now values the U.S. maker of Budweiser and Michelob too highly, especially if consumers worldwide are less likely to open a cold one.

In a recent example, private equity buyers of radio station operator Clear Channel Communications negotiated a lower deal price in May after debt financing costs surged and their lenders balked at the transaction. That was before a wider financial crisis erupted in September.

InBev could also renegotiate the deal so some or all of it could be paid in InBev shares, rather than cash, she said.

Anheuser Busch shares fell further Friday ( closing at $56.93) and traded nearly 20% below the proposed price of the InBev NV acquisition amid continued jitters about the deal, while InBev said it was committed to the acquisition at the agreed-upon terms. On the other hand, Anheuser shares are up more than 10% from where they were in May before merger speculation sent them soaring. The two companies formally agreed on a deal in July.

Without a pending deal, some analysts feel that Anheuser shares would trade in the mid-$30s.

Another needle in InBev's side is Mexico's Grupo Modelo, which is half-owned by Anheuser.

Modelo, which makes Corona, has begun arbitration against Anheuser, claiming Anheuser did not consult it about the deal, even though Modelo has a right to choose its partner.

Anheuser and InBev have both said Modelo's claims lacked merit and would not interrupt the deal. A Modelo spokeswoman said that for now, the brewer just wants its rights to be respected.

The companies are facing other complications to the deal. InBev recently said "unprecedented volatility" in capital markets has forced the company to delay raising new equity that was intended to help fund the deal. At that time the company said it still expected to complete the purchase by the end of the year and instead of raising equity, the company would rely on a bridge loan, which expires six months after the deal closes.

Traders also point to other factors in play. One arbitrage trader said many investors are selling stocks such as Anheuser-Busch simply because they need the cash.

Thoughts on moving to Williamsburg

Mon, 27 Oct 2008 06:57:57 -0500

It's just being here...."

Those are the words my husband and I have used over the years to describe our flood of sensations

upon arrival in Williamsburg each time we visit.

Like many, we've come countless times over the years. Our children grew up vacationing here.

Whether by car or plane, it's always the same, as we travel the roads leading to Williamsburg.

Trying in vain to express what we love: the sight and smells of the York River as we travel the

Colonial Parkway, the pine-rich wooded areas along the way, the architecture and symmetry of

Colonial Williamsburg, the smell of wood-burning fires, the bustle of activity. Giving up, we just

glance at each other and sum it up it again: "It's just being here."

Read the rest of the article published in the VA Gazette here

Understanding the Current Financial Crisis, A Free Panel Discussion by William and Mary Faculty

Wed, 15 Oct 2008 05:23:28 -0500

A panel discussion on The Wall Street collapse, bailout and worldwide repercussions is free and open to the public. It will be held at the College of William and Mary in an attempt to put the current worldwide economic crisis into context. Tonight Oct 15th at 6pm. Moderated by Professor Dick Ash in the auditorium in the William and Mary Office of Admission.

Parking is available in the big lot (known as the "plant lot") behind the Campus Center.

The fiscal rescue plan passed by Congress in recent weeks has, thus far, failed to calm jittery financial markets. William and Mary Law Professor Eric Kades says the bailout might not be the only option.

"The legal system may have failed us here," Kades said in a recent interview. "One of the best ways to maintain incentives and deal with these financial difficulties is to run these companies through bankruptcy quite quickly."

Kades will take part in a panel discussion of the crisis Wed., Oct. 15 on the William and Mary campus. Other panelist will include John Merrick, Richard S. Reynolds associate professor of business and John Boschen, Brinkley-Mason professor, Mason School of Business; and Till Schreiber, assistant professor of economics, College of William and Mary. Dick Ash, clinical professor of entrepreneurship and private equity at the Mason School of Business at the College of William and Mary will serve as moderator.

The forum will feature a discussion about the current financial situation and thoughts for the future. The event will begin at 6 p.m. in the auditorium in the William and Mary Office of Admission. It is free and open to the public.

A former venture capitalist, Professor Ash serves on boards of companies that are trying to deal with the fallout from the credit crunch and stock collapse.

He says it's important for people to try to understand why the "crisis of confidence" happened in the first place.

"Everybody wants to know what happened, how's it going to affect me, my children and my grandchildren," Ash says. "We're trying to give people as much information as we can, so people can plan their futures."

Ash says the problems on Wall Street became a self-fulfilling prophesy, because many people had no idea such a large credit headache was looming and panicked when the news became public. "One of the problems that Wall Street has had is a lack of communication about what's been happening."

Ash says that's one of the reasons for the panel. He says citizens need to ask questions, and companies need to be eager to provide answers.

The panel will include John Merrick, Richard Reynolds and John Boschen from the Mason School of Business; Eric Kades, vice dean of the School of Law; and Till Schreiber of the College's department of economics.

Ash says the goal of the forum is for attendees to take away a non-partisan analysis of the crisis, and specific facts about why it happened, and how things might improve.

You can also see a live feed of the forum here

Battle of the Hook Gloucester Va

Tue, 14 Oct 2008 07:02:09 -0500

On October 18 - 19 2008, forces of the Crown, along with the forces of General Washington and his Allies will return to Gloucester, Virginia to commemorate the Battle of the Hook, and the American Revolution. The event is being sponsored by the County of Gloucester, VA. which has committed significant funds and personnel to sponsoring this event.

More than 1,500 Revolutionary War re-enactors are set to bring home to Gloucester, VA this weekend a little-known, but pivotal, battle that helped soften British forces at Yorktown leading up to their much heralded surrender and the end of the war.

The Battle of the Hook - considered one of the largest cavalry engagements of the Revolutionary War - took place in the vicinity of Gloucester Point on Oct. 3, 1781.

Virginia Militia and French Marines defeated British forces and prevented them from assisting besieged comrades fighting against American forces on the far shore of the York River during the Yorktown Campaign.

This historic battle will be brought to life by Revolutionary War reenactors and living historians on the property of the Inn at Warner Hall in Gloucester, VA. Recreated military units from across the country will encamp near the actual battlefields where the American Revolution was won after six long years of fighting. Participating in this event will be units from The Continental Line, The British Brigade and the Brigade of the American Revolution.

Find out more here or Here

Living in Williamsburg ( A Locals Point of View ) IMHO

Wed, 08 Oct 2008 09:37:28 -0500

I thought I would post again to give a better sense of living in the Williamsburg VA area. Just listing what's here doesn't tell a story. It's hilly here. There is a 7-11 five minutes from our house.( one of only two in the area) We live in the very back of a larger neighborhood . You don't hear any traffic or planes. There is a two mile trail thru the woods behind our house. When walking there or looking out our windows we often see deer ( munching on our plants ugh !) There is a pool and clubhouse within the neighborhood. In the summer the pool is overflowing with kids. Friday night neighbors order pizza , bring beer and join each other at the pool until 10 pm. Many social events are help in our neighborhood thru the year for kids, adults and families. All are well attended. Within 2 miles of our house are the area football/ soccer/ baseball facility sports. ( WISC/ Warhill) The football/ soccer fields are brand new and have artificial turf. Sports for kids are very big here considering the size of the community. No matter what sports your kids do there is a well supported team here in Williamsburg. I am amazed at the dedication of the volunteers/ coaches on all of the various teams our kids have participated in. My nine year old plays on a football team that is coached like an NFL team ( that's a good thing they went to the playoffs last year) . They get to play their next game at Zable Stadium, the Williams and Mary Football Stadium. The other son's football team is playing an exhibition scrimmage during half time of a William and Mary football Game. What an incredible event for a 10 year old to participate in ! Freedom Park is 2 miles from our house it contains 10+ miles of hilly mountain bike trails. Growing up in Va Beach I didn't know what hills were. Try riding a mounting bike for an hour or two, it will wear you out. My kids love them too. Two miles in the other direction are a Rec Center with indoor pool, basketball, indoor tract, fitness center, skateboard park etc. Less than 10 minutes away is Colonial Williamsburg where $10 gets you an annual pass ( Good Neighbor) to everything it has to offer. ( kids are free ) Numerous churches that welcome you with open arms. Schools are wonderful. Teachers and staff are the best.

Our neighbors and friends are the best. If we need someone to watch the kids we just ask. We have rarely had to use a sitter.

Within 10 minutes of where we live in Williamsburg James City County are a Ukrops, ( favorite) Trader Joes, ( favorite ) Farm Fresh, Bloom, Fresh Market for groceries, Prime Outlets with an outlet store for almost anything, Wal Mart ( yes we shop there, now more than ever ) Target, Starbucks, Barnes and Noble, Home Depot, Lowe's, Movie Theater, New Town ( main street area with shops and restaurants. Lots of family owned Restaurants, as well as a large number of chains that have great food and local management. Some of the best golf in the state of Virginia is here in Williamsburg. Over 15 courses are within a 15 minute drive . There are 13 different parks within 10 minutes. Both County and State run. In these you can hike, run, camp ride mountain bikes, kayak, boat, fish, picnic, go the playground, play football, volleyball, baseball, soccer, softball, and much more. Drive the Colonial Parkway from Jamestown to Yorktown ( free admission to both museums if you live here ) The parkway has to be one of the most scenic drives around. You can drive 23 miles along the York and the James Rivers without seeing any commercial establishments.. It's a nice bike ride too although the surface is pretty rough.. Our arts scene is very active as well. Museums, Ballet, Symphony, Theater are all well represented. I will admit that the music scene in Williamsburg could use some help. We do travel to Newport News, Norfolk, VA Beach, Richmond for bands which don't do concerts here.