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ISLE OF WIGHT: A NEWCOMERS’ GUIDE TO ISLE OF WIGHT COUNTY
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A NEWCOMERS’ GUIDE TO ISLE OF WIGHT COUNTY
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Isle of Wight elected officials Elected officials representing Isle of Wight county residents and their neighbors locally, statewide and nationally include: BOARD OF SUPERVISORS Values Statement: “To sustain Isle of Wight County’s stature as a community of CHOICE for people, families and businesses alike while preserving and protecting our rural heritage, our bountiful mix of natural resources and our natural beauty for present and future generations.” Isle of Wight is governed by the Board of Supervisors, an elected body of five members representing each of the county’s five election districts. The board deter-
ISLE OF WIGHT: A NEWCOMERS’ GUIDE TO ISLE OF WIGHT COUNTY
mines all policies and ordinances that govern the county. Board members serve a four-year term. Citizens are encouraged to attend meetings of the Board of Supervisors, which are generally held on the third Thursday of each month in the Board Room at the Isle of Wight Courthouse Complex. The meeting begins at 5 p.m., with the public portion of the regular meeting beginning at 6 p.m. Citizens are invited to speak during the citizen comments section of each regular board meeting. Special meetings are held when needed. Work sessions are held the first Thursday of each month at 6 p.m. The agenda for regular meetings and public hearings is published five days in advance
Rudolph Jefferson Hardy District 757-357-7359 rudolph.jefferson@isleofwightus. net
of board meetings and is available for review in the County Administrator’s Office. The minutes from board meetings are also available for review after adoption by the board. You may also review minutes and agendas online at www.co.isle-of-wight. va.us.
William M. McCarty Newport District 757-646-4287 wmccarty@isleofwightus.net
The Board of Supervisors members are:
The Board of Supervisors can be reached through the county administrator’s office, 365-6204.
Richard L. “Dick” Grice, Chairman Smithfield District 757-508-2755 rgrice@isleofwightus.net
CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT The Clerk of the Circuit Court is an elected position and serves as support for Circuit Court judges, maintains county records and provides specific services to citizens. The Clerk also has authority to probate wills, grant administration of estates and appoint guardians.
Don Rosie, Vice-Chairman Carrsville District 757-298-5074 drosie@isleofwightus.net Joel C. Acree Windsor District 757-255-2705 jacree@isleofwightus.net
The Clerk’s Office is where you may obtain a marriage license or
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passport. You may record documents such as real estate deeds, plats or wills. It is also a good place to conduct genealogical research. The Clerk’s Office is located at the Isle of Wight Courthouse Complex. More information: Kathleen S. Torrence Clerk of the Circuit Court P.O. Box 110 17000 Josiah Parker Circle Isle of Wight, VA 23397 757-365-6233 COMMISSIONER OF THE REVENUE The Commissioner of the Revenue is an elected position with responsibilities including the assessment of all taxable property within the county and retention of tax records. See NEED TO KNOW page 4
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1750 Courthouse The circa-1750 courthouse in downtown Smithfield hasn’t been used for judicial purposes since the turn of the 19th century. But every year — save for 2020 — on the second Saturday in October, visitors can still hear the cries for “order in the court” as denizens of the county, dressed in 18th-century garb, bicker about nonpayment of debts, sick cows and property line disputes. Since 2010, a semi-independent group within Historic Smithfield Preservation LLC known as the 1750 Courthouse Committee, which is tasked with raising funds for the historic building’s upkeep, has been re-enacting trials based on actual court cases that were tried in the building during colonial times. The county’s modern-day courthouse at 17000 Josiah Parker Circle is home to some of the oldest and most complete court records in the state and nation thanks to the efforts of Elizabeth Bennett Young during the Revolutionary War and Randall Booth during the Civil War. The performances at the 1750 courthouse are free of charge, but donations are accepted. Prior to 2009, the Courthouse Committee would pay professional re-enactors to come to Smithfield and demonstrate court procedures of the colonial era, but for the past several years has recruited unpaid volunteers from within the local community. The plays themselves are written by local authors Doris Gwaltney and Nicole Ballance. Gwaltney wrote five and Ballance, another three. “It’s a true gift to the community to be able to involve so many people who are local,” said Courthouse Committee Director Lanny Hinson. “We also drew upon our own membership … many of whom have gone through the expense of having their period clothing made.” The group typically starts rehearsing after Labor Day to be ready by the second Saturday in October — a date also known as “Souper Saturday,” named
for a community soup lunch sponsored by the Isle of Wight Christian Outreach Program as a fundraiser to help those in need of financial assistance with wintertime heating. In 2019, the group recycled the first of Gwaltney’s original plays, and had planned to recycle another in 2020 before Court Day itself was canceled as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. While Hinson isn’t actively looking for a new playwright, “I certainly wouldn’t mind if somebody stepped up to the plate,” he said. “What I’m fully expecting,” Hinson said of 2021, “is that we’ll be able to have Court Day by the second Saturday in October, and presumably we will be able to have our antiques show and sale and homes tour in December,” referring to two fundraisers the group holds annually. ~ STEPHEN FALESKI
IF YOU GO 1750 Isle of Wight Courthouse 130 Main St. Smithfield, VA 23430 757-356-9016 Open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, 1-4 p.m. Friday and Sunday Admission: free, but donations accepted
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The Commissioner’s Office also assists the public with preparation of state income tax filing; issues and maintains business licenses; coordinates income tax relief for the elderly; and prepares and maintains information for land records. The Commissioner’s Office is located at the Isle of Wight Courthouse Complex. More information: Gerald H. Gwaltney ggwaltney@isleofwightus.net P.O. Box 107 17090 Monument Circle, Suite 113 Isle of Wight, VA 23397 757-365-6222 COMMONWEALTH’S ATTORNEY The Commonwealth’s Attorney is elected by the citizens to prosecute criminal offenses in Isle of Wight County. The Commonwealth’s Attorney also provides legal training and advice to all local law enforcement and other local officials. More information: Georgette C. Phillips gphillips.iwca@gmail.com
ISLE OF WIGHT: A NEWCOMERS’ GUIDE TO ISLE OF WIGHT COUNTY
P.O. Box 112 17000 Josiah Parker Circle Isle of Wight, VA 23397 757-357-7312 SHERIFF/EMERGENCIES The sheriff, an elected position, is the county’s chief law enforcement officer. Sheriff’s deputies also serve criminal and civil warrants and provide courthouse and courtroom security. The sheriff’s office is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. More information: EMERGENCY: 911 James R. Clarke, Sheriff P.O. Box 75, Isle of Wight, VA 23397 17110 Monument Circle, Windsor, VA 23487 757-357-2151 (non-emergency) TREASURER The Treasurer, elected by the citizens, collects all tax revenue and local fees. The Treasurer also manages the investment of county funds and represents Isle of Wight in all banking activities. Some of Isle of Wight’s fees include: Real estate tax: 85 cents per $100
of assessed value (as of April 2021), payable in two installments due June 5 and Dec. 5. Personal property tax: $4.50 per $100 of assessed value (as of April 2021) on vehicles, motorcycles, motor homes and trailers, payable in two installments due June 5 and Dec. 5. Boat: $1 per $100 of assessed value, payable in two installments due June 5 and Dec. 5. Dog and Cat licenses: There is a $7 fee for a spayed/neutered dog or cat or a $10 fee for an unspayed/unneutered dog or cat, renewed annually by Feb. 1. Those pets with a rabies certificate valid through 2024 can purchase a three-year tag for $20 for a spayed/neutered pet or $30 for an unspayed/ unneutered pet. A kennel tag covering five to 19 animals can be purchased for $35. A rabies certificate must be presented to receive a dog or cat license. The Treasurer’s Office is located at the Isle of Wight Courthouse Complex. More information: Judith C. Wells, Treasurer jwells@isleofwightus.net P.O. Box 79 17090 Monument Circle Isle of Wight, VA 23397 757-365-6228
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COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR
State Senate
The County Administrator is the county’s chief administrative officer, primarily supervising management of Isle of Wight’s day-to-day operations. The administrator presents an annual proposed budget to the Board of Supervisors and carries out policies adopted by the board.
3rd Senate District Sen. Thomas K. Norment Jr. (R) district03@senate.virginia.gov
More information: Randy R. Keaton admn@isleofwightus.net P.O. Box 80 17090 Monument Circle Isle of Wight, VA 23397 757-365-6204
Out of session: P.O. Box 6205 Williamsburg, VA 23188 757-259-7810
STATE ELECTED OFFICIALS Governor Gov. Ralph Northam P.O. Box 1475 Richmond, VA 23218 804-786-2211 The Virginia General Assembly begins each year on the second Wednesday in January. During odd-numbered years, a 45-day session is held. During evennumbered years, a 60-day session is held.
In session: P.O. Box 396 Richmond, VA 23218 Pocahontas Building Room E607 900 E. Main St., Richmond, VA 23219 804-698-7514 Out of session: P.O. Box 15483 Chesapeake, VA 23328 757-547-3422
See NEED TO KNOW page 5
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Following are the elected officials representing Isle of Wight County.
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In session: P.O. Box 396 Richmond, VA 23218 Pocahontas Building Room E603 900 E. Main St., Richmond, VA 23219 804-698-7503
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18th Senate District Sen. Louise L. Lucas (D) district18@senate.virginia.gov In session: P.O. Box 396 Richmond, VA 23218 Pocahontas Building Room E508 900 E. Main St., Richmond, VA 23219 804-698-7518 Out of session: P.O. Box 700 Portsmouth, VA 23705 757-397-8209 House of Delegates 64th House District Emily Brewer (R) DelEBrewer@house.virginia.gov
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In session: Pocahontas Building Room E414 900 E. Main St., Richmond, VA 23219 804-698-1064 Out of session: P.O. Box 5 Smithfield, VA 23431 757-239-1213 75th House District Delegate Roslyn C. Tyler (D) DelRTyler@house.state.va.us In session: Pocahontas Building Room E321 900 E. Main St., Richmond, VA 23219 804-698-1075 Out of session: 25359 Blue Star Highway
Jarratt, VA 23867 434-336-1710 More information: Virginia General Assembly, virginiageneralassembly.gov Office of the Governor, governor. virginia.gov United States Senate, senate.gov House of Representatives, house. gov ******************************** EDUCATION ******************************** Education means much more than just reading, writing and arithmetic. The demands of the workforce place an even greater emphasis on getting a good education. Isle of Wight County is home to public and private schools and a community college — all in an effort to educate tomorrow’s leaders. Nearby in neighboring communities, there
are also several excellent choices of colleges and universities for the recent high school graduate or adults returning for a diploma. PUBLIC SCHOOLS The Isle of Wight County Public School system offers a comprehensive program for grades K-12, in addition to special programs for gifted students, students with special needs, remedial instruction in basic skills, Advanced Placement classes, alternative education, pre-school and vocational education. There are more than 5,500 students currently enrolled in nine public schools. SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION Dr. Jim Thornton is the Isle of Wight County Schools superintendent. You may contact the school
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administrative offices for information or inquiries regarding the Isle of Wight School system. Offices are located at 820 W. Main St., Smithfield, VA 23430 More information: 757-357-4393 www.iwcs.k12.va.us SCHOOL BOARD Mission: The mission of Isle of Wight County Public Schools is to provide rigorous academic programs in a safe school environment that fosters high levels of student achievement. The division is committed to offering educational programs characterized by high academic standards that prepare students to exceed state and national accreditation standards. The curriculum will prepare students to be lifelong learners for the ever-changing global community. See NEED TO KNOW page 7
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ISLE OF WIGHT: A NEWCOMERS’ GUIDE TO ISLE OF WIGHT COUNTY
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Fort Boykin and Fort Huger A capped-off brick well and a few other fragments are all that remain of Fort Boykin’s past. Were it not for replica cannons and signs telling of its history, the former fort’s appearance today would present as a simple park with nature trails and beach access. Isle of Wight County owns and operates two former forts as public parks: Fort Boykin and Fort Huger, both located along the banks of the James River. While named for Maj. Francis Boykin, an Isle of Wight local who served with Gen. George Washington, Fort Boykin’s military history dates beyond the Revolutionary War to the time of the Warraskoyack tribe. In 1608, Capt. John Smith went in search of food for his fellow colonists at Jamestown, states a sign at the entrance to the fort. The Warraskoyack were a friendly tribe and provided 30 bushels of corn for the settlers, but as the Virginia colony grew both north and south of the James River, Warraskoyack lands were encroached upon and relations grew fragile. By 1621, there were two English settlements on the southern bank of the James River in what would eventually become known as Isle of Wight County. On March 22,1622, a Native American attack on the colony claimed the lives of hundreds of settlers, including 32 at these two sites. The construction of Fort Boykin began shortly after as a triangular-shaped earthen structure known as The Castle. In 1775, The Castle was refortified and renamed for Maj. Boykin. During the War of 1812, Fort Boykin was enlarged into an irregular five-pointed star shape, during which time local militia foiled an attempt by the British to land near the fort. The fort is also home to a black walnut tree thought to be more than 200 years old and the second largest in Virginia. Between June 1861 and May 1862 during the Civil War, the Confederate Army refortified Fort Boykin under the supervision of Capt. T.M.R. Talcott and Lt. W.G. Turpin. Under their command were “a force of at least 1,000 hands” of enslaved and free Blacks. Slave and free Black labor was also used to construct Fort Huger in 1861, which is named for Confederate Gen. Benjamin Huger. Payment records show the freed men worked for 50 cents a day (roughly $14.80 in 2021 dollars). A sign at Fort Huger further states that in December 1861, Isle of Wight County Commissioner of the
Revenue B.J. Gray sent a letter to Richmond on behalf of the free Black laborers who had not yet been paid, indicating he would travel to Richmond on their behalf to collect payment if necessary. On May 8, 1862, the USS Galena, USS Port Royal and USS Aroostook bombarded forts Boykin and Huger. On May 17 and 18 that year, U.S. Marines landed and occupied both forts to find most of the guns spiked and many of the forts’ structures intentionally destroyed by the retreating Confederates.
IF YOU GO Fort Boykin 1740 Fort Boykin Trail Smithfield, VA 23430 757-357-0115 Open seven days a week 8:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. March through October, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. November through February Admission: free
~ STEPHEN FALESKI
IF YOU GO Fort Huger 15080 Talcott Terrace Smithfield, VA 23430 757-357-2291 Open dawn until dusk Admission: free
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The Isle of Wight County School Board is an elected body of five citizens representing each of the county’s five election districts. The board sets school policy and reviews administrative actions. Meetings are held on the second Thursday of each month at 5 p.m. in the Board Room at the Courthouse Complex. Citizens who wish to address the School Board should contact the school administrative offices. The School Board consists of: Jackie Carr, Chairman, Carrsville District jwcarr@iwcs.k12.va.us Denise Tynes, , Vice-Chairman, Smithfield District dtynes@iwcs.k12.va.us Victoria Hulick, Newport District vhulick@iwcs.k12.va.us Julia Perkins, Vice Chairman, Windsor District jperkins@iwcs.k12.va.us Alvin Wilson, Hardy District alwilson@iwcs.k12.va.us School Board officials can be reached through the school superintendent’s office, 757-3574393. ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS Carrollton Elementary School Principal — Robert D. Brennan 14440 New Towne Haven Lane,
ISLE OF WIGHT: A NEWCOMERS’ GUIDE TO ISLE OF WIGHT COUNTY
Carrollton 757-357-8850 Carrsville Elementary School Principal –— Pamela Hatfield 5355 Carrsville Highway, Carrsville 757-357-8844 Hardy Elementary School Principal — Shante Denson 9311 Hardy Circle, Smithfield 757-357-3204 Westside Elementary School Principal — Todd Christiansen 800 W. Main St., Smithfield 757-357-3021 Windsor Elementary School Principal — Ellen Couch 20008 Courthouse Highway, Windsor 757-242-4193 MIDDLE SCHOOLS Georgie D. Tyler Middle School Principal — Kristy B. Buggs 23320 N. Court St., Windsor 757-242-3229 Smithfield Middle School Principal — Matthew Johnson 14175 Turner Drive, Smithfield 757-365-4100 HIGH SCHOOLS Smithfield High School Principal — Bryan Thrift
14171 Turner Drive, Smithfield 757-357-3108 Windsor High School Principal — Laura Sullivan 24 Church St., Windsor 757-242-6172 Governor’s School The Governor’s School for the Arts, located in Norfolk, offers intensive study in five arts areas: dance, vocal and instrumental music, visual arts, theater arts and performing arts. The programs are designed for students who demonstrate strong interests and abilities in the particular arts fields. Students who enroll in the school take academic classes in the mornings at their community high schools and attend the arts school in the afternoons. Auditions are conducted annually or on an as-needed basis. Students should see their guidance counselors for information. INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS One independent school is located in Isle of Wight County. Isle of Wight Academy is a nonsectarian, co-educational, nonprofit day school. Isle of Wight Academy offers pre-school through grade 12. Isle of Wight Academy www.iwacademy.com 17111 Courthouse Highway Isle of Wight, VA 23397 757-357-3866
COMMUNITY COLLEGES One community college serves the Isle of Wight area. Paul D. Camp Community College offers one- and two-year vocational, technical and collegelevel programs at a center in Smithfield. PDCCC at Smithfield 253 James St. Smithfield, VA 23430 757-569-6700 www.pdc.edu ******************************** HEALTH ******************************** New to the area and without a doctor? No need to worry yourself sick — there is plenty of health care across Isle of Wight County and nearby. The region has its own share of physicians, dentists, specialty doctors and medical facilities for whatever ails you; check the local telephone directory. Isle of Wight is also home to hospitals and other medical facilities. MEDICAL FACILITIES AND HOSPITALS Along with several top-notch hospitals nearby, two progressive health care organizations operate facilities offering a myriad of services within the area. Sentara St. Luke’s Healthcare Campus offers services including
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urgent care, advanced imaging, physical therapy, physician practices and lab services. Sentara Physical Therapy, formerly Smithfield Physical Therapy, is located on the campus. Sentara Family Medicine offers family practice, pediatrics and internal medicine and more from its facilities. Both centers are divisions of Sentara Health System, a leader in health care in Western Tidewater. From Riverside Health System, a leader in health care based in Newport News, comes several offerings, including Riverside Convalescent Center, Riverside Diagnostic Center, Magnolia Manor assisted living, The Garden at Smithfield memory care residences and Eagle Harbor Primary Care. Close by are several hospital facilities, including Sentara Obici Hospital in Suffolk, Riverside Regional Medical Center in Newport News, Southampton Memorial Hospital in Franklin and Bon Secours Maryview in Portsmouth. More information: Bon Secours Maryview 3636 High St., Portsmouth 757-398-2200 www.bshr.com
See NEED TO KNOW page 8
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Bon Secours Health Center at Harbour View 5818 Harbour View Blvd., Suffolk 757-673-5800 www.bshr.com Eagle Harbor Medical Associates 13609 Carrollton Blvd., Carrollton 757-238-8751 www.bshr.com/primarycare Isle of Wight County Health Department 919 S. Church St., Smithfield 757-357-4177 www.vdh.state.va.us Eagle Harbor Primary Care 13478 Carrollton Blvd., Carrollton 757-238-7043 www.riversideonline.com
ISLE OF WIGHT: A NEWCOMERS’ GUIDE TO ISLE OF WIGHT COUNTY
Riverside Regional Medical Center 500 J. Clyde Morris Blvd., Newport News 757-594-2000 www.riversideonline.com Sentara Obici Hospital 2800 Godwin Blvd., Suffolk 757-934-4000 www.sentara.com Sentara St. Luke’s Healthcare Campus 20209 Sentara Way, Carrollton 757-542-1000 www.sentara.com Smithfield Medical Center 919 S. Church St., Smithfield Sentara Belleharbour 3920 Bridge Road, Suffolk
757-983-0000 www.sentara.com Bon Secours Southampton Memorial Hospital 100 Fairview Drive, Franklin 757-569-6100 www.smhfranklin.com ******************************** LIBRARIES ******************************** They are windows to the world, and Isle of Wight County has three of them — libraries, that is. All are branches of the Blackwater Regional Library System and offer countless volumes and helpful staff to help meet all of your needs. Special events are held throughout the year, such as children’s programs after school and during the summer — check with the branch closest to you for more information.
Don’t miss anything that happens in Suffolk! Catch the Suffolk News-Herald on Facebook
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CARROLLTON BRANCH 14362 New Towne Haven Lane, Carrollton 757-238-2641 www.blackwaterlib.org/carrollton
9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday Closed
Hours: Monday, Thursday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday Noon to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Friday Noon to 5 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday Closed
WINDSOR BRANCH 18 Duke St., Windsor 757-242-3046 www.blackwaterlib.org/windsor
SMITHFIELD BRANCH 255 James St., Smithfield 757-357-2264 www.blackwaterlib.org/smithfield Hours: Monday 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday
Hours: Monday, Thursday 1 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Saturday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday Closed More information: Blackwater Regional Library System, www. blackwaterlib.org
See NEED TO KNOW page 10
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Isle of Wight County Museum The Isle of Wight County Museum, a place one might associate with old things, makes major use of modern technology to connect with people through video and social media. Museum leaders plan to continue doing so yet have their fingers crossed that the pandemic will ease up, perhaps facilitating a return to being able to enjoy experiences in a way that perhaps more resembles the pre-COVID era. In 2020, “obviously there were a lot of challenges for museums everywhere and certainly for everybody in tourism here in Smithfield, but I think at least for us, I wanted to find ways where we could still connect to folks if they weren’t coming to see us,” said Jennifer England, the museum’s director. Established in 1976, the museum, which is located on Main Street in historic downtown, includes interactive exhibits, such as a turn-of-the-century country store, interprets colonial history, the Civil War, the Cold War and the area’s connection to agriculture. One of the museum’s marquee attractions is the world’s oldest ham. According to the museum, the ham was cured in 1902 but overlooked for 20 years. By 1924, it had become an attraction. Today, the historic ham has its own 24/7 webcam. If there’s a silver lining to how the pandemic has reshaped tourism, travel and recreation, “it’s really given people a lot deeper understanding of what, literally, is right in their own backyard,” England said. “What’s interesting to me is that you hear all the time that people who live in New York City don’t go see the Statue of Liberty because it’s right there. But I think that COVID has allowed us — and probably everyone everywhere — to be able to say, ‘We’ve not been to this town, this city that is right nearby our home but we’re able to go there and just take a day trip.’” “We’ve noticed a lot of our visitors that came to us, especially on weekends, were announcing that they had been traveling from not that far away,” England continued. “A lot of folks were coming to us from Norfolk and Virginia Beach and saying ‘Hey — this is a cool day trip destination.’”
England said they had been doing live social media segments before the pandemic surged. When those videos generated lots of positive feedback, she decided to lean in to that approach as a way to connect with a broader audience during a time when many people were in the midst of quarantines and social distancing. The segments included a recently debuted video series, “Behind These Walls.” Produced by the museum and hosted by Kathy Mountjoy of the Smithfield and Isle of Wight Convention & Visitors Bureau, the series focuses on some of the county’s interesting and significant structures. England has a positive outlook and full slate of events planned for the rest of this year. “We’ve focused a lot, especially in the early part of the year, on walking tours — things that are outside,” England said.
IF YOU GO Isle of Wight County Museum 103 Main Street Smithfield, VA 23430 Phone: (757) 356-1223 Web: historicisleofwight.com Hours Monday-Saturday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday: Noon-4 p.m. The museum is closed on New Year’s Day, Easter, Memorial Day, July 4, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day. Admission $2 admission for adults Free for ages 17 and under
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******************************** MEDIA ******************************** For those who need to know, there’s bound to be a way to find it out. Isle of Wight County is served by a host of local and regional newspapers, a variety of radio stations, and major television network affiliates; for county residents, information and entertainment is as close as the living room. NEWSPAPERS Windsor Weekly 562-3187 editor@windsorweekly.com Suffolk News-Herald 130 S. Saratoga St., Suffolk 539-3437 www.suffolknewsherald.com Tidewater News 1000 Armory Drive, Franklin 562-3187 www.thetidewaternews.com Smithfield Times 228 Main St., Smithfield 357-3288 www.smithfieldtimes.com
ISLE OF WIGHT: A NEWCOMERS’ GUIDE TO ISLE OF WIGHT COUNTY
Daily Press www.dailypress.com
www.sky4tv.com WHRO-TV 15, PBS affiliate 5200 Hampton Blvd., Norfolk 757-889-9400 www.whro.org WGNT-TV 27, The CW affiliate 720 Boush St., Norfolk 757-446-1000 www.wtkr.com
Virginian-Pilot www.pilotonline.com TELEVISION Cable service throughout Isle of Wight County, Smithfield and Windsor is provided by Charter Spectrum. Charter Spectrum 1-877-906-9121 for new service 1-855-757-7328 for customer support www.spectrum.com WVEC-TV 13, ABC affiliate 613 Woodis Ave., Norfolk 757-625-1313 www.13newsnow.com WAVY-TV 10, NBC affiliate 300 Wavy St., Portsmouth 757-393-1010 www.wavy.com WTKR-TV 3, CBS affiliate 720 Boush St., Norfolk 757-446-1000 www.wtkr.com WSKY-TV 4, independent station 218 Salters Creek Road, Hampton 757-382-0004
WTVZ-TV 33, MyTVZ affiliate 900 Granby St., Norfolk 757-622-3333 www.mytvz.com WVBT-TV 43, Fox affiliate 300 Wavy St., Portsmouth 757-393-1010 www.wavy.com ******************************** PARKS AND RECREATION ******************************** Isle of Wight is the place to come and play. Across the county are numerous parks and other entertainment venues to rest and relax everyone in your family. Tennis anyone? How about a nice dip in the pool, or some roller skating? A walk along a nature trail would be nice, and so would a stroll along the James River. From Carrsville to Carrollton, Windsor Castle to Windsor, you are bound to find something fun
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and rewarding to do in your down time. Here are some ideas. ATHLETIC ACTIVITIES, PROGRAMS AND CLASSES A number of programs and classes are offered by the county’s Parks and Recreation Department, including basketball, soccer, softball, tennis, aerobics, dog obedience, summer programs, karate, martial arts and cheerleading. More information: 357-2291
Tyler’s Beach Boat Ramp Access to James River Tyler’s Beach Road, Rushmere 357-2291 Windsor Castle Park A special kayak and canoe launching system on a floating dock at the end of a boardwalk offers access to Cypress Creek, which feeds into Little Creek and then into the Pagan River. 301 Jericho Road, Smithfield 365-4200 www.windsorcastlepark.com
BOAT RAMPS AND MARINAS Brown’s Marina 10230 Brown Marina Road, Carrollton 357-4459
COUNTY FAIR
Gatling Pointe Yacht Club 903 Gatling Pointe Parkway, Smithfield 357-0693 www.gpyachtclub.com Jones Creek Boat Ramp Two boat ramps, a fishing pier, staging area and tie-down area on Jones Creek. Boundary Lane, Carrollton 357-2291 Joyner’s Bridge Boat Ramp Access to the Blackwater River at the Route 611 crossing. Smithfield Station 415 S. Church St., Smithfield 357-7700
www.smithfieldstation.com
An old-fashioned county fair is held each September. Among the events are entertainment on several stages, a midway with concessions and games of chance, an arts and crafts area, 4-H exhibitions and more. More information: www.thefairiscoming.com. GOLF COURSES Cypress Creek Golfers’ Club An 18-hole course with driving range, chipping area, putting green, practice bunker and teaching pro. 600 Cypress Creek Parkway, Smithfield 757-365-4774 www.cypresscreekgolfersclub.com See NEED TO KNOW page 11
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HEALTH CLUBS Luter Family YMCA 259 James St., Smithfield 757-365-4060 James L. Camp Jr. Family YMCA 300 Crescent Drive, Franklin 757-562-3491 Suffolk Family YMCA 2769 Godwin Blvd., Suffolk 757-934-9622 PARKS Isle of Wight County offers a variety of parks and community centers where residents can enjoy a wide range of activities and programs. IW Parks and Recreation Department www.co.isle-of-wight.va.us/parksand-recreation 13036 Nike Park Road Carrollton, VA 23314 357-2291 Camptown Park and the Otelia J. Rainey Community Center A 15-acre facility with lighted basketball courts, lighted tennis courts, baseball/softball field, picnic shelter, walking trail, playground area and soccer
ISLE OF WIGHT: A NEWCOMERS’ GUIDE TO ISLE OF WIGHT COUNTY
complex. Carver Road, Franklin Carrollton Nike Park A 150-acre park with basketball court, lighted baseball/softball field, lighted tennis court, fishing pier, playground area, picnic shelters and area, tree and shrub walk, walking trail, mountain bike trail, soccer complex and skate park. 13036 Nike Park Road, Carrollton Fort Boykin Historic Park Originally commissioned as a fort in 1623, this scenic park overlooks the James River and offers a walking tour, gardens and a picnic area. 7410 Ft. Boykin Trail, Smithfield Fort Huger Historic Park Historic Fort Huger, the “Gateway to the Confederate Capital,” is located in the northern reaches of Isle of Wight County off Route 10, eight miles from downtown Smithfield. View the ghost fleet on the James River, take the selfguided walking tour through the new trails and see the cannon mounted along the edges of the fort. Fort Huger is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. West of Smithfield, off of Route 10
Heritage Park and Joel C. Bradshaw Fairgrounds A 26-acre property that houses the annual Isle of Wight County Fair in September each year. Courthouse Highway, Windsor Riverview Park A 27-acre facility offering lighted tennis courts, exercise court and trail, softball field, memorial garden, playground and senior activities area with shelter and gazebo. James Street, Smithfield Robinson Park A half-acre public park in the heart of Windsor with a large play area for children. Windsor Castle Park Windsor Castle Park is a 208-acre riverside park that features a woodland trail system, picnic and open area space, a dog park, kayak/canoe launch, fishing pier, mountain bike path, scenic overlooks and the Windsor Castle Historic Site. 301 Jericho Road, Smithfield 365-4200 ******************************** RECYCLE/GARBAGE ******************************** Everything new is old again. We’re talking trash here — when you have gaggles of garbage, you need to know what to do with
it here. ISLE OF WIGHT COUNTY The Department of Public Works is responsible for waste collection and disposal throughout the county. Curbside Trash Collection Visit the Solid Waste Division at 13048 Poor House Drive, email solidwaste@isleofwightus.net or call 757-365-1658 for more information about trash disposal. Transfer Station The Southeastern Public Service Authority operates a refuse transfer station on Route 620 (13191 Foursquare Road, Smithfield). It is open from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to noon Saturday. More information: 420-4700 Convenience Centers The county operates eight fullservice, manned convenience centers to accept trash. Contact Public Works for more information.
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Carroll Bridge 17634 Carroll Bridge Road, Windsor 757-356-1018 Carrsville 6135 Carrsville Highway, Carrsville 757-516-2851 Crocker 9421 Whispering Pines Trail, Windsor 757-356-1026 Jones Creek 21203 Boundary Road, Carrollton 757-356-1037 Stave Mill 23254 Stave Mill Road, Windsor 757-242-3597 Walters 3403 Burdette Road, Carrsville 757-516-2852 Wrenn’s Mill 8196 Old Stage Highway, Smithfield 757-356-1040
The centers are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. They are open from 1 to 7 p.m. Sunday and closed Wednesday. Camptown 34010 Carver Road, Franklin 757-516-2850
See NEED TO KNOW page 13
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ISLE OF WIGHT: A NEWCOMERS’ GUIDE TO ISLE OF WIGHT COUNTY
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Windsor Castle Park Visitors from near and far flock to Windsor Castle Park, making it a top spot for fresh air and fun activities. When the pandemic surged last spring, outdoor recreation experiences got a big boost. “We don’t have any counting devices or anything out at the park, but we definitely saw increased traffic into the park, and all the parking areas were full all the time,” said Amy Novak, who leads Smithfield’s parks and recreation department. “And also our kayak rentals had the best sales it ever had in its nine seasons. People were looking for anything to do outdoors.” Windsor Castle Park opened in 2010. It’s the vision of Joseph W. Luter III, the former chief executive officer of Smithfield Foods. In his business travels, Luter came to appreciate New York City’s Central Park and wanted to create a park in his hometown, according to the attraction’s website. Luter donated $7.2 million toward the development of the 208-acre park. In response to the pandemic, “we put signage up to make sure people knew to do social distancing,” Novak said. “The signs said something along the lines ‘Help us keep the park open,’ because a lot of parks in our area had to close.” Officials also ask people to self-monitor how many people are on the fishing pier. Windsor Castle Park was part of a 1,450-acre parcel of land that has nearly 400 years of history. A manor house, dating to around 1725, is the centerpiece of the park’s historic attractions, which include about a dozen vintage outbuildings that were commonly part of estates of the era — a kitchen, stables and farm manager’s office. The Isle of Wight County Museum is taking the lead in pursuing the historic interpretation of the house and associated outbuildings. The museum does public tours monthly for people to see the historical areas and to learn about the house and grounds “and those are well attended,” Novak said. The park’s trails are a top attraction for walking and
running followed closely by the children’s natural playscape, which includes a 30-foot slide and a rock climbing area, as well as a dog park. “Our locals love it and they use it, but we have a lot of visitors that pass many other parks to come to Windsor Castle. They come from Virginia Beach and Chesapeake, so I think that speaks volumes of how wonderful our park is,” Novak said. ~ NATE DELESLINE III
IF YOU GO Windsor Castle Park 705 Cedar Street Smithfield, VA 23430 Phone: 757-542-3109 wcinfo@windsorcastlepark.com windsorcastlepark.com
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ISLE OF WIGHT: A NEWCOMERS’ GUIDE TO ISLE OF WIGHT COUNTY
Recycling Recycling is provided at the county’s convenience centers. Recyclable materials include newspapers, magazines, catalogs, cardboard, paperboard, plastic bottles Nos. 1-7, glass bottles and jars, aluminum, metal cans, milk jugs and more. Items such as plastic bags, Christmas trees, batteries, electronic equipment, yard waste, scrap metal, appliances, motor oil, cooking oil and more may also be recycled at special containers at the convenience centers. For more information, contact Public Works. More information: 757-365-6298 SMITHFIELD Curbside Trash Collection
The Town contracts with Bay Disposal for residential refuse collection once per week. New residents should call 857-9700 to request a can and pickup schedule. All trash must be placed in cans provided by Bay Disposal. The town provides each residential address with one can each — additional cans may be rented from Bay.
at the intersection of Stave Mill Road. Household hazardous waste may be taken to the Isle of Wight Transfer Station, 13191 Foursquare Road, on the third Friday of each month from 9 a.m. to noon. Additionally, there is a curbside cleanup day in the spring and fall that allows citizens the opportunity to dispose of appliances, yard debris and other items that may be cluttering up their attics and yards. Contact Bay Disposal at 757-8579700 for more information. More information: 757-242-4288.
responds to emergency calls regarding stray animals, possible rabid animals and bite cases. Animal Services also offers pets such as dogs and cats for adoption at the animal shelter. More information: 13044 Poor House Road, Windsor 757-365-6318 AUTO REGISTRATION & INSPECTION
ANIMAL CONTROL
New state residents must obtain Virginia motor vehicle licenses and registrations within 30 days of relocating. These can be obtained from the Department of Motor Vehicles. Vehicles in Virginia must also display a state inspection sticker, which must be renewed annually. These can be obtained after passing an inspection at a licensed garage.
The Animal Services Division
More information:
WINDSOR The town of Windsor provides doorto-door trash collection weekly on Wednesday mornings. All trash must be placed in the provided containers and placed curbside by 7 a.m. At other times, trash may be taken to the Windsor Transfer Station located on Windsor Boulevard
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******************************** SERVICES ******************************** Here is a list of general services available across the area:
Department of Motor Vehicles www.dmv.state.va.us Isle of Wight Treasurer’s Office 17090 Monument Circle No. 123, Isle of Wight 757-365-6228 Smithfield Treasurer’s Office Town Hall 310 Institute St., Smithfield 757-365-4200 Windsor Treasurer’s Office Town Hall 8 E. Windsor Blvd., Windsor 757-242-4288 EMPLOYMENT RESOURCES Isle of Wight County Human Resources Office Isle of Wight Courthouse Complex, Isle of Wight 757-365-6263 See NEED TO KNOW page 14
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Virginia Employment Commission 600 Butler Farm Road, Suite B Hampton 757-865-5800 www.vec.virginia.gov EXTENSION SERVICE The Isle of Wight County Extension Office offers agriculture and nature resources, family and consumer sciences services and 4-H youth development. More information: Virginia Cooperative Extension Office 17100 Monument Circle, Suite B 757-365-6261 www.ext.vt.edu IDENTIFICATION Social Security cards can be issued through the Social Security Administration. More information: Social Security Administration 502 Hillpoint Blvd., Suffolk 1-866-835-7769 www.socialsecurity.gov State identification cards and driver’s licenses can be issued through the Department of
ISLE OF WIGHT: A NEWCOMERS’ GUIDE TO ISLE OF WIGHT COUNTY
Motor Vehicles More information: Department of Motor Vehicles 912 S. Church St., Smithfield 757-497-7100 www.dmv.state.va.us OTHER LICENSES Animal, dog or cat: Isle of Wight Treasurer’s Office 757-365-6228 Business Isle of Wight Commissioner of the Revenue 757-365-6222 Marriage Isle of Wight Clerk of the Circuit Court 757-365-6233 Passports Isle of Wight Clerk of the Circuit Court 757-365-6233 SOCIAL SERVICES The Department of Social Services provides service programs and public assistance programs to citizens. More information:
Department of Social Services Isle of Wight Courthouse Complex, Isle of Wight 757-365-0880 WOMEN, INFANTS AND CHILDREN Western Tidewater Health District 919 S. Church St., Smithfield 757-357-4177 www.vdh.virginia.gov ******************************** SOCIAL SCENE ******************************** First-class entertainment is all around us — here in Isle of Wight or just a short drive away. When filling your social calendars, you might want to visit some of the following. SMITHFIELD, ISLE OF WIGHT, OR NEARBY Bacon’s Castle Museum One of the oldest English brick structures in the country 465 Bacons Castle Trail, Surry 757-357-5976 www.preservationvirginia.org/visit/ historic-properties/bacons-castle Chippokes Farm & Forestry Museum 868 Plantation Road, Surry 757-294-3439 www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/ chippokes-farm-museum
Great Dismal Swamp National wildlife refuge with walking trails and canoe/boat access to Lake Drummond 3100 Desert Road, Suffolk 757-986-3705 www.fws.gov/refuge/great_dismal_swamp Isle of Wight County Museum The museum offers exhibits covering all aspects of Isle of Wight and Smithfield history. 103 Main St., Smithfield 757-356-1223 www.historicisleofwight.com Rawls Museum Arts Fine arts museum featuring local and regional artists. 22376 Linden St., Courtland 757-653-0754 www.rawlsarts.com Historic St. Luke’s Church Historic 1632 church featuring a rare 16th-century organ. 14477 Benns Church Blvd., Smithfield 757-357-3367 www.historicstlukes.org The Arts Center @ 319 Exhibits highlighting local and regional artists. 319 Main St., Smithfield 757-357-7707 www.smithfieldarts.org Smithfield Little Theater Community theater with a number of locally produced shows sea-
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sonally. 210 N. Church St., Smithfield 757-357-7338 www.smithfieldlittletheatre.org ******************************** TOWN of SMITHFIELD ******************************** Folks have known a good thing since they first saw it in 1608. It was at that time Captain John Smith first came to an area just north of present-day Smithfield to trade beads for 30 bushels of corn. The town of Smithfield grew up around the Pagan River, a tributary to the James River, and was incorporated in 1752 by Arthur Smith IV. Smithfield is a charming town with a revitalized downtown full of 18th- and 19thcentury architecture. Across the nation and the world, the town is known for its ham products. It is said that Queen Victoria loved Smithfield ham so much that she had one sent over to England once a week during her reign. Smithfield encompasses approximately 10 square miles, and has a population of around 8,100. The small-town atmosphere, good school system, and affordable housing all make Smithfield an attractive place to live and do business. See NEED TO KNOW page 16
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SUNDAY, APRIL 18, 2021 | 15
The School House Museum As an attraction that highlights recent history, the Schoolhouse Museum is “a perfect fit” for the region. “The other attractions around in the county cover everything from early settlers and their growth in the county in the 1700s and 1800s,” said Sandra Lowe, the museum’s interim president. “And the Schoolhouse Museum carries on after the Civil War with the education of Blacks that were no longer slaves and it has information up to 1962, which was the last time we had one-, two- or three-room schools in the county.” Lowe has a firsthand connection to the museum, which is at 516 Main St. in downtown Smithfield. “My father was a well known educator in Isle of Wight,” she said. “He was there from 1936 and was a teacher at the Christian Home School, which is now the museum building, and he went on to be a teacher and educator until 1972.” In 2002, she became director of the Schoolhouse Foundation. For the last 10 months, she’s been the interim president following the death of the person who previously held that role. The one-room schoolhouse-turned-museum didn’t start its life on Main Street. It actually stood near Chuckatuck and dates to 1932. It began its life as an addition to the Christian Home School, a Rosenwald school that dated to 1924. Julius Rosenwald, a former president of Sears, the department store company, partnered with Booker T. Washington, a renowned Black educator and writer, to build thousands of school buildings throughout the South for Black students. Isle of Wight community members petitioned the county for money to expand the Christian Home School. This addition is what was moved from Chuckatuck to Main Street in 2005 and it opened as a museum in 2007. The original Rosenwald building was too dilapidated to save. In spite of the pandemic, they’ve continued to keep the doors open three days a week. She lauded docent Phyllis Wellons for maintaining a welcoming, safe atmosphere for visitors during unprecedented times. “I think the most unique attraction for visitors would be the outhouse and the water pump, which of course
are not used today,” Lowe said. “Those are features that the students had to deal with back during that period of time.” Wellons has said visitors are often surprised to learn how basic the building was and how students, families and teachers were responsible for nearly all aspects of creating a comfortable learning environment. The museum’s model teacher is based on a real person, Ruby Thompson, who held that role in real life. Student books, the games that they played, and everyday items from academic life and recess are part of the exhibits, Lowe said. Perhaps the most unique draw, Lowe said, is that there are still plenty of people alive now who had a one-room schoolhouse experience or know someone personally who did. She’s among them. “I’ve been a teacher in the county, I was a teacher for 33 years. I taught at Hardy after it was opened in 1966, so most of the information that we have at the museum is information that I lived with and through,” Lowe said. ~NATE DELESLINE III
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The town employs a council/ manager type of government. Under that government style, the people of Windsor elect council members and a mayor, who presides over the council. The council members appoint a town manager to act as administrator over all town employees. Several boards help make recommendations to the council based on research and review of the issues. Public hearings, during which citizens can speak to town officials about issues affecting the town, are often held at Town Council meetings. The mayor, in addition to presiding over council meetings, also participates in civic activities such as ribbon-cutting ceremonies and get-togethers. More information: Michael R. Stallings Jr. Town Manager 911 S. Church St., Smithfield 757-365-9505 www.smithfieldva.gov TOWN COUNCIL The Smithfield Town Council meets the first Tuesday of each
ISLE OF WIGHT: A NEWCOMERS’ GUIDE TO ISLE OF WIGHT COUNTY
month at 7:30 p.m. in conference rooms A and B at the Smithfield Center, located at 220 N. Church St. Council members include: Mayor T. Carter Williams; Vice Mayor Michael Smith; Valerie Butler; Wayne Hall; Beth Haywood; Renee Rountree; and Randy Pack. Reach Town Council members through the town manager’s office, 757-365-9505. TOWN OFFICES All town offices are located within a block of each other within the Historic District of town. Town Hall Houses Treasurer, Planning and Engineering 310 Institute St., Smithfield 757-365-4200 Office of Town Manager, Town Clerk, Mayor and Records Management 911 S. Church St., Smithfield 757-365-9505 Office of Public Works 293 Cary St., Smithfield 757-365-4200
Police Department 913 S. Church St. 357-3247 (Non-emergency) 911 (Emergency) FIRE DEPARTMENT The Smithfield Volunteer Fire Department works in cooperation with the town of Smithfield, Smithfield Police Department, Isle of Wight Volunteer Rescue Squad, The Carrollton, Windsor, Rushmere and Carrsville Volunteer Fire Departments and the Isle of Wight Sheriff’s office. More information: Emergency, 911 Non-emergency, 357-3231 www.smithfieldvfd.com POLICE DEPARTMENT More information: Emergency, 911 Non-emergency, 757-357-3247 Crime Line, 1-888-LOCK-U-UP OTHER IMPORTANT NUMBERS Animal Control, 757- 365-6318 Building and Zoning Permits, 757365-6213 Voter Registrar, 757-365-6230 Planning Commission, 757-3654200 Trash Collection, 757-357-9997 Street Lights Out, 757-365-4253 Water and Sewer Department, 757-365-4254
SUFFOLK NEWS-HERALD
******************************** TOWN of WINDSOR ******************************** The town of Windsor keeps chugging along. It was iron rails that helped spark life into Windsor. Following the same path as Route 460 today, trains making their way from Hampton Roads to Richmond included Windsor as one of their stops. The railroad town was chartered in 1902. The town employs a council/manager type of government. Under that government style, the people of Windsor elect council members and a mayor, who presides over the council. The council members appoint a town manager to act as administrator over all town employees. The mayor, in addition to presiding over council meetings, also participates in civic activities such as ribbon-cutting ceremonies and get-togethers. More information: William G. Saunders IV Town Manager wsaunders@windsor-va.gov 8 E. Windsor Blvd., Windsor 757-242-4288 www.windsor-va.gov TOWN COUNCIL The Windsor Town Council meets at
7 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month in Council Chambers at the Municipal Building, unless otherwise posted. The public is welcome and is encouraged to attend. The Municipal Center is located at 8 E. Windsor Blvd., Windsor. Members of the council include Mayor Glyn T. Willis; Vice Mayor Greg Willis; Walter Bernacki; Kelly Blankenship; J. Randy Carr; Jake Redd; and George Stubbs. Reach Town Council members by contacting the town offices, 757242-4288. TOWN OFFICES Town offices are located in the Municipal Center at 8 E. Windsor Blvd., Windsor. More information: 757-242-4288 FIRE & RESCUE The town of Windsor and surrounding area is served by the Windsor Volunteer Fire Department. It is funded by both Isle of Wight County and the town of Windsor. More information: Emergency, 911 Non-emergency, 242-3191 www.windsorvfd.com See NEED TO KNOW page 18
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ISLE OF WIGHT: A NEWCOMERS’ GUIDE TO ISLE OF WIGHT COUNTY
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Smithfield Station Crossing the bridge into downtown Smithfield, motorists will see an exact replica of a working Chesapeake Bay-style lighthouse. The exterior of this particular one has been modeled after the Hooper Strait Light in Maryland. Inside are two suite-style hotel hotel rooms with panoramic views of the Pagan River. The structure is connected by a boardwalk to three standalone cottages, which also contain hotel rooms, and to the original Smithfield Station built in 1986 as a restaurant, hotel and marina. The original station is modeled after old Coast Guard lifesaving stations that once proliferated along the coast of Virginia and the Outer Banks of North Carolina, and includes 15 hotel rooms, a 150-seat dining room and a 100-slip marina. According to the station’s website, its story began in 1983 when Ron and Tina Pack were on a boat cruise with friends in the upper Chesapeake Bay. During that cruise, they decided their adopted town of Smithfield was every bit as nice as the popular destination points of the upper bay communities and took it upon themselves to establish Smithfield as a historic destination. The restaurant, in particular, is “designed to provide a dining experience that takes advantage of Smithfield’s two most well known culinary commodities, Smithfield ham and fresh local seafood.” The Packs added the lighthouse in 1994 and another structure known as The Lodge in 2007, which includes 22 rooms featuring king-size beds, fireplaces, granite counters, flat-screen TVs and bathrooms with walk-in showers. Now, the facility is run by the next generation of Packs: brothers Randy and Brian. “While the virus remains a concern to all, people still need to get out occasionally and spread their social wings,” Randy said. “We want to be able to be that place and be able to do so safely. Outdoor dining continues to play a major role in our guests’ preferences, and our heated decks and patios have been well received.” “The leisure travel industry has changed a good bit in the last months as well,” he added. “We are reaching out to a more regional market than previous and focusing our attention on guests within
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The Windsor Volunteer Rescue Squad provides emergency services to the town of Windsor and the central portion of Isle of Wight County. More information: Emergency, 911 Non-emergency, 242-6760 POLICE Until 2001, law enforcement services in the town of Windsor were contracted to the Isle of Wight Sheriff’s Office, with all patrol and investigative functions provided by sheriff’s deputies. The current Windsor Police Department was established in 2001. More information: Emergency, 911 Police Department, 757-242-6799 Non-Emergency, 757-357-2151 OTHER IMPORTANT NUMBERS Planning and Zoning, 757-2424288 Public Utilities, water service, 757242-4288 Public Works, trash collection, 757-242-4288
ISLE OF WIGHT: A NEWCOMERS’ GUIDE TO ISLE OF WIGHT COUNTY
******************************** UTILITIES ******************************** The mortgage papers are signed. The moving van has unpacked and left. Now what? You need to know how to turn on your utilities. The following listing is of utilities that serve portions of this area. Call the telephone numbers for more information about getting hooked up. CABLE TELEVISION Charter Spectrum 1-877-906-9121 for new service www.spectrum.com
SUFFOLK NEWS-HERALD
directives of the State Board of Elections, the Virginia Election Code and the County Electoral Board. The registrar’s office can assist with any voting-related questions, such as a list of polling places.
www.columbiagasva.com TELEPHONE Verizon 757-954-6222 www.verizon.com WATER & SEWER Isle of Wight County, Public Utilities, 757-365-6284 Town of Smithfield, Water and Sewer Department, 757-3654200 Town of Windsor, Public Utilities, 757-242-4288
The registrar’s offices are located at 17106 Monument Circle, Isle of Wight. More information: Isle of Wight Voter Registrar’s Office, 757-365-6230 or www. co.isle-of-wight.va.us.
******************************** VOTING ********************************
******************************** POST OFFICES ********************************
Lisa E. Betterton is the voter registrar, and she and her office are charged with carrying out
There are several post offices in and around Isle of Wight County. These include:
Battery Park Post Office 20512 Todd Ave., Battery Park Carrollton Post Office 15108 Carrollton Blvd., Carrollton Carrsville Post Office 5354 Carrsville Highway, Carrsville Isle of Wight Post Office 17161 Courthouse Highway, Isle of Wight Rescue Post Office 21148 Rescue Road, Rescue Smithfield Post Office 234 Main St., Smithfield Windsor Post Office 4 E. Windsor Blvd., Windsor Zuni Post Office 5375 Windsor Blvd., Zuni
ELECTRICITY Dominion Energy 1-866-366-4357 www.dominionenergy.com Community Electric Cooperative 52 W. Windsor Blvd., Windsor 757-242-6181 www.comelec.coop NATURAL GAS Columbia Gas of Virginia 800-543-8911
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ISLE OF WIGHT: A NEWCOMERS’ GUIDE TO ISLE OF WIGHT COUNTY
SUNDAY, APRIL 18, 2021 | 19
Smithfield & Isle of Wight Convention & Visitor’s Bureau Smithfield has a population of just over 8,000 but sees visitors from all across the country and world — many of whom, at some point during their visit, will wander through the door of the town’s Convention & Visitor’s Bureau at 319 Main St. Some are staying at timeshare properties in the Williamsburg area, and decided to make a day trip to the other side of the James River. Others are traveling on business. Some are looking for information on where to eat and shop, and local events. Others just want to use the bathroom. According to Manager Deb Frank, the visitor’s center averaged roughly 29 visitors a day in 2020, having been closed from March 18 through May 25 that year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. That’s a slight drop from the 37 a day it averaged in 2019. “Pennsylvania, New Jersey and North Carolina are our top three states [for visitors],” Frank said. The center also functions as an information hub for local residents who may want to know more about the area in which they live and work, or about what’s going on in the town or in Isle of Wight County. “Remarkably, although business travel is at a virtual standstill, leisure business has continued to be strong — especially on weekends, with visitation primarily from a much closer proximity than we usually experience,” said Judy Winslow, director of tourism for Smithfield and Isle of Wight County. “Locals have come to the rescue of local businesses, and sales and visitation numbers remain amazingly stable.” In November and December 2020, Smithfield and Isle of Wight Tourism partnered with the county’s Economic Development Department and Chamber of Commerce on the #IsleShopSmall gift certificate program, which matched local dollars with CARES Act funds to allow residents to buy up to five $40 gift certificates to participating local businesses for $20 apiece. Eighty-three of the 98 participating businesses had at least one certificate purchased for their establishment, with the most popular receiving $17,000 from the program. “The gift certificate program reinvested over $800,000 back into small business coffers at a time when they needed it most,” Winslow said.
While the town’s annual festivals and parades, which ordinarily are among the highest visitor- and revenue-generating staples of Isle of Wight tourism, had to be canceled due to restrictions on gathering size, “our staff was still able to dedicate their time and energy to the Smithfield and Carrollton Farmer’s Markets; Picker’s Markets; and creating, supporting and promoting boutique events like the Autumn Art Show,” Winslow said. “Although we are highly hopeful that we will be heading into a post-COVID timeframe, we are looking for a slow return to more normal travel patterns,” she added. “We will continue to plan smaller, more boutique-style events in early 2021 before bringing back festivals, parades and large markets.” The visitor’s center shares space in a converted hardware store with the Arts Center @ 319, a facility that hosts eight resident artists and various art exhibits throughout the year. ~ STEPHEN FALESKI
IF YOU GO 319 Main St. Smithfield, VA 23430 Visitor’s Center: 757-357-5182 Arts Center: 757-357-7707 Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday, noon to 4 p.m. Sunday Admission: free
20 | SUNDAY, APRIL 18, 2021
ISLE OF WIGHT: A NEWCOMERS’ GUIDE TO ISLE OF WIGHT COUNTY
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