Snow

Oh the weather outside is frightful,

But the fire is so delightful,
And since we've no place to go,
Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!

It doesn't show signs of stopping,
And I've bought some corn for popping,
The lights are turned way down low,

Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!

Crime Tips for the Holidays from Lt. Mike Hayes, Commumnity Policing Unit

During the holiday season please remember to remove gifts and valuables from your vehicles and park in well lit areas. Portsmouth Police Department is currently filming some Crime Prevention tips for a segment to be run on Channel 48 through the Holiday Season, so please watch for them in the coming weeks.

Below, please find some burglary prevention tips that were published after the authors interviewed numerous convicted burglars.


19 Things Your Burglar Won't Tell You:

1. Of course I look familiar. I was here just last week cleaning your carpets,
painting your shutters, or delivering your new refrigerator.

2. Hey, thanks for letting me use the bathroom when I was working in your yard last week. While I was in there, I unlatched the back window to make my return a little easier.

3. Love those flowers. That tells me you have taste ... and taste means there are nice things inside. Those yard toys your kids leave out always makme wonder what type of gaming system they have.

4. Yes, I really do look for newspapers piled up on the driveway. And I might leave a pizza flyer in your front door to see how long it takes you toremove it.

5. If decorative glass is part of your front entrance, don't let your alarm company install the control pad where I can see if it's set. That makes it too easy.

6. A good security company alarms the window over the sink. And the windows on the second floor, which often access the master bedroom-and your jewelry. It's not a bad idea to put motion detectors up there too.

7. It's raining, you're fumbling with your umbrella, and you forget to lock your door-understandable. But understand this: I don't take a day off because of bad weather.

8. I always knock first. If you answer, I'll ask for directions somewhere or offer to clean your gutters. (Don't take me up on it.)

9. Do you really think I won't look in your sock drawer? I always check

dresser drawers, the bedside table, and the medicine cabinet.

10. You're right: I won't have enough time to break into that safe where you keep your valuables. But if it's not bolted down, I'll take it with me.

11. A loud TV or radio can be a better deterrent than the best alarm system. if you're reluctant to leave your TV on while you're out of town, you can buy a $35 device that works on a timer and simulates the flickering glow of a real television. (Find it at faketv.com.)

12. Sometimes, I carry a clipboard. Sometimes, I dress like a lawn guy and carry a rake. I do my best to never, ever look like a crook.

13. The two things I hate most: loud dogs and nosy neighbors.

14. I'll break a window to get in, even if it makes a little noise. If your neighbor hears one loud sound, he'll stop what he's doing and wait to hear it again. If he doesn't hear it again, he'll just go back to what he was doing.  It's human nature.

15. I'm not complaining, but why would you pay all that money for a fancy alarm system and leave your house without setting it?

16. I love looking in your windows. I'm looking for signs that you're home, and for flat screen TVs or gaming systems I'd like. I'll drive or walk through your neighborhood at night, before you close the blinds, just to
pick my targets.

17. Avoid announcing your vacation on your Facebook page or your blog. It's easier than you think to look up your address.

18. To you, leaving that window open just a crack during the day is a way to let in a little fresh air. To me, it's an invitation.

19. If you don't answer when I knock, I try the door. Occasionally, I hit the jackpot and walk right in.

Sources: Convicted burglars in North Carolina , Oregon , California , and Kentucky; security consultant Chris McGoey, who runs crimedoctor.com; and Richard T. Wright, a criminology professor at the University of Missouri-St. Louis, who interviewed 105 burglars for his book Burglars on the Job.

September 13, 2010 Civic League Minutes

The meeting was called to order at 7 P.M. by the President, Nancy LaMartin.
City Council Member Elizabeth Psimis addressed attendees prior to the regular business session regarding her candidacy for Mayor of Portsmouth. Her record and accomplishments while on City Council includes the following:

Education- A system that is much improved and still improving.

Safety- The adoption of a pay plan for police that has resulted in many benefits for the city such as retaining and attracting quality officers. This has also had a positive result for the firefighters as well.

Economic Development- Three international companies have been attracted to Portsmouth since she became a Councilwoman.

Mrs. Psimis intends to continue leading the City in the right direction and requested the community’s support. She stated that she will be speaking again at a Candidates’ Forum on Thursday, September 16, 2010 at St. Mark’s Baptist Church and encouraged everyone to attend and judge for themselves that she is the best choice for Portsmouth Mayor.

Minutes of Previous Meeting:

The minutes from the last meeting, dated 6-7-10, were read and approved.


Treasurer’s Report:

The Treasurer reported that there has been no change in the Treasury since the last meeting. There is a balance of $1251.02 in the account.
Yard Sale

Nancy LaMartin reported that the yard sale was successful and brought many people into the neighborhood. There were twelve households who paid to be on the map and numerous other homes that held sales as well. The yard sale was advertised in the newspaper and on Craig’s List. The purpose was to get as many people into the neighborhood as possible to promote the homes that are for sale and raise awareness of Shea Terrace as a nice place to live. The City was very co-operative and mowed the park as well as the yards of several houses in the neighborhood.


Thanks

Nancy thanked Bob Sauls for making and donating the picnic table that was raffled off during the yard sale. All proceeds will go to the Civic League.

Nominating Committee:

Nancy reminded everyone that we need to elect new officers. Pat Pfeiffer will be Chairman of the Nominating Committee. She should be called at 397-6043 for those who wish to hold office or wish to nominate someone else. The election will be at our next meeting in December.


Police Report

Officer Diaz gave a report of crime statistics in the neighborhood since June. The incidents were primarily those in which the victims and the perpetrators were known to one another. There was on record only one crime of a crime done to a stranger. As requested at the last meeting, he arranged for a monitoring of speeders at the north end of Constitution at the turn. However, there did not appear to be a problem with this that could be validated. There was discussion regarding the blind corner at the intersection of Ann and Constitution. Georgeanne made a motion that the Civic League request a no parking sign be installed near this corner in front of the school. The members voted to make this request of the City.



An attendee asked Officer Diaz about parking trailers in the neighborhood. He advised that no large trucks may be parked in the neighborhood Monday through Friday from 7 P.M. to 6 A.M. or Saturday to Monday from 6 P.M. to 6 A.M.



General Discussion -

Rental Issues- all houses being rented are supposed to be inspected by the City prior to new tenants moving in. For enforcement, contact Katherine Koch, Environmental/Zoning Inspector, telephone 393-8522.

Green Space-

There was general discussion regarding the need for a space for children to play. It was acknowledged that the Senior Park is not appropriate due to its location on a busy thoroughfare and was not designed for children. Several residents asked about the area behind the Senior Apartments. It was agreed that the residents need to be vigilant that nothing in the way of additional houses be constructed on this site due to housing density and the flooding issue. This issue is particularly relevant considering a similar area in Port Norfolk that is being developed as dense housing.

It was suggested that a group of volunteers could look into establishing that area as a play area for children. If the City would designate this as a park the thought was that usage as housing would not be considered. Although most of this area has recently flooded very deeply, there is some high ground on the south side that might support recreational activities. Several neighbors were very enthusiastic to organize the project, to be referred to as the Shea Terrace Youth Volunteer Group. Bob Souls and Daniel Izzary Ponce will get together for further planning on this project.

There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned.

Respectfully submitted,

Pat Pfeiffer

Shea Terrace Annual Yard Sale

The Shea Terrace Civic League hosts our Annual Yard Sale on September 11, 2010, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.. This is a great time to clear out some of that unwanted stuff that clutters our lives and saps our energy.

The rain date is Saturday September 18, 2010.  The Civic League will charge homeowners $10 to be listed on the map which will be handed out to people entering the neighborhood that day.  We will also be listting ads in the Pilot and on Craigs List..

Yard sale payments may be made to our treasurer, Georgianne Mitchell.  Please call the "Lock Doc" business number at: 397-6673 to make payment arrangements.  The requested fee helps pay for the ad, the cost of copying the maps for distribution, and other incidential costs.

Portsmouth City code requires that those holding yard sales receive a city permit.  Permits can be obtained from the Commissioner of Revenue Office at 393-8714 for $5.00. Paid participants will automatically be entered into a raffle for a hand-made picnic table. This table was built and donated by Shea Terrace resident and set designer, Bob Sauls. The Civic League will sell raffle tickets the day of the Yard Sale for $1.00 at the Shea Terrace  neighborhood entrance where the maps are distributed.

NOTE: If inclement weather or some other emergency prevents us from having the yard sale on September 11, the information will be posted here on this Blog. Please check here for updates.

Police Incident on Thursday Evening

On Thursday night at around dinner time, you may have noticed that there was a large police presence in Shea Terrace.

An individual had been pulled over for a traffic stop elsewhere and then tried to evade police by fleeing the scene into the neighborhood. The individual ran from the car at 224 Sandpiper Drive (Shea Terrace Apartments) and fled into the woods betweern Shea Terrace and Sugar Hill. The individual was apprehended by police just a few minutes later.

Please note that while this person had no affiliation with the apartments themselves, the individual was a resident of the neighborhood.  At present, the individual now faces charges of evading police,switching car tags, possession of cocaine, and other charges. This is not representative of our usually quiet neighborhood.

We do want to thank Portsmouth Police for their quick and professional service in brning this unfortunate incident to a swift and safe conclusion. There was an impressive police presence in Shea Terracewithin moments. We can't control the choices individuals make, but it is a great comfort to know that the PPD will be on the scene quickly to resolve things.

Civic League members will be meeting with the Neighborhood Impact Officer, Robert Diaz, on Monday afternoon to discuss the situation.  If you have questions, concerns, or perhaps some information to provide about the incident, feel free to call Officer Diaz at 235-2500.

Pink Couch in Scotts Creek

After some rain, a Shea Terrace resident found this floating by her hosuse on Scotts Creek.  We know there's a story behind this, which probably involves a pitcher of margaritas.

Minutes From the Last Civic League Meeting

Shea Terrace Civic League


Minutes

June 7, 2010

The meeting was called to order at 7:15 P.M. by the President, Nancy LaMartin.


Minutes of Previous Meeting:

Minutes from the last meeting were read and approved as corrected. Nancy reminded the attendees that minutes from Civic League meetings could also be found on the Shea Terrace Blog.


Treasurer’s Report: It was reported that there is currently a balance in the treasury of $1251.02. This includes a deposit or $92 since our last meeting.
Speakers:

Representatives from Food Lion, Eleanor Bockhurst, Customer Service Representative, and Allen Fok, District Merchandiser, were present to address concerns of the neighborhood in regard to Food Lion. Comments were primarily positive with attendees noting that there has been a marked improvement in the store since the end of last year. The new Manager, Mike, is very responsive to requests and has made many positive changes. There was a complaint about not having better cuts of meats available as compared to other locations. The reason for this is a problem with theft in the store and we were encouraged to call in advance for special cuts or to ring the service bell for personal requests.

The Representatives asked that we report any panhandling around the store. They also stated that they try to keep the parking lot clean despite all of the trash being blown in from surrounding areas. They also try to have three express lines open on the first of the month, which is the busiest time at the check out.

Nancy suggested that a bike rack be installed and that the store might consider broadcasting classical music in the parking lot to discourage vagrants from hanging out. There was a suggestion to have a community bulletin board available in the front of the store and to sell HRT passes although the store is on the free Downtown Loop bus line. A complaint was made regarding the huge pothole at the entrance to the parking lot. We were assured that this would be taken care of as soon as possible. The Representatives encouraged us to call them anytime there is a problem. Eleanor Bockhurst, Food Lion 1555, Customer Service Manager. Telephones 397-8812 work and 582-4548 cell. Allen Fok, Food Lion District Merchandiser, telephone 348-3951.

Police Report:

Officer Diaz stated that there have not been many police problems to report. He reminded us to lock up our cars and homes to avoid crimes of opportunity, such as theft and vandalism. There was general discussion about drivers speeding around the corner at the North end of the neighborhood, especially at the turns. Officer Diaz will submit this information may arraign radar checks of the area to determine if this is a recurring issue. A resident reported that vehicles are being parked too close to the corner of Anne Street on Constitution creating a blind corner. Diaz will check into this issue.


Environmental Report:

Katherine Koch reported that the house with the Quonset hut on the corner of Holiday and Chesapeake has had numerous citations which appear to be having some positive effect as the tenants moved out and another family now lives there. This will continue to be monitored. The streets have been a lot cleaner in the neighborhood as a result of the street sweeper coming through more frequently. She stated that there are a lot of empty houses in the neighborhood and requested that we watch these houses and report anything suspicious. She also asked that we let her know if there are any houses that are not secured so that she can take care of this to prevent vandalism.


Newsletter:

Nancy requested volunteers to help deliver the newsletters. Amy Griffin volunteered to do Constitution. Georgianne and Pat volunteered to deliver where we might be needed. The next newsletter will go out the end of August.
Yard Sale:

Nancy discussed plans for neighborhood yard sales in the fall. Past yard sales have had a positive result in bringing potential homebuyers into the community, which is especially important now with so many houses for sale. The Civic League will charge homeowners $10 to be listed on the map which will be handed out to people entering the neighborhood the day of the sale. This will also help with the cost of running an ad in the newspaper. Nancy will also list the sale on Craig’s List and will arrange with realtors to hold open houses on the day of the sale. The sale will be held Saturday September 11 with a rain date set for September 18. Pat Pfeiffer volunteered to be the telephone contact for the neighbors wishing to list themselves on the map. The individual homeowner will be responsible for getting their own City permit at a cost of $10. Pat Pfeiffer did agree to purchase permits for the residents if requested when given the money and addresses of participants. Amy Griffin, 20 Constitution, 393-1613, also agreed to help with the yard sale. Nancy will make arrangements with Hope House, 523-8760, to pick up leftover items at the end of the day. She also felt it might be a good idea to arrange for a trash sway car on that day to throw away unwanted items rather than leaving them on the curb the next week’s bulk trash pick up.


Old Business:

There was discussion about the Scott’s Creek Sign that was removed from the linear park many months ago when it began to fall apart. Leisure Services has been asked about its replacement but have not given a satisfactory answer. Katherine Koch volunteered to check into this matter and report back to the organization.

New Business:

Chrystal McLouglin asked about the possibility of recycling electronics in the neighborhood as a Civic League project. She stated that she knows someone who has information on this and will report back to us at the next meeting.

There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:30 P.M.

Vote for Flagship Restaurant for Tidewater's Best Crab Cakes - Deadline June 7!!!

Alan Parker of The Flagship Restaurant on Constitution Avenue is an amazing corporate neighbor.  He runs a quality establishment with terrific food.  He's been a great friend to the Civic League, allowing us to meet at the restaurant on a day it is actually closed.  We haven't always had such support there and are thankful every day for his presence vs. the former owners/management.

Here's a note from Alan in regard to a Virginian Pilot Contest:

Hello Flagship Friends,

The Virginian Pilot is looking for the best CRAB CAKES in the Tidewater area. The voting deadline is June 7. If you have enjoyed our house made, special CRAB CAKES..... PLEASE call (757)446-2334 or go to taste.test@pilotonline.com. and VOTE for The Flagship Restaurant.

If you have not have the chance to enjoy one of our crab cakes, please come down and try one before voting. I think you just may love what we do with them. You can have a arab cake sandwich for lunch, or our crab cake dinner, served with our house made mango ketchup, or even enjoy a crab cake Appetizer. Looking forward to seeing you all soon and remember that ALL SHEA TERRACE RESIDENTS GET A DISCOUNT ON FOOD.  JUST ASK YOUR SERVER FOR THE SCOTTS CREEK DISCOUNT. Thanks for the support.

Contests make food fun,

Alan

Hurricane Preparedness Week Next Week

Better Than the Nature Channel!

From a Shea Terrace Neighbor living on Scotts Creek:

This young lady was laying eggs in our backyard Sunday a.m. She was only about 4 feet from the window and it was fascinating watching her slowly dig the hole, lay 27 eggs, carefully fill in the hole, make her way back to the creek and swim away. The whole process lasted about 3 hours. better than the nature channel!




 

Go Fly a Kite This Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For more information go to http://www.portsvaevents.com/

May Events, City of Portsmouth

Go to http://www.portsvaevents.com/ for a clearer view of all events for the City of Portsmouth for May, 2010.

 

Recycling in Portsmouth Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Dana Woodson

April 21, 2010 757.393.8641


Portsmouth Announces New Recycling Center Service

-- Seeks Input From Residents on Interest in Curbside Recycling --

The City of Portsmouth has contracted with TFC Recycling to provide recycling center service for dropped-off recyclables at each of the sites formerly handled by the Southeastern Public Service Authority (SPSA). The new recycling center service, which has 24-hour access, provides ease of use since residents can place all acceptable recyclables in the center bins without presorting them. TFC will sort the comingled items at their material recovery center.


The Portsmouth recycling centers are located at:

Broad Street Fire Station

Cavalier Manor Recreation Center

Cedar Lane Fire Station

Cradock Recreation Center

Effingham Street Fire Station

Hodges Manor Fire Station

Winchester Fire Station



The acceptable recyclables include paper items, cardboard and corrugated boxes, aluminum and steel cans, plastic bottles, and clear, green, and brown glass containers.

Items that should not be placed in the recycling center bins include aerosol cans, motor oil, paint cans, plastic bags, wood products, yard waste, tires, and batteries.

Residents can continue to take these items to SPSA’s Household Hazardous Waste Facility, located at 4 Victory Blvd., on the last Saturday and second Wednesday of the month from 9 a.m. until 12 noon.

In addition, the City of Portsmouth is conducting an online survey that will launch on Earth Day to receive feedback and determine the overall interest of the community in curbside recycling service should it be made available. Portsmouth residents are encouraged to participate in this short online survey by visiting

www.portsmouthva.gov/recycle-survey.aspx . To complete the survey by telephone or for more information on recycling, please call 393-8120 ext. 6299.

Reply from Councilwoman Elizabeth Psimas

We hear you loud and clear – and frankly, I think many on the City Council and residents of Portsmouth agree with you. Sometimes, what looks good on paper to save money (and provide better street cleaning services) doesn’t pan out in reality. The good news is – that in this horrible economy, when our neighbor cities are looking at furloughs, layoffs, tax increases, and the like – the biggest complaints I’ve heard about the Manager’s budget proposal are about bulk pickup strategies. I can assure you that this City Council isn’t finished with this budget – in fact we just begin discussions tonight!
Thank you for taking the time to comment.


Elizabeth Psimas

ONCE A MONTH BULK TRASH PICK UP...HOW CRAZY IS THIS????

An Open Letter to City Council on City Manager Ken Chandler's idea of cutting down bulk trash pick up to once a month:

We understand that the City Manager intends to introduce a budget-saving measure by proposing to cut bulk pick up down to once a month. This idea is incredibly ill advised.

Portsmouth has trash issues.  There is literally garbage everywhere. There's garbage blowing around down London Blvd, garbage in Scotts Creek, garbage on front lawns from people throwing it out car windows, etc. It seems to be common practice among some to walk around eating and drinking and just throwing the resulting trash anywhere.

The Civic Leauge has to pick garbage up at Scotts Creek Park constanty, despite two well-placed cans that are emptied regularly.   In fact, one Saturday morning  a glass from Roger Brown's was found with the squeezed-out lime and swizzle stick still in it sitting on top of our concrete fencing. It must have been an awesome Friday night happy hour. This is all bad enough.

Folks just put out bulk trash wherever they want, whenever they want. Piles of it. The ordinance that states that the bulk trash must be put out no earlier than Thursday night is ignored. Garbage inspectors seem in short supply.

Residents are rarely if ever asked to remove the trash they put out on Saturday for pick up on the following Friday. The pile just sits there. People work in their yards on Saturday, clean the basement, and move in new furniture, discarding the old and leave it all out on the curb until the following Friday morning for pick up. It looks dreadful.  The smart day to set up bulk trash pick up is Monday...following the weekend clean ups, not a week later.  Can't the City make it easier for citizens to comply with the rules?

The rules about bulk pick up are Byzantine and confusing to everyone. There are rules for piles of tree limbs, rules for yard waste,rules for the color of the trash bags, rules for pick up of old appliances, old appliances with freon, size of the pile, height of the pile, how the bulk trash is separated from the yard waste bulk trash.. This is complicated by where cars are parked. Many times non compliance with these rules and cars parked in front of piles causes them to stay there without being removed for almost ten days under current practices. We have three illegal dumping spots in Shea Terrace which we constantly have to call about.

So now our City Manager wants to add to all this mess and confusion by having bulk trash picked up once a month? Which resident wishes to put up with stained mattresses dumped in Scotts Creek Park for that long!

We have an alternate suggestion...let's pile it all up in front of Ken Chandler's house for him to enjoy.

This issue is being discussed at tonight's City Council meeting at 7p.m..   Maybe you disagree with this post.  That's okay. The important thing about the democratic process is that ALL our voices are heard.  Your comments may be emailed to Council@portsmouthva.gov.

Thanks Shea Terrace!

The owner of the little golden retriever has been found.  The two dogs found on Saturday will be adopted by the couple who found them if owners cannot be found.  That's just how we roll in Shea Terrace.

Another Found Dog

This lovely little lady showed up in the 300 block of Idlewood Ave on Monday evening. Golden Retriever, red collar, no tags, very friendly and knows how to sit. Please circulate this! Call 392-6822 if she's yours!

Katie Cross
249 Idlewood

Say Hello to my Little Friend

Recently Officer Diaz gave up his Saturday morning with his familly to clean up the neighborhood with court-mandated volunteers who are working off low risk crimes after having been sentenced by a judge to community service.  Robert guided them in cleaning up Scotts Creek Park, the garbage pushed up from the Creek by our winter storms and Holladay Street which is perpetually a nasty mess.  Thanks so much to Officer Diaz for his conscientious attention to Shea Terrace.

Do You Know These Two Beautiful Dogs?

Attention Shea Terrace residents

Do you recognize the dogs in the pic? "Thelma and Louise" were found at 100 Culpepper this Saturday morning running in and out of Scotts Creek. They've had a bath, have been fed, and are safe in a fenced in yard in the neighborhood.

Thelma is a part Siberian husky mix with blue eyes. Louise seems to be part yellow lab and part pit bull, perhaps. Both are sweet, well-behaved girls. The husky blend seems used to being in the house and walking on a leash, her lab/pit companion seems unused to being in a house and not so used to walking on a leash. We are not sure if they are from the same household or hooked up "on the lam," but seem inseparable now. Both have collars and neither have tags.

Please call 576-3701 if these are your dogs or if you know who the owner is. We'd like to avoid taking them to the pound and see if we can find their owners via the neighborhood network. Thanks.

Spring Has Sprung in Shea Terrace

Meeting Minutes for March Meeting

The meeting was called to order at 7:04 p.m. by Treasurer Georgianne Mitchell.  President Nancy LaMartin and Vice President Pat Pfeiffer had both been called away suddenly due to urgent personal business.  Georgianne provided the Treasurer's Report.

NIO Officer Robert Diaz advised of crime statistics for the last quarter, which he characterized as minimal, consisiting mainly of property crimes.  He related the situation at 311 Holladay Street, a home which has been condemned, vacant, and owned by the mortgage holder for quite some time.  Both he and Environmental Inspector Katherine Koch, have worked together to ensure that the building remains secured.  Unknown parties have been breaking into the back of the resident and moved an outdoor fireplace up to the second floor.  Ms. Koch smelled smoke and Officer Diaz had to call the fire marshall recently as phone books were smoldering in this device intended for outdoor use.  Officer Diaz advises that residents should call 911 first and him at 235-2500 second if they see any unusual or suspicious activity in properties known to be vacant.

Katherine Koch advised that she is available with any questions or concerns and provided business cards.   Anne Galvin Bremer commended Katherine for her excellent work on birddogging and resolving a very long-term issue on a vacant hoe on Holladay Street in which she worked diligenty to resolve longstanding and serious city code violations.   There were no concerns presented and Katherine left for West Park View's Civic League meeting, scheduled for the same night.

Anne Galvin Bremer provided a report on Reverse 911 and advised residents they they  may input any phone number they wish, even their cell phone number, via the Civic League to PPD to ensure that they get timely updates on emergent issues.  Reverse 911 information is provided in detail below this blog entry.

Georgianne reminded attendees of the Rotary's Paint Your Heart Out Program.  Detailed information regarding Paint Your Heart Out is provided in detail further below in the blog.

Georgianne advised that the Shea Terrace Annual Yard Sale will be rescheduled due to unavoidable circumtances on the part of President Nancy LaMartin.  More information will be forthcoming and shared on the blog.

Two new families joined the Civic League.  One frequent attendee paid back dues for many years, which was greatly appreciated by the League.

The meeting was adjourned at 7:34 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Anne Galvin Bremer
Public Safety Coordinator

Person Impersonating Portsmouth Firefighter

Firefighter Impersonator in Portsmouth


Portsmouth Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services is currently investigating a report of an individual identifying himself as a firefighter and trying to make entry into residences in Portsmouth while claiming to be performing home safety inspections. The individual, described as being a male of European or Asian descent, was not in uniform and did not present city identification.


To ensure the safety of our citizens, we want everyone to be aware that if Portsmouth firefighters have business in your neighborhood, they will be in uniform and will have appropriate city credentials. Fire investigators may be in civilian attire, but will always have their law enforcement badges and city identification in plain view. Further, home safety surveys are only conducted at the request of a resident and will be scheduled so that the resident knows when to expect firefighters.


If you are approached by an individual claiming to be a firefighter and you are unsure of their identity, call 9-1-1 immediately and do not allow them into your home. The Emergency Communications Center will verify the presence and identity of any legitimate fire department personnel at your residence.


Anyone with knowledge of this individual, please contact the Portsmouth Fire Marshal office at 393-8689.

This is What Shea Terrace is All About

Note from Sheryl Trombitas, a Shea Terrace neighbor:


i just want to say a public thank you to mason and another gentleman

who stopped and helped me on Thursday morning when my red volkswagen

jetta conked out on me at the stoplight. unfortunately, it is still

broken down and waiting for my repairman to tow it away, which is why

it is still sitting on constitution avenue. please, don't have the

police tow it, it will be taken care of. mason stopped and helped me

push the car out of the road and made sure i was okay. he even gave

me a ride to work which was out of his way. thanks again, neighbor!

a lot of people just looked over and kept going. but not him!

\

A Note From Shea Terrace's NIO, Officer Diaz

Vacant homes are an issue all over the Tidewater area due to the current economic situation.  Owners are either unable to sell the home, rent the home, or, in some cases, have lost the home to foreclosure.  Vacant homes which are not being monitored and maintained by the owners are also a law enforcement issue.  Like other area neighborhoods, Shea Terrace currently has vacant homes.  Some of these homes have become targets for vandals and other illegal activities.

City code mandates that vacant homes must be secured and maintained by the owners.  Katherine Koch, environmental quality inspector for the City of Portsmouth, and I work closely together to ensure that vacant homes meet city codes.  In some cases, we have worked together to secure homes properly. 

Please monitor the homes in your section of Shea Terrace for any activity which seems suspicious.  Call 911 FIRST and then call me to advise about any such activities.  Unmaintained vacant homes represent an "attractive nuisance" to juveniles.  They can be a fire hazard and, if left unmonitored, can reduce property values.  Let's continue to work together on this issue by maintaining vigilence on Shea Terrace's vacant houses.

Looking forward to seeing you at the next meeting,

Officer Diaz
235-2500
diazr@portsmouthva.gov

Civic League Meeting Next Monday

We'll see you there at the Flagship Restaurant on Constitution next Monday at 7:00 p.m.  Remember, citizen participation is a must for a community to prosper.

Reverse 911

Are you aware of the Portsmouth Police Department’s Reverse 911 system? Reverse 911 is a system in which the PPD uses automatic dial technology to call you with important recorded announcements addressing weather emergencies, evacuations, crucial meetings, scams victimizing Portsmouth residents, crime trends in neighborhoods, etc. Statistics show that only 40% of such calls relating vital information are successful. Why? The database used is not comprehensive and does not include unlisted numbers or cell phone numbers. Police may not use unlisted phone number information except in emergencies vs. urgent announcements. Come to the next Civic League meeting to update your information to make sure that you stay “in the know.” An excel spreadsheet for interested households will be developed and submitted to PPD. Inclusion of cell phone numbers will ensure that you will receive vital neighborhood information wherever you are. Find out more at the next meeting on March 8.

Portsmouth Rotary's Paint Your Heart Out

PAINT YOUR HEART OUT

Portsmouth Rotary’s Annual “Paint Your Heart Out Day. Do you know someone who is on a fixed income or currently on no income due to a lay off? Do they reside in Shea Terrace and have a one story or one and a half story (Cape Cod with finished attic area) home? If so, they may be eligible for free exterior house painting from the Rotary. To nominate yourself or a neighbor’s home, contact Nancy LaMartin at 393-2293 or hrc3@cox.net and provide a name, phone number, and street address. You may nominate yourself or someone else. All decisions on which houses will be painted at made by the Portsmouth Rotary. Painting day is April 17. Deadline for painting requests is March 14. Rotary has painted two homes in Shea Terrace in recent years with excellent results.

Friends of the Library Sale

We're all trying to make our dollars stretch futher these days.  Are you a reader?  Check out the Friends of the Library Sale where you will find donated books on sale for very reasonable prices.

Art Walk

December Meeting Minutes

Shea Terrace Civic League


Minutes 12-5-09



The President, Nancy LaMartin, called the December 5, 2009 meeting of the Shea Terrace Civic League to order at 7 P.M. at the Flagship Restaurant. The minutes from the September 2009 meeting were read and approved.



The Treasurer, Georgianna Mitchell, reported that a current balance of $1081.02. This reflects no change since the last meeting. She also reminded members that dues in the amount of $12 per household are due.



Officer Diaz, our NEAT officer, reported that there were only four incidents reported to him in the month of September. These included a destruction of property, larceny from a motor vehicle, a domestic disturbance and larceny of a vehicle. In October there were only five incidents reported. These were one simple assault, two residential burglaries, and two destruction of property. Most of these were crimes of opportunity and resulted from empty buildings on Holiday Street. November had eight incidents which included a lock cut on a shed, tools taken from a trailer, petty larceny to a vehicle, a stolen GPS, one stolen vehicle, two attempts to break into a vehicle and a dog shot with a BB gun. He urged residents to report any suspicious activities to 911 for immediate response and then contact him as a secondary measure.



Code Enforcement Officer Katherine Koch stated that she would be responsible for securing any vacant houses and to report to her or Officer Diaz if we are aware of vacant houses that are not locked securely. Several neighbors identified dwellings that needed attention. There was also discussion of bulk trash pick up problems. Ms. Koch stated that she would be issuing notices of violation after the holidays. No notices of violation will be issued if resulting from the northeaster storm damage until they have existed for at least thirty days. She also stated that there is a code enforcement database that may be accessed on line. All problems that need attention have been listed on the web site.



Nancy LaMartin discussed the recent notifications of zoning changes. This issue has to do with changing the code to allow condominiums and high density housing to be constructed in neighborhoods where they had previously been prohibited. She attended the meeting at City Hall regarding this issue and was told there would be no automatic allowance of these structures unless there was a petition to put in a multi family home. If such plans were made the builder would need to go through the permit process; therefore, the League should be vigilant to make sure this does not happen if we do not agree with the plans.



Election of Officers for the 2010 year was held. The attendees unanimously elected Nancy LaMartin as President, Pat Pfeiffer as Secretary and Georgianna Mitchell as Treasurer. The office of Vice President remains vacant at this time.



The annual Yard Sale will be held April 24, 2010 and will require volunteers to make maps, take telephone calls and place ads in the newspaper. Pat Pfeiffer volunteered to take telephone calls from neighbors interested in participating. There will be a $5 fee to those participating, which will help pay for a newspaper advertisement and offset the cost of making maps to distribute on the day of the sale.



New Business

Jeannie Bossa stated that she plans to decorate the fence at the Senior Linear Park for the Holidays and needs assistance. Those wishing to help should meet at her house this coming Wednesday at 2 P.M. She will also need, in the spring, volunteers to help plant tulips at the entrance to the neighborhood.



There being no further business the meeting was adjourned and those in attendance then enjoyed a potluck dinner.

Snow, Two Weekends in a Row?

How crazy is THIS?

New Internet Tool for Crime Information

Joyce Seargeant (what a great name for someone who works with the Police Department) forwarded the following link of great interest to our community in providing up-to-the-minute crime data.

Please go to Internet Explorer to open the link below:

http://myneighborhoodupdate.net/.

As Joyce says, "One zooms in and out of the map using a mouse wheel or the zoom scale on the map. You can pan the map by clicking and holding on a clear area of the map and drag the mouse or the pan buttons located above the zoom scale. The date range can be set in the boxes located directly beneath the map. Pin-head details are obtained by clicking on the pinhead. Data is obtained from CADMine updated from the CAD system approximately every 15 minutes."

Joyce can be reached via email at  seargeantj@portsmouthva.gov  with any questions.

More Snow Closures

Good Evening Portsmouth Community Connections Subscriber:

Due to the winter storm, the City of Portsmouth Museums and Visitor Center will be closed on
Sunday, January 31st.
Enjoy your weekend and please be safe!
Sincerely,
Dana Woodson
Public Affairs Officer
City of Portsmouth
801 Crawford Street
Portsmouth, VA 23704
757.393.8641 ext. 6268
757.393.5241 (fax)

Snow, Snow, Snow

Due to the winter storm that has been forecast, the following City of Portsmouth facilities will be closed on




Saturday, January 30th:



Parks and Recreation facilities



The Visitor Center



Portsmouth Museums



Portsmouth Public Libraries