The Beehive is a quarterly community newsletter, free to all county residents, containing information about county news and resources, volunteer information, community events, and classes and activities for youth and adults. Call 804-693-5730 if you'd like information on how to pick up a paper copy.
Winter 2026
PHOTO: Heather McFarland
The Beehive Gloucester County, Virginia
PHOTO: Doni Hansford
Table of Contents Published by Gloucester County's Community Engagement & Public Information Department
2 COUNTY NEWS The Gloucester County Government is honored to serve you. Keep up-to-date on public initiatives, programs and services. 7 SCHOOL NEWS Get the latest on Gloucester County Public School cafeteria offerings, and check out some committees that would love to have you. 10 COMMUNITY Our local nonprofits are rolling out the red carpet for winter! Here’s how to get involved. 21 PARKS, RECREATION & TOURISM From basketball, to our secret reindeer hike, to our annual Christmas parade, PRT is the place to be. 29 LIBRARY It’s not just a great place to read and learn; check out the library’s upcoming children, teen, adult and family programs. 33 COOPERATIVE EXTENSION Whether you’re signing little ones up for 4-H clubs, or looking to prepare your garden for spring, we’ve got you covered.
FIND THE BEE IN THE BEEHIVE! I’m hidden on one of the pages. Can you find me? I’m exactly this size, shape, and color!
Contact your board member
Ware
At-large At Large
M.A. “Tony” Nicosia, Vice Chair 6352 Meadow Drive Gloucester, VA 23061 804-815-7451 tnicosia@gloucesterva.info Term expires: 12/31/2027
Ashley Chriscoe, Chair 7871 Paynes Landing Road Gloucester, VA 23061 757-870-7420 achriscoe@gloucesterva.info Term expires: 12/31/2027
Gloucester Point
PetYsworokrth
Petsworth
Christopher “Chris” Hutson Post Office Box 1609 Hayes, VA 23072 804-357-9205 chutson@gloucesterva.info Term expires: 12/31/2027
Shannon Lee Hanson 8889 Guinea Road Hayes, VA 23072 804-815-2317
Joseph “Joe” Leming 11050 Ferry Creek Avenue Gloucester, VA 23061 804-815-9484 jleming@gloucesterva.info Term expires: 12/31/2029
shanson@glouceserva.info Term expires: 12/31/2029
Abingdon
At Large
Use a smartphone camera to scan this QR code or visit gloucesterva.gov/board-of- supervisors to access the Board's meeting schedule. Look for the button marked “Meeting Calendar (PDF).”
Robert "JJ" Orth 6067 Seldon Pond Road Gloucester, VA 23061 804-695-6011 rorth@gloucesterva.info Term expires 12/31/2027
Nicholas “Nick” Bonniville 5644 Millwood Drive Gloucester, VA 23061 804-832-1224 nbonniville@gloucesterva.info Term expires 12/31/2029
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County News
Opening a home bake stand in Gloucester Thinking about selling homemade baked goods from your property? Before opening a bake stand or arranging customer pickups, contact Gloucester County’s Zoning Division to determine which approvals are required. Virginia’s home kitchen food processing exemption, under § 3.2-5130 of the Code of Virginia, allows certain foods prepared in a private home, including qualifying baked goods, to be sold without the state food establishment permit and inspection otherwise required. Products must meet the exemption conditions, including applicable labeling requirements, and must not require time or temperature control after preparation.
Charting Our Future
The state exemption does not replace local zoning requirements.
Do you want to have a say in what Gloucester looks like in 2051? This is your moment; it's time to work on our next Comprehensive Plan (a long-range guide, built by locals, that helps steer County laws and policy decisions for decades to come). The plan tackles the big questions, like "where should we allow developers to build homes?" and "do we want to add more roads?" Some of the main sections are growth, economic development, land use, transportation, housing, natural resources, and overall quality of life. Whether you’re a longtime resident, a business owner, or new to the community, your vision is an important part of this process. There are lots of ways to get involved. Visit Gloucesterva.gov/planning- zoning/comprehensive-plan-update to keep up with committees, complete surveys, learn about town halls, and sign up for the newsletter. In the meantime, consider taking this survey to kick off the process of updating the plan.
Under Section 9B-9.70 of the Gloucester County Zoning Ordinance, home occupations are businesses operated as accessory uses of the business owner’s residence. Type I home occupations do not permit employee, volunteer, or customer traffic. A home bake stand that brings customers onto the property, including customers picking up advance orders, is a Home Occupation Type II. This use requires a Special Exception approved by the Board of Zoning Appeals after a duly advertised public hearing and notification of adjacent property owners, along with the required zoning permit, before operations begin. Home occupations must preserve the property’s residential character. Signs advertising the home occupation are prohibited on the property, and all structures must be lawfully permitted. Type II operations, storage, and associated vehicles must be located on the same parcel as the business owner’s residence. Additional building, accessibility, and approval conditions may apply. Before getting started, discuss your proposed location, operating hours, customer visits, parking, and structures with zoning staff. Requirements may differ for occasional fundraising sales or businesses without customer visits. Zoning staff are here to help you – if you have questions, contact Zoning at 804-693-1224 or ZoningStaff@gloucesterva.info. Contact the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services for questions about state food exemption requirements.
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A message from the Commisioner of the Revenue
An end-of-year refresher: Have you…. Moved or need to update a mailing address? Sold, junked, gifted or purchased a vehicle? Parked a travel trailer or boat in a different locality?
Do you want….
To start a business? To become an Airbnb, VRBO or other short-term rental? To find out the meals tax rate and how to register and file? Are you…. Active-duty military and new to Gloucester? A veteran with exemption eligibility questions? Would you like to…. Ask about real estate, land use, tax maps, parcels and other public information? Find out qualifications and procedures for elderly and or disabled tax relief? Then, please feel free to contact our office for guidance, answers to your questions and to verify information to help keep records updated. Hours: Monday-Friday 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Call 804-693- 3451, email cor@gloucesterva.info or visit our website at www.gloucesterva.gov/commissioner-of-the-revenue.
News from Gloucester Economic Development
The Gloucester County Department of Economic Development is committed to supporting our business community and expanding opportunities for our residents. Our vision is a thriving, resilient Gloucester where businesses choose to invest, entrepreneurs choose to grow, and people have greater opportunities to build their careers and quality of life—while preserving the character and natural assets that make Gloucester distinctive.
new, existing, and expanding businesses, with direct mailing planned to all existing businesses. We will also partner with Tourism to offer monthly lunch-and-learn sessions on topics that help businesses grow. Together, these efforts will connect business owners with practical information, assistance, and learning opportunities. 3. Increasing visibility for new businesses. We will work with Community Engagement to create short video clips introducing new businesses before their official openings. Sharing these videos through social media will increase community awareness and help businesses connect with potential customers as they prepare to open. Our goal is to provide responsive, accessible, and useful service at every stage of a business’s development. By listening, connecting businesses with resources, and strengthening community awareness, we can help build a stronger local economy while preserving what makes Gloucester a special place to live and work.
To advance this vision, we are focusing on three priorities to improve customer service:
1. Listening to our businesses. We will survey businesses following their interactions with our department to better understand their experiences, identify areas for improvement, and ensure our services respond to their needs. 2. Making resources and training more accessible. We have recently developed an Economic Development Resource Guide for
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Important information about tax bills
Real Estate and Personal Property Tax bills are collected in two (2) installments with the first installment due June 30 and the second installment due December 5. Bills are typically mailed 4-5 weeks before the due date. If you would prefer to view your bills electronically rather than receiving paper copies, please visit https://gloucester.estmt.net (you will need your most recent tax bill). Always check your bills for completeness upon receipt. If you have multiple parcels or accounts with exactly the same name and address, they may be mailed in the same envelope. If you haven’t received your bills by 2 weeks before the due date, please reach out to the Treasurer’s Office so that we can get you the information you need to pay on time. Payments must be made in the Treasurer’s Office, made online, or mailed with a postmark date of the due date or earlier to be accepted
as timely. Any accounts that remain unpaid after the due date will have additional charges added as required by Gloucester County and the Commonwealth of Virginia. Gloucester County is not a prorating locality, so your Personal Property bills reflect what our records show you owned on January 1 of the tax year. This means that if you owned an item in Gloucester County on January 1, you are responsible for the full year’s tax bill. If you see an item on your bill that you got rid of prior to January 1, please contact the Commissioner of Revenue’s Office at (804) 693-3451 or cor@gloucesterva.info to see if your bill can be adjusted. If you buy or sell a real estate parcel, those taxes may be taken care of at closing. If you have a mortgage on your property, your real estate taxes are most likely paid by them. Always remember, though, that it is your responsibility as the property owner to make sure the taxes are paid on time. If you have questions or concerns, we are happy to help! Please reach out to the Treasurer’s Office at (804) 693-2141 or treasurer@gloucesterva.info. You can sign up to get an email notification when your real estate and personal property bills are available. To set up your account, visit https://gloucester.estmt.net (you will need your tax bill from either June or October/November of this year). Setting up an account requires entering the first name line on the bill EXACTLY as it appears (including any commas, periods, etc.) and providing the unique Registration ID found on the back of the bill (upper right-hand corner). Once your account has been created, you are able to add additional tax bills to the same login (even if the names on the accounts are different). If you no longer have your bill, contact the Treasurer’s Office at 804-693-2141 or treasurer@gloucesterva.info, and we’ll be happy to provide you with the necessary information!
Treasurer’s Update
Once you have signed up to view your bill(s) electronically, you will no longer receive paper bills.
Treasurer’s Update
When the next set of bills or notices are issued after you sign up, you will receive an email from Documents@gloucester.estmt.net with the subject line “Your Documents Are Ready.”
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Gloucester County Public Library The Gloucester County Public Library had a fanstastic year! Looking back on the numbers, across our two locations, we counted 149,467 visitors, offered 317 programs, helped folks check out 109,067 items (we have more than just books!), and digitally loaned out 52,883 items. We also had 4,770 active borrowers, and 1,618 new card holders. Were you one of them? It's easy and FREE to get a library card, which allows you to take home your favorite books, movies, games, music, magazines, online services and so much more.
Check us out at 6920 Main Street (804-693-2998) or 2345 York Crossing Drive (804-693-9790).
Gloucester Department of Social Services
Mandated Reporters for Suspected Child Abuse or Neglect
Did you know that effective July 1, 2027, youth and school athletic coaches across Virginia are now legally required to report suspected child abuse or neglect under an update to the Code of Virginia?
The change adds coaches to the list of mandated reporters. Mandated reporters include individuals who are required by law to notify authorities when they have reason to suspect a child is being abused or neglected. If child abuse or neglect is suspected, mandated reporters must report their concerns immediately to the appropriate child protective services agency. Child Protective Services reports can be made to the Gloucester Department of Social Services at (804) 693-2671 or the Virginia Department of Social Services Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline at (804) 552-7096. For additional information, mandated reporter training and educational materials can be accessed through the Virginia Department of Social Services website or by contacting the Gloucester Department of Social Services.
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Contact your school board member
At-large
At Large
Petsworth
Cindy Saulman, Vice Chair 6099 T.C. Walker Road Gloucester, VA 23061 804-815-1345 cindy.saulman@gc.k12.va.us
Anita Parker, Chair 6099 T.C. Walker Road Gloucester, VA 23061 804-824-5324 anita.parker@gc.k12.va.us
Gloucester Point
At Large
York
Troy Andersen 6099 T.C. Walker Road Gloucester, VA 23061 804-695-7430 troy.andersen@gc.k12.va.us
Nicole McPherson 6099 T.C. Walker Road Gloucester, VA 23061 804-815-4887 nicole.mcpherson@gc.k12.va.us
Carlton Drew 6099 T.C. Walker Road Gloucester, VA 23061 757-810-9706 carlton.drew@gc.k12.va.us
Ware
Abingdon
Use a smartphone camera to scan this QR code or visit gets.gc.k12.va.us/page/school- board to access the School Board's meeting schedule.
Leonne Arsenovic 6099 T.C. Walker Road Gloucester, VA 23061 804-815-6290 leonne.arsenovic@gc.k12.va.us
Kari Scruggs 6099 T.C. Walker Road Gloucester, VA 23061 757-585-5966 kari.scruggs@gc.k12.va.us
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School News
GCPS Cafeteria Information
You can visit www.myschoolbucks.com to register, or if you prefer, you can download the MySchoolBucks app on your smart device. LINQ MENUS Your school’s menu can be easily attained online. It is not only a “Go Green” initiative, but a powerful interactive tool to learn the nutrition facts of all menu items. It also features an allergies filter tool that helps students & parents quickly identify foods with specific ingredients; the filter will mark out those foods the students should avoid. You can access our menu with all these wonderful new features at www.linqconnect.com (look for Gloucester County Public Schools) or you can download the app to access the school menus for LINQ from your cell phone or hand- held device from the app store or google play. EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE Our school cafeterias need contracted workers and substitutes! No experience is required, we can train you! Cafeteria staff do not work nights or weekends and are off during Winter Break, Spring Break and Summer Break. Workers even receive a free shift meal! It is a perfect opportunity for folks
out! We also have substitute opportunities available. Complete an online application at gets.gc.k12.va.us. There’s a blue tab at the top of the page that says “click for employment opportunities.”
Reduced Elem.
Middle High
Break.
WAIVE WAIVE
$2.00 $3.60
$2.10 $3.70
$2.10 $3.70
Lunch
You can apply online for free/reduced meals. The process is safe, secure, private, and available anytime, anywhere! Go to: https://www.myschoolapps.com. SNAP Information about the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) offered through the Virginia Department of Social Services is available at www.dss.virginia.gov/relief. To apply for SNAP visit commonhelp.virginia.gov. MY SCHOOL BUCKS My School Bucks is a great tool to access and manage your student’s meal account online. It is free to register. You can monitor your student’s account balance and purchases. You will receive low balance reminders to the email address registered. You can also add money to your student’s account(s) for a $3.75 per student transaction fee. As always, you can send in a check or cash at no extra charge to replenish your student’s account.
who are looking for extra cash and the flexibility to be home when school is klklklk
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Middle Peninsula Regional Special Education Program
The Middle Peninsula Regional Special Education Program serves students with autism and multi-disabled students from Gloucester, King and Queen, King William, Mathews, Middlesex Counties and the Town of West Point. Meetings are held at the Thomas Calhoun Walker Education Center located at 6099 TC Walker Road, Gloucester, VA. All meetings are open to the public. The upcoming meeting dates for the Middle Peninsula Regional Special Education Program Board of Control are listed below.
Tuesday, November 10, 2026 at 9 a.m. Tuesday, January 26, 2027 at 9 a.m.
Please call 804-693-7944 if you have any questions. Special Education Advisory Committee The Gloucester County Special Education Advisory Committee meeting dates for the 2026-2027 school year are listed below. The members of the Committee would like to extend this invitation for you to attend! The Committee, which includes parents of children with disabilities and persons with disabilities, discusses not only Federal/State regulations governing special education, but also local special education issues. Most meetings include a presentation by a guest speaker on a particular issue relating to special education. All meetings are open to the public and held at the TC Walker Education Center at 6:00 p.m. Please call 804-693-7944 if you have any questions.
Monday, December 7, 2026 Monday, March 1, 2027 Monday, May 3, 2027
We look forward to seeing you!
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Register now for spring classes Rappahannock Community College
From culinary arts to welding; nursing to diesel training; Associate degrees to transfer pathways; RCC has something for everyone. Associate degrees, certificates, and career and workforce studies programs are offered in person and/or online, in addition to nearly 40 guaranteed admissions agreements with colleges and universities across the state and region. By starting at RCC, you can save $20,000 on a college degree. And you could earn $50,000 per year or more in a high-demand workforce career. Spring classes begin January 11. College navigators are available to help you get started. Call 804-758-6700 or email advisor@rappahannock.edu.
For more information, visit rappahannock.edu.
Hampton Roads Community Foundation The Hampton Roads Community Foundation is accepting applications for the Ellis W. Rowe Memorial Scholarship starting December 1, 2026.
This scholarship is for students from Gloucester County who need financial assistance for undergraduate or graduate studies. Applications are completed online. Visit our website to learn more about this and other scholarships: www.hamptonroadscf.org/scholarships. We look forward to reading your submission! Since 1950, charitable people across Hampton Roads have helped students pay for college through the Hampton Roads Community Foundation. Thanks to generous donors, we have been able to distribute more than $23 million in total scholarships, including over $1 million to students from Gloucester through the Ellis W. Rowe Memorial Scholarship.
Learn more by contacting us at 757-622-7951 or scholarships@hamptonroadscf.org.
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Gloucester Head Start Offered by WJCC-CAA at T.C Walker Education Center Gloucester Head Start is now enrolling children ages 3-5 at T.C.Walker Education Center. We partner with families to prepare children for kindergarten through our FREE Head Start Program, where we provide free healthy meals, skill-building lessons, and lifelong skills. Income-eligible families may qualify. There is no waitlist, and enrollment remains open throughout the school year. To learn more or to see if your family is eligible, visit wjcc-caa.org or text or call 757-893-0918.
Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast
She is curious. She is capable. She is thriving.
Confidence grows when girls have the space to try. In Girl Scouts, she will find a team that cheers her on, laughs with her, and has her back. Girls in grades K-12 are invited to become Girl Scouts. Join us at a Discover Girl Scout event where girls receive a free patch and activity kit while parents learn more about Girl Scouting. Find dates and times on our website at www.gsccc.org, or you can get information by calling 1-800-77SCOUT or emailing customercare@gsccc.org.
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The Fairfield Foundation
Volunteer Lab Nights at CAPE 6783 Main St. Nov. 3 & 17, Dec. 1, Jan. 5 & 19 from 6-9 p.m. Free
Brick Kiln Firing 5777 Fairfield Lane November 11, 12, 13, & 14
Come see how bricks were fired historically, day or night! S’mores Night (Nov. 13) is $8 for 5–17-year- olds; 5-7 p.m. Other times are free!
Email outreach@fairfieldfoundation.org for more information or if you want to schedule a group trip!
Turkey Trot at Timberneck 3601 Timberneck Farm Rd November 21 – 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. Kids Race at 9 a.m., 5K at 9:30 a.m. Email anna@fairfieldfoundation.org for registration. Christmas Party at Timberneck December 12 – 2-4 p.m. Decorate the tree before our volunteer Christmas Party and enjoy hot drinks! Free
Check our events calendar at fairfieldfoundation.org!
Boys & Girls Club of Gloucester
Looking for a safe, fun and enriching place for your child after school? The Boys & Girls Club of Gloucester offers after-school programming Monday–Friday from 3–7 p.m. for youth to learn, grow and have fun! Members enjoy Sports & Recreation, Art, STEM, Leadership, Healthy Habits and Culinary activities, plus partnerships with organizations such as Girl Scouts. Membership includes a healthy dinner and snack each day. Activity buses also run from select local schools and bring registered Club members directly to the Club. Join us for our Open House Friday, December 4, from 5–7 p.m.! Bring the family, tour our facility, learn about our programs and meet our friendly staff. Contact Jada Willis at 804-684-9028 or jwillis@bagclub.com.
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Community News
Arts at Abingdon John Novacek, piano and Airi Yoshioka, violin Saturday, January 9, 2027 at 4 p.m. In commemoration of the 200th anniversary of Beethoven’s death, Aira Yoshioka and John Novacek have joined forces to present The Beethoven Project - a presentation of all ten landmark violin/piano sonatas. Violinist Yoshioka (“violin playing that must be heard to be believed”—Fanfare) and pianist Novacek (“diamond-hard brilliance, uncommonly poetic depths”—Los Angeles Times) have appeared in recital together throughout North America, Asia and the Middle East. See them at Abingdon Church, 4645 George Washington Memorial Highway in Gloucester. All concerts are free of charge and no reservations needed. Concerts By the Bay Concerts By The Bay is proud to present “Andrew McKnight & Beyond Borders” on Sunday, December 6 at Mathews High School’s Harry M. Ward Auditorium. The show starts at 3 p.m. Plan to enjoy a mix of electric guitars, banjo, mandolin, upright bass, drums and percussion with 3 and 4 part harmonies, from old-time Appalachia to contemporary folk and blues. Tickets are $30 at the door, or you can buy them online www.concertsbythebay.org. Students can attend for free. Our performances are partially supported by funding from The Virginia Commission for the Arts.
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From 1950s-era radio classics, to favorite tunes from Christmas movies, we’ve got a show for everyone. Bring the kids; this is a fun environment that's sure to get you in the holiday spirit! Here’s where you can catch a performance: Courthouse Community Orchestra
Wednesday, December 2 at 7 p.m. Cobbs Creek Arts Center 61 Cobbs Creek Lane Cobbs Creek, VA (Mathews County)
Friday, December 4 at 6:30 p.m. The Courthouse Brass (a quintet this time) will perform at the Gloucester County Main Public Library's open house. We'll have audience participation and prizes!
Saturday, December 5 at 6 p.m. Newington Baptist Church 6169 Main St, Gloucester, VA 23061 Sunday, December 13 at 2 p.m. Colonial Harbor Gracious Retirement Living 2405 Ft Eustis Blvd Yorktown, VA 23692 (York County)
Fine Arts Museum of Gloucester
SIX SCENES, ONE PLACE | ON VIEW THROUGH MAY 2027
SPEAKING OF… FIRST INHABITANTS | NOVEMBER 14, 2–4 P.M. Explore Gloucester’s First Inhabitants through a special “Speaking of…” program featuring guest speakers, stories and perspectives. Speaker and program details will be announced soon.
AN 18TH-CENTURY CHRISTMAS: MUSIC AND MERRIMENT | DECEMBER 19, 2–4 P.M. Celebrate the season with 18th-century Christmas music performed by soprano Laura Heydt and musician Kaylan Stevenson on piano and baroque flute. Stay
Travel through hundreds of years of Gloucester history at the Fine Arts Museum of Gloucester. Inspired by Michael Rosato’s new Main Street mural, the exhibition offers a new way to experience the stories that shaped Gloucester. FAMG is open Tuesday-Saturday at 6894 Main Street.
afterward for a Meet the Artists conversation and audience Q&A.
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The Beehive
Volunteer River Counties
A new way to get involved in Gloucester
Volunteer River Counties has officially launched in Gloucester — and this free, easy- to-use resource makes volunteering easier than ever! In partnership with the Gloucester Resource Council, you can turn your interests, talents, and passions into meaningful action. If you’re looking to volunteer, you’ll find a simple, stress-free way to browse local opportunities and discover causes that truly inspire you. Just go to VolunteerRiverCounties.org, click "Volunteer Opportunities," and check out postings being added daily. If you’re part of a local organization looking for volunteers, the platform offers a no-cost way to reach new people—and we’re here to help you get set up whenever you’re ready. Visit volunteerrivercounties.org/gloucester- resource-council today to explore how you can get involved and support your neighbors. Gloucester Resource Council The Gloucester County Resource Council is a network of human service organizations who meet monthly to share ideas, information and resources. We plan inter-agency efforts in an attempt to maximize community resources and minimize the duplication of services. We created the “How Can We Help You Guide,” served as the catalyst for the creation of the Samaritan Group, Inc. and GUEST, and most recently, started the annual Festival of Trees. We hope that by building awareness of current community services, Gloucester can work together to create new opportunities and resources. We gladly welcome agencies, organizations, businesses or interested individuals to come join us. 2027 is a particularly exciting year for us - this summer marks 50 years of the Gloucester Resource Council! Be on the lookout for ways to come celebrate this milestone with us.
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Festival of Trees
It’s almost time for the most heartwarming event of the season: the Festival of Trees!
This is an amazing event, where nonprofits and businesses can create trees that speak to their mission and the services they offer our community. Whether that means setting out a tree-shaped stack of historic bricks (Fairfield Foundation) or a decorated Jenga pile (Community Engagement & Public Information), this display combines the excitement of the season with details about community services. In 2024, we partnered with businesses to put decorated trees in windows along Main Street. Then, last year, we decided to take things outdoors, and set up our decorated trees in the Tucker Store Pocket Park. For a week, folks could come check them out. This year, for the third annual festival, trees will be out in the park for an entire month: December 1 through January 1! Tucker Store Pocket Park also has a holiday photo backdrop, complete with on-demand falling “snow” (bubbles). It’s right off of the Courthouse Circle on Main Street, between John Lemon Lane and Gloucester County Building 2. Be sure to block off one of the days in December to drop by. The Festival of Trees is a great opportunity to have a unique holiday experience, take cute family photos, and to learn about the many services in Gloucester. If you have an organization that would like to participate with a tree, reach out grcfestivaloftrees@gmail.com. Final entry forms are due by Nov. 18.
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Iota Phi Lambda Sorority Iota Phi Lambda Sorority, Inc., Epsilon Eta Chapter Afternoon Tea Celebrates 45 Years The Epsilon Eta Chapter of Iota Phi Lambda Sorority, Inc., Gloucester’s “Ladies in Green and White,” invites the community to an Afternoon Tea celebrating its 45th anniversary. The event will be held Saturday, November 14, 2026, from 1-4 p.m. at First Morning Star Baptist Church, 8906 Guinea Road, Hayes, VA 23072. The celebration will feature afternoon tea and fellowship, music, inspirational
programming, and a silent auction. Tickets are $45.
For more information, visit epsiloneta.com or contact Donna Osborne at 757-753- 5235.
Rural Housing Partnership
The weather outside may become frightful… but Rural Housing Partnership’s heating program can make inside your home so delightful. Please reach out to us today to explore options to replace your costly oil heating system with a mini-split or conventional hvac. We serve senior income restricted homeowners and connect eligible clients to grants and loans for major repairs. Our repairs include roofing, electrical, plumbing, septic, wells, HVAC, handicap accessibility for bathrooms and entry ways. Reach out by calling 804-792-5079 or visiting ruralhousingpartnership.org.
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Gloucester Historical Society A Friendship Forged in Revolution: St. George Tucker & John Page Presented by: Dr. Philip Hamilton, Professor of History, Christopher Newport University. Shortly after his arrival in Virginia in 1771, a 19-year-old Bermudian named St. George Tucker met and befriended John Page of Rosewell. Thus began a friendship that lasted for more than three decades. Dr. Hamilton‘s program will focus on how their political & intellectual relationship came to be stitched together during the tumultuous years of the American Revolution and Early Republic.
Abingdon Episcopal Church Sunday, January 24, 2027 at 2 p.m. Free & Family Friendly
Guinea Heritage Association
November 1: The Guinea Heritage Association wants to thank you for past support! Come see the new Watermen’s Memorial and mural, at the GHA Museum, 8850 Guinea Road, Hayes, VA 23072. These projects were funded through Giving Tuesday donations. This year's donations will provide for continued landscaping and exterior beautification projects. All donations are tax deductible. Guineaheritage.org. December 12: Celebrate the Annual Christmas in Guinea at Buck’s Store Museum, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Tour the museum, purchase local themed items, meet up with old friends & enjoy lunch treats. Santa will be stopping in. January 22, 6 p.m.: Join us at Buck’s for our Fourth Friday Program. Come learn more about our rich culture. This is a great way to start 2027 on a positive note!
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Gloucester County Democratic Committee
Democracy. It’s not a spectator sport; Democracy works best when all people participate. We worked together to elect Democrats up and down the ballot, and we succeeded. Each act of help was another candle lit for Democracy. We’ve talked with so many people who were glad to see us. We’re open to thoughtful people who want to help create positive change, as we did in last November’s election. We always have work to do, and many hands lighten the burden. We are your neighbors, and part of your community. Come to a meeting, talk with us. Yes, Virginia, Democrats are alive and well in Gloucester County!
You can find us online at www.glodemsva.org.
Riverside Hospice Care Bereavement Support
Offering counseling, educational resources, emotional and spiritual support; we are here to help you move forward with hope and healing. Our services are designed to help you honor your loved one's memory, find peace and rediscover the joy in your life. Community Grief Support Group 2nd Thursday of every Month 2 p.m. Gloucester Main Library 6920 Main Street Gloucester, VA 23061 Call or email us to learn more: by phone, 804-693-1111. By email, bereavement.support.midpen@rivhs.com.
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Holiday Tips for Families Navigating Dementia
Holiday celebrations can be overwhelming for individuals with Alzheimer’s, dementia, or memory loss. These simple adjustments can create a peaceful, meaningful season for caregivers and loved ones: Keep it Familiar: Maintain regular meal and sleep routines to minimize confusion. Tone Down Decor: Avoid blinking lights and loud music that may cause sensory overload. Choose simple, warm decorations. Create a Quiet Space: Designate a room where your loved one can retreat during hectic family gatherings. Focus on Meaning over Majesty: Choose intimate moments over large parties—sing a favorite song or look through photos together. For year-round support, Bay Aging offers the GUIDE Model, a no-cost Medicare program that pairs eligible families with a dedicated Care Navigator, provides caregiver education, and arranges respite services (for qualified beneficiaries) to ease daily caregiving burdens.
Navigating the Holidays with Bay Transit Express Navigating the holiday rush around Gloucester doesn’t have to add to winter stress. Packed parking lots and freezing temperatures can make seasonal outings daunting, but the Bay Transit Express (BTE) app offers a perfect solution. For just $2 a ride, you can hail on-demand transportation to enjoy winter shopping, holiday dining, and seasonal events. This innovative service is a vital tool to beat the winter blues. Shorter days and colder weather often lead to isolation, but BTE helps residents stay connected, active, and independent all winter long. By removing the barriers of winter driving, it ensures everyone can easily meet friends, attend community gatherings, and stay engaged. Let Bay Transit handle the winter roads so you can focus on enjoying a bright, active holiday season. Call the Ride Line at 877- 869-6046 or visit baytransit.org/express/ to download the app and schedule your ride.
Get the support your family deserves: Visit bayaging.org/guide-model/ or call 800-493-0238 today.
Empowering Families Through Veteran Directed Care November is National Family Caregivers Month, a time to honor the dedication of those supporting loved ones at home. For local military families, Bay Aging’s Veteran Directed Care (VDC) program offers a powerful way to manage that care. Unlike traditional care models, VDC grants veterans with disabilities or chronic conditions a flexible budget to manage their personal care services from home. Crucially, it empowers veterans to hire their own caregivers, which frequently means employing family members or close friends who are already providing daily support. This model doesn’t just assist the veteran; it financially and emotionally supports the entire family network. By transforming informal care into a sustainable, compensated role, VDC honors a caregiver's devotion while allowing our local veterans to age with dignity in the comfort of their own homes. For program information, or to schedule a presentation in your community, call 804-286-9543.
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The Stewart Building · 6382 Main Street Gloucester, VA 23061 · (804) 693-2355 · prt@gloucesterva.info Gloucester Parks, Recreation & Tourism Winter Registration Begins November 9 for Residents (November 12 for non-residents)
Dutch Master
Thalia
Tahiti
Poet’s Narcissus
Rip van Winkle
T he
SPORTS!!
Contact us:
STAY INFORMED Do we have the correct contact information for your family? We frequently send notices via email. You can update your household information online, or send us an email at prt@gloucesterva.info CONNECT WITH US Facebook: Gloucester Parks, Recreation & Tourism Instagram: @gloucesterparksandrec Website: gloucesterva.gov/pr Registration: gloucesterva.gov/civicrec
BY EMAIL prt@gloucesterva.info
BY PHONE General inquiries: 804-693-2355 Athletics: 804-693-1262
Recreation Programs: 804-693-1264 Clean Community: 804-693-5370 Daffodil Festival: 804-210-1903 Museum of History: 804-693-1234 Visitor Center & Gift Shop: 804-693-3215 Tourism: 804-693-0014
Every effort is made to ensure the information inside is accurate. Up to date information is available on our website. Scan code above for committee member contact lists.
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Athletics
PARKS, RECREATION & TOURISM
Phone: 804-693-2355 | Playline 804-693-5811
The goals of all youth leagues are to have fun and display sportsmanship. Players must wear proper shoes/cleats and equipment listed for each sport. All youth sports are equal-play leagues for players that attend regularly. Please be sure to enter carpool requests for siblings during your registration process, especially siblings in different age groups (accommodations not guaranteed). Coaches and officials are volunteers, so please remember to THANK them! **For all athletic program email communication, please be sure to add aroche@gloucesterva.info to your contacts along with checking your spam/junk folders as there have been issues with communication being lost. **
SOCCER CO-ED SPRING YOUTH SOCCER
BASKETBALL
Practices- Weeknights (between 5-8 pm) | Games- Saturdays Times TBD | $60 | Ark Park/Abingdon Park/Woodville Park | Soccer Skills Day- February 21 This Co-ed Youth Soccer League is dedicated to FUN, sportsmanship, & progressing/advancing skill levels through dedicated volunteer coaching! Co-ed 5U/8U/11U/15U* | 6-8 game season. *15U is a local-travel style league playing against rec league teams such as Poquoson P&R, Ft. Eustis MWR, Langley MWR, Mathews-Middlesex YMCA, etc.
SENIOR BALLERS: 18U INDOOR PICK-UP BASKETBALL Sundays | 1-3 pm | $30 | Peasley Gym
A pick-up style basketball program for 14-18-year-old high school students. This program is dedicated to fun, sportsmanship, & progressing/advancing skills through open pick-up play. February 28-March 21 | DEADLINE February 12 LITTLE HOOPERS 3-5-year-old DEVELOPMENTAL BASKETBALL PROGRAM (Indoor) Mondays | 5:15-6:15 pm | $30 | Petsworth Gym This is an adult-child developmental basketball program. FUN is key. We focus on skill development, ball handling, & basics rules for children 3-5-years-old and their basketball-loving adults. Led by GPRT Instructors. February 22-March 15 | DEADLINE February 5 Mondays | 6:30-7:30 pm | $30 | Petsworth Gym This is an adult-child developmental basketball program. FUN is key, skill development, ball handling, & basics rules are the focus for children 5-6-years-old and their basketball loving adults. Led by GPRT Instructors. February 22-March 15 | DEADLINE February 5 LITTLE HOOPERS 5-6-year-old MINI LEAGUE BASKETBALL PROGRAM (Indoor) LITTLE HOOPERS 3-5-year-old DEVELOPMENTAL BASKETBALL PROGRAM (Outdoor) Mondays | 5:15-6:15 pm | $30 | Ark Courts This is an adult-child developmental basketball program. FUN is key, skill development, ball handling, & basics rules are the focus for children 3-5-years-old and their basketball loving adults. Led by GPRT Instructors. March 29-April 19 | DEADLINE February 12 LITTLE HOOPERS 5-6-year-old MINI LEAGUE BASKETBALL PROGRAM (Outdoor) Mondays | 6:30-7:30 pm | $30 | Ark Courts This is an adult-child developmental basketball program. FUN is key, skill development, ball handling, & basics rules are the focus for children 5-6-years-old and their basketball loving adults. Led by GPRT Instructors. March 29-April 19 | DEADLINE February 12
We always need Volunteer Coaches & Refs! March 1-June 5 | DEADLINE January 29
FIELD HOCKEY SKILLS CLINICS Tuesdays | 5:30-7:30 pm | $60 | Old Page Field Hockey Fields For girls ages 6-12-years-old. Designed for FUN & skill development. All players must have shin guards, mouth guard, stick, & cleats. Clinics led by GPRT Field Hockey Instructors. April 13-May 18 | DEADLINE March 26 GOAL GETTERS 3-5-year-old DEVELOPMENTAL SOCCER PROGRAM Mondays | 5:15 - 6:15 pm or 6:30 - 7:30 pm | $30 | Ark Park Wednesdays | 5:15 - 6:15 pm or 6:30 - 7:30 pm | $30 | Abingdon Park This is an adult-child developmental soccer program. FUN is key, skill development, ball handling, & basics rules are the focus for children 3-5-years-old and their soccer loving adults. Led by GPRT Instructors. May 3 - May 26 | DEADLINE April 16 FIELD HOCKEY & LACROSSE LACROSSE SKILLS CLINICS Thursdays | 5:30-7:30 pm | $60 | Old Page Field Hockey Fields For girls ages 8-15-years-old. Designed for FUN & skill development. All players must have shin guards, mouth guard, stick, & cleats. Clinics lead by GPRT Lacrosse Instructors. April 15-May 20| DEADLINE March 26 VOLLEYBALL YOUTH VOLLEYBALL SKILLS CLINICS Tuesdays | $60 | Achilles Gym 5:15-6:15 pm | 6-9 yo. 6:15-7:15 pm | 9-12 yo. 7:15-8:15 pm | 12-15 yo. For children ages 6-15-years-old. Clinics designed for FUN & skill
development. Clinics lead by GPRT Instructors. February 23-March 16 | DEADLINE February 5
YOUTH ATHLETICS VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES! Volunteer coaches, assistants, & referees are needed for all youth athletic programs. A super way to support the youth of your community. For info on volunteering contact Amanda aroche@gloucesterva.info 804-693-1262.
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Park Programs
PARKS, RECREATION & TOURISM
Beaverdam has something for everyone with its 635 acre lake and acres of natural splendor. The park is open seven days a week, and is located in the central part of the county. Main Entrance: 8687 Roaring Springs Road Second Entrance: 9537 Fary’s Mill Road
PARK OFFERINGS & RENTALS * Whitcomb Lodge (enclosed 70 person capacity) * Smith & Beaverdam shelters (35 person capacity) * Picnic areas (open areas w/seating for 12) * Freshwater lake fishing & accessible kayak launch * Full trail experience is over 20 miles! For park hours, information or reservations, please call 804-693-2107 or visit www.gloucesterva.gov/Beaverdam
GLOUCESTER PARKS, RECREATION & TOURISM
***UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE, DEADLINE IS 1 WEEK PRIOR TO START DATE***
BEAVERDAM WINTER CAMP December 21, 22, 23 | 9 am - 1 pm | $25 | Whitcomb Lodge Bundle up and join us for three fun-filled days of winter adventure at Beaverdam Park! Each day will bring a new themed hike where campers can explore the trails, discover nature, and enjoy the beauty of the winter season. We will also play games, make crafts, and enjoy hot cocoa. Choose to join us for one day, two days, or all three! Each day offers a new opportunity to get outside, make new friends, and create winter memories. Come ready to explore, play, create, and enjoy the great outdoors! Ages 6- 10. — Deadline 12/7. HOOT & HOWL INTO 2027- 1 Day Night Hike st January 1 | 5:30 pm - 8:30 pm | Beaverdam Park 16 & Up $15 (Includes sticker) 15 & Under FREE Kick off the new year with an unforgettable experience at Beaverdam Park during Hoot & Howl Into 2027! Join us for a unique nighttime 5K where you’ll run or walk under the stars and celebrate alongside the park’s nocturnal wildlife. As you make your way through the trails, keep an eye — and ear — out for owls and other creatures that call Beaverdam home. Don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind way to welcome 2027— Deadline 12/11.
PARK PROGRAMS
SANTA'S SECRET REINDEER HIKE December 1-31 | FREE | Self-Guided | Beaverdam Park Bundle up and join us for a holiday puzzle hike! Santa’s reindeer have explored the park and left behind a top- secret coded message. Whether you are hitting the trail solo, with friends, or the whole family, can you crack the code? Stop by the trailhead to grab your reindeer decoder sheet, then head out onto the Nature Trail. Keep your eyes peeled for eight hidden reindeer tucked among the trees. Each reindeer holds a unique holiday symbol that unlocks a missing letter of the puzzle. Find all the signs, decode the symbols, and reveal the secret word! Once you solve the puzzle, stop by our photo op and capture a snapshot of your winter adventure! WOODLAND MATCH MAKER HIKE February 1-14 | FREE | Self-Guided | Beaverdam Park Celebrate Valentine's Day with a sweet nature adventure for all ages! Beaverdam Park is full of beautiful animal pairs, and they have left behind a secret coded message along the path. Stop by the trailhead to grab your decoder sheet, then head out onto the Nature Trail. As you explore the path, scan the trees to find nine hidden animal pair signs featuring local wildlife. Each couple unlocks a missing letter of the puzzle. Find all the pairs, decode the symbols, and reveal the secret phrase!
THE FULL HIKE 3rd Saturday | $5 | 10 am| Ranger Station | Registration Closes One Week Before For ages 16 and older. Beaverdam has beautiful trails where you can enjoy the flora and fauna of Gloucester. The Multi-use Trail runs from the park’s main entrance to the Fary’s Mill Road entrance. We will shuttle you to FMR and drop you off at the trail so that you can hike, self- guided, the approximately 9 mile hike. Hike is roughly 3 hours (at a 4 miles/hour pace). Take your time, take it all in, just be back to the Main Entrance by park closing time and check out at the Ranger Station. Dress for the weather and in sturdy shoes (no open toe, open back, slides or flip flops). Bring water, snacks/food and binoculars and camera if you like. The following Sunday will be the rain date. Please arrive at the Ranger Station at 9:45 am. Dates: December 19 ONLY
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Recreation
PARKS, RECREATION & TOURISM
We are working on some other activities, please check our registration website for new programs www.gloucesterva.info/civicrec
***UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE, DEADLINE IS 1 WEEK PRIOR TO START DATE***
KARATE Mondays or Thursdays | T. C. Walker Gymnasium Sensei Brian Jensen. Ages 4+. Learn the Shorinji Ryu style Japanese Karate form. Karate provides the opportunity to increase balance, strength, self-discipline & self-confidence. Kata forms are traditional & can be used in AAU or open tournament.
WINTER GYMNASTICS Head Coach: Caitlyn Coltrain. For ages 3-15. Parents are not permitted at practice sessions. Parents of beginner session 3-4 y/o are asked to wait outside the gym to assist with restroom needs. The last class of the session will be open house where you will watch your child’s class. Please read over the requirements for each class on our registration site. We reserve the right to remove students from Intermediate classes if they have not met the minimum requirements. When in doubt, register for the beginner classes. Tuesdays @ Botetourt – Dec 8 – Feb 9 (Skip 12/22, 12/29) Beginner 3-4, 5:15-6 pm $75 Beginner 5-12, 6-6:45 pm $75 Wednesdays @ Achilles – Dec 9 – Feb 10 (Skip 12/23, 12/30) Beginner 3-4, 5:15-6 pm $75 Beginner 5-12, 6-6:45 pm $75 Thursdays @ Botetourt – Dec 17 – Feb 18 (Skip 12/24, 12/31) Beginner 5-12, 5:15-6 pm $75 Intermediate/Advanced 6-15, 6-6:45 pm, $75 *NOTE* This session starts a week later Instructor: Aela Badiana. For ages 16 and older. Start the New Year with a new way to reach your fitness goals! Unleash your inner rhythm and strengthen your core with Shimmy Fit! This fun fitness class is inspired by the art of belly dance. The workout blends traditional Arabic dance movements with modern cardio and strength conditioning to deliver a full-body workout that feels more like a celebration than a chore! Dress comfortably and bring water. January 5 – February 23, deadline 12/29 INTERNATIONAL CUISINE CULINARY CLUB Tuesdays or Thursday | 5:30-7:30 pm | $55 | Stewart Building Instructor: Michaela Badiana. For ages 16 and older. In this 8-week course you will explore international cuisine, characteristic cooking practices and traditions, often associated with a specific region, country or culture. We will use ingredients accessible to us here in Virginia and recreate treats from around the world: German, French, Italian, Turkish, Indian, Thai, Mexican, just to name a few. SHIMMY FIT Mondays | 7-8 pm | $65 | Stewart Building
MONDAYS November 2– January 11 (Skip 11/23, 12/21, 12/28) THURSDAYS November 5 – January 14 (Skip 11/26, 12/24, 12/31)
Karate Ages 4-7, 6:00-6:30 pm, $43 Karate Ages 8-12, 6:35-7:20 pm, $45 Family Class Adult, 7:25-8:05 pm, $40 Family Class Child, 7:25-8:05 pm, $35 Karate Ages 13+, 8:10-9:00 pm, $45
THE NEXT SESSION WILL BEGIN THE WEEK OF FEBRUARY 1.
FREE FLOW YOGA Tuesdays | 5:30-6:45 pm | Whitcomb Lodge Instructor: Nichole Knott. For ages 13 and older. You can expect a creative, soulful, adventurous and fun flow that weaves together breath and movement with moderate holds which steadily builds muscle, inner strength and stamina. Nichole’s style of teaching is structured, fluid, playful and soulful – offering options of openness, depth and strength so everyone will be appropriately challenged. Bring a mat, blocks, strap and water. Register for the month or for individual days @$9/day. Deadline 1 week prior to first class. December, $40/month | January, $24/month | February, $32/month STAYING SHARP - SENIOR ACTIVITIES Games and crafts for ages 50 and older. Bingo Wednesdays | 10:30-Noon | $10 | Stewart Building January 27 & February 24 Senior Activities ( All supplies included) Finger Crochet Scarf w/Mindy January 20 | 9 am - Noon | $20 | Stewart Building
Candle Making w/ Candle Euphoria. February 11| 1-3 pm | $40 | Beaverdam Park
January 5 - 26 (Tuesdays) February 4 - 25 (Thursdays) Deadline one week before start date.
Kinusaiga Craft w/Mindy February 24 | 9 am - Noon | $25 | Stewart Building
SEASONAL DELIGHTS WORKSHOP 5:30-7:30 pm | Stewart Building Instructor: Michaela Badiana. For ages 16 and older.
YOUTH DANCE WEDNESDAYS| Stewart Building Instructor: Shia Asbell. For ages 3-7. Youth dance is back in 2027! Check out the class descriptions online!
Winter Wreath Making, December 3 German Christmas Market Favorites, November 17
Princess Ballet, ages 3&4, 5:15-6 pm, $80 January 6 - February 10, deadline 12/30
Check our website for more information.
Introduction to Dance, ages 5-7, 6-7 pm, $150 January 6 - March 24, deadline 12/30
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