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A recent commentary supported by the library director argues the Williamsburg Regional Library building is outmoded and requires replacement. Issues cited include inadequate parking, failure to meet current accessibility standards, and an irregular layout causing navigation difficulties and security concerns. The building also lacks sufficient space for programs and books, has cramped staff offices, and its infrastructure, including HVAC, plumbing, and roof, is outdated and in disrepair. The commentary contends the library is too small to optimally serve the growing community.

WILLIAMSBURG AREA GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY

The Williamsburg Area Genealogical Society (WAGS) was founded in 2019 by Debbie Misiag.
The group started small and grew significantly to over 50 members, expanding from homes to the library.
WAGS meets monthly from September to May at the Williamsburg Regional Library.
Meetings include expert speakers and member-shared research tips on various topics.
Annual membership is $30 and is open to anyone interested in genealogy.
The society became an official 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 2024.
WAGS aims to help people researching ancestors in the Williamsburg area by potentially assisting with record inquiries.
They are planning a one-day genealogical conference in Williamsburg for September 20th.

Source:

Tracing Roots in the Historic Triangle: Inside the Williamsburg Area Genealogical Society

CSX ANNOUNCES RAILROAD CROSSING CLOSURES IN WILLIAMSBURG AREA

CSX Transportation announced upcoming railroad crossing closures in the Williamsburg area starting around June 9.
The Peach Street railroad crossing will be the first to close for repairs.
The Peach Street closure is expected to last three to five days.
Crossings providing the only access for residents will be prioritized for 12-hour completion.
Closures are necessary for installing new rail.
Work will also impact travel in nearby Lanexa.
Work dates are subject to change due to weather and other conditions.
Motorists should expect delays and plan accordingly.
Detour signs will be posted during the closures.
CSX has provided a Google Map showing marked closures and expected timeframes.

Source:

CSX Railroad Crossing Closures Set for Early June as Repairs Begin

GAS PRICES BEFORE MEMORIAL DAY

The national average gas price remains steady at $3.19.
This is the lowest Memorial Day price since 2021.
Lower prices are attributed to crude oil supply exceeding demand.
Gasoline demand decreased while supply and production increased.
Virginia’s average gas price is slightly higher at $3.03.
Hampton Roads saw a larger increase to $3.06 but is still lower than a year ago.

Source:

AAA: Ahead of Memorial Day Weekend, State and Local Gas Prices Increase

Riverwalk Landing at Yorktown waterfront is celebrating its 20th anniversary with events through Monday. The celebration includes Yorktown Market Days Saturday morning, live music Saturday at Riverwalk Landing shops, and a free customer appreciation party Monday evening at Riverwalk Restaurant. Free parking is available at designated lots including the Riverwalk Landing terrace. A complimentary trolley runs daily from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Jamestown Rediscovery Foundation lost a $300,000 National Endowment for the Humanities grant intended to help protect Historic Jamestowne from rising sea levels. The grant was canceled by the Trump administration as part of efforts to end federal funding for climate change programs. Foundation officials stated they will seek other funds to continue projects like hydrological surveys needed to preserve the endangered historic site.

The Williamsburg Symphony Orchestra held its 40th season finale performance recently in Williamsburg.
The performance featured world-renowned Native American flutist R. Carlos Nakai and the Leah Glenn Dance Theatre.
The event celebrated diversity through music and dance.
Coming to the Table-Historic Triangle and the Virginia Racial Healing Institute will host the fourth annual Journey to Racial Healing Ceremony on June 21.
The ceremony will take place at the Stryker Center in Williamsburg.
Charles Holman III will share his family’s history at the event.
The ceremony aims to promote healing from racial injustices and build community.

J. Blaine Blayton Elementary School’s fifth-grade Engineering Club team won a top honor at the World KidWind Challenge held May 18-21 in Phoenix, Arizona. The team from the Williamsburg-James City County school was named one of three elementary world championship teams in the wind power competition. The students qualified through state and regional events, designing and presenting wind turbines and competing in challenges.

Three families excelled at the 10th annual Virginia Regional Ballet 5K race held May 17 in the First Colony neighborhood, helping with organization and securing top finishes. The race serves as an annual fundraiser for the ballet’s Nutcracker performance. Scott Ickes of Williamsburg won the men’s race in 17:04, followed by Jack Strumke of Toano in 18:49. Emily Honeycutt of Newport News was the top woman finisher in 18:56, with Isabella Strumke of Toano second in 19:53 and Tricia Murphy of Williamsburg third in 20:41. Race conditions were warm and humid, impacting times despite the flat course. Three new age group records were set: Connie Glueck (women 60-64, 23:25), Steve Chantry (men 70-74, 21:39), and Ken Mitchell (men 80+, 28:08). Robert Whitaker had the top age-graded performance. Jack Strumke and Emily Honeycutt currently lead the Colonial Road Runners Grand Prix standings for men and women, respectively, after seven races.

A William & Mary couple, Samuel Roach and Maegen Herring, got engaged last week on the school’s Crim Dell Bridge, known for its lore about lifelong lovers, the day before their graduation on May 16.