Spring 2024 Island Tide

Enjoy Messick Point-Rent a slip for your boat.

The City of Poquoson Office of Community Recreation manages slip rentals at Messick Point. Slips are available to rent for a fee of $100 per month for pleasure boats and $60 per month for workboats. Electric service and water service to slips are now available.

All slip renters are required to have proper insurance on all vessels.

To lease a boat slip at Messick Point please contact the Office of Community Recreation at 868-3580.

Picnic Shelter Rentals & Reservations

The City of Poquoson Office of Community Recreation allows residents to reserve the picnic shelter at Municipal Park. The shelter is reserved on a first come, first serve basis. To reserve the shelter please call 868-3580. Please note that no water or electrical service is available.

Aquatic Interpretative Center at Messick Point

This facility that overlooks Back River can be reserved for free by Poquoson residents for small events & programs. Information about reservations and procedures is available at the Office of Community Recreation at 868-3580.

Special Events at Parks, City Property, Runs, Races, Parades & More!

These unique and fun activities make our City even more of a great place to live. If you are planning these activities and plan to utilize city property, please contact the Office of Community Recreation at 868-3580 for an event application. Advance planning is key to creating a successful event. Don’t delay in starting the application process.

Spring 2024

Odd Road Community Center

This building, located at 49 Odd Road, is available to rent by Poquoson residents and for use by Poquoson civic groups. Capacity is 60 people. Reservations are made by calling 868-3580. Rental rate is $150 per day. No alcohol is permitted at the facility.

Boat Ramps and Blueways

Poquoson, home to over 87 miles of shoreline, has locations around the City to put your small craft or kayak into the water.

Water Access:

Free public boat

ramps are available at both Rens Road and Messick Point. Both accommodate large boats and have pump-out facilities nearby. Public small craft access and entry points are also available for paddlers throughout the City: Thomas Jefferson Rollins Nature Area (Amory’s Wharf)

Rens Road

Cedar Road Landing

Messick Point

Hunts Neck Road Landing

Visit www.fishswimplay.com for a complete list of Poquoson water access, trails and more.

Cover: Thanks to Photographer, Glen Parks for capturing this image at the Islander Youth Soccer Night.

Special Needs: The City of Poquoson is committed to making reasonable accommodations as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act. To request a reasonable accommodation please allow a minimum of 2 weeks advance notice of need. All accommodation requests must be made in writing to the Department. To begin the process call 868-3580.

Poquoson Office Of Community Recreation & Economic Development

Location: 830 Poquoson Avenue

Poquoson,Virginia

Office Hours Monday thru Friday 8:30am-4:30pm

868-3584

In 1999, HRSD and the public utilities departments of Hampton Roads joined forces through the Hampton Roads Planning District Commission to establish H2O (Help to Others) to help those in need. The program is made possible by a partnership with The Salvation Army.

H2O allows you to make tax-deductible donations to help local families who cannot afford their water bill due to crises beyond their control.

Utilities Assistance? As a resident of Poquoson if you are in need of water or sewer bill fee assistance the Share H2O fund helps families with one time assistance. For more information visit https://shareh20.com/get-assistance/ for more information.

Civic, Community Groups, and Churches, on City Channels

47 (Cox) & 26 (Verizon),

As you browse the program listing please make your selections and register to be sure you have a spot in the activity of your choice. Registering early to prevents cancellation due to low enrollment. 3

Clean the Bay Day

Volunteers are needed Saturday, June 1, 2024 as part of the Chesapeake Bay Statewide Clean the Bay Day. We need your help at Messick Point to preserve our City’s coastline.

Time: 9:00am. Location: Messick Point, near the boat ramps. Bring boots, gloves, and bug spray as we’ll have lots to do to help protect and beautify our waterfront area. Your help is appreciated. To serve as a volunteer call Mel Insley at 868-3580.

Join the Team in 2024

Do you enjoy working in your community?

Do you like to help others? Be a part of the staff at the Poquoson Municipal Pool this summer.

Poquoson Training and Class Dates coming April 2024. Plan ahead and get certified. Cerification Classes are available at a variety of indoor pools on the peninsula this season. Get Trained Early.

Physical Swim Requirements:

During the swim pre-test each participant will be required to swim 300 yards continuously using front crawl, breaststroke or a combination of both; tread water for 2 minutes using only the legs; and retrieve a 10 pound brick within a time limit as directed with American Red Cross standards.

Now accepting applications for Summer 2024 Lifeguard Staff. Must be 16 years of age & American Red Cross Lifeguard Certified. Applications available at Municipal Building at Parks & Recreation Office- 830 Poquoson Ave. Info: 868-3580

Women’s Kickball League

Poquoson Municipal Pool

2024 Summer Season Passes Go on Sale April 6

Get your kicks and participate in the women’s kickball league.

Season runs mid May thru early July 2024.

All team packets, league information, and 2024 rules will be available March 18, 2024 at the Community Recreation Office or emailed to interested captains. Team Fee is $425.00

Team fee and team registration will be accepted from April 29- May 3 at the Community Recreation Office. No team registration will be accepted after the deadline. Details for captain’s meeting and other league information will be distributed with the packet available after March 18

Summer 2024!

Join the Swim Team this Summer Information & registration meeting

Wednesday, April 24 6pm

Poquoson Municipal Park Shelter

The 2024 Summer Camps & Program Guide will arrive in Early April 2024.

Programs for kids this summer include American Red Cross Swimming Lessons at Poquoson Pool, Summer Sports Camps, Special Interest Camps, Science, Art, Experiential Camps, & more.

Join a Board- We’re Looking for Volunteers!

Do you enjoy serving your community? Do you like to share knowledge from your career & life experiences? Volunteers are needed to serve on boards and commissions in the City. Interested volunteers should complete a Board Bank Application available online at

https://www.ci.poquoson.va.us/152/Boards-Commissions and return it to the City Manager’s Office at 500 City Hall Avenue.

Eligible applicants must be registered to vote in Poquoson and hold U.S. Citizenship. These boards include: Architectural Review, Equalization, Adjustments & Appeals, Zoning Appeals, Colonial Behaviorial Health; Economic Development Authority, Library Advisory Board, Parks & Recreation Advisory Board, School 7

Kid’s Running Club

Ages: 7 and up Location: Phillips Park. Time: 5:00pm to 6:00pm.Kids are natural runners. This 5 week program consists of education in running from, pace, cadence and promoting healthy habits, and injury prevention, and good sportsmanship. This is a program that is non-competitive and promotes pride in accomplishmentand personal improvement at any level. Club Meeting dates: April 9, 26, 23, 30 Cost: $40. per runner resident. $50. non-resident. April 1, 2024 Deadline.

Homemade Easter Eggs and Fillings

with The Williamsburg Chocolatier

Ages 8 to 15. Thursday, March 28 4:30pm to 6:30pm.

Location: Municipal Building.

in this class students will learn how to make filling for Easter Eggs. Roll them out and shape them, and get ready for dipping into chocolate.

BY THE MONTH FOR KIDS

Sign up by the Month Ages 7-12

In addition we will decorate our eggs using royal icing and flower decorations. We will make smaller eggs (approximately 1/4 pound each) use vanilla and chocolate buttercream fillings for this class, and work with candy molds. Participants will need to tie back long hair, bring apron or small hand towel, water bottle and large airtight container to take home their creations. Deadline: March 22 Cost: $28. resident/$38 non-resident.

All Classes meet at the Municipal Building on Monday 4:30-6pm Instructor: Holly Horton Register 8 days in advance of the start of the month.

APRIL Dates: April 8, 15, 22, 29

April The fin of flight through Wings! April 8, 15, 22, 29 This class will study the flight and fun of animals with wings. Create a variety of art using paint, drawing and more as you dive into the fun of birds and more. Cost per student $70.00 residents/ $80 non-residents all materials, supplies provided

MAY Dates: May 6,13, 20 4:30-6pm Spring has sprung art themed projects. Using a variety of mediums and art activities explore the early summer and spring season. Cost per student $60.00 residents/ $80 non-residents all materials, supplies provided

Youth Volleyball League

Ages 9-13 (Must be age 9 by April 1, 2024) Learn the fundamentals of the game of volleyball, while enjoying basic play experience. All practices in Poquoson.Minimum of 24 Players must register to run league. Players who have played JV are not eligible to participate in recreation league.

Specific practice and game times will be announced based on gym availability.

Season runs from after Spring Break approx. April 11 to approximately May 31. Volunteer coaches needed.

Cost: $75. resident/$85. non-resident.

Registration Deadline is March 22.

$15 Late fee applies after March 22nd. Note: Non-resident registration will only be available from March 18-22nd.

Game nights will be on Saturday Afternoons and some weeknights as referees are available.

Kickstart Soccer

Must be age 4 by April 1, 2024

Kickstart is a program designed for the beginner soccer player. This is the basic introduction to the game of soccer. It is not a soccer league, but a 5 week instruction & play/skill period for 45 minutes each week. Cost: $55 per child. No sibling discount; additional $10 for non-residents. Registration is on a first come, first served basis.

Dates: April 11,18, 25, May 2, & 9, 2023 6:15-7pm South Lawson Park

Spring Field Hockey

Play and Skills Clinic

Spring Field Hockey Play and Skills Clinic

Sundays April 14, 21, 28, May 5 Grades 2-8 skill stations and play will be grouped to skill

Times: 4:30pm to 6:00pm each Sunday.

Cost: $55. resident/$65. non-resident.

Deadline: April 10.

Instructors: Darcey Chiappazzi, Poquoson High School Varsity Head Coach.

Ellie Staples PHS JV Coach.

Location: Turf Field-behind PMS.

Pixie Stix Field Hockey

Pixie Stix Field Hockey

Field Hockey for beginners! Ages 5-7 Girls.

Time: 4:30pm to 5:30pm. Dates April 14, 21, 28, May 5 This program is designed to teach introductory field hockey skills for young playes. Learn proper techniques for stick maneuvers, teamwork, strategies of the game while having fun playing field hockey. Note: Must be 5 by the start of Program. Registration for each new Pixie player includes correctly sized stick, a ball and shirt. Returning players will receive a ball and shirt only. Instructor: Darcey Chiappazzi, Varsity Field Hockey Coach.

Cost: $70. per player. Returning player Cost is $50. All players must play with mouth guard & shin guards each session.

Parents provide equipment. Additional non-resident fee is $10. per player.

Instructor: Heather Deaver, Primary School Physical Education Teacher.

Cost includes beginner ball & t-shirt.

Location: South Lawson Park

Deadline: April 2.

No sibling discount. Location: Turf Field behind PMS Player Minimum to hold program is 12.

** Parents will need to be prepared to assist during sessions with their player be sure to wear shoes and plan to stay during sessions*

Beginning Artists Series: Lions, Tigers and Bears, Oh My! Ages 4-6

Scribble, paint, sculpt... ROAR! Come join us as we create adorable artwork inspired by some of our favorite zoo animals. Budding Picassos and future zoologists alike will love painting on real canvas boards, sculpting with air-dry clay and designing with oil pastels as they create animal-themed artwork that is totally WILD!

Dates of Classes: Tuesdays April 16, 23, and April 30 5:30-6:30pm at the Municipal Building

Deadline April 5 Cost: $45 includes all supplies and materials. This class is encouraged to be without parent. All participants must be potty-trained to attend. 9

Pizza and Paint Your Pets Paint Workshop for kids

Ages 9-13

March 20 Municipal Building 1:30-4pm

Bring your favorite pet photo and we will turn it into a wacky, wonderful piece of Fun Art created by you!! Utilizing techniques from cartooning and abstraction, we will create a masterpiece for the whole family to enjoy for years to come. From Fido to Friskie, and Goldy to Slithers, these art pieces will capture their true personalities and melt your hearts even more!

Cost $40 for residents $50 for non.

Deadline March 14

Furry Friends Dog & Cat Treats

Baking Class

Bake up some wholesome cat and dog treats using a variety of pet friendly ingredients during this afternoon bake session.

There will be plenty to take home as samples for your furry friend.

Wednesday, April 24 Time: 2-5pm

Cost $35 residents non-residents $45.

Ages 7-13. Deadline to register: March 22.

Kid’s Art Afternoon- Gem-tastic Art and Sculpture

Ages 7-12

Join us on this afternoon from 2-4:30 to create with Clay and then add glitter, gems and more.This class includes working collage work and a variety of mediums full of sparkle for the fun afternoon.

Come Create with us on this half day of school

Wednesday May 8 2-4:30pm all supplies included Municipal Building Deadline May 1

Instructor Kidcreate Studio staff

Dress for Mess Cost is $35 residents Non-residents $45

Super Salads & Sides for Cookouts Adult Class

Jazz up your next outdoor cookout with this cooking class designed to give you zesty salad and side ideas. Enjoy the tastes of spring and summer while learning new recipes and techniques. Come hungry leave happy with Chef Tim WInchester of Kitchentwelve21

Wednesday, April 17

Time: 7-9pm Cost: $34.00 residents/ $44 non-residents. Register by April 12, 2024 Adults Location: Odd Road Community Center.

Adult Beginner Sewing ClassMonday Evenings

Have you wanted to learn sewing basics from choosing a simple pattern to cutting your fabric and threading a portable sewing machine. This class is the beginners guide to completing a sewing project. Class will meet on Monday evenings from 6:30-8. Bring a portable machine if you have one. On the first evening class will work with the instructor to design and choose a simple project and select materials. Once decided participants will bring their selected project materials to the second class and work on completion and learning the skills to get to a finished product. Work on straight sewing with a machine, threading and laying out patterns.

Class meeting April 8, 15, 22, and 29. 6:30-8pm Class cost is $50 for residents, $60 for non-residents. Deadline is April 4. Limited to 8 students. Instructor Holly Horton

Everyone should bring needle and thread and good cutting material scissors and a general project idea so the instructor can assist you with your plans. Location: Municipal Building.

Pistol Safety Course

Learn firearms safety, law and familiarization of handguns and ammunition, how to handle a weapon safely, and laws regarding use of firearms in self-defense. This one evening course will cover many do’s and don’ts for carrying a weapon for self defense.

As part of the course those students who wish to later apply for a concealed handgun permit may take a written test, and upon successful completion of the test, a certificate will be provided that will allow them to apply for a Virginia Concealed Weapons Permit with the local court. No gun ownership required. If you have a gun do not bring it to class until the instructor instructs you to do so. Class open to anyone age 21 or older. This course meets one evening. Time: 6-9pm. Location: Municipal Building

Cost per student: $55 residents/$65 non-residents. Each course limited to 10 students.

Course Date: April 16 Deadline: April 12

Introducing instructor Mr. Perry Bartels

Perry Bartels is a 22 year police veteran and firearms instructor. He is a certified instructor with the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services.

Medicare 101

Will you soon become medicare eligible? Nearing retirement? This basic informational session provided by Bay Aging and the Virginia Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program will provide a free session to help you understand coverages, costs, enrolling procedures, eligibility and more as it relates to the Medicare program. Call to sign up so we can plan for your attendance.

Date: Thursday, March 21 Time: 10:30am

Location: Municipal Building

Deadline to register March 16. Free. Instructor: Lisa Walker - Bay Aging & VICAP

Mobile Food Pantry

In partnership with the Virginia Peninsula Foodbank the City of Poquoson and a very dedicated group of civic and community volunteers host a Food Bank Distibution Day on the 2nd Thursday of the Month at the Poquoson Municipal Building at 830 Poquoson Avenue.

The Food Bank operation Dates for 2024 rare as follows: 10am-12noon

March 14, April 11. May 9, June 13, July 11, Aug. 8

You’re Invited... To Poquoson’s Senior Adult Center at the Municipal Building

Join us!

Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays. Lunch served and fun activities

Located at the Municipal Building 830 Poquoson Ave.

To attend & register please call 873-0541. This program is in partnership with the City of Poquoson and Peninsula Agency on Aging. New participants always welcome.

WALK-IN

Poquoson Parks and Recreation

Now Offers ONLINE REGISTRATION FOR MOST PROGRAMS!! REGISTER AT

poquosonrec.com

Visit Us! We love to see you.

Office hours are Monday thru Friday 8:30am-4:30pm at the Municipal Building 830 Poquoson Avenue, Poquoson VA 23662 757-868-3580

Check, Cash, Visa or Mastercard

Save a Trip and Register Online!

Any Mobile or Desktop device - Register online anytime of day! No Office Hours required. Visit POQUOSONREC.COM and create an account, then register for the program, and make payment via credit card. Note that on all credit card payments a 2.5% service fee will be charged.

Call in or Phone Registration is not available as there are waivers that require your review and signature. If you need help while working through the process to register online our staff is happy to assist you. Simply call during business hours at 757-868-3580 and we will help you in the process. Hours are Monday-Friday 8:30am-4:30pm

Refund & Registration Policies

Though we do our best to secure program locations, details, and times, occasionally we must make changes to schedules, times or locations for programs. This can be due to any number of factors, included but not limited to, facility concerns, maintenance, joint scheduling with the school system or required changes from the initial planning at the time of publication. Enrollment numbers for programs can also facilitate these changes. If this occurs please be aware that we will make every effort to contact you with the information you have provided on your registration form. All programs listed within this publication are filled on a first-come, first serve basis, unless noted. Your receipt is your confirmation. Each program must draw a minimum number of participants or it will be cancelled. The City of Poquoson reserves the right to cancel, postpone, or combine programs, or change instructors to best provide the program for everyone.

If an activity is cancelled due to low enrollment, you will be refunded your total program fees, less credit card transaction fees. Please remember that an accurate, complete, and legible registration form is vital for us to contact you. Please be sure to observe all closing dates for activities. Program fees must be paid at the time of registration. No Call-in registration is accepted. Payment is accepted in either cash, personal check, VISA or MasterCard. When payment is made using credit card a 2.5% convenien

REFUNDS: By registering for a program you agree to the following & in all cases understand that: No refunds will be granted after the first class has begun.

No refund will be granted to a participant if you cancel later than 2 business days prior to the start of class. No refund will be granted when supplies have been purchased on your behalf, regardless of the time of notification. Specific programs have a no refund policy; this is noted in the program description. Cancellation policies for facilities rental/use are stated on the respective reservation/use forms.

In the event of sickness or injury, refunds must be requested in writing, and in person at the Parks and Recreation Office. A doctor’s note must be provided with the request. A refund is not guaranteed in this case but may be considered and/or pro-rated. A $10 service charge will be deducted from all refunds.

Refunds will not be granted as a result of schedule changes due to weather. Poquoson Parks and Recreation does not prorate refunds. No refund is guaranteed unless the requestor has a receipt showing proof of payment.

Parks and Recreation reserves the right to handle a request on a case-by-case basis.

Telephone: (757) 890-4940

Healthy Virginia Lawns Program

Website: www.yorkcounty.gov/vce

Are you ready for Spring and your lawn is not? Sign up now for our Healthy Virginia Lawns program with site visits running from March 12th to March 28th! This program is designed to assist York County and Poquoson residents with taking care of their lawn in an economic and environmentally sound manner. For just $20, York/Poquoson Master Gardeners will visit your site, measure your yard, take a soil sample, and provide a personalized Nutrient Management Plan. Sign up online at https://forms.gle/7xb969j4vahi59RUA, scan the QR code provided, or call the Extension office at 757-890-4940. Registration ends March 20th.

2024 4-H Junior Summer Camp Registration

Camper registration will open on Saturday, April 13th at 9:00 a.m. and will be collected through our online format only. York/Poquoson camp week is scheduled for July 22nd- 26th at the Jamestown 4-H Educational Center. More information and links to register will be posted on our website at https://www.yorkcounty.gov/952/Junior-Summer-Camp

Master Gardeners Spring Plant Sale

Are you looking for new plants at great prices? York/Poquoson Master Gardeners will hold their annual spring plant sale on Saturday, May 4th from 8 a m to Noon at the York Learning Garden located at 301 Goodwin Neck Road (adjacent to the York County Public Safety Building). Annuals, perennials, native plants, shrubs, trees and Yorktown onions will be for sale. For more information, call the Extension Office at 757-890-4940.

You are receiving this notice as the City of Poquoson is designated as a Repetitive Loss Area. This means your property has either received 2 or more flood claims over the life of the structure or is located near areas which have received that designation. Please be aware that a designation as Repetitive Loss Property or Severe Repetitive Loss Property (3 or more claims) will cause higher flood insurance premiums. To discuss the status or how to possibly reduce your flood insurance premiums contact the City Floodplain Manager for assistance with flood insurance questions at 757-868-3035.

Our community is concerned about repetitive flooding and has an active program to help you protect yourself and your property from future flooding, but here are some things you can do:

1. Contact our office at 757-868-3035 to find out if your property is in the floodplain and subject to additional regulations, or if your property is affected by a floodway, drainage issues, or a natural function such as wetlands. We can also advise on the extent of past flooding in your area Department staff can tell you about the causes of repetitive flooding, what the City is doing about it, and what would be an appropriate flood protection level. If you have flooding, erosion or drainage concerns, t he staff can visit your property to discuss flood protection alternatives. On-site visits and technical assistance are provided to residents who are experiencing problems in areas of flooding and drainage, or for those who want recommendations on how to retrofit an existing property.

2. Prepare for flooding by doing the following:

Know how to shut off the electricity and gas to your house when a flood comes.

Make a list of emergency numbers and identify a safe place to go.

Make a household inventory, especially of basement cont ents.

Put insurance policies, valuable papers, medicine, etc., in a safe place.

Collect and put cleaning supplies, camera, waterproof boots, etc., in a handy place.

Develop a disaster response plan. See the Red Cross’ website at www.redcross.org for information about preparing your home and family for a disaster.

3. Consider some permanent flood protection measures.

Mark your fuse or breaker box to show the circuits to the floodable areas. Turning off the power to the basement before a flood can reduce proper ty damage and save lives.

Consider elevating your house above flood levels.

Check your building for water entry points, such as basement windows, the basement stairwell, doors, and dryer vents. These can be protected with low walls or temporary shields.

Install a floor drain plug, standpipe, overhead sewer, or sewer backup valve to prevent sewer backup flooding.

Note that some flood protection measures may need a building permit and others may not be safe for your type of building, so be sure to talk to the Building Department.

4. Get a flood insurance policy.

Homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover damage from floods. However, because our community participates in the National Flood Insurance Program, you can purchase a separate flood insur ance policy. This insurance is backed by the Federal government and is available to everyone, even properties that have been flooded. Because our community participates in the Community Rating System, you will receive a reduction in the insurance premium.

Some people have purchased flood insurance because it was required by the bank when they got a mortgage or home improvement loan. Usually, these policies just cover the building’s structure and not the contents. During the kind of flooding that happens in your area, there is usually more damage to the furniture and contents than there is to the structure. Be sure you have contents coverage. Don’t wait for the next flood to buy insurance protection. In most cases, there is a 30 -day waiting period before National Flood Insurance Program coverage takes effect.

5. The following topics provide good information related to flooding:

• Know your flood zone - knowing your flood zone and base flood elevation is important. Insurance rates use this information as part of the rating system. Knowing them allows you to consider ways to mitigate, remain safe, and potentially reduce premiums

• Insure your property- Do you have flood insurance? Have enough coverage? Know your deductible? Having flood insurance protects you against potential costly events. Knowing how much coverage you have and what is covered is important for your financial safety. Be aware, not surprised.

• Protect people from hazards - Don't think you can make it thru a flooded road. Turn Around, Don't Drown. If you see signs that a road is flooded, don't drive thru it. Be safe first, return safe when everything is open. Designate a location or contact number for your family to meet at when an evacuation notice is given. Prepare now, keep worry away later.

• Protect your property and valuables - Make sure permits are obtained for replacement work after an event. Elevate flooded mechanical equipment, including ductwork a minimum of 1 foot above BFE when replaced. Store all valuable items and paperwork in a waterproof container is a secure location. If you have questions on possible replacement, elevation grants or ways to rebuild safe contact the Inspection Department at 757-868-3035

• Build responsibly - Make sure all permits are obtained before any work is started. Better to check first verse having to remove later. Be aware of required setbacks and drainage requirements. Protect yourself, use only licensed contrac6tors for work performed. If a homeowner obtains a permit as contractor, the homeowner is responsible for all work performed.

• Protect nature - Check before you start disturbing land. Make sure all protective drainage measures are maintained: they help keep our waterways clean. If you notice a problem area, notify the Environmental Compliance Office at 757-868-3040

Poquoson Public Library

SPRING 2024 | VOLUME 26 | ISSUE NO. 2

National Library Week

April 7-April 13

Celebrate National Library Week with us by participating in Library Spirit Week! Show your Library Spirit in fun daily activities.

Monday: Decade Day

Dress as your favorite decade.

Tuesday: “Tip Your Hat” to a Library Worker Day

Wear a fun hat.

Wednesday: Libraries Rock Day

Wear your favorite rock band shirt or dress as a rockstar.

Thursday: Superhero Day

Dress as your favorite superhero.

Friday: Book Character Day

Dress as your favorite book character.

Child Abuse Prevention Month

Pinwheel Craft Kits

The Exchange Club of Poquoson is offering free take and make pinwheel craft kits for ages 11 and under (while supplies last) during the month of April to raise awareness for Child Abuse Prevention Month. Kits can be picked up at the library front desk.

Informational literature for parents will also be in the packet.

April 1 -30

Pinwheels will also be on display along Victory Boulevard in recognition and to raise awareness.

www.poquoson-va.gov/library

Spring’s Around the Corner

Get growing with the York/Poquoson Master Gardeners as they present a series of programs to help you with your garden.

Growing Vegetables

Monday, March 11 7pm

Learn ways that you can eat better, healthier food that you grow in your own yard. Learn the basics of vegetable gardening for our local climate and conditions from a York/Poquoson Master Gardener.

Planting for Pollinators

Monday, March 25 7pm

Learn how small changes can transform your landscape to have a big effect on the butterflies, bees, and other pollinators that surround us.

The Amazing Honey Bee

Monday, April 15 7pm

The honey bee has become indispensable to our American agricultural system – but why? Come and learn about the fascinating world of honey bees, their role in our ecosystem, how they are threatened, and what you can do to help.

25th Annual Poetry Contest

The Teen Advisory Board is sponsoring their 25th Annual Poetry Contest. All ages, kindergarten through adult, are invited to submit one, unsigned, single page, original poem . Mark your calendars with the following dates:

Entry forms available

Submissions are due

Reception for Poets

Monday, April 1 10am

Tuesday, April 30 9pm

Thursday, May 23 6:30pm

A celebration will be held with poetry readings, generous cash awards, encouragements from our judge, and refreshments.

Program Registration Required

Registration Opens:

Children Programs

Teen Programs

Family Programs

Adult Programs

2 Weeks

3 Weeks

4 Weeks

4 Weeks

Kids Corner

Early Learning Classes

Session 1 March 4-April 10

Session 2 April 29-June 5

Babygarten

Tuesdays 10am

Ages 0-15 months with caregiver/parent. We will share books, nursery rhymes and songs that you can duplicate at home to develop early literacy and motor skills. Playtime to follow.

Music & Movement

Mondays 10:15am

Ages 16-23 months with caregiver/parent. Designed to engage toddlers in gaining fine motor skills and tune musical ears while having fun! We will introduce your little ones to various musical instruments and play & dance along to music. Playtime to follow.

Toddler Tales

Wednesdays 10 or 11am

Ages 2-3 years with caregiver/parent. We will share play and read books, nursery rhymes, & songs to enhance early literacy and motor skills.

Once Upon a STEAM

Select Wednesdays 2pm

Ages 4-5 join us for early learning fun with a focus on STEAM elements as we explore picture books and create hands-on book-based art, science, and math activities for your preschooler. Separate registration is required for each d ate.

Building Bridges March 6

Egg-sighting March 20

Solar Eclipse April 3

Spring into Spring April 24

Making Rainbows May 1

Hidden Nature May 15

LEGO Club

Select Tuesdays 5pm

All K-5th graders are invited to imagine and create with us as we build and display unique structures using these fun themes!

Mirror That March 5

Build Vertical April 9

Circus May 7

STEM CLUB

Select Thursdays 6pm

3rd through 5th graders are invited to explore STEM concepts with LEGO! Each month we’ll use LEGO bricks of all shapes, sizes, and colors to imagine, create, and build structures while learning about engineering, math, and science.

Wrecking Balls

March 7

Boat Races April 25

Catapults and Levers May 16

Paws to Read

Select Tuesdays 5pm

March 26 April 30 May 28

Pre-K through 5th graders who are reading on their own are invited to practice their literacy skills by reading to a trained therapy dog. Reading times are in 15 minute increments.

Curious George Visits the Library

Thursday, April 4 2pm

For ages 8 & under. Monkey around with Curious George at the library! The WHRO Literacy Van and Curious George will join us for stories and activities. Be sure to bring your camera to snap a few pictures.

Eclipse Chalk Art

Monday, April 8 2:30pm

Open to all ages. Get eclipse ready at the library. We’ll explore the science behind the eclipse and create our own eclipse chalk art. Each participant will receive a pair of eclipse glasses to use as we step outside to view the event.

Star Wars Scavenger Hunt

April 29-May 5

Attention all K-5th graders: Master Yoda has sent a message to Luke Skywalker, but some of the letters are missing! Follow the clues around the library to find the letters hidden in the library to win a prize!

Free Vision Screening

Second Tuesdays of the Month 3-6pm

March 12 April 9 May 14

The Poquoson Lions Club will provide free vision screenings at the library for ages 6 months to 6 years old. The screening is useful in detecting vision issues for young children so that it does not impede their early learning abilities. The screening device is able to detect risk factors for amblyopia, refractive errors that need corrective lenses, and unequal vision.

Teen Scene

Teen Programs are open to 6th-12th graders unless otherwise specified

What’s on Your Shelf?

Teen Web Design Art Contest

March 1-March 30

The Teen Advisory Board is sponsoring a digital art contest to update the Teen Scene page of the library’s website. Art submissions will be accepted from teens in grades 6-12 via e-mail from March 1 until March 30 and should reflect the theme, “What’s on your shelf?” Please see the Teen Scene section of the library’s website for full contest rules and submission forms. All submissions should be accompanied by a submission form and digital artwork should be in .jpg or .png format sized to 1000x142px. We look forward to seeing what’s on your shelf!

Teen Totes Subscription Service

Registration Open March 1-15

If you love reading, surprises, or both, this free service is perfect for you! Each month, for three months, you’ll receive a selection of books and other goodies selected just for you based on your interests! While the books, feedback, survey, and tote bag need to be returned to the library, the goodies are yours to keep! All you need is a library card. Online registration is required and is open from March 1st15th.

Super Smash Bros Ultimate Tournament

Wednesday, March 6 6:30pm

Mario Day is approaching quickly. Celebrate by joining our Super Smash Bros Ultimate Tournament. Choose your character and prepare for head-to-head competition. Feel free to bring your own Switch if you would like to practice between rounds. Prizes will be awarded for first and second place finishers.

Manga and Anime Club

Third Wednesdays of the Month 6:30pm

March 20 April 17 May 15

Do you love to watch anime, read manga, or even draw characters? At anime club, we read and discuss our favorite/least favorite manga, choose anime shows and movies to watch together, and play various games, crafts, and other activities related to Japanese culture.

Bad Art Night

Wednesday, April 3 6:30pm

Enjoy a night of no pressure, free-style creativity. The rules are simple: create the best bad art you can with supplied materials before time runs out. At the end of the night, we’ll vote on the best bad creation and crown the best worst artist with the Bad Art Prize. Bring your creativity but leave your good taste at home.

Solar Eclipse Modeling

Sunday, April 7 2pm

The next North American solar eclipse will be Monday, April 8, but what is a Solar Eclipse, and why doesn’t it happen more often? Participants will create and take home a model that demonstrates what occurs during a solar eclipse and why one does not occur every time the sun, moon, and earth are in a syzygy. They will leave with a better understanding of the next day’s celestial event.

Star Wars Trivia

Saturday, May 4 3pm

Gather your team or arrive Solo and join a team as we test your knowledge of the Star Wars Saga. Will you be defeated by a Jedi Master or prove to be your team’s only hope through multiple rounds of trivia? We would wish you luck, but there’s no such thing as luck. May the 4th be with you!

Reading Garden Spruce Up

Monday, May 13 5:30pm

The Teen Advisory Board will be weeding, planting, and mulching to get the library’s reading garden ready for summer, and they could use your help! It’s a great way to enjoy time outside with friends while earning community service/volunteer hours. We’ll enjoy a cool treat when we’re done!

Werewolf!

Wednesday, May 29 6:30pm

There’s a werewolf loose in the woods by the library, and we need your help to eliminate them before they decimate the entire village. This in-person murder mystery game is sure to test your social deduction skills. If you enjoy playing Mafia or Among Us, you’ll love Werewolf.

Bubble Painting Among Friends

Tuesday, March 5 7pm

Have fun blowing bubbles and learn how to make art with them! You will create two unique paintings by making colored bubbles, placing on paper and then use colored pencils to turn it into an artistic masterpiece.

Introduction to Mahjong

Thursday, March 7 & 14 2pm

Looking for a new hobby? Learn the exciting game of Mahjong, a tile game originating in China. This is a twopart class so please plan to attend both sessions.

Beginner Yoga

Select Wednesdays 6pm

March 13 & 27

The Friends of the Poquoson Public Library is a nonprofit o rganization that provides advocacy and financial support for the library. The Friends donated $8,000 for library programs and equipment last year. Join the Friends of the Library today. Call 757-561-9556 or email lsbangert@cox.net for m ore information.

The F riends of the Library are committed to ensuring that we provide financial support to the Poquoson Library, helping to make it a great asset to the community. Your membership and/or monetary donation is needed now more than ever. Please visit the library website at www.poquoson-va.gov/library for y our membership application and drop it off at the library or mail it in. Please specify FOPPL (Friends of the Poquoson Public Library).

Books à La Carte

April 10 & 24

Become more flexible in the new year by learning yoga! Join a certified instructor and try yoga to improve your health and well-being. Bring your own yoga mat.

Understanding and Responding to Dementia Behaviors

Wednesday, March 27 4pm

Learn about some of the common triggers for behaviors associated with dementia, how to assess the person’s needs, and how to intervene effectively.

library@poquoson-va.gov

www.poquoson-va.gov/library

Jessica H artley, Director

Jason Wells, Editor

Visit our ongoing used book sale located in the back of the library. Shop for bargains on books, puzzles, CDs and DVDs. Gift cards and tote bags are also available.

Book Club

Members meet the 3rd Wednesday of each month to discuss books they have chosen. For more information call 757-254-8994.

Scholarship Opportunity

Each year, the Friends of the Poquoson Public Library awards deserving students $1000 scholarships in honor of our retired Library Director, Elizabeth Tai. The scholarship is open to graduating high school seniors who have volunteered at the Poquoson Public Library. Applications will be available at the library circulation desk and at the PHS Guidance Office in early March. To date, thirty-seven $1000 scholarships have been awarded to deserving students since 2003. Last year's recipients were Evie Weimert and Lillian Linthicum.

Friends of the Library

2024 Essay Contest

The Friends of the Poquoson Public Library 2024 essay contest will be open for submissions the first week of January. Any K-12 student who uses the Poquoson Library is invited to submit a single entry. Essays may be submitted electronically to essaycontest22@gmail.com , d ropped off at the Poquoson Public Library, or to your student's PCPS school library. To assure anonymity, please submit entries without a name on the essay and a separate page with the student's name, address, phone number, and grade stapled together. Cash prizes will be given at the awards ceremony. Mark your calendar with the following dates:

Essays Due

Thursday, March 7 Awards Ceremony

Thursday, April 18