THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Sunday, July 28, 1996 TAG: 9607260189
SECTION: SUFFOLK SUN PAGE: 06 EDITION: FINAL
LENGTH: 60 lines
Resistance continues while population grows
The Citizens Against the Racetrack (C.A.R.) was grateful to learn that the Virginia Supreme Court found merit in our case and will be hearing the appeal.
We trust that it will find in our favor. But if doesn't, we will continue our fight, and Suffolk has provided us with new allies.
A recent real estate insert featured new residential housing in Driver and on Shoulders Hill Road, in close proximity to the proposed automobile race track. Which came first, the housing or the track permits? Is this compatible use of land?
It appears that Suffolk is no more concerned about its own citizens within hearing distance of the proposed race track than about its close neighbors in Chesapeake! The election of Leroy Bennett and the ouster of Richard Harris as councilman for that district should convey a strong message to council.
The option to purchase the 50 acres of land for the race track at Nansemond Parkway and Shoulders Hill Road, close to the Chesapeake line (Portsmouth Boulevard in Chesapeake), has not been renewed, but the sign is still posted saying there will be a race track built there in 1996.
Something is up! One can only wonder if the City of Suffolk still has plans about the race track it hasn't told the public!
Susan C. Blankenship
Treasurer, C.A.R.
Barn Swallow Drive
Chesapeake
Lifeline drive success shows citizen caring
Yes, citizens of Suffolk, there's good news to share, too!
I'd like to take this opportunity to thank those people who contributed to the Lifeline project. It is gratifying to know citizens have been willing to donate to help solve a community need.
The Pilot Club of Suffolk Inc. accepted the challenge to alert the community to a critical problem facing the Lifeline program housed at Obici Hospital. This problem occurred when 43 of the personal response units, used by individuals with health limitations and living alone, became outdated and could no longer be serviced. It would take approximately $25,000 to purchase new units to replace the outdated ones.
More than 10 years ago, with a commitment from Obici Hospital to implement and house Lifeline, the Pilot Club of Suffolk campaigned to obtain funds to begin the program. Through the years, it has been growing as organizations and families have donated funds to purchase additional units.
These units are worn around the neck on a chain or on the wrist and in an emergency situation, the person can press a button for help. When the signal is received, arrangements are immediately made for assistance.
As health trends continue to change toward independent living and toward shorter hospital stays, this service will be in greater demand. The immediate crisis is over, but the need for personal response units will be ongoing and will continue to need citizen support.
Not only do I wish to say thank you for your ``dollars,'' but to thank those who encouraged civic organizations, church groups and businesses to participate, and to also extend appreciation to Obici Hospital for continuing to provide this worthwhile service to the community.
Connie Taylor
Lifeline Chairman
Pilot Club of Suffolk Inc. by CNB