THYME Magazine

Citizen Journalism with a Better Flavor


Volume III, Issue I

VA AG: Defeating the Tentacles of Tyranny

Ezra Klein [click to read] may not understand the Constitution but Virginia Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli does. When Judge Hudson ruled that the Commerce Clause does NOT give the government the power to require citizens to purchase insurence, Cuccinelli's understanding of the Constitution was vindicated. ht/Phil

Judge Henry Hudson ruled that the individual mandate "exceeds the Commerce Clause powers vested in Congress under Article I" of the Constitution.

Judge Hudson also wrote, "The unchecked expansion of congressional power to the limits suggested by [the individual mandate provision in ObamaCare] would invite unbridled exercise of federal police powers."

Mark J. Fitzgibbons writes in American Thinker [click to read] that Cuccinelli has done us another favor as well, by reaffirming the protections of the Foourth Amendment! It stands to reason that government mandates would be followed by some sort of invasive 'compliance monitoring.' Do you dislike the oversight powers of the IRS? You'll really dislike Federal oversight when they can mandate your insurance purchases and demand a 1099 for most every transaction for some businesses.

"Judge Hudson ruled against ObamaCare as exceeding Congress's authority under the Commerce Clause. He also ruled that the penalty for not obtaining health insurance is not a tax, which would have saved the law. Regardless of whether ObamaCare exacts a tax or a penalty, the power of the government to investigate violations would be virtually the same.

Unlawful investigations are the equivalent of trespass and coercion of private property rights. Cuccinelli's not only litigating the constitutionality of Obamacare; he's also defeating the tentacles of tyranny and Marxism. This is why liberals are breaking out their smear machines against him."

Ken Kuccinelli Update [click to read]. The Virginia Attorney General's own statements about the ruling.

Another Fighter Worth Recognition

The 'other' Weekly News Magazine [click to read] is featuring another fighter: Aung San Suu Kyi of Burma. Burma's First Lady of Freedom [click to read] fights for the rights of the Burmese people.

Eric Cantor elected House Majority Leader

Statement of RPV Chairman Pat Mullins on Rep. Eric Cantor's Election to Majority Leader
 
-- Cantor is first Virginian to hold the post--
 

RPV Chairman Pat Mullins gave the following statement:

"I want to be one of the first to congratulate Rep. Eric Cantor on his election today to be the new Majority Leader in the House of Representatives. The rest of the nation will now know what we in Virginia have known for years  - that Eric Cantor is a hard-working, common-sense conservative, and a tremendous leader.

The new Republican majority has a daunting task ahead in repairing the damage done by President Obama, Nancy Pelosi, and Harry Reid. Voters overwhelmingly recognized that the country must change course, and quickly. Righting the ship will be hard work, but the new majority couldn't have chosen a better person to help lead the effort.

Congratulations, Majority Leader Cantor on a great achievement! "

Blogosphere bids farewell as "The Other McCain's" Smitty heads to Afghanistan

How many blog posts does it take to send off a conservative blogger who happens to be a Navy reservist going to war in Afghanistan? In the case of "Smitty," Stacy McCain's sidekick over at one of the most-read blogs, The Other McCain, the answer would be 35. At least. And probably more.

Smitty's Veterans Day announcement of his imminent deployment caught some off-guard. After all, these wide-spread eclectic citizen journalists are keyboard jockeys, not camel jockeys. Smitty had confided to a few that he would be shipping out but was firm that he didn't want anyone blogging about it before the 2010 elections. Nothing, he emphasized, should draw attention away from the immediate task at hand: send Democrats packing with pink slips in hand as Americans toiled to begin a correction of their political course on November 2.

Smitty can ship out knowing that task was accomplished and that the blogosphere will be a watch dog to keep the mission on task.

His farewell blog told where he was going and that he would be on hiatus from writing for a while:

Stacy has greased the skids here, but there will be a hiatus in regular blogging activity for the Smitty portion of this blog duo at the close of this post. I hold orders to activate in mid-November and report to Kabul, Afghanistan in time for Christmas. Bandwidth, and latitude for skylarking online will not exist until the end of 2011.

With an outpouring of thanks, good-natured jostling, and bids for safe travels, bloggers responded to the news that "Smitty" aka Chris Smith was deploying to Operation Enduring Freedom by doing what they do best: write.

Familiar blog names such as Fishersville Mike, Yankee Phil, DaTechguy, Little Miss Attila, The Lonely Conservative, No Sheeples Here,  Point of a Gun, Red State Eclectic, Right Wing News, theblogprof, Troglopundit, The Frugal Cafe,  Red State, Pirates Cove, SWAC Girl, and WyBlog and many more hung their hearts on their sleeves to salute this patriotic American. Who says bloggers don't have feelings?

In typical Smitty style, however, he didn't want the attention on him. As he wrote:

But don’t thank me; thank Americans, from the Founding Fathers forward to the Tea Parties, to my electrician brother-in-law who just runs around fixing things all day. The exceptional American dedication to individualism, the ideals of the Constitution, and the courageous soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines in whose bigger footsteps I follow make it all worth it. I’ve benefited so much from the American people, educationally and otherwise. Thus, it’s with a sense of gratitude to you that I depart on this set of orders, finishing out my Navy Reserve career in active duty style.

In a follow-up "thank-you" post, Smitty was appreciative to everyone for the "outpouring of well-wishing concerning the deployment." He added that his mother called him and broke down at the sheer volume of responses from the blogosphere. He deserved it. One blogger called him an officer and a gentleman. He's all that and more.

Thank you, Smitty, for your service ... and Godspeed.

Looking ahead

The 2010 election is just six days past, but pollsters are already looking ahead.
Public Policy Polling is planning on running a poll on the 2012 Virginia Senate contest this weekend. Should be some interesting combinations.

Election Day 2010

About the Three Constitutional Amendments

Words Mean Things... Tom White Translates

This Analysis from Virginia Right [click to read] will help you understand the proposed amendments. I voted "NO" on all three this morning.

Question 1:

Shall Section 6 of Article X of the Constitution of Virginia be amended to authorize legislation that will permit localities to establish their own income or financial worth limitations for purposes of granting property tax relief for homeowners not less than 65 years of age or permanently and totally disabled?

Question 2:

Shall the Constitution be amended to require the General Assembly to provide a real property tax exemption for the principal residence of a veteran, or his or her surviving spouse, if the veteran has a 100 percent service-connected, permanent, and total disability?

Tom writes: "These amendments are simply shifting the approval of these tax breaks from the Virginia Legislature to the local Board of Supervisors in each locality. If these measures shifted powers from federal to state or local level, they would be a good thing.

But all they are actually doing is allowing local Boards to bypass the oversight the Virginia Constitution put in place. Localities can still do these things now if they so decide, but they must seek approval from the state legislators. This is a wise check and balance and should not be changed.

Most agree that taxes should be both fair and equal. If a locality decides that some people deserve inequitable tax treatment, oversight is a good idea. While removing or reducing taxes based on age or ability is a noble thing, it must be balanced with fact that you are simply shifting the tax burden to others."

Question 3:

Shall Section 8 of Article X of the Constitution of Virginia be amended to increase the permissible size of the Revenue Stabilization Fund (also known as the “rainy day fund”) from 10 percent to 15 percent of the Commonwealth’s average annual tax revenues derived from income and retail sales taxes for the preceding three fiscal years?

Sounds really fiscally responsible, Right? Tom points out that this is simply allowing the government to overtax us and not account for it. Remembering how VDOT suddenly found it had saved all that money after all, let's just say I'm skeptical at this point.

As Virginia Goes, So Goes the Nation?

Some Thoughts from Lynn at the Washington Examiner


Arriving at the Lincoln Memorial for the Restoring Honor Rally. These people know there's nothing funny about the destruction of the greatest country on earth.

Lynn writes These Thoughts [click to read] on the midterm elections. Read Lynn's article, read the predictions in Virginia Virtucon and then turn off the media. Time to get busy and start rebuilding this great nation.

Virginia Virtucon Predictions [click to read].

Is Socialism Cool in Charlottesville?

Meet Some of Tom Perriello's Supporters Who Think it is


November is coming.

Americans for Prosperity made a creative point in a creative way yesterday in Charlottesville.

"Yesterday, Barack Obama came to Charlottesville to campaign for his liberal sidekick, Tom Perriello. AFP decided to greet his supporters waiting in line by offering them free "Socialism Isn't Cool" bumper stickers. The response we got told us a lot about who is secretly supporting Tom Perriello. Watch this video...and see for yourself!" -- Ben Marchi, AFP

THYME Magazine

Citizen Jouralism with a Better Flavor


Volume II, Issue XXVII, Tom Perriello on the cover.

This November We Must 'Stop Them from Stealing'

The 'other' Weekly News Magazine [click to read] is focusing on lobbyists. THYME is focused on the problem of public sector unions and other vested interests as well. How about a congress that is less prone to be 'bought.' Term limits is sounding like a pretty good idea right now. We can begin imposing them this November. Voters in Virginia's Fifth Congressional District have a unique opportunity to participate!

The Best Lawmakers Money Can Buy? [click to read] ht/Phil.

Lots of Local Coverage of Hurt

Robert Hurt, GOP 5th Congressional district, September fundraiser in Augusta County

Help Tom Perriello find a job

Albemarle GOP issued Press Release

Hurt Supporters outnumbered Moveon folk by 10-1

Vote for the Guy Named Bob!

Bob Goodlatte [6th District]and Bob Hurt [5th District]


Bob Goodlatte introduces Bob Hurt, who is running to unseat Tom Perriello in the 5th Congressional dstrict. Photo by Lynn Mitchell.

Giving the Victims of 09/11 a Voice

One Man's Unique Vision to Never Forget


Xaver Wilhelmy created a unique glass organ pipe design and a plan to remember the victims of 09/11.

This is a new Milestone Monday feature.

I first met Xaver Wilhelmy in 2003 and a few days after our introduction we were standing overlooking the massive hole at Ground Zero. I had been asked to illustrate his proposal for the memorial competition.

The vision that he unfolded that day was inspiring. He wanted to create a massive organ who's 3000 some pipes would give a voice to each person who was murdered in the attacks on the United States. Xaver is a master craftsman who has made organ pipes out of every material imaginable. The instrument he envisioned would have the usual metal and wood pipes... but in addition there would be the wonderful glass pipes! They would rise around the room to capture light coming in through the windows. I could give myself goose bumps imagining something like Copland's Fanfare for the Common Man ringing through that wonderful room.

Xaver actually created a portion of the work... a series of glass pipes depicting the American flag. He showed them at two conventions of the American Guild of Organists. Alas, his inspired piece was overlooked in the 5000 some entries in the memorial competition. Still, it begs one to reconsider the non-memorial memorials so in vogue right now. Rather than reduce the victims to some monolithic repeated design, why NOT celebrate the unique character and voice of each life that was destroyed that day.

Phil's Video [click to watch] reminded me of Xaver's vision. Seeing the faces of the NYPD members who died that day prompted me to think again about the voices that were silenced that day... Fathers, Husbands, Brothers, Sisters, Friends and Colleagues. May we do the right thing and never forget them.

Read Xaver's Vision [click to read] in his own words.

Local Principal Gets Schooled?

The Rutherford Institute did not like the tone of a letter from the Principal of Wilson Middle School to the staff at the school. Some felt that he was threatening the termination of participants in the formation of a club for Christian Athletes. See More here

Smitty on the scene

Smitty from the Other McCain caught Ken Cuccinelli's speech at a fundraiser for Congressional candidate Patrick Murray.
He promises Murray video to come shortly.

Putting a 'Hurt' on Perriello's Prospects

Survey USA Poll Shows Bob Hurt Running Strong

SWAC Girl mentioned This Survey USA Poll [click to read] showing a healthy Hurt campaign even as the News Leader is running articles saying Perriello has more money. The poll shows the challenger, Robert Hurt at 58% ... and Democrat incumbent Tom Perriello at 35%.

The Washington Examiner has More [click to read].

Dung Down on Da Farm

The Farm Team is a grassroots organization established in 2008 to recruit, develop, and elect women to public office.It has a blog. The latest post is titled...
Wittman for Congress makes sexist remarks about female opponent, Krystal Ball.
It's opening paragraph states...
Recently, a spokesperson for Congressman Rob Wittman of the 1st District of Virginia made a controversial statement about his opponent, Krystal Ball. In referring to Mrs. Ball, the Wittman campaign described her as “cute” stating, “As cute as our opponent may think she is…”
That headline is the biggest load of Cow Manure in Virginia. No sensible person would think that that comment had ANYTHING to do with her sex. It had to do with her "cute" ad. It is cute, or funny. As in the adjective meaning affectedly or mincingly pretty or clever; precious.

Cross Posted at YankeePhil

Eight years and going strong

Chris Graham and his Augusta Free Press.com celebrated eight years this week.
Here's to more years, hopefully wondering about Republican dominance in the state.

Lining Up to 'Stop Him from Stealing'

Seven in Primary for Right to Challenge Perriello

It's fun driving around Charlottesville these days. Tuesday's Republican Primary [click to read] features seven candidates, all running for the chance to take on Tom Perriello. [1.] The advertisements on the radio are interesting. The race should be interesting as well.

Here's the lineup: Robert Hurt of Chatham, Laurence Verga of Albemarle County, Ken Boyd of Albemarle County, Michael McPadden of Albemarle County, Feda Morton of Fluvanna County, Jim McKelvey of Franklin County and Ron Ferrin of Campbell County.

It is heartening to see non-lawyers in the race like Feda Morton [click to read]. Ms. Morton is a teacher and a Mother of five. Feda’s broad experience includes roles in public education, administration, coaching state championship high school teams, local government, civic organizations, Christian education, home schooling, successful campaigns for elected office, and political organizing. She also co-founded and managed a successful construction company and is a member of Fluvanna Baptist Church where she teaches a four and five year old Sunday School class.

Feda began her political career in the early 1990s with Russ Moulton’s campaign for State Senate and as the Fluvanna County Coordinator for the Lieutenant Governor campaign of Mike Farris, President of the Home School Legal Defense Association. Feda was then elected as the Chairman of the Fluvanna Republican Committee and turned a very small organization into one of the strongest in the state for voter turnout for conservative Republican candidates for the next decade under her leadership. Feda also served on the 5th District Republican Committee and was elected from there to serve on the Republican State Central Committee.

Today, Feda is seeking the Republican nomination for Congress in Virginia’s Fifth Congressional District for the 2010 election. It is her vision to restore our nation to the original intent of our Founders by reducing government to its Constitutional size, scope, and role. Feda hopes to be a catalyst in reinvigorating the American spirit of independence, individualism, and capitalism – the very principles that are her guiding light as she defends freedom and the Constitution with the same energy and commitment she has applied throughout her life.


Feda Morton.

Jeb Wilkinson to join McDonnell administration

~Department of Conservation and Recreation Deputy Director ~

It was good news when I read the latest round of appointees for the McDonnell administration and saw Jeb Wilkinson's name. They included the official bio, including the fact he is a Navy veteran, but I know Jeb from working with him.

Jeb came on my radar during the 2004 George W. Bush reelection campaign. We had probably crossed paths before that but that is when he cemented himself and remained.

I was the Bush campaign coordinator for the SWAC area in 2004. Because it was the first presidential election after 9/11, we suspected it would be busy so opened GOP headquarters in August (the SWAC area has notoriously opened their headquarters in September before an election). We were amazed and overwhelmed at the sheer numbers of people who came to HQs looking for Bush signs, bumper stickers, literature -- anything to show they were not for John Kerry and the Democrats.

I met Jeb when ordering Bush materials from Richmond, driving over to pick them up and sitting in Jeb's office talking. He went out of his way to help in anyway he could, providing what I wanted (we didn't have enough materials to get everything we needed) and then some.

It's because of Jeb that I met Ann Coulter when she was in Richmond the weekend after election day in November 2004. She was a fantastic speaker and an overall nice person who posed even in the ladies room while combing her hair when someone asked to get a photo of her. That's patience.

Jeb and I have often crossed paths throughout the years since as he's been involved in politics at one level or another. Gov. McDonnell is getting a good, hard-working man in Jeb Wilkinson.

Official announcement:

Jeb Wilkinson served in the Administration of President George W. Bush at the U.S. Department of Labor from 2006 to 2009 as Chief of Staff to the Veterans’ Employment and Training Service (VETS) at DOL and as a senior aide to Labor Secretary Elaine L. Chao.

Wilkinson served in the Administration of former Governor James Gilmore as a policy analyst in the Department of Human Resource Management where he authored articles for the state employee newspaper Commonwealth Currents and coordinated the Governors Service Awards program in 2001.

From 1985 to 1990 he served in the United States Navy where he was a Surface Warfare Officer (SWO). He served onboard both USS Farragut (DDG-37) where he was the Gunnery Officer and USS Nassau (LHA-4) where he served as Electronic Warfare Officer and as a Public Affairs Officer.

Congratulations, Jeb!

Ken Cuccinelli Wants to See 'Climate' Data

Virginia Attorney General Requests Michael Mann's Data

Rightside Virginia [click to read] brings further evidence of Cuccinelli's tireless efforts to protect the good people of Virginia from the overreach of the federal government. If the global warming hoax is going to lead to job killing legislation and regulation, isn't it reasonable to ask to see the numbers?

Obviously the ACLU and Democrat James Moran don't think so.


Polar bear populations are increasing.

Yeardley Love death ... domestic violence will always be with us?

George Huguely V and Yeardley Love.

Two weeks ago today the news of Yeardley Love's death shattered the University of Virginia campus and, as further details emerged of the brutal way in which she died, many began to talk about domestic violence and the need to do something about it.

It is easy to wonder how such a beautiful young lady as Ms. Love, 22, could be caught up in a controlling relationship with her former boyfriend, George Huguely V, 22. They were the children of wealthy families ... their lives were not supposed to end like this.

Huguely has been charged with the murder of Ms. Love after she was found by her roommate with her head bashed, reportedly after being beaten against the wall by Huguely. She was found dead by police on her bed face down in a pool of blood. Stories have since revealed Huguely to be a young man full of anger who had previous encounters with police.

Sadly, domestic violence will probably always be with us. Thirty years ago when I was the age of Ms. Love, domestic violence became more public as women stepped out from behind closed doors to find themselves in a community of others suffering the same abuse.

Shelters for battered women and children began setting up throughout the nation. In 1984, Farrah Fawcett starred in a TV movie called "The Burning Bed" about a woman so abused by her husband that she eventually set fire to his bed. Women were educated about men who dominated them and took away their self esteem.

Even the University of Virginia set up a Women's Center to help young women students. Though there is no indication that Yeardley Love sought their help, the website features a memorial to her and a reminder of what they offer. Of particular note is their Red Flag Campaign that was begun in 1996 encouraging young women to recognize signs of physical, emotional, mental abuse, and isolation:

Emotional Abuse
Excessive Jealousy
Isolation
Victim-Blaming
Coercion
Sexual Assault
Stalking (victim)
Stalking (perpetrator)
Healthy Relationship vs. Dating Violence

Dr. Dale Archer, a Fox News commentator, writes that Ms. Love's death is a wake-up call to domestic violence but, as we see, those wake-up calls have been out there. Sometimes those directly involved in the violence are the last to recognize the signs.

As even more details come out about Huguely, the UVA women's lacrosse team moves on even as they remember their fallen teammate, winning the first game in the NCAA tournament that began last weekend. The UVA men's lacrosse team continues defending their #1 status ... students are completing exams as seniors prepare to graduate this Sunday ... and the Class of 2010 will be minus two students as George Huguely continues to sit in a Charlottesville jail and Yeardley Love has been laid to rest by those who loved her.

For sale or rent

During the 2009 gubernatorial campaign, opponents set up the website The Real Bob McDonnell to highlight their disagreements with the Republican candidate.
I guess they didn't pay the bill, because the links go to GoDaddy.com now.
I was looking forward to seeing the GOP all-stars, including Jeff Frederick, one more time.

Tracy Pyles wants to stagger...........

He does walk with a Conservative swaggerAt Wednesday's Augusta County Board of Supervisors meeting, Pastures District Supervisor Tracy Pyles broached the idea of changing to staggered elections in the county.

Swacgirl covers the story
See more at NewsVirginian

Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli of Virginia defends the law suit against the Federal Government and Obamacare.

Cuccinelli and Cline

“ObamaCare and the Constitution,” you seem to assume that Virginia's lawsuit against ObamaCare is an attempt to "nullify" federal law.
This is not the case. Virginia concedes that the Constitution's Supremacy Clause ensures that federal law trumps state law when there is a direct conflict between laws. However, a federal law will only trump when it is constitutionally grounded. In our lawsuit, Virginia is asking the federal courts to declare the federal health-care act unconstitutional based on Congress's use of the Constitution's Commerce Clause to impose an individual health insurance mandate on citizens."
Cuccinelli wrote in the Wall Street Journal.
H/T Augusta Conservative

And G-d Created Virginia!

Those of Us Who Live Here Will Agree

Phil Tells the Story [click to read].

Tax Day Tea Party Information Kiosk III

Richmond Tea Party Tax Day Rally


Virginia State Capitol.

The day has finally arrived!

We hope you are coming and bringing all your friends, neighbors and co-workers. Please don't miss this amazing event.

Don't let Congress think you have given up after 12 months of fighting. Let's show every politician we are committed for the long haul! Come hear what we are about, what we have accomplished, and what we have planned for 2010!

Here are all the logistics you need.

Kanawha Plaza [click for map] (8th and Canal)Downtown Richmond
5:30 - 6:30pm Music
6:30 - 8:00pm Rally

MUCH louder sound system, porta potties on site this year, and the entire evening is FREE! We will be giving away some free RTP shirts. Be there or be square! Bring the family!
Some of our speakers for Tax Day Rally!

Doc Thompson of WRVA RadioMatt Whitworth of VCUChris Kinsel of American Family Radio
Joe Guarino, RTP Legislative ChairmanDonna Holt of Virginia 10th Amendment Revolution
Colleen Owens, RTP Activist and Tax Day Chairwoman
Patrick McSweeney, Constitutional LawyerChuck Hansen, Motivational Speaker and Columnist
Karen Cooper, Richmond Tea Party Activist
Rich Nielsen, Small business owner
Gilbert Wilkerson, RTP Board Member
Charles Payne, FOX Business News

Tea Party Code of Conduct [click to read]. ht/Richmond Tea Party

Staunton April 15th Rally:
Gypsy Hill Park Bandstand Area-5:30-7:30 p.m.
5:30 p.m. Welcome, Pledge of Allegiance, and Invocation
5:40 p.m. Kate Obenshain (Likely topic is corruption)
6:00 p.m. Warren Grant (The Constitution)
6:25 p.m. Dr. Jim Grichar (America's Fiscal Crisis)
6:45 p.m. Charles Kraut (Natural rights vs. Human rights)
7:00 p.m. Ben Marchi (Health Care Reform and other key issues)
7:15 p.m. Former Governor George Allen
7:30 p.m. Closing Message ht/Phil

Tax Day Tea Party Information Kiosk II

Virginia Sovereignty March Rally4:30 PM at US Capitol

We will deliver signed copies of the Sovereignty letter from the VA Legislature and signed copies of the Virginia Healthcare Freedom Act to several US Congressmen from Virginia
Copies will also be delivered for President Barack Obama, Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Majority leader Harry Reid.

Members of US Congress, Richard Viguerie and Virginia government leaders who had a part in enacting HB10 Healthcare Freedom Act will address us from 5 to 6 PM.

Constitutional Tea Party [click to read] has details.

There is Limited Seating [click to read] on a FREE bus from Culpeper to Washington. When I called to get on the bus they had about 20 seats left. Act fast and don't miss this great opportunity.

Constitutional TEA Party
April 15th TEA Party Rally
Yowell Meadows Park Culpeper, VA
SPEAKER: Michael Farris
HSLDA Home School Legal Defense head and Chancellor of Patrick Henry College will speak on the Sovereignty of the US at 12 Noon
Rally will be from 12:00-2:00


September 12, 2009 at the US Capitol.

Tax Day Tea Party Information Kiosk

Information for Tomorrow's Tax Day Events


December 15, 2009 saw crowds in Washington to protest the healthcare takeover.

Tea Party is from 5:45 to 9:30 pm at the NW quadrant of the Washington Monument grounds directly across from the White House.

Freedom Works [click to read] Official Site for Washington Events.

Metro Map [click to read] to help you fiind your way in L'Enfant's Labyrinth.

Tea Party Patriots Site [click to read]. Listing of events nationwide.


If this is supposed to be an angry racist mob...


...then why is everyone I meet at these gatherings...


...so nice?


September 12, 2009 Had nice people as well...


...all concerned about the direction of the country.

Visit Faces of Freedom Gallery [click to read] to see more Tea Party Patriots and decide for yourself.

Not Your Old Man's 'Kegger'...

JMU Party Riot Likened to a 'War Zone.'

The Washington Post [click to read] reported on the block party gone bad at JMU. Phil [click to read] samples the 'phone videos' put up by sudents. One came down pretty fast as the police began scanning them for bottle throwers and arsonists.

The Post calls the event 'uncharacteristic' and JMU's President, Linwood H. Rose issued the following statement to students:

"Your collective behavior was an embarrassment to your university and a discredit to our reputation," he wrote. "No one is opposed to some fun on a beautiful spring weekend, but public drunkenness, destruction of property, and threats to personal safety are unacceptable outcomes."

Agreed, students have always enjoyed high energy weekends and many a beverage distributor has thanked Providence for a territory that includes an institution of 'higher learning.' In the late sixties you could see ugly on campus during the many antiwar demonstrations but the spring kegger was always a relatively low impact event.

But I am thinking now of Robert Bork's writings on the subject. The campus radicals of the sixties are now tenured professors. Bill Ayers actually has a real job! The radicals are in the classroom promoting Marxism, Socialism and Moral Relativity. When riots break out in the streets, why are we even surprised?

Tear gas and police in riot gear... is this Harrisonburg or Watts?

Times Change, Things Get Ugly at JMU Springfest

What Kind of Leadership Are We Preparing for the Future?

"You tell kids in school that there is no absolute right or wrong. You tell them in college that there is no right and wrong. You tell them that people who believe in absolute right and wrong are intolerant and deny them a platform to speak from... then these young people rise to positions of leadership in industry... AND GOVERNMENT... and they believe that there is no absolute right and wrong. What do you get? When a person's own self-actualization becomes the sole moral imperative, how WILL they decide in those instances we have always considered 'making the tough choices?' " [1.]

When I saw Phil's report I had to remember these words. Looking at the videos it is hard to tell if you are in Harrisonburg or Watts? It seems the level of ugly has been raised on campuses.

Times change. Springfest turns ugly at JMU

2010 Springfest
Apparently good times went bad in Harrisonburg. During the annual JMU Springfest, 30 people were arrested and 30 people or more were treated at a local hospital.
See the story here

Pic from previous Springfest with no reported problemsFrom a previous Springfest.
No reported incidents at this event.

Local Egg Farmer Makes it to Video

Buffalo Gap HS is where Swoope Students are educated

A Swoope Virginia Farmer provides eggs for a Bartender.
Yes Eggs for drinks.

Watch the video here

Virginia Congressman questioned by Jason Mattera.

Congressman Jim Moran

Congressman Jim Moran represents Virginia's 8th congressional district, an area which is located in Northern Virginia, and includes the cities of Falls Church and Alexandria, as well as a portion of Fairfax County and the entirety of Arlington County.
He was apparently confused about the "12th congressional district" in Virginia. Congressman Jim Moran was questioned by author Jason Mattera about "stimulus" money being spent in the 12th district, a district that does not exist.
Congressman Jim Moran seems to think that it is just a "clerical error"
See the video here.

Seems like it is dangerous to be in VA Politics

Eric Cantor has bullets shot through windows, a man is arrested for death threats and they are breaking windows in Charlottesville area.
See more here

Cuccinelli Begins Suit Against DemCare

Virginia AG Brings Suit in US District Court

Mandates are Unconstitutional [click to read] The Richmond Times-Dispatch has more on this story as it unfolds.

Of course, We the People are watching...

One year ago ... murder at The Homestead

The Homestead Resort

It was March 23, 2009 -- one year ago today -- when shots rang out in The Homestead's kitchen as employee Beacher Hackney allegedly shot and killed two co-workers.

It was a busy Saturday night at the upscale resort ... the kitchen was bustling ... and the shooting took place just feet from guests eating in the formal dining room who were unaware of what was going on nearby.

The western mountains of Virginia suddenly became the scene of a massive manhunt as authorities searched for Beacher Hackney. He has not been seen since.

Where is the Homestead Murderer?

Did he escape into the rugged mountains and make his way into West Virginia? Did he end up 20 miles away at I-64 and escape to points unknown? He was a known loner but could an accomplice have helped him escape?

There are more questions than answers. Bath County Sheriff’s Department’s lead investigator Noel Dunnagan said recently that he felt the murderer was still alive, according to the Lynchburg News & Advance:

“At this time we’re still collecting leads from America’s Most Wanted,” said Bath County Sheriff, Larry Norfleet.

The story has aired several times and has brought in dozens of leads, but none of which have lead to the suspect, so after a while you have to wonder is he still alive.

“I still think he’s alive,” said Norfleet. “Due to the fact that he had a hermit nature, you know, he could certainly exist inside for sometime as long has he had supplies.”

So where did Beacher Hackney go?

Cross-posted at SWAC Girl, Virginia Virtucon, SixtyFour81.com

Dems going after "Cooch"

Sen. A. Donald McEachin, D-Henrico

The Times Dispatch is reporting that the Dems and Sen. A. Donald McEachin, D-Henrico, are setting up roadblocks against Cuccinnelli.
They are trying to thwart Virginia's attempt to save the state and block Obamacare.
See more here
H/T to VARight

Delagate Marshall says No on FOX

Richmond Times: Virginia's General Assembly is the first in the nation to approve legislation that bucks federal health care reforms by banning mandatory health insurance coverage. Without debate, the House of Delegates voted 80-17 Wednesday to accept Senate amendments to a bill that supporters say preserves Virginia's prerogatives as a state. Thirty-four other legislatures have filed or proposed similar measures rejecting health insurance mandates.
See the video over at YankeePhil

Boucher on health care reform

From the Kingsport (Tenn.) Times-News, Rep. Rick Boucher talks about the health care bill.
Boucher said he needs to see whatever deal is being cobbled together.
“I am very concerned about a number of things. First, we do not have a text of the legislation before us. That is still being discussed and negotiated. Obviously, I will withhold any judgment until I review it very carefully. I do have concerns about a number of matters I anticipate being in the draft, however,” he said.
h/t Weekly Standard

Augusta County: Jean Shrewsbury testifies against law to help taxpayers

Jean Shrewsbury, Commissioner of Revenue, Augusta County,
testifying against a law to help taxpayers.
Photo courtesy of Family Foundation.

After 10,500 taxpayers battled with Augusta County the past year over unfair increases in real estate assessments at a time of financial downturn, it was incredulous to learn that Jean Shrewsbury, Commissioner of Revenue for Augusta County, testified in Richmond against a proposed law that would help lessen the burden on taxpayers.

Thanks to the Family Foundation who provided the following:

... several days ago, HB 570 was before the Senate Finance Committee.

It preceded this infamous bill hearing (you must see this if you haven’t; click here).

This bill, patroned by Delegate Sal Iaquinto (R-84, Virginia Beach) would level the playing field when property owners appeal their often over assessed homes in order to reduce their already overwhelming tax burdens. Besides, if the government has a good case, it will still win. A no-brainer, right? Not!

Currently, and the way it will now remain for at least another year, the homeowner is the equivalent to guilty until proven innocent, and low-income people can’t even afford to hire an appraiser and other expenses required to overcome the burden of proof. (That’s why advocates for low-income families joined us in supporting the bill.)

Tellingly, the bill’s defeat was heavily targeted by a plethora of local governments and associated organizations whose goal is to further government’s prosperity and not that of the family or individual.

One witness favoring the bill exposed their intentions by asking if they would be against this bill would help them overcome an unfair burden against the homeowner.

Be sure to watch the video.

Citizens become frustrated when government does not listen to them as we saw in Washington when 1.2 million marched on 9/12/09 against government-mandated health care, and in Augusta County in March 2009 when 1,000 taxpayers turned out for a Board of Supervisors meeting to protest high real estate assessments.

A lone pro bono attorney, Francis Chester, defended taxpayers who could not believe their outrageously high real estate assessments ... and he has been punished by Augusta County who asked for and received sanctions from Judge Victor Ludwig who called Mr. Chester a modern day Robin Hood.

Is there no representation for the little guy against BIG GOVERNMENT?

Even the Rocket Boys had difficulty finding local representation against Augusta County, noting that 30 lawyers were contacted but were afraid of retaliation from Augusta County, so Francis Chester took on their case.

As one commenter asked, "Why is it that we see the Augusta County government consistently working against the interest of the citizens of Augusta County?"

Why, indeed?

Please contact our reps and let them know how you feel:

Jean Shrewsbury, Commissioner of Revenue
(540) 245-5640
Larry Howdyshell (North River)
(540) 350-2591
Gerald Garber (Middle River)
(540) 234-8388
David Beyeler (South River)
(540) 943-3202
Wendell Coleman (Wayne)
(540) 430-1350
Jeremy Shifflett (Beverley Manor)
(540) 294-2289
Nancy Sorrells (Riverheads)
(540) 377-6390
Tracy Pyles (Pastures) - Supv who supported taxpayers
Please tell him "thank you" - (540) 337-7010

Sen. Emmett Hanger
(540) 885-6898 / district24@senate.virginia.gov
Del. Steve Landes
(540) 245-5540 / steve@stevelandes.com
Del. Dickie Bell
(540) 448-4763 / DelDBell@house.virginia.gov
Del. Ben Cline
(434) 946-9908 / DelBCline@house.virginia.gov

Looking to the 9th District

National Review Online's Campaign Spot highlights the Roanoke Times article about Morgan Griffith's run for the Ninth District seat against Democratic Rep. Rick Boucher.
Griffith lives right on the line between the 6th and 9th district. Methinks in 2012, Rep. Bob Goodlatte will be living pretty close to the line between the 6th and 9th, with Griffith securely in the district.

His Neighbors Didn't Like Rockets Either

Dr Robert Goddard, Father of American Rocketry


Dr. Robert Goddard with his rocket.

In 1919 he published a scientific paper entitled ''A Method of Reaching Extreme Altitudes" in which he described a liquid propulsion system for rockets that could allow us to reach the Moon. The New York Times published an editorial suggesting that Dr. Goddard was '...either playing a joke or was ignorant of elementary physics if he thought that a rocket could work in the vacuum of space.' Yes, the media really does keep us enlightened.

On March 16, 1926, Goddard tested an actual rocket at his Aunt Effie's farm in Auburn Massachussetts. Eventually the neighbors opposition forced him to go to Roswell, New Mexico where he continued his experiments. Goddard, though he held some 200 patents in rocket technology, received little recognition for his work... in the United States.

In Germany, Dr. Wernher von Braun read Goddard's paper and developed the V2 program that became the basis for the American and Russian space efforts. Von Braun, now working for the American missle agency, said of Goddard: ''Don't you know about your own rocket pioneer? Dr. Goddard was ahead of us all.''

Today the Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt Maryland is named in his honor.

Here's an Interesting Article [click to read] on Dr. Goddard from the New York Times.

So, what are we missing when we shut down Augusta's 'Rocket Boys?'

Augusta County shuts down Rocket Boys ... 14: Dreams of space

Part 14: Dreams of space ... Augusta County shuts down Rocket Boys

Part 1 ... October Sky
Part 2 ... Who is VAST?
Part 3 ... What is agri-tourism?
Part 4 ... Francis Chester
Part 5 ... Launch location -- Croft Field
Part 6 ... How it began ... anonymous complaint
Part 7 ... "It's only a formality"
Part 8 ... VAST prepares for BZA meeting
Part 9 ... VAST presents case to BZA meeting
Part 10 ... VAST denied Special Use Permit
Part 11 ... Augusta County denies BZA hearing tapes
Part 12 ... The legal case begins
Part 13 ... Community reaction
Part 14 ... Dreams of space

Remember the movie October Sky that told the true story of Homer Hickam of West Virginia, a coal miner's son who was intrigued by the Soviet Sputnik satellite in the 1950s that streaked across the October sky?

That incident inspired Homer to study rocketry, win a science contest, go away to college, and eventually earn his Ph.D. and become a NASA scientist. And it all began when he and his friends put together and launched model rockets even though some of the town people tried to shut them down.

Just imagine ... in Augusta County there is a new generation of Rocket Boys who could be future NASA scientists, much like Homer.

And in western Augusta County with its large tracts of land, there appears to be the perfect place for a local rocket club to teach science in the wide open spaces, smack in the middle of 500 acres of land, isolated from surrounding properties. But you would be wrong.

This series looks into the background of a group of boys and adult volunteers who were blindsided by an anonymous complaint that brought the government into what should have been a recreational, educational activity in the middle of a 500-acre farm field void of government involvement.

It looks into Augusta County's desire to cultivate agri-tourism, and Del. Steve Landes' agri-tourism bill that passed this year's General Assembly, and questions the fairness of the decision of who can participate in agri-tourism ... and who can't.

And it looks at community reaction ... questions that have been brought up by county citizens who wonder if they will be next by what is perceived as an overbearing Big Government mentality.

I had not seen the movie October Sky for a number of years so checked it out of the Churchville Library to once again get the feel of students who dream ... and the adults who nurture those dreams. In the movie, one adult who encouraged Homer was his teacher Miss Riley who died at age 31 of Hodgkin's Disease but not before she planted the seed for him to look beyond the coal mines and pursue his dreams of space.

In Augusta County, we hope to one day see local dreams played out once again, and we hope the Rocket Boys are allowed to again fly the skies of western Virginia.

Feedback about this series is welcomed.

Related stories:
- SWAC Girl: Del. Landes' agri-tourism bill passes House
- WHSV TV-3: Agritourism Brings Boost for Augusta County
- NBC 29: Rocketry club goes to court to get permit
- Staunton News Leader: Sparring launches in rocket case
- Staunton News Leader: Rocket club grounded
- Staunton News Leader: Aerospace Team may scratch launches
- Staunton News Leader: Why can't we give rocket club a chance?
- Staunton News Leader: Zoning board denies permit for rocketry club
- Waynesboro News Virginian: Throttle up: Rocketry appeal heats up
- Waynesboro News Virginian: Zoning board denies liftoff of Swoope rockets

Other bloggers write about Rocket Boys:
- Yankee Phil: Local boys trying to be good ... denied in Augusta County
- Yankee Phil: More info on ... Local boys trying to be good ... denied in Augusta County
- The Journey: No rockets on company property
- Virginia Virtucon
- StrictlyVA

THYME Magazine

Citizen Journalism with a Better Flavor


Volume II, Issue VII

Winter in Virginia [click to read] special edition.

PPP - Perriello tied at best

Public Policy Polling has new numbers from the 5th congressional district.
In a two-way race, Rep. Tom Perriello is tied with state Senator Robert Hurt, 44-44.
In a three-way race, Perriello is tied with former Rep. Virgil Goode 41-41.
Hurt gets only 12 percent in a three-way race. That hurts.

Is Lefty VA Blogger a Racist or a Sexist???

A Feud is Brewing in VA

Apparently a lefty blogger made disparaging comments about a member of the House of Delegates on Twitter. He called Del.Charniele Herring a beast and told her to STFU. See more here

JMU Felony Possession of a Snowball.

A JMU Duke Basketball Guard was arrested for Felonious Snowballing.
He decided that it would be cool to throw snowballs at a truck and an unmarked cop car.
See the story here

Coming later this week

Public Policy Polling plans to release a poll from Virginia's 5th Congressional District later this week.
Yes, it's easy to poll people when they are stuck in their houses with lots of snow falling. But they are doing callbacks in areas where houses lost power in the storm.
Better get the polling done before the next storm.

Augusta County shuts down Rocket Boys ... part 3

Part 3: What is agri-tourism?

See part 1 and part 2.

I received an email in mid-December from Charles Neff, president of Valley AeroSpace Rocketry Club, who questioned Augusta County's desire to bring in agri-tourism when they appeared to contradict themselves by shutting down the rocket club. He wrote:

I listened to the “Agri-tourism Brings Boost For Augusta County” story on WHSV this morning with great fascination … especially since an activity that would be considered Agri-tourism was shut down in Augusta County by the Board of Zoning Appeals.

The December 17, 2009, TV-3 story was about Augusta County supervisors' desire to bring agri-tourism into the area:

Agritourism may be helping to generate income in Augusta County during a time when farmers are struggling the most.

While farm land may be vanishing in Virginia, in Augusta County, it's still increasing. Officials believe that agritourism may be bringing in a boost.

Weddings and horseback riding may seem unrelated, but they're both a part of what's bonding tourism and agriculture in Augusta County.
...
Augusta County Board of Supervisors member Nancy Sorrells believes this is just the beginning for agritourism.

Sorrells says, "There's no doubt it's bringing in money but I just don't think it's reached it's full potential."

The money agritourism is bringing to the county may be worth just a little bit more. "If I take a dollar and spend it in the community, that's just a dollar. But this community has to build roads that I use, has to build schools. But, if a visitor comes here and spends a dollar, it's really worth $5 because they go home," says Sorrells.

Del. Ben Cline (24th District) supports agritourism in Augusta County and is taking the message all the way to Richmond.

Cline says, "Agriculture is our top industry and in Augusta County, it's extremely important. So, we want to encourage all aspects of farming, including agritourism."

While agritourism is getting a lot of attention, Sorrells says if it's bringing in money, it's a good thing. Sorrells says, "I think we need to explore all kinds of ways to bring money into our area and the money that would come in that has the least impact on our tax bases is good money. So, if we need to find ways to hype that up, I say go for it."

The Augusta County Board of Supervisors has delayed any decision about rezoning its exclusive agriculture district until its meeting in January 2010.

From 2002 until 2007, Augusta County farmland increased two percent.

At that meeting in January the Augusta County Board of Supervisors voted to eliminate exclusive agriculture and, yes, open it up for agri-tourism, as reported by the Staunton News Leader:

County leaders hope by eliminating a restrictive agriculture zoning district, it will provide farmers more freedom to pursue alternative business options on their property.

The Board of Supervisors informally voted Wednesday to preliminary approve eliminating the county's exclusive agriculture district and convert that land to a general agriculture designation.

The move would open up more agriculture land to be able to have additional operations, which range from small business to agritourism uses. Unlike those on general agriculture-zoned land, residents in the exclusive agriculture district cannot apply for special-use permits to allow non-farming business.

Two comments were left on the WHSV TV-3 website about agri-tourism. The first:

The Augusta County Board of Zoning Appeals disagrees with Ms. Sorrells and Mr. Cline. The BZA effectively shut down the activities of a safe, educational, and family oriented model rocket club in Sep 09. They sided with a small group of residents who were terrified that a cardboard rocket from a 10 yr old might land on their property once or twice per year. The County has lost a free educational resource and agritourism income as a result.

The second comment:

This is very interesting! Someone needs to inform the Augusta County Board of Zoning Appeals about this! Our club, which had held monthly rocket launches in a Swoope (Augusta County) farm pasture for 14 months, was notified that a Special Use Permit was required which the Zoning Board subsequently denied. Although not huge, our events brought people to the County. They stayed at local hotels, they ate at local restaurants, and they shopped at local stores. If you think rocket launches shouldn't be considered Agri-tourism since it's unrelated to agriculture (other than the farm field), you should know that Hot Air Balloon Rides, Hang Gliding, Cross-Country Skiing, Music Festivals, Biking, etc. are all considered Agri-tourism. None of them have any closer relationship to agriculture than our activity. I believe the County is contradicting itself...

In Colorado agri-tourism is recognized as a growing industry and includes all the above-mentioned activities plus fishing, hunting, wildlife photography, horseback riding, farm and cannery tours, cooking classes, wine tastings, cattle drives, harvest festivals, corn mazes, roadside vegetable stands, and much more.

Does Augusta County want agri-tourism?

Next -- Part 4: Francis Chester ... the only lawyer willing to represent VAST in Augusta County?

Cross-posted at Virginia Virtucon and SWAC Girl

Augusta County shuts down Rocket Boys ... part 2

Part 2: Who is VAST?

See part 1.

Who is VAST? From their website:

Located in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia, the Valley AeroSpace Team (VAST) is the area's only public rocketry club. VAST is a chartered Prefecture of the Tripoli Rocketry Association (Tripoli Western Virginia #36) and a chartered Section of the National Association of Rocketry (NAR Section #687).

What Do We Do? The Valley AeroSpace Team holds meetings, workshops, and launches for the purpose of aiding and encouraging all those interested in rocketry. We also strive to increase public understanding and interest in rocketry by engaging in fun, scientific, and educational activities.

Why Hobby Rocketry? Since we can’t all work for NASA or catch a ride on the Space Shuttle, we’re left to do the next best thing … launch our own. The thrill of watching something you built streak out of sight riding a tail of flame and smoke is hard to beat. Whether they’re small model rockets or the larger, high-powered versions, they’re all fun and educational. Rocketry is an activity enjoyed by families and enthusiasts of all ages. People from all walks of life enjoy this hobby.

Is Hobby Rocketry Safe? Following strict safety codes has made rocketry one of the safest recreational activities available. In more than fifty years of hobby rocketry, there has not been one fatality or serious injury. Under the umbrella of our two national sanctioning organizations, the Tripoli Rocketry Association (TRA) and the National Association of Rocketry (NAR), Valley AeroSpace Team members launch rockets ranging from small scale models to custom designed high power rockets.

A safe, family-oriented, educational activity for young people in a rural area sounds like a good thing. After all, we could use more wholesome activities because meth and other drugs are a big problem.

Instead of doing drugs or hanging out at the mall or getting in trouble, young people overseen by volunteer advisors were fortunate to participate in what could be a stepping stone to future education and careers.

I can almost hear Captain James Kirk on the USS Enterprise saying, "Space ... the final frontier...."

Next -- Part 3: What is agri-tourism?

Augusta County shuts down Rocket Boys ... part 1

Part 1: We have our own October Sky in Augusta County

Remember the movie October Sky that told the true story of Homer Hickam of West Virginia, a coal miner's son who was intrigued by the Soviet Sputnik satellite in the 1950s that streaked across the October sky?

That incident inspired Homer to study rocketry, win a science contest, go away to college, and eventually earn his Ph.D. and become a NASA scientist. And it all began when he and his friends put together and launched model rockets even though some of the town people tried to shut them down.

Just imagine ... in Augusta County there is a new generation of Rocket Boys who could be future NASA scientists, much like Homer.

And in western Augusta County with its large tracts of land, there appears to be the perfect place for a local rocket club to teach science in the wide open spaces, smack in the middle of 500 acres of land, isolated from surrounding properties.

Wrong.

Not in Augusta County. Just like the town went after Homer and his friend, the county has shut down the kids in the local rocketry club. One anonymous complaint was all it took to deny further launchings. The complainer's identity was never revealed but the name has been widely circulated through the western Augusta rural grape vine.

An activity that had been ongoing for 18 months with the landowner's permission was suddenly over. A county that had a supervisor and state delegate promoting "agritourism" seemed to contradict itself by shutting down the rocketry club.

Since the club was first founded in 2005, over 400 area youth launched their first rockets. In October 2007 VAST co-hosted 250 Boy Scouts as part of their District Camporee in Rockingham County called "October Fly" as part of the 50-year anniversary of the launch of Sputnik.

At the current location, known as Croft Field, there were usually four to eight children at launches that were held monthly over a Saturday and Sunday with less participation during the winter month and more during the summer. The most fliers they had was the last launch in August of 2009 when 19 showed up. Usually an average of 15-25 spectators were present. Bad weather sometimes prevented launches on one or both days.

The club has outlined and documented the entire case on the club's website where the following announcement is now posted:

Until Further Notice
VAST was denied a special use permit by the Augusta CountyBoard of Zoning Appeals on September 3rd, 2009. The decison has been appealled to the Circuit Court of Augusta County. VAST is awaiting a hearing date.

And that's where I began my research into a case that was in the local newspapers and specifically brought to my attention by the club's president. A "routine" request for a special use permit ended up not so routine and VAST went to court to appeal the Zoning Board's denial of a group of boys who wanted to fly rockets in Augusta County, Virginia.

Next: Part 2: Who is VAST?