StrictlyVA

More choices for us?

2012-01-10T17:23:00.002-05:00

Will Virginians have more than two choices in the March Republican primary?
PJ Tatler thinks it's possible.

Fix it in the future

2012-01-02T09:10:00.002-05:00

Smitty posts the letter from Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli, saying it's too late to fix the primary ballot for 2012.
My intentions have never focused on which candidates would be benefited or harmed, rather I have focused on what is best for Virginia’s citizens, as hundreds of thousands of Virginians who should have been able to make their choices among the full field of presidential primary contenders have had their number of choices reduced significantly.
We'll be watching.

Thorough trashing

2011-12-17T10:44:00.001-05:00

Virginia Right does a brilliant job examining the numbers behind the recent Public Policy Polling poll between Tim Kaine and George Allen.
You poll more Democrats, and the Democrat has a lead.
If you poll based on political reality, George Allen leads.
This poll called more Democrats than Republicans, which is not accurate at all and completely out of touch with the political landscape of Virginia. 30 more people in this Democrat skewed poll picked Kaine. The 5% “lead” is actually 30 people out of 600. This was done to give the left wing media the opportunity claim Kaine won the Associated Press debate.
The numbers have not moved. This race is dead even. Period.

David Karaffa, Eve of Election

2011-11-07T14:10:00.001-05:00

"The People Have a Choice Here in Augusta. "

David Karaffa and his wife, Katie.

This Tuesday’s election has caught attention in the last week. Many things have been said by me, my opponent, the newspapers, blogs, and emails. Boiled down, the people of Beverley Manor, and three other districts, have a choice here in Augusta. Do we continue with what we have had for the last four years on the Board of Supervisors or do we change direction with new representation.

I am honored to have the endorsement of The News Virginian and of Jim Bailey, Republican Supervisor of the Beverley Manor District from 2001-2007. I have also had the privilege of multiple Volunteer Fire Fighters on my campaign along with Letters to The Editor in both newspapers supporting my bid for supervisor.

I am married to my beautiful wife Katie; we have two children, Grace and Hope. I have a degree in applied sciences from Blue Ridge Community College with a focus in nursing. I am a conservative, and I am running as an Independent for the Board of Supervisors. As an Independent, I am answerable to the people not constrained by party affiliation. I believe in small government, property rights, and government transparency, low taxes, and proper funding for education. I am pro-life and believe in our right to bear arms. If voters are confused about whom the Republican is in this race, it probably stems from the fact that my ideas and principles are directly in line with common sense conservatives. But I am more than that, I think outside the box. I don’t believe in voting as a block or gang, however I do believe in working together for common goals. I believe government has its place in our society and that the role of an elected Representative should be making sure core services are provided responsibly and efficiently, holding down growth of government, and shrinking its intrusion into our lives.

I have many ideas on how we can improve Augusta County. For example, I support immediately beginning a new property assessment and implementing a tax holiday for new small businesses in their first year. I have a proposal on how to lessen the burden of accounting for small business assets, incentives for volunteer fire fighters to increase their ranks, and changing the county budget to a zero based process. I am also in favor of staggering the elections of our Board of Supervisors here in Augusta.

This election is about new ideas and a new direction and an opportunity to put conservative values back on the Board of Supervisors. I ask you, the voter, to take the time between now and tomorrow to research the issues and make an informed decision before coming to the polls.

Thank you.

David A. Karaffa

Candidate Beverley Manor District

www.davidkaraffa.com

A Healthy Dose of 'Vitamin I'

2011-11-06T20:23:00.000-05:00

Independent Candidates Offer Fresh Vision

David Karaffa brings a solid Conservative perspective to the process of solving problems facing local government.

On the Appalachian Trail, 'Vitamin I' refers to Ibuprofen, the friend of hurting hikers. Ibuprofen allows people to hike on, not listening to their aching knees and ankles, often hurting themselves in the long run.

The 'Vitamin I' that I refer to, however, is the fresh voice of young Conservative candidates running as Independents in our county supervisors' races. Rather than mask the pain of our current situation, these candidates create constructive dialogue that must proceed the tough choices that will be required in the upcoming session. By spotlighting tough issues, these candidates alert us to problems that must be solved before they cause bigger pain down the road.

Consider the needs of our Volunteer Fire Companies. We are losing volunteers at a rate that could lead to the demise of this essential community protection that neighbors provide for each other. Investment is necessary to retain and recruit these fine people. A property tax credit of up to $750, reimbursement for mileage and for training expenses go a long way to show our practical appreciation for these first responders.

In a lean economy, government must ensure that essential education needs are met. Open budgets need to be scrutinized and seriously discussed by all who will be affected. Tough choices need to be handled wisely. David Karaffa, Kurt Michael and Marshall Pattie, along with sitting supervisor Tracy Pyles, will spend the time it takes to work with the school board, educators and the taxpayers to make the process clear and understandable.

State monies, paid by us the taxpayers, must be fairly allocated. To that end the unrealistic valuations of the last assessment must be corrected. The formula for allocating state funds depends on fair assessed values. Our inflated valuations cause us to receive less than our share. Our new supervisors will be committed to correcting this problem.

Economic development is a key element for all of these candidates, who see vital work for the next generation of Augusta County citizens as an imperative. We cannot afford to remain known as the county that 'dissed' Toyota. With involved individuals on our board we can attract new industry and still retain the unique agricultural character of our region.

With the recent loss of Roger Zirkle, a great gap was felt in our school board. With no time to place names on the ballot, Lee Godfrey, who had previously sought this office as a Democrat, began a write in campaign. Ms. Godfrey, unfortunately, represents a more liberal perspective than that of most citizens of the district. She has actively participated in anti-war rallys and could be a vote against Weekday Religious Education and issues of parents' rights should they come before the board.

Once again an Independent Conservative voice entered the race when local business owner Chris Foschini threw his hat into the ring. Now voters in the Beverley Manor District will be able to choose a candidate (also a write-in) who actually reflects their values and concerns. A parent, with one son in the Army and two younger children in Augusta schools, Chris wants to see practical steps to train students for their future lives as citizens. Observing that so many problems government attempts to solve are the result of bad financial decisions, Foschini envisions a mandatory financial requirement for high school graduates.

Chris Foschini for School Board

2011-11-06T20:20:00.000-05:00

Running in Beverley Manor District of Augusta County

Chris Foschini.

Augusta County, Virginia – November 3, 2011 – Chris Foschini decides to put his name forward as a write-in candidate for the Augusta County School Board in the Beverley Manor District.

Local business owner, Chris Foschini, feels the conservative needs are not represented on the ballot this Tuesday for the Beverley Manor School Board seat. If elected, Chris Foschini will support Week Day Religious education, strict oversight of school funds, keeping Ladd elementary and Beverley Manor open, and integrating technology into the classroom thus saving school dollars.

Chris Foschini’s biggest concern is that young people graduating at the high school level do not have sufficient education about money management. Chris would push for mandatory financial education before graduation. “Our country’s financial crisis is a result of poor money and debt management. Part of the solution must be educating our young people to make wise decisions and planning when it comes to their financial future.”

Chris Foschini is married to his wife Stephanie, he has three children, one in the United States Army and two others currently attending Augusta County Public Schools. Chris Foschini and his family are members of the Assembly of God at Destiny Family Center in Stuarts Draft.
___________________________________________________

Lynn Has More [click to read] on the School Board Race.

"Foschini, who is married with three children, is a military dad with a son in the United States Army. His opponent, Lee Godfrey, is also running as a write-in candidate. Previously, she unsuccessfully ran as a Democrat for Beverley Manor District supervisor and, in 2007, she was pictured in the Rockbridge Weekly holding a sign at an anti-war rally[1.]"

Fiscal Health and Local Government

2011-10-24T10:27:00.000-04:00

New Challenges Require Clear Vision

The next board of supervisors will face some tough choices. The problems facing local governments today require thoughtful solutions rather than simple slogans.

The local newspaper said it well: "The next Augusta Board of Supervisors will have to make some difficult decisions." The phrase: "Bring me men to match my mountains." comes to mind. Indeed, the need for informed individuals willing to hammer out the hard choices has never been clearer. The recent property assessment debacle proves that well.

Nichole Gelinas in City Journal writes about the indicators of health in local and state finances. Her article: Hidden in Plain Sight [click to read] says that disclosure requirements are a step in the right direction, but they alone will not fix the situation.

Fair and Honest Property Assessments

Think of our own local government and the recent property assessment battle. The historical pattern had always been one where assessments were performed in a rather casual way to follow the then predictable rise in real estate values. Governments planned expenditures based on this pattern and boards of supervisors rubber stamped the whole process.

In a steadily growing economy there was no need for questioning reality, after all. The can kicked down the road was highly unlikely to roll back on you.

After 2006, reality changed. The appraisal and budget process that followed underscored the need for lively and open debate. Tracy Pyles, supervisor from the Pastures District, took the bold and necessary step of addressing flaws in the process that would eventually come back to bite us. The assessors were using values derived from a real estate bubble that had already burst. There was no reality in letting tax rates be driven by these numbers. Furthermore, the inflated numbers created a false report to state revenue agencies, resulting in reduced payments to the county from state taxes collected. Northern Virginia localities saw their property values reduced in a more honest process and actually received increased state funding while Augusta's was reduced.

The inability of other local elected officials to throw themselves into this debate is telling. In low-crime Mayberry, Barney Fife can keep his service revolver empty and his bullet in his pocket. If revenues can be counted on to rise 'safely,' we can afford to let the supervisors kick the can down the road, or so it might seem. Actually the need for open and honest debate is even more important when we might plan honestly for a range of contingiencies. The best reforms happen quietly and in a timely manner. They may never show up in print.

The 2011 campaign for supervisor's seats in Augusta County should create no less than a mandate for the kind of debate that will monitor county vital signs BEFORE a fiscal disaster occurs.

First Responder Support Strategies

Recent audits of Augusta's fire stations uncovered problems that beg the question: "Why didn't the board of supervisors impliment key elements of a fire plan they commissioned?" David Karaffa, candidate for Beverley Manor District Supervisor proposes some strong steps to support our volunteer community. Property tax credit of up to $750 is a great incentive for someone like an artisan farmer who is willing to give her time to protecting the community as a fire fighter/EMT. Reimbursement for mileage and training also help her with practical support as she provides real safety to the county. Tuition credits for young first responders would enhance recruitment of the next generation.

Supporting the volunteer community now makes perfect sense. This 'stitch in time' response to volunteer support would help to preserve the ideal of self-protecting community service. At the same time, Karaffa suggests, we need to unfreeze and fill key paid positions.

Education as a Priority

Seeing an educated population as a key element of economic development, Karaffa says: "Education is vital for our economy, our children, our government, and our future. If elected, I will work side by side with the school board in terms of budgeting and other needs to make sure that every dollar put toward education is used to its fullest and not wasted. I will frequently be checking in with the school board representatives and will attend their meetings to hear the concerns of the parents in our community." Believe him. As the parent of two young daughters, he's concerned that monies reach the classroom. He's already going to more meetings than some people who are already elected and makes a practice of informing himself going into decisions.

Fiscal Responsibility and Accountability to the People

David Karaffa supports budget process where the people are given the opportunity to see the actual figures before the budget is voted on. Openness, he feels, would be a great deterrant to unnecessary and frivolous spending. A quesionable hundred-thousand dollar expenditure on new cell phones for county employees might well have been cut before unnecessary spending occurred. In an era of tightened belts and necessary sacrifice, it is refreshing to see a new generation of candidates who see tax revenues as the people's money.

Note: The Author of this post actively serves in the campaign of David Karaffa for Supervisor.

Gearing up for November

2011-10-08T18:55:00.001-04:00

Smitty from the Other McCain has a report on the Fairfax County GOP Veterans convention Saturday.
So, yes, we like us some elections in Virginia. This state provided a hefty chunk of the brain trust that founded the country all those years ago, as we crawled out from under the British thumb. It’s only logical that Virginia show leadership as we crawl out from under the Progressive thumb.

Getting ready for July 28th

2011-07-06T22:04:00.000-04:00

Jason Bibeau will be seeking the Republican nomination for Augusta County treasurer at the mass meeting July 28th.
Sounds like he's fired up and ready to go.

Story of the Tracker

2011-05-07T12:34:00.006-04:00

SWACgirl had the story and photos of Alan, the Democrat taping George Allen's appearances.
Make sure you get Allen's good side.
He might need some shots for the re-election bid in 2018.

Bibeau, Bibeau, Bibeau, Bibeau, Looks like he is everywhere

2011-04-27T10:48:00.000-04:00

Newsvirginian

Newsleader

The Journey

Swacgirl

FishersvilleMike

THYME Magazine

2011-04-25T08:43:00.001-04:00

Citizen Journalism with a Better Flavor

Volume III, Issue XVII

THYME's Guide to the Most Influential

If, as Jefferson states, "the most important level of politics is local," then it follows that the most important political figures are those who represent your own community.

While the 'other' weekly news magazine looks for its 100 most influential people, THYME went looking for the heroes of hometown politics. We didn't have far to go.

Augusta County, Virginia is situated at the junction of two major US interstates but is still a fine mix of rural and urban elements. Manufacturing, Agriculture and Transportation exist in a balance that makes the area desirable as home or as a potential business location.

The mix that makes Augusta rich in potential also creates unique challenges for local government. Old paradigms are not adequate for addressing these challenges.

Fortunately Augusta is seeing a renaissance in citizen involvement in the process that should inspire people across the fruited plain.

Every Election Matters Now

Typically 'off-year' elections were uninspiring events with low turnout and predictable outcomes. That was before Augusta's current board of supervisors rubber stamped a fatally flawed assessment and set in motion a citizen protest directed at their lack of having a voice in Verona [the seat of the Government Center].

The unrealistic assessment numbers resulted in reduced distribution of state revenues. Public safety and education resources were understandably stretched. Pastures supervisor Tracy Pyles is already in the fight, having previously introduced a motion to discard the new assessment. This election cycle sees some new candidates stepping forward to seek seats in other districts. David Karaffa is running for the position in the Beverley Manor District and Dr. Kurt Michael in adjoining Wayne.

Here are candidates who are stepping up to create solutions in such areas as fire protection. They are putting together real proposals for real problems. They deserve a hearing and your vote on November 8th.

Look for another important hat being thrown into the ring on April 30th. Augusta County will become a model for other localities to follow. Jason Bibeau invites all concerned citizens to come out to the Government Center at 9:00am this coming Saturday. THYME will have more on this important story as it unfolds.

Karaffa Kick-Off

2011-01-06T20:02:00.002-05:00

David Karaffa will be announcing his candidacy for the Augusta County Board of Supervisors on Saturday, January 8th at 10:00am at the Government Center in Verona.

The entire event will last about 20 minutes and all local media are invited to attend. Come out and hear what David has planned for Augusta County. Please let your neighbors know, all are invited.

www.DavidKaraffa.com
Also Posted at YankeePhil

2011-01-01T13:47:00.000-05:00

A midair collision between a small airplane and a medical helicopter killed two people Friday near the Shenandoah Valley Regional Airport in Weyers Cave, authorities said.

Both occupants of a 1967 single-engine Cessna 172L were killed when it plummeted into a farm field after clipping AirCare 5, a medical transport helicopter, at about 2:30 p.m., authorities said.

A plane similar to this was involved

See more here and here
Cross Posted at Yankeephil

THYME Magazine

2010-12-30T22:17:00.000-05:00

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

2010-11-17T17:21:00.000-05:00

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

2010-11-16T15:42:00.000-05:00

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

2010-11-08T21:26:00.000-05:00

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

2010-11-02T08:58:00.002-04:00

About the Three Constitutional Amendments

2010-11-02T07:35:00.001-04:00

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?

2010-11-01T10:45:00.000-04:00

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?

2010-10-30T14:52:00.003-04:00

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

2010-10-13T08:21:00.002-04:00

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

2010-10-12T16:47:00.001-04:00

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!

2010-10-12T12:05:00.003-04:00

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

2010-09-06T08:51:00.001-04:00

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?

2010-09-05T18:39:00.004-04:00

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

2010-07-27T09:33:00.000-04:00

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

2010-07-21T19:41:00.005-04:00

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

2010-07-20T21:27:00.002-04:00

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

2010-07-01T22:54:00.001-04:00

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'

2010-06-03T17:49:00.004-04:00

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

2010-05-20T07:00:00.001-04:00

~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

2010-05-19T21:46:00.003-04:00

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?

2010-05-18T08:49:00.001-04:00

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

2010-05-09T07:06:00.003-04:00

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...........

2010-04-30T14:44:00.003-04:00

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.

2010-04-19T15:37:00.003-04:00

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!

2010-04-15T09:35:00.003-04:00

Those of Us Who Live Here Will Agree

Phil Tells the Story [click to read].

Tax Day Tea Party Information Kiosk III

2010-04-15T09:29:00.002-04:00

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

2010-04-15T09:26:00.000-04:00

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

2010-04-14T11:36:00.000-04:00

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'...

2010-04-13T09:04:00.006-04:00

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

2010-04-12T15:02:00.004-04:00

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

2010-04-12T11:13:00.005-04:00

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

2010-04-03T10:46:00.004-04:00

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.

2010-04-01T18:14:00.003-04:00

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

2010-03-29T15:20:00.005-04:00

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

2010-03-25T12:27:00.004-04:00

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

2010-03-25T06:00:00.000-04:00

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"

2010-03-24T16:12:00.002-04:00

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

2010-03-15T23:41:00.002-04:00

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

2010-03-14T15:15:00.002-04:00

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

2010-03-08T14:00:00.001-05:00

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

2010-03-05T14:45:00.002-05:00

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

2010-02-18T11:37:00.001-05:00

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

2010-02-17T14:29:00.001-05:00

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

2010-02-15T12:26:00.003-05:00

Citizen Journalism with a Better Flavor

Volume II, Issue VII

Winter in Virginia [click to read] special edition.

PPP - Perriello tied at best

2010-02-11T10:55:00.003-05:00

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???

2010-02-10T23:03:00.002-05:00

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.

2010-02-09T11:34:00.002-05:00

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

2010-02-08T19:46:00.002-05:00

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

2010-02-04T12:30:00.000-05:00

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

2010-02-04T11:13:00.000-05:00

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

2010-02-01T16:00:00.001-05:00

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?

Rep. Eric Cantor challenges Democrat Hoyer

2010-01-21T20:01:00.000-05:00

Republicans standing up to the Democrats ... this is what we are looking for in leadership. Watch the video:

Today, during his weekly colloquy with the current Majority Leader Steny Hoyer, Republican Whip Eric Cantor challenged Hoyer to repudiate the Democrats' liberal policies that have created a great deal of uncertainty in our economy and are being roundly rejected by voters across the country.

We may be the minority Party in D.C. but that doesn't mean our leaders can't stand up and speak out. Our gratitude to Rep. Cantor for speaking out.

Gov. Bob McDonnell will respond to State of the Union

2010-01-21T16:50:00.001-05:00

Gov. Bob McDonnell to address nation

Virginia's Republican Gov. Bob McDonnell will address the nation in response to President Barack Obama's State of the Union Address on Wednesday, January 27, it has been announced by the Governor's office.

Accepting an invitation from Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and House Republican Leader John Boehner (R-OH), the location of the response has not been released.

Pulling on distant memory brain cells, wasn't this what Tim Kaine did shortly after his election when he received the nickname "The Eyebrow"?
Reposted from Swacgirl

The Pampered Palate Cafe in historic downtown Staunton

2010-01-19T12:17:00.000-05:00

A beautiful sunny day with temps in the 50s greeted central Shenandoah Valley folks Monday. Many were in historic downtown Staunton shopping, dining, and enjoying the beautiful weather.

SWAC Niece was out of school and came to visit so we headed to The Pampered Palate Cafe on Beverley Street for lunch where there is a large choice of sandwiches, salads, soups, quiche, desserts, gourmet chocolates, and beverages including wine.

The Pampered Palate is located in a circa 1840 building in the Beverley Historic District. In earlier days merchants sold tobacco, cigars, boots, shoes, millinery, and jewelry. In 1921 they added lunch and some old-timers remember hot dogs grilled in the front window. The current cafe opened in 1979 as a wine and gourmet shop with pre-packaged sandwiches. The menu evolved over the years, and today a continental breakfast as well as lunch are served.

After lunch a stroll along Beverley Street ended at Berry's Natural Way, and then SWAC Niece and her mom (my sister) headed back to Richmond.

It was a good day....

The Pampered Palate Cafe
26 West Beverley Street
Staunton, VA 24401-4321
(540) 886-9463
Get directions

Photo by SWAC Girl
Lynn Mitchell
18 January 2010

Americans For Prosperity Post Inauguration Shindig.

2010-01-17T21:31:00.002-05:00

Lots of Pics over at YankeePhil.

The Electeds at AFP

Family sings the National Anthem so well

Our AFP Hosts-Tim and Ben

2 Candidates from the 5th made it to AFP Party
Friends and Activists
Some Friends at AFP

Former Va. Gov. Wilder Comments on Harry Reid

2010-01-13T23:02:00.003-05:00

As we approach Martin Luther King Jr. day, our Former Governor reminds us of why they marched in the Civil Rights movement. Doug Wilder was compared Harry Reid to the racist White Citizen Council's of the 1950's.
See it over here
He says a greater apology is due.
I think one is due to the American people.
If Harry Reid is basing his Presidential support on skin color, and dialect, he is in familiar territory with the Democrat Party. The home of Klansman Byrd. The home of the founders of the Ku Klux Klan. The home of the party of segregation.

Let us see the words of a Republican, Martin Luther King Jr.

I say to you today, my friends, that in spite of the difficulties and frustrations of the moment, I still have a dream. It is a dream deeply rooted in the American dream.

I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: "We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men are created equal."

I have a dream that one day on the red hills of Georgia the sons of former slaves and the sons of former slave owners will be able to sit down together at a table of brotherhood.

I have a dream that one day even the state of Mississippi, a desert state, sweltering with the heat of injustice and oppression, will be transformed into an oasis of freedom and justice.

I have a dream that my four children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.

I have a dream today.

Tenth Amendment Rally in Richmond

2010-01-11T10:29:00.002-05:00

We now have 750 RSVPs. Help push us over 1,000!!!!!

Email at rsvp@richmondteaparty.com and simply put in the subject line how many people you will bring. It is that easy!

Icy Walk on the Blue Ridge Parkway

2010-01-09T18:35:00.002-05:00

The 'Global Warming' Gallery Keeps Growing

Ice on a cliff along the Parkway forms a bridal veil.

Ice and Snow on the Blue Ridge Parkway [click to read].

Taking the Heat

2010-01-08T16:26:00.003-05:00

The NewsVirginian has a story about budgets cuts in the Valley.
it brought out the areas law enforcement. Sheriff Fisher was there. Bob Stuart of the NewsVirginian states that Rockbridge, Rockingham, and Shenandoah Sheriffs were also represented.
They are worried about $300 million cuts to the states Sheriff's proposed by outgoing Governor Kaine.
See the full story here
See a related story at YankeePhil

Francis Chester Still Fighting

2010-01-06T14:42:00.003-05:00

The Churchville Lawyer who took on Augusta County is fighting back. Francis Chester is appealing the sanctions imposed by Judge Victor Ludwig.
Chester said Ludwig’s letter concerning the sanctions was more than just a professional, unbiased act by the judge. The 14-page missive included sharp criticisms of Chester.

“I am not going to let these sanctions divert me from the reassessment case,” Chester said. “I intend to pursue the reassessment case like a bulldog.”
See more at the NewsVirginian here. and more here

Virginia's Tomorrow

2010-01-04T10:10:00.005-05:00

With the Right Vision it Could Be Bright Indeed!

Vision for tomorrow...

Virginians resoundingly voted for a new tomorrow this past November.The election of Bob McDonnell alone would signify that. The sweep by McDonnell, Bolling and Cuccinelli is more like a mandate. There is clearly support for a Reagan-like revolution in the direction of state leadership. Here is a look at what the future might hold for the Commonwealth.

Continue Reading [click to read].

Michael Reagan: "GOP needs to work together"

2010-01-02T09:00:00.000-05:00

The days of "not conservative enough" or "too conservative for me" should be erased from our political vocabulary once the primary process is complete. At that stage, we must join together to help our candidates win elections and begin the critical job of stopping the flow of liberal policies coming out of Washington and numerous state capitals across the land.

The challenges ahead are too great for us not to make this resolution together. For if we fail, I fear our nation will pay a hefty price -- hopefully not an irreversible one. -- Michael Reagan (January 1, 2010)

In greeting the New Year, Michael Reagan's hope is that all Republicans will work together in the best interests of our country:

I am resolute in my conviction that we can no longer afford to wage the type of attacking and bitter intra-party battles that have weakened our ability to coalesce as a party in opposition to the wasteful and damaging policies coming out of Washington. That is not to say that we should not engage in spirited primaries in an attempt to put forth the best candidates for the general election. What it does mean is that once a Republican candidate is victorious in the primary, all Republicans should give them their full support. Moreover, this support must not stop after the ballot has been cast.

The year is before us ... the outcome remains to be seen.

Virginia Vs. Vermont re: Lesbian Custody Battle

2009-12-30T14:15:00.003-05:00

A Virginia woman who gave birth to a young girl is now in a court battle with her former lesbian "spouse". Questions arise out of conflicting state laws. Do the laws of Virginia trump those of Vermont? Does little Isabella actually have 2 mommies? See more over at YankeePhil

Just the Facts, M'am, Part II

2009-12-26T11:02:00.004-05:00

PolitFact's Truth-O-Meter is Biased Too...

Mark Warner, in his form response to those who write him opposing the healthcare bill, also references the 'unbiased' site: Politfact, a project of the St. Petersburg Times.

Here is Evidence [click to read] that PolitFact is not exactly 'neutral.' In fact, PolitFact is here documented to have covered for ACORN and attempting to discredit Michele Bachmann.

Just the Facts, M'am...

2009-12-22T11:47:00.003-05:00

Mark Warner Uses Left Leaning 'Fact Check' Site

Recently Mark Warner sent me a form letter about Obamacare referencing the website FactCheck.org to discredit Conservative concerns. He said voters should look to such 'unbiased' sources because their are so many 'false statements' about the legislation. But follow the trail below to find out just how fair and balanced FactCheck.org really is.

The ANNENBERG Public Policy Center at the University of Pennsylvaniais the organization behind the FactCheck.org website that is being referenced by voters and media personalities alike to help them form opinions on the “truthfulness” of the claims being made by political ads as well as statements made on the Campaign Trail.

Kathleen Hall Jamieson, Ph.D. is the Director of the ANNENBERG Public Policy Center at the University of Pennsylvania which is the organization BEHIND the FactCheck.org “truthfulness” website.Dr. Jamieson's newest book entitled “Echo Chamber: Rush Limbaugh and the Conservative Media Establishment” is a MAJOR HIT PIECE against the Conservative voices in the media on television, radio, and in print. View the book’s Table of Contents [click to read]. Then decide for yourself.

What’s the bottom line? FactCheck.org is a LEFT-BIASED organization that has sold itself as “Politically NEUTRAL” to America’s voters and media personnel. The fact is, the ANNENBERG Public Policy Center (APPC), the sponsoring agency behind FactCheck.org, is itself supported by the same foundation, the ANNENBERG FOUNDATION, that Bill Ayers secured the 49.2million dollars from to create the Chicago ANNENBERG Challenge“philanthropic” organization in which Barack Obama was the founding Chairman of the Board for and Ayers served as the grant writer of and co-Chair of for its two operating arms. Hardly an 'unbiased' source. Source: Free Republic

Shenandoah Valley of Virginia ... 2009 winter snow storm

2009-12-19T12:10:00.003-05:00

The picket fence and gate are almost covered with snow. Photo by SWAC Daughter.

SWAC Husband clears 2 feet of snow off deck.

The snow is knee deep.

Pathway shoveled by SWAC Daughter to driveway.

As this photo was taken, heavy snow continued to fall. Photo by SWAC Daughter.

Photo by SWAC Daughter.

Snow drifting against fence.

Snow piled against door to deck.

Yard is a winter wonderland.

Heavy snow continues to fall as 25-30 mph wind gusts cause snow drifts.

Bob at The Journey has been out taking photos this morning ... and so has Fishersville Mike, whose bench is now completely buried in snow. No morning reports in yet from Yankee Phil or Jason or David.

Mike reminds us of those working throughout the storm, people we are thankful for ... and that includes SWAC bloggers Jason who is a deputy, and David who is a cardiac RN at the local hospital.

It's 23 degrees and the snow continues to fall....

Update:
- Phil has photos of the "big blast of global warming"
- David has photos and says they are "completely snowed in"
- Mike has updated at 11:15 Saturday morning

Photos by SWAC Girl & SWAC Daughter
Lynn Mitchell
19 December 2009

Campbell County Mother Kills Baby in VA

2009-12-18T15:37:00.002-05:00

The baby was under bedding and had been suffocated by her mother. Investigators say because the mother and baby were still connected by the umbilical cord and placenta, state law does not consider the baby to be a separate life. It is a legal abortion, apparently. Therefore, the mother cannot be charged.
Republican State Senator Steve Newman announced today that the Division of Legislative Services has begun drafting legislation to ensure that a life cannot be legally taken after a child is born not withstanding its connection to the umbilical cord.

The bill will amend Section 18.2 of the Code of Virginia which is the criminal code. Newman stated, “It is difficult to believe that the current Code could have such a flaw that would allow anyone to take the life of a born child. While I will not comment at this time on the case in Campbell County, it is abundantly clear that Virginians will demand a legislative cure to this loophole. I have consulted with the Attorney General Elect, Ken Cuccinelli; Campbell County Commonwealth Attorney, Neil Vener; Campbell County Sheriff Terry Gaddy and the investigator in the case, Tracy Emerson. All have indicated their full support for this legislation.

See the video at Yankee Phil

Some of Us Had 'Joe Wilson' Moments

2009-12-16T17:01:00.004-05:00

Getting the Attention of Public Servants...

...Can Be Extremely Frustrating!

But dissing a grandmother is really bad form!

83.333333333% of StrictlyVa meets at the Grille

2009-12-11T14:54:00.004-05:00

SWAC Area Bloggers, aka StrictlyVA bloggers met last night at the Depot Grille.
From Left to right are Fishersville Mike, Augusta Watercooler, The Journey, Swacgirl, and Yankee Phil. Augusta Conservative missed the shindig.
See more at Swacgirl .
Go see Bill with his Rabbit

The Return of the Rest Areas

2009-12-09T08:46:00.003-05:00

Governor McDonnell is Bringing Them Back!

An open rest area near Crozet.

My one question... how much money was actually "saved" as skilled crews removed signs, boarded up the buildings, striped a solid line across the deceleration lane, posted "no parking" signs, installed gates, winterized plumbing and removed fixtures?

Rest Areas to Re-Open

2009-12-09T00:27:00.001-05:00

Gov.-Elect McDonnell Pledges To Reopen Rest Areas Within 90 Days

Virginia highway rest stops shuttered to save money in the economic recession will reopen within 90 days after the January start of Gov.-elect Robert F. McDonnell’s term in office

Jon Stewart: Mark Warner Really Sucks

2009-12-08T23:56:00.004-05:00

They have brand new models
but they still just suck.
I meant Liberal Democrats, not Vacuums
Electrolux has always been a great brand

A funny video of Jon Stewart can be seen over at Yankee Phil.
It shows Mark Warner doing his impersonation of an Electrolux

Time to Contact Senators Warner and Webb

2009-12-07T12:08:00.003-05:00

Don't Let Them Vote 'Absent' Again...

Our two Senators were conspicuously absent during the healtcare debate earlier this year.

Once again our Senators need to hear from you! You need to remind them that we in Virginia do NOT want this life-denying tax increasing job killing monstrosity. Please vote NO!

Senator Warner:
(202) 224-2023

Senator Webb:
(202) 224-4024

Detailed Contact Information [click to read]. As Rush says: "to the phones we go..."

The Fall of the Church of Gore

2009-12-02T09:20:00.002-05:00

Global Warming's High Priest Disgraced by 'Climategate'

Skyline Drive, December 16, 2007. Photo by Bob Kirchman

Global Warming Debunked by my Virginia Photo Collection

Refusing to be swayed by "facts," Sticking to your beliefs even when all evidence points to their unreasonableness, it's a matter of faith after all... am I describing the "dangerous" [1.] Religious Right here? No, these are the characteristics of the modern Global Warming movement, of which Algore is head priest and prophet.

As the hacked emails make it ever clearer, he is a false prophet... the kind the Biblical Jeremiah condemned outright.

Monica Crowley in Political Mavens [click to read] discusses the Jim Baker-like fall of climate televangelist Algore.

I'm doing my little bit too with my Virginia Photo Album.

In Honor of 'ClimateGate'

2009-12-01T16:50:00.003-05:00

January 17th and 18th Last Winter...

It was minus two outside this window.

A family inspects icicles on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Sherando Lake was ready for ice hockey.

As bitter cold gripped the commonwealth, Obama's transition team wondered what to do with the planned 'global warming' speeches.

All Images by Bob Kirchman. None Photoshopped.

In Honor of 'ClimateGate'

2009-12-01T12:31:00.005-05:00

A Virginia Snow Scene...

An October 19th snow scene at George Freedman Pollack's Skyland in Shenandoah National Park. It probably messed up some ranger's 'global warming' talk that week. Photo by Bob Kirchman.

Kissing Bandit in Loudoun

2009-11-27T19:04:00.002-05:00

There is a Kisser on the loose. Over in Loudon County a man, maybe a foreigner, is kissing random joggers. See the video here
Loudoun County Sheriff's officers have identified and talked to the man believed to have kissed at least four female joggers last week in Sterling.

None of the four joggers wanted to press charges against the 71-year-old man. He has an ailment and showed no criminal intent, Loudoun County Sheriff's Office spokesman Kraig Troxell said.

The incidents happened on Whitewater Drive in the Lowes Island area. Several female joggers reported that an older man had approached them at different times, extended his hand as if to shake hands, then kissed them on the cheek or hand, Troxell said.

The man is not being named since he was not charged.

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-26T21:24:00.000-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving to the SWAC Bloggers....

Tea Party director, Richard Armstrong running for Staunton City Council.

2009-11-24T22:24:00.003-05:00

The director of the Shenandoah Valley Tea Party Patriots is the first official candidate to fill the Staunton City Council seat of outgoing state District 20 Del.-elect Dickie Bell.

Former Detroit policeman and Navy veteran Richard Armstrong, 63, on Monday submitted his application and Staunton vision statement.

See the story at News Virginian, or at Augusta Conservative

Cantor-sponsored job fair in Culpeper turns out 700

2009-11-24T14:30:00.000-05:00

Congressional Whip Eric Cantor (R-7th CD) sponsored a job fair Monday in Culpeper ... and more than 700 unemployed Virginians turned out to take advantage of the opportunity to talk with 50 employers looking for new employees. WVIR NBC-29 was there to cover the event and has details as well as video.

This is the Congressman's second job fair. The first, held earlier this year in Chesterfield, also attracted thousands.

A little Change of Scenery

2009-11-24T00:01:00.004-05:00

We decided to make a slight change of scenery.
This is a pic of Grand Caverns, near Grottoes Virginia

Here are a few from inside the caves

Swoope has a carriage company

2009-11-23T13:08:00.003-05:00

Blue Ridge Carriage Company has 2 big Percherons

They are neighbors and co-workers.
I have no financial stake in their business, but I wish them good fortune.

Voting 'Absent'

2009-11-22T13:45:00.000-05:00

Warner and Webb Didn't Show Up to Represent Us...

I'll be getting another round of 'form letters.' You'll tell me how you 'have concerns' about the bill as it is written and other such nonsense. If you really cared about the legitimate concerns so many of us have about it then why did both of you vote to allow this destructive monstrosity to go to debate in the first place?

Will Mark Warner vote anti-business and create new federal agency?

2009-11-20T17:00:00.001-05:00

Call Sen. Mark Warner (804.775-2314 or 202.224-2023) and tell him NO new federal agencies.

While most eyes are on the massive federalized government health care bill now making its way through the Senate, Congress is secretly working on other legislation to broaden and expand government even more. We cannot afford this continued spending ... America's back is breaking under the burden of debt.

Maximus at The Contemporary Conservative summed it up very well: Will Senator Mark Warner vote to create a new Frankenstein Federal Agency designed to strangle business recovery?

Sen. Chris Dodd (D-CT) introduced a wide-ranging piece of legislation last week that combines some of the worse anti-business provisions of securities "reform" legislation that was floating around.

Known as “Restoring American Financial Stability Act of 2009," the bill would create the Consumer Financial Protection Agency and promote what is referred to as "scheme liability."

There are business impacts that are direct to certain kinds of businesses, those that are indirect (such as to realtors, small banks, and auto dealers who will be harmed further if people can't get home loans or car loans) and those that hit all of us as end consumers either through reduced or eliminated access to certain kinds of loans or through higher prices for products and services (as the increased cost of doing business is passed along).

This thing is massive ... and creates another bureaucratic agency with more layers in government resulting in more taxpayer costs at a time when the federal debt has TRIPLED in the past six months.

One sentence in this massive Senate financial regulatory legislation would leave small businesses, banks, and accountants as well as virtually any other business subject to a flood of new securities class action lawsuits. Class action lawyers, who support the bill, would be allowed to sue virtually anyone who did business with a public company alleged to have engaged in fraud even if they didn't know anything about the alleged fraud.

This guilt-by-association provision would hurt innocent companies by forcing them into extortionate settlements. Because securities class action lawsuits tend to seek massive damage awards, many bystander businesses -- even those bearing no culpability whatsoever -- would feel compelled to settle the lawsuits rather than go to trial and risk losing a "bet-the-company" case.

The Securities and Exchange Commission and the Department of Justice are already in place and authorized to prosecute those who aid and abet violations of securities laws so why is another newly-created agency necessary?

There have been news reports in many states of securities class action lawyers engaging in pay-to-play with public pension fund officials, contributing large amounts to their campaigns in return for contracts to represent the pension fund in lawsuits in which the lawyers are likely to make tens of millions of dollars in legal fees.

Aside from specific concerns that certain businesses have because of the direct impact coming from this legislation, it is a given that consumers will be adversely impacted by anything that drives up the cost of doing business.

So whether it is because of increased legal costs in defending against lawsuits, increased costs of complying with regulations or artificial determinations about the cost of products, these new increased costs of doing will will be passed on to the consumer. And that is everyone.

The Heritage Foundation agrees there is absolutely no rationale for creating such an agency:

During last year's presidential campaign, Barack Obama noted that "you can put lipstick on a pig, but it's still a pig."

This phrase neatly sums up the ongoing ... Financial Services Committee markup of .... the Consumer Financial Protection Agency (CFPA) Act of 2009. Despite honest attempts to improve the bill, the overall concept is still badly flawed, and any result that comes close to the original concept will be a major mistake. There is simply no rationale for creating such an agency that a coordinating council of state and federal financial regulators cannot accomplish easier and at a lower cost.

Sen. Mark Warner is a member of the committee and, as a businessman, should be pulling back in horror at the thought of this overreaching government bureaucracy. Calls and letters are urgently needed to ask Sen. Warner to vote NO on creating another bureaucratic agency. He can be contacted by letter, FAX, or phone call:

The Honorable Sen. Mark Warner
919 East Main Street, Suite 630
Richmond, VA 23219

FAX: (804) 775-2319
PHONE - Richmond Office: (804) 775-2314
PHONE - Washington Office: (202) 224-2023

Congress should rely on legislation already in place, such as the SEC and Department of Justice, to enforce the laws on the books rather than create new bureaucracy, more debt, and more opportunity for ACORN to have access in this Obama administration.

Can Someone Show Me the 12th District?

2009-11-18T09:04:00.004-05:00

This is Enlightening...

The Stimulus Money is Saving and Creating Jobs in Nonexistant Congressional Districts [click to read]. I'm wondering how ACORN might be involved in this.

SWAC Girl says: "Virginia has eleven congressional districts. Yet DJ at Right-Wing Liberal alerts us that somehow the Obama administration provided over $2.26 million to the 12th Congressional District. There is no such animal ... will there be an investigation by the media?"

Virginia's eleven Congressional Districts.

No, Virginia, there will NOT be an investigation by the media. Just the obligitory "we knew about it but it's not real news" piece.

This is Frightening...

Cook County politics come to Virginia? We're wondering if some ACORN volunteer turned member of the administration rode the Metro across the river and discovered the large cemetary there. In Chicago that is an underrepresented voter block, as you well know, and the staffer simply jumped the gun. After the Census comes redistricting.

Recently [I am NOT making this up]!!! there was a cemetary in Cook County that was digging up graves and reselling the plots! That it happened in Chicago makes you wonder... if these people were actively voting they didn't need a cemetary plot anyway, did they?

So I have a macabre theory as to where this "12th district" is. Watch out for purple shirts and ACORN 'Voter Registration Drives" in 2010 folks.

H.R. 3962 Made Simple...

2009-11-07T17:39:00.001-05:00

This Diagram Will Help You Understand Obamacare

THYME Special Healthcare Edition

Our staff worked through the night to reduce the two thousand page document into a diagram that is easy to understand. Those of you who are sharp historians will recognize the infamous 1938 'Man of the Year' cover from the 'other' weekly newsmagazine.