Author: Mark Brooks

Independent Journalist/Photographer --- USN Veteran. Involved as a citizen and journalist in politics and open government locally and sometimes statewide. Interests: photography, music, justice and equality for everyone.

Two top Cumberland County adminstrators resign

The Planning Director and the Assistant Administrator for Community Development have resigned from Cumberland County government, setting off speculation among those paying attention what was behind their exit. Andrew Sorrell and Michael Cooper no longer work for the county. Sorrell was the Planning Director, and Cooper was the Assistant Administrator for Community Development. Sorrell has … Continue reading Two top Cumberland County adminstrators resign →

It’s election year – get ready for that tax cut

At some point, probably centuries ago, politicians learned that as they appeared to be lowering taxes and/or introducing some popular project, they actually are and were playing election year politics. It's not random to see money coming to a district or county, either state or federal. This is the primary activity of those who wish … Continue reading It’s election year – get ready for that tax cut →

Virgil Goode running for President in 2012?

According to this blog, a fundraising appeal has gone out from the Constitution Party for their 2012 efforts. Included was the news that a resolution urging Virgil Goode, former Virginia 5th District Congressman, to run for President was passed. The party also said in its release that Goode has "...expressed strong interest..." in running.

This is the police: put down your camera

This is the title of an article on NPR's website, about a woman who was detained for taking video of an officer when he boarded the bus to deal with a drunk passenger. Joel Rose brings us the details. Last year, Fitchette, who was 16 at the time, was riding a city bus in Newark, … Continue reading This is the police: put down your camera →

Abbitt not seeking re-election

Speaker of the House William Howell announced Wednesday that Delegate Watkins Abbitt would not seek re-election for a 14th term.

Selective Bragging

I am sure that the practice of only taking parts of someone's article that you like and publicizing it to your advantage is not new. In fact, everyone does it at some point or another. This time, it is an example of our new Congressman, Robert Hurt (R-05) doing this, and leaving out his own … Continue reading Selective Bragging →

Footage from Longwood University during tornado

This is unedited, and happened as you see it. Thankfully, no damage was found at the University, however there was some in nearby neighborhoods. This is not what a person is supposed to do when a tornado is spotted, but it is a fascinating account of watching and realizing what they were looking at.

FOIA workshops in Roanoke tomorrow

Tomorrow (April 27, 2011) at the Roanoke Times building in Roanoke, a FOIA workshop will be held from 9:30AM until Noon. There is still time to register for this worthwhile program. Following this program, there will be a Records Management Seminar from 1:30PM until 4PM. There are several informational links to check out if you … Continue reading FOIA workshops in Roanoke tomorrow →

Friday fun: What Color Leather Jacket Are You?

You Are a Black Leather Jacket You are a simply happy person. You feel fortunate to have so much light and laughter in your life. You are sometimes unprepared, and you're fine with that. You prefer to remain open and flexible. You know how to have a good time. You have something to smile about … Continue reading Friday fun: What Color Leather Jacket Are You? →