Author: Vivian J. Paige

A former candidate, I've learned a lot about politics, both good and bad. I'd prefer more of the former and a lot less of the latter and I'm trying to do my part!

BREAKING: Muhammad out of Norfolk Council race

I have just received word that Michael Muhammad has withdrawn from the race for Norfolk Council, Ward 4.  In withdrawing,  Muhammad strongly endorses the incumbent, Paul Riddick. This morning after meeting with campaign staff, supporters, friends, and family, I have made a well-thought out decision. Though it was a difficult decision, I think it to … Continue reading BREAKING: Muhammad out of Norfolk Council race →

Catching up with Senator Northam

I had the opportunity to spend a little time on the phone last week with my state senator, Ralph Northam. Our conversation covered a myriad of topics regarding the current General Assembly session. Northam represents the 6th Senate District, and is no longer the wet-behind-the-ears innocent that we elected three years ago. Northam expressed concerns … Continue reading Catching up with Senator Northam →

Ban political speech?

But once a speaker launches a personal attack at a member of council, there should be some way to limit that. Every council meeting should not be a political forum. The quote above comes from comments made by Mayor Paul Fraim earlier this week after council a frequent council critic attacked one of the members … Continue reading Ban political speech? →

Pilot – and Portsmouth council – fed up with sheriff’s antics

In a strongly worded editorial in Friday's Virginian-Pilot, the board takes to task Portsmouth Sheriff Bill Watson. The editorial came about as the result of the actions of Portsmouth City Council, reported in this story from Wednesday. It's been a while since I wrote about Watson, even though he provides comic relief. The Pilot needs … Continue reading Pilot – and Portsmouth council – fed up with sheriff’s antics →

American Idol Results 02/25/10

I have to admit: this has got to be the least talented bunch of contestants yet. Yeah, I know the judges keep saying it's the most talented, but I disagree. Out of the thousands of people that auditioned, these are the best 24? I don't think so. Maybe two each of the women and men … Continue reading American Idol Results 02/25/10 →

ALERT: Oppose HB 392 today!

UPDATE: The bill has been carried over to 2011, so it is dead for this year. Thanks for everyone's help on this. The Senate Transportation Committee will be taking up House Bill 392 at its meeting this afternoon at 2pm. This bill, if you recall, will increase, from $1,000 to $5,000, the amount of water … Continue reading ALERT: Oppose HB 392 today! →

More on Marshall’s comments

Del. Bob Marshall's comments continue to elicit responses - and none of them are positive. Rachel Maddow weighed in Monday evening Gov. Bob McDonnell condemned the remarks, calling them "wrong" and "offensive." Salon posted a good article on the event. Del. Robin Abbott made a heartfelt speech on the floor of the House Tuesday. The … Continue reading More on Marshall’s comments →

HRT’s Shucet meets with bloggers

Hampton Roads Transit's new President/CEO Philip Shucet sat down Monday with local bloggers. In attendence were Henry Ryto of Avenging Archangel,  Archie Whitehill of Sparkling Diversity,  Eileen Levandoski of VB Dems, Brian Kirwin of Bearing Drift, and yours truly. HRT has been in the news a lot lately, mainly due to the cost overruns on … Continue reading HRT’s Shucet meets with bloggers →

Sideshow Bob: time to resign

News Leader reports: State Delegate Bob Marshall of Manassas says disabled children are God's punishment to women who have aborted their first pregnancy.He made that statement Thursday at a press conference to oppose state funding for Planned Parenthood. "The number of children who are born subsequent to a first abortion with handicaps has increased dramatically. … Continue reading Sideshow Bob: time to resign →

Past time for an elected school board, Norfolk

The Virginian-Pilot had a story Saturday about the possibility of an elected school board in Norfolk. Seems some folks have seen the light. Because of what they call a recent series of negative revelations about the public schools, three City Council members say they favor an elected school board. I've long advocated for an elected … Continue reading Past time for an elected school board, Norfolk →