Ds are bad, Rs are worse but vote for them anyway

I should have put this in the Friday Fun category. Except it is just too sad to be funny. In a poll released earlier this week (toplines pdf), 60% disapprove of the way Democrats in Congress are handling their jobs. But 68% disapprove of the way that Republicans in Congress are handling their jobs.  So … Continue reading Ds are bad, Rs are worse but vote for them anyway

Redistricting hearing in Norfolk

The redistricting subcommittee of the House of Delegates Committee on Privileges and Elections held a public hearing in Norfolk last night. Nearly 80 people showed up for the hearing, more than double, I'm told, that of the earlier hearing in Roanoke. Members of the committee in attendance were Delegates Chris Jones (chair), Jackson Miller, Rosalyn … Continue reading Redistricting hearing in Norfolk

Antiquated rule discourages regional ventures

My latest op-ed, title above, appeared in Wednesday's Virginian-Pilot. As you might expect, I'm once again banging on the Dillon Rule. But I'm not alone in doing so. An article in the Richmond Times Dispatch drew my attention to the fact that the Intergovernmental Relations Committee of the Governor's Commission on Government Reform & Restructuring … Continue reading Antiquated rule discourages regional ventures

Help the Foodbank

Yes, I've written about this on numerous occasions. And I even mentioned it at my civic league last night. Bottom line: the economy is tough and people are hungry. The Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia is reporting a "critical shortage in donations." Help if you can. Thanks! UPDATE: I'd like to join Brian Kirwin in calling … Continue reading Help the Foodbank

Portsmouth mayor financial reports in

The financial reports for the upcoming special election for Portsmouth Mayor have been posted on the Virginia Public Access website.  Eight candidates are vying for the seat, which became open as the result of the recall of James Holley. D Stefan Adams - $368 raised ($25 in cash), $25 on hand William C Baker - … Continue reading Portsmouth mayor financial reports in

Reminder: Redistricting hearing Wednesday night

Just a quick reminder that the redistricting subcommittee of the House of Delegates Committee on Privileges and Elections will be holding a public hearing in Norfolk Wednesday evening, September 22 at the Roper Performing Arts Center, Tidewater Community College in Norfolk. The hearing starts at 7pm.

DADT repeal blocked

The dysfunctional Senate voted 56-43, thus failing to advance legislation that would have repealed "Don't Ask, Don't Tell." That it takes 60 votes to get anything done in this age of the Republican filibuster is why I consider the Senate dysfunctional. In 2006, Democrats theoretically gained control of the Senate, with 51 of them. Outside … Continue reading DADT repeal blocked

Portsmouth council community meeting tonight

Via The Virginian-Pilot: The Portsmouth City Council is holding a community meeting at 7 p.m. today at Woodrow Wilson High School, 1401 Elmhurst Lane. The council holds a community meeting every four months to hear concerns from residents. Wow. What a novel concept! Listening to the people. Meanwhile, Norfolk is holding a council meeting today … Continue reading Portsmouth council community meeting tonight

Happy Virginia CPAs week!

Bet you didn't know that Governor Bob McDonnell issued a proclamation (pdf) declaring September 19-25 as "Virginia Certified Pulic Accountants Week."  So go ahead - recognize me and all of the other more than 9,000 members of the Virginia Society of CPAs 😉 One thing that is planned for this week is a Day of … Continue reading Happy Virginia CPAs week!

Warner’s August Staycation

Um, based on this video, Sen. Mark Warner may have stayed in Virginia, but it was no vacation 😦