I agree

I'm not much into "me, too" type posts. Generally, when a topic is adequately covered by others in the blogosphere, I tend to just let those posts do the talking for me. But some topics require a chorus. Such is the case with the proposed blackout on fundraising proposed by Del. Chris Saxman (HB3150), first … Continue reading I agree

Rerras and judicial selection

Today's Virginian-Pilot has a front page, above the fold article on the process of selecting judges in Virginia and, in particular, Norfolk. In the wake of last week's revelation of Nick Rerras' interview tactics, the article once again points out that the majority party makes the choice and that since Norfolk has a single member … Continue reading Rerras and judicial selection

Race in Norfolk

I didn't write today's editorial in the Virginian-Pilot but I could have: It is hard to think of anything in Norfolk of public importance that race doesn't bend and shape, from crime to housing and real estate taxes to education. Perhaps now folks will realize that it is not race-bating to tell the truth. Race … Continue reading Race in Norfolk

Report: ODU Reception

The annual ODU Alumni General Assembly reception last night was well-attended. I understand that there had been no receptions in Richmond for several days, as the GA approached crossover. Further, there were several last night, including one across the street (?) for VMI alumni. Among the attendees that I spotted and/or had a chance to … Continue reading Report: ODU Reception

ODU Alumni GA Reception

Each year, the Old Dominion University Alumni Association, of which I am a member, hosts a General Assembly reception. Last year, the event recognized former U.S. Rep. G. William Whitehurst. It was great fun and was well-attended by many members of the GA, not just those from Hampton Roads. This year, the event will recognize … Continue reading ODU Alumni GA Reception

Here comes the judge

On the heels of this horribly one-sided editorial in the Virginian-Pilot on Friday comes an article today about an interview conducted by Norfolk State Senator Nick Rerras (R-6th) of Mary G. Commander, a candidate for a Juvenile and Domestic Relations judgeship. In order to speak out, Ms. Commander resigned as a substitute judge in the … Continue reading Here comes the judge

More on eminent domain

The conclusion editorial regarding eminent domain in Virginia appeared in today's Virginian-Pilot. In it, reference is made to a study done by the Virginia Institute for Public Policy. The study, entitled "The Real Story of Eminent Domain in Virginia," has become a "bible of sorts" for those who believe that the system of takings in … Continue reading More on eminent domain

OTR: 02/04/07

This week's On the Record features a discussion of the impact of the new media on traditional media outlets, such as newspapers and TV. Joining host Joel Rubin will be Gordon Borrell, an internet consultant who launched Pilotonline for Landmark; Ernie Gates, the editor of the Daily Press; and Pete McElveen, webmaster for WVEC TV. … Continue reading OTR: 02/04/07

Mayor’s State of the City Address

I attended the State of the City address, delivered by Mayor Paul Fraim today. (I had hoped to get a copy of his remarks but they haven't come yet. ) For the most part, the mayor portrayed a fairly rosy picture for Norfolk: homicide is down, assessments are up, investment in the city is up, … Continue reading Mayor’s State of the City Address

SB 1168: Court-appointed compensation

According to the Virginia Fair Trial Project (formerly the Virginia Indigent Defense Coalition), Virginia provides the lowest compensation for court-appointed attorneys in the country. A court appointed attorney in Circuit Court is paid a maximum of $158 for a misdemeanor punishable by confinement, $1,235 for a felony punishable by more than 20 years confinement, and … Continue reading SB 1168: Court-appointed compensation