Norfolk Federation of Civic Leagues

Guest post by Eric Heard The concept of bringing government back to the people is discussed on a daily basis throughout democratic nations. There is still the feeling that this cannot be done. This is far from the truth.  There is still that right to make a decision for what you believe in, who you … Continue reading Norfolk Federation of Civic Leagues →

Health care reform passes: what passes for conversation these days

Although I stayed up last night to watch the historic vote on health care, I have to admit that this bill was not what I wanted it to be. I get it - politics is the art of the possible - but that doesn't mean that I can't be disappointed. Like many others, I support … Continue reading Health care reform passes: what passes for conversation these days →

Johnson rally Saturday

Mamie Johnson, candidate for Norfolk council in Ward 3, is having a campaign rally Saturday morning from 10am to noon at Richard Bowling Elementary School UPDATE: Location moved to Woodlawn Baptist Church, 2736 Woodland Avenue, Norfolk. The rally is free and open to the public.

Margolies: “vote your conscience”

This article, which was reprinted in today's Virginian-Pilot, should be required reading for not only Rep. Glenn Nye but anyone running for or already in elected office. It's that there are times in all our careers when we must ask ourselves why we're here. I decided that my desire for public service at that moment … Continue reading Margolies: “vote your conscience” →

Friday fun: what’s your ism?

You Are Skepticism You live by the philosophy "Question Everything." And you do question everything, including this quiz result. You think people believe in too much, and you think very little is true. You scoff at astrology and psychics. You're not a nihilist - you believe in some things. But you only believe in what's … Continue reading Friday fun: what’s your ism? →

Why I care about the Norfolk schools’ mess – and why you should, too

I don't have any children in the Norfolk Public Schools, never have and never will. Yet I am dismayed to learn of the ever-widening scandal related to "irregularities" on the Standards of Learning (SOL) tests that seemingly hits the front page of The Virginian-Pilot almost daily. Not because it reflects poorly on the school system, … Continue reading Why I care about the Norfolk schools’ mess – and why you should, too →

Harsh realities

It's campaign season* - which means the politicians are out in full force, promising things to the voters. And the voters are lapping it up, depending upon their point of view.  Promises of additional spending - whether it be for schools or neighborhoods or anything else - garners support from those who would like to … Continue reading Harsh realities →

American Idol results 03/17/10

Although it was St. Patrick's Day, Irish eyes failed to smile on one contestant in Wednesday night's results show. The remaining  twelve competitors took on tunes from The Rolling Stones - not my favorite band - on Tuesday's show, and some fared better than others. Strange show opening: Simon took on Ryan over last night's … Continue reading American Idol results 03/17/10 →

Happy St. Patrick’s Day

To my fellow Irishmen, I hope you enjoy the day and not too much of the green beer that inevitably flows (If you do indulge, have one for me ) And like every year, here are a few words of wisdom. An Irish Prayer May those who love us, love us And those that don’t … Continue reading Happy St. Patrick’s Day →

2nd Annual Civic Engagement Summit

Civic Summit Set for April 10 and You're Invited! --Hampton Roads citizens to gather for 2nd annual civic engagement summit “Today’s challenges require the informed participation of the public and government organizations that are proactive about the engagement of their citizens.” —Jim Oliver, HRCCE Chair We hope you're planning to join us for the 2nd … Continue reading 2nd Annual Civic Engagement Summit →