Philip Shucet, the new CEO of Hampton Roads Transit, announced Thursday that the Norfolk starter light rail line will cost $338.3 million, a 46% increase over what was originally budgeted. Such a sizeable overage is not normal. According to an earlier article, only four of the 25 light rail projects built since 1997 went over … Continue reading Norfolk’s light rail: $338.3M – and who knew what when
When was the last time 80% of America agreed?
I can't remember. I'm guessing it was when The Beatles appeared on the Ed Sullivan Show. Maybe not even then. But Tuesday, The Washington Post reported that 80% of poll respondents disagree with the Supreme Court ruling that allows "unfettered corporate political spending." The poll reveals relatively little difference of opinion on the issue among … Continue reading When was the last time 80% of America agreed?
American Idol Season 9: Top 24
Finally! After what feels like the longest introductory series of programs I've ever seen, we have the Final 24*Idol contestants. Some of those chosen were performers I don't even recall seeing in the preliminary rounds. As I watched the selection shows last night and tonight, it was obvious to me that a portion (the majority?) … Continue reading American Idol Season 9: Top 24
Dear Sarah: Please run
In an article reprinted in today's Virginian-Pilot, Leonard Pitts of the Miami Herald urges Sarah Palin to run for president. Pitts wants her to run, not because she's a weak candidate, but because it would force "a desperately needed moment of truth." ... you represent the latest iteration of an anti-intellectualism that periodically rises in … Continue reading Dear Sarah: Please run
YWCA Benefit: The Vagina Monologues
presents a benefit performance of The Vagina Monologues for the ywca - south hampton roads March 5-6 @ 8pm and March 7 @ 2pm Tickets $15 For reservations please call: 757-214-5430 V-Day is a Global Movement to End Violence Against Women and Girls The award-winning play is based on V-Day Founder/playwright Eve Ensler's interviews with … Continue reading YWCA Benefit: The Vagina Monologues
The lobbyist & the delegate: husband & wife
Despite the General Assembly taking on of various ethics bills for its members, none of the legislation I've seen addresses the lobbyists. And some of these relationships between lobbyists and members of the legislature have a certain odor to them. Case in point: Del. Watkins Abbitt (I (but really R)-59th) and his wife, Madeline. Del. … Continue reading The lobbyist & the delegate: husband & wife
Coffee Party
As opposed to the Tea Party From an email I received: The Coffee Party Movement gives voice to Americans who want to see cooperation in government. We recognize that the federal government is not the enemy of the people, but the expression of our collective will, and that we must participate in the democratic process … Continue reading Coffee Party
The struggle toward inclusiveness
This op-ed appeared in the Virginian-Pilot on Sunday, February 14, 2010. I’VE BEEN thinking about the subject of race in an ideal society, a world where we talk about race without making everything about race. It’s something I long for, something I once thought was not only possible but just around the corner. I’m no … Continue reading The struggle toward inclusiveness
Hester for Mayor: “It’s time”
Daun Hester kicked off her campaign for Mayor of Norfolk Saturday morning to a standing-room-only sized crowd. Hester, who has served on City Council since 1996, made some pretty bold statements in her speech (video below). There's no turning back for Daun Hester: come July 1, she will either be on council as Mayor or … Continue reading Hester for Mayor: “It’s time”
Ford, Merrill Lynch broke the law
Call it whatever you like but Harold Ford, Jr. broke the law when he worked in New York and didn't pay taxes there. But he couldn't have pulled this off without some help from Merrill Lynch. Merrill Lynch was aware that he was working in New York. As his employer, they were responsible for withholding … Continue reading Ford, Merrill Lynch broke the law
VIVIAN J. PAIGE | All Politics is Local 