Melvin appointed to Circuit Court

According to a press release from Governor Tim Kaine, Del. Ken Melvin, whose retirement was announced earlier this year, has been appointed to the Portsmouth Circuit Court, effective May 1. "With this appointment, Ken will have another opportunity to build upon his record of dedicated service to the Commonwealth," Governor Kaine said. "Ken has served … Continue reading Melvin appointed to Circuit Court →

Whitfield finally pardoned

Almost two years ago, I became aware of the plight of Arthur Whitfield. Today Governor Tim Kaine finally issued him a pardon, nearly four years after it was requested and almost five years since he was released from prison after serving 22 years for a crime he did not commit. I'll say again what I … Continue reading Whitfield finally pardoned →

Fliergate update: Iwans indicted

Dave Iwans, who served as the campaign manager for Beach mayor Will Sessoms, was indicted Monday for failing to disclose his payment for the fliers showing Sessoms with Obama. Sessoms, a Republican, endorsed Senator John McCain for president. If convicted of the misdemeanor charge, Iwans faces a fine of up to $2,500 and up to … Continue reading Fliergate update: Iwans indicted →

Robin Abbott, candidate in the 93rd

A Democratic challenger has emerged to take on Republican Phil Hamilton in the 93rd House of Delegates district. Robin Abbott, a consumer protection attorney, will be filing Wednesday for the seat. I had a chance to chat with her Sunday evening. Abbott, a graduate of William and Mary School of Law, is making her first … Continue reading Robin Abbott, candidate in the 93rd →

The Pulpit Speaks: April 5, 1958

An article written by my father, the Rev. C. Thomas Paige, as it appeared in the Tri-State Defender on the date shown. Continuing our general theme, “Jesus and Human Behavior,” we find ourselves this week dealing with Jesus and His triumphant entry into Jerusalem. As recorded in the 11th chapter of Mark, we find Jesus … Continue reading The Pulpit Speaks: April 5, 1958 →

Frederick decision today

Republicans are meeting today to decide the fate of their chairman, Del. Jeff Frederick.  Bearing Drift is live blogging the proceedings. I understand it will literally be hours before any decision is made. UPDATE: Frederick has been removed. The vote was 57-18. Have to say I'm surprised. I never thought it would happen.

Iowa state sentor on today’s ruling

Check out this video from Iowa State Senator Matt McCoy, the first openly gay member of the legislature. It's worth five minutes of your time. And here's hoping Virginia is paying attention, particularly Virginia Democrats.

Stolle running for VB sheriff, to face Bell

The Virginian-Pilot confirms today that State Senator Ken Stolle will run for sheriff.  Also in that story is the disclosure that Stolle, 54, has been battling Parkinson's disease for three years. Last night, I had the opportunity to meet John Bell, who is also running for sheriff.  Bell is currently a senior captain on the … Continue reading Stolle running for VB sheriff, to face Bell →

Equality in Iowa – and Virginia

Who would have thought it? The Iowa Supreme Court this morning unanimously upheld gays’ right to marry. “The Iowa statute limiting civil marriage to a union between a man and a woman violates the equal protection clause of the Iowa Constitution,” the justices said in a summary of their decision. The court rules that gay … Continue reading Equality in Iowa – and Virginia →