A rapid and welcome shift in perceptions

My latest op-ed, title above, appeared in The Virginian-Pilot Thursday. The cartoon that accompanied the column couldn't have been more perfect: marriage equality is coming, whether the Supremes like it or not. Maureen Dowd's column, printed in today's paper in the same middle space of the page, calls out the court for its reluctance to … Continue reading A rapid and welcome shift in perceptions

Hundreds gather in Norfolk for marriage equality

A vigil was held last night in Norfolk for marriage equality. According to this report, hundreds from across Hampton Roads came together at the federal court house. I was there in spirit, although not in body due to my work schedule. Yesterday, of course, was the day that the Supreme Court heard oral arguments in … Continue reading Hundreds gather in Norfolk for marriage equality

Broadband project in Nelson County out of money

A project that was supposed to bring better internet to the residents of Nelson County is out of funds. The funds were obtained through a Federal grant to provide "middle-mile" construction. The final portion of the construction that will connect to the new internet line costs in excess of $1,000. These fees may be shocking … Continue reading Broadband project in Nelson County out of money

Quick hits 03/25/13

Just a few articles you may have missed: Port Authority decision tomorrow. The Virginia Port Authority will decide Tuesday on who will run the port. This is big - and has huge implications for Hampton Roads as well as the entire commonwealth. Cuccinelli opines on transportation and Medicaid. Attorney General/gubernatorial candidate Ken Cuccinelli offered his … Continue reading Quick hits 03/25/13

5th CD: Hudson, two other longtime members step down

Fred Hudson, longtime chair of the 5th Congressional District, has decided to step down from that post, effective last month. Hudson has duties with the DNC and wanted to make sure that the 5th District Committee was getting the attention it needs. In addition, two other longtime members will be stepping down as of the … Continue reading 5th CD: Hudson, two other longtime members step down

The times, they are a-changin’

Come senators, congressmen Please heed the call Don't stand in the doorway Don't block up the hall For he that gets hurt Will be he who has stalled There's a battle outside And it is ragin' It'll soon shake your windows And rattle your walls For the times they are a-changin'. It's been nearly a … Continue reading The times, they are a-changin’

Cumberland Bits and Pieces

Several items to report about Cumberland County. The Supervisor from Election District 5 is being asked to answer questions about a Federal tax debt that he owes. Parker Wheeler, who previously had been a member of the Zoning Commission, was urged by some citizens to resign. The lien was discovered in Prince Edward County. Wheeler … Continue reading Cumberland Bits and Pieces

Shad Planking: to go or not

I've attended the Shad Planking for a number of years now. With the announcement that Ken Cuccinelli will speak but Terry McAuliffe will not, I'm not sure whether I'll make the trip. Part of the reason I've attended in the past is to reconnect with some of my friends on the right that I rarely … Continue reading Shad Planking: to go or not

ICYMI: Big plans in need of big explanations

My latest op-ed, title above, appeared in The Virginian-Pilot Thursday. In it, I address the effects on Norfolk's bonding capacity as they take on a new hotel-convention center while simultaneously trying to raise taxes for schools, the cost of which is in excess of $100 million. The last time Norfolk was worried about its bonding … Continue reading ICYMI: Big plans in need of big explanations

Quick report: Virginia Beach Forum

Last night, I participated in a live political talk show as the season finale of the Virginia Beach Forum. Our part of the program followed a presentation by Larry Sabato, who joined conservative author Kate Obenshain, Richmond Times Dispatch columnist Jeff Schapiro, Virginian-PIlot columnist Kerry Dougherty, radio show host Tony Macrini and myself the panel … Continue reading Quick report: Virginia Beach Forum