Norfolk mayor: more power?

With Paul Fraim set to be sworn in today as the city's first elected mayor since 1916, conversations are already being held about increasing the mayor's power. Right now, the mayor is simply an eighth voice on council, representing the city at large, with no additional powers. We have a city-manager form of government, with … Continue reading Norfolk mayor: more power? →

New laws aimed at underage drinking

Come Saturday, Virginia will join nearly 20 other states in making it illegal for adults to serve alcohol to youths in their homes. Violators face a misdemeanor charge and a fine. "This would require more personal responsibility from parents," said Del. Brian J. Moran (D-Alexandria), the bill's chief sponsor. "If an officer sees a bunch … Continue reading New laws aimed at underage drinking →

Jaded JD: Leaving Virginia

Blogger Jaded JD has written an incredible post on why he is leaving left Virginia. The title, "It is well, it is well with my soul" is a reference to an old hymn that I associate mostly with funerals, as it was a staple in the church in which I grew up. The hymn was … Continue reading Jaded JD: Leaving Virginia →

Should have vetoed the estate tax repeal

Governor Tim Kaine managed to find nearly $29 million in unspent balances, savings and higher-than-expected lottery yields. So he proceeded to propose spending the money on a number of projects, including $1.4 million for Norfolk State University's library. In all, the governor proposed 36 amendments to the $72 billion budget presented to him on June … Continue reading Should have vetoed the estate tax repeal →

Norfolk school board to have black majority

I can't tell you how surprised I was that to read that the Norfolk City Council has appointed a majority black school board. Everyone quoted in the article tried to downplay the significance of this: Fraim said race was not discussed in the closed session. "Race might be an issue for some, but it wasn't … Continue reading Norfolk school board to have black majority →

Beach elections moving to November

In a 7-3 vote, the Virginia Beach city council has decided to move its municipal elections from May to November. The first elections will be held in November 2008, adding 6 months to the terms 5 of the council members, including mayor Meyera Oberndorf, a longtime proponent of the move. As previously mentioned, I think … Continue reading Beach elections moving to November →

I’m back!

I got in late last night. Had a great trip to Upper Michigan, near the Canadian border. I actually went into Canada for dinner Monday night. The most amazing thing about that part of the country? The length of the days. Sunset at 9:30 pm was pretty amazing.

The Pulpit Speaks: June 30, 1956

An article written by my father as it appeared in the Tri-State Defender on the date shown. "FACING UP TO LIFE" - Part I "Blessed are the poor in spirit for theirs is the kingdom of God" Do you ever face up to life? Do you ever stop and wonder what is behind this thing … Continue reading The Pulpit Speaks: June 30, 1956 →

New website: Blogging the Amendment

ImNotEmeril's latest post on the Marshall Newman amendment is a very well written piece, raising some serious questions about the proposed amendment. While checking on the trackback for the post, I came across a new blog that has been set up to discuss the amendment. Check out Blogging the Amendment.