David Karaffa takes oath of office for Augusta BOS

With family and friends in attendance, newly-elected Beverley Manor Supervisor David Karaffa was sworn in last week.

Bob Kirchman

He thanked me ... I thanked him.

He thanked various people for their mentorship and help along the way.

Grandparents ...

... former teacher ... friends ...

... campaign workers ...

.

David and Kurt Michael

David's parents and extended family provided a sound foundation for this thoughtful, intelligent, conservative young man whose journey has just begun....

Photos by Lynn R. Mitchell
3 January 2012

NL: Supervisor race #2 story of the year in SWAC area

 The Staunton News Leader ranked the top 10 local stories of the year on December 31, 2011, and the supervisor race was voted #2.

 Beverley Manor Supervisor David Karaffa reacted to news of his win on election night.

The News Leader wrote, "There was a changing of the guard on the Augusta County Board of Supervisors with only two incumbents returning after the November election."

More: "The rise of the Independents / winners & losers in Augusta County"

Photos by Lynn R. Mitchell
3 January 2012

Augusta County Board of Supervisors meeting ... October 22, 2003

What issues were of concern in 2003 for the supervisors in Augusta County? While going through some boxes, we found an agenda from the October 22, 2003, BOS meeting that I attended. (I've spent the past decade attending the meetings to know what is going on in my county.)

Two current supervisors were there at the time: Tracy Pyles (Pastures) and Larry Howdyshell (North River). One has passed away: Orvin Kiser (South River). Here was the 2003 lineup:

Larry Howdyshell, Chairman (North River)
Tom Sikes, Vice Chairman (Wayne)
Tracy Pyles (Pastures)
Orvin Kiser (South River)
Don Hanger (Riverheads)
Jim Bailey (Beverley Manor)
Kay Frye (Middle River)

The agenda included two rezoning requests, both in Wayne District, and an ordinance to establish the North River Agricultural and Forestry District. They were considering a zoning request for Cedar Park in Beverley Manor District, the Stuarts Draft Park, matching grants from Parks & Rec for the Wilson Football League, and Rt. 608/285 corridor improvements.

I well remember that board....

World Cup soccer and other thoughts....

A few random thoughts during a busy week....

World Cup soccer.... I was not able to watch Wednesday when the USA won 1-0 over Algeria in the World Cup tournament but certainly heard the outcome and about the denied goal early in the game. It was replayed late Wednesday night so I watched to see with my own two eyes how it all unfolded....

Remembering a fallen hero.... The supervisors observed a moment of silence at the beginning of Wednesday's Board of Supervisors meeting in honor of Spc. Brian "Bucky" Anderson of Shenandoah County who was killed by an IED in Afghanistan earlier this month. We offer prayers to his family and friends. I wrote a post for The Washington Examiner to honor this young hero.

Nate promoted to USMC Sergeant.... Those who read this blog on a regular basis know SWAC area home school graduate Nate Salatin who is in the United States Marine Corps and has served two tours of duty in Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Despite those interruptions, he is continuing at Virginia Military Institute (VMI) and hopes to complete his degree in spring 2011. Congratulations on the promotion, Sergeant Nate Salatin, USMC.

Ate lunch at the Depot Grille Wednesday with Barb. Saw a number of people I knew including Augusta Supervisor Nancy Sorrells. It was a busy day at the Depot.

As I drove the back roads heading into Staunton, the temperature was in the mid-90s and I passed a freshly-mowed lawn that had that just-mowed grass smell that sweetens the air in the summer....

The bunny at the end of my driveway.... As I head out my driveway lately, there is a baby bunny who runs across in front of my vehicle and dives under an evergreen bush beside the drive. The way he dives under the bush reminds me, for some reason, of Peter Rabbit trying to escape Mr. McGregor's garden....

We need rain. The garden is growing nicely but we need some rain out of these dark clouds that pass over in the afternoons. The grass is crackly like July grass ... it's an early heat wave ... and the temperature at our house Tuesday registered 99.7 degrees. Now that's hot.

Bike Virginia will have 2,000 bicyclists in the SWAC area this weekend so watch the roadways.

Stay cool out there and enjoy your summer in the Shenandoah Valley....

Augusta BoS predictably tables decision on staggered terms

Monday's Augusta County Board of Supervisors staff meeting ended as many expected it would. With four items on the agenda, the issue of staggered board terms that had been broached to the Board by Supervisor Tracy Pyles (D-Pastures) ended up tabled until the June 21 work session.

Bob Stuart has a good article in today's Waynesboro News Virginian about what happened and how a decision was once again delayed.

When the meeting began, 10 members of the public were in the audience. By the time the last item came up, only two were left to hear what happened.

The issue of staggered supervisor terms -- three supervisors voted in, then the remaining four elected two years later, all to serve four-year terms --was clouded with additional issues thrown into the mix -- redistricting, number of supervisors (whether to increase, decrease, or keep the same), other items. It was decided to limit discussion to the issue at hand.

Tracy Pyles (D-Pastures) originally suggested the board consider going to staggered terms, something used by neighboring Staunton City Council, Waynesboro City Council, and Shenandoah County BoS. The public would have a better opportunity to be heard, he said, rather than wait four years every time for elections. Staggering would offer the possibility of a "course correction," a sort of report card between the public and the board. He proposed hosting a public hearing for feedback from the community, and suggested the new policy be in place by the next election in November of 2011.

Larry Howdyshell (R-North River) flip-flopped, disappointing by first saying he agreed and then backpedaling on having the lawyer draft an ordinance, suggesting instead that it be tabled. He backed that up by voting to do nothing before a June 21 meeting. The News Virginian wrote:

North River member Larry Howdyshell said he liked considering staggered terms because it means keeping “some consistency and knowledge in place.”

But when it came time to proceed with drawing an ordinance, Howdyshell preferred to wait, calling the move “a pretty big step.”

Mr. Pyles pointed out it was just an ordinance and, instead of doing nothing before addressing it again on June 21, the lawyer could draft the ordinance ... it didn't mean it would be voted on ... it was just a draft. But he was outvoted by those who did not want the issue to move forward.

David Beyeler (R-South River) was very vocal in his objection, citing the recent real estate assessment as an example of the public becoming angry and ousting their supervisors. Well, hello! A huge part of the public felt their voices were ignored in that issue. Many people have said they view the supervisors and those at the Government Center as arrogant ... and then they always follow it up by saying, "Except Mr. Pyles."

Wendell Coleman arrived late, just at the end of the staggered term discussion, and was asked his opinion. Some of his reasoning was questionable:

- Staggered terms could have a negative effect on businesses moving to the community. (Tell that to Waynesboro's staggered City Council ... business is booming in that part of SWAC Land with new restaurants and retail announced on a regular basis.)

- Something about not being able to lead because of worrying about reelections. (As opposed to worrying about reelections now? It will still be four-year terms so not quite sure what he meant by this.)

- He mentioned being concerned about the cost because he spent far more money when he ran for supervisor than he ever imagined and it was a rude awakening how much it cost. (A candidate will incur the cost of a campaign ... staggered terms have nothing to do with it.)

- He mentioned that the learning curve to become supervisor is steep. (Again, that has nothing to do with staggered terms.)

The News Virginian best covered the discussion and, bottom line, the issue had again been sidelined until the June 21 work session.

Work sessions are held the fourth Monday each month at 1:30 in the afternoon and are open to the public. The next one is June 21. It will be interesting to see if this issue is again pushed aside at that time.

200 turn out for Shenandoah BOS meeting ... BOS postpones meeting

We the People were out in force Tuesday night at the Shenandoah County Board of Supervisors meeting.

The supervisors were set to meet at 7:00 pm. Citizens held a rally last Friday that brought out 100 residents upset about their outrageous real estate assessments and planned to turn out in force to the meeting. Citizens for Honest Government teamed up with rally organizer Phil Hunt to encourage people to attend.

They did!

Our boots-on-the-ground reported that over 200 people turned out for the meeting on a rainy and messy night. Many carried signs and "pink slips" saying "You're fired!"

The first 100 chairs filled quickly. More chairs were carried in; they filled. People stood in every square inch of standing room and the crowd overflowed into the hallway.

At 7:00, BOS chairman Ferguson showed up long enough to say there was a problem because they had exceeded the number of people allowed by the fire marshall, and postponed the meeting until Thursday at 7:00 pm at the Central school campus to have room for all residents. He also announced he would have a "presentation" first to tell about the reassessments. (My boots-on-the-ground said, "He is known for 1 1/2-hour dissertations so he will try to run out the clock so people will have to leave.")

By 7:11 pm, it was over.

All those people traveled out on a cold, rainy night only to be sent home. One would think the supervisors would allow the maximum number of people allowed in the building by the fire marshall and carry on.

What happened in Augusta County is now happening in Shenandoah County. Real estate assessments that are skyrocketing have hit landowners at a time of financial depression.

All residents are now being urged to turn out for the meeting on THURSDAY, OCTOBER 29, at 7:00 pm at Central school campus.

Residents denied the opportunity to speak on Tuesday said they would be back on Thursday with more people so look for the crowd to grow. According to the Northern Virginia Daily:

Barbara McDonald, of Strasburg, said she'll be there Thursday "with bells on." She said she and her brother own identical tracts of land, and his assessment went up $1,700, and hers went up $45,000.

Fort Valley resident Dan Knapp's assessment went up 125 percent, he said, which he can't afford in this economy. He's in the construction business, and hasn't had much work lately.

"We haven't had beef in my house in 10 months," Knapp said. "We eat deer, and we eat vegetables from the garden."

He's coming out Thursday night, "and I will be bringing more people. It's just ridiculous."

DIRECTIONS: Take Woodstock exit and turn east. Go through first traffic light and past CVS Pharmacy. On right will be a driveway that runs beside the ballfield for the Central school campus; follow drive to area of school where meeting is held (look for cars).

Augusta Board of Supervisors ... leave no dollar unspent

Got home around 10:30 tonight from an Augusta County Board of Supervisors meeting that was still going when I left. Four public hearings in one night ... how ridiculous is that? That on top of a staff briefing at 1:30 this afternoon that lasted two hours. I actually took the title line from Supervisor Tracy Pyles during the staff briefing. He has been totally disgusted at the hand-over-fist spending of this board.

Tonight the BOS and Planning Commission were there for a public hearing about the 5,000 zoning change proposals that will affect everything from livestock to paving parking lots to lighting to what kind of trees a business can plant.

Probably 30-40 people addressed the board in the first hearing that lasted from 7-9:15 pm. I talked to a bunch of people afterwards who were ticked off. Plant a certain type of tree? One business owner said he would rather hire an unemployed person.

More on this update Tuesday. I surely hope they didn't vote for that colossal pile of red tape tonight....

We will REMEMBER IN NOVEMBER 2011....

Augusta Board of Supervisors ... spending out of control?

At a time when many Augusta County residents are struggling with lost jobs and economic hard times, the Board of Supervisors seems determined to continue spending county funds on projects that may be deemed "wants" instead of "needs."

A newly created $69,000-a-year economic development director's job was recently voted on by supervisors even as 18 employees at the Government Center were losing their jobs due to cutbacks. There are so many questions and so much information to share about that issue that more will be in a separate post.

Today's Waynesboro News Virginian provides details about a proposed $2.4 million renovation project on the county's Fishersville library, a project being pushed by Supervisor David Beyeler. However, Supervisor Tracy Pyles questioned the prudence of such a project in these economic hard times. That's $2.4 MILLION -- the county has less than $600,000 set aside for the project. A new children's wing was completed last year that added computers and 4,000 square feet of new space.

Also discussed at yesterday's staff meeting was matching funds of $29,225 for a Ruritan Club ball field in New Hope. That would be a total of $58,450 to improve a dirt recreational playing field for children after school. Again, citizens have tightened their belts so is that the best use of hard-earned tax money?

"Needs" versus "wants" ... the county should take a hard look at its spending.

Orvin H. Kiser Sr. ... former Augusta supervisor passes away

Orvin H. Kiser Sr. has passed away at the age of 76. A couple of weeks ago he had called an old friend, another supervisor who is still on the board, to say goodbye. The cause of death was cancer.

When I heard the news, it brought back memories of the days when Mr. Kiser served on the board as the Republican from the South River District. He was the one who caused me to pause and look at lone Democratic Supervisor Tracy Pyles not just as a Democrat. The supervisors were proposing the board take turns as they rotated the chairman position and, instead of the Republicans excluding those who were not Republican, they decided to include everyone to serve as chairman. As I recall, Mr. Kiser was a leading proponent of that proposal and it worked until this year and once before.

I suppose I best remember Mr. Kiser at the Augusta County Fair greeting folks from the gazebo where the supervisors would take turns each day greeting county residents. He was always jovial ... and he was always kind to me.

We are grateful to Mr. Kiser for his years of public service. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family at this sad time.

Obituary for Orvin H. Kiser Sr.

STUARTS DRAFT — Orvin Herman Kiser Sr., known by many as "Big Daddy" or "Big O," residing in Stuarts Draft, lost his battle with mesothelioma cancer on Monday, March 30, 2009. He went from the loving arms of his family to the safety of God's warm arms. Orvin was born May 17, 1932, in Stuarts Draft, a son of the late Marvin Turner Kiser and Edna Campbell Kiser.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his only brother, Roy D. Kiser Sr.

Orvin started Little League football in 1960 and was instrumental in starting other Little League programs in Stuarts Draft. His work with the many young people in the community and his efforts to develop the Stuarts Draft Park and the Diamond Club field are among his proudest achievements. He was a founding member of Waynesboro Mennonite Church, and he remained active as a Sunday School teacher of the Open Door Class. He was a Master Mason at the Lee Lodge in Waynesboro.

He served eight years in the U.S. Air Force, followed by 32 years at DuPont. Orvin had an extensive history of community involvement, including serving as president of Stuarts Draft Ruritan Club, the Sportsman Club and the Boosters Club. He was awarded the District and Zone Ruritan of the Year Award.

He served eight years on the board of supervisors as the South River District representative and was elected vice-chairman in 2000 and chairman in 2001.

He is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Phyllis Kiser; two sons, Orvin H. Kiser Jr. and Ronald E. Kiser and Ladonna Coulter; one daughter, Teri Kiser Fust and her husband, John; a daughter-in-law, Barbara Kiser; and his nine grandchildren, Joey, Mandy, Karman, Heather, Trip, Whitney, Forest, Jackson and Jordan.

The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, April 3, 2009, at Waynesboro Mennonite Church at 1801 Monroe St. in Waynesboro.

In continuing with his service to others, Orvin has donated his body to science.

A memorial service will be conducted at 11 a.m. Saturday, April 4, 2009, at Waynesboro Mennonite Church, which will be followed by a dinner at the church. Pastor Howard Miller will conduct the service. The Revs. Charles Ramsey, Earl Monroe and Stanlee Kaufmann also will preside at the service.

The family requests that any memorials be made to Stuarts Draft Diamond Club, c/o Orvin Kiser Jr., P.O. Box 488, Stuarts Draft, VA 24477.

The family has entrusted the service to Charlton and Groome Funeral Home of Fishersville.

Family and friends may view this obituary and share memories and condolences with the family at www.charltonandgroomefuneralhome.com.

Augusta County real estate reassessments - Updated

Updated: See bottom of this post for link to DJ McGuire at Right-Wing Liberal's commentary.

Augusta County's real estate assessments for 2009 were questioned by Democrat Supervisor Tracy Pyles in October 2008 because of a proposed 33% increase at a time when real estate transactions were plummeting, home prices were dropping, and the economy was reeling.

The Board decided to put reassessments on hold until the end of the year to allow an unstable financial landscape the opportunity to revive.

Today's Waynesboro News Virginian reports that the Board of Assessors will meet Thursday to review the situation:

The Augusta County Board of Assessors expect to get an overview of the county’s delayed real property reassessment when the board meets Thursday morning.

The reassessment was delayed 90 days in October after county supervisors heard the concerns of residents who doubted property values could have increased an average of 33 percent in light of the current depressed economy.

The 33-percent number was the average increase reported in October by Blue Ridge Mass Appraisal Co., the Staunton company performing the reassessment.

Supervisors agreed to wait until January for the reassessment to get a more realistic evaluation of the county’s real estate values.

Walter Brown, the co-chairman of the Augusta County Board of Assessors, said he was awaiting the final reassessment average from Blue Ridge Mass Appraisal.

“I don’t know the final average, but I expect some increase,’’ said Brown, who represents the Riverheads District on the board of assessors.
...
Pastures District Supervisor Tracy Pyles said he is convinced the economy and real estate slump will continue.

“This thing is not getting any better,’’ said Pyles. “We were slower to feel it.”

Pyles said one act supervisors need to take during the upcoming budget deliberations is a lowering of the county’s 58 cents per $100 tax rate.

“I hope the board decides to make it neutral,’’ Pyles said of the increase in real estate values being offset by a lowering of the tax rate.

Notices are expected to be mailed the third week in January with the first round of appeals from residents to begin January 26.

The Augusta County Board of Supervisors meets monthly on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays at the Augusta Government Center on Lee Highway in Verona.

UPDATE: DJ McGuire at Right-Wing Liberal, who has followed this issue because of a similar issue in his part of the state, has a post with blunt commentary. His concluding comments:

The last time assessments were made (2005, and they rose), the Republicans had four of seven seats on the Board - but they didn’t equalize the tax rate. This time, however, the rest of the state is watching.

This isn’t just about Augusta - which was one of the few counties the GOP swept last November (yes, even Jim Gilmore carried it). If what is arguably the most Republican county in the Commonwealth ends up with a tax increase, it will be much easier for other counties in Virginia to hit up their taxpayers for more money. Moreover, the State Senator the represents Augusta (Emmett Hanger) has been using local government “needs” as his excuse to support tax increases in 2004, 2006, and 2007.

The Republican Party began its political recovery in Virginia during last summer’s special session, and it started to bear fruit last night. Will the Augusta Republicans on the Board of Supervisors keep up the momentum? Or will they turn the party back toward the wilderness of higher taxes, angry activists, and libertarians defecting to the Democrats?

Supervisors may be reached for comments about the upcoming assessments:

- Jeremy Shifflett, Beverley Manor
Cell Phone: 540.294.2289
E-mail: Jeremy Shifflett

- Gerald Garber, Middle River
Home: (540) 234-8388

- Larry Howdyshell, North River
Home: (540) 350-2591

- Tracy Pyles, Pastures
Home: (540) 337-7010

- Nancy Sorrells, Riverheads
Home: (540) 377-6390

- David Beyeler, South River
Home: (540) 943-3202

- Wendell Coleman, Wayne
Home: (540) 430-1350

Fireworks at Augusta Board of Supervisors meeting

There were heated words and disgruntled citizens at tonight's Augusta County Board of Supervisors meeting when residents, upset at the prospect of 33% increases in their real estate reassessments, showed up to express disappointment.

Pastures Supervisor Tracy Pyles proposed postponing reassessments for two years to see if the shaky economy stabilized. The other six supervisors were against that idea.

Lots more on this tomorrow ...

Augusta BOS asked to pass adult zoning ordinances

Three members of the community addressed the Augusta County Board of Supervisors Wednesday night to ask that they pass zoning ordinances to restrict the location of adult businesses.

Bev Cundiff commented on the possiblity of property values declining if adult businesses located near them. Jeff Jordan urged the board to be preemptive to avoid the same situation that occurred in Staunton. John Ihrig also urged passage of ordinances.

On Tuesday night the Planning Commission passed the proposed ordinances back to the Board and recommended passage. The Board of Supervisors is slated to address the issue at their February 25th work session.

Cross-posted at SixtyFour81.com

SWAC governmental bodies?

At last night's Augusta County Board of Supervisors meeting, Chairman David Beyeler proposed joint dinner meetings with the members of Staunton City Council, Waynesboro City Council, and Augusta County Board of Supervisors so the members of the three governmental bodies could get to know each other better and possibly work regionally for the betterment of the area. It was proposed that they begin with three dates, one each in May, July, and in the Fall.

That is how SWAC-GOP began in this area eight years ago. The Republicans from Staunton, Waynesboro, and Augusta County decided to meet monthly for breakfast so localities could begin to know each other better and, thus, coordinate on Republican issues and events. It has been a resounding success over the years. Hopefully, the SWAC government bodies will have the same success.

Cross-posted at SixtyFour81.com

Augusta BOS candidate is new dad

The way politics works, nine months is nothing ... it is a flash in time. But it is amazing what can happen in nine months in real time.

In the spring of 2007, Travis Smithdeal stepped to the plate to run as the Republican candidate for Pastures Supervisor in Augusta County. He won the Republican nomination in a mass meeting in May and started his campaign which ended with three-term democrat incumbent Tracy Pyles winning reelection in November.

Nine months after deciding to run for election, Travis and his wife have welcomed a new baby girl to the family.

Our congratulations to the Smithdeal family on the birth of Anna Catherine Marie who was born December 30, 2007.

Republican Travis Smithdeal ... a new attitude for Pastures District

Travis Smithdeal, 42, is a young conservative Republican who offers a new face and a new attitude for Pastures District Supervisor in Augusta County. He is a listener ... his calm presence allows him to hear from everyone and not react without gathering information from all available sources including citizens and fellow Board members.

Travis has the background that makes a good leader....

Virginia Native: Travis was born in Richmond and grew up in Fredericksburg. Other than college and military time, he has lived his entire life in Virginia.

Education: Earning a BA in Political Science from Belmont Abbey College helped prepare Travis for a life of service to the community.

Military: As an Army veteran, Travis spent almost 10 years as a miliary pilot (helicopter and fixed-wing) with the 10th Mountain Division serving as an Air Mission Commander, Air Calvary squadron platoon leader and squadron safety engineer.

Family Man: With his wife, Eileen, they have eight children (six boys and two girls) and live in an historic home they are renovating in Deerfield.

Member: The Smithdeals attend St. Francis of Assisi with some other well-known local politicians including Delegate Chris Saxman and Supervisor Jim Bailey. Travis is a member of the Veterans of Foreign War (VFW) Post 3060.

Business Owner: The Smithdeals own Mountain View Country Store located on Rt. 250 in West Augusta which is the center of activities in that part of the county. This is a busy time of year for them as tourists and hunters stop in to gas up or buy supplies or grab a quick bite to eat. Travis works the register, interacts with customers, and visits with those who drop in. He is well-known and respected in the area.

Issues:

* Open Government -- No secret meetings behind closed doors. The citizens of Augusta County have the right to know what their supervisors are planning when it comes to important topics regarding jobs and land use issues such as the megasite.

* Land Preservation -- Travis will fight for preservation of prime agriculture soil and water rights for our farmers in western Augusta County. Our land is our treasure.

* 24/7 Emergency Services -- Travis will push for full-time 24/7 emergency personnel. Augusta County is the second largest county in the state and he feels her citizens deserve the fastest and best aid when time is critical.

* Law Enforcement -- Travis will work for funding to equip our law enforcement officers with the most updated and efficient equipment available in order to best protect our families and neighbors.

* 2nd Amendment Rights -- As a military veteran and hunter, Travis is an ardent supporter of our 2nd Amendment right to bear arms.

* Supports Strict Zoning Ordinance of Adult Businesses -- Travis has been a leader in asking the Board of Supervisors to create strict zoning ordinances to limit where adult businesses that offer pornographic materials can locate in the county. He has asked that they not be allowed near schools, playgrounds, neighborhoods, churches, and other family environments.

* Illegal Immigration -- Travis is pro-legal immigration. He believes in giving law enforcement the tools to report illegals to immigration officials.

* English As Official Language -- Travis believes our ability to understand one another through a common language is critical to our strength and security, and supports English as our official language.

Travis Smithdeal. "Conservative values ... common sense solutions."

Republican Travis Smithdeal ... a new attitude for Pastures District

Travis Smithdeal, 42, is a young conservative Republican who offers a new face and a new attitude for Pastures District Supervisor in Augusta County. He is a listener ... his calm presence allows him to hear from everyone and not react without gathering information from all available sources including citizens and fellow Board members.

Travis has the background that makes a good leader....

Virginia Native: Travis was born in Richmond and grew up in Fredericksburg. Other than college and military time, he has lived his entire life in Virginia.

Education: Earning a BA in Political Science from Belmont Abbey College helped prepare Travis for a life of service to the community.

Military: As an Army veteran, Travis spent almost 10 years as a miliary pilot (helicopter and fixed-wing) with the 10th Mountain Division serving as an Air Mission Commander, Air Calvary squadron platoon leader and squadron safety engineer.

Family Man: With his wife, Eileen, they have eight children (six boys and two girls) and live in an historic home they are renovating in Deerfield.

Member: The Smithdeals attend St. Francis of Assisi with some other well-known local politicians including Delegate Chris Saxman and Supervisor Jim Bailey. Travis is a member of the Veterans of Foreign War (VFW) Post 3060.

Business Owner: The Smithdeals own Mountain View Country Store located on Rt. 250 in West Augusta which is the center of activities in that part of the county. This is a busy time of year for them as tourists and hunters stop in to gas up or buy supplies or grab a quick bite to eat. Travis works the register, interacts with customers, and visits with those who drop in. He is well-known and respected in the area.

Issues:

* Open Government -- No secret meetings behind closed doors. The citizens of Augusta County have the right to know what their supervisors are planning when it comes to important topics regarding jobs and land use issues such as the megasite.

* Land Preservation -- Travis will fight for preservation of prime agriculture soil and water rights for our farmers in western Augusta County. Our land is our treasure.

* 24/7 Emergency Services -- Travis will push for full-time 24/7 emergency personnel. Augusta County is the second largest county in the state and he feels her citizens deserve the fastest and best aid when time is critical.

* Law Enforcement -- Travis will work for funding to equip our law enforcement officers with the most updated and efficient equipment available in order to best protect our families and neighbors.

* 2nd Amendment Rights -- As a military veteran and hunter, Travis is an ardent supporter of our 2nd Amendment right to bear arms.

* Supports Strict Zoning Ordinance of Adult Businesses -- Travis has been a leader in asking the Board of Supervisors to create strict zoning ordinances to limit where adult businesses that offer pornographic materials can locate in the county. He has asked that they not be allowed near schools, playgrounds, neighborhoods, churches, and other family environments.

* Illegal Immigration -- Travis is pro-legal immigration. He believes in giving law enforcement the tools to report illegals to immigration officials.

* English As Official Language -- Travis believes our ability to understand one another through a common language is critical to our strength and security, and supports English as our official language.

Travis Smithdeal. "Conservative values ... common sense solutions."

Travis Smithdeal ... Republican for Pastures District Supervisor: "It's time for a change"

It's time for a change ... vote for Travis Smithdeal for Pastures District Supervisor

Endorsed by the Waynesboro News-Virginian, Lt. Governor Bill Bolling, Atty. General Bob McDonnell, and Delegate Chris Saxman.

Travis Smithdeal: "Conservative values ... common sense solutions."

Photos by SWAC Girl

Travis Smithdeal ... Republican endorsed by Atty. Gen. Bob McDonnell

Republicans Travis Smithdeal, Pastures candidate.

“I strongly endorse Travis Smithdeal for Augusta County Board of Supervisors. A fellow veteran, Travis has demonstrated a commitment to making his community and country a better place. Travis will bring a fresh perspective to the Board and I encourage voters in the Pastures District to vote for Travis Smithdeal this November.” -- Attorney General Bob McDonnell

Travis Smithdeal ... Republican endorsed by Del. Chris Saxman

Travis Smithdeal ... Republican candidate for Augusta Board of Supervisors on Augusta Board of Supervisors

Endorsed by Delegate Chris Saxman (R-20th House District)....

"It is a privilege to endorse Travis Smithdeal for the Augusta County Board of Supervisors in the Pastures District. He and I attend church together, and I can tell you from personal experience, Travis shares our values. As the father of eight children, he is committed to improving education and ensuring Augusta County remains a safe place to live and raise a family. As a small business owner himself, Travis recognizes the issues facing business owners in Augusta County. He has served our nation honorably in the US Army, and given the opportunity, he will serve Augusta County with that same spirit. Please join me in supporting Travis Smithdeal on November 6th." -- Delegate Chris Saxman

Travis Smithdeal ... Republican for Augusta Board of Supervisors

Endorsed by Delegate Chris Saxman (R-20th House District)....

"It is a privilege to endorse Travis Smithdeal for the Augusta County Board of Supervisors in the Pastures District. He and I attend church together, and I can tell you from personal experience, Travis shares our values. As the father of eight children, he is committed to improving education and ensuring Augusta County remains a safe place to live and raise a family. As a small business owner himself, Travis recognizes the issues facing business owners in Augusta County. He has served our nation honorably in the US Army, and given the opportunity, he will serve Augusta County with that same spirit. Please join me in supporting Travis Smithdeal on November 6th." -- Delegate Chris Saxman

Endorsed by Lt. Governor Bill Bolling....
“I am pleased to endorse Travis Smithdeal for Board of Supervisors in Pastures District. As a veteran, small business owner and father of eight children, Travis has the background, knowledge and experience necessary to address the challenges facing Augusta County. I hope you will join me in supporting Travis Smithdeal on November 6.” -- Lt. Governor Bill Bolling

Endorsed by Attorney General Bob McDonnell....
“I strongly endorse Travis Smithdeal for Augusta County Board of Supervisors. A fellow veteran, Travis has demonstrated a commitment to making his community and country a better place. Travis will bring a fresh perspective to the Board and I encourage voters in the Pastures District to vote for Travis Smithdeal this November.” -- Attorney General Bob McDonnell