Support the Troops during the holidays

HERE'S TWO WAYS YOU CAN SUPPORT OUR TROOPS THIS WEEK ... from Move America Forward:

1. Attend the magical holiday pro-troop concert, "A Song for Their Service," this Friday, December 14th, at 8:00 p.m. at the historic Lincoln Theater in Washington, D.C. A great event for you to bring your whole family to, the concert will honor our American heroes who will be special guests in the audience, and there will be an array of memorable performances by top musical talent in the nation.

You can order tickets and learn more about the concert at MoveAmericaForward.org.

2. Support the nationwide "Honoring Our Heroes at the Holidays" effort that is collecting hundreds of thousands of Christmas and holiday cards for our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan.

We're not going to let liberal activists and anti-military protestors denigrate our troops and make them out to be the "bad guys" in the war on terror. Instead we're going to personally deliver a massive number of Christmas and holiday cards to our troops serving in Iraq to show them how the American people REALLY do support them and their missions.

Why I am involved in politics....

I have been asked why I stay in the rough game of politics. My reason has never changed.

I became involved to help make a difference in the lives and the future of my children ... government is only as good as the leaders we elect.

And that is why I stay.

The big tent?

SWAC blogger SixtyFour81.com has a thoughtful post about the "big tent" that is proposed by many for the Republican Party. Odd how I never hear anyone talk about the lack of a "big tent" for the democrats....

RedState: "NBC backs down on Freedom's Watch ads"

RedState's latest post on the Freedom's Watch ads that were banned by NBC:

Scott at Power Line reports that NBC has backed down (or "has decided to amend its standards and practices") from its refusal to air the Freedom's Watch holiday ads thanking the troops.

Good news, indeed! Read the entire post here.

NBC lawyer who nixed troop ad is a dem donor

H/T to Jerry at From On High for calling attention to RedState's post about the NBC lawyer who was part of the decision for NBC's refusal to air the Freedom's Watch ads thanking American troops during the holidays.

NBC Lawyer who nixed troop ad gives generously to Congressional Democrats (from redstate.com):

According to a Fox News report, Richard Cotton, the general counsel for NBC/Universal, was one of two network officials who decided not to sell ad time to Freedom’s Watch, which describes itself as “a nonpartisan movement dedicated to preserving, protecting, and defending conservative principles and promoting a conservative agenda.”

According to FEC records, Cotton has been a generous donor to Democrat campaigns and liberal causes. Earlier this year, he donated $1,000 to the political action committee (PAC) of House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, and last year gave the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC) $7,000.

Over the past decade, Cotton has contributed at least $45,000 to Congressional Democrats, including $2,000 each to Clinton and the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC). (link)

As Jerry said, "Are we surprised?"

NV: "Stampede to glory" - Undefeated Buffalo Gap wins state 1A championship

The front page of the Waynesboro News Virginian says it all: "Stampede to glory: Buffalo Gap 28, Clintwood 19."

It was a perfect season for the Buffalo Gap High School football team ... and the News Virginian covered them all the way with "Bison Extra" sections in the newspaper on a daily basis. Kudos to their excellent coverage of an event that was of such importance to so many in Augusta County.

Buffalo Gap, affectionately known in this area simply as "Gap," won their first ever Group A, Division 1 state title.

The Sunday NV had front page coverage, and there were more articles in the Bison Extra section with headlines that screamed in 72-point type, "PERFECT! BISON CAP UNDEFEATED SEASON WITH FIRST FOOTBALL TITLE."

Yep. Western Augusta County was a ghost town yesterday as hundreds headed south to Salem for the big game where the stands were packed with spectators from Gap and Clintwood. There will be much celebrating as players, parents, and students replay the game's highlights today at church and at school in the upcoming week.

Undefeated. Now there's something that doesn't come along every day. What a Christmas gift for those players and their fans!

Congratulations to Buffalo Gap High School!

Augusta County's Buffalo Gap High School Division 1A State Champions!

Merry Christmas, SSgt. Herb Harman!

Last Christmas, he was in Iraq and missed his daughter's performance in The Nutcracker. This Christmas he is home and able to watch his very talented teenager dance in the local production of The Nutcracker. SSgt. Herb Harman was one proud dad as he beamed while holding flowers for his little girl, his arm comfortably draped around his wife's shoulder.

I had not seen Herb for several months so it was good to catch up on all the news. His step-son is heading back to Iraq for his second tour of duty in February, and Herb himself may eventually deploy to the Middle East in the upcoming months.

These are our heroes, the men who sacrifice time with family while in far-off lands protecting our freedoms here on the home front. Merry Christmas to them all, both stateside and overseas ... and Merry Christmas to their families who sacrifice with their loved ones away from home, especially at the holidays. We thank them.

For those who have fought for it,
Freedom has a flavor the protected will never know.

Related stories about SSgt. Herb Harman, U.S. Army Reserve:
- Victory in Iraq! Conversation with a soldier, Part 1
- Victory in Iraq! Conversation with a soldier, Part 2
- Victory in Iraq! Conversation with a soldier, Part 3
- "Four-One" Element - MP Unit served in Iraq
- 654th MP Company home from Iraq
- Toto, we're not in Iraq anymore
- Welcome back from Iraq

SWAC bloggers salute the Nutcracker Prince

The SWAC bloggers salute the Nutcracker Prince
for an excellent performance

The Nutcracker
Shenandoah Civic Dance Company
December 8, 2007
Staunton, Virginia

Christmas in the Shenandoah Valley ... the curtain rises on "The Nutcracker"

Tonight at Robert E. Lee High School in Staunton the curtain rises on the 25th annual performance of "The Nutcracker" ballet. Local talent consisting of 100 children, young people, and adults perform this holiday favorite tonight and tomorrow after last night's successful dress rehearsal.

See you at The Nutcracker!

Photos by SWAC Daughter

Augusta County's Buffalo Gap High School Division 1A State Champions!

Buffalo Gap High School is Virginia's Division 1A high school state champion in football!

The Buffalo Gap High School Bison football team won all their games this season including those against other Augusta County schools Stuarts Draft and Riverheads, ending with a 13-0 record and winning the Shenandoah District championship and the Region B championship.

Today they won the Group A, Division 1 final in Salem against Clintwood High School. The 28-19 final score secured their place as State Champions.

Congratulations, Bison!

NV: Stampede to glory: Undefeated Buffalo Gap wins 1A state title

Bill Bolling's 2007 Christmas ornaments

The tradition of a Virginia-inspired pewter Christmas ornament from Lt. Governor Bill Bolling and his wife, Jean Ann, began two years ago at the Republican Advance held at the Homestead. It continued last year ... and this year was no exception.

The gifts were distributed at breakfast Saturday morning at the Advance, and this year they commemorated the 400th anniversary of the founding of Jamestown.

With a depiction of the three ships that sailed to America -- the Susan Constant, the Godspeed and the Discovery -- the inscription around the edge says:

America's 400th Anniversary
Jamestown Settlement 1607-2007

On the back is written:

Bill and Jean Ann Bolling
2007

Crafted by Virginia Pewtersmith in Richmond, the enclosed card said:

This article is cast and crafted by hand in fine pewter by skilled, local artisans. Each piece is unique. Slight variations are normal, since we make every piece one at a time. We hope that you enjoy your item from Virginia Pewtersmith, Richmond, VA.

Thank you -- and a Merry Christmas -- to Lt. Governor and Mrs. Bolling for a beautiful Virginia keepsake that is proudly hanging on my Christmas tree.

Bloggers 4 Jim Gilmore ... the group grows

Republican unity, strong leadership, experience, honesty, won't back down ... those are only a few reasons why conservative bloggers are signing on for Bloggers 4 Jim Gilmore, a group started by Spank That Donkey to highlight Jim Gilmore's accomplishments and his distinguished record in public service. When the mainstream media does not set the record straight, we will.

Currently B4JG consists of eight writers from the Virginia political blogosphere: Spank That Donkey, Carl Kilo, James Atticus Bowden, Charlie Fugate, Conservativa, Scott White, Mason Conservative, and SWAC Girl.

We are proud to be backing Jim Gilmore for the U.S. Senate in Virginia.

Jim Gilmore for Senate
Cross posted at Bloggers 4 Jim Gilmore

Christmas in the Shenandoah Valley ... lingering snow

Lingering snow from Tuesday's storm is hanging around with the help of overnight temps in the teens and yesterday's daytime high in the 20s. It was bone-chilling all day but it felt seasonal while running errands and Christmas shopping. Today's temps are expected to be in the 30s ... another gray and overcast wintry day....

It's Christmas in the Valley!

Valley Family Forum hosts electeds tonight

The Valley Family Forum hosts local elected officials tonight at 7:00 p.m. in Harrisonburg. Members of the General Assembly will attend to provide a vision for the next General Assembly as they focus on pro-family issues. Family Foundation Vice President Chris Freund will also be there.

Electeds (or their representatives) who will participate are:
- Sen. Mark Obenshain
- Sen.-Elect Jill Holtzman Vogel
- Del. Steve Landes
- Del. Chris Saxman
- Del. Ben Cline
- Del. Matt Lohr
- Del. Todd Gilbert

Come early for coffee and snacks. The public is invited.

Directions: The Cornerstone Church on Lake Shenandoah, located two miles east of Harrisonburg on US 33, south at the Quarles gas station onto Massanetta Springs Road for two miles, then left immediately past the lake onto Izaak Walton Drive. The church is 300 yards on the right.

Former Augusta County resident drowns in Colorado

A tragic accident....

In a frantic attempt to rescue her two dogs, Laura Mae Wallace, 19, fell through the thin ice of a golf pond in Commerce City, Colo., on Sunday morning and drowned in the icy waters.

That the former Lyndhurst resident died trying to save her pets didn't surprise the girl's grandmother, Judy Cox.

Read the entire article here.

Welcome, Jack Cuccinelli!

The Cuccinelli Compass email from Senator Ken Cuccinelli came through at 12:18 this morning and was short and to the point:

Well, it’s a big (non-political) day in the Cuccinelli household.

Today, at 7:04 p.m., Thomas Jackson Cuccinelli was born. 8 lbs., zero ounces and 21 ¾ inches long.

We’ll call him Jack.

I have just two words for my wife. Un Believable.

She was amazing.

And I’m going to bed!

Congratulations to the entire Cuccinelli family on the birth of Jack.

7 December 1941 ... a day that will live in infamy....

"... we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain ..."
-- Abraham Lincoln, Gettysburg Address

Sixty-six years ago today ... the peacefulness of a Sunday morning was shattered with the news that Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, had been attacked by the Japanese, killing 2,400 Americans and sinking five out of eight American battleships.

In an address to Congress the next day, President Franklin D. Roosevelt called it a day that would live in infamy ... and America found herself at war with Japan.

It was World War II ... and the Greatest Generation stepped forward to defend the homeland ... ordinary Americans who went to war ... many did not return. Those at home did their part with victory gardens, rationing, rallying the patriotic spirit of the country.

The Greatest Generation is now aging... grandparents who were young men and women during the years of 1941-45 and who are now passing away at the rate of over 1,000 per day. They helped save the world.

A grateful Nation pauses to thank them and to remember that freedom is not free. Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day ... December 7 ... never forget.

In memory of
Clarence Osborne, U.S. Army,
an uncle I never knew, killed in France two weeks before the end of World War II
and
Raymond W. Randall, U.S. Navy,
my dad who served on the USS Wisconsin in the South Pacific during World War II.

Pearl Harbor Memorial, Hawaii

"For those who have fought for it,
Freedom has a flavor the protected will never know."

Christmas in the Shenandoah Valley ... "The Nutcracker" performed in Staunton

A holiday classic that has been a part of Staunton for the past 25 years, The Nutcracker returns this weekend with local talent under the direction of the Shenandoah Civic Dance Company.

Made up of local school and home school children and dance alumni, the ballet requires almost 100 children and young adults to fill the parts of dancing mice, wooden soldiers, dancing bakers, dancing clowns, Mother Ginger and the little Gingersnaps, flowers, snowflakes, Snow Queen, Arabian dancers, dancing dolls, Sugar Plum Fairy, party girls and boys, couples, Chinese dancers, Russian dancers, Spanish dancers, little brother Fritz, and most importantly the Nutcracker and Clara. Guest dancer this year is Jurijs Safonovs who was formerly with the Latvian National Opera Ballet.

Tickets are $10 for adults and $8 for children. Performances will be held Saturday night at 7:00 p.m. and Sunday afternoon at 2:00 p.m. at Robert E. Lee High School in Staunton. Tickets may be purchased at Staunton's Bookstack and You're A Star, at Donna's Hallmark in Waynesboro, and at The Exception in Harrisonburg.

See you at The Nutcracker....

Dems want to tax us again....

Spank That Donkey and I were talking today about the proposed democrat gas tax, and then I went online and saw Shaun's post....

Staunton gets a Starbucks

Staunton finally has its own Starbucks after the one in Waynesboro has been open for a year or more. Located at the gateway to the city on Richmond Road (I-81, exit 222), it is well-placed to catch those interstate travelers who need their Starbucks fix and may stop to gas up (Sheetz), shop (Wal-Mart, Lowe's), pick up groceries (Martin's), eat (Chili's, Five Guys Burgers & Fries, Rowe's, Texas, Cracker Barrell, McDonald's, Burger King), spend the night (Days Inn), or catch an historical site (Frontier Culture Museum).

There are plenty of coffee shops in downtown so this location will probably cater more to motorists passing through the area.

Fire shuts down Ramada in Harrisonburg

Black billowing smoke spotted by motorists on I-81 alerted emergency workers there was a fire at the Harrisonburg Ramada Inn Wednesday afternoon. Approximately 60 firefighters were called out from Harrisonburg and Rockingham to work the fire in the wintry-feeling afternoon with snow and temps in the low 30s. Forty rooms were burned, shutting down the hotel as inspectors now work to find a cause for the fire. Read more here.

Jenna Bush calls parents from Ellen DeGeneres Show

"They're going to kill me," Jenna Bush told Ellen DeGeneres when phoning the White House to prove how easy it is for her to contact her parents.

The 26-year-old daughter of President and Mrs. George W. Bush got in touch with her mother and then talked with her dad, explaining what was happening, and asking if he was mad at her to which he responded no and that he was happy to hear from her.

Jenna was on Ellen's show to promote her new book, Ana's Story: A Journey of Hope.

Jim Gilmore for Senate

Conservativa talked with Jim Gilmore at the Republican Advance last weekend. Here she has photos and the interview. It is well worth the read.

THE Speech by Mitt Romney ... "Faith in America"

This morning at 10:30 Governor Mitt Romney will deliver a major speech titled "Faith in America."

From his campaign:

The speech is an opportunity for Governor Romney to share his views on religious liberty, the role religious tolerance has played in our nation's progress, and how the Governor's faith would inform his presidency.

The speech will take place at 10:30 am Eastern at the George Bush Presidential Library in College Station, Texas. You may watch the entire speech live on MittRomney.com.

Governor Romney’s faith is an important issue to many Americans, and he personally feels this is the right time to share his views with the nation.

The speech will probably be covered by media outlets.

The penguins are coming ... the penguins are coming....

Read more here:
Frozen Global Warming Strikes Valley

Dem in-fighting sounds familiar

In-fighting in the democrat house? Imagine that.

Hypocrisy in the democrat ranks....

I like this post by Brian Kirwin at Bearing Drift....

Spanky invites penguins to SWAC area....

I laughed out loud when I read Spank That Donkey's post, Frozen Global Warming Strikes Valley. The mental image of penguins on a hockey rink in Staunton made me giggle....

Everyone is enjoying the snow. Thanks for the day-brightener, Chris!

Snow in the Valley....

It's hard to see but the "snow lights" are on....

Snow is a blur in the background as fine flakes steadily come down. The bird feeder is a busy place today....

MSM ignores Christian beheadings

John Maxfield posts about Christian beheadings by Muslim extremists:

A 15-year-old girl was seriously hurt but survived the attack by rolling into a ravine after the initial fight began. It was then that the jihadists beheaded their victims, tied their heads up in plastic garbage bags, took them to a nearby village, dumped them, and left a note saying, "We still need another 100 heads. Blood for blood, a life for life and a head for a head."

We cannot let our guard down....

I am proudly supporting Jim Gilmore for U.S. Senate

All the hype has been that Mark Warner is going to walk away with the U.S. Senate seat next year. Why are people so easily dismissing Jim Gilmore?

Everything I know about the man proves him to be a fighter. He sets a goal ... and he does not give up until he achieves that goal. He has the extensive experience necessary to represent the Commonwealth well as our U.S. Senator.

Mason Conservative posted 10 questions he would like to hear answered by Mark Warner and concluded:

So before all the silliness and cheap tricks, I would LOVE to see Mark Warner, before next fall, answer any of these questions in detail. Its clear Jim Gilmore is ready to talk about every single one of these issues head on.

Since Mark Warner has announced, where has he been? What has he done? Has he taken a stance on ANY of the major issues before Congress? How would he vote on important bills in the Senate? Nobody is asking Mark Warner questions because the established MSM desperatly wants him to win so they won't challenge him.

Luckily, despite everything else, our candidate is a street fighter and won't back down. If the DC Post and any ther publication won't ask Warner the tough questions, at least Gilmore will. [emphasis mine]

"Our candidate is a street fighter and won't back down."

That is only one reason why I feel Jim Gilmore can and will win the U.S. Senate seat in November 2008. He is determined, he has laid the groundwork and begun raising money, he started talking last summer with GOP grassroots leaders and listened to what they had to say, he has a fire in his belly, and he wants it.

More than anything else ... he wants it. He is ready and willing to go up against the Mark Warner Machine.

Mark Warner won ONE campaign in the past -- has everyone forgotten he lost to John Warner? -- so his track record is 50%. But he is now going up against a seasoned veteran of the political game.

Jim Gilmore has served as an attorney, army intelligence specialist, prosecutor and state attorney general, and then was elected the 68th Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia. He has never stopped giving to his state and is willing to serve again.

My money is on Gilmore. Let the games begin!

Snow in the Valley!

Awakened this morning to a dusting of snow with temps in the low 20s and a forecast for up to 3" of the white stuff by the time the day is over. Higher elevations are expecting more. It is gently snowing outside now and very gray and overcast.

The bird feeder has been filled and is being enjoyed by cardinals, juncos, titmice, finches, blue jays, doves ... woodstove is glowing and the chili pot is going....

Let it snow!

Holiday in the National Parks

This Christmas season we give thanks for our nation’s abundant blessings.

In the spirit of gratitude for our natural and historic treasures found from sea to shining sea, this year’s theme highlights America’s national parks. From breathtaking landscapes to important historical sites, generations have marveled at God’s magnificent creation and cherished memories of visits to these special places.

Our deep appreciation goes to the White House Executive Residence staff, artists from across the country, and many volunteers. Their creativity and tireless efforts have made possible this year’s holiday decorations representing our beloved parks.

We send our warm wishes for a happy holiday season full of the love of your family and friends.

George W. Bush
Laura Bush

Hanukkah greetings from President George W. Bush

I send greetings to all those celebrating Hanukkah, the festival of lights.

Hanukkah commemorates a victory for freedom and the courage and faith that made it possible. More than 2,000 years ago, the land of ancient Israel was conquered, its sacred Temple was desecrated, and the Jewish people were forbidden to practice their faith. A patriot named Judah Maccabee and his followers rose up against their oppressors to take back Jerusalem. When the Maccabees returned to reclaim and purify their Holy Temple, the oil used for dedication should have lasted only one day but burned for eight. Every year since then, Jews have celebrated this victory of light over darkness and given thanks for the presence of a just and loving God.

As Jewish Americans prepare to light the Hanukkah candles, we are reminded of the many blessings in our lives. The candles' glow has the power to lift our souls, put hope in our hearts, and make our Nation a more compassionate and peaceful place. We pray that those who still live in the darkness of tyranny will someday see the light of freedom, and we ask for God's continued guidance and boundless love and His protection of all those in need during this holiday season.

Laura and I wish all people of the Jewish faith a Happy Hanukkah.

GEORGE W. BUSH

Photos from the Republican Advance

George Washington graced us with his presence during the weekend....

George & Susan Allen along with Tyler Whitley from the Richmond Times-Dispatch....

SWAC grassroots leaders Chris Darden & Chris Green at Saturday's lunch....

Gilmore supporters wave signs as he speaks....

Delegate Robb Bell from Albemarle County joined us for lunch....

Stopped at Tysons Corner on the way home Sunday to check out the L.L. Bean store....

Photos by SWAC Girl

Late autumn in the Shenandoah Valley ... Afton Mountain

View of Stuarts Draft area of the Valley from Blue Ridge Parkway.

Howardsville Turnpike and the winter woods....
What this photo lacks is the ability to smell the fallen leaves....

When the leaves fall off the trees it opens the woods to see to the forest floor....

Howardsville Turnpike ... the wind was sharp but the air smelled so good....

View of Waynesboro from Afton Mountain....

The wind, the cold, the smell of fallen leaves ... it's late fall.

A house on Afton....

Blue Ridge Parkway....

These dark clouds hung over the Valley all day ... will they bring snow tonight?

Took a drive to Afton Mountain today because the mountains were calling. It was chilly and blustery so I bundled up and spent some time up there enjoying the solitude on a wintry-feeling day.

This is the time of year when I enjoy exploring the Blue Ridge Parkway and Skyline Drive because not many will venture out once the weather turns cold. I relish it partly because I can be alone, and partly because the leaves have fallen off the trees opening it up so you can see the forest floor, the mountains through the trees, and the vistas of the Valley.

Dark clouds hung heavy over the Valley and mountains all day, and the forecast is calling for a possibility of snow tonight and tomorrow. Firewood has been stacked for the woodstove and I am ready if we have the first measurable snowfall of this season.

Winter is on its way....

Photos by SWAC Girl

Closed primaries in Virginia?

Doug at Below the Beltway asks if it's time for Virginia to consider closed Party primaries. I say yes!

GOP Hokie's 2009 GOP "Dream Team"....

GOP Hokie at Elephant Ears has a post up about a possible GOP Dream Team in 2009. Check out what he has to say.

Gilmore vs Warner ... let the games begin

Red Senate at Red State picks up on the dirty tricks that have already commenced with the democrats tracking Jim Gilmore, and quotes posts from Spank That Donkey and SWAC Girl while pointing out the dems will stop at nothing to win in 2008.

Let the games begin....

Blog Net News continues to add new features

Dave Mastio has added new features to Blog Net News that will continue to make it a useful research tool for bloggers. Here is what BNN had to say about it:

BNN has something new we hope you'll think is cool and maybe find useful. You can find it at BNN/FeedCentral.

In short, you can pick any section of BNN, then slice and dice it by blog, by category, by key words, then sort the new feeds by popularity (most linked, most clicked, most commented) and then have it delivered to your cell phone, your RSS reader, your email (hourly update or daily summary) your blackberry or a custom widget on your web page.

For instance, here's the RSS feed of the most clicked posts from Iowa blogs about the current battle between Hillary and Obama ...

... or a feed to track the most recent wisdom from New Hampshire bloggers on Romney's religion.

The element of this that I am most proud of is our partnership with BuzzMob.com. Working together, we're making blogs available in a way they never have been before and hopefully expanding the reach of blogs and the blogosphere another important step.

It is exactly this sort of thing that I had in mind when I founded BNN. By combining smart, human-edited aggregation with cutting edge technology we can make the blogosphere more useful to more people at the same time we help build readership for the best blogs.

I hope you'll help us spread the word.

Dave Mastio

BlogNetNews.com
We Serve Blogging

Sounds as if BNN does not intend to be just an aggregator ... it is striving to be the # 1 tool for bloggers' use to stay updated and use in their research.

High winds cause scattered power outages in Valley ... snow possible tonight

High winds caused scattered power outages in the Shenandoah Valley last night as temperatures dropped into the lower 20s. Today the high temps will remain in the 30s with continued blustery winds.

There is a chance of 1-2" of snow in the Valley beginning tonight and continuing into tomorrow, and 2-4" in the higher elevations with low temps in the teens.

Winter is on its way....

Jim Gilmore to live blog on Too Conservative

Friday morning Vince at Too Conservative will be hosting Jim Gilmore who will answer questions about his run for U.S. Senate. Stop by and leave a question here.

Michael Savage sues CAIR

From News Max:

Nationally syndicated radio host Michael Savage has filed a lawsuit against CAIR, the Counsel on American-Islamic Relations, charging that the Muslim group has misused copyright material from his show.

Voter registration by Party....

... it's way past time.

2008: And so the democrat dirty tricks begin....

Word has come out that the democrats had a tracker inside the Republican Advance over the weekend filming Jim Gilmore and others. The dems, of course, will be trying to repeat their "macaca" glory from last year ... and so the nasty games begin.

Christmas in the Shenandoah Valley ... Staunton Christmas parade tonight

It has been snow flurrying all day in the SWAC area and the winds make it bitterly cold outside. Be sure to bundle up for tonight's parade ... there will be warmth in numbers on the sidewalks!

Tonight -- Monday, December 3, 2007 -- Staunton's annual Christmas parade will begin at 7:00 p.m.

The theme of this year's parade is "Holiday Sparkle" ... and sparkle it will in historic downtown Staunton as Christmas lights twinkle in storefronts as the parade passes by on Beverley Street.

This is always a popular parade with the streets crowded four-deep as people, young and old alike, line up to watch the float entries of local churches, businesses, and civic groups, and to hear local high school bands and wave to friends in the parade.

The parade will begin on Augusta Street near the fire station, turn left onto Frederick Street for one block, turn right onto Market Street for one block, and then turn right onto Beverley Street which is where most of the crowd will be waiting. It will follow Beverley Street to Trinity Church.

Get there early to save a spot for the kids on the curb and bundle up because it's supposed to be cold tonight. Afterwards, the local restaurants such as Shenandoah Pizza and the Byers Street Bistro will offer a warm haven for hot chocolate or a late supper.

Enjoy!

College Republicans ... new officers

The College Republicans elected new officers while at the Republican Advance. Many thanks to the CRs for their help during the Advance and throughout the year.

Special thanks to Jarrett Ray, outgoing CR President who will graduate from James Madison University in 2008, for his help in the SWAC area as well as all over the state. That young man is a worker and we will miss his leadership but wish him well in his future endeavours.


New CRFV Officers & 2007 Awards
Chairman: Adam Bitely (George Mason University)
First Vice-Chairman: Sam Bradshaw (University of Mary Washington)
Second Vice-Chairman: Adam Erby (University of Virginia)
Secretary: Patrick Macaluso (College of William and Mary)
Treasurer: Rebekah Blackwell (University of Mary Washington)

2007 CRFV Awards
Best Chapter: George Mason University
Most Improved Chapter: University of Virginia
Best New Chapter: Lynchburg College
"Karl Rove" Best Activist Award: Maria Fort (James Madison University)
Best Regional Political Director: Ayana Russell (College of William and Mary)
"Spirit of Virginia" Supporter of CRFV Award: Mike Meredith

Thanks to RPV staff for a great Advance

The staff at the Republican Party of Virginia pulled off a great Advance and we are grateful for all their hard work.

From the State Central Executive Committee meeting followed by the State Central Committee meeting Friday afternoon until the straw poll Saturday evening, they were there to make sure things ran smoothly, that registration was painless, seminars were set up, and materials were available. They assisted with volunteer awards at breakfast and lunch and ran from here to there as needed. I never saw them take a break the entire time.

Here is a big THANK YOU to all those folks!

Holiday cards for the troops ... Honoring Our Heroes Tour continues

(From Move America Forward)

Just a quick note from the Move America Forward staff as we are on the road, writing to you outside the War Memorial in Lubbock, Texas.

Gold Star Mom Debbie Lee and Move America Forward Vice Chairman, Lt. Colonel Buzz Patterson (USAF, Ret.) just completed a live interview on the Fox News Channel. Here in Lubbock there's a building crowd and lots of TV cameras from the local television news departments.

We collected more than 5,000 Christmas/Holiday cards for our troops in just the past 12 hours! It touches our hearts to see the people of our great nation making the effort to make and sign Christmas/Holiday cards and then come out to our pro-troop rallies to show their support for the brave men and women who serve this nation and protect our freedoms and liberties.

Please help spread word to others who our down the way on our tour route - we want to keep building the sizes of the crowds as we head towards the Gulf Coast and then up the Eastern seaboard.

Our updated route and itinerary can be found at Move America Forward.

High wind warnings in the Shenandoah Valley....

The Shenandoah Valley is under a high wind warning today. Blustery winds that began during the night continue under gray skies with temperatures in the 30s. Snow flurries and winds of 30 mph with gusts up to 50 mph are expected throughout the day ... and 60 mph winds are expected at the higher elevations in the mountains. Tonight's temps will drop into the 20s.

Bundle up for the Staunton parade tonight. It is going to be very cold....

TONIGHT: Staunton Christmas Parade

Tonight -- Monday, December 3, 2007 -- Staunton's annual Christmas parade will begin at 7:00 p.m.

The theme of this year's parade is "Holiday Sparkle" ... and sparkle it will in historic downtown Staunton as Christmas lights twinkle in storefronts as the parade passes by on Beverley Street.

This is always a popular parade with the streets crowded four-deep as people, young and old alike, line up to watch the float entries of local churches, businesses, and civic groups, and to hear local high school bands and wave to friends in the parade.

The parade will begin on Augusta Street near the fire station, turn left onto Frederick Street for one block, turn right onto Market Street for one block, and then turn right onto Beverley Street which is where most of the crowd will be waiting. It will follow Beverley Street to Trinity Church.

Get there early to save a spot for the kids on the curb and bundle up because it's supposed to be cold tonight. Afterwards, the local restaurants such as Shenandoah Pizza and the Byers Street Bistro will offer a warm haven for hot chocolate or a late supper.

Enjoy!

Virginia Tech going to the Orange Bowl !

Virginia Tech won the ACC Championship and is going to the Orange Bowl! Many eyes in Virginia will be glued to the TV on January 3. Congratulations, Hokies!

Republican Advance ... more about Paul supporters

The Richmond Times Dispatch reported the following about the Ron Paul supporters at the Republican Advance:

Republican officials dismissed the poll's outcome, noting that Paul has been concentrating on winning straw polls all over the country.

Paul bused in young supporters. They waved signs and shouted loudly when his name was mentioned.

"He brought people in here. What is more critical to look at is who finished second and third. That is a more true indicator of the feelings of the Republican Party of Virginia," said Tucker Watkins of Randolph in Charlotte County, a former 5th District GOP chairman.

Interesting....

Republican Advance ... Ron Paul supporters among worst dressed?

Not Joan Rivers at Not Larry Sabato wrote the following about the attire of the Ron Paul supporters attending the Republican Advance who were described as "worst dressed":

The Ron Paul Crew - Again, I am making a broad generalization, but for the most part, it is pretty accurate. This group ... seemed to forget where they were. But unlike the girls, this myriad of indivduals were on the opposite end of the spectrum. Sporting jeans, scuffed up sneakers, ball caps, sweatshirts and bomber jackets, half these people looked like ragamuffins who had not bathed in days. This rambuctious crowd stood out like a sore thumb in the sea of professional attire.

Ouch.

Back home to the Shenandoah Valley....

We've left the big city-bright lights behind and have returned home to the Valley. It is rainy and dreary and cold ... but it is so nice to be home. DC is great to visit but I definitely like the slower pace of the Valley. There's a fire in the woodstove and we are in for the evening.

If I can find the time there is so much more about the Republican Advance I would like to write about ... maybe later today or tomorrow. Meanwhile, it is nice to be back....

Republican Advance Straw Poll ... the REAL winner was Fred Thompson -- Updated

As various news outlets and liberal blogs gleefully report that Ron Paul won the Republican Advance Straw Poll, I would warn folks to not believe everything they read. It was, at best, a stacked poll.

To find the real winner that better represents the leaning of Virginia Republicans, look to the # 2 slot -- Fred Thompson -- who was represented by Attorney General Bob McDonnell and former Governor George Allen.

The SWAC crew was surrounded by Ron Paul supporters at the speeches for presidential candidates. Paul supporters were well organized with signs and prepared chants. Some of their group were loud and rude and obnoxious, and had to be asked to pipe down.

And they were anti-war, hooting and hollering and booing whenever the war was mentioned, or when a speaker suggested supporting the war, the President, and Dick Cheney.

And I dare say they were not Republicans.

My guess is they were bussed in to stack the poll. At $35 a vote, it provided one way for a campaign to get some PR from the mainstream media. All they needed to do was spend about $5,000 and they had front page headlines that Ron Paul was the "winner" in Virginia.

Most of those Paul supporters had not been seen the rest of the weekend participating in seminars or meetings or any of the other events. They showed up for the vote only.

In a word, stacked ... especially in light of the fact Paul has reportedly been doing this at straw polls around the country.

So do not put much weight into the "winner" of Saturday's straw poll. It is not a true bellwether of Republican leanings in the presidential lineup.

The good news is RPV made some money off those guys!

Updated: To be sure there are no misunderstandings, these opinions are strictly my own. It was my observation of what occurred and who the Paul representatives were ... RPV ran an up-and-up poll. They did nothing wrong. My speculation is that the Paul campaign may have brought in people for the sole purpose of voting in the poll, people who did not participate in the Republican Advance.

Republican Advance ... Ron Paul supporters among worst dressed?
Republican Advance ... More about Paul supporters

Republican Advance ... SWAC well represented

The Staunton/Waynesboro/Augusta County area of Virginia was well represented at the Republican Advance. There were at least 20 folks from SWAC attending the Advance.

Electeds attending included Delegate Chris Saxman, Delegate Ben Cline, and Sen. Emmett Hanger.

Others from the SWAC area were Michele Saxman, the four Saxman children, Matt Fitzgerald, Ed Misker and his wife, Mike Hodge, Bethany Hopkins, Paul Comes, SWAC Husband and SWAC Daughter.

We enjoyed talking with our electeds and participating in this annual event that offers an opportunity to network with others, meet party officials, and attend seminars to further our effectiveness as grassroots activists in the community.

Republican Advance ... Chris Saxman

Saw Chris Saxman out tonight at the hospitality suites. I walked over and hugged him ... I was so proud of him today ... he had to make a tough decision and then announce to Republican activists who had been watching the past three weeks. I want to thank Chris for his leadership. He looked relaxed tonight ... typical Saxman ... that's my delegate....

Republican Advance ... more networking with bloggers

Events today at the Republican Advance have been phenomenal. Mixed in with all the Party activists were the bloggers ... and there were a number of them. Friday and Saturday saw many who were in attendance or (as in the case of Ben Tribbett) dropped by to check things out.

Bloggers who were spotted throughout the event were Vince from Too Conservative ... DJ McGuire at The Right-Wing Liberal ... Proud Republican from Virginia Virtucon ... Jane at Conservativa ... GOP Hokie at Elephant Ears ... Shaun Kenney ... Jon Henke ... George Allen ... Jim Gilmore ... Tucker Martin ... Chris at Spank That Donkey ... Elle at In-Politically Correct ... Brandon Bell at Red Zone Roanoke ... Greg Letique from Black Velvet Bruce Li ... and word was Ben Tribbett was back tonight after stopping by last night (I didn't see him either time).

It was nice to meet some fellow conservative bloggers and talk about blogging in the Virginia political blogosphere. We are growing, we are learning, and we are catching up with the dems who have perfected the use of electronic communication.

Tyler Whitley, long-time political writer from the Richmond Times-Dispatch, was there to cover the events and he was at the hospitality suites afterwards.

News Flash! Chris Saxman is NOT running for U.S. Senate

In a speech before the entire Republican Advance, Chris Saxman announced Saturday afternoon he would not be running for the Republican nomination for U.S. Senate. He thanked everyone for their support and help as he explored the possibility.

I had predicted Chris would run because he had a hospitality suite last night, he had lapel stickers made up, his consultant was with him as he worked the crowd, a camera crew followed him as he greeted people, and he had College Republicans volunteering handing out invitations to the hospitality suite.

It was brilliant. His name recognition rose tremendously the past three weeks setting him up for a possible run at statewide office in the future.

Chris Saxman is my delegate and I'm proud to be represented by him.

Republican Advance ... new National Committeewoman

Congratulations to Kathy Hayden Terry on her election by acclamation yesterday at the State Central Committee meeting as our new National Committeewoman. Kathy, who has previously served in the 6th District Congressional seat on SCC and then as Western Chairwoman, has been a tireless volunteer for the Republican Party for over 25 years.

My prediction: Chris Saxman will run for U.S. Senate

Delegate Chris Saxman is working the Republican Advance as if he's a candidate for something.... My prediction, and I told him this last night, is he is going to challenge Governor Jim Gilmore for the Republican nomination to run for U.S. Senate.

Lapel stickers, hospitality suite, consultants, College Republican volunteers ... those are not the things you have if you are not running. He looks and acts like he's in.

This afternoon Governor Gilmore and Del. Saxman will address the entire Republican Advance prior to the presidential straw poll. It should be an interesting event so stay tuned to see what happens.

Republican Advance ... Volunteer Awards

Statewide Awards for volunteers who went above and beyond the call of duty to build the Party....

1) Western Region: Trixie Averill
2) Hampton Roads: David O'Kelly
3) Northern Virginia: Michelle Brickner
4) Central: Jane Ladd
5) Outstanding Unit Chairman: Chris Marston
6) Obenshain Award for Outstanding Unit: Dinwiddie Committee
7) State Chairman's Award for Outstanding Precinct Captain: Peggy Ian

Congratulations to all and thank you for what you do for the Republican Party of Virginia.

Republican Advance ... Friday night reception with Bob McDonnell

Atty. Gen. Bob McDonnell introduces senior U.S. Senator John Warner.

RPV Chairman John Hager addresses Advance attendees.

Republican Advance ... New Media seminar with Shaun Kenney

Shaun Kenney moderated the new media seminar.

Attended the New Media seminar this morning moderated by Shaun Kenney with a panel consisting of John Henke of New Media Strategy; Matt Lira from Congressman Eric Cantor's office; and Mike Krempansky, a Senior Vice President with Daniel J. Eidelman Company.

It was an informative and interesting seminar with discussion from the panel and questions from the group of about 50 who attended. Good information all around.

I'm off to meet the SWAC crew for lunch. More later....

Republican Advance ... Breakfast with Bill Bolling & grassroots awards

Bill Bolling addresses Advance attendees at breakfast

Virginia Republican leadership was well represented at a breakfast that was hosted by Lt. Governor Bill Bolling and attended by Attorney General Bob McDonnell, Chairman John Hager, Congresswoman Thelma Drake, and others.

State Senator-Elect Jill Vogel acted as Master of Ceremonies for the program. State Central Committee member Wendell Walker from the 6th District offered the invocation.

Bill Bolling delivered his usual booming "Good morning!" That man can rally a crowd! He talked about staying with our Republican conservatives principles and said we must pull back the curtain on Mark Warner in the upcoming senate race. Mark Warner, the governor who was responsible for the largest tax increase in Virginia history when a tax increase was not necessary ... the governor who made a solemn vow while running for governor that he would not raise taxes. That and more needs to be exposed about him. Lt. Governor Bolling said we must focus on the 2008 presidential election and work hard to keep our red state "red."

Chairman John Hager said we cannot dwell on our losses but must look ahead to build the Party and bring us together as we elect our candidates. He then announced the grassroots awards for best Unit and best Volunteer from each of the eleven congressional districts. In the 6th District Shenandoah County was the best Unit and Max Baer was Outstanding Volunteer.

All those attending breakfast received a pewter Christmas ornament from Bill Bolling, a tradition that was started three years ago. It commemorates Virginia's 400th anniversary celebration of Jamestown as the first English settlement in America.

More later....

Republican Advance ... Breakfast with Bill Bolling

Breakfast this morning will feature Lt. Governor Bill Bolling and those in attendance will receive one of his Virginia Christmas ornaments that he is famous for passing out at the Advance each year. The day is set to be filled with interesting seminars and more networking. I'm off to catch up with the SWAC crew....