Swedish Fire Festival this weekend at Barren Ridge Vineyard in Fishersville

If you find yourself in the central Shenandoah Valley this weekend, meander on over to the Barren Ridge Vineyard Saturday afternoon for their Swedish Fire Festival. It sounds like fun and, even if you head to Highland County for the Maple Festival early in the day, you could head to Barren Ridge later in the day or that evening.

Owner John Higgs was at the Augusta County supervisors meeting Wednesday night talking about agri-tourism and how it has helped place like Barren Ridge which was originally a family apple orchard. When that played out, the Higgs' planted wine grapes and started their vineyard that has now become a big part of the community.

Saturday afternoon's events are open and free to the public from 3-6:00 pm with a variety of activities including sheep herding demonstrations from Daniel King, owner of Quiet Acres Farm followed at 4:30 by a tour of the vineyard and lecture of how it came to be by owner John Higgs.

Reservations are required for activities beginning at 6 p.m. Tickets are $50 per person (2 glasses of wine included) or $90 per couple (1 bottle of wine included). Contact to see if there are still slots available (540-248-3300).

The Swedish Fire Candles will be lighted at 6:00 p.m. at the beginning of cocktail hour in the tasting room, a comfortable homey room complete with fireplace to relax and absorb the surroundings.

At 7:00 a fondue dinner in the Audrey Blackford Room will be presented by Gourmet Catering featuring traditional fondue including cheese, meat, vegetable, and fruit dipping options. From 7-9:00, entertainment will be provided by "The Roots Down," an instrumental group including an organist, guitarist, and drummer offering the best of soul, funk, and jazz.

At 9:00 all will retreat to the Shenandoah Valley outdoors to take in the views of the Swedish Fire Candles and enjoy s'mores by firelight. Ethereal sounds of the Alphorn will echo throughout the vineyards as performed by the Shenandoah Alphorn Players. It will surely be a night to remember.

If you're going:
Saturday, March 12 -- 3:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.
Barren Ridge Vineyards
984 Barren Ridge Road
Fishersville, VA 22980
540.248-3300

Photos by Lynn R. Mitchell

Cross-posted at Virginia Virtucon

Leahy, 1 ... Schapiro, 0

Norm Leahy, that freedom-loving libertarian who can stand up to the best of them, double-decks the Richmond Times-Dispatch's Jeff Schapiro today for Schapiro's latest slash-and-burn attempt at U.S. Senate candidate George Allen.

As I read Norm's post "Toil, trouble, 'good copy,' and George Allen" at Bearing Drift, I couldn't help but cheer him on as he threw it all in the kettle against Schapiro. The one-two punch exposed Schapiro's unrealistically negative obsession with George Allen and exposed the question of why such a weathered political pundit as Schapiro would choose to take on a George Allen in such a don't-take-prisoners way.

It occured to me that it almost seemed personal to Schapiro and one had to wonder ... had he ever talked with George Allen? Well, of course he has -- Schapiro has talked with everyone.  More importantly, I suppose, is the question of whether he has ever listened to George Allen, actually heard what he had to say as Allen was saying it instead of letting his mind dart ahead to the next barb that he could shoot from his "poisoned pen," as Norm described it, dipped in a fresh pot of vile.

Norm concluded with this zinger that will surely spin Schapiro's infamous bow tie:

It’s the sort of concoction that would curl the toes of any wicked witch, but it’s also one that misses its intended mark. Rather than diminishing Allen, it withers Schapiro, exposing him as little more than bow-tied version of Count Fosco.

Still, I see this salvo as a mere audition tape for the nastiness to come. Should Allen win the GOP nomination, Jeff will rifle every nook, cranny and mouse hole in the anxiety closet in order to concoct a brew strong enough to bring Allen down.

If it’s anything like this first attempt, though, the far more likely outcome is that Jeff will be the one laid low…by a hearty guffaw from the peanut gallery.

Badda-bing, badda-boom. Norm, 1 ... Schapiro, 0.

Cross-posted at Virginia Virtucon

Augusta Board of Supervisors and "clock-gate"

After: Clock at back of supervisors meeting room.

After: Clock at back of room.

Before: Clock originally hung over left column, easily visible to audience as well as supervisors. New location of clock can be seen at right.

For the 12 or so years I've been attending Augusta County Board of Supervisor meetings at the Government Center in Verona, a clock has hung on the side wall fully within view of the supervisors sitting in front of the audience and in view of those attending the meeting, as well. It worked for everyone.

Last night, as the supervisors filed into their seats, I glanced at the wall to see how close we were to starting the meeting.

No clock.

I quickly scanned the entire side wall ... no clock. What had happened to our clock?

Thinking it had been taken down to pain the walls or something, I twisted my head around to the wall behind me ... and there was the clock, fully in view of the supervisors but now not easily visible to the audience. From my angle in the second row from the front, although the clock could be seen, the time could not be read.

A-ha! We have "clock-gate" here in Augusta County! Someone obviously has been plotting to keep the time away from citizens as they attend supervisor meetings. Inquiring minds want to know why the clock was moved so that it is now only convenient for the supervisors to see. I've placed an inquiry with my supervisor.

(Ahh ... if that was all that was going on in little ol' bucolic Augusta County, we'd have it made....)

Democrat Mark Warner: Do as I say, not as I do

UPDATE: Smitty at The Other McCain picked up on this post Thursday mid-day. Thanks for the link, Smitty....

Democrat Mark Warner Talks About Balancing Budget, Votes Against Balanced Budget Amendment --More of the same from Democratic Governor who broke promise not to raise taxes --

After voting for nearly $1 trillion in 'stimulus' spending, casting the deciding vote for $2 trillion in spending for ObamaCare, Mark Warner has finally realized that the federal government has a serious financial problem.

But it's not enough of a problem for him to support a balanced budget amendment to the U.S. Constitution. Given the opportunity to put his apparent new-found concern for the nation's fiscal state into action, Mark Warner punted.

It's not at all surprising.

Remember 2001? "The fact is I will not raise taxes. You can say it 20 more times, but the people will know the difference."

Mark Warner on Taxes, 2001

Then Mark Warner started talking about "budget reform," and taxpayers wound up on the hook for an additional $1.4 billion in taxes.

Warner said there was an urgent need, and that Virginia's budget was sunk without it. After the tax hike was law, his office announced a $544 million surplus.

Remember: Just like President Obama, all of Mark Warner's statements come with an expiration date.

From Republican Party of Virginia....

George Allen: "Obama is pumping pain ... poor policies lead to predictably high fuel prices"

By George Allen
Washington Times

Thursday, March 10, 2011

Each morning over the past several weeks, Americans have watched gasoline and diesel prices skyrocket, igniting worries about the potential for a record-setting spring and summer of high fuel and food costs. Prices have not spiked this quickly since Hurricane Katrina in 2005; in fact, we are experiencing the second highest weekly spike in prices since 1990, according to the Energy Information Administration.

Several factors are behind the turbulence in the oil markets. The global market has responded to the unrest in the Middle East and North Africa with speculative higher prices. Growing demand from China and India for oil, gas and coal has changed the dynamics of world energy needs.

But the roots of our energy woes are largely of our own making. The price of crude oil as a global commodity is pegged to the U.S. dollar, and America’s huge budget deficit and massive trade deficit have devalued our currency.

Worse, the regulatory assault on American fossil fuels by the Obama administration and the past Congress has had a significant effect on today’s fuel prices. These counterproductive energy policies have decreased domestic production and left us more vulnerable than ever to the whims and designs of hostile dictators, oligarchs and cartels.

Consider this economic signal from the Gulf of Mexico. In 2008, the Department of the Interior received more than $68 million in revenues from royalties and lease sales under the Gulf of Mexico Energy and Security Act. In 2010, revenues plummeted to $2.3 million. Our economy lost billions in economic activity and thousands of jobs because of the terrible Deepwater Horizon oil spill and the subsequent self-inflicted moratorium by the Obama administration that closed down drilling.

Click Here To Read The Full Article: http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2011/mar/9/obama-is-pumping-pain/

Say it ain't so ... Wanda and the White Boys to bid farewell

They've been a staple in the SWAC area for years ... 24 years, to be exact ... and they will be playing their final farewell this weekend, bringing it all full circle to the place they began.

Wanda and the White Boys will play Saturday night as a benefit concert for ShenanArts, exactly where they began. Reporter Gina Farthing at the Waynesboro News Virginian has a good article about their accomplishments over the years.

My sister alerted me to this group years ago. Our neighbor Kevin Walsh plays bass for the band. They've sung at weddings, nightclubs, and events throughout the Commonwealth. They've traveled to Ireland and opened for nationally-known groups such as Three Dog Night and many others.

Ending? Say it ain't so. Farewell, Wanda and the White Boys ... we'll miss you.

Cross-posted at Virginia Virtucon

Rainy and foggy and cold

Rain began in my corner of Augusta County around 8:00 Wednesday morning and now, seventeen hours later, it is still pouring down as the temperature slowly rises. It was 35 degrees Wednesday morning, then 37 degree by 6:00 Wednesday evening. Now, not long after midnight, it's 41 degrees.

The entire area is under a flood watch as 2-3 inches of rain are expected before subsiding Thursday evening. Christian's Creek was swollen at noon on Wednesday ... flooding is expected in areas of the Shenandoah Valley.

Meanwhile, driving home from a meeting around midnight, I hit a fog bank about a mile from my house. It was pea soup driving conditions the rest of the way home ... heavy fog alert in western Augusta County.

Luckily, I didn't see any deer while driving home although sometimes on rainy, foggy nights they like to wander onto the roadway. Not tonight, thank goodness. Be safe out there....

Skyline Drive closed due to weather conditions - UPDATED: Now open

UPDATE 3-10-11 at 12:45 pm: The entire length of Skyline Drive has been reopened.

It is now being reported that the entire length of the 105-mile long Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park has been closed due to weather conditions. In western Virginia we are seeing heavy rain and fog at the lower elevations with heavy snow at higher elevations.

WHSV TV-3 out of Harrisonburg is reporting "a Flood Watch is in effect for the entire viewing area until Thursday night. Periods of moderate to heavy rainfall will move in ahead of a cold front. By Thursday evening 2-3" of rain is possible causing flooding of low lying areas as well as small streams and creeks." Be safe out there....

Snow in Bath County

Snowy back roads of Bath County, Virginia ... Wednesday, March 9, 2011.

A friend went fishing in Bath County this morning and ended up heading back to Augusta County because of heavy snowfall. While we had some snow and sleet earlier in the day in this part of the Valley, it turned to all rain by mid-day. The snowy photo shows how unexpectedly the weather can turn in the higher elevations west of here. From my friend:

Lynn,

I thought you might like this story. I left home at 6AM this morning to try some trout fishing in bath County on the Jackson River. It was cloudy but not raining until I got to Goshen where it started sprinkling a little and it stayed that way all the rest of the way. I started fishing about 7:30, had no luck, so I decided to just move around and try different spots on the river.

About 10:30 it started to snow very heavy, large flakes. I was standing in the river re-baiting my hook and when I looked up all I could see was white. I very quickly decided I had better leave NOW! It took me about 30-45 minutes to change out of my waders and wet clothes and get to the main road Rte 220 where I took the attached picture, that is Rt. 220 headed south in the picture. Quite a ride from there to Millboro but after that it was OK. I don't think I have ever seen snow accumulate that fast.

To make matters worse I didn't catch one stinkin' trout. Oh, by the way, there was no snow on the ground when this started, just wet.

Larry

Photo by Larry Tillett

Ash Wednesday ... remembering Ted Turner's "Jesus Freaks" comment

In 2001, media mogul Ted Turner managed to insult just about every Christian with his insensitive remarks on Ash Wednesday, as reported by Fox News Channel's Brit Hume and passed along by Media Research:

Ted Turner insulted attendees at Bernard Shaw’s retirement party, asking those on Ash Wednesday with a smudge on their foreheads if they were "a bunch of Jesus freaks," FNC’s Brit Hume reported Tuesday night.

Hume revealed during his "Grapevine" segment on Special Report with Brit Hume:

"CNN founder Ted Turner, in town last week for a retirement party for anchor Bernard Shaw, left the staff stunned after meeting with them at the network’s Washington bureau. It was Ash Wednesday and a number of those present still had a smudge on their forehead.

‘What are you?’ asked Turner, ‘a bunch of Jesus freaks? You ought to be working for Fox.’

Turner, it may be remembered, stirred controversy a decade ago when he said Christianity is, quote, ‘for losers.’ He apologized for that, but as recently as last August criticized Christianity for being, quote, ‘very intolerant.’"

Sounds like he’s the intolerant one.

And that's a flashback from Ash Wednesday 2001.

Picasso ... Virginia Museum of Fine Arts

It certainly is a treat for Virginians to enjoy art from the Musee National Picasso in Paris at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts in Richmond. The only East Coast venue during its seven-city international tour, it will remain on display daily through May 15th. Even if Picasso isn't a favorite, the opportunity to see his work this close to home is one my family plans to take advantage of as we enjoy yet another VMFA exhibit.

As described by the Museum:

The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts is the only East Coast venue for the exhibition’s seven-city international tour. Drawn from the collection of the Musée National Picasso in Paris, the largest and most significant repository of the artist’s work in the world, this exhibition represents works produced during every major artistic period of Pablo Picasso’s eight-decade career. It includes 176 works from Picasso’s personal collection – art that he kept for himself with the purpose of shaping his own legacy.

Altria Group is the presenting sponsor for the exhibition.In addition to showcasing some of Picasso’s most outstanding works, the exhibition tells a compelling story about the development of the artist’s career, his artistic inspirations, and his profound impact on modern art.

If you're going:
Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
200 N. Boulevard
Richmond, VA 23220

Telephone:
Information: (804) 340-1400
Ticket Desk: (804) 340-1405

Party-poopers?

Matt Talhelm at NBC-29 reports that neighbors in the Keswick area outside Charlottesville have gone to the Albemarle County Board of Supervisors with complaints about noise levels for entertainment events at local vineyards. Are they rightfully concerned ... or are they party-poopers?

Dem-leaning pollster to begin using Daily Kos, SEIU

This story has question marks written all over it. Kyle Trygstad at Roll Call reports that SEIU and Daily Kos are teaming up with the Democratic-leaning Public Policy Polling (PPP) to come up with a weekly grade for subjects/candidates they consider important at the time.

From Roll Call:

President Barack Obama’s approval and favorable polling numbers will be tested and released each week in a new polling partnership formed between the Service Employees International Union and Daily Kos, a liberal online community.

The polling, conducted by Democratic firm Public Policy Polling, will be published each Tuesday on dailykos.com and feature testing on Congress, the generic Congressional ballot, Obama’s re-election and the two major political parties. Polling on “key races” will also be conducted, according to a press release announcing the partnership.

O-kay. Polls with insider help. Hmmm....

Monticello heirloom tomato seeds

It's the time of year when gardeners are studying seed catalogs and deciding what to plant as soon as the ground warms. Here's something different to try ... Monticello heirloom tomato seeds:

Heirloom tomatoes are becoming increasingly popular. We have five additional varieties; ‘Cherokee Purple’, ‘Eva’s Purple Ball’, ‘German Johnson’, ‘Prudens Purple’ and ‘Yellow Pear’, available this year. Click on individual listings for a brief history of each one.

For earlier harvesting, tomatoes should be started indoors in a moistened, sterile seed starting mix, 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost date for your area. Seeds should be sewn about 1/8 inch to 1/4 inch deep, watered gently and placed in a warm 70 degree-80 degree Fahrenheit location keeping evenly moist until germination occurs (usually 5-10 days). After germinating, strong light such as a sunny window or fluorescent bulbs, should be provided. The new seedlings should be transplanted into larger individual containers after they develop their first set of true leaves (about a month). If no fertilizer is contained in the potting medium, the seedlings may benefit from an application of a weak dilution of liquid fertilizer. Gradually harden off the seedlings and transplant to the garden after the danger of frost has passed for your area.

Tomato tasting will be held on August 6th. And don't forget Historic Garden Week at Monticello coming up April 16th.

Giles County battles for Ten Commandments

Giles County residents in rural southwestern Virginia are in the middle of a battle to preserve the display of the Ten Commandments in their public schools. I wrote about their plight in today's Washington Examiner....

Run the SWAC area ... Park to Park Half Marathon in April

Spring in the Shenandoah Valley is a great time to plan for the upcoming third annual Park to Park Half Marathon on April 30th. Participants will run from Waynesboro's Ridgeview Park 13.1 miles to Stuart Draft's Park in Augusta County. Waynesboro's Park and Recreation Department has organized this event for the third year, pulling in sponsors and making it the must-do running event for the area.

Racers will depart at 7:00 a.m. and race along the Shenandoah Valley in the shadow of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. Check out the website for more information and to register.

Skippy peanut butter recall

Skippy peanut butter has a recall for their Skippy Reduced Fat Creamy Peanut Butter Spread and Skippy Reduced Fat Super Chunk Peanut Butter Spread with use-by dates between May 16 and May 21.

Highland Maple Festival begins this weekend

Maple Festival 2009.
SWAC Daughter made a friend.

Highland County's Maple Festival is the next two weekends, March 12-13, and March 19-20, with lots of maple syrup, crafts, entertainment, and tours of sugar camps. Check out my post in today's Washington Examiner for info about camps, where to stay, maps, where to stay, and more.

Snow covered Appalachians

Snow-covered Appalachian Mountains as seen from my front porch this morning
after yesterday's rain turned to snow.

Photo by Lynn R. Mitchell
7 March 2011

Rain, rain, rain ... snow?

Much needed rain started overnight in the central Shenandoah Valley and continued all Sunday, steady with occasional downpours. The temperature peaked out at 52 degrees at my house early in the day and then slowly began to drop throughout the afternoon.

The first report of snow came in a text message to my visiting son whose friend was in Lewisburg, W. Va. It was snowing hard in that area. Next came reports from Snowshoe Ski Resort that a half-foot had fallen with heavy snow still coming down.

Then home school friends in southern Augusta County reported snow around 5:00 Sunday afternoon followed shortly after by a friend at Wintergreen who said it was almost blizzard conditions with heavy snow and wind.
Finally it began at our house but not sure when because it was dark. When I checked the deck at 7:45, it was snowing and sticking, beautiful big wet flakes. WHSV-TV 3 also reported area snow.

No accumulation is expected ... it's 33 degrees outside ... but it's a nice little reminder that technically it's still winter in the Shenandoah Valley....

Lt. Gen. John Kelly: America, don't forget our troops

America is not at war.
The Marine Corps is at war;
America is at the mall.

When America was attacked by Muslim terrorists on 9/11, causing nearly 3,000 innocent victims to perish at the hands of hijacked airplanes piloted by al Qaida terrorists into New York's Twin Towers, the Pentagon outside DC, and Flight 93 that was crashed into the Pennsylvania countryside by brave passengers who overtook the hijackers to prevent crashing into the U.S. Capitol or White House, President George W. Bush and Congress reacted.

Our military was sent to Afghanistan and Iraq in response to the terrorism and to protect the homeland from further attacks.

Anti-war protesters showed up in downtown Staunton, a small central Shenandoah Valley city where such a thing was not expected because it was also the location of the Stonewall Brigade National Guard Armory.

With memories of Vietnam and the treatment of military veterans during and after that war, many in the community including military veterans began to regularly show up for Support the Troops rallies to publicly support not only American troops in Iraq and Afghanistan but also local military troops and their families.

During a Support the Troops rally in 2003, a reporter once asked if we could support the troops but not support their mission, a talking point used by many anti-war protesters. My conclusion was that no, you could not reasonably support the troops and not support their mission. Anti-war protests were counterproductive and demoralizing to our troops who were putting their lives on the line halfway around the world and whose families were making huge sacrifices.

Someone who knows that better than most is Lt. Gen. John Kelly whose son was killed in Afghanistan after stepping on a land mine in November 2010. Recently nominated to become Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates's senior military assistant, he is the highest ranking military officer to lose a child during this war.

Shortly after his son's death, he addressed a crowd at the St. Louis Hyatt Regency, a crowd unaware of his loss. Reporter Greg Jaffe with the Washington Post wrote:

Four days earlier, 2nd Lt. Robert M. Kelly , 29, had stepped on a land mine while leading a platoon of Marines in southern Afghanistan. He was killed instantly.

Without once referring to his son's death, the general delivered a passionate and at times angry speech about the military's sacrifices and its troops' growing sense of isolation from society.

"Their struggle is your struggle," he told the ballroom crowd of former Marines and local business people. "If anyone thinks you can somehow thank them for their service, and not support the cause for which they fight - our country - these people are lying to themselves. . . . More important, they are slighting our warriors and mocking their commitment to this nation." [emphasis added]

In a war that has continued for years but is under the radar of most Americans, most Americans pay no attention to the sacrifices of a tiny portion of Americans who continue to protect the homeland. Good article by Jaffe ... I would strongly suggest reading every word.

April 2 - RPV Reagan Dinner in Richmond

 The Republican Party of Virginia Cordially Invites You to the Ronald W. Reagan Centennial Celebration

Featuring Michael E. Reagan, son of President Ronald Reagan, and other special guests

When: April 2nd, 2011
VIP Reception, 6:00 PM
General Reception, 6:30 PM
Dinner, 7:00 PM

Location: Richmond Marriott, 500 East Broad Street, Richmond, VA 23219

Individual Tickets: $60.00

Vendor Tables are available for $250.00. Contact Gina Padrone at gpadrone@rpv.org for more information and to reserve one today.

Sponsorship Levels

Jellybean Club- $1,000

• Reserved seating for ten at the Reagan Centennial Dinner
• Listing on event signs and in the program

The Reagan Ranch Club- $2,500

• Reserved seating for ten at the Reagan Centennial Dinner
• Two tickets to the VIP Reception
• One photo opportunity with the banquet speakers
• Listing on event signs and in the program

The Gipper Club- $5,000

• Reserved seating for ten at the Reagan Centennial Dinner
• Four tickets to the VIP Reception
• Four tickets to VIP After Dinner Drinks
• Two photo opportunities with the banquet speakers
• Listing on event signs and in the program

The Presidential Club- $10,000

• Reserved seating for ten at the Reagan Centennial Dinner
• Six tickets to the VIP Reception
• Six tickets to VIP After Dinner Drinks
• Three photo opportunities with the banquet speakers
• Listing on event signs and in the program

The Shining City Upon a Hill Club- $25,000

• Reserved seating for twenty at the Reagan Centennial Dinner
• Ten tickets to the VIP Reception
• Ten tickets to VIP After Dinner Drinks
• Five photo opportunities with the banquet speakers
• Listing on event signs and in the program

Phone: 804-780-0111 Email: gpadrone@rpv.org

Va student suspended for opening door for visitor

There it goes again ... common sense flying out the window or, in this case, flying out the door. A middle school student in Virginia opened the door for a woman whose hands were full, and was suspended by school officials for not following the rules.

According to Fox News:

Southampton Middle School in Courtland, Va., issued a one-day suspension to the student last week after he allowed a woman into the school by opening an exterior door. The school district recently implemented a $10,800 security system that requires all visitors to ring a buzzer and appear on an outside camera before entry into the building. Students are not permitted at any time to open doors for outside visitors.

A new security system had been installed in the school and students were instructed not to open the door for visitors. Fox continued:

But the punishment has angered some parents, who claim the child knew the visitor, the Tidewater News reports. The newspaper reportedly received an anonymous e-mail saying the “A” student recognized the woman and opened the door because “her hands were full.”

How about a warning instead of suspending the student?

Thinking of home schooling?

This is the time of year when some families begin to consider home schooling for the upcoming school year. The internet offers endless links to curricula, blogs, information, and much more but one resource right here in Virginia is the Home Educators Association of Virginia (HEAV). Located in Richmond, they have been helping the home schooling community for more than 25 years.

Augusta 21-year-old in critical condition after overnight car accident

Sirens woke me around midnight and now I know why. WHSV TV-3 reports that a car driven by a 21-year-old from Stuarts Draft ran off the road and flipped last night and she is now in critical condition. The back roads in the Shenandoah Valley are narrow, curvy, hilly, and unforgiving at times. Prayers go out to Lauren Campbell and her family.

JR calls out Red State

I was scanning through Facebook when a post from Jim Hoeft at Bearing Drift caught by eye.

Jim wrote, "How Red State twisted Majority Leader Cantor's words is unconscionable. They're fighting the wrong battle -- and I say so." He then takes to task Red State author Michael Hammond, making a number of good points.

As an aside, some are beginning to wonder why Republicans appear to be the sole target for criticism from folks like Hammond. One reason Congressman Cantor and House Speaker John Boehner cannot move forward as much as they would like is because of Senate Democratic Majority Leader Harry Reid's stubborn refusal to allow a vote in the Senate ... so the question is: where's the outrage against Reid?

The Journey reminds that all politics is local

It's amazing how much in local government rolls along because citizens are trusting their elected representatives to do the right thing and, for the most part, it works. Usually if a contested issue comes up and generates phone calls or letters from one or two dozen people, it catches the attention of the public official. If one hundred people register a complaint, it's a red-hot issue.

What if 10,600 people sign petitions registering a complaint and then over 1,000 show up for a Board of Supervisors meeting? Bob at The Journey takes a look back at the basics of what happened two years ago when Augusta County's citizens spoke up about property assessments they felt were unfairly based on inflated prices after the real estate market crashed. It was a study in voices being heard from the people....

Poll: George Allen leads with 67%

Public Policy Polling (PPP) released a new poll today showing former Virginia Governor George Allen holding a 67% lead in the U.S. Senate race.

Challengers Jamie Radtke had 4% and David McCormick had 3%.

Check out my post at the Washington Examiner about the polling numbers and what it may mean for the November 2012 election.

Spring flowers

Sometimes the darndest things can delight me, and this is one of them. Sent by a friend, it made me grin from ear to ear. Try it, especially if you're hungry for spring ... it may delight you, too.

1) Click on the snowman.   You will get a black screen.  

2) Click your mouse anywhere (and everywhere) on the screen and see what happens!

3) Better yet, click (hold down) and drag your mouse over the black screen and enjoy. 

Spring is on its way!

An unexpected encounter with a friend

An unexpected encounter with a friend can sometimes provide a needed lift in spirit, and this week it happened to me in a somewhat comical but rewarding way.

While on the phone talking with a friend, the call-waiting beeped in and, not wanting to interrupt in the middle of the conversation, I glanced to see who it was and made a mental note to call back. About ten minutes later, after listening to the message that was left and placing the call, I excitedly greeted my friend with, "You still sitting in traffic?"

"What?" she asked pleasantly but not quite understanding the question.

I tried again. "I was on the phone when you called earlier but wanted to return your call. Are you still sitting in all that traffic?"

There was a pause, then she questionally replied, "I didn't call you," and then laughingly asked, "Who is this?" Puzzled but still thinking she was just joking because my voice was hoarse due to illness, I in turn responded, "It's Lynn. Lynn Mitchell!" And then beginning to wonder what in the heck was going on, I asked, "Who is this?"

She responded and we both began laughing. Her cell phone number was next to the one I meant to call so it was obvious at that point that I had dialed the wrong person. However, we hadn't talked in a good while so it offered the opportunity to quickly catch up with this home school mom whom I've known for years, a delightfully pleasant lady who shares my love for this beautiful area where we live.

The chance encounter and brief chat with her stayed with me long after we talked, into the next day and the next. Her spirit, her faith and optimism, uplifted me this week and was a reminder of the blessing of friends, and that sometimes we need that encounter even when we don't realize it.

Little gifts from God come in many packages. This week it was an unexpected encounter with a friend.

Skyline Drive reopened after fire

It's been almost two weeks since the day wildfires broke out statewide during extremely high winds and ideal fire conditions. Since that time, fire fighters have remained on the scene through more windy days, working to containing ever-growing forest fires that have consumed thousands of acres of mountain terrain.

The National Park Service announced earlier this week that the northern end of Skyline Drive is now reopened after a fire in that area has been completely contained:

The Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park from Front Royal to Route 211 has reopened after the week-long closure due to the Smith Run Fire. The 105-mile scenic roadway through the park is now open its entire length. All trails previously closed due to the fire are also open. This includes Mt. Marshall Trail from Skyline Drive to the intersection at the Bluff Trail; Appalachian Trail between Compton Gap and the Browntown Trail; Lands Run Gap Fire Road; and the Jenkins Gap Trail.

Park firefighters will continue to monitor the area during the next week. Some smoke may be visible over the next few days, but it is expected to be well within the containment area. As always, hikers are encouraged to stay on the trails, particularly in the burned areas.

The Coffman fire west of Harrisonburg that has burned over 2,000 acres in Rockingham County has also been 100 percent contained with fire fighters monitoring the area. The Shenandoah Valley and surrounding mountains received rain earlier this week.

Observations on a March day....

Observations on a March day.... It's a writing day as I work on the laptop, catching up on correspondence, researching future posts, and doing a lot of reading. I'm taking it easy, recuperating from some nasty flu bug that blind-sided me at the beginning of the week. What the heck was that? After spending 48 achy hours without communication -- mere sounds and talking hurt so I turned off the cell phone and  laptop -- catching up has taken a chunk of time as I continue to recuperate. Expect a hacking cough if you talk with me ... it's probably going to hang on for a while.

Facebook: Studies have shown Facebook and Twitter have eaten into blogs with many people spending more time on those social networks since they require less work. I must say I've been busy this morning posting articles to my Facebook page and interacting in discussions with others. Some of the subjects I've shared today:

- Rove groups plan $120 million campaign in 2012: This is what it takes ... $$$. Kudos to Karl Rove and Ed Gillespie as they actively engage in raising funds to better level the playing field. The NewsMax article states, "American Crossroads and Crossroads GPS on Tuesday said they would raise the money to compete with unions that spent a collective $400 million on behalf of President Barack Obama and Democrats in 2008. The group says it won't be able to outspend the unions but the organization can outpace them in efficiency."

- Averill to lead Americans for Prosperity's Virginia office: The Washington Post article tell of Trixie Averill's promotion as Virginia director for AFP. Trixie and I worked together for twelve years in the 6th District ... two George W. Bush campaigns, two George Allen campaigns, Jerry Kilgore, Bob Goodlatte, local candidates, state candidates, and more. Starting at the beginning of AFP's interest in Virginia, Trixie was pulling me in to help.

Her last job for the GOP was as 6th Congressional District Chair, the latest in her long involvement on the RPV Central Committee. We've stood up against anti-war protester Cindy Sheehan (Trixie's son served three deployments to Iraq), participated in Support Our Troops rallies, distributed yard signs, worked campaign headquarters, conducted sign waves, had grand openings, worked with candidates, lit drops, phoning ... you name it in campaigning, and Trixie and I have done it! (Of course, she's been at it twice as long as I have.) Wishing her good luck as she steps into this new chapter in her life.

- Texas Independence Day: It's Sam Houston's birthday, born on this day in 1793, near Lexington, Va, and it's Texas Independence Day so I sent Facebook greetings to my Texas sister.

- Horses save milk truck stuck in snow: This YouTube video of four Amish work horses pulling a semi milk truck out of a snowy ditch in central Pennsylvania. I saw it on Fox and Friends early this morning and looked it up on YouTube to share with others.

- A Foodie Find - Staunton, Va: My daughter brought this Baltimore magazine article to my attention. It features downtown Staunton's varied restaurants, many supplied by nearby Shenandoah Valley farms. The article began with, "Who knew that Staunton, a tiny city in Virginia, is one of the country's best-kept foodie secrets? But that probably won't be the case for long. Locavore-loving epicureans are taking notice of this agrarian region in the Shenandoah Valley." We knew about our eateries ... now many others will, too.

- Leaders: A fellow blogger began his day by posting a quote from today's birthday boy, Sam Houston: "I believe “A leader is someone who helps improve the lives of other people or improve the system they live under.”  ~ Sam Houston, Born in Virginia on this Day in 1793 (d. 1863)" I liked the leadership quote ... it started my day on the right foot.

- EPA reverses itself on fluoride:  Raised on well water in rural NC and Va may have saved my children from this menace. Nanny government admits 60 years later that fluoride may not be good for all.

- VSP still actively pursuing in 1996 abduction/homocide in Culpeper County: Fifteen years ago today Alicia Showalter Reynolds disappeared on Rt. 29 north of Charlottesville. Her body was found two months later. It was tragic reminder that evil lurks out there....

Spring.... Yeah, finally there with you even though I'm a big snow lover. It's 60 degrees outside today with bright sunshine and little wind. Though we'll have more nasty, cold weather before winter is over, now is when we start planning the vegetable garden, scouring the seed catalogs, planning what flowers will go into the window boxes, and looking forward to more days outdoors in warmer weather. SWAC Husband has turned the garden this week and will soon be planting cold-weather potatoes and onions. He loves working in the vegetables and I love working in my flowers.

American soldiers killed in Germany.... Reports are coming in that four American soldiers were attacked on a bus in Germany; two are dead. More details are showing up but please keep the wounded servicemen and all the families in your prayers as the war on terrorism continues. They are there so that we can live peacefully here.

Time to get back to work.... As I write this, my other work is neglected so it's off for a quick trip to the deck to soak in a few minutes of warm sunshine and then back to writing.

U.S. House schedule for Wednesday

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2ND On Wednesday, the House will meet at 10:00 a.m. for morning hour and 12:00 p.m. for legislative business. Last votes expected: 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. One Minute Speeches (15 per side) H.Res. 129 - A resolution providing for consideration of H.R. 4, the Small Business Paperwork Mandate Elimination Act of 2011 (Special Rule, One Hour of Debate) (Sponsored by Rep. Tim Scott / Rules Committee) H.R.662 - Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2011 (Structured Rule) (Sponsored by Rep. John Mica / Transportation and Infrastructure Committee) The rule provides for one hour of general debate and makes in order the following amendment: John Mica Manager's Amendment (10 minutes) Special Order Speeches COMMITTEE ACTIVITY OF THE DAY Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Communications and Technology to Hold Vote on a Resolution to Reverse the FCC’s Controversial Internet Rules (Wednesday, March 2nd at 9:30 a.m.) Printable PDF

AFP names Trixie Averill to replace departing Marchi

Trixie Averill stood with Support the Troops ralliers at the 2007 Cindy Sheehan appearance in Charlottesville. Her sign says, "3-Tour Military Mom." Her son, Sgt. Marcus Averill, was deployed to Iraq three times during Operation Iraqi Freedom. She stood solidly and defiantly in support of her son and all military men and women who defend our country.

Trixie Averill. Ben Marchi.

Those two people have been around as long as I've been involved in politics as our lives intertwined throughout the years on campaigns and conservative causes.

When Ben took over as Virginia director of Americans for Prosperity three years ago, he was already a seasoned campaigner despite his youth. He raised the awareness of AFP to a point where it became a household word, fighting against unnecessary taxes and wasteful spending.

Trixie had planned to step back and take it easy after the gubernatorial campaign that saw Bob McDonnell voted in by a landslide as governor of Virginia in November 2009. However, life had other plans and she was drafted to run last year as chairman of the 6th Congressional District after the announced retirement of Fred Anderson. After winning that position at the May 2010 convention, she moved forward, leading the 6th District ... until yesterday.

That's when it was announced that Trixie had been tapped to lead the AFP after Ben stepped aside to run his own business and follow other pursuits. Trixie announced her decision at Saturday's 6th District meeting in Lexington.

While we hate to see Trixie leave the Republican Party of Virginia, she will be great at AFP because she will be doing what she loves ... advancing a cause she believes in. Congratulations to Trixie in her new job, and congratulations to Ben as he and his wife Jenna step into the next chapter in their lives.

 

Ben Marchi at recent Eric Cantor breakfast in Richmond.

Photos by Lynn R. Mitchell

Tim Kaine ... cheerleader-in-chief

Tim Kaine ... cheerleader-in-chief. 

H/T to MF

"The King's Speech" and Colin Firth

A few facts first: 1) I love biographies and historical movies; 2) I don't see movies in the theater very often, preferring to wait until they have come out on DVD; 3) I often make it a point to see anything that features Colin Firth.

The King's Speech fulfilled (1), (3), and made me do (2). And for those reasons, I will be doing something tonight I've not done for years ... watching the Oscars to see how The King's Speech fares. It's been nominated for 12 Oscars including best picture, best actor, best supporting actor, best supporting actress, and best director.

The controversy that surrounded American divorcee Mrs. Wallis Simpson and King Edward VIII who abdicated the British throne to marry her was worldwide news at the time. I've read biographies and history of that episode, and I'm intrigued reading about the reluctant king, King George VI, who was not raised to be king but found himself in a situation where his services were called upon to lead his country into World War II. By his side along the way was the man who became his lifelong friend and speech therapist, Lionel Logue. All these years later the story of the King and the speech therapist hit the big screen to fantastic reviews and the world has learned a bit of history that had been tucked away for decades....

Update: Oscars went to The King's Speech for best picture, best actor (Colin Firth), and best director as well as best original screenplay. 

Gov. McDonnell announces additional appointments to administration

RICHMOND - Governor Bob McDonnell today announced additional appointments to his administration on the Virginia Parole Board. In addition, he announced an appointment to the Virginia Racing Commission.

Bios for today’s appointments can be found below. Further announcements regarding additional appointments in the McDonnell Administration will continue to be made in the months ahead.

Virginia Parole Board
Bill Muse, Chairman
Bill Muse is a Richmond native and currently serves as a Senior Assistant Attorney General in the Correctional Litigation Section. He joined the Attorney General's Office in 1985 after twelve years of private practice in the Richmond area. Bill is an experienced litigator in all aspects of correctional law, including parole issues, and his duties in the Attorney General's Office involve representing and advising the Departments of Corrections and Juvenile Justice and their policy boards on a wide range of issues.

Bill is a graduate of Hampden-Sydney College and the University of Richmond Law School. He is an active member of Crestwood Presbyterian Church and has served for many years on the board of the Regional Drug-Free Alliance.

Karen Brown, Vice-Chairman
Karen D. Brown graduated from Hampton University in 1977 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology. She later attended George Mason University School of Law where she received her Juris Doctorate in 1991 and was admitted to the bar that same year. Ms. Brown began her legal career as a judicial law clerk at the Superior Court of the District of Columbia. As a prosecutor for sixteen years, she served in the Newport News and Chesapeake Offices of the Commonwealth’s Attorney. In that capacity, she prosecuted cases in the Juvenile and Domestic Relations, General District and Circuit Courts with a concentration on child abuse and sexual assault cases. Ms. Brown is also a victim of crime as her brother was murdered in the city of Newport News in October 1993.

Rita Angelone, Part-Time
Rita Angelone was the Resource Development Coordinator for the Virginia Foundation for Healthy Youth and spent several years as Grants Program Administrator for the Foundation. She also served as a Grant Monitor for Domestic Violence grants at the Department of Criminal Justice Services. Prior to that, Rita worked in several areas in the field of Corrections and as a Regional Supervisor for Workers Compensation. Rita holds a Bachelors Degree in Liberal Studies and a minor in Psychology from the University of Oklahoma.

Minor Stone, Part-Time
Minor Stone spent 29 years in law enforcement as a police officer and supervisor. Mr. Stone was promoted to Police Platoon Sergeant supervising a port police patrol unit in 1984. Mr. Stone retired from State service in 2006. He owns and operates a tourism related business in Virginia Beach.

Trudy Harris Part-Time Investigator
Trudy Harris is a graduate of George Mason University with a Bachelor of Science in Administration of Justice. She is retired from the Virginia State Police. During her career with Virginia State Police she served as a Trooper in Northern Virginia and on the Executive Protective Detail. She was promoted to Special Agent in the Bureau of Criminal Investigation where she conducted investigations into violations of criminal law. She is an adjunct instructor at Piedmont Virginia Community College in the Police Science Program.

Board Appointments
Virginia Racing Commission
· J. Sargeant Reynolds, Jr. of Richmond, Principal with Reynolds Development

And then there were 10,000 Facebook supporters ... George Allen weekly update

Weekly update from George Allen....

Dear Fellow Patriot,

This week was a busy and successful one for our campaign. On Saturday I had the pleasure of attending an open house with over 140 Northern Virginia Tea Party Patriots. It was clear they are frustrated that Washington has been ignoring “We the People.” We had a great discussion about the Constitution, energy, foreign policy and the economy. I look forward to continuing that informative conversation with Virginians throughout the state.

I also had the chance to participate in events for two wonderful organizations that provide support and guidance to Virginians throughout the Commonwealth. It was an honor for Susan and me to be invited to join in the Gloucester Institute’s “Return to Sunday Dinner.” We had a great talk with smart, well grounded students and future leaders. We were also glad to be able to enjoy a great cause, ThanksUSA, a charitable organization started by two young girls that provides scholarships for military spouses and children.

Susan and I truly enjoy traveling around the Commonwealth. It allows us to not only listen to the concerns of Virginians but also to personally see first hand the so many remarkable initiatives by Virginians to better people’s lives and opportunities. I encourage you to join us and our grassroots insurgency by volunteering, following us on Twitter, joining us on Facebook, or becoming an online captain.

With your continued help, advice and support, we will fight for the issues that matter most to the families of Virginia and get our country back on the right track.
Stay strong for freedom!

George Allen

P.S. The George Allen Facebook page has over 10,000 fans – help us continue to spread our positive message by encouraging your friends to sign up at www.facebook.com/georgeallenva!

Putting an end to the spending spree

By Congressman Bob Goodlatte
R - VA 6th District

Today, Washington spends $7 million every minute of every hour of every day and to finance this spending addiction the government must borrow over 40 cents of every dollar spent. This has resulted in our national debt exceeding $14 trillion which is over $45,000 for every man, woman and child in America. It’s this kind of out-of-control spending, skyrocketing deficits, and massive growth in government programs that have increased economic uncertainty and prolonged our unemployment crisis.

Last week, the House of Representatives took its first major step in getting Washington’s fiscal house back in order by passing a bill which cuts over $100 billion in spending over the next seven months. This represents the largest discretionary spending cut in history. The legislation, which passed with my strong support, is needed to continue operation of the federal government through the end of this fiscal year. The continuing resolution reflects Washington’s need to make tough decisions about spending priorities, cutting wasteful programs, and respecting taxpayers’ wallets.

The over $100 billion in cuts to the federal budget represent tough choices, but we must take these necessary actions in order to protect the future of our country. Many federal programs have received funding increases over the last several years that outpaced both inflation and the growth of the American family budget. A thorough and careful review of all our federal agencies and programs must be done to root out any waste, fraud and abuse. We made a good start on that process with this bill. It is essential that the federal government work to both eliminate every cent of waste and squeeze every cent of value out of each dollar our citizens entrust to it. It is the only way to restore confidence in America’s economic future.

Specifically the legislation will reduce domestic discretionary spending by $84 billion over the next seven months and it will reduce security related funding by $16 billion over the same time period. It does not, however, make any cuts to the vital funding for our men and women in uniform. Additionally, we voted to eliminate any unobligated “stimulus” funding which will save the taxpayers as much as $2 billion.

As elected officials and stewards of the taxpayers’ money, we have a responsibility to put together a sustainable federal budget and stick to it. I have consistently supported measures to rein in the federal budget and curb spending by voting for the tightest budgets and spending bills possible. I will continue working hard to bring fiscal responsibility back to Washington by supporting legislation which tightens the budget and reduces wasteful spending. The passage of this continuing resolution is critical to ending the spending spree in Washington and getting our economy moving in the right direction. Ultimately, we must make the tough decisions necessary to balance our budget and pass a balanced budget amendment to the U.S. Constitution, helping to assure that future governments live within their means.

To contact me about this or any other matter, please visit my website at www.goodlatte.house.gov.

Iwo Jima, the USS Wisconsin, and my dad

Check out my post at the Washington Examiner about the battle for Iwo Jima that took place sixty-six years ago this month. My dad, a World War II veteran, now deceased, played a role in that battle. From my post:

My father, now deceased, was a 20-year-old seaman manning the big 16" guns on the USS Wisconsin, affectionately known as the Gray Lady. It was part of the 5th Fleet of the U.S. Navy in the Pacific Theater that supported landing operations for those fighting on Iwo Jima. The Wisconsin used adverse weather conditions to achieve complete surprise in the days leading up to Iwo Jima. Preparing for the battle, it attacked the Japanese capital as a strategic cover for the invasion of Iwo Jima and disrupted its air force and destroyed industrial plants. It remained a forceful part of the battle through March and earned a Battle Star, its third, for the operations. An old water-damaged framed print of the USS Wisconsin that belonged to my dad, complete with stars and combat record, hangs in my living room as a reminder of my own military hero.

Please ... thank a World War II veteran before it's too late.

Battle for Iwo Jima on this date in 1945 ... World War II

From Don Williams, chairman of the Chesterfield County (Va) Republican Committee, is a reminder of the importance of today in history....

"Amid those who would retreat into isolation ... I prefer to commemorate the bravery of those who fight to secure our freedoms. On this date in 1945, 5 Marines and a Navy Corpsman raised the American Flag atop Mount Suribachi in the Battle for Iwo Jima. We are fortunate this event is depicted in the historic Rosenthal photograph. It is an icon of freedom for all. Thank a WWII Veteran today before its too late."

From my Washington Examiner post on Wednesday:

Many recognize the Joe Rosenthal photo that captured the moment when five Marines and one Navy Corpsman raised the American flag on Mount Suribachi during the battle for Iwo Jima.
Few remember the bloody battle by land and by sea nor the number of lives lost before and after that February day when the flag was raised during a battle that raged until March 25, 1945, and helped lead to the end of World War II. With the current unrest in the Middle East, it is important to remember this past history.

Read the entire post at the Washington Examiner. May we never forget...

February ... Virginia Home Education Month

Thank you, Gov. Bob McDonnell, for proclaiming February 2011 as Virginia Home Education Month.

General Assembly bills of interest to home schoolers ... how did they do?

Home Educators Association of Virginia (HEAV) followed the 2011 General Assembly and reported on eight bills that would benefit home schoolers in the Commonwealth. Out of those eight, two passed and six failed. Below is the recap by HEAV on how the bills fared....

LEGISLATIVE WRAP-UP

With only one week left in this short legislative session, most of the bills we tracked and lobbied for have already passed or failed. Below is a summary of their status. Our bill reader, Caroline Barnes, read through thousands of bills, and these were the ones of particular interest to home educators. Thank you for all of your prayers throughout the legislative session!

Driver Education in Planning District 8

HB 2439, sponsored by Mark D. Sickles (D-Franconia) and introduced by VaHomeschoolers, will make available to private and homeschooled students and their parents in Planning District 8 the viewing of a 90-minute parent/student driver-education film required to obtain a driver's license in Planning District 8 only. Although the law requires both parents and students to view a 90-minute film, some schools have not allowed homeschoolers to have access to the film.

During the House subcommittee hearing, HEAV's lobbyist, Bob Shanks, gave testimony in support of the bill. He related a story of a homeschool parent who was referred by the Department of Education to HEAV for help. Shanks pointed out the negative impact the school's refusal to allow access to the film had on a homeschooler seeking his driver's license. Because the homeschooled student and his parent were not allowed to view the film at the local high school in their district at the scheduled time, the homeschooler could not get his driver's license. This prevented him from beginning an EMT job for which he had already been hired. With supporting testimony from VaHomeschoolers and HEAV, the bill passed the House in a block vote and was reported from Senate Education and Health committee 15-Y, 0-N. PASSED  

Immunization Exemptions for Home-Instructed Children

HB 2291, sponsored by Mark D. Sickles (D-Franconia), allows a licensed nurse practitioner, in addition to a licensed physician, to provide written certification that an immunization may be detrimental to a homeschool child's health.  

Passed both the House and Senate unanimously. PASSED

Repeal of the HPV Immunization

HB 1419, sponsored by Kathy J. Byron (R-Lynchburg), eliminates the requirement for the human papillomavirus vaccination (HPV) for female children.

Passed the House; passed by indefinitely in Senate Education and Health. FAILED

Tax Credits for Donations to Nonprofit Organizations Providing Scholarships

HB 2314, sponsored by James P. "Jimmie" Massie, III (R-Richmond), establishes a tax credit for corporations donating money to nonprofit organizations that provide scholarships to students who are eligible for the free and reduced lunch program. The scholarship funds must be used for qualified students to attend non-public elementary or secondary schools. This does not include homeschools.

Passed the House; passed by indefinitely in SenateFinance. FAILED

SB 1194, sponsored by Mark D. Obenshain (R-Harrisonburg), is a companion bill to HB 2314, the tax credit bill described above.

Left in Senate Finance. FAILED

Educational Best Interests of a Child in a Court Dispute

SB 994, sponsored by Richard H. Stuart (R-Montross), provides that when a court has jurisdiction to resolve a dispute between parents as to how a child shall be educated, there shall be a rebuttable presumption that it is in the child's best interests to remain in the last educational setting to which both parents agreed.  

Passed by indefinitely in Senate Courts of Justice. FAILED

Virginia State Virtual School

HB 2311, sponsored by Richard P. Bell (R-Staunton), establishes "Virginia State Virtual School" as a policy agency in the executive branch of government. Its purpose is to govern the online educational programs and services offered to students enrolled in the Virginia State Virtual School. HEAV carefully watched this bill and its progress in order to protect the rights of homeschoolers.

Stricken from the docket by House Education. FAILED 

Sports Access

HB 2395, sponsored by Robert B. Bell (R-Charlottesville) allows non-public school students to participate in public school interscholastic programs. The House Education Committee voted to schedule a joint House-Senate study of sports access to be conducted this summer. The purpose of the study is to see how other states handle sports access.

Passed by with a letter in House Education. FAILED

From Richmond ... understanding the vote

By Del. Dickie Bell
R-20th House District

There is a great deal of confusion surrounding House Bill 1447, a bill that recently passed in the General Assembly this week. I would like to help clarify some of this confusion, and help some of you understand my vote.

House Bill 1447 would allow income tax credits for individuals and businesses for qualified research and development expenses. This bill will also help foster job growth in the research field.

There were some concerns by pro-life constituents and organizations that this may allow tax credits for companies that study and perform research on embryonic stem cells. Many pro-lifers, myself included, chose to vote for House Bill 1447, due in large part to the fact that there was language in the legislation that specifically excluded embryonic stem cell research.

Although it was a tough vote, I chose to vote in favor of this bill due to the fact that it will create jobs for the citizens of the Commonwealth, without providing tax incentives for embryo destruction.

Please see below for an article that the Virginian-Pilot ran on this story. To view the story online please go to http://hamptonroads.com/2011/02/va-tax-credit-wont-apply-stemcell-research.

If you have any questions on this, please do not hesitate to contact me.