It's been a busy week and I'm still working on my post from Wednesday night's Augusta County public hearing to consider raising taxes, but some things have stood out. The lack of protesters showing up at this meeting and an earlier town hall meeting (five citizens attended) appears to indicate people realize backs are to the wall and there needs to be a tax increase.
Sure, there were twenty-two at Wednesday's meeting who spoke out against the tax increase. But in a room of sixty citizens, about half were tea party people and older folks who protested taxes of any kind, and the other half were made up of those who felt taxes were necessary, the media, fire and rescue folks, and government center staffers. (Background info and links are here.)
The SOS (Save Our Schools) group came out on February 22, 2012 -- an overflow crowd of 400 teachers, parents, students, and members of the community asking that their taxes be raised to be sure and cover core services. They followed that up by attending school board meetings, and then a school budget was adopted. Their voices had been heard. Wednesday night was when a handful of tea partiers came out to make their case.
Members of the community -- farmers, small business owners, insurance agents, neighbors -- have voiced that they realize the price of everything has gone up. Noticed the price of gas at the pump lately? Groceries? Costs have risen for local governments, too, and numerous citizens have told their supervisors that they understand the need for a tax increase.
After years of making cuts and laying off employees, many localities -- including Augusta, Staunton, Waynesboro, Harrisonburg, and Rockingham -- have hit the wall. They can either dip into their rainy day funds or raise taxes or start cutting off core services such as law enforcement, schools, and fire and emergency (in the past two weeks, Augusta County has had three total-loss house fires, one each in Stuarts Draft, Mt. Sidney, and Crimora).
Even Shaun Kenney, an extremely conservative leader who is chairman of the Fluvanna Board of Supervisors, has been faced with the writing on the wall and is supporting tax increases with his board.
The bills are due. What is the fiscally conservative thing to do? Should we kick the can down the road to the next board or city council and let them worry about it, or do we take personal responsibility and face the problem square-on?
At my house, we face it square-on. We need to pay our bills. How we do it is the question: dip into savings or raise taxes? Either way, something has to be done.
Cross-posted at Bearing Drift
Saturday, April 21, 2012
Eminent defeat for Democrats in November
"The 2012 presidential election is shaping up to be a battle between right and wrong
instead of right and left. Democratic Party stalwarts smell victory in the air,
but it's not their victory that they smell."
-- Neil Snyder, American Thinker
instead of right and left. Democratic Party stalwarts smell victory in the air,
but it's not their victory that they smell."
-- Neil Snyder, American Thinker
Tea Party favorite Sen. Ron Johnson (R-WI) endorses George Allen
From Wisconsin Republican Senator Ron Johnson on his endorsement of Republican George Allen for U.S. Senate:
I spent 31 years helping build a manufacturing business from the ground up. Today we make every ounce of our product in the USA and sell it across America and in over two dozen nations. We are proud to say, we don't export jobs, we export plastic.Check out George Allen's website -- www.GeorgeAllen.com -- to make a contribution to the campaign and for more information about how to become involved in this very important election.
I have experienced first-hand the burdens Washington places on small business and the American people. The 1.75 trillion dollars a year of federal regulation, the trillion dollar deficits as far as the eye can see and the massive debt.
Washington is broken and bankrupting America.
We must change the spending and debt culture in Washington. It is why I ran. It is the fight I fight every day.
It will take people who exhibit a special kind of strength to change Washington.
It is why I'm proud to support George Allen for US Senate, and I wanted you to be one of the first to know.
It was an easy decision for me.
George Allen was one of only 15 Senators who voted against the Bridge to Nowhere and pushed for a Balanced Budget Amendment and a Line-Item Veto, two things he's running on today.
We need more allies in Congress like him, willing to fight to get our country back on the right track.
But I know George's election won't be easy - taking on President Obama's handpicked DNC Chairman is a steep challenge.
They will stop at nothing to reward his loyal service supporting all of the President's significant policies.
Even running for Senate, Tim Kaine calls himself an "unabashed" supporter of the President and remains one of Obamacare's biggest supporters - calling it one of President Obama's "great achievements."
The last thing we need in the U.S. Senate is a blindly loyal follower of President Obama and his failed policies that are threatening the American Dream.
What we do need are more leaders like George Allen.
I'm hoping you'll join me in supporting him today.
He needs all our help, and I think this is a race worth investing in.
News and Advance: Senate Dems 'Ineptitude Bordering on Malfeasance'
~ Editorial rips Senate Democrats for acting 'like spoiled little brats' ~
The editorial board of the Lynchburg News and Advance was not pleased with the behavior of Senate Democrats in regard to the state budget. Excerpts from the editorial follow, but I encourage you to read the entire piece.
Find the entire piece here.
H/T to Garren
The editorial board of the Lynchburg News and Advance was not pleased with the behavior of Senate Democrats in regard to the state budget. Excerpts from the editorial follow, but I encourage you to read the entire piece.
"... Once again, it was the 20 Democratic members of the Virginia Senate who gave nightmares and migraines to local government officials from Tidewater to Southwest, from Northern Virginia to Southside and all regions in between...
... The 20 Democrats whined from Day One about being on the short end of the stick. They lost in court, when they filed suit earlier this year to force power sharing, and ever since, they've been using the all-important budget process to squeeze concessions from the Republican caucus...
... First, they said they would only vote for a budget if Republicans agreed to power sharing on committees. That brazen grab at power flamed out as Virginians across the state heaped scorn on the Democrats.
So then, they cloaked their intransigence and lust for power in the mantle of public education. Gov. Bob McDonnell and the GOP scraped together more money for the schools, and still the Democrats balked. Then they said they were fighting for commuters who were averse to paying tolls on major highway projects. Again, McDonnell massaged the numbers to put off the toll blow for a year, and again Democrats balked.
Now, Democrats then said they were fighting for highway dollars in Northern Virginia. What a load of horse manure..."
H/T to Garren
George Allen, Sen. Ron Johnson (R-WI) host small business roundtable
From the George Allen for U.S. Senate campaign....
Henrico, VA – Today, George Allen and Senator Ron Johnson (R-WI) met with small business leaders at a roundtable discussion at Bill’s Barbecue in Richmond, where Allen outlined his positive vision for Virginia and his Blueprint for America’s Comeback. This is the latest in a series of town hall-style meetings where George Allen heard from local business leaders about their concerns and discussed his proven solutions to create jobs, reduce gasoline prices and make America competitive again.
In opening remarks, Senator Ron Johnson (R-WI) announced his endorsement of George Allen and spoke from his perspective as a small business owner why he’s looking forward to working with him as a partner in the U.S. Senate.
“After spending 31 years in the manufacturing business, I have experienced first-hand the burden Washington places on small businesses,” said Senator Ron Johnson. “We need more like-minded allies in Washington who know we can’t borrow, tax and spend our way to prosperity. George Allen has a record of standing up for job-creators and fighting against Washington’s job-destroying regulations and overspending that is threatening the survival of small businesses in Virginia and across the country. I look forward to having George Allen as a partner in the U.S. Senate.”
“It’s time for Washington to start listening to the small business owners and entrepreneurs here in Virginia and come together to eliminate the burdensome regulations stifling the very job-creators we need to reinvigorate our economy,” said George Allen. “Massive tax hikes, burdensome regulations and Washington political gimmicks won’t do anything to help create jobs or families fill up their gas tanks — it will only make things worse. We need a positive vision and proven, pro-job growth solutions to empower small businesses to invest, expand and hire, unleash our energy resources and make America competitive again. I want to see a hassle-free government serving and helping small business owners and letting consumers decide who has the best product or service rather than hindering and impeding us.”
Rhoda Elliot, owner of several Bill’s Barbecue restaurants in the greater-Richmond area said, “I thank George Allen and Senator Ron Johnson for coming to Bill’s Barbecue and listening to the concerns and challenges of small business leaders in our area.”
Henrico, VA – Today, George Allen and Senator Ron Johnson (R-WI) met with small business leaders at a roundtable discussion at Bill’s Barbecue in Richmond, where Allen outlined his positive vision for Virginia and his Blueprint for America’s Comeback. This is the latest in a series of town hall-style meetings where George Allen heard from local business leaders about their concerns and discussed his proven solutions to create jobs, reduce gasoline prices and make America competitive again.
In opening remarks, Senator Ron Johnson (R-WI) announced his endorsement of George Allen and spoke from his perspective as a small business owner why he’s looking forward to working with him as a partner in the U.S. Senate.
“After spending 31 years in the manufacturing business, I have experienced first-hand the burden Washington places on small businesses,” said Senator Ron Johnson. “We need more like-minded allies in Washington who know we can’t borrow, tax and spend our way to prosperity. George Allen has a record of standing up for job-creators and fighting against Washington’s job-destroying regulations and overspending that is threatening the survival of small businesses in Virginia and across the country. I look forward to having George Allen as a partner in the U.S. Senate.”
“It’s time for Washington to start listening to the small business owners and entrepreneurs here in Virginia and come together to eliminate the burdensome regulations stifling the very job-creators we need to reinvigorate our economy,” said George Allen. “Massive tax hikes, burdensome regulations and Washington political gimmicks won’t do anything to help create jobs or families fill up their gas tanks — it will only make things worse. We need a positive vision and proven, pro-job growth solutions to empower small businesses to invest, expand and hire, unleash our energy resources and make America competitive again. I want to see a hassle-free government serving and helping small business owners and letting consumers decide who has the best product or service rather than hindering and impeding us.”
Rhoda Elliot, owner of several Bill’s Barbecue restaurants in the greater-Richmond area said, “I thank George Allen and Senator Ron Johnson for coming to Bill’s Barbecue and listening to the concerns and challenges of small business leaders in our area.”
Rain moving into the Valley ... snow in forecast?
It was predicted and we were expecting it -- rain in copious amounts this weekend -- and now it's arrived in my corner of Augusta County. The skies have darkened, winds have picked up, temperature is dropping after reaching a high of 78 degrees, and thunder is rolling off the Appalachian Mountains.
The first part of the day was on-and-off sunny and gorgeous, perfect for being outside. My kids went hiking in Shenandoah National Park knowing the rest of the weekend was going to be cold and rainy. They arrived back home just as the wind started blowing and even now, as I reach over and pull the window down until it's open only about four inches, trees and bushes are dancing around in the stiff breeze. The smell of rain is coming in the window, and the thunder rolling along the mountain ridges is a little scary and yet somewhat comforting at the same time.
I love rainy days. I don't know why the dark skies and raindrops are comforting to me. I find it cozy to snug in and wait out the weather. As a little girl, I would make a tent in the living room from blankets and chairs, and put blankets and pillows inside. When camping, rain presents an opportunity to wrap up in a blanket in the tent and read a book or play Scrabble. If there's a group of us, we gather in the screen dining tent where we hang clear plastic on the sides to block the wind and rain, and sit around the picnic table with the heat of the lighted lantern to ward off the chill.
Tomorrow is supposed to be a raw day with high temperatures in the lower 40s and rain. The woodstove will be cranked and SWAC Daughter is making her Santa Fe soup in the crockpot ... good cold weather food.
AccuWeather has put out information about possible snow for regions from western Virginia through Pennsylvania because of the low overnight temperatures Sunday and Monday nights. It's still April and our safe frost date is not until May 15 so this is not out of the question. But still ... the warm days and blooming trees and flowers have lulled us into a sense of comfort that we're safely out of the snow zone.
There's nothing to be done about the rain or the snow so we choose to take it in stride and enjoy our time together. Bring out the board games or a favored movie or a treasured book and kick back. It's a rainy weekend in the Shenandoah Valley....
Rob Bell's Property Rights Amendment to be on November ballot
From Delegate Rob Bell (R-58th House) in neighboring Albemarle County....
Cross-posted at Bearing Drift
As reported in the Washington Post, Governor McDonnell has signed the bill to place my House Joint Resolution 3 on the ballot for November, 2012.To sign, go to the Virginia Property Rights Amendment petition.
The Amendment would state that the government could only take private property for public use (not "public purpose"). In addition, the government would be required to take no more property than necessary for the public use, and the Government would bear the burden of proving that the use was, in fact, public.
We are all obviously very excited that the voters will have a chance to stand up for property rights. The General Assembly passed a law in 2007 that I patroned with then-Senator Ken Cuccinelli to protect property rights. However, along with other legislators, I believe property rights are fundamental, and need the additional protections provided by the Constitution.
We now need to turn our efforts to passing the referendum, which will be on the ballot on November 6, 2012. If you would like to help, I hope you will sign my property rights petition.
Cross-posted at Bearing Drift
'Virginia is for Workers' ... unemployment falls to 5.6%, lowest in 3 years
From Governor Bob McDonnell's office....
RICHMOND – Governor Bob McDonnell issued the following statement this morning following news that Virginia’s unemployment rate has declined for the fourth straight month. The unemployment rate for the month of March was 5.6 percent. That is the lowest unemployment rate in Virginia in over 3 years, and a decline from 5.7 percent in February. Virginia has the lowest unemployment rate in the Southeast, and the third-lowest unemployment rate east of the Mississippi River. The national unemployment rate for March was 8.2 percent.
“Virginia is growing strong again. Today we received word that the state unemployment rate has now declined for the fourth straight month. At 5.6 percent our unemployment rate is far below the national unemployment rate of 8.2 percent. We have the lowest unemployment rate in the southeastern United States. And we have fallen far below the 7.3 percent unemployment rate we inherited when taking office in January 2010. All of this means: more Virginians are working today. That is a good thing. It is a bipartisan accomplishment.
“We’ve been focused on one thing since taking office: getting Virginians back to work and our economy back on track. Through the great leadership of Lieutenant Governor Bill Bolling, Virginia’s Chief Jobs Creation Officer, and Democratic and Republican legislators, we have put in place policies that help private-sector job creators innovate and grow. And we have focused on keeping taxation, litigation and regulation to a minimum, so job-creators can keep more of their hard-earned capital to employ more Virginians and expand their operations, without government getting in their way. That formula is working.
“CNBC and Pollina have both named Virginia the best state in America for business. Last year state agricultural exports hit a record high. Virginia soybeans have been shipped to China; Virginia cows have been sent to Russia and Canada. Our wine industry is growing. Steven Spielberg filmed ‘Lincoln’ right outside my office window. And employers keep choosing Virginia as their home. Fairfax County has welcomed Bechtel Corporation and Northrop Grumman. Pulaski County has welcomed Phoenix Packaging Operations. Galax has welcomed Albany Industries. Henry County has welcomed Laminate Technologies. And in Mecklenburg County, Microsoft has made the largest economic development investment in the history of southern Virginia. These successes are being replicated all across the Commonwealth. Virginia is wide open for business.
“Now, we must keep this positive momentum going. Virginia’s economy is recovering, but it is still early. Too many Virginians still need good jobs. Our work isn’t through until they are working again. This afternoon, Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry Todd Haymore and I will visit Shenandoah Growers in Harrisonburg as part of our ongoing “Year of the Entrepreneur” in the Commonwealth. We’re going to meet with CEO and President Timothy Heydon and employees, tour the operation, and hear directly from them what Richmond should, and should not, do in order to ensure that this Virginia business can continue to grow and create more good paying jobs for hard working Virginians. I look forward to this visit. And I look forward to continuing to work with Democrats, Republicans, job-creators, and all Virginians to continue to grow our economy and build a true ‘Commonwealth of Opportunity’ for all our citizens.”
RICHMOND – Governor Bob McDonnell issued the following statement this morning following news that Virginia’s unemployment rate has declined for the fourth straight month. The unemployment rate for the month of March was 5.6 percent. That is the lowest unemployment rate in Virginia in over 3 years, and a decline from 5.7 percent in February. Virginia has the lowest unemployment rate in the Southeast, and the third-lowest unemployment rate east of the Mississippi River. The national unemployment rate for March was 8.2 percent.
“Virginia is growing strong again. Today we received word that the state unemployment rate has now declined for the fourth straight month. At 5.6 percent our unemployment rate is far below the national unemployment rate of 8.2 percent. We have the lowest unemployment rate in the southeastern United States. And we have fallen far below the 7.3 percent unemployment rate we inherited when taking office in January 2010. All of this means: more Virginians are working today. That is a good thing. It is a bipartisan accomplishment.
“We’ve been focused on one thing since taking office: getting Virginians back to work and our economy back on track. Through the great leadership of Lieutenant Governor Bill Bolling, Virginia’s Chief Jobs Creation Officer, and Democratic and Republican legislators, we have put in place policies that help private-sector job creators innovate and grow. And we have focused on keeping taxation, litigation and regulation to a minimum, so job-creators can keep more of their hard-earned capital to employ more Virginians and expand their operations, without government getting in their way. That formula is working.
“CNBC and Pollina have both named Virginia the best state in America for business. Last year state agricultural exports hit a record high. Virginia soybeans have been shipped to China; Virginia cows have been sent to Russia and Canada. Our wine industry is growing. Steven Spielberg filmed ‘Lincoln’ right outside my office window. And employers keep choosing Virginia as their home. Fairfax County has welcomed Bechtel Corporation and Northrop Grumman. Pulaski County has welcomed Phoenix Packaging Operations. Galax has welcomed Albany Industries. Henry County has welcomed Laminate Technologies. And in Mecklenburg County, Microsoft has made the largest economic development investment in the history of southern Virginia. These successes are being replicated all across the Commonwealth. Virginia is wide open for business.
“Now, we must keep this positive momentum going. Virginia’s economy is recovering, but it is still early. Too many Virginians still need good jobs. Our work isn’t through until they are working again. This afternoon, Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry Todd Haymore and I will visit Shenandoah Growers in Harrisonburg as part of our ongoing “Year of the Entrepreneur” in the Commonwealth. We’re going to meet with CEO and President Timothy Heydon and employees, tour the operation, and hear directly from them what Richmond should, and should not, do in order to ensure that this Virginia business can continue to grow and create more good paying jobs for hard working Virginians. I look forward to this visit. And I look forward to continuing to work with Democrats, Republicans, job-creators, and all Virginians to continue to grow our economy and build a true ‘Commonwealth of Opportunity’ for all our citizens.”
2012 Shad Planking: 'No-Show Tim' makes it a Republican event
Republican George Allen was the keynote speaker at Wednesday's Shad Planking in Wakefield which clearly turned into his playing field for the day. In a sea of Allen signs and shirts and supporters, he was the main draw along with fish and beer.
But in a political year that has two Virginia titans -- two former governors -- challenging each other for the U.S. Senate seat, the question begs to be asked: Where was Democrat Tim Kaine?
The annual gathering at Wakefield was, after all, begun by Democrats more than 60 years ago as king makers would sit around under the pines drinking beer and eating shad. Over the years, it evolved into one of the top three bi-partisan events in the Commonwealth but this year Democrats were scarce which had some asking, "Where are the Democrats? Where is Tim Kaine?"
According to Bearing Drift colleague Tim Donner in this video filmed at the Shad Planking, the Wakefield Ruritans invited Kaine months ago but his campaign did not respond. Three or four weeks before the event, the invitation was reissued but still no response from the Kaine campaign so the Ruritans made George Allen their keynote speaker.
That's when the Democrats said that if Allen was going to be the keynote speaker, they were going to boycott and, by all accounts, that's exactly what they did. Not one single Democratic candidate was seen on the grounds which conjures up images of the kid on the playground stomping his foot when he didn't get his way, gathering up his marbles, and going home.
As a result, Shad Planking 2012 has gone into the history books as a Republican event.
Joining the Ruritans at their annual event is exactly the type of venue where Allen is most comfortable and, indeed, he seized the opportunity to make the event his oyster as he spent the day among supporters shaking hands, swapping stories, posing for photos, and being trailed by numerous reporters.
Democrats missing from Shad Planking ... is that a sign of what's to come this fall? Stay tuned....
But in a political year that has two Virginia titans -- two former governors -- challenging each other for the U.S. Senate seat, the question begs to be asked: Where was Democrat Tim Kaine?
The annual gathering at Wakefield was, after all, begun by Democrats more than 60 years ago as king makers would sit around under the pines drinking beer and eating shad. Over the years, it evolved into one of the top three bi-partisan events in the Commonwealth but this year Democrats were scarce which had some asking, "Where are the Democrats? Where is Tim Kaine?"
According to Bearing Drift colleague Tim Donner in this video filmed at the Shad Planking, the Wakefield Ruritans invited Kaine months ago but his campaign did not respond. Three or four weeks before the event, the invitation was reissued but still no response from the Kaine campaign so the Ruritans made George Allen their keynote speaker.
That's when the Democrats said that if Allen was going to be the keynote speaker, they were going to boycott and, by all accounts, that's exactly what they did. Not one single Democratic candidate was seen on the grounds which conjures up images of the kid on the playground stomping his foot when he didn't get his way, gathering up his marbles, and going home.
As a result, Shad Planking 2012 has gone into the history books as a Republican event.
Joining the Ruritans at their annual event is exactly the type of venue where Allen is most comfortable and, indeed, he seized the opportunity to make the event his oyster as he spent the day among supporters shaking hands, swapping stories, posing for photos, and being trailed by numerous reporters.
Democrats missing from Shad Planking ... is that a sign of what's to come this fall? Stay tuned....
Friday, April 20, 2012
'I Can Only Imagine'
"One night the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision:
'Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent.' "
--Acts 18:9
Memorial set for former deputy secretary of administration for Gov. George Allen
From the Richmond Times Dispatch...
Burial will be at 11 a.m. April 30 in Arlington National Cemetery.
Mrs. Moak, who died March 9 at 85 in a Fairfax assisted-living facility, served as western vice chairman of the Republican Party of Virginia from 1988 to 1992.
She was on the steering committees of Allen's campaigns for governor and Congress.
In 1990, Mrs. Moak chaired the Albemarle County re-election campaign of former U.S. Sen. John W. Warner.
As deputy secretary of administration, her assignments ranged from the Library of Virginia Building Committee to the Medical Savings Account Task Force. She coordinated Allen's effort to aid victims of flooding in South Dakota.
Born in Havana, Cuba, she earned a bachelor's degree in journalism from Louisiana State University. During graduate school, she worked for the LSU Press, where she was responsible for book design and promotion.
Read entire obituary here.
FAIRFAX, Va. --A memorial service for Barbara Keller Moak, who served as
Virginia's deputy secretary of administration from 1994 to 1998 under
Gov. George F. Allen, will be held at 4:30 p.m. April 29 at Fairfax
Memorial Funeral Home, 9902 Braddock Road in Fairfax.
Burial will be at 11 a.m. April 30 in Arlington National Cemetery.
Mrs. Moak, who died March 9 at 85 in a Fairfax assisted-living facility, served as western vice chairman of the Republican Party of Virginia from 1988 to 1992.
She was on the steering committees of Allen's campaigns for governor and Congress.
In 1990, Mrs. Moak chaired the Albemarle County re-election campaign of former U.S. Sen. John W. Warner.
As deputy secretary of administration, her assignments ranged from the Library of Virginia Building Committee to the Medical Savings Account Task Force. She coordinated Allen's effort to aid victims of flooding in South Dakota.
Born in Havana, Cuba, she earned a bachelor's degree in journalism from Louisiana State University. During graduate school, she worked for the LSU Press, where she was responsible for book design and promotion.
Read entire obituary here.
Majority of Augusta citizens okay with tax increase?
It's been a busy week and I'm still working on my post from Wednesday night's Augusta County public hearing to consider raising taxes, but some things have stood out. The lack of protesters showing up at this meeting and an earlier town hall meeting (five citizens attended) appears to indicate people realize backs are to the wall and there needs to be a tax increase.
Sure, there were twenty-two at Wednesday's meeting who spoke out against the tax increase. But in a room of sixty citizens, about half were tea party people and older folks who protested taxes of any kind, and the other half were made up of those who felt taxes were necessary, the media, fire and rescue folks, and government center staffers. (Background info and links are here.)
The SOS (Save Our Schools) group came out on February 28, 2012 -- an overflow crowd of 400 teachers, parents, students, and members of the community asking that their taxes be raised to be sure and cover core services. They followed that up by attending school board meetings, and then a school budget was adopted. Their voices had been heard. Wednesday night was when a handful of tea partiers came out to make their case.
Members of the community -- farmers, small business owners, insurance agents, neighbors -- have voiced that they realize the price of everything has gone up. Noticed the price of gas at the pump lately? Groceries? Costs have risen for local governments, too, and numerous citizens have told their supervisors that they understand the need for a tax increase.
After years of making cuts and laying off employees, many localities -- including Augusta, Staunton, Waynesboro, Harrisonburg, and Rockingham -- have hit the wall. They can either dip into their rainy day funds or raise taxes or start cutting off core services such as law enforcement, schools, and fire and emergency (in the past two weeks, Augusta County has had three total-loss house fires, one each in Stuarts Draft, Mt. Sidney, and Crimora).
Even Shaun Kenney, an extremely conservative leader who is chairman of the Fluvanna Board of Supervisors, has been faced with the writing on the wall and is supporting tax increases with his board.
The bills are due. What is the fiscally conservative thing to do? Should we kick the can down the road to the next board or city council and let them worry about it, or do we take personal responsibility and face the problem square-on?
At my house, we face it square-on. We need to pay our bills. How we do it is the question: dip into savings or raise taxes? Either way, something has to be done.
Cross-posted at Bearing Drift
Sure, there were twenty-two at Wednesday's meeting who spoke out against the tax increase. But in a room of sixty citizens, about half were tea party people and older folks who protested taxes of any kind, and the other half were made up of those who felt taxes were necessary, the media, fire and rescue folks, and government center staffers. (Background info and links are here.)
The SOS (Save Our Schools) group came out on February 28, 2012 -- an overflow crowd of 400 teachers, parents, students, and members of the community asking that their taxes be raised to be sure and cover core services. They followed that up by attending school board meetings, and then a school budget was adopted. Their voices had been heard. Wednesday night was when a handful of tea partiers came out to make their case.
Members of the community -- farmers, small business owners, insurance agents, neighbors -- have voiced that they realize the price of everything has gone up. Noticed the price of gas at the pump lately? Groceries? Costs have risen for local governments, too, and numerous citizens have told their supervisors that they understand the need for a tax increase.
After years of making cuts and laying off employees, many localities -- including Augusta, Staunton, Waynesboro, Harrisonburg, and Rockingham -- have hit the wall. They can either dip into their rainy day funds or raise taxes or start cutting off core services such as law enforcement, schools, and fire and emergency (in the past two weeks, Augusta County has had three total-loss house fires, one each in Stuarts Draft, Mt. Sidney, and Crimora).
Even Shaun Kenney, an extremely conservative leader who is chairman of the Fluvanna Board of Supervisors, has been faced with the writing on the wall and is supporting tax increases with his board.
The bills are due. What is the fiscally conservative thing to do? Should we kick the can down the road to the next board or city council and let them worry about it, or do we take personal responsibility and face the problem square-on?
At my house, we face it square-on. We need to pay our bills. How we do it is the question: dip into savings or raise taxes? Either way, something has to be done.
Cross-posted at Bearing Drift
Thursday, April 19, 2012
George Allen campaign adds Emily Davis to the team
Welcome on board, Emily, as the new Deputy Communications Director for the George Allen for U.S. Senate campaign!
Today's press release:
Today's press release:
Richmond, VA – George Allen today announced that Emily Davis is joining his U.S. Senate campaign as Deputy Communications Director. A veteran of Capitol Hill and campaigns, Davis adds both policy and political experience to the campaign communications team.George Allen for U.S. Senate
“Susan and I are thrilled to have Emily join our team,” said George Allen. “Emily brings expertise and energy that will help drive our positive vision for Virginia to election victory in November. With an engaging spirit, Emily takes pride in her work which will communicate our positive, proven solutions to the people of Virginia. I’m proud to have a tireless and dedicated team working to help me bring Virginia voices and values back to Washington.”
Over the past year, Davis worked as Director of Leadership Communications at the National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC). Prior to joining the NRCC, Davis served as the Communications Director and as a policy aide for U.S. Congressman Pete Sessions (R-TX) from 2005–2010.
Back in the homeschool classroom: Casey
I had a "friend" request waiting for me this morning on Facebook that brought a smile to my face. Casey, now a 28-year-old banker in North Carolina, was one of my son's best friends during the years we lived in North Carolina. Classmates in kindergarten, first, and second grades, they were typical boys who were active and imaginative and part of a group of friends, some who have stayed in touch throughout the years.
The son of a Baptist preacher, Casey was a dark-haired ball of dynamite, animated and always on the move, an extrovert who was a delight to have around.
Back in the days of the Teenage Ninja Turtles, Casey and SWAC Son played out the roles of their favorite turtles both on the playground and at friends' houses. Casey was often at our home as the boys roamed all over the farm, played baseball in the front yard, shared video games, hung out at the barn, and enjoyed exploring all the aquatic critters in the pond. I would set up scavenger hunts and can still see Casey racing around the yard chasing clues, a big smile on his face as he called out to the other players.
In second grade, when I took SWAC Son out of public school to begin our homeschool journey, he and Casey remained close friends; indeed, Casey fit in with SWAC Son's new-found homeschool friends.
The boys were 12 when we moved back home to Virginia. Leaving Casey was tough but the boys stayed in touch as they grew into manhood, visiting with each other even as they went off to college and moved on with their lives. Casey was part of a Christian rock band that traveled to Harrisonburg's fairground to play one summer which provided good times.
As those memories and more flooded my brain, I quickly "friended" Casey on Facebook and then scanned his Wall. The little boy I had known all those years ago had grown into a fine young man and is now a brand new dad of a little boy.
But what made me smile even more was reading his Facebook description of himself:
I love people. My number one passion and desire is to help and love other people in the same way Christ loved people. I love my amazing wife and I am blessed to have such an amazing woman to share forever with! I have an awesome dog named Forrest; he is pretty much the coolest dog on the planet. I love music and hope to get back into singing and writing music again soon -- never thought I would miss it as much as I do. I hope to retire at the young age of 55.Indeed, this son of a preacher man had not lost his values during his life journey. Thanks to Facebook, Casey and I are now reconnected ... and the journey continues.
Lynn Mitchell was a homeschool mom for 16 years, serving in leadership of Parent Educators of Augusta County Homes (PEACH) as president, newsletter editor, and teen coordinator. Her son graduated from James Madison University in Harrisonburg, Virginia, in 2007 with a major in computer science and a minor in creative writing, and her daughter graduated from Mary Baldwin College in Staunton, Virginia, in 2012 with a major in business. Lynn currently serves as a trustee at the Frontier Culture Museum of Virginia and on the Augusta County library board, and represents the 6th Congressional District on the Republican Party of Virginia's State Central Committee.
Linked at Homeschool Courier
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
Augusta public hearing tonight ... do we need to raise taxes?
A public hearing will be held at 7:00 tonight by the Augusta County Board of Supervisors as they consider the idea of raising taxes to balance the budget.
A financial tsumani is hitting Virginia's cities and counties and, since many citizens are also attempting to make ends meet in their personal lives, all sides are dealing with the question of how to handle this issue that has faced multiple localities in the Commonwealth.
As local elected officials struggle with budget shortfalls in these financially turbulent times, one has to wonder how many citizens, angry at the though of raising local taxes, have talked with their state representatives about the unfunded mandates that are breaking the backs of localities throughout Virginia?
In the SWAC area that would be Sen. Emmett Hanger, Sen. Mark Obenshain, Del. Steve Landes, Del. Ben Cline, Del. Dickie Bell, and Del. Tony Wilt (see their contact info below).
Augusta supervisors voted 5-2 to hold the public hearing on a proposal to add a 3-cent increase to the real estate tax and a 32-cent hike on the personal property tax rate for vehicles. Supervisors David Beyeler, Jeff Moore, Larry Wills, Mike Shull, and David Karaffa voted to consider the idea while Tracy Pyles and Marshall Pattie voiced their preference to use money from the county's capital account -- savings -- a reasonable alternate plan but since it involved recurring costs, other supervisors were concerned about dipping into those savings.
The proposal to raise taxes is driven by needs that include more firefighters, sheriff's deputies, and school costs -- the core services that are the responsibility of local governments.
The three SWAC localities -- Staunton, Waynesboro, and Augusta County -- continue to wrestle with budget shortfalls even after years of spending cuts. Public schools and local governments have been in the headlines for months, laying off employees, making additional cuts, putting off building repairs, and searching for even more ways to save. Local school teachers have gone four years without pay raises, and school buildings have put needed basic repairs and technology updates on hold.
The Augusta County School Board voted in December to close an elementary school, and has threatened to close two others. The superintendent even floated the idea of closing Shenandoah Valley Governor's School because of budget cuts, news that brought out hundreds of teachers, parents, and students in protest at a supervisor meeting and resulted in that idea being back-burnered. In the process, however, a group called Support Our Schools (SOS) was born and an online petition garnered over 1,000 signatures in a the first few days and SOS yard signs popped up all over the county.
Unfunded mandates from state representatives have had deep repercussions at the local level including state legislators' voting to pass along Virginia Retirement System costs, as noted by the News Advance:
As a low-tax person who believes in cutting costs to make ends meet, what has caught my attention in the local struggle is listening to those who are just as fiscally conservative -- elected folks who feel the pain of their constituents when they have to raise taxes. They have engaged in thoughtful discussions to find solutions but have often been met with an unmovable wall of discontent from those who have declared "no new taxes," no matter what the circumstances.
Are people listening when local leaders say they have cut as much as they can? Rockingham County supervisors held a public hearing last week about the necessity of raising taxes. Only one person spoke up against a tax increase; the others understood the need to fund core services such as fire and emergency, schools, and infrastructure. Fluvanna County supervisors under Chairman Shaun Kenney, a strong financial conservative, also held a public hearing last week about the necessity of raising taxes. The anti-tax people turned out to protest.
Tonight's public hearing may come down to a clash of retired citizens on fixed incomes versus younger members of the community who are holding down jobs and raising children.
So what is the answer? The bills are due. The budget has been studied, cuts have been made, and still there's a deficit. Should local elected leaders ignore their responsibility and kick the can down the road for the next group of supervisors and council members?
If you're going:
What: Augusta County public hearing on proposed tax increases
When: Tonight, April 18, 2012
Time: 7:00
Place: Augusta County Government Center, Verona
Contact info for local state representatives to ask that they stop passing along unfunded mandates to localities:
Delegate Dickie Bell
DelDBell@house.virginia.gov
(540) 332-3998
Delegate Steve Landes
DelSLandes@house.virginia.gov
(540) 245-5540
Delegate Tony Wilt
DelTWilt@house.virginia.gov
(540) 437-1450
Delegate Todd Gilbert
DelTGilbert@house.virginia.gov
(540) 459-7550
Delegate Ben Cline
DelBCline@house.virginia.gov
(434) 946-9908
Senator Mark Obenshain
district26@senate.virginia.gov
(540) 437-1451
Senator Emmett Hanger, Jr.
district24@senate.virginia.gov
(540) 885-6898
Cross-posted at Bearing Drift
A financial tsumani is hitting Virginia's cities and counties and, since many citizens are also attempting to make ends meet in their personal lives, all sides are dealing with the question of how to handle this issue that has faced multiple localities in the Commonwealth.
As local elected officials struggle with budget shortfalls in these financially turbulent times, one has to wonder how many citizens, angry at the though of raising local taxes, have talked with their state representatives about the unfunded mandates that are breaking the backs of localities throughout Virginia?
In the SWAC area that would be Sen. Emmett Hanger, Sen. Mark Obenshain, Del. Steve Landes, Del. Ben Cline, Del. Dickie Bell, and Del. Tony Wilt (see their contact info below).
Augusta supervisors voted 5-2 to hold the public hearing on a proposal to add a 3-cent increase to the real estate tax and a 32-cent hike on the personal property tax rate for vehicles. Supervisors David Beyeler, Jeff Moore, Larry Wills, Mike Shull, and David Karaffa voted to consider the idea while Tracy Pyles and Marshall Pattie voiced their preference to use money from the county's capital account -- savings -- a reasonable alternate plan but since it involved recurring costs, other supervisors were concerned about dipping into those savings.
The proposal to raise taxes is driven by needs that include more firefighters, sheriff's deputies, and school costs -- the core services that are the responsibility of local governments.
The three SWAC localities -- Staunton, Waynesboro, and Augusta County -- continue to wrestle with budget shortfalls even after years of spending cuts. Public schools and local governments have been in the headlines for months, laying off employees, making additional cuts, putting off building repairs, and searching for even more ways to save. Local school teachers have gone four years without pay raises, and school buildings have put needed basic repairs and technology updates on hold.
The Augusta County School Board voted in December to close an elementary school, and has threatened to close two others. The superintendent even floated the idea of closing Shenandoah Valley Governor's School because of budget cuts, news that brought out hundreds of teachers, parents, and students in protest at a supervisor meeting and resulted in that idea being back-burnered. In the process, however, a group called Support Our Schools (SOS) was born and an online petition garnered over 1,000 signatures in a the first few days and SOS yard signs popped up all over the county.
Unfunded mandates from state representatives have had deep repercussions at the local level including state legislators' voting to pass along Virginia Retirement System costs, as noted by the News Advance:
One of the biggest burdens Richmond has foisted on local government entities — city councils, boards of supervisors and school boards — is the recapitalization of the Virginia Retirement System. And it’s close to becoming the straw that breaks the backs of local governments and local taxpayers. [emphasis added]More than twenty localities throughout the Commonwealth have either proposed or already enacted tax increases to meet the demands of running their communities, including Bath, Rockingham, Fluvanna, Harrisonburg, Winchester, Lynchburg, Hampton, Fredericksburg, Lexington, Petersburg, Williamsburg, Bristol, Shenandoah, Orange, Staunton, Accomack, Gloucester, Poquoson, York, Washington, and Albemarle.
As a low-tax person who believes in cutting costs to make ends meet, what has caught my attention in the local struggle is listening to those who are just as fiscally conservative -- elected folks who feel the pain of their constituents when they have to raise taxes. They have engaged in thoughtful discussions to find solutions but have often been met with an unmovable wall of discontent from those who have declared "no new taxes," no matter what the circumstances.
Are people listening when local leaders say they have cut as much as they can? Rockingham County supervisors held a public hearing last week about the necessity of raising taxes. Only one person spoke up against a tax increase; the others understood the need to fund core services such as fire and emergency, schools, and infrastructure. Fluvanna County supervisors under Chairman Shaun Kenney, a strong financial conservative, also held a public hearing last week about the necessity of raising taxes. The anti-tax people turned out to protest.
Tonight's public hearing may come down to a clash of retired citizens on fixed incomes versus younger members of the community who are holding down jobs and raising children.
So what is the answer? The bills are due. The budget has been studied, cuts have been made, and still there's a deficit. Should local elected leaders ignore their responsibility and kick the can down the road for the next group of supervisors and council members?
If you're going:
What: Augusta County public hearing on proposed tax increases
When: Tonight, April 18, 2012
Time: 7:00
Place: Augusta County Government Center, Verona
Contact info for local state representatives to ask that they stop passing along unfunded mandates to localities:
Delegate Dickie Bell
DelDBell@house.virginia.gov
(540) 332-3998
Delegate Steve Landes
DelSLandes@house.virginia.gov
(540) 245-5540
Delegate Tony Wilt
DelTWilt@house.virginia.gov
(540) 437-1450
Delegate Todd Gilbert
DelTGilbert@house.virginia.gov
(540) 459-7550
Delegate Ben Cline
DelBCline@house.virginia.gov
(434) 946-9908
Senator Mark Obenshain
district26@senate.virginia.gov
(540) 437-1451
Senator Emmett Hanger, Jr.
district24@senate.virginia.gov
(540) 885-6898
Cross-posted at Bearing Drift
Virginia Democrats cast 'fiscally reckless vote' ... kill state budget
Temper Tantrum Redux: Senate Democrats found a new excuse on Tuesday to push for a government shutdown that threatens transportation projects throughout Virginia. The latest "no" vote on the state budget jeopardizes more than just transportation projects. Democrats have endangered all Virginians with this irresponsible vote because there is no funding in place for firefighters and law enforcement as well as teachers.
Governor Bob McDonnell, speaking with reporters after the vote, was not amused, commenting, "Today, Senate Democrats cast the most fiscally reckless vote I have witnessed in my 21 years in office." Read the rest of his remarks here.
Lt. Governor Bill Bolling (R) expressed the disappointment of many:
But not Democrats.
Virginia Democrats have not been happy since the November 2011 elections ended with an evenly split Senate and a Republican Lieutenant Governor to cast tie votes. They filed a lawsuit and, at the time, said they would not pass a budget unless they got their committee assignments back.
Democratic Sen. Chap Petersen noted, "The Senate Democrats today kicked off the beginning of a process -- the process to re-balance the structure of the Senate so that it reflects the Senate membership and the Commonwealth's actual voting population...."
Apparently even the news outlets were surprised at the juvenile reaction of the Democrats to losing control of the Senate. The Washington Post and other editorial boards wrote about it which caused Democrats to make a case that it was about education.
The editorial noted, "...The few, flimsy objections Democrats have raised about the budget are a smokescreen. Their real issue is power-sharing: Democrats want it; Republicans won't give it..."
The reaction from Democrats: "Democrats said Wednesday they would divorce their demand for more power in the Virginia Senate from the effort to pass a state budget, as members of the General Assembly returned to Richmond for a special session..."
Democrats got more money for education as noted in the Washington Times: "... In the process, Democrats secured $214 million more for education, including $40 million for Northern Virginia school districts to competitively recruit staff, an extra $45 million for social programs and additional aid for local governments..."
Once Democrats got what they demanded, they discovered they were upset about the Dulles Toll Road -- four days before the final vote -- the same issue that Democrat Sen. Janet Howell derided her Republican opponent over during the 2011 election as "bogus." She called it a "publicity stunt." From the Fairfax Times:
So to sum up, the entire Democrat argument at this time: they're willing to hold up transportation projects in all over the Commonwealth, as well as funding for teachers, firefighters, police... all to lower the tolls on less than 20 miles of road in Northern Virginia.
One has the feeling nerves are fraying in Richmond and, at the local level, budgets are now on hold indefinitely for funds coming in from the Commonwealth.
And so Democrats carried through on their threat to shut down the budget by acting like kindergartners because they wanted their committee seats back. This time, however, they may have pushed it too far, setting up the perfect storm to cause a backlash against Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Tim Kaine as well as the reelection efforts of Barack Obama.
Let's hope that comes true.
H/T to Republican Party of Virginia
Governor Bob McDonnell, speaking with reporters after the vote, was not amused, commenting, "Today, Senate Democrats cast the most fiscally reckless vote I have witnessed in my 21 years in office." Read the rest of his remarks here.
Lt. Governor Bill Bolling (R) expressed the disappointment of many:
"I am extremely disappointed that Senate Democrats have once again voted against the adoption of a state budget. Their actions are indefensible and a abdication of responsibility. They are playing a game of high stakes brinkmanship that puts in jeopardy $85B in funding for critical state government programs. This is not the kind of leadership the people of Virginia expect or deserve from their elected officials."Republicans worked hard to compromise and get a budget passed.
But not Democrats.
Virginia Democrats have not been happy since the November 2011 elections ended with an evenly split Senate and a Republican Lieutenant Governor to cast tie votes. They filed a lawsuit and, at the time, said they would not pass a budget unless they got their committee assignments back.
Democratic Sen. Chap Petersen noted, "The Senate Democrats today kicked off the beginning of a process -- the process to re-balance the structure of the Senate so that it reflects the Senate membership and the Commonwealth's actual voting population...."
Apparently even the news outlets were surprised at the juvenile reaction of the Democrats to losing control of the Senate. The Washington Post and other editorial boards wrote about it which caused Democrats to make a case that it was about education.
The editorial noted, "...The few, flimsy objections Democrats have raised about the budget are a smokescreen. Their real issue is power-sharing: Democrats want it; Republicans won't give it..."
The reaction from Democrats: "Democrats said Wednesday they would divorce their demand for more power in the Virginia Senate from the effort to pass a state budget, as members of the General Assembly returned to Richmond for a special session..."
Democrats got more money for education as noted in the Washington Times: "... In the process, Democrats secured $214 million more for education, including $40 million for Northern Virginia school districts to competitively recruit staff, an extra $45 million for social programs and additional aid for local governments..."
Once Democrats got what they demanded, they discovered they were upset about the Dulles Toll Road -- four days before the final vote -- the same issue that Democrat Sen. Janet Howell derided her Republican opponent over during the 2011 election as "bogus." She called it a "publicity stunt." From the Fairfax Times:
"... [Republican Candidate Forrest] also criticized Howell for not doing enough to get state funding for the project. Howell has served as a lead budget negotiator for the Senate in recent years.
Howell points to a letter she sent to Gov. Robert F. McDonnell (R), criticizing him for spending $850 million to buy down tolls in the Hampton Roads area while not doing the same for the Dulles Toll Road.
"Nobody, especially me, will tolerate $17 tolls," she said. "It's basically a publicity stunt by Patrick Forrest to draw attention to his campaign."
One has the feeling nerves are fraying in Richmond and, at the local level, budgets are now on hold indefinitely for funds coming in from the Commonwealth.
And so Democrats carried through on their threat to shut down the budget by acting like kindergartners because they wanted their committee seats back. This time, however, they may have pushed it too far, setting up the perfect storm to cause a backlash against Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Tim Kaine as well as the reelection efforts of Barack Obama.
Let's hope that comes true.
H/T to Republican Party of Virginia
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
Virginia Senate kills budget ... again: Response from Gov. McDonnell
"Today, Senate Democrats cast the most fiscally reckless vote I have witnessed in my 21 years in office. They have killed an $85 billion state budget that benefits all Virginians, for one earmark regarding an 11.4 mile rail project in one district of the Commonwealth. That is extremely irresponsible. Senate Democrats, again, put partisan politics ahead of the needs of 8 million Virginians. They brought their political agendas to the Senate floor, and in the process have put at risk a Bristol teacher's paycheck, a Chesterfield sheriff's salary, healthcare for a senior citizen in Hampton, road projects in Richmond, and the fiscal soundness of the entire Commonwealth. Unfortunately, this is not the first time they have done so.
"When the General Assembly convened in January, Senate Democrats were clear that they wished to use the state budget as a means to gain more committee assignments. As one Senate Democrat wrote at the time, "the real reason the Senate Budget must lose - at this point - is so the power balance in Richmond can be adjusted." For the 60 days of the regular session, they refused to pass any budget, despite multiple individual meetings, letters and conversations with them. They voted down two budgets.
"Last month, Senate Democrats gave a few policy reasons to explain their obstruction. They were met with broad accommodation by Senate Republicans. They sought more funding for healthcare and education. They gained it. In fact they gained nearly $170 million in reallocated funding for the issues they identified as priorities for their caucus. Throughout budget negotiations, Republican legislators and this office worked strenuously to ensure that Senate Democrats were heard in the budget process. Only after these compromises were achieved did Senate Democrats turn, in the last days of session, to a third reason for opposing a budget: toll abatement on the Dulles Toll Road.
"Since 2009, when Governor Tim Kaine signed the deal on the tolls and the rates were publicized, and no state funding was provided, Senate Democrats were silent. They offered no objections to the tolls for nearly three years. Then, at the very end of this session, after killing two budgets on the floor, Senate Democrats decided that they would make that their next issue. This will have serious consequences for all Virginians.
"Budgets are a tapestry of compromises. No legislator ever gets everything he or she wants in a governing fiscal document. Nonetheless, all involved can get much of what they seek if there is cooperation and civility in the process. The budget killed by Senate Democrats today was a positive document. This budget made historic investments in our higher education system so more Virginia students can access and afford our great colleges and universities. It reduced unfunded liabilities in our retirement system by nearly $9 billion by 2031, an historic achievement that ensures our dedicated state employees will receive the retirements they have been counting on. The budget combined accountability and innovation with over half a billion dollars in new funding for our K-12 system. It improved public education in the Commonwealth. And this budget provided fiscal liquidity and stability for Virginia as we continue to navigate a very uncertain economy. Now, Senate Democrats, continuing a trend, have killed a budget for a third time. They will have to answer to every single Virginian. This vote will have real consequences in creating uncertainty and chaos for local governments, school boards and countless agencies and individuals.
"I encourage all Virginians to contact the members of the Senate Democratic Caucus today to let them know that this vote is unacceptable. First, the members killed the state budget to make a point about committee assignments. Then, they demanded more funding for healthcare and education, which they received. Then, they brought up an entirely new reason for voting against the budget, an earmark for am 11.4 mile rail project in one area of the state. Teacher and sheriff salaries are now at risk. Local governments and school boards do not know what level of state funding they will receive. Road and other state projects will have to be stopped in every single region in the near future. All because Senate Democrats continue to obstruct the passage of the state budget. They even killed the 'caboose' budget for the remainder of FY 2012, which has absolutely nothing to do with the Dulles tolls. This is an incredibly disappointing development. This is the kind of conduct we've come to expect out of Democrats in the U.S. Senate, where no budget has passed for over 1000 days. It is not the conduct we would expect from Democrats who serve in Mr. Jefferson's Capitol. Senate Democrats need to hear from all Virginians about the direct and immediate impact their partisan posturing will have on the citizens of this Commonwealth."
"When the General Assembly convened in January, Senate Democrats were clear that they wished to use the state budget as a means to gain more committee assignments. As one Senate Democrat wrote at the time, "the real reason the Senate Budget must lose - at this point - is so the power balance in Richmond can be adjusted." For the 60 days of the regular session, they refused to pass any budget, despite multiple individual meetings, letters and conversations with them. They voted down two budgets.
"Last month, Senate Democrats gave a few policy reasons to explain their obstruction. They were met with broad accommodation by Senate Republicans. They sought more funding for healthcare and education. They gained it. In fact they gained nearly $170 million in reallocated funding for the issues they identified as priorities for their caucus. Throughout budget negotiations, Republican legislators and this office worked strenuously to ensure that Senate Democrats were heard in the budget process. Only after these compromises were achieved did Senate Democrats turn, in the last days of session, to a third reason for opposing a budget: toll abatement on the Dulles Toll Road.
"Since 2009, when Governor Tim Kaine signed the deal on the tolls and the rates were publicized, and no state funding was provided, Senate Democrats were silent. They offered no objections to the tolls for nearly three years. Then, at the very end of this session, after killing two budgets on the floor, Senate Democrats decided that they would make that their next issue. This will have serious consequences for all Virginians.
"Budgets are a tapestry of compromises. No legislator ever gets everything he or she wants in a governing fiscal document. Nonetheless, all involved can get much of what they seek if there is cooperation and civility in the process. The budget killed by Senate Democrats today was a positive document. This budget made historic investments in our higher education system so more Virginia students can access and afford our great colleges and universities. It reduced unfunded liabilities in our retirement system by nearly $9 billion by 2031, an historic achievement that ensures our dedicated state employees will receive the retirements they have been counting on. The budget combined accountability and innovation with over half a billion dollars in new funding for our K-12 system. It improved public education in the Commonwealth. And this budget provided fiscal liquidity and stability for Virginia as we continue to navigate a very uncertain economy. Now, Senate Democrats, continuing a trend, have killed a budget for a third time. They will have to answer to every single Virginian. This vote will have real consequences in creating uncertainty and chaos for local governments, school boards and countless agencies and individuals.
"I encourage all Virginians to contact the members of the Senate Democratic Caucus today to let them know that this vote is unacceptable. First, the members killed the state budget to make a point about committee assignments. Then, they demanded more funding for healthcare and education, which they received. Then, they brought up an entirely new reason for voting against the budget, an earmark for am 11.4 mile rail project in one area of the state. Teacher and sheriff salaries are now at risk. Local governments and school boards do not know what level of state funding they will receive. Road and other state projects will have to be stopped in every single region in the near future. All because Senate Democrats continue to obstruct the passage of the state budget. They even killed the 'caboose' budget for the remainder of FY 2012, which has absolutely nothing to do with the Dulles tolls. This is an incredibly disappointing development. This is the kind of conduct we've come to expect out of Democrats in the U.S. Senate, where no budget has passed for over 1000 days. It is not the conduct we would expect from Democrats who serve in Mr. Jefferson's Capitol. Senate Democrats need to hear from all Virginians about the direct and immediate impact their partisan posturing will have on the citizens of this Commonwealth."
George Allen to headline 64th annual Shad Planking
Henrico, VA –Tomorrow, Wednesday, April 18th, George Allen will headline the 64th Annual Shad Planking at the Wakefield Sportsman’s Club. The Annual Shad Planking is a time-honored bi-partisan political event that raises money for community programs supported by the Wakefield Ruritans.
Before the Shad Planking, George Allen will speak at the Tri-City Area Republican Women’s Club 33rd Annual Pre-Shad Reception at the Historic Wakefield Foundation Building.
WHAT: | Tri-City Area Republican Women’s Club 33rd Annual Pre-Shad Reception |
WHEN: | April 18th, 2012 at 12:00 PM ET |
WHERE: | The Historic Wakefield Foundation Building 100 Wilson Avenue Wakefield, Virginia 23888 |
WHAT: | 64th Annual Shad Planking |
WHEN: | April 18th, 2012 at 4:00 PM ET |
WHERE: | Wakefield Sportsman Club 12205 Brittles Mill Road Wakefield, Virginia 2388 |
Back in the homeschool classroom: When faced with a challenge
"When faced with a challenge, look for a way,
not a way out."
- David Weatherford
This quote was posted on my 24-year-old daughter's Facebook status this morning. I love that my kids have inherited my optimism gene, and they both possess a strong work ethic that does not include whining or blaming others but, rather, taking responsibility and working to make it a better world.
April 28 ... SWAC Political Breakfast with Congressman Bob Goodlatte
We will continue the 6th District Congressional Candidate Series this month by hearing from Congressman Bob Goodlatte on Saturday, April 28. Bring your questions and come hear Rep. Goodlatte's vision for the future of the 6th District.
In February we heard from Congressional candidate Karen Kwiatkowski (R) and in March we heard from Congressional candidate Andy Schmookler (D).
Speaker: Congressman Bob Goodlatte
Date: Saturday, April 28, 2012
Time: 8:30 a.m.
Place: Golden Corral
Location: 51 Apple Tree Lane, Waynesboro, VA 22980 (I-64, Exit 94)
Dutch-treat: Buffet breakfast $10.25 includes coffee & juice
Source: www.BobGoodlatte.com
Bob Goodlatte came to the United States House of Representatives in 1993, bringing with him valuable knowledge and working experience of one of the largest and most diverse Congressional Districts in Virginia.
Bob's service to the Sixth District began in 1977, when he became District Director for former Congressman M. Caldwell Butler. In that position, he was responsible for providing assistance to citizens as related to solving issues with various federal agencies. In 1979, he founded a private law practice; and later became a partner in the law firm of Bird, Kinder and Huffman, working there from 1981, until his election to Congress.
While in Congress, his leadership abilities earned him a seat on the House Judiciary Committee, where he currently serves as the Vice Ranking Member. He also serves on the Courts and Competition Policy Subcommittee and the Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland Security Subcommittee. Bob's work on the Judiciary Committee aids many of his legislative priorities including ending the Immigration Visa Lottery, cracking down on spammers, curbing illegal Internet gambling, stemming the abuse of frivolous class action lawsuits, and reducing wasteful government spending by requiring a federal Balanced Budget Amendment.
In 2003, Bob was named Chairman of the House Agriculture Committee, the first from Virginia since 1947. In that role he promoted healthy forest initiatives, and worked to provide programs to rural Americans who are in need of a stable farm economy, while providing for the safest, most abundant and affordable food supply in the world. He now serves as the Ranking Member on the Subcommittee on Conservation, Credit, Energy and Research.
Bob serves as Chairman of the House Republican High Technology Working Group; Co-Chair of the Congressional Internet Caucus; and is a member of the Republican Policy Committee.
Bob, 57, is a graduate of Washington and Lee University School of Law, and his undergraduate degree in Government was earned at Bates College in Lewiston, Maine. Bob and Maryellen have been married for 34 years, live in Roanoke, and have two children, Jennifer and Rob.
About SWAC Political Breakfast:
SWAC Political Breakfast is fashioned after the popular “town hall meeting” venue. It is non-partisan and open to everybody in the community. SWAC Breakfast does not promote or endorse any particular party and/or point of view. It serves as a social forum for politically-minded people who like to share and discuss ideas with their neighbors. It also allows citizens an opportunity to hear from public figures, elected officials, and candidates running for public office. SWAC Political Breakfast is held at various locations throughout the community.
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