Virginia Republicans Unite in Support of "McDonnell-Bolling" 2009

Heck Yeah!

Richmond- In an unprecedented display of party unity, every Republican member of Congress from Virginia, every Republican District Chair in Virginia, the entire General Assembly GOP leadership team, the leadership of the State Central Committee, and a host of other prominent and involved Republican leaders have signed a letter to party members statewide voicing their strong support of Bob McDonnell for Governor, and Bill Bolling for Lieutenant Governor in 2009.

In the letter, these leaders, joined by other notable Republicans from across the Commonwealth including former Governor Jim Gilmore, former Attorney General Jerry Kilgore, and Republican Party of Virginia Chairman John Hager, stated, "We….. strongly endorse the ticket of Bob McDonnell for Governor and Bill Bolling for Lieutenant Governor in 2009 and urge all Virginia Republicans to join us."

The letter continues, "A McDonnell-Bolling ticket will unite our Republican party around its core conservative principles, while putting forth strong, experienced leadership to meet the challenges facing our Commonwealth."

Speaking about the letter, Attorney General Bob McDonnell remarked, "A united Republican Party is the first step towards ending the Democrats 8 years of control of the executive branch in Virginia. Today, we have taken a tremendous step forward in our effort to reclaim the Governor's Mansion, and to win all three statewide races next year. Bill and I are honored to have received the support of our Republican members of Congress, every Republican District Chair, the Republican leadership in the General Assembly, the leadership of the State Central Committee, and a number of other prominent and involved Virginia Republicans. From the grassroots to the halls of Congress, Virginia Republicans have united in support of our ticket. Together, we are going to win next year, and bring innovative, vigorous, conservative leadership to Virginia."

Lieutenant Governor Bill Bolling noted, "Bob and I are honored to have the support of such a distinguished group of Republican leaders. I am pleased that the Republican Party has united behind the McDonnell-Bolling ticket and our positive vision for the future of Virginia. We will offer the people of Virginia the most experienced ticket to ever seek statewide office in Virginia, and a clear blueprint for finding solutions to the many challenges we face today. We are looking forward to the campaign that lies ahead and to victory in November of 2009."

INDEED! The democrats are shaking in their boots my friends.

Technorati Tags: Bill, Bolling, Bob McDonnell, Virginia Politics

We Are Proud

SWAC Girl writes about her heritage - Grandma's wedding band....

This is what I love about blogs! Readers here know I am not shy about my heritage. I will never apologize or be ashamed. We are proud!

Technorati Tags: Life, Blogging

Jim Gilmore's Speech at the 5th District Convention

Rick Sincere has video of all the speeches! Here is part one of Gilmore's speech. You will have to go to Rick's blog to see the rest. He has video of McDonnell, Bolling, and the Cooch...Oh My!

Technorati Tags: Jim Gilmore, Mark Warner, Virginia Politics

Coal Production Will Increase - With or Without Power Plant

Consol will invest $100 million in the Buchanan Mine.

CONSOL Energy will increase mining capacity at the Buchanan Mine by nearly 1 million tons of coal per year, according to a company news release issued Tuesday.~ Kathy Still at the BHC

This will add about 40 jobs and add to the much needed tax base. I hope some of that coal goes to the new power plant here in Wise County. If not, the coal can easily be exported. Alpha Natural Resources has that covered.

Alpha Natural Resources Inc. is now the largest stakeholder in one of the nation’s busiest coal ports, based in Newport News.
Alpha announced last week that it has increased its equity ownership position in Dominion Terminal Associates to 40.6 percent. The purchase effectively increases the company’s coal export and terminaling capacity from approximately 6.5 million tons to approximately 8 million tons annually.
DTA is one of the nation’s busiest coal ports, with an annual nameplate capacity of approximately 20 million tons of coal. The purchase of an additional ownership stake in the terminal should enable Alpha to expand its export capabilities into a very robust international coal market, according to an Alpha press release.
“Strategically this move should further secure our position as the largest exporter of high-quality metallurgical coals from the United States to the world’s steel industry,” said Michael J. Quillen, Alpha’s chairman and chief executive officer.
Alpha, through its subsidiary Alpha Terminal Co., shares ownership in the DTA facility with Peabody Energy and subsidiaries of Arch Coal, Inc.
Alpha Natural Resources is a leading supplier of high-quality Appalachian coal to electric utilities, steel producers and heavy industry. Approximately 89 percent of the company’s reserve base is high Btu coal and 82 percent is low sulfur, used by electric utilities as steam coal. Alpha is also the nation’s largest supplier and exporter of metallurgical coal, a key ingredient in steel manufacturing. Alpha and its subsidiaries currently operate mining complexes in four states, consisting of 58 mines supplying 11 coal preparation and blending plants. The company and its subsidiaries employ more than 3,600 people. (LINK)

This is good news for the coal miners and families in SWVA. While Virginia plays politics on giving us the right to use our God given resources, the companies are making sure we can work and profit.

Technorati Tags: Coal, Coal Mining, Virginia

Amazing Video of the Augusta Mass Meeting

This video shows why the first part of this meeting was a farce.

Rules were not followed and it is clear Kurt Michael's motivation was to properly run the meeting.

Technorati Tags: Augusta County GOP, Virginia Politics, RPV, Republicans, GOP, Emmett Hanger

Jim Gilmore Wins Virginia Conservative Leadership Conference Straw Poll

Conservativa has all the info. The good news for Gilmore is that he won without being there. Bob Marshall was there and working the crowd. Conservativa writes

"Marshall was there that day and he should have owned the room. If he couldn’t win in that room, it’s not looking good for him for the convention."

Indeed. Gilmore won by 17%. It is clear conservatives will support Gilmore despite what the Marshall fans think.

Technorati Tags: Jim Gilmore, Bob Marshall, GOP, Republicans, Virginia Politics

Shaun Kenney - "No Bob Marshall. Anywhere."

Shaun Kenney live blogged the 5th District Convention. He was treated to a speech by Jim Gilmore among others. Shaun is a Blogger for Bob Marshall so this quote hits home...

"No Bob Marshall. Anywhere." - Shaun Kenney

That made me smile.

Technorati Tags: Virginia Politics, Bob Marshall, Jim Gilmore, Republicans, GOP

Congratulations Tucker Watkins

Tucker has been reelected as 5th District Chair!

Swac Girl and Maximus have the scoop.

Technorati Tags: Virginia Politics, GOP, Republicans

Go Back Again

Click to Embiggen

I hear a song on the radio, reminds me of someone I use to know.
We'd stay up until the dawn, now that someone is gone.
I close my eyes and then go back again

Time is a river, rollin' out to sea
I close my eyes and then go back again

Last night, I had a dream, about a place I'd never been.
Shinin' sun on fields of gold, could be heaven for all I know.
I close my eyes and then go back again.~Kym Warner, Carol Young and Bill Whitbeck - Click to Play

Technorati Tags: Life, Death, Friends

Gas Woes

I went into the gas station today and

asked for five dollars worth of gas...

The clerk farted and gave me a receipt.

“If the Confederacy fails, there should be written on its tombstone: Died of a Theory.”

My friend Mr Bowden has some great posts on The War of Northern Aggression. Click here and begin to scroll through his posts. He has taken some heat for his honest views.

Jefferson Davis quotes.

“I worked night and day for twelve years to prevent the war, but I could not. The North was mad and blind, would not let us govern ourselves, and so the war came.”

“[Our situation] illustrates the American idea that governments rest on the consent of the governed, and that it is the right of the people to alter or abolish them whenever they become destructive of the ends for which they were established.”

“If the Confederacy fails, there should be written on its tombstone: Died of a Theory.”

“All we ask is to be let alone.”

"The withdrawal of a State from a league has no revolutionary or insurrectionary characteristic. The government of the State remains unchanged as to all internal affairs. It is only its external or confederate relations that are altered. To term this action of a Sovereign a 'rebellion' is a gross abuse of language."

"Obstacles may retard, but they cannot long prevent the progress of a movement sanctified by its justice, and sustained by a virtuous people ."

"Secession belongs to a different class of remedies. It is to be justified upon the basis that the States are Sovereign. There was a time when none denied it. I hope the time may come again, when a better comprehension of the theory of our Government, and the inalienable rights of the people of the States, will prevent any one from denying that each State is a Sovereign, and thus may reclaim the grants which it has made to any agent whomsoever."

"The contest is not over, the strife is not ended. It has only entered upon a new and enlarged arena." Jefferson Davis, address to the Mississippi legislature - 16 years after the wars end.

"The principle for which we contend is bound to reassert itself, though it may be at another time and in another form."

I am proud of my southern heritage. See my post on the Immortal 600 and Richmond.

"I am proud of my mother and father's confederate heritage. I feel no shame, and in fact I would have joined my ancestors in Virginia if I had lived in that time. "~Kilo

If I have to explain it, you will never understand.

Technorati Tags: Civil War, Jefferson Davis

Tucker Watkins for District Chair

I am not in the Fifth District, but if I was I would vote for Tucker Watkins. There is no better person for the job. He has the vision and experience. Check out his blog and this growing list of endorsements.

Endorsements

• Alton Foley, (blogger, I'm Not Emeril)
• Annie Celoto
• Bill Wheaton
• Bob Cranston
• Dr. John Donaldson
• Ed Early
• Gary Lowe
• George Allen
• Jack Watts
• Jason Gray
• Jody Wilcox (blogger, Contemporary Conservative)
• John Putney
• Kathy Ferguson
• Keith Drake
• Nick Fowler
• Pat Barksdale
• Shelby Ralston
• Steve Kendall

You can add me to that list. Tucker is well known and is a go getter for the party. Thank you Tucker for all you have done and for what you can accomplish in the future to move the party forward. The voters in the fifth district cant do any better than you my friend. Tucker Watkins is the smart choice. Support him for a better future for the party.

Technorati Tags: Tucker Watkins, Virginia Politcs, GOP

The Emmett Hanger Faction

Faction - A group of persons forming a cohesive, usually contentious minority within a larger group.

Conflict within an organization or nation; internal dissension: “Our own beloved country . . . is now afflicted with faction and civil war” (Abraham Lincoln).

The Taxman Emmett Hanger should know this word well. The so called Republican loves him some taxes and giving Illegal Aliens instate tuition. He thinks the Americans For Prosperity is a "splinter group." This splinter group is supported by our next Governor Bob McDonnell, Bill Bolling, and many more of our conservative leaders. Yankee Phil has a round up on that. SWAC Girl also has that covered with her post Emmett Hanger calls AFP a "splinter," "anti-government" group.

As one activist was overheard saying, "AFP isn't anti-government. They're anti-BIG government ... but Emmett Hanger wouldn't recognize anti-BIG government if it bit him in the ass."

Is Emmett a Republican? In name only. The Emmett must go movement will gain support. We can only pray this is the last term for the TAXMAN.

Technorati Tags: Emmett Hanger, Taxes, Virginia Politics

365 Days Ago

One year ago from this moment was the last time I saw Dave. He was happy and so was I. I never dreamed that would be the last time.....The bottle is empty brother and my heart is full. Not a day goes by that I don't think of you. I will be there with you in the morning to share a sunrise...like the many we shared before.

Technorati Tags: Life, Death, Friends

Paul Harris Visits Swacland

My man Paul Harris visited Waynesboro reports Yankee Phil.

Mr. Harris said it took about 4 hours to travel from D.C. He said he knew he was in trouble from the start. He got stuck behind a car that had left it's signal on to turn right. It kept blinking "RIGHT,RIGHT,RIGHT" It finally swung hard left. He said it was like a Democrat running for office, and then getting elected.

The Philbilly has a good report including Paul Harris's bio. Give it a look.

Technorati Tags: Paul Harris, Virginia, Virginia Politics

Wise County Coal Miner Killed In Roof Fall

I am sorry for not posting anything about this yesterday...I am not one to break stories and I want the families to be informed first.

Virginia suffered its first coal-mining death in more than three years yesterday morning.

David H. Sizemore, 61, of Big Stone Gap died as the result of a roof fall in Osaka Mine Corp.'s Mine No. 1 near Appalachia in Wise County, said Mike Abbott, a spokesman for the Virginia Department of Mines, Minerals and Energy.

Another miner, Marty Musick, whose age and hometown were not available, was injured in the accident. Musick was treated at a hospital in Big Stone Gap and released, Abbott said.

Sizemore, a roof-bolter with 30 years of mining experience, was standing with Musick, the operator of a continuous mining machine, under a bolted mine roof around 9 a.m. when the roof collapsed, Abbott said. Sizemore was airlifted to a hospital in Kingsport, where he was pronounced dead at 11:15 a.m.

The death was the first mining fatality in Virginia since October 2004, Abbott said. It was the first roof-fall fatality since March 2001.

Sizemore's job was drilling the roof and inserting long steel bolts, which are designed to hold together the layers of rock that make up the roof, like glue binds thin wood strips in a piece of plywood. The bolts give the roof strength and support it, but depending on the geology they can sometimes fail.

Abbott said his state agency and the federal Mine Safety and Health Administration are investigating the accident. LINK

Keep his family in your prayers. We start over today--One day without a fatality is the goal...Then two...

Technorati Tags: Coal, Coal Mining, Wise County Virginia

Lowell and the Raising Kaine Kids - The Fear Sets In

I love this. Lowell needs a moist toilette because the 09 GOP ticket has scared the sh** out of him. The thought of a McDonnell-Bolling-Cuccinelli ticket has his silkies in a bunch. The name calling from Lowell has begun with him dubbing Cuccinelli "Ayotollah".

Ayatollah (Arabic: آية الله; Persian: آيت‌الله); is a high ranking title given to Shi'a clerics. The word means "Sign of God" and those who carry the title are experts in Islamic studies such as jurisprudence, ethics, and philosophy and usually teach in Islamic seminaries. The next lower clerical rank is Hojatoleslam wal-muslemin.

Interesting. This from the same dumb ass that whines about Barack Hussein Obama. I cant blame them when the best they can offer is a Brian Moron and Dirty Deeds. The Democrats need help in 09 and Lowell knows this. Who will be the Democrats three sacrificial lambs?

Technorati Tags: Dumb Ass, Democrats, Virginia, Virginia Politics

Is Coal Still King?

Well according to local businessman George Hunnicutt

"Coal may not be king, but it is still chairman of the board."

InRich has a pretty good article on the coalfields and the changes being made. They hit the bottom line with the reality of mining here in SWVA

Mining continues to provide some of the highest-paying jobs in the seven most southwestern counties.

The average weekly wage of $1,064 is about $55,000 a year. But many coal companies pay retention bonuses for skilled workers, and a miner with overtime (not uncommon in the tight labor market) can earn $100,000 a year. Benefits include fully paid health insurance, life insurance and 401(k) plans.

Indeed. Lets not forget how important that medical card for the miner and his family is. Thanks to Jerry From on High for the link to this article.

Technorati Tags: Coal, Coal Mining, Virginia, Wise County Vorginia

Bloggers Against Emmett The Taxman Hanger - the John Hager Factor

A couple ODBA bloggers have Emmett Hanger and his elitist ass in the cross hairs. The Blog Fu master has this - John Hager Gets An Endorsement He Probably Didn’t Want. Greg writes of Emmett

"sponsoring a bill this year that would allow illegal aliens to receive in-state tuition, another that would require public schools to provide legal assistance to illegal aliens, and yet another that would raise the gas tax don’t make Emmett Hanger exactly a poster child for what most Republicans consider their core values"

Indeed. Greg continues to write about how Jeff Frederick is the better choice for RPV leadership. I agree. The Mason Conservative has - Reason #3456 To Support Jeff Frederick. He writes about Emmett endorsing John Hager and Emmett's comments about Frederick.

"This coming from a politician who completely sandbagged a convention. And he's calling Jeff Frederick brash? Does it ever end with this guy? As long as we're stuck with him, we might as well stick it too him and make sure Jeff Frederick becomes Chairman."

Stick it to him indeed. I think Emmett has stuck it to himself. His arrogance will cost him come next election. Hanger supports Hager....That's all I need to know. I support Jeff Frederick.

Technorati Tags: Augusta County GOP, Virginia Politics, RPV, Republicans, GOP, Emmett Hanger, John Hager

All Eyes On Emmett Hanger

If anything good comes from the recent fiasco at the Augusta County Mass meeting, it could be that all eyes are now watching Emmett RINO Hanger. His corrupt power play against the unpaid volunteers and his asinine comments about Jeff Frederick and The Americans for Prosperity are in the spotlight.

Hanger has called the AFP a "splinter group" Yankee Phil and SWAC Girl cover that. Lets look at what the AFP stands for -

• Cutting taxes and government spending in order to halt the encroachment of government in the economic lives of citizens by fighting proposed tax increases and pointing out evidence of waste, fraud, and abuse.
• Tax and Expenditure Limitations to promote fiscal responsibility.
• Removing unnecessary barriers to entrepreneurship and opportunity by sparking citizen involvement in the regulatory process early on in order to reduce red tape.
• Restoring fairness to our judicial system by stemming the tide toward "over-criminalization" of economic activity spurred by over-active attorneys general.
• Working with well-known businessman and free-market advocate Herman Cain to expand all of these projects to even more states across the country in our recently-launched "State Prosperity Expansion Project."

Emmett would do well to confess his pro taxing ways and beg the AFP for forgiveness.

Technorati Tags: Augusta County GOP, Virginia Politics, RPV, Republicans, GOP, Emmett Hanger

The Augusta County Power Play is Over

Swac Girl and Yankee Phil have the best coverage.

Republicans all over the state now understand the consequences of challenging a incumbent.

Republicans all over the state now understand that rules don't matter.

Technorati Tags: Augusta County GOP, Virginia Politics, RPV, Republicans, GOP, Emmett Hanger

File this under Yum!

I just discovered this little tidbit and had to share. Did you know that the graham cracker was named after a man who thought that an unhealthy eating style led to sexual excess. According to Snopes Rev. Sylvester Graham, a Presbyterian minister, was "convinced that eating meat and fats leads to sinful sexual excess", and that "ketchup and mustard cause insanity". "He touted the merits of a high fiber diet and promoted the use of homemade unsifted wheat flour instead of refined white flour."

Today we are unsure who actually created the little wonder known as the graham cracker but I imagine Rev. Graham becomes restless when we pull that package out here. First, most grahams are now made with bleached white flour and secondly just look at what we do with a graham cracker.

Those days of grahams slathered in homemade frosting and wrapped in wax paper for a lunch snack are over baby- today we snack on grahams covered with peanut butter and Nutella, a creamy chocolaty hazelnut spread that is "omg" delicious! Actually, you don't even need the grahams. Salty pretzel rods, Nilla wafers, a spoon and my finger are some of my favorite ways to enjoy. You can find Nutella on the shelves with the peanut butter- imagine that.

Oh and as for the lifestyle this snack brings about- lets just say Kilo and I remain a bit nutty but with big smiles on our faces! Enjoy!

Technorati Tags: Nutella,graham crackers,food,snacks

Johnny Cash Remembered

A great song with great pictures. I hear this loud and clear.

I plan to crawl outside these walls,
Close my eyes and see.
And fall into the heart and arms,
Of those who wait for me.
I cannot move a mountain now;
I can no longer run.
I cannot be who I was then:
In a way, I never was

Indeed.

Technorati Tags: Johnny Cash, Music

Has Fred Anderson Already Decided To Rule Against Kurt Michael???

Yankee Philip writes that just might be the case.

With all the mistakes made during the Augusta Mass Meeting a do over is the fair answer IMHO.

Note to Fred Anderson - You should have been at the meeting the first time. Ya Think? This may not have happened.

Technorati Tags: Augusta County GOP, Virginia Politics, RPV, Republicans, GOP, Emmett Hanger

Is John Brownlee Preparing to Run for AG?

A press conference is scheduled today. I'm Not Emeril has the scoop. Is Paul Harris next?

Technorati Tags: John Brownlee, Paul Harris, Ken Cuccinelli, Virginia Politics

Bob McDonnell-BEYOND APRIL 16, 2007

BEYOND APRIL 16, 2007

Vivid Images Have Prompted Changes . . .

Wednesday, Apr 16, 2008 - 12:30 AM Updated: 03:32 AM

By BOB MCDONNELL

One year later the images remain vivid.

We see the familiar campus buildings of Virginia Tech, a special place for many thousands of Virginians. We see terror on the faces of students and relive that terrible morning. Words are inadequate to describe the emotions. We mourn still over precious lives lost and families forever changed.

We saw horror on April 16, 2007, but we also saw goodness that rushed to fill the void. We saw the greater love that causes one person to lay down his life for others. We saw the injured cared for and the broken comforted. We saw the power of prayer. We saw the resilience of the Virginia Tech community. We have long known of its excellent academic and athletic programs; now we know also the character and compassion of the Tech community.

SINCE LAST April, Virginia's leaders have sought to respond properly to this unprecedented tragedy. Changes were needed in our laws and systems, and they are being made. The legislative and administrative reforms that are underway truly are nonpartisan, resulting from the efforts of all three branches of government and the leadership of Virginia Tech. There has been a shared purpose in learning from this tragedy.

Two weeks after the shootings, Gov. Tim Kaine worked with the Office of the Attorney General to craft Executive Order 50, which harmonized state and federal law to prevent gun purchases by those adjudicated mentally ill. Subsequent legislation has codified this executive order.

This initial step was followed by the most significant revision of Virginia's mental health laws in a generation. Dedicated career attorneys from the Office of the Attorney General continued their work with Virginia Supreme Court Chief Justice Leroy Hassell's commission, initiated in 2006, to reform mental health laws and services. They drafted legislation, testified before committees, and provided the necessary research for these reforms.

Virginia's mental health laws have undergone sweeping changes in five key areas: involuntary commitment criteria, mandatory outpatient treatment, procedural improvements, privacy and disclosure provisions, and firearms purchase and reporting requirements. In addition, the mental health system received an infusion of more than $41 million as requested by Gov. Kaine to increase service capacity, particularly at the community level.

THE OFFICE of the Attorney General has continued to advise all state agencies of duties and responsibilities under federal law, with particular attention to interpreting the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). This office has provided guidance for crafting a model policy for law-enforcement personnel to provide death notifications with accuracy, sensitivity and respect. Our office and other state agencies have worked closely with Gov. Kaine to facilitate the implementation of numerous recommendations of the Virginia Tech Review Panel, including improving campus safety and coordinating more effective exchanges of information.

These actions by the commonwealth's leaders reflect renewed dedication to the values that have sustained us since that terrible morning one year ago. This year's work manifests our resolve to improve our laws and processes in the face of great tragedy. In so doing, the commonwealth honors the memories of those killed and wounded.

Today we pray again, for all affected, that God's healing hand will touch them anew.

Bob McDonnell is Virginia's attorney general.

Technorati Tags: Virginia Tech, Bob McDonnell

The Augusta County Mass Meeting - It was not a Mistake

The usual blowhards are weighing in on the Augusta mass meeting. SWAC Girl covers that here. She makes it clear that these self serving blowhards are opining blind.

"I would caution you all to hold your thoughts until the facts come out. We are going to 6th District with this and it is not prudent to blast everything on the blogs at this time. Therefore, all who are judging those of us involved and guessing at our reasons are doing just that .... guessing. You have no facts and you have not talked with us."

Indeed. Former Sen Brandon Bell took some hits for his goofy opinions. Yankee Philip, Spank That Donkey, and The Civilized Man rattled his cage good!

The blind opines want you to believe the rules don't matter. It was just a simple mistake. Mistakes are made all the time at mass meetings. Bullshit. This series of events was not a mistake, but a series of mistakes, that were pointed out as they happened and ignored by the chair. To err is human, but to have the errors pointed out as they happen, only to ignore them to advance a personal vendetta reeks of corruption. Defending the actions of this meeting is absurd. A high school glee club meeting has more order and respect for the rules. I think this shows just how out of touch these people are. Rules are important. The Bylaws and the party plan are important. Ask the Bob Marshall supporter's in Tazewell how important the rules are. As a friend in Tazewell who is watching this pointed out to me in a email last night, a couple of these blowhards are Bloggers for Bob Marshall. Interesting. Republicans are watching this statewide because this power play and the results will send a message to local party officials if they can safely support the candidate of their choice without fear of repercussions.

No permanent chair elected. No two thirds majority to suspend rules. No delegates appointed for the district. No Delegates appointed for the state. No adjournment vote....Defending that shows some real colors. Y'all sell that kool aid to someone else. I'm not buying.

Technorati Tags: Augusta County GOP, Virginia Politics, RPV, Republicans, GOP, Emmett Hanger

The Purple Cancer Gang

Like Jerry says...For the Love of God.

BRISTOL, Tenn. – When 12-year-old Adam Gottschalk reached school on Tuesday, a teacher told him to take off his T-shirt and put on a girl’s basketball shirt to wear throughout the day.

He’d violated school dress code, he said. The T-shirt was a purple "Relay For Life" shirt promoting cancer research.

When 13-year-old Michael Payne was spotted wearing the same T-shirt, he said he missed two classes after being told to sit in the hallway to "think about" what he’d done.

And when 12-year-old Matt Smith was seen with purple hair bands wrapped around his wrist – the same color as the relay shirts – the long-haired, seventh-grader said a teacher took them away from him.

"Isn’t that a good thing – to fight cancer?" Matt asked.

The three Vance Middle seventh-graders are embroiled in a controversy that began Friday when they passed out T-shirts to classmates and teachers, dozens of whom donned the purple pullovers in what the students said was a show of support for "Relay For Life," an annual nationwide fundraising effort by the American Cancer Society held each June.(LINK)

Get this jewel

"[Vice Principal Latham] claimed we were turning the shirt into a gang symbol," Michael said. "Every day [Latham] searches your locker looking for purple shirts. He’s saying the shirts are turning us, like, evil."

Geesh. The Purple Cancer Gang...

Technorati Tags: Schools, Education, Cancer

Bill Bolling Answers My Question on Live Blog

Go check out the Live Blog at the College Republican Federation of Virginia blog. Here is my question and the Lt Gov's reply

Comment from Lieutenant Governor Bolling
Time: April 14, 2008, 5:52 pm

Comment from Carl Kilo
Time: April 14, 2008, 12:38 am
Sir,
The recent controversy over the new coal fired power plant in Wise County has opened this subject up to many of us coal miners and residents in SWVA. The plant has the approval of the General Assembly and the SCC. The plant will meet all the current standards and regulations required by law. In a hostile move, the Air Pollution Board denied giving the DEQ permitting rights, choosing instead to rule on the plant themselves.
My question is, in your opinion can the Air Pollution Board deny the permit even though the plant meets every legal requirement?
This is a real problem for coal miners and the residents here. You know my region well and we respect any opinion or advice you can give us.

Carl:

Let me answer your question two ways.

First, the Air Pollution Control Board does have the authority to deny a permit for this project. However, their decision must be based on a sound foundation, and if they deny this permit for illegitimate reasons their decision can and should be subject to judicial review.

Second, I don’t believe there is any legitimate reason for the Board to deny this permit, and I have sent them a letter expressing my support for this project and my belief that the permit should be approved ASAP.

This is a very important economic development project for Southwest Virginia. It will result in a significant capital investment and it will create much needed jobs in the coalfields.

However, I am convinced that this project is also environmentally sensitive, and it is an important part of our effort to develop a more comprehensive statewide energy strategy. It should be approved, and it should be approved NOW!

Thank you sir for participating!

Technorati Tags: Bill Bolling, Live Blogging, Old Dominion Blog Alliance, Virginia Politics

The Paul Harris Buzz

Mason Conservative and Old Zach have posted about my man Paul Harris. I am glad to see them noticing this great leader.

Paul has not declared he is running for AG but there is some talk about it. Will a Harris or Brownlee hurt the Cooch? Yes it could. But then again how does competition ever hurt the end product for us voters? It doesn't. There are many who support Ken Cuccinelli who would like to see him unchallenged. I can understand that point of view, but we have two others named that bring a lot to the table. Harris and Brownlee are very worthy. Lets not deny these men the chance to make their case if they choose to run.

In a primary run I will support Harris or Brownlee if they run. I am doubtful of Brownlee declaring but I am very hopeful Harris will declare. Some reasons are here. Can Harris beat the Cooch? Maybe. Then again it may not be the right time. We all win if these candidates can get their names and platforms out there.

With that said, Ken Cuccinelli has to be the favorite as of now. If Harris and Brownlee don't run or are defeated in a primary, I have no problem supporting Ken. He is a wonderful conservative leader and his banner flies on my sidebar as will the others if they declare. I just believe Harris is what the party needs to advance in so many ways. We are blessed to have these men and I will in no way damage any of them. After witnessing the revenge antics of Emmett Hanger in SWAC land we all need to work hard to make sure all of our candidates voices are heard. That is what we do as republicans. So lets support our candidates with out fear of repercussions from our own party supporters. In the end we all win!

Technorati Tags: Paul Harris, Ken Cuccinelli, John Brownlee, Virginia Politics

Former Sen Bell Slaps The Grassroot Workers in Augusta County

Well ...Former Sen Bell...How sweet of you to weigh in on this issue. Get used to the prefix...FORMER, It fits you well. Spank That Donkey is on the case responding to FORMER Sen Bell's post - Phone Booth Republicans. Spanky's response is here - Is It Just Me, or are Elected Officials Just Plain Arrogant?

You support not following rules and revenge against anyone not supporting an incumbent. I covered this well in this post. If you are to blind to see what happened then I feel sorry for you. You and your beliefs my friend are exactly why more people are not involved in politics. Rules not being followed and fear of repercussions of supporting what you believe in. Supporting Emmett Hanger is one thing, but supporting the actions of his supporters at this meeting another.

Enjoy the prefix FORMER. You deserve it and I hope the grassroots make sure you keep it.

Technorati Tags: Dumb Ass, Brandon Bell, Virginia Politics

From on High - Kilgore Thrashes Anti-Coal Crowd

Jerry has a good write up about the recent gathering of the Virginia Mining Association that I posted about here. In the comments there a few urging us to conserve..Conservation is the answer! Jerry addresses the absurdity of this -

"Never in the history of mankind have a people made the conscious decision to live with less. Never.
Even in this era of the "conservation" mantra, I don't see even environmentalists truly cutting back, except on the margins.
And don't get me started on the posterboy of the environmentalist left - Al Gore."

I encourage all the anti coal people and conservation fanatics to lead by example. Call Dominion and AEP today and ask to be removed from the grid. A truck will arrive shortly and unhook your ties to the evils of coal. If you want to take food from the coalfield tables then please sacrifice yourselves. Lead by example.

Technorati Tags: Coal, Coal Mining, Wise County Virginia

The Problem with Emmett Hanger - Liberty is at Stake

I dislike Emmett because he votes with democrats to raise my taxes. I hate Emmett for the the fear tactics he is now using on those who dared oppose him. Hate is a strong word. But when I see people being hurt over this..it fits.

Don't be fooled my friends. This whole Augusta County Power Play is revenge for Kurt and others supporting Scott Sayre in the primary. It is as plain as the nose on your face and the Jim Beam in my hand.

Last year a group of the hardest working Republicans in this state chose to support a candidate against Emmett in the GOP primary. These activists looked at Emmett's voting record and like many of us across the state realized he was more of a democrat than a republican. Emmett loved him some new taxes, tax increases, and his record showed that. Enter Scott Sayre. The man promised a return to GOP principles. These activists turned their support to Scott and all hell broke loose. In the end Emmett won the open primary and went on to win reelection with the same activists support. These activists have a winning record for the GOP that no one can argue with. That is unless you are Emmett Hanger. The wrath of Emmett was unleashed against Anne M. Taetzsch and now Kurt Michael.

What has happened is a embarrassment to the whole GOP. Emmett is making it clear that if you challenge his record and support a candidate that you feel is better at representing your values and beliefs you will face hostile takeovers and public ridicule. Is this what the RPV wants to promote? A environment were we are are free to support the candidate we feel represents us best? The effect of Emmett's actions will long be felt in the GOP and that is a very sad thing. Using the political power these same activists awarded him against them is uncalled for. I hate it.

My friend Lynn asked Bill Bolling this - "Should Republicans be free to support the candidate of their choice even if it is not the incumbent?" I want you now to go read it all at SWAC Girls Blog. Read his answer twice. Look at the big picture. Look at the revenge Emmett has shown against this group of people who dared oppose him for a candidate they felt was better.

There is a major problem here my friends. That problem is Emmett Hanger. I got news for Emmett. Abusing your power will gain you nothing.

“Liberty may be endangered by the abuse of liberty, but also by the abuse of power.” James Madison

This abuse by Emmett must end.

Technorati Tags: Augusta County GOP, Virginia Politics, RPV, Republicans, GOP, Emmett Hanger

Former Governor Jim Gilmore to Keynote Precision Strike Association’s Breakfast

Alexandria – Jim Gilmore, Virginia candidate for U.S. Senate and former Governor of Virginia and Chairman of the Congressional Advisory Commission on Terrorism, WMD & Domestic Response, also known as the Gilmore Commission, will be the keynote speaker at the Precision Strike Association’s Annual Program Review Breakfast. Gov. Gilmore will address Enduring Requirements of the War on Terrorism and provide highlights of what is being accomplished as a result of his role as chairman of the Gilmore Commission.
All media are welcome to attend.
WHO: Former Governor Jim Gilmore, U.S. Senate candidate
WHAT: Precision Strike Association Annual Programs Review Keynote Address – Enduring Requirements of the War on Terrorism
WHEN: Tuesday, April 15, 2008
8:00 A.M. Breakfast Program Begins
8:30 A.M. Keynote Address
WHERE: The Waterford at Springfield, 6715 Commerce Street, Springfield, VA

Technorati Tags: Jim Gilmore, Virginia Politics

What in the Hell Happened in Augusta County - IMHO

Since Thursday the blogs and press have been covered with the news about The Augusta County Mass Meeting. Now that the smoke of battle has cleared, reasonable people of all or no political party can see what happened. The minutes of the meeting are now public, video is available, and opinions are everywhere. It is time to publish mine.

It is clear that Emmett Hanger orchestrated a hostile take over of this meeting. It is also clear that once the Hangerites took control, they did not have a agenda or clue of what to do. Driven by revenge, Emmett and crew proceeded to further disrupt and divide the party. Let us all pray this will be his last term no matter what the outcome of this ordeal is. This power play by Emmett should seal the deal for many republicans. The RPV should also take notice that one of the hardest working group of party activists are under attack. I say let the Democrats have Emmett, he votes with them anyway. The Augusta voters need to ask themselves when has Emmett did anything that made them proud to be a republican. If you take longer than two seconds to think of something, Emmett loses.

I never liked Emmett. He votes to raise my taxes. His latest antics in Staunton and now Augusta proves he has become unhinged. The RPV needs to resolve this issue yesterday. The republicans from across the state are watching.

Technorati Tags: Augusta County GOP, Virginia Politics, RPV, Republicans, GOP

Get a Tissue..You Will Need It

From The BHC.

"Leon called me a couple weeks ago with an update on the new south Bristol post office, Volunteer Station, and he mentioned a letter that was dropped into a box with "Heaven" as the only address and no return address....

The envelope had written on it: Ethan Paxton, Heaven.

The letter reads:

"Dear Daddy I miss you and Kiersten does too. We all miss you. I know you are watching me write this letter. I even wish that I could watch you. I have one question do you read minds in heaven? I remember the good old times. Kiersten has a question too what does God look like? We all miss you I love you daddy!

Love, From Autum-Rae and Kiersten"

I checked our archives of obituaries and found one from 2006 that matched the names. It seems the girl’s father had died in a car crash at age 21. At the time, Autum-Rae was 5 and Kiersten was 3.

I didn’t find a listing in the telephone book for their mother, so I’m turning to our readers for assistance.

Please contact me with an address, which I’ll pass along to the folks at the post office.

Hopefully, no one will spoil the surprise for the girls."

Count your blessings people.

The acting Bristol postmaster has asked for help finding a return address for a letter addressed to "Heaven."

Technorati Tags: Children, Kids, God

BVBL Joins The Few and The Proud

Greg's blog has reached a another milestone. The Blog Fu Master has been removed from the Not Larry Sabato blogroll. Greg joins many other bloggers that are not listed by Ben, including myself. I hope Greg is as proud of that as I am.

Hey Ben - We don't need you, we never did.

Technorati Tags: Virginia, Blogging

, Old Dominion Blog Alliance

Yankee Philip Tells All About Augusta Mass Meeting

The Philbilly relates his experience at the Augusta Mass meeting with this post - "If you are going to take over the driving, you better know how to drive."

Take overs, disregard of the rules, voter intimidation, etc. If you though it was bad already, wait till you read this.

Technorati Tags: Augusta County GOP, Virginia Politics, RPV, Republicans, GOP

Reminder-Bill Bolling Live Blog Tomorrow

My fellow Old Dominion Blog Alliance bloggers at the College Republican Federation of Virginia will host a live blog with Bill Bolling tommorrow. Submit your questions here or email them to CRFVBlog@gmail.com.

Technorati Tags: Bill Bolling, Live Blogging, Old Dominion Blog Alliance, Virginia Politics

Terry Kilgore - "We Will Prevail" on the new Wise County Power Plant.

Yesterday was the 37th annual gathering of the Virginia Mining Association. The function was held at the Holiday Inn in Norton. Terry Kilgore addressed coal and the new plant.

“It’s amazing to me that people from the other parts of Virginia are suddenly interested in what is going on in Southwest Virginia,” Kilgore told the 37th annual gathering of the Virginia Mining Association at the Norton Holiday Inn on Saturday. Mostly, they seem put out by the prospect of low-cost electricity and a prosperous coal-producing region, Kilgore said.

“A lot of you, and me personally, have been attacked (including by) one of our local newspapers. When did coal become a four-letter word?” Kilgore said.

In the 1980s, legislation to enable the location of a power plant at Toms Creek in Coeburn failed, he said. But the bill spearheaded by state Sen. William Wampler Jr. in 2004 sailed through the General Assembly to make a power plant project in Southwest Virginia more attractive to utilities.

That's right! Preach on Brother Kilgore.

Kilgore said he was “accosted” during an air permit hearing in Richmond. Chesterfield County people accused him of wanting to poison the children of Southwest Virginia with the power plant. Kilgore said such vigorous advocacy would be great if it could only be harnessed for energy.

“I’m telling you, we will prevail on this power plant,” he told about 125 VMA members. He urged the industry to “continue to make your voice heard: in Richmond and Congress.

“Vocal minorities are out there trying to run this country,” Kilgore said. “You all must stay involved and speak your mind on this and other issues important to coal.”(READ IT ALL)

We will stay involved for sure. The plant has the support of leaders from both parties. It has the support of the people of Wise county. The plant meets or exceeds environmental laws so how in the world can they stop it? Follow the laws and permit this much needed plant.

Technorati Tags: Coal, Coal Mining, Wise County Virginia

Thank you Jerry From on High

This made my day and I am sure it will amaze you also. Are these girls even 10 years old? Get these girls to Bristol for the race!

Technorati Tags: Singing, Kids, National Anthem

What in the Hell Happened in Augusta County - The Answer

Chris has the official minutes posted - Augusta County Mass Meeting - Minutes made Public. This pretty much answers all the questions. Thank you Chris!

SWAC Girl has the latest developments posted here.

Technorati Tags: Augusta County GOP, Virginia Politics, RPV, Republicans, GOP

Testing Flock and Safari

I have been trying out two new browsers. The first one is Flock by Mozilla - The Social Web Browser.

• If you're already a web multi-tasker, Flock frees you to be as proficient as you want.
• Reach friends across multiple networks
• Stay fully connected, no matter where you are on the web
• Be the first to see changes in your universe
• Connect and share more completely with the people you care about and the sites you love.
• Drag and drop to easily share:
• Photos and Videos
• Text
• Favorite Links
• Flock makes sure you don't miss a thing.
• Be informed when:
• Your friends post photos, videos or other updates
• Your favorite sites update content
• You have new messages and site notifications

This is great browser if you like to read blogs and do the My Space and Facebook thing. It is all about being connected to multiple sites at the same time.

The next is the Apple browser Safari for Windows. One word...FAST. I like it. Simple, easy to use, and very fast....Faster than Firefox but limited extensions. This is a great browser and I plan on using it often.

Technorati Tags: Safari, Flock

What in the Hell Happened in Augusta County Part Two

Because neither candidate was elected by way of electoral college, as stated in the bylaws, it is unclear who, if anybody, is the new Augusta County Republican Party Chairman. — Mindi Westhoff

As I pointed out in my fist post about this, the math does not add up and rules of order were not followed. I was correct at 1am. Chaos indeed.

According to party secretary Chris Green, because Thursday night’s vote to suspend the rules was not met by a two-thirds majority, the rules were not actually suspended.

It looks like the only recourse is to issue a new call and do this all over again. The sooner the better IMHO.

There is a lot out there about this story. I would suggest checking out SWAC Girl and Yankee Phillip for insight and links. It seems they have the best info.

For irrelevant posts from irrelevant people I suggest the Whackjobs. Nothing politically substantial there, but reading them as they try to jump on this subject is very amusing.

Technorati Tags: RPV, Republicans, GOP, Virginia Politics

When it comes to Colleges and Tuition, Bob Marshall lines up with Warner/Kaine.

Spank That Donkey has a excellent series of posts about how the cost of tuition has pretty much doubled since Jim Gilmore left office. UVA-Wise is covered here. Gilmore froze tuition and used excess tax revenue to help colleges, students, and parents carrying the load.

Enter the Bob Marshall fans, all three of them, attacking Gilmore for this must needed action. The Marshall fans are desperate and everyone can see that. Their candidate has a record of failed legislation that has no end. Their only recourse is to attack the accomplishments made by Gilmore to ease the burden of cost for a higher education. I know for a fact the UVA-Wise crowd appreciated the help. I also believe the majority of voters will support Gilmore's actions. That will become evident as delegates cast their votes.

Check this out about Bob Marshall and Drilling for oil in ANWAR. Hilarious if not so pitiful. Bob Marshall is endorsed by the Sierra Club, those anti oil drilling, anti coal, anti mining tree huggers. That is all a SWVA resident needs to know. There is no need to ask for the republicans in the Coalfields to vote for Gilmore...They Will.

Technorati Tags: Jim Gilmore, Bob Marshall, Oil, Coal, Coal Mining, Virginia Politics