NASCAR in Colorado?

NASCAR in Colorado? Who knows, Colorado has passed a bill that could make it possible. I just want to know how they fit it into an already busy schedule and which track they have to drop a race at to make it all fit. I also want to know if they will have a couple good jumps like in dirt bike racing- all the drivers could get air like Carl Edwards did at Talladega this past weekend. Ok maybe the wheels should all stay on the track after all but maybe they could make it a track like on that one on the beer commercial where everyone hikes up snowy mountains in shorts, dragging coolers and chairs and watches the race cars go by- that would be so cool.

Technorati Tags: NASCAR,racing,Colorado,Carl Edwards,Talladega

Crystal Harmony

How cool is this?

Technorati Tags: Crystal Harmony,glass playing,music,Grieg

Sarah Palin and the Alaska Budget

Good report on Palin and Alaska's budget here. Is she a fiscal conservative? Looking at these numbers you would have to say yes.

FY 2009 Operating Budget- $11,200,000,000 ($11.2B)
FY 2010 Operating Budget- $9,700,000,000 ($9.7B)
Net cut in Operating funds $1,500,000,000
Total percentage cut in Operating Budget – 13.4%
FY 2009 Capital Budget- $2,632,000,000 (after Governor Palin vetoed $268 million)
FY 2010 Capital Budget- $1,800,000,000
Net cut in the Capital Budget $832,000,000
Total Percentage cut in Capital budget- 31.7%
Overall FY 2009 budget $13,832,000,000
Overall Proposed FY 2010 $11,500,000,000
Net reduction in the Overall Budget $2,332,000,000
Total Percentage cut in Overall Budget- 16.8%

Impressive! Is it any wonder the democrats hate her. Cuts across the board, millions of $$$ in spending vetoed.....You Go Girl! I hope other Republicans take notice.

Technorati Tags: Budget, Sarah Palin, Pork

J. Todd Foster - They Use Live Dogs for Shark Bait.....

Wow! This makes twice in as many days that I have enjoyed something the BHC has published. The first was Fridays Thumbs Down and now the much hated J Todd has penned They Use Live Dogs for Shark Bait and Other Tidbits.

News worthy? Probably not, but an enjoyable read none the less.

Technorati Tags: Facebook, Social Networking, Dumb Stuff

Virginia - A Hotbed for Recruiting Terrorists?

So reports the Virginian-Pilot - Report: Region may be a hotbed for terrorist recruiting.

A new report produced by a branch of the Virginia State Police portrays the state's colleges and universities as potential breeding grounds for terrorism.

The 200-page report, intended for distribution to law enforcement, intelligence and military organizations, says "a wide variety of terror or extremist groups" have links to Hampton Roads and singles out the area's two historically black universities for special mention.

It also cites the region's "diverse population due to the strong military presence." In addition, it mentions Regent University, an evangelical Christian school in Virginia Beach, and a Chesapeake-based anti-abortion group.

The report acknowledges that none of the Virginia groups it singles out has engaged in any violent activity and says there is no intelligence indicating that terrorists are planning attacks in the state.

Interesting reading for sure. I am not convinced that those Regent students pose a threat, but this is the era of Obama..........

Technorati Tags: Virginia, Terrorism, Terrorists

The Left's Losing Strategy Against Bob McDonnell

When the goofy libs at the BHC are turned off you know it is bad. (Emphasis mine)

THUMBS DOWN TO:

Political campaign, misguided mission

Political operatives Yoni Cohen and Elliot Vice from Arlington, Va., came to Bristol this week as part of a campaign against Bob McDonnell, the GOP candidate for Virginia governor.

Cohen and Vice are travelling across Virginia to record interviews with people who are signing up for unemployment benefits. On Wednesday in Bristol only one person agreed to speak on camera. The pair said they are not staging anything and only talk to people who want to be interviewed.

The campaign is called “Bob’s Not For Jobs, Bob’s Not For You Tour” and criticizes the former attorney general and the Republican-controlled House of Delegates’ recent vote to reject $125 million in federal money designed to bolster state unemployment benefits.

Earlier this month, this newspaper also criticized the House for its refusal to accept the federal money because some Virginians are running their households on multiple part-time jobs and need all the help they can get during this recession.

But remember the facts: The General Assembly did accept money to increase benefits for full-time workers who have lost their jobs and to increase funding for health benefits for part-time workers who are unemployed. The sticking point was over increasing unemployment benefits to part-time workers. Opponents feared it would be a disincentive to take a job because the unemployment benefits would nearly equal part-time pay.

By Friday, Cohen and Vice’s work at various unemployment offices was turned into a Web ad critical of McDonnell, who is not a member of the House of Delegates and did not vote on the issue.

Technorati Tags: Virginia Politics

John Brownlee Will Fight To Keep the GUANTANAMO PRISONERS Out Of Virginia

From the Campaign

BROWNLEE READY TO FIGHT OBAMA'S PLAN TO MOVE GUANTANAMO PRISONERS TO VIRGINIA

Both Former United States Attorney John Brownlee and former Attorney General Bob McDonnell have issued statements objecting to President Obama's plan to transfer some of the nearly 240 terror suspects and enemy combatants, including several 9-11 conspirators, currently housed at Guantanamo Bay to prison facilities in Virginia.

Brownlee, a candidate for Attorney General of Virginia, has also started to develop specific legal strategies to challenge these transfers if elected.  Brownlee is the only prosecutor and the only military veteran currently seeking the Republican nomination for Attorney General of Virginia.

"President Obama's plan to transfer these terrorist suspects to Virginia cities, including Alexandria, poses a threat to the safety and security of our citizens."  said Brownlee.  "As Attorney General, I will work with Bob McDonnell, members of Congress, and other law enforcement leaders to keep these terrorists out of Virginia.  President Obama should not endanger the lives of our citizens simply to keep an errant campaign promise to MoveOn.org and other liberal groups."

"As a former United States Attorney, my experience and insights into the workings of the U.S. Justice Department will be of great assistance in our fight to keep the terror suspects  out of facilities in Virginia that - as  Congressman Randy Forbes points out -- are 'within miles of neighborhoods, military bases and schools'."

As reported in the The Washington Post and Appomattox News, "the issue of where to house the terror suspects currently housed at Guantanamo Bay results from the Executive Order closing the facility issued by President Obama upon taking office. A senior Justice Department official recently noted that one possible destination for some detainees is the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia in Alexandria, which has been the venue for previous high profile terrorism trials. The Courthouse is located in the city, only 190 feet from a new Westin Hotel, and close to apartment buildings, shops and restaurants. The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, with 7000 employees, is only a block away."

Speaking about the possibility of Guantanamo Bay detainees being held in the middle of an historic and highly populated city in the Commonwealth, McDonnell stated, "I strongly support efforts of the U.S. Government to bring terrorists to justice in accordance with our laws; however I oppose transferring any Guantanamo Bay detainees to Virginia. The terrorists and enemy combatants currently housed 90 miles from our shores at Guantanamo Bay are some of the most dangerous men in the world. Now the federal government is considering placing some of these individuals in the middle of a busy Virginia city, just feet away from hotels, apartments, restaurants and shops. We know from the 2006 death penalty trial of Zacarias Moussaoui in Alexandria that the cost and security necessary to house suspected terrorists in the city are enormous. The trial featured unprecedented security measures and a major ongoing disruption of life for the people in the city. Thankfully no terrorist incidents occurred as a result of that trial. That is a credit to the City of Alexandria, state and federal officials, and our men and women in public safety. I hope that less risky and burdensome trial venues will be considered."

The Appomattox News reported, "The City of Alexandria strongly objects to the possibility of Guantanamo Bay detainees being moved into the community with Mayor Bill Euille telling The Washington Post recently 'We would be absolutely opposed to relocating Guantanamo prisoners to Alexandria....We would do everything in our power to lobby the president, the governor, the Congress and everyone else to stop it.' Alexandria Sheriff Dana A. Lawhorne said in the same article that such a move would be '...a very extremely high-risk situation for us.' Numerous business and community leaders have also expressed strong concerns about the cost and security problems of such an action."

Technorati Tags: John Brownlee, Virginia Politics, Virginia GOP

Delegate Harvey Morgan Endorses John Brownlee

Friends:
I am happy to announce that Delegate Harvey Morgan (98th District) -- the longest serving Republican in the Virginia House of Delegates -- has endorsed our candidacy and joined the ranks of Team Brownlee.

Delegate Morgan was first elected to the General Assembly in 1979, and represents all or part of Essex, Gloucester, King and Queen, King William, Mathews, and Middlesex Counties.

Harvey's support was a great ending to a wonderful day of meeting delegates across the Middle Peninsula.  After "meet-and-greets" in Gloucester and Urbanna, I enjoyed visiting with Chairman John Hubbard and the King William Republican Committee in West Point for their April meeting.

Now that the Democrats officially have their candidate for Attorney General, more and more Republicans are agreeing that "Conservative Values ● Experienced Prosecutor ● Army Veteran" is the path to victory for the G.O.P. in November.

I hope you will consider joining Delegate Morgan, more than 100 local law enforcement officials and Republican Party leaders from every corner of Virginia in supporting our campaign by joining "Team Brownlee" today.

Sincerely,

John Brownlee

Technorati Tags: John Brownlee, Virginia Politics, Virginia GOP

David Lee Lawson - 12/10/66 - 4/24/07

I held one toast in the air. I poured one on the ground. Never take for granted your friend will always be around. I always look when I drive by. I would give everything I have for some more time. One more trip together...One more party...One more cookout on the lawn...Brother I still cant accept that you are gone. So this morning as dawn's light I found, I held one toast in the air and I poured one on the ground.

He was my friend....

Technorati Tags: Life, Death, Friends

730 Days Ago

Two years ago from this night 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.

A toast in the air then a toast on the ground.....I miss you brother.

Technorati Tags: Life, Death, Friends

Welcome to the Waffle House

Obama is serving up a plate of Waffles this week. First he throws out his promised I will ban torture in interrogations. He added to that entree 4 sides of Bush era Justice Department memos that gave legal guidelines for "enhanced interrogation techniques. He poured a glass  of no intentions to prosecute those who drafted the memos or anyone else who followed those guidelines. For color he added a sprig of it's up to Attorney General Eric Holder and the Congress to determine if any laws were violated by the former officials.

As Ed Rollins writes "He waffled big time. Now all sides are mad at him and he looks weak. Weakness is the death knell for a president. With 1,366 days to go before this term is up, Obama's got to get tougher or he will be viewed as a personality who reads well from a teleprompter."

Note Mr. President, not everyone enjoys a Waffle House meal. Some of us find it just too darn greasy and hard to swallow.

Technorati Tags: Obama,torture

Sen. Dianne Feinstein - Another Dirty Democrat

The Washington Times has the story of this very unethical move by Feinstein -

EXCLUSIVE: Senator's husband's firm cashes in on crisis

Feinstein sought $25 billion for agency that awarded contract to spouse.....

On the day the new Congress convened this year, Sen. Dianne Feinstein introduced legislation to route $25 billion in taxpayer money to a government agency that had just awarded her husband's real estate firm a lucrative contract to sell foreclosed properties at compensation rates higher than the industry norms.

Mrs. Feinstein's intervention on behalf of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. was unusual: the California Democrat isn't a member of the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs with jurisdiction over FDIC; and the agency is supposed to operate from money it raises from bank-paid insurance payments - not direct federal dollars.

Documents reviewed by The Washington Times show Mrs. Feinstein first offered Oct. 30 to help the FDIC secure money for its effort to stem the rise of home foreclosures. Her letter was sent just days before the agency determined that CB Richard Ellis Group (CBRE) - the commercial real estate firm that her husband Richard Blum heads as board chairman - had won the competitive bidding for a contract to sell foreclosed properties that FDIC had inherited from failed banks.

About the same time of the contract award, Mr. Blum's private investment firm reported to the Securities and Exchange Commission that it and related affiliates had purchased more than 10 million new shares in CBRE. The shares were purchased for the going price of $3.77; CBRE's stock closed Monday at $5.14.

Spokesmen for the FDIC, Mrs. Feinstein and Mr. Blum's firm told The Times that there was no connection between the legislation and the contract signed Nov. 13, and that the couple didn't even know about CBRE's business with FDIC until after it was awarded. READ ALL THE DIRT

If this was a republican the blogs would be a buzzin with whines of corruption from Lowell and Wilemore.

Technorati Tags: Dirty Democrats, Corruption

Are You An Extremist?

Thomas Sowell writes:

"While the rest of us may be worried about violent Mexican drug gangs on our border, or about terrorists who are going to be released from Guantanamo, the Director of Homeland Security is worried about "right-wing extremists."

Just who are these right-wing extremists?

According to an official document of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, right-wing extremists include "groups and individuals that are dedicated to a single issue, such as opposition to abortion or immigration." It also includes those "rejecting federal authority in favor of state or local authority."

If you fit into any of these categories, you may not have realized that you are considered a threat to national security. But apparently the Obama administration has its eye on you."

I guess I fit the bill. You see, in Obama's world if you believe in and will fight for the Constitution, YOU are an extremist. I think I will wear that label proudly and you should too! Read all of the article here.

Technorati Tags: Extremist, Barack Hussein Obama, Dumb Asses

A Republican Booed at Tea Party

This is what happens when Republican Congressman Gresham Barrett, who voted for TARP, tried to fool the folks at the Tea Party in Greenville, SC. You wont see this on CNN.

Damn that makes me proud!

Technorati Tags: Tea Party, Taxes

Must See Video - CNN Reporter Susan Roesgen Gets Teabagged

Cavalcade of Conflictedness has the real video of so called CNN reporter Susan Roesgen at the tea party. This is a good one! It shows perfectly how CNN was trying to spin the tea party supporters into something they are not.

Thanks for posting this Liz!

Technorati Tags: CNN, Dumb Asses

Kirwin - "Muldoon - $10,000 from morning-after pill lobbyists"

Check out Brian Kirwin's post at Bearing Drift. Remember all the Bob Marshall supporters slamming Jim Gilmore.

Time will tell if those same Marshall supporters, many of whom are now supporting Muldoon will be as outraged as they let on to be about Gilmore...or was that outrage really just a pile of B/S? As of now it's ....Chirp...Chirp...Chirp.

Technorati Tags: Morning After Pill, Birth Control, Abortion, Virginia Politics

About those Restrooms where Wise County Minister John McCarroll got caught perving in...

The rest rooms have been blamed by many as the problem...Like a pencil is to blame for the incorrect spelling of a word. God forbid we blame the perving homosexuals sticking their peckers through holes for the problem. I know, I know, It's those dang restrooms! Kingsport officials are not buying it.

Kingsport has no plans to change restrooms at Riverfront Park

KINGSPORT — The city of Kingsport has no plans on the table, at the present time, to make any changes to the restrooms at Riverfront Park.

Earlier this month Kingsport police arrested two men — one of whom is a Coeburn pastor — for exposing themselves in the Riverfront Park restrooms, located beside the parking lot along Netherland Inn Road. In October, two other men were arrested for allegedly exposing themselves, while a third was accused of proposing sexual acts.

These homosexual perverts are the problem, not the restrooms. I say bust them. Put their pictures in the paper. Register them as sexual predators. I could be wrong, but I would wager Pastor John will not be sticking his unit through a restroom stall for awhile.

Technorati Tags: Glory Hole, Homosexuals, Dumb Ass

Wise County to hold Forums on School Consolidation

Via the KTN

WISE — The Wise County school division will host community forums beginning Monday to provide the latest information available about plans to build three new high schools.

The first forum will be at Coeburn Middle School Monday followed by Appalachia High School on Tuesday and Powell Valley High School on Wednesday. All forums begin at 7 p.m.

Forums are also scheduled for J.J. Kelly High School on April 27, St. Paul High School on April 28, and Pound High School on April 29.

The Wise County School Board voted 5-3 in November to pursue consolidation of the county’s six existing high schools — five were built in the 1950s, and the other opened in 1974 — and merge the student populations in three modern facilities.

Consolidation in Wise County is long over due. Our population does not justify 6 high schools. It is time for the folks in St Paul, Pound, and Appalachia to shut up and get on board with consolidation. The positives outweigh the negatives by far.

Technorati Tags: Wise County Virginia, Schools, Education

This is What We Need in SWVA

My friend Jerry has often mentioned having casinos in SWVA. Jerry, like me, has realized the tourism hype pushed by our feckless congress critter Rick Boucher will never work.

I say lets do what Charles Town West Virginia did. I am a long time patron there. It started as a Horse racing track. Then they added slots. They now have a sweet hotel with TOP NOTCH rooms and suites. Here is a model plan that could easily be built on a Mountain Top Removal site. Add a golf course, water park, and maybe some sporting clays and you could have a winner. If you build...they will come. Click to embiggen.

Technorati Tags: Wise County Virginia, Tourism

Fisherville Mike Introduces Sourland

Check out Reid and Pelosi's new band Sourland. My sides hurt from the laughter! Thanks Mike!

Technorati Tags: Nancy Pelosi, Harry Reid, Dumb Ass, Taxes

The Spark It Up Cup Update

My fantasy racing league is in full swing as we head to Talladega this coming weekend. The season thus far has been Fisherville Mike and me swapping first and second place only divided by a few points. I finally took the lead over the pesky Mike this week, yet it was Wise Girl winning the race with a massive 328 points! I had 314 points and Jeff Gordon let Mike down so he received 262 points. Ole Spanky picked Mark Martin to win and by God he did! Spank has the video here. The old guy proved he could still do it! Here are the standings as of today.

1 - Kilo 2,263 points and 2 wins.

2 - Fishersvillemike 2,225 points and 2 wins

3 - Big K Motorsports 2,114 points and 1 Win

4 - Alton 2,026 points and 0 wins

5 - Wise Girl 1,897 points and 2 wins

6 - Spanky 1,749 points and 1 win

In my Fans of Jeff Burton group that has over 2000 members I am in 35th place. I sure do love me some RACIN!

Technorati Tags: NASCAR, Racing, Auto Racing

Betting the Ponies!

I spent the day at the Colonial Downs OTB in Weber City. Today I concentrated on two tracks - Golden Gate and Santa Anita. I did bet a couple nags running at Keeneland. I think the two horses I bet on should be finishing about now.

The end result was betting on 21 races. I hit four winners and zero trifectas....I've done better that is for sure. The main thing is I had a great time with a good friend and there was no mention of politics all day. It was a wonderful way to spend a rainy day in the coalfields.

Technorati Tags: Horses, Horse Racing, Scott County Virginia, Gambling

Good Sense Good Blogging

Charlie is down in his back. I know all about that kind of pain. I sure hate my friend is in pain but he is blogging up a storm.

Charlie remembers his fathers military service - Fugate, Roy S. – SP4. He also recalls his fathers wit and smile - Have a Coke and a…Smile.

One thing is for sure....Good Sense is Good Blogging.

Technorati Tags: Blogging, Life, Military

The Aftermath of the John McCarroll Mess

We get this-

KPD treats gays, straights differently

Re. the arrests at Riverfront Park, I also don’t think it’s right that young people and older couples have sex in their cars, but it happens. Like those guys in the bathroom, it’s been going on for years and years. But what bothers me about all this is that Kingsport police don’t send out a press release when straight couples or straight teen couples get caught having sex in public places, nor do you see their pictures or names all over the news. I walk through retail outlets every day and see young boys and girls all over each other. Why is that allowed to go on with nothing being said about it?

It seems to me that there’s a double standard in Kingsport, not only with our police department, but with the public. That needs to change. Maybe the ACLU needs to pay a visit here to Kingsport to make sure the rights of the gay community are not being violated because I really do think that’s what’s going on here.

David Thompson

That's right, teens making out and two consenting adults in a car compares to men sticking their peckers through holes in the stalls at PUBLIC restrooms....Geesh it's early for drink but lets have one after reading that logic. There is a huge difference between car sex and sticking your pecker through a hole in a public restroom.

I use public restrooms. God forbid someone sticks his pecker through the wall at me as I take a leak...Think about the newspaper headlines for that story. "Kilo's Matterhorns meet restroom perverts pecker...Screams were heard a mile away"

For those who don't know what a Matterhorn boot is...

Technorati Tags: Glory Hole, Homosexuals, Dumb Ass

Wise County Power Plant - Va. high court rejects challenge to Dominion plant

From the KTN

RICHMOND, Va. (AP) — Environmentalists seeking to block construction of a coal-fired power plant in southwestern Virginia lost their case in the state Supreme Court on Friday.
The justices unanimously affirmed a state law authorizing Dominion Virginia Power's proposed 585-megawatt power station in Wise County. Opponents claimed the law violates the constitution's Commerce Clause because it favors the use of Virginia coal at the expense of out-of-state coal.

Carry on.

Technorati Tags: Wise County Virginia, Coal, Power Plants

Susan Boyle - Never happen on American Idol

Wise Girl had the scoop here. I had never heard of the show but America should take notice. I would buy her CD if she had one. Would you? Or would you judge the lady on her looks and age? I now see she has refused to have a makeover..I say You Go Girl! If you have not watched this you should.

I had a dream my life would be
So different from this hell I'm living,
So different now from what it seemed...
Now life has killed the dream I dreamed...

Click here and Go watch and feel good,,,and ashamed. As why not in America?

Technorati Tags: Susan Boyle

John Brownlee Raises the Cash!

Brownlee $105,205

Cuccinelli $86,201

Foster $44,354

Pretty good numbers for John and Cooch.

Technorati Tags: Dave foster, Ken cuccinelli, John Brownlee, Virginia Politics, Virginia GOP

Rassmussen Poll - Bob McDonnell Pulls Further Ahead in Virginia Governor’s Race

The democrats have hit Bob with everything and his lead grows!

The latest Rasmussen Reports telephone survey in the state finds the closest race is between McDonnell, the former attorney general and lone GOP candidate, and Brian J. Moran, a former state delegate from Alexandria. McDonnell now leads Moran by 10 points, 44% to 34%.

The highest profile Democrat in the race is next. Terry McAuliffe, a longtime Clinton confidant and former national party chairman, trails McDonnell by 12 points, 45% to 33%.

State Delegate R. Creigh Deeds of Bath County continues to fare the worst against his Republican opponent. McDonnell leads Deeds by 15 points, 45% to 30%.

I wonder if Waldo and Wilemore post about that! LMAO

Technorati Tags: Bob McDonnell, Virginia Politics

A Statement from John Brownlee on the VA Tech Tragedy

April 16: A Day of Remembrance

Friends:

Two years ago today, while serving as United States Attorney for the Western District of Virginia, I received a call about the shootings at Virginia Tech.
I immediately went to Blacksburg from Roanoke, where members of my office and I took part in the immediate investigation of the killings.
We spent the rest of the 16th on campus, and worked well into the morning of the 17th.
Words still are difficult to come by to express the horror, the senselessness, and ultimately the sadness of seeing so many bright young people robbed of their futures.  The images of that day are burned into my memory.  It was a day I will never forget.  It was a day no Virginian should ever forget.
I encourage you to take the time today to visit Tech's memorial website.

If you believe in the power of prayer as I do, I also hope you will find a few minutes today to pause and pray for all those affected by this tragedy.
Sincerely,
John Brownlee

Technorati Tags: John Brownlee, Virginia Tech

A Universal Language

Here at Spark It Up we think that there are two universal languages: food and music. Here is another feel good moment (actually 60 minutes worth).

This is the world's first collaborative online orchestra performed at Carnegie Hall on April 15, 2009. Selected by the YouTube community and several members of the world's most renowned orchestras, the YouTube Symphony Orchestra is made up of over 96 professional and amateur musicians from 30+ countries and territories on six continents and represents 26 different instruments. See more here.

Once again this just goes to show that you never really know what is inside a person until you take the time to really pay attention. They could be playing your song.

 

Technorati Tags: You Tube Symphony Orchestra,Carnegie Hall

Spring?

I have heard rumors that there might be a spring this year although I figured we would just jump into summer because there just wasn't enough bailout money left for start-ups, and isn't spring the best start-up we could imagine for a coming year?

Technorati Tags: Spring photos,photos

Medicine for a taxing day

Because some days we just need to be reminded that dreams really can come true. Sorry that the embedded code has been removed but click here and trust me when I tell you it is so worth the watch! Enjoy.

The Dukes of Fallujah

Technorati Tags: Military, Iraq War

Charlie is a Right Wing Extremist....

Then what am I? I tried to go through the document tonight,,,,but I am wore out. I guess I am getting old and grumpy and that is a fact. I was enlightened to find out tonight that I am a Right Wing Extremist. I did read enough of this document to know it is a crap filled report that could have came from the Bristol Herald Courier Editorial Board I wonder how many tax dollars were spent funding this shit?

I will look it over today and have my thoughts posted in the eve. Until then, check out Good Sense Post One and Post Two on this "report"...I don't know what is worse: The content of this report or that tax dollars paid for it.

Technorati Tags: Department of Homeland Security

Update - Wise County News - What I Heard Today about John McCarroll

The story is getting a lot of time here in Wise. There are a lot of comments on the two daily newspapers about this incident McCarroll had with the Glory Hole. A few of his defenders say this could not happen because his wife was with him. Today a man that is in the club at Trinity Worship Center told me that McCarroll's wife was with him, but he dropped her off at the mall and then went to the Park and was busted for perving around. He also made it clear that John has no defense and the family and church are crushed....

This is a sad story. A church and family crushed because this homosexual was horny. Will he step down as Pastor? Will he be removed? Everyone here knows that is HIS church, so it wont be simple. Stay tuned.

Post One on McCarroll . . . . . Post Two

Technorati Tags: Wise County Virginia

Gun Salesman of the Year

Technorati Tags: Barack Hussein Obama, 2nd Amendment

Jeff Frederick's Support?

People are writing a lot of stuff about the Jeff Frederick/RPV mess. Good Sense, Spanky, TooCon and many others have thoughts posted for and against Frederick.

My views have been posted and they have not changed. I supported Frederick but he let me down. The first charge against him was all it took for me. While his actions may have not been illegal, it was definitely stupid. Directing money to his own company was stupid no matter what the reason. Hiding that fact on the FEC filing then amending that filing to show the truth was a day late and a dollar short for me. That is all it took for me and I will not support that behavior from any chairperson of any organization I belong to. Yes people - It is that simple for me. I don't care if he was elected with 99% of the vote, that move showed me he is either a crook or just plain incompetent if he was thinking no one would notice this. Sure Frederick is a solid conservative with a voting record to match, but this is not about voting records or political stance. The RPV is a business and it needs leadership. This is about leadership and I lost trust in Frederick. If you want to hate me for it then feel free. Like I said, it was a simple decision for me as to support Jeff or not. Simple.

The next beef most folks have is how the SCC handled this. I am on record as saying it should have been handled better, but the result would have been the same. The SCC had the votes to remove and they did. That power is granted to them via the Party Plan. That plan is the real problem IMHO. Anyway, we now have a war against the SCC members and I have no problem with that. As with the removal of Jeff, there are some SCC members that need to be addressed also. My hope is that instead of using this mess to attack each other and lay blame on one side or the other, we must now fight to make the changes to the plan and get the right group of SCC members supporting us. If not, show them the door just like Frederick.

The one thing I noticed about this was the support for Frederick. I read letters from Unit Chairs supporting or not supporting Jeff. They would be written as if they speak for the unit membership but it was revealed many times that most members knew nothing about the letters of support or non support. On judgment day in Richmond, the day Jeff needed support...less than 100 people showed up to rally for Frederick. I also noticed on the one thing anyone can point to as a Frederick achievement is The RPV Network. This website cost close to $20,000? Guys that is absurd, but that is another post entirely. The network has 1261 members. When the mess started a group was formed - We Support Jeff Frederick for Chairman. As of this writing the group has 152 members. That is a whopping 12.05392% of the total membership supporting Frederick. Those opposing Jeff started a group and that was quickly removed, banned...you pick the right word. That move killed the RPV Network. In one click of the mouse those controlling the RPV Network sent the message that dissent against Jeff would not be tolerated. They spent $20k on that? Look at the message that move sent to the RPV members. And let us not be naive, this is Frederick's website.....With that said and the numbers are there for all to see and it is clear there are plenty of grassroot people that don't support Frederick. Why? It goes back to "reasons" to support him. Other than the start up of the RPV Network what are Frederick's accomplishments as leader? If you read all the hundreds of posts and comments by those supporting Jeff it is amazing the best they can do is "he was elected"...so was Nixon. If you compare achievements to gaffes there is nothing to argue. As a GOP buddy of mine said at the last meeting "I voted for him but I cant find any reason to now support him." I said we have the RPV Network and we laughed and parted ways. There are a lot of people just like me and him. We supported Jeff and were let down by him. It has nothing to do with being a party insider or what Bob McDonnell said. It has to do with leadership, performance, and the first charge on the SCC hit list. Just last week a fellow ODBA blogger was being attacked for his/her stance on this issue. I told them they should read the filthy comments I have deleted for my stance.

I made my own mind up over Frederick. If a few so called friends want to hold that against me so be it. I have found these "political friends" to be more of a pain in the ass than real friends. They better take a look at those numbers above and accept the fact that the support for Frederick was there a year ago, but is it there now? I really doubt that it is. In fact, I am in awe at the support Jeff has received. If my fellow republicans don't like my views then by all means stay away. In a month, my vote is just as important as theirs. To my friends that have supported me even if they disagree I say thank you! We will share a cigar and many good times in the future enjoying friendship and fellowship. To those that don't...Good riddance.

Technorati Tags: Jeff Frederick, Virginia Politics, Virginia GOP, Friendship

Phil Spector Guilty - Convicts for Obama

Notice the Obama rocks button...

Technorati Tags: Phil Spector, Murder, Barack Hussein Obama

The Itsy Bitsy Spider

Technorati Tags: Spiders,life

Wise County Teachers - No Pay Raise This Year

From the Coalfield Progress we see the post I had about this a while back is holding true. The teachers will get a one time $500 dollar bonus and a increase in insurance premiums.

WISE — If the county school board approves a lean budget proposal it recently received from school officials, teachers won’t get a raise, and the amount they must pay for health insurance will rise.
The school system won’t be asking for more money from the county board of supervisors to balance its budget — other than a few increased bills for electricity and debt service, things are staying pretty much the same.
That’s thanks to the Virginia General Assembly, which at the last minute injected federal economic stimulus dollars into the state’s education budget to offset deep cuts Gov. Tim Kaine proposed earlier this year. Without the $2.8 million in stimulus funds, the school system would be “in serious dire straits,” school Finance Director Ron Vicars said at an April 6 school board meeting.
But the federal stimulus dollars are only guaranteed this year and next year. That’s why school officials propose that teachers and other employees receive not a yearlong raise this year but a one-time bonus — $500 for professional staff and $250 for support staff — at Christmas.
If extra money isn’t in every single check, employees are less likely to budget for it and get used to it, Superintendent Jeff Perry says. That way it won’t hurt as much if the state budget suffers major cuts again in two years when the stimulus dollars go away.
The bonuses will cost the school system about $518,000, but the school board expects to see about $467,000 in savings due to 14 anticipated retirements at the end of this school year.
Wise County Education Association President Ann Wade said that night that she and other WCEA members are disappointed that they weren’t included in budget deliberations. Wade said this was the first time in 37 years that WCEA officials haven’t been invited to a single budget meeting.
Perry said later in the meeting that the WCEA had been involved in “conversations” about the budget.

This could be the first time in 37 years the teachers wont get a raise. I am sure the increase for insurance on top of that has the teachers seeing red.

Here’s what the current employee shares are, and what they might rise to:
• Single: From $17 per month to $39 per month.
• Dual: From $57 per month to $94 per month.
• Family: From $97 per month to $150 per month.
According to Vicars, the school system currently chips in $389 per month for single insurance, $694 for dual and $999 for a family plan.
Even with the increased cost to employees, the school system will have to pay $246,700 more to cover its share of insurance costs.

While I believe teachers should be well paid, I wont shed tears at their loss this year. Wise County teachers have faired well over the years. Unlike most of us here whose jobs depend on the coal business and the ups and downs that go with it, teachers have enjoyed steady employment and pay raises. As our schools rotted from neglect our teachers faired well indeed.

Technorati Tags: Wise County Virginia, Education, Schools, Teachers

Wise County and the High Knob Tower - Now they want more of my money...

First we have a local dumbass burn the tower down. He got his just rewards last week. I applaud the citizens raising money to rebuild the tower. I hate the fact my Board of Supervisors gave them $15,000 in tax dollars for the effort. Now guess what....They want more money!

WISE — Just days after two local men were convicted of burning down the beloved High Knob Observation Tower, county supervisors were asked to double their contribution to the tower rebuilding effort.
Rita McReynolds, a representative of the High Knob Enhancement Corp., told county supervisors that, since her last visit about a year ago, the group has raised about $108,000 toward its $500,000 goal — $15,000 of it from Wise County.
As supervisors set to work on the county’s 2009-10 budget, McReynolds is asking them to consider giving another $15,000 to help rebuild the landmark. Considering the county’s interest in expanding the local tourism industry, a dollar to the tower is a dollar well spent, McReynolds said.
“This could be a catalyst for tourism and marketing ideas, but first we have to rebuild the tower,” McReynolds told supervisors. More federal funds might be freed up to improve the area around the tower if the group is successful in making the replacement facility a reality, she said. (Link to the Coalfield Progress - Subscription required- It's my great newspaper and you cant read it)

They want another $15k and they are throwing "tourism" into the mix. What a crock. "Hey John, where yall going on vacation? john says "Man we are going to Norton and see the High Knob Tower...The wife and kids cant wait!"...Maybe after that they can vacation over in Dickenson County and see the Ralph Stanley Museum.

I say rebuild the tower if you can raise the money, but leave the tax dollars out of the mix. I will say it again - No one came to see the tower. They came to see the view. Guess what? That view is still there. Always has been and always will be. All that is needed is a road and parking lot. No building or statues, no restrooms and no pop machines. The cost of the road and lot are already covered by the donations. That parking lot would be a great place to watch a sunset and steal a kiss or pinch some wool. Building a half million dollar building on this land is not needed...The view is still there..I promise it is. The fact that it is free is the bonus. Use the tax money elsewhere please.

Technorati Tags: Wise County Virginia, High Knob

Join The RPV Network

I was a little critical of the RPV Network in my last post. I am a member and you should be too! The Network is a great place to meet like minded folks and share ideas. The site should be a great asset for us if we use it. Bloggers have bitched and moaned wanting the RPV to reach out on these wonderful internets. Many of those same bloggers that were so fast to complain have not signed up on the Network. That makes me smile...The RPV spent a lot of money to set this up for us. It only takes a couple minutes to sign up so there is no excuse not to.

It is a Facebook of people that support the GOP. I promise you will find the info there helpful and you may even make a few new friends or find some old ones. Looking for a Tea party to attend? You can find it there. Got a question? the minds there can answer. We must use this tool to our advantage or it will dry up and be gone. I do believe the Frederick/SCC mess has hindered the site from reaching the popularity level it should receive. You know, many people complained about the RPV reaching out. Well now they have spent the money and reached out....So your not a member yet? Click that badge below and sign up.

Visit RPVNetwork

RPVNetwork Mission Statement:

The RPVNetwork is a website that has very specific mission and goals. It is unlike Facebook or Myspace or similar social sites. Although RPVNetwork is built on an open platform and contains a social aspect it has a very purposeful mission.

That mission is to network the Republican Party of Virginia and it's Unit Committees, Congressional District Committees and associated groups, such as Women's and YR"s groups. To let them share information concerning events, campaigns and issues in order to build a stronger more unified party going into the future. Our focus is on the future, and what we can do to insure our success, not in wallowing in the mistakes of the past and pointing fingers or laying blame. It is our mission to present a positive message to reinforce the Republican Creed and our principles, while encouraging participation in the entire electoral process be it online or in the streets of every jurisdiction in the Commonwealth.

We frown heavily on those who would want to use the site to promote personal agendas not in sync with the goals of this site and the party in general. We encourage a positive message and posts from our members and discourage negative or contentious posts. We are NOT trying to stifle disagreements on policy issues, but we want the discussions to be civil.

We want all of our members to feel comfortable in posting ideas and suggestions without fear of retaliatory or inflammatory posts from others. Such negative posts detract from the message and undermine our mission.

We would also want to remind all members to stay on topic when posting to forums, blogs and groups out of courtesy to others. The freedom enjoyed on this site by virtue of it's open platform demands a measure of responsibility from the members. Be respectful at all times, it's what Republicans do.

You will hear from the Administrators (O. P. or Tom), in a private message, when we feel you are going astray.

O. P. Ditch & Tom Whitmore

Technorati Tags: Virginia Politics, Virginia GOP, Republicans, Virginia

Former Fairfax Chairman Eddie Page Endorses John Brownlee

This endorsement from Fairfax had to hurt Cooch and Foster. Eddie Page sees what many of us see in John Brownlee. He writes:

John Brownlee is clearly the most qualified candidate we Republicans could nominate this year for Attorney General. John's seven years as United States Attorney have uniquely prepared him to be an outstanding and effective Attorney General from his first day in office.

John's Fairfax county roots, professional experience in Western Virginia and status as the only prosecutor and military veteran in this race give him a statewide appeal that none of his opponents possess. John Brownlee's presence on the McDonnell-Bolling ticket will greatly enhance Republican prospects for victory this November.

John E. "Eddie" Page, former Chairman, Fairfax County Republican Committee(2002 - 2004)

Indeed. Brownlee is prepared to run the office. He is a prosecutor, the only one for the GOP. He is a veteran, the only one in the race. He is ready from day one. John Brownlee is the best candidate for AG we have had in many moons.

Technorati Tags: John Brownlee, Ken Cuccinelli, Dave Foster, Virginia Politics, Virginia GOP

Tamara Neo, Commonwealth’s Attorney for Buchanan County and John Brownlee Supporter Has some Good News

We all can use a little good news today. The Honorable Tamara Neo, Commonwealth’s Attorney for Buchanan County and John Brownlee supporter brings us good news from law enforcement in Buchanan County. Neo defeated her Democratic opponent, Shelia Tolliver, a three term Commonwealth’s Attorney in 07 and ever since things have been changing for the better in the coalfield county. The corruption in the county is legendary and after three terms the people sent a message to Ms Tolliver on election day. So how is the GOP Commonwealths Attorney doing? Here is her recent LTE.

I have some amazing statistics to report. This time last year, my first term as the commonwealth’s attorney of Buchanan County, we presented 69 indictments on 24 defendants. In that same time period this year, the first term of 2009, we have presented 402 indictments on 79 defendants. Neither statistic includes the April Grand Jury Day. They are simply those charges brought from the first of the year up to, but not including the April term.

I have to immediately give praise to the grand jury that just served in the January term. They worked like no other grand jury in any recent memory.

I also have to praise my truly dedicated staff who love this community and their role within the prosecutor’s office and show that love through long hours and joyful spirits. They are truly public servants.

The final heaping of praise needs to go to our community’s law enforcement officers – state police, sheriff’s deputies, town police, members of the Drug Task Force, Game and Inland Fisheries deputies, DMV deputies, correctional facility officers, and conservation police officers. They too demonstrate their commitment to seeking peace and justice in our neighborhoods.

It should also be noted that this increase will also put additional work on the courthouse staff and administration, and as such, thanks and praise should be given to them, along with encouragement as they wade their way through the increasing burden of paper.

Ultimately, I’d like to say thank you to the citizens of Buchanan County for giving me the opportunity to fill this role, and begin to do what I believe will bring positive change within our county.

Tamara Neo,
Commonwealth’s Attorney
Grundy, Va

Thunderous applause for the people in Buchanan County! What a difference this lady and her crew have made. It all starts local, on that I think we all agree. Ms Neo has endorsed John Brownlee, joining almost every Commonwealths Atty and Sheriff in the state. There is a reason law enforcement is choosing Brownlee over Foster and Cooch. They support the candidate that has and will support them and their needs. John Brownlee is that man.

Technorati Tags: Virginia Politics, Virginia GOP, John Brownlee

Augusta County GOP Kicks Out 56 Members

Wow....Check out Philbilly and his two posts about this.

Missed the March 18th meeting, but

and

56 people kicked off the Augusta Committee

I will steal a comment from Phillbilly's site that rings true -

Anonymous said...

you don't build a party by kicking people out... stupid is as stupid does...what is happening in augusta county?... you people are crazy! chairman bill shirely has lost his mind!~April 13, 2009 10:34 PM

Like a dog chasing its tail.....Are things turning ugly again in SWAC Land?

Technorati Tags: Virginia Politics, Virginia GOP

Cigars and Mason Jars - the Rocky Patel Decade

This Decade cigar gets from a 88 to a 95 rating from Cigar Aficionado. It is a solid 90+ cigar for sure. Spicy, woody, leather and get this...Black Cherry. I swear the creamiest smoke with a hint of black cherry!

The box pressed Toro (my first one was a torpedo) cigar lit and burned perfectly. The ash stacked up and was very pale in color. I enjoyed this one with a short glass of Beams Black Label and a glass of ice water. The smoke is smooth and gains strength as you smoke. The puffing produces the expected flavors I mentioned above, but it is that wonderful black cherry after taste that stole my heart. The finish is climatic! The stick finishes strong but not harsh. I loved it. The smoothness of this medium body cigar is awesome. They will run you from $8 to $10 bucks a stick. I say buy them if you can. You wont be disappointed. The bad news for me is this was the last one in the Humie...I do have some Rocky Vintage 1990 and 1992 on hand. After smoking this Decade and the one before it, I am shopping for the best deals on a box...Yes I said a box. That shows how much I like this cigar. Here is the man himself talking about the Decade cigar. Enjoy my fellow Cigar lovers. Try ya a Rocky Patel and you will thank me later I'm sure.

Technorati Tags: Cigars, Rocky Patel, Smoke, Tobacco

It is Playoff Time Hockey Fans

I love hockey. I love the Chicago Blackhawks. Living in Wise , Virginia leaves me feeling a little empty when it comes to the ice and puck. Wise Girl is a Penguins fan. My old buddy Spanky is a Capitals fan. That is about as far as I can go on hockey fans in my area.

Spanky's Capitals went W-50 L-24 OT-8

Wise Girl's Penguins went W-45 L-28 OT-9

My Blackhawks were W-46 L-24 OT-12

All three are in the playoffs with the Caps vs Rangers and Pengies vs Flyers playing tomorrow and the Blackhawks doing battle Thursday against Calgary.

I am pleased with the season my team had thus far. They are a young team and I have to say they are exciting to watch. The OT hurt them this year and they lost many a close one. My hope is that they at least win this round against Calgary. I hope Chicago can soon update this pennant with a 2009 or 2010....1961 was too long ago. Go Blackhawks!

Technorati Tags: Sports, Hockey, Chicago Blackhawks

$3.5 Million Cash on Hand for Bob McDonnell

As bloggers like Waldo and JC Wilemore write posts saying how bad of shape the GOP is in, Bob releases this info - Underlining by me!

McDonnell Campaign Announces $3.5 Million Cash on Hand

McDonnell Raises $2.2 Million in Shortened Period;

Could not Raise Funds from January 15- February 20

Richmond -

The campaign of Bob McDonnell for Governor announced today that it has $3.5 million cash on hand, far ahead of any of the Democratic candidates in the race for Governor. The campaign raised $2.2 million this period. McDonnell had a shortened period in which to raise money this period as he was prohibited from raising campaign funds from January 15 to February 20 while the General Assembly was in session and he served as Attorney General of the Commonwealth. The campaign had 1547 individual donors.

Speaking about the fundraising numbers campaign manager Phil Cox noted, "We have far more cash on hand than any of our potential opponents. While they must raise and spend, we are building the resources we need to win in November. This is a crucial advantage as we take Bob McDonnell's positive message of new jobs and more opportunities to every voter in Virginia. We thank each of our 1547 individual donors. This is a campaign with growing momentum, a positive vision, and broad support."

What's the saying....Money talks and bullshit runs a marathon....If you need some bullshit see Waldo or JC. If you want to know how the campaign is doing, check the bank accounts. With the polls showing McDonnell way ahead and the bank accounts showing the same thing ... No wonder Waldo and JC are worried.

Technorati Tags: Bob McDonnell, Virginia Politics, Virginia GOP, Democrats