News for today's 2018

Governor Bob McDonnell offers prayers to Creigh Deeds family

7:54 AM Tukiyooo 0

Bob McDonnell Creigh Deeds Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell offers prayers to Creigh Deeds family

Statement from Governor Bob McDonnell on today's events involving State Senator Creigh Deeds:“In this tough and sad time, our thoughts and prayers are with the Deeds family. The news from this morning is utterly heartbreaking. Creigh Deeds is an e…

Déjà vu in Virginia attorney general drama

7:31 AM Tukiyooo 0

Eight years ago my phone rang bright and early the day after the 2005 election. I was still sleeping after a hard-fought campaign that saw Bill Bolling elected as lieutenant governor, Jerry Kilgore lose as governor, and Bob McDonnell in a tight down-to-the-wire race for attorney general. I was needed at the Augusta County Government Center to witness the vote canvas, the beginning of a process that eventually led to my participation in a mid-December recount that saw McDonnell prevail with a mere 360 votes over his Democratic challenger, Creigh Deeds.<br /><br />Fast forward to last week's election that saw Democrats Terry McAuliffe and Ralph Northam winning the governor and lieutenant governor spots. The end of the day, however, showed a tighter-than-a-tick contest between Republican Mark Obenshain and Democrat Mark Herring that fluctuated back and forth as a <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2013/11/12/us/politics/back-and-forth-in-undecided-virginia-attorney-general-race.html?_r=0" target="_blank">variety of events took place over the next seven days</a>. When all votes were finally tallied, Herring was ahead by 163 votes in a contest that was probably headed to recount.<br /><br />However, as happened in the 2005 race, recounts rarely change the final numbers by much. If Herring prevails, Virginia Democrats will have swept the top three offices that were won in landslide victories four years earlier by Republicans McDonnell, Bolling, and Cuccinelli.<br /><br /><a href="http://blogs.nbc12.com/decisionvirginia/2013/11/herring-leads-race-for-attorney-general-after-final-count.html" target="_blank">NBC 12</a> has a report on the final count.

Déjà vu in Virginia attorney general drama

Bill Bolling Bob McDonnell Ken Cuccinelli Lynn R. Mitchell Mark Herring Mark Obenshain Ralph Northam recount Terry McAuliffe Virginia Democrats Virginia Republicans Déjà vu in Virginia attorney general drama

Election 2013: Governor McDonnell congratulates Terry McAuliffe

9:14 PM Tukiyooo 0

Governor Bob McDonnell issued the following statement Tuesday night regarding the election of Terry McAuliffe as the 72nd governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia.<br /><blockquote>“I want to congratulate Terry McAuliffe on his election as the next governor of Virginia. There is no higher honor than serving in the same office once held by Patrick Henry and Thomas Jefferson. Virginia is a Commonwealth of tremendous history and opportunity; this is the place where America began. The privilege of serving as governor carries with it immense responsibility, and I know Terry McAuliffe will act in the best interests of the more than 8 million people who call Virginia home.<br /><br />“Elections are long, tough, hard-fought affairs. But they have an end date. For the 2013 campaign, that date is today. Now, the signs, stickers and ads must be put away. In their place must come comity, cooperation and a commitment to working together, across party lines, to continue to improve the quality of life of all Virginians. That’s what we’ve tried to do over the last four years.<br /><br />“Virginia has been named 'America’s Best State for Business.' Our unemployment rate is the lowest in the Southeast, and the third-lowest east of the Mississippi River. Our colleges are more affordable and accessible. Our state pension system has been fixed. Our K-12 system is innovative and productive. Our transportation system finally has the long-term, sustainable funding and reforms it has long needed. We’ve posted four-straight budget surpluses, held the line on general fund spending and our Rainy Day Fund will soon grow to over $1 billion. This is the direct result of bipartisan cooperation in the service of making life better for the people of Virginia and getting results. I’m confident that Governor-elect McAuliffe will continue this great progress.<br /><br />“Four years ago the people of Virginia honored me with their votes and this office. I can never thank my fellow Virginians enough for the trust they placed in me. Immediately after winning, then-Governor Tim Kaine reached out personally and offered the full assistance of his administration in our transition. The Kaine administration could not have been more helpful in the two months that followed. They made the transition as seamless and smooth as it possibly could have been. Now, we look forward to doing the same for Governor-elect McAuliffe and his team. I have already spoken to the Governor-elect and let him know that we are ready to assist with the transition and prepared to offer all the help his team will need as they prepare to lead our great Commonwealth forward for the next four years.<br /><br />“Election nights are emotional times. For the winner there is the thrill of victory, combined with the recognition that the hard work preceding this moment is but a prelude to the tremendous effort yet to come. For those who fall short, there is the sadness of seeing such exertion, passion and time not produce the hoped-for result. With that in mind, I wish my friend Ken Cuccinelli the very best as he moves forward from tonight. I hope Ken will continue to stay involved in the public life of our state, and I thank him for serving our administration well as attorney general, and giving his all to public service and the campaign. I also congratulate Mr. Sarvis for running, with limited resources, a good and strong campaign.<br /><br />“Again I congratulate Governor-elect McAuliffe, and I pledge to work in partnership over the next two months to ensure a smooth transition of power that is in keeping with the grand history of our beloved Commonwealth, and that best prepares the Governor-elect and his team for their public service over the next four years.”</blockquote>

Election 2013: Governor McDonnell congratulates Terry McAuliffe

2013 gubernatorial election Bill Bolling Bob McDonnell Ken Cuccinelli Robert Sarvis Terry McAuliffe Virginia Election 2013: Governor McDonnell congratulates Terry McAuliffe

Governor Bob McDonnell issued the following statement Tuesday night regarding the election of Terry McAuliffe as the 72nd governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia.“I want to congratulate Terry McAuliffe on his election as the next governor of Virgini…

Election Day in SWAC area ... ongoing updates

6:31 AM Tukiyooo 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8jj4EZIaBRTzmY0S1p6zcxvD-GTkkxhB98dC7CybLP1ChSotCZRvnXlPMPoOWBEA7iiOtSpMZM6rEm6ppGzPXUYk5sToF7tHAokkyiHIde6lELSFZbkNT2IcybM6NwPhxuX9m5vZcREDa/s1600/voting+booth+graphic.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8jj4EZIaBRTzmY0S1p6zcxvD-GTkkxhB98dC7CybLP1ChSotCZRvnXlPMPoOWBEA7iiOtSpMZM6rEm6ppGzPXUYk5sToF7tHAokkyiHIde6lELSFZbkNT2IcybM6NwPhxuX9m5vZcREDa/s1600/voting+booth+graphic.jpeg" /></a></div><br />It's Election Day 2013 in Virginia. The polls are open ... voters are voting, candidate supporters are greeting them, and volunteers are sending them out the door with "I Voted" stickers.<br /><br />The weather is good ... a cold, frosty start to the day with temps in the 20s is expected to lead to a high in the 50s under overcast skies.<br /><br />What an odd year it has been with some newspapers <a href="http://www.swacgirl.blogspot.com/2013/11/no-gubernatorial-endorsements-from.html">refusing to endorse anyone for governor while others encouraged write-in votes for Lieutenant Governor Bill Bolling</a>. Many are happy to see this election cycle finally come to an end.  For many, it marks the finish of the daily barrage of campaign emails, robocalls, and television ads.<br /><br />Virginia is being considered a bellwether for the country. The tea party and Libertarian wings of the Virginia Republican Party have their dream team of candidates in Ken Cuccinelli, E.W. Jackson, and Mark Obenshain for governor, lieutenant governor, and attorney general. Four years after the Republican team led by Bob McDonnell and Bill Bolling swept into office with historic leads, will it happen again?<br /><br />This is a notoriously red area of the Commonwealth so what's going on in the central Shenandoah Valley area that includes Staunton, Waynesboro, and Augusta County? I'll pass along news as I hear it.<br /><br /><b>10:15 a.m.:</b> Churchville precinct had light but steady turnout. The voting location within Churchville Elementary School had been moved with only one table for check-in as opposed to the usual two. About half a dozen people were in line to sign in; two machines were in use. Interestingly, there was a card table set up with a McAuliffe sign and materials but no presence from the Republicans.<br /><br /><b>2:00 p.m.:</b> Wilson Precinct. Steady, light turnout continued.<br /><br /><b>7:10 p.m.:</b> Polls have closed and the wait begins for returns to be posted and announced.

Election Day in SWAC area ... ongoing updates

Augusta County Bill Bolling Bob McDonnell E.W. Jackson Election 2013 Ken Cuccinelli Libertarians Mark Obenshain Shenandoah Valley Staunton SWAC tea party Waynesboro Election Day in SWAC area ... ongoing updates

It's Election Day 2013 in Virginia. The polls are open ... voters are voting, candidate supporters are greeting them, and volunteers are sending them out the door with "I Voted" stickers.The weather is good ... a cold, frosty start to the day with te…

Pranks in the Virginia Executive Mansion

10:33 AM Tukiyooo 0

Bob McDonnell Executive Mansion GovBeat Reid Wilson Virginia Washington Post Pranks in the Virginia Executive Mansion

Hidden cell phones ringing in the middle of the night ... cardboard cutouts stashed in the shower ... such are the pranks pulled by outgoing Virginia governors on incoming governors, a tradition in transition process. So says reporter Reid Wilson in …

Friday: Gov. McDonnell at historical marker dedication commemorating first Thanksgiving at Berkeley Plantation

6:54 AM Tukiyooo 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6Q5-YxHFumVKHbiJglsMdCa1nNx0QY5KrGpoWQgNZ2nVtMPF0yXnbtpuNZGt1Pe-IVfo08KEsaBcagf6ptrct8bAzLAx_uN6-WpG_gSb8lucVv5MLSx9RFLBE7Wbu3Fhl9MLOb11G6Jk3/s1600/Thanksgiving+-+first+in+Va.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6Q5-YxHFumVKHbiJglsMdCa1nNx0QY5KrGpoWQgNZ2nVtMPF0yXnbtpuNZGt1Pe-IVfo08KEsaBcagf6ptrct8bAzLAx_uN6-WpG_gSb8lucVv5MLSx9RFLBE7Wbu3Fhl9MLOb11G6Jk3/s320/Thanksgiving+-+first+in+Va.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />You know those state historical markers you see along Virginia byways and highways? The ones that tell of an event or person of interest, often with a pull-off wide enough for a vehicle or two? Being a history geek, I love those signs and my sister even has a book that lists them all in the event you aren't able to stop.<br /><br />Today a <a href="http://www.therepublic.com/view/story/cdc6c5abcb6f4f8085ed2a271a71af5c/VA--Historical-Marker-Thanksgiving">new marker will be dedicated</a> on Route 5 near Berkeley Plantation in Charles City County east of Richmond with Governor <b>Bob McDonnell</b> addressing the dedication. The event is scheduled at 2:00 p.m. and will also include <b>Dr. William C. Bosher,</b> a respected educator in Virginia, and <b>Malcolm E. “Jamie” Jamieson</b>, owner of Berkeley Plantation.<br /><br />The unveiling by the Virginia Department of Historic Resources will commemorate the <b>First Thanksgiving in Virginia</b>, as declared by Captain John Woodlief who arrived on December 4, 1619, with 37 men who had sailed from Bristol, England, to the New World.<br /><br />A member of the Virginia Company and Jamestown settler, Woodlief carried instructions that the day of his ship's arrival would "be yearly and perpetually kept holy as a day of thanksgiving to almighty God." The men celebrated their safe journey by giving thanks to God, creating a tradition that became the basis of our annual celebration of Thanksgiving.<br /><br />The celebration continues to this day and is remembered each year at Berkeley Plantation with the <a href="http://www.virginiathanksgivingfestival.com/">Virginia Thanksgiving Festival</a> that is held on the first Sunday in November. The free event will be observed this year on <b>Sunday, November 3, 2013</b>, from noon until 4:00 p.m. with a Colonial celebration that includes a parade, horse-drawn carriages, fife and drum performers, costumed interpreters, and musical entertainment. Food for purchase will be provided by <a href="http://www.williamsburgoccasions.com/">The Catering Company</a> of Williamsburg.<br /><br />The re-enactment of the landing will begin at 3:00, followed by the Chickahominy Tribal Dancers who will perform a traditional friendship dance. Master of Ceremonies will be Richmond radio personality Tim Timberlake.<br /><br />The public is encouraged to take chairs and blankets. For more information and directions, go to the webside: www.VirginiaThanksgivingFestival.com.

Friday: Gov. McDonnell at historical marker dedication commemorating first Thanksgiving at Berkeley Plantation

Berkeley Plantation Bob McDonnell Chickahominy Indians First Thanksgiving Jamestown tourism Virginia Company Virginia Department of Historic Resources Virginia Is For Lovers Williamsburg Friday: Gov. McDonnell at historical marker dedication commemorating first Thanksgiving at Berkeley Plantation

You know those state historical markers you see along Virginia byways and highways? The ones that tell of an event or person of interest, often with a pull-off wide enough for a vehicle or two? Being a history geek, I love those signs and my sister e…

2013: Halloween tradition continues ... Governor McDonnell greets trick-or-treaters (photos)

10:23 AM Tukiyooo 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGqysoS81zDLKez6IB7jk4t45HKKAuPwU_PQYUhq8ROKuJRDetA1ybQ1qeFCdcXSoDtsJQxM4wwebFL9Niv6DzEO7DrmjKEj3Uo2ca43oBjCGY_Wkrchjkq7wHXPa-QorpxLCYx4NjnWzB/s1600/Bob+McDonnell+1+halloween+2013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGqysoS81zDLKez6IB7jk4t45HKKAuPwU_PQYUhq8ROKuJRDetA1ybQ1qeFCdcXSoDtsJQxM4wwebFL9Niv6DzEO7DrmjKEj3Uo2ca43oBjCGY_Wkrchjkq7wHXPa-QorpxLCYx4NjnWzB/s400/Bob+McDonnell+1+halloween+2013.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Governor Bob McDonnell and a bear on Halloween in the governor's office. Absolutely adorable pictures from Halloween 2013.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">Earlier today, the Patrick Henry  Building was visited by a bear, Darth Vader, a fairy, Spiderman, and  others as children from the nearby Virginia Department of Transportation  Daycare center went trick-or-treating at Governor  Bob McDonnell’s office. </div>  <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKhDOUr-ur5fdSeKpmE7bhAsiQCPTyT97OaBdYOtG5GnNgBuwp9CFybIjOYUNuH2U7B_jmrOSEnN82P2eAzYyj_EJKwDSSEWAuHh-2EvsWhrzbh5f4_psj4nLRVELEkO8W7MLUsWrr33an/s1600/Bob+McDonnell+2+halloween+2013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKhDOUr-ur5fdSeKpmE7bhAsiQCPTyT97OaBdYOtG5GnNgBuwp9CFybIjOYUNuH2U7B_jmrOSEnN82P2eAzYyj_EJKwDSSEWAuHh-2EvsWhrzbh5f4_psj4nLRVELEkO8W7MLUsWrr33an/s400/Bob+McDonnell+2+halloween+2013.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC_82gi4Vs84b4GZd6o1_bBx3kpaB7FkkEf76t3-ajW11XziEJSoi7e_MK6Rjo4qjqSYYKj7rqN7pjWJ3mPtl3EEZA1e_wtbmMRnNuAE0w2FMLvw77XbkOtbp0QKaooklljmZ5utgMRrZa/s1600/Bob+McDonnell+3+halloween+2013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC_82gi4Vs84b4GZd6o1_bBx3kpaB7FkkEf76t3-ajW11XziEJSoi7e_MK6Rjo4qjqSYYKj7rqN7pjWJ3mPtl3EEZA1e_wtbmMRnNuAE0w2FMLvw77XbkOtbp0QKaooklljmZ5utgMRrZa/s400/Bob+McDonnell+3+halloween+2013.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBLlnkZjVhdXacfI8c2e7XRF_7gxw45462CWhnJUaPotKJmDvVUzc-RQg4cl-RVxAapfcTT_6CO_7rYNSzu7o6zvONIZGm7cwy9q2dte1sxJUUouWzj5tjbq3pErbE1DyMlstHSUJCafIs/s1600/Bob+McDonnell+4+halloween+2013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBLlnkZjVhdXacfI8c2e7XRF_7gxw45462CWhnJUaPotKJmDvVUzc-RQg4cl-RVxAapfcTT_6CO_7rYNSzu7o6zvONIZGm7cwy9q2dte1sxJUUouWzj5tjbq3pErbE1DyMlstHSUJCafIs/s400/Bob+McDonnell+4+halloween+2013.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />Photos by Michaele White<br />Governor's Photographer

2013: Halloween tradition continues ... Governor McDonnell greets trick-or-treaters (photos)

Bob McDonnell Governor's Office halloween Patrick Henry Office Building 2013: Halloween tradition continues ... Governor McDonnell greets trick-or-treaters (photos)

Governor Bob McDonnell and a bear on Halloween in the governor's office. Absolutely adorable pictures from Halloween 2013.Earlier today, the Patrick Henry Building was visited by a bear, Darth Vader, a fairy, Spiderman, and others as children from …

Governor McDonnell recognized by tech council for extraordinary leadership

7:27 PM Tukiyooo 0

Governor Bob McDonnell has excelled the past four years leading Virginia in the right direction, and Wednesday night he was recognized for that accomplishment. McLean-based Northern Virginia Technology Council presented their <a href="http://www.governor.virginia.gov/news/viewRelease.cfm?id=2055">Chairman's Award</a> to the Governor in recognition of "his extraordinary leadership of the Commonwealth and his successful efforts in ensuring Virginia remains a top state for business."<br /><br />For a man who campaigned as "Bob's For Jobs," it is a recognition that he kept that campaign promise, and more. He joins a Who's Who of leaders including former Senator George Allen, former Congressman Tom Davis, former Senator John Warner, Senator Mark Warner, and Senator Tim Kaine.<br /><br />Appreciative of the award, McDonnell noted:<br /><blockquote>“Over the past four years we’ve worked across party lines to bring Virginians together to get positive results for the Commonwealth. In this effort we’ve had no greater partner than the Northern Virginia Technology Council. <br /><br />"Through the leadership of President Bobbie Kilberg, the group has been a consistent and effective advocate for a number of our policy proposals including our successful efforts to make college more affordable and accessible for Virginia students, help Virginia’s technology community thrive and succeed in an increasingly competitive global economy, and finally put in place the long overdue, long-term transportation funding plan Virginia businesses needed to keep creating good paying jobs for our citizens. Today, unemployment is down and the Commonwealth is headed in the right direction. I thank the members of the NVTC for their hard work in helping make these accomplishments possible, and I greatly appreciate tonight’s award.”</blockquote>NVTC President and CEO Bobbie Kilberg was complimentary of McDonnell, commenting:<br /><blockquote>“We are very pleased to present the 2013 NVTC Chairman's Award to Governor Bob McDonnell in recognition of his exceptional service to the Commonwealth. During his four years in office, Governor McDonnell has advocated for policies that promote technology, entrepreneurship and innovation, backed increased funding for education with a focus on producing more graduates with science, technology, engineering and math degrees, and championed much-needed comprehensive transportation funding legislation. His extraordinary leadership and policy initiatives have helped ensure that Virginia remains a top state for business.”</blockquote>Congratulations to Governor McDonnell for this well-deserved recognition.

Governor McDonnell recognized by tech council for extraordinary leadership

Bob McDonnell Bob's for Jobs Bobbie Kilberg George Allen John Warner Mark Warner Northern Virginia Technology Council Tim Kaine Tom Davis Governor McDonnell recognized by tech council for extraordinary leadership

Ag Secretary Matt Lohr heading to Farm Credit of the Virginias

4:15 PM Tukiyooo 0

Virginia's Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services <a href="http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/about/commissioner.shtml">Matt Lohr</a> of Rockingham County, who was appointed by Governor Bob McDonnell in 2010, announced today that he <a href="http://augustafreepress.com/matt-lohr-leaving-state-post-farm-credit-virginias/">would be leaving the administration</a> in December to take a job with Farm Credit of the Virginias.<br /><br />Lohr, 42, who served in the House of Delegates for the 26th House District from 2005 until his appointment as Ag Secretary, operates a 250-acre farm in the Shenandoah Valley. On Tuesday, he announced the career change on Facebook:<br /><blockquote>Serving as Virginia’s Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services these past four years has truly been one of the greatest honors of my life. After much prayerful consideration, I announced today that I will be stepping down in December as Governor Bob McDonnell’s administration draws to a close. I am very excited to be joining the good folks at Farm Credit of the Virginias as director of the Farm Credit Knowledge Center. Here I will have the opportunity to build relationships and serve as a resource for all types of farmers. I will also be able to work from Harrisonburg, which will allow me the chance to be at home much more for my two children.<br /><br />It has been a wonderful opportunity working in state government over the last eight years. I will always be grateful for the experiences I have been given and I look forward to working hard for Virginia agriculture in the private sector!</blockquote>Best wishes to Secretary Lohr.

Ag Secretary Matt Lohr heading to Farm Credit of the Virginias

26th House District Augusta Free Press Bob McDonnell Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services Farm Credit of the Virginias House of Delegates Lynn R. Mitchell Matt Lohr Republican Virginia Ag Secretary Matt Lohr heading to Farm Credit of the Virginias

Virginia's Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services Matt Lohr of Rockingham County, who was appointed by Governor Bob McDonnell in 2010, announced today that he would be leaving the administration in December to take a job with Farm Credit o…

McDonnell, Bolling, Warner, Kaine to honor fired AP reporter Bob Lewis

5:33 AM Tukiyooo 0

Virginia's top politicos plan to honor fired Associated Press reporter Bob Lewis at a reception on November 18, according to the <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/michael-calderone/virginia-governor-senator-ap_b_4150494.html"><i>Huffington Post</i></a>. Governor Bob McDonnell, Lieutenant Governor Bill Bolling, U.S. Senator Mark Warner, and U.S. Senator Tim Kaine will be on hand to honor the 57-year-old respected wordsmith.<br /><br />In an interesting revelation, the <a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/style/ap-reporters-mistake-did-the-punishment-fit-the-crime/2013/10/22/95b32b64-3b52-11e3-a94f-b58017bfee6c_story.html"><i>Huffington Post </i></a>wrote:<br /><blockquote>The McAuliffe campaign <a href="http://terrymcauliffe.com/mcauliffe-campaign-statement-on-ap-decision/" target="_hplink">responded immediately</a> after Monday's firing to say they did not push for actions to be taken  against the journalists and noted having a "professional relationship"  with Lewis, Potter and the AP's Virginia. <b>(The Washington Post <a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/style/ap-reporters-mistake-did-the-punishment-fit-the-crime/2013/10/22/95b32b64-3b52-11e3-a94f-b58017bfee6c_story.html" target="_hplink">reported</a> Tuesday night that Ken Cuccinelli, his Republican challenger in the  Governor's race, passed the bogus tip to both the AP and the Post.)</b> [emphasis added]</blockquote>Indeed, the <a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/style/ap-reporters-mistake-did-the-punishment-fit-the-crime/2013/10/22/95b32b64-3b52-11e3-a94f-b58017bfee6c_story_1.html"><i>Post</i></a> wrote about the tip:<br /><blockquote>Several journalists, including some at AP, said the McAuliffe story was pushed to news organizations by the campaign of McAuliffe’s rival, Ken Cuccinelli II (R). The Washington Post was among those that received a tip about it from Cuccinelli’s campaign, but The Post passed on the story after checking it.</blockquote>When the news hit that night, many were quick to jump on it. Within two hours the story had been retracted. Response to Lewis' firing has come from all sides of the political aisle, a testament to the man who has long covered Virginia politics. The reception by top leaders is further evidence of that.  Here's hoping my invitation is in the mail....

McDonnell, Bolling, Warner, Kaine to honor fired AP reporter Bob Lewis

Bill Bolling Bob Lewis Bob McDonnell Huffington Post Ken Cuccinelli Mark Warner Tim Kaine Washington Post McDonnell, Bolling, Warner, Kaine to honor fired AP reporter Bob Lewis

Virginia's top politicos plan to honor fired Associated Press reporter Bob Lewis at a reception on November 18, according to the Huffington Post. Governor Bob McDonnell, Lieutenant Governor Bill Bolling, U.S. Senator Mark Warner, and U.S. Senator Tim…

Governor announces 400 jobs in Fairfax County

8:37 AM Tukiyooo 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIhzWmNkhyphenhyphenpZLkUXGnu5WHFJqzs2WDbFlm6dWAQLVbkryeu_hJOpVK0Cv5cCwqwvL0T8IFz2SAeKc6HbrScA_WNL0C4tvKi6UQ3v0davWRfpAtt764tiIPQiUSE2KjqJRe4k4K7-xBWO05/s1600/Bob+McDonnell+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIhzWmNkhyphenhyphenpZLkUXGnu5WHFJqzs2WDbFlm6dWAQLVbkryeu_hJOpVK0Cv5cCwqwvL0T8IFz2SAeKc6HbrScA_WNL0C4tvKi6UQ3v0davWRfpAtt764tiIPQiUSE2KjqJRe4k4K7-xBWO05/s200/Bob+McDonnell+5.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br />Four years ago, Virginia's attorney general, Bob McDonnell, was in the final days of his gubernatorial campaign with the slogan "Bob's for Jobs," a promise he kept when he was elected and joined with Lieutenant Governor Bill Bolling to make jobs a number one priority. Four years later, Governor Bob McDonnell continues to bring new opportunities to Virginians.<br /><br />On Wednesday the governor <a href="http://www.governor.virginia.gov/news/viewRelease.cfm?id=2046">announced 400 jobs</a> for Fairfax County with Cvent <span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">(NYSE: CVT)</span>, a leading cloud-based event management platform that recently went public. Virginia competed with neighboring Maryland for the project that will move its headquarters to Tysons Corner and, according to the press release, will create 400 new jobs in three years and retain 451 jobs.<br /><br />As the governor made the announcement, he commented:<br /><blockquote>“As a corporate citizen that has called Virginia home since 1999, it is tremendous news that Cvent will continue to grow in Fairfax County with this headquarters expansion. The company benefits from the large, well-educated labor pool in the region that provides a qualified workforce, and the available site located on the new Silver Line Metro route is an ideal location that meets Cvent’s needs and allows room for future growth. We welcome 400 new jobs and celebrate the company’s Fairfax employee base of more than 450 that will continue to thrive in Virginia.”</blockquote>The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with the Fairfax County Economic Development Authority to secure the project for Virginia. Governor McDonnell approved a $1 million grant from the Governor’s Opportunity Fund to assist Fairfax County with the project.<br /><br />Through its Virginia Jobs Investment Program, the Virginia Department of Business Assistance will provide funding and services to support the company’s recruitment and training activities. Cvent will lease about 130,000 square feet of space at 1710 Solutions Drive, and plans to invest $7 million to expand its headquarters operations. The company plans to move in the latter half of 2014.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.governor.virginia.gov/news/viewRelease.cfm?id=2046">More information is available at the governor's website. </a>

Bill Bolling Bob McDonnell Bob's for Jobs Cvent economy Fairfax County Virginia Governor announces 400 jobs in Fairfax County

Four years ago, Virginia's attorney general, Bob McDonnell, was in the final days of his gubernatorial campaign with the slogan "Bob's for Jobs," a promise he kept when he was elected and joined with Lieutenant Governor Bill Bolling to make jobs a nu…

AP uses sledge hammer on reporter Bob Lewis - UPDATED

5:00 AM Tukiyooo 0

The news heard 'round the internet on Monday was long-time Richmond-based reporter Bob Lewis' firing by the Associated Press. Social media lit up as supporters from all sides of the political aisle expressed shock that his earlier suspension had turned into a pink slip as he was booted out the AP door.<br /><br />The entire episode began two weeks earlier, as reported by Andrew Cain with the <a href="http://www.timesdispatch.com/news/latest-news/ap-fires-reporter-editor-over-mcauliffe-error/article_f6124b90-3a97-11e3-be61-001a4bcf6878.html"><i>Richmond Times-Dispatch</i></a>:<br /><blockquote>AP erroneously reported the evening of Oct. 9 that documents in a federal fraud case in Rhode Island alleged that McAuliffe “lied to a federal official” investigating Joseph Caramadre, a Rhode Island estate planner who is accused of defrauding terminally ill people.<br /><br />In a bulletin that night killing the story about 90 minutes after it was first posted, AP said “the indictment did not identify McAuliffe as the ‘T.M.’ who allegedly lied to investigators.”</blockquote>To hear the AP retract a story sent a shiver throughout the news world. To have the questioned article be authored by Bob Lewis was even more stunning after his 28 years with the AP.<br /><br />It certainly has caused a stir in Virginia's political atmosphere. From the <i>RTD:</i> <br /><blockquote>Lewis and Potter “have always been fair, tough and smart. Virginians deserve dedicated reporters like them,” Gov. Bob McDonnell tweeted.<br /><br />Lt. Gov. Bill Bolling tweeted: “Sorry to see the AP fire Bob Lewis. Bob is one of the most respected reporters in Richmond. We all make mistakes. Bob did not deserve this.”<br /><br />Sen. Mark R. Warner, D-Va., tweeted: “AP’s Bob Lewis has been a fixture at the Va Capitol and his reporting will be missed by Virginians. Best wishes at a tough moment, Bob.”<br /><br />Sen. Timothy M. Kaine, D-Va. tweeted: “Big loss for Virginia. @APBobLewis is an even-handed, talented reporter & a class act.”</blockquote>As many question whether Lewis' firing was overreaction by AP, former Virginia Governor Jim Gilmore took to Facebook to advocate on Lewis' behalf Monday, writing, "<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">I add  my voice calling for the AP to reinstate Bob Lewis and Dena Potter.   Bob Lewis is 'Mr. AP.'  They made a mistake but corrected it  immediately. What if they fired every reporter who made a mistake?  I  got a list."</span><br /><br />Wherever he goes, Bob Lewis will have a built-in audience of those who have followed -- and respected -- his work for years. Count me as one of them.<br /><br /><b>Update:</b>  The reaction from Lowell at <a href="http://www.bluevirginia.us/diary/10462/negative-reaction-pours-in-to-aps-firing-of-bob-lewis-dean-of-the-virginia-political-press-corps">Blue Virginia</a> and the Richmond Democrat, er, <a href="http://www.the-richmonder.com/2013/10/the-aps-dismissal-of-bob-lewis-is.html">The Richmonder</a>, confirms that reactions to Bob Lewis' firing are bipartisan even among bloggers, a good reflection of a good reporter.<br /><br /><b>Update #2:</b> The <a href="http://www.timesdispatch.com/news/state-regional/government-politics/ap-fires-third-staffer-over-mcauliffe-error-guild-files-grievances/article_947ae2be-2e60-5556-a959-e1528335ca0d.html"><i>Richmond Times-Dispatch</i></a> reports that a third person has been fired by the AP even as the News Media Guild has filed grievances on behalf of Lewis and his colleagues.

AP uses sledge hammer on reporter Bob Lewis - UPDATED

Andrew Cain AP Associated Press Bill Bolling Bob Lewis Bob McDonnell Dena Potter facebook Jim Gilmore Mark Warner Richmond Times-Dispatch Tim Kaine AP uses sledge hammer on reporter Bob Lewis - UPDATED

Gov. McDonnell's popularity remains high with 55% approval

10:48 AM Tukiyooo 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgynpjLrcnf0pkQhlYnHzJAEigFagtKWlxUn79LYlJpjc1BYwUfDX5fDYbEFoI3QY_kbDUFumYW6ogARjuFCUFknQSJjCXVPmiGGpogEwNgUrhtwhXFaoWw7MGGf6EPuobCGLvJy-bJK7ip/s1600/Poll+image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="146" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgynpjLrcnf0pkQhlYnHzJAEigFagtKWlxUn79LYlJpjc1BYwUfDX5fDYbEFoI3QY_kbDUFumYW6ogARjuFCUFknQSJjCXVPmiGGpogEwNgUrhtwhXFaoWw7MGGf6EPuobCGLvJy-bJK7ip/s200/Poll+image.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br />A new poll is out today from <a href="http://maristpoll.marist.edu/wp-content/misc/VAPolls/VA131013/Complete%20October%202013%20Virginia_NBC4_NBC%20%20News_Marist%20Poll%20Release%20and%20Tables.pdf">NBC4/NBC News/Marist Poll</a> that finds Governor Bob McDonnell with a 55 percent approval rating with registered voters in Virginia.  Among the poll's findings: <br /><blockquote>- +23 among registered voters in the Commonwealth<br />- +20 among independents at 54 percent<br />- +20 among women voters<br />- +16 with African-American voters<br />- +28 with young voters</blockquote>Governor McDonnell is popular in every region of the state: <br /><blockquote>- +17 in the Washington suburbs<br />- +28 in Tidewater<br />- +14 in Western Virginia</blockquote>Virginians like the direction the state is headed under Governor McDonnell's leadership, with 54 percent of likely voters saying Virginia is on the right track, a margin of +14.<br /><br />Among other poll questions were the following:<br /><blockquote><b>Virginia Governor Race:</b><br />Terry McAuliffe 46 percent, Ken Cuccinelli 38 percent<br /><br /><b>Washington Redskins:</b> <br />The poll also discovered that 78 percent questioned do not want the Washington Redskins to change their name. <br /><br /><b>Obama approval:</b><br />52 percent of Virginians disapprove of his job performance while 45 percent approve.</blockquote>Check out the <a href="http://maristpoll.marist.edu/wp-content/misc/VAPolls/VA131013/Complete%20October%202013%20Virginia_NBC4_NBC%20%20News_Marist%20Poll%20Release%20and%20Tables.pdf">poll for cross tabs and other questions</a>.

Gov. McDonnell's popularity remains high with 55% approval

Bob McDonnell Ken Cuccinelli NBC4/NBC News/Marist Poll Terry McAuliffe Washington Redskins Gov. McDonnell's popularity remains high with 55% approval

A new poll is out today from NBC4/NBC News/Marist Poll that finds Governor Bob McDonnell with a 55 percent approval rating with registered voters in Virginia. Among the poll's findings: - +23 among registered voters in the Commonwealth- +20 among in…

'Jeopardy!' asks which state represented by Gov. Bob McDonnell

7:11 AM Tukiyooo 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP1Hn2KTO6EdYngTRApPKBE02I4uApBKsuFib8VUvgrZ4mkgbB4eb3BDAdnIWVlNuvStxlRvigUQJGe9cumRBrPxwgtAJ7YKdCNG9IcF0EQVIFwyp6mIFL5y5tD4DBVXigvjh7uOW-EO0j/s1600/Bob+McDonnell+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP1Hn2KTO6EdYngTRApPKBE02I4uApBKsuFib8VUvgrZ4mkgbB4eb3BDAdnIWVlNuvStxlRvigUQJGe9cumRBrPxwgtAJ7YKdCNG9IcF0EQVIFwyp6mIFL5y5tD4DBVXigvjh7uOW-EO0j/s1600/Bob+McDonnell+1.jpg" /></a></div><br />We were watching "Jeopardy!" Thursday night with the kids when a very familiar name popped up on the screen with a response we all shouted out at the same time:<br /><blockquote><b>Answer</b> (read by host Alex Trebek): "On Jan. 27, 2010, Governor Bob McDonnell of this state gave the GOP response to the State of the Union addresss."<br /><br /><b>Question:</b> "What is VIRGINIA."</blockquote>Governor McDonnell and Virginia have arrived on "Jeopardy!"

Alex Trebek Bob McDonnell Jeopardy State of the Union Virginia 'Jeopardy!' asks which state represented by Gov. Bob McDonnell

We were watching "Jeopardy!" Thursday night with the kids when a very familiar name popped up on the screen with a response we all shouted out at the same time:Answer (read by host Alex Trebek): "On Jan. 27, 2010, Governor Bob McDonnell of this state…

McDonnells receive avalanche of pumpkins at Virginia Executive Mansion

5:52 PM Tukiyooo 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_YyeJoHGPeBHD4q0NbhbF2lAsmOAyRlOEcZL7QKNPMRwvykiHQpBT-TYdPZFG9kT9qoOEp5GDjCR-61bxdUV9ikFwDOiulVs2j3cmY9uqy04NJ80lSE8e9OseqpU1sj2bmJeHD1GEsbqY/s1600/Bob+McDonnell+fall+pumpkins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_YyeJoHGPeBHD4q0NbhbF2lAsmOAyRlOEcZL7QKNPMRwvykiHQpBT-TYdPZFG9kT9qoOEp5GDjCR-61bxdUV9ikFwDOiulVs2j3cmY9uqy04NJ80lSE8e9OseqpU1sj2bmJeHD1GEsbqY/s400/Bob+McDonnell+fall+pumpkins.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkYfdDZjmxiXiD4ISXwwkGZaINu4_QBHk0S0-niOr1ysvdnUkD-LxbpfgchqHpba53d86Ede5lQWCfn0SzL37o5n99IyEAcwn7r4nBg8TseNAKVZA6Uaho6aV2fCJVONhClq7fYafx3xdV/s1600/Bob+McDonnell+fall+pumpkins+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkYfdDZjmxiXiD4ISXwwkGZaINu4_QBHk0S0-niOr1ysvdnUkD-LxbpfgchqHpba53d86Ede5lQWCfn0SzL37o5n99IyEAcwn7r4nBg8TseNAKVZA6Uaho6aV2fCJVONhClq7fYafx3xdV/s400/Bob+McDonnell+fall+pumpkins+2.jpg" width="382" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Photos courtesy of Michaele White, Governor’s Photographer</i></div><br />Governor Bob McDonnell and First Lady Maureen McDonnell received a  delivery of several hundred Virginia pumpkins Thursday from the Virginia Pumpkin  Growers Association and its members.  Growers from the <a href="http://http//www.vdacs.virginia.gov/shippers/pumpkins.shtml"><b>Brann/King Farm</b></a> in Riner, <a href="http://www.ashlandberryfarm.com/"><b>Ashland Berry Farm</b></a> in Beaverdam, and <a href="http://pumpkinva.org/association-members/"><b>Cassell Farm</b></a> in Laurel  Fork donated pumpkins, gourds, and other decorative items to the  governor and his staff to show how locally-grown pumpkins are fresh,  nutritious, and how they support the local economy.

McDonnells receive avalanche of pumpkins at Virginia Executive Mansion

Ashland Berry Farm Bob McDonnell Brann/King Farm Cassell Farm Executive Mansion Maureen McDonnell Virginia Virginia Pumpkin Growers Association McDonnells receive avalanche of pumpkins at Virginia Executive Mansion

Photos courtesy of Michaele White, Governor’s PhotographerGovernor Bob McDonnell and First Lady Maureen McDonnell received a delivery of several hundred Virginia pumpkins Thursday from the Virginia Pumpkin Growers Association and its members. Grow…

AMC to film TV series in Virginia about George Washington's spies

6:12 AM Tukiyooo 0

More good news for Virginia's film industry was <a href="http://www.governor.virginia.gov/news/viewRelease.cfm?id=2032">announced Friday by Governor Bob McDonnell</a> and American Movie Classics (AMC):<br /><blockquote>Governor Bob McDonnell and AMC announced today that <i>Turn</i> (working title), a new series for AMC being produced by AMC Studios, will be filming in Central Virginia. <br /><br />The pilot for the film was shot in the Richmond area earlier this year and AMC recently reported that it has ordered a ten-episode season of the show to premiere on AMC in 2014. <br /><br /><i>Turn</i> is based on the nonfiction book "Washington's Spies: The Story of America's First Spy Ring" by Alexander Rose. The story is centered on a band of young soldiers and civilians who were part of a top-secret spy ring that assisted George Washington and helped America to win the Revolutionary War.</blockquote>The Governor's office reported that <i>Turn's</i> first season would begin filming this fall and run through spring. Indeed, a <a href="http://www.film.virginia.org/category/hotline/">crew call</a> went out Friday from the Virginia Film Office confirming filming to take place from mid-December into March. The area for filming mentioned only central Virginia but no specific location.<br /><br /><i>Turn</i> is the latest in a series of films shot in Virginia, a key part of McDonnell's economic development and job creation for the Commonwealth.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.history.com/topics/culper-spy-ring">The History Channel</a> has information about the spy ring, noting:<br /><blockquote>British forces occupied New York in August 1776, and the city would  remain a British stronghold and a major naval base for the duration of  the Revolutionary War. Though getting information from New York on  British troop movements and other plans was critical to General George  Washington, commander of the Continental Army, there was simply no  reliable intelligence network that existed on the Patriot side at that  time. That changed in 1778, when a young cavalry officer named Benjamin  Tallmadge established a small group of trustworthy men and women from  his hometown of Setauket, Long Island. Known as the Culper Spy Ring,  Tallmadge's homegrown network would become the most effective of any  intelligence-gathering operation on either side during the Revolutionary  War. </blockquote>The star of the new TV series will be Jamie Bell <i>(Billy Elliot, The Adventures of Tintin)</i>, and the series is being written by Craig Silverstein <i>(Nikita)</i> who will also be executive producer along with Barry Josephson<i> (Bones)</i>.<br /><br />AMC Networks Inc. owns cable channels AMC, IFC, WE tv, and Sundance Channel. Some of its cable TV series include <i>Mad Men, The Walking Dead, Breaking Bad</i> (created by Virginia native Vince Gilligan), and others.<br /><br />Governor McDonnell commented on the new adventure:<br /><blockquote>"I am pleased to welcome AMC and <i>Turn</i> back to the Commonwealth  to film this series. Our administration has been committed to putting in  place policies that help the private sector create good jobs for  Virginians, and one way we have successfully achieved this is through  encouraging and facilitating the production of more films and television  shows in the state."</blockquote>Filming a potentially-long lasting TV series provides jobs, as noted by Virginia Film Office Director Andy Edmunds who noted:<br /><blockquote>"Landing an  original television series is an important milestone for our industry.  Long-term job opportunities for cast, crew and other related businesses  will be a major catalyst towards growing a sustainable and thriving  production industry in Virginia. AMC simply produces some of the best  content in the business, and we are proud to be partnering with them on  this outstanding series." </blockquote>Indeed. Stefan Reinhardt, senior vice president of finance and studio operations for AMC, was happy:<br /><blockquote>"Virginia is obviously the perfect setting for a Revolutionary War  drama. While other states were seriously considered due to very  aggressive financial incentives, we are glad we were able to work so  productively with Governor McDonnell and the Virginia Film Office to  bring <i>Turn</i> to an ideal production location that shares  significant history with the events we are depicting on screen." </blockquote><i>Turn</i> will be eligible for Virginia incentives based on  actual expenditures in the Commonwealth, and other added-value  deliverables including Virginia Tourism advertising. The economic impact  of <i>Turn</i> shooting in Virginia is estimated to be $45 million  per season.<br /><br />The film industry in Virginia plays a significant role in the state's  economy. In 2011, total economic impact of the film and television  industry in Virginia was $394.4 million, a 14.5 percent increase over  2010. In addition, 3,817 jobs were attributed to the film industry in  2011, up from 2,651 jobs in 2010.<br /><br />For more information about Virginia's film industry, visit  the Virginia Film Office website at <a href="http://filmvirginia.org/" target="_blank">FilmVirginia.org</a>.

AMC to film TV series in Virginia about George Washington's spies

AMC American Movie Classics American Revolutionary War Bob McDonnell George Washington History Channel spy ring Turn Virginia film industry Virginia Film Office AMC to film TV series in Virginia about George Washington's spies

More good news for Virginia's film industry was announced Friday by Governor Bob McDonnell and American Movie Classics (AMC):Governor Bob McDonnell and AMC announced today that Turn (working title), a new series for AMC being produced by AMC Studios,…

Gov. McDonnell: 'Thoughts, prayers with those impacted by today's tragic shooting'

12:59 PM Tukiyooo 0

Bob McDonnell random shootings Washington Navy Yard Gov. McDonnell: 'Thoughts, prayers with those impacted by today's tragic shooting'

RICHMOND- Governor Bob McDonnell issued the following statement this afternoon following the tragic shootings at the Navy Yard in Washington, D.C., earlier today.“Our thoughts and prayers are with all those impacted by today’s tragic shooting. Innoce…

58 historical Virginia homes open free of charge this weekend

7:35 AM Tukiyooo 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFHt3GXCtZp5H6V_nFw1Ix3X3-XMQqZLncUtT2UyDddo6oV8YXssvrppN0QuWFYh3mzfUnTtGAJjmZMwRdPyskXlaPcjzE1HFOut0XNphICKDznIUD8iT94NtdY_sfEf2bJ8KoXYxRnuZC/s1600/Virginia+Executive+Mansion.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFHt3GXCtZp5H6V_nFw1Ix3X3-XMQqZLncUtT2UyDddo6oV8YXssvrppN0QuWFYh3mzfUnTtGAJjmZMwRdPyskXlaPcjzE1HFOut0XNphICKDznIUD8iT94NtdY_sfEf2bJ8KoXYxRnuZC/s400/Virginia+Executive+Mansion.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Virginia's Executive Mansion, Richmond</i></div><br /><b>Free admission to select historic homes this weekend</b><br /><br />This is a great weekend to head out and explore 58 of Virginia's historic homes <i>free of charge.</i> What a fantastic opportunity to get an up-close-and-personal look at the Commonwealth's Executive Mansion, Edgar Allen Poe Museum, the Dooley Mansion in Richmond's Maymont Park, homes of our historical figures such as Patrick Henry and Light Horse Harry Lee, taverns, the coast guard station in Virginia Beach, and many other homes and mansions from the coast to the mountains and everywhere else in the Old Dominion. Best of all, admission is waived Saturday and Sunday, September 14 and 15, 2013. <a href="http://www.historicalhomes.virginia.gov/septpromo.cfm">The listing of all 58 homes is here.</a><br /><br />Virginia is for history lovers!<br /><br />From the <a href="http://www.historicalhomes.virginia.gov/septpromo.cfm">Governor's website</a>: <br /><blockquote>In  celebration of the  Executive Mansion's 200th Anniversary, Governor  Bob McDonnell and First  Lady Maureen McDonnell declared 2013 the "Year of the  Historic Home."  There are over 120 sites  scattered across Virginia classified as  Historic Homes that span from  pre-Colonial times through the Modern  era, all of which provide an abundance of  cultural, historical, and  architectural information and promote an  understanding of, as well as  an interest in, Virginia’s story.<br /><br /><div class="closeParagraph" style="color: black;">To  further promote the  Year of the Historic Home effort, in the spring of 2013,  seven historic  homes across Richmond came together in a collaborative effort to  open  their doors admission-free to the public for an entire weekend to "Time   Travel through Virginia History." Because of the successes and benefits   experienced from the spring promotional weekend, the homes throughout  Richmond  are coming together to host this collaborative weekend in the  fall, as are over  50 homes throughout Virginia. </div><div class="closeParagraph" style="color: black;"><br /></div><div class="closeParagraph" style="color: black;">Exclusively  during the  weekend of September 14 and 15, 2013, Virginia’s most renowned  historic  homes and museums will be open free to the public, in support of  theYear  of the Historic Home. </div><div class="closeParagraph" style="color: black;"><br /></div><div class="closeParagraph" style="color: black;">"My  husband and I have  been thrilled with the excitement surrounding the Year of  the Historic  Home," said First Lady Maureen McDonnell. "The spring success of  the  Historic Home Promotional Weekend in Richmond came as a pleasant  surprise,  and promoting this initiative in September as a statewide  effort is extremely  exciting and promises great results.  We encourage  you to print your  passport and visit these historical sites, which have  been home to many of  America’s Founding Fathers, U.S. presidents, and  many other important figures."</div><div class="closeParagraph" style="color: black;"><br /></div><div class="closeParagraph" style="color: black;">A  list of the  participating homes follows as well as details of each home,and their  hours of operation on September 14 and 15, please visit our <a href="http://www.historicalhomes.virginia.gov/learn.cfm">Learn page</a>. Please don’t forget to visit our  "<a href="http://www.historicalhomes.virginia.gov/timetraveler.cfm">time  travelers</a>" page  and print your passport in order to be  granted free admission. </div></blockquote>

58 historical Virginia homes open free of charge this weekend

2013 Year of the Historic Home Bob McDonnell Maureen McDonnell tourism Virginia history Virginia Is For Lovers 58 historical Virginia homes open free of charge this weekend

Virginia's Executive Mansion, RichmondFree admission to select historic homes this weekendThis is a great weekend to head out and explore 58 of Virginia's historic homes free of charge. What a fantastic opportunity to get an up-close-and-personal loo…

Governor Bob McDonnell: 9/11 a day of remembrance, patriotism, and prayer

5:46 AM Tukiyooo 0

On the 12th anniversary of the terrorism attacks that came to America on September 11, 2001, Virginia's Governor Bob McDonnell called on his fellow citizens to pause at 9:37 a.m. to remember when American Airlines Flight 77 impacted with the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia.<br /><br />Today has been proclaimed a <a href="http://www.governor.virginia.gov/OurCommonwealth/Proclamations/viewproc.cfm?id=390">Day of Remembrance, Patriotism and Prayer in the Commonwealth of Virginia</a>.<br /><br /><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;"></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">9/11 Day of Remembrance, Patriotism and Prayer</span></b><br /></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">WHEREAS,</span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> the events of September 11, 2001 profoundly affected - and continue to  affect - all aspects of our  society, and the lives of Virginians, Americans and people across the  world were changed forever following the destruction of the World Trade  Center complex in New York City, the attack against the Pentagon in  Arlington, Virginia, and the crash of Flight 93  in Stonycreek Township, Pennsylvania; and</span><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">WHEREAS</span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">,  twelve years later the citizens of our Commonwealth and these United  States continue to mourn for  the more than three thousand innocent voices that were tragically  silenced-including 184 in Virginia at the Pentagon-by terrorists on that  infamous day of death and destruction; and</span><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">WHEREAS,</span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> it is imperative that we never forget our shock and revulsion at the  needless destruction, the bravery  of our first responders who risked all for their neighbors, our anguish  from the sudden loss of so many precious lives, or how we as a people  did not succumb to a state of fear as the terrorists intended, but  instead set aside our differences and united as  patriots in our country's hour of need; and</span><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">WHEREAS,</span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> while we reflect upon the memory of the departed, it is important that  we also pause to remember  and honor the sacrifices of all those members of our armed forces who  have given their lives in heroic service to our country and all members  of our military who have volunteered to bring those responsible for the  9/11 attacks and their supporters to justice  during the Global War on Terror; and</span><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">WHEREAS,</span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> prayer has long served as a measure of our nation's strong heritage of  faith and has been an indispensable  source of moral and spiritual guidance for citizens throughout our  Commonwealth's history, and it is fitting that our Commonwealth reserve a  day in which our citizens may reflect and mourn - consistent with their  own faith traditions - with those who have  suffered as a result of terrorism, to humbly ask God for the strength  and fortitude necessary to protect our lives, liberty and property from  future transgressions, and to give thanks for the freedoms with which we  as a people are fortunate enough to be blessed;</span><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">NOW, THEREFORE</span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">, I, Robert F. McDonnell, do hereby recognize September 11, 2013 as a DAY OF REMEMBRANCE, PATRIOTISM  AND PRAYER in our <b>COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA</b>, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens; and</span><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"></div><b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">FURTHERMORE</span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">,  I urge all citizens of our Commonwealth to display the flag of the  United States of America  wherever possible, and I invite all to witness a one-minute, statewide  Moment of Silence starting at 9:37 AM - when American Airlines Flight 77  impacted with the Pentagon in our County of Arlington - and I encourage  all Virginians to reflect upon the lives  lost and heroic sacrifices made on that fateful eleventh day of  September.</span>

Governor Bob McDonnell: 9/11 a day of remembrance, patriotism, and prayer

9/11/2001 Bob McDonnell Day of Remembrance never forget Patriotism and Prayer in the Commonwealth of Virginia Terrorism Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell: 9/11 a day of remembrance, patriotism, and prayer

Governor will host 2013 Virginia Wine Summit

6:22 PM Tukiyooo 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwzLaAAhPFVd7rKh4aNeCnC-x6CHm5cuS4aWYK5epE6juyli_GOLZ29lUxrREXUNN1QIoVGuuoqaZoX5TuuY4X5hSlxPgkwRAQt2FXA0pbewsQWLOn4h-wPSUMSGM3rAD2sa6zuBEJf-NN/s1600/Wine+summit+2013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwzLaAAhPFVd7rKh4aNeCnC-x6CHm5cuS4aWYK5epE6juyli_GOLZ29lUxrREXUNN1QIoVGuuoqaZoX5TuuY4X5hSlxPgkwRAQt2FXA0pbewsQWLOn4h-wPSUMSGM3rAD2sa6zuBEJf-NN/s320/Wine+summit+2013.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Governor Bob McDonnell today announced that he and First Lady Maureen McDonnell will host the  second annual Virginia Wine Summit on <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_634751551" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">Monday, October 28, 2013</span></span> at the Jefferson Hotel in Richmond.  The event, which will feature  famed British wine critic, author, and television personality Oz Clarke,  will bring together wine experts and industry leaders  from around the country to discuss the current and future state of  Virginia wine.  In addition, the summit will feature Virginia wine  pairings with culinary offerings, including Virginia oysters.  Panels,  tastings, and discussions will be held throughout this  day-long event.</span><br /><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Commenting  on the event, Governor McDonnell stated, “The continued success of  Virginia wine means more good jobs and economic opportunities for  Virginians. Sales of Virginia wine are at an  all time high with sales up more than 23% since 2010.  The Virginia  Wine Summit quickly has become an important component of my  administration’s efforts to promote Virginia’s outstanding wines.  Because of our efforts, the Commonwealth is becoming the East  Coast capital for wine and wine tourism.  We are very fortunate to have  the internationally regarded wine expert Oz Clarke visit our great  Commonwealth and be our keynote speaker. Oz, who I met in London several  years ago on during a trade mission, and the  Summit’s other notable speakers will undoubtedly help raise the profile  of our wines to an even higher level.”</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">In addition to Clarke’s (</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/null"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">www.ozclarke.com</span></a></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">)  keynote address, the Virginia Wine Summit will feature some of the  nation’s foremost influential wine professionals, including:  Dave  McIntyre of <i>The Washington Post</i>;<i> </i>Andrew Hoover, a Virginia wine specialist for <i>Wine Enthusiast</i>; Chef Spike Gjerde of Woodberry Kitchen (Baltimore,  MD); Sommelier Charlie Berg of Blue Hill Stone Barns (Pocantico Hills,  NY); Sommelier Michael Madrigale of Bar Boulud, Epicierie Boulud &  Boulud Sud (New York); Sommelier Steven Grubbs  of Empire State South (Atlanta, GA) & Five and Ten (Athens, GA);  Sommelier Todd Thrasher of Restaurant Eve (Alexandria, VA); Master of  Wine and founder of the Capital Wine School Jay Youmans; and Master  Sommelier Kathy Morgan.  These experts will inform an  audience filled with winemakers, restaurateurs, sommeliers,  connoisseurs, media, wine-shop owners, and other industry professionals. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Summit  attendees will take part in panel discussions with topics ranging from  wine pairings with signature Virginia foods like ham and peanuts,  ageability of Virginia wines, “Bang For Your  Buck”, and an in-depth analysis and tastings of key Virginia varietals,  such as Cabernet Franc, Viognier, and others. A Virginia wine and  oyster panel will be sponsored by the Virginia Tourism Corporation and  led by a team of wine professionals that will discuss  the pairing, as Virginia’s oysters have also had a record breaking  harvest this year.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">“The  Virginia wine industry is coming off its most successful year ever,”  said Todd Haymore, Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry.  “Domestic and  international sales reached an all-time high,  record numbers of people visited our wineries, and major publications,  such as <i>Decanter</i> and the <i>New York Times</i>, featured glowing articles on  our wines and wineries.  In addition, last October’s first ever summit,  which featured world-renowned wine critic Steven Spurrier, was an  overwhelming success that helped bring together  a wide variety of wine industry opinion leaders to discuss this fast  emerging global wine region. The Governor, First Lady, and I, working in  partnership with our wineries and vineyards, are looking to build on  that success this year starting with the second  annual Virginia Wine Summit, where we’ll proudly showcase our wines  with the nation and the world.”</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Virginia  currently ranks fifth in the number of wineries in the nation with more  than 230. Virginia is also tied with Texas as the nation's fifth  largest wine grape producing states. According  to a 2012 economic impact study, the Virginia wine industry employs  more than 4,700 individuals and contributes almost $750 million to the  Virginia economy on an annual basis. In addition, more than 1.6 million  tourists, a record high, visited Virginia wineries  in 2011. Earlier this month Governor McDonnell announced that Virginia  wines reached a new record sales level with more than 511,000 cases sold  in fiscal year 2013.  That figure represents a five percent increase  over the previous fiscal year.  Export sales,  mostly to China and Great Britain, increased by 74 percent during the  same period, from approximately 3,300 cases to more than 5,800 cases. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">To register for the Virginia Wine Summit, and for more information, please visit </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><a href="http://www.virginiawinesummit.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">www.virginiawinesummit.com</span></a></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">.  Additional  speakers and more information will continue to be announced on the site  in the coming weeks.  For more information about the Virginia wine  industry, please visit the Virginia Wine Marketing Office's website at </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><a href="http://www.virginiawine.org/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">http://www.virginiawine.org/</span></a></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"> <wbr></wbr>or call <a href="tel:804-344-8200" target="_blank" value="+18043448200">804-344-8200</a>.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: .5in;">  <span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>

Bob McDonnell Maureen McDonnell Virginia Wine Summit Governor will host 2013 Virginia Wine Summit

Governor Bob McDonnell today announced that he and First Lady Maureen McDonnell will host the second annual Virginia Wine Summit on Monday, October 28, 2013 at the Jefferson Hotel in Richmond. The event, which will feature famed British wine criti…