News for today's 2018

Grayson County Fraser firs decorate Busch Gardens Christmas Town, grace Vice President Biden's home

5:49 AM Tukiyooo 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgByRLVnoUpr62zZix_Vncw1feYbzGDWJ_dOiSLwin0T-usG7GN73fOBiLI7jBS0gKycQG20gOICe-8wwD95i4Z08DqJMZR60dBTVOabrYq-zJShlOWNABNqPkEVjLgznIQjtG_o7pt2g4/s1600/Mount+Rogers+Christmas+Tree+Association.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgByRLVnoUpr62zZix_Vncw1feYbzGDWJ_dOiSLwin0T-usG7GN73fOBiLI7jBS0gKycQG20gOICe-8wwD95i4Z08DqJMZR60dBTVOabrYq-zJShlOWNABNqPkEVjLgznIQjtG_o7pt2g4/s320/Mount+Rogers+Christmas+Tree+Association.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> I'm a little prejudiced about Grayson County since it's where my grandparents grew up and where lots of relatives still live but I think the Fraser firs grown in that part of Virginia are the most gorgeous Christmas trees around. Where once cows grazed in rocky meadows on mountain slopes, now rows and rows of Frasers grow in the cool temperatures of this southwestern area of the Commonwealth. Journalist Bill Lohmann has taken a look at Grayson's Fraser fir Christmas tree industry in today's <a href="http://www.timesdispatch.com/entertainment-life/holiday/christmas-trees-are-gift-to-va-s-grayson-county/article_a2922a46-ac6c-592f-87d6-e4592ecb4d1f.html">Richmond Times-Dispatch</a>, a business that took root in the 1970s and has grown into an economic boom: <blockquote>The steep and rocky mountains of Grayson County are some of the tallest, most spectacular in Virginia, wonderful for hiking and sightseeing but less than ideal for farming — unless you are growing Christmas trees.</blockquote>One whiff of a Fraser and you'll be hooked. Mr. Lohmann talked with one of the pioneers of <a href="http://www.mtrogersfraserfir.org/">Fraser farming in Grayson</a>, Rodney Richardson, owner of <a href="http://www.mtrogersfraserfir.org/tfchoosecut.html">Mount Rogers Christmas Tree Farm</a>, who has some well-known clients. This year he sent several hundred trees to Busch Gardens in Williamsburg for their <a href="http://seaworldparks.com/en/christmastown-williamsburg?from=portal&__utma=1.343876508.1383166447.1383171243.1385300644.3&__utmb=1.2.10.1385300644&__utmc=1&__utmx=-&__utmz=1.1385300644.3.2.utmcsr=google|utmccn=%28organic%29|utmcmd=organic|utmctr=%28not%20provided%29&__utmv=-&__utmk=109009154">Christmas Town display</a>, and another tree is going to Vice President Joe Biden's residence. Good article. I could almost smell the heavenly scent of Frasier firs while reading it....

Grayson County Fraser firs decorate Busch Gardens Christmas Town, grace Vice President Biden's home

I'm a little prejudiced about Grayson County since it's where my grandparents grew up and where lots of relatives still live but I t...

Va Senator Creigh Deeds stabbed, in critical condition; son dead -- UPDATED

7:36 AM Tukiyooo 0

In a heartbreaking turn of events, news is breaking all over social media that Virginia State Senator Creigh Deeds was stabbed this morning and his son is dead from a gunshot wound at their home. From the Richmond Times-Dispatch: <blockquote>Sen. Creigh Deeds, D-Bath, is in critical condition after being stabbed in his home and his son Gus is dead from a gunshot wound, law enforcement sources told the Richmond Times-Dispatch this morning. Deeds is being treated at the University of Virginia Medical Center.</blockquote>Reporter Julie Carey has reported on Twitter: <blockquote><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23VA&src=hash">#VA</a> State Police say after stabbing his father, St. Sen. Deeds' son killed himself in Bath County. Deeds listed in serious condition 2/2 — Julie Carey (@JulieCareyNBC) <a href="https://twitter.com/JulieCareyNBC/statuses/402813772706119681">November 19, 2013</a></blockquote><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></blockquote>Creigh Deeds is a long-time representative for citizens in western Virginia and at one time was delegate for western Augusta County before the 20th House District was added in 2001. In 2005 Deeds ran for attorney generation as the Democratic candidate against Republican Bob McDonnell in a contest that ended in a recount. McDonnell won with just over 300 votes. Four years later Deeds again ran against McDonnell for governor. McDonnell won in a landslide and swept the top three. Prayers go to Senator Deeds and his family at this tragic time. 3:30 p.m. <a href="http://www.timesdispatch.com/news/state-regional/government-politics/source-deeds-son-had-mental-health-evaluation-monday/article_431e61ca-5128-11e3-944a-001a4bcf6878.html" target="_blank">Richmond Times-Dispatch</a> has an updated article about the tragedy.

Va Senator Creigh Deeds stabbed, in critical condition; son dead -- UPDATED

Bath County Creigh Deeds Julie Carey Richmond Times-Dispatch Twitter UVA Hospital Va Senator Creigh Deeds stabbed, in critical condition; son dead -- UPDATED

In a heartbreaking turn of events, news is breaking all over social media that Virginia State Senator Creigh Deeds was stabbed this morning ...

Holiday season brings new cookie recipes

6:01 AM Tukiyooo 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi36-pvwgxLWxy8tH4hezECoLXHZSSdcSgO0JRKBP-8LjZcSSx7wRr17T9dHdtXkWMlOm-SNmCVnFq1cNWilpKhUBHZeNmfXDZUWeYj2F_CHOkmAV-kOXxp2uqzSbLwvB2zadgI5oQvTNIL/s1600/16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi36-pvwgxLWxy8tH4hezECoLXHZSSdcSgO0JRKBP-8LjZcSSx7wRr17T9dHdtXkWMlOm-SNmCVnFq1cNWilpKhUBHZeNmfXDZUWeYj2F_CHOkmAV-kOXxp2uqzSbLwvB2zadgI5oQvTNIL/s400/16.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> Cookies are synonymous with the holiday season, and the Richmond Times-Dispatch's resident chef Clare Schapiro has some recipes sure to make you smile in her Wednesday column, <a href="http://www.timesdispatch.com/entertainment-life/food-dining/clare-s-kitchen-the-joy-of-cookies/article_39591f8e-c004-5f76-a907-42d60c15af62.html">The Joy of Cookies</a>. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIeT0yOjZck4ltmwU3OoMUiA3l5-V9ITLgm750FTeE9nv0AYtIfHBor1CNGimFspBrBsxRJkxtmdceWfKRPm4dbzt6Tdrqp50r33gyn261EYnHJg7JtB3_D6wojDToZYJpboFH0Bxl9Nqc/s1600/14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIeT0yOjZck4ltmwU3OoMUiA3l5-V9ITLgm750FTeE9nv0AYtIfHBor1CNGimFspBrBsxRJkxtmdceWfKRPm4dbzt6Tdrqp50r33gyn261EYnHJg7JtB3_D6wojDToZYJpboFH0Bxl9Nqc/s400/14.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> My family has a cookie baking tradition that has involved aunts, moms, grandmoms, and the children, and has continued through the generations. We have the tried-and-true, well-loved recipes, and each year we try to incorporate at least one newbie. (<a href="http://swacgirl.blogspot.com/2011/12/family-tradition-christmas-cookies-and.html">Photos from 2011 cookie baking weekend.</a>) <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOL3fEs_fZwqbkpHRKtx6jmhLH2vcLaVYGqw593SwOcSnX3sI260AyDXvEamZp3q0lMlFeZty0RsbgQqX_3oVTLALuBGRqUPP8lAnZcNb10ozKmFlmGS8Ok6B2knn9IRBHXyjMbWQKC-Ss/s1600/9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOL3fEs_fZwqbkpHRKtx6jmhLH2vcLaVYGqw593SwOcSnX3sI260AyDXvEamZp3q0lMlFeZty0RsbgQqX_3oVTLALuBGRqUPP8lAnZcNb10ozKmFlmGS8Ok6B2knn9IRBHXyjMbWQKC-Ss/s400/9.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> Clare provided some yummy-sounding recipes, especially the Toffee Bars and Mocha Cookies, that have been set aside for this year's baking weekend. (<a href="http://www.timesdispatch.com/entertainment-life/food-dining/clare-s-kitchen-the-joy-of-cookies/article_39591f8e-c004-5f76-a907-42d60c15af62.html">Recipes are here.</a>) Laugh, be creative, and celebrate family along with the season. Let cookie baking season begin. Fa-la-la-la-la! Photos by Lynn R. Mitchell

Clare Schapiro cookie baking family Lynn R. Mitchell Richmond Times-Dispatch Holiday season brings new cookie recipes

Cookies are synonymous with the holiday season, and the Richmond Times-Dispatch's resident chef Clare Schapiro has some recipes sure to...

No gubernatorial endorsements from Times-Dispatch, Daily Progress, News & Advance, Roanoke Times ... Bill Bolling write-in suggested by two

4:00 AM Tukiyooo 0

<blockquote>"This marks, we believe, the first time in modern Virginia that The Times-Dispatch has not endorsed a gubernatorial nominee." -- Richmond Times-Dispatch (October 20, 2013)</blockquote>In an editorial that laid it on the line, the <a href="http://www.timesdispatch.com/opinion/our-opinion/our-choice-for-governor-in-none-of-the-above/article_6a2c5e41-20f3-561a-a25d-52eedf4741f3.html">Richmond Times-Dispatch</a> refused to endorse Democrat, Republican, or Libertarian for Virginia's 2013 gubernatorial race. That news ricocheted around the internet as citizens woke on a Sunday morning, met with raised eyebrows and mild surprise from some while others nodded in solemn agreement. This has, indeed, been an odd election year in Virginia. The Times-Dispatch notes many of the issues in question and the final results are the same: they are not comfortable endorsing. Indeed, they note: <blockquote>In the past, The Times-Dispatch has endorsed candidates with varying degrees of enthusiasm. We find it impossible to endorse any of the 2013 candidates with even minimal zeal. Elections make voters complicit in the government they receive. If we would not urge a family member to vote this way or that, then we have no business recommending Cuccinelli, McAuliffe or Sarvis to our readers.</blockquote>Interestingly, the <a href="http://m.dailyprogress.com/opinion/editorials/bill-bolling-for-governor/article_38a77d40-3930-11e3-91a7-001a4bcf6878.html?mode=jqm#.UmPLvqcRC4E.twitter">Charlottesville Daily Progress</a>, finding itself in the same boat, endorsed Lieutenant Governor <a href="http://www.billbolling.com/">Bill Bolling</a> as a write-in candidate, noting, "Do the write thing. Put Bill Bolling’s name on your ballot on Nov. 5. Virginia needs him." UPDATE October 28, 2013: Another newspaper has refused to endorse in the 2013 gubernatorial election. On Sunday, the <a href="http://www.newsadvance.com/opinion/editorials/article_b051cb8e-3dbd-11e3-bb5b-0019bb30f31a.html">Lynchburg News & Advance</a> wrote, "Put simply, not one of the three candidates for governor of Virginia deserves the office or has made a strong case that he is the best candidate. Not one of them, neither Democrat Terry McAuliffe, Republican Ken Cuccinelli nor Libertarian Robert Sarvis." And more. Be sure to read it. UPDATE October 31, 2013: A third major Virginia newspaper has refused to endorse in the 2013 gubernatorial election. Is this unprecedented? The <a href="http://www.roanoke.com/opinion/editorial/2337438-12/a-year-to-regret-and-regroup.html">Roanoke Times</a> editorial on Thursday noted, "... an endorsement carries with it the credibility of this institution. When a candidate who receives our support visits ridicule or even shame on the commonwealth, we share in that disgrace." Then in a stunning reminder of the <a href="http://m.dailyprogress.com/opinion/editorials/bill-bolling-for-governor/article_38a77d40-3930-11e3-91a7-001a4bcf6878.html?mode=jqm#.UmPLvqcRC4E.twitter">Charlottesville Daily Progress</a>' endorsement of Lieutenant Governor Bill Bolling as a write-in candidate, the Roanoke Times added, "Those who cannot in good conscience vote for the official candidates should consider writing in Lt. Gov. Bill Bolling." With five days left until election day, 2013 continues to be one of the oddest, perhaps the oddest, in my memory....

No gubernatorial endorsements from Times-Dispatch, Daily Progress, News & Advance, Roanoke Times ... Bill Bolling write-in suggested by two

2013 gubernatorial election Bill Bolling Charlottesville News Progress Lynchburg News and Advance Richmond Times-Dispatch Virginia write-in campaign No gubernatorial endorsements from Times-Dispatch, Daily Progress, News & Advance, Roanoke Times ... Bill Bolling write-in suggested by two

"This marks, we believe, the first time in modern Virginia that The Times-Dispatch has not endorsed a gubernatorial nominee." -- ...

Richmond Times-Dispatch's non-endorsement for Virginia governor 2013 - UPDATED

3:00 PM Tukiyooo 0

<blockquote>"This marks, we believe, the first time in modern Virginia that The Times-Dispatch has not endorsed a gubernatorial nominee." -- Richmond Times-Dispatch (October 20, 2013)</blockquote>In an editorial that laid it on the line, the <a href="http://www.timesdispatch.com/opinion/our-opinion/our-choice-for-governor-in-none-of-the-above/article_6a2c5e41-20f3-561a-a25d-52eedf4741f3.html">Richmond Times-Dispatch</a> refused to endorse Democrat, Republican, or Libertarian for Virginia's 2013 gubernatorial race. That news ricocheted around the internet as citizens woke on a Sunday morning, met with raised eyebrows and mild surprise from some while others nodded in solemn agreement. This has, indeed, been an odd election year in Virginia. The Times-Dispatch notes many of the issues in question and the final results are the same: they are not comfortable endorsing. Indeed, they note: <blockquote>In the past, The Times-Dispatch has endorsed candidates with varying degrees of enthusiasm. We find it impossible to endorse any of the 2013 candidates with even minimal zeal. Elections make voters complicit in the government they receive. If we would not urge a family member to vote this way or that, then we have no business recommending Cuccinelli, McAuliffe or Sarvis to our readers.</blockquote>Interestingly, the <a href="http://m.dailyprogress.com/opinion/editorials/bill-bolling-for-governor/article_38a77d40-3930-11e3-91a7-001a4bcf6878.html?mode=jqm#.UmPLvqcRC4E.twitter">Charlottesville Daily Progress</a>, finding itself in the same boat, endorsed Lieutenant Governor <a href="http://www.billbolling.com/">Bill Bolling</a> as a write-in candidate, noting, "Do the write thing. Put Bill Bolling’s name on your ballot on Nov. 5. Virginia needs him." UPDATE October 28, 2013: Another newspaper refused to endorse in the 2013 gubernatorial election. On Sunday, the <a href="http://www.newsadvance.com/opinion/editorials/article_b051cb8e-3dbd-11e3-bb5b-0019bb30f31a.html">Lynchburg News & Advance</a> wrote, "Put simply, not one of the three candidates for governor of Virginia deserves the office or has made a strong case that he is the best candidate. Not one of them, neither Democrat Terry McAuliffe, Republican Ken Cuccinelli nor Libertarian Robert Sarvis." And more. UPDATE October 31, 2013: A third major Virginia newspaper has refused to endorse in the 2013 gubernatorial election. Is this unprecedented? The Roanoke Times editorial on Thursday noted, "... an endorsement carries with it the credibility of this institution. When a candidate who receives our support visits ridicule or even shame on the commonwealth, we share in that disgrace." Then in a stunning reminder of the <a href="http://m.dailyprogress.com/opinion/editorials/bill-bolling-for-governor/article_38a77d40-3930-11e3-91a7-001a4bcf6878.html?mode=jqm#.UmPLvqcRC4E.twitter">Charlottesville Daily Progress</a>' endorsement of Lieutenant Governor Bill Bolling as a write-in candidate, the Roanoke Times added, "Those who cannot in good conscience vote for the official candidates should consider writing in Lt. Gov. Bill Bolling." With five days left until election day, 2013 continues to be one of the oddest in my memory....

Richmond Times-Dispatch's non-endorsement for Virginia governor 2013 - UPDATED

2013 gubernatorial election Bill Bolling Daily Progress Lynchburg News and Advance Richmond Times-Dispatch Roanoke Times Virginia Richmond Times-Dispatch's non-endorsement for Virginia governor 2013 - UPDATED

"This marks, we believe, the first time in modern Virginia that The Times-Dispatch has not endorsed a gubernatorial nominee." -- ...

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. 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">Richmond Times-Dispatch</a>: <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. 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. It certainly has caused a stir in Virginia's political atmosphere. From the RTD: <blockquote>Lewis and Potter “have always been fair, tough and smart. Virginians deserve dedicated reporters like them,” Gov. Bob McDonnell tweeted. 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.” 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.” 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, "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." 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. Update:  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. Update #2: 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">Richmond Times-Dispatch</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

The news heard 'round the internet on Monday was long-time Richmond-based reporter Bob Lewis' firing by the Associated Press. Social...

2013 voters won't let go of Bolling

7:58 PM Tukiyooo 0

There it was again in Saturday's Richmond Times-Dispatch ... another letter to the editor urging voters to write in Lieutenant Governor Bill Bolling for Governor. At a time when you would expect the write-in talk to die down, it isn't. Tonight yet another person told me they were writing in the LG. It's something I hear on a regular basis. On August 29, a <a href="http://www.timesdispatch.com/opinion/letters-to-the-editor-for-august/article_a7ea5edd-e906-5435-98cf-72663a94a094.html">letter writer to the RTD</a> wrote: <blockquote>Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli has no one to blame for his lackluster polling numbers but himself. When he became greedy and unceremoniously pushed Lt. Gov. Bill Bolling out the front door, he immediately lost the moderate support. If Cuccinelli had run again for attorney general or lieutenant governor supporting Bolling (with his moderate force) for governor, polling data would probably be very different. If the current trend continues, it is likely that Virginia will have a second-rate governor with little or no elective or governing experience. Joseph Childress. Palmyra.</blockquote>Saturday's <a href="http://www.timesdispatch.com/opinion/your-opinion/letters-to-the-editor/letters-to-the-editor-for-sept/article_6d23208d-220f-5ba7-b916-85453b026531.html">letter writer responded</a>: <blockquote>I agree 100 percent with letter-writer Joseph Childress (“Cuccinelli has only himself to blame”). Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli did push Bill Bolling out the front door, as Childress wrote. I know Bolling is not seeking a write-in, but I shall write his name in on Election Day, and I hope whoever reads this will agree and do the same. Bolling is a fine politician, a Virginia gentleman and a true friend. Grace T. Seat. South Boston.</blockquote>There's a quiet defiance rolling through Virginia. Will it grow as Election Day approaches?

2013 gubernatorial election Bill Bolling Grace Seat Joseph Childress Richmond Times-Dispatch Virginia GOP write-in campaign 2013 voters won't let go of Bolling

There it was again in Saturday's Richmond Times-Dispatch ... another letter to the editor urging voters to write in Lieutenant Governor...

Governor McDonnell tends injured Times-Dispatch reporter

6:39 AM Tukiyooo 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYAatZKxHBtKKD2DEeMiWJeuJm_AFaRAWTG1KIc1cQtaNBFibN7EEHdRkm12i5LWrAaOJoQKsnxf4o3HSAONjndT6eFeDA_-WbO-wO8enap1o5q7dZzR1ekN3eqtN7YMP34iZonZIwXsxm/s1600/Bob+McDonnell+and+injured+reporter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYAatZKxHBtKKD2DEeMiWJeuJm_AFaRAWTG1KIc1cQtaNBFibN7EEHdRkm12i5LWrAaOJoQKsnxf4o3HSAONjndT6eFeDA_-WbO-wO8enap1o5q7dZzR1ekN3eqtN7YMP34iZonZIwXsxm/s400/Bob+McDonnell+and+injured+reporter.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Governor Bob McDonnell with injured Times-Dispatch reporter Rex Springston.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Photo by Mark Gormus with the <a href="http://www.timesdispatch.com/news/state-regional/reporter-injured-while-covering-oyster-tour/article_d6d2324d-97b6-5549-85b9-75909b75b022.html">Richmond Times-Dispatch</a> </div> When Richmond Times-Dispatch reporter Rex Springston passed out while covering a boat tour with Governor Bob McDonnell on Thursday, one of the first people to spring into action was the Governor himself. Springston, the newspapers environment reporter who was covering McDonnell's tour of an oyster shucking facility in the Northern Neck, had earlier lost his footing and fallen. He had broken his arm in the fall but didn't realize it at the time. Reporter John Hoke picks it up from there: <blockquote>The tour included a boat ride to a nearby oyster ground. Springston said that when he jumped into the boat, he stumbled and reached out with his left arm to catch himself. “He landed kind of funny,” said Todd P. Haymore, Virginia secretary of agriculture. “The governor caught him.”</blockquote>Even though his arm was hurting, Springston carried on with his interview of McDonnell. It was while reviewing those notes that he fainted and crumpled onto the floor of the boat and, when he came to, the Governor was leaning over and tending to him until EMTs arrived to take him to Rappahannock Hospital where the broken arm was discovered and treated. <blockquote>Springston said the governor called him at home Wednesday evening to see how he was doing. “I’m just glad Rex is doing alright,” McDonnell said in an email. “That was a frightening moment for everyone. It did give me a chance to use some of my old Army medical skills, but I think we both would have preferred to not have had that opportunity.”</blockquote>It's nice to see a human interest story and a <a href="http://bearingdrift.com/2013/08/15/bob-mcdonnell-isnt-in-the-washington-post-today/">break from the negativity</a>. Here's wishing a speedy recovery to Mr. Springston. Cross-posted at <a href="http://vapolitics.us/2013/08/governor-mcdonnell-tends-injured-times-dispatch-reporter/">Virginia Politics On Demand </a>

Governor McDonnell tends injured Times-Dispatch reporter

Bob McDonnell George W. Bush John Hoke Lynn R. Mitchell Northern Neck Rex Springston Richmond Times-Dispatch Virginia Governor McDonnell tends injured Times-Dispatch reporter

Governor Bob McDonnell with injured Times-Dispatch reporter Rex Springston. Photo by Mark Gormus with the Richmond Times-Dispatch When Rich...

Richmond: More than 20,000 fans turn out for Redskins Fan Appreciation Day

12:10 PM Tukiyooo 0

<blockquote>Practice has begun here at the Bon Secours Washington Redskins Training Center, and crowds are still lined up all the way to DMV Drive, waiting to enter the facility. More than 20,000 fans have entered already today, though many have turned around and headed right back out after seeing the conditions. Mud and fertilizer has created a pungent smell in the main viewing area, and security guards have been overmatched against the throngs trying to enter and leave at the same time.</blockquote>So writes Michael Phillips in Saturday's <a href="http://trainingcamp.blogs.timesdispatch.com/2013/08/03/more-than-20000-pack-redskins-camp-on-fan-appreciation-day/">Richmond Times-Dispatch</a>. Sounds to me like Richmonders are really enjoying having the <a href="http://www.redskins.com/">Redskins</a> in town. Fan favorite RGIII has been a hit: <blockquote>During the practice portion, quarterback Robert Griffin III was once again the focal point, and he hit his first four passes during 7-on-7 play.</blockquote>Perhaps the enthusiastic outpouring of support will <a href="http://www.rantsports.com/nfl/2013/07/30/washington-redskins-training-camp-in-richmond-a-success-so-far/">help temper the criticism</a> surrounding the move to Richmond. Perhaps. Meanwhile, <a href="http://www.styleweekly.com/richmond/eight-ways-to-spot-a-redskins-training-camp-tourist/Content?oid=1927043">Style Weekly</a> lightens up the atmosphere with a humorous list of eight ways to spot a Redskins Training Camp tourist. I checked out the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/redskins">Redskins' Facebook page</a> and found photos, links to press conferences, rallies and gatherings at local restaurants, and more. Seems like a win-win for Richmond and the fans. Cross-posted at <a href="http://vapolitics.us/2013/08/richmond-more-than-20000-fans-turn-out-for-redskins-fan-appreciation-day/">Virginia Politics On Demand </a>

Richmond: More than 20,000 fans turn out for Redskins Fan Appreciation Day

Bon Secours facebook football RGIII Richmond Richmond Times-Dispatch Robert Griffin III SPORTS Style Weekly training camp Washington Redskins Richmond: More than 20,000 fans turn out for Redskins Fan Appreciation Day

Practice has begun here at the Bon Secours Washington Redskins Training Center, and crowds are still lined up all the way to DMV Drive, wait...

Saturday's debate: The biggest winners were not there

4:59 AM Tukiyooo 0

For some in the ballroom at Saturday's gubernatorial Homestead debate, the two men standing at the podiums were not the ones they had expected, and the <a href="http://www.timesdispatch.com/opinion/today-s-top-opinion-not-there/article_d87d8a93-d3c9-537d-9da0-32ea8811e95c.html">Richmond Times-Dispatch</a> pointedly touched on that in Tuesday's editorial: <blockquote>We said at the beginning [of this editorial] that the biggest winners were not at the Omni Homestead Resort. Their names were Bill Bolling and Robert Sarvis. Bolling, of course, is the lieutenant governor who (1) dropped out of the campaign for the GOP gubernatorial nomination after the party’s scheming sachems boosted Cuccinelli when they switched the process from a primary to a convention, and (2) declined to run as an independent. If he had joined the debate and had lived up to his potential, he would have run away with the crown. If Bolling were to ascend to the governorship, a write-in campaign could become feasible. Sarvis is the Libertarian nominee. A June 23 Op/Ed column by A. Barton Hinkle described his virtues; a box on the same page listed his stands on various issues. Polls suggest Sarvis attracts more support than usual for third-party candidates in Virginia. He could become a factor in the race and deserves attention from analysts and citizens.</blockquote>Touché.

Bill Bolling Homestead debate Richmond Times-Dispatch Robert Sarvis Saturday's debate: The biggest winners were not there

For some in the ballroom at Saturday's gubernatorial Homestead debate, the two men standing at the podiums were not the ones they had ex...

Video: Humorous ABC News interview with George W. and Laura Bush

8:13 AM Tukiyooo 0

<div style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/BJbUXw87j0A" width="560"></iframe> </div> President George W. Bush is a gracious man with the wisdom of one who has observed, listened, and learned along his life's journey. This humorous, light-hearted <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BJbUXw87j0A">ABC News interview</a> that was taped after the President and Mrs. Bush returned from their African trip shows the genuine, witty, caring personality of #43, something the other side of the political aisle overlooked in their continual bashing of him during his eight years in the White House. Because of GWB's gracious nature, and my observation of years of abuse from his political enemies, I have tempered my own public criticism of President Barack Obama, realizing the hurt it causes not only to the Obama family but to his supporters. Too bad the extremists on all sides of the aisle can't tone down the rhetoric and try to work together. Robin Beres's article in Sunday's Richmond Times-Dispatch, <a href="http://www.timesdispatch.com/opinion/our-opinion/columnists-blogs/robin-beres/the-expanding-legacy-of-george-w-bush/article_b2875325-1bee-520c-879c-2fe7451d64a5.html">"The expanding legacy of George W. Bush,"</a> touched on Bush's just-completed humanitarian trip to Africa, his continued involvement with the Wounded Warrior Project, and his overall giving-back to America during his retirement years: <blockquote>In an interview with CNN on July 1, Bush was questioned about the Obama administration and accusations about the White House’s invasions into Americans’ privacy. But, as ever, he refused to criticize Obama. “I don’t think it does any good,” he said. “It’s a hard job. He’s got plenty on his agenda. It’s difficult. A former president doesn’t need to make it any harder. Other presidents have taken different decisions; that’s mine.” The difference in the two men’s political views has always been apparent. Unfortunately, another difference that is obvious is the content of their characters. Despite attacks and accusations by the Obama administration, Bush has kept his silence. Even as he watched the successful surge in Iraq go for naught and the Middle East fall apart, he said nothing. Even as he stood and listened to Obama’s backhanded compliments at the George W. Bush Presidential Library dedication, he held his peace. He has been the picture of graciousness and tact. These are traits that the self-absorbed Obama should study – and perhaps try to emulate.</blockquote>GWB brought class to the office of President, something he learned from his parents and that is, sadly, lacking in others. His self-deprecating humor is legendary, and his modesty was ingrained by a strong mother, former First Lady Barbara Bush, who taught her children not be be "braggadociouses." George W. Bush ... boy, do I miss his leadership.

Video: Humorous ABC News interview with George W. and Laura Bush

ABC News Africa CNN George W. Bush humanitarian mission Laura Bush Presidency Richmond Times-Dispatch Robin Beres White House Video: Humorous ABC News interview with George W. and Laura Bush

President George W. Bush is a gracious man with the wisdom of one who has observed, listened, and learned along his life's journey. Thi...

McDonnell kicks off opening of Powhatan State Park

8:31 PM Tukiyooo 0

It was a busy weekend but would have loved to attend Governor Bob McDonnell's kick-off of the opening of Powhatan State Park located on the banks of the James River. The <a href="http://www.timesdispatch.com/news/local/central-virginia/powhatan/gov-mcdonnell-helps-dedicate-new-state-park/article_173fbe7e-e66f-11e2-bc9d-001a4bcf6878.html">Richmond Times-Dispatch</a> reported: <blockquote>The park, the 36th in the state’s park system, is the first to open in central Virginia since 1946. On the river’s southern bank, it sits on 1,564 acres with 2.5 miles of river frontage. The land, in the northwestern corner of Powhatan County, was previously part of the property of the neighboring Beaumont Correctional Center.</blockquote>With more than 1,500 acres, the park is the 36th in the state park system. <a href="http://www.wric.com/story/22773933/new-va-state-park-to-host-mountain-bike-center">WRIC TV-8 reported</a>: <blockquote>The governor also announced funding of $50,000 to serve as seed money in developing an International Mountain Biking Association ride center at the park. The park will eventually include camping, cabins and other improvements.</blockquote>The land is very familiar to my husband who grew up in that part of the Commonwealth so we hope to soon check out this latest edition to the Commonwealth's state parks.

McDonnell kicks off opening of Powhatan State Park

Beaumont Correctional Center Bob McDonnell Richmond Times-Dispatch Virginia state parks WRIC McDonnell kicks off opening of Powhatan State Park

It was a busy weekend but would have loved to attend Governor Bob McDonnell's kick-off of the opening of Powhatan State Park located on ...

LTE: 'Abortion should never have been politicized'

7:57 PM Tukiyooo 0

On July 2, 2013, my step-dad Calvin T. Lucy was the CORRESPONDENT OF THE DAY for the Richmond Times-Dispatch. <a href="http://www.timesdispatch.com/opinion/correspondent-of-the-day-for-july/article_0491be42-4f22-5ccc-a7cb-73c3a2f84e5b.html">Abortion ... does it need to be politicized?</a> Editor, Times-Dispatch: Recently, on your Editorial and Op/Ed pages, two writers came to essentially the same conclusion concerning the belief that the abortion issue can never be resolved politically. In a letter, Read F. Goode Jr. stated, “The sheer fact abortion has remained a front page, red-hot issue every single day since its legalization is de facto evidence that some issues cannot reach a national consensus.” On the Op/Ed page, Robert Sarvis was quoted on several issues, including abortion. He stated: “The absolutism on the (abortion) issue is ruining our political discourse. I think most voters would like some relief from the demonization and over-the-top rhetoric coming from both sides.” The desired relief has been staring thinking voters in the face for several years. The politicization of abortion has been one of the most terrible political errors in recent history; in that it will never be resolvable on the national, state and local levels simply because it is a highly personal issue resolvable one case at a time only by collaboration between a woman, her spouse, her pastor and her doctor. The conclusion and relief is that wise Republicans will immediately take steps to remove all aspects of abortion from political platforms, stating that it should never have been politicized in the first place, regardless of how rosy and vote-rich it appeared to be. Wise people will recall the Serenity Prayer: “God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.” That wisdom has been in short supply for decades. Calvin T. Lucy. Midlothian.

LTE: 'Abortion should never have been politicized'

abortion Calvin T. Lucy Correspondent of the Day editorial Lynn R. Mitchell Midlothian Richmond Times-Dispatch LTE: 'Abortion should never have been politicized'

On July 2, 2013, my step-dad Calvin T. Lucy was the CORRESPONDENT OF THE DAY for the Richmond Times-Dispatch. Abortion ... does it need to b...

Va Gubernatorial Race: Debating debates ... 5 or 15?

6:09 AM Tukiyooo 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVuIFLvMtj-pGLeMo2K7RDARmWKdOK57LMmkiF-kips04yD350hE8HjRi2pNgswHaV7ZzNlBYO7FIWR8kwGfeksYEU6AAs4jOnPx7Cc96W5o7IiDtgMLMi5grZ5ID-lFWavx56-vmuQ5FQ/s1600/Debate+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVuIFLvMtj-pGLeMo2K7RDARmWKdOK57LMmkiF-kips04yD350hE8HjRi2pNgswHaV7ZzNlBYO7FIWR8kwGfeksYEU6AAs4jOnPx7Cc96W5o7IiDtgMLMi5grZ5ID-lFWavx56-vmuQ5FQ/s200/Debate+1.jpg" width="200" /></a></div> The issue of Virginia gubernatorial debates has the attention of <a href="http://www.timesdispatch.com/news/state-regional/government-politics/schapiro-debate-over-debates-spotlights-candidates-flaws/article_eee73985-5125-5386-9c4f-920de6cca261.html">Jeff Schapiro</a> at the Richmond Times-Dispatch as well as <a href="http://politics.blogs.timesdispatch.com/2013/06/18/debating-debates/">Jim Nolan</a>. Republican Ken Cuccinelli wants 15 debates. Democrat Terry McAuliffe says the already-agreed upon five will be enough and is in line with 2005 and 2009. Whichever it ends up being, political maneuvering will be involved....

Va Gubernatorial Race: Debating debates ... 5 or 15?

gubernatorial debate Jeff Schapiro Jim Nolan Ken Cuccinelli Richmond Times-Dispatch Terry McAuliffe Va Gubernatorial Race: Debating debates ... 5 or 15?

The issue of Virginia gubernatorial debates has the attention of Jeff Schapiro at the Richmond Times-Dispatch as well as Jim Nolan . Repub...

McDonnell's years of work lead to voting rights restoration ... Cuccinelli jumps on board

8:21 AM Tukiyooo 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6k_mb12nXU-bSUyM840DbivBHAd9TVcdf72XwtjUrqjr9Fy822sdPe-D1qyBawjcmgrnhhtZwGBHFPCSaRTaMwNksvy_EylsEmcqKEzGG93nG4nghZSx3uKZ65vZIKv5YNhnqVLj6JioI/s1600/Bob+McDonnell+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6k_mb12nXU-bSUyM840DbivBHAd9TVcdf72XwtjUrqjr9Fy822sdPe-D1qyBawjcmgrnhhtZwGBHFPCSaRTaMwNksvy_EylsEmcqKEzGG93nG4nghZSx3uKZ65vZIKv5YNhnqVLj6JioI/s320/Bob+McDonnell+6.jpg" width="220" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Photo by Lynn R. Mitchell</div> Since 2010, Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell has restored the voting rights of 4,843 nonviolent felons, a campaign goal the Republican leader has pursued for years. Effective July 15, he will automatically restore those rights to nonviolent felons on an individual basis, writes reporter Olympia Meola at the <a href="http://www.timesdispatch.com/news/state-regional/government-politics/article_08d1b42c-c80c-11e2-8950-0019bb30f31a.html">Richmond Times-Dispatch</a>: <blockquote>Gov. Bob McDonnell today will announce that he is automatically restoring the voting rights of nonviolent felons on an individual basis. The sweeping administrative action -- while not an instantaneous blanket restoration -- is as far as the governor can go within current Virginia law, administration officials said. ... Janet Kelly, Secretary of the Commonwealth, added, "We are on the as-soon-as-possible timeline." </blockquote>Wednesday's announcement is just the latest installment on an issue McDonnell has been working on since the beginning of his administration. Reporter Meola explained the process: <blockquote>McDonnell's change applies only to nonviolent felons. Under current procedures, there is a two-year waiting period before a nonviolent felon can apply for restoration of rights. Under the current process, the governor does not have to approve any particular application. McDonnell is removing the waiting period and the subjectivity. Once the administration verifies that a nonviolent felon has completed his sentence and probation or parole, and paid all fines and restitution, the governor will send the person a letter restoring his rights, provided the individual has no pending felony or misdemeanor charges.</blockquote>Staff members have said that former prosecutor McDonnell believes in punishment but he also believes in redemption and opportunity. "Virginia is one of only four states to permanently take away the right to vote from citizens with felony convictions," write <a href="http://www.timesdispatch.com/opinion/their-opinion/columnists-blogs/guest-columnists/article_c18839be-533d-59b2-b534-1141836873f8.html">Darrell K. White and Mark Croston</a> at the Times-Dispatch. White, president of the Baptist General Convention, and Croston, president of the Virginia Baptist State Convention, noted that "restoring voting rights sends the message that citizens who want a second chance are welcome as full members of our communities," and added: <blockquote>Gov. Bob McDonnell understands this. A man of deep Christian faith himself, he has repeatedly called on the General Assembly to pass a constitutional amendment to automatically restore rights to people with nonviolent felony convictions upon completion of their sentences. “Once individuals have served their time, and paid their fines, restitution and other costs, they should have the opportunity to rejoin society as fully contributing members,” McDonnell said in a January statement. “As a nation that believes in redemption, we want more productive citizens and fewer people returning to prison.” ... Unfortunately, the governor’s pleas to the legislature have gone unheeded. The General Assembly has refused to pass several proposals for automatic voting rights restoration, leaving no further legislative options. But there is another way. While Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli recently announced his view that McDonnell does not have the constitutional authority to issue an executive order to automatically restore civil rights for citizens with felony convictions after they have completed their sentences, we disagree with that analysis. The Virginia Constitution makes it clear that the governor has the exclusive power to do so, making a difference for hundreds of thousands of citizens who have paid their debts to society. </blockquote>Perhaps in a bit of "me, too" campaign enthusiasm, Republican gubernatorial candidate Ken Cuccinelli jumped the Governor's planned announcement with one of his own on Tuesday. <a href="http://hamptonroads.com/2013/05/cuccinelli-has-change-heart-felons-voting-rights">Virginian-Pilot</a> reporter Julian Walker took a look at Cuccinelli's change of heart<a href="http://hamptonroads.com/2013/05/cuccinelli-has-change-heart-felons-voting-rights"></a>: <blockquote>Time and again during his state Senate service, Ken Cuccinelli opposed attempts to change Virginia’s Constitution so certain nonviolent felons automatically regain their voting rights. Now, the attorney general and Republican gubernatorial candidate has positioned himself at the vanguard of efforts to improve the state’s rights-restoration process, saying he has had a change of heart.</blockquote>Governor McDonnell has public opinion on his side as well as the Baptist Assembly, the Catholic Conference of Virginia, the United Methodist Church, and the Presbyterian Church USA, proving once again to be a leader who is willing to fight for the issues that are important for Virginians.

McDonnell's years of work lead to voting rights restoration ... Cuccinelli jumps on board

Bob McDonnell Janet Kelly Julian Walker Ken Cuccinelli Lynn R. Mitchell nonviolent felons Richmond Times-Dispatch Virginian-Pilot McDonnell's years of work lead to voting rights restoration ... Cuccinelli jumps on board

Photo by Lynn R. Mitchell Since 2010, Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell has restored the voting rights of 4,843 nonviolent felons, a campai...

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