Columns

I will be at the Moneta Library from 10 to 11:30 a.m. on June 4 for my quarterly Town Meeting.  I hope you will come by to talk about any topic you wish.  

    The bigger topics might be the budget, real estate assessments and tax bills.  The budget has been passed and the funds will be allocated at our first meeting in June.  It was a difficult budget year, as you probably saw in the papers.  We are not anticipating an easier year next year but there will not be the added complicating factor of the reassessment.

Today, the American people are facing one of the most challenging times in our nation’s history.  Our economy remains sluggish, people fear losing their jobs and their homes, and many are worried about the future their children and grandchildren will inherit. They are deeply concerned about the outlook for our great country and wonder if their children will grow up in the same America they did.  People are looking for real solutions to the problems we face. 

    Rep. Paul Ryan’s radical plan to end Medicare as we know it has met with two immediate results: defeat in the U.S. Senate, and a galvanizing point of organization for Democrats.

    Last week’s special U.S. House election in the state of New York surely gave Republicans a shock. Democrat Kathy Hochul won the race in a district that has rarely elected anyone from her party.

The unofficial kick off of summer took place this week and Smith Mountain Lake was full with those enjoying all the offerings it has.

    With the summer season upon us, the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (VDGIF) is reminding all boaters to remember some important safety tips this boating season.