THYME Magazine

Citizen Journalism with a Better Flavor


Volume V, Issue VII

Rising Independents, A New Voice

In the last issue of THYME, we looked at The Art of Leadership [click to read], specifically as it relates to the diversity of representation in Israel's Knesset. The American two-party system seems to dictate sort of an all-in or all-out rolling possession. Yet Augusta County's Independent Supervisors might just have set a precedent for how we might govern in a way that better represents the people.

Independent Thinking in Augusta County

"What's your guy, Karaffa, up to?" my neighbor asked me, "he's talking about RAISING taxes!" He was referring to the recent debate over a personal property tax increase as opposed to 'borrowing' from the capital fund? Conventional wisdom has it that the Conservative will NEVER raise taxes, but conventional wisdom often fails to dig deeper and examine the nuance and complexities of actual problems.

My response was that a little background was in order. First of all, the new Board of Supervisors came into a situation where everyone knew tough choices were in order. Then candidates Karaffa, Pattie, Michaels and Pyles devoted much of the campaign to informing the electorate. They held town hall meetings and laid out the needs of educators and public safety people. They referenced the last botched reappraisal but offered solutions.

The debate over providing essential services/tax increases was held in the open. The skewed appraisals had resulted in a decrease in funding returned from Richmond. Now it was time for the hard choices. Debate over whether or not to use capital fund money occured at a reasonable point in the debate (and in the open), then the tax debate was again held in public view. In the end, none of us likes paying more car tax, we would like Richmond to pony up, but unlike Washington, Augusta has to pass a real budget.

If you were listening, no promises were broken. Hard decisions were weighed and made. In 2011, in the wake of a flawed assessment process and a host of other concerns, David Karaffa, Kurt Michael and Marshall Pattie, along with sitting supervisor Tracy Pyles had begun their respective campaigns as independents promising just such open debate.

Boots on the Ground -- Door to Door

Tommy Kelly, Karaffa's campaign manager, recalls how they laid out a strategy to personally knock on as many doors as they could, taking their message directly to the voters. Capitalizing on the feeling of disenfranchisement many had after the assessment debacle, the independent candidates laid out a comprehensive overview of the issues they promised to address. In the end, three of the four candidates Won Seats [click to read]. The campaign showed that, at least on a local level, a richer representation of the people could be achieved.

Though painted as in 'lockstep' by the Media [click to read], the candidates themselves brought a new depth of diverse ideas to the board. Hearty open debate makes for good governance when the parties involved come with a commitment to serve their constituents and address their concerns.

Conventional wisdom has it that this works on a local level but is much more difficult at the State level. As Lt. Governor Bill Bolling contemplates an independent run for Governor, he faces the hard truth that he's polling in the mid-teens. He would need to be hitting thirty per-cent to have a real chance of winning.

Chris Graham of the Augusta Free Press [click to read] says: "There is a silver lining in the numbers, which have Bolling viewed significantly more favorably than either of the presumptive major-party nominees. The survey from Public Policy Polling had Bolling with a roughly 2-to-1 favorable/unfavorable rating among voters with an opinion of his job performance."

So with McAuliffe and Cuccinelli, the Democrat and Republican presumptive nominees both enjoying much more limited support, here's one analyst who thinks Bolling might be able to pull it off. The trick will be reaching the voters directly in a much larger arena.

This week the 'other' weekly news magazine features: The Rise of the Drones [click to read].

THYME Magazine

Citizen Journalism with a Better Flavor


Volume IV, Issue XLIII

The Tradition of Public Service

Bill Bolling, Virginia's Lieutenant Governor, was in Waynesboro [click to read]  Saturday. He spoke candidly about the challenges facing Virginia and the nation. Bill Bolling was first elected to serve as the 40th Lieutenant Governor of Virginia in 2005 after campaigning throughout the state and in Augusta County. Re-elected in 2009, he was appointed as Virginia’s Chief Jobs Creation Officer to serve in Governor Bob McDonnell’s cabinet where he has worked with the Governor on getting the Commonwealth’s economy going again and creating jobs. Certainly Mr. Bolling is responsible for much of the health of Virginia's economy today.

Perhaps Bill Bolling's best lesson of the morning was what he didn't say. While candidly adressing issues that should concern every voter this November, Bolling avioded personal attacks and hearsay. He spoke as a statesman and a public servant, looking to build consensus and solve problems.

Indeed, he was in a place where people wanted to hear constructive dialogue. Augusta County's three Independent supervisors were on hand. These candidates ran on the promise of doing the people's business in plain view of the people. They have done so. Media pundits and cartoonists may have painted them as in lockstep, but the recent discussion of tax issues should have put that notion to rest. "What's happening with your guy Karaffa?", a friend recently asked; "he's talking about RAISING taxes!" I assured my friend that he was now being made party to a necessary discussion of funding LOCAL responsibilities, such as schools.

In the discussion of how to deal with a shortfall in revenues necessary to fund essentials, the Supervisors debated using money from the Capital Fund or increasing the car tax. In the end, the discussion was a healthy excercise in public servanthood. The discussion was not in some closed meeting, but in plain view.

Bill Bolling has been able to work with a diverse group of people and agencies to make economic progress possible. He is a shining example of someone with deeply held convictions who can find areas of agreement and forge real solutions to problems.


Passing the torch: North River Supervisor Marshall Pattie introduces his Son to Lt. Governor Bill Bolling at the SWAC Breakfast on Saturday.

Lynn Has More Photos [click to read] of the SWAC Breakfast in Waynesboro.

New Leadership for the Twenty-first Century

David Karaffa is Sworn in as Supervisor


David is sworn in... Photo by Lynn Mitchell.


...surrounded by four generations of family. Photo by Lynn Mitchell.


The campaign staff pose with David. Photo by Lynn Mitchell.


We worked hard and had a lot of fun. (Can you tell)? Photo by Lynn Mitchell.


Celebrating a new era in young Conservative leadership, we look forward to meeting new challenges in the days ahead. Photo by Lynn Mitchell.

Lynn Has More [click to read]. On January 3rd, Augusta County history was written as David Karaffa took the oath of office. Supported by his family and friends, David took on the huge task of running an independent campaign. He knocked on a lot of doors. He taught more than he campaigned, showing citizens how the process worked so that they would understand how government works, how essental services are provided and paid for, and how representative government requires the involvement of informed constituents.

David asked people to get involved in their own government and they did, propelling him to office as Beverley Manor's newest supervisor.

Along the way he had great support from four generations of family. His Grandmother Lucille worked at the polls. His young daughters watched him teach the ultimate civics lesson. His father, Dr. David Karaffa, proudly stumped for his son's campaign.

As we gathered to celebrate,I could not help but echo Santiago's sentiment: "I live in a good town." Many of us had been touched by this fine family. My daughter found her best friend and soulmate in Kurt Michael's Governors' School class, she is the daughter of David's uncle. One of the greatest joys of the evening was in hearing just how many of us had been blessed through our association with the Karaffa family.

I feel that the legacy I speak of is still in its opening chapter.

The People Have Spoken in Augusta County

Historic Vote for a New Board of Supervisors


David Karaffa's distinctive blue signs were seen at polling places such as this one at Victory Worship Center. Photo by Dr. David Karaffa.

History was made on November 8th 2011 as three of four independent contenders for seats on the Augusta County Board of Supervisors won their respective elections.

Lynn Remembers How it Began [click to read]. David Karaffa has stepped up to offer new energy and fresh perspective to our board.

"It was a long journey for 28-year-old David Karaffa to his victory Tuesday night for the Beverley Manor District supervisor position in Augusta County. Fourteen months earlier he had decided to run for the position. He spent months learning the business of local government as he visited with workers in the Government Center, soaking in the new-found knowledge about water pipes and fire services and infrastructure and the budget process." -- Lynn Mitchell

For all of us who know David and share his vision, yesterday's victory marks an important beginning. We, the voters, have placed the future fiscal and institutional health of our county in good hands.

Augusta Co. BOS-Beverly Manor Dist.
100% OF PRECINCTS REPORTING
> David Karaffa 602 51%
Jeremy Shifflett 564 48%

Augusta Co. BOS-N. River Dist.
100% OF PRECINCTS REPORTING
> Marshall Pattie 1,498 64%
Larry Roller 555 24%
Stephen Morris 272 12%

Augusta Co. BOS-Pastures Dist.
100% OF PRECINCTS REPORTING
> Tracy Pyles 1,086 65%
James Warren 580 35%

Augusta Co. BOS-Wayne Dist.
100% OF PRECINCTS REPORTING
> Jeffrey Moore 1,014 53%
Kurt Michael 888 47%
___________________________________________________

School Board Race [click to read] decided by one vote. Chris Foschini began his write-in campaign on the Thursday before the election. With almost no press coverage and volunteers passing out sample ballots on election day, Mr. Foschini lost to write -in candidate Lee Godfrey by One Vote! Think your vote doesn't matter? Think again!
___________________________________________________

The Rise of the Independents [click to read] by Lynn Mitchell is a good piece of analysis of what happened Tuesday. She comments on a prediction by former Delegate Chris Saxman:

"There are several heavily contested races here in Augusta County for the Board of Supervisors. Two former chairmen of their respective parties – Kurt Michael and Marshall Pattie are running as Independents along with other Independents like David Karaffa. The primary issue goes back to a botched tax assessment and turnout is expected to be high. This is a very interesting case study in the growing trend towards independents running outside of the party structures. I expect several if not all of them to win."

David Karaffa, Eve of Election

"The People Have a Choice Here in Augusta. "


David Karaffa and his wife, Katie.

This Tuesday’s election has caught attention in the last week. Many things have been said by me, my opponent, the newspapers, blogs, and emails. Boiled down, the people of Beverley Manor, and three other districts, have a choice here in Augusta. Do we continue with what we have had for the last four years on the Board of Supervisors or do we change direction with new representation.

I am honored to have the endorsement of The News Virginian and of Jim Bailey, Republican Supervisor of the Beverley Manor District from 2001-2007. I have also had the privilege of multiple Volunteer Fire Fighters on my campaign along with Letters to The Editor in both newspapers supporting my bid for supervisor.

I am married to my beautiful wife Katie; we have two children, Grace and Hope. I have a degree in applied sciences from Blue Ridge Community College with a focus in nursing. I am a conservative, and I am running as an Independent for the Board of Supervisors. As an Independent, I am answerable to the people not constrained by party affiliation. I believe in small government, property rights, and government transparency, low taxes, and proper funding for education. I am pro-life and believe in our right to bear arms. If voters are confused about whom the Republican is in this race, it probably stems from the fact that my ideas and principles are directly in line with common sense conservatives. But I am more than that, I think outside the box. I don’t believe in voting as a block or gang, however I do believe in working together for common goals. I believe government has its place in our society and that the role of an elected Representative should be making sure core services are provided responsibly and efficiently, holding down growth of government, and shrinking its intrusion into our lives.

I have many ideas on how we can improve Augusta County. For example, I support immediately beginning a new property assessment and implementing a tax holiday for new small businesses in their first year. I have a proposal on how to lessen the burden of accounting for small business assets, incentives for volunteer fire fighters to increase their ranks, and changing the county budget to a zero based process. I am also in favor of staggering the elections of our Board of Supervisors here in Augusta.

This election is about new ideas and a new direction and an opportunity to put conservative values back on the Board of Supervisors. I ask you, the voter, to take the time between now and tomorrow to research the issues and make an informed decision before coming to the polls.

Thank you.

David A. Karaffa

Candidate Beverley Manor District

www.davidkaraffa.com

Karaffa: Creativity in Seeking Solutions

Understanding a Problem is the First Step in Solving it


Senators Webb and Warner were 'absent' this year when citizens demanded town hall meetings. David Karaffa held one anyway.

Here's one I'd forgotten, but the good staff at the News Virginian reminded me of the Town Hall Meeting that David Karaffa held to spotlight the problems with the President's health care bill and how our senators were avoiding the voters. The paper correctly points out that Karaffa is a well informed young man with an uncanny ability to make the complex understandable.

We need his sharp mind on the Augusta County Board of Supervisors. David has the ability to take apart the tough issues facing our county and involve the voters in the solutions.

A Healthy Dose of 'Vitamin I'

Independent Candidates Offer Fresh Vision


David Karaffa brings a solid Conservative perspective to the process of solving problems facing local government.

On the Appalachian Trail, 'Vitamin I' refers to Ibuprofen, the friend of hurting hikers. Ibuprofen allows people to hike on, not listening to their aching knees and ankles, often hurting themselves in the long run.

The 'Vitamin I' that I refer to, however, is the fresh voice of young Conservative candidates running as Independents in our county supervisors' races. Rather than mask the pain of our current situation, these candidates create constructive dialogue that must proceed the tough choices that will be required in the upcoming session. By spotlighting tough issues, these candidates alert us to problems that must be solved before they cause bigger pain down the road.

Consider the needs of our Volunteer Fire Companies. We are losing volunteers at a rate that could lead to the demise of this essential community protection that neighbors provide for each other. Investment is necessary to retain and recruit these fine people. A property tax credit of up to $750, reimbursement for mileage and for training expenses go a long way to show our practical appreciation for these first responders.

In a lean economy, government must ensure that essential education needs are met. Open budgets need to be scrutinized and seriously discussed by all who will be affected. Tough choices need to be handled wisely. David Karaffa, Kurt Michael and Marshall Pattie, along with sitting supervisor Tracy Pyles, will spend the time it takes to work with the school board, educators and the taxpayers to make the process clear and understandable.

State monies, paid by us the taxpayers, must be fairly allocated. To that end the unrealistic valuations of the last assessment must be corrected. The formula for allocating state funds depends on fair assessed values. Our inflated valuations cause us to receive less than our share. Our new supervisors will be committed to correcting this problem.

Economic development is a key element for all of these candidates, who see vital work for the next generation of Augusta County citizens as an imperative. We cannot afford to remain known as the county that 'dissed' Toyota. With involved individuals on our board we can attract new industry and still retain the unique agricultural character of our region.

With the recent loss of Roger Zirkle, a great gap was felt in our school board. With no time to place names on the ballot, Lee Godfrey, who had previously sought this office as a Democrat, began a write in campaign. Ms. Godfrey, unfortunately, represents a more liberal perspective than that of most citizens of the district. She has actively participated in anti-war rallys and could be a vote against Weekday Religious Education and issues of parents' rights should they come before the board.

Once again an Independent Conservative voice entered the race when local business owner Chris Foschini threw his hat into the ring. Now voters in the Beverley Manor District will be able to choose a candidate (also a write-in) who actually reflects their values and concerns. A parent, with one son in the Army and two younger children in Augusta schools, Chris wants to see practical steps to train students for their future lives as citizens. Observing that so many problems government attempts to solve are the result of bad financial decisions, Foschini envisions a mandatory financial requirement for high school graduates.

Fiscal Health and Local Government

New Challenges Require Clear Vision


The next board of supervisors will face some tough choices. The problems facing local governments today require thoughtful solutions rather than simple slogans.

The local newspaper said it well: "The next Augusta Board of Supervisors will have to make some difficult decisions." The phrase: "Bring me men to match my mountains." comes to mind. Indeed, the need for informed individuals willing to hammer out the hard choices has never been clearer. The recent property assessment debacle proves that well.

Nichole Gelinas in City Journal writes about the indicators of health in local and state finances. Her article: Hidden in Plain Sight [click to read] says that disclosure requirements are a step in the right direction, but they alone will not fix the situation.

Fair and Honest Property Assessments

Think of our own local government and the recent property assessment battle. The historical pattern had always been one where assessments were performed in a rather casual way to follow the then predictable rise in real estate values. Governments planned expenditures based on this pattern and boards of supervisors rubber stamped the whole process.

In a steadily growing economy there was no need for questioning reality, after all. The can kicked down the road was highly unlikely to roll back on you.

After 2006, reality changed. The appraisal and budget process that followed underscored the need for lively and open debate. Tracy Pyles, supervisor from the Pastures District, took the bold and necessary step of addressing flaws in the process that would eventually come back to bite us. The assessors were using values derived from a real estate bubble that had already burst. There was no reality in letting tax rates be driven by these numbers. Furthermore, the inflated numbers created a false report to state revenue agencies, resulting in reduced payments to the county from state taxes collected. Northern Virginia localities saw their property values reduced in a more honest process and actually received increased state funding while Augusta's was reduced.

The inability of other local elected officials to throw themselves into this debate is telling. In low-crime Mayberry, Barney Fife can keep his service revolver empty and his bullet in his pocket. If revenues can be counted on to rise 'safely,' we can afford to let the supervisors kick the can down the road, or so it might seem. Actually the need for open and honest debate is even more important when we might plan honestly for a range of contingiencies. The best reforms happen quietly and in a timely manner. They may never show up in print.

The 2011 campaign for supervisor's seats in Augusta County should create no less than a mandate for the kind of debate that will monitor county vital signs BEFORE a fiscal disaster occurs.

First Responder Support Strategies

Recent audits of Augusta's fire stations uncovered problems that beg the question: "Why didn't the board of supervisors impliment key elements of a fire plan they commissioned?" David Karaffa, candidate for Beverley Manor District Supervisor proposes some strong steps to support our volunteer community. Property tax credit of up to $750 is a great incentive for someone like an artisan farmer who is willing to give her time to protecting the community as a fire fighter/EMT. Reimbursement for mileage and training also help her with practical support as she provides real safety to the county. Tuition credits for young first responders would enhance recruitment of the next generation.

Supporting the volunteer community now makes perfect sense. This 'stitch in time' response to volunteer support would help to preserve the ideal of self-protecting community service. At the same time, Karaffa suggests, we need to unfreeze and fill key paid positions.

Education as a Priority

Seeing an educated population as a key element of economic development, Karaffa says: "Education is vital for our economy, our children, our government, and our future. If elected, I will work side by side with the school board in terms of budgeting and other needs to make sure that every dollar put toward education is used to its fullest and not wasted. I will frequently be checking in with the school board representatives and will attend their meetings to hear the concerns of the parents in our community." Believe him. As the parent of two young daughters, he's concerned that monies reach the classroom. He's already going to more meetings than some people who are already elected and makes a practice of informing himself going into decisions.

Fiscal Responsibility and Accountability to the People

David Karaffa supports budget process where the people are given the opportunity to see the actual figures before the budget is voted on. Openness, he feels, would be a great deterrant to unnecessary and frivolous spending. A quesionable hundred-thousand dollar expenditure on new cell phones for county employees might well have been cut before unnecessary spending occurred. In an era of tightened belts and necessary sacrifice, it is refreshing to see a new generation of candidates who see tax revenues as the people's money.

Note: The Author of this post actively serves in the campaign of David Karaffa for Supervisor.

The Most Important Level of Government...

Bumper Stickers Seen on Greenville Avenue


David Karaffa bumper stickers remind you to vote on November 8th. Be sure to check if your local polling place has changed due to redistricting.

Thinking Independently in Augusta County

Four Contenders for Board Offer Fresh Vision


Supervisor Tracy Pyles led the drive to respond to citizen concerns about property assessments, often acting alone as the 'conscience' of the BOS...

There is already much press about the 'Tea Party' and its effect on the way things are done in government. Some see it as a negative force, but they need to take a close look at what's happening in Augusta County.

Augusta County provides a wonderful example of just such a scenario. A while back the sitting board of supervisors pretty much rubber-stamped a skewed appraisal of property values. They accepted the new, higher valuations without much question. Tax rates, they said, could be adjusted after the fact.

The problem came when the 'suddenly' more prosperous county saw the formula for allocating State revenues now worked against them. Schools and public safety functions were suddenly strapped for funds as the return of collected tax revenues dropped based on the county's 'jump' in prosperity -- at least on paper.

One lone supervisor, Tracy Pyles of Pastures District, did the math BEFORE the vote. He became the 'conscience' of the board as he attempted to bring the realities of the situation to light. He proposed a motion to return to the more realistic valuations that were in place before the mass appraisals. Only one other supervisor joined him in voting for the rollback.

This November County residents will have the opportunity to elect three more candidates who share Pyles' vision of honest representative government. David Karaffa, Dr. Kurt Michael and Dr. Marshall Pattie are all running in separate districts, and they all want to talk about substantive issues. Together with Pyles they are hosting a townhall meeting this Wednesday, June 15, 7:00pm at the Verona Government Center. The meeting is the first of a series designed to inform citizens and bring them into the process of responsible government.

Citizens are encouraged to come out and hear the candidates' vision for themselves. My feeling is that the mainstream media will largely miss the historic nature of this gathering. You will need to be there in person.


...he is joined this election cycle by a bipartisan group of candidates who share his vision.

SWAC Girl Reports on the Meeting [click to read].
The News Leader Reports on the Meeting [click to read].
WHSV TV Reports on the Meeting [click to read].
NBC 29 Reports on the Meeting [click to read].

Putting America Back to Work [click to read].
Here's some historical perspective that supports the vision put forth by Tracy Pyles for economic development. Says Pyles: "We're not competing against Staunton and Waynesboro... we're competing with the world."

Econonic Development: "As the DuPont Plant continued to grow, so did Waynesboro... Waynesboro grew by 27 percent in the 1950's to reach a population of 15,694 by 1960. Medium income in 1959 was $6154 and 17 percent had incomes over $10,000. Waynesboro was a manufacturing town with 5,817 people directly employed in manufacturing. Over half of those jobs were at DuPont." [1.]

Tracy Pyles referenced the interest by Toyota in building a plant in Augusta County. The plant would have most likely created the same sort of opportunty that DuPont did in the 1960's.

1. A Short History of the Waynesboro DuPont Plant [click to read] by Ashley E. Stanley

A New Vision for Board of Supervisors

Four Candidates who Matter Make a Statement


Dr. Marshall Pattie is running for the seat in the North River District.

Four candidates for the Augusta County Board of Supervisors will host a townhall meeting on June 15, 2011, the first of a series of such meetings hosted by the candidates to be held at the Government Center in Verona at 7:00 p.m. Their message is refreshing and straightforward, as evidenced by this joint statement:

"We believe in an open, responsive government that is smart enough to understand that hearing from our bosses, the voters, more often than every 4 years makes us a better government.

We believe that economic development needs to be more professionally driven than politically and bureaucratically driven.

We believe that Fire and Rescue needs to be more professionally driven and less politically and bureaucratically driven.

We believe that the Board of Supervisors has stumbled and failed to secure and provide the fair funding historically due the Augusta School Board.

We believe that delaying relief from land values done during the best of times hurts us now in these worst of times.

We hope to show that when people work together, putting aside party and personal interests, consensus can be reached with the people being the beneficiaries rather than those making the decisions. We hope to demonstrate the individual knowledge and principles of each of us such that the public will have confidence both in our corporate vision and our individual resolve."

--David Karaffa, Dr. Kurt Michael, Dr. Marshall Pattie, Supervisor Tracy Pyles

Lynn Has More [click to read]. If you have felt frustrated that your vote might not make a difference, Tuesday, November 8th, 2011 will be your day!

THYME Magazine

Citizen Journalism with a Better Flavor


Volume III, Issue XVII

THYME's Guide to the Most Influential

If, as Jefferson states, "the most important level of politics is local," then it follows that the most important political figures are those who represent your own community.

While the 'other' weekly news magazine looks for its 100 most influential people, THYME went looking for the heroes of hometown politics. We didn't have far to go.

Augusta County, Virginia is situated at the junction of two major US interstates but is still a fine mix of rural and urban elements. Manufacturing, Agriculture and Transportation exist in a balance that makes the area desirable as home or as a potential business location.

The mix that makes Augusta rich in potential also creates unique challenges for local government. Old paradigms are not adequate for addressing these challenges.

Fortunately Augusta is seeing a renaissance in citizen involvement in the process that should inspire people across the fruited plain.

Every Election Matters Now

Typically 'off-year' elections were uninspiring events with low turnout and predictable outcomes. That was before Augusta's current board of supervisors rubber stamped a fatally flawed assessment and set in motion a citizen protest directed at their lack of having a voice in Verona [the seat of the Government Center].

The unrealistic assessment numbers resulted in reduced distribution of state revenues. Public safety and education resources were understandably stretched. Pastures supervisor Tracy Pyles is already in the fight, having previously introduced a motion to discard the new assessment. This election cycle sees some new candidates stepping forward to seek seats in other districts. David Karaffa is running for the position in the Beverley Manor District and Dr. Kurt Michael in adjoining Wayne.

Here are candidates who are stepping up to create solutions in such areas as fire protection. They are putting together real proposals for real problems. They deserve a hearing and your vote on November 8th.

Look for another important hat being thrown into the ring on April 30th. Augusta County will become a model for other localities to follow. Jason Bibeau invites all concerned citizens to come out to the Government Center at 9:00am this coming Saturday. THYME will have more on this important story as it unfolds.

Update:

Jason Bibeau, 38, a resident of Fishersville, will announce his candidacy for Augusta County Treasurer Saturday, April 30, 2011, at 9:00 a.m. at the Augusta County Government Center, 16 Government Center Ln., Verona, VA, 24482

"Dutch Treat" Breakfast to follow announcement at Staunton Shoney's in front private dining room.

Why You MUST Vote in the 2011 Election

Augusta County Election Presents Unique Opportunity

Candidate for Wayne District Supervisor, Dr. Kurt Michael holds a copy of the Augusta Fire Report.

Much ink has been spilled in the press over the woes of local governments in the wake of today's difficult times. I recently listened to a news report bemoaning the fact that across the nation it is hard to find qualified candidates to run for local office. Politics has aquired a bad name and people simply don't have a sense of serving their community anymore.

I am happy to report that that is not the case in Augusta County where Saturday saw another excellent candidate enter the race for county supervisor. Dr. Kurt Michael, a respected educator, announced his bid from the Preston Yancey Fire Company in Fishersville. In addition to his understanding of educational issues, Dr. Michael showed a keen understanding of the need to develop real support for our community's volunteer first responders. The person who rushes into a structure fire to save lives [at the risk of his or her own] gives untold hours to service and training, pays for a lot of their own equipment and uses his or her own gas to get to the fire station.

Support for the volunteer community is crucial and will involve some hard choices. Reimbursing milege, training and equipment costs will help the county retain these valuable citizens in service and is a fiscally responsible alternative to allowing volunteer service to wither. You see, leaders who serve will lead others to serve. That is a deep part of the American Dream I know.

David Karaffa makes complex issues understandable and will make the office of supervisor accountable to the people.

Staunton's Alex Davis introduces Dr. Kurt Michael.

Fiscal Health and Local Government

Visible Debate by Visible Lawmakers... A Healthy Sign


The Augusta County Government Center.

Nichole Gelinas in City Journal writes about the indicators of health in local and state finances. Her article: Hidden in Plain Sight [click to read] says that disclosure requirements are a step in the right direction, but they alone will not fix the situation.

Think of our own local government and the recent property assessment battle. The historical pattern had always been one where assessments were performed in a rather casual way to follow the then predictable rise in real estate values. Governments planned expenditures based on this pattern and boards of supervisors rubber stamped the whole process.

In a steadily growing economy there was no need for questioning reality, after all. The can kicked down the road was highly unlikely to roll back on you.

After 2006, reality changed. The appraisal and budget process that followed underscored the need for lively and open debate. Tracy Pyles, supervisor from the Pastures District, took the bold and necessary step of addressing flaws in the process that would eventually come back to bite us. The assessors were using values derived from a real estate bubble that had already burst. There was no reality in letting tax rates be driven by these numbers. Furthermore, the inflated numbers created a false report to state revenue agencies, resulting in reduced payments to the county from state taxes collected.

The inability of other local elected officials to throw themselves into this debate is telling. In low-crime Mayberry, Barney Fife can keep his service revolver empty and his bullet in his pocket. If revenues can be counted on to rise 'safely,' we can afford to let the supervisors kick the can down the road, or so it might seem. Actually the need for open and honest debate is even more important when we might plan honestly for a range of contingiencies. The best reforms happen quietly and in a timely manner. They may never show up in print.

The 2011 campaign for supervisor's seats in Augusta County should create no less than a mandate for the kind of debate that will monitor county vital signs BEFORE a fiscal disaster occurs.

Note: The Author of this post actively serves in the campaign of David Karaffa for Supervisor.


Taking a different path. Governor McDonnell in support of Governor Walker.

Karaffa Campaign Kickoff

A Chilly Saturday Morning at the Government Center


A light dusting of snow at the Augusta County Government Center. The temperature was around 27 degrees but the wind made it seem colder.


Dr. David Karaffa introduces his son David...


...who spoke of his vision to involve the citizens in the solutions as our next supervisor.


The campaign is underway. Here David and Alex Davis show us a bumper sticker.


David talks with Lynn (SWAC Girl) Mitchell.

Mr. Karaffa Goes to Verona

"The Most Important Level of Government is Local"
--Thomas Jefferson


David Karaffa puts on the first bumper sticker.

David Karaffa will be announcing his candidacy for the Augusta County Board of Supervisors on Saturday, January 8th at 10:00am at the Government Center in Verona.
The entire event will last about 20 minutes and all local media are invited to attend. Come out and hear what David has planned for Augusta County. Please let your neighbors know, all are invited.

www.DavidKaraffa.com

Please note: I actively serve in the Karaffa Campaign. Unlike people in the MSM who try to hide their activism as they wear it on their sleeves, I will tell you clearly when I am investing myself in something that I believe in.

When I was much younger... it was in the late sixties... my Father and I were driving through the county seat. Dad pointed out the very large new county office building to make me aware of how rapidly the bureaucratic sector was growing. Recently a client of mine purchased a piece of property and had to go to the government center early in the morning. "You ought to get a picture of all the cars in the parking lot," he suggested. To a layman's eye, there would appear to be a lot of people going into that building who do not contribute to better education or public safety. Mr. Karaffa says:

"Local Government is where things really happen, where decisions are made by local representatives that immediately affect you and your family. I have attended the meetings at the Government Center in Verona and believe we can do a better job. That is why I am running for the Beverley Manor seat on the Augusta County Board of Supervisors.

We need a more open and transparent Board. We need representation that opens up issues to public input through town halls, local meetings, etc. We need fiscal responsibility here in Augusta and we need an accurate budget that includes all spending plans.

I am asking you to join with me as we work to bring open and honest government, fiscal responsibility, and individual pride in Augusta back to life."

An Issues Driven Campaign

"I believe the best government is one that the people are actively involved in. I understand that the position I am running for is that of representation and service. If elected, I will make myself available before each and every Board of Supervisors meeting for questions. I will work hard to address your concerns and respond to your questions in a timely manner.

Staggered Terms:
The Augusta County Board of Supervisors voted against staggering their election terms. I believe the terms should be staggered so the public can have a more frequent and influential part in the decisions of the Board. If elected, I will immediately work toward this goal.

Fiscal Responsibility:
One of the pillars of good government is fiscal responsibility. If elected, I would consistently vote to limit unnecessary spending and seek out ways to cut already wasteful spending practices. I would also push for the new budget to be available to the public before the Board of Supervisors takes a vote to approve it.

Taxes:
I believe that taxes collected by the government are not earned by the government; they are earned by the people and therefore should be respected in that manner. If elected, I will fight to keep local taxes low and look for ways to cut them further.

Local Property Assessment:
I believe the responsibility of the property assessment is important and the integrity of the assessment must be maintained. If elected, I will look into any case of fraud or abuse of the assessment process and will not vote to approve an assessment until I am confident it has been conducted in a fair and accurate manner.

Safety:
I have a high respect for our men and women of the Augusta County Sheriff’s Department and will work hard to address the concerns and needs that they bring to the Board of Supervisors. I understand that they are currently understaffed and if elected, will work to fill those vacant positions and strengthen their ability to uphold the law through responsible ordinances.

Fire and Rescue:
The Fire Departments in Augusta are coming under increased scrutiny due to recent audits. The issues facing our Volunteer Agencies have been dragged out in the newspapers. As a result, it is clear that action must be taken, not just in one specific station or department, but rather systemic changes that will support and strengthen our Volunteer system and encourage others to also take part in the safety and welfare of our community. If elected, I will work toward better training funds, gasoline reimbursement, and will work to unfreeze positions that need to be filled with in the Fire ranks. I will also work aggressively on a real incentive package that will encourage current Volunteers to stay on board as fire fighters and to bring new ones into the fold. I have a tremendous respect for those in the community that commit their lives in the service and care of others. If elected, I will work to make sure that these quality services continue to be available to the citizens of Augusta whenever and wherever they are needed.

Education:
Education is vital for our economy, our children, our government, and our future. If elected, I will work side by side with the school board in terms of budgeting and other needs to make sure that every dollar put toward education is used to its fullest and not wasted. I will frequently be checking in with the school board representatives and will attend their meetings to hear the concerns of the parents in our community."


The Beverley Manor District.

Why it's Time to Retire...

...The Augusta County BOS

Once Again David Karaffa Makes it Clear [click to read].

Faced with budget shortfalls the county Board of Supervisors wants to go forward with a new cell phone plan that will cost you, the taxpayer, $46,158.84 per year.

Get real! My cell phone is several years old. I'll replace it when it breaks. Then I'll buy the nicest one I can afford. That $46,158.84 per year is just the contract, not all the new Blackberries the County will buy to utilize it.

" There are more concerns with the quantity being requested, for instance the Parks and Recreation department is asking for two more phones and phone plans than it has employees."

I wasn't able to make last night's BOS meeting where this was to be discussed. I had a deadline today and had to work through the night. I hope the citizens call got through!

Update: It's $60,000.00 Now [click to read]. Citizen's got a "Service Not Available" Message from the BOS last night when they came seeking representation. Problem is we need to replace the supervisors, not the phones.

I have a suggestion for the BOS if they MUST spend $60,000.oo. Keep the old phones and hire a good art teacher!

What if they Gave a Townhall...

...and the Senators Didn't Show?

Not a problem for David Karaffa. He rented the hall, invited Senators Webb and Warner who both declined, but David set up two empty chairs [with a pitcher of water for good measure] and videoed the good citizens of Augusta County airing their concerns over HR3200 to send to the Senators on DVD! The news media did show up. Some wonderful points were made.

Brilliant solution to the Senators' reluctance to meet with the folks of the Valley!

Empty chairs for Webb and Warner.

Senators Warner and Webb...

...You're Invited

The Shenandoah Valley invites

Virginia U.S. Senators Jim Webb and Mark Warner

to a Healthcare Town Hall Meeting!!

Sunday, September 6, 20096-8 p.m.

Auditorium at Riverheads High School

Augusta County, Virginia

All Valley residents are encouraged to attend. Please bring your questions, support, or criticism.This is the Valley's opportunity to have its voice heard.
Come out and be heard!

More Details [click to read]

Principles and Ideas

David Karaffa Brought Both to the Campaign

SWAC Girl Has This Report [click to read] on the man who clearly stood on principle and brought substantial discussion of ideas to the table. The Man Who So Clearly Explained a Trillion [click to read] represents a trend I hope continues. There are so many young people who are becoming knowledgeable and articulate about the issues that affect us.

The fact that a young [25 years old] man electrified the room with substantial discussion should hearten us.

Here's the News Virginian Report [click to read] of the candidate's forum. They note that Karaffa addresses unfunded Federal mandates. Indeed, it is imperative for candidates at the state level to be well versed in matters Federal, since there is already a complex overlay of Federal involvement in matters the Tenth Amendment would have us believe belong to the states. Bob McDonnell is right to inject discussion of such issues into the governor's race.