Friday, February 13, 2015

2015 General Assembly session update: Week 5

The Pogge Post

2015 General Assembly 

96th District, Virginia House of Delegates     February 13, 2015
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Contact Delegate Pogge

 

During Session:

General Assembly Building

Room 403

Capitol Square

Richmond, VA 23219

804-698-1096

DelBPogge@house.virginia.gov

 

Please send mail to:

P.O. Box 196

Norge, VA 23127
 
Legislative Aide
Amanda Johnston
Amanda@brendapogge.com
This week heralded two important session markers: crossover and the celebration of Valentine's Day. 

Crossover fell on Tuesday, and the House and Senate accordingly finished work on their own legislation. The Senate is now hearing House bills, and the House is currently considering Senate legislation. Additionally, the House and Senate completed their respective budgets on Thursday. House and Senate budget conferees are now tasked with developing a final budget that incorporates elements from both versions.

Each year, Valentine's Day is celebrated with great zeal in the General Assembly. Pink and red decorations festoon offices, and the florist is a regular visitor to the building. Pictured below is my administrative assistant, Anita Schepker, surrounded by a sea of holiday decor.


The work, however, continues in Richmond. I am pleased to provide an update on the budget as well as news about my legislation that passed during the week.
Budget update
During yesterday's session, I was pleased to vote in support of the House budget. While Governor McAuliffe's proposed budget included over $10 million in new fees and $42 million in new government debt, the House budget eliminated $10.2 million in new fees and funded building projects with existing revenues.

Facing the impact of sequestration and federal tax increases, Virginians do not need additional burdens at the state level. To safeguard against future tax increases, the House also invested $99.5 million in Virginia's rainy day fund. 

Overall, the House general fund budget this year spends $1.1 billion dollars less than last year's budget.
Holding the Attorney General accountable

In a previous newsletter, I outlined my legislation requiring the Attorney General to defend the Virginia Constitution and the statutes of the Code. I am pleased to share that my House Bill 1573 passed the House of Delegates earlier this week.

 

While the Virginia Constitution requires the Attorney General to perform duties "as prescribed by law," the General Assembly is tasked with making these laws. Accordingly, my bill codifies the Attorney General's duty to defend our Constitution and the laws of the Commonwealth. Like most Virginians, I expect our elected officials to uphold the duties of their job. This bill simply clarifies the exact duties of our Attorney General.

 

Va. House approves bill forcing Herring to take cases (The Virginian-Pilot, February 10, 2015)  

 


 

Helping small businesses & tourism

Throughout the year, I meet with constituents who offer suggestions for needed legislation.  Often these commonsense requests stem from a specific problem that arises due to an ambiguity within the Code of Virginia.  Such was the impetus for my House Bill 1645, legislation authorizing bed and breakfast owners to designate areas on their property, both indoors and out, where overnight guests may consume their own lawfully acquired alcoholic beverages. While this legislation addresses the specific concern raised by my constituent, HB 1645 is pro-business, tourism-friendly legislation that will benefit all of Virginia's bed and breakfast owners who desire guests to enjoy the full use of their property. I am pleased that his legislation enjoyed the unanimous support of my House colleagues.

2015 legislative session survey results

Thank you to all who completed my 2015 General Assembly session survey.  I truly appreciate your willingness to share your perspective on the issues being debated during this year's legislative session.  Your direct input helps me better represent your views in Richmond, and I am pleased to share with you the results of my survey: 2015 Legislative Survey Results.

 

A number of topics were addressed on this year's survey.  Included questions cover taxes and spending, K-12 education, higher education, Medicaid expansion, ethics reform, and more.  Responses to several questions reflect strong opinions about the General Assembly's priorities and policy initiatives.

 

Continued opposition to Medicaid expansion is reflected in the survey, with over ninety-two percent of respondents expressing disapproval of expansion.  Likewise, your desire to reduce government spending reinforces the fact that government must remain fiscally responsible. Virginians are accustomed to living within their means, and our state government should be no different.  I remain committed to improving the lives of Virginians through job creation and an improved economy.  Underscoring this goal, however, is the recognition that citizens expect accountability from our government.  

Cable interview
Earlier this week I enjoyed the opportunity to sit down with Delegate Mason and provide a legislative update for residents of the Historic Triangle. The interview is below.
2015 VCTA Cable Reports- James City/York County- Del. Pogge and Del. Mason
2015 VCTA Cable Reports- James City/York County- Del. Pogge and Del. Mason

Around the District
Although the General Assembly is currently in Richmond, there are always opportunities for political engagement. 

Local Republican Committees

James City County Republican Committee

York County Republican Committee

 

Republican Party of Virginia Commonwealth Dinner

featuring Texas Governor Rick Perry

When: 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 24

Where: Richmond Marriott, 500 East Broad Street, Richmond, VA

Tickets and RSVP information: click HERE

 

Peninsula Lincoln Reagan Gala 

featuring The Honorable Jim Gilmore

When: 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 14, 2015 

Where: Fort Magruder Hotel & Conference Center

6945 Pocahontas Trail, Williamsburg, VA 23185

Tickets and RSVP information: click HERE 

General Assembly Visitors
Thank you to the following groups and organizations that sent representatives to Richmond this week!

Children's Hospital of the King's Daughters
Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast
Pastors (Family Foundation)
Sentara Williamsburg Regional Medical Center (David Masterson)
Virginia Association of Science Teachers (Juanita Jo Matkins)
Virginia Peninsula Association of Realtors
York County School District & School Board Members


Visitors from Virginia Peninsula Association of Realtors

If you are in Richmond, please stop by my office for a visit. To reach me by phone or email, please call 804-698-1096 or email DelBPogge@house.virginia.gov.

Enjoy your weekend!
 
Signature  
Delegate Brenda Pogge


Paid for and Authorized by Brenda Pogge for Delegate
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Brenda Pogge for Delegate | P.O. Box 196 | Norge | VA | 23127

Fwd: Worshipful Steve Randall Wiggington Obituary

Fellow Hobbyists: FYI
Thanks Al!!
Larry
 
Sent: Thursday, February 12, 2015 7:47 PM
Subject: Worshipful Steve Randall Wiggington Obituary
 
FYI
 
Al C

Steve Randall Wiggington, 60, passed away Wednesday, February 11, 2015.



Steve was born in Martinsville, VA and moved to Newport News in 1960.


He served in the United States Marine Corps as a Sergeant E-5, "Grunt", Force-Recon, Scout/ Sniper Instructor, from 1972-1978.


He restructured D&W Radiator Service to form what is now Steve's Radiator Service, Inc. in Tabb, VA and opened the current location in 1981. Steve's provides sales and services in automotive, commercial, marine and industrial heating and cooling worldwide.


Steve was raised to Master Mason in 2005 by Yorktown Lodge #205 AF&AM at George Washington Masonic Memorial in Alexandria, VA, Yorktown Lodge #205 Worshipful Master 2011 & 2012. LMIP (life membership in perpetuity ) @ Yorktown #205 AF&AM.. LMIP @Newport News Valley, Scottish Rite, 32 KCCH (active as degree master, degree teams member, reunion and other capacities.) LMIP @ Warwick Royal Arch Chapter #80. LMIP @ Langley-Monroe Chapter #310, National Sojourners. LMIP @ Peyton-Randolph Lodger of Research # 1774. LMIP @ Civil War Lodge of Research #1865. Member- Hampton Commandery #17 of Knights Templar. Member- Order of Eastern Star, York Chapter #110. Member–Acacia Council #505, Allied Masonic Degrees. Active Supporter of Masonic Home of VA and House of the Temple.


Steve resided in Newport News, VA after his Marine Corps service until 1979. He moved to Hayes, VA in 1979.
Steve is survived by two daughters, Lyndsey Marie Goines and her husband Christopher and Shelby Rae Bristol and her husband Jacob; a granddaughter Kenly Goines; his father Junior Wiggington; and a host of family and friends. He was preceded in death by his mother Katherine Wiggington.


He enjoyed hunting, fishing, golfing, cooking, camping, hiking, mountain biking/cycling and skiing (water/snow.) He was also a motorcycle enthusiast and a race (drag/NASCAR) fan, and was active in church and community services.


A funeral service will be held at 4:00 pm on Saturday, February 14, 2015, at the Scottish Rite Temple, 65 Saunders Road, Newport News, VA. The family will receive friends following the service. A Graveside service will be held at 3:00 pm on Sunday, February 15, at County Line Cemetery in Basset Virginia.
In Lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Job's Daughters, Bethel 39, P.O. Box 205, Yorktown, VA 23692.


Arrangements by Amory Funeral Home, Grafton.

 

__._,_.___

 

Wednesday, February 11, 2015

Notification: York Planning Commission Meeting @ Monthly from 7pm to 8pm on the second Wednesday (PeninsulaTeaParty.org)

York Planning Commission Meeting

7:00 PM - 7:00 PM Planning Commission Meeting
York Hall, 301 Main Street, Yorktown (map)
The Planning Commission typically meets on the second Wednesday of each month at 7:00 pm.

For more information, call the Planning Division at 757-890-3404.

View Agenda here: http://www.yorkcounty.gov/Default.aspx?tabid=1715

When
Monthly from 7pm to 8pm on the second Wednesday Eastern Time
Where
301 Main Street, Yorktown, VA (map)
Calendar
PeninsulaTeaParty.org
Who
Admin PeninsulaTeaParty.org - organizer
Robert Bruce Alexander - creator

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RSVP today! 2015 Gala with former Governor Jim Gilmore

Lincoln Reagan Gala

The Premier Fundraising & Fellowship Event 

for Virginia Peninsula Republicans

2015 Committee Members

 

Ms. Juanita Bailey

Hampton Roads

Republican Women's Club

 

Ms. Dayle Brittain

Historic Triangle

Republican Women

 

Ms. Kris Butz

York County

Republican Committee

 

Ms. Lou Call

Newport News Republican Committee

 

Mrs. Lynda Fairman

York Republican Women's Club

 

Ms. Lori Goldstein

Williamsburg City

Republican Committee


 
Ms. Amanda Johnston

James City County

Republican Committee

 

Mr. Paul Keddell

Poquoson City

Republican Committee

 

Ms. Lynda Nestor

Jamestown Heritage Republican Women


 
Mr. Matt Scott

Hampton City

Republican Committee

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Tickets now available online at www.valincolnreagangala.com 
 
2015 Lincoln Reagan Gala
  
featuring The Honorable Jim Gilmore
Former Virginia Governor
 
Saturday, March 14, 2015
 
Fort Magruder Inn and Conference Center

6945 Pocahontas Trail

Williamsburg, Virginia 23185


 

6:00 p.m. - Private Sponsor Reception with Hors d 'Oeuvres

6:30 - 9:00 p.m. - General Reception, Silent Auction & Dinner

 
A mailed invitation will be forthcoming.
Newsletter - Dance Drop Shadow Image
It's not too late to sponsor the 2015 Gala!


For more information, please call 
757-903-6311 or email LincolnReaganGala@gmail.com
Newsletter - Dance Drop Shadow Image
Special thanks to our 2015 Sponsors

Eagle

Congressman Robert Wittman

Senator Thomas Norment, Jr.

Mr. Norbert & Mrs. Maryellen Smith

 

Liberty

Delegate Gordon Helsel

 

Founder

Delegate Brenda Pogge

York-Poquoson Sheriff Danny Diggs
York-Poquoson Commonwealth's Attorney Ben Hahn

 

Patriot

Congressman Scott Rigell
Delegate David Yancey
York-Poquoson Circuit Court Clerk Kristen Nelson
Sheila S. Noll, District 2, 

York County Board of Supervisors

Thomas Shepperd, District 5, 

York County Board of Supervisors

Newport News Councilwoman 

Dr. Patricia Woodbury

Michael J. Hipple, Sr., Powhatan District, 

James City County Board of Supervisors

Heather Cordasco, Roberts District, 

Williamsburg-James City County School Board

The Honorable Tim Beale and 

the Honorable Melanie Rapp Beale

The Honorable & Mrs. Michael B. Watson
Patricia Cowan, 1st District VFRW Representative

York County Republican Committee
York Republican Women's Club
Mr. Cliff Dunn

Mr. W. Chad Green

Mr. William & Mrs. Angela Karaktin

Mrs. Lara Overy


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Lincoln Reagan Gala Committee | 111 Galaxy Way | Yorktown | VA | 23693

Friday, February 6, 2015

2015 General Assembly session update: Week 4

The Pogge Post

2015 General Assembly 

96th District, Virginia House of Delegates     February 6, 2015
Stay Connected!
 
Like us on Facebook Follow us on Twitter View our videos on YouTube
  
Join Our Mailing List!
Contact Delegate Pogge

 

During Session:

General Assembly Building

Room 403

Capitol Square

Richmond, VA 23219

804-698-1096

DelBPogge@house.virginia.gov

 

Please send mail to:

P.O. Box 196

Norge, VA 23127
 
Legislative Aide
Amanda Johnston
Amanda@brendapogge.com
As the General Assembly concludes another busy week in Richmond, legislators are preparing for a session milestone: crossover. By the end of Tuesday, February 10, the House and Senate must complete work on their own legislation (except for the budget bill). To meet this timeline, the House and Senate recently held marathon committee meetings, with debate stretching late into the night. Concurrently, the floor sessions are increasingly lengthy as we wade through hundreds of bills. Amidst the usual partisan rhetoric, however, the House has passed significant legislation to protect property rights, improve access to health care, and reduce the cost of higher education. Additionally, several of my own bills have passed through committee and will soon be heard on the House floor. Look for updates on those bills in next week's newsletter!
Property Rights

Asset forfeiture made the headlines during 2014. Highlighted in a Washington Post article titled, "Stop and Seize," the practice was recognized as a potential violation of our constitutionally protected property rights. 

 

Current statutes permit law enforcement to seize a suspect's assets prior to conviction of a crime. The suspect must then prove that he or she lawfully acquired those assets. House Bill 1287, of which I am a co-patron, prohibits law enforcement from seizing assets until after an individual has been convicted of a crime and completed the appeals process. I believe citizens are innocent until proven guilty, and this legislation will protect innocent people from losing their property. 

Education
As a mother of five and a grandmother of five, I understand firsthand the burden posed by the rising cost of higher education. For this reason, I am pleased that the House passed HB 1692, legislation giving students pursuing degrees in high-demand fields the option of a more affordable "flat-fee degree." Equally important is HB 2320, which establishes a new cooperative bachelor's degree program in Virginia. Through a combination of online, community college, or college/university courses, the initiative allows students to earn a bachelor's degree for just $4,000 per year.
Health Care

Earlier this week, the House passed "Right to Try" legislation giving terminally ill patients better access to life-saving treatments that have not yet been approved by the FDA. House Bill 1750 addresses the bureaucratic delays that often cause patients to miss opportunities to try experimental drugs. The full text of the bill is available online HERE. 

Support for Israel

 During this session, I introduced House Joint Resolution 659 encouraging support for the nation of Israel. I consider this a common-sense resolution underscoring our ties to Israel. With little fanfare, the bill passed unanimously with bipartisan support in the House Rules Committee. 
 
 

Yesterday, however, HJ 659 reached the House floor. As the vote occurred, nearly the entire Democratic caucus walked off the floor to indicate non-support. Given the opportunity to reconsider their votes, they failed to do so. A video of the vote is below, as is a related article. 

Virginia Democrats Flee Chamber Twice Rather Than Vote on Resolution in Support of Israel
Virginia Democrats Flee Chamber Twice Rather Than Vote on Resolution in Support of Israel

 

Empty Seats (Yahoo UK, February 5, 2015)

Around the District
Although the General Assembly is currently in Richmond, there are opportunities for political engagement at home. 

Local Republican Committees

James City County Republican Committee

York County Republican Committee

 

2015 Lincoln Reagan Gala 

featuring The Honorable Jim Gilmore

When: 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 14, 2015 

Where: Fort Magruder Hotel & Conference Center

6945 Pocahontas Trail, Williamsburg, VA 23185

Tickets and RSVP information: click HERE 

General Assembly Visitors
Thank you to the following groups and organizations that sent representatives to Richmond this week!

Colonial Behavioral Health
Denbigh House
Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation
NASA
Thomas Nelson Community College
United Jewish Community, Virginia Peninsula
Williamsburg United Methodist


Visitors from Thomas Nelson Community College

If you are in Richmond, please stop by my office for a visit. To reach me by phone or email, please call 804-698-1096 or email DelBPogge@house.virginia.gov.

Have a great weekend!
 
Signature  
Delegate Brenda Pogge


Paid for and Authorized by Brenda Pogge for Delegate
Forward email



This email was sent to alexanderofyork@gmail.com by brenda@brendapogge.com |  


Brenda Pogge for Delegate | P.O. Box 196 | Norge | VA | 23127

Final screening of "Hoovey" tonight

Hello Everyone
 
Tonight is the last screening in our area of the award winning world premiere film "Hoovey" -- the inspiring, true life story of aspiring basketball player Eric "Hoovey" Elliot and is brave battle to come back after a debilitating brain tumor.
 
The nearest Echolight Cinema in our area is at Summit Christian Academy on Big Bethel Road in Yorktown and they will be showing "Hoovey" tonight at 6:30 pm.  Doors open at 6:00 and there is a concessions offering fresh, hot pizza along with the standard theater fare.
 
Check out the event link below to watch the trailer and get your tickets.
 
 
This is an excellent write up of the red carpet premiere of "Hoovey" last month in California:
 
 
 
If you would like to go but don't like making ticket purchases online, please contact me on my cell and I can get one for you  (236-2078.)
 
If Friday night is your family pizza and movie night, please come out for a very memorable, faith and family affirming film you cannot see at the AMC or Regal.  "Hoovey" is suitable for all ages and will really touch your heart.
 
Thanks!
 
God bless~
 
Shirley

Tuesday, February 3, 2015

Notification: York County Board of Supervisors meeting @ Monthly from 6pm to 9pm on the first Tuesday (PeninsulaTeaParty.org)

York County Board of Supervisors meeting

When
Monthly from 6pm to 9pm on the first Tuesday Eastern Time
Where
York Hall, 301 Main Street, Yorktown, 23690 (map)
Calendar
PeninsulaTeaParty.org
Who
Admin PeninsulaTeaParty.org - organizer

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