Plenty to Eat during Tough times

A tough economy has forced Hampton Roads leaders to cut the fat out of city budgets.

The process hasn't been easy.

Teachers lost their jobs and personal property taxes rose in Norfolk.

But despite all the trimming, there's still room for prime rib.



Norfolk spent $10-thousand taxpayer dollars to celebrate swearing in city council members.

There was turkey, bruschetta, fine cheese and elaborate flower arrangements.
Not to mention chefs to serve you.







In addition, most Hampton Roads cities feed council members before meetings.

Here's how much is budgeted for food each year.

1. Norfolk $12,000
2. Portsmouth $13, 000
3. Virginia Beach: Canceled meals with budget cuts.
4. Newport News, $4,500 (a ten percent reduction from 2010)
5. Chesapeake $6,000
6. Hampton (no meals unless long meeting)
7. Suffolk, yes on meals, but couldn't give me dollar amount.

What are your thoughts on funding food during budget shortfalls?
Let's start a dialogue...

Changes after dump truck runs over man at beach...

Earlier this month, a city garbage truck driver ran over a homeless man sleeping at the Virginia Beach Ocean Front. Michael Knockett, 52-years-old, died.

In response, the city requires two people ride in each trash truck that cleans the beach at sunrise.

However, I noticed the beach grooming trucks just have one driver. They drive the same path and are just as dangerous. Perhaps if a plow driver hits a person, the city will demand two people in the seat.

What do you think???

Virginia Beach Warped Tour

Norfolk Art Everywhere Finale

I loved it! Walking down Granby street, feeling the positive energy, and having a laugh!



Some soulful music too...



Props to Altdaily, for bringing everyone together.
http://www.altdaily.com/features/arts/art-everywhere-public-feedback-needed.html

Visit Chrysler Museum

You can enjoy the Chrysler Museum, for free!


Art helps me keep life in perspective.

This painting, "Landscape with a Temple," by Hubert Robert, highlights the "transitory nature of all human achievement."

Yes..nothing lasts forever, but the stories continue to inspire.

You know the saying, "Rome wasn't built in day."

Sometimes we lean on the ruins of the past to guide our future.

So Check out the Chrysler...just one painting can make you think!

http://www.chrysler.org/

Youngest Norfolk Councilmember in 102 years.

Fans cheered as 31-year-old Tommy Smigiel took his oath of office Thursday.
The enthusiasm and excitement woke up the crowd at Norfolk's half moon center.
Smigiel told me he wants to reach out to the younger generation.




http://www.tommysmigiel.com/change.php