Governor McDonnell Issues Thanksgiving Day Proclamation

RICHMOND – Governor Bob McDonnell has issued a proclamation recognizing November 22nd as Thanksgiving Day in Virginia.  The Governor’s proclamation is below and can be found at this link: http://www.governor.virginia.gov/OurCommonwealth/Proclamations/viewproc.cfm?id=226 THANKSGIVING DAY

WHEREAS, the first permanent English speaking settlement in the New World was established in Virginia at Jamestown in 1607, as Captain John Smith led a group of settlers across the Atlantic on a voyage that would entail much hardship over the coming years, including disease and starvation; and

WHEREAS, to show their appreciation for the colony's success and to take stock and give thanks for their own gifts and blessings, and in spite of tremendous adversity, the settlers in Virginia found time to celebrate the first Thanksgiving in America at Berkeley Plantation on December 4, 1619; and

WHEREAS, while reflecting upon the actions taken by the colonists at the first Thanksgiving, we also honor the Indian peoples, for without their presence, the survival of the colonists would have been ever more difficult; and

WHEREAS, American leaders and citizens have recognized a day of Thanksgiving since our first president, George Washington issued the first Thanksgiving proclamation in 1789, stating "it is the duty of all nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey His will, to be grateful for His benefits, and humbly implore His protection and favor"; and

WHEREAS, it is a Virginia tradition for our citizens to come together in unity on Thanksgiving Day and give thanks for the great level of serenity, harmony and abundance with which we, as citizens of a free nation, have been blessed; the rule of law by which we peaceably govern ourselves and by which our civil and religious liberties are guaranteed; and the brave servicemen and women of our armed forces who risk their lives to defend the freedoms and blessings we cherish;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Robert F. McDonnell, do hereby recognize November 22, 2012 as THANKSGIVING DAY in our COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens; and

FURTHERMORE, I encourage all Virginians to give thanks to our Creator for our plentiful blessings, including the rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness as well as the unwavering strength of our families and communities.

 

Commonwealth Posts 15.7 Percent Revenue Increase in October

—Significant Federal Uncertainty Overshadows Current Gains and Calls for Preparations for Possible Decline in Revenues—

RICHMOND — Governor Bob McDonnell announced today that total general fund revenue collections rose by 15.7 percent in October, primarily due to growth in individual withholding, nonwithholding and corporate income tax payments. Two additional deposit days in October 2012, which is typically not a significant month for revenue collections, compared to October 2011 also contributed to the growth.

Comparing October 2012 to October 2011, collections of payroll withholding taxes rose 13.8 percent. Collections of individual nonwitholding taxes rose 43.2 percent. Collections of sales and use taxes, reflecting September sales, rose 1.1 percent in October. Due in part to late corporate September payments, collections of corporate income taxes rose 143.0 percent.

On a year-to-date basis, total revenue collections rose 4.8 percent through October, ahead of the annual forecast of 2.9 percent growth. Adjusting for the accelerated sales tax program, total revenues grew 4.0 percent through October, ahead of the adjusted forecast of 2.7 percent growth.

“October’s increase in revenue after a 0.7 percent decrease in September is a reminder of the continued volatility in the Commonwealth’s financial outlook. While any increase in revenues is certainly positive, the continuing uncertainty surrounding our federal government’s financial outlook, and the looming fiscal cliff, mean Virginia must look beyond these short-term increases and prudently prepare for how to weather any potential financial challenges in the coming months. To not do so would be irresponsible.

“That is why earlier this week, as I have done every year of this administration, I asked all state agencies to submit plans outlining how they would best reduce spending in their departments, in this case by 4 percent, should such reductions become necessary. No final decisions have been made. Our future budgetary actions will be determined by this nation’s economic recovery, and how leaders in Washington D.C. address the looming fiscal cliff. A failure to find a resolution prior to this fast approaching deadline would have negative economic consequences on all the states, Virginia included. At this time we are simply preparing for this possible, but still avoidable, outcome. I continue to urge leaders in both parties to work together to find a solution to this pressing issue.

As we continue to prepare Virginia’s budget and ready for any changes that may occur at the federal level, and the impact on Virginia’s finances from them, we are aware that more than 250,000 Virginians are still out of work—an unacceptable statistic that hits home throughout the state. We continue to contend with federal policies that are detrimental to private-sector job creation and are making any recovery more difficult. Our focus will continue to be on taking every step necessary to help the private sector create good paying jobs for our citizens. That includes making state government more efficient and effective, and ensuring that we spend taxpayer dollars wisely and responsibly.”

The October revenue numbers are available at this link: http://www.finance.virginia.gov/KeyDocuments/RevenueReports/FY2012-2013/2013ReportsList.cfm

The American Conservative Union Recognizes Delegate Peace for his Legislative Record

-- Peace Receives the ACU Conservative Award for 2012--

Central, VA –The American Conservative Union recently named Delegate Christopher K. Peace (R-Hanover) as an ACU Conservative for 2012 based on his legislative voting record.  This award acknowledges Peace’s support of measures that reflect conservative principles and common sense measures which protect life, liberty, and strengthen families across the Commonwealth.

Delegate Peace, speaking to the award, "I am proud to have a legislative record which promotes constitutional government and fiscal conservatism.  The families of Virginia deserve a government which is accountable and effective.  It is my honor to serve the 97th district and to receive this recognition for that service.”

According to their website, the American Conservative Union (ACU) is the oldest and largest grassroots conservative organization in the nation.  For more than forty years, ACU has served as an umbrella organization harnessing the collective strength of conservative organizations fighting for Americans who are concerned with liberty, personal responsibility, traditional values, and strong national defense.

To learn more about ACU please visit:  http://www.conservative.org

Delegate Christopher K. Peace was elected to his fourth term representing the 97th District of the Virginia House of Delegates.  The District includes parts of Hanover, King William, and all of New Kent County.

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Delegate Peace named to Virginia Advisory Committee of U.S. Global Leadership Coalition

-- Group focused on protecting national security and building economic prosperity --

Central, VA –Delegate Christopher K. Peace (R-Hanover) was pleased to recently be named to the Virginia Advisory Committee of the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition.

The Coalition focuses efforts on strengthening America’s economy and creating jobs.  It brings together business leaders, community and academic leaders, policy and national security experts to discuss the importance of American global leadership in the world and to identify the role of diplomacy to advance our national interests on a global stage

“Focusing on strengthening America’s place in the global marketplace through increased economic growth, production and exportation of goods, and sound diplomatic relations are vital to our continued prosperity and national defense,” stated Peace.  “I am honored to serve the Commonwealth’s voice on the Advisory Committee.”

A slogan of the Coalition is “Strengthening America's leadership in the world through a strategic investment in development and diplomacy.”

The U.S. Global Leadership Coalition is a broad-based influential network of 400 businesses and NGOs; national security and foreign policy experts; and business, faith-based, academic and community leaders in all 50 states who support a smart power approach of elevating development and diplomacy alongside defense in order to build a better, safer world.

To learn more about the Coalition please visit:  www.usglc.org

Governor McDonnell Announces Civil War Battlefield Preservation Grants

State Grants will Help to Protect 2,792 Acres Associated with 8 Important Battlefields~

Preserved Tracts are Associated with Battles in the Counties of Appomattox, Clarke, Culpeper, Dinwiddie, Loudoun, Rockingham, and Spotsylvania

RICHMOND – With the Virginia Sesquicentennial of the American Civil War now into its second year and attracting visitors to the Commonwealth from around the nation, Governor Bob McDonnell today announced 11 state grant awards to organizations working to conserve historic battlefield lands for present and future generations of Americans.

The grant awards are drawn from the Civil War Historic Sites Preservation Fund that Governor McDonnell and the General Assembly permanently established in 2010. Funds for the grants, this year totaling up to $2,620,500, will be awarded by the Virginia Department of Historic Resources, which determines the awards based on a rigorous evaluation process.

This year's awards will provide vital assistance in protecting more than 2,792 total acres associated with battles at Appomattox, Cedar Mountain, Chancellorsville, Cool Spring, Kelly’s Ford, Peebles Farm, Port Republic, and Second Manassas.

The grant recipients include the Civil War Trust, the Central Virginia Battlefields Trust, and the Shenandoah Valley Battlefields Foundation. These organizations will match state funds dollar for dollar either to purchase lands approved as part of the awards process or to obtain easement rights on the tracts. All awards will result in the donation of perpetual easements to the Virginia Board of Historic Resources.

“Virginia is a premier destination for tourists from around the nation and the world, thanks to our legacy of renowned historic sites, including those connected with the American Civil War,” said Governor McDonnell in announcing the awards. “By preserving battlefields through public and private partnerships, we save hallowed ground and honor the Commonwealth’s past while we simultaneously make an investment in its future through heritage tourism.”

Battlefield lands that will be protected through the grants are geographically and militarily diverse and include sites of significant Union and Confederate victories. They cover farmlands, wetlands, and woodlands and range from the mountainous northern and central Shenandoah Valley to the rolling hills of the Piedmont and to the flat coastal plain of south central Virginia.

“I can think of no more appropriate way to honor our brave ancestors who fought in the Civil War than to set aside the physical landscapes where that conflict was decided,” said Secretary of Natural Resources Doug Domenech. “In addition to their educational benefits, these battlefields are also environmental resources consisting of open spaces, working farms and forests, and wetland that offer habitats for fish and wildlife,” said Domenech.

“Protecting battlefield lands goes towards Governor McDonnell's commitment to conserving 400,000 new acres of open space and scenic rural lands in Virginia,” Domenech added.

In awarding the grants, the Department of Historic Resources based its evaluations in part on each battlefield's significance as determined by the Congressionally-commissioned "Report on the Nation's Civil War Battlefields" originally issued in 1993 and subsequently updated, including a 2009 update on Virginia battlefields. Other factors considered by the department included the proximity of each parcel to other protected lands; the threat of loss due to encroaching development, and the potential for education, recreation, research, or heritage tourism, among other factors.

“The Sesquicentennial of the Civil War offers Virginia an opportunity to pass forward a great legacy, namely the conservation of open space, natural resources, and historic hallowed ground of national significance through the protection of battlefields,” said Kathleen S. Kilpatrick, director of the Department of Historic Resources.

“The Department of Historic Resources looks forward to securing that legacy through the support and leadership of Gov. McDonnell and the Virginia Sesquicentennial of the American Civil War Commission, which is chaired by Speaker of the House William J. Howell,” Kilpatrick said.

“This year's awards will allow us to secure places with the power to connect us and future generations to the lessons of a defining period of our history,” said Kilpatrick. “Time is running out. Each year, battlefield lands are lost forever.”

 

Civil War Battlefield Grant Awards 2012

Summaries of Battles and the Affiliation of Preserved Land Tracts

Appomattox Court House Battlefield, Appomattox County:

Preserved Property: Webb Tract (49 acres)

Sponsor: Civil War Trust

In this final engagement of the war, on April 8, 1865 Gen. Robert E. Lee bivouacked near the village of Appomattox Courthouse, while nearby Union troops converged. The last Confederate offensive on April 9 initially gained ground, but the arrival of Union infantry stopped the advance and Lee found himself surrounded on three sides. Lee’s formal surrender took place the following day.

Cedar Mountain Battlefield, Culpeper County:

Preserved Property: Broomfield Tract (4 acres) and Proctor Tract (6 acres)

Sponsor: Civil War Trust

During this battle on August 9, 1862, which resulted in a Confederate victory, Union Maj. Gen. John Pope’s forces tangled with Confederate Maj. Gen. “Stonewall” Jackson’s troops, gaining an early advantage. The Confederate army counterattacked, however, and drove the Union army north. As a result, fighting in Virginia shifted away from the Peninsula and into northern Virginia, giving Lee an early tactical advantage.

Chancellorsville Battlefield, Spotsylvania County:

Preserved Property: Charles Link Trust Tract (81.69)

Sponsor: Central Virginia Battlefields Trust

Chancellorsville was fought near the village of Spotsylvania Courthouse from April 30 to May 6, 1863, raging along present-day Route 3 and the farmland to either side. The battle, pitting Union Maj. Gen. Joseph Hooker's forces against Gen. Robert E. Lee's, "is arguably the most important Civil War battlefield in Virginia," according to historian John S. Salmon. "It is the site of Lee's greatest victory and of [Gen. "Stonewall"] Jackson's mortal wounding, and it had greater consequences for the Confederacy than any other battle fought on Virginia soil," writes Salmon in The Official Virginia Civil War Battlefield Guide. The battle is notable for Lee's counter-intuitive decision to divide his smaller army (of roughly 60,000) prior to attacking Hooker's larger force (of more than 133,000). Lee's daring plan and Hooker's timid response led to a Confederate victory.

Cool Spring Battlefield, Clarke County:

Preserved Properties: Textron Financial (195 acres) and Holy Cross Abbey Tract (955 acres)

Sponsor: Civil War Trust

Fought July 17-18, 1864, this battle resulted in a Confederate victory. Union troops under Maj. Gen. Horatio Wright pursued Confederate troops under Lt. Gen. Jubal Early as they fled following an unsuccessful attempt to take Washington, DC. Union troops forded the Shenandoah River to engage the Confederate army, which held its ground until the Union army withdrew under cover of darkness. The battle delayed the Union army’s pursuit of Early’s forces for several days, allowing the Confederates to regroup in Winchester.

Kelly’s Ford Battlefield, Culpeper County:

Preserved Property: Triple S Tract (964 acres)

Sponsor: Civil War Trust

Kelly’s Ford, fought on March 17, 1863, was an inconclusive battle for both sides. Union cavalry under Brig. Gen. William Averell forded the Rappahannock River to attack Confederate cavalry under Brig. Gen. Fitzhugh Lee. Lee’s forces counterattacked, but lost Maj. Gen. John “Gallant” Pelham to an exploding artillery shell. Union forces retreated across the river without either side obtaining clear victory. It was one of the largest cavalry battles of the war, and set the stage for the battle of Brandy Station and the Gettysburg Campaign.

Manassas II Battlefield, Loudoun County:

Preserved Property: Wotring Tract / Gen. Longstreet’s Line (2.99 acres)

Sponsor:  Civil War Trust

The Battle of Second Manassas, fought August 28-30, 1862, was a decisive victory in Gen. Robert E. Lee's Northern Virginia Campaign against the Union's Army of Virginia under the command of Maj. Gen. John Pope. The battle marked the height of Confederate power and opened the way for the first Confederate campaign in the North and involved forces under Confederate generals James Longstreet, "Stonewall" Jackson, A.P. Hill, Richard S. Ewell, and William B. Taliaferro, among others. During the battle, Pope’s forces mounted a sustained attack against Jackson’s men, who were entrenched along an unfinished rail line. Upon the arrival of reinforcements under Longstreet, the Confederate army launched the single largest mass attack of the Civil War (known as “Longstreet’s Line”), which crushed the Union army and sent it into retreat.

Peebles Farm Battlefield, Dinwiddie County:

Preserved Property: Dear Tract (19.3 acres)

Sponsor: Civil War Trust

The Battle of Peebles' Farm, fought Sept. 30-Oct. 2, 1864, resulted from Gen. Ulysses S. Grant's attempt to extend his army's left flank at Petersburg and cut the Confederate army's last rail link into Petersburg from the west. Union forces overran Confederate positions on the southern Petersburg defensive line, resisted a counterattack by Confederate Lt. Gen. A.P. Hill, and captured Fort MacRae. While the battle allowed Grant to extend his lines significantly, Confederates were able to protect the vital South Side Railroad.

Port Republic Battlefield, Rockingham County:

Preserved Properties: Prillaman Farm (92 acres) and Heatwole Tract (424 acres)

Sponsor: Shenandoah Valley Battlefields Foundation

Fought on June 9, 1862, during this battle forces under the command of Confederate Maj. Gen. “Stonewall” Jackson repulsed multiple Union attacks, ultimately forcing the Union army into retreat. It resulted in giving Jackson and the Confederate army undisputed control of the upper and middle Shenandoah Valley.

Delegate Peace named among Richmond Healthcare Leaders 40 and under

-- Our Health Virginia Magazine Names Peace as a leader in healthcare-- 

Central, VA –Delegate Christopher K. Peace (R-Hanover) was pleased to recently be named as a Richmond Healthcare Leader 40 and under, in the premier edition of Our Health Virginia’s magazine.

Speaking about the designation, “I am humbled to be recognized by Our Health Virginia for my legislative efforts,” stated Peace.

He continued, “As a member of the Health, Welfare and Institutions Committee, I am tasked with deliberating over many bills that impact the health, safety and well being of Virginia citizens.  Assuring access to quality healthcare for the residents of the 97th District and across the Commonwealth is vital to my role as a legislator.”

According to their website, Our Health magazine is a locally owned and operated publication that is dedicated to serving Southwest and Central Virginia as its premier resource for healthcare and healthy living lifestyles information for its residents, medical practitioners, healthcare leaders and executives.

To read the article visit: http://smcclintic769411.uberflip.com/i/82732/0

To learn more about Our Health Virginia please visit:  http://www.ourhealthvirginia.com

 

Dominion Storm Preparation/Peace Hosts New Kent Emergency Preparedness Town Hall

Good afternoon. I wanted to let you know that Dominion Virginia Power is prepared for the stormy weather that is forecasted for much of the Commonwealth today with the passage of a significant cold front. We expect thunderstorms capable of 50-75 mph gusts, a chance of tornados (especially across central Virginia), locally heavy lightning, and flash flooding to affect much of our service area throughout the afternoon and evening hours.  In advance of these major storms, we are already experiencing gusty winds that could reach 40-50 mph in some places.

Our team of meteorologists has been providing us with updates about this storm over the past few days, giving us lead time to make plans, mobilize crews and get our resources ready. We are communicating with customers via our Web site (www.dom.com), social media and with the assistance of the traditional media in requesting them to make public service announcements.

The following information may be of help to you:

  • Having a personal emergency plan and kit is very important.  Emergency kits should include battery operated flashlights and radio, medications, non-perishable food and bottled water.  Dominion’s website has many storm preparation and safety tips:  https://www.dom.com/storm-center/index.jsp.

 

  • Those served by well water may wish to fill bath tubs or store water by other means in event an outage disrupts their ability to draw water.

 

  • If power outages do occur, please report the outage by calling Dominion at 1-866-DOM-HELP (1-866-366-4357).  This is an important part of the restoration process and one way that our customers can help us in returning their electric service.

 

  • Your safety is our priority. Please stay away from downed wires and trees that are leaning on power lines.  Report any downed wires immediately to Dominion toll free at 1-866-DOM-HELP (1-866-366-4357) or call 911.

Should these storms cause widespread outages, our first major focus will be on critical infrastructure, public safety, and patrolling efforts to accurately provide restoration times for customers.   We will provide individual estimated times of restoration (ETRs) as soon as possible, but in the event of large-scale damage providing accurate estimates can be difficult until we have a complete understanding of the reasons behind specific outages.

Due to recent destructive and catastrophic weather happenings in New Kent County, Delegate Peace, in collaboration with the New Kent County Fire and Rescue, is hosting an Emergency Preparedness Town Hall.  Residents are encouraged to attend this important event to raise citizen awareness of things they can do, in advance, to prepare for severe weather.  There will be service providers, public safety officials and many other stakeholders there to share with citizens things that can be done, both pre-weather and post-weather, to protect the safety and well being of citizens.  There will also be many vendor information tables.   Please bring friends, family and neighbors.

EVENT DETAILS:  Wednesday, September 19 at 6:30PM at Fire Station 1, 4315 North Courthouse Rd, Providence Forge, VA 23140

 

Commonwealth Posts 6.6 Percent Revenue Growth in August

RICHMOND – Governor Bob McDonnell announced today that total general fund revenue collections rose 6.6 percent in August. While August is not typically a significant month for revenue collections, mixed indicators continue to prompt caution and prudent fiscal leadership. The August revenue gains were driven by strong individual withholding receipts which rose 4.3 percent and sales tax revenues which rose 12.3 percent as compared with August 2011. Other positive sources included corporate and recordation tax receipts.

On a year-to-date basis, total revenue collections rose 2.7 percent through August, close to the annual forecast of 2.9 percent growth. Adjusting for the accelerated sales tax program, total revenues grew 1.1 percent through August, trailing the adjusted forecast of 2.7 percent growth. However, net individual income tax fell 1.3 percent primarily as a result of timing issues with regards to withholding tax collections.

“Following our third-straight budget surplus, Virginia continues to demonstrate why it is among the best states in the nation in which to do business and live the American Dream,” said Governor McDonnell. “While today’s economic indicators are mixed, illustrating our need to continue to make conservative, sound fiscal decisions, they do demonstrate that by keeping taxes low and putting in place policies that help the private sector, we can help get our economy back on track.

“While we should recognize our progress, the fact is, more than 250,000 Virginians are still out of work. That is simply unacceptable. This continues to be a very tough economy. We still confront much uncertainty on the federal level, especially in terms of the future of our national defense budget. In addition, we continue to contend with federal policies that are detrimental to private-sector job creation and, unfortunately, are making any recovery more difficult. We must continue to take every possible step to help the private sector grow and expand and innovate, and in the process create more good-paying jobs for our citizens. That is how we will get Virginians back to work.”

The August revenue numbers are available at this link: http://www.finance.virginia.gov/KeyDocuments/RevenueReports/FY2012-2013/2013ReportsList.cfm

 

National Military Voter Readiness Day is September 15

Governor McDonnell encourages military members and eligible dependents to register to vote and apply for absentee ballots immediately

RICHMOND – With state deadlines for registering and requesting an absentee ballot fast approaching, Governor McDonnell reminded military personnel of National Military Voter Readiness Day on September 15, 2012.  The day is intended to raise awareness among military members and their eligible dependents about the importance of voting and help make sure military voters are election ready.

“Virginia citizens honorably serve in all branches of the military around the world in the defense of freedom. On National Military Voter Readiness Day, I ask our men and women serving abroad and their family members to take action now to ensure you can fully participate in November’s election.”

The chief objectives of Military Voter Readiness Day are to:

  • Encourage military personnel and their eligible dependents to register to vote and apply for an absentee ballot immediately;
  • Encourage active duty military voters and their eligible dependents to complete a Federal Post Card Application (FPCA), which allows them to register and request an absentee ballot in one simple step;
  • Raise awareness that one must apply to register to vote in Virginia by October 15, 2012;
  • Emphasize that requests to vote absentee by mail must be received by close of business on October 30, 2012.

For more information about National Military Voter Readiness Day or to complete a Federal Post Card Application (FPCA), please visit http://www.heroesvote.org/the-time-is-now/.

For assistance completing the Federal Post Card Application, contact Ms. Terry Wagoner, Absentee Voting Coordinator at the Virginia State Board of Elections at 804-864-8937.

Virginia Receives $52 Million in ‘Bonus’ Federal Funding for Transportation Projects

Additional funding originally allocated to other states will go toward projects in the pipeline ready for work to begin in Virginia

RICHMOND – Governor Bob McDonnell announced today that the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) received an additional $52 million in federal funds that was originally allocated to other states.  Since they did not have projects ready to go to use the funding, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) reallocated the money to Virginia and other states that have projects in the pipeline ready for work to begin.

“Virginia employs sound financial management practices and improved project programming to use every available transportation dollar,” said Governor McDonnell.  “This award of ‘bonus obligation’ funds is validation of VDOT’s efforts to ensure transportation projects are programmed and delivered, with more projects ready for construction.”

VDOT plans to use the funding on interstate repaving and rehabilitation projects primarily on segments of I-95 and I-85 in the Richmond region and segments of I-264 in the Hampton Roads region.  VDOT will make its recommendation to the Commonwealth Transportation Board this month, which has the final approval on how money is spent on transportation improvements.

Each September, the FHWA reviews all states’ ability to commit allocated highway dollars as the federal fiscal year ends.  States that cannot obligate federal funding must return that spending authority to the FHWA.  The funds are then redistributed to states that can obligate all of their federal allocations and have additional eligible projects ready to move forward.

 

Governor McDonnell Recognizes September 11, 2012 as a Day of Remembrance, Patriotism and Prayer in Virginia

Governor McDonnell issued the following proclamation, recognizing September 11, 2012 as a Day of Remembrance, Patriotism and Prayer in the Commonwealth of Virginia. The governor also invited all to witness a one-minute, statewide Moment of Silence starting at 9:39 AM-when American Airlines Flight 77 impacted with the Pentagon in Arlington County. The proclamation is available online at http://www.governor.virginia.gov/OurCommonwealth/Proclamations/viewproc.cfm?id=175

 9/11

Day Of Remembrance, Patriotism And Prayer

WHEREAS, the events of September 11, 2001 have profoundly affected-and continue to affect-all aspects of our society, and the lives of Virginians, Americans and people across the world were changed forever following the destruction of the World Trade Center complex in New York City, the attack against the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia, and the crash of Flight 93 in Stonycreek Township, Pennsylvania; and

WHEREAS, eleven years later the citizens of our Commonwealth and these United States continue to mourn for the more than three thousand innocent voices that were tragically silenced-including 184 in Virginia at the Pentagon-by terrorists on that infamous day of death and destruction; and

WHEREAS, it is imperative that we never forget our shock and revulsion at the needless destruction, the bravery of our first responders who risked all for their neighbors, our anguish from the sudden loss of so many precious lives, or how we as a people did not succumb to a state of fear as the terrorists intended, but instead set aside our differences and united as patriots in our country's hour of need; and

WHEREAS, while we reflect upon the memory of the departed, it is important that we also pause to remember and honor the sacrifices of all those members of our armed forces who have given their lives in heroic service to our country and all members of our military who have volunteered to bring those responsible for the 9/11 attacks and their supporters to justice during the Global War on Terror; and

WHEREAS, prayer has long served as a measure of our nation's strong heritage of faith and has been an indispensable source of moral and spiritual guidance for citizens throughout our Commonwealth's history, and it is fitting that our Commonwealth reserve a day in which our citizens may reflect and mourn-consistent with their own faith traditions-with those who have suffered as a result of terrorism, to humbly ask God for the strength and fortitude necessary to protect our lives, liberty and property from future transgressions, and to give thanks for the freedoms with which we as a people are fortunate enough to be blessed;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Robert F. McDonnell, do hereby recognize September 11, 2012 as a DAY OF REMEMBRANCE, PATRIOTISM AND PRAYER in our COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of our citizens; and

FURTHERMORE, I urge all citizens of our Commonwealth to display the flag of the United States of America wherever possible, and I invite all to witness a one-minute, statewide Moment of Silence starting at 9:39 AM-when American Airlines Flight 77 impacted with the Pentagon in our County of Arlington-and I encourage Virginians to reflect upon the lives lost and heroic sacrifices made on that fateful eleventh day of September.

 

Sorensen Institute for Political Leadership at UVA

It is the season of hurricane remnants, Washington Nationals' baseball ascendancy and the beginning of the application and recruiting process for the 2013 Sorensen Political Leaders Program and Candidate Training Program. Before we dry out or celebrate anything, we need your help. Each year the majority of our applicants indicate that they were referred to the Sorensen Institute's leadership programs by our alumni. This is why it is so critically important that we get your help in identifying the best possible candidates for the 2013 programs. The application period for the 2013 Political Leaders Program and Candidate Training Program opens today with a closing deadline of Monday, November 12. Over the next two months please spread the word about these programs.

More information about Sorensen Institute programs

Statement of Governor Bob McDonnell on Preclearance of Virginia’s Voter ID Law by the U.S. Department of Justice

RICHMOND – Governor Bob McDonnell issued the following statement after the Department of Justice granted preclearance to Virginia’s voter ID law. The new law expands the forms of acceptable identification for voting, and changes the procedure when someone votes without presenting identification, requiring them to vote provisionally and later present an approved ID to their local registrar through email, fax, mail, or hand delivery. Governor McDonnell also issued an executive order, which directed the State Board of Elections to take a number of steps to implement this legislation. Among other things, the executive order directed the State Board of Elections to send every Virginia voter a voter card, a valid form of ID under state law, before Election Day, so that every registered Virginia voter has a valid ID to present at the polls. “I am pleased that the Department of Justice has granted preclearance to this commonsense legislation. When I signed the legislation, I issued an Executive Order requiring the issuance of a voter card to every active registered Virginia voter. This significant step ensures that every Virginia voter is guaranteed to have at least one of the many different valid forms of ID required to be presented at the polls.

Protecting against voter fraud and making sure our elections are secure are critical for confidence in our democracy. The legislation I signed into law is a practical and reasonable step to make our elections more secure while also ensuring access to the ballot box for all qualified voters.

It is welcome news that DOJ has recognized the compliance of this legislation with the Voting Rights Act.”

Governor McDonnell Announces Launch of Mobile Business App

Builds on success of Virginia’s eVA e-procurement program, which generates the most annual taxpayer savings of any state’s in the country First-of-its-kind eVA Mobile 4 Business app provides greater access and transparency for government procurement opportunities

RICHMOND – Governor Bob McDonnell today announced the launch of a free mobile application for eVA, Virginia’s award-winning electronic procurement system. The eVA Mobile 4 Business app allows anyone with an Internet-enabled mobile device (iPhone, iPad, Android, Blackberry, etc.) to have real-time access to Virginia government business opportunities—anywhere, anytime.

Virginia is the first state to launch a mobile app that brings bid opportunities and solicitations literally to the fingertips of its suppliers and the general public, giving them immediate access to the thousands of business opportunities published every year and providing increased visibility into how state government spends the taxpayers’ dollars.

“Success in business today requires real-time, mobile access to business opportunities,” said Governor McDonnell. “The eVA Mobile 4 Business app turns every smart phone into a portal to Virginia’s cutting edge e-procurement system. This app increases access and transparency for businesses and individuals, and by expanding the pool of potential bidders, will save taxpayer dollars. This first-of-its-kind mobile application will unleash the power of the private sector to deliver better, more cost-effective services to the citizens of Virginia.”

“Our company has utilized eVA since its inception to see what the Commonwealth is buying,” said Sandra Sylvester, President & CEO of Superior Global Solutions. “We are growing our reach within the Commonwealth and eVA is the key facilitator between small and diverse companies like ours and our public-sector customers.”

“Virginia has a long-standing record as the leading state for business, and CGI is extremely proud to do business here and call it our U.S. home,” said Mark Boyajian, Senior Vice-President, CGI. “This innovative mobile procurement application, developed by CGI, makes it easier for thousands of small businesses to participate in the procurement process with the Commonwealth, simply by using their mobile device.”

Whether in the office or on the move, the eVA Mobile 4 Business app gives businesses immediate access to all bid opportunities and solicitations published on eVA’s public Virginia Business Opportunities (VBO) page. The app also includes personalized features allowing businesses to follow specific opportunities by adding them to a Watch List. With a variety of other exciting features this app brings real business value to the world of mobile computing.

Getting the app is simple. Find it in the Apple and Android app stores by searching for eVA Mobile 4 Business or use your mobile browser to access the web version at www.eva.virginia.gov/evamobile.

The eVA Mobile 4 Business app is just the latest example of Virginia using technology to make it easier to do business with government, especially for small businesses to do business with Virginia, while increasing public visibility and government accountability.

Virginia’s eVA Program also recently launched Quick Quote Reverse Auction, an exciting addition to the system’s already powerful online bidding tools. This tool allows suppliers to bid multiple times offering better and better pricing for a single business opportunity thus increasing their chances to receive a contract. Unlike a standard auction where bid prices increase during the bidding period, Reverse Auction is designed to seek the lowest price for goods and services. King George County was the first to take the new tool for a “test drive” recognizing opportunities for increased competition and resulting savings. They were excited to see their first auction prices for a specialized fire department vehicle, which began at a high of $67,890, result in a winning low bid of $37,100, a savings of 45 percent.

Forbes.com recently lauded Virginia and the eVA Program as one of the top 10 state/local governments to storm industry by transacting into the Cloud. Cloud computing has proven that government agencies can provide improved services at lower cost. The Commonwealth of Virginia saves about $30 million annually through its eVA Program by leveraging a Software as a Service in the Cloud, which, to date, has conducted more than 3.7 million purchases for over $33 billion for hundreds of state agencies, institutions and local governments.

eVA is Virginia’s nationally and internationally recognized electronic procurement technology program that has won numerous awards for its success. International governments such as Canada and Portugal (representing a core of the European nations) have invited and funded travel for Virginia’s thought-leaders to visit and discuss electronic procurement programs. Currently more than 53,000 suppliers and over 22,000 state, higher education and local government users are in the system and use eVA daily to process procurements. eVA is how Virginia does business and since the beginning of the program the system has generated taxpayer savings in excess of $338 million.

Statement of Lieutenant Governor Bolling on Governor McDonnell's Address to General Assembly Joint Money Committee

RICHMOND – Lieutenant Governor Bill Bolling issued the following statement in response to Governor McDonnell’s address to the General Assembly Joint Money Committee this morning: “I am pleased that Virginia has enjoyed significant budget surpluses during all three years of the McDonnell/Bolling administration. This is a dramatic turnaround in just 2½ years. By focusing on fiscal restraint and economic growth, we have been able to restore the financial foundation of our state and chart a positive course for Virginia’s future.

“This year we enjoyed a $129.2 million revenue surplus, and today we announced $187.0 million in state agency savings and agency balances, and $132.3 million in higher education and other unexpended non-general funds for the 2012 fiscal year. This produces a total budget surplus of $448.5 million for the year, and brings the overall budget surpluses produced during our administration to nearly $1.4 billion.

“As a result, we are able to give a one-time 3 percent bonus to state employees. Virginia is fortunate to have a dedicated state workforce and they deserve this bonus in recognition of the service they provide to the citizens of our state.

“Moving forward, we must continue to be conservative with our budgeting and spending decisions. Continued fiscal discipline and a vigilant focus on creating jobs and growing our economy will ensure that the Commonwealth continues this trend of positive economic news in the years to come.”