May 2006 Archives
May 31, 2006
How RICH Is Maud Robinson? VERY! Comments (7)
Damn, It's Nice to Be Stinking Rich When My 'Subjects' Don't Know!
Maud Robinson has carefully crafted an "of the people" political persona. Nothing flashy. Seemingly just average with a modest house, etc. Just like all of us, eh?
Not so fast. Maud Robinson is a multi-millionaire AT A BARE MINIMUM. She appears to have far and away more wealth by a country mile over any other Town Council member or Board member.
So for all these years, while she has practiced class warfare, railed against so-called developers' greed and used the financial success of others against them at every chance she could, it turns out that Maud is a big-time hypocrite when it comes to wealth.
Review Maud Robinson's Stock & Bond Holdings (PDF).
1. Maud has 43 investments valued at between $10,000 and $50,000 each.
2. Maud has 22 investments valued at over $50,000 each.
At a bare minimum, excluding her RS-10 zoned 30,000+ sq. ft. property (worth over $1M), Robinson has, if assuming the LOWEST range of security values (which is highly unlikely), $1.5M in stocks and bonds alone.
It is easy to see Maud Robinson with a net worth of $5 Million+.
A Picture Says... Comments (3)
View high resolution aerial shot of Vienna.
Hint: once it loads in your browser, click on image again. This image is very high res. You should be able to see all of Vienna's Maple Avenue and Tysons skyline with ease.
May 30, 2006
Mayor Jane Seeman: Dodge and Weave Comments (4)
Jane Seeman Can't Figure Out What the Big Deal Is
The Mayor of Vienna Jane Seeman was asked May 22, 2006 at the Vienna Town Council meeting WHY SHE POSTS to her son's now infamous 'hate' blog. Watch her refusal to answer:
May 28, 2006
Stuck on Stupid: Part Deuce Comments (0)
Ethics Don't Exist in Maud Robinson or Shirley Damon's World
Our post on the Vienna Architectural Review Board has generated interest. We were sent this email written by a small business owner who could not understand the 'rules':
"Dear [Vienna Board Member], Thanks for your email. It said very well what I felt going through the process. Without the concrete and objective guidelines, it seems just like pure luck to get your application approved without any bumps. Looking at the signs of my neighbors, I still fail to grasp what are the rules for appropriate signs. Since there are deadlines and scheduled meetings, you can easily get lost and frustrated in the process. Believe it or not, [Name], one of the sign companies that I contacted for my sign application declined to work on it simply because the regulatory district is Town of Vienna. Unfortunately, I don't see the staff at the Town office very helpful and informative to guide through with applications, either. A newcomer to the Town like me is pretty much on her own navigating through the right path. I believed that I was doing what I was told to do, and quite frankly had no doubt that my application would be approved at the last meeting. Since my [business] has been open 3 weeks now without a permanent sign and I was given an impression at the last meeting that my revised plan would get a fairly immediate attention, I frantically ran around to deliver it to the Town on Monday. I haven't heard anything until now. What I am trying to tell you is, [Name], that I seem to be the only one who suffers from the unpredictable outcome and feels desperate. I was very excited and happy to open a business in Vienna, hoping the love would be both ways..I am sorry that I may have seen only my side of the coin, but that was not my intention to have dropped you a line. I simply wanted to say thank you for your earnest work. I needed to tell you that businesses in Vienna need a person like you on the Board who realizes the problems with the process and is not afraid of the challenge. I'll look forward to your visit to my [Business] soon, Sincerely, [Name}."
Nearly identical problems are seen in the Windover Heights Historic District. Systemic problems ladies and gentlemen. Systemic problems.
May 27, 2006
Stuck On Stupid: Vienna Commercial Review Board Comments (0)
'Umpa Lumpas' Can Be Garish and Bizarre Too!
The June 2006 Town of Vienna newsletter offers a questionnaire for those citizens looking to sit on various Town boards and commissions. We were struck by the description of the Town Board of Architectural Review:
"Examines and approves plans for commercial buildings, signs and landscaping to ensure that new construction is not bizarre or garish and is harmonious and compatible with existing buildings."
Keep that piece of legal prose in mind the next time you look at commercial buildings in Vienna. Try not to laugh when you consider that there actually is an aesthetic review board approving those lovely brown and yellow signs throughout Vienna! To the larger point...
How many of you are attorneys out there? Anyone see a problem with that piece of code? Ladies and gentleman, the words garish and bizarre can mean ANYTHING to ANYONE. This is the exact same type of nonsensical legal language the Town is defending in lawsuits over the historic district.
Imagine going before the Town's commercial review board and being told, "Sorry, no, your plans are garish." Now, most thinking people would then ask, "What does that mean exactly?" And the Board Chairman would look at you and say sit down, come back when your plans are not garish. This happens regularly, but since this Board bullies mostly small business owners, what choices do they have except to try and appease the dingys on the Board? In many ways, the Vienna Town Code and the Players administering it could have starred in Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory:
"There is no life I know
To compare with pure imagination
Living there, you'll be free
If you truly wish to be."
That song lyric says about as much as Vienna's review board codes - nothing.
May 26, 2006
John Shults Says, "Thanks...Nutbags!" Comments (6)
Breathe Deeply When Encountering "Nutbags"!
Feedback in today from John Shults who is none too happy with this site:
"Just wanted to thank you for your website. A neighbor told me I should check it out due to a high level of unintentional comedy. Boy, does your site deliver! What our Town has been missing is a bunch of nutbag flamethrowers who publicly and personally attack everyone they disagree with over petty issues. You are meeting that need (and then some!). The result is that the rest of us feel more unified as "non-crazy" people. Now I can look at almost anyone I encounter in Vienna (except for you all) and think "Hey -- we've got something in common: neither of us is a bitter nutbag like the people who run that website! Wanna grab a beer, neighbor?" Yes, the venom on your website is having a beneficial (if unintended) effect on Town unity. So as a non-crazy person, I say "Thanks...nutbags!"
It wasn't hard to figure out that John Shults lives five houses down from the Mayor's opinionated son-in-law. Imagine that? Wonder if Colbert, Seeman's son-in-law, was the "neighbor"?
There is a suspicion, for example, that if John was at the brunt end of the Vienna Town Council abusing his rights in some form or another, he might not be so cavalier with the use of the word "petty". John you are off in your use of the phrase 'nutbag' though. Are you sure you did not mean this fellow was the 'nutbag'?
As a follow-up we sent an email to ask John, "Can you clarify the 'petty' issues you spoke of?" The response received:
"Petty or no, most find that your public personal attacks on people are way over-the-line. The irony is that, for all I know, some of your complaints might be valid (can't say I know too much about them -- but I strongly favor personal property rights). Instead of trying to win people to your side, you focus on attacking everyone's integrity, calling their family members racists, making fun of them, etc. Is this really necessary? On another note, I apologize for calling you "crazy nutbags." Yes, I strongly disagree with the way you have led the discourse on Town issues, but for someone who thinks the personal attacks are too much, I should not have said that. I am sorry. Please accept my apology, and if you would have the grace to remove my e-mail from your site, I would appreciate it. (Frankly, I did not know my comment would launch me into the mix of this Town soap opera of which I want no part.)"
No part of it John? You posted a comment here with the full intention of it being publicly seen, we did not solicit you! If people like the Mayor want to be in the public eye as a public servant, take the heat. Pointing out strong political differences or pointing out outlandish behavior by politicians is not personal.
John, we did not create Tom Seeman's racist web site and we do not post there. The fact that it exists should be troubling to you. Perhaps, instead of 'shooting the messenger' of this web site, you might write the Mayor of Vienna and ask her to cease participation in it. Maybe even ask her to have it turned off? As you may or may not know, Tom Seeman is a political appointee in the Town of Leesburg. He is no innocent.
Our site has definitely attacked the integrity of certain individuals. Not all by any stretch, but definitely some and deservedly so. This site does use humor to point out the 100% hypocrisy employed by certain Town Council and Town board members. That will not stop. Next time when you want to "accuse" people of "something", get specific or someone might just call you a not-so-nice name like "nutbag".
Toto, I've a Feeling We're Not in Kansas Anymore Comments (0)
The "Look" That You Develop from Watching Town Council in Action
At a recent meeting to discuss the revitalization of Maple Avenue, questions were raised why the Town Council is only examining between Beulah and Lawyers while excluding Lawyers to Nutley. "Clarification" was added by the Town Zoning Administrator:
"Director of Planning and Zoning Greg Hembree, however, said the mayor and Town Council had decided to focus on the area of town zoned for the highest commercial density."
This is false. There is no such area of Town zoned to a higher commercial density.
Later in discussing building height, these comments were seen:
"Deborah Brehony said she thought four to six stories would be an appropriate height for buildings along Maple Avenue. The first story, she said, could be occupied by shops and restaurants, the second and third by professional offices, and the top stories by condominiums, which could provide housing for seniors who want to sell their houses but stay in town. She also said she wanted buildings in the area to have architectural styles that compliment each other...According to [Greg] Hembree, residential space is allowed above retailers on Maple Avenue under the current zoning, but heavy traffic makes the area valuable to businesses and less desirable as a place to live."
Hembree has no idea what he is talking about. Either that, or Maud Robinson told him to make an inane comment about where people will not live in Vienna.
May 25, 2006
Tom Seeman: The Emperor Has No Clothes Comments (3)
Leesburg Endorses Tom Seeman?
While not holding down the fort at his racist web site, where his mother the Mayor of Vienna Jane Seeman is a contributor, Tom Seeman also serves within the Town of Leesburg government. What does he do? Tom Seeman serves on the Town of Leesburg's Cable TV Advisory Commission which is described as:
"The Town of Leesburg has its own government access channel. All government access programming for the Town is featured on Adelphia Channel 21. This includes Town Council Worksessions, Town Council Meetings, Planning Commission Meetings and a 24-hour information bulletin board."
Here is the Tom Seeman resume submitted to serve in Leesburg government (PDF).
Gee, wonder if Vienna could ever get a channel?
May 24, 2006
J. McMahon Says, "Anti-Paranoia Medication!" Comments (1)
Feedback in today from J. McMahon:
"Who ever runs this site needs to get on some anti-paranoia medication. You are so non-constructive here. Why not get elected yourself if you think that the citizens are behind you?"
Thanks, we are calling to get our prescriptions refilled now.
May 23, 2006
Banks, Banks and More Banks Comments (1)
When a community sticks its head in the sand, odd economic forces may unexpectedly fill the vacuum. In Vienna's case (and also along other parts of Route 123) we are now seeing this with the "bank boom".
Vienna is now facing a situation where we have no control. Major Fortune 500 companies are buying land and building new banks with no regard to the best interests of Vienna. By not having any type of incentive zoning, we end up with major 'corners' in Town populated by 1-story banks. Does this seem like bright long-range planning?
And to all the naysayers, smart communities do indeed INFLUENCE these types of projects to their preferred desire. Sitting back and just taking it is a complete lack of vision.
Comment seen on the subject from a Town Board member:
Yes, I would agree that there are "Banks Aplenty" in our Town! Problem that I see is that they encourage folk coming up and down 123 to "drive in and stop by..." - So these types of institutions are not beneficial to our personal community, but serve to accomodate our "Drive-Thru Traffic"....Back to my Earlier Point - Instead of allowing a bank to take over an entire VALUABLE corner of 123, and build (what I think is a pretty UN attractive building that will stay there for 50+ years). Let's get SMART - Allow the bank to be on the GROUND FLOOR of such a structure -Put (if possible?) 2 levels of parking underneath - The bank can SHARE first floor space with a small restaurant? piano bar? boutique? dry cleaner?...Next Two Levels - PROFESSIONAL - dentists, attorneys, civel enginners, whatever....Then Two Levels - CONDOS - older citizens, young couples, won't add to the traffic if services/stores are nearby...What's the Big Deal here? Not looking for a HUGE BUILDING - Just a moderate one, done well, that has parking, encourages walking, is affordable, varied, architechturally compatible, attractive and convenient. I can't see the harm in that, and I do see the advantage. For the Record, I voted "NAY" for the Commerce Bank building elevation. I am not opposed to a bank. I am opposed to a single story, single useage sturcture encompassing 100% of a vital Vienna Commercial Corner.
May 22, 2006
Jane Seeman's Tacit Support of Son's Hate Speech Comments (4)
Jane Seeman Should Consider Her Options
Jane Seeman, by visiting, reading and writing to her son's now infamous hate blog, has condoned it all. The citizens of Vienna can only be sad that the Mayor of Vienna has participated in and refused to distance herself from such hate-filled diatribes. Our recent posts, with your comments, here and here say it all. It's one thing to have a child offering wild hate speech, it's quite another thing for the Mayor of Vienna to add her comments to her son's blog rants without condeming him. Or does none of this moral and ethical stuff matter any more? Who cares Seeman just won the election big? Is that the attitude?
Tom Seeman's "Social Views" Comments (10)
Tom Seeman Protesting
Tom Seeman (The Mayor of Vienna's Son), who provided feedback on Vienna and an assortment of social issues, also offered his brand of wisdom on "gays". As you read this dreck from Tom Seeman, keep in mind that the Mayor of Vienna, Jane Seeman, regularly reads this stuff and responds to it:
"So it was the unusual news story that told us that the California legislature had passed a bill to make "gay marriage" legal. Most Democrat politicians in the country are caught between a rock and a hard place with this issue. On the one hand, they've got their gay consituency telling them that gay marriage is their number 1 issue. On the other, they've got their much larger black and labor union constituency telling them "no way." The courts provide the perfect answer. They simply put liberal judges in place, and hope they pass gay marriage laws (excuse me, "reinterpret the constitution"). The politicians can then say to the blacks and union members "hey, don't look at me", while it's wink wink to the gays."
More from Tom Seeman:
"Twenty or thirty years ago we were told that we should "tolerate" gay people. Ok, society said. Next thing we know we're told that you're a bigot if you don't approve of gay marriage and that the Boy Scouts are one of the worst organizations on earth. And, as a recent incident at Harvard involving Jada Pinkett Smith demonstrated, if gays are allowed to marry, using the "husband" or "wife" word will become as taboo as saying "Christmas break"."
Tom Seeman also covered a recent Nobel Peace Prize winner:
"A few days ago we learned that, Wangari Maathai, a black African woman, had won the Nobel Peace Prize for 2004. She was the first on her continent to have done so, and it seemed like a nice story. No doubt that Africa could use more peacemakers...But really, of all the people on the planet, and all that's happened this past year, is she really the most deserving?"
More from Tom:
"On the "other side" (augh, how I hate to divide us so) some (is that better?) black people need to accept that it is no longer 1955. The NAACP and other extremist groups need to recognize that what columnist Walter Williams has said; that the war against racial opppression has been won, and that it is over. We're not still fighting the Germans or Japanese, thus our military and foreigh policies have changed. Jim Crow is dead, but extremist groups cannot accept this simple fact. Likewise, racial provocateurs such as Al Sharpton must be marginalized. It is to the everlasting shame of the Democratic Party that such people are not only tolerated but accepted with open arms. Media institutions fawn over Sharpton, and totally ignore his history. This must change if there is to be racial reconciliation. Jesse Jackson marginalized himself, but as long as Sharpton is accepted it will be difficult or impossible for changes to occur. Lastly, the entire liberal obsession with "victimhood" must end. As Shelby Steele put it, in order "to move beyond the victim-focused black identity; we must learn to make a difficult but crucial distinction; between acual victimization, which we must resist with every resource, and identification with the victim's status."
Tom Seeman admits he should not say these things, but it doesn't stop him! Read:
"If you're like me then you don't go around talking politics to everyone you meet. Certainly at work, where it seems we spend so much of our lives, I don't talk politics except perhaps with a - very - few trusted associates. And in daily life it's not something that get's discussed much, and when I do it's not in depth. Politics being as divisive as it is, and myself being so passionate about it, the last thing I want to do is to create unnecessary divisions and hard feelings. Oh sure, there is always the occasional exception. But in general my intellectual experience has been confined to reading books and talking about them only occasionally with a few people. With my family it's an entirely different matter. We talk politics almost everytime we meet. Everyone is a conservative, so any disagreement is usually over things like "how great a danger is Hillary?" or something like that. We're a pretty loud bunch, with everyone talking at once, kids running around, the whole bit. But we don't get together but once every month or so."
Mayor, are you on board with your son's anti-gay agenda, statements on black racists, rants against Hispanics, battles with 'pinkos' and slam of the Presbyterian Church? You are obviously reading it all, we have seen (and saved) your response to his writings!
May 21, 2006
Seemans Gloat About Vienna Elections at Extremist Web Blog Comments (6)
Jane Seeman (middle) and Tom Seeman Gloat About Machine Politics
Tom Seeman, Jane Seeman's son and self-stated life-long family campaigner, offered a recent view on getting elected in Vienna. Here are excerpts from Tom Seeman that we could not even begin to fabricate:
"Generally speaking, in small town elections issues do not matter. There are exceptions, of course. In Herndon VA, not too far from Vienna, politicians who supported a "day laborer" (read "illegal alien) center were thrown out. There are also situations in growing communities whereby the construction of a new school raises controversy. But generally there are no overriding issues because small towns do not control schools and do not discuss issues like abortion, gun control, or the war in Iraq. The situation changes when you get to cities and counties, but again, this post is about small towns. Getting elected in a small town is all about knowing a lot of people. It's about being involved in the community for years, preferably decades. It's all about participating in everything from the Boy or Girl Scouts to Little League Baseball to serving on the town planning commission or board of zoning appeals. In short, people vote for people they trust. And they trust people they either know or see who have been involved in their community. The reason for this is simple; most people don't pay attention to what goes on at town hall. As long as the trash gets picked up and roads are repaired, and taxes don't go too high, they simply have other things to worry about. The big paper in the nearby city (in this case, the Washington Post), ignores the small towns, and what local papers there are don't really do much of what you'd call investigative journalism, mainly because there's not a lot to investigate. In addition, most people don't pay a lot of attention to the local papers. In short, Johnny-come-lately's rarely win or hold seats on town councils. Every 5 or 7 years there's a "throw the bums out" movement in Vienna that runs a few candidates. Over the decades I've seen a few of these groups, and they're all the same; someone get's all bent out of shape over one issue and gets some like-minded friends to go in with him. They raise a big fuss and end up with maybe 30% of the vote. You also never see them again."
Tom then outlined his intimate involvement with his mother's campaign:
"So bright and early Tuesday May 2 I got up bright and early to help mom get re-elected. First I stopped off at my voting place in Leesburg VA to vote, more about which later. I was at my voting place at 6:05 AM, and was the 6th person to vote. Then it was off to Vienna...My job was to give mom's handout to people coming to the polls. Helping one or another parent get elected or re-elected is a family tradition which goes back over 20 years...For over twenty years it at all possible everyone in the family has helped out election day. We stand outside the polls and hand literature to voters."
Sadly, Jane Seeman regularly reads and appends comments to her son's diatribes. Jane Seeman responded to her son's view on Vienna elections.
"Thanks Tom for a pretty accurate picture of elections in Vienna."
Why is the Mayor of Vienna at her son's fringe web site adding value and participating? Unfortunately, Tom Seeman's web site has more than just views on Vienna elections. Tom Seeman also authored this bit of wisdom on "black racism":
"Yes, there is racism in America. But most of it is not white racism. It is black racism. It pains me greatly to type this, but there it is. Certainly most of the hate speech that I see on matter of race comes from the left in general, and liberal black leaders in particular. Former NAACP head Kwazi Mfume comes to mind in this regard. The simple fact is that significant (hint; key word there) white racism is a thing of the past. If you don't believe me, look at how the left defines racism today; they claim it is "institutional" or "unconscious". In other words, we can't find any individual cases, in fact we can't prove anything at all, but we're going to claim it anyway. It gets worse. It is bad enough that Al Sharpton is feted by mainstream Democrats, who have forgotten all about Freddies Fashion Mart, let along the Tawana Brawley affair. With the last election cycle we have seen that the Democrat party is so in bed with extremist groups like Moveon.org and America Coming Together, and individuals such as Michael Moore and George Soros, that they are utterly unable to sound reasonable on most issues at all (More on this when I review Byron York's latest book). What we saw in New Orleans, and the race-baiting that followed, is the result of forty years of liberal social programs. It is absurd beyond reason to say that this country has not worked it's collective butt off to make life better for it's underclass from at least 1933 on. And it defied comprehension how anyone could say that we have not tried beyond trying to make the lives of black people in particular better since the mid-fifties, with the trend accelerating greating from 1964 on. Trillions of dollars, program after program, quota after quota (excuse me, "diversity"). So at this point we are entitled to ask a question: If white racism is as big a problem as the left says it is, and they allege it runs all the way up to the president, then what does that say about all the liberal social programs to alleviate all this that we've followed? I'll spare you the typing and answer the question myself; your policies have failed. The liberal welfare state, and the modern "diversity" and "multiculturalism" that have been forced on us, have not worked. Not nearly as much as their sponsors claim, at any rate. The black citizens of New Orleans who were so impoverished that they didn't own cars, or have the money to get out, were not victims of racism. They were victims of the failed liberal welfare state. And why do so many buy into the notion that federal government failures were the result of racism? I'll spare you the typing on this one too; because liberal leaders have done nothing but preach the gospel of victimhood to them. We will no doubt hear that "both sides need to come together", that conservatives need to "reach out", blah blah blah. Sorry, but after listening to the insanities coming from the left on the issue of race after Katrina, I'm not in much mood for "coming together" with the likes of Al Sharpton, Howard Dean, most members of the Congressional Black Caucus, or, while we're at it, the NAACP. I have had it up to here with them. Compassion? You bet. But it's going to be on the individual level, which for me means targeted donations and church mission/work trips. But these "leaders" have got to go. P.S. I hated writing this post. This entire affair pains me greatly, and so wish things weren't as they were. But some things have to be said."
Tom made sure to outline the "Hispanic problem" too:
"Is it just me, or is there an epidemic of jaywalking in our country? Yes that's right, Jaywalking. I cannot drive around anymore without seeing people running across some fairly busy streets. The mainstreet of my little town is one of those four-lane roads, with businesses on each side, with a turning lane down the middle of the street. Undivided, you know what I mean. Every quarter mile or something there is a stoplight, and the speed limit is maybe 35mph but you know how that goes. And half the time I'm downtown some idiot is running across the street, as often as not young parents with little children in tow. Now mind you there's a crosswalk not more than a hundred feet away. And I've seen this too on busier roads than this. Now mostly, and this is just a personal observation, most of the jaywalkers are Hispanic. If this is accurate, and it might not be, is this the result of cultural or socio-economic factors? Or is it the result of a general breakdown of an attitude towards law-and-order?"
Tom also works the protest circuit battling "pinkos" (could not make this up!):
"In August of 2005 I heard on the radio that a leftist group called Code Pink was doing an anti-war protest at Walter Reed Army Medical Center every Friday night, and that some conservatives were also staging a counter-protest. "Hmmm", I thought, "I live pretty close by. I'm going to go over there and see what's up." One thing led to another, and now I go to Walter Reed almost every Friday night. We've chased the Pinkos away from the entrance, but since they still congregate a block away we're going to keep up our activities until they're gone for good. I also went to the big anti-war protest last Sept 24 in Washington DC to counter-protest, and last Saturday to the Danish Embassy to act as a symbolic "human shield" against the radical Muslim group The New Black Panthers."
Lastly, Tom offered feedback on the Presbyterian Church (Vienna's?):
"Just to lay my cards on the table, I am a Christian, I go to church every Sunday and participate occasionally in mission programs. Currently I attend a non-denominational somewhat evangelical church. I used to go to a Presbyterian church, but changed when I moved to a different town. Over the years my reading had led me to conclude that the national leadership of the Presbyterian Church USA was hopelessly left-wing and so it seemed as good a time as any to sever that relationship."
So is this dinner talk at the Seeman house? Maybe it is time to distance yourself here Mayor? Maybe you should stop adding comments to Tom's off the handle rants? Whew...thank heaven there are no issues in Vienna that would ever cause an incumbent to lose!
Laine Hyde Wins Award Comments (1)
Best Fabricated Vienna History for 5th Year in a Row?
May 20, 2006
The Chewbacca Defense: Maud's Secret Weapon Comments (1)
The Master of the Chewbacca Defense
The logical fallacy of Ignoratio elenchi (or the use of a "red herring") is pervasive within the power core of Vienna government. An especially good example can be seen in the use of The Chewbacca Defense [Wikipedia definition]. The Chewbacca Defense is a FAVORITE of Maud Machine members. What is the Chewbacca Defense? Watch the Video. Examples of the Maud Machine using some form of the Chewbacca Defense?
Statement #1: Vienna needs economic revitalization in its commercial corridor. Form-based codes will assist greatly.
Chewbacca Defense: Vienna just replaced a gas station with a bank. Vienna just tore a building down to create a Town Green. Everything is fine and growing!
Statement #2: Vienna needs economic revitalization in its commercial corridor. Form-based codes will assist greatly.
Chewbacca Defense: Quit trying to scare people. This is my neighborhood and it deserves to thrive. Quit the rumors and let the shopkeeper's businesses continue their success. I like this community and I like the diversity - ethnically and economically. If you can't handle it, MOVE. I like the affordable services and the racially and ethnically diverse population. I'm not for a white gentrification of Vienna. Keep up the good work, incumbents. Praises to Seeman and Cole - who seem to be targets by small minds.
Statement #3: Vienna needs economic revitalization in its commercial corridor. Form-based codes will assist greatly.
Chewbacca Defense: Since [Susan] Stich and [Blair] Jenkins were such ardent advocates of form based zoning, we can only surmise that it is something that will be BAD for the town and a tool for permitting the detrimental development that [various Vienna residents] want to carry out throughout all of the neighborhoods where their vast land holding [sic] lie.
Statement #4: Vienna's historic district is unconstitutional.
Chewbacca Defense: Let's vote to see if everyone wants it.
Statement #5: Vienna's historic district is unconstitutional.
Chewbacca Defense: You are rich developers who want to build hotels.
Statement #6: Vienna needs to embrace younger generations and their views.
Chewbacca Defense: You hate old people. Elections are over. Stop the personal attacks. You lost. Get over it. When you're 85 (if you're lucky enough to live that long), you'll probably rail against age-prejudiced comments such as those you just made. You'll no doubt ignore this advice, but remember that your sense of immortality is a fleeting thing.
NOTE: Chewbacca Defenses for #2, #3 and #6 (except for first sentence) REALLY are verbatim from Maud Machine members. The others are paraphrased from actual statements.
May 19, 2006
Sitting on the Fence Comments (10)
Sitting on the Fence Decision-Making Never Works
Some recent feedback seen on the historic district mess from a member of one of Vienna's boards:
"The issue with OUR Historic Overlay District (And I do think everyone concentrates too much on "Historic", and not on "Overlay") is that there are not concrete and specific rules set down and written out for the residents. It is, believe it or not, arbitrary and capricious. If you want to paint your house, then you must go before the "Windover Heights Review Board", and they will look at your paint chip and study it, and decide if they like it or not. There is NOT a defined list of set colors that say this is what you can or cannot use to paint your house. So, I think that is the crux of the problem. No one truly knows what the rules ARE, because there are not rules. There is only opinion. I THINK that is why some of the people want out so badly. They don't want to build a high-rise building there. I THINK they would like to continue to live there; they just want to know what the rules are so that they are fair for everyone. Unfortunately, it has blossomed into almost a "Hatfields and McCoys" situation! Here's what I think. Lets have the Town Council go out, two by two, and meet with EVERY SINGLE property owner in the WHHD. Let's let every property owner have ONE and only one vote (Do it by property owners, not by properties). That way the rich don't get more votes than the not-so-rich. Then it's as easy as 1-2-3. Count up the votes, and if the majority like being in an Overlay District, then keep it so. If the majority wants to abandon it, then consider it yesterday's news."
- Thank you for acknowledging that there are no rules. Thank you for acknowledging that the situation is arbitrary and capricious. It is nice to have one of Vienna's power brokers finally acknowledge the truth.
- Unfortunately, your proposal to penalize people for being successful enough to own more than one property is economic egalitarianism. Does this mean that if there were, for example, 20 properties in the District, 19 owned by one person and one owned by the other person, they should have equal votes? The idea that you would first acknowledge that the entire District is arbitrary and capricious, then propose to "solve" it all by a "socialistic type vote" makes no sense. In your effort to "make people equal", which really has nothing to do with anything, you ignore the parade of abuses and injustices here. Why do you ignore these abuses and give the abusers another "chance"? What exactly are you even holding onto with this District? For example, there are no historic structures. Even if there were, nothing stops them from being torn down. The neighborhood has been torn and rebuilt since the 1979 District inception. What in blazes is the rationale as to why this "thing" is so important that it must be saved? Why do some smart people allow themselves to sound dumb defending it? What is the secret reason why this asinine law must be saved?
- Please quantify the term "rich" for us. You arrived at that number how?
- Please quantify the term "not-so-rich" for us. You arrived at that number how?
Rants from the Angry Crowd Comments (1)
These two posts from a very angry crowd were seen recently:
- To me, the Historic Vienna website exists to harrass [sic] and not to provide serious reflection. If the site authors have real arguments to make, they are hard to parse out from the sad, comic relief they provide. I feel pity for the people behind the Historic Vienna page because they are tilting at windmills and I feel sorry for any people who really think it made a positive difference for the challengers or advanced any hope of bringing other viewpoints into the arena of debate about Vienna and its future. I do think there is a place for new ideas and viewpoints, but try losing the attitude and maybe your fellow citizens might listen to you and not react to you so negatively.
- No, the citizens of Vienna aren't stupid or duped by Maud or Jane. It is just possible that they see you for what you are and reject it. But you are too blinded by the millions that you want to make. That is why you spend so much time and money on lawsuits, maintaining web sites, attending and taping and photographing meetings. Of course it's worth it, for all of the profit that you want to make. Yes, the profit does matter. No, that doesn't make us weak minded, just intelligent. Perhaps we also see you at the grocery store, school, soccer, the park, in your neighborhood or any number of other places. We are everywhere. You are isolated literally and figuratively.
We can't wait for the Hooters office tower to open. We are going to be so rich!
May 18, 2006
Scottie, Beam Me Up! Comments (2)
Historic District Supporters Come In All Shapes and Sizes
This post brought these responses:
"I [based my understanding of the majority view] on things like civic association votes, opinions of residents and the number of posts on this sight [sic] that seem to oppose your tatics [sic], question your motives and generally disagree with you."
Response: Civic association votes? When was this? You don't mean that crazy meeting from 2003 where this letter was read? Are you the author of that letter?
"All your rights aren't "inherent". Have you ever been a member of a homeowner's association? They dictate and regulate tons of things you can and cannot do (e.g. some of them ridiculous). I see the district in the same light."
Response: Ok. Let's follow your logic of a civic association comparison. What are the rules? Please be specific.
"Your logic is that the district is flawed so let's leave it or do away with it. That's logical?"
Response: Flawed laws, like Plessy v. Ferguson, are abolished. You don't "improve" or "fix" bad laws. At this late stage of the game don't you wonder why the Council has taken no steps to resolve? One minute they say it is a problem, next minute they say it is not.
"Some of your supporters/residents were involved in creating the district and it's ordinances (or lack thereof) - they should be the ones to point fingers at as they helped creat [sic] this mess.
Response: Those party to the lawsuit did not create the District or the current disaster. They have not supported any of the nonsense that has unfolded since 1979. The District was created by the Vienna Town Council and assorted Town busy bodies.
"Has anyone tried to get them fixed by any constructive method?"
Response: In the past people petitioned for removal when abuses started and the Council obliged. Why don't you petition to be included in the District so YOU can fix it? You have already stated you live near the border, why not be included? We are sure your house, wherever it is, has as much historicity as any other house in the District.
Jealous and Illogical Is A Weird Combination Comments (2)
A comment from a Maud Machine member on 'owners' of property in the historic district:
"I would vote for someone who represented and served the interests of the majority as opposed to (what seems to be) a minority in regard to the historic district complaints. I live on the border of the district and agree that the "rules" make no sense. Regardless, I think there's a common desire to preserve the district and by preserve I mean no more ofc. bldgs, no town homes, no hotels, or McMansions, etc. If it was a true historic district with defined standards and code, would there be any more complaints? By the way, why would someone buy property or multiple properties in the district knowing that these problems existed? Were they blind going into it?"
Your so-called 'common desire' is not common by any available evidence OR LAW. The Windover Heights Historic District does not regulate zoning and it doesn't stop McMansions or office buildings (drive around for example). It has no rules, standards or historical structures. The entire neighborhood has been torn down and rebuilt. It is a District for two groups of people: 1.) those in Government who relish the ability to harass and bully people with vague laws for their jollies 2.) and Yuppies who live in brand new houses who want to pretend they are in a real historic district.
To your mindless logic on the purchasing of private property: private citizens who buy private property do not need to ask the government for their inherent property rights. Property rights are guaranteed by the Constitution. People buy property for many reasons, none of which give you the right to violate their rights. The great thing about the United States Constitution is that it protects the rights of minorities. By your wayward logic, you would have had no problem marching in 1930s Germany since as you say, "majority rules and they must be right".
To your "blind comment": everyone who lives in the Windover Heights Historic District was blind to this. Most of this historic district nonsense has accelerated to its current zenith since 2004. No one could have known, for example, what would take place at the infamous Sagatov work session in the summer of 2004.
And one final note: why in blazes is this small crowd of powers that be in Vienna so interested in the supposed economic gains of other citizens? At some point their silly arguments sound like some weird form of jealousy.
Salsbury Spring Springs a Leak; Town of Vienna Breaks the Law Comments (7)
Salsbury Spring, part of the historic district owned by the Town, has sprung a leak. No joke, that's what the Town said. Right now the Town has multiple dump trucks of gravel on site, trenches being dug, drain tiled being laid, pumps going and workers everywhere. Salsbury Spring is under construction and surprise, surprise, the Town received no Certificate of Appropriateness.
Do only residents have to obey the law? If any resident was undertaking this project in the Windover Heights Historic District without approval, they would be shut down immediately. The party-line response from Dennis King (Director of Public Works)?
"The Department of Public Works is doing maintenance work at Salsbury Spring which is permitted in the Windover area."
Think about that statement. Digging up a so-called historical spring and laying new drain tile is "maintenance". That statement is a load of crap. Period. The integrity of the water flow, the only thing interesting about the spring, has now forever been "fixed" by a sloppy government who could care less about the law. Interestingly, here is what the "Walk on the Hill" brochure says about Salsbury Spring:
"The spring was an unfailing source of water, even during the drought of the early 1930s when many springs and wells went dry. The spring was originally part of the Salsbury farm, but was deeded to the Town of Vienna in 1938. Ayr Garden Club has maintained the surrounding park since the early 1970s."
Questions:
1. Is the Ayr Hill Garden Club paying for this project or is the taxpayer stuck with it?
2. Is the drain tile being laid "harmonious to the old and historical surroundings"?
3. How can digging up a naturally occurring spring be considered maintenance?
You can even see the randomly placed, pointing in no particular direction, Maud enforced "Historic District" signs!
May 17, 2006
Boss Maud Rails Against Maple Avenue Comments (1)
The jig is up Maud. Video of your out of touch rants from last night will be posted here soon. There will come a day when your handful of blind followers will be gone and Vienna will finally be able to maximize itself. You have become a sad spectacle. Unfortunately, only very few Vienna citizens see you in action. Bitter, angry and spreading wild rumors only works so long Maud.
Lobotomy Patient Adds His 2ยข Comments (1)
'Lobotomy Bob' Chimes In About Hotels
This blog has become a breeze to maintain. The wonderfully poetic diatribes, ripe for dissection, just keep coming! Consider this ditty from some random pro-Maud Machiner:
"You all paid millions of dollars to buy up acres of real estate to build "Windover Heights Fine Homes" (oops, where did that page disappear to) or is it now "a nice small upscale hotel" so often mentioned by [Blair] Jenkins and [Susan] Stich in their campaign literature and then cry when the town and the citizens say "I don't think so". Your vague rantings about "unconstitutional laws" and "corruption" are wholly unconvincing. You never get beyond these few catch phrases. Perhaps that is because there really is no basis for your position. Architectural restrictions exist in communities everywhere."
Is this person acting purposefully dumb to scare the over 90 set or is the author just plain dumb? Either way, our retort.
1. Unconstitutional laws? Read.
2. Corruption? Read.
3. The current Vienna Wolftrap motel is a rattrap. It is gross. It is a haven for gang meetings and other illegal activities. Vienna Police know the problems with this place. A nice 4-5 story hotel in Vienna, that we can all feel proud about, is a great idea. It's not a good idea if you have had a frontal lobotomy, require a drool pan and never leave your house.
4. Can you define what the architectural restrictions are exactly? What are the rules? No answer? We figure that if there were actually rules, Bukont never would have had his infamous meltdown. That meltdown happened because he could not answer basic questions about the restrictions you say exist.
5. We already covered the real development plan to make people rich here. Pay attention Maudites!
May 16, 2006
Roy Baldwin: Worried About Lawsuit Damages Comments (9)
Roy Baldwin
The following email came into one of the Town Council challengers from Roy Baldwin. Baldwin is a divorce attorney, Chairman of the Government Affairs Committee of the Vienna-Tysons Regional Chamber of Commerce, and Town/Business Liaison Committee member. Baldwin, acting like a political novice, just an average Joe with basic questions and obviously no axe to grind, parroted the Maud Machine talking points:
"Dear [Candidate]: I am a resident of the Town of Vienna and plan to vote in the upcoming elections. I have visited your web site, www.22180.com, and have some questions about it and your positions on the issues:
1. What exactly is "HistoricVienna.com Blog", which is listed on your candidate page under "Town Web Sites"?
2. Is it a web site maintained by the Town, or by Historic Vienna, Inc.?
3. If not, who is responsible for it?
4. Who writes it? Did you write any of it?
5. Why have you posted a link to it on your web site?
6. Do you agree with its characterizations of your opponents for Town Council, or with its characterizations of Jane Seeman, George Lovelace, and Maude [sic] Robinson?
7. If not, which ones do you disagree with?
8. What have you done to make your disagreement clear?
9. Are you a party to the lawsuit filed by [Vienna citizen] against the Town to be allowed to remove his properties from the Windover Heights Historic District, and for special damages, court costs, and attorney's fees?
10. What do you stand to gain if his lawsuit succeeds?
11. If you are elected to the Town Council, would you vote to settle the lawsuit by allowing [Vienna citizen] to win?
12. If so, what amount of money would you vote for the Town to pay him and his co-plaintiffs in special damages, court costs, and attorney's fees?
13. What is your connection to [Vienna citizen]?
14. What is your connection to [Vienna citizen]?
15. What is your connection to [Vienna citizen]?
16. Did any of these individuals encourage you to run for Town Council?
17. How much have they contributed to your campaign?
18. If you are elected to the Town Council, how will you vote on the petition filed by [Vienna citizens] to remove their properties from the Windover Heights Historic District?
19. What do you stand to gain if their petition is approved by the Town Council?
I would appreciate receiving your answers to these questions as soon as you are able. Sincerely, Roy J. Baldwin"
Now isn't this a cute example of the Maud Machine's scare tactics in action? Roy Baldwin, who of course has read the lawsuit, is making the case that the lawsuit is a money-making venture. Roy how in the world could the lawsuit be a means to make money in your eyes? We thought a political hack like you would defend the historic district down to the last drop, but you seem to be worried that someone will make money from the suit which of course means you think the Town will lose. Guess what Roy? If the Town is maintaining an unconstitutional law to the detriment of its citizens, and they get zinged for damages in the courtroom, we have to wonder why busy bodies like you did not push the Council to solve the matter before it hit the courts. Roy, go slink back under the rock you crawled out from under, this ain't Divorce Court.
Mike Colbert Gets Nasty, Lashes Out Comments (4)
Some Vienna Pit-bulls Could Use a Muzzle
The Vienna power brokers love to bark that this web site, which is mostly a mirror of the factual words and actions of Vienna leaders, is "nasty". Well, as they say, no one ever kicks a dead dog!
We know that some Vienna politicians revealed for what they are will continue to lash out. On the subject of nasty and lashing out, Mike Colbert (Jane Seeman's son-in-law) offered this heartfelt piece of advice to one of the challengers right before the 2006 Vienna Election:
"First off, I congratulate you on running for Town Council. It is a big commitment of time and can bring much criticism your way. I hope you are up for it. Now, with regards to your comments about the Town Green. Whether you agree with it or not, Vienna is not authorized by the state to place referendums on the ballot. Before you go mouthing off, you should get your facts straight. If you do happen to get elected I hope you will do a little more homework before embarassing [sic] the town by suggesting something that is illegal. Thanks and good luck. Mike Colbert"
Is Mike Colbert Mayor Seeman's political pit-bull?
This was not a confident email was it? What was he worried about? We find the comments of Mike Colbert an instructive tool in understanding the "minds" controlling the power reigns in Vienna. Sure the 2006 election might have gone the incumbent way, but tectonic plates are clearly shifting in ways they can't control.
May 15, 2006
Cole's Defenders Ignore the Stench Comments (2)
These defenses of Laurie Cole's money grab were seen recently:
- "Laurie and Harry Cole sold their property, WITHIN RIGHTS, at a FAIR PRICE, to a QUALIFIED BUYER [Steve Bukont]. Her "Sale" was totally legit and not unusual or deserving of question in any sense. Fairfax County records it as such, and there really shouldn't be this huge contentious question as to how and why it transpired..."
- "Mrs. Cole and her husband merely sold their home a year ago. Nothing unusual about that. It was a completely public deal which can be easily found on-line at Fairfax's website (I think that it was listed in the Post last year, too), so it's not like she was trying to hide anything. And when her attackers started slamming her on the eve of the election because in their warped and self-serving view the sale of a house, at market rate, is some kind of crime, I didn't see anything about her complaining about it (even though the slamming was highly personal and probably even libelous)."
- "I was really disappointed at the Historic Vienna website that attacked and that continues to attack Mrs. Cole on truly out there issues. The daily attacks would be funny, if they were not focused on a real person. The $200,000 piece was a real hoot. All real estate sales are noted on County records as to whether they are fair market or not. Just look it up, for crying out loud, no investigation is needed. That sale should have been examined by now. In 2002, many sellers were paid, and many buyers did pay, more than the tax assessment valuation for their houses and land. That is part of the economic reality of a housing bubble. If that were to occur in 2006, now that the assessments have caught up to and in some cases surpassed true market value, then, okay, I would see a reason to ask questions, but I still would not judge the seller without all the facts. My neighbor sold his house for $120,000 over assessed value in 2005 to a total stranger who came to the open house. Did he make money? Of course. Did he make it improperly? Of course not. If he had sold it ealier [sic] in the decade, I am sure the disparity between assessment and purchase price might have been greater. Digging back to a 2002 transaction that was probably fair market just to smear a candidate is a low tactic."
- "You made the $200k an issue. You asserted that it was an unseemly profit and a sweetheart deal. But it turns out that it was no more than anyone else made, so there was no sweetheart deal. It's not a crime to sell or buy a home. Should any past, present and/or future business relationships between people running for town counsel [sic] and other parties be disclosed, such as partied [sic] suing the town and having business pending before the town counsel [sic]? Everyone deserves to have full disclosure of these relationships, right? We better make sure that we never elect anyone to the town counsel [sic] who ever has had or ever will have any business with anyone who may have or will have any business before the town counsel [sic]."
- "I do not think a $200 profit is either an "unseemly profit" or a "sweetheat deal" [sic]. I actually think it is exactly, precisely what I would have expected a property in the location of Mrs. Cole's former neighborhood to have sold for at that particular time. There is nothing alarming about it at all. In fact, it is perfectly normal. Certainly, Mr. and Mrs. Cole had the right to sell to whomever they chose. That is, after all, one of the basis tenents [sic] of "Property Rights". Again, I am not at all alarmed that the Coles sold a property to Mr. Bukont. Citizens sell lots to builders all the time. Again, this is perfectly normal, and nothing to be alarmed about."
Amusing to hear Cole defenders talk of property rights isn't? No mention of conflicts of interests either? No mention that Cole was the lone Council member with such a tangled web to one builder? And why all the defenses? "The lady doth protest too much, methinks."
Think about this in reverse. Go back a few years. Imagine it is sometime during the 1990s. Cole is filling roles on the Planning Commission and the Board of Zoning Appeals. She will soon be elected to Town Council. She lives right next door to Steve Bukont. She is now and will continue to vote for Bukont projects.
Imagine if Laurie Cole had said at that time that 1.) she planned to have Bukont build a new kitchen in her old house prior to 2002, 2.) Bukont would build her new house in 2002 for an undisclosed sum, 3.) she would vote for Bukont's commercial building and town house projects in 2003 and 4.) then would sell her old house to Bukont in 2005 for $625,000 with no agent involved. If she would have laid this all out as her plan before it ever happened people would have smelled the conflict of interest from a country mile. Cole spinners can work this any way they want, but Cole was an elected official engaged in conflicted behavior to pad her pockets.
May 14, 2006
Stupid Is, Stupid Does Comments (5)
Are Some People in Vienna Really
That Dumb?
Most people probably saw the humor here. Perhaps even some thought it was an exaggeration. It was NO exaggeration as this recent forum post from a supporter of the Maud machine reveals:
"Since [Susan] Stich and [Blair] Jenkins were such ardent advocates of form based zoning, we can only surmise that it is something that will be BAD for the town and a tool for permitting the detrimental development that [various Vienna residents] want to carry out throughout all of the neighborhoods where their vast land holding [sic] lie."
As we thought about this post, two choices came to mind: Either this person is pretending to be an idiot to SCARE less than learned acolytes or the author of this post is plain stupid himself. For those not familiar with the term form-based zoning, read:
Tax records reveal that no current Council members or their challengers from this past election were owners of commercial land in Vienna. Form-based zoning would apply to commercial only.
May 13, 2006
New 50-Story Condo Tower Coming Soon Comments (0)
"Maud You Always Promised to Protect Us From
People Getting Rich!"
There is a new rumor going around. Listen close. It seems 'certain' residents of the Windover Heights Historic District are planning to combine all of their properties into one large parcel. They then plan to build a 50-story condo tower with a Hooters on the top floor. They will become very RICH by doing this. It will ruin Vienna! Everyone must rally behind the historic district and Maud, as they are our only hope to stop those evil people from getting rich and destroying Vienna! What really scares us is their pending lawsuit. Can you believe that, a LAWSUIT that says our historic district is unconstitutional! It all sounds SO scary.
May 12, 2006
Megalomania Has Infected Vienna Comments (2)
"Mrs. Jane, We Are with You!"
From the Sun Gazette comes the mother of all quotes from Jane Seeman:
"Mayor M. Jane Seeman said the applicants had bought the property three years ago knowing full well it was in the historic district. "When someone buys something with their eyes wide open as to the restrictions, then I'm not in favor of letting the boundary change."
Simple question: Mrs. Seeman what are the restrictions exactly? Will Seeman say something so patently stupid with her right hand raised under deposition? In Seeman's distorted world-view private citizens are apparently prevented from buying private property if a Town Council creates a historic district with no specific rules. If Seeman knows there are no written restrictions, then what are we to make of her? If she is willing to say such a statement in public should we not expect it to be true? It's not true. And via the magic of video we can show you Jane Seeman contradicting Jane Seeman:
1. Link 1
2. Link 2
3. Link 3
4. Link 4
5. Link 5
6. Link 6
7. Link 7
Taking all of the above into account, consider this piece of wisdom about the District from here:
"It [historic district] was pushed as far and as hard as it could through the Town channels, things were not resolved so along came the lawsuit, now you have to bite the bullet and wait for that outcome. If I was being sued [lie the Town] I certainly would not discuss it, I can't fault the Council for that. Again your Historic District Lawsuits page, detailing the issues is not easily found."
The idea that citizens should sit back and allow a Town Council to abdicate their legislative responsibilities, by letting the courts do their job for them, is perverse. Who thinks like this? For those of you who want to use the historic district as a wedge to keep power, this post in total doesn't matter. For those seeking to understand why a lawsuit has been filed, this page and links may help.
"Comrade Jane, Always Lie Big!"
May 09, 2006
Jane Seeman Abuses Property Rights Comments (4)
Last night the Vienna Town Council voted against the removal of a property from the Historic District. In ruling against the property many Council members said nothing. However, some Council members used the vote as a platform to reveal an anti-property rights agenda. Jane Seeman in particular, apparently now high on Election results, labeled the owners of the property as 'speculators' who knew what the rules were before buying the property. Seeman stated that since the rules were known in advance, the owners had no right to complain about the Historic District or seek removal. Only in the mind of a very weak person could this logic pass. One question for Mrs. Seeman: What are the rules for the Windover Heights Historic District? Exactly, you have no answer... It is high time that Jane Seeman took the Maud Robinson earpiece out and stood for something...anything.
May 07, 2006
The Garden Club Government Comments (0)
Vienna Government and South Park Have Much in Common
Several years ago Laine Hyde had her attorney send a letter alleging that this site's statement that she was forced off the Windover Heights Board of Review was damaging to her "social standing". Seriously, think about that pearl from one of Vienna's most powerful politicians for a second. Does that mean no more to the front of the line at Magruders? They take away your library card? No more discounts at the Freeman Store? We digress... Whether Hyde was forced off or not is debatable, but she did leave the Historic Review Board shortly after the Mayor was told that residents of the Windover Heights Historic District could not sit on the Review Board ruling against neighbors. The notion that Hyde's so-called 'social standing' was violated reveals much about the "minds" behind Vienna government.
Vienna government is an interesting dichotomy. One side is the public face. The face that makes mostly retired government employees living on fixed incomes vote overwhelmingly for Maud Robinson's desires. These folks no longer look outside the four walls of Vienna, they just vote the false notion of "no change". Of course Vienna changes daily on its own with no direction or real leadership. Unlike many progressive communities across the country, Vienna is rudderless. Does anyone really believe Vienna, with its current leadership, would be #4 if it weren't for the perfect storm of geography? We are in the smack middle of Fairfax County! Vienna excels in spite of itself. All of that said, the Maud machine controls all, and until she and her voting block of fear-motivated octogenarians and nonagenarians are gone, stasis is the norm. This is not about picking on senior citizens either. Some in this community are very forward thinking, they just have no influence on government. The reality is we have reached a point where Maud and her machine's selfish short-term and shortsighted control of government does more harm than good. Yes, it might be nice to look fondly back to the 1950s, but the time has come for progressive thinking in Vienna government and we simply don't have it.
The other face of Vienna government is the 'behind-the-scenes-not-for-public-consumption' garden club mentality Yes, our government really is run like a garden club or sorority replete with its own caste system. Worse yet, these people have no ideas or visions. They simply want AND need power over others to make their lives meaningful. Remember back to high school or even grade school. Think back to the playground bullies who just wanted to control entry to the "clubs", not because they had a rhyme or reason in their beings, but just because they liked the ability to control other people, settle scores and dole out favors. This is the face that the old-time machine voters can't imagine. All they care about seems to be trash pickup and snow removal. They don't know Maud's "nasty" power hungry side even after all of these years. And for anyone who watched Robinson work the 2006 polls, "nasty" is an understatement.
The garden club face of Vienna government, however, has been exposed with this web site. It has been exposed to a degree that the "machine" finds awfully unsettling. Fortunately, there is light at the end of the tunnel for those who do not want Vienna's dirty laundry hanging out in public. This site will go away into the night the moment the garden club antics end, but not one second before. What is the next step? How can more people be educated beyond the scare tactics of no change put forward by Boss Maud? How can some form of productivity be found? An email came in last night that puts much into perspective fighting the good fight:
"I would like to contribute more to this blog but perhaps on a different plain, and more in the spirit of bringing public opinion, awareness, and involvement to bear on improving Town government and the Town. I think this blog or similar mechanism could easily maintain its positive start, shed any early-on negativity, and expand to become more accepted as a means for public discourse over Town concerns. Of course, you may not have the energy for that long haul, but your initial/original work may lead to a subsequent effort... and there is still time now to shape that direction. I think you can assume that this blog is well and widely read, so there is an inherent responsibility to your readers even when it seems like nobody is really listening... they are and will continue to tune in so that demands quality programming."
This site is open for business and we appreciate your feedback. We will continue to expose hypocrisy, but we will also spell out concrete steps to a better Vienna on a regular basis.
May 05, 2006
Boss Maud and the Robinson Machine Comments (0)
Richard J. Daley & Maud Robinson:
Kissing Cousins
We have seen a continuing post-Election banter back and forth. It goes something like this:
"Go away now! The incumbents won big, that means we are right!"
And the response by the other side:
"Vienna needs to get beyond just sitting still. Vienna needs to address today's world!"
The reality? Vienna's election revealed little. It did not make a difference who the incumbents were or who the challengers were. You could have had all "no name" incumbents and they would have won. You could have had all "no name" challengers and they would have lost.
What do the results really reveal? Boss Maud Robinson controls 800-1200 votes who will do anything she tells them to do. Most of these folks have known Maud for literally 30-50 years. These voters are not focused on issues or philosophies or web sites. They simply vote as they are told. To achieve that level of political machinery is quite an achievement. The 2006 Elections revealed only that Maud Robinson's machine is well oiled and lubed to precision.
The leaders in the Maud machine, however, do worry about the content of this site. Too much truth will eventually cause trouble for even the most skilled politicians.
May 04, 2006
Dick Nixon Meet Laurie Cole Comments (3)
Nixon Was Reelected in a Landslide in 1972
Nixon Resigned on August 9, 1974
The Vienna elections might be over, but several Vienna Council members have not escaped scrutiny. Issues coming soon that will expose the seamy behind the scenes include:
1. Laurie Cole's real estate profits will be exposed. The investigation has just started.
2. Maud Robinson's quest to keep the unconstitutional historic district going will fall apart as litigation proceeds.
While these simple sounding statements might not sound "huge", both issues, as they unfold, will reveal a tawdry and corrupt side of Vienna political life. Oh sure, we understand many people would rather not hear about this stuff as they can't believe it is true. Patience dear, patience.
May 03, 2006
Incumbents Day 2006 Comments (1)
A voter walked up to Laurie Cole at the polls yesterday and said:
"I don't care how much money you made! You deserved every cent you made off that deal!"
The power of incumbency was in full force at the polls in 2006.
May 02, 2006
Election Day 2006 Comments (0)
Please go out and vote today! Win or lose, some of the incumbents have lost already. Vienna's political machinery has finally started to learn what the word transparency really means.
May 01, 2006
Cole's Neighbor Threatens Police Investigation Comments (0)
Cole's Buddies Want this Site Investigated
It really is amazing to watch people when they are cornered during an election cycle. They squirm. They shriek. They threaten. They say plain nutso stuff. On the eve of the 2006 Vienna election we received an email from Mary Skorik-Andrews of 211 Owaissa Court. Mary just happens to be a former neighbor of Laurie Cole (at 200 Owaissa Court) for many years. Mary wrote in today accusing the writers of this site of acting like 'cowards', using 'slander' and being 'vicious'. More from Mary:
"What have you done for the good of this community. This hysterical blog is not a tagible [sic] good for public discourse. Perhaps if you went about your allegations and concerns in a more civilized way people would take you seriously. Sunlight kills mold. In a town this small it is difficult to do business with a stranger. Why would someone who lives in a glass house throw so many stones? But I digress. I suppose the question is why do I waste my valuable time discoursing with you? Perhaps your accusations against so many people in the town are worth merit. Your sensationalist way of presenting them only harms your case. Remember the bad karma that visited Lee Atwater for his slimy style of politics and communication."
Mary, thanks for the death wish! We will take it under advisement... Mary also threatened police investigations upon the writers of this site and expressed hope that certain Vienna businesses would suffer for exposing Cole's profiteering. Mary is a real peach eh? She also rambled on how those suing over the historic district will just make big piles of money, yada, yada. Next! This is all to be expected when you expose the soft underbelly of government and money sleeping together. We do wonder why Mrs. Cole didn't write the email herself? Why send a neighbor, who is out to lunch so to speak, to do your dirty work? Lastly, would it surprise you if we said that Mary lived across the court from Steve Bukont?
