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May 31, 2008
Monday June 2 Vienna Town Hall 8pm Comments (3)
There is an appeal to be heard Monday night at Vienna Town Hall. An applicant wanted to build a new house in Vienna's flimsy historic district, something done by numerous other property owners. But this property owner was turned down by the Windover Board of Review. Monday is the appeal to Town Council. Bring popcorn!
May 29, 2008
Fireworks Suit Comments (14)
Did the people who were hurt last year at Vienna's 4th of July sue Vienna? Was there a settlement? Does anyone know?
May 28, 2008
Town Green Fountain Comments (11)
This site is no fan of the Town Green or the fountain installed there. But now that they have fixed the fountain has anyone observed the end result? Clearly, the fix has created a fountain operation never intended. It was bad to begin with, but now the water flow is messed up even more. Sure, it doesn't leak now, but look at it!
May 19, 2008
Official: House in Historic District for Sale Under the Big Lie Comments (13)
A house for sale in the Vienna historic district is currently being promoted with the detail that Thomas Jefferson planted trees in the front yard. The house? It was built in the 1970s. The tree story? 100% fabrication. For those people who like it a little more blunt: the people saying this are lying.
"Maud, please let me stop, everyone knows we are lying!"
Non-Partisan Is A Problem Comments (1)
The politicians in Vienna have always bragged about the wonderful non-partisan nature of Vienna. Why is it so wonderful? Non-partisan politics in Vienna has devolved to the point that no one is accountable to anyone. It's almost as if Vienna politicians have developed into one political blob that stands for nothing - either left or right. It would be nice to see Vienna politicians stand for something and be accountable. As of now it is a a smoke and mirrors racket that allows the current crop to hide behind a non-partisan label.
May 07, 2008
Should Vienna Exist as An Independent Town? Comments (18)
From a reader:
This morning I sent an e-mail to the mayor stating that for the first time in 30+ years of living in Vienna, I have chosen not to vote. It hurts. First, with no opposition, and no town matters to deal with, why bother. Secondly, to vote in this election would indicate support for the way the town conducts business. The town does not have my support. As I stated to the mayor, over the past few years I have grown to hate this town. I have the feeling that I will soon be moving, not the move I want to make, but to Fairfax Memorial. At least Vienna will be a thing of the past. As a last note, the Metro Section of the Washington Post had a nice little piece on local town elections. There was no mention of the Town of Vienna at all. I have stated several times in the past, that Vienna is a boil on the butt of Fairfax County and Northern Virginia. It should be lanced. Gilman Aldridge
Seal of Approval, Ignorance or Disgust? Comments (4)
From the papers:
Four unopposed incumbents were re-elected to two-year terms in a contest marked by low voter turnout. Only 745 of the town's 10,678 registered voters cast votes, a turnout of 7 percent.
May 01, 2008
Busy Month Comments (4)
April 2008 was the second busiest website traffic month ever for HistoricVienna.com.
April 28, 2008
Laser Show Safety Comments (4)
From a reader:
RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE MANAGERS OF FACILITIES WHERE LASER SHOWS ARE HELD: In order to safeguard your audiences, you should be aware of the safety requirements placed on the manufacturers and operators of laser shows by Federal, State and local authorities. To avoid possible liability for laser injuries, see that any shows in your facility have complied with the legal requirements. NOTE: The laser operator should provide to you the information about the class of laser to be used and its variance status. A laser product should have a label indicating its class. If the laser is Class lllb or IV, the company responsible for the laser should have documentation (an accession and variance number) from FDA granting a variance. you can contact the State authority (see Appendix Ill of this booklet) or FDA to verify the status of a company's variance. One person, either the laser company's operator, or where there is no operator, an employee from the facility, should be designated as laser safety officer. A laser safety officer should be in attendance Page 26 whenever a laser is in operation and should be responsible for shutting down the laser should any unsafe conditions occur. In order to properly set up and align a laser light system that can be operated safely, laser groups will need time in the facility before the show without members of the public present. They will need the electrical power and water supply set up early enough to test and align the equipment. Depending upon the complexity of the system, the preparation for a show may take up to several hours. Should a full inspection by FDA representatives be found necessary, it may require an additional hour or two prior to the show. This should be allowed for in the scheduling of performances. Should any accident occur with the laser, you should report the incident to the State authority and to FDA. FDA and State personnel are available to help you ensure that laser shows in your facility are run safely and in compliance with the law. Contact the FDA or the appropriate State office listed in Appendix Ill for more information. WHAT THE PUBLIC SHOULD KNOW ABOUT LASER SAFETY: Laser light shows can be exciting but they can also be hazardous if someone is accidentally struck (particularly in the eyes) by direct, reflected or even diffuse high power laser radiation. You have a right to enjoy a laser show knowing that your safety is provided for by the laser manufacturer, the laser operator and the management of the facility where the show is held. Should you have reason to believe that a show is not being run safely - that is, that the precautions spelled out in this booklet are not being taken - talk with the laser operator or people in charge of the facility, or call the State authority (listed in Appendix Ill). If you are aware of anyone being injured at a laser show, report it to the State authority or FDA.
April 22, 2008
A Pig Needs to Go in the Historic District Comments (2)
Read.
This pig sits in a front yard in Vienna now.
April 21, 2008
See This Orange? It Is Really An Apple. Comments (6)
From the Town of Vienna web site:
Visitors will enjoy the hometown atmosphere of Maple Avenue (Rt. 123) bustling with specialty shops, numerous restaurants, family run businesses and stores. Take a stroll down treelined Historic Church Street, or take a leisurely drive through Vienna's Historic District, including Windover Avenue via Pleasant Street. Visit Freeman House and Museum, originally a residence / general store built in 1859, or walk across the street to Centennial Park, home to an old restored W&OD caboose and bordered by the scenic Washington and Old Dominion Regional Park Trail. There is something for everyone so...come visit, shop and stay for awhile. The Town of Vienna welcomes you.
Is there anyone, other than the Town of Vienna Government shill who wrote the copy above, who believes Maple Avenue in Vienna gives off a "hometown atmosphere"? It is a traffic filled nightmare almost 24 hours a day. How does a sane person stuck in gridlock, staring at 1970s cinder block architecture, much of which is empty, wax nostalgic about "hometowns"?
April 13, 2008
Race Baiting Comments (10)
Across the United States there is a debate about immigration. Every community faces its. This blog has seen it in regards to the Cedar Lane Shopping Center. And if everyone pauses for just a minute...they will see that while the immigration debate today is about those of Hispanic origin, 100 years ago it was about Irish, Italian, Polish, etc. Bottom line, things will work out as we all head toward a mixed gene pool in the centuries to come where every last person will be Mulatto. Now shift gears back to reality and consider this excerpt from the wires that makes an interesting point with hard numbers:
African-Americans are victims of nearly half the murders committed in the United States despite making up only 13 percent of the population, a report published Thursday showed. Around 8,000 of nearly 16,500 murder victims in 2005, or 49 percent, were black Americans, according to the report released by the statistics bureau of the Department of Justice. Broken down by gender, 6,800 black men were murdered in 2005, making up more than half the nearly 13,000 male murder victims. Black women made up 35 percent, or 1,200, of the nearly 3,500 female homicide victims. Young black men aged between 17 and 29 bore a disproportionately high burden in the grim statistics, making up 51 percent of African-American murder victims.
Is the messenger of these statistics a racist? Should these numbers be ignored? What should be done with them? Now bring it back to the Cedar Lane Shopping Center and one big question comes up: what are the numbers? If we find a preponderance of crime is coming from a mostly immigrant Hispanic area of Vienna, then the Vienna government with limited Policing resources needs to be aware of those statistics.
If there is a significant crime increase at or near the Cedar Lane Shopping Center it doesn't make any sense for the Vienna Police to increase patrols on the other side of Vienna where there has been no increase in crime...just to make some people feel better that there is some form of equality in evaluating crime statistics that are inherently unequal. There is a balance to be had. Everyone is not a bad guy, but there are bad guys and they need to go. There has to be better solutions than the most recent debate on this blog?
April 10, 2008
Town of Vienna Employees: Whistle Blowers Welcomed Comments (0)
Memo
To: Town of Vienna Employees
From: Vienna Voters
Subject: Corruption
If any Town of Vienna employee has evidence of corruption feel free to drop us a line. No matter how small or large the issue -- we want to hear from you (Anonymous contact is fine). Over the years this site's content has been built with your help, but the time is now to contribute even more. Sitting back and watching corrupt politicians (or senior Town management) do the wrong thing should not be part of your job description. Help Vienna voters shut down dirt.
April 04, 2008
Chevy Chase Bank and Empty Lots Comments (2)
Does anyone know the status of the empty commercial lots on either side of Chevy Chase Bank near the intersection of Maple Avenue and Glyndon?
March 24, 2008
Emtpy Stores? Comments (26)
We would like to inventory all empty stores on Maple Avenue and can use your help! Please add a comment and or address for each store vacant on Maple Avenue.
"As You Say Maud, 'F*** Vienna Businesses!'"
March 13, 2008
What Is Vienna's Grade? Comments (0)
From the 'Project for Public Spaces' comes this checklist to see how great your town is. How many check marks Vienna would get?
"Maud, do not let these uppity subjects of yours distract you with their ideas and checklists. You must stay on your mission. Never forget that you are omnipotent. Your subjects must always remain in fear and scared of you. Keep up the good work! Your comrade, Hugo"
March 09, 2008
Machine Trivia Question Comments (1)
Can anyone name the ONE Town resident to win a Town Council seat by knocking off a machine member in the last 31 Town elections?
March 06, 2008
The Machine Marches On Comments (3)
From the Fairfax Times:
Last year, Vienna's Town Council elections were contentious, expensive, and filled with drama, complete with election day irregularities and a dismissed poll worker. This May, three town council seats and the post of mayor are up for election, but sitting incumbents Michael Polychrones, Edythe Kelleher, Laurie Cole, and Mayor Jane Seeman are all running unopposed. "I like to think it's because we've been doing a great job," said Cole. Despite the lack of competition, the Fairfax County office of elections says it will still be keeping a close eye on Vienna's town election this year, to prevent a repeat of 2007. On May 2 last year, a poll worker at the Vienna community center was accused of misinforming voters about their choices, and reportedly filled in voters' ballots for them. The scandal has caused a change in the way Vienna's poll workers are selected. In previous years they were chosen from a list created by the sitting town council, but now they will be entirely chosen by the Fairfax Board of Elections. "Our office will be cracking down a little on the people in the polling place," said Judy Flaig, of the Office of Elections. According to Flaig, the training of Vienna's poll workers will also be emphasized. In an uncontested election, it can be hard to determine what issues are most important to voters. Virtually all of the running incumbents seemed to agree that the two most important issues were Vienna's budget and growth in Tysons Corner. The four candidates for Vienna's election are also the only four members of town council to join the newly formed Greater Tysons Citizens Coalition, an organization formed to monitor the Tysons Land use taskforce. "What happens there affects us," said Polychrones. Vienna's budget, affected by falling real estate prices and rising fuel costs like the rest of Virginia, is expected to be the focus of a lot of attention in coming weeks. "It's going to be very hard," said Kelleher.
February 25, 2008
Another Example of Maud's Zero Leadership Comments (10)
From the Washington Post a reminder for Maudasaurus that not all local governments are made up of incompetent boobs:
Falls Church Turns to the Future Council Gets Ready To Vote on City Center Redevelopment PlanBy Kristen Mack
Washington Post Staff Writer
Monday, February 25, 2008; B01Falls Church, long considered the hallway between Baileys Crossroads and Tysons Corner, wants people to stop there instead of driving through.
This week, the city of 11,000 should find out whether that could happen. After public hearings tomorrow and Thursday, the Falls Church City Council will vote on an ambitious plan to remake its aging downtown, a goal of city leaders for nearly eight years.
Atlantic Realty, a Tysons-based developer known for such projects as Bethesda Corner, Plaza America in Reston and Ashbrook in Loudoun County, is proposing to tear up the city's center of vacant parking lots and buildings and replace them with an eight-story hotel, office buildings, apartments, a bowling alley and a Harris Teeter supermarket.
If approved, the $317 million project would be the biggest thing to happen to Falls Church since Metro extended the Orange Line there in 1986. In addition to attracting shoppers and diners from across the region, city officials say, they hope the revival of the downtown area will bring young professionals, first-time homeowners and empty nesters to buy condominiums, rent townhouses and establish roots in Falls Church.
Right now, Falls Church Mayor Robin S. Gardner says, the downtown is "not walker-friendly; there's no big open space. It's underutilized, and I don't consider it pleasant. There's nothing that would draw me here."
Falls Church's downtown, bisected by West Broad Street (Route 7), is not unlike other aging city centers that need rejuvenating. In recent years, Fairfax City, Herndon, Springfield, McLean and Annandale, among other places, have redone their downtown commercial areas or have been considering it.
One reason is to expand the commercial tax base to shift more of the burden from homeowners to businesses. Falls Church has one of the area's best school systems and has largely paid for that success through increases in the real estate tax rate and, until recently, higher residential assessments. The so-called City Center project would bring in almost $3 million a year in revenue once the project was complete.
The council voted last month to move Atlantic Realty's proposal forward but will take a final vote Thursday. If approved, construction could begin as early as summer if the developer and officials can resolve details about siting. The proposed schedule would take place in two phases, wrapping up by 2013, according to the developers.
For an investment by Falls Church of $6 million, City Center would add a million square feet of development to a four-block area near Broad and South Washington streets.
The proposal faces some uncertainty. No hotel chain has committed to the site, although developers have been talking to Marriott about putting a Residence Inn there. Harris Teeter has signed a letter of intent, not a contract.
Concerns about the project's financing led the Falls Church Planning Commission to recommend recently that the council reject it. Maureen Budetti, chair of the Planning Commission, said the panel also believed the downtown plan "felt rushed" and did not include the commission's involvement.
Budetti said the council is "pretty sold on the project. I don't know whether any of our specific concerns will be addressed."
"The council is going to have to reevaluate the project, especially in light of the planning commission's vote," said Nader Baroukh, a lawyer who lives in Winter Hill. "We want a city center, but this falls on its face. They have sold city land at garage-rate prices. The city has to have the stewardship to get the development it deserves."
Detractors have raised other questions. They say that the project's mix of 60 percent residential and 40 percent commercial development is unbalanced and that the project doesn't have enough parking, lacks access to transit and needs to include open space.
Jeff Peterson, president of the Village Preservation and Improvement Society, said the city is throwing in all the land it owns and buying additional land without getting a "public square or commons" in return.
"The height, mass and modern design elements of the proposed project all act to undermine the distinctive feel of Falls Church as a special place," he said, citing the architecture of the historic church that gave the city its name.
Adam B. Shulman, a partner at Atlantic, said: "This process has been long in the works. . . . It's not me coming in and saying, 'This is what you need.' It's us responding to what the city wants."
Added Gardner: "This is not our first go. We've had many iterations."
The uncertainty of the economy is another potential barrier. Some places that are hoping to rejuvenate their downtowns -- notably Herndon, Manassas Park and Springfield -- recently have scaled back projects or even killed them because of the real estate market slowdown and its drain on local government revenue. Falls Church's budget for the coming fiscal year will show a drop in revenue mainly because of the housing market slump.
City Manager Wyatt Shields said the housing troubles would not hurt the City Center plan because the city has not seen a marked slowdown in private investment.
"There may be several reasons for this: Confidence in the long-term strength of the Washington area economy is certainly one reason," he said. "But there are local factors specific to the city as well, such as our great location and our strong schools. Falls Church is a great place to live and work, and the market for high-quality mixed-use development here remains healthy."
On Thursday, Gardner said, the council will take the planning commission's recommendation into account. But she said she believes the timing is right for City Center.
"We are at a major crossroads, and this will determine where we are going," she said. "This is the right project for now."
Go ahead Maud, remind us again how successful the Town Green wasteland is!
February 19, 2008
Friends of Madison Comments (3)
An issue concerning many.
February 10, 2008
When Maud Passes On...This Is Her Gift to Us Comments (5)
All that is gorgeous about down town Vienna in only 4 pictures. Thanks Maud!
Architectural eyesores as far as one can see, a Town painted mud brown as part of government policy (no joke) and a zoning code so backwards (moronic would be a better description, but we are feeling nice today!) that it actually encourages blight. This is just some of the Maud's legacy.
January 18, 2008
The Reality of Press Behavior In Keeping Maud in Power Comments (4)
Some time ago a reporter named Jerry Schanke had a little run in here at HistoricVienna.com. No big deal you say? Yes, no big deal relatively speaking at the time Schanke submitted his one and only post. Now of course when he submitted his post he did so with a certain IP address, his internet phone number if you will.
And that story would have ended there if not for this post today from "Dogfacepotatobrain". You probably already guessed? Yup, same IP address as good ole Jerry Schanke of the Times Newspapers. Dogfacepotatobrain has also posted here, here, here, here, here, and here. Notice how the posts always occur around a Times Newspaper story?
We guess occasionally the casual and ill-informed reader of this blog will think that we stretch the connection between the Maud Machine and local papers. It's not a connection ladies and gentleman it's an incestuous union! End result of a paper on Maud's machine calling list? She wins cause nothing changes. At least it is a little clearer now as to who helps the old bag hold onto power.
Arthur W. Arundel (Age: 78; The Plains; Net Worth: 100 million) is the founder, chairman and publisher of Times Community Newspapers, a Virginia-based newspaper and digital media group that through acquisitions has grown to become one of the largest in the state. Group publishes 20 newspapers with a combined circulation of 271,000. Recent acquisitions include The Fauquier Citizen and The Culpeper Citizen. Arundel’s son, Peter Arundel, succeeded his father as CEO and heads company operations. Peter has led group’s expansion and started company’s online editions.
Is the behavior (read: manipulation by the press under fake names) uncovered the basis of how that Arundel family fortune was made?
January 03, 2008
Vienna Town Council Inbreeding Comments (2)
Feedback in:
Can anyone out there name a Council member or Mayor who was not appointed or anointed by his or her fellow Council members?
Everyone intuitively knows what happens if a population only breeds with itself.
December 21, 2007
Letter to the Editor; The Metro Comments (3)
A note to Cathy Hudgins, Hunter Mill (Fairfax County) Supervisor who "represents" Virginia commuters on the Metro Board.
Dear Ms. Hudgins:
I am writing to request your immediate resignation from the Metro Board of Supervisors. I find your support of a substantial increase in Metro fares to be reprehensible, particularly as Metro Rail continues to provide a continually deteriorating level of "service."
For example, tonight I had to wait more than 30 minutes in the Rosslyn tunnel before an Orange Line train to Vienna stopped by with even minimal room for a few passengers to squeeze in. Events such as these are increasingly common of late and can only be expected to become even more common as the winter season approaches.
The interests of Metro commuters would be served far better by board members who show that they have the best interests of the (voting, taxpaying) commuters from whom local governments forcibly extract tax payments to subsidize Metro, whether they choose to use it or not. That requires holding the feet of Metro "management" to the fire (as in actually firing some of these clowns if they don't stop making excuses for their abysmal performance--instead offering nothing but condescending claptrap in response to customer complaints).
Therefore, once again, I respectfully request your immediate resignation from the Metro Board of Supervisors.
Sincerely yours,
Allan D. Bennett, Ph.D., CFA
609 Tapawingo Road SW
Vienna VA 22180
December 09, 2007
Changing the Vienna Election from May to November Comments (4)
Once we get past the holiday season the effort to move Vienna's election to November will begin in earnest. The time has come to shut down Maud's rigged little club (otherwise known as Vienna's May election).
November 20, 2007
Rough Language Edits Comments (4)
Some rough language was allowed to go live recently here. Some of that should have been edited and it has now been fixed. It's one thing to point out incompetence, stupidity, corruption, etc., but over the top cursing is not the direction of this blog.
November 14, 2007
A Perspective on Jeannemarie's Loss Comments (19)
Jeannemarie was there at the May 2007 Vienna elections. She saw first hand what was happening. She appeared genuinely floored. She was disgusted. However, it did not last past that day because she ultimately needed Maud, dirty or not. And that is a main reason why she lost to Chap. She didn't lose to Chap over the Vienna elections, but she lost because she didn't stand for anything. She was a political animal devoid of substance. Perhaps Chap will be no better, but he deserved the shot.
November 10, 2007
Vienna Neighbors Form Group to Fight Maud's Foolishness Comments (35)
An article by Monty Tayloe from the Vienna Times:
A group of Vienna citizens have joined together and created a new Web site to draw attention to what they say is the biggest issue in Vienna that no one is talking about."Our quality of life in Vienna, Va. has declined. With the influx of what we believe are illegal aliens, there's been an increase in crime and gang activity, vagrancy and day laborers, and overcrowded apartments and flop houses in Vienna," reads the introduction to the Vienna Citizen Group's new Web site, www.viennacitizens.com.
Continue reading "Vienna Neighbors Form Group to Fight Maud's Foolishness" »
November 06, 2007
Vienna Election Change; Time to Toss Out Maudasaurus Comments (22)
The time has come to move Vienna's May election to a more typical November election. Vienna's May election brings out 10% of the vote. A November election would bring out 35-50%+ of the vote. Fortunately, State law allows citizens to put the change up for a vote as a ballot initiative. The plan is to place that on the ballot for November 2008. The process, however, will take work. If you are wiling to help out, let us know!
October 27, 2007
Chap and Jeannemarie March to a Vote Comments (25)
What is the conclusion as this wraps up?
October 23, 2007
The Younger Generation Is Now Reading! Comments (6)
From a posted comment today:
...I really do like this website! I'm only 20, but Ive lived here since I was 4 (along with my other family members) and had no idea about all this crazy mess with Vienna's "government." Thanks for the info and keep it coming!
Next time around? Everyone needs to vote out the dinosaurs! We need your help.
Jeannemarie Smacks Chap Around Some More Comments (20)
Read (PDF). If Chap has brochures ripping Jeannemarie too, send them along, we have just not seen them.
October 08, 2007
Vienna Sign Permits: More Silliness from Vienna Town Hall Comments (4)
From Vienna code:
During election campaigns, candidates and their supporters should be aware of the Towns´ regulations pertaining to political signs: Five temporary signs not exceeding 20 square feet total may be posted on residential property after receiving a permit and posting of a $25 bond. Signs may be erected up to 30 days prior to election day and must be removed within five days after the election. It is unlawful to place signs on street lights, telephone poles, markers or other signs, or to place a sign without a permit within 10 feet of the curb or edge of pavement. For more information about signs, call the Planning and Zoning Department at 703-255-6341.
Why is this not enforced ever in Vienna? It is unenforceable that's why. Free speech, a Constitutional protection, can't be limited by Maudasaurus' poorly worded code. All of these silly Vienna codes are designed to let the powers that be mess with their enemies and protect their buddies. It's all about subjectivity versus objectivity and guess what? Maud doesn't like anything that's objective!
October 07, 2007
Candidates for the Hunter Mill District Seat Comments (12)
Here are the (4) candidates running for the Hunter Mill District seat on the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors:
Cathy Hudgins (D) - website
Marie Huhtala (I) - website
Spike Williams (I) - website
Geraldine Butkus (Green) - website
NONE of these people have anything to do with Vienna! Can there be a more uninspiring field of candidates? And once again, where is the Vienna Town Council? Our elected representatives in Vienna just keep their heads buried in the sand pretending Vienna is not part of Fairfax County.
October 05, 2007
Chap Peterson Slammed by Jeannemarie Over Ethics Comments (16)
The local race for State Senate is heating up. Read (PDF).
September 28, 2007
Vienna Businesses Lose Sales Comments (8)
From Fairfaxtimes.com:
Vienna businesses lose sales
By Monty Tayloe"It's just a mess. We're barely surviving," said a disgusted Cenan Pulak, sitting in the back of his Vienna bakery. Cenan's Bakery is in the Danor Plaza shopping center, just off Branch Road. Since the spring, Branch Road has been a wall of jersey barriers, temporary fencing and orange construction signs, as the Virginia Department of Transportation works to improve the roadway.
September 26, 2007
Jeannemarie Devolites-Davis and Chap Peterson: Which Is Better for Vienna? Comments (37)
Chap Peterson or Jeannemarie Devolites-Davis, which is better for Vienna?
Lot Coverage? Let the Exceptions Begin...As Usual Starting with Vienna Comments (7)
From the papers:
Vienna Council OK's Record-Storage Facility by BRIAN TROMPETER, Staff Writer (Created: Wednesday, September 26, 2007 5:38 AM EDT)The Vienna Town Council on Sept. 24 approved numerous waivers to allow a records-storage building to be constructed at the Nutley Street Property Yard.
The new building triggered provisions of several ordinances enacted after the town took possession of the 1.9-acre property in 1949, said Vienna Planning and Zoning Director Greg Hembree.
“The whole site is weird,” he said.
The council approved a setback of just 15 feet from the side property line - half of what would be allowed with a residential dwelling. The new building will be 70 feet from the nearest residence and is amply screened by an 8-foot fence and a series of pine trees, which may be located on an adjacent property, Hembree said.
Council members approved an overall lot coverage of 80 percent, which more than three times the 25 percent permitted in residential areas. Hembree said the property was about 90 percent paved when the town took ownership of it, and efforts have been made since to add greenery.
A 0.58-acre section of the property is being used for the new Sarah Walker Mercer Park, which, if included in the calculations, brings total lot coverage down to 55.84 percent, Hembree said.
The council also approved a tree-canopy waiver for the site, which has no trees. The town normally requires 20-percent tree coverage after a 20- year growth period in residential areas.
The 1.31-acre section of the site used by the property yard also is home to an existing brick building, a greenhouse, water storage tank and several smaller storage buildings. The site served as the town's primary property yard before the new Northside facility opened in 2002.
The proposed 14-foot-tall, 1,800-square-foot storage building would be just 6 feet from the site's brick building - 4 feet shorter than the normally required offset if the building were residential.
The storage building's close proximity to the other building was necessitated for vehicular access, and is allowable because it does not serve as a residence, Hembree said.
“It's a low-volume building that will be sitting there, quietly holding plans,” he said.
Because of cost factors, the new building will not have an environmentally friendly “green” design, said Vienna Parks and Recreation Director Cathy Salgado.
August 31, 2007
Fairfax Overtakes Loudoun on Household Income Ranking Comments (2)
From the Sun Gazette:
The median household income in Fairfax County is now $100,318, the highest in the nation, according to new federal figures. The median income, based on 2006 data and reported Aug. 28 by the U.S. Census Bureau, shows that Fairfax household income is more than double the the median national figure of $48,451. Loudoun County, which a year before had reported the highest median household income in the nation, dropped to second, at $99,371. Rounding out the top five communities were Howard County, Md. ($94,260); Hunterdon County, N.J. ($93,297); and Douglas County, Colo. ($92,125). “Median income” means that half of households in a community earn more, half earn less. It is not the same as average household income.
August 30, 2007
There Are "Wide Stances" in Vienna Too Comments (0)
There is one group responsible for the disaster that is Larry Craig and his wide stance: Idaho voters. They kept putting him back in office for all these years knowing full well the guy had issues. Argue as you might, this guy was ignored due to the self interest of the Idaho voters. A long standing Senator equals power for select groups and whether Craig was a loose canon or not, those groups could care less as long as they had their boy in there to do their bidding. And its not just Craig. Republican or Democrat, we see the same blind eye routine everywhere by voters who want their power bacon brought home.
That setup brings us to Vienna. Jane Seeman and Maud Robinson are as big of a disgrace as Larry "Wide Stance" Craig, but until they literally get caught on camera doing something so over the top illegal, Vienna voters will look the other way. Of course when Jane and Maud do have their proverbial political wide stances uncovered, the over 80 Vienna voters will just say: "I can't believe it. We never expected that!"
Any Updates? Comments (2)
The Town of Vienna was supposedly investigating:
1. The 4th of July disaster
2. May 2007 election corruption
Does anyone have any update on what the Town Council is doing here? They said publicly there would be investigations, but this is also the same group who could not water the now dead trees at the Town Green.
August 14, 2007
Newark Killings of College Kids Raises Issues for All Communities Comments (23)
Illegal immigrants recently executed three college kids (article) in New Jersey. Question: do we have illegal immigrants in Vienna with comparable rap sheets? Are we doing anything to find out?
These are not partisan questions. They are common sense questions aimed at possibly preventing any such thing from happening in Vienna.
Defendant Jose Carranza, who is charged with killing three college students and wounding a fourth, stands in state Superior Court in Newark, N.J., during an appearance Friday, Aug. 10, 2007. Carranza pleaded not guilty to the crimes. (AP Photo/Mike Derer, Pool)
August 09, 2007
Web Traffic Update Comments (10)
June 2007 was a record for visits to this site. A close second was July 2007. While a relatively few number of people feel safe posting, it seems a huge number of people feel comfortable stopping by to read. This site has been up since November 2005 and for July 2007, smack in the middle of summer, to be the 2nd busiest month ever speaks to people's desire for information in this Town.
June 28, 2007
Are We Allowed to Call a Liar a Liar? Comments (3)
A new poster calling him/herself 25-year-resident posted tonight:
"Historic Vienna" and "Deep Throat" apparently believe that rudeness and name calling are tactics that can help them win rhetorical points. Those techniques are having the opposite effect. Congrats to Steve Rigby for his futile effort to speak dispassionately here. Best effort in a losing cause. And OBTW: Are the sponsors of this blog the same people who wanted to rezone Historic Vienna so that they could build condos and/or townhomes there? The same people who got trounced in the recent local elections [More here: 1, 2, 3, 4]? Just wondering.
Steve Rigby is a guy who works for one of Maud's long time board members Shirley Damon. Damon also likes to put lies out. Is that name calling? The evidence is on this site. It's not hard to digest. You can also see the Mayor lying too. Is calling someone a liar who is actually caught lying name calling? If so, expect us to continue the name calling. In terms of historic district condos, you are right!
June 23, 2007
Vienna Raises Water, Sewer Rates; Highest Around Comments (6)
From the Connection and Scott J. Krischke:
Over the course of the last 23 years, Vienna resident and planning commission member George Creed has watched his quarterly water bill triple, and after a 5-1 council decision at a June 4 public hearing, he’ll watch that rate rise just a little higher next year. Vienna’s Town Council voted in favor of a staff recommendation to raise water and sewer service rates for town residents by 15 and five percent, respectively, for the coming fiscal year, beginning July 1. The rate increase will cause an annual combined rise for the average Vienna resident will be $59.28 as a result of that raise, according to town documents. The move made Town of Vienna residents the highest payers for water in the region, and the second-highest for sewer services, according to data collected from several regional agencies.
Continue reading "Vienna Raises Water, Sewer Rates; Highest Around" »
June 17, 2007
TOV Job Descriptions Comments (12)
This link contains job descriptions for the Town of Vienna. We know a candidate who wants to apply for the position of Historic Administrator (doesn't that sound important?), but it seems to be the only job description missing. Who is the current Historic Administrator and what does he or she do?
June 09, 2007
High Interest Alert Comments (0)
June 8th was the busiest day ever here at HV in terms of total visitors. In fact, yesterday saw 29% more visitors than any other day since the inception of this blog in November 2005. Why the interest? Clearly, this audio (posted late on June 6th) was the draw.
June 06, 2007
"Anyone Call the Police?" Comments (9)
Fairfax County's Electoral Board, consisting of Electoral Board Members and the Office of The Registrar, met following Vienna's May 1 election. Their monthly meeting included candid conversations about this year's election.
Listen Now (MP3). This is 7:26 minutes (8.6 MB) of "talk" that Mother Maud and Mayor RedHunter ain't going to be happy about. Props goes to the County for talking honestly about Vienna politics.
Best lines from the meeting: "Anyone call the police?" [Statement made after hearing about Rhoda Stevens], "it looks a little sketchy" [Statement about Vienna politics] and "What happened yesterday is not fair".
On top of this, from the Sun Gazette this week:
[The Town Council] Asked Town Attorney Steven Briglia to review questionable actions taken by some election officers during the May 1 town election and present a report on the matter. “It's very important that voters have confidence in our electoral process,” said Council member Laurie Cole.
Hey Laurie, how about an independent source for the investigation? Briglia, the Town Council's attorney, you are serious? Why not a committee including citizens and Town outsiders? This "incest is best" routine of yours is getting old.
Note: When one of the winning candidates is referred to as being 80 years old in the audio clip, that is incorrect. Maud is 85.
May 31, 2007
Washington Post: More on May 07 Election Comments (11)
From the Washington Post today comes the continuing saga:
By Bill Turque, Washington Post Staff Writer
Thursday, May 31, 2007; VA05Oversight Underplayed
On its Web site, the county's Office of Elections declares that it is "committed to providing each citizen of Fairfax County with the opportunity to exercise his or her right to vote in an efficient and equitable manner in accordance with the Constitutions of the United States and the Commonwealth of Virginia and the Code of Virginia." Fairfax Electoral Board Chairman Robert J. Sparks Jr. had a more low-key approach in mind when voter complaints surfaced after the May 1 Vienna elections. Several voters said the town's longtime election officers attempted to interfere with their decisions, telling them how many candidates to vote for or hovering behind them as if trying to see their selections. The flap brought to light Vienna's long-standing practice of having Town Clerk Carol A. Orndorff and the Town Council -- whose membership happens to include her son, Michael J. Polychrones -- choose their own election judges. That's something the electoral board does not permit the county's other towns to do. After news stories about the election, Sparks e-mailed board secretary Margaret K. Luca to say, in essence, that the panel should lie low. "What came through [in the stories] was that the inside game that is Vienna politics looks pretty shabby in print," Sparks said in a May 7 message, obtained by town activists under the Freedom of Information Act and first posted by the political blog Historic Vienna. "For now, I do not think there is much that we need to/should say or do, other than, if forced to say something, gently letting the Vienna folks know that we're looking into it, considering various options, etc., which means we may not know what the new system will be, the old system is over. The more we do/say now, the more we create another news story. "For now, let's let it cook and see if the Vienna folks heal themselves," Sparks concluded.
May 26, 2007
Vienna Budget Increases Unneeded Comments (6)
From the Vienna Times, an editorial from Vienna resident Ron Corso:
In your article last week regarding the Town of Vienna budget, you indicated that no one made any comments on the budget. That is incorrect. You ignored my many letters to The Times, some of which you published in the paper or on your Web site, that pointed out that the Town has been on an unprecedented spending spree for several years. In addition, I have respectfully tried to call to the Town's attention the effect of budget increases on homeowners. To update you on the state of the budget, the Town manager made a change in the budget message by making what appears to be a late change and probably a lot of people like myself were not aware of this situation. His budget message, published on the Town Web site, states that the tax rate would increase from 18.62 cents per $100 of assessed value to 19.61 cents. The Web site statement as of 2:58 p.m. on April 28 is as follows: "The Fiscal Year 2007/08 budget is based on a rate of 19.61 cents, an increase of 1.08 cents per $100 of assessed valuation or 5.83 percent." However, the last Town newsletter has a revised tax rate of 20.22 cents, an increase of 1.6 cents. What this means is that instead of the tax rate increasing by 5.3 percent (the Town manager's arithmetic doesn't equal his stated 5.83 percent), the tax rate according to the newsletter will increase our taxes by 8.6 percent. The stated reason for the change in the newsletter version is that the Town is eliminating the auto decals, which will save each residence $20 per year for each vehicle. While the new tax rate will probably result in about the same amount of money out of our pockets, it is still difficult to understand why our tax rate is increasing at either the 5.3 percent or 8.6 percent. It's interesting that the newsletter version of the budget message has left the phrase quoted above out of the newsletter. It makes one wonder if that's because 8.6 percent increase just before an election might not have played well to voters. That is interesting given its timing. Furthermore, if you look at the Town budgets since our home assessments began to increase dramatically, you'll find that Vienna has increased the taxes on homeowners over 10 percent per year. When compared to any other measure, whether it be the inflation rate, salary increases, the CPI, etc., those are unacceptable tax increases. Yet the Town has made no effort to curtail spending. The taxpayers continue to get pummeled and we are in fact going backwards when you consider what is happening to our costs given gasoline, heating, medical and other expenses. And, the Town doesn't care, it keeps spending. Ron Corso Vienna
Ron, you can't beat this crowd with logic and common sense!
May 25, 2007
Inside Politics Comments (4)
From the Examiner today:
Fairfax Co. to step up Vienna election oversight, e-mails showDavid Francis and William C. Flook, The Examiner
2007-05-25Fairfax County elections officials plan to drop the long-standing tradition of letting Vienna select its own poll workers, e-mails obtained through the Freedom of Information Act show, a move that follows controversy over the small town’s elections.
After news broke on alleged voter interference during the May 1 Town Council election, the e-mails show a private discussion between officials over how to keep news stories from appearing in the media and how to “quietly” step up oversight of the town’s electoral process. The county oversees Vienna’s annual election.
“For reasons lost in the mists of time, we had a practice of deferring to the Vienna folks, whom we thought were sending us a slate of even-handed election officials,” Fairfax County Board of Elections Chairman Robert Sparks wrote on May 10. “Turns out some of them were ill-informed about the rules, to put it nicely, and acted on that misinformation. The way we should work, I suggest, is to go to the Vienna folks quietly in the near future and let them know that the old days are over. We are going to be more actively involved in vetting those who serve as elections officers in future elections.”
The county Board of Elections on Tuesday verified the authenticity of the e-mails, which are posted at www.historicvienna.com, a local blog.
The contention is summed up in a complaint filed at the State Board of Election. It alleges a poll worker told a voter at the booth to “vote for three,” a reference to the maximum number of candidates a person could cast a vote for. With only two challengers, filling the out three entries would have sent a vote to an incumbent, each of whom won by wide margins.
The poll worker was removed that day, though the state later faulted the county for not taking action fast enough. The worker has since denied any wrongdoing.
“What came through [in news coverage] was that ... Vienna Town politics looks pretty shabby in print,” Sparks wrote on May 7.
In an e-mail the following day, Sparks urged Fairfax County Board of Elections Secretary Maggi Luca, who had become the defacto spokeswoman, not to let a reporter “get you to say anything directly critical of Vienna.”
“Anything critical (or seemingly critical) means he goes to them for comment, and the ping-pong game is on with the press writing a new story every day,” he wrote.
May 24, 2007
Vienna Poll Workers Comments (10)
Vienna poll workers from 1980 to 2006 (XLS).
May 23, 2007
Recommended, Submitted, Requested, Appointed Comments (0)
Every year the Town publishes an excerpt in their newsletter listing the polling officials for that year. Each year they use a word to lead off the sentence announcing the names. Here is how they have described it since 1980 in the Town newsletter:
1980: Requested [these election officials]...
1981: Requested...
1982: Appointed...
1983: Requested...
1984: Submitted...
1985: Requested...
1986: Requested...
1987-2007: Recommended...
Yes, they have been consistent on their terminology for sometime, but considering the origin of this "selection" process dates to the dawns of time, it is relevant that they have used four different words to state how they made their picks. Note: Did Roger Seeman serve on Council during the eighties?
Fairfax County Slams Vienna Officials in Email Comments (10)
"...the inside game that is Vienna Town politics looks pretty shabby in print."
- Chairman of the Fairfax County Electoral Board, May 7, 2007The recent Washington Post article on the May election revealed the Vienna power structure for what it is: corrupt. Following that Washington Post Article emails were exchanged among Fairfax County electoral board leaders about the nature of Vienna politics.
1. The Chairman of the Electoral Board Robert Sparks writes to the Secretary of the Electoral Board Margaret K. Luca about the Washington Post article (READ: PDF).
2. A day later Brian Trompeter is asking about the Vienna election and the Chairman of the Electoral Board Robert Sparks writes to the Secretary of the Electoral Board Margaret K. Luca again (READ: PDF).
3. Then after Deborah Brehony requested to appear before the Electoral Board at their June meeting, the Chairman of the Electoral Board Robert Sparks writes to the Secretary of the Electoral Board Margaret K. Luca yet again (READ: PDF).
The County is clearly disgusted with Vienna politics.
So are we. ...Those silly challengers and their sour grapes.
PS. This document (PDF) is the exchange between the Vienna Town Clerk and County officials about how the selection process went down. The 2006 reference is a typo.
May 19, 2007
State of Virginia Faults County on Vienna Poll Problems Comments (15)
From the Examiner (image 1 and image 2):
William C. Flook, The Examiner 2007-05-18 07:00:00.0 Current rank: # 81 of 6,412 Fairfax County -The Virginia State Board of Elections this week criticized Fairfax County election officials for failing to promptly remove a poll worker accused of misconduct during Vienna’s May 1 election.
Continue reading "State of Virginia Faults County on Vienna Poll Problems" »
May 13, 2007
Election Procedures to Change After Complaints in Vienna Comments (9)
From the Sun Gazette comes Brian Trompeter's angle on Vienna Election corruption:
The Fairfax County Office of Elections will change some of its procedures after some voters reported election officer misbehavior during the May 1 Vienna Town Council election.
Continue reading "Election Procedures to Change After Complaints in Vienna" »
May 12, 2007
"Overzealous" Is One Way to Describe Corruption Comments (5)
From the Vienna Times:
Despite a strong vote in favor of the status quo, things are still going to be changing in Vienna. Due to the efforts of a Vienna poll worker, the town will no longer be selecting its own poll workers, ending a tradition that has gone on so long that no one at the Fairfax County Electoral Board can remember how it started. According to electoral board Secretary Margaret Luca, the woman instructed a voter who submitted a ballot for only one candidate that the person had to select three. "That's bad information. It says on the ballot 'select not more than three.' You can submit a ballot for nobody if you want" Luca said. According to candidate Deborah Brehoney, one witness said that the poll worker reached over their shoulder and voted in their place. When the incident was reported to Luca, the worker was asked to leave the polling place. "I wouldn't think that she will serve as an election worker again," Luca said. Vienna election officers have traditionally been recommended by the Town Council from a list approved by the Board of Elections, but this incident has changed that. "We will simply appoint the election officers for the town from now on," Luca said. "[She] is a good citizen, she just got a little overzealous," Lovelace said of the poll worker. "What happened was wrong. Even if we had won, we would still be screaming about this," said Brehony. "I sincerely hope that next election we return to normalcy," Robinson said.
"Vienna Not For Sale!" Huh? Comments (6)
Vienna Town Council member Mike Polychrones made this post election comment:
"I think really what this election symbolizes is that Vienna citizens are not for sale. I'm definitely very happy [with the results]."
What does that mean? Another resident affirmed Polychrones:
"...Vienna is very engaged with the rest of Fairfax. The difference is, Vienna is engaged for the right causes and on behalf of citizens, not developers, unlike the county government. Of course Vienna has fought development Fairfax county wants to do, because the Fairfax board of Supervisors has been so totally bought by the developers that will overwhelm us all. Mr. Polychrones got it right - Vienna is not for sale. Thank goodness!"
Vienna is not engaged with Fairfax County. That is nonsense. Fairfax County Supervisor Cathy Hudgins just shakes her head in disgust when the subject of Vienna's self-imposed isolation is broached.
May 11, 2007
Senior Citizen Politics in Vienna Comments (10)
An email came in from a relative new contributor to HistoricVienna.com regarding senior citizen politics:
Even before I knew anything academically about economics, I never understood resistance to change on the part of Senior Citizens. Growing up in Fairfax County and living here or close by over the last 45 years, I can recall bond referendum after bond referendum for school expansion shot down by the oldsters. It always seemed to be that the retired (or nearly retired) crowd always bitched about “TAXES, TAXES, TAXES we can't have any more schools because it costs us too much in TAXES!” In McLean, they even turned an elementary school into a retirement home! Then in the 90s, when the younger families started to move back in, the county was stuck bringing trailers in to meet demand at the other schools. This same attitude drives the political process in Vienna. Here is my rebuttal to that:1.) We got nothing to complain about here regarding property taxes – try living in New York, Connecticut or Wisconsin.
2.) Most of the suburban housing sold in the McLean and Vienna area in the late 1950's and early 1960's was sold on twenty year mortgages, so when all of those people became empty-nesters in the 80's, they had no mortgage. All that was left was the taxes and other than a rent-controlled apartment in NYC, there's no better deal out there.
3.) This one is cold but true: If you don't have the luck of dying suddenly at home, you need rising property values. If the day comes when assisted living is the only option you've got, you'll need to sell that 500-750K teardown.
4.) The reason why you have that 500-750K teardown to sell is the family that moved in next door (maybe into the last teardown) because they could send their child to a public school (already paid for) that is the rival of most private schools in the country.
Perhaps one of the reasons why I have never understood the whole senior mindset, is that my parents never succumbed to it. They haven't given up their own education (at 85+) and their worst fear about retirement was not being around young people. They still live in the house that I grew up in and although my Dad has certainly never been a fan of taxes, he is practical - "There ain't no such thing as a free lunch." and "You get what you pay for."
November Elections for Vienna Comments (2)
While Vienna incumbents tout 23% as a high voter turnout, they really know that number is terrible. Low turnout in May elections is a problem across Virginia and a solution is available.
BY BRIAN KIRWIN PUBLISHED JULY 31, 2006 - THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT, OPINION COLUMNIs local government closest to the people? Or maybe the question should be, “Is local government close to enough people?” That’s the core of the discussion as cities consider holding local elections in November instead of May. Virginia Beach recently joined several localities in moving City Council and School Board elections to November. Held in even-number years, they’ll join races for president, the U.S. House and Senate.
May 10, 2007
Propaganda 101 Comments (3)
While the Vienna election was won by Maud using scare tactics on the over 80 set ("Stich and Brehony want high rises"), the Connection's Scott J. Krischke gives his best Joseph Goebbels' version of how the election was won:
Town Votes to Retain Its Character Incumbents highlight opposition to major redevelopment as key to victory. By Scott J. Krischke May 9, 2007It’s been 30 minutes since the local polls closed for the 2007 Vienna Town Council election and the halls of the local community center that played host to it are silent, save for the low hum of a silver vacuum cleaner over the thin carpeting.
As the early summer sun goes down on the first day of May, election officials work behind closed doors to determine a winner. A woman and her young son walk briskly through the community center, the toddler’s small hand clutching his mother’s fingers as the two pass the only other person left in the hallway.
May 06, 2007
Washington Post Article About Vienna Election Irregularities Comments (30)
As you read the article below from today's Washington Post ask yourself when the Vienna election policy of Maud selecting her own poll workers was changed? The election was last Tuesday.and County officials say the policy has now been changed. When did that happen?
Vienna Voters Complain of Irregularities at PollsBy Bill Turque
Washington Post Staff Writer
Sunday, May 6, 2007; C05There are elections every year in Vienna, and they usually unfold with "Groundhog Day" predictability.
About a quarter of the central Fairfax County town's 10,000 registered voters come to the polls and return the incumbents to office. And that's what happened Tuesday as three members of the six-person town council -- Maud F. Robinson, George E. Lovelace and Daniel M. Delinger -- easily defeated two challengers, Susan Yancey Stich and Deborah T. Brehony.
The aftermath of the balloting, however, has been anything but routine. It has been marked by a series of complaints about the conduct of the town's longtime election officers. There have also been questions about their unusual selection process, which includes vetting by the town clerk and incumbent council members.
Continue reading "Washington Post Article About Vienna Election Irregularities" »
Obscene Talk Comments (21)
One reader writes:
"Now that the election is over, this site seems to be melting down into useless name-calling. can we identify some things we'd like to accomplish & then figure out how to accomplish them?"
Good feedback! However, there appears to be a REASON for some of the post election negative remarks on this blog.
May 05, 2007
No Cable TV Comments (21)
A poster arguing against cable TV in Vienna wrote:
"...no one but you would watch a televised meeting, and no one gives a rat's [...] about you, so it would be a colossal waste of money. I'd expect YOU of all people to be against colossal wastes of money. The town could invest that "TV money" in a hedge fund and make like 70 trillion dollars. You wouldn't want Maud to spend 70 trillion dollars on televised meetings, would you? How's that?"
That is one argument against televised meetings in Vienna. Perhaps there are more?
May 03, 2007
Not Old v. Young, But Wealth Warfare Comments (19)
Much of what is playing out in Vienna is not exactly old v. young or young v. old. The real challenge Vienna is an internal class or wealth struggle. Fight as many might, no election can stop new $1+ million dollar houses - which after all was THE reason for the #4 ranking that everyone seems to brag about! There would have been NO #4 ranking if Tommy Staats, Steve Bukont, Pat Stack, John Sekas and Deborah and JP Brehony (to name a few) had not built in Vienna over the last 10 years. Period.
But the chorus at the polls was loud. Older, fixed income Vienna residents, many living in the Town for 40+ years, truly thought their vote was to stop new houses from being built. Who will tell them it doesn't work that way?
There is a huge disconnect in Town. The older, fixed-income people want no change while at the same time its happening all around - mostly unplanned. The Town Council revels in their #4 ranking, knowing exactly where it came from, but then campaign to their base and in turn go after the very people who have turned Vienna around.
Politics in Vienna. It's clearly not much of mystery.
May 02, 2007
Election Feedback Comments (14)
Election feedback from a reader today:
Let's look at Maud's last two elections:May 2005...May 2007
Deborah T. Brehony 0...866
Dan M. Delinger 0...1,655
George E. Lovelace 454...1,633
Maud F. Robinson 452...1,416
Susan Yancey Stich 0...858Registered Voters 10,249...10,523
In Person 551...2,286
Absentee 10...65
Total Votes 561...2,351
Turnout % 5.47%...22%Well, it looks like something turned out the vote this round, and it sure wasn't the good weather. I'd say it was the competition. Thank you Brehony and Stich for participating! I appreciate your effort.
Given the motivated turnout, I suggest the incumbent base... the senior citizen garden club more or less... is 15% of the registered voters... about 1600... probably less considering many of the anti-base voters threw their third vote for an incumbent. That's hardly a safe number... and can not accurately represent the needs of the greater community of 10,000... that's just 1400-1600 people voting for their retiree interests... trash pickup, pharmacy, groceries, banking, doctor visits, and haircuts... a tidy fixed lifestyle with no surprises... and then you die leaving Viennaland to whomever. The future of Vienna is not their concern... that's why today our children still walk to school in the streets with the traffic.
Poll Worker Rhoda Stevens Does Her Civic Duty Comments (15)
All of Vienna should feel proud today about our dear neighbor Rhoda Stevens. Stevens was a polling official yesterday. After several incidents Stevens was removed by State Election officials as a poll worker. The incidents? Telling voters who to vote for as they pressed the buttons. Telling them they had to vote for three people because if they didn't, "the challengers would win". It doesn't appear Rhoda's impropriety swayed the election as the vote totals are pretty clear, but it does say something about Maud's machine and the voting process in Vienna.
Perhaps the best part of Steven's "work" yesterday? Her using a public phone to call home to have the political sign in her front yard taken down late in the afternoon as she was being removed from the polling place (see picture below). Once again, none of this swayed an election it appears, but the fact that it happened, the fact that a close friend of Maud's felt the need to cross the line, is sad.
While some critics might position this post, and the fact that it was even written, as "black helicopter talk", don't expect this site to back away from the truth any time soon.
Rhoda Stevens of 303 Edwin Lane, Vienna
Rhoda Stevens (and hiding of course)
May 01, 2007
Incumbents Win Comments (56)
The incumbents all won, but not without controversy.
April 29, 2007
The New Town Green Has No Fence; Why? Comments (7)
Please walk down and see the new Town Green. Look at where the tiny grassy area is located. Now imagine sitting there with a three year old child. Now imagine that three year old darts from your side - something EVERY three year old does. Now look where Maple Avenue is 35 feet away with no fence there to stop a child from being run over. While this may seem like a small issue to Maud and the rest of "the out of touch with reality set", it is representative of the SLOPPY and UNPLANNED way this Town operates. We can't keep being STUPID. We now have a $10 million dollar "park" that NO mother in Vienna will EVER take a child to unless that child is on a leash!
Vienna Will Soon Offer Discounts on Child Leashes!
April 27, 2007
Prominent Citizen Speaks Comments (11)
A prominent Vienna citizen, someone who has lived in Vienna for 50+ years and who has the respect across both aisles, had a blunt comment about Maud's new Town Green:
"Where is the GREEN?"
Good point. It's clearly not only this little ole website ticked off about this boondoggle expenditure of $10 million dollars by Maud Robinson.
April 26, 2007
Ray Daly Responds With Defeatist Tone Comments (5)
The other day we asked these questions:
Would you like sidewalks in Vienna?
Would you like more outdoor cafes and restaurants?
Would you like a book store in Vienna?
Would you like your basement and yard to not flood every time it rains?
Would you like entertainment in the evening at local establishments?
Would you like something more than a bank on every corner in Vienna?
Would you like to limit nail salons in Town?
Would you like to see an honest effort at reducing traffic?
Would you like to see a new & functional Post Office?
Would you like to see The Vienna Inn SAVED from destruction?
Ray Daly, a Vienna resident, responded:
Sidewalks: Yes
Outdoor Cafe: Out of anyone's control.
Flooding: Not enough info.
Entertainment: Already great and mostly out of our control.
Bank: Every town has this problem.
Nail salons: People should be free to start businesses that the market supports.
Reduce traffic: Not convinced that more can be done that is within our control.
Post office & Vienna Inn: need new threads with more detail.
With that kind of defeatist attitude it is easy to see why Robinson is often reelected. Ray Daly is already convinced that NOTHING in Vienna can be achieved.
Limiting banks and nail salons along with adding entertainment and outdoor cafes are NOT out of our Town Council's control. Good government works within private/public partnerships to create incentives to attract more than nail salons. At one time the market forces in Times Square in New York City supported a Red Light District. The GOVERNMENT changed that. This Chewbacca logic about "market forces" in a community like Vienna is antiquated and foolish.
More on the Vienna Inn? Here.
More on the Post Office? Here.
Lastly, the fact that you have thrown away all hope for traffic solutions surely points to the need for a fresh set of eyes on Town Council. What's your risk Ray? Maud says we can do nothing. Other people want to try and fix it.
April 25, 2007
Definition of a Political Machine Comments (2)
2007 Picture from Connection Newspaper
Since 1980, a time period covering 26 elections (with three council seats up for each one of those elections), three (3) challengers have won running for Vienna Town Council:
1985: Bob Robinson defeats Mary Jane Cronin
1988: Martha Pruett defeats Mary Jane Cronin
1993: Martha Garvie defeats Frank Lillis
No incumbent has lost in Vienna since 1993. And who has had the control over that time? Who has to shoulder all blame for all of Vienna's current problems? Maud wanted all of the power. She has had the reigns. She along with lieutenants like George Lovelace are responsible.
Doesn't it make sense to give new people with new energy the opportunity to solve issues Maud and George clearly can't solve?
April 24, 2007
Absentee Voting for the Vienna Town Election Comments (1)
In-person absentee voting for the Vienna Town Election begins Monday, March 26 and ends Saturday, April 28th, at the Fairfax County Government Center, 12000 Government Center Parkway, Suite 323, Fairfax, VA 22035
http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/eb/upcoming.htm
Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Saturday, April 28th, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Tuesday, April 24th: Final day to submit application for absentee ballot BY MAIL.
- Saturday, April 28th: Final day for IN PERSON absentee voting.
Am I eligible to vote absentee?
http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/eb/absentee.htm#eligible
You may vote absentee, either by mail or in person, if you are unable to go to the polls on Election Day because you ...
- are a student or the spouse of a student attending a school outside Fairfax County
- will be away from Fairfax County on business
- will be working and commuting for 11 or more hours between 6 a.m. and 7 p.m.
- will be away from Fairfax County on personal business or vacation
- are unable to go to the polls because of illness or disability (see below for physical disability or illness)
- are the primary caretaker of a confined family member
- have a religious obligation
- are confined awaiting trial
- are confined having been convicted of a misdemeanor
- are an election official
- are on active duty in the military outside Fairfax County
- are the spouse or dependent residing with a member of the military outside Fairfax County
- are an overseas citizen* whose most recent United States residence was in Fairfax County
April 22, 2007
The Important Stuff Comments (3)
A regular participant here put forward this opinion today:
"As I see it, this website was born out of extreme frustration over the harm imposed by the arbitrary, capricious, inequitable, and preferential enforcement of select personal opinion over the inherent rights of residents living in the Windover Heights Historic District. But that is now not the only garden club concern this website is free to discuss. If this blog is a new low, it is only because there has never been public political discourse in Vienna in which the public is protected from those wielding power and does not have to suffer patronizing and false discourse with OUR ELECTED OFFICIALS. Anyone who has participated here regularly can view current affairs and sense a positive difference, despite any raw edges."
It is not surprising that Maud has made this website her ONLY campaign issue in 2007. When you do as she has done for so long, obliterating the messenger any way possible is all she has got. So when you ask Maud about the lack of sidewalks, more and more traffic and blowing up the Vienna Inn and her only response is to immediately talk about this website, feel free not to reward her with another 2 years to do NOTHING.
Maud's campaign manager in action:
"If we can avoid real issues for a few more weeks, Maud wins again. Everyone keep quiet about real problems!"
April 21, 2007
Imagining Vienna... Comments (22)
Would you like sidewalks in Vienna?
Would you like more outdoor cafes and restaurants?
Would you like a book store in Vienna?
Would you like your basement and yard to not flood every time it rains?
Would you like entertainment in the evening at local establishments?
Would you like something more than a bank on every corner in Vienna?
Would you like to limit nail salons in Town?
Would you like to see an honest effort at reducing traffic?
Would you like to see a new & functional Post Office?
Would you like to see The Vienna Inn SAVED from destruction?
If you answered "Yes", then please don't vote for Maud Robinson or George Lovelace. They have no solutions. They have had their day in the sun. They both are plotting to raze the Vienna Inn. Time for both of them to move on.
April 20, 2007
A Letter to the Editor Comments (26)
A letter to the editor recently published:
Editor:Your April 4 edition included an article about the incumbents running for Vienna Town Council. Maude Robinson got the majority of the quotes. Let's look at some of what she said:
1) "the most pressing need for Vienna includes the need for increased sidewalk construction in town...." How many years has it been since the town commissioned a survey of residents to learn where voters would like to see new sidewalks? And how many new sidewalks have actually been constructed? Perhaps the candidate would like to point to her successes in this area? I don't believe a single new sidewalk has been built under her reign.
2) Mrs. Robinson is a champion for limiting redevelopment in downtown Vienna. Here the candidate has been so successful in making Vienna an undesirable place for developers that the past two decades of national growth and prosperity have yielded so little new development in downtown Vienna that the strip has become run-down, its stores outdated. It fails to provide for the needs of local residents, so most residents must shop elsewhere to meet most of their needs--a recipe for a dying commercial district.
3) Robinson's goal is to maintain the low building profile of the town, except for possibly the addition of a parking garage. So what she is saying is that the town's landmark, its signature building, the structure that would be visible above all else, would be a parking garage. Is this good urban design? Is it appropriate for maintaining "small town character" or any kind of community character? These questions don't even begin to address the wisdom of constructing a (presumably public) parking garage on a sprawling, nearly two-mile long commercial strip.
Maude Robinson has been a fixture in the town for as long as many of the outdated commercial properties. It's time for her to go.
Anne Smith
Vienna
In her point #3, Anne is referring to the Vienna Inn which Maud is seeking to demolish and replace with a parking garage.
April 19, 2007
Scathing Criticism? We Agree Comments (8)
In an article, Bill Turque a Washington Post Staff Writer writes:
"...http://HistoricVienna.com, which has been scathing in its criticism of the two longtime council incumbents, Robinson and Lovelace..."
We agree with his characterization. In his piece Maud Robinson says:
"...there is nothing wrong with the Maple Avenue corridor."
Robinson is correct if you are a hermit who never leaves your house or perhaps lives under a rock. But if you are real person living in 2007, Robinson's statement sounds like a ramble from someone clearly past her political and rational prime.
Robinson also adds:
"...that the only sentiment for big changes on Maple Avenue has come from those in the building and development communities."
Maybe Robinson would explain to the people of Vienna how she assembled her $5 million dollar plus fortune?
Current Robinson Campaign Brochure
April 18, 2007
Brian Trompeter: Bought and Paid For; He Should Be Tossed Comments (14)
Brian Trompeter, the local reporter for Vienna we recently profiled, sees this website in simple terms:
"...www.historicvienna.com a Web site that posts photos and derogatory comments about Town Council members and people who serve on the town's boards and commissions..."
Does this site rip incompetent politicians? Of course. But how does Trompeter ignore the volume of detailed content contained herein? EASY. Trompeter is a journalistic fraud desirous of seeing Maud stay in office.
Should Brian Trompeter Be Deciding Vienna Elections?
Or Should He Be Given a Lollipop & Sent to His Room?
Seeman and Cole Want Video Now? Comments (15)
Apparently, this website has finally caused Vienna officials to admit video is needed. From the Sun Gazette:
Council member Laurie Cole said her budget line item for recycling bins is dead-on-arrival, but she hopes proposals to video-stream council meeting and replace some town vehicles with hybrid cars will still be considered. Mayor M. Jane Seeman called the budget “tight” and said she hopes the council can find ways to finance meeting video-streaming...
Words mean nothing - let's see action.
April 17, 2007
Virginia Tech Thoughts Comments (3)
While as a free country we can't protect every corner, we the people of Vienna need to examine if some of our public facilities (schools, Town Hall, Community Center, Library, etc.) have precautions in place to deal with the unexpected. Do we have cameras in place? Do we have plans in place to communicate? There is nothing positive to take from the VA Tech tragedy except to try and prevent the next one...and to prevent a similar tragedy time is of the essence to put a plan into action.
One mourner at Virginia Tech pleaded "for parents near and far who wonder at a time like this, 'Is my child safe?'"
Berry Street Project: Blame Maud Comments (25)
For all those people who signed a petition regarding the Berry Street condos, for all those people who made it to a standing room only Planning Commission meeting tonight, keep in mind why it all happened. Maud. Maud Robinson is to blame. She creates these situations. She creates these conflicts. Then she attempts to convince people she is the savior. Enough Maud. It's time for someone else to fix Vienna's problems. She needs to go to Del Boca Vista.
One of the critics of the condo project tonight brought up an interesting side issue. She wanted to know why with all the new houses (read: huge increase in assessments and corresponding tax revenue) in Vienna do we have crumbling roads, no sidewalks and almost non-existent storm water management. The answer here too is Maud Robinson. Ladies and gentleman she is in control. She has failed. It is time for her to go. It's all happened on her watch. So if she knocks on your door proclaiming to "fix" Vienna, tell Maudasaurus to go jump in a lake.
Who Takes Responsibility for the Town Green? Comments (2)
From a reader:
The Town News Letter with candidate statements has arrived. It's time for new people, Vienna. Lovelace has nothing to add (say) and Robinson runs on history... "Vote for me, Maud, because I control it all and it will all fall down if you don't". This voter resents being asked to grant Lovelace another "special privilege just because", and I resent Maud's scare tactics and false starts on issues that have languished far too long. It is time for Lovelace and Robinson to retire. Why wait for them to expire in office... Town government is not a retirement plan at tax payer expense. Vote, Vienna! Send Maud and George home for a couple years and bring in some new energy... all of Town staff will be renewed with a fresh start.Noticeably missing from the candidate statements is any mention of our new glorious Town Green. Now isn't that interesting! An $8m and counting centerpiece capital improvement? project and nobody responsible for it wants to take credit or talk about it! I'd say they are running scared. It's vote for me May 1 and back to my garden club government May 12 at my Town Green dedication. Wake up, Vienna, and go vote!
Vienna Town election will be held on Tuesday, May 1, 2007, 6:00am to 7:00pm at the Vienna Community Center.
April 16, 2007
Meet Your Local Reporter Brian Trompeter Comments (3)
When a reporter is present at a public meeting, hears a Vienna Town Council member propose banning the video taping of meetings, and then refuses to NAME that Council member, it's worth NAMING the reporter.
Meet Brian Trompeter of the Sun Gazette. Wonder if he will have the courage to print before an election that Maud would love nothing better than to get rid of the Vienna Inn?
April 13, 2007
April 12, 2007; Readership Records for HV Comments (5)
Yesterday was our busiest day ever. Nearly 7x the readers as a typical day one year ago.
April 12, 2007
Maud Waxes On About the Wonderful Benefits of Monoxide Park Comments (1)
From the Vienna Times:
A specific focus of questioning for incumbent candidates at the forum was the construction of the town green, a pet project of Robinson's that will be dedicated May 12. "The town green is more than a park for pleasure. It tells people that we're for more than just passing through," Robinson said. [Susan] Stich has been a vocal critic of the town green in the past, but at the forum Dellinger also took the opportunity to distance himself from the project. "I was not on the council when the decision was made for the park," Dellinger said. Lovelace and Robinson spoke at the forum at much greater length than any of the other candidates, apparently due to a combination of physical proximity to the podium and the hands-off style of NARFE moderator Don Wiesnet.
Hands off? Give us a break. Maud runs the show and that includes NARFE's show too. Doesn't anyone except this website have the ability to tell this incoherent blabber mouth Maud to sit down?
Keep in mind, while kids across this Town have no sidewalks, while our roads are in disrepair, while water problems are causing Vienna residents regular damage to their homes, Maudasaurus and her Garden Club cohorts like Laine Hyde are using MILLIONS $ of tax money on the pet project of the decade the Town Freaking Green. When the people of Vienna finally figure out what the likes of Maud and Laine have done with taxpayer money, the piper will be paid. Patience!
Breathe in the Fresh Air at Maud's Monoxide Park!
Sun Gazette's Brian Trompeter: Maud's Lackey Comments (32)
Last night at the Planning Commission meeting the Sun Gazette's Brian Trompeter approached a Vienna resident and asked, "if it was true that [name withheld] left the NARFE candidate's debate the other day and while leaving slammed the door?" The resident Trompeter asked this asinine question to was not there and had no clue what he was talking about.
Now ask yourself: is the best we got? This guy goes to a candidate's debate where Maud Robinson was clearly out of control acting like a belligerent bully, and the only thing Vienna's local reporter is focussed on is a rumor that someone may or may not have slammed a door. Brian Trompeter will write anything Maud Robinson wants.
He is also the reporter that refused to reveal which Town Council member wanted to ban video. We all know it was Maud, but Trompeter was there and has refused to say since it would embarrass her. Nice journalistic integrity.
Maud Takes Brian Trompeter for a Walk
April 10, 2007
NARFE Members: Is Angry Maud Still Your Choice? Comments (22)
NARFE had a candidate's debate today. The highlights were Maud's pronouncements:
1. Maud believes the Town Green will be an economic focal point (she was serious) for Vienna. She hinted that the Vienna Inn will be replaced by a parking garage. Maud said the Town Green will make people stuck in traffic stop their car and park since they will see Vienna has a downtown.
2. Maud sees no big deal with all of the bank robberies in Vienna since no one has been hurt.
3. Maud, Laine Hyde and Seeman's daughter Linda Colbert all railed against this website. We bet most people don't care one way or the other, but it sure is telling that Vienna's political elite is focused here!
4. Maud essentially said that if you don't like her - move out of Vienna.
George Lovelace may have had the best line when he said the Town Green will be a place for young people to go and talk on their cellphones. Brilliant George, just brilliant.
April 05, 2007
Vienna Council Candidate Back for 2nd Shot Comments (2)
From the Sun Gazette:
Vienna Council Candidate Back for 2nd Shot
by BRIAN TROMPETER, Staff Writer
(Created: Wednesday, April 4, 2007 5:56 AM EDT) Susan Stich will make a second bid for Vienna Town Council. Susan Stich says she is making a second run for the Vienna Town Council because the town could benefit from new perspectives on traffic and development.
Continue reading "Vienna Council Candidate Back for 2nd Shot" »
April 03, 2007
Town of Vienna Muscle to Suppress Opposition Comments (20)
This is an interesting letter (PDF). It is the second page of a letter sent to residents of Windover Heights for the annual "Walk on the Hill Fake History Jamboree" put on every year by Historic Vienna, Inc. (Town funded club). This year we note the interesting highlighted section aiming to suppress political speech. For 30 years this dilly dally affair has attracted every politician in the area (Tom Davis is always there) and political signs are the norm. Now, this year, with opposition to the Maud Machine in place, Historic Vienna, Inc. on tax payer funded letterhead wants to eliminate politics. Yeah, that's gonna happen. Not.
Nice try Laine! We bet there is NO record as to WHO these mystery residents are who made the request. Maybe we will all be lucky enough to have some goons there assaulting camera men again.
Maud Robinson: "Greed is Good!" Comments (2)
As we approach the Vienna campaign season, as we watch wasteful Town spending, as we watch older residents squeezed out of Vienna due to financial concerns, as we listen to politicians like Maud Robinson rail against developers pretending to be "of the people", it is worth noting the lie Maud Robinson has been living all these years. She is STINKING RICH. Loaded! Millions. A $5 million plus net worth for her is the best estimate. The proof is in. The next time you see Robinson around Town playing the pauper role, just keep in mind the REAL "greed is good" life she has been secretly leading all these years.
March 30, 2007
Wake Up! Comments (11)
A post from reader "Town Green" today:
The Town News Letter with candidate statements has arrived. It's time for new people, Vienna. Lovelace has nothing to add (say) and Robinson runs on history... "Vote for me, Maud, because I control it all and it will all fall down if you don't". This voter resents being asked to grant Lovelace another "special privilege just because", and I resent Maud's scare tactics and false starts on issues that have languished far too long. It is time for Lovelace and Robinson to retire. Why wait for them to expire in office... Town government is not a retirement plan at tax payer expense. Vote, Vienna! Send Maud and George home for a couple years and bring in some new energy... all of Town staff will be renewed with a fresh start.Noticeably missing from the candidate statements is any mention of our new glorious Town Green. Now isn't that interesting! An $8m and counting centerpiece capital improvement? project and nobody responsible for it wants to take credit or talk about it! I'd say they are running scared. It's vote for me May 1 and back to my garden club government May 12 at my Town Green dedication. Wake up, Vienna, and go vote!
March 20, 2007
Herndon Community Television Comments (15)
Why does Vienna not have this? The moment Vienna goes on TV Jane, George and Maud go by the way of the dinosaur. The first moment they belittle or attack a citizen on cable TV is the moment they are cooked. Oh we forgot, Falls Church too. Reston, yup them too.
March 02, 2007
Deborah Brehony Campaign Web Site Goes Up Comments (5)
A new campaign web site for Deborah Brehony was launched.
Brehony Has Put Forward New Ideas
February 27, 2007
Who's Reading? Comments (4)
Yesterday our traffic was the highest ever for any one day. February 2007 is on pace to be the highest traffic month ever.
February 24, 2007
Deborah Brehony Weighs In on the Vienna Inn Comments (24)
Deborah Brehony, responding to this post about Maud's Vienna Inn destruction plan, states:
I don't think that ANYONE, including Mrs. Robinson, or any other Council Member or Vienna Citizen "wants to see the Vienna Inn torn down". Certainly, I do not "want" the Inn to come down...I ate there last night (highly recommend the filet mignon - It's as good as any at Mortons or Flemings and half the price..), AND, I ate there again this morning. We ALL love, it - WE DO, but the FACT remains that that building was built as a residential home that opened an ice cream parlor there in 1925. By 1958, it was called "Freddy's Cafe", and looked pretty much the same as it does today. Frank is on target - Can we accept that our beloved Inn might be in a a new venue in a perhaps mixed-use building, and still continue to serve us the beer and chili dogs that we love? That whole strip is so ripe for re-development. The buildings adjacent to the Inn are truly "caving in", and that entire area is better served by new, modern (and yes, you said it Frank) accessible commercial space. Parking accommodations, and possibly that needed garage should certainly be a part of the redevelopment. I do agree, that whatever considerations are being given to this particular area CAN and SHOULD be extended along all of Maple Avenue, from East Street up to Nutley. It only makes sense that what is fair for the goose is fair for the gander, and I agree that piece-meal is no meal at all. But let's not be short-sighted and cling to a residential structure that was built 82 years ago. Our chili dogs can (and WILL) be every bit as yummy in a new and more modern home!
There is inconsistency in Brehony's logic:
1. If the Vienna Inn is not worth saving as is, then all words "historic" should immediately be removed from this Town's vocabulary. Maud already led the destruction of Moorefield and the Vienna Inn (as is) is clearly the most historic structure, place, location - whatever you want to call it - in Vienna. If it goes, then the word "historic" should go too. Else we are all in la la pretend world. To not even hear the word HISTORIC mentioned along with the Vienna Inn shows the blatant hypocrisy of Maud Robinson, but we are sure the new fountain on the Town Green will be declared "historic" as soon as it is finished. Robinson is a historic con of the highest order.
2. Planning for Maple Avenue is a complete concept. It can't be done piecemeal. Council Member Edythe Kelleher has said this. We agree. To start "fixing" Maple Avenue by tearing down the Inn alone is pure politics and pure stupidity. We hope Deborah clarifies her position as it is not clear. Does she want redevelopment on Maple to start out of the gate for the whole stretch or does she want it to start with a singular focus on ripping the Vienna Inn down? Right now she is hedged. Take the hedge off please.
3. Brehony is wrong on Maud's intent toward the Inn. Maud Robinson's actions, not her spin or words, show clearly that she wants the Inn torn down. Bottom line, Jane and Maud are pretending to be in favor of redevelopment on Maple Avenue, but the reality is they have one tear down in their sights. That's deceptive leadership. That's the larger issue in play here. Governments should not be using the power of law changes to singularly benefit one person or group. Don't you think other property owners will want the same incentives granted to the Vienna Inn property owner?
NOTE: Deborah Brehony has clarified her stance. Read the comments for this post.
February 23, 2007
Vienna Water Rip Off Comments (3)
Regular contributor 'Town Green' writes:
Is the Town of Vienna ripping off its residents by over charging for water? I think so! Read this article about how the City of Falls Church is suing Fairfax County over the loss of its profitable water revenue. Both Vienna and Falls Church get their water from the same old terrorist target reservoir in DC, except Vienna also blends in free well water. Both governments charge way more per 1000 gallons of water than what we would have to pay to get our water directly from Fairfax County. Both Vienna and Falls Church have manipulated their water and sewer charges to generate a profitable stream of revenue... profitable enough for Falls Church to sue the rightful competition in desperation. Meanwhile, Maud and her crooked cronies are ripping us off to pay for their garden club history projects, the Town Green, endless studies that get trashed, and assorted other elective expenses around Town like geriatric gambling junkets and basket weaving classes... Maud's private little LA-LA land! How come Council candidates campaign on a platform for getting cheaper water from Fairfax County, but then do nothing about it after being elected? Liars... it's time to vote the bums out! Vienna, DEMAND honest government! VOTE!
Note: If anyone wants to submit a main topic, just go to the comments box for any post and type it up as you want it to appear. Just leave a note saying that it is a main topic idea and not a comment.
February 20, 2007
Deborah Brehony Press Release Comments (0)
This press release was put out in January. It came across our desk today:
PRESS RELEASE; FOR IMEMDIATE RELEASE 1/15/07; FOR INFORMATION CONTACT: DEBORAH BREHONY (703) 938-4305Deborah Brehony has announced that she will be vying for a position on the Vienna Town Council in the May 1st elections of this year.
February 11, 2007
How Did America's Richest Region Get That Way? Comments (2)
How did America's richest region get that way? An Article (PDF) from Time Magazine worth reading. Amazingly, it was not because of Maud and Jane! We were sure that they were the reason for all of our success. Damn. What a disappointment.
February 09, 2007
Daily Web Traffic Increases Since 2006 Comments (1)
HistoricVienna.com has seen daily user sessions rise 350% since March 2006. It is clear from web traffic totals and conversations with Town Council members, Board members, Town Staff and Congressional Staff, this site is the location for Vienna news.
February 07, 2007
Deborah Brehony Defender Intervenes Comments (5)
Today at this post, in the comments section, someone wrote this:
"Stop the Deborah Brehony attacks on this site. It get us no where. It reminds me of Maud tactics."
Another reader responded:
"This is an ineffectual and pathetic request on a medium such as this public blog. You can't stop or manicure the 'discussion' if you expect others to visit and participate. I recommend you refute anything you disagree with or believe to be unwarranted and let the chips fall where they may."
It is worth noting that this site recently posted this comment on Brehony. Bottom line, Brehony is at the end of the day a politician seeking public approval. She deserves a thorough 'once over' just like any other would be political leader in this community. She knows she is welcomed to post here at any time unfiltered and unedited as she has in the past.
February 01, 2007
Still in a Stupor Over the Coming 1st Amendment Ban Comments (4)
We here at historicvienna.com are still in amazement that a current Vienna board member thinks that it is only a matter of time until new laws and regulation outlaw the content on this website. It is such a bizarre belief that it makes you wonder about the basic mental stability of some in power in this Town.
January 21, 2007
Not Logical. Not At All Comments (7)
One reader, prefacing her remarks that all incumbents should be tossed out in 07, writes tonight:
I'm more than a little disappointed and disturbed that you would seemingly endorse yet another developer to sweep into office, populate the various councils, and approve and enforce rules and regulations to their advantage, and to the benefit of their friends and family. Hello?! Have you forgotten Steve Bukont and the mess Maud and Steve and all their cronies have made out of Vienna? You may look down your nose at those in Vienna who are living in older homes, but we are still members of this community; we pay our taxes and we deserve to have our wants and needs attended to. We're tired of these builders and their huge homes on tiny lots causing flooding and long-term damage to our homes. We're tired of the zoning work-arounds, traffic blockages, and the decimation of wooded areas. We're tired of builders hiring illegal aliens to build these homes in the middle of the night. We're tired of the increased crime, drug, and gang activity that has come with these illegal aliens - crime that builders like Bukont and Brehony are ultimately responsible for because they provide jobs to illegal aliens. Deborah Brehony is motivated to run by pure greed; she wants to make more money. Quite simply, Deborah Brehony doesn't have the morals or ethics we need from members of the Vienna Town Council.
Perhaps there are some useful points buried in your email, but they are indeed buried. Some feedback:
1. Bukont has built homes that have benefited Vienna as a whole. That is hard to argue against. His activities while sitting on a Board and his improper close association with Council are well known. This site has been at the forefront of drilling him for that. However, to essentially blame Bukont and Brehony for gang activity is nutty. The Council is responsible for that. Frankly, every new house built in Vienna eliminates a 1950s house populated with '15' member families.
2. We can't name one builder to sit on Council in the last 30 years. Where do we start drawing the line on professions allowed to run for Council? The problems in Vienna are not caused by the professions of people, but rather the individual ethics of people. If you have an ethical argument against Brehony, make it. Right now you are fear mongering. This site has gone after Brehony when she has done certain things, but we can't understand going after anyone before they actually commit the political crime so to speak.
3. No one is looking down on anyone who owns an older home. But everyone in Vienna knows that if they are in an older home the value of that home is the land. Everyone who owns property in Vienna has done well whether they have a new home already or not.
4. If Brehony gets elected to Town Council how does this greed path unfold? Please map out how she makes all this money. She already has a successful business that doesn't seem to be in need of "extra" governmental help. How could she be worse than Cole?
We are not endorsing anyone at this time, but this site will strive to stay logical. If more candidates are running this spring we can't wait to hear about them and discuss them. We do agree with you that incumbents should be tossed!
January 19, 2007
Deborah Brehony Article Is A Positive Step Comments (11)
Sun Gazette Photo
The Sun Gazette just put out an article about Council candidate Deborah Brehony. While Brehony's statements have been disjointed over the last year, this article lists very positive positions:
1. She calls for term limits.
2. She calls for the video taping of meetings.
3. She calls for a modified height limit in commercial sector.
4. She calls for a mixed use development in commercial sector.
5. She calls for new traffic solutions.
It is safe to say that NONE of these planks will be part of Maud Robinson's view of the future.
The article in full...
Continue reading "Deborah Brehony Article Is A Positive Step" »
1st Amendment Under Attack in Vienna Comments (8)
It has come to our attention that assorted members of Town Boards and Commissions believe right NOW that this site and others will soon have their content regulated. The view is that somehow technology has not caught up and a site like this is getting away with something - whatever that means. It makes you really wonder about the psyches of those who control the political reigns in Vienna. Or perhaps it is not really surprising given this same group attempted to ban video.
January 16, 2007
2007 Offer to Vienna Town Council Candidates Comments (3)
All Vienna Town Council candidates are welcome to submit a maximum (10) posts between now and the May 2007 elections. Of course anyone can post comments to their hearts content, but this is a different offer. This is an offer for candidates to write a main post w/ their choice of subject heading.
We only ask that you write about Vienna issues. Your post will be put on this site unedited with a link to your web site and or any other contact information you want. You may also have proxies write a contribution on your behalf. Pictures are welcome too. Please send contribution to the email at the bottom of this site.
November 09, 2006
Town of Vienna Efforts to Broadcast Meetings on Cable TV Comments (6)
This document (PDF) contains the sum of all Town of Vienna documents pertaining to putting Vienna meetings on Cable TV.
September 26, 2006
Syd Verinder Resigns Effective October 1, 2006; Dan Dellinger Appointed; Paul Layer Rejected Comments (2)
Syd Verinder resigns Vienna Town Council effective October 1, 2006. We have learned that Daniel Dellinger will replace him. Vienna can rest easy that the sock puppet Paul Layer, a historic district crony, was not inserted.
Tool of the Trade in Vienna Politics
September 09, 2006
Vienna Parents Seek Greater Pedestrian Safety for Students Comments (4)
From Brian Trompeter at the Sun Gazette:
Parents of students at Louise Archer Elementary School in Vienna are pressing county officials to participate in Safe Routes to School, an international program that encourages children to walk and bicycle to school.
Continue reading "Vienna Parents Seek Greater Pedestrian Safety for Students" »
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?
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?
April 28, 2006
Dressing Like Jerry Springer Guests Comments (5)
Here is feedback we suspect direct from a sitting Council member:
"Posting unflattering photos of your political opponents on an anonymous website?"
Are you really serious? Let us get this straight. Some Town Council Members, and it surely is not all, show up to Council meetings in sweat pants, jogging suits or essentially pajamas and we are supposed to ignore their complete lack of respect for the office they hold? If ANY Vienna Town Council member shows up to a public meeting dressed inappropriately or looking disheveled - their picture will be right here every time. It's an embarrassment and it should stop. This is the kind of nonsense that happens when there are no cameras to film public servants in action. Vienna Town Council meetings should not leave people feeling like they just witnessed a Jerry Springer episode. Vienna is not a trailer park.
Just in, looks like we were wrong on the authorship of the above comment. Feedback on comments above that came in today:
"No, I'm not a sitting Council member, nor have I ever had any involvement in Vienna politics, the historic district, or anything like that. I'm a longtime resident of SW Vienna (and a lifelong resident of the DC area) who has no use for people who are willing to drag Vienna's good name through the mud for their personal financial gain. As my original comments to you said, I am utterly turned off by your actions. If you think that my previous comments revealed insider knowledge of your antics, you're wrong. It didn't take much effort to use the internet to read the minutes of the meetings you've described on your web page. It didn't take much more work to read the online news articles about your activities and use the Fairfax County real estate assessment web page to locate the real estate holdings you're trying to cash in on (not very cleverly hidden behind "name withheld by request" entries). I would never vote to further empower you by putting one of your number on the Town Council. Judging from your behavior, you would turn our Town government into a circus, to the detriment of everyone but yourselves."
Anonymous
Apparently, you are drinking the Vienna Times Kool-Aid too. This is all about money, that is your view? Let us get this straight: It's alright to have corrupt government and unfair laws as long as you are fighting the cause of stopping some random person who may or may not be profiting from real estate? Do you have any concept of logic? You say this with a straight face as Vienna is being torn down every day to build new everywhere? Since by your rumor filled logic this is all about money, can you forward along to us the development plans that must surely exist that shows how all of this money will be made by all of these greedy people out to hurt Vienna? Or is this just more of the whisper campaign by you and your cronies who may or may not be happy with their lot in life?
You have NO respect for the United States Constitution or basic property rights and your ethical and moral foundations are deeply flawed. You and some of your Council buddies are using unbridled power to settle scores and play games. Class warfare was a game for a different time. Class warfare doesn't work in a community where people are making on average $85,000 a year. A community like Vienna, a community filled with smart people, cares more about fairness and equality. You are only going to find so many people interested in your brand of scare politics. Good luck!
April 24, 2006
The No Spin Zone: Vienna 22180 Style Comments (0)
Love Him or Hate Him, He Does Limit Spin
We have had an ongoing conversation with Larry B. who lives outside the Vienna Town limits. Larry has expressed an assortment of views about this site and how he views the world. Larry provides us a great opportunity to address this site's style and method along with the use of "spin". Some of his comments and our feedback:
If I am reading something in the local newspaper I have a general belief that it is an unbiased report and will give equal time to both sides of an issue. Is this blog setup for that type of discussion?
Our response: We do not have the general belief that the press is unbiased. That belief seems naive. For example, the Vienna Town Council proposed banning the video taping of public meetings. The reporter who was there to hear the proposal to this day refuses to acknowledge which specific Council member proposed the ban. Seem unbiased to you? That is but one small example of the "unbiased press core". This site is not setup to act as a bulletin board. The site has a clear point of view just like every other newspaper or TV program. You have now been given the opportunity to say your peace, but just like Bill O'Reilly's show we are not going to post "spin" for you.
What I don't believe in is asking me and others to take at face value the views being presented without sharing in an exchange to have an understanding of all sides of an issue. ANY issue can be presented to try and persuade a view. I'm sure those following Hitler thought it was a good idea at the time.
Our response: For example, what is the other side of the issue of the historic district controversy? Can you be specific? Just saying that there is a lawsuit pending, sorry no comment, is a copout. There are 150 pages of specifics on this site comprising audio, video, letters, memos and commentary. The best you can offer is a Hitler comparison?
I have yet to see an outline here of the key issues, the incumbents stance and what the new candidates propose instead. So let's have an open discussion on these issues. Show me alternatives. Besides saying what the existing council members have not done, tell me what could have been done differently. What alternatives were at their disposal that they elected to not leverage?
Our response: Election issues have been outlined here. Ignore the specifics? That is your choice.
How do I or any other reader know that the person(s) running this web site do not have a personal "ax to grind" with one or more of the incumbent candidates?
Our response: There is definitely a political ax to grind by most contributors to this site. However, the accusation that this site offers personal attacks is baseless. It is a "tactic" to say this site is "nasty" or "personal". People spinning that mantra refuse to acknowledge the content on this site. They don't like what this site exposes.
I don't need the mudslinging & fighting. I just need to know the issues so I can form an opinion on which candidate will best represent my views on the issues. So why not 'lay it all on the table' and let the voters & other interested parties see the facts. Not the emotions, not the personal ambiguities. Just the facts.
Our response: Enough rhetoric. Enough spin. Enough of your no details approach. Can you specifically address what the "mudslinging" and "fighting" is exactly? Is pointing out how Laurie Cole votes against new homes, but gets her own new big home, is that "mudslinging"? In terms of "facts", this site exposes more facts than any Vienna resident has ever seen before in the public arena.
April 21, 2006
The Whisper Campaign Comments (1)
The Whisper Campaign Is Underway
How will the elections turn out? That's the big question. Fortunately, Vienna has, for the first time in a long time, a choice this year. The new candidates should be saluted for their dedication of time and energy. However, challenging LONG time incumbents with all the power and control brings out the "whispers". As you go to the polls this year, put aside the innuendo and ponder how well current Council members have done on the issues of 1.) Traffic reduction, 2.) A Maple Avenue revitalization and 3.) Making Vienna a more walker friendly community. Where is the current Council on these issues? Are they behind or ahead of the curve?
We are proud that Vienna was named #4 community in the country recently. However, to say Council members such as Laurie Cole are responsible for such is a stretch. Vienna, and we are glad about this, was at the middle of the perfect storm to achieve that ranking (starting with luckily being dead in the middle of one of the most prosperous counties in the world!). And keep in mind, that ranking far exceeded the borders of Vienna proper. Our point here? Yes, it's great we are #4, but let's keep it all in perspective. Let's not let that ranking be used as an excuse for incumbents to avoid doing the hard thing. We need leaders, not cheerleaders.
April 20, 2006
The Laurie Cole Sympathy Play Comments (1)
From today's Washington Post:
"The tone of the debate has been toughest in the council race. A Web site [historicvienna.com]...has sharply criticized Cole for her cool reception to a revitalization plan for Maple Avenue. "It's certainly something I haven't experienced in the past two elections," Cole said of the criticism. "It's hard. If someone wants to attack me on my record, that's fine, but to attack me personally, I don't understand it."
The Washington Post says our criticism is about Maple Avenue and Cole responds by saying that criticism is a personal attack?!
From a political strategy standpoint, this is a good move on Cole's part. Don't address the disagreements over policy; just whine that you are being attacked when you know your policy is indefensible. Shoot, for an incumbent, it might be the best strategy to use and will probably work. To thinking people, to those not drinking the Kool-Aid, this site lays out clear policy attacks against Laurie Cole. If she takes those policy attacks personally, well, that is her right. Bottom line: the sympathy play is not believable from Cole the career politician and attorney.
Laurie Cole Wants Your Sympathy for Her Bad Policy
Atrophying of Principles Comments (0)
Mr. Jefferson Would Cringe
at the Lack of Principles
The real Vienna Town Council problem is about the atrophying of its principles. As their years in power have stretched on, long-time Town Council members have become more passionate about retaining power than in using that power to change or improve government. Gathering votes for serious policy is difficult and tends to divide a majority. Re-election unites them, however, so they have gradually settled for doing nothing to sustain their incumbency. This strategy has maintained a majority, but at the cost of doing anything substantial. This Town Council has achieved little in the last decade that will outlast into the future and they have ignored the serious issues of traffic and a commercial corridor decline. Meanwhile, the most talented members of our community have continued to avoid Council service to seek other opportunities. The current leaders who remain have become ever more preoccupied with process, money and incumbency. Ideas are an afterthought, when they aren't an inconvenience. Our sense is the long-time Vienna Council members don't yet appreciate the trouble they're in. Confident of small Town machine politics, they think the voters will never turn Vienna over to younger people with fresh ideas and unlimited energy. Eventually, voters will grow more disgusted with the current Council members who care only about re-election.
Note: If this sounds familiar, it was adapted directly from here.
March 28, 2006
2006 Town Elections: Choose or Lose Comments (1)
This May Vienna will hold annual elections and there are, for the first time in a real long time, choices. Who is running? The following 5 candidates are running for 3 seats:
1. Edythe Kelleher
2. Susan Stich
3. Blair Jenkins
4. Michael Polychrones
5. Laurie Cole
We pull no punches about the pros and cons of these five candidates. Four of these candidates are reasonable people. Four of these candidates, Edythe Kelleher, Susan Stich, Blair Jenkins, and Michael Polychrones, are fair, honest and progressive.
Laurie Cole on the other hand is not fair, nor is she honest in her politics. Cole regularly acts with extreme arrogance toward citizens and has no problem settling scores. What do we mean? Consider the way Cole recently treated this property owner. A vote for Laurie Cole is a vote to decrease the value of your home. Amazingly, while Cole has no problem lowering the values on other people's homes, she made sure she got the biggest new house on her block.
Additionally, Cole is against any improvement on Maple Avenue, while the other four candidates are open to improvements. Vienna has clear choices this year!
March 19, 2006
Vienna Faces A Choice: Maud or the Real World Comments (2)
Maud Robinson Prefers 1960s Style Strip Malls. Why?
Monday night at a Vienna Town Council work session, the Vienna Town Council discussed the Maple Avenue Vision with an engineering firm proposing a feasibility study for the revitalization of Maple Avenue. During the meeting Vienna's abundance of one-story strip malls was broached and the comparison was made to Clarendon's new low-rise Market Common development. Watch carefully (video) what Maud Robinson has to say about this jewel of Clarendon:
Robinson states on the video:
"...it was very hard to find anyone there on a beautiful sunny day, there were a lot of glitzy shops that didn't seem to have any customers."
This can only be characterized as propaganda. Why would she say something so patently false? It would not be over the top to characterize Robinson's statements as lies. Not only is this development packed with people, restaurants and shops, it has won substantial awards. Does this mean we accept it all for Vienna blindly? No. But why does Robinson have the need to make things up to defend her position? Is her only political skill "fear mongering"?
For example, in defending Vienna's older strip malls, Robinson says they are good for "mom and pop" shops. Last we checked Vienna strip malls housed the likes of Giant, Safeway, Popeyes, Radio Shack, 7-Eleven, Subway and the list goes on and on. Strip malls are ugly, pedestrian unfriendly, parking lot choked eyesores. However, Vienna does not have to be stuck. There are options.
For those not familiar with Market Commons, here are some pictures:
Market Commons in Clarendon, VA
Market Commons in Clarendon, VA
Market Commons in Clarendon, VA
We are assuming Robinson, who is now on the record as favoring 1960s strip malls, would much rather keep this Vienna eyesore of a landmark:
Vienna Strip Mall: An Example of Maud Robinson Preferred Devleopment
Is anyone paying attention to what Maud Robinson is actually saying and doing? The people of Vienna have a clear choice: follow Maud Robinson and likes of Laurie Cole down dead ends OR accept the real world and make Vienna a better place.
Vienna Strip Mall: An Example of Maud Robinson Preferred Devleopment
December 07, 2005
Throwing F-Bombs: Par for the Course in Vienna Government Comments (0)
Steve Bukont, the Chairman of the Windover Heights Board of Review, showed the true colors of Vienna's "historic district" movement last night with a wild attack on another Town resident.
What leads up to this outburst by a government official? Early on in the meeting Bukont declared there were "historic structures" in the Windover Heights Historic District. When asked to define what structures were historic, Bukont actually appears to say that he is making it all up out of thin air:
Later in the meeting when asked a simple question about determining the appropriateness of one type of stone v. another, Bukont, shaking and threatening, goes ballistic:
Bukont was not done as he attacks two other residents:
For the record, Steve Bukont has built numerous homes for Town Council members and high-level Town staff. It is perfectly appropriate to question conflicts of interest, but apparently in Bukont's mind he is immune to such criticism. Immediately following that outburst Bukont stormed out of the Council chambers declaring that he had resigned. As he ran out of Town Hall he called various citizens "f**cking morons" and "f**cking nuts".
Chairman Gives Obscenity-Laced Tirade: Welcome to Vienna! Comments (2)
In an obscenity-laced tirade, Chairman Steve Bukont, a multi-millionaire Vienna developer who owns Ayr Hill Homes, resigned last night from the Windover Heights Board of Review. Here is a video clip of Bukont in action as Chairman of the Windover Heights Board of Review (December 6, 2005):
Chairman Steve Bukont right before his 4-letter obscenity tirade.
Bukont called citizens "f**cking morons" and "f**cking nuts".
This type of intimidation is not acceptable from Town officials. It is definitely time for an outside investigation. Watch more of Bukont's tirade here.
