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    <title>Columnists for Stafford County Sun</title>
    <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/</link>
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        <title>Columnists for Stafford County Sun</title>
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    <dc:language>en</dc:language>
    <dc:creator>Stafford County Sun</dc:creator>
    <dc:rights>Copyright 2010</dc:rights>
    <dc:date>2010-03-12T11:08:26-05:00</dc:date>

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         <item>
          <title>Gold: Life&#8217;s heroes deserve attention</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/lifes_heroes_deserve_attention/53355/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
It seems to me&#8230;The Olympics have dominated our viewing hours and millions of our fellow citizens know the names of those on the USA teams. Don&#8217;t get me wrong, these athletes train very hard and have abilities of Olympians.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 05 Mar 2010 10:45:03 EST</pubDate>
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          <title>Callander: Just cutting spending not good enough</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/just_cutting_spending_not_good_enough/53340/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The millions of dollars that have to be cut from our state and county budgets present such an overwhelming challenge that it seems all priorities need to be re-examined&#8230; and in a hurry.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 05 Mar 2010 09:58:51 EST</pubDate>
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          <title>GOLD: Snow helpers are heroes to many</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/gold_snow_helpers_are_heroes_to_many/52420/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
It seems to me&#8230;While the snow flakes fall our thoughts are of how beautiful the snow-covered vistas look to us. But alas, even before the last flakes hit the ground our thoughts quickly change to &#8220;let&#8217;s get rid of this nasty stuff.&#8221; The pure white beauty has now changed to brownish-black muck with ice replacing the powdery layers creating hidden hazards all around us. Cleanup becomes imperative and the rest of our world needs to be made passable again.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 17 Feb 2010 12:40:41 EST</pubDate>
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          <title>CALLANDER: Blizzard 2010: Lesson &#45; Be prepared</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/callander_blizzard_2010_lesson_-_be_prepared/52419/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
As the Boy Scouts of America celebrate their 100th anniversary, I&#8217;m reminded of their motto, &#8220;Be Prepared.&#8221; That&#8217;s what we were told to be before the Blizzard of 2010. We&#8217;re lucky the December and January snowstorms helped us do &#8220;a dry run&#8221; before the big one.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 17 Feb 2010 12:39:30 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/callander_blizzard_2010_lesson_-_be_prepared/52419/#When:17:39:30Z</guid>
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          <title>BLANKENSHIP: Improve Stafford? Attract more feds</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/blankenship_improve_stafford_attract_more_feds/52140/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Getting rid of the BPOL tax should help make Stafford more attractive to new businesses and less hostile to those already here. That&#8217;s the upshot of your vote for county supervisors last fall.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 12 Feb 2010 11:08:28 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/blankenship_improve_stafford_attract_more_feds/52140/#When:16:08:28Z</guid>
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          <title>GOLD: Don&#8217;t &#8216;bathe in an empty tub&#8217;</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/gold_dont_bathe_in_an_empty_tub/52138/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
It seems to me&#8230;the old clich&#233; &#8220;money makes the world go &#8216;round&#8221; is something that some of our elected officials are losing sight of.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 12 Feb 2010 11:06:41 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/gold_dont_bathe_in_an_empty_tub/52138/#When:16:06:41Z</guid>
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          <title>KISER: Strangers come to aid of reporter</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/kiser_strangers_come_to_aid_of_reporter/52130/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The very last thing he wanted to see as he was trying to dig out from this weekend&#8217;s crippling snowstorm is a reporter who pulled onto his street driving a Honda that sits a little more than a few inches off the ground get stuck.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 12 Feb 2010 10:52:40 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/kiser_strangers_come_to_aid_of_reporter/52130/#When:15:52:40Z</guid>
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          <title>KERR: Repealing the Potomac Resource Protection District</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/repealing_the_potomac_resource_protection_district/51714/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Whenever a legislative body changes hands as decisively as the Stafford County Board of Supervisors did in last year&#8217;s election you know things are going to change. Usually, this means repealing a lot of the other party&#8217;s initiatives and decisions from the prior term. The list of just the ordinances and taxes that will likely meet the chopping block hasn&#8217;t been determined yet. One, initiative, an important conservation decision, that looks like it could be one of the first to go is the Potomac River Resource Protection Overlay District. Several of the members of the board are confident they have the votes to repeal the district.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 04 Feb 2010 14:45:38 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/repealing_the_potomac_resource_protection_district/51714/#When:19:45:38Z</guid>
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          <title>CALLANDER: A Virginia pride and joy closes</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/callander_a_virginia_pride_and_joy_closes/51713/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
One of the victims of the downturn in the economy is a wonderful Virginia grocery store chain, Ukrop&#8217;s Super Markets, Inc., in business since 1937. Despite denying rumors that the company was selling out, it turns out that, yes, Ukrop&#8217;s has been taken over by Giant of Carlisle PA (not Giant of Metro Washington, D.C.) and is closing as of Jan. 30.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 04 Feb 2010 14:43:57 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/callander_a_virginia_pride_and_joy_closes/51713/#When:19:43:57Z</guid>
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          <title>CALLANDER: Don&#8217;t be hoodwinked over BPOL</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/callander_dont_be_hoodwinked_over_bpol/50814/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
We knew it was coming: The new board of supervisors would take steps to repeal the much maligned Business and Professional Occupational License that was scheduled by the previous board to go into effect this year. First, the new board had to schedule a public hearing. The hearing is now set for Tues., Feb. 2.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 21 Jan 2010 13:29:06 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/callander_dont_be_hoodwinked_over_bpol/50814/#When:18:29:06Z</guid>
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          <title>GOLD: Jobs are the ultimate answer</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/gold_jobs_are_the_ultimate_answer/50812/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
It seems to me&#8230;With more than 10 percent unemployment, businesses failing, an overwhelming lack of jobs, problematic foreclosures and difficult to impossible loans, it may be time to rethink what government must do to restore a healthy economic climate to the Fredericksburg area. One key factor to making this happen is putting people back to work.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 21 Jan 2010 13:28:51 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/gold_jobs_are_the_ultimate_answer/50812/#When:18:28:51Z</guid>
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          <title>Editor&#8217;s Column: Early screenings save lives</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/editors_column_early_screenings_save_lives/50810/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
This week my mother would have turned 61.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 21 Jan 2010 13:25:33 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/editors_column_early_screenings_save_lives/50810/#When:18:25:33Z</guid>
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          <title>Gold: Snow creates unnecessary hysteria</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/snow_creates_unnecessary_hysteria/50390/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
It seems to me&#8230;A snowfall in the Fredericksburg area creates hysteria and makes some people think irrationally. No matter how few snowflakes actually fall, the mere announcement of even the potential for snow creates a fear that food, especially bread and milk, will never be available again.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 14 Jan 2010 11:13:48 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/snow_creates_unnecessary_hysteria/50390/#When:16:13:48Z</guid>
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          <title>Gold: Have we learned anything?</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/gold_have_we_learned_anything/49522/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
It seems to me&#8230;As 2009 and another decade steals away I can almost hear the plaintive sounds of Woody Guthrie and his guitar and his words and music saying goodbye to bad times. Woody sang, &#8220;So long it&#8217;s been good to know you&#8221; saying goodbye to the Dust Bowl, the Depression, mass unemployment and poverty. He told the heartbroken story of folks leaving their homes to seek better lives anyplace but where they lived.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 30 Dec 2009 13:43:51 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/gold_have_we_learned_anything/49522/#When:18:43:51Z</guid>
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          <title>Kerr: Saying goodbye to the aughts</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/kerr_saying_goodbye_to_the_aughts/49521/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
We&#8217;re saying goodbye to the first decade of the 21st century and here we are, after 10 years, still debating about what to call it. This problem is far fom unique. From everything I have been able to find out, our great-grandparents, a hundred years ago, faced the same problem. It may be one of those questions that never find a satisfactory resolution.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 30 Dec 2009 13:41:49 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/kerr_saying_goodbye_to_the_aughts/49521/#When:18:41:49Z</guid>
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          <title>Blankenship: Happy New Year &#45; Yes, if you&#8217;re a fed</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/blankenship_happy_new_year_-_yes_if_youre_a_fed/49520/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Admittedly, $14,000 may be chump change for the wealthy, but it&#8217;s real money, even for those of us around here on government payrolls or drawing comfortable federal pensions.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 30 Dec 2009 13:40:04 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/blankenship_happy_new_year_-_yes_if_youre_a_fed/49520/#When:18:40:04Z</guid>
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          <title>Gold: Board can take tips from Berra</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/gold_board_can_take_tips_from_berra/49217/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
It seems to me&#8230;when Yogi Berra said, &#8220;It ain&#8217;t over &#8216;til it&#8217;s over,&#8221; he had the Stafford County Board of Supervisors in mind.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 23 Dec 2009 10:30:40 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/gold_board_can_take_tips_from_berra/49217/#When:15:30:40Z</guid>
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          <title>Callander: Surviving the holidays</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/callander_surviving_the_holidays/49216/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The December holiday season is a time meant for joyful celebration, worship, expressions of love and appreciation, self-examination and commemoration. If not handled well, however, it can be a time of extreme stress, overspending, gluttony, loneliness and even suicide.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 23 Dec 2009 10:29:27 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/callander_surviving_the_holidays/49216/#When:15:29:27Z</guid>
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          <title>Kerr: When Christmastime was simple</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/kerr_when_christmastime_was_simple/49215/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
It&#8217;s a common complaint. Parents have been doing this for at least the past 40 years &#8212;&nbsp; moaning about the ever-increasing complexity of Christmas gifts.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 23 Dec 2009 10:27:11 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/kerr_when_christmastime_was_simple/49215/#When:15:27:11Z</guid>
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          <title>KERR: Lighting the holiday season</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/kerr_lighting_the_holiday_season/48933/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
When asked, most people can easily name their favorite thing about Christmastime.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 17 Dec 2009 14:28:56 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/kerr_lighting_the_holiday_season/48933/#When:19:28:56Z</guid>
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          <title>BLANKENSHIP: Dulles: White elephant no more</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/blankenship_dulles_white_elephant_no_more/48759/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
An indication that we&#8217;re coming out of the recession is said to be the crowded parking lots again at major airports. Maybe so, particularly over the holidays.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 14 Dec 2009 16:14:17 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/blankenship_dulles_white_elephant_no_more/48759/#When:21:14:17Z</guid>
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          <title>Callander: Wish list for county goes on and on</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/callander_wish_list_for_county_goes_on_and_on/48621/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
In this season of Santa Claus and little elves, let me suspend belief and make a wish list of how to spend the mysterious $6.2 million dollar surplus that the county has discovered.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 11 Dec 2009 15:23:08 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/callander_wish_list_for_county_goes_on_and_on/48621/#When:20:23:08Z</guid>
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          <title>Gold: Shaky economy affects us all</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/gold_shaky_economy_affects_us_all/48598/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
It seems to me that the state of our economy can only be improved with the ability of the private sector to provide jobs in all sectors of U.S. industry.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 11 Dec 2009 13:44:20 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/gold_shaky_economy_affects_us_all/48598/#When:18:44:20Z</guid>
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          <title>Kerr: Preventing more missing money</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/preventing_more_missing_money/48119/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
I&#8217;m frustrated. The story about the missing $5.6 million that neither the schools system nor the county has been able to explain, just doesn&#8217;t seem to get resolved&#8230;until now? 
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 03 Dec 2009 12:07:59 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/preventing_more_missing_money/48119/#When:17:07:59Z</guid>
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          <title>Blakenship: Nothing sacrosanct about science</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/nothing_sacrosanct_about_science/48111/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Having spent a working career writing about and editing and publicizing the results of scientific inquiry, I&#8217;d guess those new revelations of monkeyshines among the world&#8217;s most eminent climate scientists come as a shock to many.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 03 Dec 2009 11:43:28 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/nothing_sacrosanct_about_science/48111/#When:16:43:28Z</guid>
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          <title>Make the most of Black Friday</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/make_the_most_of_black_friday/47907/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Eight years ago, I experienced my first retail Black Friday.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 30 Nov 2009 15:12:59 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/make_the_most_of_black_friday/47907/#When:20:12:59Z</guid>
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          <title>GUEST COLUMN: Business lessons from an ancient carpenter</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/guest_column_business_lessons_from_an_ancient_carpenter/47462/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
To successfully lead and manage a group of individuals is a skill that many employers spend exorbitant amounts of money on.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:50:43 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/guest_column_business_lessons_from_an_ancient_carpenter/47462/#When:18:50:43Z</guid>
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          <title>HOLLIFIELD: Going up the mountain, back in time</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/hollifield_going_up_the_mountain_back_in_time/47461/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
My truck may be a time machine.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:43:53 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/hollifield_going_up_the_mountain_back_in_time/47461/#When:18:43:53Z</guid>
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          <title>BLANKENSHIP: The better candidates won</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/blankenship_the_better_candidates_won/47450/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Now that the smoke has cleared here in Stafford following our election of supervisors in early November, maybe we can sit back for a few moments and figure out what happened.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 20 Nov 2009 12:30:15 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/blankenship_the_better_candidates_won/47450/#When:17:30:15Z</guid>
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          <title>CALLANDER: Holiday a welcome reprieve</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/callander_holiday_a_welcome_reprieve/47449/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
I&#8217;m going to savor this Thanksgiving for all it is worth.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 20 Nov 2009 12:24:19 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/callander_holiday_a_welcome_reprieve/47449/#When:17:24:19Z</guid>
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          <title>Kerr: A glance at Pilgrim economics</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/kerr_a_glance_at_pilgrim_economics/46942/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Thanksgiving is a holiday we Americans celebrate with passionate enthusiasm. There is food, family and football. However, while the holiday is one of the most popular, we do our best to ignore the very people who gave it meaning. The popular perception is that these early settlers were rigid, puritanical and overly pious.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 12 Nov 2009 12:27:54 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/kerr_a_glance_at_pilgrim_economics/46942/#When:17:27:54Z</guid>
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          <title>Callander: What to expect under the GOP</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/callander_what_to_expect_under_the_gop/46940/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
So what will the Republican clean sweep bring to Stafford County? What&#8217;s in store for our local governing body and what impact will a state Republican governor, lieutenant governor and attorney general have on us here at home?
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 12 Nov 2009 12:17:07 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/callander_what_to_expect_under_the_gop/46940/#When:17:17:07Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Gold: Rude drivers everywhere</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/gold_rude_drivers_everywhere/46571/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
It seems to me&#8230;either someone rewrote the Virginia Driver&#8217;s Manual or no one is reading it anymore. It&#8217;s not only a matter of courtesy anymore; it&#8217;s a case of people not obeying the law.&nbsp; 
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 05 Nov 2009 16:54:50 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/gold_rude_drivers_everywhere/46571/#When:21:54:50Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Blankenship: Honor our brave veterans</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/blankenship_honor_our_brave_veterans/46556/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
With all the chatter our county and state elections stirred up this week, it will be all too easy to let next Wednesday pass as just another day off. It&#8217;s not. It&#8217;s the nation&#8217;s special tribute that is Veterans Day.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 05 Nov 2009 16:22:33 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/blankenship_honor_our_brave_veterans/46556/#When:21:22:33Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Callander: Deeds &amp;amp; company deserve our votes</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/deeds_company_deserve_our_votes/46131/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
All the hubbub about the speaking style of Creigh Deeds, Democratic candidate for governor, has caught me a bit by surprise, though when I cast my vote for Deeds in the Democratic Primary in June I had wondered how well he would be received by people just getting a first impression.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 29 Oct 2009 15:33:44 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/deeds_company_deserve_our_votes/46131/#When:20:33:44Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Kerr: My suggestions for school board</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/kerr_my_suggestions_for_school_board/46129/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
What&#8217;s involved in being on the school board? Well, first of all, there are the meetings. They start early and go late.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 29 Oct 2009 15:32:11 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/kerr_my_suggestions_for_school_board/46129/#When:20:32:11Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Callander: Comp plan delay impacts election</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/callander_comp_plan_delay_impacts_election/46014/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Over the past decade &#8220;growth&#8221; has been a big theme in county elections. With the recession, I didn&#8217;t expect us to be talking much about growth before Election Day. However, now that the board of supervisors, by a narrow 4-3 margin, postponed a vote on the revised Comprehensive Plan until after the new board takes office, planning for growth is a huge issue.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 28 Oct 2009 09:17:40 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/callander_comp_plan_delay_impacts_election/46014/#When:14:17:40Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Gold: Have we grown tired of politics?</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/local_elections_lack_public_enthusiasm/45756/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
It seems to me&#8230;our local elections are stirring up as much enthusiasm as watching glue dry. It&#8217;s not for a lack of candidates or issues because there are enough candidates who differ in their platforms. However, here we are less than three weeks away from Election Day and there are no real forums to hear debate. So what is going on?
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 23 Oct 2009 13:51:13 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/local_elections_lack_public_enthusiasm/45756/#When:18:51:13Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Gold: Letterman scandal, response a poor indicator</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/letterman_scandal_response_a_poor_indicator/45368/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
It seems to me&#8230;David Letterman is an indicator of the societal values in the United States today. If it wasn&#8217;t for how the public reacted to his recent actions, he and most of what he does would be in the category of &#8220;who cares.&#8221; However, the latest episode which is bizarre to say the least shows what certain personalities can do, get away with and how the public reacts to it.&nbsp;            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 17 Oct 2009 12:46:56 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/letterman_scandal_response_a_poor_indicator/45368/#When:17:46:56Z</guid>
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          <title>Blankenship: A glance at local politics</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/blankenship_a_glance_at_local_politics/45367/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
A tough job that many covet. Why?
 
&#8220;One of the penalties for refusing to participate in politics is that you end up being governed by your inferiors.&#8221; &#8212; Greek philosopher Plato (428-348 B.C.)           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 17 Oct 2009 12:45:32 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/blankenship_a_glance_at_local_politics/45367/#When:17:45:32Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Callander: Our schools need your vote</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/callander_our_schools_need_your_vote/44451/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
It sure looks like the schools aren&#8217;t responsible for a $5.6 million dollar accounting error that keeps being brought up. How about spotlighting the county treasurer&#8217;s office instead? It makes me wonder if this issue is dragged out in an attempt to somehow influence the outcome of November&#8217;s local elections.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 02 Oct 2009 15:46:31 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/callander_our_schools_need_your_vote/44451/#When:20:46:31Z</guid>
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          <title>Kerr: Both parties eye Stafford</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/kerr_both_parties_eye_stafford/44450/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
There is a mistaken perception that Stafford County with its 74,000 registered voters isn&#8217;t that important in a statewide election campaign.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 02 Oct 2009 15:44:24 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/kerr_both_parties_eye_stafford/44450/#When:20:44:24Z</guid>
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          <title>Hollifield: Men&#8217;s grooming raises eyebrows</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/mens_grooming_raises_eyebrows/44019/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
A lot of British men are going to brow bars to get threaded.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 25 Sep 2009 14:10:51 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/mens_grooming_raises_eyebrows/44019/#When:19:10:51Z</guid>
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          <title>Gold: It&#8217;s time for a voter revolution</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/gold_its_time_for_a_voter_revolution/43893/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
It seems to me&#8230;it is time for a voter revolution. I don&#8217;t care what your political party is or if you don&#8217;t have one. Each one of us, as a U.S. citizen, has a constitutional right to cast one vote. 
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 23 Sep 2009 13:06:42 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/gold_its_time_for_a_voter_revolution/43893/#When:18:06:42Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Blankenship: No way or the highway</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/blankenship_no_way_or_the_highway/43892/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
No way or the highway?           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 23 Sep 2009 13:05:25 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/blankenship_no_way_or_the_highway/43892/#When:18:05:25Z</guid>
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          <title>Kerr: Four lively races in Stafford</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/kerr_four_lively_races_in_stafford/43511/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Stafford voters will be deciding the outcome of four supervisors&#8217; races this November.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 17 Sep 2009 11:20:57 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/kerr_four_lively_races_in_stafford/43511/#When:16:20:57Z</guid>
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          <title>Callander: School Board sent wrong message</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/callander_school_board_sent_wrong_message/43510/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Though the U.S. Dept. of Education may have been a bit overzealous in promoting Barack Obama&#8217;s address to school children, the President&#8217;s goal of encouraging children to work hard in school and contribute to our country&#8217;s wellbeing is worthwhile.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 17 Sep 2009 11:18:05 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/callander_school_board_sent_wrong_message/43510/#When:16:18:05Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Pet Column: When they gotta go</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/pet_column_when_they_gotta_go/43147/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
I&#8217;ve been getting a lot of calls lately from people who are having potty training issues. In fact, I&#8217;ve even had people ask my fees for coming to live with them and housebreak their new dog for them!&nbsp; That might have been alluring when I was a single college student, but now, that&#8217;s not going to happen.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 11 Sep 2009 18:04:27 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/pet_column_when_they_gotta_go/43147/#When:23:04:27Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Kerr: Don&#8217;t forget the school board races</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/kerr_dont_forget_the_school_board_races/43127/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
There are three contested school board races in Stafford County. In Hartwood Doreen Philips the incumbent is facing former Falmouth member and one-time school board chairman Noreen Crowley. In Aquia Stephanie Johnson, a newcomer to county politics, but a long-time school activist, is running against Jon Myers.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 11 Sep 2009 13:53:49 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/kerr_dont_forget_the_school_board_races/43127/#When:18:53:49Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Gold: It may come to &#8216;Depends for Dogs&#8217;</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/gold_it_may_come_to_depends_for_dogs/43126/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
It seems to me&#8230;It&#8217;s hard to be mad at a dog. Some are just cute and cuddly. Some are big and intimidating. Either way you don&#8217;t want to get mad at a dog. The cute ones might just, you know what, on your shoe.&nbsp; The big ones might just eat your shoe. We all know that dogs are just a reflection of their owners. They only do what they are taught or what their owners let them do. So I just can&#8217;t get mad at a dog. But, I surely don&#8217;t have any problem getting mad at some dog owners.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 11 Sep 2009 13:52:26 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/gold_it_may_come_to_depends_for_dogs/43126/#When:18:52:26Z</guid>
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          <title>Callander: SPCA matter &#45; Not a good versus bad issue</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/callander_spca_matter_-_not_a_good_versus_bad_issue/43129/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
From the e-mails circulating and the letters sent to the papers you&#8217;d think the raging SPCA issue was a case of good guys versus bad guys. Anyone who doesn&#8217;t support Bill Hoyt&#8217;s proposed Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals facility at the site of the old Brooke Nursing Home must be guilty of cruelty toward animals, some might say.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 05 Sep 2009 14:01:39 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/callander_spca_matter_-_not_a_good_versus_bad_issue/43129/#When:19:01:39Z</guid>
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          <title>Blankenship: Aquia Creek again a cesspool</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/blankenship_aquia_creek_again_a_cesspool1/43154/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Aquia Creek again a cesspool?
 
Possibly dangerous lapses in Stafford County&#8217;s safety notification procedures occurred during Aug. 22-23, affecting unaware pleasure boaters, fishers and swimmers on Aquia Creek during peak weekend patronage that Saturday and Sunday.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 04 Sep 2009 18:47:59 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/blankenship_aquia_creek_again_a_cesspool1/43154/#When:23:47:59Z</guid>
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          <title>Blankenship: Aquia Creek again a cesspool</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/blankenship_aquia_creek_again_a_cesspool/43153/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Aquia Creek again a cesspool?
 
Possibly dangerous lapses in Stafford County&#8217;s safety notification procedures occurred during Aug. 22-23, affecting unaware pleasure boaters, fishers and swimmers on Aquia Creek during peak weekend patronage that Saturday and Sunday.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 04 Sep 2009 18:47:59 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/blankenship_aquia_creek_again_a_cesspool/43153/#When:23:47:59Z</guid>
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          <title>Blankenship: Silver lining for cash for clunkers</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/blankenship_silver_lining_for_cash_for_clunkers/43128/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
We pay the farmer to use less of his land to grow crops. And now we&#8217;ve paid the consumer to junk an old auto and buy a new one &#8212; preferably from a company Washington owns. Ain&#8217;t we got fun?           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 04 Sep 2009 13:57:36 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/blankenship_silver_lining_for_cash_for_clunkers/43128/#When:18:57:36Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Blankenship: Look out, here I come</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/blankenship_look_out_here_i_come/42025/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
More drivers seem to be honking their horns lately, mainly on Garrisonville Road and U.S. 1. Why? Just because everyone is edgier nowadays?           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 25 Aug 2009 09:50:50 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/blankenship_look_out_here_i_come/42025/#When:14:50:50Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Gold: Columnist wonders &#8216;what are they thinking?&#8217;</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/gold_columnist_wonders_what_are_they_thinking/42013/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
It seems to me&#8230;It must be the heat and the humidity that is affecting some of our elected and appointed officials.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 25 Aug 2009 09:10:49 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/gold_columnist_wonders_what_are_they_thinking/42013/#When:14:10:49Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Kerr: Creating an environmental legacy</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/kerr_creating_an_environmental_legacy/41571/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
When the campaign to save Crow&#8217;s Nest began almost a decade ago the prospects for its success seemed remote at best.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 18 Aug 2009 12:41:49 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/kerr_creating_an_environmental_legacy/41571/#When:17:41:49Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Editor&#8217;s Column: Eagles make wrong pick with Vick</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/editors_column_eagles_make_wrong_pick_with_vick/41569/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The Philadelphia Eagles announced last week that Michael Vick has signed on with the team &#8212; sealing a one-year deal with a second-year option.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 18 Aug 2009 12:32:05 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/editors_column_eagles_make_wrong_pick_with_vick/41569/#When:17:32:05Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Gold: Consider all the unintended consequences</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/gold_consider_all_the_unintended_consequences/41567/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
It seems to me&#8230;when we make decisions; it is imperative to consider the unintended consequences. This applies to decision making by individuals, organizations and governments.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 18 Aug 2009 12:25:39 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/gold_consider_all_the_unintended_consequences/41567/#When:17:25:39Z</guid>
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          <title>Gold: Concerns, questions on overload</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/gold_concerns_questions_on_overload/40857/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
It seems to me&#8230;anyone today who questions the wisdom of the Obama administration&#8217;s programs is considered a far right nut. I don&#8217;t think I am because when President Obama took office I asked everyone to have patience, give it time and let&#8217;s give him a chance to make a difference. Now, in August, a great deal of new legislation has been passed and my concerns and questions are increasing every day and I&#8217;ll tell you why.&nbsp;            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 06 Aug 2009 18:41:57 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/gold_concerns_questions_on_overload/40857/#When:23:41:57Z</guid>
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          <title>Kerr: Transportation financing goes local</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/kerr_transportation_financing_goes_local/40856/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Something I came across entirely by accident was a weathered old report bound in a volume that no one has probably looked at in over 50 years.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 06 Aug 2009 18:40:35 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/kerr_transportation_financing_goes_local/40856/#When:23:40:35Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Gold: It seems to me&#8230;baseball gets better</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/gold_it_seems_to_me...baseball_gets_better/40304/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Every summer my love for baseball gets stronger. I find that this growing feeling is not only because of what is going on in the major leagues, it is because of what I believe the sport really means to our country.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 28 Jul 2009 14:16:53 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/gold_it_seems_to_me...baseball_gets_better/40304/#When:19:16:53Z</guid>
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          <title>Callander: Groups aims to educate, motivate area residents</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/callander_groups_aims_to_educate_motivate_area_residents/40280/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
While health care is debated in Washington and our president explains at every opportunity why reform is so important, proponents of the cause knock on our doors here in Stafford County and across Virginia encouraging us to make a difference by calling our legislators.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 28 Jul 2009 12:48:30 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/callander_groups_aims_to_educate_motivate_area_residents/40280/#When:17:48:30Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Column: We went to the moon and saw ourselves</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/column_we_went_to_the_moon_and_saw_ourselves/39879/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The only thing more amazing than the strides taken by humanity since the start of the 20th century is the casual manner in which we treat our achievements.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 21 Jul 2009 15:29:42 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/column_we_went_to_the_moon_and_saw_ourselves/39879/#When:20:29:42Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Kerr: Stafford teacher salaries lagging</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/kerr_stafford_teacher_salaries_lagging/39850/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Like it or not, and sometimes it seems that many in the Stafford County government choose to ignore the subject, competition for experienced and qualified teachers is intense.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 21 Jul 2009 10:53:49 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/kerr_stafford_teacher_salaries_lagging/39850/#When:15:53:49Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Blankenship: OK to warn of speed traps ahead?</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/blankenship_ok_to_warn_of_speed_traps_ahead/39849/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Headline: &#8220;D.C. man fights citation for warning other drivers.&#8221; So it&#8217;s unlawful in Maryland to flash your headlights to signal oncoming motorists of a speed trap. But relax, you can do it here.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 21 Jul 2009 10:50:44 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/blankenship_ok_to_warn_of_speed_traps_ahead/39849/#When:15:50:44Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Gold: Elected officials should sometimes think twice</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/gold_elected_officials_should_sometimes_think_twice/39360/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
It seems to me&#8230;being elected to public office requires those who are elected first to take a solemn oath to only do what is in the best interest of those they serve. Second they should take a second oath not to do anything stupid that will end up on the front page of their local newspaper.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 13 Jul 2009 16:35:56 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/gold_elected_officials_should_sometimes_think_twice/39360/#When:21:35:56Z</guid>
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          <title>Callander: Protect our waterways from runoff</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/callander_protect_our_waterways_from_runoff/39357/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The Commonwealth of Virginia is on the verge of strengthening regulations for preventing dangerous runoff from new development into our waterways. This is bold and visionary.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 13 Jul 2009 16:30:48 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/callander_protect_our_waterways_from_runoff/39357/#When:21:30:48Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Pinzon: The modern bushido</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/pinzon_the_modern_bushido/39324/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
I have heard claim many times that chivalry is dead, but even more important &#8212; and inherently practical &#8212; is the Japanese notion of bushido.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 13 Jul 2009 10:45:35 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/pinzon_the_modern_bushido/39324/#When:15:45:35Z</guid>
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          <title>Kerr: The stimulus comes to Stafford</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/kerr_the_stimulus_comes_to_stafford/38857/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
When we hear important officials talk about infrastructure, what we usually think of are highways, subway systems, trains and airplanes. However, it&#8217;s more than large-scale projects.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 06 Jul 2009 12:36:00 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/kerr_the_stimulus_comes_to_stafford/38857/#When:17:36:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Callander: Face it: Animals need county&#45;run shelter</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/callander_face_it_animals_need_county-run_shelter/38493/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
We&#8217;ve been hearing for some time about a proposal to put a Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals compound on the site of the old Brooke Nursing Home.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 30 Jun 2009 12:07:55 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/callander_face_it_animals_need_county-run_shelter/38493/#When:17:07:55Z</guid>
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          <title>Blankenship: Beyond the land of the free</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/blankenship_beyond_the_land_of_the_free/38490/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
So we&#8217;re again celebrating Independence Day. Hooray for the U.S. of A!           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 30 Jun 2009 12:00:30 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/blankenship_beyond_the_land_of_the_free/38490/#When:17:00:30Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Gold: The Tale of Two Ws</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/gold_the_tale_of_two_ws/38024/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
It seems to me&#8230;as long ago as 1859, Charles Dickens saw the current Walmart controversies and the love affair with Wegmans when he wrote &#8220;It was the best of times, it was the worst of times&#8230;           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 23 Jun 2009 12:56:54 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/gold_the_tale_of_two_ws/38024/#When:17:56:54Z</guid>
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          <title>Kerr: A missed opportunity to save open space</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/kerr_a_missed_opportunity_to_save_open_space/38012/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
It&#8217;s is a resource whose value is difficult to quantify. Some people would argue it&#8217;s not important and not worth paying for. Others would tell you it&#8217;s invaluable.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 23 Jun 2009 12:05:25 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/kerr_a_missed_opportunity_to_save_open_space/38012/#When:17:05:25Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>This Sunday, celebrate Dad</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/this_sunday_celebrate_dad/37928/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
STAFFORD &#8212; In writing a Father&#8217;s Day column this week, I needed two things: inspiration and sources.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 22 Jun 2009 10:53:53 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/this_sunday_celebrate_dad/37928/#When:15:53:53Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Gold: Get involved &#8212; not snowed &#8212; in election process</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/gold_get_involved_not_snowed_in_election_process/37925/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
It seems to me&#8230;now is the time to get involved in the election process. With the primaries over, we know who the candidates are; now we must learn what they stand for.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 22 Jun 2009 10:45:16 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/gold_get_involved_not_snowed_in_election_process/37925/#When:15:45:16Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Blankenship: Lots of higher taxes ahead</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/blankenship_lots_of_higher_taxes_ahead/37574/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Brace yourself. We&#8217;re fixing to get clobbered with higher taxes on lots of things. Why? Lots of reasons. Two stand out.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 16 Jun 2009 16:07:55 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/blankenship_lots_of_higher_taxes_ahead/37574/#When:21:07:55Z</guid>
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          <title>Callander: Republicans campaign at Democratic Primary</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/callander_republicans_campaign_at_democratic_primary/37562/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The most noteworthy happenings at the polls on Tuesday had nothing to do with the Democrats&#8217; nominating primary for governor.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 16 Jun 2009 13:52:24 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/callander_republicans_campaign_at_democratic_primary/37562/#When:18:52:24Z</guid>
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          <title>Hollifield: Newspaper industry &#8216;blowed up&#8217;</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/hollifield_newspaper_industry_blowed_up/37370/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Newspapers are in trouble. 

I know, because I read about it online. (Ha, ha. That&#8217;s a funny joke. I&#8217;ll remember to tell it to the guy beside me at the unemployment office.)            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 12 Jun 2009 15:51:32 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/hollifield_newspaper_industry_blowed_up/37370/#When:20:51:32Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Ask Emily: Encourage pregnant wife</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/ask_emily_encourage_pregnant_wife/37369/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Dear Emily: My wife is two months pregnant and refuses to eat food that is good for her and then baby.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 12 Jun 2009 15:38:30 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/ask_emily_encourage_pregnant_wife/37369/#When:20:38:30Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Kerr: The BPOL debate continues</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/the_bpol_debate_continues/37355/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The Business and Professional Licensing Tax, known as the BPOL, was approved by the Stafford County Board of Supervisors last year. It follows an example set by Fairfax, Prince William and Spotsylvania counties. It requires businesses of all kinds, ones with store fronts, as well as those run out of the garage, to register and pay a tax on their revenues. The vote on this new tax was one of the most heated debates the county board of supervisors has had in years and it&#8217;s still raging.&nbsp;             ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 12 Jun 2009 13:49:11 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/the_bpol_debate_continues/37355/#When:18:49:11Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Blankenship: Will the GOP retake Richmond?</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/blankenship_will_the_gop_retake_richmond/36892/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
So I drive a Town Car, live in a gated community, and vote Republican. What&#8217;s not to like about that? What&#8217;s more, we Virginians next fall get to start turning our fine state red again, like God always meant it to be.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 04 Jun 2009 18:18:09 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/blankenship_will_the_gop_retake_richmond/36892/#When:23:18:09Z</guid>
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          <title>Callander: Finally, new library breaks ground</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/callander_finally_new_library_breaks_ground/36346/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Once in a while in this opinion column writing business you advocate for something and it actually comes to fruition. When that happens, I pinch myself and ask, &#8220;Is this for real?&#8221;           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 26 May 2009 17:26:13 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/callander_finally_new_library_breaks_ground/36346/#When:22:26:13Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Blankenship: Seen any stimulus money?</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/blankenship_seen_any_stimulus_money/36345/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
They are really throwing money around nowadays.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 26 May 2009 17:23:16 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/blankenship_seen_any_stimulus_money/36345/#When:22:23:16Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Callander: Democratic primary offers good choices</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/callander_democratic_primary_offers_good_choices/35937/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
While Stafford Republicans head to Richmond for a May 30 convention to nominate their candidates for governor, lieutenant governor and attorney general, Stafford democrats and independents have an opportunity to nominate the Democratic candidates via a primary June 9.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 19 May 2009 10:58:15 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/callander_democratic_primary_offers_good_choices/35937/#When:15:58:15Z</guid>
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          <title>Kerr: Stafford stands up to the recession</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/kerr_stafford_stands_up_to_the_recession/35676/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
We all know just how serious the national economic situation has become. The U.S. Gross Domestic Product, the sum of everything we buy, invest and consume, is down over six percent.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 14 May 2009 16:01:28 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/kerr_stafford_stands_up_to_the_recession/35676/#When:21:01:28Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Blankenship: Realize the effects of alcohol</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/blankenship_realize_the_effects_of_alcohol/35661/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Need it happen every spring? Graduation means celebration. That means booze. That means death for young people.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 14 May 2009 14:55:01 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/blankenship_realize_the_effects_of_alcohol/35661/#When:19:55:01Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Gold: It sure is easy being green</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/gold_it_sure_is_easy_being_green/35072/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
It seems to me&#8230;at the risk of contradicting Kermit the Frog, &#8220;It is easy being green.&#8221;&nbsp; And, it&#8217;s not only easy, it&#8217;s smart!            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 05 May 2009 15:43:10 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/gold_it_sure_is_easy_being_green/35072/#When:20:43:10Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Callander: Master planning moves in right direction</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/callander_master_planning_moves_in_right_direction/35050/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
If you stay in contact with county officials and other people in the know, you might have known about the redevelopment sessions going on as part of &#8220;shaping a master plan&#8221; for specific areas of our county.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 05 May 2009 11:30:22 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/callander_master_planning_moves_in_right_direction/35050/#When:16:30:22Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Blankenship: When will things get better?</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/blankenship_when_will_things_get_better/34640/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Forgive me, but I have misplaced my optimism. I&#8217;m sure it&#8217;s somewhere, because it has stood me in good stead for these many years           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 28 Apr 2009 14:40:57 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/blankenship_when_will_things_get_better/34640/#When:19:40:57Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Kerr: Interest rates only a mobster could love</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/kerr_interest_rates_only_a_mobster_could_love/34633/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
I have two credit card accounts and for the most part I pay them off whenever they&#8217;re due.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 28 Apr 2009 14:27:16 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/kerr_interest_rates_only_a_mobster_could_love/34633/#When:19:27:16Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Gold: Importance of language often overlooked</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/it_seems_to_me...importance_of_language_often_overlooked/34194/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
It seems to me&#8230;one of the most important abilities we humans have that sets us apart from the rest of the animal kingdom is language.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 21 Apr 2009 14:14:10 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/it_seems_to_me...importance_of_language_often_overlooked/34194/#When:19:14:10Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Callander: Stand up for the unemployed</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/callander_stand_up_for_the_unemployed/34186/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Our usually calm governor is outraged with the actions of the Virginia House of Delegates in rejecting $125 million in federal stimulus money intended to extend unemployment benefits.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 21 Apr 2009 13:40:40 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/callander_stand_up_for_the_unemployed/34186/#When:18:40:40Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Editor&#8217;s Column: Rush for guns not safe idea</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/editors_column_rush_for_guns_not_safe_idea/33786/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
For those of you who missed it, an interesting report appeared this past week on &#8220;20/20&#8221; titled, &#8220;If I Only Had a Gun.&#8221;            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 14 Apr 2009 18:39:07 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/editors_column_rush_for_guns_not_safe_idea/33786/#When:23:39:07Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Blankenship: Read it while you can</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/blankenship_read_it_while_you_can/33785/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Someday soon, oldtimers may regale their grandkids about the good old days when there was a daily paper upon which many words were printed, one which arrived at the doorstep or nearby.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 14 Apr 2009 17:52:57 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/blankenship_read_it_while_you_can/33785/#When:22:52:57Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Kerr: Redistricting:&amp;nbsp; Nothing democratic about it</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/kerr_redistricting_nothing_democratic_about_it/33778/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
I&#8217;ve got news for you. Elections for the House of Delegates, State Senate, and yes, even our members of Congress aren&#8217;t as democratic or representative as you might think.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 14 Apr 2009 17:28:47 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/kerr_redistricting_nothing_democratic_about_it/33778/#When:22:28:47Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Editor&#8217;s Column: Proposed SPCA important for community</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/bell_proposed_spca_important_for_community/33365/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Last week, the Stafford County Planning Commission put off its recommendation to the county&#8217;s board of supervisors regarding a conditional-use permit for a proposed Stafford SPCA.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 07 Apr 2009 16:20:36 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/bell_proposed_spca_important_for_community/33365/#When:21:20:36Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Callander: Who&#8217;s entitled to public utilities?</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/callander_whos_entitled_to_public_utilities/33334/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
One of the issues of the times here in Stafford is who should get public water and sewer service and who shouldn&#8217;t be entitled to such modern niceties.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 07 Apr 2009 13:40:35 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/callander_whos_entitled_to_public_utilities/33334/#When:18:40:35Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>It seems to me&#8230;The story of Average Joe</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/it_seems_to_me1/32889/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
It seems to me&#8230;the average Joe in this great US of A is getting more of a shock treatment than a stimulus.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 31 Mar 2009 13:46:58 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/it_seems_to_me1/32889/#When:18:46:58Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Blankenship: Visit a different world nearby</title>
          <link>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/blankenship_visit_a_different_world_nearby/32886/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
So the writing is on the wall and in your bank statements: Times are tough.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 31 Mar 2009 13:36:27 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.staffordcountysun.com/scs/news/opinion/columnists/article/blankenship_visit_a_different_world_nearby/32886/#When:18:36:27Z</guid>
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