Turn VIrginia Blue/Early Edition

The Turn Virginia Blue Barbecue got off to a terrific start this afternoon thanks to the organizational skills of Maura Keaney (aka Maura from Va.).  Four of Virginia's Democratic Congressional candidates, including Congressman Jim Moran and challengers Al Weed, Jim Socas, and Ken Longmyer, spoke to a crowd of about 250 people, along with Virginia Delegate Chap Petersen .

The rally raised over $3500 for Democratic candidates.  More importantly, there was a real sense among the crowd that Virginia could go blue.  As Congressman Moran said, "We are purple enough that Prince would feel comfortable." Al Weed, who is running against Rep. Virgil Goode, sounds like he has a real shot and sounds like a latter-day Thomas Jefferson--an Army veteran who now runs one of Virginia's oldest wineries, Mountain Cove Winery.  

Jim Socas is a great candidate for Virginia's Tenth given his background in finance and high tech.

Virginia Delegate Chap Petersen encouraged people to organize and work hard every day.  

People were networking, signing up volunteers, eating, and getting to know each other.  As the day was turning to more fun-filled pursuits (including liquid nitrogen ice cream and frisbee golf), my husband and I left for another function.

I am sure Maura will have more later.