The Democratic Party’S Current County Had 450,000 Residents

Volume 17, Number 5 www.fairfaxdemocrats.org May 2008

This type of de-facto segregation was Party in Fairfax County. The CNN exit Message formerly ubiquitous throughout Fairfax poll for the Virginia Democratic Primary from the County. Not any more. My daughter’s showed that 38% of Virginia Democratic soccer team has girls from all over the Mt. Primary voters were not white, 75% Chair Vernon and Lee Districts. Of the nine were under age 60, and 37% had never girls – two are Caucasian, two African- voted in a primary election before. By Scott Surovell, American, three Latino, one Asian, and one Needless to say, as Democratic Party Chair, Fairfax County Indian. This is not only just our future, members we need to keep in mind that Democratic Committee but it is our new community today. It is FCDC’s current membership does not When I was born in 1971, Fairfax an amazing transformation. reflect the Democratic Party’s current County had 450,000 residents. When I Prince William County provides a stark or future electorate in Fairfax County went to college in 1989, it had 800,000. contrast. While that county has embraced – in terms of its race, age, or its interest Today, we are approaching 1,100,000. hatred, and to respond with a quintes- in political participation. To reach out We are living in a changing and dynamic sential Republican reflexive rejection of and bring our voters into our Party, county. Fairfax County is changing and change, the results are dramatic. Spiking our events, communications, strate- FCDC should change with it. foreclosures and short sales, plummeting gies, and methods need to evolve with My daughter’s soccer team is a vivid property values, declining budget revenue, our supporters. I hope you continue to example of this. Last year, Ginny Pe- long-standing businesses with no custom- embrace change not just in our race for ters asked us to report back with some ers, an explosion in incarceration expenses, the Presidency, but also in how we do demographic information regarding our and a Board finding itself needing a 28% business here at FCDC. q districts. I did a sort for the entire county tax increase to balance the budget. and discovered that I live in the most In Fairfax, we have found a better way to non-diverse precinct in Fairfax County embrace change. This change is also what – Hollin Hall which is 95% Caucasian. has helped to strengthen the Democratic

Welcome to The Democrat — City of Fairfax Democratic Committee

The City Committee is very excited to spective. The videos are about 45 minutes 3rd Saturday of the month, the City Dems join in with FCDC’s The Democrat news- and we’ll follow-up afterwards with an im- hold a breakfast at 9:00 a.m. at the Old letter. The City Dems have started a new promptu discussion about the topic. What Country Buffet. This is simply a good outreach program we call “Stay Connected is the topic you ask? Well, the title of our time to get together and talk politics. In – Be Informed.” The overall message we April video was Faux Food. It’s all about April, our special guest was State Senator are trying to convey is that we want our lo- our food supply in America today. Dick Saslaw. cal Democrats and like-minded folks to be Also, being the conservation-conscious There are many other opportunities as involved as they want to be with us. group that we are, we had a couple of events to join your neighboring City Dems, just To that end, we have started a few new lined-up in observance of Earth Day, which check out our website at www.fairfaxci- program initiatives, which I will quickly as you know, was April 22nd. We started tydemocrats.org. q outline. First, we are excited to announce with having as our special guest Mr. Nor- that our first monthly Open Your Eyes bert Pink at our April Committee meeting. video series presentation was held in March. Mr. Pink is with the Great Falls group of the In this issue... The next presentation will be on May 21st Sierra Club. He presented an overview of at the Fairfax City Regional Library. We Campaign Reports...... 3 the Sierra Club and how the organization District Reports...... 5 will continue the series each month on the impacts our local environment. Congressional District Reports...... 7 3rd Wednesday. Then, after our breakfast on Saturday, Committee Reports...... 8 The Open Your Eyes video series will be April 19th, the City Dems joined in and Calendar of Events...... 10 about topics that are relevant to our society helped clean-up our City parks. What today with an eye toward a progressive per- breakfast, you ask? Each month on the ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ Page The Democrat May 2008

The Democrat Fairfax County Democratic The Newsletter of the Fairfax County Democratic Committee Committee (FCDC) Editor-in-Chief: Rachel Rifkind (703) 941-9574 Mailing: Rayma Miles, (703) 323-1936 2815 Hartland Road, Suite 110 Bob Donargo (703) 323-5351 Design & Production: Mark Richards (703) 753-2484 Falls Church, VA 22043 Mail List: Ellen Cantor (703) 280-5310 Coordinator: Jeane Brockway (703) 256-5553 Proofreader: Linda Waller (703) 913-9143 Web Master: Steve Bunn (703) 861-1343 (703) 573-6811; FAX: (703) 560-7004 Billing: FCDC HQ Staff (703) 573-6811 [email protected] [email protected] All rights reserved. Published in Fairfax County, Virginia, by the authority of the Fairfax County Democratic Committee. Web site: www.fairfaxdemocrats.org Steering Committee About The Democrat The Democrat is the monthly publication of the Fairfax County Democratic Committee. The purpose of FCDC OFFICERS The Democrat is to provide information to Committee members and other interested persons through Chair: Scott Surovell (703) 587-7872 district reports, committee reports, news articles, campaign notices, and flyers. Views expressed do not neces- Regional Vice Chairs: sarily represent those of the FCDC unless specifically approved by an appropriate Committee Resolution. -Vice Chair South: Kate Wilder (703) 455-9007 -Vice Chair Central: Lola Quintela (703) How to Submit Material: -Vice Chair North: Barbara Caputo 703-476-4229 Material may be submitted in the following ways, listed in order of preference: (word limit: 300 words) Vice Chairs: 1. E-mail. Send to [email protected]. Attach text file (any word processing program) -Precinct Ops: Sue Langley (703) 403-0190 or photos (.jpg,.eps,.tif); or copy the article in the e-mail message. -Administration: Les Halpern (703) 435-2891 2. Mail CD/Scanned Photos. Include a hard copy of text, your name and telephone number. Mail to Mark Richards, 18108 Camdenhurst Drive, Gainesville, VA 20155 -Voter Registration: Chris Ambrose (703) 550-1725 -Corresp. Sec.: Liz Griffith (703) 250-2520 Deadlines -Record. Sec.: Rafael Arancibia (703) 869-3037 Articles must be received by 5:00 pm on the second Tuesday of the month. Articles received after the Finance: Mary Ann Hovis (703) 620-4419 deadline may not make it into the issue. Material may be included as flyers inserted into The Democrat for Treasurer: Bruce Neilson (703) 323-0457 a charge of $35. You supply the printed flyer.Call FCDC at (703) 573-6811 for the quantity of flyers Asst. Treasurer: Nadja Golding (703) 532-3821 to be printed. Also, please supply a volunteer to help collate on Friday, for 1-1/2 hours. Immediate Past Chair: Advertising Ginny Peters (703) 799-3418 Ads are very much welcomed and accepted; however, we reserve the right to reject ads for any reason. No FCDC Parliamentarian: (703) 573-2894 product, service, or event advertised herein is endorsed by The Democrat or the FCDC, unless otherwise Communications Director: noted. Rates are: George Burke (202) 288-2104 Size Price Dimensions Size Price Dimensions 1/6 $35 2.25”w x 4.5”h 1/2 $100 7.25”w x 4.5”h District Chairs 1/3 $70 4.75”w x 4.5”h Full page $200 7.25”w x 9.5”h Braddock: Walt Mika (703) 978-5732 Subscribe! Dranesville: Sue Rosenberg (703) 938-5031 12 months for only $25! What a deal! Make checks payable to FCDC and mail to: Hunter Mill: Bob Haley (703) 476-9440 FCDC, 2815 Hartland Road, Suite 110, Falls Church, VA 22043 Bettina Lawton (703) 242-1652 Let Us Hear From You! Lee: Steve Bunn (703) 339-1882 Write articles! Send photos! See details above, under “How to submit material.” Hugh Robertson III (703) 924-1433 Mason: Rachel Rifkind (703) 941-9574 Mt. Vernon: Janet Myhre (703) 780-5952 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ Providence: Rick Dotson (703) 319-9010 Deadlines for the Springfield: Ruth Miller (703) 913-0487 NEXT issue Sully: Mary Lee Cerillo (703) 830-3435 of The Democrat Standing Committee Chairs JUNE 2008 The Democrat: Rachel Rifkind (703) 941-9574 Labor: Shannon Sullivan (703) 968-9441 Articles: Local Affairs: George Burke (202) 288-2104 Tuesday, May 13, 10:00 a.m. State Affairs: Fred Shwaery (703) 451-4877 (see above for more details) National Affairs: Sandra J. Klassen (703) 620-9723 Dan Walsch, Co-chair (703) 978-5667 Flyers: Diversity: Rose Chu, Co-chair (703) 998-5539 Thursday, May 22, 3:00 p.m. Lina Orr, Co-chair (703) 281-0985 (due at headquarters, printed Senior Citizens: and ready to collate) Charisse Glassman, Co-chair (703) 206-0090 Danielle Wight, Co-chair (571 )309-2824 Collating: Technology: Les Halpern (703) 435-2891 Friday, May 23, 9:30 a.m. Women’s Rights: Kristin Cabral (703) 448-0944 Secretary State Party of Virginia: Deadlines for the July 2008 Pixie Bell, Secretary (703) 971-3541 issue of The Democrat: 8th Cong. District: Susie Warner (703) 971-2731 Articles: 10th Cong. District: Rich Galecki (540) 347-5550 Tuesday, June 10, 10:00 a.m. 11th Cong. District: George Burke (202) 288-2104 Fairfax Young Dems: Rafael Arancibia (703) 869-3037 (see above for more details) Headquarters: Bill Lahue (703) 577-6339 Flyers: Key Phone Numbers Thursday, June 19, 3:00 p.m. White House (202) 456-1111 (due at headquarters, printed U.S. Senate and House (202) 224-3121 and ready to collate) DNC (202) 863-8000 Collating: Democratic Party of Virginia Friday, June 20, 9:30 a.m. FAX: (804) 343-3642; Toll Free (800) 322-1144 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ May 2008 The Democrat Page

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My lawn signs and bumper stickers have Alexander finally arrived. If you are willing to place Connolly for Congress a bumper sticker on your vehicle or post for Congress my lawn sign in your yard, please contact Campaign Report me at 703-216-9867 or lori.alexander@ Campaign Report M a j o r e n - lorialexanderforcongress.com and I will We’re proud to d o r s e m e n t send you a bumper sticker or deliver a announce that received from lawn sign to your home. the following in- the American When elected to congress, I promise to dividuals have all Physical Thera- each of you that I will work harder than joined the Con- py Association: any other congressperson to serve you nolly Team! A I am honored and your interests. Any assistance you recent addition is to have received are willing to provide to my campaign former Virginia the endorsement would be greatly appreciated - volunteers State Senator Joe of the American of all abilities are welcome. Please call Gartlan. Thanks Senator Gartlan! Lori Alexander Physical Ther- me at 703-216-9867 to let me know your Chairman Gerry Connolly apy Association availability. Virginia Senate (APTA). The APTA is a national profes- q Best, Lori Alexander – Richard Saslaw -- 35th, Senate sional organization representing more Majority Leader than 71,000 members nationwide. The – George Barker -- 39th goal of the APTA is to foster advance- Byrne – Janet Howell -- 32nd ments in physical therapy practice, – Patsy Ticer -- 30th research, and education. As many of for Congress – Joe Gartlan -- 36th (former) you are aware, I have been a license physical therapist for over 12 years Campaign Report Virginia HOD and have been an active member of the The Byrne Cam- – Ken Plum -- 36th APTA since 1993. I currently serve as paign continues – Jim Scott -- 53rd the Membership Chair for the Virginia to build support – David Bulova -- 37th Physical Therapy Association and am among voters. We – Vivian Watts -- 39th thrilled at the prospect of being the first had a great fund- – Dave Marsden -- 41st physical therapist in history to be elected raiser featuring our – Chuck Caputo -- 67th to the U.S. House of Representatives. own Senator Jim – Paul Nichols -- 51st This country is currently facing critical Webb at the home health care issues. This is the time for of Bob and Mary Fairfax Board an experienced health care professional Ann Hovis. Over – Sharon Bulova -- Braddock who has worked with and understands Leslie Byrne 200 folks turned out – Penny Gross -- Mason those with special health care needs to to give our campaign – Gerry Hyland -- Mt. Vernon – Jeff McKay -- Lee be involved at the highest level in the a real boost. My personal thanks to Bob and – Linda Smyth -- Providence process of debating and enacting any Mary Ann, Sen. Webb, State Senators Chap – Cathy Hudgins -- Hunter Mill federal legislation related to health care. Petersen and Donald McEachin for making – Dana Kauffman -- Lee (former) Unfortunately, most politicians rely on it a wonderful evening. To all who turned – Jean Packard -- Fairfax Chairman insurance and pharmaceutical company out including our wonderful list of co-hosts, (former) lobbyists to educate them about health I couldn’t do this without you. care issues. I will rely on my experience April 7th was our open house for vol- Fairfax School Board and advanced education to improve the unteers. We had 50 people who were very – Ilryong Moon -- At-Large quality of health care for all people, not interested in our high tech phone banking – Tina Hone -- At-Large just the few served by special interests. and canvassing. And as always, we had – Phil Niedzielski-Eichner -- Providence My stance is to always place the needs of wonderful food donated by those same vol- – Brad Center -- Lee my constituents above all others. unteers. If you would like to join us in these Brian Trompeter has written a wonder- efforts and mix some fun with your politics, Prince William Board ful article about me in the March 21, 2008 call Sara John at 703-537-0470. – Frank Principi -- Woodbridge edition of the “Sun Gazette Newspaper” I will be out on the campaign trail and – Hilda Barg -- Woodbridge (former) which serves McLean, Vienna, Oakton, hope to see you. If you have any questions – John Jenkins -- Neabsco and Great Falls. I urge you to read this you can call me at the number above, drop – Kathleen Seefeldt -- Chairman (former) article and let me know your thoughts on by our headquarters at 11216 Waples Mill the issues. Please feel free to contact me Rd. #100, Fairfax, Va or you can drop me an Arlington Board through my website at www.lorialexan- email at: [email protected] – Walter Tejada -- Chairman derforcongress.com. Kindest regards, Leslie q – Jay Fisette – Chris Zimmerman

continued on page 4 Page The Democrat May 2008

Reports ★ Reports ★ Reports ★ Reports ★ Reports ★ Reports Connolly Campaign Report Denneny Feder continued from page 3 for Congress for Congress Other Officials – Pixie Bell, Secretary, DPVA Campaign Report Campaign Report – Ray Morrogh -- Fairfax Common- Symbolizing his Fairfax Democrats, wealth’s Attorney run for congress and thanks to your sup- – Stan Barry -- Fairfax Sheriff his commitment to port we’re now in – Earnie Porta -- Occoquan Mayor the strongest posi- – Gary Rasmussen -- Fairfax City Council effecting real change, tion a challenger to – George Lovelace – Vienna Town Council Doug will hold a – Edythe Frankel Kelleher – Vienna “March for Change” Frank Wolf has ever Town Council on Saturday, April been. We’ve raised – Bill Euille -- Alexandria Mayor 12. He will walk from nearly $1,000,000 – a – Del Pepper -- Alexandria City Council the Veterans’ Memo- level of fundraising – Paul Smedberg – Alexandria City Council rial on Route 123 in strength we didn’t – Paul Ferguson -- Arlington County Doug Denneny Vienna to the United Judy Feder reach until after La- Clerk of Court States Capitol, ap- bor Day in 2006. – Michael O’Reilly -- Herndon Mayor proximately sixteen miles away. Our success, our strength, is because of (former) Also, Doug was honored to announce you -- and it’s starting to get noticed. Just recently the endorsement of Rep. Gene last month, Marc Fisher of the Washington 11th CD Members Taylor from Mississippi. Taylor is the Post said that, “the strong challenge that – Sharon Stark fourth sitting member of congress to en- Rep. Frank Wolf is facing this year from – John Jennison dorse Doug’s candidacy. This is just once challenger Judy Feder illustrates the party’s – Peg Kugler facet of the momentum that Doug Den- increasing sense that the Washington sub- – Reed Stockman neny is picking up. urbs are a lost cause for the GOP.” – Ernestine Jenkins The campaign is rolling forward and as In 2006, Frank Wolf and his Republican – Rachel Rifkind the media turns its focus to the important allies largely ignored us - confident in their congressional races of 2008, Doug has ability to hold on to this seat. Together, FCDC Leaders we surprised everyone and gave Wolf his – Ginny Peters – Chair (former) had the opportunity to address a variety toughest race in 24 years. According to – Kevin Cook – Springfield Chair (former) of issues. He has offered solutions to the – Rachel Rifkind -- Mason Chair; housing crisis, veteran’s issues and contin- the Winchester Star it was Judy’s “close DPVA Women’s Caucus, Chair ued to discuss his plans for a smart, phased showing” in 2006 that “galvanized the – Walt Mika -- Braddock Chair withdrawal from Iraq. For a collection of Democrats,” into believing that Wolf was – Rafael Arancibia -- FCYD, President recent news articles, visit the website at beatable. Building on that race, and with – Peg Kugler -- Braddock Chair (former), www.DougForCongress.com. your help we’re ready to take it all the way Vice Chair Central (former) We are going door-to-door and making in 2008. – Steve Bunn – Lee Co-Chair phone calls every day and having visibility But, the stronger we get, the more – Eileen Manning -- Vice-Chair (former); activities several days a week. Please stop Frank Wolf and his allies will rev up the DPVA Central Committee by our office at 11094A Lee Highway in Republican attack machine. It’s already – Emilie Larson -- Hunter Mill Chair Fairfax or call (703) 352-DOUG. q begun to happen as Wolf has outsourced (former) his dirty work and had the Republican – Linda Byrne -- Providence Chair (former) Party of Virginia launch a negative attack – Holly Hambley -- Providence Co- on our campaign for change in Virginia’s Chair (former) Surprise and delight your family 10th district. – Jim Mazur - Providence Co-Chair (former) and friends! We need your help to fight back! We have to knock on tens of thousands of Democratic Leaders Give them an unexpected and doors, make hundreds of phone calls per – Dan Drummond -- CFDC, Chair (former) useful gift – a subscription to night, and yes, raise another million dollars – Ernestine Jenkins – PWCDC, Vice Chair or more. With your help and the hard work – Jane Blechman -- Democratic Activist The Democrat. of thousands of supporters who are hungry – Jane Barker -- Democratic Activist – Harry Wiggins - PWCDC, Finance Chair Cost? Only $25 for a year’s for change, we know can get there. Join our campaign today at JudyFeder.com or call us – Ron Seward -- NVDBC, Chair (former) subscription! And that $25 – Grant Herring -- GMU Democrats, at 703-286-9208 to find out how you can President provides needed income to finance help turn VA-10 blue in 2008. q ★★★★★★★★★★★★ Candidates FCDC operations. – Andrew Hurst -- 11th CD Help spread the good word on our – Ken Longmyer -- 11th CD Moving? Democratic activities – Bill Ryland -- PW Clerk of Court Let us know. – Rex Simmons -- 40th HOD and concerns. – Mike McClanahan - Springfield Supervisor (703) 573-6811 – Bill Day – 31st HOD q May 2008 The Democrat Page

Reports ★ Reports ★ Reports ★ Reports ★ Reports ★ Reports Turner Braddock Hunter Mill for Congress Walt Mika, (703) 978-5732 Bettina Lawton, (571) 215-1563 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] Campaign Report Derby Day is Saturday, May 3rd from Robert Haley, (703) 716-2339 The Mike Turn- 4:30 to 6:30 pm at Kilroy’s in Ravensworth E-mail: [email protected] er for Congress Plaza. The restaurant is located just outside the Beltway at the Braddock Road exit. The Hunter Mill District Precinct campaign message Operations meeting was held at Flint Hill continues to excite Raffle items include Nationals tickets, dinners at several area restaurants, and Elementary School on Thursday March 20, Democrats across the 2008, 7:30 pm. The June 10 Primary Cov- lunches with Braddock elected officials. 10th District. You can erage, VAN use and training, the Neighbor Gretchen Bulova is chairing the event with sign up for my weekly Leader program, Lasagna Dinner status E-newsletter “Soar- Liz Griffith. and support, and Delegate Selection and ing to Victory” with Thanks to Liz Griffith who took over Caucus status were discussed. The FCDC the latest campaign the caucus process when Marc Greidinger meeting on March 25th was well attended Mike Turner events and debates stepped down as co-chair. Janet Carver, by Hunter Mill members and new members – and view videos of Cheryl Fulton and Jan Hedetniemi assisted Josh Lawton, Diane Rice, Janet Frye, Carol my detailed positions on the major issues at with slates for the candidates. Bradley, Ellen Graves, Walter Alcorn, and www.MikeTurnerforCongress.com Allen Taylor whom many of you know Khadijah Baltrop were approved. The key for success for our next President from volunteer days at FCDC is still in re- The next regular meeting for Hunter and Congress is to end the war in Iraq. hab after a fall on primary day in February. Mill will be April 17th at the Dogwood While bringing our troops home safely is Initially he was diagnosed with blood clots Elementary School library, and our next paramount, the end of the Iraq war will in his legs, but at the end of March doctors Hunter Mill District Precinct Operations unleash more than $10 billion/month for discovered ligament tears in both legs that meeting will be held on Thursday May 15, urgent domestic programs and enhanced na- required surgury. Estimated healing time is 2008 at the Flint Hill Elementary School. tional security. With 28 years of national and Please refer to the Hunter Mill web site international experience in the military and another two months. Walt Mika q calendar at www.huntermilldemocrats.org non-profit world, I have been developing for other local area political events, and practical solutions for ending the war that I to the FCDC web site calendar at www. will be sharing with you on my website, at Dranesville fairfaxdemocrats.org for Fairfax County- our frequent Meet Mike events, and at the wide events. upcoming debates in May. Sue Rosenberg, (703) 938-5031 The Hunter Mill Lasagna Dinner, The foreclosure rate in Fairfax County [email protected] headed by Dick Shields, was held on March has increased more than 600 percent over 29th and was a great success. Hats off to key the past two years. In response to this crisis, Congratulations to everyone who was elected a delegate or alternate to the Dis- players that include Mark & Lynn Terry, Frank Wolf is supporting the creation of a Gayle Rubin, Mike & Kathleen McKee, Ed trict and State conventions. The 8th and study group called the SAFE Commission. Robichaud, Rod Paolini, and Meg Coper- 10th District conventions are both May The Commission’s 12-month national tour noll. Revenue and profit exceeded 2007, would culminate with a report to Congress 17th, as is McLean Day. With an expected and analysis of the results is underway. The an additional three months later. Typical 12,000 attendees, McLean Day is a great event included a Patron/Sponsor Recep- Wolf – studying the situation while an in- time to promote Democrats and sign up tion, a Silent and Live Auction, Delegate creasing number of constituents lose their volunteers. This year our booth will be Ken Plum, auctioneer, great food and drink, homes. Wolf’s proposal should be called amid our fellow Democrats, Supervisor and the opportunity to talk with many “Too Little Too Late -- Again.” Read my John Foust, Delegate Jim Scott and Sena- elected officials and candidates. The Mar- detailed plan at www.MikeTurnerforCon- tor Janet Howell. If you will be attending a tha V. Pennino Community Service Award gress.com convention, be sure to stop by our DDDC went to BJ and Marilyn Silvey, and the Ed Fundraising is going very well. Join our booth at Lewinsville Park that Saturday Herlihy Democratic Activist Award went “28 is Enough” club by donating $28 to after the convention. If you’re not going to to former Chair, Emilie Larson. Guest commemorate the end of Wolf’s 28 years be at a convention, help us set up and staff speakers were Supervisor Cathy Hudgins, in office. Or better yet, join our “Circle 16” the booth in the morning. Chairman Gerry Connolly, Senator Mark club by donating $1,000 or more to help us Our next Dranesville meeting is at 7:30 Herring, and Democratic Party of Virginia emulate Jim Webb’s strategy and overcome Executive Director, Lavar Stoney. the 16-point gap from the 2006 Feder-Wolf pm, Thursday, April 24th in the community room of the McLean Governmental Center Delegate Selection planning for the CD/ Congressional election. Donate online at State/National Conventions is underway. www.MikeTurnerforCongress.com on Balls Hill Road. John Foust will speak about the Fairfax County budget, Margi The Hunter Mill caucus (if required) is The Democratic primary on June 10th will scheduled for April 19th at the North empower you to choose between the well- Vanderhye will tell us what happened in Richmond (unless she’s called back for a County Government Center Commu- worn “politics as usual” or substantive, lasting nity Room. The 8th, 10th, and 11th CD special session), and Don Mark, the new change for our district and our nation. Join Conventions are scheduled for May 17th, political director of the Democratic Party our campaign now and make a difference in and the State Convention is scheduled this historic election year! I will be honored of Virginia, will give us a quick update as to June 14. q to have your vote on June 10th. q what’s happening at the DPVA. q Page The Democrat May 2008

Reports ★ Reports ★ Reports ★ Reports ★ Reports ★ Reports presented the DNC Neighbor to Neighbor The next MVDDC meeting was moved Lee program. He is as excited about the DNC to May 1 at the South County Center on Steve Bunn, (703) 339-1882 Neighbor to Neighbor Program as I am. Richmond Highway. The April meeting Hugh Robertson, (703) 924-1433 This program requires you to take “owner- was moved from its normal date of the E-mail: [email protected] ship” of 25 names and promise to contact fourth Thursday of the month by vote to them at least three times between now and accommodate travel schedules. The May Our Annual Lee District Luau is com- November. The DNC even provides the meting will be held as usual on May 22. ing up soon! Join us on Saturday, June 7th names and the tools you will need to make Currently we are scheduling and com- from 6:00pm-10:00pm in the home of Susie your contacts and report results. Please let Warner at 6229 Edison Drive, Alexandria, pleting district- wide training on the VAN. me know if you are interested and we will get Many thanks to Chris Ambrose and Sue VA 22310. Tickets start at $35 per person you connected to your neighbors! Langley for managing this project and $25 for Senior Citizens and Young Don’t forget the FCDC JJ is on May 18at The MVDDC executive committee Democrats. You can also be a Queen/King the McLean Hilton. Mason is doing well ($500), Big Kahuna ($250) or Surfer ($100) in selling ads for the JJ program and we meets April 10 to finalize a draft workplan and get special recognition at our event. We have nearly two tables: lets work to make to present to members. One element of the will feature a Hawaiian feast and music, silent it three! Thanks to Mary Tycz and Norma plan will be to hold get-togethers to draw auction and lots of fun! This will be a great Jean Young for working on the silent auction new volunteers modeled after a successful event to meet our candidates for U.S. Senate, baskets and for Barbara Kreykenbohm for event in which about 50 people turned the 11th Congressional House District, and contributing one of the baskets. out at the Glory Days Grill in Lorton to the 8th Congressional House District before Preliminary planning has begun for the watch the results on Texas-Ohio primary the primaries in June. Check out our website Crab Feast. Judy White, our Crab Feast night (March 2). Most came from Lorton at www.LeeDems.org for updated informa- Committee Chair, will be in touch. When Center, a precinct that has been difficult to tion and directions. we meet again we will set ticket prices and organize in the past, but there were people If you would like to help out with food or begin the process of recruiting volunteers for from every precinct south of Fort Belvoir beverages, set up and decorations, or silent all of the various tasks that go into making except Belvoir. auction items, please contact Kathy Rob- this the event not to miss. Chris Ambrose, MVDDC operations vice ertson at (703) 924-1433 or Luau@leedems. The FCDC will be meeting on May chair who organized the event, said “most org. We still need people to help with the 27 (place to be determined). The Mason of the people were for Obama, some were fundraiser and to provide silent auction items, committee will caucus briefly to elect new for Clinton, but a good number were just so please volunteer today! members who have recently filed. Mason Democrats who wanted Democratic unity Our next Lee District Democratic Com- meets on May 14 at the Mason Governmen- mittee meeting will be on Thursday, April so we could win in November.” tal Center. q 24th at 7:30pm in the Community Room of Greg Werkheiser, who ran against Del. the Franconia Governmental Center. Come Dave Albo R-44 a couple years ago, at- join us as we prepare for our voter registra- tended. More than half of the attendees tion drive, the June primary, Luau Fundraiser Mt. Vernon signed up to volunteer. q planning, and other special events. We hope Janet Myhre, (703) 780-5952 to see you then. q Save the date of Saturday, May 31 for the annual Mt. Vernon Spring BBQ and candidate’s forum. The time and location Providence Mason will be announced on our website www. Rick Dotson, (703) 319-9010 Rachel Rifkind, (703) 941‑9574 mvdemocrats.com. Candidates for the 11th Cell : (703) 785-3850 E-mail: [email protected] Congressional District will make presenta- E-mail: [email protected] Andrew Hunter, (703) 916-0942 tions and answer questions. As always there E-mail: [email protected] will be food, drink, and fun for the whole Providence Democrats are supercharged family. this year. We have stellar candidates for our The Mason District Democratic Commit- We were pleased to have guest speaker congressional district races and exemplary tee will hold its annual Thank You Party on George Burke, chair of the 11th Congres- candidates for president. With our passion April 27. Many thanks to our host, Candy sional District, brief about 30 MVDDC and our energy, we have many opportuni- Butler, who has so so graciously agreed to members at our last monthly meeting March ties to conduct outreach, fundraise and host us. In advance I also want to thank all of 27 on how the election of delegates process get out the vote. Each of these steps is our committee members for their help. works. vital to promoting a successful Democratic As we go to press, Mason will have held Mt. Vernon will hold its election of del- agenda in the U.S. Congress and the White its caucus and plans are underway for the egates on April 19 from noon to 2 p.m. at the House through electoral victories this Congressional District Conventions (the Mt Vernon Government Center. Delegate November. 8th and 11th Districts on May 19) and for pre-filing forms continue to come in and we Why not support PDDC outreach ef- the State Convention on June 13-14 in are close to filling the allocated number of forts by volunteering to lend a hand with Hampton. Thanks to all who participated slots. A final count will be made on the fil- our precinct parties? We need people for in the Mason caucus and congratulations to ing deadline of April 14, and if there are no everything from organizing party details everyone who won. more candidates than slots, the election will and staffing the parties to phone banking to At our last meeting in March, Joe be cancelled. If there are more candidates invite our Democrats. PDDC will be host- Montano, our regional DNC man on the job, than slots, the election will be held. ing parties in the west from April until June May 2008 The Democrat Page

Reports ★ Reports ★ Reports ★ Reports ★ Reports ★ Reports and in the east from June to August. To have invited our Democratic candidate for volunteer, please contact Regional Precinct Sully the United States Senate, former Chair (West) Carrie Nixon at carrienixon@ Mary Lee Cerillo, (703) 830-3435 Governor Mark Warner, to also address yahoo.com. E-mail: [email protected] the convention. PDDC is also making a big effort to The 2008 Eighth District Delegates are get young people involved in the political It is a great time to be a Democrat in allocated as follows: 2 male Obama Del- process. If you are interested working Sully! Attendance at meetings is up and egates, 1 male Clinton Delegate, 2 female we continue to have a standing room only with the future of the Democratic Party, Obama Delegates, 2 Clinton female Del- crowd. Many guests, new members, and please contact Young Democrat Coordi- egates, and 1 male Obama alternate. nator Lainie Singerman at esingerman@ potential new members are taking the op- There will be a total of 252 Eighth gmail.com. portunity to join us. Plans for the Annual District Convention delegates and 126 Fundraising is the lifeblood of any Sully Barbeque are being finalized under organization. Get involved and help the watchful eye and guidance of our own alternates from Arlington, Alexandria, PDDC raise money to fund our GOTV Bridget Martin. The yearly fundraiser Falls Church and Fairfax County, includ- and precinct letter campaign by e-mail- will be held on June 1, 2008 from 5 pm ing the magisterial districts of Hunter Mill, ing Vice Chair, Finance & Fundraising until 8 pm at the Centreville Firehouse. Dranesville, Lee, Mason, Mount Vernon Mary Dotson at [email protected]. It promises to be lots of fun for all. We and Providence. Speaking of fundraising, please note that have set an ambitious goal and want your For a resolution to be considered at the we have changed the date of our Mayfest help in meeting it. Ken Plum will host the 2008 Eighth Congressional District Demo- fundraiser to June 22. The party will be silent and live Auction. Auction items will cratic Convention, please mail or fax the held at the beautiful home of Providence be fantastic this year! For the near future, resolution by Friday, May 2, to the follow- District School Board Member Phil look for our baskets to be auctioned off at ing address: Eighth Congressional District Niedzielski-Eichner. This timing will al- the JJ Dinner. We are also actively planning Democratic Committee, Margo Horner, low us to invite all of our new friends from for the call to caucus. Volunteers have been Chair, c/o Arlington County Democratic upcoming precinct parties. recruited and we are moving full speed Committee Headquarters, 2009 North And last, I hope to see you all at the next ahead on selection process of delegates for 14th St., Suite 612, Arlington, VA 22201 PDDC meeting on April 22nd at FCDC the State and Congressional Conventions. (phone: 703-528-8588; fax: 703-528-2321). Headquarters, 2815 Hartland Road, Suite On a solemn note, Sully wishes to extend You may also mail a copy of the resolu- 110, Falls Church, VA, 22043 (703-573- our sympathies to Frank Ojeda and family. tion to the Temporary Chairman of the We will greatly miss Georgette Kohler, her 6811). Resolutions Committee, Dick Hobson, 99 laughter, her enthusiasm and dedication to Thanks for everything you do. It is a real North Quaker Lane, Alexandria, VA 22304 pleasure working with such a talented and the Democratic Party. Our next scheduled (o) 703-712-5437; (h) 703-370-1858. dedicated group of people. meeting will be held on May 6, 2008 at Anyone who wishes to file as a delegate or Rick Dotson q the Sully Government Center located on Stonecroft Blvd. in Chantilly starting at alternate to the 2008 Democratic National 7:30 pm. q convention may secure the filing form at Springfield http://www.va8thcddems.org. The Eighth District website also has a filing form Ruth Miller, 703 913-0487 for presidential elector as well as a filing E-mail: [email protected] 8th CD Report form for the State Credential and Rules Springfield Democrats gathered on March Susie Warner, (703) 971-2731 Commmittees. All filing forms must be 29 for a fun afternoon of grilling and mingling. submitted to me at the Arlington County We were joined by more than 20 neighbors The 2008 Eighth Congressional Demo- Democratic Committee Headquarters’ ad- who are new to committee activities, as well cratic District Convention will be held dress by Friday, May 2, 2008, at 5:00 pm as congressional candidates Leslie Byrne and on Saturday, May 17, 2008, at Francis C. The Virginia Democratic Party’s website Doug Denneny and senate candidate Julien Hammond Middle School, 4646 Seminary at www.democrats.org has additional infor- Modica. State Senator George Barker and Road, Alexandria, VA 22304, beginning mation on the delegation selection process, Delegate Chuck Caputo also joined us and at 10 a.m. as well as a National delegate and alternate reminded us of the successes we can achieve The 2008 Eighth District Convention will filing form. together. select seven delegates and one alternate to I look forward to seeing you at the Eighth On May 17 from 4 to 7 pm, Springfield the 2008 Democratic National Convention District Convention on May 17th. q is hosting our annual Smoke and Roast, and in Denver, Colorado. The District Conven- we’re determined to make this the best yet! Join us for outstanding barbecue from BBQ tion will also nominate three members of ★★★★★★★★★★★★ World in Burke. We are gathering terrific the state permanent Credentials and Rules items from local donors for our silent auction. Committees and select a Presidential Elec- At the Dumbo Dunk tank, you can try to dunk tor representing the Eighth Congressional Moving? some new “targets!” Kids may want to spend District in the 2008 general presidential Let us know. the whole afternoon in the moonbounce. All election. The District Convention will also (703) 573-6811 this, and great Democratic fellowship, as well! consider resolutions. There’s no better way to spend a beautiful Our Eighth District Congressman Jim May afternoon. Hope to see you there! q Moran will address the convention. We ★★★★★★★★★★★★ Page The Democrat May 2008

Reports ★ Reports ★ Reports ★ Reports ★ Reports ★ Reports energies in 2008 will be two-fold: (1) help 11th CD Report Diversity inform readers of The Democrat and ev- George Burke, (202) 288-2104 Committee eryone else we can on important issues that Email: [email protected] face our nation; and (2) motivate everyone Rose Chu, (703) 998-5539 we can to become actively involved in the E-mail: [email protected] We hope you will join the 11th Congres- presidential campaign by volunteering their Lina Orr, (703) 281-0985 sional District Democratic Committee services and, of course, ultimately voting E-mail: [email protected] in recognizing former state Senator Joe for our party’s nominee in November. Gartlan’s many years of service to our The Diversity committee will be host- Our committee is initiating an active community at the 11th CD’s Sturdivant ing a reception on May 31, 2008, 5pm to letter-writing campaign to regional media, and Community Service Awards reception 7:30pm in Vienna with wonderful ethnic including blogs, on issues on which all of us at the Old Fairfax Town Hall on April 13 appetizers. The reception will raise funds should be informed and working to address. from 5:30 to 7:30 pm. for the committee to register voters and Further, we are looking for volunteers to We will also be recognizing honorees help with voter outreach and education in help us in this ongoing effort. If you wish to from Prince William County and Fairfax different communities. find out more and possibly even participate, City and we will be bestowing the presti- The suggested donation is $25 per then please contact one of the chairs of the gious Sturdivant Award, named after the person. Our next Diversity committee National Affairs Committee. This year’s late AFGE President, civic activist, and meeting is Monday, May 5th 7:30pm at presidential election is ours to win, but we Fairfax Democratic leader John Sturdi- FCDC. q can only do that with well-informed and vant, on a worthy member of the labor active members. q community. The name of the Sturdivant Award recipient is kept secret until it is National Affairs presented at the event, but rest assured that Senior’s the recipient has earned this award through Committee hard work and dedication to Democratic Sandra J. Klassen, (703) 620-9723 Committee principles. E-mail: [email protected] Charisse Espy Glassman, The 11th CD Committee continues Dan Walsch, (703) 978-5667 (703) 206-0090 to plan the 11th CD Convention, set for E-mail: [email protected] [email protected] noon on Saturday, May 17 at Robinson Danielle Wight, (571) 309-2824 High School. I hope every Democrat who Call To Arms E-mail: [email protected] has filed as a delegate for the 11th CD and This presidential year will in all likeli- state conventions wins a slot at the April hood be as historic as any in our nation’s The next meeting will be held in July. 19th caucuses in their respective jurisdic- history. The fact that our country is on the We are skipping the June meeting because tions and gets to participate in this exciting verge of electing its first African-American many magisterial districts are preparing to process. president or its first woman president is hold their caucuses at that time. We will To better understand the role of the unprecedented. But running a close second have the report from the April meeting 11th CD Convention, read the 11th CD’s is the seemingly overwhelming number of printed in the May newsletter. If you are in- Convention Call on our website -- www significant issues that our next president terested in joining the committee, we meet .11thdistrictdemocrats.org. If you plan must address if the United States has any every other month. We try to rotate venues to accommodate all magisterial districts. If on filing as a Clinton or Obama delegate chance of remaining healthy and vibrant you would like to address any senior issue or alternate to the Democratic National and a respected world leader. They seem to with the Obama or Clinton campaign, Convention, you must file a national filing be as plentiful as the cars on the Washing- please email one of the co-chairs. q form with me no later than 5 pm on May ton Beltway during rush hour. These issues, 2. The 11th CD Convention will elect four of course, range from the nation’s economy, Obama national delegates, two Clinton the war in Iraq and the environment to national delegates, and one Obama national our nation’s eroding infrastructure, the Surprise and delight your family and alternate. lack of confidence in our elected officials friends! The caucus and convention process can and health care. But there are many more, Give them an unexpected and useful be confusing to newcomers to the Party each of which can only be tackled by a chief gift – a subscription to (and to some of the old-timers, too). If executive who is honest and competent and The Democrat. you live in the 11th CD and have any caring and who leads by building bridges questions about the process, please don’t rather than by tearing them down. Yes, the Cost? Only $25 for a year’s hesitate to contact me at the phone number two remaining Democratic candidates are subscription! And that $25 listed above. But please read the 11th CD’s exciting. Despite that, we on the National provides needed income to finance Convention Call before you call. It answers Affairs Committee agreed at our most re- FCDC operations. a lot of questions. cent meeting that the primary focus of the Help spread the good word on our I hope to see many of you at the April 2008 presidential election should be about Democratic activities 13th reception and at the 11th CD Conven- the issues. Consequently, our committee’s and concerns. tion on May 17th. q May 2008 The Democrat Page

Reports ★ Reports ★ Reports ★ Reports ★ Reports ★ Reports Reema and four other students were from requiring that court orders committing State Affairs Fairfax County. individuals to mental heath treatment be Committee The Angel Fund seeks to create good included in a state-maintained database out of evil and to educate and advocate searched by licensed gun dealers doing Fred Shwaery, (703) 451-4877 for changes in public policies so no other background checks before making sales. E-mail: family has to suffer a fate similar to the However, another panel recommendation Samaha’s. The fund will sponsor panel requiring private gun sellers at gun shows Angel Fund discussions throughout the state to discuss to perform background checks failed in Lu Ann McNabb met with the committee solutions to various issues that contributed the General Assembly. These issues will in February to discuss issues related to to the Virginia Tech tragedy including continue to be brought before the General gun violence and efforts to enact com- those laws and policies that address pri- Assembly. mon sense solutions to Virginia’s weak vacy, mental health, campus safety and The State Affairs Committee is consid- gun safety laws. McNabb is a member of security, and guns. ering a proposal for an FCDC resolution the Sully Democratic Committee and also Governor Kaine established a panel that that expresses support for strengthening volunteers for the Angel Fund (www.an- made 72 recommendations for changes to Virginia’s gun safety laws. (See proposed gelfundva.org) established by the Samaha Virginia’s laws and policies, including six FCDC resolution below.) family after their daughter, Reema, lost recommendations concerning guns. The Anyone interested in volunteering for her life in the Virginia Tech shootings on General Assembly acted in some areas, or contributing to the Angel Fund can April 16, 2007. Thirty two students and but not others. The General Assembly contact it by email at contactus@angel- faculty were gunned down that day, and codified the Governor’s Executive Order fundva.org. q

★★★★★★★★★★★★ FCDC RESOLUTION ★★★★★★★★★★★★

WHEREAS, the Democratic Party has adopted in its national platform, that

“We will protect Americans’ Second Amendment right to own firearms, and we will keep guns out of the hands of criminals and terrorists by fighting gun crime, reauthorizing the assault weapons ban, and closing the gun show loophole, as President Bush proposed and failed to do;” and

WHEREAS, two police officers were gunned down with an AK-47 assault rifle at Sully District Police Station by a mentally ill young man on May 8, 2006; and

WHEREAS, 32 students and faculty died by gunfire in the worst mass murder in American history by a single killer, using a Walter-22 and a Glock with a 15-round magazine, at Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, Virginia on April 16, 2007; and

WHEREAS, five of the students who died were from Fairfax County; and

WHEREAS, 888 Virginians died by firearms in 2005 and 812 in 2006, and many more wounded; and

WHEREAS, the physical and psychological cost to families, communities, and the state is incalculable; and

WHEREAS, despite the recommendations of the Virginia Tech panel, the General Assembly failed to pass a law this past session requiring background checks for private sellers at gun shows even though common sense dictates that background checks be conducted before gun sales between private sellers and strangers at a gun show in order to ensure that the buyer is not a terrorist, convicted felon, under a court order or deemed dangerous to himself or society; and

WHEREAS, the ban on assault weapons expired in 2004, which allowed the aforementioned killers access to such weapons and that assault weapons can kill many in a short amount of time and have no reason to be in the hands of civilians but should only belong in the hands of our military and police officers;

WE, THE FAIRFAX COUNTY DEMOCRATIC COMMITTEE, HEREBY RESOLVES THAT THE VIRGINIA STATE DEMOCRATIC PARTY ADOPT AS PART OF ITS PLATFORM THE NATIONAL PLATFORM WHEREBY BACKGROUND CHECKS BE CONDUCTED BY PRIVATE SELLERS TO STRANGERS AT GUN SHOWS AND THAT THE ASSAULT WEAPONS BAN BE REINSTATED. Page 10 The Democrat May 2008 ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★ Calendar of Events

April 5/17/08 12:00 pm 11th CD Convention 4/19/08 4:00 pm VAN Training, FCDC HQ 5/17/08 4:00 pm Springfield District Smoke & Roast 4/19/08 12:00 pm Magisterial District Caucuses 5/18/08 6:00 pm FCDC Jefferson Jackson Dinner 2008 4/19/08 4:00P pm Senator George Barker’s First Annual Spring 5/19/08 8:00 pm 8th CD Monthly Meeting Forward Fest 5/22/08 7:30 pm Lee District Democratic Committee Meeting 4/21/08 8:00 pm 8th CD Monthly Meeting 5/22/08 7:30 pm Mt. Vernon District Democratic Committee Meeting 4/21/08 8:00 pm 11th CDDC Meeting 5/27/08 7:30 pm FCDC Meeting 4/22/08 7:30 pm Providence District Democratic Committee Mtg. 4/24/08 7:30 pm Mt. Vernon District Democratic Committee Mtg. June 4/24/08 7:30 pm Lee District Democratic Committee Meeting 6/1/08 5:00 pm Sully Annual Fundraiser 4/24/08 7:30 pm Dranesville District Committee meeting 6/2/08 7:30 pm FCDC Diversity Committee Meeting 6/3/08 Submission of Agenda Items May 6/3/08 7:30 pm Sully District Democratic Committee Meeting 5/3/08 4:30 pm Braddock District’s 27th Annual Derby Day 6/3/08 7:30 pm FCDC National Affairs Standing Committee 5/4/08 11:00 pm VA Partisan’s 11th District Candidates Brunch (NAC) Regular Meeting 5/5/08 7:30 pm FCDC Diversity Committee Meeting 6/4/08 Drinking Liberally - Mt. Vernon District / Lorton 5/6/08 Submission of Agenda Items 6/5/08 Submision of all Officer, Magisterial District, and 5/6/08 7:30 pm Sully District Democratic Committee Meeting Standing Committee Reports 5/6/08 7:30 pm FCDC National Affairs Standing Committee 6/7/08 6:00 pm Lee District’s Liberty Luau (NAC) Regular Meeting 6/10/08 6:00 pm Primary Election Day 5/7/08 Drinking Liberally - Mt. Vernon District / Lorton 6/11/08 7:30 pm FCDC Steering Committee meeting 5/8/08 Submision of all Officer, Magisterial District, and 6/11/08 7:30 pm Mason District Democratic Committee Meeting Standing Committee Reports 5/8/08 7:00 pm Drinking Liberally - Lee District 5/13/08 7:30 pm FCDC Steering Committee meeting Next Regular FCDC Meeting: 5/14/08 7:30 pm Mason District Democratic Committee Meeting 5/17/08 10:00 am 10th CD Democratic Convention Tuesday, May 21, 7:30 pm 5/17/08 10:00 am 8th CD Convention Location is TBD