NEWS & VIEWS*
For Virginia Democrats
October 20, 2010
Help Democratic Candidate Jeff Barnett Defeat Republican Incumbent Frank Wolf in 2010 Congressional Election
For Barnett's full schedule of events, see his web site jeffbarnettforcongress.com.
Election day is Tuesday, November 2.
October 10, 2010
WCDC Participates in Festival of Leaves Parade
FRONT ROYAL, VA - Members and friends of the Warren County came out on October 9th to march in the Festival of Leaves Parade in Front Royal Virginia.
It was a beautiful fall morning and the streets were lined with parade watchers while Jeff Barnett and his supporters walked with signs and banners for both Jeff Barnett for Congress and the Warren County Democratic Committee.
Jeff shook hands and spoke with voters along the parade route on Stonewall St. and North Royal Avenue. He then joined the Warren County Democrats at their tent on Chester Street and continued to greet and meet more voters throughout the morning.
Everyone he met responded positively to his warm and genuine personality. It's time to elect a strong and supportive leader to represent us in the House of Representatives after 30 years of F.Wolf. It's time to elect Jeff Barnett as the next Representive for the 10th Congressional District in Virginia!
August 26, 2010
Barnett, congressional candidate for the 10th district, addresses Front Royal citizens at his Town Hall Meeting
FRONT ROYAL, VA - Jeffrey Barnett, congressional candidate for the 10th district, addresses citizens at his Town Hall Meeting on August 26th at Samuels Public Library in Front Royal. Barnett, who is running against Republican incumbent Frank Wolf, is conducting town hall meetings throughout the district to introduce himself to voters (he is a retired Air Force colonel) and to express his stand on the issues.
About 40 people attended on August 26th and asked questions about the economy, transportation and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, among other things. Barnett showed that he was a good listener as he gathered input from individuals in addition to providing his own perspectives about how to address the issues we face. Barnett is preparing for a six-day "walk across the 10th District" beginning on September 3.
August 10, 2010
State Democratic Party Deputy Political Director Addresses Warren Democrats
FRONT ROYAL, VA - Increasing membership in the Democratic party is the key to success in this fall's election. The connection is simple--the more members the Democratic party has, the more volunteers will be knocking on doors and making phone calls to get Democratic candidates elected in November. That was the message delivered by Tyee Davenport, Deputy Political Director of the Virginia Democratic Party, to the Warren County Democratic Committee at its August 10th meeting held at the Warren County Government Center. Tyee is responsible for increasing state membership and has a "bottom-up" plan to assist all local committees fill in the gaps in their membership growth. The primary objective of the outreach plan is to grow the Democratic base and one of the main tools to accomplish that is a worksheet and guide prepared by the state party entitled "Local Democratic Committee Outreach Plan" which Tyee reviewed with the Warren Democrats present at the meeting.
In her remarks, Tyee outlined five ways in which appeals to new members can be made: Utilize Affinity Groups, Become Recognizable, Maintain Visibility, Engage in Community Service, and Be Relevant on Local Issues. As she addressed the group, she applauded their successful ongoing efforts in these areas, such as having a well designed and informative business card, creating a "rack card" about the Warren Democrats to use at booths and during canvassing, establishing an excellent on-line presence with a great website and Facebook page, awarding scholarships to two local high school students each year, participating with community service organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, conducting voter registration drives, holding an annual Jefferson-Jackson fundraising party involving the local business community, encouraging and supporting members who run for local offices (Glenn White successfully ran for the County Board of Supervisors and Sean Coffron is planning to run for the School Board), and using the Voter Access Network (VAN) to identify and contact voters whose past participation in primaries indicates they may be leaning Democratic.
To spark the inspiration of those present, Tyee suggested additional actions they can take to grow their membership, such as focusing on three affinity groups in which to increase membership (for example, Latinos, veterans, youth) and following up with a plan to reach out to those groups at other meetings or events. A survey of members' affiliations with other organizations can provide additional opportunities to reach out to the community, either by visiting those organizations or inviting them to attend the Warren Democrats' monthly meetings. Visibility is easily achieved by listing monthly meetings in the local newspapers and wearing Warren County Democratic Committee hats and T-shirts. Tyee also urged the Democrats to establish an "Issues" committee to track and act on local issues of concern. On a more national level, she responded to a question about energizing the "Obama Voters of '08" by saying that Organizing For America is getting out President Obama's message and encouraging voters who support him to go to the polls this November. Ms. Davenport wrapped up her comments by encouraging Warren Democrats to join or work with their Outreach Committee, chaired by Barbara Stevens, in order to increase the local Democratic membership and assure success on November 2nd!
To join the Warren County Democratic Committee, call (540) 635-4860 or email info@warrencodems.org. Meetings are held the second Tuesday of each month (except July and December) at 7:30 p.m. at the Warren County Government Center on Commerce Avenue in Front Royal. "Lunch Bunch" gatherings are held the fourth Tuesday of each month (except December) at Noon at a local restaurant--check our website or call 635-4860 for location.
June 13, 2010
WCDC Jefferson-Jackson Party "Huge Success"!
FRONT ROYAL, VA - The Warren County Democratic Committee's Jefferson-Jackson party was a huge success! Thirty-seven happy Democrats enjoyed tasty food, cool drinks and great converstion.
Our candidate for the US Congress, Jeff Barnett, spoke to the group and spent a good while answering questions and addressing comments from attendees. He also placed the highest bid on one of our wonderful auction items and went home with a set of lovely Pimpernal place mats!
Shayla and Olivia (the Junior Democrats) pulled the tickets for several winning raffle items.
Thanks to everyone who donated to the event and to the Whites who opened up their lovely home to host us!
May 15, 2010
WCDC Booth At Front Royal Wine & Craft Festival
FRONT ROYAL, VA - This year's Wine & Craft festival was a hoot! From town citizens dressed in confederate garb declaring Abe Lincoln to be "America's first crazy President" to town Republicans holding up George W. Bush signs with the question: "Do you miss me yet?" The correct answer by the way is NO!
So it was important for the WCDC to be there with a level headed alternative, supporting the democratic congressional candidate for the Virginia's 10th district, Jeff Barnett.
Thanks to all the volunteers who staffed the WCDC booth and made it a successful event.
May 11, 2010
Former Front Royal Mayor Speaks to WCDC About Controlled Development Issues
FRONT ROYAL, VA - Stan Brooks, former Mayor of Front Royal (1992 - 1996) and Town Councilman (2004 - 2008) spoke to the WCDC at the May business meeting about the changing political climate concerning planning, zoning and environmental issues in the town of Front Royal and surrounding Warren County.
He warned the Committee that while there are no "bad guys" per se, there is a "new political force" in town called the Warren County Builders Association which is working to expand growth in the valley in subtle ways behind the scenes. The WCBA has given contributions to four sitting town council members.
Mr. Brooks stated that the best way to control town and county growth and development is to elect leaders that are dedicated to good planning and can work on them from the inside. It is an expensive and time-consuming process that requires constant vigilance.
April 30, 2010
Over 75 Democrats Attend Page County Jefferson Jackson Dinner
STANLEY, VA - Kelli Hart and Molly Snyder attended the Page County Jefferson Jackson Dinner at the Stanley Fire Hall in Stanley Virginia.This annual fundraiser for the Page County Democratic Committee attracted over 75 people,featured four guest speakers including Kai Degner (Mayor of Harrisonburg and candidate for Virginia's 26th District House seat) Rick Waugh (candidate for US Congress 7th District), Mike Signer (Democratic Strategist) and Ben Jones (Former US Congressman) and guest auctioneer Ken Plum, Virginia Delegate 36th District.
The entertaining live auction was skillfully conducted by Delegate Plum, It included jewelry, paintings, stoneware, gourmet meals, baked goods and a therapeutic massage session. The auction raised thousands of dollars for the Page County Democratic Committee.
Keynote speaker Ben Jones delighted guests with stories about his days in Congress and inspired them with his passion for Democratic ideals.
Thanks to Page County Chair, Tom Ford, for hosting this wonderful evening!
April 24, 2010
Democrats in Action: Accomplishments Year One
WASHINGTON, DC - President Barack Obama and the Democrats in Congress are under constant attack from Republicans and the Tea Party that simply want to say "no" and be an impediment to progress. As was true during the years of the Bush Administration, Republicans in Congress continue to be more concerned with campaigning than they are about making government work effectively.
With the help of Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, President Obama has enacted legislation that revamped the ailing US economy and enacted new consumer protections against healthcare insurance and credit card companies as well as educational and financial reform.
Here is a document to fight back with all the accomplishments of the first year of the Obama administration. You can download it here: http://www.vademocrats.org/page/-/political/first_year_accomplishments.pdf
April 14, 2010
Republican Governor Bob McDonnell Attempts to Require Essay Before Restoring Non Violent Felons' Voting Rights - Called A "Draft Proposal'
RICHMOND, VA - The Washington Post had previously reported that Governor McDonnell sent letters to over 200 non violent felons stating that they must write a personal essay to the governor as additional requirement before their voting rights could be restored.
The letter stated that the applicant must explain how they were involved in the offense they were convicted for and detail any "strides" they have made in employment, schooling, and church activities as well as describing ways they have given back to the community.
The Governor's office stated that this was a "draft policy proposal" and called it a mistake.
If you know of anyone that has received one of these letters or needs assistance restoring thier voting rights, there are several talented writers and members of the WCDC that are willing to help.
Contact kelli@warrencodems.org for more information.
April 13, 2010
Non Partisan Mayoral Candidate Timothy Darr Speaks at April WCDC Meeting
FRONT ROYAL, VA - Timothy W. Darr, Front Royal Mayoral candidate spoke to the WCDC at their April business meeting.
Tim Darr is running as a non partisan who wants to reduce wasteful spending and work to make current town services more efficient. If elected, he also plans to establish better working relationships between the Town Council members and the Warren County Board of Supervisors.
April 7, 2010
Jeff Barnett, becomes Democratic Candidate for 10th Congressional District.
VIRGINIA - Jeff Barnett is optimistic that our base can win against Frank Wolf's base in November. Barnett said at a recent WCDC business meeting that the Republican Party is about "debt, denial, and delay." He believes that core Democratic values make this a winnable election for us.
Jeff Barnett has lived in northern Virginia for since 1986. He served in the US Air Force for 26 years and has two daughters who are currently serving in the military.
Some of Jeff Barnett's areas of focus will be:
- Fixing the housing crisis and establishing a "Consumer Financial Protection Agency" to ensure that this financial crisis does not happen again.
- Creating new jobs by establishing "public/private" partnerships investing in green jobs and IT jobs which will be good for the 10th Congressional District.
- Improving transportation around the district by extending current roads, metro rails and adding high speed buses.
- Ending the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan by supporting President Obama's and General McCrystal’s plans for withdrawal.
You can find out more information by going to his website at jeffbarnettforcongress.com
The recent victories of Republican Governor Bob McDonnell and Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli have shown how a lack of enthusiasm and voter apathy on part of democrats can have dire consequences.
Let's show the Tea Party Republicans that "hopey/changey stuff" works for us and help Jeff Barnett defeat Frank Wolf in November 2010!
April 6, 2010
Republican Governor Bob McDonnell Proclaims April 2010 Confederate History Month
RICHMOND, VA - Virginia Republican Governor Bob McDonnell signed a proclamation calling on all citizens of Virginia to observe the month of April as Confederate history month. According to the Huffington Post, it is the "first time in 8 years", in other words, the first time since the last Republican Governor held office.
The proclamation declares "this defining chapter in Virginia’s history should not be forgotten, but instead should be studied, understood and remembered by all Virginians, both in the context of the time in which it took place, but also in the context of the time in which we live, and this study and remembrance takes on particular importance as the Commonwealth prepares to welcome the nation and the world to visit Virginia for the Sesquicentennial Anniversary of the Civil War, a four-year period in which the exploration of our history can benefit all;".
Slavery is not mentioned or discussed in the proclamation.
April 5, 2010
Candidates Jeff Barnett and Rich Anthony Appear in TV/Online Debate
FAIRFAX, VA - 10th Congressional District U.S. House Candidates Jeff Barnett and Rich Anthony appeared in their first TV/Online Debate on Monday.
The debate took place in the Fairfax Public Access TV studios and was also broadcast live and recorded on the internet at InsideScoopProductions.com.
March 27, 2010
Coffee Party - A Civil Response to the Tea Party Spectacle
FRONT ROYAL, VA - A group of non-partisan voters concerned about the direction Congress is headed in generally and the Republican reaction to the healthcare reform legislation specifically met at Starbuck's Coffee in Front Royal to discuss how the group plans to make their voices heard. The group is hoping to schedule a in person town hall event with Congressman Frank Wolf (R) to discuss the implementation of the healthcare reform law in Virginia and his future plans for financial reform.
For more information on the Coffee Party Movement and for dates of future meetings, you can join the Front Royal Coffee Party Facebook page.
March 23, 2010
WASHINGTON, DC - President Barack Obama signs historic health care reform legislation into law.
March 20, 2010
WCDC Members Attend Jefferson Jackson Dinner
RICHMOND, VA - Kelli Hart and Molly Snyder, Chair and Vice Chair of the Warren County Democratic Committee, attended the Jeffereson Jackson Weekend Dinner held by the Democratic Party of Virginia in Richmond.
Both had their pictures taken with Democratic Senator Amy Klobuchar from Minnesota and Terry McAuliffe.
March 9, 2010
Congressional Primary Candidates Jeff Barnett and Jeff Widom Speak at WCDC Business Meeting
FRONT ROYAL, VA - Jeff Barnett thanked the WCDC for their grassroots efforts. He is optimistic that our base can win against Frank Wolf's base in November. Republicans will not have a convention and can't control the Tea Party. Barnett said the Republican Party is about "debt, denial, and delay." They will pass our problems on to our children. Frank Wolf is not delivering for us. Core Democratic values make this a winnable election for us. Barnett has lived in northern Virginia for 24 years, was in the US Air Force for 26 years (Colonel), has experience from combat to peacekeeping, and has two daughters in the military. Barnett's focus is on four areas: 1. Housing, 2. Jobs (grow small business, Federal dollar investment, and continuous learning education), 3. Transportation (update it), and 4. Two Wars (get out by next summer). Barnett appealed for our support, ideas, friendship, energy and donations to his campaign.
Jeff Widom is getting signatures to be on the primary ballot. He is 39 years old, lives in Leesburg, was an enlisted soldier, and is getting an education about how to run for office. He is a different generation from Frank Wolf and described why he is running. He says by being different from Wolf, he can relate better to what voters want and need. He is a small business owner and has seen health insurance costs go from $300 to $1200/month. He sees the empty malls and rent prices of $30-$50/square foot. He believes strongly in gay equality and gay issues. Frank Wolf doesn't relate to people. Widom relates--he had relatives in the concentration camps during World War II. Widom believes by relating to another generation and independents, he can get them out to vote. Widom is also a tech geek and wants to pull "Frank Wolf out of his hole." After getting signatures needed to run, Widom will make a final decision whether to run or not. If not running, he will work to support our candidate in the fall election.
March 2, 2010
Letter To The Editor -NV Daily.com
Editor
Northern Virginia Daily
This week Congressman Frank Wolf sent a large postcard mailer to residents in the 10th District. He outlined his reasons for not supporting the President's health care reform package.
I have been a recipient of "government-managed health care", which Congressman Wolf opposes, most of my life. First as the daughter in a military family where the Federal government directly pays doctors, nurses, and health care personnel. Later I became a Federal employee and Medicare recipient. The Federal government -- in both these instances -- establishes and manages the parameters for approved insurance programs. The two that I chose, Aetna (for profit) and Kaiser Permanente (not for profit) have served me well for more than 50 years.
Congressman Wolf has enjoyed similar government-managed health care, but has made little or no effort to initiate a national effort to improve health care for residents of the 10th District. He is frequently commended for individual constituent assistance, but health problems extend beyond individuals as I outlined in my letter below:
"...You may also have lost touch with Warren County. We are trying to deal with a high level of unemployment and underemployment. In our schools, of 5300 students, 1748 (or about 1/3), require Medicaid support services. This number indicates that probably their parents have no health insurance. Add other residents under 65 who either are out of work or surviving on minimal incomes, and you have a significant and growing problem. In addition, about 1/2 of our students are on free or reduced breakfast/lunch programs -- their families may also need health assistance.
...Don't you enjoy government-managed health care working for Congress? Please vote for the health care reform bill supported by the President. We can't wait another 30 years for change -- too many citizens will suffer and die needlessly."
I encourage you to contact Congressman Wolf, wolf.house.gov, (202) 225-5136, and outline your concerns. There will be life-changing Congressional vote within the next few weeks.
T Hobson
Front Royal, VA 22630
February 14, 2010
Valentine Video to Senators Mark Warner, Jim Webb, and Congressman Frank Wolf
WARREN COUNTY, VA - Warren County Democrats create YouTube video for their elected congressional leaders. Their message: "Health care reform legislation can't wait!"
June 11, 2009
A History Lesson in a Name
Integration Fight Echoes in Debate Over School
FRONT ROYAL, VA - Washington Post writer Tara Bahrampour chronicles James Kilby's efforts to rename the Warren County Middle School after his father.
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