Insurance Commissioner Attends Luncheon With His Childhood Educators

Feeling like he was 12 years old again, North Carolina Insurance Commissioner Wayne Goodwin joined a broad sample of his primary and secondary school teachers during a Hamlet luncheon last week at Sandhills Regional Hospital.

The Richmond County Retired School Personnel invited their former student from 25 to 35 years ago to reminisce and learn about the Seniors' Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) headed by Goodwin's agency, the Department of Insurance. The first Council of State member elected from Richmond County in more than 88 years, he also regaled them with anecdotes from his childhood, updates on his own children, and an overview of what he does as Commissioner of Insurance.

The teachers had spent years working for Fairview Heights Elementary School, Monroe Avenue School, Hamlet Junior High School, and Richmond Senior High School.

Goodwin also congratulated Ruth Robinson of Rockingham (pictured above). She had recently been named Volunteer of the Year by District 8 of the Retired School Personnel association. Robinson, a 1994 retiree, has volunteered for Relay for Life for many years.

Rep. Melanie Wade Goodwin: Named "Richmond County Citizen of the Year"!

I am so proud of Melanie!

She juggles - and always has, ever since we first met - so many things so well: Mother, wife, daughter, aunt, friend, officer of the court, businesswoman, lawyer, State legislator, Junior Woman's Club president, civic leader, Democratic Party leader, advocate for women's rights, supporter of the arts, active United Methodist, staunch UNC-Chapel Hill alumna, a capella vocalist, promoter of Richmond County motorsports, etc., etc., etc. ... She truly amazes me!

Melanie is an inspiration and a phenomenal role model for our seven-year-old daughter, Madison, and for other young women. (Of course, I'm naturally biased on this point. But, hey, I ought to know, right? Facts are facts.)

To learn more and read about her selection by the Richmond County Chamber of Commerce, click on this link. Melanie received the surprising news of her nomination and selection while waiting for our daughter at the school bus stop several days ago. Here is an excerpt from the Richmond County Daily Journal:

“I had no idea I’d been nominated, I was absolutely speechless when she called,” Goodwin said. “I am honored beyond words and deeply humbled that I would have been nominated and selected.” ...

Since making her home in Richmond County Goodwin has served as president of the Democratic Women of Richmond County, president of the Richmond County Junior Women’s Club, served on the Arts Council board, First United Methodist Church women’s circle, served on the founding board of the Christian Closet, was vice chair of what is now New Horizons and was a board of commissioners appointee to the Sandhills Area Mental Health Board.

“When I opened my practice in Hamlet after finishing law school, my husband was in the state house and he loved the community and I wanted to learn about and become a part of it,” Goodwin explained. “The best way to do that was to get involved with as many things as possible and it quickly became my home.”

“This is a great place to be and raise a family,” she added. “There are a lot of wonderful things about Richmond County. People here are good people. I’ve been proud to serve them in whatever capacity.”

Goodwin has served in the N.C. House of Representatives for three terms and she [said] the experience has opened her eyes.

“My time in the House has enlarged my view of the people and the human condition,” she said. “It’s helped me empathize with people across the district who don’t have the same life situations as I do. It’s helped me advocate for those without a voice in the political process and it’s been an incredible experience that has absolutely changed my life.”

In 2007 Goodwin made the biggest jump in effectiveness in the state house and moved up from 73rd to 31st.

Goodwin said she’s not sure what she’ll do when her term is up, but that she’ll likely find something to get involved in.

“I’m sure I’ll find another cause to embrace and opportunity to advocate,” she said. “Even before law school I’ve always been a woman’s advocate and have always been passionate about that. I’m sure I’ll find something.”

Goodwin said she’s not sure who nominated her, but she’s incredibly honored.

“It’s such a tremendous honor for a community I care about so much and have invested so much of myself in,” Goodwin said.

In a press release from the chamber, board of director’s chairman Marchell Adams-David said, “Melanie has worked tirelessly for the betterment of our community during her tenure in the N.C. House. Her tenacity and work ethic is to be applauded, and what a wonderful way for our community to say thank you to her for her years of dedicated public service.”

The recognition ceremony will take place next month, at 6:30 pm on January 28th, at Cole Auditorium, Richmond Community College campus, in Hamlet, North Carolina.

Stanly County Welcomes Bev Perdue, North Carolina's Next Governor

On Thursday night, July 31st, I had the honor and privilege to join a diverse group of North Carolinians supporting Bev Perdue for Governor of North Carolina as she visited Stanly County.

No fewer than 200 folks - not just Democrats by the way - all convened at Bill Mullinix's pastoral farm off of U.S. Highway 52 between Albemarle and Richfield.

Lt. Governor Perdue wowed the crowd, but that's no surprise. She reminded all of us of her work on advances in education, keeping our military bases, and fighting for progress in our great State during her many years of service in the General Assembly and as Lt. Governor. Everyone agreed that Bev Perdue has the tenacity, the toughness, and the skills to be North Carolina's next great Governor. She can go toe-to-toe, eyeball-to-eyeball with anyone she needs to in order to do what is best.

Senator Bill Purcell introduced the Lt. Governor.

Other officials in attendance included:

State Rep. Pryor Gibson
County Commissioner Sherrill Smith
Former U.S. Marshal Becky Wallace
Superior Court Judge Susan Taylor
Chief District Court Judge Tanya Wallace
District Court Judge Kevin Bridges
Former State Senator Aaron Plyler

And, yes, candidates turned out in full force as well. Some of them were:

Wayne Goodwin, NC Insurance Commissioner candidate
Larry Kissell, 8th District, U.S. Congress
Amy Wilson, candidate for District Court judge
Charles Collini, candidate for Superior Court judge
John Daniel, candidate for District Court judge

Many area business leaders co-sponsored the successful fundraiser, along with local officials in government and education.

I fully expected the usual band of yellow-dog Democrats from the central 8th District to attend this Bev Perdue fundraiser. And they did. (They hailed from Stanly, Richmond, Union, and Montgomery counties.) But what is most telling is that there were a good number of Republicans in attendance, some of whom were hosts and helped with the fundraising. Having significant crossover from across the partisan aisle is an essential element for Statewide victory in North Carolina.

Meanwhile, from a highly reliable source I learned that the Perdue campaign raised at least $60,000 from this one event on Thursday night.

I don't know about you, but that's a lot of money for those of us growing up on a farm!

Notwithstanding, that sum shows the extent of this region's commitment to a Perdue administration.

Wayne's World predicts that Perdue will win the 8th Congressional District counties by handsome margins in November, and will be our next Tar Heel Governor.

Richmond County Democratic Party Opens New HQ: Getting Ready to Rumble with the Republicans

Richmond County Democrats have opened up their 2008 campaign headquarters in downtown Rockingham at 200 East Washington Street. I commend the officers for their selection: Not only is the HQ in the middle of town, but it is prominently located adjacent to the stoplight where everyone on U.S. Highway 1 must turn if they choose to continue going south. The building itself is on the National Register of Historic Places, and was once where the long ago Pee Dee Bank did its business.

Many dignitaries and party activists gathered for the ribbon-cutting and subsequent hot dog lunch.

Several weeks after the opening, Kay Hagan - the Democratic nominee for U.S. Senate - dropped by to visit with well-wishers and supporters.

Other Democratic candidates and voters are encouraged to drop by during office hours to visit with local activists or pick up materials.

I predict that Richmond County Democrats will be using their HQ quite often in the coming months, and I also predict a joyous celebration on Election Day come this November.

Richmond County Newspaper Endorses Wayne Goodwin for NC Insurance Commissioner

The following ran as the sole editorial in my hometown newspaper on March 6th:


Favorite son insures stability
By The Richmond County Daily Journal Editorial Board

"Back in April of 2004 we presented an editorial about a native son, Wayne Goodwin.

Goodwin had filed to run for labor commissioner of North Carolina. Part of what we wrote back then was this:

“No one from Hamlet has ever been elected to a statewide office.

The last person elected from the county, living in the county at the time, to a statewide office was in the 1920s.

We are really proud of Richmond County's son and the strides he has taken to advocate for the better of Richmond County in the Legislature.

He was instrumental in helping to get rid of the gutted Imperial Foods plant building that was a painful reminder to the victims and their families of that tragic fire in September 1991.

He is a hard worker, who came from humble beginnings but has worked his way through the ranks.

Richmond County should be proud to have someone with the courage and ambition to go after a seat at the table of 10 - the Council of State.

Goodwin has a tough and tiring road ahead in campaigning across the state. We hope he feels a force of encouragement from his hometown pushing him forward.”

Fast forward to March of 2008.

Now Goodwin has thrown his hat in the state-wide ring again. He announced last week that he is running for Insurance Commissioner.

He is trying to replace his boss, Jim Long, a Democrat, who was first elected commissioner in 1984, and as such also serves as the state fire marshal and oversees numerous other industries and activities in the state, including bail bondsmen, auto clubs, the state building code and injury prevention programs.

Long, in his endorsement of Goodwin as his successor to the elected position said, "He is a great advocate and is doing a great job for the state."

Two other candidates for insurance commissioner filed last week. Democrat David Smith is a Durham attorney and president-elect of the North Carolina Association of Health Underwriters. Republican John Odom is a former Raleigh city councilman who owns three muffler repair shops.

"I felt it was time to pass the torch to a new generation of leadership for the department," Long said in an e-mail to his employees. "It has been my honor to work side by side with you in service to the people of North Carolina."

We agree with Commissioner Long. Wayne Goodwin is the best choice to continue the leadership needed in this important North Carolina post.

His compassionate nature and commitment to service make Wayne Goodwin the best choice in this race.

The Richmond County Daily Journal wholeheartedly endorses Goodwin as the next insurance commissioner of North Carolina."

# # #

The Journal also ran a full article immediately after Goodwin filed for Insurance Commissioner.

Here Comes the Judge! Judicial Candidates in District 20-A (Anson, Richmond, Stanly)

Here Comes the Judge!
Judicial Candidates in NC District 20-A (Anson, Richmond & Stanly Counties)
By Wayne Goodwin
26 February 2008

All too often our candidates for the judicial branch are not highlighted as much as they deserve.

That is a sad fact even though it is our judges who interpret our laws and help protect our constitutional and statutory rights. Election or selection of the appropriate persons for the bench determines the outcome of the ongoing battle to protect individual and collective life, liberty and property.

Though our Tar Heel judicial races are now non-partisan, Wayne’s World now takes this opportunity to shine the light on those brave, dedicated professionals who have put their names forward on the ballot this year in Judicial District 20-A.

In alphabetical order, the candidates so far are:

DISTRICT COURT

John Daniel
He is a long-time and well-respected attorney in private practice in Richmond and surrounding counties. A 1982 Campbell University School of Law alumnus, he has represented clients before the District and Superior Courts, the state Industrial Commission, and the Social Security Administration. His wife is the Assistant Clerk of Court in Richmond County and is highly-regarded on the gospel music circuit. They live in Rockingham, the seat of Richmond County. John “Johnny” Daniel is active in church and other ministries, and served in the U.S. Army, from which he received an honorable discharge. His law firm is located on U.S. 74 in Rockingham. Daniel is a member of the North Carolina Academy of Trial Lawyers.

Tim Rodgers
Tim Rodgers currently serves as the hard-working Chief Assistant District Attorney in the overlaying prosecutorial district, reporting directly to District Attorney Michael Parker. Prior to his elevation to that post, he served seven years as an assistant district attorney. Rodgers earned his law degree from UNC-Chapel Hill School of Law in 1998. Rodgers is an active speaker and teacher on matters regarding the courts. Those matters include domestic violence, criminal justice, and the courts process in general. Tim Rodgers, his wife, and family live in Albemarle, the county seat of Stanly County.

Amanda (Amy) Wilson
Amy Wilson is the daughter of Cathy Wilson, the former Clerk of Superior Court in Richmond County. Amy has represented clients for many years in both District Court and Superior Court, civil and criminal. She graduated from the NC Central University School of Law in 1999. Thereafter she clerked the summer for a judge (Honorable Jack Cozort) on the NC Court of Appeals, and has served as an attorney advocate – or guardian ad litem - for abused and neglected children.
Amanda (Amy) Wilson is the immediate past president of the Richmond County Democratic Women and past president of the Richmond County Jaycees. She, her husband, and child live in Rockingham. Before attending law school, Amy Wilson was a sixth grade teacher in the public schools.

SUPERIOR COURT

Kevin Bridges
Judge Bridges is a Morehead Scholar and, on information and belief, is the first African-American to serve on the local district court bench here. He earned his law degree from UNC-Chapel Hill in 1990. His district court seat is not up for election at this time, so if he is not elevated to the Superior Court in this election then he will continue to serve on the District Court bench for all three counties. Active in the Eighth Congressional District Black Caucus and the NAACP, Judge Bridges is also a founding member of the Stanly County One-on-One Program for At-Risk Children. Governor Hunt appointed him to the bench in March 1997; he has been elected three times since. Judge Bridges, his wife, and his children live in Albemarle, the seat of Stanly County.

Charles Collini
Charles “Charlie” Collini is a long-time litigator and member of the North Carolina Academy of Trial Lawyers. He has been omnipresent in the local courts for many years. He earned his law degree from UNC-Chapel Hill in 1974 before serving as an assistant district attorney for six years. Moreover, he served as Law Clerk to the Chief Judge of the Eastern District of the U.S. District Court here in North Carolina. Collini is the past president of the District Bar Association (1996-97, 2000-01) and is known for his humor, imitations, and his dedication to his alma mater. On the latter point, all four of his children are also Tar Heel alumni. Collini is the past president of the Union County Young Democrats. He maintains his law office in Wadesboro, the seat of Anson County.

Tanya Wallace
Judge Tanya Wallace is the Chief District Court Judge in 20-A. She was the first woman, on information and belief, to serve on the local district court bench. Judge Wallace is also only one of three female Chief District Court judges currently serving in North Carolina. A 1980 alumna of UNC-Chapel Hill School of Law, Tanya Wallace has served as judge continuously since her appointment in 1987 – that is, 21 years. Since then she has been elected five (5) times to the bench, giving her seniority in the region. Her family has been very active in Democratic Party politics and in community, civic, and church affairs. Judge Wallace is also a faithful Rotarian. She and her husband live in Rockingham. Judge Wallace’s daughter, Chevonne, is presently in her second year at Campbell University School of Law.(Photo: Judge Wallace and State Representative Melanie Wade Goodwin at the Martin Luther King, Jr., Luncheon in Richmond County in January 2008.)

* * * *

It is important to note two things.

First, all of the above candidates are registered Democrats.

Second, two of our Superior Court judges are retiring this year. They are current Resident Superior Court Judge Michael Beale and Judge Susan Taylor. Beale lives in Richmond County and Taylor resides in Stanly County. They both have been superb public servants, and are truly shining examples of what attorneys and judges should be: fair, competent, respected, dedicated, and hard-working. We here in Judicial District 20-A and at Wayne's World wish them both the very best in the years ahead, and extend a collective "thank you" for a job well-done.

* * * *

In closing, please remember our judges this year – regardless of trial level or appellate level – and note that voters must consider them separately from the partisan ballot. In other words, when you vote “straight ticket” you must still cast a separate vote for the judges.

Finally, “Wayne’s World” extends kudos to June Mabry, chairwoman of the Stanly County Democratic Party and First Vice Chair of the Eighth Congressional District Democratic Party, for reminding me and others about highlighting these races on my blog. Thank you as well to the candidates for making their resumes available for the public.

State Representative Melanie Wade Goodwin Files for Re-election to N.C. General Assembly

February 11, 2008

State Representative Melanie Wade Goodwin Seeking 3rd Term for Richmond, Montgomery Counties

(Rockingham) – State Representative Melanie Wade Goodwin filed on opening day of the 2008 election season for re-election to the North Carolina House of Representatives.

Presently in her second term, Goodwin has been a rising star within the Democratic Party’s legislative majority.

In the North Carolina General Assembly she is chairwoman of the House Election Laws and Campaign Finance Reform Committee and vice-chair of the Judiciary I Committee. Both committees are known for their consideration and passage of substantive legislative proposals. The local lawmaker also serves on the following additional committees: Appropriations; Appropriations Subcommittee on Justice and Public Safety; Education; Education Subcommittee on Community Colleges; and Juvenile Justice. Furthermore, House Speaker Joe Hackney has appointed her to several interim study committees. These duties require her to work part of every week in Raleigh, whether the legislature is in session or not.

“Our area of this State faces a number of significant challenges: jobs, schools, roads, water, sewer, access to affordable healthcare, and many others. I filed for re-election to a third term because this district deserves a State Representative committed to working full-time for its citizens to address these challenges. During my first two terms, this district has received significant appropriations, grants, and constituent services,” said Rep. Goodwin. “If re-elected, Richmond and Montgomery Counties will continue to benefit from my experience and legislative seniority.”
Speaker of the House Joe Hackney of Chatham County praised Rep. Goodwin’s decision to run for a third term.

“She is an excellent legislator, a legislator who brings remarkable experience to the General Assembly. Melanie is an attorney, mom, wife and career woman,” said Speaker Hackney. “We do not have a lot of youth in the legislature, but Rep. Goodwin has become a key spokesperson for young families and small businesspersons in rural North Carolina. … The House of Representatives needs members such as Goodwin who are younger and who know how to manage careers and family. ... She does it with style and gets her work done,” Hackney said.

Melanie Wade Goodwin earned her B.A. in English at UNC-Chapel Hill in 1992 and her Juris Doctor from Campbell University School of Law in 2000. She has been very active in the community as President of the Rockingham Junior Woman’s Club, a member of the Richmond County Juvenile Crime Prevention Council, President of the Richmond County Democratic Women, and the Girl Scouts North Carolina Coastal Pines Council. Goodwin is also a business owner, mother, attorney, and active member of the First United Methodist Church in Rockingham.

Goodwin is married to Wayne Goodwin, her predecessor in the legislature and presently the Assistant Commissioner of Insurance for the State of North Carolina. He joined her at the Richmond County Board of Elections for Monday’s filing. They have a five-year-old daughter, Madison, and are expecting their second child in April. They live in Rockingham.

To learn more about her legislative service as it happens, Rep. Goodwin has created “Melanie’s District Diary” at www.representativemelaniewadegoodwin.blogspot.com. District 66 includes Richmond and Montgomery Counties.

Eighth Congressional District Chairman Moderates Debate Among Lt. Governor Candidates

by Wayne Goodwin

I had the honor and privilege to serve as moderator for the recent debate in Fayetteville among the Democratic candidates for Lt. Governor.

Before sharing a few thoughts, it is imperative for me to say this:

North Carolina owes a tremendous debt of gratitude to the young folks – the young leaders – comprising the N.C. Federation of College Democrats. They and they alone proposed, coordinated, and have successfully hosted these debates around the State.

Their leadership has done much to educate the electorate about the role of Lt. Governor and what the candidates plan to do if chosen to serve in the role of Chief Executive-in-Waiting. (Frankly, though the duties have been scaled back over the years, most especially when Republican Jim Gardner snagged the post in 1988, the office of Lt. Governor is – and should be – a tremendous bully pulpit. In addition to serving a constitutional role as perfunctory head of the State Senate and as the potential successor if the office of Governor is vacated, the Lt. Governor has the means, ability and – if the typical candidate is elected to the office – energy to make the position into whatever he or she deems is necessary. Perhaps we should discuss this more in a separate post.)

Fayetteville State University proved to be an apropos location for this particular debate.

Why?

Well, it is in the center of several issues central to the votes of folks in the Eighth Congressional District and the neighboring Seventh and Second Congressional Districts.

What are those Eighth District issues? In my opinion, they are:

* The impact of the military’s presence on the region’s economy

* How to transition more quickly and more efficiently those Eighth District communities devastated by the loss of manufacturing and textile jobs over the last 15-20 years

* How to provide focused economic development in counties with regularly-high unemployment stats, namely neighboring Scotland and Richmond Counties

* Whether these candidates favor keeping Insurance Commissioner Jim Long as the regulator of auto insurance rates

In addition to the above topics, we covered in detail approximately eight questions plus several from the audience.

And pursuant to the rules, the candidates were allowed rebuttal time as warranted.

Each candidate for Lt. Governor focused on his particular strengths.

Thankfully, there are additional debates remaining in the series so the public – or at least those paying attention this early - will have a “high-def” understanding of whom these candidates are and what their respective candidacies bring to the table.

I encourage visitors to Wayne’s World to check out my earlier posts from October-November 2007 here that provide a summary of what these four candidates are about, how to contact them, etc. On behalf of the Eighth District, these candidates have many thanks for making multiple visits to Richmond, Cumberland, and other counties in this district over the past year. In the last 24 years, it is irrefutable that this is the most attention paid to our area by an array of candidates for this important post. That says a great deal about these Democrats, the promise of the office, and the lasting legacy that Bev Perdue, Dennis Wicker and Jim Hunt have left from their service as Lt. Governor.

In closing, I encourage the four candidates – Dan Besse, Walter Dalton, Hampton Dellinger, and Pat Smathers - and their supporters to share additional thoughts here at Wayne’s World about the debate series and their campaigns so that the Eighth will hear from them once again. Through these continued contacts, voters will have no excuse for not knowing whom they should cast a ballot for in the May 2008 primary.

Eighth Congressional District Hosts College Dems Winter Reception: Former State Representative Honored

The North Carolina Federation of College Democrats proudly hosted its first ever Winter Reception in the Eighth Congressional District on Saturday, January 26, 2008 at the historic Hamlet Train Depot. It followed the N.C. Democratic Party’s State Executive Committee meeting in Hamlet, North Carolina. I (Wayne Goodwin) was humbled to be the honored by the organization.

This is the first fundraiser of its kind held by the Federation. The group asked for sponsorships beginning at the $100 dollar level. All proceeds benefited the Federation and its various projects throughout the state. The Federation chose the Eighth Congressional District because it is a district where are focusing heavily for the 2008 elections.

As the first-ever honoree of the reception, the very organized and outstanding group of College Democrats heralded my many years as a Democratic Party activist, former state legislator, and past State officer for both the College Democrats and Young Democrats.


During remarks at the depot, and after being humbled by unexpected comments from NCFDC officers and others, I told the crowd that this occasion should best be about the need for more young people in public service and how Hamlet holds a special place in my heart. “Just as this train depot stands at a crossroads, Hamlet and small towns like it across North Carolina are at a crossroads. Raleigh and Washington must focus more intently on the needs and the promise of small towns like ours … The future of America depends on the success of our small towns.”

Previously on the BlueNC blog, State Representative Tricia Ann Cotham of Mecklenburg County said, "Wayne Goodwin is most deserving! Kudos to NCFCD for honoring Wayne Goodwin. Wayne is one of the greatest Democrats I know. He is full of passion, determination, and is a true party faithful. Wayne is a great advocate of people and represents the Democratic Party well."

(Rep. Cotham, herself, is a role model for young leaders: She entered the legislature at age 28 and has been a prominent supporter of both Young Dems and College Dems.)

Local and state officials attending the event included Insurance Commissioner Jim Long; State Representative Melanie Wade Goodwin; District Court Judge Scott Brewer; District Attorney Michael Parker; Svea Strong, chairwoman of the Richmond County Democratic Party; Jeff Joyner, past state Commander of the American Legion; Larry Kissell, 8th District Democratic candidate for Congress; Winston-Salem alderman Dan Besse, candidate for Lt. Governor; Canton Mayor Pat Smathers, candidate for Lt. Governor; multiple state Democratic officials; as well as local attorneys and political candidates from Richmond and surrounding counties. More than 100 celebrants joined in. Seaboard Station Restaurant of Hamlet catered the reception.

The Eighth District thanks the College Dems for holding its inaugural reception here.

Eighth District, Hamlet Hosts Rocking Rally for Dems

The Democratic Party successfully scored a myriad of points Saturday. Among them:
By holding its State Executive Committee meeting in Richmond County, rural citizens across the Tar Heel state were reminded that it is the Democratic Party that truly stands up for them and the needs of small towns. This was the first time that the State's Democratic leaders convened in a small town. ...

It spoke loud and clear its support for community colleges. Long-time Democrats were excited to visit the campus led for many years by the late Joe Grimsley, who served as Governor Jim Hunt's campaign manager starting in 1972, and to gather in the beautiful auditorium that was his last project before his untimely death. ...

The Party in no uncertain terms also expressed its unified, intense, dedicated goal of reclaiming the 8th Congressional District for the Party in 2008 after the district's loss to the GOP a decade ago. Not only was that Congressional seat an oft-mentioned item in Saturday's business, but many visitors Saturday participated in a Larry Kissell literature drop specifically targeted in key parts of the community ...

Moreover, many Tar Heel Democrats took the opportunity - while straddling the South Carolina border - to help out their favored candidate down in the Palmetto State's presidential primary that same day.

And, it gave Democrats all over North Carolina a chance to begin acting on the one-word mission of the 2008 election cycle: CHANGE.

All in all, I came away from the State Exec Committee meeting with a sense of personal accomplishment, excitement and inspiration.

When the opportunity first arose more than six months ago for the Party to select a site, I jumped at the chance to champion the countless reasons why Hamlet would be the right place at the right time.

And, based on the number of people served eastern-style BBQ, fried chicken, hush puppies and sweet tea yesterday, and the feedback from those in attendance, my promise of Hamlet being the right place at the right time was fulfilled: More than 700 Democrats rallied their hearts out at the North Carolina Democratic Party's State Executive Committee meeting! By other estimates, when you count candidates, staffers, and observers, up to 900 people converged in Hamlet for a day full of political activity.

Watching everything work as it should made me proud.

The success of the meeting gave many of us in attendance an additional boost of excitement: The meeting was yet another mile marker as we travel down the road to the 2008 elections.

And it gave me inspiration: Here in Hamlet - a town much like Mayberry, and countless other small towns in North Carolina - we heard why Democrats are who we are, and heard passionate words and ideas from those putting their names forward as candidates on the ballot this year.

I was especially pleased to see the growing number of Democratic affiliated groups use this pilgrimage to Richmond County as an opportunity to meet and strategize. There were College Dems, Democratic Women, the African-American Caucus, Senior Dems, Young Dems, Progressive Dems, and also the newly-formed Devout Democrats. The zest and zeal of these groups - and the blogs like BlueNC that were also present in Hamlet - are what will drive us down the road to victory in November.

Stay tuned to this post or the comments for additional information about and photographs from Saturday's meeting.

Information for Persons Attending the Jan 26, 2008 NCDP State Executive Committee Meeting

from WAYNE GOODWIN, Chairman of the 8th Congressional District Executive Committee

* * * *

(1) Morning Auxiliary Meetings and Shuttle Parking

(2) FREE Democratic Victory Luncheon

(3) Resolutions for 2008

(4) Information/Directions

(5) Directions to the Winter Reception of the College Dems at the Hamlet Train Depot

(6) Places to Visit While in Richmond County

(7) Select Things to Know about Richmond County

* * * * * *
(1) Various auxiliary organizations and Democratic Party groups are meeting on Saturday morning on the campus of Richmond Community College, prior to the Party’s business later in the day. … As a courtesy to those of you attending any of the meetings being held in the Grimsley Building across campus, the Richmond County Democratic Party is providing a shuttle van between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. It will be parked in front of Cole Auditorium and will begin making rounds every 5 minutes back and forth between the Auditorium and the Grimsley Building. The van should also have a sign identifying itself, or you may ask one of the volunteers at Cole Auditorium. Please utilize that shuttle.

(2) To save time during your visit and full day of Democratic Party business, and as a function of our hospitality, you are invited to a FREE lunch hosted by the Richmond County Democratic Party and the Eighth Congressional District.

Because 2008 is going to be a Democratic year, we have named it the "Democratic Victory Luncheon".

However, the persons who have made this Democratic Victory Luncheon possible - as well as the subsequent Democratic victories that will follow in November - are the following SPONSORS who have provided the necessary funds to make lunch available to everyone at no cost. The sponsors are:

Lt. Governor Bev Perdue, candidate for Governor
Treasurer Richard Moore, candidate for Governor

State Senator Kay Hagan, candidate for U.S. Senate
Jim Neal, candidate for U.S. Senate

Jim Long, Insurance Commissioner and dean of the Council of State

State Representative Melanie Wade Goodwin and
former State Representative Wayne Goodwin

Beth Wood, candidate for State Auditor

State Representative Pryor Gibson

David Young, County Commissioner and candidate for State Treasurer
Michael Weisel, candidate for State Treasurer

State Senator Bill Purcell

Sen. Janet Cowell, candidate for State Treasurer

Joint Sponsors / Candidates for the Court of Appeals
and N.C. Supreme Court
Judge Cheri Beasley (Court of Appeals)
Judge Kristin Ruth (Court of Appeals)
Suzanne Reynolds (Supreme Court)

Additional friends include: State Rep. Tricia Ann Cotham, State Rep. Martha Alexander, the Moore County Democratic Party, the Union County Democratic Party, the Honorable J. Richard Conder, Judy Gilbert, District Attorney Michael Parker, and Lee Wallace.

Of all the luncheon sponsors, the lead or primary sponsors are the two Democratic gubernatorial candidates.

Lunch will be served between 11 a.m. through 12:30 p.m. in the banquet rooms of Cole Auditorium, located at its proud home of Richmond Community College in Hamlet, North Carolina. (The main campus, adjacent to the auditorium, is on 1042 West Hamlet Ave., U.S. Highway 74 Business.) So that everyone will have time to eat and make it to the 1 pm start of the official meeting, we respectfully request that attendees eat and then make way for others who will be following them in the banquet room line. The room will only hold 322 people at a time so we respectfully encourage you to depart the luncheon room when you have concluded your meal, and proceed to the auditorium.

To learn more about the January 2008 State Executive Committee meeting, please go to www.ncdp.org. An early summary about the occasion also appears in the October 15, 2007 blog entry at "Wayne's World” (www.eighthdistrictdemsnc.blogspot.com)

Remember this: Due solely to the sponsorships by the above candidates, every person attending the State Executive Committee meeting will enjoy a FREE BBQ & Chicken lunch. Please express your appreciation to the above sponsors for their thoughtfulness in remembering attendees of the State Executive Committee meeting. And, of course, remember them at the polls when you vote in May and November!

(3) At the August 2007 meeting of the State Executive Committee meeting we handled all resolutions in one form or another that were in the possession of the NCDP Platform and Resolutions Committee. At that Greensboro meeting I announced that we would accept resolutions from auxiliary organizations after their Fall Conventions and that we must receive them before the January 2008 State Executive Committee meeting. None were received in time for the Resolutions Committee to meet before the January 26, 2008 meeting and still keep to the requirement of 14 days notice within the Party Plan of Organization. At the State Executive Committee meeting in Hamlet you will receive the proposed calendar of town meetings around the State as we once again consider our NCDP Platform and review resolutions.

(4) For information and directions once you arrive at Cole Auditorium at Richmond Community College, look for persons wearing a Richmond County Democratic Party badge or someone at the registration table in the main lobby.

(5) The NC Federation of College Democrats is hosting its first annual Winter Reception. This event will take place at the Historic Hamlet Depot, located on the corner of West Main Street and North Bridges Street, Hamlet. (It is primarily on Main Street.)

To get there from the SEC meeting at Richmond Community College, here are the simplest directions:

As you depart the college, turn left onto U.S. Highway 74 Business, also known as West Hamlet Avenue.

Drive less than 2 miles. When you reach the 2nd stoplight, that is Raleigh Street. That is just after the Piggly Wiggly grocery store. Turn right onto Raleigh Street and drive toward and across the railroad tracks.

Raleigh Street intersects with Main Street. You will see the Hamlet Post Office across the road. Turn left onto Main Street and drive a couple of blocks. You can’t miss the Hamlet Train Depot.

All in all, it will take you ONLY 5 minutes – approximately 2 miles - to reach the reception at the Hamlet Depot.

(6) Here are some places to consider seeing, visiting, etc.:

Hamlet Opera House, located on Main Street

Hamlet Railroad Museum

The site of the Imperial Foods plant, Bridges Street

Rankin Natural History Museum, approx. 15 miles nort from the college on U.S.
220 Highway in Ellerbe

Ellerbe Springs Inn and Restaurant, approx 17 miles north from the college on
U.S. 220 Highway in Ellerbe; Eleanor Roosevelt stayed there and has
a room named for her. Site of the 1996 State Convention of the
Young Democrats of North Carolina (YDNC)

Rockingham Speedway, formerly the North Carolina Motor Speedway;
U.S. 1 North, approx. 7 miles north of Rockingham

Rockingham Dragway; across the highway from the speedway

(7) While you’re visiting Richmond County, please consider this sampling of trivia:

Hamlet was the birthplace of John Coltrane, American jazz great; he later moved to High Point

Hamlet was the birthplace of Tom Wicker, former New York Times editor, national columnist, and author

Hamlet was the home of many professional athletes, including greats such as Mike Quick, Louis Breeden, Franklin Stubbs, and Doug Thomas

Richmond County’s Richmond Senior High School has won NC’s State 4-A High School Football Championship seven times

Former Governor and U.S. Senator Cameron Morrison was born between Rockingham and Hamlet, served as mayor of Rockingham, and also represented the area in the State Senate before moving to Charlotte.

Family Dollar Store had its roots in Richmond County.

NASCAR and drag racing have deep roots in Richmond County as well; note the Rockingham Speedway and the Rockingham Dragway.

The longest-serving Sheriff in North Carolina history – R.W. Goodman – was born and lived here in Richmond County. He was elected 44 years straight, and was the strongest Democrat you’d ever find.

Bucky Covington of American Idol fame is from Richmond County and still has family here and calls the county home. He is now receiving kudos for his first country music album.

At one time, when the railroad was in its hey-day in the 1920s through 1960s, Hamlet was the premier and primary stop between New York City and Jacksonville, Florida.

The movie "Billy Bathgate", starring Dustin Hoffman and Nicole Kidman, was filmed in Hamlet. The soft rock band, Hootie and the Blowfish, filmed a music video at the ruins of an old mill in Rockingham.

Former Governor Jim Hunt’s campaign manager during his statewide races, the late Joe Grimsley, became President of Richmond Community College in 1985 and honorably served the college for many years until he passed away several years ago.

* * * *

ENJOY YOUR VISIT TO RICHMOND COUNTY – A STRONG DEMOCRATIC COUNTY - AND
THE 8TH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT!

Meet the Sponsors of the Democratic Victory Luncheon on January 26, 2008

Though we want every Democratic voter in North Carolina to be aware of this message, the following message is primarily designed for the 700+ persons hailing from each of the the State's 100 counties who will attend the North Carolina Democratic Party's State Executive Committee meeting in Hamlet on January 26, 2008.



To save time during your visit and full day of Democratic Party business, and as a function of our hospitality, you are invited to a FREE lunch hosted by the Richmond County Democratic Party and the Eighth Congressional District.

Because 2008 is going to be a Democratic year, we have named it the "Democratic Victory Luncheon".

However, the persons who have made this Democratic Victory Luncheon possible - as well as the subsequent Democratic victories that will follow in November - are the following SPONSORS who have provided the necessary funds to make lunch available to everyone at no cost. The sponsors are:

Lt. Governor Bev Perdue, candidate for Governor
Treasurer Richard Moore, candidate for Governor

State Senator Kay Hagan, candidate for U.S. Senate
Jim Neal, candidate for U.S. Senate

Jim Long, Insurance Commissioner and dean of the Council of State

State Representative Melanie Wade Goodwin and
former State Representative Wayne Goodwin

Beth Wood, candidate for State Auditor

David Young, County Commissioner and candidate for State Treasurer

Sen. Janet Cowell, candidate for State Treasurer

Joint Sponsors / Candidates for the Court of Appeals
and N.C. Supreme Court
Judge Cheri Beasley (Court of Appeals)
Judge Kristin Ruth (Court of Appeals)
Suzanne Reynolds (Supreme Court)

Of all the luncheon sponsors, the lead or primary sponsors are the two Democratic gubernatorial candidates.

Lunch will be served from 11 a.m. through 12:30 p.m. in the banquet rooms of Cole Auditorium, located at its proud home of Richmond Community College in Hamlet, North Carolina. (The main campus, adjacent to the auditorium, is on West Hamlet Ave., U.S. Highway 74 Business.) So that everyone will have time to eat and make it to the 1 pm start of the official meeting, we respectfully request that attendees eat and then make way for others who will be following them in the banquet room line.

To learn more about the January 2008 State Executive Committee meeting, please go to www.ncdp.org. An early summary about the occasion also appears in the October 15, 2007 blog entry here at "Wayne's World."

Remember this: Due solely to the sponsorships by the above candidates, every person attending the State Executive Committee meeting will enjoy a FREE BBQ & Chicken lunch. Please express your appreciation to the above sponsors for their thoughtfulness in remembering attendees of the State Executive Committee meeting. And, of course, remember them at the polls when you vote in May and November!

Eighth District Hosts Next Board Meeting of "Devout Democrats"

“DEVOUT DEMOCRATS” ALSO ADDS HIGH-PROFILE BOARD MEMBERS: Including Richmond County’s Wayne Goodwin, former legislator

As it prepares for its next Board of Directors meeting in the heart of the Eighth Congressional District, three new board members have been added to the growing list of North Carolina Democratic Party leaders speaking out politically from a progressive theological perspective. One of the new members joining the “Devout Democrats” organization hails from Richmond County.

Wayne Goodwin, who served eight years in the North Carolina House of Representatives and is currently the state's Assistant Commissioner of Insurance, is one of the new Board members. The long-time chairman of the state Democratic Party's Platform Committee and past President of the Young Democrats of North Carolina, he is Vice President of the North Carolina Center for Voter Education and Chairman of the Eighth Congressional District Democratic Executive Committee. Goodwin is also an active lay speaker in the State for the United Methodist Church and a member of the Board of Directors for the Methodist Home for Children. Goodwin, a lifelong member of the United Methodist Church, has regularly taught Sunday School for many years.

"My faith shapes my political philosophy," said Goodwin. "It should bother all persons of faith when some Republican campaigns wrongly assert that their candidates have a ‘monopoly’ on God. Frankly, I believe that we Democrats must do a better job of correcting those erroneous assertions by clearly showing how many core Democratic Party initiatives also reflect religious tenets. Family, faith and values are a vital part of the Democratic Party that I believe in – just as some Republicans view these principles as vital to their own party."

"Notwithstanding, it must be understood that no political party created by Mankind can rightly say it has any sort of monopoly on faith or values," Goodwin added. "We must rely upon our faith and our values – to the best of our abilities - to produce the leaders and the policies that move our Nation forward. For that reason, I am pleased to have joined the leadership team of Devout Democrats, and am eager to continue my mission of giving Democrats of faith a stronger voice.”


Goodwin added, “In fact, all persons of faith – regardless of political party – agree that Jesus taught us to love one another and to help the poor, the needy, and the defenseless. Jesus also taught us to be responsible, and to be productive, hard workers in all that we do. I consider these core American values as well.”

Devout Democrats, an interfaith, grassroots political action committee, is dedicated to showing how the Democratic Party reflects the values of mainstream progressive American religious faith. In addition to its well-known advertisements featuring former UNC-Chapel Hill Coach and Hall of Famer Dean Smith and other religious North Carolinians, in March 2008 the group will hold a conference on religion and politics. Speakers will include Rep. David Price, one of North Carolina’s Democratic Congressmen who also has a divinity degree.

The next Board meeting will be in Hamlet on January 26, 2008.

The Eighth Congressional District Democratic Executive Committee welcomes the organization to the area, and encourages interested persons to take this opportunity learn about the mission of Devout Democrats.

For more information about this organization or to request a Devout Democrats speaker for your community, go to www.devoutdemocrats.org. Or, you may contact Rollin Russell, Co-President, via email (rollinrussell@nc.rr.com) or by phone (919-644-0869).

Insurance Commissioner Jim Long Visits Richmond County

Jim Long

Insurance Commissioner Jim Long – also known as the dean of the Council of State, or “the oldest rat in the barn” (having been bequeathed that moniker from the late Agriculture Commissioner Jim Graham and the late Secretary of State Thad Eure) – joined a throng of fellow partisans for Richmond County’s 2nd Annual Morrison-Deane-Goodman Democratic Dinner & Rally. Richmond County Democrats recall that he attended the event last year as well, making him one of a handful of State officials and candidates who have joined the rally both years.

As he does at every rally where he is given – no, takes – the opportunity to speak, Commissioner Long wowed the crowd with why Democrats are needed to win up and down the ballot. He reminded folks how a few people, particularly the out-of-State insurance company CEOs, would love to see him defeated. But he will not give them the satisfaction: In 2008 he is up for a seventh term. In 2004 he led the ticket with more than 58% of the Statewide vote.

Jim Long also took the chance at the rally to have fun at the expense of Assistant Commissioner of Insurance Wayne Goodwin, who was busy snapping photos and floating around the room meeting with the 200+ Democrats. “We are so thankful that Melanie was elected to the House of Representatives to succeed Wayne. Her joining the General Assembly and his joining the Department of Insurance raised the IQ of both places,” he quipped with a smile. Earlier in the evening he joined a hearty crowd of supporters at the historic Hamlet Depot, all who turned out for the re-election announcement of State Representative Melanie Wade Goodwin.

During his service thus far as Insurance Commissioner, Jim Long has saved Tar Heel consumers more than $4 billion on auto insurance premiums alone. When you count homeowners' insurance premiums, his successful attempts to rein in insurance costs equals savings for consumers greater than $5 billion. Commissioner Long does everything in his power for the best interests of the consumer. Topping his list is low, affordable, reasonable insurance premiums. Moreover, he has helped keep a competitive insurance market in North Carolina.

Jim Long deserves reelection to the office of Insurance Commissioner in 2008.

To learn more about the Jim Long campaign and his service, check out www.jimlong.org and www.ncdoi.com

# # #

Note to Reader: This is one in a series of synoptic posts about Statewide candidates who attended the Richmond County 2nd Annual Morrison-Deane-Goodman Democratic Dinner & Rally in Hamlet on November 8. Given that I serve as chair of the 8th Congressional District Democratic Executive Committee and am prohibited from endorsing in a primary, these posts are not and must not be interpreted as endorsements of any kind other than for Democratic candidates generally. I post these for information only, and encourage friends and supporters (and candidates themselves) who are willing to feel free to post their own comments to this entry.

Eddie Davis, Candidate for Superintendent of Public Instruction, Visits Richmond County

Eddie Davis

Eddie Davis, NCAE President and candidate for Superintendent of Public Instruction, visited Richmond County on November 8th for the 2nd Annual Morrison-Deane-Goodman Democratic Dinner & Rally.

Preceding his appearance at the podium and in true educator form, Eddie gave a pop quiz to attendees about Hamlet and Richmond County history. Eddie was especially fond of how Hamlet is the true birthplace of jazz giant John Coltrane. The candidate also spoke about his credentials and his plan for the Department of Public Instruction if elected. In spirited form Eddie rallied the audience of 200+ Democrats by reminding them that Democratic legislators have pushed through legislation that reduced class size, raised teacher pay and added accountability in the classroom, and helped make North Carolina a model for education reform, and how he would work for even greater resources and improvements for Tar Heel schools.

Eddie has taught in both elementary and high schools, and served on the State Board of Education (appointed by then-Governor Jim Hunt) where he focused on school accountability, closing the minority achievement gap, and student discipline.

His slogan is “Standing Tall for Public Education.”

He has chosen to participate in the State’s newly-enacted public financing program for this campaign.

To date, I am not aware of a campaign website or campaign blog for this candidate. This entry will be revised upon notification of an official site.

# # #

Note to Reader: This is one in a series of synoptic posts about Statewide candidates who attended the Richmond County 2nd Annual Morrison-Deane-Goodman Democratic Dinner & Rally in Hamlet on November 8. Given that I serve as chair of the 8th Congressional District Democratic Executive Committee and am prohibited from endorsing in a primary, these posts are not and must not be interpreted as endorsements of any kind other than for Democratic candidates generally. I post these for information only, and encourage friends and supporters (and candidates themselves) who are willing to feel free to post their own comments to this entry.

Michael Weisel, State Treasurer candidate, visits Richmond County

Michael Weisel

Michael Weisel – an attorney and candidate for State Treasurer - attended Richmond County’s 2nd Annual Morrison-Deane-Goodman Democratic Dinner & Rally on November 8th in Hamlet.

With apologies to the State Treasurer candidates whose appearance on the evening agenda came after some of the other Statewide officeholders/candidates addressed the crowd (notwithstanding the vast importance for the Office of State Treasurer), Michael engaged the 200+ Democrats in attendance with a description of what the responsibilities are for the post.

He also emphasized his qualifications (VP–Equity, Wells Fargo Bank; VP-Portfolio Manager, Kemper Financial Services; Member, NC State Banking Commission; Member, NC Board of Community Colleges; Trustee, NC Teachers’ and State Employees’ Retirement Systems; et al.) and his plans for the Office of State Treasurer.

He told Richmond County Democrats that “I believe the job of State Treasurer is more than just managing money; it’s about helping people to manage their own futures. ... As your Treasurer, I’ll work full time protecting your investments and ensure they grow at a healthy rate.”

A 1996 candidate for Treasurer and past chairman of the Wake County Democratic Party, Michael has been endorsed by Dennis Ducker, the former Deputy State Treasurer.

Michael Weisel and any one of the Democratic candidates for Treasurer would make an excellent successor to current Treasurer and 2008 gubernatorial candidate Richard Moore.

To learn more about the Michael Weisel campaign, check out www.weisel2008.org.

# # #

Note to Reader: This is one in a series of synoptic posts about Statewide candidates who attended the Richmond County 2nd Annual Morrison-Deane-Goodman Democratic Dinner & Rally in Hamlet on November 8. Given that I serve as chair of the 8th Congressional District Democratic Executive Committee and am prohibited from making endorsements in a primary, these posts are not and must not be interpreted as endorsements of any kind other than for Democratic candidates generally. I post these for information only, and encourage friends and supporters (and candidates themselves) who are willing to feel free to post their own comments to this entry.

Pat Smathers for Lt. Governor campaign visits Richmond County

Pat Smathers

Even though Canton Mayor and Lt. Governor candidate Pat Smathers was unable to visit Richmond County personally last week due to a Buncombe County court case that ran late, we were very honored to have his son and law student Zeb Smathers at the 2nd Annual Morrison-Deane-Goodman Democratic Dinner & Rally. In fact, Zeb (on behalf of his father) is one of only a couple Statewide campaigns that have attended both dinners.

Zeb very capably stood in for his Dad and got right to the point with the audience of 200+ Democrats. He said that Pat Smathers would ensure that local governments and small towns are better represented in State government if elected as Lt. Governor. Even more poignant was the following point: Pat Smathers is the only candidate for Lt. Governor with military service – a Lt. Colonel in the National Guard. Given that the current Lt. Governor has led the charge in promoting the role of the military in North Carolina’s economy, Mayor Smathers insists that it is more than fitting that North Carolina’s next Lt. Governor has both military experience and local government experience.

Pat Smathers is running for lieutenant governor because he believes “empowering communities to determine their own futures creates a stronger state for all of us. By encouraging "local leadership, statewide," we can build a better North Carolina.” Zeb added this about his father, "North Carolinians deserve a leader who will meet our state’s challenges with openness, optimism and invested innovations. As lieutenant governor, Pat Smathers will honor those hometown values we all share."

I am very impressed with Pat Smathers and, regardless of the 2008 outcome, predict that we will also see Zeb’s name on the ballot one day.

Pat Smathers and any one of the Democratic candidates for Lt. Governor would make an excellent successor to current Lt. Governor and 2008 gubernatorial candidate Bev Perdue.

To learn more about the Pat Smathers campaign, check out www.patsmathers2008.org.

# # #

Note to Reader: This is one in a series of synoptic posts about Statewide candidates who attended the Richmond County 2nd Annual Morrison-Deane-Goodman Democratic Dinner & Rally in Hamlet on November 8. Given that I serve as chair of the 8th Congressional District Democratic Executive Committee and am prohibited from making endorsements in a primary, these posts are not and must not be interpreted as endorsements of any kind other than for Democratic candidates generally. I post these for information only, and encourage friends and supporters (and candidates themselves) who are willing to feel free to post their own comments to this entry.

Hamp Dellinger, candidate for Lt. Governor, visits Richmond County

Hampton Dellinger

Former special legal counsel to Governor Mike Easley, Lt. Governor candidate Hampton (Hamp) Dellinger of Durham visited Richmond County last week for the 2nd Annual Morrison-Deane-Goodman Democratic Dinner & Rally.

Richmond County Democrats recall that he also held a meet-and-greet at the Hamlet Public Library immediately beforehand. Hamp’s father served as Solicitor General for President Bill Clinton.

Tossing aside his coat, Hamp cheered on the 200+ Democrats. He rallied the audience by reminding them why we are all Democrats and why he is a candidate for Lt. Governor. “I'm running for Lieutenant Governor because, having worked in the Governor's office, I know firsthand the crises that can confront state leaders. I am prepared to lead this state through any challenge. I also know the daily demands on a Governor's time and the unique opportunity the Lieutenant Governor has to think not just about the next meeting but about the next year, the next decade, the next generation,” he said. “To help make North Carolina ‘Number One’, I need your help in making me North Carolina’s ‘Number Two,’” he added.

Hamp’s campaign is being assisted locally in Richmond County by Gerard Morrison, a Hamlet native and young African-American leader and longtime friend of mine.

He is an energetic candidate whose enthusiasm for public service shines through.

Hampton Dellinger and any one of the Democratic candidates for Lt. Governor would make an excellent successor to current Lt. Governor and 2008 gubernatorial candidate Bev Perdue.

To learn more about the Hampton Dellinger campaign, check out www.hd08.com or www.hdforltgov.com.

# # #

Note to Reader: This is one in a series of synoptic posts about Statewide candidates who attended the Richmond County 2nd Annual Morrison-Deane-Goodman Democratic Dinner & Rally in Hamlet on November 8. Given that I serve as chair of the 8th Congressional District Democratic Executive Committee and am prohibited from endorsing in a primary, these posts are not and must not be interpreted as endorsements of any kind other than for Democratic candidates generally. I post these for information only, and encourage friends and supporters (and candidates themselves) who are willing to feel free to post their own comments to this entry.

Walter Dalton, candidate for Lt. Governor, visits Richmond County

Walter Dalton

State Senator and Lt. Governor candidate Walter Dalton of Rutherfordton visited Richmond County last week for the 2nd Annual Morrison-Deane-Goodman Democratic Dinner & Rally. Richmond County Democrats recall that he attended the county convention earlier this year in April. Senator Dalton also serves as co-chair of the powerful Senate Appropriations Committee.

As he did at the earlier county convention, at this year’s rally Walter spoke in the spirited form he has adopted for the campaign trail. He rallied the audience of 200+ Democrats by reminding them that he and Democratic legislators pushed through legislation that reduced class size, raised teacher pay and added accountability in the classroom, and helped make North Carolina a model for education reform. Of great interest to Richmond County Democrats, who all have been hit hard by manufacturing job losses, was his efforts to promote tax incentives for areas that have been hardest hit by this economic tsunami.

Walter’s campaign is managed by Morgan Jackson, who many 8th District Democrats recall worked for former Congressman Bill Hefner. State Senator Bill Purcell, former State Senator Richard Conder, and former Lt. Governor Bob Jordan all support Walter’s campaign. Furthermore, both Melanie and I have had the honor and pleasure of serving with Walter in the legislature. He is a hard-working lawmaker who has labored for his district with distinction.

Walter Dalton and any one of the Democratic candidates for Lt. Governor would make an excellent successor to current Lt. Governor and 2008 gubernatorial candidate Bev Perdue.

To learn more about the Walter Dalton campaign, check out www.walterdalton.org.

# # #

Note to Reader: This is one in a series of synoptic posts about Statewide candidates who attended the Richmond County 2nd Annual Morrison-Deane-Goodman Democratic Dinner & Rally in Hamlet on November 8. Given that I serve as chair of the 8th Congressional District Democratic Executive Committee and am prohibited from endorsing in a primary, these posts are not and must not be interpreted as endorsements of any kind other than for Democratic candidates generally. I post these for information only, and encourage friends and supporters (and candidates themselves) who are willing to feel free to post their own comments to this entry.

Dan Besse, candidate for Lt. Governor, visits Richmond County

Dan Besse

Winston-Salem alderman and Lt. Governor candidate Dan Besse visited Richmond County last week for the 2nd Annual Morrison-Deane-Goodman Democratic Dinner & Rally. He is one of only a couple Statewide candidates who have attended both dinners. (In fact, he also won a door prize last year!)

As the first speaker at this year’s rally, Dan told the audience of 200+ Democrats that he is not your typical local government pol: He has served as a vocal, active participant on various statewide boards and commissions for land use, clean air and water resources for the last 20 years. He also stated, “I believe that North Carolina needs experienced leadership with demonstrated commitment to the ideals of economic and educational opportunity for all, and stewardship of our clean air and water, our green and productive land, and our people's health.”

Having heard him speak on many occasions over the years – and more so since his entry into the Lt. Governor’s race – Dan has honed his message and delivery. His pronounced commitment to environmental issues and an emphasis on his local government service hit his intended mark with the Richmond County community: The county fought off a low-level radioactive waste facility, a hazardous waste facility, and a mega-landfill over the last 16 years, plus the county’s leaders have time and again voiced concerns to State government that it should not create unfunded mandates on local government, particularly on the less-affluent, less-populous counties. He is a hard-working elected official who has labored for his constituents with distinction. I am also impressed with his diligence and dedicated efforts to work on finding solutions for difficult problems faced by his constituents and the State at-large.

Dan Besse and any one of the Democratic candidates for Lt. Governor would make an excellent successor to current Lt. Governor and 2008 gubernatorial candidate Bev Perdue.

To learn more about the Dan Besse campaign, check out www.danbesse2008.org.

# # #

Note to Reader: This is one in a series of synoptic posts about Statewide candidates who attended the Richmond County 2nd Annual Morrison-Deane-Goodman Democratic Dinner & Rally in Hamlet on November 8. Given that I serve as chair of the 8th Congressional District Democratic Executive Committee and am prohibited from making endorsements in a primary, these posts are not and must not be interpreted as endorsements of any kind other than for Democratic candidates generally. I post these for information only, and encourage friends and supporters (and candidates themselves) who are willing to feel free to post their own comments to this entry.