Picture of the Day, Caption Contest?

Thanks to Chap Petersen for this photo. Hey, why were all the Democrats on the "red team?" :)

P.S. Feel free to leave you suggested caption in the comments section. Also, can you name every politician in this photo? (Hint: click on this link)

From the "Too Fun Not to Mention" File

Asked about his approaching First Annual Eastern Shore gathering, state Senator Ralph Northam (D-7th) would cock his head, a gleam in his eye, and tell you first, in an almost whispered, reverent tone, "You know Black Elvis will be there!" If more distinctive than Eastern Shore fare and camaraderie, this had to be a treat.

All that attended, and there were many from all over his geographically challenged district, were treated to the group's stylings in addition to the steamed clams, oysters, fried chicken, barbeque, fixens, and beverages. The five hour event was attended by a long list of electeds of various political persuasions who came to the Northam family homestead a couple of miles from central Onancock and Mallard's at the Wharf, where Northam kicked off his successful first run for the Virginia Senate flanked by local Delegate Lynnwood Lewis (D-100th-Eastern Shore/Norfolk) a little over two years ago. Last Friday, they came from Mathews County, Newport News, Norfolk, and regions beyond the district. Among them was state Senator John Miller (D-1st) and many others.

Black Elvis, nee Clarence Giddens, was born and raised on the Eastern Shore of Virginia. He grew up singing gospel music in a little country church that his mother loved. The group is eclectic and reflects his musical influences including James Brown, Roy C., and Elvis Presley. He has appeared on an a number of shows including "The Arsenio Hall Show", "Inside Edition", "Hard Copy", "Entertainment Tonight", "Geraldo Show", and "Howard Stern". He has sung with many other famous artists including Al Greene, Solomon Burke, and Jimmy Buffett. You should remember him from the movie "Honeymoon in Vegas," starring, James Caan, Nicholas Cage, and Sarah Jessica Parker.

Can't wait until next year to continue this tradition.

Cross posted at VBDems

Mathews County Democrats' Crab Fest 2009

The Mathews County Democrats packed them in last night for their annual Crab Fest. Perennial attendees Brian Moran and Senator Creigh Deeds waved off, but the very popular Senator Ralph Northam (D-6th) came to speak for the statewide candidates and remind everyone why this year's Virginia elections are so important.

Across the room of crab, corn, three bean salad, and chicken feasters, you can make out Mathews County Democratic Committee Chair Cynthia Burton flanked by the evening's two speakers, Senator Northam and recently announced candidate for the 1st U.S. Congressional District, Scott Robinson. The Senator Deeds and Jody Wagner campaign representatives circulated, provided information (and popcorn), and answered questions from the attendees while learning the art of consuming blue shell crab.

"If we don't do something about transportation soon, we are going to be driving on dirt roads again." – Senator Northam

Senator Northam decried the lack of progress in the General Assembly on matters essential to Virginia's economy and public safety, highlighting the transportation woes as a prime example of the Republican obstructionism that is moving Virginia in reverse. Talk across the tables included discussion of other issues important to rural Virginians such as the national health care debate and the mean spirited attacks against President Obama. And while there is much comment about activist fatigue among insiders, one reassuring fact about the attendance here was that a whole lot of faces not seen in the four years I have attended beginning with the Webb campaign were in the crowd. Is there a new, reasonable silent majority developing?

Cross posted at Blue Commonwealth