Campaigning in Northern Virginia on Derby Day

May 3, 2008

Senator Deeds began the day with a stop at the 81st Annual Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival in Winchester. The festival is comprised of more than thirty events ranging from a firefighters parade to a bluegrass festival. Deeds attended the annual Sports Breakfast and listened to this year's featured guest, former Chicago Bear Gayle Sayers. Following the breakfast, he was a special guest at the Grand Marshal's Reception as well as Senator Russ Potts' annual party in Winchester.

Senator Deeds made one other stop while in Winchester: a party hosted by former Delegate Al Smith's family. Delegate Smith's passing in March was a deeply saddening loss for many in Virginia who remember his leadership and fairness while serving in the House of Delegates.

After the morning festivities, Deeds attended Virginia's Gold Cup steeplechase race in Fauquier County. The race is a sprint tradition held every year since 1922. All proceeds benefited the Great Meadow Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the environment.

He ended his day up the day at the Braddock District Democratic Committee's annual Derby Days event to watch the Kentucky Derby with the Democratic candidates for the 11th Congressional district race.