Dear George:

Well, here it finally is, a review of Rustberg:

210 of the 307 delegates attended the 5th district convention May 20th. Albemarle Co. had 12 of 20 delegates and Charlottesville had 21 of 25.

The Acheson award was given Jim Severt, previously Virgil Goode's chief of staff, for the political courage he displayed in quitting his job when Virgil Goode voted to impeach President Clinton.

All elected officials present in the audience were introduced. All received polite applause except for our own Virginia Daugherty who was welcomed with a roar of applause and hoots and hollars.

A standing vote was taken for Presidential Elector. Carl Eggleston, who politicked shamelessly from the podium, received 140 votes, while Steve Koleszar, receiving 73 votes, remained seated in the audience for the majority of the time.

The following delegates were elected to go to the National Convention: Shelia Baynes, Joyce Glaise, Josephine Marshall, a young college student, Mr Bailey, Eggleston (who shamelessly politicked over the objections from some in the audience again), and Joseph Rhames as alternate.

The Resolutions Committee did not attend and a resolution on health care, after being accused of being put forth by Lyndon LaRouche, was tabled.

The keynote speakers were three young men. All were Young Democrats -- one high school student (who was the only one in the room who refused to stand in applause for Jim Severt), a college student -- Mr. Bailey, again, and a recent college graduate, who appears to be the next gifted speech writer.

John Boyd was nominated by Woody Hanes, seconded, with a second by his mother, who spoke with the intonation and furvor of a preacher. At this point, Alan Hale came to the podium to speak. It was quite confusing for a while until we realized it was a concession speech. He asked that John Boyd be chosen by acclamation. His incredibly gracious speech brought me, John Boyd, and many others in the audience to tears and certainly, everyone to their feet.

John Boyd's acceptence speech described the hurdles ahead and attempted to bring the factions of pro- and anti-Virgil together. Only the election in November will tell if he was successful.

Now its off to Norfolk this Friday and Saturday for the State Democratic Convention and even, I hope, more moving speeches.

Ellora Young (electronic mail, May 30, 2000).