End of Summer Update

September 8, 2005

Hello! This is the first of three e-mail newsletters I will send during the fall updating you on the campaign and county board work.

Campaign 2005 Snippets

Smashing Summer Fundraiser - We had a wildly successful event on June 17 at the Arlington Arts Center. Over 250 attended and heard from Democratic candidates for Governor and Lt. Governor, Tim Kaine and Leslie Byrne. Thanks to all who attended, contributed and volunteered!

Opponent-less - For the first time since 1996, the Democratic County Board nominee (me) is unopposed, however this is no excuse to slow down the campaign. We will work hard to turn out voters for the critical statewide races led by Tim Kaine, and to help Ed Fendley in his race for the School Board.

Phone Bank Volunteers Needed - The Fisette campaign is hosting volunteer nights at the Kaine phone bank. If interested, please call Jason Faberman at (703) 946-2589 or e-mail him at fabermanj@yahoo.com.

Yard Signs - If you want a Fisette yard sign, either contact us through our website (www.fisette.org) or call Jason at (703) 946-2589.

Upcoming House Parties - plan to join us on either:

• Wednesday, September 28 at the home of Freddie Lutz
• Tuesday, October 4 at the home of Dave Musel and Mike Fortunato

Visit http://www.fisette.org/calendar.phtml for more information on either event

Chili Cook-off People's Choice Award Winner - Fisette for Arlington Family Member, Jean Crawford, brought home the gold for Team Fisette by winning the People's Choice Award during this year's Arlington Democrats Chili Cook-off held at Lyon's Park on Labor Day, September 5.

County Fair - Jay attended the County Fair 3 of its 4 days, meeting people, answering questions, and eating great fair food.

Good Luck Aimee! - Fisette for Arlington Family Member Aimee Dawson (and the campaign manager's longtime girlfriend) left for the University of Chicago to study public policy. Jay has suggested that Marc submerse himself in campaign work to fill the void.

County Issues And Noteworthy News

Affordable Housing Roundtable

Affordable housing is Arlington's greatest single challenge. The Roundtable was convened by the County Board in an effort to refine our policy regarding contributions to our affordable housing needs from developers. The Roundtable met regularly through July, and will reconvene in September.

BRAC - Base Relocation and Closure Commission

The BRAC Commission endorsed most of the Secretary of Defense's misguided recommendations to evacuate leased space in the region. Thus, Arlington is slated to lose 18,000 DOD jobs over the next 6-8 years - more than any other jurisdiction in the U.S. With bi-partisan support, we provided exceptional testimony and materials - and saved nearly 2,000 key research jobs. There will be disruption, but with our assets intact, Arlington will adapt and thrive.

Equality Virginia

EV's April Commonwealth Dinner doubled last year's turnout with a sold-out crowd of 1,200 in Richmond. Dr. Julian Bond, President of the NAACP gave a rousing keynote address and Gov. Warner and his wife made a surprise appearance. (www.EqualityVirginia.org)

Community Bike Ride and WABA Award

Arlington's first-ever Community Bike Ride was a big success with 400 riders and beautiful weather. Promoting walking and biking was part of Jay's 2005 goals as Board Chairman. The ride is likely to become an annual event.

And the Washington Area Bicyclist Association (WABA) presented Jay with their 2005 James B. Hunter Award for "visionary leadership in bicycle transportation."

Katrina, Emergency Preparedness and Peak Oil

The devastation and human suffering in the Gulf is hard to watch. Arlington is sending personnel to assist. For updated local information and advise on worthy charities, check the Arlington County website at www.arlingtonva.us. Katrina teaches us all the importance of personal emergency preparation.

Energy conservation and alternative sources will soon be a growing concern locally and nationally. Arlington's current smart growth and environmental policies, grounded in sustainability, have prepared us well and will be expanded.

50TH Anniversary

Jay and Bob joined the rest of Jay's family in August to celebrate his parents' 50th anniversary. Margot and Jerry look great, and will visit Arlington again in September - Stay tuned for appearances by this venerated couple at Jay's upcoming campaign events!

Thanks for your ongoing support. Please contact me if I can be helpful in any way…and visit the website at www.fisette.org for more information.