Dear Friends, Neighbors, and citizens of Fairfax:

Few activities in life are as humbling as asking people for money, especially people you know.  When I first ran for Delegate, I needed $100,000 to start.  I didn't have it.  So I had to call people.

"Hello, Uncle Fred?  It's Chap.  How 's the family?  Can I count on you for $250?"  (Note:  names have been changed to protect the innocent)

After weeks, it was clear I couldn't do it alone.  So I asked some fellow attorneys to host a fundraising event.  We were in our early thirties, just a few years out of school.  

I called the group "The Young Lawyers" to make it sound official and mailed an invite to everyone I knew.  A restaurant client hosted for free.  Expecting just a few people, we reserved the smallest room and one bartender.  We expected wrong. 

That night we packed the house and a tradition was born.

This year marks the 10th annual "Young Lawyers" event.  Two of my original hosts (Scott Surovell and Steve Shannon) have established their own political careers.  But I'm still here and "YL" continues to be my biggest fundraiser and favorite event. 

This year "Young Lawyers" will be at Icons Sports Bar and Grill in downtown Fairfax City on Thursday, June 10th.  All details are here.  Valet parking is available.  Sponsorship and RSVP info is here.  Everyone is invited and the first 100 attendees get a free "Chap Petersen is My Advocate!" travel mug.  Donations are not required to attend but it's a fundraiser.   Thanks for being part of the tradition. 

JCP Notes:  It's going to be a great Memorial Day weekend.  If you're a biker, I will see you at Patriot Harley Davidson in Fairfax on Sunday, May 30th for the annual "Ride of the Patriots."  Then Sunday and Monday afternoon, I'll be sharing a booth with Delegate Mark Keam at Viva Vienna sponsored by the Vienna Rotary.  Have a safe weekend and remember those who sacrificed their lives for our freedoms.

If you need to contact us this summer, we are at kathy@fairfaxsenator.com or 703-349-3361.  I'm still blogging on at www.oxroadsouth.com.

Let us know how we can represent you better.

Sincerely,

Chap Petersen