Congratulations

A bit late-- the corks have long been popped...

I just wanted to take a moment and thank all of your BlueNCers for your efforts over the past year in making 2008 the most successful election in North Carolina in my lifetime.

Your advocacy propelled the stunning victories of Kay and Larry-- two outsiders who worked incredibly hard to beat entrenched incumbents. Bev-- our first female Governor- was lifted over-the-top in a very competitive Gubernatorial race in which every vote was critical. Then there were the slew of first-time statewide candidates including Walter Dalton, Janet, Beth Wood, Wayne Goodwin and God-knows whom else I forgot. It was a good year for new faces; the vintage 2008 political vine has an impressive body and texture

I've watched this site grow, evolve and improve over the past year. James and Betsy-- you done good.

There's much to celebrate-- in Raleigh and Washington-- between now and January 20th. Thereafter, the rubber hits the road; a very bumpy road.

Engaged as the people of our state were-- be they candidate, volunteer or vocal member of the fifth estate-- our democracy is all the stronger. This was a transformational year beyond the victories here and that of Barack Obama.

I have beaten this phrase to death but is no less true now than ever: you were the voices of change.

Keep shouting out.....

Jim Neal