About 350 people gathered at the Greenbrier Marriot Tuesday evening for a fundraiser for Del. Lionell Spruill, Sr.
Kicking things off was 3rd district Congressman Bobby Scott. The Congressman, who had appeared earlier in the day at the Obama/Deeds rally, was unable to stay for dinner.
Following him was Sheriff John Newhart, a long-time friend of Del. Spruill’s and a candidate for re-election in November. Acting as MC for the event was Norfolk Del. Kenny Alexander, a picture of whom – surprisingly enough – I didn’t get. Although the event was not a roast this year, Alexander – and others – got in some good-natured ribbing of Spruill.
The next speaker was LG candidate Jody Wagner, who had also attended the earlier Obama rally.
Gubernatorial candidate Creigh Deeds was up next. Those in attendance gave him a standing ovation when he was introduced.
After dinner, Del. Spruill was presented with an award from the VEA for all of his hard work on behalf of public education.
Del. Spruill then took a few moments to thank everyone there. He also introduced our speaker for the evening, Rev. Dwight C. Jones, currently the mayor of Richmond. 
Jones is a former member of the House of Delegates – he and Spruill actually entered the House in the same class – and was also the chairman of the Legislative Black Caucus, a position now held by Del. Alexander.
You know if you put a minister behind a podium, you’re going to get a sermon 🙂 Tuesday evening was no different. By the time he finished, Jones had the assembled group on their feet, just like a Sunday morning service.
A great time was had by all. Kudos to Susan Rowland, chief of staff for Del. Spruill, for pulling off another terrific event.
VIVIAN J. PAIGE | All Politics is Local 
Isn’t he unopposed? What does he need the money for?
This is a regular fundraiser Spruill has every fall. And while he’s unopposed, he raises money to help the others who aren’t. Take a look here.