Thursday, December 6, 2008...Swain County - Redemption! The bus driver earned his stripes overnight driving us from Chowan County to Mocksville where we caught a few hours sleep and arose to finish our drive to Swain County. GOP leaders were waiting to help us set up the BBQ. They decorated the room for Christmas from the GOP float entered into the local Christmas parade. According to Mike Clampitt it was the first time in 75 years the Swain GOP entered a float. Guest numbers in Swain were what we expected although we had the addition of one - Paul, the young Democrat who videotapes Fred's speech regularly for the NC Democrats. Guess they're still trying to figure out what they can say to detract from Fred's sound strategic plan for our state. Told him I was surprised to see him and he quipped, "who could pass up a free trip to the mountains." The mountain counties are important to Fred on many levels (no pun intended) - unlike other candidates who visit only the most populated counties, Fred believes every county is important. He likes that they value their right to vote and he knows they can make a difference in this campaign. He also appreciates their strong commitment to conservative values and their willingness to work to help us elect a Republican governor. Swain County, thank you for a great visit.