Ronald George

ANNAPOLIS - The Maryland Republican Party began energizing party members on Thursday for the presidential election by participating in the First National McCain Nation Event. With 10 locations throughout the state, the MDGOP sought to organize Republicans, recruit volunteers and get the message out.

Speaking at the MDGOP headquarters in Annapolis, former first lady Kendell Ehrlich said "leadership and character" were among the two most important qualities a presidential candidate could have. "And I think John McCain is someone we should be excited about on both these fronts."