The weather was perfect. The park was pristine. The food was plentiful and delicious. The music was ear-catching and fun. Family, friends and supporters were numerous. Commissioner Colvin’s Fall Food-Truck Festival was a huge success!
There are so many people to thank for helping to make the day possible.
All of the incredible food vendors did an amazing job of keeping the food hot and ready and providing what people were looking for. We had Farm.Fork.Soul, Chaptico Market, The Jamaican Grill, Uncle D’s Grill and CC’s Sugar Shack. It was amazing seeing them work together to support one another and set up in a “food court” style in the park.
The musical talent was unparalleled! The local band “Summer Breeze” did a great job providing music throughout the entire time. Families throughout the park enjoyed their easy listening songs and it was evident the joy and fun they have performing. The star of the day was, without a doubt, 11 year old Mallory Kearns and her singing of the National Anthem–she blew everyone away! And one of the most special parts of the day was Joey Hoopengardner explaining some local history and singing the St. Mary’s County song. That was a treasure!
Recreation and Parks staff–they were amazing. They ensured that the pavilion was clean and ready and that we had all of the access that we needed. (Our campaign did follow all policies in renting the park and paying for extra staff oversight)
And finally, the volunteers that helped out–I can’t express how much I appreciate them all. Ron Bailey (Southern Maryland Photo Boss) and Tony Avak both provided incredible photography of the day. John and Sharon Brown generously gave their time to help out and work my information table. My family members assisted with setup, cleanup and food sampling!
It was invigorating and inspiring to see so many community members come out to support and enjoy the day. Some who have been long time supporters and some who I met for the first time that day. I appreciate them all.
I was especially honored that we had numerous elected officials come and offer their support and endorsements. Senator Jack Bailey, Sheriff Tim Cameron and Captain Steve Hall all took turns speaking and provided some very touching words and strong endorsements. Also in attendance was Board of Education Chair Karin Bailey, Commissioner President Randy Guy, Board of Education member Rita Weaver, Republican Central Committee Chair David Willenborg, Ann Arundel Assistant State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling, Planning Commission Chair Howard Thompson, Planning Commission member and St. Clement’s Hundred President Tony Joe St. Clair, 7th District Optimist Club President Mike Kopel, Housing Authority Board Member Roy Alvey, Register of Wills Phyllis Superior, Clerk of the Court Debbie Mills Burch, Candidate for Commissioner Scott Ostrow, the Southern Maryland Jazz Ambassador Wynne Briscoe, and Maryland Young Republican Chair Jason Stein.
I kept my comments brief. I expressed my desire to continue to serve the residents of St. Mary’s County and how much I have enjoyed the job as Commissioner for St. Mary’s County District 1. It was a great day. A day spent enjoying delicious food, listening to great music, and families enjoying a beautiful playground. It made me excited and proud to continue to serve St. Mary’s County. If you weren’t able to attend, I would still love your support! There are several ways you can help, read more about how you can help here.
If you would like to view the full comments, Ron Bailey provided a video that is about 20 minutes long and you can view it on my YouTube page here. Be sure to watch the National Anthem and St. Mary’s County song…you won’t be disappointed!
