It is now time for the voters to speak. The campaign has been vigorous and long. We have shaken hands, knocked on doors, and spoken before groups, large and small. Council at large candidates and District candidates have debated issues and answered questions from concerned residents. Campaign signs have littered roadways and street corners across the county. Mailings have been sent, reviving the postal service coffers and burdening our mail carriers.
The next step belongs to the informed voter. Have we heard your voices; addressed your concerns? Have I, as a candidate answered your questions? Do you still have the faith that the “system” and your government can and will work for you? I do, and that is the backbone of my campaign; that your local government should work to serve the community. I was raised in a town in Massachusetts which still has the local town meeting to address local concerns, so I believe in participatory democracy. That cannot easily translate to a county of one million people, but it does mean that I understand and will feel the pulse of the various communities that comprise District 2. From Barnesville and Sandy Spring to Germantown, Montgomery Village, and Olney, and other communities large and small, District 2 has many voices; I pledge to listen to each of you. I have lived here for more than 30 years and raised my two children here. I have seen Montgomery County double in population, become more urban and more diverse. I have been a part of the fabric of this community and met many of you through my many business, volunteer, civic and political activities.
I promise to each of you that my door will be open and I will take the time necessary to make your county work for you. I will use your dollars wisely and conserve our resources. I will work to help our small businesses and protect our environment. I am not a tool of the special interests; you – the voters – are my special interest. Please go to the polls on Tuesday, give me your vote and allow me to serve you, your friends and neighbors.
Thanks,
Sharon Dooley
Monday, September 13, 2010
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Campaign Trail Update
First the really great news--I have been endorsed by the Montgomery County Gazette Newspapers! That is exciting news and has really energized me and my campaign team; not that we weren't out there in an active fashion, but it is always good to have validation of ones' beliefs and efforts. Go to the home page on my campaign website to find the link to the editorial and to some excerpts from my recent appearance on Charles Duffy's Political Pulse interview show.
This has been a week of contrasts--our last public debate was held this week in the Goshen area; once again the message I was sending from my "can do" campaign was seen to be resonating with the voters in attendance. My common sense message of getting the job done is being heard. My voice speaking out strongly for accountability and fiscal restraint is also being appreciated. The voters have voiced their approval of my firm message of independence and of not being tied to special interests. They do appreciate that my election will give them someone who will hear their messages and address their concerns.
Another event was the Seneca Potomac Democratic clubs annual Ice Cream Social, a gathering in Montgomery Village for candidates, voters and elected officials alike. It is the best type of event, good people, few long speeches and lots of ice cream!
Sometimes one hears poignant stories when door knocking. This week I spoke with two women who had been treated for breast cancer. One voiced concerns about insurability and follow-up care and told me of her struggles; she fortunately has had no complications. The other was a woman whose breast cancer has metastasized to her brain and her time with us is limited. Still she told me that she would plan on giving me her vote. My heart went out to both of these courageous women; their outlooks were positive and they each could smile. I had to walk away blinking back tears.
It is for people such as these that I have served as a nurse and been an advocate for better health care coverage for everyone. Can we as a country promise these women and their families anything less?
This week the council candidates have a meet and greet in Montgomery Village and a TV taping of a live Q&A on Channel 21 sponsored by the League of Women Voters. I do not know when the show will air but look at the campaign home page for updates. Soon candidate PSAs will be shown on MCPTV. Look for mine!
The push to Primary Day is getting even tighter--early voting will begin on September 3. Upcounty sites are at the Germantown Recreation Center and the Bauer Drive Rec. Center off Norbeck Road. Absentee ballots have already been sent out, so if you have requested one--you should have it soon.
This has been a week of contrasts--our last public debate was held this week in the Goshen area; once again the message I was sending from my "can do" campaign was seen to be resonating with the voters in attendance. My common sense message of getting the job done is being heard. My voice speaking out strongly for accountability and fiscal restraint is also being appreciated. The voters have voiced their approval of my firm message of independence and of not being tied to special interests. They do appreciate that my election will give them someone who will hear their messages and address their concerns.
Another event was the Seneca Potomac Democratic clubs annual Ice Cream Social, a gathering in Montgomery Village for candidates, voters and elected officials alike. It is the best type of event, good people, few long speeches and lots of ice cream!
Sometimes one hears poignant stories when door knocking. This week I spoke with two women who had been treated for breast cancer. One voiced concerns about insurability and follow-up care and told me of her struggles; she fortunately has had no complications. The other was a woman whose breast cancer has metastasized to her brain and her time with us is limited. Still she told me that she would plan on giving me her vote. My heart went out to both of these courageous women; their outlooks were positive and they each could smile. I had to walk away blinking back tears.
It is for people such as these that I have served as a nurse and been an advocate for better health care coverage for everyone. Can we as a country promise these women and their families anything less?
This week the council candidates have a meet and greet in Montgomery Village and a TV taping of a live Q&A on Channel 21 sponsored by the League of Women Voters. I do not know when the show will air but look at the campaign home page for updates. Soon candidate PSAs will be shown on MCPTV. Look for mine!
The push to Primary Day is getting even tighter--early voting will begin on September 3. Upcounty sites are at the Germantown Recreation Center and the Bauer Drive Rec. Center off Norbeck Road. Absentee ballots have already been sent out, so if you have requested one--you should have it soon.
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Samosas, Enchiladas, Hummus and Rice
For ten years I taught in work-force development at Montgomery College.
During those years students from more than 80 countries participated in these classes and went on to find good jobs in the local economy. At the end of each class we held sessions where the students practiced interviewing for a job; I helped them deal with presentation and how to answer questions which are sometimes difficult and sometimes not allowed. Since this was at the end of the semester, we also celebrated the collective accomplishments with students--and teacher--bringing in food.
The tables would be covered with offerings from multiple cultures as members brought in some of their favorites. No one cared that we mixed Jasmine rice and sticky rice or that vegetarian dishes sat along side poultry and fish. We had naan and other flatbreads, hummus in many flavors, sauces that were mild and spicy; samosas were enjoyed on the same plate as chicken enchiladas. Beans and rice, spring rolls and salads, and of course, desserts were among our choices.
This is, of course, a picture of our changing county in miniature. As a county, we are learning about many cultures in different ways. Food is certainly an interesting way to do this. Restaurant options have greatly expanded in Montgomery County; one no longer has to go downtown to find "foreign" foods. Cuisines from around the world are now easily available in many county areas. Montgomery College indicates it serves students from more than 180 countries; it has nurtured an international student body and this can be seen in on campus food options and visually, in many forms of dress.
As I campaign across District 2, I am again encountering many of these people from diverse cultures. When I knock at a door, I may encounter a woman in a flowing sari or wearing an African headdress. I also hear from them, their excitement, as they indicate that this year may be their first chance to truly participate in the American rite of electoral politics--for the first time they will cast their vote. Some will place a sign outside their home, indicating that they, too, are taking their place and planting a stake not only in their yard, but in their new country. Some are also running for office and our ballot choices will reflect this in several races. I welcome their entry into the new county that we are weaving together from this world wide mosaic of cultures.
The Primary is only a bit more than 4 weeks away and days are becoming crowded. Do let me know if you, too, would like a yard sign or wish to walk with me in your neighborhood. Remember for upcounty residents, the closest early voting sites will be in the Germantown Recreation Center and at the Bauer Drive Recreation Center in Rockville. Early voting starts September 3rd and will be held through the 10th, including Labor Day, but not held on Sunday.
During those years students from more than 80 countries participated in these classes and went on to find good jobs in the local economy. At the end of each class we held sessions where the students practiced interviewing for a job; I helped them deal with presentation and how to answer questions which are sometimes difficult and sometimes not allowed. Since this was at the end of the semester, we also celebrated the collective accomplishments with students--and teacher--bringing in food.
The tables would be covered with offerings from multiple cultures as members brought in some of their favorites. No one cared that we mixed Jasmine rice and sticky rice or that vegetarian dishes sat along side poultry and fish. We had naan and other flatbreads, hummus in many flavors, sauces that were mild and spicy; samosas were enjoyed on the same plate as chicken enchiladas. Beans and rice, spring rolls and salads, and of course, desserts were among our choices.
This is, of course, a picture of our changing county in miniature. As a county, we are learning about many cultures in different ways. Food is certainly an interesting way to do this. Restaurant options have greatly expanded in Montgomery County; one no longer has to go downtown to find "foreign" foods. Cuisines from around the world are now easily available in many county areas. Montgomery College indicates it serves students from more than 180 countries; it has nurtured an international student body and this can be seen in on campus food options and visually, in many forms of dress.
As I campaign across District 2, I am again encountering many of these people from diverse cultures. When I knock at a door, I may encounter a woman in a flowing sari or wearing an African headdress. I also hear from them, their excitement, as they indicate that this year may be their first chance to truly participate in the American rite of electoral politics--for the first time they will cast their vote. Some will place a sign outside their home, indicating that they, too, are taking their place and planting a stake not only in their yard, but in their new country. Some are also running for office and our ballot choices will reflect this in several races. I welcome their entry into the new county that we are weaving together from this world wide mosaic of cultures.
The Primary is only a bit more than 4 weeks away and days are becoming crowded. Do let me know if you, too, would like a yard sign or wish to walk with me in your neighborhood. Remember for upcounty residents, the closest early voting sites will be in the Germantown Recreation Center and at the Bauer Drive Recreation Center in Rockville. Early voting starts September 3rd and will be held through the 10th, including Labor Day, but not held on Sunday.
Sunday, July 25, 2010
It's July and It's Hot!
Notes from the Campaign Trail
Yesterday volunteers from my campaign and I were out there knocking on doors and meeting voters, most of whom were secluded in cool air-conditioned homes. We are getting great responses from voters who seemed to have concerns in three areas: transportation, education and the economy, with the county budget also mentioned frequently. We will be out again today and would love to have you join us when it gets a bit cooler. We have lots of cold water and terrific enthusiasm...all we are missing is you as a volunteer.
The last several weeks have seen me hunkered down with handfuls of questionnaires from multiple interest groups many of which want my detailed answers to each of their 25 particularly focused thee-part questions. These are time consuming if given the attention they deserve. I have tried to answer most of those which have come my way. Some had really short deadlines or narrow focus and were not answered, but most were, as I do believe that a well informed public will produce an educated voter...and I may even get an endorsement or two! Many of my friends and supporters have signed up on my endorsements page. If I have your support please also tell me and others...and you have my thanks.
The first debates of the campaign come this week and there are two: one in Olney on Monday evening and the other in Clarksburg on Wednesday evening. Details are at the end of this Blog and on the website home page.
The lines are clearly drawn now for the candidates in the race. I'd like to remind voters that I was in this race, before it became an open seat. I do believe quite firmly that I would not have the competition I now have, had the race required a challenge to a sitting council member. I, alone, had the courage to announce for this race early in the year when the contrast between us was clear. I believe I have the strongest position by virtue of my broad experience, proven effectiveness and depth of community involvement.
There will also be early voting beginning about ten days before the September 14th Primary at three selected locations. More information will be posted about that later in the campaign. Labor Day will be a voting day, however.
Olney Debate – 7:00 – 9:30 pm, July 26th 2010
Community Room, Buffington Building, 3300 Olney-Sandy Spring Road, Olney
Co-Sponsored by the Olney Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Olney Civic Association
Clarksburg/Germantown Debate – 7:00 – 9:00 PM, July 28th 2010
Cedarbrook Community Church, 23700 Stringtown Road – Clarksburg
Co-Sponsored by the Olney, Clarksburg, Germantown-Gaithersburg Chambers of Commerce and the Clarksburg Civic Association
Yesterday volunteers from my campaign and I were out there knocking on doors and meeting voters, most of whom were secluded in cool air-conditioned homes. We are getting great responses from voters who seemed to have concerns in three areas: transportation, education and the economy, with the county budget also mentioned frequently. We will be out again today and would love to have you join us when it gets a bit cooler. We have lots of cold water and terrific enthusiasm...all we are missing is you as a volunteer.
The last several weeks have seen me hunkered down with handfuls of questionnaires from multiple interest groups many of which want my detailed answers to each of their 25 particularly focused thee-part questions. These are time consuming if given the attention they deserve. I have tried to answer most of those which have come my way. Some had really short deadlines or narrow focus and were not answered, but most were, as I do believe that a well informed public will produce an educated voter...and I may even get an endorsement or two! Many of my friends and supporters have signed up on my endorsements page. If I have your support please also tell me and others...and you have my thanks.
The first debates of the campaign come this week and there are two: one in Olney on Monday evening and the other in Clarksburg on Wednesday evening. Details are at the end of this Blog and on the website home page.
The lines are clearly drawn now for the candidates in the race. I'd like to remind voters that I was in this race, before it became an open seat. I do believe quite firmly that I would not have the competition I now have, had the race required a challenge to a sitting council member. I, alone, had the courage to announce for this race early in the year when the contrast between us was clear. I believe I have the strongest position by virtue of my broad experience, proven effectiveness and depth of community involvement.
- Royce Hanson, who now lives in Montgomery Village, had been in a position of authority as a Director on the Planning Board in the 1980’s and more recently with a term which ended in June. Although he was active in writing the Charter for the County’s current form of Government in the 1960’s; for many years after losing races for elected office, he lived away from this area.
- Craig Rice of Germantown has given up a seat in the legislature from District 15 in order to run for Council. He was a neophyte legislator having just been elected in 2006 by a narrow margin decided through absentee votes. His legislative record has been modest.
- Eddie Kuhlman, a town commissioner from Poolesville and Charles Kirchman from Germantown are the remaining two candidates for this District's Democratic seat.
There will also be early voting beginning about ten days before the September 14th Primary at three selected locations. More information will be posted about that later in the campaign. Labor Day will be a voting day, however.
Olney Debate – 7:00 – 9:30 pm, July 26th 2010
Community Room, Buffington Building, 3300 Olney-Sandy Spring Road, Olney
Co-Sponsored by the Olney Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Olney Civic Association
Clarksburg/Germantown Debate – 7:00 – 9:00 PM, July 28th 2010
Cedarbrook Community Church, 23700 Stringtown Road – Clarksburg
Co-Sponsored by the Olney, Clarksburg, Germantown-Gaithersburg Chambers of Commerce and the Clarksburg Civic Association
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Staying cool and campaigning!
This was a warm week to be door-knocking but we were out there! This last week has been among our busiest! The campaign had coffees on Sunday and Thursday, went to meetings and other candidate events. Then it was time for Fourth of July celebrations, and we had a presence there as well.
Last week started out at Seneca Community Church on Berryville Road, where I was kindly greeted by Pastor Kenneth Nelson, whom I have known since my days at Montgomery College. Then I joined parishioners for lunch as they celebrated their annual Homecoming anniversary.
I also stopped by kickoff events for two other women candidates--Delegate Kathryn Dumais from District 15 who was up at High Point Farm in Clarksburg and Jodi Finkelstein, a candidate for a Delegate seat in District 14 who held her kick-off just down the road from my Olney home. Delegate Dumais and former Senator Sharon Grosfeld joined Jodi, who has been an effective advocate for victims of Domestic Violence.
Both coffees, one in Germantown and the other in Olney brought out voters interested in specific topics, the budget, cutbacks, the environment and education as well as ambulance fees. We had some vigorous discussions and good exchanges of ideas. Although ambulance fees have passed, I signed the petition to bring it to referendum as I think voter input is invaluable to the Democratic process.
I was also asked to address veterans' issues; a new center for traumatic brain injuries has been planned for Bethesda. Many of our injured and returning veterans are still among the lost souls we call the homeless; we owe them better than this. The county now has a Commission on Veterans Affairs which can serve to assist some of these injured warriors, but they need to have support and funding.
The Fourth of July found us at festivities in Germantown and Poolesville passing out stickers and campaigning quietly and at the family day in Montgomery Village. Door-knocking was a very warm exercise this week end and it promises to be even warmer this week! Come join us; great fun will be had by all volunteers – cold water provided! Shady Streets not guaranteed!
Yard signs are in--please send us an email if you would like one. They all carry my “Dooley Can Do” message.
The filing deadline for this District 2 Council race was today--the field is getting crowded--four guys and Me!
More about the opposition next time!
See you on the Trail!
Sharon
Last week started out at Seneca Community Church on Berryville Road, where I was kindly greeted by Pastor Kenneth Nelson, whom I have known since my days at Montgomery College. Then I joined parishioners for lunch as they celebrated their annual Homecoming anniversary.
I also stopped by kickoff events for two other women candidates--Delegate Kathryn Dumais from District 15 who was up at High Point Farm in Clarksburg and Jodi Finkelstein, a candidate for a Delegate seat in District 14 who held her kick-off just down the road from my Olney home. Delegate Dumais and former Senator Sharon Grosfeld joined Jodi, who has been an effective advocate for victims of Domestic Violence.
Both coffees, one in Germantown and the other in Olney brought out voters interested in specific topics, the budget, cutbacks, the environment and education as well as ambulance fees. We had some vigorous discussions and good exchanges of ideas. Although ambulance fees have passed, I signed the petition to bring it to referendum as I think voter input is invaluable to the Democratic process.
I was also asked to address veterans' issues; a new center for traumatic brain injuries has been planned for Bethesda. Many of our injured and returning veterans are still among the lost souls we call the homeless; we owe them better than this. The county now has a Commission on Veterans Affairs which can serve to assist some of these injured warriors, but they need to have support and funding.
The Fourth of July found us at festivities in Germantown and Poolesville passing out stickers and campaigning quietly and at the family day in Montgomery Village. Door-knocking was a very warm exercise this week end and it promises to be even warmer this week! Come join us; great fun will be had by all volunteers – cold water provided! Shady Streets not guaranteed!
Yard signs are in--please send us an email if you would like one. They all carry my “Dooley Can Do” message.
The filing deadline for this District 2 Council race was today--the field is getting crowded--four guys and Me!
More about the opposition next time!
See you on the Trail!
Sharon
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Signs of Summer on the Campaign Trail
This week marks the beginning of summer for me--no I am not moving up the date of the summer solstice or advancing June 21st celebrations--I am cheering the arrival of the tiger lilies along the upcounty highways and by-ways. As I drive by, I note these bright orange blooms waving at me from the un-mowed roadsides that dot our two lane shoulder-less routes. Annually, these plants come in mid-June and are a cheerful reminder of the importance of keeping this upcounty natural beauty open to all. This is a subtle reminder to slow down and literally smell the flowers!
We had a productive round of door-knocking Saturday; at least there was a breeze to relieve the heat a bit. Of course, we can always use more volunteers; many hands make light work. Sign up on the website to volunteer as we are door knocking several times a week-– this is a very big District you know!
I have had a busy time the last few weeks on the campaign trail. Recently I enjoyed the graduation celebration at Leadership Montgomery. Outgoing interim President Hercules Pinckney of Montgomery College was given special honors not only for his distinguished career, but also for his role at a difficult time. It was good to see again many of the colleagues I knew from my days teaching at the college. I know I join many in the county saluting Dr. Pinckney and the other distinguished graduates.
Friday the 11th saw me at the annual District 14 club celebration and awards dinner in honor of several people important to District 14: Former County Executive Sid Kramer; Coach Chuck Carter of youth tennis fame; Hattie Washington, PhD, of Aunt Hattie’s Place; and Jerald Samet, philanthropist and founder of many initiatives not only here, but also across the country. It is great to see how members of our community step up in troubled times to show a spirit of volunteerism and giving back.
Saturday evening found me celebrating the contributions of Rajan Natarajan at his 50th Birthday party. Many elected officials and friends joined me in honoring the accomplishments of this educated entrepreneurial newcomer who has already made a difference in the county and state. I also enjoyed the Indian food, music and dancing!
Yesterday I also stopped by the Juneteenth celebration in Rockville co-sponsored by the Human Rights Commission (now celebrating its' 50th year) and HSBC bank in the Rockville Town Center. Rev. Tim Warner, Tina Clarke, Anita Powell and others commemorated this day of dual importance - not only to the African American Community but to us all.
Days on the campaign trail are both tiring and invigorating. Do let me know of your event. If I can, I will stop by.
My first literature piece was posted on the Maryland Politics Watch blog yesterday. If you haven’t seen it, take a look. It tells more of what my campaign is all about.
We had a productive round of door-knocking Saturday; at least there was a breeze to relieve the heat a bit. Of course, we can always use more volunteers; many hands make light work. Sign up on the website to volunteer as we are door knocking several times a week-– this is a very big District you know!
I have had a busy time the last few weeks on the campaign trail. Recently I enjoyed the graduation celebration at Leadership Montgomery. Outgoing interim President Hercules Pinckney of Montgomery College was given special honors not only for his distinguished career, but also for his role at a difficult time. It was good to see again many of the colleagues I knew from my days teaching at the college. I know I join many in the county saluting Dr. Pinckney and the other distinguished graduates.
Friday the 11th saw me at the annual District 14 club celebration and awards dinner in honor of several people important to District 14: Former County Executive Sid Kramer; Coach Chuck Carter of youth tennis fame; Hattie Washington, PhD, of Aunt Hattie’s Place; and Jerald Samet, philanthropist and founder of many initiatives not only here, but also across the country. It is great to see how members of our community step up in troubled times to show a spirit of volunteerism and giving back.
Saturday evening found me celebrating the contributions of Rajan Natarajan at his 50th Birthday party. Many elected officials and friends joined me in honoring the accomplishments of this educated entrepreneurial newcomer who has already made a difference in the county and state. I also enjoyed the Indian food, music and dancing!
Yesterday I also stopped by the Juneteenth celebration in Rockville co-sponsored by the Human Rights Commission (now celebrating its' 50th year) and HSBC bank in the Rockville Town Center. Rev. Tim Warner, Tina Clarke, Anita Powell and others commemorated this day of dual importance - not only to the African American Community but to us all.
Days on the campaign trail are both tiring and invigorating. Do let me know of your event. If I can, I will stop by.
My first literature piece was posted on the Maryland Politics Watch blog yesterday. If you haven’t seen it, take a look. It tells more of what my campaign is all about.
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Out and About
Well I can hardly believe it has been about a month since I updated this blog. Time has gone by very quickly and the campaign is really picking up speed. Of course, if you have time on your hands, I can probably find some doors for you to help me knock on or envelopes that need stuffing!
Mothers Day saw me at the opening of the Olney Farmers Market where my daughter Hillary and I watched Warren Brown of Cake Love demonstrate – and sample - some of his famous cakes, then we went out for a Mothers Day Brunch! Some days one just has to be a Mom!
I joined the Civic Federation at their annual awards ceremony and dinner held at the Universities of Shady Grove. About 100 people helped them celebrate their heritage as a civic group that has existed for about 80 years. Congrats to Peggy Dennis – President – and to all of their awardees.
The Potomac Hunt called to me on a beautiful sunny Sunday afternoon as I traveled to Poolesville to watch the races on grass at the Kiplinger fields. Some races were jumping races (over timber it is said) and others were flat out races. Old and young watched, tailgated and cheered. I got to meet and greet …and eat – of course. Thanks to Peter and Cindy Eeg for their hospitality.
Mother Nature rained on the Olney Days celebration and the fireworks, so we did not get to march in the Parade as planned, but I did get a chance to stop by the Rocketeria sponsored Rock Concert at their parking lot stage under a sunny sky, finally. It is always great to see talented youth, and work with those in Project Change, who make such a difference in our county. Congrats also to Arianna and Dave, two talented adults who have taken their knowledge and musical abilities and created a small business teaching music at their store which is now a vibrant part of the community. We often decry the reality of all of our communities looking alike with national chains dominating the commerce, but when there are individuals who realize their dreams for their small businesses, the community should step up and support them as the task of continuing ones own dream can be difficult.
Memorial Day was a weekend for memories; Rolling Thunder again came to town, reminding me yet again of my late brother who served in Vietnam and all those who served before and since.
It was also a time for door knocking as I got out and about the county. Let me know when you would like to join in the fun; meeting voters is always one of the best parts of campaigning! (Contact me here).
This weekend – June 5th I’m off to the Strawberry Festival at the Sandy Spring Museum; always one of the most delicious of events – come on over!
Mothers Day saw me at the opening of the Olney Farmers Market where my daughter Hillary and I watched Warren Brown of Cake Love demonstrate – and sample - some of his famous cakes, then we went out for a Mothers Day Brunch! Some days one just has to be a Mom!
I joined the Civic Federation at their annual awards ceremony and dinner held at the Universities of Shady Grove. About 100 people helped them celebrate their heritage as a civic group that has existed for about 80 years. Congrats to Peggy Dennis – President – and to all of their awardees.
The Potomac Hunt called to me on a beautiful sunny Sunday afternoon as I traveled to Poolesville to watch the races on grass at the Kiplinger fields. Some races were jumping races (over timber it is said) and others were flat out races. Old and young watched, tailgated and cheered. I got to meet and greet …and eat – of course. Thanks to Peter and Cindy Eeg for their hospitality.
Mother Nature rained on the Olney Days celebration and the fireworks, so we did not get to march in the Parade as planned, but I did get a chance to stop by the Rocketeria sponsored Rock Concert at their parking lot stage under a sunny sky, finally. It is always great to see talented youth, and work with those in Project Change, who make such a difference in our county. Congrats also to Arianna and Dave, two talented adults who have taken their knowledge and musical abilities and created a small business teaching music at their store which is now a vibrant part of the community. We often decry the reality of all of our communities looking alike with national chains dominating the commerce, but when there are individuals who realize their dreams for their small businesses, the community should step up and support them as the task of continuing ones own dream can be difficult.
Memorial Day was a weekend for memories; Rolling Thunder again came to town, reminding me yet again of my late brother who served in Vietnam and all those who served before and since.
It was also a time for door knocking as I got out and about the county. Let me know when you would like to join in the fun; meeting voters is always one of the best parts of campaigning! (Contact me here).
This weekend – June 5th I’m off to the Strawberry Festival at the Sandy Spring Museum; always one of the most delicious of events – come on over!
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