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.

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