Continuous rains and gloomy weather couldn’t stop the Derrick Wallace army of volunteers from turning out to prepare and serve ‘fish and chips’ or ‘fish and grits,’ at his Campaign Headquarters located at 2000 Bruton Boulevard, on Saturday.
Wallace, a community builder and successful businessman, is running to become the next Orange County Commissioner for District 6, and like his volunteers, he’s in for the long haul.
“Ever since I announced my candidacy to run for the District 6 commissioner’s seat, we have continued to build our volunteer team,” said Wallace. “And I am truly grateful that I have such a dedicated group I can rely on – rain or shine – who would like to see me win.”
Throughout the day, campaign volunteers worked seamlessly – some taking orders, others deep-frying fish and chips, while the remainder packaged and served – oblivious to the rain, as they quietly fulfilled the continuous demand for the ‘fish fry’ fare. Wallace’s wife, Sharon, was spotted too, making several trips delivering the tasty fish fry to neighboring destinations.
Jocelyn Robinson, a volunteer, comes weekly to the Campaign Headquarters to help out with a variety of tasks – preparing signs, fans, mail outs, answering the phones or providing information on the campaign. She doesn’t think that previous political representatives have addressed the needs of the people in this largely poor community. Lack of jobs, security concerns and inadequate care for seniors, are the key issues, she says.
Wallace has anchored his campaign on job creation and economic development, expanding educational opportunities, improving neighborhood safety and security, affordable housing solutions and enhancing transportation infrastructure.
“I believe in Derrick Wallace,” said Robinson. “He was raised right in this community and has been here all his life. He is go-getter and has always been concerned for people in the district. If elected, he will be that person who gets things done.” And besides, he’s my cousin, she quickly adds.
Derrick Wallace Campaign fish fry fundraisers are held every first Saturday of each month.
