Fish fry benefits Brunson campaign

The weather held up last night and the community turned out at the St. Augustine Skeet Club to show their support for County Commission candidate Randy Brunson at a fundraising benefit sponsored by several long time St. Johns County businessmen and friends of the candidate.

Invitations to the private function were mailed to previous Brunson contributors and supporters of his 2004 election to the St. Johns County Airport Authority as well as friends of those supporters who hosted the evening’s meal and entertainment.

Businessmen Jerod Meeks, Melvin McQuaig and Bill Pacetti along with Tim Masters, Keith Burney, Mike McQuaig, Jim Solano, B. J. Burney, Stanton Mills, Edison Burney, John Roundtree and Emory King played host to several hundred invitees in attendance.

Former Chairman and three term County Commissioner Jim Bryant, who currently holds Seat 5, has decided not to seek re-election; a move that Brunson credits as creating the opportunity for his candidacy. Bryant was on hand last night to show his support for Brunson who he says has the real experience needed to serve our county in the future.

Sheriff David Shoar spoke out in favor of Brunson who Shoar says he has known for several years. Sheriff Shoar said that he got to know Brunson very well during his own 2004 election bid; since both participated in countywide forums and speaking engagements before various community groups. The Sheriff commented that he has known Brunson to be a man of his word and that Brunson will actually do the things he promises — after he is elected.

The evening’s fish fry was prepared by popular local caterer, Jerry Stalvey. Compliments to the chef were heard at all the tables.

According to Brunson, he is always humbled by the donations received and he was very pleased with the contributions made at last night’s event. Many of the candidate’s contributions come from individual supporters and Brunson says that he will use that money to get his message to the voters before the universal primary election; which will decide the winner for Seat 5 in August.

Photo credit: Historic City Media news photographer Kerry McGuire