Sussex Republican women host Clerk of the Peace
The Sussex County Republican Women's Club met for lunch at Kings Creek Country Club March 22. Featured speaker Sussex Clerk of the Peace Norman "Jay" Jones gave attendees a more complete picture of what his office actually does. They knew, for instance, that as head of the Marriage Bureau in Sussex County, he is in charge of issuing marriage licenses. What is perhaps little known is that prior to holding office, Jones was a youth pastor and is qualified to officiate at the ceremonies. His office staff works diligently to accommodate those wishing to use their services. They are able to translate in a variety of languages, do not close the office for lunch and are willing to stay after closing hours for visitors who cannot come in at any other time.
Jones will perform ceremonies not only in the office, but on the beach as well as other venues the bride and groom may desire. He has attracted people from many of the surrounding counties due to the popularity of his ceremonies and of his accommodating staff, thereby increasing revenue for Sussex County by 35 percent.
He thanked SCRWC for the help given to his campaign as well as to other Republican candidates, and stated, "You are the foot soldiers of the political process." Jones was born and raised in Sussex County where he has served his home town of Ellendale in many capacities, mainly with the fire service. In 2012 he was inducted into the Delmarva Volunteer Firemen's Association Hall of Fame. He also works full time for a major first aid and safety company. SCRWC is grateful for his dedication to the community.
In addition to welcoming the guest speaker, President Cathy Watts inducted Lisa Hudson Briggs as the new assistant treasurer and Diane Meyer as the new first vice chair. Each was given a rose upon assuming their new positions.
It is the mission of the Sussex County Republican Women's Club to assist in the election of Republican candidates, act as an advocate for the Republican Party's principles, and empower women to participate in the political process. SCRWC, the largest Republican Women's Club in Delaware, has been actively engaging women in the political process for more than six decades. For additional information go to www.scrwc.net.
SCRWC will hold its next meeting Wednesday, April 26, at Kings Creek Country Club in Rehoboth Beach beginning at 6 p.m. The topic of the evening is personal safety. Ocean View Chief of Police Kenneth McLaughlin will discuss how to stay safe in a public venue if there is an active shooter at large. The chief holds numerous law enforcement instructor certifications, teaches at the local, state and national level, and currently serves on the National Tactical Officers Association Patrol Committee.
His policy related to active shooter response was adopted as a model policy by the Delaware Chiefs Association, making him uniquely qualified to instruct on what to do if ever confronted with a shooting in public. For required reservations contact Linda Rehm: 302-430-0329 or jlrehm@aol.com. Cost for dinner is $30/person.
