Election fever has hit St. Johns County hard, from campaign forums to candidates posting signs throughout the county, to campaign offices opening.
The latest is the opening of Ronald "Doc" Renuart’s campaign headquarters in Jacksonville Beach.
Renuart is running to succeed Don Davis as State Representative in the 18th district. The campaign headquarters is located in the shopping center behind Harry’s Seafood.
The grand opening happy hour was an opportunity for Renuart supporters to come out, enjoy some appetizers and have face time with the candidate.
According to Toni VanOrman, campaign manager, the office will be open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. during the week through Election Day. VanOrman said anyone interested in volunteering their time should come by the office and help or pick up signs.
Roughly 60-70 people attended the opening, including Joy Speckman, who has been a long-time supporter of Renuart.
"I think he’s the best," said Speckman.
VanOrman said the Renuart campaign has been in full swing, with a number of fundraising events including weekly hot dog roasts. While VanOrman is the only full-time staff member, she said the number of volunteers varies from day to day, depending on the need or the event going on.
"Most of the volunteers have worked with me on other campaigns as well," said VanOrman. "A lot of these people are core Republicans and have a lot of the same values."
VanOrman said she has been active in politics in Florida for the last 20 years and got involved in Renuart’s campaign after becoming friendly with him while he was in Iraq last year.
"I got to know him and his family and his values," said VanOrman. "He’s a member of my church and I hate his opponent."
The office is located at 1054 Third Street North in Jacksonville Beach. For more information about the campaign or to volunteer, call 249-1000.
Staff writer Sara Kaufman may be reached at 285-8831, extension 26,
or skaufman@jcpgroup.com
