Huntington Mayor Steve Williams, who is running for governor, chats with a constituent at the Jefferson County Democratic Association Annual Barbecue in Morgan's Grove Park on Saturday. Tabitha Johnston

SHEPHERDSTOWN — At Morgan’s Grove Park on Saturday afternoon, local residents gathered for the Jefferson County Democratic Association Annual Barbecue, eager to enjoy the sunny weather and sizzling hot food off the grill together.

The event attracted a diverse crowd, ranging from families with young children to seasoned voters, all eager to connect with each other and share ideas for the future with the political leaders in attendance.

The barbecue attendees were treated to a feast of freshly made foods, including pulled pork, grilled chicken, picnic-appropriate side dishes and desserts. On top of the festive food, barbecue attendees also enjoyed live music performed by Shepherdstown-based vocalist and guitarist Sam Janotta.

As the barbecue continued into the evening, several Democratic Party personalities took the opportunity to address the crowd, sharing their visions for the future in Jefferson County and across the state. Of most significance was a speech given by the barbecue’s special guest speaker, Huntington mayor Steve Williams, who announced his candidacy in the upcoming gubernatorial election on Sept. 4. Williams, who is the only Democratic candidate currently running for West Virginia governor, took time at the barbecue to not only speak to constituents, but to also respond to any concerns they shared with him.

“I was thrilled to be able to be here, because I got to meet so many different people and we had some very substantive conversations,” Williams said. “I have been mayor for 11 years now, and it has given me the opportunity to travel the state and enjoy a very loving, caring and compassionate community.”

From left back row, Steve Williams, mayor of Huntington; Lucia Valentine, House of Delegates District 97 candidate; Shepherdstown resident Than Hitt; and Corey Roman, West Virginia Democratic Party staff member, hang out with a couple other Democratic Party members at the Jefferson County Democratic Association Annual Barbecue in Morgan's Grove Park on Saturday. Tabitha Johnston

Reflecting on the day, West Virginia Democratic Party staff member Cory Roman noted his satisfaction with the local response to the barbecue.

“My first general thought today is that, you know, it’s great to see so many Democrats together, especially in a time when politics is so divisive, to have a meal and hear from different candidates and different stakeholders,” Roman said.

“I’m really excited that we have a strong candidate to represent West Virginia so well,” said West Virginia House of Delegates District 97 candidate Lucia Valentine in reference to Williams. “He’s done amazing work in the southern part of the state, especially in Huntington, where he’s the current mayor, working on the drug crisis that we face in West Virginia, so I’m really encouraged and inspired by the work that he’s doing.”

For some of the local attendees, being able to chat with political candidates in a welcoming atmosphere was of particular benefit to them.

“I live in Rains in West Virginia. I’ve lived here all my life. This is my first time coming to the barbecue and starting to get involved,” said Jacob. “I look forward to supporting local candidates in Jefferson County and I look forward to supporting Steve Williams.”

Families, local politicians and engaged citizens socialize at the Jefferson County Democratic Association Annual Barbecue in Morgan's Grove Park on Saturday. Tabitha Johnston

One Shepherdstown resident in attendance agreed with him wholeheartedly.

“It’s events like these that make me proud to be a part of this community,” Marrisa said. “It’s not just about politics; it is about our shared vision for a better future.”

Overall, it was clear that the Jefferson County Democratic Association’s barbecue left a positive impression, reminding all of those in attendance that when a group comes together around a common goal, positive change is possible.