Title:
Order of the Hornet Inductions
Summary
ACTION:
Induct former Commissioners Dumont Clarke, Bill James, and Matthew Ridenhour into the Mecklenburg County Order of the Hornet, the highest honor bestowed by the Board
Commission Contact: BOCC Chairman
Presentation: Yes
BACKGROUND/JUSTIFICATION:
The Order of the Hornet was established in 1972. It is bestowed by the Board of County Commissioners on persons who have displayed valor or high order of service uniquely and specifically to the citizens of Mecklenburg County. This is the highest honor bestowed by the Board. The Order of the Hornet was founded in the spirit of the early Mecklenburg patriots who signed the Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence on May 20, 1775, and proclaimed the County’s freedom from Britain more than a year before the U.S. Declaration of Independence was signed. Those early patriots valiantly fought for their independence during the Revolution and gave Lord Cornwallis such difficulties during his occupation of Charlotte that he termed the town a “hornet’s nest” of rebellion. Because former Commissioners Dumont Clarke, Bill James, and Matthew Ridenhour reflect the honor, strength, and fierce American patriotism that so stung Lord Cornwallis, they are being recommended for membership in the Order of the Hornet.
Former Commissioner Dumont Clarke served as the Board’s District 4 representative for 18 years and for two of his terms, served as Vice-Chair of the Board.
Former Commissioner Bill James served as the Board’s District 6 representative for 22 years.
Former Commissioner Matthew Ridenhour served as the Board’s District 5 representative for six (6) years and one (1) month, having been initially appointed to fill the vacant seat of the late Commissioner Neil Cooksey.
PROCUREMENT BACKGROUND:
N/A
POLICY IMPACT:
N/A
FISCAL IMPACT:
N/A