Local Leaders Reflect on Gratitude and Achievements Ahead of Thanksgiving

As Thanksgiving approaches, community leaders from Anne Arundel County, Maryland, reflect on a year marked by significant events and personal milestones. Local officials shared their gratitude for achievements, family support, and community ties that have shaped their experiences in 2025.

Community Leaders Share Their Gratitude

Janice Allsup-Johnson, the newly elected Ward 4 alderman, expressed her thankfulness for successfully navigating her electoral campaign. “I am thankful that I was able to complete my journey and press on to be a candidate and win this Ward 4 election,” she stated. Allsup-Johnson highlighted the support from her family, particularly her great-grandson, who joined her on the campaign trail. “People are coming out of the woodwork just to congratulate me and be there for me,” she added.

Outgoing alderman Ross Arnett reflected on the support of his Eastport neighbors during his tenure. “I’m thankful for all of the wonderful neighbors that I have,” he said, acknowledging the close-knit relationships he has built. Although he will not be with his siblings for Thanksgiving, he remains connected with them through calls.

Amal Awad, chief of the Anne Arundel County Police Department, emphasized the importance of family and community support. “I’m grateful for an amazing team of passionate professional staff and police officers,” he remarked, noting their commitment to the community. Awad highlighted the appreciation the department receives from residents, stating, “I think we all have plenty to be grateful for.”

Mark Bedell, superintendent of Anne Arundel County Public Schools, shared a similar sentiment. “From a personal standpoint, I am thankful for my family,” he said, recognizing their role in providing stability amid the stress of his job. He also acknowledged the support of over 12,000 colleagues in the school system: “I’ve been very fortunate to work with a very supportive school board.”

Reflections from Local Officials and Community Members

Outgoing Annapolis mayor Gavin Buckley expressed gratitude for his eight years in office, particularly the recent groundbreaking for a new waterfront park as part of the City Dock project. “I’m grateful that in this year, we broke ground on what will be a new waterfront park,” he stated, highlighting its importance for future generations.

State’s Attorney Anne Colt Leitess shared her happiness regarding her family’s health and accomplishments. She noted her son’s college graduation, saying, “I’m very happy about that. So one less tuition payment.” Leitess also praised her staff’s charitable efforts, which supported over 134 families last year.

Police Chief Ed Jackson reflected on personal and professional gratitude. “I’m grateful for my family, my two sons. I’m just grateful for my siblings,” he shared. He also celebrated a notable achievement: “I’m grateful that we saw another year with reductions in crime and that we solved a 37-year-old cold case.”

In the realm of athletics, Blake Horvath, senior quarterback for the Navy football team, expressed appreciation for the support he receives from teammates, family, and friends. “I am grateful for the opportunity to attend the Naval Academy and pursue the sport I love so much,” he said, underscoring the significance of his experiences in Annapolis.

Athletic Director Michael Kelly acknowledged the commitment of student-athletes, coaches, and supporters who contribute to the Navy’s athletic programs. “For all of this, I am thankful for having the best athletic director job in the country,” he remarked.

County Executive Steuart Pittman highlighted the resilience of the community. “I am thankful that despite all the chaos and trauma that human beings inflict on one another, our instincts still drive us to seek understanding and peace,” he shared. Pittman’s reflections resonate with many as the community navigates various challenges.

The owners of Sandy Pony Donuts, the Wang family, expressed their gratitude for their customers and community support. Ben Wang stated, “I’m thankful for friends, family, and all of our customers of Sandy Pony.” His family members echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the importance of their loyal customers over the past decade.

As 2025 draws to a close, these leaders and community members showcase the spirit of gratitude that defines the season. Their reflections not only highlight personal milestones but also illustrate the strength of community bonds in Anne Arundel County.