The Shadow
Former Mayor of the city of Covington, Rev. Stephanie R. Clark, a candidate for House of Delegates-District 37, held a Meet the Candidate Breakfast at Jeter Watson Park, last Saturday.
Clark, the first African American female to serve as mayor of Covington, is running as the Democratic nominee for District 37 in the House of Delegates against Republican incumbent Terry Austin.
Clark dipped her toes into politics when she was appointed to the Covington City Council to fill an unexpired vacant seat, due to the death of a Councilman. She followed up by successfully being elected for three more terms, with four years as mayor. This was the launching pad for her political career.
Clark was born and raised in Covington and never had a desire to live anywhere else. “I love my community. I love where I’m from, that’s why I never moved,” said Clark.
She is running as “A Candidate for the People”. If elected, she will advocate for families and children, veterans’ rights, first responders, behavioral health, quality senior care, strong workforce development, strong infrastructure, and better education in District 37.
District 37 includes Alleghany, Botetourt, Craig, and most of Rockbridge Counties and the cities of Covington, Lexington, and Buena Vista.
A nice crowd showed up to meet, greet, and support Clark, and to enjoy a full breakfast consisting of ham/turkey/cheese biscuits, bacon, fish, fried potatoes, pancakes, fruit, and coffee and orange juice beverage offerings. As people met and greeted the candidate and each other, they would often be led by Clark in a chant, “clark4virginia.”
Kay and Bob Lera, Rockbridge County, were there to support Clark. “We are just delighted that Stephanie has stepped forward. We think she has a good connection with people and we’re just very excited about it,” said Kay. Jade Harris, a Democratic candidate for Senate, was also in attendance.
Clark is employed by Total Action for Progress and serves on various boards in her community. She also pastors an Online Church. She is married to Orlando “Buddha” Clark, Sr. and they have a son, Orlando, and a daughter, Victoria. All staunch supporters of her campaign.
Clark’s slogan is “Be Smart VOTE for Clark.” She can be reached at (540) 958-6438 or clark4virginia@gmail.com. Monetary donations can be made by check, payable to Stephanie R. Clark for House of Delegates.
