LELAND, N.C. – Several thousand people enjoyed clear skies and braved the heat at the Town of Leland’s seventh annual Founders’ Day celebration today.  Attendees had the chance to hear from a number of musical groups, see a variety of performances on the demonstration stage and enjoy some home-cooked barbecue.  As is the case with virtually any event that features barbecue in an election year, Founders’ Day attracted a number of elected officials and candidates. 

Musical groups performing at Founders’ Day included the Hewlett Creek Boys, Al’s Place Bluegrass Band and the Wilmington Celebration Gospel Choir.  The North Brunswick High School band performed the national anthem.  The demonstration stage featured Seidokan Karate, American Stepdance, CheerInfinity Cheer Group, King Tiger Tae Kwon Do and Captain Dilligen the Pirate.

A number of elected officials attended Founders’ Day, including U.S. Congressman Mike McIntyre, State Auditor Leslie Merritt, State Senator R.C. Soles, County Commission Chairman Bill Sue, County Commissioners Phil Norris and May Moore and Sheriff John Ingram.  Congressman McIntyre, Senator Soles and Commissioner Sue briefly addressed the attendees.

The event also attracted a number of candidates who will be on the ballot this November.  Congressman McIntyre, Auditor Merritt, Senator Soles and Commissioners Sue and Moore are seeking re-election this November.  Other candidates attending included Will Breazeale, who is challenging Congressman McIntyre; Randy Rhodes, who is challenging Commissioner Sue; Tom Simmons, candidate for Board of Education and Brenda Mercer Clemmons, candidate for Register of Deeds.