DGS Hosts St. Patrick’s Day Legislative Reception

Secretary Bassette talks about the services DGS provides. Behind her (l to r) Assistant Secretary Monique Anderson, Deputy Secretary Nelson Reichart and Energy Director Barry Powell.

It was a festive atmosphere at the DGS legislative reception on St. Patrick’s Day in Annapolis. Green tablecloths and green carnations adorned the tables, and green beads – small mementos for the guests – made everyone ‘Irish’ for the day. It was the department’s first reception for state legislators, which added to the excitement in the room.

The reception was held to inform legislators of the department’s numerous responsibilities. Late floor sessions delayed senators and delegates, but many stopped by when session ended to meet Secretary Bassette ans her senior staff.

Chef Domenic Marllardi and the Flowers High School students present their buffet choices.

“We’re involved in virtually every aspect of the smooth running of state government, working behind the scenes for the most part,” Secretary Bassette told the audience. She went on to highlight the important work DGS performs for its sister agencies and the Legislature and to introduce her division chiefs.

Without a doubt, a bigger hit than the ‘green theme’ was the delicious, freshly-prepared food served at the reception. In another first, catering teams from three local schools prepared and served the buffet:

• Charles H. Flowers High School, Chef Domenic Mallardi (Springdale, MD)
• Edmondson Westside High School, Chef Steven M. Hinnant, II, (Baltimore City) and
• Woodland Job Corps Center, Chef Jim McKnight III (Laurel, MD).

The buffet theme was “Maryland Favorites,” featuring Maryland vegetable crab soup, cream of crab soup and crab balls. Other buffet choices included BBQ wings, pasta with a choice of red or white sauce, spinach dip with handmade pita chips, bok choy salad and assorted desserts specially prepared by Edmondson Westside.

Senate President Mike Miller dropped by to say hello to the Secretary.

“The students were so excited about the opportunity to cater an event in Annapolis,” said Secretary Gail Bassette. “We were pleased to be able to give them the opportunity to serve the State Legislature. All of the buffet choices were tremendously popular.”

Senator Benson presented a proclamation to the Flowers High School students.

The Flowers students received a special surprise when their Prince George’s County Senator, Joanne Benson, presented them with a proclamation.  “I’m very proud of these young people,” the Senator said. “They’re so accomplished.”