Why a Bow Tie for Councilman Jerry Walker?

Prior to his election to the Anne Arundel County Council, Jerry Walker (R-7th District) spent his days going door-to-door helping constituents put a face to his name.

Now more than a year after being sworn in, Walker’s most defining feature is his bow tie.

His new look came about in the spring of 2011 when Walker performed as the master of ceremonies for a senior citizen luncheon honoring World War II at his church.

The councilman thought a bow tie would add a “retro” feel to the event, so he opted for the eye-catching piece as opposed to the traditional necktie.

“It took me forever to learn how to tie it,” Walker said. “I had to find instructions that worked in the mirror because so many of the other ones were as if someone was standing behind you.”

Following the luncheon, Walker began to receive more and more compliments about his bow tie, so he went on eBay and stocked up. Over time, the neckpiece started to take on a life of its own, the councilman said.

Walker’s assistant, Pamela Scarbro, said that some constituents don’t know what Walker looks like, but when they see the bow tie, everything connects.

“It really helps people know which one he is,” Scarbro said.

As the months passed, Walker said his taste in bow ties became more refined and expensive. But instead of shopping at Brooks Brothers, Walker said he prefers to hunt for deals on eBay. After all, he did run on a platform of financial conservatism and frugality.

Scarbro said she’s tried to give Walker new seasonal or holiday-themed bow ties, but the councilman always beats her to the punch.

“I found him a great Christmas tie and then three weeks before Christmas, Jerry walked into the council with a red and green one already around his neck,” she said.

As playful as they may be about the bow tie, Walker and his assistant said they know the importance of distinguishing the councilman with a brand. That’s where the bow tie comes in handy.

“Janet Greenip wore green, Ed Reilly has the height, it’s important to have ways to connect the name to the face,” Scarbro said. “In Jerry’s case, it helps constituents connect to the name, and the neck.”