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Vice Mayor Katrina Wilson
Remembering the Honorable Shirley Gibson
Shirley Gibson planned her own homegoing ceremony. I loved that it was, in fact, her having the last word. She was very deliberate and thoughtful. It was a reflection of who she was, not only to herself but to us as well. She checked our focus, intentions, and our purpose.
It was seven years between the first and her second attempt at City incorporation. That’s a true example of perseverance and courage. She never gave up. And because she didn’t, we have lived a life in these last 20 years that has just been incredible as a City.
Community Engagement and Programs
This year, I worked harder than I’ve worked before. 2023 taught me the importance of knowing when to rest and recover. There are three projects I’m most proud of this year:
I am proud of the progress made with Leslie Estates, a mammoth project that I’ve been working on for about three years. Most of our residents there have signed on to allow us to fix the area roads.
Our Juneteenth celebration has become the largest in the state of Florida. We had thousands of people who showed up this past June to celebrate the freedom of Africans in America.
At our Commission for Women meeting, we had a conference with the women in our community, focusing on things such as health, families, and our relationships with one another.
I’m excited about continuing the good work with a renewed heart. Sometimes, we can get so caught up in “doing” that we forget that God is the One. God has positioned me to do this work and I am excited about releasing it to Him.
Holiday Initiatives
My prosperity basket giveaway is coming up on December 20th and will be happening in conjunction with our toy giveaway at Myrtle Grove Elementary. Last year, more than 200 toys were distributed to the kids at the K-8 Center.
This holiday season, love one another while you can. Turn to your neighbor, your child, your mom, and your dad, and hug them. Take some time, and slow your schedule down. Just listen, let them talk, you talk, because you never know which words might be your last.
