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I hosted my annual toy drive at Buccaneer Park for the holidays, with an added new spin. I partnered with the Old-School Car Club, and the week before, people could donate toys while seeing some old school cars. We had a wide range of people come out, from kids to elders. As a result of the partnership, we were able to provide a lot more gift cards. M.A. Hall Funeral Services also supported the event with a donation. However, most of the contributions were from people who just wanted to support my initiatives.
Community Programs
I started Bingo and Pokeno With a Twist on the second Tuesday of each month at Buccaneer Park. We moved from virtual to in-person programming in the first quarter of the year, and it’s been great. Bingo helps with seniors’ motor skills and keeps their minds busy. They have to dance when they win, and those who can’t stand will dance in their chairs, so they still get moving.
In April, we will restart the Seniors Gone Fishing trips. I’m also a mentor for the Young Brilliant Minds program, which is about coaching and mentoring our young people into entrepreneurs. They have the grind and the grit in them. They just need a little more direction on transitioning to another level. So, we started some workshops every second Saturday of the month from 10 a.m. to 12 noon at Buccaneer Park. Young people and speakers participate, and we do hands-on work with them. We have some great success stories. The 27-year-old CEO of Young Brilliant Minds is working with all kinds of celebrities in California because of what he brings to the table.We also have an entrepreneurship education opportunity for young adults aged 21 and over at Oasis on May 5th, featuring a few influential individuals.
Engagement
Jazz in the Gardens was phenomenal. It attracted a lot of first-time visitors to our City. The food was good, the music was good, and it had something for everyone. I’m excited about the Baja’s Reunion at Buccaneer Park. It was a success last year, so people are already talking about it and looking forward to it as well. I’m also excited about Juneteenth because it gives local artists another platform to showcase their talents. We are also preparing for Formula 1 to take place in the City. I want to make sure that everyone is safe and has a good time.
