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Councilwoman Shannon Campbell
Remembering the Honorable Shirley Gibson
Shirley Gibson was a real phenomenal woman!
If I could sum her life up in one word, it would be “iconic.” I’ve known her since she was a Police Officer with my dad on the Metro-Dade Police Force. She was very instrumental in the incorporation of the City of Miami Gardens. And I was able to see, up close, the work that was put into establishing it. That’s why I’m passionate about the City of Miami Gardens.
Community Engagement and Programs
On September 13th, I did a special presentation to honor the first Councilmembers. To surprise them with something unique, I partnered with a group called Positivity Pays, who created trading cards with each of their likenesses. These cards are now in the archives at the African American Research Library and Cultural Center. This was special to me since I’m the first Councilmember to hold a seat their parent previously held.
Another important initiative from my office was Trolley Talks. I started Trolley Talks this year to encourage people to ride the trolley and have candid conversations about various topics.
I partnered with the Women’s Chamber of Commerce of Miami-Dade County and supported the Solar and Energy Loan Fund (SELF) initiative that helps our residents acquire solar panels to cut down on energy costs. About ten homes in residential Seat 1 took advantage of this program. They can also provide power to other homes in the area so that they can make extra money.
I sponsored the entry cost for residents to use the splash pad at Buccaneer Park every weekend in the summer months and called it Splash Pad Fun Days. Families came out and just had fun. It got so good that now the Parks Director is continuing it!
Holiday Initiatives
I’ll present the Art Basel Ole School Car Show on December 9th at Betty T. Ferguson Recreational Complex. It’s a free event, but you must bring two toys: one for a boy, and one for a girl aged 12 and under. The toys are for my annual Toy Drive that I’ll do this year on December 19th at Buccaneer Park. Last year, we served more than 280 cars, five elementary schools, and a daycare.
On November 11th, I hosted my UM versus FSU watch party at Lorna’s Caribbean & American Grill. I also did my annual Thanksgiving Giveaway with Antioch Missionary Baptist Church on November 21st. I purchased turkeys and gave them to needy families.
For those who can get online, I still do my town hall on Zoom every third Tuesday of the month. At Buccaneer Park, I do a community meet and greet every second Saturday morning and Bingo with a Twist every second Tuesday of the month at 6:30 pm. These events have been a hit with the seniors.
I pray for the residents of Miami Gardens and our neighboring communities to have a delightful holiday with friends and family. Simply — Seasons Greetings!
