Councilwoman Benjamin shares her thoughts with you from time to time, right here on this page! Read on now, and check back often so you won't miss her posts...
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-----------------------------------------------Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Question: How did it go?
It all came together. The days leading up to it were filled with final preparations and follow-up. I was excited and anxious.
Today we hosted the first meeting for Selma's Ward 4. The purpose of this meeting was two-fold: to organize the citizens of Ward 4 and to begin networks and collaborations with others in Selma.
The "early birds" participated in an excercise where they were paired with a person in the room that they did not know at all or knew very little about. The task was to introduce the partner to the audience. Each person had to first identify the obvious about the partner (race, gender, eye and hair color), tell one thing they liked about them, share one of the partner's fondest childhood memories and, lastly, provide the partner's name to the group. Police Chief Riley and Doug Sanders (two African American males who had never met before) seemed to mesh very well, while Councilman Williamsom (a mature White male legislator) and his partner, Jelisa Riddle, (a young African American mother-to-be) smiled the entire time they introduced each other. Chief Riley described his partner's hair color as black, but his partner had no hair at all! Councilman Williamsom described his partner's "lovely" smile, while she reciprocated by complimenting his "lovely" blue eyes. The ice was broken.
Today's theme was "Together--Getting the Job Done". I shared my vision with the audience and challenged each person to think about the one thing that they could do, and do well, that would help take Ward 4 and Selma to the next level. I asked them throughout the meeting to ask themselves "What is my one thing?" As the thought was provoked, the guest speakers helped to drive this home. Mayor Evans shared his plan for Selma and took questions from the audience. He offered his full support to Ward 4 and invited citizens to come by to see him. He was followed by Chief Riley, Felecia Pettway (WCCS Ready to Work), Henry Hicks (City of Selma, Public Works), and Lauri Cothran (Chamber of Commerce), all of whom took questions as well. The audience was receptive and engaging. I presented Logan Cowart, Cedar Park Elementary School Principal, with a check for the school and thanked her for allowing us to meet there. She enthusiastically informed us that Cedar Park is "our" school and welcomed us all back.
The citizens of Ward 4 signed up for various committees, which included Education, Community Safety, Senior Care, Youth & Children, and Better Business...just to name a few. Committe updates can be found on the "Committees" tab.
Other officials who attended were Councilman Sam Randolph (Ward 5), District Attorney Michael Jackson and Fire Chief Henry Allen. I was delighted to have my pastor, Bishop James M. Marshall, in attendance. Some Ward 4 notables who were in attendance, and who were recognized, were Carrie Pressley and Kelvin Williams (two very strong runners in the past election).
Refreshments were served and door prizes were given. See picture of Louretta Wimberly receiving her prize. Although the meeting had long ended, a good number of us lingered on for quite a while. The fellowship was fantastic!
So the answer is, "All went well. We reached our goal. And God is still good."
That's all. Do well. Be well. Love well.
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Tuesday, November 3, 2008
Question: How does it feel?
I feel honored that the citizens of Ward 4 have placed their confidence in me to be the representative for our community. I owe them my best.
Today I took the Oath of Office. This was not just for me. It was for my family, my friends and Ward 4.
My family is part of who I am. They help me to stand. Each member, unique in their own way, has taught me a little something about life and humanity. I owe my family more than I have to give, but they will accept no payment because their unwavering support of me will not come with a price as long as they have something to say about it. My parents were overwhelmed with joy, hope and pride. God had kept them for such a time as this--a time when the daughter they raised to be strong, kind, and independent had become just that in their eyes. I watched them as they stood beside me on stage as I was sworn into office. I believe they were thinking "God is good...oh yes, He is". My family reminds me daily that I am not in this alone and for that I am thankful.
My friends are true blue. My friends are a genuine group of folks who help keep me grounded. I cannot ask for any better friends that the ones that God has placed in my path. Some of them were there today. So happy were they, making sure that I was having a good night and that all was well. As they made me "crack" with laughter in the lobby, I was reminded that I am "still Angie" to them--and that's exactly what I need from my friends, friendship.
Today was also for the citizens of Ward 4. It was so touching to see my community out in support of me and my big day. I received a phone call earlier that day from one of the Seniors who wanted to make sure that I was getting dressed and was on my way to the Performing Arts Center. After I responded that I was, she replied, "Okay then, I'll see you there". I met her on the campaign trail not long ago, so her call to me made me feel good. As some of us fellowshipped after the ceremony, they encouraged me, lifted me, and spoke God's blessings upon me. Ward 4 is a special community and is destined to move together as one unit to the next level!
As I moved throughout the reception talking with people I knew and meeting new ones, I was reminded of why I am in the profession that I am. I love people, and I want to see the good that God has placed in us all prevail.
So the answer is, "It feels some kind of wonderful"!
That's all. Do well. Be well. Love well.