Acting Mayor Kenny Glavan, in his first public function since being named Tuesday, honored Katherine Blessey as Biloxi’s Outstanding Citizen for 2014 during a Lions Club luncheon today.
And during a sold-out Biloxi Bay Chamber of Commerce luncheon Thursday, Biloxi’s new leader, albeit temporary as mayor, will welcome those attending the annual State of the City luncheon at the Beau Rivage.
Blessey, who co-owns with her husband the Chateau Blessey bed and breakfast, was chosen as outstanding citizen for her active role in supporting the preservation of Biloxi’s natural charm, especially as an ardent advocate for saving Biloxi’s protected trees, and she was recognized for her support of the Gulf Coast Symphony Orchestra, the American Heart Association, the Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art, the Maritime and Seafood Industry Museums, Gulf Coast Carnival Association, and myriad other Carnival organizations, civic groups and community causes.
Glavan, as acting mayor, read a proclamation that highlighted her civic endeavors and proclaimed March 11, 2015 as “Katherine Blessey Day” in Biloxi.
The acting mayor, who will serve until a new mayor is elected in a special election expected to be in late April, has faced a number of obligations. Moments after four councilmembers chose him to serve, city staffers had him sign documents so his name could be imprinted on city checks to be delivered to municipal vendors this week.
A crowd of 570 chamber members and guests is expected to be on hand Thursday for the State of the City luncheon. Glavan will present welcoming remarks and introduce a 28-minute video that will highlight the city’s ongoing program of work.
Wrote Glavan on his Facebook page shortly after the conclusion of the meeting: “I am humbled by the opportunity to serve as Mayor until the special election is held and a new Mayor is elected by the citizens of Biloxi. We will have many choices. The personalities, leadership traits and intangibles can only be to the benefit of Biloxi as we decide what course we will set for our future. These are exciting times for our great city and our best days are yet to come.”
See photos from today’s luncheon
See photos from the Tuesday council meeting
