December 17, 2015 12:47 p.m.
[The Fernandina Observer invited both retiring commissioners Ed Boner and Pat Gass to submit their farewell remarks delivered at the December 15 Reorganizational Meeting to us for publication. We thank both commissioners for their service. Mrs. Gass’ statement appears below.]
Good Evening everybody. I want to take a minute to say thank you to the citizens of Fernandina Beach for allowing me to serve them. It has been an honor and a privilege. I would also like to say a special thank you to my husband. Billy has endured countless hours of my stress and has supported me every step of the way these last three years. I would also like to thank my sons, daughters, and son in law for their wise counsel and guidance. This has truly been a family effort and I could not have done it alone.
I preferred that no plaque, or proclamation or resolution be presented to me for my service. The last three years of my life have been unforgettable. I do not need anything tangible to assist me with my memories.
Several months ago I stated in these chambers that Fernandina Beach is a working community and I firmly believe that to be true. A large part of the uniqueness of our community is our ability to balance industry, quality of life, and tourism. We have been successful in our balancing act for many, many years. What we are not and what we do not want to become in Fernandina Beach is a Hilton Head, St. Simons Island, St. Augustine or the Villages. We are Fernandina Beach and we do not want to be like anyone else.
For those in the community that may be concerned for the future of Fernandina Beach fear not; this fair island has weathered and thrived through Pirates, Slave Traders, Carpetbaggers, Military occupations; and the phosphate, timber, and shrimp industries all while sustaining a bustling tourist trade. Whatever your concerns for Fernandina Beach, we shall survive.
I like the quote: Faith is not about everything turning out Okay. Faith is about being Okay no matter how things turn out.
Again……Thank you Fernandina Beach, God Bless You and Merry Christmas.
Pat, Thank you for your long service to the FB community on the Commission and the Board of Adjustments. I am sure that service will continue to manifest itself in different ways in the future as you clearly hold the way of life in FB close to your heart as many others do. Merry Christmas and best wishes for 2016 and beyond.
Thank you Pat for your service to our community. Merry Christmas.