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Mayor’s Message December 2013 As my last Mayor’s Message is published, I am grateful for one final opportunity to express my appreciation to you, the residents of Murray City. Sixteen years is a long time to look back and reminisce regarding all the changes that have taken place. When I was elected in 1998, there were two old chimneys in the heart of our City. Today, close to where they stood, there is a world class medical facility, a new high school, a wide variety of retail and restaurants, and two new hotels coming out of the ground. It has been a remarkable ride to be part of the improvements that have been made through the years. The Murray Chamber has been a leading organization and their dedicated work continues to pay off. I have enjoyed driving around the City and seeing the latest additions. Along with the physical changes, there have been other more subtle things that have happened to make my time as Mayor memorable. I have had the chance to participate in activities with all of the schools many times over. One goal that I set early on was to attend all of the DARE graduations. Helping our children avoid drugs and alcohol abuse has been a priority and I have not missed a ceremony. I have great confidence in our youth and appreciate the leadership in our schools. I have been able to attend many wonderful events at the Heritage Center and rub shoulders with our senior residents. They continue to give back to the City through their energetic programs and volunteer efforts. We have had countless numbers of you who have volunteered and served our City. Whether through youth programs or on one of our Board and Commissions, you have added a part to the success of the City. It has been my honor to perform over 270 weddings through the years. Being a part of these very special occasions has been enjoyable for me and my wife. I’ve had fun talking with you at Fun Days and waving to you in the parade. There have been thousands of meetings, in the City and outside of it, with decisions made on a daily basis. I hope I have served you well. It has been an amazing experience to get to know the City employees. They fulfill their jobs with great effort and pride in making Murray “The Best City in America.” We are fortunate to live in a City with public servants of this caliber. There have been many City Council Members that have served during my term. They have been focused and dedicated in their service. Most are now my good friends and I know they love the City, as I do. I would like to express special appreciation to my family for their patience and support as I have served. There have been times when I have not been with them as duty called in the City. They have stood by my side through the good times and challenging times. My family made the ride smoother and I love them all. Thank you for putting your trust in me to lead this City we all love. It has meant so much to me to have your confidence and support. Have a wonderful holiday season and New Year!