Wakulla Station News
By VERNA BROCK
We learned this week of the death of a great Wakulla County citizen and public servant, former judge Mike Carter. Some of my fondest memories of my early days in the County revolve around Mike, the Wakulla County Public Library, and his role as president of the Friends of the Library. I could absolutely fill this paper with reminiscences of Mike’s efforts to promote the public library, the Optimist Club, the Chamber of Commerce, and probably every other civic club in the county too.
One episode in particular was his suggestion I should drive the “bookmobile” in the Sopchoppy 4th of July Parade in 1978. The so-called bookmobile was an ancient, refurbished school bus that was actually sitting on blocks behind the library. Never one to be deterred by small details, he was sure we could not only find tires, but get the motor running AND teach me to drive a standard shift school bus in two days! It was that last little problem that made it a non-starter. There was no way I could master the intricacies of driving that old bus anywhere. But no one could ever fault Mike on enthusiasm!
My heartfelt love and condolences go out to all of Mike’s family and friends at this time. We all will miss him, and the world will seem less alive without him in it. My prayers are with you.
Another Wakullan left this earthly plane last week, Ms. Lucy West. I have no idea how many generations of school children rode her bus every day throughout her career as a driver, but I know mine were among them.
Ms. Lucy never forgot a child, or a family. Many was the day she would come up to me at Savannah’s restaurant to enquire about “her babies,” and to ask me to give them her love. Parents always knew our kids were safe on her bus, come hell or high water. She will be deeply missed by her family and friends, as a woman who exercised the perfect combination of kindness and discipline on her job, and devotion to those she loved. Rise in glory, Ms. Lucy.
I attended my final School Board meeting on Monday the 14th, and am officially retired. Serving on the School Board was one of my greatest privileges and pleasures. I am so grateful to the citizens of Wakulla County for giving me the opportunity to work for their families and the cause of public education. I was also delighted, at my final meeting, to bring forth a motion to christen the newly renovated High School auditorium in honor of Ms. Susan Solburg.
As the long time drama teacher, Ms. Solburg was a force for creativity, talent, and education the many years she taught at the high school, and many, many students can attest to the impact she made on their lives. The Board was excited to unanimously approve this honor for an outstanding and influential teacher.
My family had a great time this past weekend, driving to Columbus, Ga. We finally were able to plan a visit to Callaway gardens to enjoy their night-time Christmas lights show. Despite the very chilly weather, Ed and I, along with the Rodgers & Simmons families, bundled up and boarded the open-air trolley to see the sights. The hour long display was spectacular, and you haven’t seen Christmas lights until you’ve seen them with little children. What a gift!
The next day we were able to attend Harrison’s first soccer game at a tournament in Columbus, which was great fun. It was also wonderful to arrive back home to retrieve our critters from Bloxham Cutoff Boarding Kennels, and be back in our cozy, warm home! There really is NO place like home.
Please keep Barbara Vickery in your prayers, as well as the families of Lucy West and Mike Carter, Sheryl Grimes, and Cindy Blackstock.
I hope each of you has a blessed Thanksgiving this week, full of family, food and fellowship. Even in these uncertain times (aren’t they always?) we have a multitude of blessings for which to be grateful.
There are many special events coming up during the holiday season, and I will do my best to keep you informed. Should your church or organization wish to have a mention in this column, please feel free to call 850-421-3730 or email vernalsbrock@gmail.com.