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Mississippi’s first lady Deborah Bryant
talks with residents of Smithville following a town meeting on Wednesday. (Deste Lee)
Bryant was presented with a golden shovel by Smithville Mayor Gregg Kennedy, who said Bryant was known for her compassion and that residents were grateful for her visit.
Bryant offered a check for $2,500 for the recovery efforts.
“This is just a resilient community,” Bryant said. “They have great people here. They’ll be fine. I just want to get back to work and help them any way I can.”
Doug Wiggins, the supervisor for Monroe County’s District 1, which includes Smithville, said, “I think it’s wonderful that she would come and see the needs here today and to be willing to try to help us meet those needs.”
Smithville will hold its Community Assessment Survey from 5-7 p.m. today at Crossbound Church. Anyone 18 or older who lives within six miles of Smithville is invited to participate and share their wishes for Smithville’s future.
rex.wilgus@journalinc.com