GRAVETTE — On June 11 the Mayor of Sulphur Springs, Bobby Simon, asked the City Council to approve a change in his salary. In a world of business and political figures who seem to continually be seeking more and more money, Bobby's request was a breath of fresh air. He wanted his salary to be reduced to $5 a year. Considering all of the sacrifices Bobby has made for the city of Sulphur Springs, I was inspired to publicly recognize his dedication.
Bobby became Mayor on February 16, 2009. Six months later I am impressed with the amount of progress he has made toward reaching his vision for the town. Coming into office Bobby had two big goals: to improve the beauty of Sulphur Springs and to straighten out the massive water and sewer problems that threatened the city's health and finances. While making great progress on these two fronts he has also strengthened the citizens' morale, helped preserve the town's history and improved the way people think about Sulphur Springs.
It is not uncommon to see Bobby taking part in volunteer work in addition to his duties as Mayor. Whether washing dishes after a fundraiser meal, doing construction work on city buildings or having a friendly conversation with the townsfolk, he always has a smile for everybody. More than willing to do any of the town's dirty jobs, he is also trustworthy and responsible when it comes to paperwork.
Bobby's biggest helper is his wife, Judy, and she is just as selfless and industrious as he is. Judy Simon is a hardworking "do-it-yourself" kind of lady (she taught me how to change a tire). Aside from being a wonderful mother and grandmother and fulfilling her duties as a businesswoman, she is also Chairman of the Sulphur Springs Community Museum Commission. Judy has spent a great deal of time obtaining grants for the commission, heading up fundraisers and working on numerous displays for the museum.
Bobby and Judy have sacrificed so much of their time and effort to build up this city and its people. I thank God for blessing us with our current Mayor. The fact that he continues to strengthen the town with such a cheerful attitude, and with little pay, speaks volumes about his heart for Sulphur Springs.
News, Pages 10 on 09/09/2009