Mayor's Island Review Column

Louise Rhodes, Relatives and Friends celebrated Louise’s 90^th birthday at her house on August 29^th. Many of you know Louise and many more see her on her walks but don’t know her name. Many probably recognize her from when she was Grand Marshall of the Emerald Isle Parade, and then as the driver for County Commissioner Pete Allen in subsequent parades. She walks 5 miles a day, 2.5 in the morning and 2.5 in the afternoon, at a rather brisk pace, with her bag of fruit, headset, and arms swinging in the air. In recognition of her long time residency, enthusiasm, zest for life, and involvement in town activities, I proclaimed August 31 (her real birthday) as Louise Rhodes Day in Emerald Isle. Louise is truly an asset to the town.

Louise’s birthday party was held at her house with many relatives and friends of all ages in attendance. As would be expected, there was lots of good food but unexpected was the great singing by her very gifted relatives. The birthday cake was very special as it noted her “Miss EI” title, had a girl dressed in beach attire, flip flops, plenty of shells, and of course the “90” candle. A very fitting cake for a very special person.

Louise has been coming to Emerald Isle for probably 40 years or more. First as a weekend getaway at one of the trailer parks and then building a house and residing here fulltime. She attends just about all town Board meetings and only misses meetings because of bad weather.

The new Town Hall is now complete and has rocking chairs on the porch. Her friends and relatives honored her with a rocking chair with a plaque saying

Stop by, have a seat in the chair, and enjoy the activity. You might get to meet Louise on one of her walks.

There are many great citizens, second home owners, business owners, and visitors in Emerald Isle; but non more special than Louise Rhodes. Happy Birthday Louise and we always enjoy seeing you out and about.