GREEN COVE SPRINGS – The City Council proclaimed the week ending on Oct. 22 to be “Florida City Government Week,” intended to recognize all who work in local government and encourage community involvement.

“The city government is the closest to its citizens. It serves its citizens and is administered by its citizens. All citizens can shape and influence their government,” said Mayor Connie Butler.

Four fifth-grade students from Charles E. Bennett Elementary were recognized for the “If I was Mayor for a Day” essay contest to celebrate Florida City Government Week.

Ibbie Gamboa, Jordan Hill, Nathan Kelley and Jubilee Walker were awarded certificates and had the opportunity to meet the mayor.

Next, the City Council proclaimed “Breast Cancer Awareness Month” in October to raise awareness of the most diagnosed cancer worldwide.

“We estimate 297,790 new female invasive breast cancer cases will be diagnosed in 2023. We estimate 2,800 cases of male breast cancer will be diagnosed in 2023,” Butler said.

Furthermore, Butler said Friday was proclaimed as “Mammography Day” to raise awareness of the most effective early breast cancer detection before symptoms can be seen or felt.

Butler shook the hand of a breast cancer survivor in the crowd and commended her strength.

“Florida Breast Early Detection program (from the Florida Department of Health) can be a life-saving resource for low or no-income individuals,” said Butler.

The Florida Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program covers the costs of a mammogram and clinical breast and pelvic exams for women 50 through 64 without health insurance and not covered by Medicaid or Medicare.