The last couple of weeks have been really showcase for the diversity and brilliant spirit of Sheffield people.
Snow, Snow and more Snow
I have been out to thank the people who have helped to keep Sheffield moving. Not just Council staff but also the sturdy and hardy volunteers of Sheffield, who have helped to look after others and keep Sheffield on the move. It is really important that we now review the gritting situation and have a discussion with the people of Sheffield on how we can improve.
Listening to Sheffield
Great news that the people’s panel, which has helped steer the bids to Government for the Sustainable Communities Act, has been successful in getting all four schemes accepted :
- Sheffield taking over the post office franchise
- Growing local food on derelict land
- Skills and Apprenticeship Model without having to go through national hoops for Sheffield
- Asylum Seekers whose asylum case has been processed being able to work and contribute to society.
This is what happens when real people power takes over and local people have their say, not only does the Council listen, but it would appear the Government is listening as well.
Hail a Taxi
I was delighted to go to the Taxi Association driver’s annual meeting, on behalf of the Council, and help present some long service awards. Many times taxis do a very good job quietly, and do not get the recognition they deserve. I was therefore very happy to deliver a goodwill message from the City, as well as hand out the prizes to some of the taxi drivers.
Great Graduation
As Leader, I attended the graduation ceremony for students who have received brilliant education from the University of Sheffield, and celebrate in their success. I was really proud of such a good University and also the students who will now become ambassadors for this wonderful City.
A True Legend
I helped to unveil, with the Lord Mayor, the Walk of Fame plaque for Sean Bean. A great man and a great ambassador for the City, very shy and unassuming, but he really has put Sheffield on the map. I was really pleased that the people of Sheffield turned out to thank Sean for all he has done for the City, both Owls and Blades!
Food, Glorious Food
I met with organisations wishing to run the first ever Sheffield Food Festival. Really exciting that the festival will be coming, and celebrating Sheffield’s food and drink in June of this year. I’m really looking forward to the summer and experiencing with Sheffielders a wonderful festival.
Supporting Local Troops
The Lord Mayor and I attend the exercising the freedom of the City by the Local 38 Signal Regiment Volunteers Squadron within the City. Really pleased that people of Sheffield turned up to thank them for the work they do, whether they are regular or a member of the TA.
V & A Museum – Sheffield!
I was delighted that the partnership between Museum Sheffield and the Victoria and Albert Museum has been extended by another 5 years. On behalf of the city, I was able to showcase Sheffield to the Director of the V & A Sir Mark Jones, and looking forward to the exhibits which start again in 2011, with the first of the history of couture with such designers as Dior. It is marvellous to know that such an important Museum still rates Sheffield as a great international City to exhibit its important collections.
Keep the Cold at Bay
I was one of the people involved in a photo session to highlight the free insulation scheme which we have here within the City. A delightful and funny photo opportunity which showed that you don’t have to be cold in Sheffield and that you live in private accommodation, there are ways in which we can help you not only to keep warm but to reduce your bills as well and help save the environment. Further details (link to go in here and photo from Andy which was taken in the shop window)
As always the City Council and I are here to ensure that we listen and try to get things right for you first time so if you have any issues you would like me to be aware of please do not hesitate to contact me.
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