by Ezabelle Janssen, Staff Writer

LONG BEACH (GG) — The Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Long Beach Breakfast with the Mayor on Monday morning, October 14th, at Coterie overlooking Long Beach’s man-made marvel coast and its up-and-coming harbor. The event drew a record-breaking crowd of over 130 attendees. 

Mayor Tim Pierce delivered his State of the City Address, reflecting on Long Beach’s progress, community pride, and promising future. Speaking before the audience, he emphasized the city’s identity as a thriving college town—home to the University of Southern Mississippi Gulf Park Campus—and the distinction of having the number one school district in Mississippi. Pierce highlighted several ongoing initiatives, including the construction of Long Beach’s new and improved harbor, a cornerstone project expected to boost tourism, local business, and the city’s overall economy. “I’m very enthusiastic about our future and me being a part of it,” the mayor commented. 

“We had a great crowd today, and I think, from what we presented, the city really does have a bright future going forward,” said Mayor Pierce. “We’ve got so many people that contribute to this city and make it what we are today… today you saw the cream of the crop.” 

The “cream of the crop,” standout community members recognized for their dedication and service to Long Beach included: 

  • Firefighter of the Year: Mikael Ingram
  • Police Officer of the Year: Amanda Branning
  • AMR Personnel of the Year: Noah Esparza
  • Public Works Employee of the Year: Brian Atkinson
  • Aline Doherty Citizen of the Year: Carol Paola

Perhaps the most heartwarming moment came when Carol Paola—a beloved educator who has served in the Long Beach School District since the 1970s—was surprised with the Citizen of the Year award. Paola, who believed she was simply invited to speak about her children, was moved by the honor. Upon accepting the award, she stood gleaming alongside her family and many city officials, whom she personally taught! 

“What an incredible opportunity,” she said. “I cannot say enough. I’m so appreciative. You don’t really think that people pay attention, but it’s certainly a lovely reward. I’ve worked in the school district since the early ’70s, and it is just a wonderful place to live. I’m so grateful for the safety of our community, for all of our first responders, that we know we can count on all the time. And the fact that when you are in a little town like Long Beach, you know people here—you know everybody. You go to a restaurant, you know someone, you know many people there. Last night, we were eating at the Chinese restaurant, and one of my former students was there having a birthday party. You know, that’s what it is to live in Long Beach. You know that you have support, you know that people are going to look out for one another. It’s like stepping back maybe 50 years to what a community used to be. That’s what it’s like to live in Long Beach.” Beautifully said by Long Beach’s most beloved teacher. 

Pam Sanders of the Chamber of Commerce expressed excitement over the event’s success. “The turnout was spectacular,” she said. “It shows the support the city has for the administration and how much people wanted to hear what Tim had to say. And it was so special honoring those who serve our community—especially Carol Paola, who really deserved it.” Sanders also highlighted Long Beach’s growing recognition, including local chef William Rester of Radish, who recently represented the city in a Condé Nast culinary competition in New York. “That really brings some spotlight on the restaurants in Long Beach,” she noted. Looking ahead, Sanders reminded attendees of the upcoming Santa by the Sea Celebration on December 6th, an all-day holiday event featuring festivities from 10 a.m. until the annual lighted boat parade at 5:15 p.m. 

Breakfast with the Mayor was more than a civic event—it was a celebration of Long Beach’s unity, progress, and hometown pride. With passionate leadership, dedicated citizens, and exciting developments on the horizon, the “Friendly City” continues to shine brighter than ever.

(Contributed by Ezabelle Janssen/The Gazebo Gazette)