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When you hear and understand his life story, it’s clear to see that Gideon not only embraces this verse but walks it out. Through all of his challenges, he remains Gideon of Good Cheer. In my opinion, he is a young man that is truly inspirational, and I wanted a way to honor him and shine a spotlight on his outlook on life.”

He continued, “That is when I had the thought about the Christmas parade. If he already tells people he is my Mayor Pro Tem, I wanted to upgrade him for the day and make him our Honorary Mayor for the day and the two of us ride together in the parade. In addition to being our Honorary Mayor that day, he will be given a shirt with our city seal and presented with a proclamation to mark the occasion.” Gideon is already excited about his travel to Vidalia. “I cannot wait to be back there and to visit with all of my family and friends,” he emphasized.

Roper said that honoring Gideon is something that just felt right, as he has been impacted greatly through the pair’s friendship. “What do I think people can learn from him? If this young man, having gone through all he has gone through in life can remain of good cheer, so can I. If everyone, no matter the circumstance, remained of good cheer, this world would be a different place,” he commented.

The mayor encouraged citizens to wave and welcome Gideon into the city when they see him during the annual Christmas parade, which will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, December 7.