City Commissioners Applaud Three Bartow Residents, Two Local Businesses
A total of six proclamations, along with one special presentation and two announcements that didn’t make it onto the agenda of the Bartow City Commission, marked the beginning of the Sept. 15 meeting.
The first proclamation recognized Gerald Cochran for his decades-long participation as a private citizen.
“His dedication to participating in his local government has spanned more than half a century. For over 50 years, Gerald has been a familiar presence at Bartow City Commission meetings, attending, listening, questioning, challenging, and whenever the opportunity presented itself, making his way to the podium to speak his mind,” read City Attorney Sean Parker.
Parker then said Cochran constantly questioned decisions made by whoever was city manager and those who served on the city commission, never reluctant to hold local government accountable.
Cochran also ran for a seat on the commission numerous times, demonstrating his willingness, not simply to criticize government, but to participate in the democratic process itself.
“He challenged us. Sometimes he frustrated us. Sometimes he made us laugh. Most of all, he cared enough to show up. And whether we agreed with him or not, he reminded us that local government belongs to the people who take the time to participate in it.” city attorney Sean Parker
Another proclamation that recognized 50 years of dedication was presented to Bo and Sandy Raulerson, owners of Bartow Christian Books & Gifts. It declared Oct. 1 as Bo and Sandy Raulerson Day.
“Whereas what began in 1976 as Bo and Sandy’s vision for a Christian bookstore grew into something far greater than a place to purchase books and gifts. It became a place of friendship, encouragement, faith, kindness, and genuine human connection,” read Parker from the proclamation. Their success stemmed from their belief that personal service and caring for people would always matter
The Raulersons’ devotion to Bartow extended beyond the store, stated the proclamation, which noted the couple “have generously given their time, talents, compassion, and support to churches, civic organizations, veterans, members of our military, families in need, and countless community causes throughout their lives.”
For Mayor Tanya Tucker, this recognition of the Raulersons was personal. Her grandmother worked with the Raulersons, and Tucker was at the store on many occasions after school.
However, honoring the Raulersons was not confined to the proclamation.
“Miss Mayor, if I can just say, this is just the beginning, because on Oct. 1 we’re having a celebration at your business, and everyone in town is invited,” said Commissioner Trish Pfeiffer. She added that at noon Tucker would read the proclamation aloud, and that both the Bartow Chamber of Commerce and Main Street Bartow organizations also had something planned.
“So we’re inviting the entire community. This is a milestone for Main Street to have a 50-year-old business,” said Pfeiffer. “And we just want to come celebrate you on the day that you opened 50 years ago.”
Other proclamations and special presentations included:
Recognizing Sept. 15-Oct. 15 as National Hispanic Heritage Month. Ana Rivera, president and founder of the Puerto Rican Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Polk County, accepted.
Recognizing Patel-Greene & Associates for being a “Top Midsized Company to Work for in Florida.” Gordon Greene, co-founder and executive vice president, accepted the award.
Recognizing A-C-T Environmental & Infrastructure for being a “Top Midsized Company to Work for in Florida.” It was accepted by Rob Kincart, founder and CEO.
Proclaiming Sept. 14-18 as Redevelopment Week. CRA Executive Director Howard Smith accepted.
Kyle Lasek, assistant director with Parks, Recreation and Cultural Arts, announced the September 2026 Beautification Awards winners as Duane and Kristina Parker (residential) and the McDonald’s restaurant (commercial).
Under “City Announcements,” Commissioner Pfeiffer stated she had been contacted by an individual with the following:
“September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month,” said Pfeiffer, adding that while it was too late for any recognition, she still wanted to bring this to people’s attention. The woman who had contacted her has a son with cancer. “He is okay now and just wanted us to keep all cancer patients in our hearts.”
Commissioner Laura Simpson announced that First Baptist Church will conduct a public reading of the Bible. This will take place from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., starting Sept. 28 through Oct. 5 at Fort Blount Park. While it’s being coordinated by First Baptist Church, Simpson said it’s community-wide.
“They’re asking people to sign up for a time to come out and read a portion of the scripture at your kickoff, starting at 7 a.m.,” said Simpson. For more information, she said to contact the church or access a QR code on the church’s website.
Steve Steiner can be reached at: [email protected]
