It was this drive which led her to be named grand marshal of this year's Roanoke Rapids Christmas Parade, which steps off at 2 p.m. on December 6.

This evening city council recognized Taresco in advance of the parade.

In the video she discusses the gang problem in Roanoke Rapids and how the Boys and Girls Club is “a refuge from that. I want a good place for them to learn and grow.”

While Taresco has dealt with juvenile diabetes for 36 years, she said in the film, “I know God kept me here for a reason.”

Mayor Emery Doughtie, in recognizing Taresco this evening, said, “I know the children in the Boys and Girls Club will be proud.”

“It's quite an honor,” she replied, saying several children from the club will be with her on the float.

“We chose Kim because she is a vital part of the community and works diligently to help the kids in Halifax County be the best they can be,” said Kelly Manning, assistant parks and recreation director, in an interview last week. “They offer such good services. She's an extreme asset and has overcome a lot of adversity to keep on doing this for the community.”

Audit report

In another matter this evening, Greg Redman presented the city's 2014-15 fiscal year audit, which still must be approved by the Local Government Commission before it is officially released.

Redman told council the audit had no modifications or findings.

It showed the city has $4.5 million available for spending in its fund balance. Its total fund balance is $8,278,000, which represents an increase over the last fiscal year audit. “No departments overspent,” he said, a reflection, “The finance office is keeping up with budget expenditures.”

City Manager Joseph Scherer said following the meeting he was pleased with the report. He said it was an effort by retired Finance Officer MeLinda Hite and current Finance Officer Leigh Etheridge.

The $4.5 million, he said, will be used for major emergencies.

Chalker, left, and Boone.

Retirement

Also this evening, Public Works Director Larry Chalker along with council recognized the retirement of Eakie Lee Boone, who left the city after 32 years.

“I thank God for the opportunity,” Boone said. “Thirty-two years has been a long time.”