Resolution 170885

..Title Honoring the life of esteemed community advocate Kesho Watson, who passed away on Monday, October 9, 2017. ..Body WHEREAS, Kesho Watson was born on September 9, 1968. She was raised in Philadelphia and is a graduate of Murrell Dobbins High School; and WHEREAS, Kesho Watson dedicated her entire life to improving her West Philadelphia community. In her own words, she lived a "full balanced life," and she refused to take it for granted. It was important to her to make the most out of her time, and to do that by being helpful to others; and WHEREAS, Kesho Watson served on community groups and boards, actively practiced in civic engagement and volunteered wherever and whenever she could. If there was an issue of great importance to her community, Kesho Watson was at the forefront, bringing the issue to community leaders and working hard to resolve it with positive outcomes; and WHEREAS, Kesho Watson's driven spirit and staunch dedication always led to innovative ways to improve her community. In fact, Watson's fierce advocacy led to the creation of Granahan Skate Park at 6500 Callowhill Street in West Philadelphia. Watson was inspired in this effort by her son, who became active and lost 25 pounds when he took up an interest in skateboarding; and WHEREAS, Kesho Watson passed away on Monday, October 9, 2017, leaving behind a legacy of being a true pioneer and advocate for West Philadelphia; and WHEREAS, Kesho Watson was a servant to God, an advocate for her community, and a loving mother and family member. She will be forever missed, but will be a pleasant reminder of the quest to do more for our communities and for the next generation of leaders to come; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That it hereby honors the life of esteemed community advocate Kesho Watson, who passed away on Monday, October 9, 2017. FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the family of Kesho Watson as further evidence of the sincere admiration and gratitude of this legislative body. ..End