In October 1940, Mayor Hibbard Casselberry thinks about doing some grassroots advertising. Because there’re only a few dozen people in town, he starts his campaign with a heartfelt letter addressed to the newly minted Casselberry residents. In it, he paints a vivid picture of his grand visions for the town.
He pledges to improve the old community house, transforming it into a hub for social gatherings and events. He speaks passionately about his plans to turn the Azalea Gardens into a sprawling twenty-acre tropical paradise.
These ambitious ideas are aimed to captivate their imaginations and ignite their enthusiasm for their newfound home.
Recognizing the importance of the new volunteer fire department, he gives credit to all of the men who have volunteered to serve when needed. It’s an important job because of the amount of heavily wooded acres and the predominance of wooden homes. He promises to install standard fire hose connections near each house his company owns. He’ll pay the cost to install additional fire hydrants if any resident wants to have one near their home. The domestic water system has good water from a reliable deep well, and the State Inspectors say it’s “good.”
Next, he introduces the businesses in Casselberry and encourages their cooperation in building the town. William Drake, an insurance agent, finds himself in the spotlight, alongside the Colles, renowned Azalea growers, and the Smiths, known throughout the southern region for their Calla Lilies. The Simpsons, who run the Rustic Cabin Camp, also receive well-deserved recognition.
Hibbard’s feeling pretty good about his letter and hopes it will strengthen the local economy. If it really works, it might foster a sense of unity among its residents.
Then he goes a bit too far. His belief in supporting the businesses don’t end at the town limits. In an effort to bridge the gap between Casselberry and the neighboring Fern Park, he embarks on a campaign to bring everyone together. He offers free and friendly advertising for those living just outside the town, and he’s willing to highlight their businesses and attractions. He warmly mentions Mrs. Barnett's charming Gift Shop, “nestled nearby and worthy of a visit.”
This neighborly gesture is only weeks after the incorporation of Casselberry, so the political landscape is still touchy. So, Hibbard carefully addressed his letter to the "Residents of Casselberry." He intends to attach an additional card for when it’s sent to residents outside the town.
Just Hibbard’s bad luck, the card doesn’t get attached. He gets on the ball and writes another letter to the neighboring homeowners and businesses, clarifying the situation. He wasn’t implying that they were part of Casselberry, and he apologizes for any misunderstanding it caused by the “unintended confusion.”
The damage is done, however, and it furthers Hibbard’s reputation as a dictator only out to grab their land. It’s times like these that probably lead to one of his favorite sayings: “No good deed goes unpunished.”
Note: The card exists, but it’s not in the file at the time of this post.