South Ward Alderman Sid Beauman’s 8-month-old granddaughter, who underwent open-heart surgery last week in New York City, is out of intensive care and recovering.

“They’re hoping to get all of the tubes out of her chest today,” said Beauman, who gave an update of granddaughter Avery Bell’s condition at the opening of Tuesday’s board of mayor and aldermen meeting. “There’s just been an improvement every day.”

Avery Bell is the daughter of Jake and Megan Bell, who live in Pearl. Beauman and his wife were in New York for the operation last week, and returned Sunday. The Bells are to remain there for three to four more weeks while Avery recovers.

“Thank you, Vicksburg, and thank you to everybody who has called and texted with their support,” Beauman said. “We really appreciate it.”

Bowmar Baptist Church is collecting donations to help defray the Bells’ costs. Donations can be mailed or delivered to the church at 1825 U.S. 61 South, Vicksburg, MS, 39180, with a note specifying the donation is for Avery.

Meanwhile, Beauman said his son, Mitchell, and his wife, Rebecca, had their first baby on Monday, a boy. The Beaumans have three children and four grandchildren.