shirleyNANNEY
Editor
The Huntingdon Mayor and Council thanked the town’s employees with a Thanksgiving luncheon on Nov. 23 at the Carroll County Civic Center.
Approximately 50 town employees enjoyed the bountiful meal of turkey, roast beef, and pork loin with dressing and all the trimmings.
There were ham and gift card giveaways during the get together.
Mayor Nina Smothers recapped the first Thanksgiving that began in 1621.
“The Pilgrims and Native Americans joined together for the first Thanksgiving,” said the mayor. “More than 250 years later, President Abraham Lincoln declared it a national holiday.”
Smothers expressed her thankfulness for each employee.
“A big thank you for your work,” she said. “Each one of you is an integral part of the town.”
In closing she wished each one a happy Thanksgiving.
Jason Seay, who has worked 11 years for the Public Works Department and also for the Dixie Carter Performing Arts Center, was recognized since he is retiring.
The mayor and assistant Public Works Director Ronnie Breeden presented Seay with a plaque and a pocket watch. The plaque’s wording commended him for a job well done and stated that he has demonstrated dedication and pride in his work.
The mayor introduced guest speaker Dr. Brock Martin, who owns Southern Chiropractic in downtown Huntingdon, and has recently been elected as the new Tennessee House Representative for District 79.
Martin is on the Huntingdon Industrial Board, president of the Huntingdon Lions Club, and is president of the state Chiropractic Association.
He mentioned that 1984 was the last time the seat was represented by a countian, who was Dale Kelley of Huntingdon. Martin himself has lived in Huntingdon for 10 years, although the family of Martins moved to McLemoresville in 1822.
“One bit of advice that Dale Kelley told me was ‘to always look at ways to serve your community.’” He said he was grateful for people he has known over the years who showed up to support him in his election bid.
He pointed out that Blue Oval City that will manufacture Ford vehicles is coming to the Stanton-Brownsville area. “The infrastructure is huge, and we want to get our fair share,” said Martin. “As far as the work force we have to start building kids to step in because within 10 years a lot of people will be retiring.”
He noted that adoption is a big issue because people want to adopt but can’t afford to do so.
He advised the town employees to think about who pays your salary.
“It gives you pride to help others. We are responsible for the people,” he said. “Be thankful for your jobs.”
He added that his job is to serve the people, stressing, “It gives me great pride to represent you.”
He advised his audience to think of five things that make you happy when you awake in the morning.
“Be grateful to serve your community,” he concluded. “Be visible and accessible.”
