CommunityNewsPolitics

Whiteville Holds Luncheon to Recognize Town Workers

Town of Whiteville held a luncheon for its employees and volunteers.

The Town of Whiteville honored its employees and volunteers with a luncheon, which was held on Thursday, November 21, 2024. The luncheon was a way to say ‘thank you’ to the men and women who help keep the Town of Whiteville running and create a welcome environment for its citizens, and people who drive through and visit every day.

Angelous Simmons, Town of Whiteville City Recorder, mentioned she could remember as far back as 2012 when the event was just a small office party and potluck.

“It has evolved and gotten a lot bigger,” said Ms. Simmons. “We recognize public works, water department, city hall, our volunteer boards like the library, zoning and planning board, town beautification committee, and more.”

The employees and volunteers were each able to bring a guest to enjoy the luncheon, which has become an event more about community.

Newly re-elected Tennessee State Representative Johnny Shaw thanked the employees and volunteers for their service and addressed all in attendance, reminding them of his accessibility and encouraging all to connect with him if there was anything they needed. Hardeman County Commissioner Chandra Lake expressed her appreciation for the employees and volunteers of Whiteville. Also in attendance were the Town of Whiteville Board of Alderpersons.

Tennessee State Representative Johnny Shaw shared appreciation for the Town of Whiteville workers.

Pastor Jerry Crisp of Union Hill Missionary Baptist Church introduced Commissioner Cory Bufford as the keynote speaker. Mr. Bufford spoke during the luncheon in the capacity of a pastor and shared throughout his speech the purpose, which was giving thanks for the workers of the Town of Whiteville.

Cory Bufford, a Hardeman County Commissioner and pastor, was the keynote speaker.

“Today, we want to take a moment to say thank you for everything you do. You are the unsung heroes who make our community and neighborhoods better, our streets safer, and our public spaces more welcoming. To our volunteers, thank for choosing to give your time and energy often and with great personal sacrifice,” said Pastor Bufford.

To add more fun to the luncheon, attendees name’s were added to a drawing for several gift cards.

Several attendees went home with gift cards from a drawing that was held.

Town of Whiteville Mayor Gene Bowden looks forward to the luncheon each year.

“This is important, because not only does it show how much we appreciate all of our workers, it creates a sense of community when all of the people gather and we invite folks throughout the community to come celebrate Thanksgiving with us,” said Mayor Bowden. “It is just a way of letting them [town workers] know how much we appreciate all the things they do all year long. That’s why we look forward to this each year.”


Read more local news by clicking here.

Stay informed on what’s happening in Hardeman County by following Hatchie Press on Facebook and subscribing to Hatchie Press e-mail updates.

Do you have community news you’d like to share? E-mail us at news@hatchiepress.com.