BY MARK J. CRAWFORD
When Starke’s general manager pointed out he was only 33 years old, while Terry Anderson has already worked for the city for 30 years, there was laughter.
There was also a lot of appreciation expressed for all the work and the many hats Anderson has worn for the city in that time.
“You’ve done a lot for the city. You’ve done a lot for the me over the past three and a half years. The commission, you’ve done a lot for them. And so, I just want to take this time and recognize you,” Manager Drew Mullins said.
City hall was full of family, friends and supporters, there to honor Anderson April 15. Among them was business owner and former city commissioner Chrissy Allen Thompson.
“On behalf of Downtown Merchants, the Chamber of Commerce and all the things that Terry does to help everybody, we love you, and thank you so much for your service,” Thompson said.
Former Commissioner Wilbur Waters said Anderson was a blessing to every commissioner she has served.
“How we put up with her now, I don’t know,” Waters joked, “but I do know we couldn’t have done it without her, and I love you.”
Another familiar face was in the crowd — Starke’s first manager, Lee Vincent.
“Terry and I go back a long way. There are other people here that I remember, and I remember fondly, all of you. Terry, congratulations. I never thought you’d make it,” he teased to more laughter.
“Miss Terry, we thank you for your dedicated service, all the different hats you’ve worn through the years,” Mayor Andy Redding said. “In a lot of ways, you are not just an employee. You are a faithful servant to the citizens of Starke, and you are, at this point, I’m sure, a motherly figure for a lot of these folks. And the experience that you have and what you bring to the to the table is invaluable.”
Anderson was also grateful.
“I just want to thank the Lord that I made it this far. My family, my friends, my coworkers, past and present, I appreciate y’all,” she said.
