By Tanna M. Friday, contributing writer
TRUSSVILLE — To Trussville resident, Chris Rigdon, the idea of community comes from the sense of responsibility we have for each other. Taken from the scripture of Luke 12:48, Rigdon shares that ‘to whom much is given, from him much is expected.’
“It is important to maintain the connection of relationships to ensure a healthy, thriving community,” said Rigdon. “It is our responsibility as citizens to say thank you and honor those individuals who serve our community.”
The idea is to host an Appreciation Day to honor Trussville’s 257 city employees which will take place on Saturday, June 29, from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Trussville Country Club located at 7905 Roper Road. A golf tournament, lunch, and many activities will be provided for city employees and their families. A golf tournament is scheduled to begin at 8 a.m.
“It’s an opportunity for our business community to support our city employees and say, ‘Thank you’,” said Rigdon. “I want to give back and encourage other businesses in the community to do so as well.
“Not only do our first responders work hard for our community each day, but also our Mayor, Council, and other city employees that we don’t see. All of them deserve recognition. This appreciation event is just a ’thank you’ for everything they do.”
Mayor Choat shares that Rigdon approached him last year with the idea.
“This appreciation event allows myself and the Council to show our appreciation to all of our city employees,” said Choat. “It’s important to remember and thank those who serve the city for a job well done. Positive reinforcement goes a long way in today’s world.
“It will be a great time of fellowship between families that may not have the opportunity to get together,” he continues. “This also gives our employees a chance to meet new friends and their families outside a typical work environment.”
City employees will not only receive well-deserved recognition from local businesses and city officials, but all employees will be provided complimentary shoes by PUMA Cobra Golf thanks to Rich Santagata, Jr. and the Trussville Country Club.
“We want to spotlight the Trussville City employees and say, ‘Thank you’, you are the heart of our great city’s success,” said Rigdon.
Rigdon shares that the goal of this first annual appreciation event is to bring awareness to those who may not know who keeps the city running and to build better relationships between city officials and the people of this community.
“It is an honor and a privilege to host this appreciation event and we encourage surrounding businesses to join in this occasion by expressing their gratitude,” he said.
This year’s title and presenting sponsor is Serra Toyota/Serra Mazda who made a donation of $5,000 towards the appreciation event.
“Being a part of this community is ingrained in me,” said John McDonald, General Manager of Serra Toyota/Serra Mazda. I and several of our employees live in Trussville. Serra Toyota and Serra Mazda believes in community and giving back.
“Just this last month, we had food trucks at both of our dealer locations feeding the community lunch and giving away hundreds of free oil changes,” he added. “Without a doubt, we understand that the city employees are truly the backbone of the community, and a lot of times, they don’t get the recognition they deserve.
“When I heard about this event to show appreciation to the city employee’s, it was a no-brainer and we didn’t even hesitate. We wanted to get involved immediately.”
Both the City of Trussville and the Trussville Country Club are thankful for the sponsors who have already donated including Serra Toyota/Serra Mazda, The Trussville Tribune, Moe’s BBQ, McSweeney Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep/Ram, BOE Mortgage, Paul Davis Restoration, Milam & Company, Urban Air, Blalock Building Company, and The Lesley Law Firm.
There are several ways that Trussville businesses can participate including events sponsorships or through a monetary donation. All funds raised will go towards the Trussville City Employee Scholarship Fund, which will be presented to the Mayor and Council on the day of the event.
Sponsorship opportunities include:
- Tent Sponsorship $500: bring the company tent and enjoy interacting with city employees and their families. Deadline for sign up is Saturday, June 29. Set up is 7 a.m. before the golf shotgun start;
- Hole Sponsorship $250: includes signage with company name placed at one, or more, of the 18 hole course. Deadline for sign up is Wednesday, June 26; and
- Donations: any dollar amount is welcome up until Saturday, June 29.
If your business is interested in participating in the First Annual Trussville City Employee Appreciation Day, please send your requests to Ruwena Healy at rhealy@marketing247.net.