Rachel Dove-Baldwin | Daily News There's a new Sheriff in town, and he was sworn in prior to the clock striking midnight by Circuit Judge Michael Thornsbury. Pictured is Mingo County Sheriff Eugene Crum raising his hand in victory after being administered the oath of office. In the photo with Crum are his wife and granddaughter.

slideshow

Rachel Dove-Baldwin

Staff Writer

WILLIAMSON — The temperature and precipitation may have been falling on the evening of Dec. 31st, but the mood of those who attended the New Year’s Eve Celebration in downtown Williamson was upbeat and full of cheer, as they gathered to watch their elected officials take the oath of office.

Mingo County Circuit Judge Michael Thornsbury presided over the swearing-in of incumbents C. Michael Sparks, Prosecuting Attorney; Chief Magistrate, Dallas “Big Dal” Toler; 20th District House of Delegate Justin Marcum; County Commissioner David Baisden; Assessor Ramona Mahon, and the new Mingo County Sheriff, Eugene Crum. Special Drug Task Force Investigator David Rockel and Magistrate Asst. Misty Fields were also issued the oath of office.

The icing on the cake for the countless number of Sheriff Crum supporters attending the event was when he put on his new jacket bearing the emblem of “Mingo County Sheriff” on the sleeve, and when he marked up on the police radio with Mingo County 911 and said, “Mecca, 700 is 1041…Happy New Year!”

Judge Thornsbury introduced each official, speaking highly of their accomplishments and of their desire to serve the citizens of Mingo County. He remarked of the unique qualities of each individual that appealed to the public and gave them the desire to cast their vote in support of them.

Commissioner John Mark Hubbard began the evening’s event by welcoming all those who came out to be a part of the festivities, and his fellow Commissioner, Greg “Hootie” Smith said a prayer for the county, the state as well as all of America, prior to the oath of office being administered to the officials.

Approximately 300-400 people participated in the New Year’s Celebration, and were treated to a buffet of delicious food and warm drinks, as well as free party favors for all. The Time Square New Year’s Countdown was televised live on the side of the courthouse, and the Mingo event was timed to the exact second of the ball being dropped in New York. Local D.J. Darry Paige entertained the crowd with a variety of music, and numerous men and women were seen having a great time dancing in the street. A breath-taking fireworks show lasting close to ten minutes was a fitting tribute to the conclusion of an evening filled with smiles, laughter, friendship and unity.

“It’s a new year, and a new beginning for Mingo County,” remarked Judge Thornsbury. “We want to wish everyone a prosperous, healthy and happy 2013! Thank you to everyone who came out and braved the cold temperature and the drizzling rain and snow mix to help us celebrate our new beginning. This is your county – and your party!”