George Crawford, right, receives a plaque of appreciation from Jim Henderson representing the Eva Town Council. | Enquirer Photo: Clif Knight

George Crawford of Union Hill has been recognized as the recipient of a resolution from the State Legislature, a proclamation from Morgan County Commission and a plaque of appreciation from Eva Town Council as a retired educator and member of the Rural Morgan County Industrial Development Board.

An appreciation dinner was given in Crawford’s honor at Sedona’s Steakhouse in Hartselle on Thurs., Oct. 27. In attendance were members of the RMCIDA board and Morgan County Commissioners and their wives and guests. The awards were presented by State Sen. Arthur Orr., Morgan County Commission Chairman Ray Long and Eva Town Councilman Jim Henderson.

Crawford helped establish the industry-seeking board in 1988 and served as its chairman for 19 years, retiring earlier this year.

“It’s an honor for me to recognize someone who has contributed so much to the welfare of Morgan County,” Orr said. “George has demonstrated great skills and leadership in both education and industrial development for a long period of time and is someone who is worthy of being emulated. I was pleased to have a resolution drafted in his honor.”

The proclamation from the county commission commended Crawford for his many years of service to education, fire fighting, and industrial development as well as his devotion to his family and friends.

“I was young and you took me under your arm when I was campaigning for office: said State Representative Jeremy Oden, R. Eva. “One of the things you told me was that rural Morgan County needs help to grow industrially. It has been a great honor to work with you. We know what you have put forth and my hope is that the attitude you have demonstrated will continue.”

“We’re going to miss you,” said District 3 Morgan County Commissioner Don Stisher. “You have left a big footprint in South Morgan County that will benefit us for years to come.”

“It humbling to be in the center of attention like this especially when it’s people you know well and respect who are passing out the compliments,” Crawford said. “I feel good economic times are ahead for Morgan County because of the good people who are leading efforts to bring jobs and prosperity to our county.”