A new chapter began in McKenzie this month with the swearing in of Melvin “Blue” Shufford as the town’s new mayor.

Along with Shufford, District Judge MacDonald Russell presided over the swearing in of council members Lester Odom Jr., June Harper, Glenda Kervin and Gregory Lampley.

Following a brief council meeting, members, family and other guests enjoyed refreshments at a reception.

Shufford, a former city council member, said he still had “a lot to learn,” then added with a smile, “But I am enjoying it.”

He replaces longtime McKenzie mayor, Betty Stinson, who elected not to run for another term.

Council member Lampley will serve as Mayor Pro-Tem.

Resolutions were passed to keep town council meetings scheduled for 7 p.m. the second Monday of each month at the McKenzie Town Hall (located in the rear of the BankTrust building).

Mayor Shufford and his council want to remind everyone the town of McKenzie will host a Christmas parade at 10 a.m. Saturday, December 6.

Anyone interested in participating is encouraged to contact Town Hall at 374-2311 or call Tina at 453-0254.