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Incoming officials take oaths of office
5 Swearing in pic1
Incoming elected officials pledge to serve the county, state and their constituents during a swearing-in ceremony Dec. 20 at the Dawson County Government Center. - photo by Michele Hester Dawson Community News

Incoming elected officials were sworn into office Dec. 20 at the Dawson County Government Center.

Probate Judge Jennifer Burt administered the oaths of office, while Superior Court Judge Andrew Fuller governed the loyalty oath for the group.

Fuller also administered the oath of office for Burt, who will begin her fifth term as probate judge Jan. 1.

"Jennifer has been with probate court for her entire career. You're well-served by Jennifer Burt," Fuller said. "I'm pleased to be here with all of you."

He recalled a conversation he had with a senior judge many years ago and passed on those words of wisdom to the county's elected officials.

"The public never really can appreciate public servants that choose to serve a community until they can have a chance to actually get involved in the process and get interested in a public office enough to run for that public office," Fuller said.

"And then certainly those that were fortunate enough to be elected will find out what an honor it is to do that, but what a difficult task it is every day. I admire everybody here."

New terms begin Jan. 1 for Dawson County Commissioners Mike Berg, James Swafford and Julie Hughes Nix; school board members Doris Cook, Roger Slaton and Elaine Wilson; Surveyor Donald "Rex" Jones; Chief Magistrate Lisa Thurmond; Clerk of Court Justin Power; Sheriff Billy Carlisle and Tax Commissioner Linda Townley.

All were Republican incumbents and ran unopposed during the July 31 primary election. Their new four-year terms start Jan. 1 and run through Dec. 31, 2016.

Associate Magistrate Tony Tarnacki also renewed his oath before the crowd of officials, their families and friends.