The City of Bristol, Tennessee honored employees who received the Bristol First Serving with P.R.I.D.E. Award during 2017. Mayor Jack Young recognized the four employees at an awards luncheon on Wednesday, January 17. Congratulations to Public Works employees Bob Williams and David Taylor, the Police Department’s Officer Michael Nygaard, and Parks and Recreation employee Dwayne Coleman.
The honoree named Employee of the Year was Police Officer Michael Nygaard. Officer Nygaard was nominated for his outstanding actions pertaining to a local citizen in need. While patrolling in the area of a local grocery store, Officer Nygaard saw a woman panhandling. He quickly approached the woman who told him she had been trying to find work and was basically homeless with her children. She was out of money and awaiting government assistance, but would not receive it for several days. Officer Nygaard, realizing the direness of the situation, took his own money and purchased groceries to help tide the family over.
“We recognize that employees are the city’s most valuable asset,” said Terrie Talbert, Director of Community Relations. “This program ensures that those who go above and beyond the call of duty are recognized. We encourage the community to view the recipients of the award by going to the city’s website at www.bristoltn.org. Program specifics and the nomination form can also be found on the website.”
The award program was developed to recognize individual and team efforts, encouraging and empowering employees to work to the fullest extent of their capabilities. It has been in place for the past three years and has recognized 22 city employees.
City Manager Bill Sorah who presented the award to Officer Nygaard and recognized the other nominees said, “Each of us who work for the city must strive to create that emotional connection with the community all while staying authentic to our policies and direction. In each story we have seen that in real life terms.”
For more information on the program please contact Terrie Talbert at 423-989-5500 Ext. 2055 or email [email protected]
