WESSON — Alton Shaw had two reasons to celebrate Thursday nightamong friends and family at town hall.

On his 29th birthday, Shaw displayed a big smile in front of theapproximately 75 people gathered in town hall as he was sworn in asthe mayor of Wesson.

“This means I won’t have to remember two dates,” he said afterthe ceremony. “This is one of the largest birthday parties I’ve hadin a long time.”

Shaw became one of the youngest mayors in the state after beingsworn in by Chancery Court Judge Ed Patten.

“The people have trusted you. They have expressed that trust byvoting for you. They showed their confidence in you,” Patten toldShaw.

Patten also complimented Shaw’s attitude and energy. The judgenoted that should allow Shaw to be successful in his newoffice.

Ward Three Alderman and Mayor Pro Tem Lura Greer added that shewas proud Shaw was elected mayor.

Shaw took the opportunity to compliment his parents for alwayssupporting him and encouraging him.

“In front of everyone here and in front of God, I just want tolook at my mom and say ‘thank you,'” he said after giving hismother, Nell Means, a hug.

Shaw invited residents to come to him with their concerns.

“I’m ready to get started working out some of the problems andconcerns of the town,” he said. “I look forward to working withmany of the residents and businesses to develop many of theresources we already have.”

He added that at the next board meeting town officials plannedto address the town’s water system to make it more efficient andimprove some of the daily operations.

“I’m also anticipating working with Dr. (Howell) Garner andassisting Co-Lin with their needs as well as continuingimplementation of the new Saint Ambrose Leadership College,” saidShaw.

Shaw was elected in a special election in July following formerMayor Bill Tigner’s resignation earlier this year.

Shaw also works as a paramedic with Acadian Ambulance in RankinCounty, and serves as a volunteer fireman with the Wesson VolunteerFire Department.