By Mike Hutchens, UC Schools Communications Director
Union City, Tenn–Christmas came early for employees of Union City Schools.
Continuing its recent partnership with Main Street Union City and the Obion County Chamber of Commerce, UC Schools presented each staff member $200 in “Tornado Cash” today as part of their holiday bonus.
It marks the third consecutive year of the practice that is designed to encourage school system personnel to shop locally.
Director of Schools Wes Kennedy said the gesture cost UC Schools more than $50,000 but was well worth the goodwill and positivity it has generated with area merchants and in the community.
“Local businesses have been good to Union City Schools,” Kennedy insisted. “They support our students, athletes, and fundraisers with unsolicited contributions. It’s what makes small towns and communities unique.
“Our continued relationship with Main Street and the Chamber of Commerce is important to us. I do believe all parties value each other, and this is just a small way we can show our appreciation to those who support Union City Schools.”
The Tornado Cash – which was separate from a bonus check given to faculty and staff – was distributed in $20 increments. A partial list of those participating businesses who belong to the OC Chamber of Commerce and Main Street and are participating in the venture this year can be found at https://obioncounty.org/chamber-cash.
Kennedy said he elected to give the bonuses early so that recipients may use them during Black Friday Shopping next week.
“People are beginning to get into the holiday spirit, and we just wanted to allow our people to have the opportunity to spend their bonuses at home,” he said.
“Whether it’s spent on others, at restaurants, or on one’s self, we wanted our people to enjoy the generosity of the board and be thankful for the many options we have here locally with our businesses and merchants.”