PRESTON, GA -
One of south Georgia's most accomplished men was honored Saturday.
John White's resume includes careers in education and politics, even a news anchor right here at WALB. His career was celebrated Saturday afternoon.
John White is a man who has done a lot in a lot of different fields. The former state legislator says he was overwhelmed by the outpouring support from Preston.
"This is an enormous feeling for me for a community this small to think so much of me and have something special like this," White said.
One of his accomplishments comes right here on WALB News 10 as the first african-american news anchor in southwest Georgia.
"I did not know that at the time," said White. "I simply just wanted to provide a service. I thought I had the talent to do what I thought was needed for black people to be represented. We watched television every day, but we did not see ourselves."
He was presented with a flag from his alma mater, Florida A&M. He helped design the look of the university's flag. He credits his loving family for his success.
"One of the things my father always told me, if you are going to do something, always do it well. Prepare to do it, and do it well," said White.
Even Ray Charles' daughter wanted to thank White for his service. And he says his dedication to serving others doesn't end.
"I'm doing a lot of work for the elderly community now in housing because there is a tremendous need in housing among the elderly population," said White.
John White says there is still plenty of work to be done.
"I'm not done yet. There are other things we can do and we must do both politically and educationally," White said.
He is grateful that his work has been noticed.
White served as a state representative for 22 years. Most recently, he campaigned to become mayor of Albany, a seat now occupied by Dorothy Hubbard.
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