Please join us in congratulating Mary Bradshaw.  It was a privilege of
coincidence that I was at the recent school board meeting for another
matter.  That evening, Mary was officially recognized for achieving
certification by the National Board for Teaching Standards.  As the article
suggests, Mary, we already knew you are someone special!
http://www.thekansan.com/features/x1599386140/Bradshaw-third-Newton-t...
to-earn-national-certification

In another recognition, Newton Fire/EMS Chief Gary Denny has been recognized
by our local newspaper, The Newton Kansan, as Newsmaker of the year.  Chief
Denny has consistently been open and receptive to working with KPP.  He is
an astute host who knows his staff well and uses that knowledge to very good
effect.  I'll post that article, too, as it becomes available.

In a congratulatory note to Chief Denny, I said:  "The fruits of your
efforts are great benefits to an already fine community.  One of the
greatest of these benefits is the example of your style of leadership.  Your
colleagues describe it as visionary, which is certainly true.  Even more
important, your style includes Servant-Leadership, the most constructive and
effective."

"I am honored to work with you and grateful for your openness to collaborate
with a variety of efforts to benefit our own community and beyond.  As you
are aware, my major "side projects" include Kansas Paraguay Partners (KPP)
and Circles of Hope.  A primary characteristic of both is mutual learning.
I'm pleased you continue to affirm that value with KPP.  I am also confident
that Circles of Hope will offer similar opportunities.  Please feel free to
contact us if we can reciprocate the support."

We are very fortunate for the concentration of selfless, community-minded
leaders in Newton and Harvey County.

Steve Richards