Community Corner

Letter to the Editor: Thank You for Participating in MLK Jr. Day of Service

Annette Dwyer, Chair of Shaping Summit Together, thanks those individuals who participated in the 15th Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service on Jan. 21, 2013.

Dear Editor:

On behalf of all Partners in Shaping Summit Together, I'd like to thank all the not-for-profits, houses of worship, advocacy groups and businesses which participated in Summit's 15th Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service. Just when I think I've seen the best MLK Day of my life, I become awed by yet another momentous Day of Service filled with inspirational messages to live by, generous donations of countless items for those in need, and amazing stories of grace and fortitude in times of trial.

This year's three Keeper of the Dream Award Winners — Christopher Cotter, Christy Hodde and Judith Leblein Josephs — are tremendous civil servants who make life better for Summit's residents and visitors EVERY DAY, but especially helped to establish calm, peace and civic order in difficult times during Hurricane Sandy. They are the ones who made sure that access to basic quality of life essentials were universal for all people. Demurely, they deferred to countless volunteers who perform these services every day, and yes, they are the every day heroes we are so fortunate to have. Yesterday was the Day to honor these three outstanding leaders to whom we look for safety and security in times of colossal proportion.

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I profoundly thank all the people who participated in this year's Day of Service in weather which was especially cold and the timing of which was in competition with the Presidential Inauguration!  There were hundreds of people in attendance.  From the youngest to the oldest of our residents and visitors, there were beautiful memories and shared experiences to mark this year's Day of Service. The Evening Service at Fountain Bapstist Church culminated the Day of Service.

All together, we are reminded that there is still more to do the very next day — today and every day hereafter — to make sure we safeguard our personal freedoms yet maintain personal self-control to avoid violence, bullying and interpersonal harm.

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In its 15th year, this community-wide event is completely planned and implemented by the sponsoring organizations and volunteers. Visit www.shapingsummittogether.org to learn more about programs which help Summit reach its full potential as a mature, diverse suburban community that is safe for people of all ages.

Annette Dwyer

Chair, Shaping Summit Together


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