Apr 18, 2021
1 hr ago
My father taught me about leadership from his experiences as a mine supply clerk for over 30 years. He told and showed me that the best leadership came from those who worked themselves up; not those who earned a degree and then were given a position of power.
I saw this magnified in the excellent leadership that Randy Farley gave us; from a teacher to principal to Administrative Assistant of Curriculum, Technology and Instruction and then as our County Superintendent on July 1, 2019.
My experiences with him through the years have always been in the best interest of the student, the teachers, support of public education, and the enrichment and involvement of the community in the process. I have had the pleasure and honor of working with him on the passage of the West Fairmont Middle School bond, covering the yearly Literacy Fair, the campaigns for the United Way, and the Christmas Toy Shop for all students.
rspitza@miningjournal.net
Hayden Croff of Marquette, a Northern Michigan University student and Christmas coordinator for The Salvation Army of Marquette, picks up toys from the Cheer Club at The Mining Journal office in downtown Marquette on Dec. 5. Gifts collected by the Cheer Club were distributed to local families in need earlier this month by The Salvation Army of Marquette County and St. Vincent de Paul of Marquette. (Journal file photo)
MARQUETTE The Salvation Army of Marquette County’s “Rescue Christmas” initiative garnered many financial and gift donations for families in need this holiday season, officials said.
The organization reported Wednesday morning that $98,678.40 was raised through its annual Red Kettle campaign, exceeding its target of $90,000 by 9%.
On Dec. 17 and 18, The Salvation Army in Branson hosted its inaugural Christmas Toy Shop at Our Lady of the Lake Parish Center in Branson for families in Taney County.
For several years the Toys for Tots Toy Store was held in Branson by Love INC, to provide parents, who would otherwise be unable to afford to do so, the chance to pick out Christmas presents for their children. When Love INC. closed its doors in August, the Branson Salvation Army stepped up to take over the program and host their own Christmas Toy Shop.
âToy shops are one of the things The Salvation Army has been doing for probably over 100 years,â said Branson Salvation Army Capt. Linda McCormick. âWe know how to run a toy shop, and it runs smooth and it runs like clockwork.â
rspitza@miningjournal.net
Marine Toys for Tots volunteer Fran Valela helps unload a trailer full of toys at the Westwood Mall on Monday afternoon. The toys will be distributed to registered families in need as part of the Salvation ArmyÕs Christmas Toy Shop program. (Journal photo by Ryan Spitza)
Marquette County Toys for Tots Coordinator Tracey Tippett, left, and Marine Toys for Tots volunteer Fran Valela, unload a trailer full of toys at the Westwood Mall on Monday afternoon. The toys will be distributed to registered families in need as part of the Salvation ArmyÕs Christmas Toy Shop program. (Journal photo by Ryan Spitza)
Editor’s Note: The Exponent Telegram presents Saturday’s Salutes to recognize the positive efforts of many in North Central West Virginia and the Mountain State. To nominate a person or group for recognition, send submissions to “Saturday Salutes” at jmiller@theet.com or call 304-626-1473.
â Harrison County Sheriffâs Office employees, for putting on another successful Shop With a Deputy program. The annual event helps make Christmas possible for families in need.
â The Christmas Toy Shop in Marion County, which this year served nearly 900 kids, making sure they have gifts under the tree even during the pandemic.
â Organizers of the Feast of the Seven Fishes event in Fairmont, who provided a âcreate your own feastâ atmosphere because of COVID-19 concerns.