Thank you to the Kenton Times for your article and photos of the Hardin County Chamber and Business Alliance awards night. Thank you, as well, to the HCCBA for honoring Upward Sports for community service.

I have had the privilege of being asked if I would write this letter telling you readers about Hardin Leadership. I can honestly say I didn’t even hesitate. Yes! When you believe highly in something, it’s easy to talk about, so here goes.

To the editor: As I sit here pondering over the last year, I think of all I’ve got to be grateful for.

I have been fortunate to work with the Ridgemont Board of Education for five and a half years. I believe it is important for us to continue to publicly acknowledge the work of Ridgemont’s Board of Education during January which is Board Member Recognition Month.

It has come to our attention that a few business owners around the historic courthouse district are showing concern about problems from the trees which currently beautify the landscape of the area.

The Republican reaction to a diplomatic resolution to the brief period when 10 U.S. soldiers were detained by Iran was unsettling. Why do Republicans seem so troubled by diplomacy? Why yearn for "macho" when "suave" is required? A near crisis was averted in short order, but conservatives didn't celebrate.

We keep hearing from the Republicans about how bad the economy is, but let's look at some of the real issues. When President Obama took office, the Dow Jones was at 6800. Now it moves between 17,000 and 18,000, and the unemployment numbers are significantly lower.

We would like to thank everyone responsible for the “Lake of Lights” display in Saulisberry Park. Our spirits were lifted as we drove through the wonderful layout.

Recently, we thinned our pine trees out and was able to have a Christmas tree giveaway. We gave 20 trees to families that were in need, and it warmed my heart to hear their stories and to see how grateful they were.

We wish to thank the church choirs, pastors, director Judge Scott Barrett, and all who made possible the wonderful Community Carol Sing held Sunday evening, Dec. 6 at Kenton First United Methodist Church. The church was beautifully decorated for the inspiring choral anthems and bell ringing, along with the enjoyable congregational carol singing.