Recently, I was extremely humbled by being honored as the Hometown Hero at the South Point High School’s football game. Mr. and Mrs. David Adams, the athletic department, and the cheerleaders were most gracious in bestowing the honor to me.

As I was presented on the field, I looked up in the stands to see many of the faculty from Burlington Elementary School holding signs of support and actual fans with my picture on them. What a complete surprise!

The staff of my school is one of a kind, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. I appreciate them more than they can ever imagine!

Approximately two weeks later, the Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce recognized me with the Public Servant of the Year Award. Mr. Bob Smith, Dr. Bill Dingus and the staff were extremely gracious by doing everything possible to make this one of the most memorable days of my life.

The reception and dinner at the Ohio University’s Rotunda was elegantly served. Many of my friends and staff from Burlington Elementary School attended. I am very blessed to work with the special people at my school.

I was very surprised to be introduced by my first principal at Burlington Elementary, Mr. Ken Cook. He was instrumental in allowing me to work at my Utopian job as the school librarian where I am still today.

Besides the award presented by the Chamber, I received proclamations from the Lawrence County Commissioners, the Ohio Senate, Gov. Kasich and Lieutenant Gov. Taylor, House of Represenatives Dr. Terry Johnson, Mr. Ryan Smith and Mr. Bill Johnson.

My family was there to share and support me as they have always done in the past. There are so many people who have been there for me. I could not have done it without them.

As I said in my acceptance remarks: “If I have helped someone in any way, my living has not been in vain.”

I have always been involved in Burlington and South Point with my husband and my four children graduating from South Point and Collins Career

Center. My goal has always been to make my community a better place to live, work and play.

I hope my life has and will continue to exemplify these words as I take the liberty of making them personal: “Let my light so shine before men that they might see my good works and glorify my Father who is in heaven,”

May God continue to bless each of you!

Harriette Ramsey

Burlington