Your letter informing me that I will receive the Community Service award has simply overwhelmed me. It is with deep gratitude that I accept the honor. As your letter indicated, Jane and I will be present at the Springfield ballroom on May 2, at 8:00 p.m. I will prepare a short biography for you to draw from for your introduction and mail it to you within the week. I would also like to come prepared with handouts encouraging other Springfield residents to get involved. Again, I am sincerely honored by this recognition and look forward to May 2.

It was a sobering moment when I learned you were giving me the award for youth leadership. I have wanted very much to help the young people of our community, and this award suggests that perhaps I have succeeded in some measure. I sincerely hope that is the case. Although we feel a little self-conscious about the attention we are receiving, Jane and I will be delighted to join you at the annual banquet on Friday, June 30, and I will be happy to respond with a brief acceptance speech. I have enclosed the recent photograph that you requested. It is difficult for me to express how much your thoughtfulness means to me. Thank you, again.

What a wonderful surprise this is. I am humbled to be named \”Teacher of the Year.\” My family is surprised. My in-laws are incredulous. We will all be at the awards banquet on May 21, to see if it is true. I have enclosed the photo and brief biography that you requested. Perhaps it needs editing. Thanks again for the honor.