Middletown Community Foundation honors Paula Kearns for 22 years of service

A heartfelt farewell marked the Middletown Township Board of Supervisors meeting on December 6, 2021, as community leaders and residents gathered to honor Paula Kearns, the executive director of the Middletown Community Foundation, and outgoing supervisors Tom Tosti and Amy Strauss.

Chief of Police, Chief Guardiola, opened the recognition segment by expressing gratitude for Kearns' six years of dedicated service, highlighting her instrumental role in supporting the police department, particularly through the foundation's contributions to the K-9 unit. "Paula does a fantastic job," he stated, emphasizing the positive impact of her leadership on both the police and the broader community.

Kearns, who has been with the foundation since its inception in 2001, received accolades for her tireless efforts in securing grant funding and facilitating community programs. She expressed her gratitude for the recognition and reflected on her journey with the foundation, stating, "I have enjoyed every single minute that I've served." The meeting also featured representatives from the Pennsylvania State Senate and House, who presented Kearns with formal recognitions, including a flag flown over the U.S. Capitol in her honor.

As the meeting progressed, Tosti and Strauss were similarly celebrated for their contributions to the township over the past six years. Fellow board members and state representatives praised their dedication and hard work, noting the significant improvements made during their tenure, including the establishment of a skateboard park and support for local veterans. "You two have both been mentors to me," one board member remarked, underscoring the personal connections formed through their service.

The evening concluded with a sense of gratitude and optimism for the future, as both Kearns and the outgoing supervisors prepare to embark on new chapters in their lives. The community's appreciation for their service was palpable, with many expressing hopes for continued involvement in local initiatives.