Kansas City Elite

My friend Blake was recently nominated as a candidate for the Kansas City Elite Foundation sponsored by NAPA Auto Parts.  KC Elite is a program by which NAPA gives back to those who serve in the community.  Blake (pictured in the middle), currently serves as a substitute teacher at Shelterwood.  Blake graduated as big brother in June and also works at a local church.  Even though Blake has a seminary masters degree, he humbly serves in a modest role at Shelterwood and as a church volunteer.  To top it off, Blake is an underdog who achieves despite living with cerebral palsy.  With all the credentials mentioned, Blake was awarded the KC Elite prize of $2500 worth of auto work on his beat-up Toyota pick-up truck provided by NAPA parts and local dealers.  In addition, Blake was interview by the Speed Channel, Fox Channel 4 and he personally met the driver of the NAPA Auto Parts NASCAR #56, Martin Truex Jr (pictured to the left of Blake).  I had a chance to watch all of this unfold last Thursday as Blake was honored.

Oh yeah, there was one more small detail.  The prize included two tickets to Sunday's NASCAR race at the Kansas Speedway, VIP parking and access to Hospitality Village in the NAPA tent.  It was a tough sacrifice, but I accepted when Blake asked if I would join him for the race.  I actually had never experienced a live NACAR race and it was incredible.  The roar of the stock car engines was something I will never forget.  In case you're wondering, Matt Kennseth won the race (#17) and Truex finished in 2nd.

In some Shelterwood news, the Beyond Week activities when well last week.  The students served the community on Monday and Thursday followed by Friday's Fun Day.  Fun Day included a co-ed coffee house in the Dining Hall with open mic and later a food fight on the hill.  There are plenty of pictures on the SW Facebook page if you'd like to see them.

This weekend begins our Fall Family Retreat for parents of the boys.  I ask for your prayers for this busy time on our campus.  We are now at maximum capacity of 32 male residents.