Rural Leader Magazine March/April 2015 | Page 3

Editor’s Note Sincerely, Kuanita E. Murphy, PhD Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Reader's Voice Dear Rural Leader Magazine, I loved the January/February issue, especially the article Changes to Know Before Filing your Federal Tax Return. —Jim C. Macon, GA Dear Rural Leader Magazine, Thanks for the article, Five Financial Fitness Habits to Begin in the New Year. The article was timely and informative. —Timothy R. New York, NY Dear Rural Leader Magazine, Thanks for the special feature on Tiffany Boyle and Emerge-The Magazine. It's refreshing to see entrepreneurs support each other. Continued best of luck! —Williams S. Tallahassee, FL Dear Rural Leader Magazine, Thanks for another great issue! —John T. Eufaula, AL Dear Rural Leader Magazine, Continue to keep up the great work. —Edith J. Valdosta, GA Photo Courtesy of TieFotos Dear Readers,   I am delighted to present to you the March/April 2015 edition of Rural Leader Magazine. It is bitter sweet in that the month of March marks the one year anniversary of the publication! Though it is hard to believe, the past year has been a tremendous opportunity to share the stories of remarkable people in Small Town America!   Inside this issue, we unveil the much anticipated Twenty under 20! We are pleased to recognize these deserving young people, who have demonstrated exemplary standards in academics, athletics, and community service. (See page 12)   It's also that time again to accept nominations for Rural Leader 40 under 40! Last year, we had an overwhelming response, and we hope that this year will be even better! (See page 27)   And last but certainly not least, I am exited to introduce you to Kourtney Shelley and her newest endeavor called Mutt Life. Her story will undoubtedly inspire you to go higher. (See page 5)   Thanks again for your continual support! Happy Reading! Dear Rural Leader Magazine, I am so looking forward to the Twenty under 20 feature! Thanks for filling the gap and recognizing such deserving young people in small communities. —Addie C. Jackson, MS Dear Rural Leader Magazine, The article What if you learned leadership wrong? was thought provoking. It was a great discussion piece at our monthly peer meeting. —Janice M. Newark, New Jersey Dear Rural Leader Magazine, Expand your career options with a global perspective was a wonderful article. I learned valuable tips to help me transition to an