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Photo Gallery - November

Proclamation signing for National American Indian Heritage month - November 3, 2009
Governor Otter signs a proclamation recognizing November as National American Indian Heritage Month. Members of various
 tribes in Idaho gathered for the signing, as well as members of the Idaho chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. 

 

Governor's Brightest Stars - November 11, 2009
The Governor’s Brightest Stars shined once again as Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter and First Lady Lori Otter hosted the 9th
annual awards ceremony at Boise State University with over 500 in attendance. The annual Governor’s Brightest Star
Awards ceremony honors Idaho volunteers who selflessly provide voluntary public service within their communities.
2009 Governor’s Brightest Star Corporation of the Year:


Premier Technology Inc., Blackfoot
Premier Technology, an engineering, manufacturing and construction management company that emphasizes community service,
small town values and a good work ethic, was a sponsor for a day-long career expo and engineering challenge on September 23
at the Lemhi County Fairgrounds in Salmon to help students from rural Idaho communities set education and career goals.

Corporations Highlighted during the Ceremony:


Smith Optics, Ketchum


Washington Trust Bank, Boise

 
2009 Governor’s Brightest Star Small Business of the Year:


Fred Kesler Agency - Farmers Insurance, Meridian
The Fred Kesler Agency is a small business where every staff member is committed to giving back. Through active involvement in the Mayor’s
 Anti-Drug coalition, Meridian’s Promise, Kiwanis, Drug-Free Idaho, Leadership Meridian, and the Meridian Chamber of Commerce, this
small business regularly lives up to its motto—“Protecting our community, One family at a Time.” This small business sets the pace
for volunteerism in Meridian and inspires others to give to their highest potential.

Small Businesses Highlighted during the Ceremony:



Ketchum Kitchens, Ketchum


MBT Masai USA Corp (Masai Barefoot Technology), Hailey

 

2009 Governor’s Brightest Star Organization of the Year:


David Ketchum American Legion Post #115, Ketchum
The David Ketchum American Legion Post #115 not only contributes countless hours of service to the Wood River Valley
community, they also inspire their fellow citizens to step up and help those in need. Organizations such as the local soup
kitchens, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, and the elderly benefit from their selflessness and hard work. Members of the
Wood River Valley join Boy Scout Venturing Crew #192 in thanking these outstanding volunteers.

Organizations Highlighted during the Ceremony:


College of Southern Idaho RSVP Senior Assisted Services Volunteer Transportation Program, Twin Falls


Special Olympics World Winter Games 2009, Idaho

 
2009 Governor’s Brightest Star School of the Year:


Riverstone International School, Boise
Through a strong foundation built on the five pillars of Academic Excellence, International Understanding, Community and Service,
Leadership, and Outdoor Education, Riverstone International School ensures that all students reach their potential in a respectful
environment. Riverstone’s biggest program, the One Stone Club, has completed over 200 projects in the last seven years
and all students must complete meaningful service learning projects to graduate.

Schools Highlighted during the Ceremony:


Lakeland High School, Rathdrum


Vera C. O'Leary Middle School, Twin Falls

 

2009 Governor’s Brightest Star Student of the Year:


Kylie Poppen, Eagle - Riverstone International School
Kylie Poppen, a senior at Riverstone International School, has logged over 615 volunteer hours of service in the past year.
She is a leader in service and philanthropy in her community. “I am fortunate to work with many bright stars, but Kylie is more
like a star shooting across the sky; it is impossible not to notice and admire the brilliance.” said Neva Geisler, Volunteer
Engagement Director of United Way. Kylie has received U.S. Congressional Award Bronze and Silver Medals.

Students Highlighted during the Ceremony:

Amara (Amy) DiFrancesco, Sun Valley – Graduate of Riverstone International School,
Currently Attending Rice University


Genevieve Nutting, Boise - Boise State University

 

2009 Governor’s Brightest Star Individual of the Year:


Sharon Florence, Boise
For 21 years, Sharon Florence has served with CASA, the Court Appointed Special Advocate Program. Sharon has been the
voice in court for more than 100 foster care children who now have safe homes, free of abuse and neglect. Sharon also mentors
many new volunteers to the CASA program. Her dedication and length of service to children placed in foster care inspire others.

Individuals Highlighted during the Ceremony:


Mark Bennett, Meridian


Ramona Walhof, Boise

 

2009 First Lady’s Choice:


Wal-Mart Supercenter, Meridian
Wal-Mart Supercenter, Meridian, considers itself a “store of the community,” providing financial and volunteer support to dozens of charitable
 and community organizations and events. It has a particular focus on supporting veterans and military families, traditionally underserved
groups, and people with disabilities. Wal-Mart employees volunteer with Hospice, Special Olympics, Optimist Baseball Teams,
Salvation Army, Meridian’s Promise, Project Patch, Meridian Fire Department, food banks and local schools.

 

2009 Governor’s Choice:


Kootenai Health’s Volunteer Services, Coeur d’Alene
One of the strongest volunteer programs in the Northwest, Kootenai Health’s Volunteer Services organization is composed of hundreds of
 dedicated teenagers, volunteer nurses, retirees, former patients, child safety experts, and pet therapists. Together, they provide an array
of much-needed services, thereby strengthening Kootenai Medical Center’s mission to provide compassionate health care for all.

 
 

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