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Proclamation signing for National American Indian Heritage month -
November 3, 2009 |
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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. |
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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.
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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
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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
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MBT Masai USA Corp (Masai Barefoot Technology), Hailey
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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:
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College of Southern Idaho RSVP Senior Assisted Services
Volunteer Transportation Program, Twin Falls

Special Olympics World Winter Games 2009, Idaho
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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
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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
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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
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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.
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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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