The 2003 Brightest Stars Awards saw recipients from every corner of the state making the trip to Boise to receive their award.  Below are the descriptions and pictures (where available) of the 2003 Brightest Stars recipients.  

INDIVIDUAL CATEGORY

The following are the finalists for the INDIVIDUAL category from towns across Idaho.  The written nomination forms and support letters provide heartening accounts of adults and youth devoted to the healthy development of Idaho’s youth and families.

Grand Prize Individual Winner: Jodi Kehoe from Wilder is a teacher, as well as a champion and nurturer of children in school and beyond.  Determined that the needy and special needs children must have the necessary tools such as glasses or hearing devices to succeed, she finds the resources for the children, or supplies them herself.  The stipend she receives as P&Z Commissioner goes to her school library to buy books.  It’s rumored that Jodi once went to a local bar and hit up patrons during happy hour to contribute to the book fund when it was in need of $500.  She is also a Chamber volunteer for the annual Wilder auction.  Also pictured (L to R) are Wilder City Clerk Alice Reyes, Wilder City Councilwoman Robbie Simansky, First Lady Patricia Kempthorne, Rep. Darrell Bolz, and Brightest Stars Committee Chair, Kiki Tidwell.

R. David Moore:  Blackfoot Chief of Police with a heart for young people.  Involved with creation of a youth committee, skateboard park, roller/ice skating rink, BMX track, Cops and Kids, Police as Teachers, reading to children, and Elks youth program.  Is it any wonder that Blackfoot has had a decrease in juvenile crime?  Presenting the award is First Lady Patricia Kempthorne.
Sandy Ashworth:  A Bonners Ferry librarian, family literacy advocate, champion of the children’s center funding and building project, a volunteer in numerous county and city committees, including executive member of the Boundary County Family Coalition…an involved parent.  Pictured with Ms. Ashworth (L to R) is Rep. George Eskridge and Sen. Shawn Keough.
Pat Eck:  Bovill school principal champion of children of all ages by obtaining grants for preschool education, a Community Resource Center, team worker to obtain City of Promise designation, and member of Stand for Children.  Through Pat’s individual and collaborative effort on behalf of rural children, many services and resources have been obtained.  Presenting the award is First Lady Patricia Kempthorne.
Sara Bott:  Burley’s young nominee (19) of character and dedication is starting her second year of spending one night a week working with youth at the juvenile detention center on asset and relationship building.  Along with going to college, she is involved with Lunch Buddies mentoring program, pregnancy prevention committee, and a youth advisory committee.  Pictured (L to R) is Sara Bott, Rupert Mayor Audrey Neiwerth, and First Lady Patricia Kempthorne.
Bev Montgomery:  This Caldwell leader has devoted her life personally and professionally for the healthy development of youth and families.  Her life’s work has included correction school teaching, child protection casework, adult and youth education in County Extension, 4-H leadership, Sunday school and church volunteer, and state legislator.  Raising money to build a new home for girls who have been physically and sexually abused is one of her immediate passions.  Presenting the award is First Lady Patricia Kempthorne.
(Picture not available) Maurice Guerry: a Castleford rancher who supports children through providing jobs, sponsoring youth sports, music, 4-H and FFA, and as a Boy Scout leader.  He supports and mentors youth through his attendance at youth activities, visits to students in college, and is an example of a good steward of the land as well as a leader of community and agricultural organizations. 
Lorena Freund:  Coeur d’Alene’s nominee channeled her grief after the loss of her child to establish Parents Reach Out to Parents (PROP) group.  She has met weekly with parents of disabled children to support them, established a weekend camp, provided respite care for children and care for foreign exchange students.  Presenting the award is First Lady Patricia Kempthorne.
Jim Rehder: of Cottonwood says he is honored to have developed and taught educational programs for inmates to learn to be better parents when they leave the prison system.  As a part of this he connected with the Drew Bledsoe Foundation and the “Parenting with Dignity” program that has been shared at prisons, conferences, and other events across Idaho.  He is involved with other area youth programs, as well, in his dedication and passion in advocating for children.  Pictured (L to R) are Jim Rehder, First Lady Patricia Kempthorne, and Cottonwood mayor Denis Duman.
Geneva Trent:  Eagle is blessed with this organized and dedicated citizen who has assisted in the start up of the “Friends of Eagle Island State Park” organization, Eagle Senior Center, the local historic museum, and the food bank.  Pictured (L to R) are Geneva Trent, First Lady Patricia Kempthorne, and Eagle Mayor Nancy Merrill.
Michelle Welsh:  Emmett friend of children and families is a parent education instructor who helps families develop their own skills, as well as connect with resources.  As a collaborator with other agencies she is involved with providing Christmas gifts for needy children, and working closely with the local library to obtain books for children.  She shares her love for learning and reading with many in the community.  Representative Gary Bauer Shakes Ms. Welch's hand as First Lady Patricia Kempthorne looks on.
(Picture not available) Rob and Kris Cronin:  Sponsoring fundraising events at their business in Hailey, the Cronin's have raised $60,000 in the past three years to sponsor children who have cancer to attend Camp Rainbow Gold and a ski camp.  Rob being a cancer survivor himself has special zeal as he and Kris hope to start an endowment to support Camp Rainbow Gold.

Tracey Haskin of Heyburn has turned her pain of losing a child, her sister, and grandfather to cancer into zeal for helping find a cure for cancer.  Currently she has taken a break from golf and relay fundraising duties to help her oldest daughter Tracey through her treatment for Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma diagnosed last September.  Pictured (L to R) are House Speaker Bruce Newcomb, Tracey Haskin, First Lady Patricia Kempthorne, and Heyburn Mayor Cleo Chaney.
Deanne Hally: was known as the cookie lady to many children in Idaho Falls.  Her contributions to the neighborhood and her ability to use art to reach out to children are sincerely missed after her life was cut short by cancer.  Her Brother Bradley Jones accepted her award for her.  Pictured is Bradley Jones as he accepts the award for his sister from First Lady Patricia Kempthorne.
(Picture not available) Jim Cimino of Ketchum has blessed the community with his successful work to secure a beautiful new park.  He also formed a group of financial backers to provide land and a building for a new fire and police station. The quality of life for Ketchum’s children and families has truly been impacted in a positive manner by this man.
David Overacre of Kimberly is a City Council member who works on character education in the middle school.  Constantly involved in visionary work for the betterment of his community.  His work includes serving as chairman for the soccer and eyesight committees for Lions, the board chairman of Crime Stoppers, youth baseball, high school booster club, and much more.  Pictured (L to R) are Rep. Sharon Block, Christina Overacre, First Lady Patricia Kempthorne, and David Overacre.
Aubrey Cunningham: of Kuna was nominated for her community and school volunteer achievements in projects that benefit the youngest to the oldest citizens.  Pictured (L to R) are Aubrey Cunningham, First Lady Patricia Kempthorne, and Kuna Mayor Greg Nelson.
(Picture not available)  Ray Rosch is described by his Lewiston community as a man of passion for building a community that cares for all citizens.  He is noted as a youth asset builder, an advocate for at-risk youngsters and families, a leader in developing and serving in programs to benefit the community, a professional esteemed by others in the newspaper business, a husband, parent, and citizen of honesty, loyalty, and integrity.
Lynn Cameron of Moscow is known as “a tireless crusader and champion for children and youth”.  Her serves his community through Rotary youth projects, AmeriCorps fellow, Community Alliance, career fair development and leadership, Moscow Mentor Program, Latah Community Volunteer Center, church leadership, substance abuse prevention, and being a devoted family man and private business owner.  In the photo, Mr. Cameron accepts his award from First Lady Patricia Kempthorne.
Alan Creech was nominated by Nampa, posthumously, for his life’s work of making life better for young people and particularly those who were vulnerable and struggling.  Coming from a childhood background of violence, alcoholism, and foster care, he knew first hand that many children are in drastic need of adults to actively care for them.  He died in a plane crash in 2002 while serving as Nampa’s Chief of Police.  Accepting the award for Alan was his wife Laura.  Pictured (L to R) are Nampa Mayor Tom Dale, Laura Creech, First Lady Patricia Kempthorne, and Rep Gary Collins.
(Picture not available)  Elizabeth Earles of New Plymouth is diligent and committed to the betterment of her community through healthy youth development.  Creating reading programs, securing computers, and promoting recreational opportunities for youth are among the commitments supported by her unmitigated drive to get things done.
Amy Brown, Pocatello, has been recognized because of her work in early childhood, parenting and literacy education.  Pictured (L to R) are Rep Bert Marley, Rep Allen Anderson, Amy Brown, Rep Elmer Martinez, and First Lady Patricia Kempthorne.
Bill Guice of Post Falls is a police officer in charge of D.A.R.E. with special emphasis on drug prevention.  Additionally, he has been a volunteer athletic coach for many years.  Accepting for Bill was his colleague Susan Manley-Smith pictured with First Lady Patricia Kempthorne.
(Picture not available)  Bruce Sutherland of Rexburg was nominated for his positive community impact though his leadership of the school orchestra program.  He started from scratch without a program and now reaches 2300 students in the Madison School District. 
Heidi Phillips of Rupert is a student leader and founder of “Stuffed with Love”, sending hundreds of stuffed animals to children who were affected by the 9/11 tragedy.  Other involvements include assisting needy families at holiday time, Relay for Life cancer drive, and raising money to build a ramp for a school mate paralyzed from an accident.  Heidi is pictured with Governor Dirk and First Lady Patricia Kempthorne.
Susan Edwards, nominated by Sandpoint, is a star for her consistent caring and work for disadvantaged and special needs children as a school volunteer, Head Start professional, children’s Bible study teacher, candidate for a graduate degree in Early Childhood Education and mentor for children and families.  Ms. Edwards is pictured accepeting her award from First Lady Patricia Kempthorne.
 

(Picture not available)  Dawn Lloyd of Shelley reaches youth through recreation programs in the community and surrounding area.  She knows the children and youth by name, gives them individual attention, and provides them with a sense of value.

 
Reginald Reeves was nominated by the city of Sun Valley for his amazing commitment to others.  An attorney by trade, his pro-bono work includes collecting computers for needy children, reading to children, collecting food, clothing, toys and books for domestic violence shelters, soup kitchens, seniors, and nursing homes.  He has helped folks obtain free airfare when they need cancer treatment at a distance, collected dental equipment and supplies for countries abroad, and the list goes on.  Pictured (L to R) are Rep Clint Stennett, Reginald Reeves, First Lady Patricia Kempthorne, and Rep Wendy Jaquet.
Marie Vogel of Troy is a biologist, chemist, and child development specialist by training.   She has channeled that expertise and some amazing energy into day care for kids and good causes…food bank, housing for homeless, city council, community asset development, Lion’s Club sight and hearing projects, political party work and more.  Ms. Vogel is pictured accepting her award from First Lady Patricia Kempthorne.

BUSINESS & CORPORATE CATEGORY
BUSINESS GRAND PRIZE WINNER:  Blick and Associates in Castleford has for three generations met community needs by donating financially, and with equipment and manpower.  Contributions include annual college scholarships for youth, sponsorships for little league soccer, baseball, and football, FFA and foreign exchange programs, Toys for Tots, Castleford Men’s Club projects, Special Olympics, University of Idaho Christian Center, Vandal scholarships, rodeo camp, and scholarships at College of Southern Idaho.  Land donations for a fire station and a parking lot at the park are included in this family owned businesses ongoing philanthropic work.  Pictured (L to R) are Benny Blick, Gary Blick, First Lady Patricia Kempthorne, Phil Blick, Rep Frances Field, and Rep Doug Jones.
CORPORATE GRAND PRIZE WINNER:  Con-Agra Foods Specialty Potato Products in Twin Falls with its “Lamb Loves Kids” motto delivers in terms of financial commitment and service to youth oriented programs, organizations, and educational endeavors.  Employees are encouraged to participate and other industries are challenged by them to be involved.  Magic Valley Boys &Girls Club, Ike Kistler Safe House, Kids Art in the Park, Coats for Kids, Wishing Star Foundation, Toys for Tots, Safe Kids Coalition are a smattering of the youth oriented involvement by this large food corporation.  As a major employer in the area, the citizenry is well aware and appreciative of Lamb-Weston’s commitment to supporting the community.  Pictured (L to R) are Twin Falls City Councilman Trip Craig, Rep. Sharon Block, Ed White representing Con-Agra, First Lady Patricia Kempthorne, Rep. Frances Field, and Rep. Doug Jones.
Peeco Electric of Blackfoot is selected because of their consistent help with community youth projects.  Labor and supplies for lighting at the park for dances and skate board exhibitions, parts and labor for the BMX and Go-Kart sanctioned race facility, a DJ for the youth coalition summer bash are their recent contributions that help make Blackfoot a youth oriented place to live.  Jerry Petersen of Peeco Electric accepted the award.  Pictured (L to R) are Rep Joe Cannon, Jerry Petersen of Peeco Electric, and First Lady Patricia Kempthorne.
Boise Family Magazine addresses over 41,000 monthly readers bringing information to educate parents, care providers, and youth workers on child development, resources for families and children, national research, a local family event calendar and more.  The paper has collaborated with others since its inception in 1993 in carrying out its mission of “promoting healthy families and positive parenting”.  Liz Buckingham of Boise Family Magazine accepted the award.  Pictured (L to R) are Rep. Margaret Henbest, Liz Buckingham of Boise Family Magazine, and First Lady Patricia Kempthorne.
St. Mary’s Hospital of Cottonwood was nominated for its’ special 97% success rate (statewide rate 75% and national 78%) in immunization and for child safety helmet promotion.  Shari Kuther of St. Mary's Clinic accepted the award.  Pictured (L to R) are Shari Kuther of St. Mary's Clinic, First Lady Patricia Kempthorne, and Cottonwood Mayor Denis Duman.
(Picture not available)  Coeur d’Alene Press and publisher, James Thompson reach out to 2000 families and an estimated 5000 children yearly in its Christmas for All campaign for needy families in Post Falls, Hayden Lake, Rathdrum, Spirit Lake, Athol-Bayview-Carrywood, Rose Lake and Coeur d’Alene.  This amazing effort has gone on for 17 years with the help of employees and other unpaid volunteers.

(Picture not available)  Donnelly School in Hailey with Valerie Donnelly in the lead has provided preschool education for children for the past 30 years.  Children truly are ready and prepared for their future school experience because of Mrs. Donnelly’s good teaching and love for children.  After a short break for cancer treatment two years ago, she continues to touch countless lives in a positive way through her preschool education leadership.

(Picture not available)  The Crossroads of Hayden offers dance classes and other activities in a non-smoking and drinking environment to support and strengthen families.  Open since 1995, they have reached out to single parent families, to school groups, church youth groups, foreign exchange students, parks and recreation class members, Head Start parents, college training groups, and more.  The owners, Bob and Pat Crossman, are the instructors, maintenance crew, the gardeners, and accounting staff.  Friendship, respect for self and others, and dance training are all benefits of this business endeavor.

(Picture not available)  Moyle’s Mink Farm of Heyburn  has helped the community and youth with donations for fundraising for schools, the ball and inline skating parks, and other community projects.  They also have given many educational tours for youngsters at their mink farm.

(Picture not available)  Kimberly Cut and Curl and Cecille Coriffith were instrumental in establishing East End Providers, an assistance program to benefit folks in Hansen, Murtaugh and Kimberly.  She uses youth in the juvenile court system to assist with the work and in turn gives them job and caring skills.  On her days away from her shop you often find her doing hair in a care home or for people who can’t leave their own home.  Caring, loving, and giving is how she is described.

(Picture not available)  Bake Central of Malta and Gary Bake do much to support youth and adults from donations of money and merchandise for school fund raisers, support of the ambulance fund, participation in city cleanup, to translation, language classes, and personal help to Hispanic families in the area.  Involvement with scouts and little league ball are also on the list.

(Picture not available)  Todd’s Burger Den of New Plymouth sponsored high school band, school carnival, FFA workday, Payette recreation baseball, football and basketball, 4-H livestock sales, and rodeo.  The business owner, Todd Edwards is only 27 years old.

(Picture not available) Andy’s /Taco Johns is a Post Falls business honored because of their outstanding support and contribution to recreation and sports program involvement and sponsorship.

Minidoka Memorial Hospital of Rupert is selected because of its active role in Healthnet, an asset youth development group, its role in offering a baby-sitting course for teens, donations and employee involvement in athletic programs, Relay for Life, and more.  Sara Bott and Tammy Hanks from Minidoka Memorial Hospital accepted the award.  Pictured are (L to R) House Speaker Bruce Newcomb, Sen. Dean Cameron, Tammy Hanks of Minidoka Memorial Hospital, First Lady Patricia Kempthorne, Sara Bott of Minidoka Memorial Hospital, and Rupert Mayor Audrey Neiwerth. 

ORGANIZATION CATEGORY 

ORGANIZATION GRAND PRIZE WINNER 2002:  Assets for Lifelong Learning is a group that provides preschool education, enrichment in four sites after regular school hours, family crisis intervention, financial literacy and transition classes for high school students, additional county nursing services, and community education/literacy classes.  Both paid and volunteer staff work to provide these foundational services in Bovill, Deary, Troy, and Elk River.  Pat Eck, a school administrator, was the visionary leader who made this organization and the services it provides a reality.  Pictured (L to R) are Pat Eck of the Assets for Lifelong Learning Project, First Lady Patricia Kempthorne, Rep Tom Trail, and Rep Shirley Ringo.
American Falls Academy and staff provides a unique mentoring and educational program for troubled students that have fallen through the cracks elsewhere.  Getting students back on a positive track through compassion, unconditional acceptance of individual differences, love and fortitude is all in their days work.  School administrators, judges, parents and the students themselves recognize and appreciate what this organization is doing to give youth a second chance to succeed at school and beyond.   Karen Nicholson, Judy Mayer, Kelly Brannock, Willie Martinez, and Debra Erlandson of American Falls Academy accepted the award from First Lady Patricia Kempthorne.  Also pictured (far left) is House speaker Bruce Newcomb.
Blackfoot/Bingham County Youth Coalition has formed to bring about positive change for youth in the area.  Along with the emphasis on asset development in youth, the group has raised money and built a skateboard park, a roller/ice skating rink, a BMX track, and a Go-Kart track.  Another park was completed for a largely Hispanic population living in the Riverview Villa community.  They hosted a summer fun day that culminated in an evening dance.  The youth involved are gaining valuable leadership and job skills for life.  Pictured (L to R) are Rep Joe Cannon, Lt. Mark Cowley, Sean Hendricks, Stephanie Wilden, First Lady Patricia Kempthorne, Pat Coleman, Blackfoot Chief of Police R. David Moore, Rep Dennis Lake, and Blackfoot Mayor R. Scott Reese.

Operation Wish Book of Boise is dedicated to securing and placing books in the hands of disadvantaged children.  The organization has collected and distributed over 165,000 books in its 12 years of existence. 

 The Idaho State Library dispensed information about Operation Wish Book to libraries throughout the state.  Promoting literacy and a love of reading by involving parents and other caring adults is the mission of this organization.  Lynne Ball of Operation Wish Book accepted the award from First Lady Patricia Kempthorne.
Eighth Street Center of the Buhl Arts Council provides opportunity for arts and cultural education as well as a gathering place for friendship and relationship building throughout the entire year.  After school enrichment programs, summer art classes, and collaborative work with other groups to provide artistic expression and celebration of culture is their bright palette of offerings.  Kelly Daluiso and Kathleen Ruyts from the Buhl Arts Council accepted award.  Pictured (L to R) are Kelly Daluiso of the Buhl Arts Council, First Lady Patricia Kempthorne, Kathleen Ruyts of the Buhl Arts Council, Rep. Frances Field, and Rep. Doug Jones.
Mini-Cassia HealthNet Coalition was nominated by the cities of Burley and Paul and was formed to promote good health.  Seat belt usage, bicycle safety and helmet use, teen pregnancy prevention, drug and alcohol prevention, teens mentoring younger students, leadership and service work is what this organization is all about for young people.  Tammy Hanks and Sara Bott from the Mini-Cassia HealthNet accepted the award.  Pictured (L to R) are House Speaker Bruce Newcomb, Sen. Dean Cameron, Tammy Hanks of HealthNet, First Lady Patricia Kempthorne, Sara Bott of HealthNet, and Rupert Mayor Audrey Neiwerth.
Castleford Men’s Club has been in operation since 1946 to provide enhancement opportunities for youth as well as community development and improvement.  Youth sports teams, Boy Scouts, Boy’s and Girl’s State, youth travel abroad, music and cheerleading camps have all been sponsored by this organization.  Every graduate of Castleford High School receives a scholarship from the Castleford Men’s Club for further education if they choose that opportunity.  Additionally the organization has assisted the school and community in wonderful ways with financial and labor contributions to make good things happen.  Visit Balanced Rock Park and you will enjoy an idea conceived and brought to fruition by this dedicated group.  Jerry Kramer and Reagon Hatch from the Castleford Men's Club accepted the award.  Pictured are (L to R) Jerry Kramer and Reagon Hatch of the Castleford Men's Club, First Lady Patricia Kempthorne, Rep. Frances Field, and Rep. Doug Jones.

(Picture not available)  Harding Family Center in Coeur d’Alene has been “echoing the sounds of young children since the 1920’s.  Originally a neighborhood school, the building was sold to North Idaho Head Start to centralize services and resources for young children.  Head Start, Even Start, Parents As Teachers, and Citizen’s Council for the Arts provide a mosaic of offerings for youth and families of the area.

Prairie Booster Club of Cottonwood organized to aid the school children with scholarships, programs, and equipment needed to enhance their school experience.  Jim Rehder accepted the award for the Booster Club from First Lady Patricia Kempthorne.

(Picture not available)  Eagle Fire Department along with Chief Dan Friend and his staff partner in education with their school.  At risk students have been reached through a career exploration project.  Teen tobacco awareness and cessation classes have been taught along with offerings in bike safety, and fire prevention classes for young students.  They have sponsored fundraisers to help with athletic programs and much more.

(Picture not available)  Centers for Discovery in Grangeville is an evolution of an after school program started through a University of Idaho Extension project as a safe place to learn, have fun and be cared for after the regular school day.  The consortium formed to expand and provide programs in three school districts where learning programs enrich social, emotional, physical and intellectual lives of young people. 

(Picture not available)  Our Place of Hailey provides a safe shelter for homeless and runaway youth.  It provides support and reunification services for families through mediation, mentoring, and resource referrals.  It is a non-profit corporation licensed through the state as a residential care facility that provides shelter for 12-17 year old youth for up to 14 days. 

 
Heyburn Lions is noted for its many contributions of funding for tracks, bleachers, building refurbishment, playgrounds, tennis courts, baseball fields and much more.  Certainly more youth and adults have benefited locally because of the almost $10,000 they have donated to the Lions Club International Foundation and Sightfirst.  Pictured (L to R) are House Speaker Bruce Newcomb, Sen. Dean Cameron, First Lady Patricia Kempthorne, A representative of the Heyburn Lions Club, and Heyburn Mayor Cleo Chaney.
Kuna Act is a non-profit organization that sponsors educational and information events on local issues for area citizens.  Study circles were formed to discuss and problem solve which has become vital to the process of decision making in the community policy arena.  Zella Johnson is recognized as a major contributing volunteer in this organization.  Pictured (L to R) are Kuna Mayor Greg Nelson, Zella Johnson of Kuna ACT, and First Lady Patricia Kempthorne.
(Picture not available) Lewiston School District has been nominated for its focused effort to instill the developmental asset model into children’s lives through a wide variety of programs.  Under the leadership of Joy Rapp, a collaborative effort has been successful in joining numerous sectors and the counterparts across the river in Washington in this youth development work.  Particularly noteworthy are the programs that give an extra boost to youth who are at risk because of financial, social, or emotional needs.

Malta Ambulance Volunteers care for folks in the entire Raft River Valley.  They have taken training and certified as EMTs and continued to refresh and update each month.  Additionally, they have raised almost $10,000 for the purchase of a much needed new ambulance.  No wages are received by these dedicated volunteers, most of whom have served for over 10 years, while holding full time jobs elsewhere.  Penny Thompson from the Malta Ambulance Volunteers accepted the award.  Pictured (L to R) are Sen. Denton Darrington, Penny Thompson of the Malta Ambulance Volunteers, First Lady Patricia Kempthorne, and House Speaker Bruce Newcomb.

(Picture not available) Project Kids of the Valley Shepherd Church of the Nazarene in Meridian reaches out to needy families and their children.  Clothing, food, household items, cleaning and laundry supplies have been provided to 60 families in the past three years.  This group has now joined with the local Kiwanis Club to raise money for additional help with school expenses, scholarships for Boys and Girls Club, and emergency needs.

(Picture not available)  First Step Volunteers of Moscow visit families before or after the birth of a baby to welcome the child with packets of educational information, community resources, and information on family programs. College students, community leaders, parent, and grandparents join to promote positive parenting skills through education and support to parents.

 
Read To Me Coalition of Orofino is a group that serves expectant parents and families with children of all ages.  This a great example of how resources can be pooled, talent shared, cooperative labor can take place to meet the needs of people in rural communities.  Clearwater Memorial Public Library, the Clearwater Infant Project, the hospital and some medical clinics, Health & Welfare Infant Toddler Program, the school district, WIC, Head Start, LaLeche League, private care providers, Lewis Clark State College Family Education, America’s Promise chapter, and private child care providers work together to improve life for infants, children of all ages and their families.  The group began as a literacy improvement group and has grown to a mighty collaborative power for the benefit of kids.  Beth Richardson from the Read To Me Coaltion accepted the award from First Lady Patricia Kempthorne.

(Picture not available) Pocatello Zoo in recent years has made exceptional use of the varied habitat in the area to provide better exhibits that are more attractive and informative.  Exciting and stimulating educational programs are available throughout the year at the zoo and outreaching to area schools.  The Grandparents Day provides intergenerational enjoyment and learning.  Volunteers work to raise money at the annual Ice Cream Zoofari for a day celebration for all.

American Legion Post #143 of Post Falls continue support of youth development through sponsorships for Scout troops, baseball teams, Girls and Boys State, a youthful offender program, Special Olympics, and Children’s Village.  Beyond the sponsorships, they provide basic needs to needy community members including veterans.  John Dunlap of Post #143 accepted the award from First Lady Patricia Kempthorne.
Renaissance Program at the middle school in Rupert rewards students for academic success and excellence.  This school of 530 students of 6-8th graders is a large multicultural mix of Caucasians and Hispanics. Positive changes in climate and attitude at the school have been brought about by giving recognition and incentives for academic achievement and improvement.  Sherrie Prien and Kevan Vogt from E. Minico accepted the award. Pictured (L to R) are Sen. Dean Cameron, Rep. Maxine Bell, First Lady Patricia Kempthorne, Sherrie Prien of the Renaissance Program, and East Minico Principal Kevan Vogt.

 

(Picture not available) Troy Elementary Parent Group is a Brightest Star because of the way it positively  impacts children by providing money for student field trips, science fairs, school supplies, painting and asphalt work, warm clothing , and teacher and parent training.  The newest endeavors are to help provide new playground equipment and establish a food bank for the winter months when unemployment is a major problem for many.  This small group of 8-10 volunteers is a mighty force in this small community.

(Picture not available)  Salmon Hockey Association has helped children and families since 1986.  There is motto “A kid on ice is a kid out of hot water.” Their two rinks for skating are dependent on cold weather so the group seeks to improve the facility with refrigerated ice so the facility can be used all year. 

(Picture not available) Washington County Youth Hope Coalition members are of varied ages from all walks of life, ethnic backgrounds, and religions joining to provide good things for kids and the community.  A building was secured and a program started for kids after school aimed particularly at less advantaged children.  New equipment replaced unsafe pieces on the playground.  A skateboard and water park are scheduled for completion in spring 2003.  In this rural farm community, 24% of children under 18 are considered to be in poverty.   The dedication of this coalition is helping to build self-worth, identity, and community pride in the vulnerable children that reside there. 

 
Project Linus of Wilder is our final warm blanket of love surrounding Idaho children.  This group provides quilts, afghans, and blankets to injured, ill, abused, and at-risk children to give them comfort and security.  Their motto “The best kind of sleep beneath heaven above is under a blanket handmade with love” tells the story best.  Distribution of the gifts takes place through hospitals, crisis centers, police and fire departments, Health & Welfare, and camps for special needs youngsters.  Donna Aten from project Linus accepted the award.  Pictured (L to R) are Wilder City Clerk Alice Reyes, Donna Aten of Project Linus, Wilder City Councilwoman Robbie Simansky, and Rep. Darrell Bolz.