Embarrassed

BONNERS FERRY — Embarrassed.

That was Bonners Ferry Mayor Darrell Kerby's response to being named this year's Community Star.

"I'm flattered that so many of you took the time out of your busy days to be here," Kerby said during last week's ceremony hosted by Panhandle State Bank at Mugsy's Restaurant.

As part of the honor, the bank gives $1,000 to the recipient's charity of choice. Kerby chose Bonner County Education Foundation, which provides an alternative source of funding for Boundary County School District.

"It's an important foundation," said Kerby. "It's used for educating our youth. Our youth are the future."

All of Panhandle State Bank's branches honor a Community Star annually. This is the fourth time it's been done in Bonners Ferry.

"It's for the unsung heroes, who contribute and are not recognized," said Dave Walter, vice-president and manager of Panhandle State Bank's Bonners Ferry office.

The public this year nominated 10 candidates, and a committee from the bank chose the Kerby. Past recipients have included Debbie Musial, Gil Hagen and Judy Everhart.

Dave Jurgensen, owner of Bonners Ferry Log Inn Motel , nominated Kerby, who has served as mayor for 8 years and was on city council for 20 years.

"Over the years that I've been here, I've watched him," Jurgensen. "He gets things done that a lot of people couldn't do. He's made this town a better place."

Jurgensen commended Kerby, owner of Pace-Kerby Real Estate and Insurance in Bonners Ferry, for running a successful business and raising a good family.

Childhood friend Tom Faust, president of Faust Inc., noted that Kerby has been a strong spokesman for the timber industry.

"Boundary County and Bonners Ferry will miss Darrell," Faust said.

Kerby, 56, has chose not to run for mayor again and will end his term.