Spreading the word

Ron Sukenik was named Rotarian of the Year during Bonners Ferry Rotary Club's annual dinner at Kootenai River Inn on Friday.

“It was an honor,” Sukenik said. “It's a pleasure to serve our community.”

Sukenik is one of the local club's founding 6-year members. He has served as chairman and co-chairman for the Kootenai River Ride, which is Rotary's primary fundraiser.

Sukenik also has been involved with the Father of All Yard Sales, Cherry Sales Fundraiser, the circus sponsored by the Rotary and serves as sergeant of arms. He also takes care of Rotary's Web site and is involved as a Rotarian for the 3-on-3 Swish basketball tournament planned for early August.

The majority of the money raised by Rotary goes for six, $600 scholarships for college-bound high school seniors.

Sukenik and his wife, LeAnn, are the parents of Ashley, 24, of Bellingham, Wash., a substitute teacher; and Emily, 19, a sophomore at North Idaho College.

Rotarian Norm Braatz organized the dinner and served as emcee. Wild Mountain Thyme, directed by retired choir teacher Vicki Blake, performed. Outgoing chamber president Dave Kramer recognized Blake with an award for Service Above Self.

Rotarian Jim Paulus was recognized for being named assistant district governor.

Kramer also turned over the gavel to new Rotary President Dave Walter.

€ Re-becca Me-dearis of Porthill has published a fiction book entitled “Flashes.”

The story takes place in North Idaho and is about a bus driver who tries to help a troubled teen. Her effort backfires and she has to save the day.

“It is very exciting,” said Medearis, who spent eight years writing the book and taught creative writing at Riverside High School in Bonners Ferry.

“Flashes” is on sale at Bonners Books in downtown Bonners Ferry and can be purchased on Amazon.com.

€ American Legion Auxiliary has installed Jean Osborn as president. Others installed were Irene Rice, vice president; Betty Douglas, secretary-treasurer; Betty Mills, historian; Valdie Dean, sergeant at arms; and Janice Eby, chaplain.

The auxiliary reported it was pleased with the recent Poppy Sale - a tradition that dates back to 1921. Disabled veterans are paid to make the poppies from hospitals around the nation. Proceeds are used for nursing scholarships, veteran rehabilitation, and youth programs.

Spreading the Word is about the people of Boundary County. If you've gone on a vacation, have a wedding planned, are moving or anything else you'd like to share, call Gwen Albers at 267-5521, or send an e-mail to galbers@cdapress.com.