Paul Bonnell is honored as Community Star 2011

Paul Bonnell is the eighth recipient in Boundary County to receive Panhandle State Bank’s Community Star Award.

This award is given to a citizen who displays leadership, spirit and community involvement.

Bonnell has been teaching in the community as well as coaching the cross country team at Bonners Ferry High School for years.

The community star is nominated by residents of Boundary County and Shannon Ealre chose Bonnell.

“He is genuine in his approach and interactions with the youth in this community; and displays a sincere interest in their moral and ethical growth while preparing them for their future roles and endeavors.  He is so deserving of this award,” Earl said.

Bonners Ferry Panhandle State Bank Branch president Dave Walter said every year the award has gone to a community member who has above and beyond for the community.

“This year is no exception as we honor the community’s selection of a highly deserving recipient, Paul Bonnell,” Walter said.

“I am overwhelmed that I was even nominated, let alone to be chosen for this honor as there are so many within this community who contribute greatly; and who are just as deserving,” said Bonnell. “I am so thankful to live in this caring community of Bonners Ferry, and in Boundary County.” 

Bonnell  received a $1,000 check from Panhandle State Bank that was to be donated to the charity of his choice.  His choice was the Wishing Star Foundation, one of the members of the Association of Wish Granting Organizations. 

The mission of this organization is to grant children who are battling serious life threatening medical conditions a special wish. The experience of a wish provides a respite from hospitals, doctors and treatments. 

“A few years ago The Wishing Star Foundation showed my family and I kindness, caring, and consideration in our time of need. I greatly appreciated it, and I didn’t forget it, Bonnell said. “Now I thank God that I have the opportunity to honor to help someone else in need to have a special wish by this donation to Wishing Star.”

Verna Lutes, Wishing Star Chapter president for northern Idaho and Eastern Washington, accepted the $1,000 donation from Bonnell.