Individuals from Elmore County honored at luncheon

The Idaho Association of Soil & Water Conservation Districts 68th Annual Conference was held in Burley Idaho. "The Challenge of Change" was the 2010 theme. Elmore Soil & Water Conservation District was pleased to have two individuals from Elmore County honored at the Educational Luncheon, November 18, 2010.

Betsy Lynn, Mountain Home High School student, placed first in the speech competition. The topic of her speech was Conservation Habits = Healthy Habitats. Mr. Petti's students, Speech and Debate Team, have placed in the top three for the last three years and are to be commended for their poise and expertise.

Daniel Young, Mountain Home science teacher, was recognized and awarded the secondary teacher of the year 2010. Among his accomplishments were sited. The 9th grade field day has been in existence for more than 12 years. Jay Leonard, 9th grade teacher, retired in 2004 and Daniel Young graciously took over the scheduling and enlisted the participation of the other 9th grade teacher, Rebecca Feekes and students. The Elmore Soil & Water Conservation District was delighted to honor Daniel Young for his continued efforts to promote the 9th grade field day, conservation and earth science.

Daniel Young has been and inspiration to his students by providing a website with plenty of pictures and information. He has been innovative when cut backs occurred and a Science club was formed. The students raised money to be able to continue the 9th grade field day providing the buses for transportation.

Daniel Young is to be commended for his leadership, genuine caring for the knowledge imparted to his students, and his enthusiasm to share the programs provided by the Elmore Soil & Water Conservation District.

It was his suggestions that Mr. Petti, of the 9th grade speech & debate classes, get involved in the speech contest the last 3 years and between 9 and 13 students have participated each year. In 2008 Eli Holland won 3rd place in the State competition in Coeur d' alene, Idaho. In 2009 Bridget Seneuis placed 1st in Boise, Idaho, and as stated above Betsy Lynn placed 1st in the 2010 state competition in Burley, Idaho.