Article Contributed on: 1/27/2009 6:33:34 AM
January 10 has come and gone, but never to be forgotten. For on that day, recipients of the 3rd Annual B.P.O. Elks Denver 17 Community Awards, their families and friends, along with their supervisors, gathered in our hall to be recognized for their actions during the year 2008.
Three times we have gathered. Three times we have honored men and women who have sworn to serve, protect, and educate the citizens of this great city. Three times we have given something that, in a small way, just says thank you for all that they do for us.
The Denver 17's EMT of the Year for 2008 was
William "Bill" Henderson, a 35-year veteran as a member of Denver's Emergency Medical Service, who has saved countless lives during his long career.
Our Police Officer of the Year for 2008 was Sergeant
Steve Clayborn, a 13-year veteran of the Denver Police Department, who see what needs to be done and does it without think about the risk to himself, but only about saving someone who is in danger.
The Fire Fighter of the Year for 2008 was Assistant Chief
Terry Neiman, who has served this community as a fire fighter for over 35-years and is a person who sees a situation, were someone is in danger and can be saved with quick thinking and by taking immediate action and our own safety cannot stand in the way of doing what must be done.
Teacher of the Year for 2008 went to
Tana Knopf, a music teacher, private tutor, coach and counselor to students from elementary, middle and high school students for over 34-years. One who moved her students to achieve their dreams, to learn how to express themselves and to become a problem solver. She has written the symphony of her life through the successes of her former students.
Denver 17's Deputy Sheriff of the Year for 2008 was awarded to
Andrew Sipres, a veteran of only a few years, who had displayed a high degree of integrity, responsibility and care towards the department's staff, as well as the inmates he has charge over. He has saved the lives to three inmates bent ending their lives. He is a leader and can be counted on when the chips are down.
Citizen of the Year for 2008 was presented to
Andrea "Annie" Green, Deputy Director of Laradon Hall and outstanding member of Laradon for 25-years. Her passion for helping the most defenseless of our society has led her to a number of positions at Laradon starting with Special Education Teacher. She has made superior contributions to Laradon clients and helped many people become "all that they can be". Annie has participated in public councils, committees and board meetings to exchange information and resources to improve the quality of life for individuals with special needs. Annie participates in general "networking" with the business community and other non-profit agencies to develop opportunities for individuals with various handicaps.