Topic: Press Conference: Governor's Service Medals

FioHelston

Date: 2011-08-31 13:32 EST
The following announcement was made by the Governor during a press conference on Wednesday. August 31:

Good morning. I'm pleased to have some good news to share with you all this morning. Makes a nice change!

Today, I have the privilege of announcing a program to you that has been in the works for several months now, and which I am especially pleased to be able to share now because the timing is so appropriate during the weeks between Remembrance Day and the festivities we will be enjoying shortly with Citizens Day coming up.

This is something that is very close to my heart, because I believe it is important to take time periodically to recognize people who have gone above and beyond in their efforts to serve our community. And so today, we are launching the Governor's Service Medal award program.

The Governor's Service Medal is awarded to acknowledge those who have shown exemplary commitment, hard work and dedication - sometimes in extreme circumstances - to improve the quality of life for residents and visitors to the communities of Rhydin and Stars End.

I am pleased to announce that four individuals are being awarded this recognition this morning. I hope that you will join me in applauding each of these for the example they have shown to us all.

Two of our award winners showed extraordinary efforts during the recent RBF crisis to assist with relief efforts on many fronts. During a time when our city was in grave peril, they spent many sleepless nights and exhausting days ensuring the safety and continued health of their fellow citizens.

First is Edward Batten, a member of the advisory council, who committed his personal financial resources so that everyone could obtain a vaccination, regardless of ability to pay. Beyond that, he and his people risked their lives and gave of their time, resources and energy to distribute and secure vaccine shipments throughout the city over the duration of the crisis. We owe Ed Batten and the men and women of Batten Industries a great debt of gratitude.

Victor Kazon, our second recipient, like Ed Batten, was heavily involved in relief efforts and the transport of materials through the city. In addition, it was Mr. Kazon and his staff who provided the nano-medicine treatments that made curing many of those who contracted RBF during the epidemic possible. He and his are also owed our great thanks.

Our third recipient was also actively involved in security efforts during the crisis, but it is her work in a different arena that has earned her a service medal. Belial of Blood House Onyx, another member of the advisory council, has been the driving force behind the creation of the recently-announced RhyDin Holiday Calendar. The creation of public holidays in RhyDin has been something considered for many years. Belial persisted to turn the concept into a reality, gathering input from many, many sources. Her hard work has resulted in the establishment of a foundation for peoples in our city - representing many races, beliefs and languages - to come together for times of public unity.

Our last recipient is an active member of the arts community in RhyDin, operating a successful theater troupe in the city. Mataya DeLuca was the creative genius behind the establishment of the RhyDin Fine Arts Festival, and worked tirelessly to organize and host the first of what we hope are many more annual arts festivals to come.

Kudos to all of our Governor's Service Medal recipients!