by Michele Davis, GDB Community Relations Officer
Idaho Governor C.O. “Butch” Otter welcomed members of the “GDB Nation” to celebrate and honor Guide Dogs for the Blind by proclaiming September 20 “Guide Dogs for the Blind Day" at the Idaho State Capitol in Boise.
The Governor’s Office was filled with GDB alumni, puppy raisers, donors and supporters – and, of course, our amazing dogs. Governor Otter, a dog-lover himself, thanked all the attendees for their support of GDB. He commended the puppy raisers who are willing to “make the sacrifice of raising those adorable pups so that they can help others”. GDB has puppy clubs in both Boise and Jerome, and Governor Otter was especially grateful for their contributions to local citizens with visual impairments.
Acting GDB CEO Morgan Watkins was honored to accept the official gubernatorial proclamation on GDB's behalf and expressed our commitment to working with the Idaho Commission for the Blind (ICBVI) in spreading the word throughout the State about our life-changing services that are offered free-of-charge.
GDB staffers Sheila Spencer and Deana Allen wowed onlookers with a demonstration of guidework at a reception co-hosted by GDB and ICBVI after the proclamation ceremony in the Governor’s office. Babs, a retired Guide Dog, didn’t miss a single step in showing off the skills she uses to keep her human partners safe and independent.
ICBVI Administrator Angela Jones and her staff will continue to work hand-in-paw with GDB's Idaho-based graduates to help spread the word about our services.
It was a very special day for Guide Dogs for the Blind, and we are so grateful to Governor Otter and his staff for building public awareness for our organization.
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